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Showing posts from October, 2024

Salmonella and Eggs: Safety Tips for Consumers

  Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, and one of the most common sources of this pathogen is eggs. While eggs are a staple in many diets around the world, understanding how to handle and prepare them safely is crucial to prevent Salmonella infection. In this blog post, we will explore what Salmonella is, how it can contaminate eggs, and best practices for safe egg consumption. What is Salmonella? Salmonella is a genus of bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting, which can appear 6 hours to 6 days after infection. While most people recover without treatment, severe cases can lead to hospitalization, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.   How Can Eggs Be Contaminated? From the Hen: Salmonella can live in the intestines of healthy chickens. If the eggs are contaminated during the laying

Cholesterol 101: Essential Insights for a Heart-Healthy Life

Introduction Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood that is essential for the formation of cells, hormones, and vitamin D. Before you join the bandwagon of popular opinions about cholesterol, it’s important to recognize that not all cholesterol is created equal. Understanding the different types of cholesterol and their impact on health is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart and overall well-being. What is Cholesterol? Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream attached to proteins. This combination is known as lipoprotein. There are two main types of cholesterol: 1. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. 2. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries, transporting it back to the liver for elimination. Higher levels of HDL are associated