Are you considering a plant-based lifestyle but worried about getting all the necessary nutrients? Or perhaps you've encountered the common misconception that vegans inevitably suffer from nutritional deficiencies? Let's unravel this myth and shed light on the reality of vegan nutrition.
First and foremost, it's crucial to acknowledge that a well-planned vegan diet can provide all the nutrients needed for optimal health. Here's a breakdown of key nutrients and how they can be obtained through plant-based sources:

1. Protein: Contrary to popular belief, plants are excellent sources of protein. Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas), tofu, tempeh, seitan, quinoa, nuts, and seeds are all rich in protein. By incorporating a variety of these foods into your diet, you can easily meet your protein requirements.
2. Iron: While iron from plant sources (non-heme iron) may not be as readily absorbed as iron from animal products (heme iron), it can still fulfill your needs. Foods like lentils, spinach, tofu, pumpkin seeds, and fortified cereals are great sources of iron. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods alongside iron-rich foods can enhance iron absorption.
3. Calcium: Dairy isn't the only source of calcium. Many plant-based foods are rich in this essential mineral. Fortified plant milks, tofu, broccoli, kale, almonds, and figs are excellent calcium sources. Additionally, fortified foods and calcium supplements can ensure adequate intake.
4. Vitamin B12: This vitamin is essential for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. Since it's primarily found in animal products, vegans need to obtain it from fortified foods (like plant milks, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast) or supplements.
5. Omega-3 fatty acids: While fish is a common source of omega-3s, plant-based options like flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and algae oil are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a precursor to other omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Vitamin D: Sunlight exposure triggers vitamin D synthesis in the skin, but it may be challenging to get enough, especially in certain climates or during winter months. Fortified foods like plant milk or supplements can help maintain adequate levels.
7. Zinc: Legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fortified foods are good sources of zinc in a vegan diet.

It's important to note that regardless of dietary choice, everyone should pay attention to their nutritional intake and ensure they're meeting their body's requirements. A poorly planned vegan diet, like any other unbalanced diet, can lead to deficiencies. However, with mindful food choices and possibly the guidance of a healthcare provider or registered dietitian, it's entirely possible to thrive on a plant-based diet.
In conclusion, the notion that vegans are inherently lacking in essential nutrients is a misunderstanding. By diversifying food choices, being mindful of key nutrients, and possibly incorporating fortified foods or supplements, vegans can maintain optimal health and well-being while compassionately nourishing themselves and the planet. Let's dispel the myths and embrace the abundance and variety of plant-based nutrition! 🌱

Alright so If you're on the hunt for a natural alternative to Ozempic for weight management, Ozemra offers an interesting option. From my perspective, it's got a strong focus on boosting metabolism and controlling appetite (especially with its glucomannan and chromium), which are key for shedding pounds.
But while it sounds promising, its effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors like your diet, lifestyle, and how your body specifically reacts to its ingredients.
Overall, I’d rate it at 3.5 /5, with PhenQ beating it at 4/5, as better Ozempic alternative.
This post discusses all such potential Ozempic alternatives.
One issue is glucomannan is only at 200 mg in Ozemra, with more potent glucomannan based weight loss supplements use it in much higher quantities. Glucomannan like Berberine, is a potent appetite suppressant, Here I've listed out more glucomannan supps. worth checking out.
I have also compared Ozemra comprehensive with PhenQ and Serolean in my review.
However, none of these supplements – PhenQ, Ozemra, Serolean contain Berberine, which is recently most talked about ingredient as natural Ozempic alternative.
While PhenQ mimics berberine with the use of a strong Nopal cactus fiber, Ozemra does it with glucomannan.
If you’re sepcifically looking for best berberine for weight loss, I’d recommend a supplement by Dr. Sam Robbins - Blood Sugar Optimizer. I recommend reading this article on Berberine supplements.
Comparing Ozemra with Serolean and PhenQ, here's the lowdown: if you're someone who struggles mainly with emotional eating, binge-eating and stress-related cravings, Serolean might be more up your alley and suit you more.
It targets weight loss not just by suppressing hunger but also by improving your mood and reducing stress, increasing “serotonin levels” which can be a game-changer if these are your main stumbling blocks.
On the other hand, PhenQ could be a good fit if you're looking for an all-in-one weight loss supplement that targets weight loss from multiple angles. It not only helps with fat burning and appetite suppression like Nature’s Ozempic but also includes ingredients that help prevent fat production and improve mood and energy levels. This makes PhenQ a comprehensive solution, which might appeal to you if you want multiple benefits in one go.
In essence, Ozemra is a solid choice if you're primarily looking for a metabolic boost and appetite control without too many extras.
However, if your weight loss journey involves tackling mood fluctuations or if you need a more aggressive approach against fat accumulation, then PhenQ or Serolean might serve you better.

Intro

If you're diving into the overwhelming world of weight loss supplements, you might have stumbled upon Ozemra. This product is buzzing in forums and among fitness enthusiasts as a natural alternative to some of the heavier prescription options out there, like Ozempic.
In this post, I’ll break down everything about Ozemra—from what it is, how it claims to work, to the critical take on whether it's as good as it sounds or just another bottle on the crowded shelf.
As someone always on the lookout for effective and safe ways to manage weight, I was intrigued but skeptical. I'll walk you through my unfiltered thoughts on Ozemra and its fat-burning stages, plus a deep dive into its ingredients.
What is Ozemra?
Ozemra pitches itself as a revolutionary, non-prescription aid for weight loss, prominently highlighting its natural composition. If you are like me, wary of side effects and long ingredient lists that sound like a chemistry exam, Ozemra’s approach might initially catch your eye. It boasts a formula packed with components like glucomannan, green tea extract, and other natural ingredients known for their health benefits.
However, let's not get ahead of ourselves. Each ingredient in Ozemra is supposed to support weight loss through different mechanisms. For example, glucomannan is a dietary fiber that helps you feel full longer, potentially cutting down your calorie intake. Green tea extract is celebrated for its metabolism-boosting and antioxidant properties.
While these ingredients are impressive on paper, the real question is about their concentration and synergy in the product. Just having them listed isn't enough; they need to be in effective doses to truly work, which many supplements often skimp on to cut costs.
How Ozemra Works: The 4-Stage Fat Burning System
If you're curious about how exactly Ozemra claims to tackle weight loss, they’ve laid out a 4-stage system, each targeting a different aspect of weight management. Here’s a rundown from a user perspective:

1. Stage 1: Appetite Suppression - The journey starts with controlling your hunger. This is where the glucomannan comes into play. It absorbs water and expands in your stomach, theoretically helping you eat less. From my experience, while it does help a bit, don’t expect miracles. You’ll still need to control your eating habits actively.
2. Stage 2: Metabolism Ignition - Next up, Ozemra claims to fire up your metabolism, helping you burn more calories at rest. Ingredients like green tea extract are supposed to boost this process. However, if you are someone who already struggles with caffeine sensitivity, the added natural stimulants might feel overwhelming rather than energizing.
3. Stage 3: Lipolysis Trigger - This phase focuses on breaking down fat. Here, substances like L-carnitine come into the mix, which in theory helps transport fats into cells to be burned for energy. People may notice a slight uptick in how they feel during workouts, possibly due to this, but it won't be the drastic fat loss promised.
4. Stage 4: Optimized Energy Utilization - Finally, Ozemra aims to ensure the energy from the fat being burned is efficiently used. It’s supposed to help you feel more energetic and less sluggish, even on a calorie deficit. While there's a mild boost, it's comparable to any decent B-vitamin complex.

Each stage of this system sounds great on paper, but in practice, the effects are more subtle than you might hope. If you’re looking for a dramatic change, Ozemra’s gradual improvements might feel underwhelming.
Plus, consistency is key; these pills alone won’t work wonders without proper diet and exercise.

What Should You Try? PhenQ vs Ozemra

Choosing between PhenQ and Ozemra depends largely on your specific weight loss goals, health condition, and preference for certain types of ingredients. Here’s a guide to help you decide:
PhenQ is best for you if:

• You are looking for a comprehensive weight loss solution. PhenQ’s variety of ingredients supports multiple aspects of weight loss, from fat burning to mood enhancement.
• You struggle with fatigue while dieting. The inclusion of B-vitamins and L-Carnitine helps convert fat to energy, combating the usual tiredness associated with calorie deficits.
• You need help with sugar and carbohydrate cravings. With ingredients like Chromium Picolinate and INNOSLIM, PhenQ is designed to reduce these cravings significantly.
• You are looking for an effective natural Ozempic alternative: Although NOT a direct replacement to Ozempic, PhenQ has some weight loss benefits with it.

Potential alternatives: If PhenQ seems too intense or if you have sensitivities to caffeine, consider looking at supplements that focus more on mood support and less on stimulants, such as those containing more adaptogens or fiber.
Ozemra is best for you if:

• You prefer a straightforward approach to weight management. Ozemra focuses on metabolism and appetite control without too many additional effects.
• You are sensitive to stronger stimulant effects. Even though Ozemra contains stimulants, it might be less intense than PhenQ due to the different formulations and concentrations.
• You are primarily concerned with metabolic enhancement. Ozemra's ingredients like caffeine and L-Carnitine are great for boosting metabolic rate.

Potential alternatives: If you find Ozemra too mild or are looking for something that also supports gut health or has anti-inflammatory properties, consider supplements that include probiotics or omega-3 fatty acids.
Both PhenQ and Ozemra offer unique benefits, so consider your personal health profile and weight loss goals carefully before choosing.

How I evaluate Ozemra?

Blood Sugar Regulation: 3/5 If you are looking for a natural supplement to help manage your blood sugar levels, Ozemra has some notable ingredients. The combination of chromium picolinate and chromium nicotinate glycinate in Ozemra is impressive, as chromium is known to enhance insulin sensitivity, which can stabilize blood sugar levels. However, I would say it doesn’t fully mimic the comprehensive glucose management effects of Ozempic. It provides a moderate benefit, suitable for mild cases or as a supplementary measure alongside a balanced diet.
Appetite Modulation: 3.5/5 When it comes to suppressing appetite, Ozemra is pretty promising. Ingredients like glucomannan and the dietary fiber from ingredients like cayenne pepper can help fill you up and decrease overall appetite. This mimics one of Ozempic's benefits, making it a decent natural alternative if you're looking to curb those hunger pangs effectively.
Metabolic Enhancement: 3/5 Ozemra includes ingredients like L-Carnitine and a significant amount of caffeine from the Phenterex Caffeine Anhydrous Complex, which can stimulate your metabolism. These ingredients are effective for boosting metabolic rate to some extent, but the effect may not be as significant as Ozempic’s indirect influence on metabolism through glucose management. Therefore, if enhancing metabolism is your main goal, Ozemra provides moderate support.
Energy Optimization: 4/5 If boosting your energy levels is crucial for your weight loss journey, Ozemra could be a beneficial supplement. The high levels of Vitamin B12 and the stimulating effects of caffeine anhydrous contribute significantly to energy optimization, helping increase physical activity and vitality. This aspect of Ozemra is quite effective, making it a good natural alternative to support energy levels, though with a more temporary effect compared to the sustained energy regulation one might see with Ozempic.
Weight Management Support: 3.5/5 When you're looking for a supplement that supports sustainable weight loss, Ozemra seems quite capable. The presence of L-Carnitine helps with fat metabolism, essentially aiding the body in burning fat for energy, and cayenne pepper can enhance fat oxidation. These ingredients, combined with the appetite-suppressing effects, make Ozemra a solid choice for those aiming to manage their weight naturally. However, it may not be as powerful as Ozempic, which has a more direct effect on weight loss through its influence on insulin.

Hi everyone, I was wondering what is the best and vitamin-rich meat if you're intolerant to histamine.
I hear a lot about grass-fed beef but in France, it isn't accessible everywhere... I've heard of calf-liver too (but I've read some people react to these too, but maybe it was beef liver for them, I wouldn't know)
So far, I only seems to suffer from HI so the standard low-histamine diet suits me. I mitigate the side effects with CBD and it helps a little. It seems a little difficult to get proper amounts of B12 though and the thing is, I know I'm deficient in it... Hence my interest in meats.
Does anyone have some suggestions with that ? I already supplement iron+vit. C and zinc, separately and I wish I could also have other things/food routines that may help me to heal from this.
I react kind of well to eggs although they sometimes seems to feed my candida (biotin from it I assume) But they seems to have good benefits for my energy levels.
Thanks in advance !
PS : I seems to have candida flare-ups that comes and go... Could be the origin of my HI as it reacs to natural anti-biofilms aimed at candida. But I wouldn't know for sure (I've been tested for UTI and my last doctor told me the infection was "beheaded"... He saw no bacteria, I'm guessing it was thanks to olive oil I took maybe...)

Introduction

In this post, we'll be discussing something called "Virtue Ethics." This is a normative theory of ethics that's most associated with Aristotle, though has in recent times experienced a resurgence of sorts from modern philosophers, some of whom have tweaked and modified it, and in doing so have created different branches on this tree of moral theory. We will be comparing these different flavors of Virtue Ethics to that of the New Testament's, pointing out where they're similar, as well as highlighting where the NT differs (and is actually superior) from the heathens' views.
I want to preface all this with a verse and a warning:

"Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."-Colossians 2:8

The entire Bible, over and over again, warns against syncretism. It's a running theme throughout to condemn the practice, with this verse being one of the more explicit ones to do so.
Mapping the ideas of Pagans (and especially Greek philosophers) onto the Scriptures has always resulted in people severely misinterpreting the Bible, as looking at the Word of God through a Hellenistic lens is and always has been extremely innapropiate to the author's original intent.
Whenever Greek philosophy or ideas are referenced, they're always portrayed in a bad light or otherwise used to make a point. Examples of the latter could be found in the apostle Paul's writings, as he was a fully educated Roman citizen of his day, and so he made use of known Hellenestic philosophy and literature (that he would have been familiar with) by redefining their terms and ideas in a way that would be consistent with the theology of his own religion. The apostle Peter did the same within his own epistles whenever he mentioned "Tartarus," the abyss/prison for certain disobedient angels that rebelled against God, despite the fact that the word has its roots in Greek mythology and not Hebrew religion (though, the belief that there were a group of spiritual beings that rebelled against the highest authority in the heavens was one technically shared between the two ancient cultures; even if the parties involved were vastly different, as well as the contexts of the rebellion itself).
The affect Hellenstic philosophy has had on the way people think (even subconsciously) can still be felt to this day, and can be seen in the confusion modern "Christianity" has brought on through its adoption of Gnostic teachings such as Dualism or the inherently fatalistic views that many unknowingly hold due to the error of Classical Theism.
While yes, I will be commending the heathen (unbeliever) whenever they are right with their ideas as pertaining to this subject, I will also show where they are wrong.
Let's begin.

"What Is Virtue Ethics?"

First, we need to define some terms and point out the differences between this view and others within the larger debate of normative ethics.
There are three major approaches in normative ethics, those being: Consequentalism, Deontology, and Virtue Ethics. The following are definitions of the terms:
Consequentialism – a class of normative, teleological ethical theories that holds that the consequences of one's conduct are the ultimate basis for judgement about the rightness or wrongness of that conduct.
Deontology – theories where an action is considered morally good because of some characteristic of the action itself, not because the product of the action is good. Deontological ethics holds that at least some acts are morally obligatory regardless of their consequences for human welfare.
Virtue Ethics – theories that emphasize the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy rather than either doing one’s duty or acting in order to bring about good consequences. The virtue ethicist would argue that actions themselves, while important, aren't as important as the character behind them. To the virtue ethicist, consequences are also important, but they would say that good consequences ultimately flow from a virtuous character who has made virtuous decisions. Theories of virtue ethics do not aim primarily to identify universal principles that can be applied in any moral situation, instead teaching that the best decisions can vary based on context, and that there are only some actions that would be universally evil, only because those actions could never flow from a virtuous character in the first place (e.g., rape).
Aristotle's idea of ethics is in an important respect different from most people's, especially today. Heirs as we are to Kant’s idea of duty – there is a right thing that one ought to do, as rational beings who respect other persons – and to Mill’s idea of utility – the right thing to do is that which produces the greatest good for the greatest number – most of us see ethics as concerned with actions. "The function of ethics is to help me see what I ought to do in a given situation," the modern says. Aristotle’s approach was different. His ethic is not so much concerned about helping us to see what we ought to do, as about what sort of person we ought to be.
Aristotle was concerned with character, and with the things that go to make up good and bad character; virtues and vices. His sort of ethic does not look at our action to see if it fulfils our duty, or produces a certain outcome, such as the greatest good of the greatest number, and therefore merits approval. Instead, it looks at us; at the character behind the actions, to see whether we merit approval.
Comparing Virtue Ethics with philosophies such as Deontology and Consequentialism, we are able to divide ethical theories into two kinds; act-centered theories and agent-centered theories. Kant’s (Deontological) and Mill’s (Utilitarian) approaches are act-centered, because they concern themselves with our actions, whilst Aristotle’s is agent-centered because it concerns itself with the character of a person, which in his view was ourselves and our own dispositions that prompt our actions.
Both approaches have ardent present-day advocates, and so both are alive and well. Virtue Ethicists are dissatisfied with the answers ‘modern’ act-centered philosophy offers, and look for a more flexible, person-centered approach that takes more account of the subtle varieties of human motivation. Those in this camp see ethics as being about people – moral agents – rather than merely about actions. Of course, your actions matter. But, for Aristotle and his present day advocates alike, they matter as expressions of the kind of person you are. They indicate such qualities as kindness, fairness, compassion, and so on, and it is these qualities and their corresponding vices that it is the business of ethics to approve or disapprove.
All this seems simple and uncontroversial; there are two ways of looking at an action to evaluate it morally. You can take the action in isolation and judge it, or take the agent and judge him or her.
Virtue ethicists argue that act-centered ethics are narrow and bloodless. What is needed is a richer moral vocabulary than just ‘right and wrong’. There are subtle but important differences between actions that are good because they are kind and those that are good because they are generous, and those that are good because they are just. Likewise, there are subtle but important differences between actions that are bad because they are selfish and those that are bad because they are cruel and those that are bad because they are unfair. These, and many other, distinctions are lost when we talk simply about doing one’s duty, or promoting utility. Questions of motive and of character are lost, in these asceptic terms. Modern moral philosophy won’t do: it is cold, technical and insensitive to the many kinds and degrees of value expressed in human actions. Ethics is more than just thought experiments and hypotheticals about what would be the right course of action to take in any given situation we might conjure up from the comfort of our armchair. Ethics is about doing, and about context and character.

The Different Kinds of "Virtue Ethics"

Virtue Ethics has has been developed in two main directions: Eudaimonism, and agent-based theories.
Eudaimonism (Aristotle's view) bases virtues in human flourishing, where flourishing is equated with performing one’s distinctive function well. In the case of humans, Aristotle argued that our distinctive function is reasoning, and so the life “worth living” is one which we reason well. He also believed that only free men in the upper classes of society (i.e., the aristocrats) could excel in virtue and eschew vice, being that such men had greater access to the means in accomplishing this task as they had the wealth and resources to better perform their distinctive function of 'reasoning,' and thus "live well." For the Eudaimonian, inner dispositions are what one ought to focus on in order to cultivate virtuous traits, and thus a virtuous character.
In contrast, an agent-based theory emphasizes that virtues are determined by common-sense intuitions that we as observers judge to be admirable traits in other people. There are a variety of human traits that we find admirable, such as benevolence, kindness, compassion, etc., and we can identify these by looking at the people we admire, our moral exemplars. Agent-based theories also state that the motivations and intentions behind an action are ultimately what determine whether or not said action is actually virtuous. Whereas Eudaimonism understands the moral life in terms of inner dispositions or proclivities to act in certain ways (whether righteous or wicked, just or unjust, kind or cruel, etc.), agent-based theories are more radical in that their evaluation of actions is dependent on ethical judgments about the inner life of the agents who perform those actions, that is, what the motivations and intents are of a person.
[Note: While both Eudaimonism and agent-based theories are both agent-centered, Eudaimonism is not to be confused with an agent-based theory. Both branches concern themselves more with agents rather than acts themselves, but Eudamonism focuses on the self to improve whereas the agent-based theory focuses on others to improve.]

Common Critcisims Toward Secular Forms of Virtue Ethics

Firstly, Eudaimonism provides a self-centered conception of ethics because "human flourishing" (here defined as simply fulfilling our base function as humans, which is "reason" according to this view) is seen as an end in itself and does not sufficiently consider the extent to which our actions affect other people. Morality requires us to consider others for their own sake and not because they may benefit us. There seems to be something wrong with aiming to behave compassionately, kindly, and honestly merely because this will make oneself happier or "reason well."
Secondly, both Eudaimonism and agent-based theories also don't provide guidance on how we should act, as there are no clear principles for guiding action other than “act as a virtuous person would act given the situation.” Who is a virtuous person? Who is the first or universal exemplar?
Lastly, the ability to cultivate the right virtues will be affected by a number of different factors beyond a person’s control due to education, society, friends and family. If moral character is so reliant on luck, what role does this leave for appropriate praise and blame of the person? For the Eudaimonian, one ought to be born into a status of privilege if they wish to excel in being virtuous. For the proponent of an agent-based theory, one ought to be born into a society or family with good role models and preferably be raised by such, else they have no moral exemplars to emulate.

The New Testament's Virtue Ethic

The New Testament authors didn’t sit down and do a self-consciously philosophical exercise, for this was not what they were concerned with. They were concerned with giving practical instruction to disciples of the faith, and merely trying to express the ethical implications of their spiritual experience. That being said, we know the apostle Paul was familiar with the writings of Aristotle. We can actually identify places where Paul displays knowledge of Aristotle and incorporates some of the philosopher's ideas into his own epistles. Before we do this, however, it's important we refute common misnomers about what the Bible teaches concerning ethics in general.
You probably have heard many attack the ethics of the New Testament as being primitive and simplistic. "God dictates universal commands to follow: 'do not lie,' do 'not divorce,' 'do not insult.' And the only motivating factor is escaping hellfire and obtaining the reward of eternal pleasure." But in reality, this is a gross misrepresentation of the ethics laid out in the NT. I will argue the NT advocates for a form of virtue ethics, instead of claiming the NT contains a form of deontic ethics, as it is so often assumed.
Elizabeth Anscombe was one of the most influential virtue ethicists of the 20th century. Her work helped to revive virtue ethics in the modern era, however she also criticized the ethics of the Bible for promoting a form of ethics different than what Aristotle promoted:
"...between aristotle and us came Christianity, with its law conception of ethics. For Christianity derived its ethical notions from the Torah. (One might be inclined to think that a law conception of ethics could arise only among people who accepted an allegedly divine positive law..." (Modern Moral Philosophy, vol. 33, no. 124, 1-19)
We've already dealt with the issue of the Torah in another post. The Torah is not laying down moral laws, but describing justice in the form of ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature. But does the New Testament teach a deontic form of ethics? Anscombe might appear justified in her claim, as some "Christian" theologians have explicitly taught the ethics of the NT is deontic.
However, other theologians have argued the ethics of the NT is best characterized as a form of virtue ethics. In a study of the NT, we'll support this notion. As noted earlier, one of the central features of this approach to ethics is that the aim of ethics should be on living a virtuous life. Other forms of ethics focus on directing actions when confronted with a moral dilemma, but for virtue ethics every action is a moral or immoral action because all of our actions contribute or do not contribute to living a virtuous life. In other words, for a virtue ethicist, everything we do will contribute to living a fulfilled life. Now, the NT promotes a similar idea with a slight modification. The NT changes the distinctictive function and purpose for man in Eudaimonism from "reasoning" to loving God and others instead, and thus "living well" is changed from self-centered 'flourshing' (as defined by Aristotle) to glorifying God instead. The apostles taught everything we do contributes to living a life that glorifies God:

"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."-1 Corinthians 10:31
"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."-Colossians 3:17

So we see the same idea in Paul, that everything we do can be seen as a moral or immoral action. Everything we do should be seen as contributing to living a life that glorifies god or not. As a believer, the aim is not just doing good actions to avoid punishments, but to see everything we do as glorifying God. On secular virtue ethics, all our actions are either advancing a good life or not: nourishing your body contributes to living a good life. In a Biblical context: taking the time to properly dress contributes to living a good life, and not giving into the sin of sloth. So all our actions can be moral actions in this context, and so likewise for Paul and Jesus, all we do can contribute to living a life that glorifies God.
Since God made our bodies to thrive and enjoy life, we should nourish our bodies so we can thrive as God intended for our bodies to do, thus ultimately glorifying Him. Since we were created to experience and feel enjoyment, laughing and enjoying things throughout life glorifies God as well since we're experiencing emotions that God created to be experienced. Everything we do should be to glorify God, and often all that is is living our lives in the way that they were intended to be lived. Biblical ethics is very much more than merely performing right actions, but living a virtuous life that brings glory to God.
As Jesus said:

"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind."-Matthew 22:37b

It is also important to focus on what it means to love, which is an important aspect of what it means to be a believer. Paul makes the radical claim that to love is the entirety of the law of God:

"For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."-Galatians 5:14

Jesus also taught that to love God and love others were the two greatest commandments (Mark 12:28-31, Matt. 22:34-40). He also extends the commandment to love beyond one's brethren, and to love our enemies (Matt. 5:44). Loving those around us is central to what it means to be a believer (John 13:34; 15:12-17, Rom. 12:10; 13:8, 1 Cor. 13:1-8; 16:14, 2 Cor. 8:8, Eph. 4:2; 5:2, Phili. 1:9, Heb. 10:24, Jam. 2:8, 1 Pet. 1:22, 1 John 2:10; 3:23).
One might suggest this is no different than the Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do to you," or a Kantian rule: "I ought never to act except in such a way that I could also will that my maxim should become a universal law." In other words, "to live well is to perform good deeds or actions and nothing more." But an important point about loving someone is it cannot be done through actions alone. For example, one could buy a gift for their spouse to cheer them up. However, one could perform this action merely because they value performing right actions without any love for the person. One could donate to charity because it is the right thing to do, and not because she cares for the people who would benefit. In such scenarios, they can be seen as idolizing moral laws, not necessarily caring about helping others.
But to love someone requires more than merely performing right actions. You cannot love someone and not care about who they are as a person and where they are heading in life. To love is to will the good of the other. Jesus chastised the Pharisees of his day for only performing right actions, but not loving their brethren in their hearts. His criticism follows Matthew chapter 22, where Jesus says the greatest commandments are to love. The implication is the Pharisees perform proper actions, but have the wrong motivations for doing so. James Keenan puts it like this:
"Essential to understanding this command is that we love our neighbors not as objects of our devotion, but rather as subjects; that is, as persons. Thus, we cannot love others only because God wants us to do so, since then we would love them as means or as objects and not as persons. We can only love one another as subjects, just as God loves us." (Jesus and Virtue Ethics: Building Bridges Between New Testament Studies and Moral Theology, pg. 86)
A critic may bring up that verses of the NT are still phrased as commands, and therefore the structure implies duties were the central aspect of Christian ethics. But the importance of duties is not foreign to Virtue Ethics. Instead of being central to the ethical framework, duties flow from a virtuous character. Virtues are active and have certain demands for which a person must fulfill in their active behavior.
According to Aristotle, knowledge of the virtues gives us practical wisdom in how to properly act. Duties flow from the understanding of the demands of virtues. To put it another way, for virtues to manifest in persons, they have certain demands that must be fulfilled. For the believer, the command of love flows from being virtuous and aligning oneself with the character of God. Commitment to the character of Christ, who perfectly carried out the will of the Father, allows us to perform right and proper actions.
The NT also contains lists of virtues the believer ought to emulate, the most famous of these is in Galatians chapter 5:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." (vss. 22-23)
Now, the connection with Aristotle cannot be more pronounced. The Greek phrase "against such there is no law" is almost identical to what we find in Aristotle's politics (3.13.1284a). It seems clear Paul is teaching a similar ethical framework to what Aristotle advocated for. Paul is teaching that the believing community ought to be persons who display key virtues, and that their conduct would not need to be regulated by a law. Instead, their character should be the standard others can measure themselves by. Romans chapter 2 is also a place we see references to Aristotle, where Paul notes that when Gentiles do what the law requires, they are "a law unto themselves" (vss. 14-15). In other words, they do not need to be told to act a certain way. They have the proper virtuous character that directs their actions, to do the good the law requires. Paul is advocating in Galatians that believers should think in a similar way.
So in Galatians 5, we have affinity with the teachings of Aristotle, and in other lists of virtues throughout the NT we see a similar idea, which is that Christians were meant to display virtues primarily (Rom. 5:3-5, 1 Cor. 13:1-8, Col. 3:12-17, 1 Tim. 3:2-3; 4:7-8, Jam. 3:17-18, 2 Pet. 1:5-8). From that, good deeds will properly manifest in our actions.
Anscombe made a great point on what the focus of ethics should be:
"It would be a great improvement if, instead of 'morally wrong', one always named a genus such as 'untruthful', 'unchaste', 'unjust'. We should no longer ask whether doing something was 'wrong', passing directly from some description of an action to this notion; we should ask whether, e.g., it was unjust; and the answer would sometimes be clear at once." (Modern Moral Philosophy, vol. 33, no. 124, 1-19)
Interestingly enough, Paul lays out a similar idea in explaining Christian ethics:

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you."-Philippians 4:8-9

In other words, the central aspect on living a Christian life was on what is virtuous, not on what is lawfully right or wrong. Right actions flow from whatever is honorable, true, and pure. Correlating with this is how Paul responds to the Corinthians who claimed that "all was lawful." Paul reminded them the emphasis is not on what is lawful, but on what is good for building a virtuous character:

"All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not."-1 Corinthians 10:23

One's main focus ought to be on what is good, not on laws that dictate behavior.
One of the key aspects of Virtue Ethics is the idea we ought to learn from virtuous teachers and imitate them. A virtuous character is obtained by imitating what a virtuous person does. This parallels a key aspect of Christian ethics. Imitating Christ was (and still is) crucial to living a virtuous life:

"For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:"-1 Peter 2:21

Paul says in Romans 8:29 that Christians were predestined "to be conformed to the image of his Son." Jesus often taught his followers to do as he does (Matt. 16:24, Mark 8:34, Luke 6:40; 9:23, John 13:15, 34). Paul says in 1st Corinthians 11: Be ye followers [i.e., imitators] of me, even as I also am of Christ" (vs. 1). Hebrews 13:7 says to imitate the faith of the patriarchs. 1st Thessalonians 2:14 says to imitate each other. And jesus taught to imitate the good Samaritan from his parable (Luke 10:37). Imitating virtuous teachers was key for Christian ethics.
Aristotle tended to compare acquiring virtues with that of learning a practical skill, like playing an instrument or learning how to become a builder. Such practical skills are best picked up when trained by a master of that particular skill, because a teacher can always provide more insight through lessons they learn from experience. For example, an expert salesman can provide examples from his experience of what works with specific customers that a sales textbook could never provide. Many professions today require on-the-job training or experience before even hiring an applicant. The reason is: experience is key to learning a profession. Merely acquiring knowledge from a textbook or an instruction manual is often insufficient to master a skill, so why would mastering the skill of virtue be any different?
In the NT, a believer is to see the world through the eyes of Christ and to love as he loved. One cannot learn how to be a virtuous person without knowing what that life would look like. A key component of Christian theology is that the Messiah perfectly represented the Father and His will on earth, to show us how to properly live as God intended for man. This central tenet of the NT aligns well with agent-based theories of Virtue Ethics, and modifies it so that the person of Jesus Christ is the universal exemplar that one is meant to emulate. We are called to imitate him through our actions, thoughts, and desires, and to conform ourselves to the way he lived. As Paul said:

"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."-Galatians 2:20

If learning from Christ is key, we should briefly take a look at the Sermon on the Mount, which is said to be one of Jesus' most important series of teachings. Daniel Harrington notes:
"The sermon begins with nine 'beatitudes' (see 5:3–12) in which Jesus declares as 'happy' or 'blessed' those who practice certain virtues, and promises them an eternal reward and the fullness of God's kingdom." (Jesus and Virtue Ethics: Building Bridges Between New Testament Studies and Moral Theology, pg. 62)
Jesus laid out what a life for those that follow him look like in detail. One ought to be merciful, pure in heart, a peacemaker, thirst for righteousness, etcetera (Matt. 5:2-10). The Sermon does not merely include what right actions are, but includes sections on proper desires. Not only is it wrong to murder, but it is wrong to desire to murder or wish ill on someone (Matt. 5:22). Avoiding adultery is good, but one also should not covet after another man's woman in their heart (Matt. 5:28). In other words, merely avoiding immoral actions is not enough. One must also not desire vices. A believer is called to desire what is good.
The Sermon is not necessarily laying down universal moral commands. For example, Matthew 5:9 says, "Blessed are the peacemakers," but this doesn't imply absolute Pacifism, as it would contradict passages in the Old Testament where it explicitly says there is a time for war (Ecc. 3:8). The point of the Sermon is to teach what a virtuous life ought to look like. A follower of Christ ought to use reason to know what is proper to do in various circumstances. For example, in Matthew chapter 6, Jesus offers guidance on how one ought to pray by presenting the Lord's prayer (vss. 9-15). This is a model of how to pray. It's not a command for followers to always pray in this exact way.
In reality, the Sermon on the Mount mixes in exhortations, parables, hyperbole, declarations, commands, etc. It is best understood as displaying what a virtuous life ought to look like. It's not a law code. Building on this, it's important to understand a proper action is context sensitive. Under Virtue Ethics, one should not necessarily apply a universal maxim to every situation. Sometimes the proper action will depend on what is at stake, who is involved, what is the background, etc. Aristotle advocated against the idea there were fixed universal laws that dictate actions, and instead he argued the right action would depend on the circumstances one finds themselves in. Although the ethics of the NT may be a bit more strict, it still places an emphasis on being sensitive to the context of situations.
In 1st Corinthians chapter 8, Paul lays out instructions on how to deal with meat that has been sacrificed to Pagan idols. Instead of stating an absolute prohibition against meat sacrificed to idols, Paul instructed Christians to use reason to come to the proper ethical decision based on context. In other words, the right action is not determined only by a law. Instead, the Christian had to make the proper decision based on the context: if eating caused another to stumble, then you ought to abstain; if not, then there's no harm done. The value of the action depends on the context.
A Deontologist might reply that there's still a universal law given here: that one should always abstain if it's going to cause another to stumble. This objection can be addressed by asking: how are we to know if eating the meat will cause another believer to stumble? To answer such a question, one must be sensitive to the context, which in this case would be knowledge of the fellow believer and your relation to him. It is the context that determines the right action, not a universal law. Moreover, Paul states that the primary goal for the believer should be to love (1 Cor. 13). The first consideration is once again not the rightness of action, but having love for one another. From this, knowledge of the proper action will follow.
Paul often explains that living a proper life as a believer will take work and practice. He reminded Timothy to attend readings, practice what these things mean, and keep a close watch on himself (1 Tim. 4:13-14). Elsewhere, he directs that all believers must work on their faith (Phili. 2:12). Beyond this, he also noted that not all Christians would have the same gifts, and to accept that this was normal (1 Cor. 12). For some, certain things may be a hindrance, whereas for others it is acceptable (Rom. 14:2-4). What matters is that we love and build one another up (1 Thess. 5:11). Right actions flow from love and knowledge of virtue. Rules are not the primary motives that dictate our actions; rules are secondary in this regard.
An interesting case can be studied with regards to divorce in the Gospels. Jesus preaches against divorce (Mark 10:7-9) and it is often interpreted to mean "divorce is always wrong, regardless of circumstances." However, it should be noted the prohibition on divorce is not a universal law. The context can affect whether or not a divorce is permissible. Jesus says that one can divorce over sexual immorality. Paul also has a situation where divorce is permissible, namely if one spouse is an unbeliever and wishes to leave (1 Cor. 7:15). The implication one can derive is divorce is not ideal, but there are circumstances where it may be the proper action to take. Given the other features of Christian Virtue Ethics we already covered, the proper action to take will depend on the circumstances and what the virtuous agent thinks is the most loving thing to do. A universal prohibition on divorce is not a Christian ethic. Instead, one ought to discern the proper action from circumstances. However, it's clear in most cases divorce would not be the virtuous thing to do.
Building on this, it's important to note that within NT ethics, certain acts are always wrong. For example, idolatry and sexual immorality are always wrong (1 Cor. 10:14, Col. 3:15, 1 Pet. 4:13). There are no possible scenarios where it would be okay to rape, because such an act would never flow from a virtuous character. But this concept is not foreign to theories of Virtue Ethics. Aristotle noted that for some actions, no qualifications could make them virtuous. Actions such as rape or murder are always wrong, because they would never flow from a virtuous character. So it's not as if a Virtue Ethicist cannot claim that some actions are always wrong. They simply are qualified as being unable to flow from virtue, whereas actions like lying or waging war could be considered virtuous for the right reason.
Now, despite Christian Virtue Ethics having many similarities with Eudaimonism (Aristotelian ethics), there are also numerous differences beyond what we've already noted. One of the deficiencies of how Aristotle lays out his ethical theory is that it is essentially an all-boys club. Aristotle writes mainly to aristocratic men, excluding women and slaves. In his view, women were inferior to men and slaves lacked the necessary rational faculty. But the Christians rejected this mentality, as the teachings of Christ and the apostles were available to all (Matt. 28:19). Paul said, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus" (Gal. 3:28). Peter wrote that all Christians were part of the priesthood of Christ (1 Pet. 2:5). Jesus had women followers (Luke 8:2-3), and they were entrusted with delivering revelation (Mark 15:40–16:8). What we find throughout the NT is a radical change to how women were viewed in the ancient world. Paul is also likely building on Aristotle's household structure and refining it. David deSilva says the household codes of the NT are "...following the pairs laid out as early as Aristotle to such a degree as to suggest that these were standard topics in ethical instruction" (Honor, Patronage, Kinship & Purity, pg. 231). But Paul adds an important preface: submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ (Eph. 5:20-21). DeSilva says:
"...husbands, we cannot then ignore the distinctively Christian addition they bring to this arrangement; husbands are to be subject to their wives as well." (Honor, Patronage, Kinship & Purity, pg. 233)
Thus Paul doesn't break down the traditional perspective on the structure of the family, but he does add the idea that we all must submit to each other in reverence, love, unity, and cooperation because all are equal before God. There is no explicit mention in the NT calling for the abolishment of slavery, but it should be noted that Paul taught that slaves should be seen as equals. In the letter to Philemon, Paul is clear that his slave is no longer "as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved" (vs. 16). Thus, within Christian ethics class distinctions were supposed to evaporate. All were brothers and sisters of one family.
An important aspect of Christian ethics is that it wasn't a standalone ethical theory. It's embedded in the larger Christian worldview. The ethical framework is dependent on Christian doctrines. For Aristotle, his ethical theory is for men who were raised well. This is why these specific men desire to be virtuous and perform right actions. As for why the believer does good and desires to be virtuous, it's not because one was raised well, but because they have been activated by the power of God's Spirit (John 3:6, 1 Cor. 12:13). For believers, the reason as to why we desire to be good and virtuous is because the Spirit of God has regenerated us. He loves us so we can love others (1 John 4:19). One is meant to look to the life of Christ and what he has done by dying on the cross, to know that we are loved and forgiven. This in turn is meant to activate a good life, having seen what we have gained and been forgiven of. He calls and activates us to do similar to those around us. This is a more open system for people of all groups and classes. One only has to call upon the name of the Lord to be included. It does not require a specific gender or to be raised a certain way.
The goal of Aristotelian ethics is to achieve 'eudaimonia.' However, within the Bible the goal is as the Westminster Shorter Catechism puts it: "Man's chief end is to glorify God, and enjoy Him forever." Since the central aspect of Biblical Eschatology is that humans will continue on forever in resurrected bodies, the aim of ethics is more than living a good life presently. Living a good life now is important, but it was only one aspect in the Christian worldview. Humans are meant to live beyond this life, so the aim is also about building virtuous souls that will continue on. The importance of this is more crucial than it may seem at first. Paul said that we must all appear before judgment, so that "every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad" (2 Cor. 15:10).
Being a virtuous person requires integrity, because one will still have to answer to God after death. If one can commit an evil act and no one finds out, then from the outside perspective he or she may still appear virtuous. Culturally speaking, the ancient world was very different from our own. All wrongdoings centered around public honor and shame. One did good to receive public honor, and one did not do what was bad to receive public shame. Right and wrong were connected to one's public honor and shame in the ancient Greco-Roman world. Thus good and evil were public ideas, not personal ideas. Ethical demands were grounded in the community in one's public appearance
The Biblical idea of an omniscient God who cared about our ethical status laid a foundation for integrity and personal guilt to emerge. Now one ought to do good because he is beholden to God, not just the community. Believers are to remain focused on God's approval and on the actions that lead them, regardless of the world's response. This lays down fertile ground for integrity to emerge. So the Biblical worldview has another important element built in that encourages ethical behavior, regardless of the honor it brings. One ought to do good because of a commitment to God not, because it might bring honor to one's name publicly.

Implications for Preterists

Paul believed that the Second Coming would happen in his generation, and prescribed certain things in the NT on the basis of that belief. An example of an exhortation that would no longer apppy to us today would be 1st Corinthians 7:24-29, where Paul argues that the times him and his fellow Christians were in called for celibacy, being that the Lord was fast approaching. It wasn't a sin if you did get married, of course; it was just harder to serve the Lord in this context if you had a family to worry about. Thus, Paul encouraged being single.
So, we need to be careful when reading the NT and determining what prohibitions or exhortations are still applicable to us today. Context is key.

So I've had this tingling and numbness feeling in my limbs for the past few months, someone said it's probably a diabetes problem or some vitamin deficiency, I did blood work and the glucose hba1c level was normal, but the B12 was low 15pmol/l according to the reference range, how low is this? Should I buy B12?

~Phosphatidylcholine market~ is anticipated to grow at a considerable CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period (2024-2031). Phosphatidylcholine is a chemical contained in eggs, soybeans, mustard, sunflower, and other foods. It is found naturally in the body in all cells. Phosphatidylcholine is also a source of choline in the body. It is utilized in many different applications due to its offered benefits.
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Phosphatidylcholine provide special benefits and are known to be safe for administering medications to the lungs since they are The biocompatible and biodegradable properties of Phosphatidylcholine made them apt for treatment of ulcerative colitis. Phospholipids have been successfully administered to the lungs for several decades in order to treat pathological disorders where there is a deficiency of phospholipids in lung tissue, specifically in the alveoli.
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· Market Coverage
· Market number available for – 2024-2031
· Base year- 2024
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o Eggs
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I recently requested my medical records for the last 6 years because something feels off. Let’s just say I learned a lot. I’m experiencing some strange symptoms and plan to go to my doctor, but thought I would post my labs/urines to see what you think I should ask, should I be concerned, etc.
31 y/o female. 5’5”, 245lbs approximately. Medical Hx includes: ADHD, post partum preeclampsia + HELLP syndrome (2019), mild asthma.
Symptoms: small lump in left side of neck, petechiae on forearms, some red spots on hip & chest, lower back pain, bone pain (mostly right side hip, back, sometimes to leg), +++ fatigue, changes in bowel habits, increase menstrual flow, feeling hot face/arms at times with no fever.
Doc recently told me I’m deficient in b12 and vitamin D (significant drop from October 2023), and high in uric acid (although it did lower since October it is still higher end of normal).
My record mentioned after having my son in 2019 my d-dimer level was 4014, but I never knew this so unsure if I had a DVT or PE.
Thanks for any advice on what I should discuss with my family doc. Info in the comments.

27M and I initially started having symptoms May 2023 that ranged from migraines+auras, left side of body tingling + numbness that lasted for a month. Clean brain, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar MRIs with and without contrast. (8 MRIs and counting wooo)
Labs were normal except for severe vitamin B12 and D deficiency, which I am treating with supplements. Soon after (October 2023) started experiencing muscle fasciculations throughout the body (arms, legs, chest, back, face,etc.) and have not gone away. Also, trigger finger-like symptoms on right pinky finger and what looks like palmis brevis syndrome. Rheumatologist rules out arthritis. Diagnosed with ulnar neuropathy after EMG of upper extremities.
March 2024, I had a clean EMG of lower extremities after experiencing burning and tingling sensation in legs from standing for no more 10mins at a time.
As of now, I have ruled out autoimmune diseases (ANA negative), other neurological issues besides my ulnar neuropathy. Neurologist has no reason to suspect ***…all lab work has been normal. Muscle fascilulations and cramps still present and considered benign (BFS / CFS).
I wonder if anyone has any ideas of what other things I should be looking out for (EDS?). I have health anxiety and having no actual diagnosis has been worrisome.

Hi all I recently learned that my vitamin D level is low and I have had a rash that kind of resembles hives for a while now. My skin is just really itchy and then these bumps appear. I am wondering if this could be related to the vitamin deficiency.
Thank you !!

14-minute read.

average monthly nominal salaries and YoY change in Q1 2024

Yerevan +8% to ֏324K/$836
Syunik +7% to ֏295K/$760
Shirak +7% to ֏142K/$366
Yerevan had the highest wages. Syunik had the highest wages among provinces, while Shirak had the lowest.
REPORT: While the average nominal monthly salary does not always show the level of economic prosperity in a region, its rise has made a tangible difference in Syunik.
SUREN PARSYAN (economist): Syunik has higher wages and strong employment. It is the most prosperous province with the lowest unemployment poverty rate in Armenia: 24% in Armenia, 15% in Yerevan, and 2% in Syunik.
REPORT: Over the last 5 years, the average monthly nominal salaries have risen by 40% while the inflation was 21%.
source,

Armenian army launches command staff exercises

They will exercise the practical implementation of deployment and combat plans, evaluate the commanders' skills, improve the synchronized work between various groups, develop the officers' moral characteristics and practical skills during preparation and combat operations, etc.
They will use automated control systems and modern technologies during the exercises.
source,

Armenia and India will form a new working group for defense cooperation

Defense ministries of AM and IN held a meeting on Tuesday. They discussed the 2024-2025 cooperation plan and the creation of a new working group to coordinate the cooperation.
source,

from PM Pashinyan's speech at Copenhagen Democracy Summit:

PASHINYAN: Democracy has indeed become a reality in Armenia. Before the 2018 Velvet Revolution, massive electoral frauds were the usual companion of elections in Armenia. There was no trust among the citizens that there was a real chance for them to elect the government.
Now the situation is totally different; citizens know that they are powerful enough to decide. The two general elections that were held in Armenia after the Velvet Revolution have been acknowledged as democratic, free, and competitive both by the Armenian society and the international community.
Armenia made huge progress in strengthening the democratic institutions, an achievement reflected in reputable democracy indexes:
(a) Now we are the 43rd in the Reporters Without Borders’ Freedom of Speech index, compared to 79th place in 2017.
(b) Categorized as having partially free internet in 2017 by Freedom House, now we enjoy the status of a country with free internet.
(c) In Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, Armenia is now 62nd instead of 107th in 2017.
(d) In the Economist Intelligence Unit’s democracy index we are 84th compared to 111th in 2017.
In order to assess this progress, it's essential to note that alongside democratic reforms, Armenia has been contending with external security challenges: the 44-day war in Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan's invasion of Armenia in 2021 and 2022 and the occupation of over 200 km² amid inaction by [Russia's] CSTO, the forced displacement of over 100,000 Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh, have cast doubts among Armenian citizens weather democracy is the right choice. So, democracy needs to prove its efficiency while dealing with security, economic and humanitarian challenges.
We are pleased with the deployment of EU monitoring mission alongside the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, and we welcome EU’s decision to expand its capacity. On the other hand, we hope for the inclusion of Armenia into the European Peace Facility and in this regard, we rely on the support of all EU member states [Hungary].
A new set of commitments aimed at strengthening Armenia’s economic resilience, state institutions, and addressing the humanitarian needs of refugees has been taken on by the European Union and United States during the high-level meeting on April 5 in Brussels. The rapid and effective implementation of those commitments is of utmost importance.
Despite all the challenges, we believe that the real and most aspiring companion for democracy is lasting and sustainable peace. My government took the share of its responsibility for this. Recently we reached an agreement with Azerbaijan to launch the delimitation of our interstate borders on the basis of the Almaty Declaration of 1991. That means that during the delimitation we should simply reproduce the Soviet-era administrative borders. This is the implementation of the agreement reached in Prague in 2022. Now it is time to incorporate and reflect those agreements in the peace treaty and have it signed.
Another key point for our regional stability is the «Crossroads of Peace», project, initiated by my government. This project implies that Armenia and Azerbaijan restore and open transport and other communications in accordance with the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the countries through which they pass, and comply with the principles of equality and reciprocity. These elements of the concept were agreed upon during the July 2023 meeting with Ilham Aliyev and Charles Michel. //

... Politico reporter's Q&A with Pashinyan

REPORTER: [Ex-NATO leader] Anders Fogh Rasmussen called your neighbor an autocracy. You are in a very difficult geopolitical and geographical position. How do you solve the security problem in that environment?
PASHINYAN: I would not like to comment on the internal situation of our neighboring countries. Democracy fully corresponds to the mentality of our people. It is a strategy for our government, it is our political belief, it is also our political identity. The members of our political team have spent most of their lives fighting for democracy, the rule of law, and freedom of speech. Now we have the opportunity to realize all these values in our country.
The security situation was complicated because of the regional and global situation; the world order is collapsing at the moment. My assessment is, and I have had occasion to say this publicly, that the 2020 war was a prelude to further developments. And now the main issue is security.
What is our strategic point of view, how are we going to guarantee the security of our country? Recently, I gave a speech in our parliament, where I said that the most important tool for ensuring security is a foreign policy based on legitimacy. This is the reason why we so often speak about the 1991 Almaty Declaration.
It is very important that during the 2022 Prague meeting, two very important agreements were reached. Armenia and Azerbaijan recognize each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty on the basis of the Almaty Declaration and will use it as the basis for the border demarcation. This is the reason why I said that we are not drawing a new border, we just need to reproduce the existing one on the ground. This process is happening right now, and I hope that we will continue it steadfastly.
REPORTER: The border conflict that has occurred in recent years has had a negative impact on relations with Russia and Russia's role for Armenia. What would you say about this?
PASHINYAN: Armenia is a member of CSTO. We are officially a CSTO member, but I have announced that we have frozen our participation.
REPORTER: So are you still a member or...?
PASHINYAN: It is a matter for further discussion, but it is very important to record the current situation. A crisis arose in our relations after Azerbaijani troops invaded Armenia, and according to CSTO procedures, the Organization and its member states had to support Armenia in this situation. But even after the formal application, the CSTO refused to take any concrete steps, and in fact, that is the main reason for freezing our participation in the CSTO at all levels.
REPORTER: Do you expect the West to occupy the current vacuum and ensure your security?
PASHINYAN: We are diversifying our foreign relations in all spheres. Now we are developing defense cooperation with India, France, and other countries. We have a certain cooperation with the European Union because as I mentioned, we are happy about the deployment of the EU Civilian Observation Mission on the border. It is a civilian mission but in a way, it is a new factor for the security of our region. This is the first time that the European Union participates in the security agenda of Armenia.
REPORTER: Would you like to become an EU member?
PASHINYAN: We are waiting for the EU's decision to include Armenia in the European Peace Facility. We also hope to start visa liberalization negotiations, and last year I announced in the European Parliament that Armenia is ready to be as close to the European Union as the European Union deems it possible. This is our position.
REPORTER: Can you elaborate on what initiatives Armenia is taking in the fight against corruption?
PASHINYAN: We have made huge progress but have not eradicated corruption from Armenia. We must continue to be persistent in the agenda of democratic reforms. This is the reason why cooperation with the European Union is of utmost importance for us because today the European Union is our main partner in the implementation of our democratic reform agenda. We hope that the European Union, as well as the USA, will increase their support to Armenia in the implementation of democratic reforms, because, as I said, democracy is a strategy for us.
By the way, in 2019 we started a Strategic Dialogue with the USA, and today we see the strengthening of our cooperation with the European Union. We recently had a tripartite meeting with the participation of the USA, EU, and Armenia. It was an unprecedented format, where we adopted a huge agenda of institutional and economic reforms. It is also very important that we receive more tangible support from the EU and the US to address the humanitarian needs of the Nagorno Karabakh refugees because it is a very sensitive and emotional issue for us.
REPORTER: In which year would you like Armenia to become a member of the EU?
PASHINYAN: This year [as soon as possible]. //
Pashinyan met Anders Fogh Rasmussen. The latter emphasized the importance of the “Crossroads of Peace” project in the context of unblocking the regional infrastructure.
Pashinyan discussed various topics with the PM of Denmark. The latter accepted his invitation to visit Armenia.
full video, source, video, other, other, source, video,

former regime continues to hold protests and briefly shut down roads in Yerevan with demands for PM Pashinyan's resignation

ԳԼՈՒԽ 1
Dozens of participants were detained and released the same day for blocking roads. The detentions decreased from 170 on Monday to ~63 on Tuesday. They want Pashinyan to resign or to be impeached. The protest organizers visited universities to gather student supporters, some of whom joined them with a dance. The organizers also stopped by at a bakery where they were given free food.
A felony investigation was launched after a police vehicle, "with the sirens on", struck a reporter on the street. In another instance, an investigation was launched against a protester who brought a long sword. One other case was launched over alleged threats made on Facebook by a Galstanyan fan who wants scores of people to be beaten in dalans and exiled from Armenia, "մենակ էտ դեպքում էս սրբազան հողը կմաքրվի էս տեսակ շան ծնունդներից, ուրիշ ձև չկա!!!!"
ԳԼՈՒԽ 2
A ruling faction member of Yerevan City Council complained about "harassment" by opposition figures who are attempting to convince ruling party members to join the protests and the impeachment.
RULING MEMBER: That is not how it works. No one will join you with that conduct. People will join if they see you have a legitimate agenda with trustworthy leaders. Instead, you are "ethnically cleansing" the citizens of Armenia [referring to one opposition speaker telling non-Armenians to leave] և հեռու չէ են օրը երբ դուք գուցե ասեք որ հայ լինելու համար պետք է Հայկ նահապետից տեղեկանք բերել: //
ԳԼՈՒԽ 3
Yesterday the protest co-organizer Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan said he received a report suggesting that the Deputy Rector of Yerevan State University supposedly urged deans and others to retaliate against students who joined the protests. Galstanyan said he was unsure whether the report was true, but decided to read it out loud anyway. On Tuesday he rallied his supporters to the backyard of the University where he demanded to speak with the Deputy Rector for clarification.
The Deputy Rector went downstairs and greeted Galstanyan, who shook her hand but wouldn't let it go for an uncomfortably long period, prompting her to ask him to let go of her hand. The Deputy Rector declared that whatever Galstanyan read about her was a defamatory lie.
GALSTANYAN: I never believed it myself.
DEPUTY RECTOR: Then you should not have said out loud something you did not believe.
GALSTANYAN: Listen, there is a recorded fact...
DEPUTY RECTOR: Where is that "recorded fact"?
GALSTANYAN: It was on the media. As I said yesterday, I had no verification that it was true, which is why we came here to clarify it. If it's false, then I apologize.
DEPUTY RECTOR: Thank you. //
The Deputy Rector urged the protest organizers not to enter the building or disrupt the classes, and that "anyone who wants to follow you can follow you, anyone who wants to stay in classrooms should stay in classrooms".
The angry Deputy Rector left. Another university official criticized Galstanyan for not checking the information before reading it to his followers. Galstanyan said he stands behind his words, and that he was "just reading what was on the media", but reiterated that he had no intention to insult the Deputy Rector.
ԳԼՈՒԽ 4
Galstanyan and his supporters visited the monument dedicated to Operation Nemesis. He praised the figures behind Nemesis for "assuming personal responsibility". In front of the crowd, Galstanyan introduced Hambig Sassounian who recently joined his movement. He pointed to the Nemesis monument and said Sassounian is "one of the successors, one of the brightest people." In related news, on Sunday a ruling faction MP complained about receiving death threats with reference to Operation Nemesis.
ԳԼՈՒԽ 5
DANIEL IOANNESIAN (NGO chief): When this protest dies down, we need to discuss the following: (1) The transparency of political and media funding. There are some regulations in place, but they are incomplete and easily bypassed. For example, I'd like to know who paid for Archbishop Galstanyan's giant stage in Republic Square. In 2018 Pashinyan organized a fundraising for it and disclosed a detailed report. (2) Should the media organizations that do not respect the rules of financial transparency enjoy all the mechanisms for the protection of journalists? (3) Are the customs authorities confident that the church is not facilitating the business activities of certain figures disguised as donations? (4) Is it fair for the church and clergy members not to pay taxes? Should they be able to have a Bently and LX570 without paying taxes? [The "Bentley" is based on a true story.]
ԳԼՈՒԽ 6
Archbishop's fans spotted Miss Armenia 2003 and a H1 host Lusine Tovmasyan drinking a coffee at a Yerevan café and approached her.
PROTESTER: (unintelligable)
LUSINE: I was here drinking coffee yesterday, and a year before that.
PROTESTER: Why have you not joined the holy struggle?
LUSINE: Լավ եկեք թարգեք, շատ զզվելի ա, էնքան զզվելի ա․ //
ԳԼՈՒԽ 7
Pro-Kremlin propagandist Alexander Dugin praised the pro-Russian forces' protests in Armenia and criticized the pro-EU protests in Georgia.
Pro-Kremlin Russian politician Semyon Baghdasarov praised Archbishop Bagrat and the ongoing "uprising" in Armenia against the "traitor" [Nikol] who "rigged" the elections with the help of "Turkey, UK, and US". Nikol is a Turkish MI6 agent. video,
ԳԼՈՒԽ 8
Video of a protest recorded from above: video
source, video, video, video, video, source, source, source, source, source, source, source, video,

Armenian government has upgraded other diplomatic channels to reduce reliance on ARF's diaspora structures in the US, says pro-West NGO chief

KHURSHUDYAN: The status of the Armenian Ambassador to the U.S. [Lilith Makunts] has been significantly upgraded. I won't go into specifics because it's tied to our neighbors, but she plays an interesting role there. We have great conditions for the U.S. Congress to pressure Azerbaijan. This is outside of ARF's lobbyist groups in the U.S.
REPORTER: ARF Hay Dat's recent conduct has been shameful.
KHURSHUDYAN: And its influence on the Lemkin Institute was obvious. //
Yesterday Kurshudyan accused the Lemkin Institute of caving to ARF's pressure and meddling into Armenia's internal affairs to assist the protests by the pro-Russian former regime.
KHURSHUDYAN: Lemkin Institute accused Pashinyan's April 24 genocide remembrance day statement of containing "victim blaming". Lemkin did not comment on Pashinyan's statement for several weeks, waited 15 days, and as soon as these pro-Russian protests began in Armenia, they gave them a պաս:
source,

Armenia's four most prominent pro-West opposition parties announce the formation of a unified platform

Republic Party, led by ex-PM Aram Sargsyan.
Hanun Republic Party, led by Arman Babajanyan.
European Party of Armenia, led by Tigran Khzmalyan.
Christian-Democratic Party, led by Levon Shirinyan.
Have the following agenda...
(1) Promotion of Western values in Armenia and Armenia's membership in EU and NATO.
(2) United front against threats and risks of destabilization coming from Russia.
(3) Vetting judges to clean up the courts, and resolution of issues left unaddressed by the Pashinyan administration.
(4) Continuation of border demarcation based on 1991 Almaty.
(5) The use of international law to achieve a fair resolution for Nagorno-Karabakh residents.
The platform is open for like-minded forces to join.
source,

Armenian army chief denies being a Russian citizen

A statement released by the defense ministry denies media reports that CoGS LtGen Edward Asryan is a dual citizen of Russia. His wife is an ethnic Russian with Armenian citizenship and his kids are dual citizens, but Asryan only has citizenship in Armenia. The whole family has resided in Armenia since 2006, said the statement.
source,

Georgia passes controversial ‘foreign agents’ bill despite widespread opposition

The law will require organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as “agents of foreign influence” or face crippling fines.
The bill will be sent to the President who is expected to veto it, but her veto is expected to be overruled by the parliamentary majority later.
Georgian PM Kobakhidze had an "honest conversation" with U.S. deputy foreign minister James O'Brien, telling him that the Georgian government is interested in deepening the partnership with the U.S., "which requires mutual efforts and relations based on fairness."
James O'Brien demanded to speak with the manager - Bidza Ivanishvili. The latter refused to meet O'Brien, saying he won't hold any meetings under "blackmail".
The White House said the U.S. will review its relations with Georgia if the bill becomes law.
source, source, source,

how many of the 101,000 Nagorno-Karabakh refugees have left Armenia and haven't returned yet?

As of...
Dec: 6.6K
Jan: 6.9K
Mar: 8.0K
Apr: 9.1K
May: 9.9K
The former Ombudsman of Nagorno-Karabakh said many of them have family members and friends in Russia who invite them to move.
source,

temperatures are rising rapidly in Armenia

REPORTER: The rainy May is not going to be enough to alleviate the negative consequences of the rapidly rising temperatures in Armenia. With a ~3 Celsius anomaly, Armenia had the second-highest increase in temperature over the last 6 months among a group of monitored countries.
WEATHER CENTER: High temperatures increase the evaporation of water and reduce the amount of snow in the winter. In December and January, we recorded rain instead of snow in certain mountainous regions, which is bad for water resources.
REPORTER: A conference was recently held in Yerevan within the framework of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification.
UN official: Around 40% of global soils are degraded. Millions of people will be forced to migrate from their communities by 2050 as a result of climate problems. Emergency action is needed to reduce the rate of rising temperatures. //
Armenia joined the Convention three decades ago and has assumed the responsibility to restore degraded soil by 2030. The government is promoting drip irrigation systems for farming and wants to plant more trees.
video,

is the decline of Lake Sevan levels finally slowing down?

see the YoY chart

Yerevan Municipality to receive a €25 million loan from European Investment Bank to raise energy efficiency

It's part of the implementation of Eastern Partnership programs. The Armenian government and the EU are co-financing it.
The goal is to raise energy efficiency and carry out seismic retrofitting in 6 medical clinics and 32 kindergartens run by the municipality. The length of the program is 4 years.
video, video,

Gagik Tsarukyan is inside you

there is a bit of Tsarukyan inside all of you
see it to believe it

Gagik Tsarukyan says the new Jesus statue is ready and will be installed by the end of 2025

It will be a tourist attraction site. There will be a ropeway. Also, Tsarukyan needs you to know that he is a man of God and an avid believer.
video,

Armenia and Slovakia discussed AM-EU visa liberalization

source,

Lithuania will help retrain Armenian law enforcement agents to combat cybercrime, analyze crimes, etc.

source,

Armenia's Economy Minister Papoyan met the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt

In a Washington meeting participated by the Armenian Ministry delegation and Armenia's Ambassador, they spoke about the Crossroads of Peace logistics project proposed by Armenia, several topics relating to Armenia's energy and economic security, and the Armenian government's ongoing efforts to classify Armenia as a "market economy".
source,

Armenia and Iran discussed the construction of a second bridge over the River Araks

The first bridge began operating in 1996. It came to replace the floating bridges on the river.
Iran says the AM-IR traffic through the Meghri checkpoint significantly increased last year. Coupled with the fact that Armenia is building a modern North-South highway, they believe it's necessary to have a second AM-IR bridge to handle the rising traffic.
The parties are currently discussing the formation of a working group consisting of experts to discuss the topic.
source,

a new study on mice indicates that more exercise might be better than more sleep for clearing brain of toxins

They injected a dye into a brain and tracked the speed of its movement during sleep and exercise.
The findings show that the clearance of the dye was reduced by 30% in sleeping mice compared with mice that were kept awake. This has not been confirmed on humans yet.
Previous research has suggested that sleep is important for preventing dementia as it is during this time that toxic proteins are cleared from the brain.
source, source,

hi everyone bit of a long one but I’ve been seeing a lot of posts on here about DHEA-S levels, wanted to share my own story to hopefully help anyone feeling a bit hopeless.
During quarantine I didn’t take care of my body and health, and between 2020-2023 gained a lot of weight from eating terrible food most of the time (takeaways, high sugar, etc.). Around the start of 2023 I started noticing excessive hair growth on my chin and upper lip, hair loss around my forehead, and irregular periods. The absolute worst though was sudden bouts of anxiety and panic attacks anytime I went out. I would step out of my house or into a restaurant/uber etc and immediately feel all the symptoms of high blood pressure like being dizzy/disoriented, sweaty, my heart would be pounding heavy and fast, my throat would feel tight, dry mouth - generally I would feel so afraid and like I needed to sit down immediately and lean against a wall or I would faint (never happened thankfully). Ended up in the ER twice for bad episodes that lasted hours.
I went to nephrologists, gynaecologists, and endocrinologists. Cortisol and testosterone levels were normal, so PCOS was doubted because I also didn’t have mini cysts on my ultrasounds - my panels would come back normal time and time again except for b12 and vit D deficiencies as well as extremely high DHEAS levels of 795 (I believe the maximum for the normal range is 330 or something). Adrenal tumour was ruled out with a CT scan. No one offered an explanation for the DHEAS levels and I was told I just have plain old anxiety - despite me insisting these symptoms started extremely randomly and only recently. Other symptoms I experienced at the same time were gastric related - acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, and irritable bowels which was just annoying on top of everything.
I went to a naturopath who finally addressed all my issues and I can say I haven’t experienced one of those horrible debilitating panic attacks in almost a year now. My DHEAS levels are measuring at around 400 now which is still slightly above normal but better than 795 for sure. My periods are regular and painless and I don’t have as much facial hair. I’ve also lost 24kg in less than a year as a side benefit. Here are some of the things I did to bring my life back to normal.

1. Fix my gut health. By far the most important. I started taking pre and probiotics (either supplements or natural food sources). I cut out sugar and caffeine and started eating less carbs and more healthy fats (avocados), fibre (flaxseeds, veg), and protein.
   
2. Insulin resistance. There’s a couple things I did to address my insulin resistance. I cut out high glycemic index foods, completely cut out oat milk and rice, and started intermittent fasting. I would add cinnamon powder, ACV, and turmeric powder to meals or drinks here and there. I also took myo-inositol powder in water with meals but I would recommend speaking to your doctor first before starting. My fasting blood sugar levels averaged at around 6.2 this time last year and now measure at around 4.3 in the mornings.
   
3. Ashwagandha. Lifesaver. I was instructed to boil a bit of liquorice powder and ashwagandha powder in water and drink it every night (please consult first with a health professional to see if this would be an option for you). When I’m lazy I take an ashwagandha gummy, bonus points if it has a blend with l-theanine or GABA as these have calming properties. I would also recommend drinking spearmint tea if you’re taking ashwagandha as it lowers androgen levels and reduces facial hair growth.
   
4. Vitamin deficiencies. I started taking b12, magnesium glycinate and d3. It’s a good idea to get a blood panel to see what you’re lacking and address it either with supplements or diet changes.
   
5. Preparing before going out. At the time I was still experiencing the panic attacks I would always make sure to carry a water bottle, either a banana or electrolyte sachets/tablets, sour candy, and a mini eucalyptus essential oil bottle (smelling it calms you down) in my bag. I don’t need any of that anymore but if you’re still going through this these would be my tips!
   
6. Lifestyle changes. Basic things like sleeping early and decent hours, taking it easy give yourself some rest and breathing time. I don’t go to the gym or do regular breathing exercises but I know they can help so I’m gonna start.
   

Sorry for the long post but I hope this can help even one person who might be going through the same thing I was last year. Was in a horrible place and thankful to feel so much better now.

Context: Very long-term (20+ years) strict vegetarian ('vegan'), recently (8 months ago) went pesco-ovo vegetarian.
Reason? Started off on a largely processed, junky 'vegan' diet, which evolved over time to a whole-food plant-based diet -- except for the vitamin D and B12 supplements. It seemed a bit hypocritical to claim to be on a healthy diet while acknowledging its inherent deficiency with perpetual reliance on synthetic vitamin supplements.
Also am quite familiar with actual (not social media / youtube) nutrition research, so had no intention of pursuing anything extreme. Ended up switching out 1 plant protein source every day with 1 animal based protein, either ~100 g of sardines or eggs. Calorically, that only came out to 5-10% of calories from animal food sources, the remaining 90-85% being whole plant foods.
The expectation was a slight bump in the lipid panel. So you can imagine the surprise when getting the blood work back after the recent annual physical.
Triglycerides halved 2.15 to 1.10 mmol/L LDL dropped from 2.85 to 2.60 mmol/L HDL jumped from 0.75 1.05 mmol/L
Have no intention of changing anything anytime soon, as these results seem too good to be true. Is this inadvertently the 'real' Mediterranean diet?

So I am almost 44 was diagnosed with gout about 12 years ago. Been on allopurinol since that initial diagnosis and have often gone 12-18 months between flare ups sometimes longer once even almost 3 years in between. I have always eaten a decent diet but I recently started trying to lose weight and live an even ealthier lifestyle. **Alcohol 1-2 if not 3 days a week was being consumed now down to couple times a month. Playing pickleball, more hiking/biking and less drinking since January 1st as a New Year’s resolution. I also started Keto with the wife and have been doing Keto and intermittent fasting since then (was fully keto through March now eating Keto about 90% of meals/snacks). I have lost 27lbs and am pretty much at my goal weight. Currently weigh 188 (goal was 185) at 6ft tall. Keto makes me feel fantastic in terms of energy, weight loss has been a huge success. I also supplement with Vitamins, B12, D, calcium, magnesium, daily multivitamin and tart cherry extract almost every single day.
My elbow started bothering me off and on when I switched to keto but was also playing pickleball and doing push ups so generally when I laid off the pickleball/push ups for 3-4 days it got better. Didn’t even think it was gout related at first. I am now going on two weeks with a really bad elbow flare. Took about 6 colchicine after the first 3-4 days when I figured out it was in fact gout and not tennis elbow, and now it just won’t quit. I know you don’t want to keep takin colchicine so I stopped taking it 4 days ago. Usually that knocks it out. Stopped all lifting, exercise using the elbow, pickleball, etc. Feels 75% during the day and on fire at night. Drinking 100 oz of water at a minimum daily.
Everything I read about keto was the diet change would cause flare ups initially in the first few months due to the change in diet but if not smashing red meat and purine rich foods it should regulate back to normal.
Any ideas on things to try to get this knocked out?
Anyone else doing keto and seeing increased flare ups over a prolonged period?
Anyone doing keto long term and seeing it go back to “normal” in terms of flare ups?
Any other suggestions on ways to calm this flare up down?
Anyone else have flare ups in the elbow and have recommendations?
Any help would be appreciated, sorry for the long post kept thinking of more info to add haha.

Lately, I've noticed every conversation in my life is so SERIOUS. People say controversial things to me that make me feel forced to say something blunt. My blunt mouth has me thinking I might be Autistic (or SOMETHING). I actually Googled am I Autistic?

• My best friend is about to move in with a guy who has two kids. I asked her if they had discussed all the issues involved with Stepparenting. There was a long, "why are you such an asshole pause," on the phone. I asked her what her Mom thought and there was more, "thanks for everyone telling me what do type of pause."
• I had to tell my boyfriend he has to go to the doctor for certain issues.
• My boyfriend and I are discussing kids and I gave him a presentation on everything that can go wrong. I want him to read. "What to Expect When You're Expecting." I constantly turn his happy topic into a heavy topic.
• I had to talk to my Uncle about if certain issues were related to dementia.
• I once told my best guy friend he's a sex addict and when he cleaned up / went to Church more I told him nobody believed that either.
• My cousin bought a company and he hid it from the majority of our family. Not wanting to deal with all of our opinions. Well, it's for sale now and has been a gigantic clusterfuck and waste of money.
• Another cousin lives with two kids in a tight apartment. When I went to visit everyone was fighting due to lack of personal space. I mentioned to my cousin they probably should move so they all don't kill each other. I made it weird. However, if her husband moves out due to insanity wtf then.
• I live with someone who renovated our kitchen in a crazy manor. I said my piece. After spending $$$$$$$$$ they have come to agree with me and will be ripping out said kitchen. It's a $10,000 fuck up.
• A good friend of mine has a disability and a discussion about what services she needs led to a blow up. I Google all these resources and the reality is I cannot make someone use quality resources.
• Another friend of mine has hid some health issues. So when those came out it was extra serious because a normal conversation just has a better flow???
• One of my friends is expecting and her husband wants to go to law school. It has absolutely come out that none of her friends think they should spend law school $$$$$$ with a new kid coming.
• I was distant from a friend for awhile because their issues being from an abusive family were so complex I couldn't say anything.
• Another friend is bad about communication. When we finally did communicate, I was able to find something that solved a knee issue. I got a text thanking me, but I forced my way through.
• Another friend has a health issue and I sent a bunch of links and info for a product that might work. She's having some problems with the medical system so here I am working on fixing something.

Are the rest of you having such serious conversations? I feel like I'd be more popular if I didn't care. However, I am known as someone who does care about how things turns out.
Do I have some kind of mental problem if I'm always saying the truth with regard to health issues? I get this from a family that holds nothing back. I personally hate it when used at me, however it was how I was raised.
Are the rest of you there just never telling the truth and smiling?

Guys why don't doctors in India prescribe sublinguals instead of tablets for vitamin b12 deficiency as it is way more effective?? Also there are very very few Indian brands and it is costly to import good ones from abroad. Also most doctors suggest very low doses.
It is because vitamin b12 deficiency isn't taken seriously in our country??
Any of my fellow Indians here can suggest a good b12 suppliment pls comment.
Thanks in Advance.

I got a quest lab test for vitamin deficiency since none of my doctors are helpful in my symptoms. Some even say that they don’t think it’s my thyroid even though I felt better on levo. My TSH was at a subliminal hypothyroidism level before taking levo.
I got the test results back and my iodine is borderline low. This is after I have added more iodine salt (from non-iodized salt) into my diet. Has anyone tried to add some iodine and has that helped your symptoms at all?
I already take b12, d3 k2, magnesium and Brazilian nuts for selenium daily. I was feeling good on levo (50 mcg) but my symptoms came back. Doctor won’t do another thyroid test.

So I had a routine blood test yesterday and got a call today saying I have folate deficient anaemia. Also can’t believe how quick the results were given this is the NHS
I have a couple of questions
I googled folate deficient anaemia and was a little confused. Is this just another name for vitamin B12 deficiency
What could cause it? I looked at the recommended list of foods, and I eat quite a few of them regularly. I am egg intolerant so don’t eat eggs, but other than that idk. I was eating very poorly at university but for the last couple months I’ve been back home eating normal balanced meals
Is it common?
Anyway here are the symptoms I have experienced

• mouth sores (this is what triggered the blood test)
• indigestion, I have GERD but it has gotten a lot worse
• palpitations
• weakness and tiredness
• pins and needles and electric shock symptoms (I am on sertraline so just presumed this was normal)
• constant nausea
• I have depression and anxiety, that has gotten worse too, so much so that I’ve had to take a year out of university

Impact of Cystic Fibrosis on Adults

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems, but it can also have implications for other parts of the body. With advancements in treatment and care, more people with CF are living into adulthood. However, managing the condition in adults involves dealing with a range of challenges and complications.

Respiratory System

1. Chronic Lung Infections: Adults with CF often experience recurrent lung infections due to thick, sticky mucus that traps bacteria. Common pathogens include Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
2. Reduced Lung Function: Over time, repeated infections and inflammation can lead to a decline in lung function, making breathing more difficult.
3. Bronchiectasis: The airways become permanently widened, leading to persistent cough, mucus production, and further infections.
4. Respiratory Failure: In severe cases, lung damage can progress to the point where the lungs cannot provide adequate oxygen to the body, requiring advanced interventions like oxygen therapy or lung transplantation.

Digestive System

1. Pancreatic Insufficiency: Thick mucus can block the ducts of the pancreas, preventing digestive enzymes from reaching the intestines. This leads to malabsorption of nutrients, malnutrition, and vitamin deficiencies.
2. Diabetes: CF-related diabetes (CFRD) is common in adults due to the damage to the pancreas. It shares characteristics of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
3. Liver Disease: Blockages in the bile ducts can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and portal hypertension.
4. Intestinal Issues: CF can cause intestinal blockages, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and distal intestinal obstructive syndrome (DIOS).

Reproductive System

1. Infertility: Most men with CF are infertile due to congenital absence of the vas deferens, which carries sperm from the testes. However, assisted reproductive technologies can help achieve pregnancy.
2. Reduced Fertility in Women: Thick cervical mucus can make it harder for sperm to reach the egg, but many women with CF can still conceive naturally or with assistance.

Musculoskeletal System

1. Osteoporosis: Due to malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D, adults with CF are at higher risk for osteoporosis and fractures.
2. Arthritis: Some adults may develop CF-related arthritis or musculoskeletal pain.

Psychosocial Impact

1. Mental Health: The chronic nature of CF can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress. The need for continuous treatment and hospitalizations can impact quality of life.
2. Social and Work Life: Managing CF often requires time-consuming treatments and frequent medical appointments, which can interfere with work and social activities.

Treatment and Management

1. Medications:

• Bronchodilators: To open the airways.
• Mucolytics: To thin mucus.
• Antibiotics: To treat and prevent infections.
• Pancreatic Enzymes: To aid digestion.
• CFTR Modulators: Target the defective protein in CF and improve its function.

1. Airway Clearance Techniques: Daily physiotherapy to clear mucus from the lungs.
2. Nutritional Support: High-calorie diet, vitamin supplements, and enzyme replacements.
3. Exercise: Regular physical activity to maintain lung function and overall health.
4. Psychological Support: Counseling or therapy to help manage the emotional aspects of living with CF.
5. Advanced Therapies: Lung transplantation may be an option for those with severe lung disease.

Conclusion

While cystic fibrosis poses significant challenges for adults, ongoing advancements in medical care and treatment strategies are helping many individuals manage their condition more effectively and lead fuller lives. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care is essential to address the complex needs of adults with CF, including respiratory, digestive, reproductive, and psychosocial aspects. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers specialized in CF care is crucial for optimizing health outcomes and maintaining quality of life.
Blaze0 notes Impact of Cystic Fibrosis on Adults
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems, but it can also have implications for other parts of the body. With advancements in treatment and care, more people with CF are living into adulthood. However, managing the condition in adults involves dealing with a range of challenges and complications.

Respiratory System

1. Chronic Lung Infections: Adults with CF often experience recurrent lung infections due to thick, sticky mucus that traps bacteria. Common pathogens include Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
2. Reduced Lung Function: Over time, repeated infections and inflammation can lead to a decline in lung function, making breathing more difficult.
3. Bronchiectasis: The airways become permanently widened, leading to persistent cough, mucus production, and further infections.
4. Respiratory Failure: In severe cases, lung damage can progress to the point where the lungs cannot provide adequate oxygen to the body, requiring advanced interventions like oxygen therapy or lung transplantation.

Digestive System

1. Pancreatic Insufficiency: Thick mucus can block the ducts of the pancreas, preventing digestive enzymes from reaching the intestines. This leads to malabsorption of nutrients, malnutrition, and vitamin deficiencies.
2. Diabetes: CF-related diabetes (CFRD) is common in adults due to the damage to the pancreas. It shares characteristics of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
3. Liver Disease: Blockages in the bile ducts can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and portal hypertension.
4. Intestinal Issues: CF can cause intestinal blockages, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and distal intestinal obstructive syndrome (DIOS).

Reproductive System

1. Infertility: Most men with CF are infertile due to congenital absence of the vas deferens, which carries sperm from the testes. However, assisted reproductive technologies can help achieve pregnancy.
2. Reduced Fertility in Women: Thick cervical mucus can make it harder for sperm to reach the egg, but many women with CF can still conceive naturally or with assistance.

Musculoskeletal System

1. Osteoporosis: Due to malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D, adults with CF are at higher risk for osteoporosis and fractures.
2. Arthritis: Some adults may develop CF-related arthritis or musculoskeletal pain.

Psychosocial Impact

1. Mental Health: The chronic nature of CF can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress. The need for continuous treatment and hospitalizations can impact quality of life.
2. Social and Work Life: Managing CF often requires time-consuming treatments and frequent medical appointments, which can interfere with work and social activities.

Treatment and Management

1. Medications:

• Bronchodilators: To open the airways.
• Mucolytics: To thin mucus.
• Antibiotics: To treat and prevent infections.
• Pancreatic Enzymes: To aid digestion.
• CFTR Modulators: Target the defective protein in CF and improve its function.

1. Airway Clearance Techniques: Daily physiotherapy to clear mucus from the lungs.
2. Nutritional Support: High-calorie diet, vitamin supplements, and enzyme replacements.
3. Exercise: Regular physical activity to maintain lung function and overall health.
4. Psychological Support: Counseling or therapy to help manage the emotional aspects of living with CF.
5. Advanced Therapies: Lung transplantation may be an option for those with severe lung disease.

Conclusion

While cystic fibrosis poses significant challenges for adults, ongoing advancements in medical care and treatment strategies are helping many individuals manage their condition more effectively and lead fuller lives. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care is essential to address the complex needs of adults with CF, including respiratory, digestive, reproductive, and psychosocial aspects. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers specialized in CF care is crucial for optimizing health outcomes and maintaining quality of life.

All of these are applicable to both men and women.

1. Hormonal Assessment https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179956664221311066:

• Androgens: Elevated levels can stimulate sebum production, leading to acne.
  
• Estrogens (particularly Estradiol) and Progesterone: Imbalances can affect skin health.
  
• Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Important for understanding overall hormonal balance.
  
• Cortisol
  

1. Nutritional Status https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179948530878648430:

• Vitamin D: Deficiency can impact skin health.
  
• Vitamin A: Essential for skin repair and maintenance.
  
• Serum Iron, Ferritin
  
• Zinc: Low levels can exacerbate acne.
  
• Selenium
  
• B12
  
• Magnesium
  

1. Blood Sugar and Insulin Sensitivity https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179956411858427954:

• Fasting Blood Sugar: To check for glucose levels.
  
• HbA1c: Provides an average of your blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
  
• Fasting Insulin: High levels can influence androgen production and are linked to acne.
  
• Fasting IGF-1: Implicated in stimulating sebaceous gland activity and increasing sebum production, which are key factors in acne development.
  
• Lipids
  

1. Inflammation Markers https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179979315622973490:

• C-Reactive Protein (CRP): Elevated CRP can indicate systemic inflammation.
  
• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): Another marker for inflammation.
  

1. Liver Function Tests https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179964185203974204:

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), ALP: Liver health can influence hormonal balance and detoxification.
  
• Bilirubin: High levels might indicate liver dysfunction.
  

1. Thyroid Function Tests https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179956298041807009:

• TSH, Free T3, Free T4: Thyroid imbalances can affect skin health.

1. Gut Health https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179978160717172776 https://discord.com/channels/1169738819688468501/1179948878267678832:

• Stool tests:
  
  • Fecal occult blood test
  • Stool pH test
  • Comprehensive stool analysis
  • Gut microbiome tests
• Intestinal Permeability Tests
  
• Celiac disease tests (blood)
  
• Urine tests:
  
  • Organic acids test
  • Intestinal permeability (leaky gut) tests
• Endoscopy and colonoscopy
  
• Hydrogen and methane breath tests: These tests can diagnose SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), which has been linked to increased inflammation and may contribute to acne.
  

1. Food/General Sensitivity/Allergy Tests - although elimination of that food is key to determining if you have an intolerance#"Consumption - Food Intolerances (allergens and/or sensitivities)":

• IgE tests (allergies) - blood and skin prick
  
• IgG tests (sensitivies, controversial)
  

Join the discord here:
https://discord.com/invite/JJREjUhgc9
Blog:
https://acnehelp.space/

"Order!
The time for debate on this motion has expired. The question is that the Motion be agreed to.
Motion Details

1. Recognizes the serious concern regarding the inappropriate use of chemical restraint in aged care facilities across Australia, which has resulted in significant harm and violates the rights and dignity of elderly residents.
   
2. Acknowledges the findings of recent reports, investigations, and inquiries highlighting the widespread and often unnecessary use of psychotropic medications as a form of chemical restraint in aged care settings.
   
3. Expresses its commitment to ensuring the safety, well-being, and rights of older Australians living in aged care facilities, including their right to autonomy, dignity, and freedom from unnecessary restraint.
   
4. Calls upon the Australian Government to take urgent and comprehensive action to address the issue of chemical restraint in aged care, including but not limited to:
   a. Implementing stronger regulatory frameworks and oversight mechanisms to prevent the inappropriate use of psychotropic medications.
   b. Providing adequate training and support for aged care staff in alternative methods of care and behavior management that do not rely on chemical restraint.
   c. Increasing funding and resources for mental health services within aged care facilities to address the underlying causes of behavioral symptoms.
   d. Strengthening accountability measures and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with regulations and standards relating to the use of chemical restraint.
   e. Supporting research and innovation in dementia care and geriatric medicine to develop alternative approaches to managing challenging behaviors in older adults.
   
5. Calls for bipartisan cooperation and collaboration among all political parties, aged care providers, healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to work together towards eliminating the inappropriate use of chemical restraint and improving the quality of care for older Australians in aged care facilities.
   

Bill/Motion History
Motion Debate

Division Required

The Chamber shall now divide. Members are to vote only Aye, No or Abstain.
Voting shall end at 5PM AEST (UTC +10) 17/05/2024. View in your timezone here"