Discover the Best Places to Visit in the Italian Alps
The Italian Alps form a breathtaking arc that stretches from Monaco in the west to Trieste in the east, encompassing Italy's northernmost region. This stunning destination is divided into three major categories, each offering unique landscapes and experiences.
The Italian Alps form a breathtaking arc that stretches from Monaco in the west to Trieste in the east, encompassing Italy's northernmost region. This stunning destination is divided into three major categories, each offering unique landscapes and experiences.
1. Western Alps: A Dramatic Playground
The Western Alps are known for their dramatic snowcapped mountains, bordering France and Switzerland. This area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing, hiking, and breathtaking vistas.
2. The Italian Lakes: Serene Beauty
In the central region, you'll find the Italian Lakes, where expansive lakes are surrounded by gentle hills and picturesque villages. This serene setting is perfect for leisurely strolls, boat rides, and enjoying local cuisine.
3. The Dolomites: Jagged Peaks and Lush Meadows
The Eastern Alps, specifically the Dolomites, feature jagged rocky peaks that tower over lush alpine meadows. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its unique geological formations and offers numerous hiking trails, climbing routes, and stunning views.
Accessibility
The entire Italian Alps region is easily accessible from Milan. If you're planning to visit the Dolomites, popular activities are just a short drive away from Venice, Verona, or Innsbruck.
Must-Visit Locations in the Italian Alps
Here are some incredible spots to explore during your visit:
Here are some incredible spots to explore during your visit:
- Lake Braies - Captured beautifully by @elcampa1969
- Molveno - A picturesque village showcased by @funk_design
- Val Badia - Stunning landscapes highlighted by @ilhan1077
- Lake Braies - Another stunning shot by @rita_manzella_
- Rifugio delle Odle - A scenic refuge captured by @elcampa1969
- Val Badia - More breathtaking views from @ilhan1077
- Conclusion
The most critical lifesaving tool we have in this pandemic is vaccination against the virus that causes COVID-19. All of the vaccines that have been licensed in the United States have been proven to be extremely safe and reliable. And we've known from the start that the robust protection they provide would eventually wane.
However, has protection deteriorated sufficiently to warrant booster shots? Recent studies published by researchers in the United Kingdom, Israel, and the United States (reviewed here and here) raised this possibility, and Israel and the United Kingdom have already launched ambitious booster programs.
Vaccinate every single person.
You might be aware, that the CDC and FDA conducted a review of the need, safety, and effectiveness of boosters for the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. In the coming weeks and months, both agencies will conduct a review of data for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. This is the only booster shot available right now.
But first and foremost, it's critical not to overlook this fact: vaccinating the unvaccinated should take priority over booster shots for those who have already received vaccines. This is true for individuals in the United States who have been unable or unwilling to obtain the vaccine, as well as individuals in other parts of the world with limited access to vaccines.
Not only would expanding the pool of people who have received their initial vaccinations save more lives than promoting boosters, but it would also help reduce COVID-related healthcare disparities between richer and poorer countries. That is why the World Health Organization (WHO) has called for a moratorium on booster doses. Biden administration officials announced that an additional 500 million vaccines would be donated to developing countries with low vaccination rates, bringing the US commitment to 1.1 billion doses. The administration emphasizes that establishing a booster program in the United States and assisting other countries in vaccinating their citizens are not mutually exclusive.
Is a booster dose different from a third shot?
Not all additional vaccine doses are boosters. FDA approved a third dose in August 2021, the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for immunocompromised individuals. This includes individuals living with HIV and those undergoing cancer treatment that suppresses the immune system. The extra dose is not considered a booster for them; it is considered part of their initial immunization series.
Choosing the right time to receive vaccine boosters
Ideally, vaccines booster are administered no sooner than necessary, but well before widespread protective immunity begins to decline. The dangers of waiting too long are self-evident: as immunity declines, infection, serious illness, and death rates may begin to rise.
However, there are downsides to administering boosters prematurely:
Side effects may be more common. While published research indicates that boosters are safe, we don’t yet have long-term data.
The benefit may be small. It may be advisable to wait on booster vaccinations if the majority of people are still protected by their initial vaccinations.
It's possible that current boosters won't cover future variants. Boosters may be modified to include new variants of concern in the coming months.
Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine booster recommendations
The CDC and FDA have concluded that boosters are necessary for some recipients of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. A booster dose is recommended at least six months after the second dose for those who are :
- 65 years of age or older.
- 18 to 64 years of age and at a high risk of developing severe illness from COVID, such as those who have chronic lung disease, cancer, or diabetes.
- Residents of long-term care facilities, healthcare workers, teachers and daycare staff, grocery workers, and prisoners all work in high-exposure environments.
There are currently no Pfizer/BioNTech boosters recommended for the general population. This is because the initial doses continue to provide adequate protection against serious illness and death.
Countless unknowns
The publication of these new recommendations for Pfizer vaccine boosters raises several concerns:
How credible is the safety data? To date, reports indicate that boosters are safe, but additional research and real-world data are needed.
Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters are still awaiting FDA approval. When can we expect that?
Should all boosters contain the same vaccine as the initial regimen, or does mixing vaccines provide additional protection?
The unfortunate thing is that some people are combining vaccines on their own, sometimes by falsely stating they didn't get the COVID shot before getting a different kind of shot altogether.
Will booster doses be identical to initial doses? So far, the answer for the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine has been affirmative. If the Moderna booster is authorized, it will very certainly be for a half-dose.
Will boosters be altered to protect against new variants?
Will there be a future need for additional boosters? If so, how frequently?
In the coming weeks and months, look for answers to these questions.
What is next?
Based on ongoing review and analysis of available research, the FDA and CDC are expected to revise and expand booster recommendations. Meanwhile, we should intensify our efforts to vaccinate those who have not received vaccines. Individuals can benefit significantly from boosters. However, as Dr. Rochelle Wallensky, director of the CDC, notes, "we will not boost our way out of this pandemic."
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) is urging people to check their skin and nails for cancer signs. Under and around the fingernails and toenails, melanoma can develop. According to the AAD, it frequently manifests itself on the thumb or big toe of your dominant hand or foot.
A brown or black streak beneath the nail, a bump or nodule beneath the nail, the darker skin around the nail, a nail that is lifting and pulling away from the nail bed, or a split down the middle of the nail are all signs of melanoma in and around the nails. Melanoma becomes more prevalent as people age, but it is highly treatable if detected early.
A brown or black streak beneath the nail, a bump or nodule beneath the nail, the darker skin around the nail, a nail that is lifting and pulling away from the nail bed, or a split down the middle of the nail are all signs of melanoma in and around the nails. Melanoma becomes more prevalent as people age, but it is highly treatable if detected early.
Do you have any immediate plans to change your manicure? then you should take a look at these lovely nail designs that are appropriate for all seasons. They're everywhere on Instagram, and you may want to give this trendy nail design art by Heluviee a try
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a common disorder in which the heart has to work harder than necessary to pump blood due to increased pressure and stiffness in the arteries. This illness, which affects hundreds of millions of individuals globally — one in every four adults — frequently manifests itself without symptoms, leaving many people with high blood pressure undetected. Hypertension has been dubbed "the silent killer" for this reason. High blood pressure has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and renal disease, particularly when left untreated.
Blood pressure is a two-digit number that is generally expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Systolic blood pressure is the first number, and diastolic blood pressure is the second. The systolic/diastolic blood pressure is 120/80.
The pressure your heart produces on your arteries when it pumps is known as systolic blood pressure.
Diastolic blood pressure: the pressure in the arteries during rest.
Individuals with high blood pressure should be monitored by their personal physician.
Blood Pressure Interpretation:
- Normal blood pressure: <120 / 80
- Elevated Blood Pressure: >120-129/ 80-89
- Hypertension (Stage 1): 130-139/ 80-99
- Hypertension (Stage 2): Over 140/90
*Children's values are different.
What Are the Causes of Hypertension?
Hypertension can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of physical exercise, an unhealthy diet, being overweight or obese, insulin resistance, prediabetes, diabetes, kidney disease, certain drugs, and heredity. However, it may arise as a result of aging in the absence of any other identifiable reason.
Can Hypertension Be Managed?
If your blood pressure is elevated or stage one, lifestyle changes may be sufficient to help normalize it — there are times when people with newly diagnosed hypertension can be treated solely through diet and exercise changes. This is typically reserved for those who have few risk factors and are committed to making urgent lifestyle changes, including home blood pressure monitoring with a digital blood pressure monitor.
Vegetable, nut, and fresh fruit-rich diets can be advantageous since they contain potassium, magnesium, and calcium, all of which assist maintain the circulatory system's balance and health.
Conventional Blood Pressure Treatment
Physicians and patients have been able to treat high blood pressure and, as a result, lessen the risks associated with it. Over the last several decades, medications to treat high blood pressure have been the predominant method of lowering higher levels.
The following is a list of commonly used blood pressure drugs, along with their class designation. While there is little doubt about their usefulness, many are concerned about their adverse effects. However, in the majority of cases, the advantages outweigh the risks. Often, an individual will take two or more drugs from different groups to regulate their blood pressure.
Medications for High Blood Pressure That Are Frequently Used
- Alpha-blockers (Clonidine)
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (Olmesartan, Losartan, Irbesartan)
- Vasodilators (Hydralazine)
- Beta-Blockers (Atenolol, Metoprolol, Carvedilol, Sotalol)
- Calcium Channel Blockers (Amlodipine, Diltiazem, Nifedipine)
- Diuretics (Hydrochlorothiazide, Triamterene, Chlorthalidone, Spironolactone) or “water pills”
- Ace Inhibitors (Lisinopril, Benazepril, Enalapril, Ramipril, Fosinopril)
Natural Blood Pressure Therapies
- Stress reduction and routine exercise
- Meditation and relaxation techniques, including prayer
- Supplements
- Diet rich in vegetables and fruits
- Weight loss
Supplements That Can Assist in Blood Pressure Reduction
L-Arginine
L-arginine is an amino acid, which is a protein building block. It is found predominantly in red meats, seafood, poultry, and dairy products and is classified as a semi-essential or conditionally essential amino acid. L-arginine is a precursor to NO, or nitric oxide, a powerful blood vessel vasodilator. According to studies, it may help lower blood pressure.
Benefits were demonstrated in a 2011 study published in the American Heart Journal. Eleven randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials were evaluated by the researchers. These studies examined 387 patients with hypertension in total. The daily dose of L-arginine was between 4 and 24 grams. Systolic blood pressure was decreased by 5.4 millimeters per hour, while diastolic blood pressure was decreased by 2.7 millimeters per hour.
Additionally, a 2017 study found that users of a L-arginine-containing supplement had lower blood pressure than those who took a placebo pill. According to a 2018 study, supplementing with L-Arginine and B vitamins can significantly lower overall blood pressure in people with hypertension.
Dosage range: 1,000 mg to 6,000 mg per day.
Fatty Acids Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids, alternatively referred to as polyunsaturated fatty acids or PUFAs, are critical for overall human health. They are thought to have a variety of beneficial effects on the heart, brain, gut, and joints. Omega-3 fatty acids may also aid in blood pressure reduction. These critical nutrients are found in a variety of foods, including krill oil, fish (mackerel, cod, and salmon are particularly high in these nutrients), walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, avocado, and natto.
A 2009 randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Hypertension found that taking omega-3 fatty acids at a dose of 4 grams (4,000 mg) per day could help lower blood pressure. According to a 2014 study published in the American Journal of Hypertension, DHA/EPA decreased systolic blood pressure and, when taken in excess of 2 grams (2,000 mg) per day, also decreased diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number). This 2014 study evaluated a total of 70 randomized controlled trials.
Finally, a 2016 study published in the Journal of Nutrition demonstrated that consuming fish oil at a dose of as little as 700 mg per day can significantly help lower blood pressure. Omega-3 fatty acids, according to a 2017 study, resulted in significant improvements in both vascular function and blood pressure reduction.
Dosage range: 1,000 to 4000 mg per day.
Turmeric is a brightly colored spice that is related to ginger and has been used as a food seasoning by a variety of cultures for thousands of years. The spice is frequently associated with Asian curries. Turmeric, on the other hand, was one of the numerous ingredients found in ancient medical remedies.
Turmeric contains a compound known as curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the spice contains over 24 compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Certain compounds are COX-2 inhibitors. COX-2 is the enzyme that causes inflammation, pain, and swelling. Additionally to lowering blood sugar levels, the spice has been shown to lower LDL or bad cholesterol.
Greek yoghurt is distinguished from other types of yoghurt by the straining process used to remove the whey. Whey is a liquid made up of lactose, a naturally occurring sugar found in milk. While Greek yoghurt is a popular dairy product, is it nutritionally sound?
Fermenting milk with live cultures of beneficial bacteria in the process of making yoghurt.
Greek yoghurt that has been strained contains less sugar than regular yoghurt. Eliminating the whey results in a creamier, thicker yoghurt with a tart flavour.
Certain manufacturers thicken regular yoghurt and market it as "Greek-style" yoghurt, which may lack the health benefits associated with Greek yoghurt.
Additionally, low- or no-fat Greek yoghurt may lack some of the health benefits associated with traditional Greek yoghurt.
Discover eight possible health benefits of Greek yoghurt in this article, as well as how to incorporate it into a balanced diet.
Fermenting milk with live cultures of beneficial bacteria in the process of making yoghurt.
Greek yoghurt that has been strained contains less sugar than regular yoghurt. Eliminating the whey results in a creamier, thicker yoghurt with a tart flavour.
Certain manufacturers thicken regular yoghurt and market it as "Greek-style" yoghurt, which may lack the health benefits associated with Greek yoghurt.
Additionally, low- or no-fat Greek yoghurt may lack some of the health benefits associated with traditional Greek yoghurt.
Discover eight possible health benefits of Greek yoghurt in this article, as well as how to incorporate it into a balanced diet.
Increasing metabolism
According to research from a reputable source, eating a high-protein diet may help a person burn more calories per day. Every meal should contain some protein.
Despite its protein content, eating Greek yoghurt on its own is unlikely to result in increased calorie burn.
However, eating Greek yoghurt as part of a well-balanced diet rich in protein, fibre, and healthy fats can help you lose weight and speed up your metabolism.
Appetite and hunger suppression
Because Greek yoghurt is high in protein, it may help people feel fuller for longer periods. According to research from a reputable source, people may eat less throughout the day following a high-protein meal.
In a follow-up study, according to Trusted Source, increasing dietary protein consumption resulted in people consuming fewer calories overall, which resulted in greater weight loss.
Bone health improvement
Consuming Greek yoghurt, which is high in calcium and protein, may help maintain bone health.
Calcium helps maintain bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis, a degenerative bone disease. Consuming an adequate amount of protein is also vital for bone health.
Muscle mass development
Protein-dense foods, such as Greek yoghurt, may aid in muscle mass development. According to research from a reputable source, a high-protein diet may help increase muscle mass in individuals who engage in resistance training.
Improved gut health
Probiotics are found in Greek yoghurt. These are beneficial bacteria that may assist in restoring a healthy bacterial balance within the gut.
However, recent research casts doubt on these benefits. Not everyone may respond the same way to probiotics.
A study published in 2018 according to Trusted Source, some people's guts are resistant to probiotic benefits, while others are more receptive.
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Turmeric is an antibacterial spice that can be used on the skin to cleanse and nourish it. It contains a compound known as curcumin, which has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Turmeric, for example, aids in wound healing just like Manuka honey by reducing inflammation and oxidation. Improved healing can help minimize scarring.
Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective treatment for psoriasis, and the National Psoriasis Foundation recommends supplementing with turmeric or incorporating it into one's diet. A study conducted in India discovered that when turmeric was combined with a plant called neem, a paste was formed that could be used to treat skin rashes. Turmeric has been shown in some studies to be an effective treatment for other skin conditions such as eczema or alopecia. Benefits of using Turmeric on your skin
Honey has been adored since ancient Egypt for its delectable flavor and medicinal properties. Numerous studies have demonstrated that honey can accelerate wound healing and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Additionally, it can be an excellent natural sweetener for those avoiding processed sugar. Manuka honey is gaining popularity due to the fact that it contains all of the wonderful benefits of regular honey while also containing some unique benefits.
What is Manuka Honey, and how does it differ from other honeys?
Manuka honey is made from the flowers of the manuka tree, as the name implies. This tree is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it is referred to as a tea tree. Due to the numerous beneficial chemicals contained in the trees, essential oil from this tree has long been used as a disinfectant and health aid. Manuka honey is created when a European honey bee collects nectar and pollen from the small white flowers on the manuka tree. To be classified as Manuka honey, the honey must contain at least 70% pollen from manuka flowers.
Manuka honey contains a number of unique compounds not found in other varieties of honey. Methylglyoxal is a naturally occurring compound in Manuka honey. This compound is synthesized in unusually high concentrations from dihydroxyacetone found in manuka flowers. Additionally, because manuka honey contains numerous flavoring compounds derived from manuka flowers, it has an earthy, herbaceous flavor and aroma. Manuka honey contains unique proteins and colloids that contribute to its distinctive texture and healing properties.
To differentiate Manuka honey from other varieties of honey, experts look at its thickness, color, and flavor. True Manuka honey should be extremely viscous and thick. Certain varieties of Manuka honey may be so thick that they have a texture more likened to jam than syrup. Manuka honey is also dark brown in color. This distinct color is frequently used to identify Manuka honey. Researchers can identify manuka honey by examining the pollen in the honey, but manuka and kanuka pollen appear to be extremely similar. Kanuka honey, on the other hand, is a light, clear yellow, whereas manuka honey is a dark, rich brown.
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