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Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

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The symbols on the Return to Essence chart represent the planets. The planets influence how we play different aspects of our chart depending on which number (gate) is next to them in your chart.

However, we, Return to Essence Analysts, usually do not bring up the planets immediately. Because in order to fully benefit from the information contained in the planets, you need to learn and internalize many data such as your Type, Strategy, Authority. You may want to deepen the planetary effects by taking a 2nd session after these.

The planets in the Return to Essence Analysis, in your Self Chart, have a very strong influence on us. They largely determine the desires, character traits and goals we set for ourselves. Planetary influence is one of the main concepts of the Return to Essence Analysis. At the moment we are born, each celestial body leaves a certain imprint on our Body Chart and, as a result, on our Personality.

By the arrangement of the planets in our Own Map, you can determine all the main aspects of life. To understand the role this or that planet plays in our lives, you need to carefully study its meaning. This is important not only in terms of personality formation, but also in terms of upcoming events, which are greatly influenced by the planets.

According to the Back to Essence theory, as the neutrino stream moves from the sun to the earth, it passes through the filters of the planets, picking up thin layers of their energy. You can think of the planets as colors, when neutrino particles touch them, they are dusted with a rainbow. The moment you are born, this unique color pattern is imprinted into your being and affects how you will appear in the world. Yes, we are the way we are because of the colorful space dust, pretty cool, right?

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

First, what we need to look at;

Why Some Red Some of them Black?

On the left side of the map RED planets are your unconscious planets. This means that they are things about yourself that others may know about because they are part of your personality, but you may not recognize yourself.

Located on the right side of the map The BLACK one planets are your conscious planets. They are probably what you know or realize about yourself.

Basically each planet has a different impact on your life and how you should live it. I’m not going to get too technical here, I’m not an Astrologer. I’m just going to share the practical impact of each planet. If you want to do your own digging, you can look at the doors (numbers) next to the planetary symbols and see what your specific energy on that planet is all about.

HOW DO THE PLANETS DIFFER IN A RETURN-TO-SELF ANALYSIS AND ASTROLOGICAL BIRTH CHART?

While the typical astrological birth chart shows you the position of the planets at the exact moment of birth, your RETURN TO SELF CHART uses two astrological measurements: Planets at the moment of birth location and three months before your birth positions (or exactly 88 degrees behind the position at birth!).

These data points, your conscious personality as well as your unconscious motivationspaints a picture of your tendencies and inclinations. By blending these, you can begin to see how the many aspects of your being are integrated into the whole that is you!

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

SUN

YOUR SUN IS WHAT YOU RADIATE TO THE EARTH.

The Sun is Yang and is the most expressive aspect of your personality. This is what you radiate to the world. This will be the first impression others have of you.

The Sun is a great clot of energy force that is the foundation of our original human nature. It is this planet that is responsible for our main purpose, our self-expression and shows the main theme of our incarnation (PURPOSE OF LIFE).

Seventy percent of the neutrinos that program us and pass through our planet are transmitted by the Sun. Our consciousness and our unconscious, what passes through a human being and what is grounded in him or her is also connected to sunlight.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

WORLD

YOUR WORLD IS WHAT GROUNDS YOU.

The Earth is Yin and is what grounds you. It is about receiving and integrating. Exploring the gates of your Earth when you are trying to heal is a good place to start, because the energy of Earth influence makes you feel more grounded.

When deciphering RETURN TO SELF, the Earth is often seen as balance. These are the qualities we need to rely on in earthly matters. The better you manifest the qualities of a doorway charged with the energy of the Earth, the easier it is for you to withstand any difficult situation and deal with obstacles that come your way. It is only through the Earth that we gain the ability to exist in this world and understand worldly ways of life.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

How do the Sun and the Earth come together?

When making a detailed analysis of the RETURN TO SELF chart, it is not possible to consider the Sun and the Earth separately. They are very closely related. While the Sun is responsible for our inner “I” and the original purpose given to us from above, the Earth, being in a concrete earthly arrangement, is responsible for how we fulfill this purpose in life.

These two planets are completely inseparable, in every human being Yin and Yang is the basis of the concept of the Sun as Yang and the Earth as Yin. The Sun is Yang and the Earth is Yin. This is an indication of the inner interaction and confrontation between light and darkness, good and evil, energy and matter. The Sun of Personality is our ability to radiate our inner light outwards.

The Sun and the Earth directly show the genetic heritage of every human being. The Earth shows the genetics from the Mother and the Sun defines the genetic heritage of the Father. Each of us is the next link in the genetic chain that continues along the lineage of the father. It goes from you to your father and your mother, farther from them and so on forever. You are at the top of this pyramid and absolutely all the ancestors in the paternal lineage are below you. It is you at the top who can manifest all aspects of this genetic field.

The neutrino current from the Sun literally filters through our bodies and is grounded in them. We transform solar energy into earth energy. Thus in every life the interaction between matter and energy, matter and spirit, consciousness and subconsciousness manifests itself. The stronger and more stable the inner earthly support, the brighter will be the light coming from within and directed to the outer world. This is something like photosynthesis, where plants convert solar energy into chemical energy to sustain their vital activity.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

AY

IT IS YOUR MOON THAT MOVES YOU.

The moon is a motivating force. If you are following your Human Design Strategy, this is the “why” behind it.

The Moon is the driving force of our subconscious mind. It is literally responsible for the actions we perform at the level of our body. Without it, the life we are used to on Earth would not exist, evolution would take a different path.

Seventy percent of the neutrino flow comes from the Sun, but the direction of this flow is determined by the Moon. The archetype of the Moon is a grown-up girl, she is the one who enables the Earth to fulfill its purpose for which the Sun is responsible.

In other words, the Moon is a reflection of the inner world of human beings projected onto ordinary earthly life.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

NORTHERN KNOT

OVER 40 IS A LIFE CONTACT.

Strictly speaking, the Nodes are not directly related to the Planets. However, they play an important role in Human Design. The north lunar node is a kind of indicator of the direction to the future, a person’s inner traveler.

If we consider the North Node in terms of age, this period begins at about 40 years of age. At this age, cardinal changes occur in the life of any person.

How are they expressed? First of all, by the reality that we stop taking from life what it gives us and start giving.

We share our knowledge, experience, secrets with others. This is now the level of Wisdom. And ideally, we do this until we die. At this stage, one lets go of everything that no longer works. He takes into the future only effective tactics and strategies that he can apply during his next lifetime. The position of the North Node in the chart of the Self tells us exactly how we can realize the skills and experience acquired during life.

It doesn’t matter what age cycle you are in right now. The nodes are designed to activate specific doors that are there.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

SOUTH KNOT

LIFE THEME FOR 0-39 YEARS

The southern lunar node is the internal geometry responsible for the process of life movement. This node can be called a window that allows programming from the neutrino field. When any of the planets are connected to a node, all the programming created by the stars is erased. Its cycle is 18.6 years.

The South Node defines the stages of our development and maturation, personifying our immaturity until we reach the opposition of Uranus. The transition from the South node to the North is a qualitative leap from adolescence to maturity. The maturity phase begins at the age of 38-43. During this period we begin to live in a new way.

The transition to the North Node means that we leave everything that no longer works in the past and enter a new, more conscious phase. It is the gates of the North Node that now take on the dominant functions and we can stop taking what they used to give us and start sharing our experiences with others.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

MERCURY

WHAT YOU ARE HERE TO TEACH AND SHARE

The main indicator of communication in your SELF Chart is Mercury. It fully reflects our sociability, our ability to communicate and get along with other people, it gives us the ability to think and reason, it makes us individuals.

Mercury is the closest to the Sun of all the other planets. Its cycle is 89 days, it is he who directly influences the formation of the fetus at the beginning of pregnancy, preparing the soul and body for birth. This role of Mercury ‘Crystal of Personality’is called its formation. This planet can safely be called the Solar Filter. It passes through itself all the information coming from the Sun, which is involved in the programming of our personality.

If we remember mythology, Mercury appears there as the older brother of the Sun. In the Human Design system, Mercury plays an active role in the formation of the Personality Crystal even before our birth.

Everything we want to say, to discuss, to express our point of view sits firmly inside us. And since we are social creatures, communication skills are simply essential for us. This is why it is so important to learn how to express the themes of the Mercury Gate correctly.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

VENUS

YOUR VALUES AND FAVORITE THINGS

Venus is the personification of feminine energy. In ancient Roman and Greek mythology, people feared this unyielding feminine power and therefore embodied the image of Venus as the Goddess of Love and Passion. In reality, however, Venus’ true role is more important. The ancient Maya began their sacrificial rites only when Venus appeared in the heavens. Their perception of the planet is strikingly different from that of ancient Rome.

In the painting RETURN TO SELF, Venus does not mean aesthetics or love, but personifies moral values and ethics. She divides the boundaries in our subconscious between good and evil. What exactly motivates a person to show positive or negative emotions, which moral values are fundamental in everyday life.

If we think of Venus paired with Mars, her beauty, her love, her creative nature – this is just one of the aspects we are used to thinking about.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

MARS

AN AREA OF GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

Mars shows the manifestation of an immature power. That is, how a person will manifest himself in situations that are not standard for him, such as conflicts, quarrels, stress. These are uncontrollable emotions during an adrenaline rush.

Mars can be compared to a teenager who is now an affectionate and amiable child and the next minute a cruel bully. His energy is strong, prone to destruction, but not fully matured.

This fact cannot be characterized as positive or negative. Not every human being is ready to accept his moral immaturity. For this it is necessary at least to reject unbridled emotions and youthful maximalism.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

JÃœPITER

EXPANSION AND REWARDED SPACE

Inside Jupiter, endless reactions take place that release special energy flows needed by human consciousness. Jupiter controls the incarnation processes that take place on Earth.

Jupiter’s influence is the strongest after the Sun. This planet protects the Earth from various foreign bodies, for example asteroids or comets. That’s why in mythology Jupiter is always Protector of the Earth as the most important thing in the world.

Jupiter differs from Venus in that it does not carry moral abstractions but inner laws of power. The realization of the doors fixed by Jupiter means harmony and success in one’s future.

Punishment comes as soon as the law is violated. Saturn will determine in which period of life, in which area and in what way a person will be punished.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

SATURN

CHALLENGE READER

Saturn often causes us negative emotions associated with illness, deprivation, death, etc. RETURN TO SELF, this planet seems quite noble because of its honesty and truthfulness. This is the only planet that does not deceive, only points to truth elevated to absoluteness.

Saturn plays the role of the highest judge who gives just punishment for breaking the law. We can say that a person is educated through punishment. The further a person moves away from the Law of Development (Jupiter’s gate), the stronger the Design and Personality aspects determined by Saturn will be in a negative sense.

Saturn’s position in the OZ chart shows where, when and how you will be punished. This is where you will meet resistance due to pain, illness and heavy obstacles. But if you do not break your law, Saturn will leave you alone. This will be his just reward. Around the age of 28, Saturn retrograde occurs.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

URANUS

CATALYZER

Uranus shows the creative aspects of the human psyche, what it is gifted in, what qualities it possesses in communication and thinking. The doors defined by Uranus show the aspects that improve the future of the individual.

The position of Uranus in the OZ chart brings dramatic changes in every sense. Thanks to Uranus, you can determine which features of worldview and subtleties of behavior others can recognize.

The person is very well aware that all these qualities are present in him.

At the center of RETURN TO SELF is Uranus. This planet is the closest to our nature. Uranus was discovered in 1781 and then the quality of life on our planet began to improve rapidly. Since that year, we have moved into a 29-year cycle, which is significantly different from the previous 84-year cycle.

Uranus defines the themes of chaos and order. For inspiration, Uranus is looking for chaos, the attraction of which will be seen in the first half of the cycle. And in the second, order and peace should reign.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

NEPTUN

SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

Neptune is an opportunity to develop intuition in certain gates of the Design and Personality card. It points to places where mysticism, spirituality is present and also to places where our consciousness is immersed in illusions, dreams and visions.

Neptune can be likened to Pandora’s box, if you investigate these mystical phenomena, then one illusion is followed by another. There is a high probability of getting lost in the virtual world of dreams.

Once you have determined exactly where Neptune is, the best thing you can do is to just walk past it and not focus your attention on it.

Although Neptune offers a wonderful opportunity to retreat into yourself and dive into a magical world designed just for you, the main thing is to learn how to maintain the balance between reality and the fictional world.

Symbols in the Return to Self Map and Their Effects

PLÃœTON

RENEWAL AND REBIRTH

Pluto is a planet that goes through its own cycle for over 250 years. It can stay in each doorway for up to 7 years, so its influence on a person’s Design and Personality is enormous.

Pluto always represents only the truth. He always tells the truth, good or bad. Pluto’s position in the Design chart shows where the Truth is. Man will search for this Truth throughout his life.

The dark side of Pluto indicates that each of us has to dive into our own darkness to see our inner Light. Where Pluto is in your chart is the very dark side of the subconscious that you will have to face at some point in your life.

THE JOURNEY BACK TO SELF is an inexhaustible source of knowledge that will enrich you not only intellectually, but also spiritually. A thoughtful study of this system will allow you to radically change your attitude to life, and then chaos and suffering will be replaced by order and prosperity.

If personal development is a priority for you and you are trying to realize yourself as a human being, it is first to know your CREATION and then to realize EXISTENCE.

However, as I mentioned before, the things you need to know first and foremost in your own Self Map are your Energy Type, Strategy, Authority (Inner Guide), Profile, Incarnation Cross (Life Purpose). Planets and their effect on your Doors should be evaluated separately in the following sessions.

You can contact me to learn the details of your own Self-map and evaluate it together.

Stay with Love and Awareness…

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The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

Sugar substitutes based on polyatomic alcohols – pros and cons for diabetes

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Sugar substitutes based on polyatomic alcohols are often labeled as the “best” for diabetes – but they can cause stomach upset. Despite this, consumption of such sweeteners in approved doses should be completely safe for human health.

The latest generation of multi-atomic alcohol-based sweeteners (xylitol, sorbitol, erythritol, etc.) are frequent ingredients in products labeled acceptable for diabetes. However, European Union regulators have a very negative view¹ of such labeling.

The use of such sweeteners can have a negative effect on the metabolism of people with diabetes – especially when taken at the same time as sugar-lowering drugs. The following article discusses why such multi-atomic alcohols should be wary.

Multi-Atomic Alcohols (Polyols) – What Are They?

Multi-atomic alcohols - what are they?

Polyalcohols (polyols) are a class of organic compounds widely used in the food industry. In particular, polyalcohols are positioned as “last generation sweeteners” – because they taste sweet and contain fewer calories.

From a physical standpoint, polyols are carbohydrates with an extremely complex molecular structure – like fiber, they cannot be fully digested and absorbed by the human body. Plus, unlike sugar, polyatomic alcohols usually do not affect gastric enzymes.

Note that despite the name, they do not contain alcohol in the form of ethanol – that is, they cannot cause alcohol intoxication. Strictly speaking, multi-atomic alcohols are better compared to glycerol (a typical category representative) – not ethyl alcohol.

Which sweeteners do they contain?

Multi-atomic alcohols include more than a dozen sweeteners available under various brand names. Below are typical examples – and for ease of reference, coded by number (sugar substitutes are often “hidden” in this way):

  • sorbitol (E420)
  • mannitol (E421)
  • Isomalt (E953)
  • maltitol (E965)
  • lactite (E966)
  • xylite (E967)
  • erythritol (E968)

Is it acceptable in diabetes?

Multi-Atomic Alcohols in Diabetes

The main problem with using polyalcohols as sweeteners is gastrointestinal reactions. A pronounced laxative effect, various abdominal bloating, flatulence – as well as diarrhea – may be observed.

Given that taking doctor-prescribed sugar-lowering drugs is quite often associated with similar side effects – consuming even small amounts of sugar alcohols can lead to gastric disturbances in some people.

Difficulty with carbohydrate counting

Another practical difficulty in the use of multiatomic alcohol-based sweeteners is the inability to accurately count the number of carbohydrates in the composition.

More often than not, such sweeteners contain 40-50% fewer carbohydrates and calories than regular sugar – but the figure varies depending on the type of supplement.

In addition, it is impossible to predict with any certainty the percentage of absorption of such carbohydrates by the body of a particular person with diabetes.

Which sweetener is best?

Which sweetener is best?

It’s important to stipulate that consuming food-approved sweeteners should not be associated with any health risks (at least in the recommended dosage)-as they undergo multi-step testing.

None of the sweeteners on the market can be considered “healthier” or “better” – ultimately, the choice must be based on individual taste preferences as well as application specifics.

For example, “natural” stevia often goes through more stages of chemical transformation than “synthetic” sucralose (which is derived from regular sugar and differs from it by a few molecules). At the same time, stevia is slightly bitter – and many people avoid it solely for this reason.

Are sugar alcohols harmful?

Despite the fact that sugar alcohols based on polyatomic alcohols can disrupt the gastrointestinal tract of some people – we are not talking about their harm to health.

Xylitol, used ubiquitously in chewing gum, cannot be fermented by bacteria in the human mouth – and, unlike sugar, is not harmful to dental health.

In addition, polyols generally withstand high temperatures and do not caramelize when heated – allowing them to be used in baking.

Sugar substitutes based on polyatomic alcohols are often labeled as the “best” for diabetes – but they can cause stomach upset. Nevertheless, consumption of such sweeteners in approved doses should be completely safe for human health.

Consult a specialist to clarify possible contraindications.

Data sources:

  • Sugar, sweeteners and diabetes, Source
  • Eat Any Sugar Alcohol Lately? source
Read also:

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

About virus mutation: coronaviruses and other species

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Viruses, mutations, strains–these three words are on everyone’s lips today. The coronavirus pandemic, which has swept virtually the entire planet, has made us wonder where the life-changing diseases come from.

In the twenty-two years of the 21st century alone, we have experienced five epidemics that have posed a major challenge to world medicine. Each of them is caused by viruses, but what is surprising is that after a certain period of time virions (virus particles) return, but in a slightly altered structural form. Thus, in 2002-2003, 27 countries of the world faced an epidemic of SARS, from which more than 800 patients died. And that was just the beginning, because humanity was waiting for the next one:

  • Swine flu A/H1N1 in 2009-2010, with nearly 19,000 deaths;
  • H5N1 and H7N9 avian influenza 2003-2017 – more than 450 people died;
  • Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV), an acute respiratory viral infection caused by the human pathogenic coronavirus MERS-CoV. The mortality rate is relatively low, with 430 patients in 2012-2015;
  • Ebola hemorrhagic fever, in 2014-2016 and claimed 11,300 lives ;
  • COVID-19 is an ongoing pandemic caused by the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Taking 5.6 million lives.

It’s not hard to see that some of the virus designations overlap. This is not surprising, since they can be caused by mutated viruses of the same type. Let’s try to understand what virus mutation is and why it occurs.

What is a virus, its structure and features

The world of microorganisms is represented by several distinct species, each fundamentally different from the others. Viruses belong to this group, although they have their own peculiarities that are uncharacteristic of the other invisible to the naked eye representatives of the animal and plant world. First, they lack cellular structure and protein-forming systems. Second, they have pronounced cytotropism and intracellular parasitism.

Scientists who study viruses have estimated that there are more than 1039 of these microorganisms. They have different shapes, sizes, and life cycles, but several properties are common to all viruses:

  • The presence of a capsid, a protective protein structure;
  • genome, which consists of DNA or RNA and is located inside the capsid;
  • supercapsid – a shell that covers the capsid, but it is not present in all virus species.

When a virus enters a host cell, it begins to multiply intensively. As a result, many copies of the pathogen arise, which then infect other cells of the organism.

In the process of virus reproduction and transmission, there is sometimes a change in the genetic material found in the genome. This is called a mutation.

The higher the circulation of viruses and the more frequent their replication, the greater the chance of new strains.

Such a mutation is capable of creating viruses that adapt more easily to the external environment, have a high infectiousness, and cause radically different symptoms and course of the disease. This process is called evolution.

The main causes of virus mutation are

Every year new strains of viral infections appear in the world. This is explained by the evolution of viruses, which occurs very quickly and can occur in two ways:

  • recombination: in this case, microorganisms infect the same cell and exchange genetic material with each other;
  • mutation: a change in the DNA or RNA-chain sequence occurs within the virus itself.

Recombination is inherent in the influenza virus, because it has eight RNA segments at once, each carrying one to several genes. When two different strains of the same pathogen enter the body, new microorganisms with mixed segments are produced.

Mutation also results in new strains, but the process itself is significantly different. It is not necessary for a new strain to be infected with two different pathogens at the same time, because all changes occur when the virus is copied. DNA viruses are known to change much less frequently than RNA viruses.

Scientists explain this peculiarity by one important difference: DNA viruses require DNA polymerase, an enzyme that enters the host cell, during the copying process. It is this enzyme that detects and corrects errors, preventing the appearance of modified viruses, but virions are sometimes able to bypass this mechanism as well.

RNA polymerase, which takes part in the replication of RNA viruses, has no such ability, so no correction occurs. Accordingly, the probability of the emergence of new virus strains is high.

Viral diseases with several types of strains are not really that many. The most famous and most common mutations occur in influenza, HIV, and coronavirus. For example, thirteen different forms of SARS-CoV-2 have formed over the course of its existence. The COVID-19 pandemic began with a form that was discovered in December 2019 in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

Consequences of virus mutation.

Is mutation good or bad? It is impossible to answer this question unambiguously, because in each case the result is different. For some diseases, virion mutation becomes an opportunity to “feel” even more comfortable in the body, while for others it leads to patients getting sick easily and recovering quickly.

In HIV infection, gene mutation with the formation of new strains is one of the main causes of drug resistance. The point is that a reverse transcriptase inhibitor is used to block HIV replication, the mechanism of action of which is to combine with this enzyme in the virus.

Without its participation, the virion cannot copy the genome, but some viral particles mutate exactly in the reverse transcriptase gene, so the drug has no effect on them. For this purpose, a combination therapy of several drugs affecting different cycles of the virus is used to treat HIV.

Effects on virus detection and the vaccination process

Mutation resulting in new strains poses serious challenges to laboratory diagnosis. It is important that the new forms not fall out of favor with the identification methods currently in use. The WHO Global Laboratory Network has set up a special group to study the evolution of SARS-CoV-2.

Its representatives take samples from patients with new, atypical symptoms and send them for further investigation. Such steps allow us to monitor the emergence of new strains, their impact on humans, and the effectiveness of drugs on new forms.

Coronavirus is currently diagnosed by 100% efficient methods because it is determined by the RdRp gene (ORF1ab) and N, which are absolutely not mutated.

The vaccine situation is a little more complicated: a new strain of coronavirus, “omicron,” surfaced a few months ago, dealing a blow to the efforts of scientists and health professionals who had developed vaccines against COVID-19. Although less dangerous to health than previous forms, it has called into question the effectiveness of vaccines. Thus, tests of the Pfizer vaccine found that it protects against omicron by only 22.5%.

This conclusion was made by experts at the African Health Research Institute in Durban, South Africa. For this purpose, they collected blood plasma samples from 12 vaccinated patients who had fallen ill with this particular form of coronavirus.

The basis of the study was the determination of neutralizing antibodies in the body. At the same time, they hypothesized that the vaccination would make the disease easier and protect against complications.

Earlier, the effectiveness of vaccination with a biotech drug was evaluated by British scientists. Their results were more optimistic: a third dose of Pfizer and AstraZeneca mRNA vaccines increased the body’s protection against omicron by 75%.

But it’s not all that pessimistic. Despite an increase in the number of patients sickened by coronavirus of the omicron strain, there are few hospitalizations among those vaccinated. Certainly, the pandemic surge is still to come, but optimistic predictions are made: the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 is likely nearing its end. The purpose of the virus is not to kill humans and die itself, but to continue its life cycle, for which it needs to mutate into a weaker form.

COVID-19 is unlikely to completely disappear from our lives. But its annual appearance during the respiratory disease season with milder symptoms would not be as dangerous. So viral mutation may also be a positive process.

Read also:

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

What seasonings and spices are added to the soup?

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To make the taste of the first dishes more vivid and attractive, housewives add a variety of spices to soups, soups, broths. It is important to take into account their compatibility with the main ingredients, not to deviate from the amount indicated in the recipe.

What spices are suitable for soups, borscht

Which spices are suitable for borscht

The secrets of preparing a rich and fragrant borscht are different for every housewife. But there is a set of traditional spices that are not a mystery. The first essential ingredient is salt, a flavor enhancer that no dish can do without.

Do not make a mistake if you add to the vegetable soup with meat broth cabbage and beet laurel, peppercorns, dill leaves, parsley, garlic. Likewise to the classic spices, turmeric, lovage, cumin and juniper can be added to the first dish.

Basil, rosemary, marjoram, paprika, red pepper and bay leaves are suitable for sauerkraut soup.

Seasonings for mushroom soup

Seasoning for Mushroom Soup

If you plan to make a wild or farm mushroom soup, the ideal seasoning mix is ground black pepper, bay leaf, garlic, nutmeg, oregano, thyme, basil, parsley, dill and cilantro.

The flavor of the mushrooms in a hot soup is enhanced by the rosemary, in a cold soup by the oregano. If you plan to add sour cream to the dish, thyme blends with the creamy flavor.

What can be added to pea soup?

What can be added to pea soup?

The flavor of the legumes is enhanced by turmeric and smoked chili in small doses. Put the chili seeds in the pot 10 minutes before removing it from the stove. Add the sweet coriander to the broth. It is not suitable for smoked meats, but it is in harmony with the other meat ingredients.

Mustard gives the dish a bitter nutty taste, cumin is spicy. Roast the fresh garlic with the onions to bring out the full flavor.

How to make vegetable soup tastier without meat

How to make vegetable soup more tasty without meat

When fasting or losing weight, prepare a diet soup with potatoes, broccoli, peppers, onions and carrots. To give it a more lively and appetizing taste, add thyme, rosemary, parsley, oregano, coriander with the vegetables.

Spices for clear broths

Seasonings for clear broths

For chicken broth, use sea salt, bay leaf and herbes de Provence :

  • rosemary ;
  • wise;
  • tasty;
  • marjoram.

Add it for a change:

  • fennel;
  • orange peel;
  • peppermint;
  • lavender;
  • tarragon.

A fragrant beef broth does not need much spice. Likewise to the classic pepper and bay leaf, it is sufficient to introduce coriander, star anise, cloves and cinnamon.

Celery gives vegetable broths a neutral, herbaceous flavor, cinnamon a woody flavor, fennel a sweet, earthy flavor, cloves a pungent flavor.

Two liters of broth on the basis of 0.5 kg of pork would make a perfect 2 clove buds, one clove of garlic, 3 peas of allspice, ground black pepper, two bay leaves, 50 g of celery root.

Spices for fish soup

Spices for fish soup

A traditional set for river or sea fish soup includes bay leaf, allspice, black pepper, parsley root, celery.

Experimentally add cumin, tarragon, parsnip, coriander, turmeric, garlic, curry, lovage, sage, thyme or lavender to flavor, spice up the broth.

The best spices for kharcho

The best spices for kharcho

The pungent, spicy aroma and flavor of the famous Georgian kharcho soup is given by :

  • herbs, coriander seeds;
  • dried fermented alycha (tkemali);
  • laurel leaf;
  • spicy basil leaves; parsley;
  • peppercorns;
  • saffron of yellow color;
  • garlic.

For a tangy tartness, add pomegranate juice to the kharcho, cinnamon for sweetness. Increase the nutritional value and add flavor to the soup with honeydew.

Spices for pumpkin soup

Spices for pumpkin soup

Choose bright spices to bring out the delicate flavor of the pumpkin. A ready-made blend of Italian or Provençal herbs will do the trick. The fresh soup will be delicious and original if you add chabre, mint, cinnamon, a mixture of different peppers, curry, ginger and turmeric while cooking.

How to spice up onion soup

How to Season Onion Soup

When the main ingredient is caramelized, add fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan. Sprinkle the cooked French dish with ground black pepper. You can introduce honey, cumin and turmeric into the broth, but be prepared for a taste that is far from classic.

How to improve the taste of chicken noodle soup?

How to improve the taste of chicken noodle soup?

Celery seeds add a spicy kick to a delicate soup. Add black pepper, onion, granulated garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage, marjoram, parsley or a spicy blend of oregano, chili, thyme and sesame.

For those who are saving every minute, you can use a ready-made seasoning bouquet called “For Soup.”

Introduce the spices into the dish 10 minutes before cooking, dill, parsley, green onions 3 minutes before removing the dish from the oven. Put the seasonings to be removed in the soup in a cloth bag.

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

Top 30+ Tasty Foods That Can Replace Meat

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The main provider of protein is abandoned due to fashion trends, medical, moral, ethical, hygienic and religious reasons. The debate between meat eaters and vegetarians about the advantages and disadvantages of the product has been going on for centuries. If you are determined to eliminate meat from your diet, you must provide your body with other sources of protein.

Animal Protein Products

The best substitutes for red meat are fish, seafood, eggs, milk, cheese, lactic acid products containing a range of amino acids, vitamins, micro and macronutrients.

Fish

Fish

A protein imbalance can be compensated by fish with a balanced and complete amino acid composition. Salmon, tuna and herring are particularly rich in protein, which is digested 2 to 3 times faster than in meat. It should be noted that most types of fish are inferior in terms of iron assimilation, mineral content and B vitamins.

The basis of fish oil is unsaturated fatty acids that support the functions of the cardiovascular system. To replace meat, preference is given to wild saltwater fish, which are consumed at least twice a week.

Caviar contains a significant amount of protein and other valuable nutrients. But this protein deficiency cannot be fully compensated for by dietary restrictions. This is due to the high salt content and the high caloric content of the product.

Seafood

Seafood

In terms of amino acids, shrimp, trepang, squid and other seafood are more similar to meat. Seafood is rich in B vitamins, tocopherol, potassium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and has several times the iodine content of beef and pork.

Nutritionists advise including mussels, crabs, crayfish, which have less cholesterol and more omega-3 fatty acids than squid, lobster.

Eggs

Eggs

The egg white contains more than half of the existing proteins, 50% of the daily intake of choline, 22% of calciferol, vitamins B6, B12, selenium, iron, zinc. The caloric egg yolk, whose consumption is limited to two eggs per day, contains fat-soluble calciferol, tocopherol and retinol.

Eggs included in the diet protect against ultraviolet radiation, stimulate brain activity, reduce the risk of heart disease and the development of degenerative processes in the eyes.

Dairy products and fermented dairy products

Dairy and fermented dairy products

Sufficient protein to replace meat protein in cottage cheese (the lower the fat content, the more amino acids), milk (80% casein), non-fat Greek yogurt.

More protein is found in cheese than in other dairy products. Parmesan (36 g per 100 g of product), Pecorino Romano (32 g), Gruyère (30 g) and Swiss cheese (29 g) are in the lead. Kefir contains the least amount of protein, 3g.

Plant-based alternatives

According to experts, legumes, grains, vegetables, mushrooms, nuts and seeds support the body’s normal vital functions when giving up meat. It is important to diversify the menu as much as possible in order to replenish missing vitamins and minerals.

Legumes

Pulses

Partial replacement for canned meat:

  • Sprouted soybeans, soy meat, milk, tofu;
  • red, brown, green and even black lentils;
  • green peas;
  • red beans;
  • chickpeas.

The champion of protein content is soy (36 g per 100 g of product). It is followed by lentils, peas and chickpeas. Peas are the least rich in protein (5 g per 100 g). Legumes have an optimal glycemic index and contain enough fiber to eliminate toxins and breakdown products.

Chefs advise soaking food before cooking, adding pepper, turmeric, ginger for better digestion.

Nuts

Walnut

Almonds lead in protein content (18.7 g per 100 g of product). Pistachios, cashews, walnuts, pine nuts and hazelnuts contain slightly less protein. Due to its high caloric content, the alternative product should not be consumed at more than 100 g per day.

For snacking, almonds, pistachios and cashews are more appropriate. Not only are these types richer in protein, but they are also lower in calories. Nuts should not be overlooked. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, represented by alpha-linolenic acid.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms

If cooked properly, this low-calorie product can replace meat dishes. In heat-treated mushrooms, protein, which is most abundant in porcini, boletus and button mushrooms, is assimilated at 70%. Dried mushrooms have a higher protein concentration and their digestibility reaches 88%.

In distinction to, the product is rich in antioxidants, potassium, phosphorus, pantothenic acid, beta-glucans, normalizing the metabolism of cholesterol.

Cereals

Cereals

In distinction to to protein, cereals contain significant amounts of magnesium, potassium, iron, complex vitamins and unsaturated fatty acids. Oats, wheat bran (16-17 g per 100 g), durum wheat, buckwheat (13 g), oat flakes (12 g) contain more protein.

Grains are used to prepare side dishes, porridges, stews and pie fillings. They pair well with fresh, stewed vegetables, oils, mushrooms and herbs.

Spirulina

Spirulina

One blue-green filamentous algae in the volume of a teaspoon contains 4 g of protein. There are 65 g of protein per 100 g of product. Spirulina also contains:

  • Linolenic (omega-3), linoleic (omega-6), oleic (omega-9) fatty acids.
  • Vitamins – B1, B2, B4, B5, B6, B9, C, E, K, PP.
  • Minerals – iron, copper, potassium, magnesium.

Algae eliminate dysbacteriosis, prolong youth, stop inflammation, strengthen the body’s immune system.

Berries and fruits

Berries and Fruit

For those with a sweet tooth, it’s healthier to replace sweets with dried fruit. Avocados, bananas, apricots, sultanas, dates, prunes, blackberries and currants make up for some of the protein deficit.

Because of the high concentration of natural sugars, nutritionists advise limiting the consumption of dried fruit to 50 g.
Of all the fruits and berries, the avocado is the healthiest. This fruit reduces cholesterol levels, blood sugar, the risk of cataracts, cardiovascular disease and kidney failure.

Vegetables

Vegetables

A good way to get a set of essential nutrients is to introduce vegetables into your daily menu. If you consider the amount of protein in 100g of produce, it tops the list:

  • brussels sprouts – 3.4 g;
  • spinach – 2.9 g ;
  • broccoli – 2.8 g ;
  • watercress – 2.3 g ;
  • asparagus – 2.2 g ;
  • potatoes – 2.14 g.

Vegetables rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, ascorbic acid and minerals are the basis of a healthy diet.

Doctors warn that giving up meat without harming your health is only possible if your diet includes not only plant foods, but also eggs, seafood, fish, milk, cheese and cottage cheese.

Read also:

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

What seasonings and spices are added to ground meat?

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Coriander

To flavor, enrich the flavor of ground meat for pies, cutlets, dumplings, sausages, stews and many other dishes, spicy herbs and condiments are introduced into the recipe. Each cook and hostess uses both classic spices and original additives common to one national cuisine or another.

Traditional spices and seasonings for ground pork

The best spices to reveal, complete the flavor of ground pork :

Coriander

Coriander

Pork and coriander seeds, flavored with citrus, tree bark and pepper, are a perfect combination. To make the hot and spicy notes more tangible, the seeds are crushed just before being added to the ground meat.

Black Pepper

Black Pepper

A spice with a sharp, pungent taste that speeds up digestion, metabolism and thins the blood. Freshly ground peas are more effective.

Garlic

Garlic

The spice gives ground meat a spicy and specific flavor. Garlic is used fresh, pressed, chopped or dried in the form of granules, powder or flakes. A useful additive with a bactericidal and antithrombotic effect, it not only makes cutlets taste more lively, but also protects against heart attacks and inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

Mailloran

Marjolaine

A spice with a woody and lemony aroma enriches the taste of semi-cooked foods with the acidity of sage and a peppery bitterness. Antioxidant, the essential oils of the spice have an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory effect.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg

In order that the ground spice, with its pungent taste and smell, does not dominate and make the ground meat bitter, it is added in minimal quantities. Nutmeg stimulates the secretion of gastric juices and has choleretic and antispasmodic properties.

Paprika

Paprika

The sweet pepper Capsicum annuum, with its warm aroma and spicy aftertaste, goes well with pork. The red powder gives a bright color to the mince, contains a large number of biologically active substances and acts as an immunomodulator.

Oregano or oregano

Oregano Seasoning

The dried leaves of a herbaceous plant with a lemon-mustard aroma, when added to meat, take time to combine with other seasonings.

Oregano, which combines the freshness of mint, with the bitterness and pungency of horseradish, has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, calms, relieves headaches and toothaches.

Hopscotch suneli

Hopscotch Suneli

A spicy blend of perfectly selected fragrant herbs with a vibrant flavor radically changes the gastronomic perception of ground pork dishes. Humeli suneli leaves no one indifferent. The spice is either loved or rejected.

Turmeric

Turmeric

An economical analogue of saffron used as a natural coloring agent and spice. Turmeric, slightly spicy, is good for the liver, prevents senile dementia, purifies the blood and acts as an antibiotic without harming the gastrointestinal tract.

Basil

Basil

A refreshing spice that opens the appetite, gives ground meat dishes a spicy touch, a more interesting flavor. Green and purple basil stops inflammation, relieves swelling, protects the body from germs.

Schnitzel, stuffed cabbage rolls, stuffed peppers and other ground pork dishes will look and taste better if chopped parsley, dill and onion feathers are added to the mince.

What to add to ground beef

What to add to ground beef

The beef itself has a bright flavor and doesn’t need much spice. Ground beef cutlets are packed with :

  • garlic;
  • black pepper, ground white pepper;
  • dill;
  • turmeric;
  • onion;
  • parsley;
  • Nutmeg;
  • Ginger.

In stews of ground beef in a tomato sauce with vegetables, a wider variety of spices are added, including paprika, cloves, sage, oregano, rosemary and marjoram, in harmony with each other. For meatballs and hamburgers, the ground meat is flavored with oregano.

Spices for Turkey Cutlets

Spices for turkey meatballs

Likewise to the standard set of seasonings (garlic, pepper, salt), add to the shredded poultry meat :

  • nutmeg;
  • basil;
  • rosemary;
  • tasty;
  • turmeric.

It is necessary to respect the measure and understand for whom the minced meat is prepared. If it is intended to form cutlets for children, salt and pepper should be limited. For those who follow the figure, not to get an appetite, nutritionists advise replacing all spicy herbs with dried dill.

Spices for ground chicken

Spices for ground chicken

Spicy food lovers enter the recipe:

  • ground black pepper, allspice;
  • cloves;
  • dried ginger;
  • fenugreek;
  • nutmeg.

The classic composition of chicken cutlets includes:

  • oregano;
  • garlic;
  • paprika;
  • dill;
  • green onions.

Chicken hash for children’s menu contains, in addition to poultry meat, semolina, eggs, onions, salt and oregano.

What to add to ground lamb

What to add to ground lamb

The ground lamb is flavored with pepper, garlic and herbs. The flavor of the meat is enhanced by allspice, zira and paprika. Mustard seeds, saffron, thyme and oregano are added to the ground lamb to fry the chops.

Lemon juice, mustard, garlic, the complex flavor of hopli-uneli and Asian spices are suitable for baked ground meat products.

Seasoning for Fish Cutlets

Seasoning for Fish Cutlets

Chefs recommend adding seasonings to chopped freshwater fish cutlets:

  • dill, basil, parsley;
  • black coriander;
  • lemon juice;
  • thyme;
  • thyme;
  • nutmeg;
  • mint;
  • turmeric.

Minced sea fish is flavored with grated ginger root, ground pepper, nutmeg and oregano. The minced fish is flavored with tarragon, fennel, saffron and zira.

The nuances of using spices

Tips from the professionals, compatibility of spices in ground meat:

  • Pour the juice of an onion or cream into ground beef to make it juicier.
  • Add sumac and chili to the ground lamb meatballs.
  • In the ground meat of wild animals, introduce thyme, sage, which bring out the flavor of the game.
  • Chicken cutlets are good with oregano, turmeric, mustard.
  • Spice up the pork by seasoning it with black pepper, rosemary, onion and a little dry white wine.
  • Do not combine the coriander with the allspice and nutmeg.
  • Mix marjoram with parsley, thyme, cumin.
  • Add sugar to the sausage hash in an amount equal to that of all the spices.
  • Enhances the flavor of meat products stewed in a cilantro basil sauce.

If you add appropriate spices to ground meat in small quantities, they will not overpower the taste of the main ingredient, but will open it up, enrich it with fresh, flavorful notes and increase the nutritional value of the dishes.

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

Best foods in July: list of seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs

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Best foods in July: list of seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs

As summer progresses, the harvest of fresh vegetables and fruits expands to include more varieties. During July and August, the seasonal menu is at its richest. This is especially true for fruit. Apples and pears begin to ripen, but also peaches, plums, blackberries and others.

Seasonal and local food in July

Repetition is the mother of wisdom, they say. The principles of seasonal and local diets could be summed up in one sentence – “Eat mainly fruits and vegetables that are currently growing in the garden, field, forest, meadow or trees.”

In the seventh part of this series, we will look at a detailed list of fruits, vegetables and herbs that are harvested, picked or picked in July. In the second month of summer, new species are added almost every day. It is also the time when fresh fruit and vegetables are not only eaten, but also preserved, pickled, dried or frozen to become a source of vitamins and minerals in the coming winter.

In July, they are still harvested strawberries, the season of sweet strawberries is at its peak cherries, is being picked gooseberry and the harvest is slowly approaching blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, currants, but also the first peaches, pears, apples, apricots, nectarines or plums. The fruit trees are literally covered with fruits that are crying out to be picked.

Summer is a paradise of juicy fruit, but there is no shortage of vegetables either. This is true for almost all the species that are common in our country: potatoes, onions, zucchini, broccoli, peas, peas, cabbage, cauliflower, kohlrabi, leek, cucumber, beetroot, carrots, tomatoes, spinach, lettuce, rhubarb and more. New species are harvested celery, garlic, hot peppers, peppers, eggplant and cabbage.

Fresh fruit in July

Harvesting continues strawberries, cherries and sour cherries, ripening gooseberry, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, currants, peaches, pears, apples, apricots, nectarines and the harvest is slowly approaching plums.

Cherries

July is the peak season for cherries. The fruit must be picked when ripe, as they do not ripen and spoil quickly once picked. Therefore, they must be eaten immediately, or they can be made into homemade compotes, juices and jams.

Both cherries and sour cherries are excellent sources of iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, folic acid, phenols and flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties.

Gooseberry

The green oval fruits have a pleasantly sweet and sour taste. It is eaten fresh, added to cakes and buns, as a decorative element on sweet desserts. It is used to make jam or compote. It can also be frozen. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C and E, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Its sour taste is due to its fruit acids: malic and citric acid.

Blueberries

The most popular summer fruit is known for its tremendous amount of minerals and vitamins, especially calcium, potassium and iron, B vitamins and vitamins A, C and E. It also contains fiber, polyphenols and tannins, which help with diarrhea and may be responsible for its slightly sour taste. The flavour and aroma of wild blueberries is more pronounced than that of cultivated garden blueberries.

In the kitchen, blueberries are added to fruit salads, eaten with yoghurt or cottage cheese and are great as an ingredient in fruit pies, cakes and muffins. They make delicious jams and compotes.

Blackberries

It is a very low-calorie fruit. 100 g of blackberries contain only 44 kcal and are rich in vitamins A, B, C and E. Of the minerals, they contain potassium, magnesium and calcium. They also contain flavonoids with many health benefits, such as heart health, helping to regulate blood pressure and boosting the immune system.

They are eaten raw on their own, mixed into fruit salads and dairy products, pies, cakes and desserts, similar to blueberries. They are generally very well combined with other berries. They are, of course, also suitable for jams, chutneys, compotes, etc.

Raspberries

They have a mild sweet taste that makes them adored by adults and children alike. The sugar content is very low and it is a low-calorie fruit. About 85 % of the weight of raspberries is water. They contain fibre, B vitamins and vitamin C. Of the minerals, they are a good source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese and iron. They contain flavonoids.

Raspberries are often used by housewives to make desserts, pies, cakes, ice creams, and the like. However, they taste great in combination with vegetables, for example arugula, or meat dishes. Raspberries are used to make vinegar, which smells lovely. Of course, raspberries can be preserved and made into homemade jam or juice, not only for the winter.

raspberry cake
Raspberries are an amazing ingredient for healthy baking.

Currants

The small berries are characterised by their characteristic juiciness, sweet and sour taste and intense colouring. Black and dark red currants are the most common, but there are also white and yellow varieties.

It contains a minimum of calories and many beneficial substances, especially vitamin C, iron, potassium, calcium, flavonoids and a soluble type of fiber pectin, which helps to reduce harmful cholesterol levels.

Currants are eaten raw, in fruit salads, desserts, pies, cakes or in combination with dairy products. It is also processed into jams, jellies, chutneys, juices and the like. Its sweet and sour taste makes it suitable for certain cheeses and game.

Apricots

Fresh fruits from local growers tend to be available for a short period of time and are therefore considered symbolic of the peak of summer.

Ripe apricots taste sweet, yet are low in calories (43 kcal per 100 g serving) and sugar (8.5 g per 100 g), but high in vitamins and minerals. They are rich in vitamin A, B, C, folic acid (B9), magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, phenolic acids and carotenoids, which are the reason for their deep orange colour.

Apricots are used to make pies, cakes, desserts, compotes, jams and juices. Stuffed dumplings with apricots and crumble cake are a staple of cuisine. Dried apricots are also popular.

Peaches

They are juicy, fresh and sweet at the same time. They are also perishable and should therefore be eaten as soon as possible or processed in another way. Peaches are added to desserts, pies, salads and ice creams. They are made into jams, compotes and juices.

They are high in water, low in sugar and low in calories. They contain vitamin C and B vitamins. Of the minerals, magnesium, iron, calcium and potassium. It is advisable to wash peaches thoroughly before eating them, as dirt and bacteria are more easily deposited on their fuzzy skin.

Nectarines

They belong to the same group as peaches. They look and taste similar. Unlike peaches, however, they have smooth skin without fine fuzz. They also tend to be smaller and less sweet.

Again, they are a very good source of vitamins A and C, calcium, sodium, potassium and phosphorus. They are also rich in fibre, which is important for normal bowel and digestive tract function.

Like previous fruits, nectarines are used in fruit salads, ice creams, combined with dairy products, or preserved and added to cakes and sweet desserts. For example, in pancakes.

Fresh vegetables in July

Of the summer vegetables, today we will describe in more detail rhubarb, spinach, celery, garlic, hot peppers, eggplant, sweet and hot peppers, field greens and cabbage.

Sweet peppers

The range of pepper varieties is very varied. The different varieties differ in colour and taste. Some varieties are sweet, others hot. Peppers are eaten cold and cooked. In summer they are grilled and made into salads or served as a side dish with meat. Sweet peppers are particularly rich in vitamins C, A and E, as well as carotenoids.

Hot peppers

These are hot peppers, goat or ram’s horns and chili peppers. They are sold fresh or powdered as a spice and their taste can be mild to very hot. The degree of hotness is indicated in Scoville units (SCU).

Hot peppers are smaller than sweet peppers and vary in shape from round to pointed. The colour range is also varied, from green to yellow, orange and red to black. They contain vitamin C, E, carotenoids and their pungent taste is due to a substance capsaicin.

In the kitchen they are used in raw and dried form, with the dried ones being less spicy. Chilli peppers include cayenne pepper, which is also found in the popular Tabasco sauce.

Spinach

It may not be the best source of iron, as Popeye the Sailor thought, but it still contains plenty of other nutrients. Plus, it is a tasty vegetable. Spinach must be eaten quickly as it spoils, or it is recommended to freeze it.

It contains B vitamins, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, iron and calcium. Fresh spinach contains almost 90% water and is a low-calorie food.

The young leaves are eaten raw, otherwise spinach is cooked. The classic is steamed spinach with eggs and garlic, it is also good with meat and fish and is great in various wraps. Popular dishes include spinach lasagne or savoury pie with spinach filling.

Celery

Celeriac is a related vegetable to celeriac. It is crunchy and is therefore used as a a healthy alternative to potato chips combined with white yoghurt dip or cottage cheese. It can be eaten raw or cooked. It is added to smoothies, vegetable and fruit juices, soups, stews and sauces.

It is a low-calorie vegetable particularly rich in vitamin A and B vitamins. Of the minerals, it contains calcium, potassium, magnesium. Its typical aroma is caused by essential oils.

Rhubarb

This vegetable, which is often mistaken for a fruit, is popular for its interesting sweet and sour taste.

The fleshy turnips are eaten growing close to the ground. Rhubarb is not eaten raw but cooked. It is most often used in baking cakes and desserts. Less common, but very tasty, are rhubarb jams and compotes. Rhubarb syrup is also delicious.

Its typical taste is due to malic and citric acid. It is very rich in vitamins C and K and minerals, especially calcium and potassium. In terms of calories, it is also suitable for diets.

Caution: Contains oxalic acid, which in excessive amounts can adversely affect calcium absorption and lead to kidney stones and digestive problems.

rhubarb drink
You can prepare a refreshing summer drink from rhubarb.

Garlic

This is a very nutritionally rich vegetable, but it has two less desirable characteristics: a very distinctive taste and smell. These are due to the high content of essential oils and in particular the anti-bacterial and anti-mould substance allicin, which can help lower cholesterol levels and positively affect blood clotting.

In addition to being shrouded in many legends (e.g. its effect against vampires), it also carries a reputation as a natural remedy. It contains a large number of vitamins (B, C and K) and minerals (again potassium, magnesium and calcium).

In the kitchen it is used to flavour dishes, added to salads, soups, meat and vegetarian dishes or salads. Its taste stands out, for example, in combination with cucumber salad (tzatziki and white yoghurt) or with steamed spinach.

Aubergines

The aubergine is characterised by its striking colour and subtle flavour. It contains a minimum of calories, but also fewer nutrients. Most of the nutrients are found in the skin and just underneath it, which is why it does not peel.

Because of its alkaloid content, which can cause nausea, it is never eaten raw. Wash and drizzle with lemon juice before preparation to prevent discoloration. Salt will draw out the bitter taste.

Aubergines are boiled, stewed, baked or now in summer grilled. Because of the less pronounced flavor, use bold spices. The French add it to ratatouille and the Greeks to traditional moussaka.

Polnicek

The tiny leaves of the spearmint have a fresh green colour and a very mild taste, which is due to the essential oils. It is not bitter like other leafy vegetables. It contains a lot of Iron, vitamin A and C and folic acid (B9).

It is added to salad mixes, goes well with roasted and grilled meats, fresh cheeses, and stands out in warm potato salad. As it can withstand very low temperatures, it is also served during the winter.

Sauerkraut

Although cabbage is harvested during the summer, its main season comes in the winter in the form of sauerkraut, which is a very valuable source of vitamins and minerals. It is served as a salad on its own or as a side dish.

Fresh sauerkraut contains very few calories, plenty of fibre, lots of vitamin C, E, B vitamins, especially folic acid and, of the minerals, calcium and magnesium. The typical taste of cabbage is due to glucosinolates, which have a number of positive effects on health (strengthening the immune system and neutralizing free radicals).

In addition to the preparation of sauerkraut, cabbage is eaten raw or boiled, stewed and baked. It is added to soups and stews or used to make vegetable salads.

The best herbs growing in July

Sunny and abundantly vegetated meadows in July are rich in a variety of health-giving herbs. Their flowers, leaves, shoots and other parts can be used in cooking, aromatherapy, natural healing or skin and hair care.

Chicory

The flowers are harvested and must be dried quickly so that they do not turn white. Decoctions are prepared from them, which are used for eye washes and acts against conjunctivitis.

Yarrow

An amazing female herb thathelps adjust menstrual cycle, relieves pain during menstruation and also preventive action against cysts and fibroids. The herb is used both fresh and dried.

Medical lavender

Lavender is popular not only for its pleasant scent, but also for its ability to repel insects and especially mosquitoes and moths. It has disinfectant effects, promotes wound healing and is considered a natural antidepressant. It is used on promote digestion, for deeper sleep, relieve anxiety and restlessness, and improve mood.

Peppermint

Peppermint is easily recognized by its distinctive minty taste and smell. The leaves are used as an ingredient in summer drinks and medicinal tea and mint drops are prepared. It works for upset stomachs, heartburn, gallbladder problems and other digestive disorders. It has a soothing effect and relieves cramps.

Caution: Mint is not suitable for young children or in large quantities for pregnant and lactating women as it may reduce breast milk production.

Lemon balm

A beautiful herb that smells of citrus, which also has calming effects, blooms in July. It soothes agitated nerves and is therefore often used for difficulty falling asleep and sleeping in general. Lemon balm is made into a tea or the dried leaves are added to herbal pillows. It is a component of herbal mixtures intended for calming and sleep.

OUR TIP: Lemon balm likes drier and sunny habitats, and can be grown quite easily in the garden or at home in a pot.

Lemon balm tea
Lemon balm is used to make a nerve-soothing tea for better sleep.

Tips for recipes with summer fruits and vegetables

Final summary: The season of abundance continues in July

  • July is considered the peak of summer. A huge amount of seasonal vegetables and especially fruit ripen.
  • It is now that the varieties that are eaten fresh are ripening, but they are also further processed into jams, marmalades, compotes, juices and other products that are mainly consumed in winter.

Enjoy the wonderful season of plenty, because it will pass like water.

Read also:

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

Pumpkin seed oil and health: composition, effects and use in cooking and beauty

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Pumpkin seed oil and health: composition, effects and use in cooking and beauty

Pumpkin seed oil tastes great like nuts and adds a pleasant flavor to any dish. In addition, it is a generous source of antioxidants that destroy free radicals, prevent oxidative stress and slow down aging. But that’s not all.

What is pumpkin seed oil, how is it obtained and its composition

Only the bred variety is used to produce pumpkin seed oil large-fruited pumpkin, from whose seeds the oil is pressed using a gentle cold pressing technique. The pumpkin seeds must first be cleaned and dried. Only then is the pressing, followed by sedimentation and the last step of production is bottling the finished oil or other suitable containers. Thanks to cold pressing, the finished pumpkin seed oil retains the maximum amount of active ingredients.

Pumpkin seeds and the oil obtained from them contain a huge amount of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, C and E, selenium, zinc, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, manganese, as well as antioxidants, carotenoids, phenols a phytosterols, which reduce cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The essential fatty acids contained in the oil produce prostaglandins for normal heart rhythm and blood pressure. It has anti-inflammatory effects and is also highly digestible.

DID YOU KNOW You can tell true pumpkin seed oil by its dark green to dark red color. It has a distinctive nutty taste and aroma and does not melt immediately when dropped on a plate, but remains solid.

Pumpkin seed oil and its effects on health

If you indulge in pumpkin seed oil on a regular basis, you will likely notice firmer and more supple skin, smoother and thicker hair, and stronger nails. Thanks to its antioxidant content (vitamin E), the oil slows down ageing and restores youthfulness to the skin. Some sources even report beneficial effects on the male prostate and increased sex drive.

Effects of pumpkin seed oil:

  • Due to its unsaturated fatty acid content supports healthy heart and blood vessel function.
  • Protects blood vessels from atherosclerosis.
  • Helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  • Favorably Acts on the entire urinary tract including the kidneys.
  • In women, it helps to relieve the unpleasant symptoms accompanying menopause by improving well-being, reducing hot flashes and headaches.
  • It can slow, stop and improve prostatic hyperplasia in men.
  • It prevents aging and benefits the appearance of skin, hair and nails when used externally.
  • Promotes hair growth.
  • Acts against skin inflammation.
  • Reduces the appearance of age spots.
  • Helps heal minor external wounds, treats acne and maintains youthful skin appearance.
  • Reduces the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy.
  • Improves nail strength and growth. Prevents them from fraying, gives them shine and strength.
  • Reduces inappetence, improves fat metabolism and has a positive effect on digestion and digestive tract functions.

More interesting facts about pumpkin seed oil:

  • It is considered a powerful natural aphrodisiac due to its high zinc content and is often referred to as the Styrian Viagra.
  • To produce 1 litre of oil, about 2.5 kg of pumpkin seeds are needed, for which 30 to 35 oil pumpkins must be harvested.
  • Daily mouth rinsing with pumpkin seed oil reduces tooth decay.
  • When dripped on a plate, pumpkin seed oil remains solid and does not melt like other oils.
  • The pumpkin, from whose seeds the oil is made, originally originated in Central America, from where it spread to Europe and Asia.
  • It is known as the “pharmacy in a nutshell” because of its high vitamin and mineral content.
  • Erich ÄŒermák, a Viennese professor of Czech origin, was behind the breeding of the gourd.
  • The best pumpkin seed oil comes from Styria in southeastern Austria. It is protected by the brand name Steirisches Kürbiskernöl g.g.A. and is made from a special, seedless variety of pumpkin whose seeds are covered with a fine white coating.

Use of pumpkin seed oil and possible side effects

There are no known no side and negative effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women can take it without any concerns and it is also suitable for smaller children, of course in reasonable doses. There are no known drug interactions.

In rare cases, some people may be allergic to pumpkin seed oil and may experience adverse symptoms after consuming the oil or applying it to their skin. If negative symptoms are noticed, it is advisable to discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

When using pumpkin seed oil as a dietary supplement, it is recommended to take 2 tablespoons in the morning and evening, for children is enough 1 teaspoon in the morning and evening (about half a dose). It is also available in capsules, which provide convenient use on the go.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Store pumpkin seed oil in a bottle in a dark, cool place.

pumpkin seed oil
Pumpkin seed oil is used in cold cooking to flavor and fine-tune prepared foods.

5 tips on how to use pumpkin seed oil for hair

In pumpkin seed oil is found antioxidant vitamin E a mineral zinc. Both positively affect the appearance of skin, hair and nails. They fight skin imperfections such as acne and eczema.

Pumpkin seed oil improves hair quality, prevents hair breakage, fraying and hair loss. In addition, it does not leave hair greasy like other oils. Pumpkin seed oil is also effective in caring for dry hands and healthy, strong nails.

In skin care, it is used for dry, sensitive, mature, rough and damaged skin. Pleasantly smooths and softens. Vitamin A accelerates skin regeneration.

1. Scalp massage

Mix a tablespoon of pumpkin seed oil with a tablespoon of coconut oil and warm it slightly. Massage the oil mixture into your scalp and leave it on for at least 30 minutes or ideally overnight. Afterwards, wash your hair in the normal way.

A mixture of 2 tablespoons of castor oil, 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seed oil can also be used to massage the scalp.

2. Hair mask

Mix 2 egg yolks and 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seed oil. Dilute the finished mixture with ½ cup of water. Massage the mask into the skin and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Then rinse with cold water and wash your hair with a mild shampoo.

3. Hair spray

Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seed oil, 1 cup of rose water into a spray bottle and shake. This mixture is suitable for dry hair and after showering when hair is still slightly damp. Always shake before each use.

4. Hair oil

Mix 4 tablespoons of coconut oil, 4 tablespoons of castor oil, 4 tablespoons of pumpkin seed oil and a few drops of essential oil. Mix well and use on wet hair or to massage the scalp. Wash hair after 30 minutes.

5. Rinse

Mix freshly brewed chamomile or green tea with ½ tablespoon of pumpkin seed oil and pour this mixture over washed hair. Leave on for 5 minutes and rinse with water.

Pumpkin seed oil is also used to spinal and joint massages, but it is also suitable for massaging the stomach for indigestion and cramps.

pumpkin seed oil and hair
Pumpkin seed oil is used in body and hair care.

How to properly use pumpkin seed oil in the kitchen

Pumpkin seed oil is used in food preparation in cold cooking, not for cooking or baking. For example, rapeseed oil is more suitable for cooking. It can be used to flavour ready meals, especially salads and salad dressings. It is also suitable for softening creamy soups and sauces.

Pumpkin seed oil has a very mild nutty flavor and is used to prepare both savoury and sweet dishes. As it contains a large amount of unsaturated fatty acids, it is, like virgin olive oil, particularly suitable for cold cooking. Heat treatment above 120 °C leads to the deterioration of the healthy substances and harmful oxidation of the fats.

Pumpkin seed oil is suitable for example:

  • in salads and vegetable dressings,
  • for stewed vegetables and spreads,
  • to flavour meat, fish, cereals, rice, pasta or mashed potatoes,
  • to soften sauces and creamy vegetable soups,
  • sweet desserts such as pancakes, pancakes, breakfast porridge.

If you season the meat or fish with a few drops of pumpkin seed oil in the final preparation, the finished dish takes on an almost unique “sunny” color.

A few drops will give an unforgettable taste to pancakes. You can also use pumpkin seed oil to flavour other desserts – cake, cheesecake or pumpkin ice cream.

Recipes with pumpkin seed oil

Healthy pumpkin seed pesto

Ingredients:

  • 50 g pumpkin seeds
  • 10 ml pumpkin seed oil
  • a little parmesan and garlic

Procedure:

This specialty comes from Styria, Austria, which is considered the home of the finest virgin pumpkin seed oil.

Dry roast 50 g of pumpkin seeds in a pan and let them cool. Add some parmesan cheese and garlic and blend. Add 10 ml of pumpkin seed oil and mix thoroughly. It will keep for a few days in a tightly sealed jar and stored in the fridge. The pumpkin seed and oil pesto is particularly suitable for pasta or fish.

Pumpkin soup

A few drops of pumpkin seed oil adds a delicious nutty-spicy flavor to a creamy pumpkin soup. Add the oil at the very end of preparation or right at the table. Just a few drops are enough.

Creamy risotto

It is most suited to Italian risotto with roasted pumpkin slices. It adds a delicate flavour and aroma and also turns the colour of the risotto greenish.

Pancakes and ice cream sundaes

Just drizzle a few drops of pumpkin seed oil on sweet desserts and the peanut miracle is complete. If the kids stain their darker colored clothes with the oil, let it dry in the sun, the sun’s rays will strip away the natural pigment and the stains will disappear.

Summer refreshing salad with pumpkin seed oil

Ingredients:

  • Mixed romaine lettuce and rocket
  • roasted pumpkin
  • cherry tomatoes
  • goat cheese
  • pumpkin seed oil
  • lime juice

Procedure:

Mix romaine lettuce leaves with arugula, roasted squash, cherry tomatoes and goat cheese, drizzle with a little pumpkin seed oil mixed with lime juice and serve with rye bread! A delicious and balanced dinner is on the table in minutes.

Pumpkin ice cream with pumpkin oil

Ingredients:

  • 330 ml whole milk
  • 100 g caster sugar
  • pinch of salt
  • 6 egg yolks
  • 250 ml 33% whipping cream
  • 125 ml pumpkin seed oil
For shreds with pumpkin seeds:
  • 130 g pumpkin seeds
  • pinch of salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • 200 g caster sugar
  • 55 g butter
  • â…› teaspoon lemon juice

Procedure:

Heat the milk, sugar and salt in a saucepan. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks and add a ladleful of warm milk and sugar. This will keep the yolks from curdling. Return the warmed egg yolks and milk to the saucepan and cook over a low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken.

Pour the cream into another bowl and strain the mixture from the saucepan through a fine sieve. Stir and incorporate the pumpkin seed oil with a whisk. Set aside to cool, then pour into an ice cream maker. Stir, transfer to a freezer-proof container and place in the freezer.

For the “pumpkin shards,” mix pumpkin seeds with salt and baking soda. Line a baking sheet with baking paper.

Put the sugar, butter, lemon juice and 60 ml of water in a saucepan. Bring to the boil and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until the sugar is golden amber in colour. Remove, stir in the seed mixture and quickly pour onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread the topping with a rubber spatula.

Let cool at room temperature and when cool, break into shards, decorate ice cream and serve.

pumpkin ice cream
Pumpkin ice cream will delight you with its delicate taste and pleasant summer refreshment.

Pumpkin cheesecake

Ingredients:

On the body:
  • 150 g honey gingerbread
  • 50 g walnuts or pecans
  • 50 g butter
For the filling:
  • 300 g pumpkin puree
  • 300 g ricotta
  • 125 g cream cheese
  • 3 eggs
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla paste or the pulp of ½ vanilla pod
  • 1 teaspoon gingerbread spice
  • 35 g cornstarch
To finish:
  • 30 g pecans or walnuts
  • pumpkin seed oil

Procedure:

Heat the oven to 180 °C. Cook the pumpkin puree. Wash, peel (if necessary) and cut the pumpkin into smaller pieces, spread them on a baking tray and bake until tender. Blend and leave to cool. Do not turn off the oven.

Grease an 18 to 20 cm diameter cake tin with butter and line with baking paper.

Mix the gingerbread and nuts and stir to combine. Melt the butter, pour it over the mixture and make a crumble, which you press into the bottom of the cake tin. Place in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Leave aside to cool.

In the meantime, turn the oven down to 120 °C and place a baking dish filled with water in the bottom. Whisk the pumpkin puree with the ricotta, cream cheese, honey, vanilla, spices and cornstarch. Beat the egg into the mixture last.

Pour the filling over the pre-baked cake and place in the oven. Bake for about 60 minutes. The edges should be firm and the centre slightly shaky. Let cool in the open oven and then place in the refrigerator for 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Decorate the cooled cheesecake with the prepared nuts and drizzle with pumpkin seed oil.

Pumpkin cheesecake with walnuts

Ingredients:

  • 250 g of plain flour
  • 240 ml oil
  • 150 g caster sugar
  • 360 grams of pumpkin puree
  • 80 grams of walnuts
  • 3 eggs
  • a pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon cardamom
  • pinch of nutmeg
  • a few drops of pumpkin seed oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Procedure:

Heat the oven to 180 °C. Cook the pumpkin puree according to the recipe above. Grease a bundt tin with butter. In a large bowl, mix together the plain flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and nutmeg.

In a smaller bowl, whisk the eggs with the oil and sugar. Stir in the dry mixture, pumpkin puree, lemon juice and a few drops of pumpkin seed oil into the liquid mixture. Stir in the nuts last. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. If you stick a skewer into the baked bundt cake and pull it out, no bits of batter should stick to it.

Final summary: Pumpkin seed oil promotes health, beauty and youth

Why keep a bottle of quality pumpkin seed oil in your pantry or beauty cabinet?

  • It works against skin inflammation, reduces age spots and helps heal minor external wounds.
  • It promotes heart and vascular health and has a positive effect on digestion.
  • It slows aging, improves the appearance of skin, hair and nails.
  • Supports the treatment of enlarged prostate in men and in women alleviates the negative manifestations during menopause.
  • It adds a specific taste to the finished dishes and also a lot of valuable vitamins, minerals and other substances.
Read also:

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

Omega-6 fatty acids: What they are and how they work + the best sources in food

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Omega-6 fatty acids: What they are and how they work + the best sources in food

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are referred to as essential. This means that the human body can do without them, but cannot make them. Both are important, but an excess of omega-6s can lead to health problems. It is best to maintain a healthy balance of intake while choosing appropriate sources.

Omega-6 fatty acids are just as important to humans as omega-3s. However, the recommendation is to maintain a healthy intake and not to overdo it. Knowing what omega-6 acids are, how they work and which foods contain them will help to better understand them.

What are omega-6 fatty acids and why are they needed

Omega-6 fatty acids are needed by the human body for a wide range of processes and functions, such as cell membrane formation, reproduction and nerve tissue construction. Since the body cannot make them on its own, it must take them in through the diet.

They are found in some vegetable oils, such as:

  • sunflower oil,
  • rapeseed oil,
  • soybean oil,
  • corn oil,
  • palm oil,
  • sesame oil.

It belongs to the group polyunsaturated fatty acids and their main representative is linoleic acid (CLA). Omega-6 acids also include Arachidonic acid (AA) a gammalolenic acid (GLA), but which the human body can synthesize from CLA.

Fatty acids are very different from ordinary fats. They are not stored and used by the body as an additional source of energy. Once ingested from the diet, they remain biologically active in the body and participate in many bodily processes including normal immune system functions, blood clotting, and more.

How omega-6 acids affect health

In the right levels, omega-6 fatty acids help to lower blood fat levels, increase good cholesterol (HDL) and promote anti-inflammatory processes.

For example, conjugated linoleic acid in the form of a dietary supplement can help reduce fat a not to increase the level of inflammatory markers. Gamalinolenic acid, found in evening primrose oil and borage oil, may reduce the symptoms of inflammatory conditions.

But excessive intake has the opposite effect and can lead to the development of diseases of civilization. Increased intake of omega-6 fatty acids can cause problems in the form of chronic inflammation. It is one of the main causes of diseases of civilization, such as heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, and others.

Long-term omega-6 excess can result in:

  • Poor permeability and absorption of hormones and nutrients,
  • insufficient metabolism at the cellular level,
  • impaired natural detoxification process of the organism,
  • the formation of a pro-inflammatory environment in the cells,
  • difficulty concentrating and learning, and impaired memory,
  • more frequent mood swings.

Summarized:

Omega-6s have pro-inflammatory effects a omega-3 anti-inflammatory. Diets with predominant omega-6 and low omega-3 intake increase inflammation. Conversely, a diet based on a balanced intake of omega-3 and omega-6 reduces inflammation.

Differences between omega-6 and omega-3 and their ideal ratio

Long-term excess omega-6 acids can harm health. They can raise blood fat levels and have have a pro-inflammatory effect. The latter is important for the protection of the organism, as they induce an acute inflammatory reaction that contributes to wound healing. Omega-3 acids have anti-inflammatory effect, help lower blood pressure, blood clotting and promote healthy brain, heart and blood vessels.

For omega-6 fatty acids to be as beneficial, it is necessary to reduce their intake and instead focus on a higher intake of omega-3s. Translated into more understandable language, consume less vegetable oils and more fish and seafood.

In fact, the main problem of society and its nutrition lies in the excessive intake of omega-6 acids at the expense of omega-3 acids. The intake of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the ratio of 2:1 to 3:1. However, the actual ratio of fatty acids in the common Western diet varies in a ratio of 16:1 or more.

Diets with a significant predominance of omega-6 increase the risk of cardiovascular, inflammatory, autoimmune and cancer diseases. This is also why contemporary society is so often faced with cardiovascular diseases, which are one of the most common causes of death.

How to maintain a balanced ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 acids in your diet

The first step to correcting this is to limit foods rich in omega-6 acids, and increase your intake of foods containing omega-3 acids.

Include oily fish, seafood, flax and hemp seeds or nuts in your diet, and limit highly processed foods. Always choose quality ingredients. Humans need both. If they are in balance, your heart, blood vessels, brain and immune system will function better.

Basic advice on how to achieve a balanced fatty acid intake:

  • Eat fish once, preferably twice a week.
  • In addition to regular vegetable oils, use omega-3 rich oils. Olive oil is the best known.
  • Limit your consumption of fried foods and unhealthy fast food.
  • Don’t be afraid to take dietary supplements with pure omega-3s. This is especially true if you don’t eat fish or seafood.
sources of omega-3
In general, people should eat more foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Foods containing omega-6 fatty acids

The largest amounts of omega-6 are found in refined vegetable oils. This includes dishes prepared on them. Nuts and seeds also contain larger amounts.

Omega-6 acid content of selected foods:

FoodQuantity
Walnuts7.5 g in 20 g
Safflower oil7.18 in 10 ml
Sunflower seeds5,36 g in 20 g
Almonds4.5 g in 20 g
Hemp seeds4 g in 20 g
Tofu natural3,9 g in 100 g
Peanut butter1.8 g in 10 ml
Cashew1,45 g in 20 g
Avocado oil0.99 g in 10 ml
Eggs0,48 g in 1 pcs

Walnuts

In addition to omega-6 acids, the popular walnuts contain essential fibre or minerals for digestion, especially manganese, copper, phosphorus and magnesium. They can be eaten on their own for snacks, added to breakfast muesli and porridge, yoghurt or vegetable salad.

sources of omega-6
You can add walnuts to your breakfast porridge, for example.

Safflower oil

This lesser-known type of cooking oil is extracted from the oil seeds of safflower and, like other vegetable oils, contains higher amounts of monounsaturated fats, which, according to this study promote heart health. Its flavor is neutral and it is suitable for use in baked goods, salad dressings and sauces.

Sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds contain a large number of vitamins and minerals including selenium and vitamin E. These are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from cell damage and the development of chronic diseases. Their mild nutty flavour and crunchy texture make them ideal for adding to salads, homemade granola, muesli mixes and healthy bars.

Almonds

They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamin E, manganese and magnesium. You can enjoy them on their own as a healthy snack, but they are also suitable for desserts and breakfast cereals.

Hemp seeds

They contain a large amount of fats beneficial to the heart and vascular system. In addition, they are a great source of protein, vitamin E, phosphorus and potassium. Hemp seeds are good in porridges, yoghurt, smoothies, muesli and salads.

Tofu

Vegetable cheese is made by curdling soy milk and then pressing it into soft blocks that are easy to cut. Each serving of tofu provides the human body with a hearty dose of key nutrients including protein, iron, calcium and manganese. Tofu is added to salads, vegetable pancakes or used as a vegetable alternative to meat in main courses.

Peanut butter

The delicious creamy spread is made from roasted peanuts. It is rich in healthy fats and proteins, vitamin E, vitamin B3 (niacin), manganese and magnesium. Its use is versatile. It can be spread on whole wheat bread, used as a dressing on fruit or vegetable salad, or blended into a smoothie.

Cashews

Cashew nuts are characterized by their buttery taste and original shape. They are rich in micronutrients including copper, magnesium and phosphorus. If you soak and blend them beforehand, you get a smooth cashew cream that is suitable for sauces, soups and homemade dressings.

Avocado oil

Contains antioxidants and benefits the heart and vascular system. Its great advantage is its high smoke point, which allows it to withstand high temperatures without breaking down and oxidizing. It is therefore also suitable for high temperature cooking such as baking, roasting and frying.

Eggs

They are a nutritious and versatile food containing many important nutrients such as protein, selenium and riboflavin. They are prepared in various ways (boiled, omelette) and added to batters of savoury and sweet dishes.

How about vegetable oils high in omega-6

In the case of vegetable sources, it is recommended to focus on commonly used cooking oils and not limit yourself to one type.

More suitable than the commonly used sunflower oil, which contains only minimal amounts of omega-3, is the better rapeseed oilwhose ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 is much more balanced. A good source of omega-3 is also flaxseed oil, which is suitable for cold dishes as a dressing for salads and sweet dishes. Don’t forget animal fats such as butter and lard.

Overview of oils with higher omega-6 content:

  • sunflower oil
  • safflower oil
  • corn oil
  • soybean oil
  • peanut oil

Oils with a balanced ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 are preferable:

  • coconut oil
  • olive oil
  • rapeseed oil
  • linseed oil
  • butter and ghee
  • lard

Keep in mind that fats lower in omega-6 are unhealthy in larger amounts, especially animal fats. So always use fats wisely.

avocado oil
Avocado oil is also suitable for thermal cooking. It has a high smoke point and does not oxidize at high temperatures.

Food supplements with fatty acids.

Combination omega fatty acid supplements provide sufficient amounts in appropriate ratios, i.e. 2:1. These products help to increase omega-3 intake and thus improve the balance of fatty acids in the body.

However, most people take in optimal amounts of omega-6 as part of their normal diet. It is therefore preferable to take supplements containing only omega-3 fatty acids, which are generally deficient in people’s diets.

Final summary: Give your body the right amount of fatty acids

Excess omega-6 fatty acids increase the risk of chronic inflammation. It is therefore important to maintain a balance in your omega-6 and omega-3 intake, which should ideally be 2:1 or 3:1. Our bodies need both types, you just need to be careful how much you consume.

What you should remember:

  • Use vegetable and animal oils that contain both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Use canola oil or other oils with a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 acids instead of sunflower oil for cooking and frying.
  • Have fatty fish rich in omega-3 acids preferably twice a week.
  • Limit your consumption of fried foods and unhealthy fast food.
  • Include supplements with omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.
  • Don’t be afraid to take dietary supplements with pure omega-3s. This is especially true if you do not eat fish and seafood.
Read also:

The articles on this site are for information purposes only. The site administrators are not responsible for attempting to apply any recipe, advice or diet, nor do they guarantee that the information provided will help or harm you personally. Be cautious and always consult a doctor or nutritionist!

*All products recommended are selected by our editorial team. Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, you help us earn a small commission from the seller and thus support the writing of useful and quality articles.

Fish oil: composition, health effects, best sources in food and dietary supplements

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Fish oil: composition, health effects, best sources in food and dietary supplements

Older generations in particular may feel disgust at the memory of fish oil because of its unpleasant aftertaste. Fortunately, current dietary supplements containing fish oil taste much better. However, it is best to take fish oil as part of a balanced and varied diet. Where can we find it everywhere and when should we take it in the form of pills or drops?

Fish oil began to be used for prevention and treatment purposes about 400 years ago. Before that, it was used for other purposes, such as leather treatment and lighting, until people noticed its benefits for human health.

What is fish oil and how does it affect the human body

It contains a large number of health benefits, such as vitamins A and D. The most important of these are Unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The human body cannot produce these on its own, and it is therefore necessary to ensure sufficient intake of them through appropriate foods.

The importance of fish oil for health

Adequate amounts of fish oil, more specifically omega-3 fatty acids protects the heart and blood vessels, promotes their normal function and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as cardiac arrhythmia, heart attack or coronary artery disease.

These facts are confirmed by numerous scientific studies and empirical evidence. Nations whose diets are particularly rich in fish oil have a statistically significantly lower incidence of heart disease. This is true, for example, of the Eskimos and, in general, of all coastal peoples who make their living from fishing.

Effects on the central nervous system and brain function

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for normal development and function and therefore should not be lacking, especially in the diet of young children, pregnant and nursing mothers. They protect pregnant women against depression, are important for fetal development and benefit children with behavioural problems (e.g. hyperactivity problems).

Effects on fetal development and child growth

Omega-3 acids in fish oil are essential for proper growth and brain development of the child. She receives them already in pregnancy from the mother from her body and then by breastfeeding. Sufficient intake positively affects the child’s intellect in later years. Yet up to half of mothers have too little DHA in their breast milk.

During pregnancy, the need for DHA increases. Pregnant women are advised to take up to 350 mg of DHA, but most women take no more than 60 mg. It is best to eat oily fish 2 to 3 times a week.

Effects on the brain in adulthood and old age

They are also important in adulthood, when they can alleviate some psychological illnesses including serious diseases such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease, increase the overall resilience of the nervous system, contribute to mental stability, slow aging and promote cognitive brain function (especially memory and ability to concentrate).

Other health effects of fish oil:

  • helps maintain healthy blood fat triglyceride levels,
  • regulates blood pressure, improves blood vessel patency and elasticity,
  • lowers the level of “bad” LDL cholesterol while maintaining the level of “good” HDL cholesterol,
  • may contribute to healthy-looking skin,
  • helps with skin problems and diseases,
  • relieves menstrual pain,
  • It is beneficial for inflammation of joints, intestines, blood vessels or even psoriasis,
  • improves the immune system.

Also discussed is its importance in cancer prevention. Some studies have suggested that it may eliminate the risk of breast cancer and colon cancer in particular.

Consequences of fish oil deficiency in Central European peoples

When it comes to a healthy intake of omega-3 fatty acids, the best Mediterranean, Scandinavian and other coastal nations. Marine fishing is one of their main means of subsistence and fish forms an essential part of their diet. Some marine fish are the best source of fish oil.

This is not the case for Central European peoples, whose natural diet is too poor in natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The minimum daily recommended intake of EPA and DHA is set at 250 mg.. In case of lower intake, it is recommended to take appropriate dietary supplements containing unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids.

fish oil in food
The best sources of fish oil are fatty freshwater and marine fish.

Fish oil and its best sources in food

Fish oil is the main source of omega-3 fatty acids. Most of them contain fatty freshwater and marine fish. It is not necessary to swallow fish oil or tablets by the spoonful. It is enough to eat once or twice a week various types of oily fish, especially trout, tuna, mackerel, sardines, herring or salmon.

Their fat contains the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. Unlike white fish fatty fish contain up to 30% fish oil plus they are one of the best sources of vitamins A and D.

They are the best marine fatty fish, specifically mackerel, tuna and salmon. This applies only to fresh or frozen fish. Canned fish contains omega-3 fatty acids in minimal amounts. Suitable sources are still herring and trout.

Cod already contains significantly less than tuna and mackerel. Unfortunately, neither european fish is not a good source. Such carp contain only minimal amounts of omega-3 acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids in plant sources

If you don’t like fish and especially fatty ones, smaller amounts of EPA and DHA are found in some plant sources. These are mainly walnuts, sunflower and linseeds, as well as quality rapeseed and olive oil.

The Central European diet lacks its own sources and some of the more important ones are relatively expensive (e.g. fresh tuna, salmon, virgin olive oil, etc.). It is not surprising that people are deficient in omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids. Dietary supplements offer a solution.

Fish oil in dietary supplements

For many people, eating good quality marine fish on a regular basis is a superhuman task, either because they don’t like it or because it is too expensive for them. In this case, it is advisable to start taking a food supplement.

Not every dietary supplement with omega-3 fatty acids contains both EPA and DHA in sufficient amounts. Always read the product packaging to find out what the acid content is and make sure that one serving of the supplement is equivalent to the minimum recommended daily allowance, i.e. 250 mg.

In what form do you get fish oil:

  • liquid fish oils (cod liver oil from Möllers with various flavours)
  • fish oil in tablets – wide range of products from different manufacturers (e.g. Vitaland, Farmax, Myprotein, Weider, GS, Dr. Max, Czech Virus, Nutrend, MaxiVita, Walmark, Cemio, Noventis, Benu and others)

How to choose a suitable dietary supplement with fish oil? Get a recommendation from your pharmacist, study the ingredients on the product packaging and also look for reviews on the internet.

fish oil
In addition to liquid fish oil, which has a modified taste, there are also tablets containing omega-3 fatty acids.

Dosage and possible risks associated with taking fish oil

Fish oil can affect blood clotting. Persons with a bleeding disorder taking medication should not take dietary supplements without first consulting their treating physician. The same recommendation applies to persons taking medication for high blood pressure.

Always follow the recommended dosage

The recommended dosage is usually 3 grams of fish oil per day. Do not exceed it. Taking excessive doses of fish oil does not benefit the body, on the contrary, it can cause various unpleasant symptoms such as:

  • nausea,
  • heartburn,
  • diarrhea,
  • nosebleeds,
  • bad breath,
  • weakened immune system.

3 best recipes with fish rich in quality fish oil

Baked mackerel with mango chutney

Ingredients:

  • 2 smaller mackerel
  • 1 larger mango or mango puree
  • 1 chilli pepper
  • 1 smaller onion
  • 1 red pepper
  • 4 tablespoons pineapple juice
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 2 cm ginger root
  • brown sugar
  • pepper, salt
  • oil

Progress:

Clean the mackerel, gut them, salt them on the outside and inside and put them in an oven preheated to 180 °C. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes depending on the size of the fish. In the meantime, dice the onion, cut the peppers into equal sized pieces, remove the skin from the mangoes and dice them as well. Finely chop the ginger and chilli pepper.

Heat the oil in a pan and fry the onions. Throw in the chilli pieces and fry until they start to soften. Then add the mango and season with ginger and finely chopped chilli. Pour in the pineapple juice and wine vinegar, add a tablespoon of brown sugar and simmer for about 20 minutes. Finally, season with salt and pepper.

Serve the spicy mango sauce with freshly baked mackerel and basmati rice.

Couscous with tomato salsa and tuna

Ingredients:

  • 250 g couscous
  • 2 fresh tuna steaks
  • 1 red onion
  • 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons basil
  • 2 tablespoons parsley
  • 2 tablespoons coriander
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 red pepper
  • 1 chilli pepper
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 6 tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • salt and pepper

Procedure:

First, prepare the couscous according to the instructions on the package. Heat a frying pan and dry roast the pine nuts.

Remove the centres from the tomatoes, remove the seeds from the chilli, peel the red onion and chop everything, including the red pepper, into small pieces. Chop the herbs. Mix everything together and add the crushed garlic, basil, coriander, parsley, nuts, a pinch of salt and pepper, fresh lime juice and olive oil. Toss the tomato salsa with the pre-prepared couscous.

Heat a clean frying pan and sear the tuna steaks in a little oil for one to two minutes on each side as you like it. Serve with the finished couscous.

Baked salmon with seeds and salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • a mixture of sunflower and pumpkin seeds
  • salt and pepper

For the salad:

  • 8 small mandarins
  • 100 g of lamb’s lettuce
  • 250 g beetroot
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

Procedure:

Preheat the oven to 200 °C. Coat each salmon fillet with one teaspoon of honey, season with pepper and press a quarter of the seed mix onto each. Transfer to a baking tray and bake for about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare a salad as a side dish. Peel the mandarins and divide them into pieces. Mix the juice of the mandarins with oil, wine vinegar, salt and pepper. Peel the beetroot and cut into small pieces. Gently toss with the chard and mandarin oranges, drizzle with the dressing and serve with the roast salmon.

recipes with fish
In addition to salmon and tuna, mackerel is a great source of quality fish oil.

Eat fatty fish twice a week and save money on pills

Why is fish oil important?

  • It contains unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, essential for proper brain development, for example.
  • It protects the heart and blood vessels and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • It promotes mental resilience and health and slows the signs of aging, including diseases that can accompany old age.
  • It has antidepressant effects and helps children with behavioral disorders.
  • Helps maintain healthy blood fat, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  • It also has a positive effect on the appearance and health of the skin and can help with skin problems.
  • It is also important for immune system function.
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