Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other mental health conditions. They work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows down brain activity and produces a calming effect. Benzodiazepines are some of the most widely prescribed drugs in the world, with millions of people relying on them to manage their symptoms.
However, benzodiazepines are not without their dangers. They can be highly addictive, and long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit. The risks of quitting benzodiazepines cold turkey can be severe, including seizures, hallucinations, and even death.
Some of the most common benzodiazepines and their brand and trade names include:
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Diazepam (Valium)
Lorazepam (Ativan)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Temazepam (Restoril)
Oxazepam (Serax)
Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
Flurazepam (Dalmane)
While benzodiazepines can be effective for managing anxiety and other mental health conditions, it is important to approach their use with caution. It is always recommended to follow the instructions of a medical professional and to never abruptly stop taking benzodiazepines without medical supervision.
For those who wish to explore alternative methods for managing anxiety, there are several options available, including using diet alone. There are several foods that are believed to help promote relaxation and calmness. For those who wish to explore alternative methods for managing anxiety, diet can be a useful tool, with certain foods and nutrients having been shown to promote relaxation and calmness.
Alternative, Natural Treatment (Proper Human Diet)
There is a growing body of research that suggests a link between diet and mental health, including anxiety. One dietary approach that has gained attention in recent years is the ketogenic or carnivore diet. The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been used to treat a range of health conditions, including epilepsy and type 2 diabetes. The carnivore diet takes this a step further, emphasizing the consumption of animal products while eliminating all plant-based foods.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for treating anxiety, some individuals have reported significant improvements in their symptoms after adopting a ketogenic or carnivore diet. This is likely due to several factors, including the effects of certain macronutrients on brain function, inflammation, and gut health.
One of the primary ways in which the ketogenic or carnivore diet may help reduce anxiety is through its impact on brain function. When the body is in a state of ketosis, it produces ketones, which can provide an alternative source of energy for the brain. Research has shown that ketones may have neuroprotective effects and improve brain function, including reducing symptoms of anxiety. Additionally, the carnivore diet may provide a high level of certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, that are important for brain health.
Another way in which the ketogenic or carnivore diet may help reduce anxiety is by reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a range of health problems, including mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. The high-fat, low-carbohydrate nature of the ketogenic diet may help reduce inflammation by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, the carnivore diet may eliminate certain plant-based foods that can be inflammatory for some individuals.
Finally, the ketogenic or carnivore diet may help improve gut health, which has been linked to mental health. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain, and research has shown that imbalances in gut bacteria can lead to anxiety and other mental health problems. The high-fat, low-carbohydrate nature of the ketogenic diet may help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, while the carnivore diet may eliminate certain plant-based foods that can be hard to digest and contribute to gut dysbiosis.
In conclusion, benzodiazepines are a powerful class of drugs that can be highly effective for managing anxiety and other mental health conditions. However, they can also be highly addictive and come with risks when attempting to quit. the ketogenic or carnivore diet may be a useful tool for most individuals looking to manage anxiety. By promoting ketosis, reducing inflammation, and improving gut health, these diets may have a positive impact on mental health.
Hyde, P. N., Misra, S., & Volek, J. S. (2019). Low-carbohydrate ketogenic diets, glucose homeostasis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, 22(5), 374-381. https://doi.org/10.1097/MCO.0000000000000581
Otten, J., & Hetzel, B. (2020). A systematic review of the effects of the ketogenic diet on human gut microbiota. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(8), 2453. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm9082453
Roberts, M. N., Wallace, M. A., Tomilov, A. A., Zhou, Z., Marcotte, G. R., Tran, D., Perez, G., Gutierrez-Casado, E., Koike, S., Knotts, T. A., Imai, D. M., Griffey, S. M., Kim, K., Hagopian, K., McMackin, M. Z., & Haj, F. G. (2017). A ketogenic diet extends longevity and healthspan in adult mice. Cell Metabolism, 26(3), 539-546.e5. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2017.08.005
Ketones are compounds produced by the body when there is a shortage of glucose, which is the primary fuel source for the body. When glucose levels are low, the liver converts fat into ketones, which the body can use for energy. Ketones have been shown to have a number of health benefits, particularly for metabolic health, which includes heart health, brain health, kidney function, liver function, and inflammation markers for arthritis.
One of the primary benefits of ketones is their ability to improve metabolic health. Studies have shown that when the body is in a state of ketosis, it can improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose levels, and reduce inflammation, all of which are important for maintaining metabolic health.
Ketones have also been shown to be beneficial for heart health. Research has shown that when the body is in a state of ketosis, it can improve lipid profiles, which include reducing triglyceride levels and increasing HDL cholesterol levels, which are both important for heart health.
Ketones can also benefit brain health by improving cognitive function and reducing the risk of neurological disorders. Studies have shown that ketones can provide an alternative fuel source for the brain, which can help to improve cognitive function, and may also reduce the risk of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Another area where ketones can provide benefits is in kidney and liver function. Studies have shown that ketones can improve kidney and liver function by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, which are all factors that can contribute to kidney and liver damage.
It’s important to note that while ketones can be beneficial for health, there is a difference between ketones and ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is a condition that can occur when the body produces too many ketones, which can cause a dangerous imbalance in the body’s pH levels. However, this is a rare condition that typically only occurs in people with diabetes who are not managing their blood glucose levels properly.
In conclusion, ketones have a number of health benefits, particularly for metabolic health, heart health, brain health, kidney function, liver function, and inflammation markers for arthritis. It’s important to understand the difference between ketones and ketoacidosis, as they are often confused. By understanding the science behind ketones and their benefits, individuals can make informed decisions about their diet and overall health.
A carnivorous way of eating consists of only animal products, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. This lifestyle has gained popularity in recent years, and there is evidence to suggest that it can improve ketone production and overall health.
Ketone production is the process by which the liver produces ketones from fat, which can be used as a source of energy by the body. The production of ketones is generally increased when carbohydrate intake is low, as the body switches to using fat as its primary fuel source. The carnivore diet, which is low in carbohydrates and high in fat, can therefore promote the production of ketones.
Studies have shown that the carnivore diet can significantly increase ketone production in the body. In a study of individuals on a carnivore diet, it was found that the diet increased the levels of beta-hydroxybutyrate, a type of ketone, in the blood. Additionally, the study found that the carnivore diet led to significant weight loss and improvements in markers of metabolic health, including blood glucose and cholesterol levels.
Another study compared the effects of a high-carbohydrate diet to a carnivore diet on ketone production. The study found that the carnivore diet led to a greater increase in ketone production, and a greater reduction in insulin levels, compared to the high-carbohydrate diet.
Improved ketone production can have a number of health benefits, including improved metabolic health, weight loss, and improved brain function. In addition to these benefits, the carnivore diet has been associated with improvements in inflammation markers and symptoms in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
In conclusion, the carnivore diet can significantly increase ketone production in the body, which can provide a number of health benefits. While the diet can be difficult to sustain, it may be worth considering for individuals looking to improve metabolic health and overall well-being.
Sources:
Newman, J.C., & Verdin, E. (2014). Ketone bodies as signaling metabolites. Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism, 25(1), 42-52. doi: 10.1016/j.tem.2013.09.002
Sumithran, P., Prendergast, L.A., Delbridge, E., Purcell, K., Shulkes, A., Kriketos, A., & Proietto, J. (2013). Ketosis and appetite-mediating nutrients and hormones after weight loss. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 67(7), 759-764. doi: 10.1038/ejcn.2013.90
Clemens, Z., Kelemen, A., Fogarasi, A., Tóth, C., & Bene, J. (2019). Successful low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet with adequate protein in a patient with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Journal of Lipid Research, 60(9), 1611-1616. doi: 10.1194/jlr.C091603
Mancinelli, R., & Ruscica, M. (2020). Ketogenic Diet in Metabolic Syndrome. In D. Montagnese, R. Salvatori, & L. D. Pasqua (Eds.), Diet and Nutrition in Dementia and Cognitive Decline (pp. 195-205). Academic Press. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-815246-0.00018-3
Stockman, M.C., Thomas, D., Burke, J., & Apovian, C.M. (2018). Intermittent Fasting: Is the Wait Worth the Weight? Current Obesity Reports, 7(2), 172-185. doi: 10.1007/s13679-018-0308-9
The carnivore diet is a dietary approach that involves consuming only animal-based foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, while eliminating all plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. The primary goal of this diet is to optimize health and well-being by providing the body with nutrient-dense foods that are easy to digest and assimilate.
While the carnivore diet is a relatively new concept, there is growing scientific evidence supporting its potential health benefits. Here are some of the key scientific findings that support the use of the carnivore diet for optimizing health:
Nutrient Density: Animal-based foods are among the most nutrient-dense foods available. They provide high amounts of essential nutrients, such as vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients are critical for maintaining optimal health and can be difficult to obtain from a plant-based diet.
Reduced Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases, and animal-based foods have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. The high protein content of animal foods can also help to reduce inflammation by improving muscle mass and function.
Improved Digestive Health: The carnivore diet can help to improve digestive health by eliminating plant-based foods that can be difficult to digest and cause gastrointestinal distress in some individuals. This may be particularly beneficial for people with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Weight Loss: The high protein content of the carnivore diet can help to promote weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness, reducing appetite, and boosting metabolism. Some studies have also shown that a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet like the carnivore diet can be more effective for weight loss than traditional low-fat diets.
Improved Blood Sugar Control: The carnivore diet can help to improve blood sugar control by reducing the amount of carbohydrates in the diet. This can be particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes, as well as those at risk for developing the condition.
In conclusion, while the carnivore diet is a relatively new concept, there is growing scientific evidence supporting its potential health benefits. However, it is important to work with a healthcare professional to ensure that nutrient needs are being met. Most people that have implemented this lifestyle report that their lab markers are greatly improved while living a carnivorous lifestyle. This alone makes it a very sustainable way of eating in order to maintain optimal metabolic health and reverse the negative health problems that have built up over the many years of eating the (recommended) Standard American Diet.
Sources and Citations:
Clemens, R.A., Pressman, P., & Deutsch, A.S. (2020). Understanding the Science of the Carnivore Diet: An Analysis of Published Reports. Frontiers in Nutrition, 7, 17. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2020.00017
Eaton, S.B., & Konner, M.J. (1985). Paleolithic nutrition: A consideration of its nature and current implications. New England Journal of Medicine, 312(5), 283-289. doi: 10.1056/NEJM198501313120505
The Asbury College Revival of 1970 was a significant event in the history of the Asbury College, now Asbury University, located in Wilmore, Kentucky. The revival was a time of spiritual renewal and revitalization for the college students, faculty, and staff. The revival was led by the college’s president, Dr. Ralph Earle, and had a profound impact on the campus community, leading to a significant increase in spiritual fervor and commitment among the students.
The revival began on January 25, 1970, when Dr. Earle led a chapel service that focused on the theme of spiritual renewal. The service was attended by students, faculty, and staff, and it was characterized by a deep sense of spiritual hunger and longing. Over the next several days, the revival continued, with services being held in the college chapel several times a day. The services were characterized by intense prayer, powerful preaching, and a deep sense of the presence of God.
The revival at Asbury College had a profound impact on the students who participated. Many of the students reported experiencing a profound sense of God’s presence and a deep sense of renewal in their spiritual lives. The revival also had a significant impact on the campus community as a whole, with a significant increase in spiritual fervor and commitment among the students.
The revival was widely covered in the media, with reports appearing in local and national newspapers and on television. This helped to spread the word about the revival and its impact on the students and the college community. The revival also had a lasting impact on the college, with many of the students who participated going on to become leaders in the church and in other areas of ministry.
The Asbury College Revival of 1970 remains an important moment in the history of Asbury University, and it serves as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of revival. The revival is remembered as a time of intense spiritual renewal, and it continues to inspire future generations of Asbury students to seek a deeper relationship with God.
A documentary about the 1970 Revival:
The Revival of 2023 at Asbury College:
Revival Underway at Asbury University in Kentucky. A revival is taking place on the campus of Asbury University in Kentucky.
The Asbury Collegian reports that during a call to confession last Wednesday, Feb. 8, at least 100 people fell to their knees and bowed at the altar. Since then it has turned into a Holy Spirit outpouring that shows no signs of stopping.
For days, people have been giving testimonies, reading scripture, worshipping God, and praying in the ongoing revival. Students, professors, and local church leaders have taken part.
Alexandra Presta, the editor of the student-run website The Asbury Collegian, wrote in an article published on Feb. 8, “As a senior, I have never witnessed anything like this.”
Presta described the scene for her readers inside the university’s Hughes Auditorium.
“Peers, professors, local church leaders, and seminary students surround me— all of them praying, worshipping, and praising God together. Voices are ringing out. People are bowing at the altar, arms stretched wide,” she wrote. “A pair of friends cling to each other in a hug, one with tears in her eyes. A diverse group of individuals crowd the piano and flawlessly switch from song to song. Some even sit like me, with laptops open. No one wants to leave.”
“The Holy Spirit was tangible in the room,” Anneli White a student at the University of Kentucky and a member at Immanuel Baptist Church told Kentucky Today. “Chains were broken, confession happened, and God was praised as holy, holy, holy.”
On Sunday, Presta explained to her readers it was love that brought people together for more than 100 hours inside the university’s auditorium. The audience for the revival has also expanded into the Estes Chapel at Asbury Theological Seminary.
“There’s something so beautiful about Love,” she wrote.
“It’s more than a fleeting emotion or a mere feeling. It’s what brings people together. We’ve been here in Hughes Auditorium for over a hundred hours— praying, crying, worshipping, and uniting— because of Love. We’ve even expanded into Estes Chapel across the street at Asbury Theological Seminary and beyond. I can proclaim that Love boldly because God is Love.”
Students from multiple colleges have now been drawn to the Asbury campus, according to multiple reports.
“Time brings all this to light but certainly it is an encouragement,” Tim Beougher, the pastor of West Broadway Baptist Church and a professor at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary told the outlet. “We need to pray for the Lord’s protection on them.”
Students and other people are watching the revival through social media, something that hasn’t happened in other campus revivals, Kentucky Today noted. It has drawn a broader audience to witness what is happening through witness accounts, photographs, and videos.
The outlet reported that parents of students said driving to the campus to visit and to worship with their sons and daughters felt like something out of a movie.
“Driving into Wilmore was like driving into the ‘Field of Dreams.’ If you build it, they will come … an unending line of cars,” Mori Crawford, whose daughter Eliza attends the university said, describing the traffic coming onto the campus. “After talking to Eliza and seeing all the posts, we just had to come.”
Asbury student Zeke Atha posted a video testimony to YouTube about the Asbury revival for his home church, Garber Church, located in New Bern, North Carolina.
“We had our chapel service starting at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday morning,” Atha explained. “And worship has not stopped since then. It’s been one of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen God do. He’s in our midst. He’s moving.”
“Yesterday, it was super windy outside,” he noted. “And there was a cloud over the horizon that sat over our town. People have come in from the University of Kentucky, from Northern Kentucky, all around the world. The world knows what God’s doing here. They could see the cloud over our town. And that’s just one of the examples about how God is moving among us.”
“This weekend has shown a glimpse of what it looks like when we put aside our differences and come together to be in the presence of God,” junior Kyla Rowell wrote on Facebook. “What can happen when the Body of Christ is united in Love and not divided by irrelevant things is beautiful.”
Some are saying it’s reminiscent of the famous revival that took place at Asbury in 1970, partly because both events are tied to turbulent times in American history. That move of the Holy Spirit began on Feb. 3 of that year and lasted 24 hours a day for seven days, according to reports at the time.
Asbury University is a private Christian university in Wilmore, Kentucky with roots in the Wesleyan-Holiness movement.
The revival fires at Asbury University come even before the Luke 18 Project holds its annual Collegiate Day of Prayer (CDOP) on Feb. 23.
The CDOP is intended for a united, multi-generational day of prayer for revival and awakening on college campuses in America.
The ministry reports so far, 1,521 campuses have been adopted, 2,674 campuses remain unadopted with 707 campus ministries, churches, and individuals being signed up to pray.
The Luke 18 Project has announced it will also be sharing updates on the CDOP during a national prayer simulcast from the Asbury campus.
Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of death. While conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can be effective, they often come with a range of unpleasant side effects and are not suitable for everyone. That’s why many people are turning to alternative approaches, including dietary changes, to help manage their cancer.
One of the more recent dietary trends for cancer management is the carnivore diet. The carnivore diet involves eating mostly meat, with little to no plants, carbohydrates or fiber. Proponents of the diet argue that it can help to put cancer into remission by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are believed to play a role in the development and progression of the disease.
Studies have shown that reducing oxidative stress and inflammation can indeed have a positive impact on cancer. For example, a study published in the Journal of Hematology and Oncology found that patients with cancer who followed a low-carbohydrate diet high in healthy fats, such as the carnivore diet, showed improved outcomes compared to those who followed a standard high-carbohydrate diet. The study suggests that reducing oxidative stress and inflammation through dietary changes can help to slow down the progression of the disease and improve survival rates.
The carnivore diet is also known to help reduce insulin resistance, which is another factor that has been linked to the development and progression of cancer. By reducing insulin resistance, the carnivore diet does help to control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as breast and colon cancer.
People with cancer should be monitored closely by their doctor while following the carnivore diet, as they may require more nutrients than a typical healthy individual to help with their recovery. Although, ruminant meats, especially beef (see below), contain all of the vitamins and minerals that an individual needs to live a healthy life. The only possible deficiency is electrolytes, which can be eliminated by consuming plenty of salt with your meals. For those with thyroid issues, these people can simply add a couple of drops of Lugol’s 2.2% Iodine into their morning coffee or tea.
Beef is often considered a staple food in many cultures and is widely enjoyed for its delicious flavor and versatile cooking methods. But did you know that beef is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining good health?
The Nutritional Powerhouse: All the Vitamins and Minerals Found in Beef
Here is a comprehensive list of all the vitamins and minerals found in beef, along with the recommended daily values and their key benefits.
Vitamin B12: Beef is an excellent source of vitamin B12, with a 3-ounce serving providing approximately 84% of the recommended daily value. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining good health, as it helps to produce red blood cells, maintain nerve function, and support DNA synthesis.
Niacin: Beef is also a good source of niacin, with a 3-ounce serving providing approximately 14% of the recommended daily value. Niacin is important for maintaining healthy skin, nerves, and digestion. It also helps the body convert food into energy.
Iron: Beef is one of the best sources of iron, with a 3-ounce serving providing approximately 22% of the recommended daily value. Iron is essential for maintaining healthy red blood cells and supporting oxygen transport throughout the body.
Zinc: Beef is also a good source of zinc, with a 3-ounce serving providing approximately 17% of the recommended daily value. Zinc is important for supporting the immune system, wound healing, and maintaining good sense of taste and smell.
Vitamin B6: Beef is also a good source of vitamin B6, with a 3-ounce serving providing approximately 12% of the recommended daily value. Vitamin B6 is important for maintaining good brain function, supporting the immune system, and maintaining healthy skin and red blood cells.
Protein: Beef is a rich source of protein, with a 3-ounce serving providing approximately 25 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining strong muscles, and supporting the immune system.
These are just a few of the many vitamins and minerals found in beef. By incorporating beef into your diet, you can ensure that you are getting a wide range of essential nutrients that are important for maintaining good health.
In conclusion, beef is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining good health. Making it the main part of your diet can help to ensure that you are getting all the nutrients you need to stay healthy and feel your best.
Putting Cancer into Remission with Carnivore Diet:
There are many facts that many people do not know about President Trump. Whether they were deemed to be fabrication, were willfully ignored, or were just outright believed to be lies. These truths are actually fact and should be given the praise that they deserve.
Donald J. Trump: A President Who Stood For His Beliefs
The presidency of Donald J. Trump, which ran from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021, was marked by controversy and division. However, despite the criticism and opposition he faced, President Trump stood firm in his beliefs and worked tirelessly to deliver on his promises to the American people.
One of President Trump’s key accomplishments during his presidency was the economy. Prior to his presidency, the U.S. economy was struggling, with slow growth and high unemployment. However, under President Trump’s leadership, the economy experienced a resurgence, with GDP growth reaching historic levels and unemployment rates reaching their lowest levels in decades. This was largely due to President Trump’s pro-business policies, which encouraged investment and job creation, and his commitment to reducing regulations that were strangling businesses.
Another important accomplishment of President Trump was his success in the fight against terrorism. He strengthened the military and took a hardline approach to terrorist organizations, which led to significant gains against ISIS in the Middle East. He also made it a priority to keep Americans safe, both at home and abroad, by strengthening the nation’s border security and immigration policies.
In addition to his achievements in the economy and national security, President Trump was also a strong advocate for conservative values and principles. He appointed conservative justices to the Supreme Court, supported the right to life, and defended the Second Amendment. He was also a strong supporter of religious freedom, which was demonstrated by his actions to protect the rights of Christians and other religious minorities.
The Abraham Accords: President Trump’s Diplomatic Breakthrough in the Middle East
The Abraham Accords, signed on September 15, 2020, marked a historic breakthrough in Middle East diplomacy, and it was President Donald J. Trump who made it happen. The Accords were a series of peace agreements between Israel and several Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, which ended decades of hostility and created a new era of cooperation and mutual understanding in the region.
One of the key reasons that President Trump was able to broker these agreements was his unique approach to foreign policy. He was willing to take bold and unconventional steps, such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moving the U.S. embassy there, which broke with decades of traditional U.S. policy in the region. This bold approach helped to create a new dynamic in the Middle East and opened the door to negotiations between Israel and its neighbors.
The Abraham Accords have already had a significant impact on the region. The agreements have helped to create new economic and trade opportunities, as well as foster greater cultural and diplomatic ties between the countries involved. They have also helped to reduce tensions and create a more stable environment, which is essential for peace and security in the region.
President Trump’s leadership and vision were critical to the success of the Abraham Accords. He worked tirelessly to bring the parties to the negotiating table and made it clear that he was committed to finding a solution that would benefit all involved. He demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex issues facing the region and was able to bring together leaders from different countries and cultures to work towards a common goal.
President Trump: A Champion for Minority Unemployment
One of the most significant achievements of President Donald J. Trump’s presidency was the historic low unemployment rate for minorities. During his time in office, the unemployment rate for African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans reached record lows, which was a testament to the strength of the U.S. economy and the effectiveness of President Trump’s pro-growth policies.
President Trump understood that a strong economy benefits everyone, regardless of their background or race. He implemented policies that encouraged job creation and investment, which helped to boost economic growth and reduce unemployment across the board. This was particularly important for minority communities, who had historically faced higher unemployment rates and more significant barriers to job opportunities.
Under President Trump’s leadership, the U.S. economy added millions of new jobs, and unemployment rates fell to levels not seen in decades. This was a result of his commitment to reducing regulations, cutting taxes, and creating a pro-business environment that encouraged investment and job creation. These policies helped to create a more equitable economy that provided opportunities for all Americans, regardless of their race or background.
In addition to his efforts to create jobs and reduce unemployment, President Trump also made it a priority to support minority-owned businesses. He established initiatives that provided access to capital and resources for minority entrepreneurs, which helped to create new businesses and spur economic growth in underserved communities.
In conclusion, the Abraham Accords represent a major achievement in Middle East diplomacy, and President Donald J. Trump played a pivotal role in making it happen. Through his leadership and vision, he was able to bring about a new era of peace and cooperation in the region, which will have a lasting impact on generations to come. The Abraham Accords will be remembered as a testament to President Trump’s dedication to promoting peace and stability in the world. the presidency of Donald J. Trump was marked by challenges, but it was also a time of significant progress and achievements. Despite the opposition he faced, President Trump remained steadfast in his commitment to the American people and his beliefs, and worked tirelessly to deliver on his promises. His legacy will be remembered as that of a president who stood for his principles and put the needs of the American people first. President Donald J. Trump was a champion for minority unemployment during his presidency. He implemented policies that created jobs and reduced unemployment, and he made it a priority to support minority-owned businesses. These efforts helped to create a more equitable economy that provided opportunities for all Americans, regardless of their race or background. President Trump’s legacy will be remembered as that of a president who worked tirelessly to create a strong and inclusive economy that benefited everyone.
Facebook can be a wonderful place full of opportunities to learn new things, share the special moments in your life and reconnect with old friends. But there is also a dark side to this popular social media platform: It can be a hotbed for Facebook scams, fraud, misinformation and disinformation.
“Users should approach all social media interactions [on Facebook], whether it is a post, a tweet or a direct message, with a healthy dose of skepticism,” says Eva Velasquez, CEO and president of Identity Theft Resource Center. “Content is not necessarily vetted, and with the number of social media account takeovers on the rise, you cannot be certain you are interacting with someone you actually know.”
With more and more Facebook scams being exposed every day, each new scam is more clever and less detectable than the last. Below, experts share their top online security tips to avoid these nefarious and sometimes quite believable common online scams on Facebook. As a rule of thumb, remember to do your own research, never click on suspicious links and distrust sites asking you to enter personal information—it’s one of the ways social media accounts get hacked.
Fake medical fundraisers
Unfortunately, scammers will often exploit sad stories like a heartbreaking diagnosis or life-threatening disease for their own benefit. They may send messages or create posts on Facebook pretending to be people diagnosed with cancer or recovering from a horrible car accident and ask for help with medical bills. In a similar COVID-19 related scam, fraudsters are claiming to have been stranded, infected or otherwise impaired by the virus and need financial support.
Preying on people’s sympathy and kindness, these con artists will request donations to a GoFundMe webpage or through a third-party app like Venmo or CashApp. The pleas are often sent from copycat Facebook accounts (with real photos and stolen information), which disappear entirely once the money is transferred. Keep in mind that your money isn’t protected if you use a third-party app to donate to a fake fundraiser, which is why Venmo scams, CashApp scams and Zelle scams are so common.
Clickbait scams
One of the newer Facebook scams is known as the “like-farming” or clickbait scam. According to the Better Business Bureau, fraudsters will create posts that are meant to elicit some sort of strong emotional reaction. One method is through offering a tempting sale or promotion on products if the user “likes, comments and shares,” while others aim to get users to share the post as many times as possible through heart-warming pictures or faux-activism posts.
The associated links could potentially put malware on your computer or require personal information (sometimes including credit card or social security numbers) to claim a prize. If a post requires extensive sharing or personal information, it’s best to be wary and check the original source for legitimacy. Facebook scams are sneakier than you might think.
Giveaway scams
Free iPad giveaway? Sign me up! But wait—before you click that sweepstakes link, ask yourself whether it seems real. In this bank scam, many fraudsters create fake giveaways to fool users into sharing personal information like a credit card number or clicking a link that could download a virus onto their phones or computers. These frauds can also take place in the form of Instagram scams.
That said, there are legitimate sweepstakes, raffles and giveaways. “But there’s usually an end goal there,” Velasquez says. Most companies are hoping that the promise of a free iPad (or flight or jewelry) will entice you enough to, say, sign up for a newsletter or buy a product.
In these cases, before you give any personal information to a company, weigh the chances of winning with what you’ll lose once the company knows your email address or phone number. If the company doesn’t store your information securely, hackers could gain access to it and use it for fraud or sell it on the Dark Web.
Facebook quiz scams
Your friend just found out what ’80s pop star is their spirit animal, and now you can’t wait to find out yours. Don’t let your curiosity get the better of you, though. Some Facebook quizzes will ask for access to your profile, and others will even go a step further by throwing trick questions into the quiz itself, says Adam Levin, founder of global identity protection and data risk services firm CyberScout and author of Swiped.
Questions like “What’s your mother’s maiden name?” are “purely to gather information because … they could be the answers to security questions” to recover your password, he says. Once hackers have this information, they can use Facebook’s password recovery process to log in to your Facebook account.
It’s best to avoid these quizzes altogether. But if you do want to take a quiz on Facebook, stick to the sites you know and trust, and create fake answers for password recovery questions so they’re hard to crack, says Levin. It might be easy enough for Facebook scams to figure out your mother’s maiden name, so leave an easy-to-remember lie instead. You might be surprised by what hackers can do with just your email address or phone number.
Cloned accounts
Be skeptical if you receive a friend request from someone you could have sworn already had a Facebook page. Sure, some people like to clean house by ditching their old profiles, but other friend requests aren’t so innocent. Scammers will clone a person’s entire Facebook profile, creating a fake profile of a real person.
From there, they can search the original user’s friends list and send their contacts a link for a get-rich-quick scheme or a cute quote. It’s the kind of thing you’d ignore from an anonymous email message, but not from a loyal friend. “They’re banking on the fact that you will trust the message,” says Levin. The problem is, clicking that link could download malware to your computer.
Before you accept a weird friend request, shoot over a text or call the person to confirm it’s not a fake account. Learning how to hide your friends list on Facebook can also protect your contacts if you fall victim to this scam in the future.
Spoofing attacks
Even if you haven’t received a new request, don’t immediately trust a message from a friend you can’t see face-to-face. Hackers can find a person’s password and break into their account, then send spoofing messages or posts to their friends asking them for money or other gifts. The messages are designed to tap into your emotions, causing you to panic and send the money without fully thinking it through.
In addition to using a friend’s profile to carry out a spoofing attack, scammers might impersonate famous people or organizations too. For example, there are dozens of accounts posing as Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, sending users messages with claims that they’ve won money in a “Facebook lottery” and need to send gift cards to claim their winnings. Once they receive the gift cards, the fraudsters disappear.
Spam messages
With “cloning” of social media profiles on the rise, it makes sense to be aware that it might happen to you too. But don’t believe friends automatically. Reportedly, the same exact message has been sent to countless Facebook users, directly from another friend, but it’s a hoax: “Hi … I actually got another friend request from you yesterday … which I ignored so you may want to check your account. Hold your finger on the message until the forward button appears … then hit forward and all the people you want to forward too … I had to do the people individually. Good Luck!”
While forwarding the message won’t spread malware, it does mean you’re unnecessarily spamming the inbox of everyone you know. Instead, search your own name for an identical account to yours, and ask friends if they’ve had any fishy requests from you. Report the fake profile if the warning is legitimate and ignore the message if there doesn’t seem to be a threat.
Fake coupon codes
Liking a store’s or restaurant’s fan page—or even keeping an eye on the ads—can be a great way to stay in the loop when there’s a sale or discounted offering. (But if you don’t love them, find out how to turn off creepy Facebook ads.) If a post shows a promo code and it works, lucky you! You just saved some cash. But be skeptical if you need to give personal information or create an account to unlock the savings. In some Facebook scams, a site poses as a real store but is looking to convince you to share your email address (which can be used in phishing attacks) or other personal information like your credit card number or SSN, putting you at risk of identity theft.
You can avoid these scams by doing your own research on the sale or advertisement. “Open a new browser tab and Google” the store’s official website, says Velasquez. “Go to the source and see what’s going on.” If there’s a genuine promotion, you can bet the store’s official site will let you know.
Facebook Messenger scams
To protect yourself from Facebook Messenger scams, it’s important to stay vigilant against their common tactics. Scammers will often use Facebook Messenger to send users requests for money or fake offers for loans or lotteries. While these messages take many different forms, they all have one thing in common: Fraudsters are preying on our needs or desires to appear generous, be a hero or win money, among others.
If you did not initiate contact with the person who is messaging you—whether it is a friend or a stranger—Velasquez recommends going directly to the source. “People often trust DMs from their contacts because of that connection,” Velasquez says. “However, social media account takeover is so common that we advise people to verify who they are talking to through a different channel, particularly if the message is asking for help, money or information, or it’s from a contact you have not interacted with directly before.”
Phony fundraisers
Particularly after a major tragedy, you’ll see plenty of ads and posts from charities offering to help the victims. While some of those fundraisers really will go to the people who need the support, others could just be scammers preying on your caring spirit, says Levin.
Scams that pop up after natural disasters, mass shootings or other tragedies are typically after your personal information or money. Clicking a link from those schemers could put malware on your computer—or worse, your money won’t go to victims of the tragedy, but straight in the pocket of a crook.
To keep your money safe, do a Google search of the site instead of clicking the Facebook post link, says Levin. Visit a site like Charity Navigator or GuideStar, which both rate nonprofits on how helpful they really are. Seek out a trusted charity instead of donating to the first you see advertised.
Malware attacks
If a friend tags you and a handful of other friends in a Facebook post, your first instinct might be to click the link, even if the video looks suspicious. But don’t be sure that it really was your friend who tagged you—a hacker might have gotten into their account instead.
More than likely, the link sent by the hacker will send you to a site that asks you to download a Flash player update. You click the link, which immediately starts to download malicious software called malware to your computer.
In another version of a malware attack, a hacker might use your friend’s account to leave you a message warning “OMG look what they’re saying about you” and prompt you to click the link to find out what’s going on. “It’s really about engaging your curiosity and getting your curious nature to say ‘I want to know,’” says Velasquez.
But don’t click! A vague message (such as “Did you see this picture of you?”) is suspect, and clicking it could download malware, says Velasquez. If you do click a suspicious link, watch out for the signs your computer has been hacked.
Romance scams
Think twice before accepting friend requests from people you don’t know—it could be the first step to falling for a romance scam. The interactions start out innocently enough: The stranger on the other end is just looking for friends and starts opening up, and the two of you swap personal stories. Soon, you feel like “real” friends, and there even seems to be a romantic spark.
In reality, this is one of the tricks con artists use to win your trust before scamming you. When they ask you for money or other gifts, you jump at the chance to help this close friend. But the other person has been lying the whole time, working to gain your trust. Now that they have it, they’ll claim they need money for a made-up emergency that keeps snowballing and eventually drains your bank account dry, according to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission.
Job scams
As more and more people embrace the “working from home” lifestyle, scammers are keener—and more well positioned—than ever before to profit off the hype. One way they attempt to sway you is by offering too-good-to-be-true jobs and salaries that would allow users to make an unbelievable amount of money from home. They collect vital data from the users (sometimes including bank account statements, records and social security numbers) and then resell it to the highest bidder on the Dark Web.
In other iterations, the scam takes on the role of a pyramid-like scheme in which the user must first send in money or buy products to reach their “inevitable fortunes.” It’s best to do a little research into the company and not click on any offers that seem unrealistic.
Fraudulent apps
Beware of advertisements for apps or features on Facebook that claim to allow users to see who views your profile. Facebook has (and shares) a ton of your data, so it would make sense that it also would open the door to let you see who’s been clicking your profile. But that’s one line that Facebook won’t cross, according to its official stance. Even third-party apps don’t have the ability to track who’s been looking at you. If you do see an app or feature that claims it can reveal who’s been watching you, you can report it as a fraud through Facebook’s website or the Apple or Google app stores.
Secret Santa scams
At first, it sounds like a great idea: Some stranger is setting up a “Secret Santa,” where you send one person a $10 gift, and three other people will send you one too. But like those old snail mail lottery ticket chains, there’s no guarantee you’ll get your money back in these Facebook scams. If no one else follows through sending your gift, you might not get anything in return. Even worse? “You just gave your home address to a stranger with a list of stuff you like,” says Velasquez. “Is the return really worth the investment?” Bad actors could use your home address to carry out doxxing attacks, and sharing other personal information could reveal the answers to your password security questions, leaving your account vulnerable to hackers.
Phishing attacks
If you receive a direct message or email from Facebook saying your account is being disabled, take a close look at the sender. Fraudsters are impersonating Facebook in phishing attacks designed to steal your information or sneak malicious software (like spyware or ransomware) onto your computer. The phony messages will include a fake link to recover your account, and the page it sends you to will ask for your login information and potentially other personal data. Never click a link without confirming if it’s true, or you could end up with malware or give away your data by answering the questions. Instead, log in to your account directly through your browser to verify the message.
Facebook Marketplace scams
More than a billion users buy and sell goods on Facebook Marketplace each month—but fraudsters are also using this online shopping platform to steal people’s money. Some Facebook Marketplace scammers may ask you to pay or communicate outside of Facebook, while others might list phony rentals, giveaways or other products. Learn how to spot the red flags of these Facebook Marketplace scams before you go shopping on the platform.
How to avoid Facebook scams
Don’t click on any suspicious links. Short links, sensational-sounding videos, or FREE giveaways are red flags for scam posts, according to the Better Business Bureau.
If you receive a notification that your account might be deleted or was hacked, log in directly through your browser rather than through the link provided in the message or email.
Review your account’s privacy settings regularly, and adjust them to protect your information from people who are not connected to you. Velasquez also recommends reading Facebook’s privacy policies and terms and conditions to understand how your information and data are being used.
Create a strong, unique password and set up two-factor authentication on your account. Don’t share the authentication code with anyone.
If you receive an odd or unusual message from a friend through Facebook, get in touch with them outside of Facebook to confirm that the message is real.
Be on the lookout for strange typos or wording signaling the scammer may not actually be who they say they are.
Never share personal information like your social security number or credit card info through Facebook Messenger or any other Facebook platforms.
Delete friend requests from people you don’t know.
In conclusion, Facebook scams pose a significant threat to its users, as they can lead to serious consequences such as identity theft, financial loss, and damage to reputation. The scammers often create fake profiles, groups, and pages that appear legitimate to trick users into providing personal information, money, or both. Some common types of scams on Facebook include phishing scams, investment scams, lottery scams, and charity scams.
It is crucial for users to be vigilant and aware of the dangers of Facebook scams and to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves. This includes being cautious of unsolicited messages or friend requests, verifying the authenticity of pages, groups, or events before joining or sharing personal information, and never providing sensitive information such as passwords, social security numbers, or bank details.
While Facebook is a great platform for connecting with friends, family, and like-minded individuals, it is also a breeding ground for scams and other malicious activities. Therefore, users must exercise caution and stay informed about the latest scams to ensure their safety and security while using the platform.
No, Tyler Perry is not going to give you anything. No, that steakhouse is not going to give you a free meal if you simply comment on their post. No, at the end of it all there is no free PlayStation 5 to be had. Use your head and remember the old adage: there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Use your head and stay safe out there on the Information Superhighway.
The Carnivore Diet: A Promising Approach to Fighting Cancer
In recent years, the carnivore diet has gained popularity as a way to improve overall health and well-being. But did you know that it can also be an effective tool in fighting cancer?
Studies have shown that consuming a diet high in animal-based protein and fat and low in carbohydrates can lead to significant reductions in cancer growth and spread. This is because cancer cells rely on glucose as their primary energy source, and reducing the amount of glucose in the body can limit their growth.
One study conducted by Dr. Thomas Seyfried at Boston College found that a ketogenic diet, which is similar to the carnivore diet, was able to significantly reduce the growth of brain cancer cells in mice.
Additionally, the high fat content in the carnivore diet provides the body with essential fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a key factor in the development and progression of cancer, so reducing inflammation in the body can help to prevent and fight the disease.
The carnivore diet also provides a large amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for repairing and maintaining the body’s tissues. This is especially important for cancer patients, as the disease often leads to muscle wasting and weakness.
While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of the carnivore diet for cancer patients, the existing studies are certainly promising. If you are interested in exploring the carnivore diet as a tool to fight cancer, consider speaking with a healthcare professional who is knowledgeable in the area. Unfortunately, most doctors are completely unaware of the benefits of diet in fighting disease. They are taught how to treat and manage symptoms with medications rather than eliminating the problem completely with proper nutrition. Most doctors only receive 17 hours of nutrition education throughout their medical school training. Sadly, this is quite unacceptable, yet very common.
The idea that carbohydrates are essential for our health is a common misconception. Many people believe that we need to consume a certain amount of carbohydrates in our diet to maintain good health and avoid malnutrition. However, recent research suggests that this is not the case. In this article, we will explore the myth of the essentiality of carbohydrates and provide evidence to support this claim.
The term “essential” refers to a nutrient that our bodies cannot produce on their own and must be obtained from our diet. There are only nine essential amino acids and two essential fatty acids, but no essential carbohydrates. Our bodies are capable of producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids and fatty acids, which can then be used for energy. This means that we do not need to consume carbohydrates in order to meet our energy needs.
In fact, a growing body of evidence suggests that a low to zero carbohydrate diet can be safe and effective for weight loss and improved health markers, such as blood sugar control and blood pressure. A study published in The Lancet found that a low-carbohydrate diet was associated with greater weight loss and improved blood sugar control compared to a low-fat diet (Source: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(18)31809-9/fulltext).
Another study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a low-carbohydrate diet improved insulin sensitivity, compared to a high-carbohydrate diet, in people with type 2 diabetes (Source: https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/87/5/1218/4633397).
Excess consumption of carbohydrates, such as those found in breads, sugary drinks, baked goods, and many fruits and vegetables, can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Who, exactly, has determined what the word “excessive” implies when trying to determine how many carbs are too many, and which ones have a negative impact on health? That my friends, is strictly up to you to determine because we are not all the same. Take charge of your health and try a low (less than 20g per day) to zero carb way of eating for two to three months. By using this elimination process you can determine which carbs have the worst impact on your own health by working some of the better sources of carbs back in individually to see how your mind and body reacts to them.
It is a scientifically proven fact that carbohydrates are not essential for our health and well-being. Our bodies can produce glucose from other sources and meet our energy needs without consuming carbohydrates. If you happen to (falsely) believe that you absolutely must have some carbs, make it an avocado a day and leave the rest behind.
Carbohydrates And Cancer:
Sugar and carbohydrates have been a topic of debate when it comes to their impact on health and the potential to feed cancer cells. Here we will explore the connection between sugar and cancer, and what role carbohydrates play in the development of this disease.
Cancer cells feed on sugar, or glucose, which is the primary source of energy for the body. When sugar enters the bloodstream, it triggers the release of insulin, which in turn helps transport glucose to cells that need it. However, cancer cells have a high affinity for glucose, and they consume a disproportionate amount of it. This leads to an increased level of glucose in the bloodstream, which provides fuel for cancer cells to grow and multiply.
Carbohydrates, which are a type of sugar, also play a role in the development of cancer. When we eat carbohydrates, they are broken down into simple sugars in the gut and absorbed into the bloodstream. This leads to an increase in insulin levels, which then helps transport glucose to cells that need it. However, high levels of insulin have been linked to the growth and proliferation of cancer cells.
Refined, processed, and natural sugars, such as those found in candy, soda, baked goods, and fruits and vegetables are absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to a spike in insulin levels.
In conclusion, while sugar and carbohydrates do not cause cancer, they can provide fuel for cancer cells to grow and multiply. To reduce the risk of feeding cancer cells, it’s important to reduce carb and sugar intake to near zero if possible. A very low to zero carb way of eating can help keep insulin levels in check and reduce the risk of developing cancer, and can also be used to slow cancer growth after being diagnosed..
Here are a few sources to support the information mentioned in the previous section about sugar and carbohydrates potentially feeding cancer:
Saturated fats have long been demonized as a major contributor to heart disease and other health issues, but recent research suggests that this may not be the case. In fact, consuming saturated fats can actually have a number of health benefits.
Saturated fats can improve cardiovascular health. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people who consumed more saturated fat had a lower risk of heart disease, compared to those who consumed more polyunsaturated fats. Another study published in the journal Lipids found that saturated fats can improve cholesterol levels, specifically raising HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Saturated fats can improve brain health. Saturated fats are a major component of brain tissue and are essential for proper brain function. A study published in the journal Lipids found that a diet high in saturated fats was associated with improved cognitive function in older adults.
Saturated fats can improve bone health. Saturated fats are important for the absorption and metabolism of calcium, which is essential for strong bones. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that women who consumed more saturated fat had higher bone density, compared to those who consumed less.
Saturated fats can improve liver health. Saturated fats have been shown to improve liver function and protect against liver damage. A study published in the Journal of Lipid Research found that a diet high in saturated fats was associated with improved liver function in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
It’s important to note that not all saturated fats are created equal, and some sources of saturated fats may be healthier than others. For example, saturated fats from animal sources, such as butter and red meat, may be beneficial for human health.
Consuming saturated fats from animal sources can provide a number of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular, brain, bone and liver health.
Follow-up PubMed Article – Saturated fat: villain and bogeyman in the development of cardiovascular disease?
Aims: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading global cause of death. For decades, the conventional wisdom has been that the consumption of saturated fat (SFA) undermines cardiovascular health, clogs the arteries, increases risk of CVD, and leads to heart attacks. It is timely to investigate whether this claim holds up to scientific scrutiny. The purpose of this paper is to review and discuss recent scientific evidence on the association between dietary SFA and CVD.
Methods and results: PubMed, Google scholar, and Scopus were searched for articles published between 2010 and 2021 on the association between SFA consumption and CVD risk and outcomes. A review was conducted examining observational studies and prospective epidemiologic cohort studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies and prospective epidemiologic cohort studies, and long-term RCTs. Collectively, neither observational studies, prospective epidemiologic cohort studies, RCTs, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses have conclusively established a significant association between SFA in the diet and subsequent cardiovascular risk and coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, or mortality nor a benefit of reducing dietary SFAs on CVD rick, events, and mortality. Beneficial effects of replacement of SFA by polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fat or carbohydrates remain elusive.
Conclusion: Findings from the studies reviewed in this paper indicate that the consumption of SFA is not significantly associated with CVD risk, events, or mortality. Based on the scientific evidence, there is no scientific ground to demonize SFA as a cause of CVD. SFA naturally occurring in nutrient-dense foods can be safely included in the diet.