Farmed fish may not be as environmentally friendly as it sounds due to problems with nutrition, disease, and pollution. Some species like oysters and tilapia are farmed sustainably, but others should be avoided. Consumers should seek out wild caught fish to support sustainable fishing practices. Since fish is considered an extremely healthy and beneficial meat, […]
Anorexia for weight loss is dangerous and can cause serious physical and psychological health problems. It can lead to skin, heart, bone, and abdominal problems, as well as depression and suicidal thoughts. Seeking help is important as the longer a person remains anorexic, the more difficult it is to treat. Treatment requires a team of […]
Pathogens are microorganisms that can produce disease, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and prions. Bacterial pathogens can cause disease through virulence factors, including the production of toxins and the ability to invade host tissues. Treatment options include antibiotics, chemotherapeutic agents, and hybrids. Pathogen comes from two Greek words: pathos which means “disease” and genein which means […]
Most people consume too much sugar, which is essentially empty calories. Processed sugar can be bad for oral health and increase blood glucose levels for people with diabetes. Sugar can also prevent us from eating foods that are nutritionally beneficial. However, a small amount of sugar is okay, and using discretionary calories for a spoonful […]
Fish oil, previously believed to improve health, may actually be harmful. It has been linked to increased health problems and faster aging, including a 43% increase in prostate cancer risk for men. The cause of these effects is unknown. Fish oil intake could be bad for your health, as eating fatty fish like salmon and […]
Caffeine addiction is still debated, but any addiction is potentially dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms and overindulgence can occur, but it is not life-threatening. Gradual reduction in consumption is recommended. There are times when old wives’ tales or urban legends are based in reality. This is probably never more true than in the case of a potential […]
Red meat has nutritional benefits but also health concerns. Choosing lean cuts and proper cooking can offset risks. Grass-fed may be healthier for individuals and the environment. Red meat is a source of protein, vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, and iron. It can help with weight control but may increase the risk of heart disease, breast […]
Tanning beds are not a safer alternative to outdoor tanning and can increase the risk of skin cancer, eye damage, and premature aging. UV rays damage skin cells, producing more pigment than normal. Spray tan is a safer alternative. There are no regulations on tanning booths, so it’s important to limit time spent in them, […]
Eating French fries and potato chips once a week during childhood can increase the risk of developing breast cancer by 27%, according to a 2005 survey. A similar study in Sweden in 2002 suggested that heating starchy foods like potatoes and breads produces a cancer-causing substance called acrylamide. French fries and potato chips were particularly […]
Inhaling coal dust can cause black lung disease, which can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and heart failure. There is no cure, but limiting exposure to coal dust and wearing masks can help. Lawsuits and compensation programs exist for miners disabled by exposure. Coal dust is harmful: the main dangers are two ailments called […]
Lead exposure is dangerous and can cause serious health problems, particularly neurological damage. Children are especially vulnerable. People can be exposed to lead through a variety of sources, including occupational exposure, lead paint, and old pipes. It is important to reduce exposure and seek medical treatment if necessary. Lead exposure is dangerous because this heavy […]
Drinking cold water does not cause cancer, but some doctors suggest room temperature or body temperature water is better than cold water for exercising. Drinking cold water can cause shivering, which can raise body temperature, so warm water is better for bringing down a fever. The best indicator of adequate fluid intake is the color […]
Maltodextrin, a food additive found in snack foods, is considered safe by the FDA but concerns lie in the sources used to create it. Maltodextrin derived from corn or potatoes grown in the US or Canada is safe for moderate consumption, but wheat-based maltodextrin is not gluten-free and should be avoided by those with celiac […]
Nicotine is physically addictive and can have harmful side effects. Recent studies link nicotine to various types of cancer, and the lethal dosage for a 150 lb male is 60 mg. Nicotine is also used as an insecticide. Nicotine in high doses acts as an effective nerve poison and can have a number of potentially […]
Mercury is a dangerous metal found in many everyday objects, including medical equipment, electrical switches, and pesticides. It can cause severe brain damage and respiratory disorders, and is released into the environment through coal burning and hazardous waste disposal. Pregnant women and predators that feed on fish or birds are particularly at risk. Its use […]
Drinking water from plastic bottles has negative environmental impacts and potential health risks due to chemicals like DEHA and BPA. Reusing plastic bottles can encourage bacterial growth, while glass and metal are preferred as they can be sterilized easily. Look for recycling codes on the bottom of bottles to determine safety. There are a number […]
Cracking knuckles is generally not harmful and does not cause arthritis, but excessive cracking can lead to weaker grip and swelling. The sound is caused by gas bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid between the joints. Delicate cracking is recommended, and any pain should be addressed by a doctor. Most experts agree that it’s probably […]
A study by the University of Cambridge found that people who swear are often more honest and less likely to filter their opinions. Swearing is more common in northeastern US states. However, co-author David Stillwell admits that swearing can be inappropriate and questions whether it would be good if people always said what they think. […]
Cigarette smoking is highly dangerous and the number one preventable cause of death. It can lead to breathing difficulties, cancer, heart problems, and other health issues. Secondhand smoke is also harmful. Nicotine causes addiction, and quitting smoking is difficult but possible with the help of patches, gum, lozenges, or e-cigarettes. Quitting smoking can allow the […]
Silica gel packets absorb moisture and are often packaged with electronics, but some contain poisonous dyes like cobalt dichloride. Ingesting the gel itself is generally not harmful, but choking is a risk. Non-toxic moisture indicators are available. Inhaling the beads can cause irritation, but not silicosis. Silica gel packets are designed to absorb moisture and […]
- 1
- 2
