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By Danielle Nierenberg and Katie Howell
While COVID-19 is exposing fundamental flaws in the global food and agriculture system, it is creating the opportunity to reimagine honoring farmers and food workers and producing healthy, nutritious food. The virus is forcing people to press pause on their daily lives, so Food Tank has compiled a list of 34 movies and series to watch from home that remind us of the power of food.
This list may serve as a guide to help you learn about large- and small-scale agriculture, the relationship between diet and health, and the social and cultural implications of the food system. But these movies and series also offer hope. They show how individual choices can foster connections between people, and they may even inspire you to advocate for a more equitable food system during and after the pandemic.
1. 10 Billion – What’s on Your Plate? (2015)
By 2050, the global population is expected to hit 10 billion. This documentary from German film director Valentin Thurn looks at how we could feed that world. The film explores food production and distribution, analyzing potential solutions to meet the enormous demand on the global agriculture system. The most-viewed film in German cinemas in 2015, "10 Billion — What's on Your Plate?" provides a broad look into the issues in current food production and offers a glimpse of hope through innovation.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube
2. Always Be My Maybe (2019)
"Always Be My Maybe" is a romantic comedy that follows a successful chef named Sasha as she reunites with her childhood best friend as an adult. During her stay in San Francisco to open a new restaurant, Sasha, played by Ali Wong, and her old friend rediscover their connection though eating, and she remembers the influence her friend's family had on her love of cooking. "Always Be My Maybe" shows Sasha's journey as she falls in love and reconnects to her Asian American culture.
Where to watch it: Netflix
3. A Tale of Two Kitchens (2019)
"A Tale of Two Kitchens" is about two restaurants — Cala in San Francisco and Contramar in Mexico City — owned and operated by acclaimed Mexican chef Gabriela Cámara. The film tells the stories of the restaurants' staff, alternating between personal accounts and shots of employees interacting with customers and preparing meals. "A Tale of Two Kitchens" offers an inspiring look into how people find personal and professional growth in the restaurant industry and how restaurants can become second homes for those that work in them.
Where to watch it: Netflix
4. Barbecue (2017)
Embarking on a journey across 12 countries, "Barbecue" tells a story of the culture behind grilling meat and how it brings people together. The film offers a portrait of those who stoke the flames, showing that barbecue is not just about the meat, but about the rituals, stories, and traditions that surround the process. "Barbecue" won the James Beard Award for Best Documentary in 2018.
Where to watch it: Netflix, Amazon Video, YouTube, Google Play
5. Before the Plate (2018)
Filmmaker Sagi Kahane-Rapport documents John Horne, Canadian chef and owner of the prestigious Toronto restaurant Canoe, as he follows each ingredient from one dish back to the farm they came from. "Before the Plate" offers a look into what it takes to grow and distribute food and the issues farmers face in today's food system.
Where to watch it: YouTube, Google Play, Amazon Video
6. Caffeinated (2015)
Working with coffee connoisseur Geoff Watts, this film explores the life cycle of a coffee seed, following the process from bean to mug. The film focuses on the social and cultural landscape around coffee and how it shapes the lives of thousands of individuals worldwide. "Caffeinated" filmmakers interview coffee farmers, roasters, and baristas to provide a comprehensive idea of all that goes into a cup of coffee.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, Google Play
7. Cesar Chavez (2014)
"Cesar Chavez" is a biographical film that reconstructs the emergence of the United Farm Workers (UFW) in the 1960s. The film focuses on Chavez, co-founder of the UFW, whose commitment to secure a living wage for farm workers ignited social justice movements across America. The film inspired a "Follow Your Food" series by Participant Media and the Equitable Food Initiative as well as won an ALMA Award for Special Achievement in Film.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube, Google Play
8. Chef Flynn (2018)
"Chef Flynn" tells the story of Flynn McGarry, who became famous after running a fully functional kitchen in his bedroom at age 10. The film chronicles McGarry as he outgrows his bedroom kitchen and sets out to join New York City's innovative culinary scene. With a focus on the relationship McGarry has with his mother, "Chef Flynn" shows how far McGarry was able to go with the support and dedication of his family.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, Hulu, Google Play, YouTube
9. Chef’s Table (2015- )
From David Gelb, the filmmaker that created "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," comes "Chef's Table," a series that profiles professional chefs around the world. Each episode of "Chef's Table" spotlights a different chef as they share the personal stories that have inspired their culinary ventures. The series has won a variety of awards, including a James Beard Foundation Award and an International Documentary Association Award.
Where to watch it: Netflix
10. Cooked (2016- )
"Cooked" is a series based on Michael Pollan's book by the same name. In each episode, Pollan focuses on a different natural element — fire, water, air, and earth — and its relationship to cooking methods throughout history. "Cooked" brings together different aspects of cooking to show its ability to connect us all as human beings.
Where to watch it: Netflix
11. Dolores (2017)
"Dolores" documents the life of Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the first farm workers union, United Farm Workers (UFW). Filmmaker Peter Bratt chronicles Huerta's life from her childhood in Stockton, California, to her work with UFW and becoming a leading figure in the feminist movement. Huerta has often not been credited for her equal role in establishing UFW; "Dolores" argues this is because Huerta is a woman, and the film strives to spotlight her heroic efforts in the fight for social justice.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, Google Play, YouTube
12. Eating Animals (2017)
Based on the 2009 book Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer, filmmaker Christopher Quinn examines factory farming and its associated negative environmental and public health effects. "Eating Animals" spotlights farmers, activists, and innovators who are raising awareness about where our meat comes from and standing up to big companies to tell their stories.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube, Google Play, Hulu
13. Ella Brennan: Commanding the Table (2017)
In the 1940's, New Orleans' food and drink business generated less than US$1 million a year; today it is a billion-dollar industry that attracts tourists from around the world to the city. Many credit the transformation to the Brennan family, guided by Ella Brennan. "Ella Brennan: Commanding the Table" tells the story of Ella Brennan and how she revolutionized creole cuisine and helped push it into American mainstream dining culture.
Where to watch it: Apple TV, Commanderspalace.com
14. El Susto! (2020)
"El Susto!" tells the story of a sugar tax in Mexico, implemented in an attempt to curb the prevalence of diabetes. The film documents the battle between public health activists and the corporate wealth of the "Big Soda" industry, offering a look into the reality of challenging powerful industries. The film premiers this May as part of the virtual Vermont International Film Festival.
Where to watch it: VIFF virtual cinema
15. Farmsteaders (2018)
"Farmsteaders" follows Nick Nolan and his family as they try to resurrect his grandfather's dairy farm in Ohio. Once a thriving agriculture economy, Nolan's rural community has given way to the pressures of agribusiness and corporate farming — left with unused fertile farmland, abandoned buildings, and skyrocketing health issues. "Farmsteaders" gives a voice to a new generation of family farmers, showing the hardships those who grow our food are having to endure.
Where to watch it: POV – link through movie website
16. Fed Up (2014)
Filmmaker Stephanie Soechtig and journalist Katie Couric investigate the role of the American food industry in rising obesity rates and diet-related diseases. "Fed Up" uncovers the sugar industry's influence on American dietary guidelines and argues that hidden sugar in processed foods is the root of the problem. With the tagline "Congress says pizza is a vegetable," the film shows how interactions between industry and government can directly affect the health of the nation.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube, Tubi, Google Play
17. Food Chains (2014)
Supermarkets' buying power and farm contracts often set the substandard wages and conditions farm workers face. To improve their livelihood, The Coalition of Immokalee Workers demanded a penny more per pound of tomatoes picked. But Publix, Florida's largest grocery chain, refused. "Food Chains" follows farm workers in Immokalee, Florida, as they prepare for and launch the resulting hunger strike at Publix headquarters. The documentary aims to expose the exploitation of farm laborers and the complicity of corporations in the creation of conditions the filmmakers liken to modern-day slavery.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, Tubi, YouTube
18. For Grace (2015)
"For Grace" tells the story of renowned chef Curtis Duffy as he builds his dream restaurant, Grace, at a difficult time in his personal life. Filmmakers Kevin Pang and Mark Helenowski offer a look into each step in opening the luxury dining spot, Duffy's troubled past, and how he came to seek refuge in the kitchen. "For Grace" gives a bittersweet look into the restaurant industry and the sacrifice it requires.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, Google Play, YouTube, Apple TV
19. From Scratch (2020)
"From Scratch" follows chef, actor, and producer David Moscow as he travels worldwide making meals from scratch. Each episode begins with a chef presenting a dish that Moscow then has to hunt, gather, forage, and grow each ingredient to recreate. "From Scratch" reveals the overwhelming amount of work that brings each part of a meal into the kitchen.
Where to watch it: FYI
20. In Our Hands (2017)
This one-hour documentary takes viewers on a journey across the fields and farms of Britain. "In Our Hands" discusses diversity of the land, the importance of generational knowledge, and the need for innovation to create a more sustainable food system. A project by Black Bark Films and the Landworkers Alliance, the film advocates for sustainable methods and the rights of small producers through a feminist lens.
Where to watch it: Vimeo
21. Just Eat It (2014)
"Just Eat It" explores the enormous amount of food waste that exists in the supply chain – from farms and retail to an individual's home. The filmmakers pledge to quit grocery shopping and survive only on discarded food for six months. Featuring interviews with food waste experts and food writers, "Just Eat It" exposes the systematic obsession with perfect produce and confusing expiry dates that has ultimately cost billions of dollars in wasted food each year. The film has received multiple awards from film festivals across North America.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube, Tubi, Google Play
22. Maacher Jhol (2017)
A Bengali film directed by Pratim D. Gupta, "Maacher Jhol" tells the story of a Paris-based chef returning to his home in Kolkata after 13 years. Challenged to cook a bowl of fish curry, a quintessential Bengali dish, the film shows the master-chef return to his roots and reconnect with his family.
Where to watch it: Netflix
23. Polyfaces: A World of Many Choices (2015)
"Polyfaces" documents the Salatins, a fourth-generation farming family, who moved from Australia to the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia in the United States to practice regenerative farming. The film follows the family for four years as they operate Polyface Farm without chemicals and provide food to 6,000 families within a three-hour radius. "Polyfaces" shows how working with nature, not against it, is a way to reconnect to the land and to the community.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video
24. Rotten (2018- )
Zero Point Zero and Netflix combined to produce "Rotten," a series that highlights the problems in the process of supplying food. With a human-centered narrative approach, each episode focuses on one food product, interviewing manufacturers, distributers, and others involved in the process. "Rotten" reveals the corruption, waste, and dangers involved with eating certain foods.
Where to watch it: Netflix
25. Salt Fat Acid Heat (2018)
"Salt Fat Acid Heat" follows chef and food writer Samin Nosrat as she travels the world to explore the core principles of cooking. Based on Nosrat's New York Times bestselling book of the same name, Nosrat uses each episode to travel to Italy, Japan, Mexico, and the United States, where she began her culinary career. "Salt Fat Acid Heat" helps the audience learn about each element of cooking and how to incorporate them into their own recipes.
Where to watch it: Netflix
26. SEED: The Untold Story (2016)
A winner of 18 film festival awards, "SEED: The Unknown Story" follows the story of farmers, scientists, lawyers, and indigenous seed keepers in their fight to defend seeds from the control of biotech companies. The film highlights the importance of the seed in the future of our food and presents a heartening story about the efforts to reintegrate an appreciation of seeds into our culture. "SEED" features Vandana Shiva, Dr. Jane Goodall, Andrew Kimbrell, Winona Laduke, and Raj Patel.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube, Google Play
27. Soul of a Banquet (2014)
"Soul of a Banquet" shows the journey of Cecilia Chiang and how she introduced America to authentic Chinese food. Chiang opened The Mandarin, her internationally renowned restaurant in San Francisco, in 1961 and has since greatly influenced the culinary scene in the United States. Through interviews with Chiang as well as Alice Waters and Ruth Reichl, the film documents Chiang's life in Beijing, her move to the United States, and how she became a restaurateur.
Where to watch it: Hulu, Google Play, YouTube, Amazon Video
28. Sustainable (2016)
"Sustainable" investigates the economic and environmental instability of the current agriculture system and the actors in the food system who are working to change this. The film presents the leadership and knowledge of some prominent sustainable farmers around the United States, like Bill Niman, Klaas Martens and John Kempf, who are challenging the country to build a more ethical agriculture system. The film offers a story of hope, with a promise that our food system can be transformed into one that is sustainable for future generations.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube
29. That Sugar Film (2014)
"That Sugar Film" looks at the impact of high-sugar diets on an Aboriginal community in Australia and travels to the United States to interview the world's sugar experts. When director Damon Gameau decides to test the effects of sugar on his own health, he consumes foods commonly perceived as healthy, revealing the prevalence of sugar in each item. The film documents how sugar has become the most dominant food in the world, infiltrating both our diets and culture.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, Documentary Mania
30. The Biggest Little Farm (2018)
"The Biggest Little Farm" follows John and Molly Chester for eight years as they transition from city living to a 200-acre farm. Directed by John Chester, the film shows the couple start Apricot Lane Farms and follows the farm's expansion to include multiple animals and fruit and vegetable varieties. Through their work, the Chesters find that the importance of biodiversity extends far beyond the farm.
Where to watch it: YouTube, Google Play
31. The Heat: A Kitchen (R)evolution (2018)
Director Maya Gallus profiles seven female chefs as they face obstacles in a profession dominated by men. "The Heat: A Kitchen (R)evolution" shows how the culture of restaurant kitchens has bred toxic working conditions and how women are working to change it. Through the women's stories, the film documents the greater challenges female chefs face as they attempt to rise to the top of the restaurant industry.
Where to watch it: Tubi, YouTube, Google Play, Amazon Video
32. The Lunchbox (2013)
"The Lunchbox" tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a lonely housewife and a widower. The housewife, played by Nimrat Kaur, decides to prepare her husband creative, elaborate lunches, sending them along with a note through the famously complicated Mumbai lunch delivery system. The lunchbox ends up with the wrong man, played by the late Irrfan Khan. The housewife recognizes her mistake and sends Khan another note to apologize, starting a conversation between the two and sparking a relationship as they discuss life's joys and sorrows over the exchange of delicious meals.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube, Google Play
33. Ugly Delicious (2018- )
"Ugly Delicious" combines travel, history, and cooking as award-winning chef David Chang takes the audience on a journal to culinary hot spots around the world. Each episode explores one dish or concept and tells the story of how it is made in different regions and how it has evolved over time. Chang brings guests, such as Jimmy Kimmel, Nick Kroll, and Peter Meehan, to join him as he celebrates different cultures through food.
Where to watch it: Netflix
34. Wasted! The Story of Food Waste (2017)
Executive-produced by the late Anthony Bourdain, filmmakers Anna Chai and Nari Kye aim to change the way people buy, cook, recycle, and eat food. "Wasted!" not only explores the effects of systematic food waste on the environment, but also offers potential solutions. The film follows some of the world's most influential chefs who create dishes from typically discarded items and features success stories from around the world. These efforts try to show the audience that any action, no matter how small, can contribute to the fight against food waste.
Where to watch it: Amazon Video, YouTube, Google Play, Vimeo
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A flooded shop is seen next to Rodanthe Sound as Hurricane Dorian hits Cape Hatteras in North Carolina on September 6, 2019. Jose Luis Magana / AFP / Getty Images
North Carolina's Outer Banks are dotted with vacation beaches and historic communities. But the sweeping water views do not only draw tourists. They give locals a front row seat to sea-level rise.
<iframe style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/16201181/height/45/theme/standard/thumbnail/yes/direction/backward/" height="45" width="100%" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>Many, like Jamie Anderson, face more frequent floods. Anderson is the owner of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.duckscottage.com/about-us">Downtown Books</a> on Roanoke Island. Since she opened the store there eight years ago, it's flooded six times, with anywhere from an inch to two feet of water.</p><p>Sometimes storms are the cause, and other times all it takes is wind and a high tide.</p><p>"No rain, no hurricane, but water's an inch deep in my store," Anderson says.</p><p>To protect her inventory, Anderson keeps books off the floor.</p>
<p>"We use lots of tables and don't do anything to the floor," she says. "We just kind of paint it with floor paint every couple of years because it's going to get wet, so there's no point having any carpet down there."</p><p>Before big storms, she has what she calls "moving parties" where volunteers help her put everything up higher than three feet. And she packs up valuable items so she can take them with her.</p><p>Despite the hassle, Anderson plans to stay put. She says she'd lose customers if she moved.</p><p>"We're going to tough it out and continue to be there," she says. "And it's just kind of part of our story."</p>
<p class=""><em>Reposted with permission from <a href="https://yaleclimateconnections.org/2020/10/what-its-like-to-own-a-small-business-on-front-line-of-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank">Yale Climate Connections</a>.</em></p>
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Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg is seen in a video conversation in Stockholm, Sweden on April 22, 2020. Jessica Gow / TT News Agency / AFP / Getty Images
By Priyanka Jaisinghani
COVID-19, "stay-at-home" orders and enforced physical distancing has made us more dependent on digital when it comes to connection and communication at both a local and global level.
<p>In the early months of the pandemic, marginalized communities were disproportionately affected and the realities of a widening inequality gap were apparent. What was once thought to be an equalizer had become the opposite.</p><p>Where COVID-19 has removed the option for young people to take to the streets to voice their concerns about these surfacing inequalities, staying at home (and off the streets) hasn't translated to staying silent.</p><p>Recently, we've witnessed how young people are rallying around issues such as climate change, racial injustice and voting rights, using digital as their platform and driving civic engagement.</p>
Civic Engagement Redefined
<p>Long-lasting impact requires changes from the bottom up. Civic engagement means working to make a difference in our communities to promote quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.</p><p>We're seeing how, across multiple issues, young people are becoming active participants in driving dialogues with policy-makers, on a state and federal level. In addition, they are empowering the citizens of the communities in which they reside, taking an active role in shaping the future we hold.</p>1. Racial Justice
<p>Across the U.S., we saw the rise of the racial justice movement through Black Lives Matter. Hundreds of protestors came to the streets, from New York to Nevada, acknowledging, supporting and condemning the long-existing inequalities faced by the black community. We saw this movement propel beyond the streets, throughout social media, and to the polling stations.</p><p>Young activists were demanding not only awareness but also change. In this digital space, young people started sharing resources and information for others to educate themselves about the pressing need for racial justice. They were able to mobilize support to inform, educate and shape citizen action. They shared links to petitions, offered advice for safe protesting practices, created templates for emailing authorities, listed bail funds and black-owned restaurants and businesses in need of support. They used social media to support the various needs of this movement – and continue to do so.</p>2. Climate Change
<p>The youth-led climate change has become dominant online. Every Friday, young people lead a digital #ClimateStrike to raise awareness of important legislative initiatives and create tangible ways for individuals to get involved in the fight against climate change.</p><p>As a leading example, to commemorate this year's Earth Day, youth held a 72-hour, live-streamed "digital march" with protests, speeches, and more. This "digital march" was attended by more than 200,000 viewers. Young people are pivoting their strategies and applying them to a digital space. We know when the streets are safe again, they will continue their activism by marching to raise awareness both on the streets and digitally.</p>3. Voting Rights
<p>Voting is another pertinent issue coming to the fore. In <a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/315761/lack-voting-information-hamper-youth-turnout.aspx" target="_blank">a Gallup poll</a>, four out of five (79%) young people say "the coronavirus pandemic has helped them realize how much political leaders' decisions impact their lives"; three in five say "they are part of a movement that will vote to express its views."</p><p>As a result of these changing attitudes, young people are having conversations with their families and finding ways to get politically active. They're donating funds to campaigns, volunteering their time to raise awareness around voting and creating social campaigns to try to influence other people to vote and register to vote.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDUxMTg0Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMzg2OTcxNn0.AkqUpUNFBQm9qJhYK1ET2Nx_74OlOKaa0XdF-cRCuEY/img.jpg?width=980" id="0edf5" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="f6e1d0f9874383be19f0bba0625aa61e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<p><em>Reposted with permission from <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/3-ways-covid-19-has-changed-youth-activism/" target="_blank">World Economic Forum</a>.</em></p>How social media is used in the U.S. for political issues. Statista
<p>It's inspiring to see young people around the world deeply engaged in the digital space and continuing their activism. They have played a critical role in calling for change and transformation in society. From climate to health to politics, young people are the most affected. The only way to make progress is to build back better. They're building upon existing issues and movements, creating new alliances and driving conversations and action. This generation is also building upon the same values and ideas of those before them to change the status quo and find ways to enact change for a better future.</p>From Your Site Articles
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Nobody should have to live with pain. Since many prescription painkillers are both addictive and dangerous, more people are turning to CBD as a natural means of relief. If you're new to CBD, our guide to the best CBD oils for pain will help you find the brand that's right for you.
<p>Many people suffer with debilitating pain that derails their lives. Traditionally, severe pain has typically been treated with therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, massage therapy, and of course, prescription pain medication. And while those therapies help immensely, prescription pain medication can be both dangerous and addictive. </p>
<p>In light of this fact, more people are turning to CBD oil as a natural means of relief from tough chronic and acute pain. But which CBD oils are the best? How does CBD tackle difficult pain? We will answer these questions and more in our guide to the best CBD oils for pain.</p>
<h2>How Our CBD Oil For Pain List Came Together</h2><p>Even though there are a good number of <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/best-cbd-oil-2020-2647428611.html" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">CBD oil brands</a> out on the market, figuring out which brands are the most clean and the most effective can be a very daunting task. While you may feel tempted to make an impulse buy, it really pays to spend some time doing the research in the long-run. In thinking about brands and oils, you should really pay close attention to the effectiveness, quality, and purity of the oil as well as the brand's reputation. </p>
<p>If you still feel overwhelmed and befuddled, please don't worry. We've taken the guesswork out of the research by doing the bulk of it for you. Before we selected our top three brands, we set up stringent guidelines to follow. We then used these guidelines to whittle down our list until our top three brands remained. </p>
<p>In thinking about the top CBD oils for pain, we focused on: </p>
<ul><li>How long the brand has been in the industry</li><li>Oil ingredients</li><li>Reviews and comments by verified customers</li><li>Whether or not the brand used a third-party lab to test its products</li><li>If the lab results were made easy for customers to find</li><li>Hemp sources</li><li>Articles from both niche experts and CBD journalists</li><li>The overall purity of the oil</li><li>Brand reputation</li><li>Product price</li></ul>
<p>As we worked our way through the brands, not surprisingly, our list became quite lengthy. In light of that, we hunkered down and cut our list down even more until we were left with the top three brands that you will read about below.</p><h2>3 Best CBD Oils For Pain</h2>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDUyNDY1Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNDEyNTAzMn0.VLDMrz7j96aEHWlDAW3o2mkIViM_aNXmEYjIJ_0YNh0/img.jpg?width=980" id="ba3fe" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="7406ff39cecb48b58ebbcae31aac51e2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<h3>#1 <a href="https://canfightbac.org/fab-pain-cbd" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">FAB CBD Oil</a>— Full Spectrum and Most Effective</h3>
<p>FAB has been in the CBD business since 2017. Everyone who works at FAB takes health and wellness very seriously. To that end, FAB's mission is to use premium supplementation, science, and innovation to allow everyone to have access to a healthy lifestyle. </p>
<p>The FAB team believes in transparency, creating high quality products, and having a stellar customer service department. FAB never uses any additives or dangerous chemicals in any of its products. All of the organic Colorado hemp that the brand uses is free of herbicides and pesticides.</p>
<p><a href="https://canfightbac.org/fab-pain-cbd" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">FAB CBD</a> has been commended time and time again for its exceptional customer service. Each member of the FAB team goes out of their way to address every customer's questions and concerns. The fact that there are a host of verified positive customer reviews on the brand's website attests to this fact. </p>
<p>Every single one of FAB's products is made from the cleanest, most pure extract possible. <a href="https://canfightbac.org/fab-pain-cbd" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">FAB's full-spectrum CBD oil</a> comes in strengths of 300mg, 600mg, 1200mg, and 2400mg, and in flavors of citrus, mint, natural, berry, and vanilla. All of the brand's products are tested by ProVerde Labs, an independent third-party laboratory. </p>
<h2>Specific Criteria for Choosing Our Top Three Oils</h2><p>When we selected our top three CBD oil brands, we looked at:</p>
<ul><li>Hemp Sources — All of the hemp that FAB uses comes from Colorado. The hemp is organic and is free from herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals. FAB also uses state-of-the-art cloning and harvesting practices and machinery. </li><li>Reputation — FAB has a strong reputation among other top CBD companies as well as customers, journalists, and CBD insiders. Reading all of the positive verified customer reviews gave us all the verification that we needed. </li><li>Price — FAB's oils range in price depending on the strength that you choose. Overall, we found the oils to be both effective as well as affordable. In fact, the pricing falls in line with many other reputable brands out on the market today. </li><li>Effectiveness — When it comes to full spectrum products, FAB makes some of the best around. Not only are the oils safe, they're also effective, clean, and are of the best quality. Verified customer reviews on the brand's website confirm the effectiveness of FAB's full-spectrum oils. </li><li>Our Thoughts and Conclusions — We love FAB's amazing line of products. Along with full-spectrum oils, the brand also offers gummies, a topical cream, CBD dog treats, CBD-free super greens, a brand new calming <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/best-cbd-vape-pens-2020-2647594898.html" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">CBD vape</a>, as well as a recently introduced <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/best-cbd-cream-2647881006.html" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">CBD Body Salve</a>. FAB is our top pick not only because of the brand's stellar reputation for customer service, but also because FAB has a solid line of CBD products and truly believes in transparency. </li></ul>
<p>==> <a href="https://canfightbac.org/fab-pain-cbd" target="_blank">Buy FAB's full-spectrum CBD oils here.</a></p>
<h3>#2 Elixinol</h3><p>Elixinol strives not only to learn about hemp, but to also teach others about it. To that end, the brand seeks to teach everyone around the world about the healing benefits of hemp. The team at Elixinol is dedicated to science, research, and crafting innovative products that are loaded with terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids. </p>
<p>As such, Elixinol employs experts, research scientists, medical doctors, and veterinarians that work together as a team to study how cannabinoids affect the body to improve life. Elixinol creates full-spectrum CBD oils, topicals, and capsules. The brand does not use a third-party lab to test its products, but does, however, employ its own experts to rigorously test each one of its products.</p><h3>Elixinol's Full-Spectrum CBD Oil</h3><p>Elixinol's full-spectrum CBD oil is created from hemp that the brand grows itself in Colorado. In doing this, Elixinol controls the creation of its products from seed to sale. Elixinol's full-spectrum CBD oils come in Organic Balance or Daily Balance varieties. The Daily Balance is available in Cinnamint and Natural flavors and in 133mg, 500mg, 1000mg, and 4000mg of CBD per bottle. </p>
<ul><li>Source of Hemp — Elixinol grows its own organic hemp in Colorado. </li><li>Reputation — Elixinol has a reputation for having a top-rated return policy as well as a large product variety. The brand is also praised for having high-quality CBD oil oral applicators. Overall, Elixinol has a solid reputation among its customers. </li><li>Price — The oil prices vary depending on the amount of CBD in the bottle. </li><li>Effectiveness — Elixinol is also known for having a strong quality full-spectrum CBD oil. The brand also has verified positive customer reviews on its website attesting to this fact. </li><li>Our Thoughts and Conclusions — Elixinol strives to educate others about the healing powers of hemp. The brand is involved in the creation process from seed to sale and even has its own in-house lab to test its products. Having said that, Elixinol does not use an independent third-party lab to test its products. There are also reports that the order processing time is slow. The brand does, however, have a solid reputation for producing products with a solid reputation. </li></ul>
<h3>#3 Endoca</h3><p>Endoca's mission is to be an industry leader when it comes to innovating ways that hemp is extracted. The brand sells a line of natural CBD extracts. Endoca strives to cultivate and extract CBD from organic hemp that is free from chemicals, toxins, and other preservatives. The brand is a champion of the environment and uses sustainable practices in how it cultivates the hemp. </p><ul><li><h3>Endoca </h3></li></ul><p>Endoca has a broad line of full-spectrum CBD oils including a 300mg Raw CBD Oil and CBD Hemp Oil and a 1500mg Raw CBD Oil and Hemp Oil. All of the brand's oils are gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan. </p>
<ul><li>Source of Hemp — Endoca is based out of the Netherlands. The brand uses organic farming practices and believes in keeping things simple and as natural as possible. Endoca's hemp is grown in Northern Europe in Scandinavia. </li><li>Reputation — The brand has a strong reputation for worldwide delivery and organic and effective products. </li><li>Price — The price of the products depends on how much CBD is in the products. The brand does its best to provide affordable products to customers from all over the world. Having said that, the pricing on the products does tend to be on the expensive side. </li><li>Effectiveness — Endoca's products are 100 percent organic, and are full-spectrum. The brand strives to create highly effective products through natural methods. </li><li>Our Thoughts and Conclusions — Endoca is another reputable brand that strives to create an all-natural, effective line of CBD products. Even though the brand is based in the Netherlands, they do ship worldwide. They offer free shipping in the United States on order over $74. Endoca uses a third-party lab to regularly test all of its products, and those results are made available to customers online. Even though the brand has a solid reputation for creating strong products, they do lack flavor options. </li></ul>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDUyNDY5MC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMjY2MDMzOX0.TYk1nhxMtZYJfsSq8zHpCmzWnqVYEVcv5cSFLEAdzuw/img.jpg?width=980" id="30343" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="e6178d5522b89f1af56bd3b251c89e8f" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><h2>What is the Difference Between Chronic and Acute Pain?</h2><p>Many people are under the impression that pain is just pain. What many don't understand is that pain can be separated into two different categories: chronic pain and acute pain. With chronic pain, the pain lingers well after an injury healed or a traumatic event has ended. Conversely, acute pain will stay for a brief period of time before slowly going away as an injury has healed. </p><p>It's fairly easy to treat acute pain, chronic pain is more difficult to get a handle on. Pain is considered chronic if it lasts longer than 12 weeks. Chronic pain manifests itself as feelings of burning, aching, and cramping sensations throughout the body. </p><p>Chronic pain can be found in such conditions including:<br></p><ul><li>Arthritis</li><li>Nerve damage or inflammation</li><li>Trauma pain</li><li>Surgery pain</li><li>Low back pain</li><li>Cancer pain</li><li>Psychological pain</li><li>Tension or migraine headaches</li><li>Inflammatory bowel disease</li><li>Endometriosis</li><li>Fibromyalgia</li><li>Chronic fatigue syndrome</li></ul><p>According to the <a href="https://uspainfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">U.S. Pain Foundation</a>, 50 million Americans endure some sort of pain each day. And while there aren't any tests that can proficiently measure pain, doctors fall back on diagnostic tests and patient testimonies to try to figure out both the extent of the pain as well as its location. As far as diagnostic testing goes, doctors will use bloodwork, imaging, nerve conduction tests, neurological assessments, genetic testing, strength assessments, and others to diagnose the pain and determine the best course of treatment. </p><p>Sadly, anyone can experience chronic pain at any age. However, many physicians are finding that chronic pain is more prevalent in older adults. Chronic pain is more common in people who are overweight, previously injured, female, obese, or who have had any type of surgery. As mentioned earlier, some common therapies for chronic pain include chiropractic, massage, yoga, physical therapy, psychotherapy, acetaminophen and NSAIDs, or prescription pain medications, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants. </p>
<h2>How Can CBD Oil Help Treat Chronic or Acute Pain?</h2><p>These days, many people are turning to more natural methods as a means of treating their pain. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is found in the cannabis plant. CBD will not cause any euphoric sensations like tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, (another well-known cannabis compound) will. Any full-spectrum CBD oil contains both THC and CBD. By law, however, all full-spectrum products are required to contain less than 0.3% THC. </p><p>When THC and CBD come together, they produce what's commonly known as the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3820295/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">entourage effect</a>. In the entourage effect, the compounds within CBD boost each other's positive effects while minimizing each other's negative effects. In essence, they work together in a symbiotic relationship. So, while THC can typically cause nausea, when paired with CBD, the nausea is decreased while pain reduction and appetite is increased. </p><p>CBD oil is wonderful in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.01259/full" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">chronic pain reduction</a> because it reduces the inflammation, pain, and discomfort that derives from some of the health conditions that we mentioned previously. Many studies continue to prove that CBD oil is great at tackling tough pain from health conditions such as: </p><ul><li>Nerve Pain</li><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4851925/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Arthritis</a></li><li>Low Back Pain</li><li><a href="https://www.journalofsurgicalresearch.com/article/S0022-4804(18)30626-7/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Cancer</a></li><li>Osteoarthritis</li><li>Headaches</li><li><a href="https://www.clinexprheumatol.org/abstract.asp?a=14785" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Fibromyalgia</a></li></ul><p>Recently, researchers have found that CBD <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6043845/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">oil can help both manage and relieve difficult pain</a>. The body has its own <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">endocannabinoid system, or ECS</a>, that contains endocannabinoid receptors that work to regulate how the body responds to pain. Moreover, CBD also helps to boost serotonin levels, therefore enabling "feel good" sensations while the pain is being decreased. The endocannabinoid system, which can work without CBD, functions to bring the body back to a natural state of balance. </p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDUyNDY5My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1ODE4OTY5OX0.JXYTp6W4GqPK29f5fBqaumMnRebz-pyoHMHiwM2b6vE/img.jpg?width=980" id="65bc3" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="cfc038c446a3ed813988b520161b1698" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><h2>How Much CBD Should You Take?</h2><p>This is a common question posed by those who are new to using CBD. The simple answer to this question is that there is not a set dose of CBD that everyone should be taking. Everyone is different, therefore everyone reacts differently to CBD. A great rule of thumb to go by when it comes to CBD is to start low and go slow. Likewise, when it comes to CBD, higher is not always better when it comes to the dosage. Mid-range doses have been proven to be more effective than low or high doses. </p>
<p>The best way to begin taking CBD is to start by taking 5mg of CBD once a day for one week. If after one week you are not feeling any relief from your pain, go ahead and increase the dosage to 5mg twice a week. After a week, do a check in with yourself to gauge your level of pain relief before stepping up to a higher dose. Just like with any type of medication or natural supplement, your body needs ample time to get used to a new CBD dosage as well. </p>
<p>A great example of the instructions is this: begin by taking ½ dropper of FAB CBD's 300mg full-spectrum oil once a day for about one week. This equals about 5mg of CBD. After one week, increase your dose to ½ dropper twice a day for a week. This equals about 10mg of CBD. While you are going through this process, regularly check in with yourself to see how you are feeling and what your pain levels are. Your overall pain levels will be the best gauge as to whether you should be increasing your dose or not. </p>
<h2>Does CBD Oil Have Any Benefits?</h2><p>CBD and THC are just two of the over 100 other cannabinoids and compounds found in the cannabis plant. As stated above, while THC brings on feelings of euphoria, CBD does not. In order to create CBD oil, the CBD must first be extracted from the hemp or cannabis plants before being diluted with a carrier oil. Next, the oil is infused with different natural flavors, or no flavors at all, before it is bottled and sold in a variety of strengths. </p>
<p>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6043845/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">host of studies</a> show that CBD is excellent at helping to alleviate many difficult to treat health conditions such as anxiety, depression, epilepsy, osteoarthritis, Crohn's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, and others. The simple fact that CBD works with the body's endocannabinoid system to help regulate pain and boost serotonin levels clearly demonstrates that CBD is quite beneficial. Likewise, countless CBD users can also attest to the fact that CBD oil has helped them in some way, shape, or form with their chronic pain and other issues. </p>
<p>When it comes to benefits, CBD has many. And when it comes to pain, chronic pain, and back pain, it helps to understand how CBD works so that the benefits can be fully appreciated that much more. When most people think of back pain, they tend to only think of low back pain. But there are, in fact, different types of back pains that can be relieved by taking CBD. </p>
<p>Some of the more common types are as follows: </p>
<ul><li>Muscle Strain — Muscle strain is caused when muscles are overstretched or pulled too tight. Muscle strain commonly stems from rigorous sports activities, weightlifting, and rigorous on the job activities. CBD can benefit this type of back pain because it will help to reduce inflammation and pain while helping the body to heal quicker. </li><li>Sciatica — Sciatica is a type of injury that occurs when the sciatic nerve is impinged, or pinched, between the muscles of the lower back, hips, and buttocks. Sciatica happens when a herniated disk, bone spur, or narrowing of the spine presses down on part of the nerve. Some common <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">sensations stemming from sciatica</a> are numbness down one or both legs, inflammation, and pain. Recent <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25703248/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">research shows that CBD can be effective</a> at treating the pain and inflammation caused by this condition. </li><li>Degenerative Disc Disease — ThIs painful condition commonly occurs with advanced age. In degenerative disc disease, the spongy discs that are located between the bony vertebrae break down over time, causing the vertebrae to rub and press against one another. Interestingly, a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4269422/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">study conducted in 2014</a> found that CBD had strong anti-degenerative effects as well as positive results in treating neuropathic pain. </li><li>Scoliosis — Scoliosis is a twisting of the spine that gets increasingly painful as time goes on. In the most severe cases, surgery, braces, and therapy are used to help correct the disorder. However, CBD can be helpful in reducing both the pain and inflammation, thus decreasing the need to prescription pain medication. </li><li>Spondylolisthesis — This common condition occurs when the individual vertebrae shift in the back. The pain that arises can either be acute or chronic. Interestingly, this condition is more common among weightlifters and athletes because they take part in athletic activities that routinely put stress on the low back. CBD can help with spondylolisthesis because it has been shown to both reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. </li><li>Arthritis — Arthritis that occurs in the low back is called spondyloarthropathies. This complex condition is caused by inflammation in the sacroiliac joints that leads to severe low back pain and spinal cord stiffness. Again, CBD oil can help alleviate this condition through its anti-inflammatory properties. An <a href="https://www.jneurosci.org/content/37/3/626" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">encouraging study conducted in 2017</a> found that CBD was extremely successful at treating persistent inflammatory pain. </li></ul>
<p>Even if you aren't dealing with chronic or acute pain, you can still take CBD each day to support the overall health of your endocannabinoid system, which will help to keep your body in a state of balance in the long-run. </p>
<h2>Is CBD Oil Safe?</h2><p>Along with wondering how much CBD they should take, this is also a common question among new users. And while CBD has been increasing in popularity, so have the number of research studies done on it that closely examine the compound's safety and efficacy. </p>
<p>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">recent study</a> looking into the safety and side effects of CBD found that CBD is safe and has very few side effects. In fact, the side effects that the researchers did find were considerably mild in comparison to some of the side effects associated with prescription painkillers and other medications. </p>
<p>Some of the common side effects that some people feel include: </p>
<ul><li>Sleepiness</li><li>Dizziness</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Appetite changes</li><li>Diarrhea</li><li>Weight Changes</li></ul>
<p>Considering that many prescription painkillers are both addictive and have dangerous side effects, it's not surprising that many pain sufferers are now turning to CBD oil as a way of helping to alleviate difficult chronic and acute pain.</p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDUyNDY5NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MDYwMjMzOX0.kOT8KJ6e6e3i92ihO1ciiYfwP4p0MtlMXY-4fS5QxU4/img.jpg?width=980" id="170bf" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3ce40bf3a8e1eb35c07275311d3a5cbf" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><h2>Closing Thoughts on our CBD Oils for Pain Picks</h2><p>In the best circumstances, pain can be annoying and short-lived. However, in worst case scenarios, pain can be chronic and last for a very long period of time. People who deal with chronic pain not only experience a loss of body function, they also experience a loss of their lives as they know it. </p><p>While many traditional therapies such as physical therapy, massage, chiropractic, occupational therapy, cryotherapy, and others do wonders at both alleviating pain and restoring overall functionality, the fact of the matter is that other treatments such as prescription pain medication come with an array of dangerous side effects. </p><p>Studies have proven time and again that CBD is a wonderful natural alternative to dangerous addictive painkillers. Not only is CBD safe, it's also proven effective in the treatment of such conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, nerve issues, sleep disorders, and others. Moreover, CBD has very few mild side effects as well. </p><p>Thanks to the work of scientists, CBD's healing properties have been documented in such a way that chronic pain sufferers are now experiencing hope and pain relief through regularly using CBD on a daily basis. If you're new to CBD, you should always take the time to do the research into different brands and products. While it may feel exciting to have a wealth of brands to choose from, keep in mind that not every brand is equal. </p><p>You should always take the time to do some research of your own so that you can confidently purchase the CBD product that will be the best one for you. Always take the time to look into the brand's reputation, product quality, transparency, use of an independent third-party laboratory, and customer reviews, among other things. You should also confirm that the products contain less than 0.3% THC in them, as this confirms that the brand is following the legal guidelines for CBD products sold within the United States. If you are feeling overwhelmed and confused as to where to begin, our article is a great first place to start. </p><p>While there are many great brands out on the market today, our research led us to the conclusion that <a href="https://canfightbac.org/fab-pain-cbd" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">FAB CBD</a> was the top pick for the best CBD oil for pain. While it was a very close race to make our number one pick, it should be mentioned that Elixinol came in as a very strong second place. Both of these brands create solid, effective, high-quality full-spectrum CBD oils, believe in transparency, and do not cut corners when it comes to crafting some of the best CBD products available today. </p><p>If you have any further questions and concerns regarding CBD oil and whether or not it can help you treat your tough chronic or acute pain, do not hesitate to contact your primary care physician or specialist to set up an appointment to discuss things at more length. Considering the many side effects and the potential for addiction with prescription painkillers, it makes sense to give CBD oil a try. Natural is always better when it comes to boosting your health.</p>
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Air Pollution Linked to Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s Damage in Young Brains
17 October
Health + Wellness
Children play near a non-ferrous metals plant in Copsa Mica in central Romania on Feb. 2, 2009. DANIEL MIHAILESCU / AFP via Getty Images
While it is well known that air pollution negatively harms lungs and hearts, it could also be affecting the brains of young people.
<p>Tiny air pollution particles make their way up to the brainstems of young people where they accumulate, new research published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935120310367?via%3Dihub#mmc1" target="_blank"><em>Environmental Research</em></a> showed. These same nanoparticles have been "intimately associated" with the molecular damage that serves as a hallmark for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/oct/06/air-pollution-particles-in-young-brains-linked-to-alzheimers-damage" target="_blank">The Guardian</a> reported. That linkage could have global implications if confirmed because 90% of people currently live with toxic outdoor air, another <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/ng-interactive/2019/may/17/air-pollution-may-be-damaging-every-organ-and-cell-in-the-body-finds-global-review" target="_blank">Guardian</a> article reported.</p><p><a href="https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/risk-factors-and-prevention/air-pollution-and-dementia" target="_blank">Alzheimer's Society</a> defines air pollution as being made up of several different components including gases, chemical compounds, metals and tiny particles known as particulate matter. When we breathe and eat, these nanoparticles enter our bodies and circulate through our bloodstream to the brain, where they can accumulate in the brain stem, The Guardian reported.</p>
<p>The researchers found abundant pollution nanoparticles and evidence of nerve cell growths, plaque and tangles that are linked to neurological disease in the brainstems of 186 young people (ages 11 months to 27 years) from Mexico City who died suddenly, reported <a href="https://www.firstpost.com/health/exposure-of-young-population-to-air-pollution-may-increase-risks-of-alzheimers-parkinsons-other-neurodegenerative-diseases-8893021.html" target="_blank">First Post</a>.</p><p>"The iron-and aluminum-rich nanoparticles found in the brainstem are strikingly similar to those which occur as combustion- and friction-derived particles in air pollution (from engines and braking systems)," said Barbara Maher, part of the research team, reported <a href="https://www.sciencealert.com/young-brains-exposed-to-air-pollution-show-damage-reminiscent-of-alzheimer-s" target="_blank">Science Alert</a>.</p><p>In addition to the high presence of particulate matter, the brainstems also showed signs of early and progressive neurovascular nerve damage, First Post reported. The way these particles reacted with brain cells could increase oxidative stress and eventually lead to death of neurons, the report said.</p>
<p>The participants had all experienced lifelong exposure to particulate pollution, <a href="https://www.studyfinds.org/young-people-brains-air-pollution-alzheimers-parkinsons-als/" target="_blank">Study Finds</a> reported. Brains of similarly-aged people from less-polluted areas did not display the same disease markers, The Guardian reported.</p><p>According to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/05/17/americas/mexico-city-pollution-in-photos-intl/index.html" target="_blank">CNN</a>, Mexico City has struggled with dangerous air pollution levels for decades. <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1029122/mexico-air-pollution-city/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Statista</a> found that the capital city reported an average particulate matter concentration in 2019 more than double the World Health Organization's recommended maximum average concentration. Air pollution rates in the majority of major cities exceed the same safe level of pollution, Alzheimer's Society reported.</p><p>Other studies have linked higher pollution levels to increased rates of different mental <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/health-stories/" target="_self">health diseases and wellness</a> issues. One study similarly found that <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/young-people-alzheimers-2560595650.html" target="_self">living in cities with high air pollution put children at higher risk of Alzheimer's and suicide</a>. The researchers in that study also found that Alzheimer's disease started in the brainstem of young urbanites who'd been exposed to high levels of particulate matter and called high pollution levels "a serious health crisis."</p>
<p>Another study <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/air-pollution-childrens-mental-health-2640650546.html?rebelltitem=1#rebelltitem1" target="_self">linked rising air pollution with increased rates of children's psychiatric diseases</a>.</p><p>This latest study takes the correlation one step further. According to The Guardian, it's the first time a physical mechanism, namely the accumulation of nanoparticles in the brain stem, has been observed that can possibly explain why brain damage increases as rates of air pollution go up.</p><p>"(O)ur new findings indicate that what air pollutants you are exposed to, what you are inhaling and swallowing, are really significant in development of neurological damage," Maher told Science Alert.</p><p>The next step for researchers is to show whether the nanoparticles cause the damage and whether that damage leads to disease later in life.</p><p>"We can't prove causality so far, but how could you expect these nanoparticles containing those metal species to sit inert and harmless inside critical cells of the brain?" Maher told The Guardian. "That's the smoking gun – it seriously looks as if those nanoparticles are firing the bullets that are causing the observed neurodegenerative damage."</p>
<p>Maher said that the findings provide a hypothesis that now can be tested by further research. This can be done, for example, by observing whether increased exposure to pollution nanoparticles correlates with brain stem damage that affects movement control and the gait of young people.</p><p>According to The Guardian, other experts are cautious about the findings, citing that many other factors can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. While the scientists say it is still premature to say that the brain damage caused by air pollution directly leads to the development of these diseases, the findings provide a pathway for future research to confirm causation.</p>
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A Cross River gorilla is seen at Limbe Wildlife Center in Limbe, Cameroon. Julie Langford / Wikimedia Commons / CC by 3.0
By Mike Gaworecki
Today we take a look at efforts to protect the Cross River gorilla, one of the world's rarest great ape subspecies, which include a radio program broadcast to nearly 4 million Nigerians that is helping to address the attitudes and knowledge gaps that lead to the human behaviors threatening the gorillas' survival.
Listen here:
<iframe style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/16399115/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/backward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/3e5014/" height="90" width="100%" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe><p>The Cross River gorilla is a subspecies of the <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/9404/136250858" target="_blank">critically endangered Western gorilla (<em>Gorilla gorilla</em>)</a> found only in the remote highland forests of the Nigeria-Cameroon border. It's believed that there are just around 300 individual Cross River gorillas remaining in the wild — which is why it's known as one of the world's rarest great ape subspecies.</p><p>There are both federal and state laws in Nigeria that aim to protect great apes, but enforcement of those laws is lacking. And as the human population grows, Cross River gorillas have come under increasing pressure. Human activities like the conversion of the gorillas' forest habitat to farmland, commercial logging, and the building of new roads drive habitat loss and fragmentation. The bushmeat trade is another notable threat to the gorillas' survival — and thanks to the new roads the government is building to connect remote areas of the country, even the most secluded forests are no longer safe havens for the great apes.</p><p>We're joined on the program today by Hillary Chukwuemeka, host of a radio program called "My Gorilla My Community" that is broadcast to numerous communities on the frontlines of gorilla conservation in Nigeria and encourages them to become active participants in the protection of the subspecies. Chukwuemeka talks about why his radio program is an effective means of community engagement and the impacts he's seen from time spent in local communities.</p><p>We also speak with Inaoyom Imong, program director for the Cross River landscape with Wildlife Conservation Society Nigeria and a member of the IUCN Primate Specialist Group. Inaoyom discusses the major threats to Cross River gorillas, the main barriers to their conservation, and why community-based conservation measures are so important in this context.</p>
<p><em>Reposted with permission from <a href="https://news.mongabay.com/2020/10/podcast-a-radio-program-is-helping-save-critically-endangered-gorillas-in-nigeria/" target="_blank">Mongabay</a>.</em></p>From Your Site Articles
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