Galveston Diet: What It Is, What You Can Eat and Pros and Cons - GoodHousekeeping.com

We all know that weight management doesn't have a one size fits all solution, and that many popular diets may not take your unique challenges into account, including your age. It’s why experts are buzzing about a new category of diet advice entirely, and the Galveston diet, which has emerged as one of the trendiest diets we’ve seen in 2022.

This highly specialized diet is tailored towards perimenopausal and menopausal women looking to counteract the potential weight gain that can happen during this hormonally fluctuating time. This may feel like a niche diet or a concept that can’t help you if you’re not in this category, but according to Amy Fischer, MS, RD, CDN, a registered dietitian working within the Good Housekeeping Institute, it’s one we should pay attention to regardless.

It's among a group of solutions for women that are largely unknown to those searching for this exact solution, Fischer explains. "It's a diet to watch, but more importantly, it's part of a category that is definitely one to watch," she adds.

Editor's Note: You should clear any long-term changes to your diet with your primary healthcare provider beforehand. Since counting macros is a primary goal under the Galveston diet program, you may require a nutritionist’s guidance for proper maintenance.

A diet may not be the wellness solution you're ultimately searching for. Weight loss, health and body image are complex subjects — before deciding to go on a diet, we invite you to gain a broader perspective with our exploration into the hazards of diet culture.

What exactly is the Galveston Diet?

The Galveston diet was adapted by an OB/GYN, Mary Claire Haver, M.D., first to her patients in 2017, and then online in July 2018.

The diet is designed to not only help perimenopausal and menopausal women lose weight but also to help ease some of the other hormonal changes that happen during that time, including brain fog and hot flashes.

The program itself has three components:

• A focus on intermittent fasting with the 16:8 approach, where you spend 16 hours fasting and eight hours where you eat all of your meals.
• A focus on anti-inflammatory foods, and the diet cuts out all processed foods and added sugars. “That approach can help most anyone better manage their weight,” says Fischer. Green leafy vegetables, salmon and olive oil are common examples of foods that help reduce chronic inflammation, which can lead to an overactive immune system.
• A final piece known as Fuel Refocus, where they count macronutrients, which essentially means tracking your proteins, fat, and carbohydrates with a recommended ratio for eliminating fat. It is a diet focused on higher fats and proteins and a lower net carb ratio. It is not the keto diet (the goal is not ketosis), but it does focus on limiting the intake of carbohydrates.

They recommend using a tracker, like cronometer, to help you calculate a macro ratio that’s best suited for you. Unlike other diets in the category, though, there is no calorie counting or restriction recommended.

Lower net carbs generally come from foods that are higher in fiber content. “For instance, if a bread has 20g of total carbohydrate but there are 7g of fiber, the 'net carb' is 13 grams,” says Ellen Liskov, R.D., a nutritionist at Yale New Haven Hospital.

Higher fiber foods can often be more satisfying, or filling and will often naturally cause people to eat less.

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There is a fee for the program that gives you lifetime access to the self-paced course at $59. The gold level ($99) adds in a recipe guide and mini-move fitness course, while the platinum membership ($227) gives you all the benefits of the gold membership plus a one-month group bootcamp with a certified Galveston diet coach. The site itself does offer some free recipes, meal planning tips and meal prep ideas.

The program also sells fiber supplements, as well as omega-3, Vitamin D and collagen to supplement the diet. Liskov, however, encourages most people to get their nutrients and vitamins from food when possible.

“​​We tend to think of nutrients so much – and take out the pleasure and nourishment of food,” says Liskov, “I don’t necessarily think supplements are a bad thing — but if you can get it from food, that is better.”

What can you eat on the Galveston Diet?

The Galveston diet focuses on anti-inflammatory foods. Chronic inflammation can often be an underlying part of many diseases. Things like fruits and vegetables, legumes, lean proteins and complex carbohydrates are all encouraged on the program. It’s just as important to eliminate those inflammatory foods like processed meats and refined flours.

The program is focused on eating more proteins and higher healthy fats (and in turn fewer carbs), but is not aiming for true ketosis like the Keto diet. It does offer room for some luxuries, including a small pour of daily half and half, cheese and grass-fed beef.

The Galveston Diet encourages meal prep to set yourself up with healthy foods when you need them, a popular tactic for various diets.

And drinking lots of water is also encouraged, with a recommendation of 10-12 glasses per day. Constant dehydration can often intensify some of the menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.

Design: Betsy Farrell

What you can eat on the Galveston Diet:

• Healthy Fats: Olive oil, avocados, nuts, and flax seeds
• Lean Proteins: Salmon, chicken, eggs, and other better-for-you picks
• In-season Fruit: Berries of all categories, organic picks from the farmer's market
• Reduced-fat Dairy: Greek yogurt and inherent cheeses including cottage cheese
• Vegetables: Everything from leafy greens to eggplants, squash and more
• Legumes: All staples under this category is fair game

What you can't eat on the Galveston Diet:

• Nearly all processed and fried foods, including those made at home
• Processed meats, including those containing nitrates and nitrites.
• Artificial ingredients, food coloring, or flavoring
• Foods with significant added sugar or high fructose corn syrup
• Refined flour or grains
• Processed oils (namely canola, vegetable)

Can you drink wine on the Galveston Diet?

It’s not entirely stripped away, but alcohol isn’t recommended to those who are hoping for the best results while following the Galveston program. In a blog post shared by Galveston officials, Dr. Haver detailed their clear approach; “Ensure no more than 2 beverages are consumed per day, and that consumption ends at least one hour before you go to bed.”

Unsurprisingly, program officials indicated that red wine is the best choice of an alcoholic drink while attempting their program. Often associated with Mediterranean-style diets, red wine has long enjoyed a better-for-you health halo due to limited research on its ability to mitigate heart-disease risk and inflammation-fighting polyphenols. Enjoyed in moderation, red wine can be a steady feature on any Galveston diet meal plan.

In a separate post, its mentioned if you are going to have alcohol, that red wine is the best choice for you holistically.

“Remember that [during] weight loss, alcohol is a luxury calorie,” Liskov says. “It’s recommended that women have no more than a 5oz-pour per glass.”

Can you have dairy on the Galveston Diet?

Dairy is allowed on the Galveston diet, but it’s recommended to be consumed in small amounts. Half and half, certain cheeses and full-fat Greek yogurt are all allowed. Essentially, dairy products that haven’t been processed or filled with sugar, including some yogurts and ice creams.

The inclusion of dairy in the program is why participants track their Macros specifically — to be able to enjoy rich staples like cheese and half and half, all while keeping an eye on the carbohydrates that are tacking up over time. Better-for-you dairy sources like cottage cheese can add a supercharged punch of protein in addition to the carbohydrates it contains; up to 20g of protein in just half a cup. You’ll see staples like these on the Galveston diet’s meal plan pages.

Is the Galveston diet actually healthy for you?

While it’s best to discuss this particular diet with your healthcare provider — especially if you take certain medications or have pre-existing health conditions, namely diabetes or blood-sugar issues — the low-carb approach is considered safe for most women.

Based on the public-facing information our experts have reviewed, it appears that this diet is safe for most people. There seems to be very limited data, however, around the success of this diet's ability to impact menopausal symptoms.

"More interest is being placed on women directly, with a spotlight on their hormonal changes, which can fluctuate widely and occur 10 to 15 years prior to menopause,” Fischer adds. But she points out that there isn't quantifiable research on the Galveston Diet's effectiveness yet — nor on the category of hormonal-based dietary treatments as a whole.

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"The diet focuses on incorporating anti-inflammatory whole foods, fiber, healthy fats, legumes, lean proteins and whole grains while minimizing added sugar and processed foods. [These are] all things we know to be a recipe for improving overall health and may help with weight management if desired," Fischer says.

Though she has yet to review all of the diet’s proprietary details, Liskov, too, sees potential, with many patients successful following an intermittent fasting diet.

The difficulty with scientific claims that intermittent fasting works is that the definition of intermittent fasting varies from study to study, because the length of time isn’t uniform — often, it’s a 16:8 format like the one used in the Galveston diet, as opposed to 5:2 fasting. The variance in length can make research more difficult to interpret holistically.

Like Fischer, Liskov is attracted to the category that the Galveston diet falls into — and the fact that it heavily borrows the best aspects of a multitude of popular diet options today. Since people often get motivated by a new approach to the same concept, Liskov feels strongly that the nutritional approach in the Galveston diet may appeal to women searching for a new solution.

“​​Lots of weight loss change is a mindset and you need to buy into something you believe in,” says Liskov. “Enthusiasm often leads to better results.”

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Where to Eat Vegan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin - VegOut Magazine

Located 92 miles north of Chicago, Milwaukee is known for MLB’s Brewers, signature cheese curds, and beer brewing culture. While cheese and brats typically get all the hype, the city’s vegan scene is not to be overlooked. From pizza topped with vegan gyro meat to hot fried chick’n sandwiches, Milwaukee’s vegan and vegan-friendly options are plenty. Come along as we explore where to eat vegan in Milwaukee!

Cudahy

This Black-owned spot is fully vegan and offers a variety of tasty burger creations. The most popular is the Up in Smoke, which features grilled onions, smoky bacon, Twisted smokehouse sauce, BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato, American cheese, and onion rings atop a plant-based patty sandwiched between a pretzel bun. The restaurant also serves appetizers like mozz sticks, chick’n nuggets, and loaded fries, as well as creamy milkshakes to wash it all down.

Historic Third Ward

Located inside the Milwaukee Public Market, On The Bus is an all-vegan quick-service eatery that serves plant-based bites out of a ‘71 Volkswagen bus turned restaurant counter. Guests can enjoy sandwiches like the Stacked Cuban (house-made ham seitan, cheddar, pickles, mustard, and mayo on grilled ciabatta), and the Bacun Ranch Burger (Beyond patty, tempeh bacun, cheddar, tomato, onion, spring mix, and homemade ranch). Sweet treats like smoothies, acai bowls, and oat milk ice cream are also available, including milkshake specials on Wednesdays.

East Side

Strange Town prioritizes giving back to the environment, and they do this by serving natural wines and using organic fruits, vegetables, and grains from small Wisconsin farms in all of their dishes. The menu consists of small plates like hummus with roasted crisp mushrooms, house-pickled veggies, and attari pita or buckwheat socca, as well as a variety of cocktails, coffee drinks, vegan-friendly beers, and natural wines. Guests also have the option to sign up for Strange Town’s Natty Wine Club, which features hand-curated, seasonally appropriate natural wine offered in a half case (6 bottles for $150) or a full case (12 bottles for $300).

East Side

Blooming Lotus Bakery specializes in allergy-friendly desserts that also happen to be fully vegan. The bakery’s kitchen is dedicated to using grain-free, dairy-free, soy-free, peanut-free, egg-free, and cane sugar-free ingredients, making their pastries and desserts suitable for nearly everyone to enjoy. Blooming Lotus offers a wide variety of scones, muffins, cookies, cakes, and more, including cardamom pistachio scones, apple streusel muffins, turtle cake, and cherry pecan chocolate cookies.

Riverwest

Vegan-Friendly

This Riverwest cafe offers both vegan and vegetarian dishes that are moderately priced and exceptionally delicious. Grab a plate of vegan nachos loaded with crispy El Rey tortilla chips, zesty nacho cheese, seasoned black beans, chickpea chorizo, pico de gallo, cashew lime crema, and avocado, or enjoy a lemon poppy seed and blueberry crepe layered with tangy lemon curd and drizzled with sweet blueberry cream cheese icing for a sweet treat. Accompany your meal with a coffee or espresso drink from Milwaukee’s own Stone Creek Coffee, or choose from a selection of bottled and tap wines and locally brewed beers.

Brookfield

Vegan-Friendly

Cafe Manna is one of the first 100% vegetarian restaurants in Southeastern Wisconsin and has been serving Milwaukee’s Brookfield suburb since 2008. The cafe offers tasty starters such as “crab” cakes and guacamole potato skins, as well as hearty winter soups like vegan chili as well as unique sandwich creations such as raw Thai rolls. For those who prefer chocolaty bites and warm herbal teas, we recommend pairing the chocolate chip cookie torte with a cup of turmeric chai.

Multiple Locations

Vegan-Friendly

A neighborhood institution, Ian’s Pizza is the go-to spot for college students, late-night bar-goers, and vegan foodies alike. The pizzeria offers an extensive vegan menu, featuring innovative slices like the Vegan Macadilla Killa (crème sauce, mozzarella, spicy chick’n, and macaroni layered with house-made dough and cheddar), Vegan Macho Nacho (chipotle crème sauce, vegan mozzarella, chorizo, cheddar, tortilla strips, pico de gallo, and salsa verde), and the Vegan Gyro (garlic oil, mozzarella, vegan gyro meat, house-made vegan tzatziki sauce, diced tomato, and onion). Ian’s also offers puppy chow—for humans, not puppies—in a cinnamon churro flavor, which is both vegan and gluten-free.

Bay View

Vegan-Friendly

Located in the heart of Downtown Bay View, The Vanguard pays homage to Milwaukee’s classic corner bar with its laid back, casual atmosphere, locally crafted beers, and house-made sausage—some of which happens to be vegan. Traditionalists should opt for a sausage from the classics menu, which includes vegan chorizo, vegan Italian sausage, and vegan brats. For those with a more adventurous palate, we suggest trying one of the styled sausages, such as the Thai Breaker—a vegan pork sausage blended with lemongrass, ginger, and cilantro herbs and topped with peanut sauce, carrot, lettuce, and crunchy bits. Pair with a Good City Pilsner.

Bay View

Vegan-Friendly

A Southern-inspired spot in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood, Palomino is a one-of-a-kind gem for vegans who normally have to opt for fries at neighborhood bars. The bar uses locally sourced ingredients in all of its dishes, which include vegan options like BBQ wings served with vegan ranch, Buffalo cauliflower, fried pickles, hot fried chick’n sandwiches, Beyond Meat burgers, salads with fresh veggies and tofu, and spicy street corn. Patrons can also warm up from the cold with a hot whiskey cocktail or stay refreshed with a crisp local brew.

Bay View

Vegan-Friendly

If you prefer your pizza slice to be the size of your face, Classic Slice is the spot for you! This pizzeria features a vegan menu complete with classic pizza options, such as the Vegan MKE (vegan sausage, mushrooms, onion, and house-made soy cheese) and the Vegan Pesto Pie (vegan pesto base, pine nuts, and house-made soy cheese), as well as uniquely crafted pizzas like the Anne Curry (curry base, tomato, broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, and curried tofu). In addition to pizza, vegan calzones are also available and can be filled with house-made soy or Daiya cheese, vegan sausage, curried tofu, and fresh veggies.

Multiple Locations

Vegan-Friendly

Inspired by the fresh Latin cuisine served in the San Francisco Bay Area, Cafe Corazón offers a vegan menu complete with Mexican classics. Plant-based options include a taco plate, taco salad, burritos, and enchiladas. Each comes with a side of rice and black beans and can be filled with your choice of vegan protein, such as soy chorizo, herbed tofu, mixed vegetables, or mushrooms. Pair your meal with a traditional margarita on the rocks or a refreshing paloma.

Historic Third Ward

Vegan-Friendly

Wondering where to get vegan sushi in Milwaukee? Head over the Historic Third Ward neighborhood, where Screaming Tuna offers a wide variety of vegan-friendly rolls. Spice things up with the Mean Green roll (sautéed shiitake mushrooms, shishito pepper, jalapeño, avocado, garlic, and ohba) or go for a savory-sweet roll like the Mango (cucumber, avocado, asparagus, and mango salsa). Note that the menu labels the rolls as vegetarian, but they can be made vegan upon request.

West Allis

Vegan-Friendly

Tandoor is a cozy neighborhood spot that specializes in Indian curries, many of which are vegan or can be made vegan upon request. Start with a plate of vegetable samosas, along with a fresh mango juice. For the entree, dig into one of the veggie options, such as the Chana Masala made with garbanzo beans in a blend of tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and spices. The Baingan Bharta curry is an excellent choice and features eggplant sautéed with onions, garlic, ginger, and spices. Be sure to request that the curries be made with coconut milk, since some are made with cream.

Feature photo courtesy of Beerline Cafe

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Where to Eat Vegan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin - VegOut Magazine
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Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork! - KMID - Local 2 News

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Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork!  KMID - Local 2 News
Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork! - KMID - Local 2 News
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1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork - fox4kc.com

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1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork  fox4kc.com
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Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork! - CW33 NewsFix

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Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork!  CW33 NewsFix
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Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork! - WFXRtv.com

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Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork!  WFXRtv.com
Fuhgeddaboudit! 1 in 12 people eat their pizza with a knife and fork! - WFXRtv.com
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Can dogs eat peaches? - Dog of the Day

WROCLAW, POLAND - 2020/06/09: Peaches seen displayed on the shelves of Wroclaw Market Hall (Hala Targowa we Wroclawiu), one of the biggest traditional markets in the city. (Photo by Karol Serewis/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

What are the benefits of corn in a dog’s diet? by Kimberley Spinney

Do you like giving your pup a treat when you are enjoying one yourself? Do you find yourself cutting a piece of fruit for your dog to share with you? Have you ever wanted to create small treats for later with fresh fruits and vegetables such as peaches and avocados? Then you need to know which produce is safe for our pups to eat.

For this edition of “can our dog eat,” we turn to the juicy peach for inspiration. After all, if we love peaches, why wouldn’t our dog love them too?

So our question for this one is are peaches safe for our dogs to snack on? And what are the benefits of adding this fruit to their diet?

Is it safe for our dogs to eat peaches?

According to DogTime, the simple answer is yes, it is safe for our dogs to eat peaches. Specifically, it is safe for our dogs to eat the fleshy part of the fruit, but they absolutely need to avoid the peach pit.

Not only is the pit a choking hazards, but even if they chew on it and splinter the pit it can cause internal damage or blockages.

Beyond the pit as a hazard, it is important to note that too much peach can also be a problem because eating too much of this fruit can lead to our dogs dealing with stomach issues and diarrhea.

In general, when our pups get to enjoy peaches in moderation they benefit from the vitamins and minerals that are infused in the fruit. Whether it is the Vitamin A and C or the higher fiber content, this is a fruit that can actually be a good thing for our dog’s overall health and well-being.

While peaches might be safe for our dogs to eat, we still recommend consulting with your pup’s veterinarian before adding something new to their diet.

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Why do dogs eat grass and poop? Pet experts explain this weird behavior - Inverse

Any dog owner with a backyard knows the agony of stepping outside to find Fido has torn up the lawn — again. There’s food aplenty in the kibble bowl, so why would dogs nosh on things like grass? While you might write it off as just one more weird dog behavior, experts say that your dog’s grass-chomping habits may have complex evolutionary roots.

Inverse spoke with pet experts to answer all your burning questions about why dogs ingest strange items and whether it’s safe for them to eat grass.

Why do dogs eat grass?

“Grass eating is observed in both domestic and wild canines, yet the reason for it remains largely unknown,” Katy Nelson, a senior veterinarian at Chewy, tells Inverse.

However, pet experts do have numerous theories on why your dog might be chowing down on greenery.

One theory posits that eating grass helps ease gastrointestinal issues and can induce vomiting if the dogs have an upset stomach.

“In my personal experience, I see dogs eating grass commonly when they don't feel well or have gastrointestinal upset,” Kelly Hicks, a medical oncology resident veterinarian at Oregon State University, tells Inverse.

“The thought is that grass helps potentially with digestion and passage of stools.”

But not every expert agrees. Katherine Pankratz, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, tells Inverse dogs rarely vomit after they eat grass, so dogs are unlikely to be eating the stuff to soothe an upset tummy.

Danielle Bernal, a veterinarian with Wellness Natural Pet Food, tells Inverse dogs may consume grass to add fiber to their diet. This theory has a fair bit of scientific support. Pankratz cites a 2007 study: A poodle that was eating grass (and vomiting in this case, though this is less common) stopped after it switched to a commercial high-fiber diet.

“Although there is some evidence that dogs can digest carbohydrates, it may be most likely that the supplement of dietary fiber was likely the benefit and not the grass itself,” Pankratz explains.

Some research suggests that grass eating is an evolutionary behavior descended from dogs’ ancient ancestors: wolves. “It is thought that eating grass is an innate behavior, one that was present in domestic dogs’ distant ancestors,” Jamie Freyer, a veterinarian at Veterinarians.org, tells Inverse.

Your canine might also simply be bored or ravenous. According to a 2007 study, researchers found a correlation between dogs eating grass and the time of day. Dogs were more likely to eat grass before a meal — when hunger was highest — compared to after a meal.

It’s also possible the answer might be simpler than we think.

“There isn’t one specific reason that your pup likes the occasional grass snack. They just like the taste, texture, and feel of eating grass,” Bernal says.

Are dogs really carnivores?

Dogs, contrary to popular belief, are omnivores. Getty

You may be surprised to learn that dogs are not, in fact, true carnivores.

“Actually, in contrast to the cat, who is an obligate carnivore, dogs are omnivorous,” Freyer says.

Unlike cats, dogs can get important acids and vitamins from vegetable oils, according to Nelson. And Pankratz adds that canine molars have “relatively flat surfaces” that can grind bones and plants.

“Dogs can also digest almost 100 percent of the carbohydrates they consume and have a larger small intestine as compared to that of a strict carnivore,” Nelson says. The small intestine is where most of the nutrient absorption from food occurs.

In fact, dogs may actually need non-meat food sources from time to time such as grain to maintain a healthy diet.

“There is a link between grain-free diets in dogs [and] heart disease (i.e. cardiomyopathy), which supports the statement that dogs cannot be purely carnivorous animals,” Hicks explains.

Though it’s fair to say that grass is not an appropriate alternative source of food. If your dog consumes grass, it may pass it “fully intact,” Bernal says. “Unlike true herbivores, dogs are not designed to break down the hard, fibrous structure of a blade of grass and turn it into energy like a cow, sheep, or horse would.”

What other weird substances will dogs eat?

Dogs can eat anything from toilet paper to dirt. Often these habits are harmless, but sometimes they might be a sign of a more serious medical issue, experts caution. Getty

Much to their owners’ dismay, dogs are tempted to eat pretty much anything under the Sun — including inedible non-food items.

“Since dogs are scavengers at heart, they will sniff for remnants of food whenever available in pursuit of a tasty reward,” Bernal says.

“Their tendency to explore the world with their mouths often leads to eating things that most of us would not consider food,” Freyer says.

Some common non-food items that dogs have been known to eat include feces (their own or another animal’s), tree bark, toilet paper, dirt, and rocks.

If this sounds like the behavior of your dog, don’t panic. Most of the time it is fairly normal behavior. Consumption of seemingly strange items isn’t always a sign of poor pet training, experts say.

“Some dogs are more likely to use their mouths to explore their environments, such as puppies and young dogs, and dogs have a normal need to chew,” Pankratz says.

In fact, Bernal adds, “the reason dogs may eat these odd substances is the same reason they may eat grass.”

Veterinarians refer to the compulsive canine practice of eating non-food items as “pica.” However, if your canine companion is eating non-food items more often than not, it might be time to bring them in for a check up. “A variety of medical issues could contribute to this behavior of pica, such as nutritional deficiencies, inflammatory bowel disease, and parasites,” Nelson says.

There could also be mental health concerns that would explain this behavior.

“Other behaviors like attention-seeking, separation anxiety, and boredom can lead to pets eating or chewing on things they ordinarily would not have,” Nelson adds.

Whatever the reason, if your dog has a habit of eating foreign objects, you want to keep them under direct supervision whenever possible to prevent medical issues.

And, there is one item on that list you might want to watch out for. Eating poop — a practice known as “coprophagia” — is one of the more common and perturbing non-food items that dogs consume, and this one can have consequences. Poop contains a multitude of bacteria and other microbes and some of these species, when ingested, can cause an infection.

Further, you might want to watch out for objects that might be weirdly shaped, and as such, might not pass as easily. “[These objects] can pose an issue later down the line if [an] object is unable to be digested and gets lodged somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract, causing an intestinal obstruction,” Hicks says.

Is it safe for dogs to eat grass?

It’s generally safe for dogs to eat grass, but keep alert for pesticides or parasites, experts say.Getty

“For the most part, eating grass and similar plant-like materials is ok for your dog,” Bernal says.

“Typically, eating grass is not harmful for a dog’s health unless it is occurring all the time.”

Nelson agrees though she says you still need to keep a close eye on your dog’s grass-eating and make sure they’re not consuming it in bulk.

“Grass itself is not toxic to dogs, but consuming excess quantities could lead to signs of illness such as vomiting, discomfort, and increased frequency of defecation,” Nelson says.

Nelson adds that if your lawn has recently been treated with fertilizers or pesticides, you’ll want to keep the dog off the grass for at least 48 hours. If your pet is ingesting grass at the dog park, keep an eye out for signs indicating the lawn may have been treated with chemicals.

However, if your dog is exhibiting any unusual behavior: vomiting, suddenly eating grass for the first time or increasing the amount of grass it consumes, consult a veterinarian. The grass may contain parasites that could be harmful to your pet, and the parasites may be spurning your dog to consume more grass, Pankratz says. In instances like these, she might consider a parasite preventative medication.

There are some expert-backed tips and tricks to help your pet avoid eating grass and other weird objects. Getty

Pankratz stresses there is no “one-size-fits-all" to keep your pet from eating undesirable items. You can start by identifying the underlying reason why your dog is eating grass or another item, which may require help from a veterinarian.

If your dog is simply bored, find other appropriate outlets to meet its needs, such as dog-safe chew toys or food if the animal is indeed hungry. You can also consider taking your dog out for a walk after meals, Pankratz says.

Hicks recommends you remove any potential ingestible objects when the dog is left unsupervised. It may also be necessary to crate your dog while you’re gone to prevent them from getting into areas of the house where they can eat foreign objects. Pankratz also suggests avoiding grassy areas on walks and keeping your dog leashed at all times. It might even be appropriate to have the dog wear a muzzle in certain environments, Pankratz says.

But the task is a difficult one.

“I think it can be hard to train dogs not to eat things they aren't supposed to ingest,” Hicks says.

Bernal also suggests using simple commands such as “leave it” to direct your dog to stop eating the item or applying a substance to make the object “taste bitter and nasty enough that the dog should leave it alone.” Products that are safe to use can often be purchased at pet stores, but consult your veterinarian first.

Pankratz says you can also consider behavioral modification — a form of guided training that teaches the dog to think differently about and appropriately deal with tempting behaviors. For example, if your dog shows an interest in eating grass, calmly interrupt (without threat or fear) with a diversion, and then guide your dog on what they should do instead with the skills that they know (i.e., sit and look at you, touch their nose to your hand) or a more acceptable behavior (i.e., chase a ball) and reward them for doing so.

Why do dogs raid the trash for food?

Your dog raiding the trash might not be a sign of poor training, but an evolutionary behavior.Getty

If you’ve ever seen your dog pilfering through the trash, again: Don’t blame yourself. It does not necessarily mean a sign of poor training. It could simply be a callback to your pup’s learned evolutionary behaviors, or, more simply, a means to pass the time.

“Dogs are scavengers and, evolutionarily, their scavenging behaviors brought them to living alongside human civilization,” Pankratz explains.

Freyer adds, “When they raid the trash, it is likely because something in there smells tasty and they want to eat it.” Dogs possess an incredible sense of smell. In fact, their noses contain 300 million olfactory receptors. That’s 50 times that of humans, who have a meager six million. As such, the scent of leftover food may literally be too strong to resist.

“So while we may not smell that bit of steak that we dropped in the trash after dinner last night, your dog certainly can,” Nelson says.

Importantly, though, it is necessary to keep them away from the trash can, as eating leftover foodstuffs could give them a bellyache or worse, pancreatitis, Freyer says. They also run the risk of ingesting a foreign body that they can’t pass.

“In most cases... dogs recognize that knocking down the garbage bin daily is not acceptable household behavior, so if your dog is showing that they cannot resist, implementing additional training is highly recommended for their safety,” Bernal explains.

There are other strategies you can use, too. For example, you can keep your trash cans behind closed doors and closets, or purchase specialized tightly sealed rubbish bins that keep all the smells inside and away from your dog’s sensitive nose.

So yes, dogs eat weird things like grass and garbage. Often, there’s no need to intervene. But now you know the reasons why, and when it’s necessary to interject — or call your vet for backup.

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Why do dogs eat grass and poop? Pet experts explain this weird behavior - Inverse
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The so-long-sugar challenge: Eat fat, and cut fructose. The results: no bowl of cherries. - The Seattle Times

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The so-long-sugar challenge: Eat fat, and cut fructose. The results: no bowl of cherries.  The Seattle Times
The so-long-sugar challenge: Eat fat, and cut fructose. The results: no bowl of cherries. - The Seattle Times
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Here's What To Eat If You Have Covid-19, According To Experts - Forbes

When it comes to treating Covid-19, seeking care instructions from your healthcare provider along with following basic safety guidelines like wearing a double mask, self-isolating and frequent hand-washing are crucial. 

That being said, watching what you eat can also help alleviate some of the symptoms and aid recovery. 

 "Maintaining a diet high in fruits and vegetables is important as they are replete with vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, C, magnesium and zinc among others," says Dr. Adrienne Youdim, an internist who specializes in medical weight loss and nutrition. In addition, antioxidants and polyphenols found in certain fruits and veggies also enhance immunity, reduce inflammation and promote metabolic health—all of which are important in times of infection and particularly Covid-19 given its  predisposition of affecting people with metabolic disease more severely, adds Dr. Youdim. 

"If you're down with the Omicron variant, your throat might be on fire. Some people say their throat feels like it has razor blades in it. Who wants to eat a heavy burger or a big bowl of pasta while you're feeling that way? Opt for lighter foods instead," says Dr. Robert G. Lahita aka Dr. Bob, director of the Institute for Autoimmune and Rheumatic Disease at Saint Joseph Health and author of Immunity Strong. 

Broths and soups are the best option. "Not only are broths and soups great for hydration when sick, but they are also easy to cook when you may be feeling weak or exhausted," says Pomroy. "You can opt for a soup with pureed vegetables for added benefits," she says. 

Even soft-cooked vegetables like carrots, onions and spinach are ideal, says Dr. Lahita. In addition, celebrity nutritionist Haylie Pomroy recommends loading up on sweet potatoes. "It's packed with vitamin A, which is great for fighting inflammation—a common side effect of Covid-19. You can eat these mashed or as crispy wedges if you don't have a sore throat, she suggests. 

"Foods high in omega fatty acids including fish can also be beneficial given their positive effect on immunity not to mention fish are a source of vitamin D—a nutrient whose deficiency, makes us more susceptible to respiratory infections," notes Dr Youdim.

Dr. Youdim also recommends increasing use of olive oil as it's a significant source of polyphenols—which  have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic properties. "They also enhance the immune response by increasing antioxidant defenses and decreasing inflammation in the tissues," says Dr. Youdim. "Olive oil also contains omega-3 fatty acids which cause activation of both innate and adaptive immunity and have anti-inflammatory properties," adds the internist. 

You should also incorporate probiotics in your diet while you have Covid-19 as they help balance your gut microbiome which plays a key role in improving your immune function, says Dr. Lahita. Foods like yogurt, kefir,  tempeh,, kimchi, miso, kombucha, traditional buttermilk and many kinds of cheese are excellent natural sources of probiotics for your gut, he says. 

Meanwhile, "avoid spicy foods and lemon, orange, and other citrus as these can burn your throat and make it feel even worse. You should avoid coffee too as it can have dehydrating effects. And steer clear of hot liquids, although warm tea can help soothe a raw throat," adds Dr. Lahita.

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Here's What To Eat If You Have Covid-19, According To Experts - Forbes
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Parosmia: Covid changed the foods I can eat - The Washington Post

“What are you even doing?” my mother yelled from across the room.

I’d been comically trotting around the house, picking up a few items and holding them to my nose to determine if they were the culprits behind the stench.

“Trying to figure out what stinks.”

Suddenly, holding a Tupperware of chopped onions, I had a primary suspect. “That’s it! It’s the onions,” I exclaimed.

My mom grabbed the container and promptly put it back. “I chopped these 15 minutes ago. There is no way they are rotten.”

I caught the coronavirus in April 2021, during India’s deadly second wave, which drove a worldwide surge in cases. My infection, although technically “mild,” left me bedridden with a high fever and headaches throughout the 10-day isolation period. As my quarantine ended, I was relieved that the worst was behind me — or so I thought.

A month into recovery, I started noticing a rude cacophony of pungent smells that were mildly rotten, then sometimes metallic after they entered my nose. Desperate for answers, my investigations concluded that everything stank — but onions and garlic were the primary culprits.

I figured the ailment would disappear, but it didn’t. After a month of fiddling with my food, unable to work up an appetite because of the stench, a tweet led me to discover that I was suffering from a condition that made me a “covid long-hauler.” I barely understood what that meant at the time, but I knew it would be awhile before things were okay.

Breakthrough infections for vaccinated people have been at unprecedented high levels with the omicron variant, which means there’s now a looming uncertainty about how long covid will affect them. Anthony S. Fauci has confirmed that long covid can develop “no matter what virus variant occurs.” Most agree that vaccines reduce but do not eliminate the risk of long covid. Researchers say we’ll have to wait until May 2022 to properly assess omicron’s relationship with long covid.

While parosmia isn’t as life-threatening as other long covid conditions that damage vital organs, that doesn’t make it easy to live with. As Richard Orlandi, an ear, nose and throat physician, told University of Utah Health, “Depending on the severity, this condition can range from an annoyance to a frustrating and anxiety-inducing symptom.”

For me and others, that frustration is compounded by the uncertainty that comes with a lack of treatment or cure. It’s partly what led me to seek my own answers — talking to other young women who, like me, had no idea what to make of this newfound impairment.

When Aditi Mehta, a 24-year-old from New Delhi, got typical covid-19 symptoms in April 2021 despite being partially vaccinated, they lasted only 24 hours, she said. But a month later, her sense of smell started playing tricks on her. When she turned to her doctor for advice, she received no answers, she said: “They had no idea what was happening.”

A doctor recently confirmed that physicians could not help Madison Evangelista, a 29-year-old from Washington state, with a loss of smell that has persisted for months. Evangelista was infected in December 2020, right before the vaccine rollout in the United States. Parosmia symptoms showed up months later, and she still struggles with them, she said.

A friend told her there was no way it could be happening because all of her friends who had covid-19 had recovered, Evangelista said: “I thought there was something wrong with me because I wasn’t getting better but everybody else was.”

Googling symptoms proved helpful for many, as it enabled people with parosmia to find support online. For Mehta, just discovering what it was called gave her experience legitimacy. “When I saw the name, I knew my condition was real and I wasn’t alone,” she said.

Finding a community allowed many to process how profound a loss it had been. “It’s one of your five senses, after all,” said Vaishnavi Bajpai, a 21-year-old from Uttar Pradesh, India, who is studying medicine and who tested positive for the coronavirus in November 2020.

Our sense of smell is often underappreciated, even though it plays a key role in our perception of environmental hazards, nutrition, social relationships and overall well-being. Simply put: When smell goes, everything goes.

The most unforeseen consequence of parosmia for me was how paranoid it made me for my safety. Some accused me of hyperbolizing my condition when I would triple-check the stove — no longer trusting myself to detect a gas leak. But speaking to Bajpai about my fears confirmed that they weren’t nearly as irrational as I thought. She said she’d been heating a bucket of water and didn’t realize it was burning on an immersion rod; she couldn’t smell the smoldering plastic. She frantically called her mother, she said, unsure whether she would “ever be able to live alone like this.”

For some, what stings most is no longer being able to enjoy food. During the worst phase of my parosmia, the thought of food would send me down a spiral — I was conflicted between not wanting to eat because of the smell, yet obviously needing nutrition. Parosmia didn’t just dull my appetite — it also stole a treasured hobby. Simply stepping inside the kitchen to cook or bake would push me into crying spells. Eventually, to spare myself the emotional turmoil, I stopped cooking altogether.

Many, I found, had similar experiences with their relationship to food.

To Rachel LaFerriere, a 22-year-old student from Ohio who got covid in August 2021 despite being fully vaccinated, many foods smelled like a “garlicky, oniony plate of eggs left sitting out for two weeks.” For her, parosmia has darkly colored life’s little moments. “Going into a restaurant and smelling the food was one of the joys of my life. And now it’s ruined,” she said.

The loss of routine meals weighed heavily on Shreya Garg, a 21-year-old from Haryana, India, who was infected with covid in June 2021. She misses devouring her cherished breakfast of seven years — a parantha (stuffed flatbread) and green chutney. “I tried it again recently. It wasn’t the best. I’m ignoring that this is a lifelong issue for people and [that] it might never be 100 percent again for me,” she said.

Six months in, my parosmia is no longer a daily interruption. Yet I don’t feel okay enough to say I’m “recovered.” I still can’t eat onions and garlic. And many others like me are experiencing varied emotions about the unexpected, lasting changes.

Some, like Garg and LaFerriere, say they avoid thinking about it, optimistic that their bodies will pull through. (As LaFerriere put it: “If I have to live with it forever, I’ll find ways to adapt.”)

For others, the omicron wave has only heightened anxiety about the condition. “I have a lot of fear of catching covid again,” Evangelista said. “I don’t know how that’s going to impact my parosmia.”

But it’s not only the long-haulers like us who need to watch out.

The “omicron is mild” narrative is rooted in a false binary — you either succumb to the infection or emerge unscathed. This overlooks the understated middle child: the possibility of developing long covid conditions that can alter the course of your life.

Most of the people interviewed for this article experienced largely asymptomatic infections. University of Arizona Health Sciences found that 67 percent of people who recovered from “mild or moderate” infections experienced symptoms more than 30 days after their positive test.

Despite popular perception, a mild infection doesn’t guarantee a 10-day quarantine and then business as usual. We’re already noticing troubling consequences of the “omicron is mild” narrative — “covid parties,” for example, designed to infect people with omicron to get it out of the way. That we’re in the thick of a pandemic with a virus that’s ever-evolving should be reason enough to not take a new variant lightly.

But if that’s not reason enough — take it from me: You don’t want to wake up one morning with your morning cup of coffee smelling like rotten milk.

Nona Uppal is a freelance writer based in New Delhi.

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FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Chicken Salad Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination | Food Safety and Inspection Service - USDA.gov

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken salad products produced by Simply Fresh Market, a Marietta, Ga. establishment, may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. A recall was not requested because the known affected product is no longer available in commerce for consumers to purchase.

The RTE chicken salad with apples and walnuts items were produced on Jan. 17, 2022. The following product is subject to the public health alert [view label]:

• 8-oz and 16-oz. deli hinged containers of “simply fresh MARKET CHICKEN SALAD Apples & Walnuts” with a sell by date of “1/25” printed on the label.

The products bear establishment number “EST. P47170” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to three local markets in Atlanta, Ga.

The problem was discovered when the company notified FSIS that product sampling reported positive Listeria monocytogenes results.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a health care provider.

Consumption of food contaminated with L. monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects older adults, persons with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women and their newborns. Less commonly, persons outside these risk groups are affected.

Listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. An invasive infection spreads beyond the gastrointestinal tract. In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn. In addition, serious and sometimes fatal infections can occur in older adults and persons with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis is treated with antibiotics. Persons in the higher-risk categories who experience flu-like symptoms within two months after eating contaminated food should seek medical care and tell the health care provider about eating the contaminated food.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ refrigerators. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or live chat via Ask USDA from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Consumers can also browse food safety messages at Ask USDA or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.

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FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Chicken Salad Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination | Food Safety and Inspection Service - USDA.gov
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Trae Young fires back at Charles Barkley after All-Star jab: 'Eat a Twinkie' - New York Post

Charles Barkley consistently elicits reactions from the NBA players he opines on.

On Thursday, Barkley said he thought Zach LaVine deserved an All-Star starting nod over Trae Young, on account of the Bulls having the second-best record in the Eastern Conference while the Hawks (22-25) are in 12th.

Trae Young had some words for Charles Barkley after his All-Star take.

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Charles Barkley stuck to his guns — and took Trae Young’s ‘twinkie’ retort in stride.

Screengrab

Young was clearly watching the segment, and expressed his gratitude for being selected — while sneaking in a potshot at Barkley.

“Truly Blessed!! Thank you to the Fans. ALWAYS LOVE !! 2X!!” Young tweeted. “Chuck eat a Twinkie and be quiet sometimes,” he added, with laughing and peace emojis.

Truly Blessed🙏🏽 !! Thank you to the Fans ❤️ ALWAYS LOVE !! 2X!!

Chuck eat a Twinkie and be quiet sometimes😂✌🏽

— Trae Young (@TheTraeYoung) January 28, 2022

Barkley of course took the barb in stride.

“I like it,” he said, “You shouldn’t have started before Zach LaVine, though.”

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Trae Young fires back at Charles Barkley after All-Star jab: 'Eat a Twinkie' - New York Post
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