While most people think of strawberries as berries, they are technically aggregate fruits, or false fruits, because they develop from multiple ovaries. Each seed on a strawberry is actually an ovary. Bananas, on the other hand, are true berries as they develop from a single ovary and have a fleshy middle, a peel, and seeds inside.
The confusion between the common and botanical names for fruits arises from the fact that people have been naming fruits for thousands of years, long before botanists came up with a precise definition. Even today, botanists sometimes disagree on the exact classification of some fruits, and the criteria for defining berries and fruits differ between common language and botanical language.
More examples of false fruits:
Apples: The thalamus of the apple is the edible part of the fruit.
Pears: A pome fruit, like apples, with a tough outer layer and a fleshy core.
Cashews: The cashew apple is the false fruit, while the cashew nut is the true fruit.
Pineapples: A multiple fruit formed when many unpollinated flowers fuse together.
Watermelons: A Cucurbitaceae plant that produces a false berry.
Pumpkins: A Cucurbitaceae plant that produces a false berry.
Zucchinis: A Cucurbitaceae plant that produces a false berry.
Gooseberries: A Ribes plant that produces a false berry
Yes, despite their different colors, Froot Loops are all the same flavor. The colorful cereal pieces are made to look visually distinct, but they all have the same sweet, fruity taste.
The flavor is a sweet, sugary combination with hints of citrus, berry, and tropical fruit, which makes it taste like a generic “fruit” flavor. However, it’s not designed to mimic any particular fruit, like orange or strawberry, despite the colorful appearance of the cereal pieces. The blend is intentionally crafted to be a fun and fruity taste, appealing to a wide range of palates without focusing on any one specific fruit. This is a common feature in many cereals where the colors are used for visual appeal rather than distinct flavor profiles.
In some European countries, Froot Loops might be sold under different names or slightly altered packaging. The ingredients used in Froot Loops in Europe might differ slightly from those in the U.S. due to stricter food regulations in some European countries, especially concerning artificial colors and preservatives. In the U.S., Froot Loops contain artificial food colorings (like Red 40, Blue 1, etc.), while in some European countries, these may be replaced with natural food colorings to meet local standards.
Although Froot Loops have the same general fruity flavor worldwide, European versions may have slight variations in taste, sometimes due to the differences in sugar content or the use of alternative flavorings. The color-coded “fruit” flavor in the U.S. is generally uniform across all the loops, but the fruity flavor might be perceived slightly differently in Europe due to regional taste preferences or ingredient adjustments.
There is a popular theory that suggests roller coasters were invented as a means of distracting people from sinful or immoral behavior. It connects to the broader context of 19th-century America, where moral concerns were tied to public amusements.
LaMarcus Adna Thompson, who is often credited with creating the first true roller coaster in 1884, built the Switchback Railway at Coney Island, New York. This ride was designed to be a simple, gentle thrill with small drops. While Thompson was a businessman, he was also a devout Christian, and some sources suggest that he may have been motivated, in part, by a desire to create wholesome entertainment for the public. There are claims that he believed his roller coaster could provide a healthier, more moral form of entertainment compared to other activities that were seen as immoral or sinful, such as gambling or drinking.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, there was an ongoing moral and religious concern about the types of entertainment available in growing cities. Amusement parks often became associated with vice, such as alcohol, gambling, and promiscuity, leading some community leaders and religious groups to seek ways to counteract these “sinful” behaviors by offering wholesome alternatives. Roller coasters, as thrilling but safe, fast-paced rides, could be marketed as a way to divert people from these vices by offering exciting, yet clean, fun.
It can be said that the invention of roller coasters, along with other amusements like fairs and games, aimed to provide an alternative to the more morally questionable activities that were common in certain areas. The excitement and physical sensation of speed, height, and gravity on a roller coaster could engage people’s attention, offering a distraction from what some saw as sinful desires.
The rose family, scientifically known as Rosaceae, includes a diverse group of plants. Apart from roses (Rosa), the family contains many other well-known fruit-bearing plants and ornamental species. Here are some of the key members of the rose family:
Apples (Malus): Includes cultivated apples and ornamental varieties.
Pears (Pyrus): Includes cultivated pears and ornamental species.
Cherries (Prunus): Includes sweet and sour cherries, as well as ornamental cherry trees.
Plums (Prunus): Includes edible plums and prunes, as well as ornamental varieties.
Peaches (Prunus): Includes peaches and nectarines.
Strawberries (Fragaria): Includes garden strawberries and related species.
Raspberries (Rubus): Includes raspberries and blackberries.
Blackberries (Rubus): Includes both wild and cultivated blackberries.
Almonds (Prunus): Includes the cultivated almond tree.
Loquats (Eriobotrya): A small tree with edible fruit, native to East Asia.
These plants share certain botanical characteristics, such as similar flower structures and the presence of five-petaled flowers, and they are often grown for their fruit, flowers, or as ornamental plants.
Roses, in fact, bear fruit as well. The fruit of the rose plant is called a hip. Rose hips are typically small, round, or oval-shaped, and they develop after the rose flower has been pollinated. The hip is actually a swollen part of the flower’s base, and it contains seeds inside.
Rose hips are often red, orange, or sometimes purple, depending on the variety of rose. While they are not usually consumed raw due to their tartness and potential fuzziness from the seeds, they are commonly used to make jams, jellies, syrups, and teas. Rose hips are also valued for their high vitamin C content.
Mexico’s presidential residence, Los Pinos, was the official residence of the President of Mexico until 2018, when it was opened to the public as a cultural center. While it no longer serves as the President’s home, it remains a significant site.
The estate spans approximately 56 acres. It includes multiple buildings, vast gardens, and recreational areas, offering a blend of historical and modern architectural elements. The complex has several structures, including the presidential residence, guest houses, and working offices for the president.
In comparison, the White House in Washington D.C. occupies 18 acres and is the U.S. president’s residence, covering a large area in the heart of the U.S. capital.
Since 2018, the Mexican President now resides in a different location, the National Palace (Palacio Nacional) in the Zócalo, the main square in Mexico City, while Los Pinos serves a more public and cultural role. The National Palace occupies about 10 acres.
While both are impressive buildings, the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, India, comes in at 330 acres and is one of the largest presidential palaces in the world, serving as the official residence of the President of India. The palace includes vast gardens, formal courtyards, and a grand building that blends Mughal and colonial architectural styles.
Famed hamburger chain McDonald’s has a widespread global presence, but the Big Mac is not available in all countries or regions. For example, there are no McDonald’s restaurants in countries like Afghanistan, Bhutan, or North Korea, and there are some smaller territories or remote areas where McDonald’s does not have outlets. In terms of continents, McDonald’s is present on every continent except Antarctica.
As of 2023, McDonald’s has sold over 400 billion hamburgers since the company first opened its doors in 1955. The iconic slogan “Over 400 billion served” has been part of McDonald’s branding for many years, signifying their massive global reach and success in serving millions of customers daily. The exact number is always growing, as McDonald’s continues to sell millions of hamburgers each day across its many locations worldwide.
The United States has the most McDonald’s locations, with over 13,000 restaurants, making it by far the largest market for the brand. As of the latest available data, here are the top 10 countries with the most McDonald’s locations:
United States – Over 13,000 locations
Japan – Around 3,000 locations
China – Over 3,500 locations
Germany – Around 1,500 locations
France – Over 1,400 locations
Canada – Around 1,400 locations
Brazil – Over 1,000 locations
United Kingdom – Over 1,300 locations
Russia – Over 600 locations (prior to 2022, before McDonald’s pulled out due to political tensions)
Australia – Around 1,000 locations
McDonald’s has tailored its Big Mac to local tastes and preferences in various countries, creating culturally altered versions of the classic burger. Here are a few examples:
McAloo Tikki: In India, where beef is not widely consumed due to cultural and religious reasons, the Big Mac is replaced with a vegetarian option. The McAloo Tikki burger features a spiced potato patty, instead of the traditional beef patties, and is served with an array of local sauces.
Teriyaki Mac: In Japan, the Big Mac is adapted to suit local flavors by adding a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce to the burger. The Teriyaki Mac features a grilled chicken patty or beef patty with the teriyaki glaze.
The “Big Mac with Beetroot”: In some regions of Australia, the Big Mac comes with a slice of beetroot, a popular ingredient in Australian cuisine. The beetroot adds a unique flavor and texture to the traditional Big Mac.
McMolletes Big Mac: In Mexico, McDonald’s introduced the “McMolletes,” a breakfast option that includes a Big Mac bun topped with refried beans, cheese, and salsa, giving it a more distinctly Mexican twist.
Bulgogi Burger: South Korea’s version of the Big Mac features bulgogi, a popular Korean marinated beef dish. The Bulgogi Burger combines the Big Mac’s structure with the unique flavors of Korean barbecue.
McArabia: In some Middle Eastern countries, McDonald’s offers the McArabia, a flatbread wrap instead of the traditional Big Mac bun. It features grilled chicken or beef patties with local seasonings, providing a more culturally familiar taste.
Fluoridation rates can vary widely within states, depending on local preferences and public health policies.
While there’s a strong push for community water fluoridation in the U.S. due to its benefits in preventing dental decay, opposition to it often centers around health concerns and the belief in individual choice, leading to variability in adoption across states and municipalities.
As of recent data, most U.S. states allow fluoride to be added to public drinking water, but there are a few exceptions where fluoridation is either banned or not mandatory. These states typically have local control, meaning individual communities can choose whether or not to fluoridate their water.
Alaska: While some cities in Alaska fluoridate their water, the state does not mandate it.
California: No statewide ban, but there are several cities in California that do not fluoridate their water.
Hawaii: Hawaii does not mandate fluoridation statewide, but it does allow it at the local level.
Missouri: Missouri does not mandate fluoridation, and local jurisdictions can decide.
North Carolina: The state has local control, and some areas opt out of fluoridation.
Oklahoma: Similar to other states, municipalities in Oklahoma may choose whether to fluoridate their water.
Montana and Wyoming also have smaller communities that do not fluoridate their water.
New Jersey, while not banning fluoridation outright, has certain municipalities that opt out of the practice, reflecting local decision-making.
Overall, the risks mainly arise from excessive fluoride exposure, which is uncommon with regulated public water systems. The main risks of fluoride are:
Dental fluorosis: Overexposure in children during tooth development can lead to cosmetic changes like white spots or streaks on teeth.
Skeletal fluorosis: Long-term excessive fluoride intake can cause joint pain and stiffness, affecting bones, though this is rare in areas with regulated fluoride levels.
Thyroid issues: High fluoride levels may impact thyroid function by lowering iodine levels, but evidence is limited and typically associated with very high exposures.
Potential neurotoxicity: Some studies suggest a possible link between fluoride and reduced IQ in children, but these findings are controversial and not conclusive at normal exposure levels.
If you’re male and you haven’t done this already, get to know your testes. All men should know how their testicles feel and report any changes to their physician. If you’re experiencing testicular atrophy (shrinking testicles) you’re probably a little frightened and wondering what the heck is happening. Let’s delve into possible reasons and solutions for shrinking testicles.
Get more sleep
Most understand the importance of a good night’s rest for overall health. But if your testicles are shrinking, it could be due to a lack of sleep.A study from the University of Southern Denmark found a link between the quality of sleep and testicle size. Researchers conducted a cross-sectional study that included 953 young Danish men from the general population. Researchers studied sleep schedules, interruptions in sleep, and sleep habits. The men’s testicles were also measured. Researchers also took sperm and assessed for sperm count and viability.
It turns out that sleep-deprived men actually have lower testosterone levels. They also have reduced sperm counts — not to mention, testicle shrinkage. In those men who suffered from insomnia, staying up late, or had inconsistent sleep throughout the night and woke up often, researchers found that sperm counts dropped by 29 percent. Additionally, sperm was more deformed and testicles were smaller.
Cool it on the booze
If you are a lover of beer, wine, or liquor and you’re noticing shrinkage “down under,” listen up! An animal and human study published in ScienceDirect found that chronic alcohol consumption caused changes to Leydig cell shape and function. These cells are located adjacent to the testicular seminiferous tubules (where sperm cells are produced). Alcohol causes the tubules to shrink. Additionally, the processes involving the way alcohol alters testicular energy metabolism and sperm cell mitochondria leads to cell death. Together, these processes eventually lead to testicular shrinkage in both animals and humans.
However, the study was primarily created to see if testicles could “bounce back” to their original size through alcohol abstinence. And the good news is, if you stop drinking, or even reduce your chronic intake of alcohol, your testicles will likely regain their full size.
Avoid aluminum
Aluminum can be found in common household items, like deodorant, and it contributes to testicles shrinking.
Aluminum can be found widely throughout our daily lives. In fact, it’s the most abundant metal in the earth’s crust. Aluminum is used to make food and beverage cans, pots and pans, airplanes, siding and roofing, foil, and a variety of consumer products such as:
Antacids and buffered aspirins
Astringents and cosmetics
Antiperspirants
Flour and baking powder
Coloring agents and anti-caking agents
Aluminum compounds can also be found in water treatment, pharmaceuticals, utensils, and food additives. So, this makes it difficult to avoid exposure. The problem is, overexposure to aluminum may contribute to alow sperm count and infertility in men, with a side effect of smaller testicles.A study published in the International Journal of Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology reviewed the toxic effect of aluminum exposure on the male reproductive system.
Researchers found a link between exposure and adverse effects on sperm motility, viability, and count, histology of testis and epididymis (duct behind the testis) as well as reproductive hormone levels. Exposure may also lead to oxidative stress in the testicles, causing cells to die and the testicles to shrink.
Limit your exposure to aluminum by choosing aluminum-free deodorants, personal care products, antacids, and buffered aspirin. In fact, according to theAgency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry antacids contain 300 to 600 milligrams of aluminum hydroxide (about 104 to 208 milligrams of aluminum) per tablet. And buffered aspirin may contain 10 to 20 milligrams of aluminum per tablet.
Protect your testicles
Just the mention of getting kicked in the gonads can cause a man to wince. That’s because testicles have the most pain receptors concentrated in any one area of a man’s body, with nerves extending to the ears, stomach, and groin. Because the testes are located within the scrotum, which hangs outside of the body, they’re not protected by muscles and bones, says theCleveland Clinic. That means it’s easier for testes to be struck, hit, kicked, or crushed, which happens most often during contact sports.
Ina study by the Department of Radiology at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the University of Cambridge, researchers found that trauma to the scrotum is not only a cause of testicular atrophy but may also affect testicular size months or years following an injury. Researchers performed clinical and sonographic examinations in 10 patients who had suffered blunt trauma to the testicles. A significant reduction in the volume of the injured testis was found in five out of 10 cases.
So, while most men don’t experience such trauma daily, athletes should make sure they are well-protected by wearing athletic cups during sports and even skateboarding.
Stop smoking weed
Smoking too much marijuana can contribute to testicles shrinking.
Although studies on weed and its effect on reproductive hormones have been conflicting, some studies suggest that chronic marijuana use may lead to lower testosterone levels and a reduction in testicular size. Apparently, shrinking testicles have been observed in rodents and dogs after being administered cannabis extract. According toa study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, THC (the main active compound in marijuana) is apparently to blame. But, the research is relatively outdated.
Nevertheless, although outdated, the study suggests that smoking weed lowers testosterone levels, either directly or through precursor hormones. Or, it causes testicular atrophy in animals. So, if you’ve noticed a difference in testicular size and you’re a chronic smoker, it’s best to try and stop.
Cool it on the soy
The benefits and dangers of soy may be up for debate. But one of the more disturbing claims is that soy “feminizes” men. While soy milk provides many potential health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease and protection from prostate cancer, some research suggests it may have negative side effects for men when consumed frequently. In fact, soy is even thought to shrink testicles andlower testosterone levels.
Soybeans are rich in phytoestrogens. The chemical structure of phytoestrogens is very similar to that of the human sex hormone estrogen. This similarity allows phytoestrogens to sometimes mimic or hinder the hormone with estrogen receptors.
A study from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey set out to determine if a commonly used soy protein supplement exhibits biological activity. Researchers studied healthy male volunteers, aged 18 years or older that were in good health. They consumed two scoops of pure soy protein powder daily for 28 days. It turns out soy protein powder actually decreased testosterone levels, thanks to the estrogen. This same estrogen may also cause testicular shrinkage. The good news is, when study participants discontinued the soy protein powder, testosterone levels increased within two weeks.
Stop using steroids
Steroids can have several harmful side effects, including shrinking of the testicles.
Testicular atrophy, or shrinking balls, are most commonly associated with steroid use. Anabolic steroids are synthetic types of the male sex hormone testosterone. Some common names for anabolic steroids are gear, juice, roids and stackers. A medical professional may prescribe steroids to treat hormonal issues, such as delayed puberty. They can also treat diseases that cause muscle loss, such as cancer and AIDS, suggests theNational Institute of Drug Abuse (NIH).
The problem begins when some athletes and bodybuilders abuse steroids to boost their performance or improve their physical appearance. With that may come more than you bargained for. According to the NIH, steroid use may also:
Decrease sperm count
Contribute to baldness
Encourage the development of breasts
Increase your risk for prostate cancer
And, you guessed it, shrink your testicles
When the brain senses that there are high levels of testosterone in the blood, it assumes the testosterone is coming from the testicle. So, the brain then shuts off the production of FSH, a hormone that stimulates the production of testosterone in the testicle. As a result, the testicles begin to shrink.
When to visit your doctor
More than likely there is a simple reason behind your shrinking testicles. However, if shrinkage is accompanied by pain or diminished libido, visit your doctor. You may also want your doctor to test your testosterone to estrogen levels. Take charge of your health. Shrinking testicles may seem scary and embarrassing. But, being proactive will help prevent any long-term complications.
Honestly, it would be easier to list the problems that coconut oil can’t solve rather than the ones it can. Keep a jar of this all-purpose oil in your bathroom and your kitchen to help with everything from dry elbows to halitosis. If you’re still not sold on coconut oil, check out our list for just a few of life’s problems that are eliminated by this tropical treasure.
Moisturize dry skin
Perhaps one of the most well-researched and famous uses of coconut oil is its ability to replenish dry skin. This oil is a nourishing powerhouse and is full of beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants that work to heal your skin, boost collagen production, and prevent issues such as eczema and rosacea.
Prevent razor bumps
Coconut oil works as a naturally hydrating shaving cream that will give you a close shave while penetrating your skin to prevent rashes and shaving cuts. Be cautious when shaving during a shower as the heat from the water can cause the coconut oil to become incredibly slippery.
Remove stubborn makeup
Many commercial makeup removers are full of harsh ingredients that damage and dry out your skin. This wonder oil works to remove even the most stubborn waterproof mascara with just a few swipes. Be sure to rinse and cleanse your face following use as too much oil can clog your pores.
Cook at high heat
Because of its high saturated fat content, coconut oil is one of the all-time best oils for cooking things at high heat. Unlike other unhealthy oils such as vegetable and safflower, it retains its structure and will not break down during cooking.
Trim your waistline
If you eat a healthy, whole foods diet and exercise regularly but still can’t lose those last few pounds, coconut oil could help you cross the line to your weight loss goal. It has been shown to be an effective tool for cutting down on excess visceral fat along with a healthy lifestyle. It may also help reduce hunger, which can lead to a lower calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.
Reduce inflammation
Chronic inflammation can be dangerous and severely debilitating. Adding coconut oil to your diet helps reduce this inflammation and markers of oxidative stress.
Restore shine to wood furniture
Over time, wood furniture can get grimy and dusty, and no amount of cleaning seems able to restore its shine. Instead of purchasing commercial wood polish with dangerous chemicals and weird-smelling fragrances, simply place a little coconut oil on a soft cloth and apply in a circular motion. It will soak into your furniture and leave it gleaming!
Act as a carrier oil
Essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin since they can cause burning and rashes and are too potent on their own. Combine them with a gentle carrier oil such as coconut oil to receive all of the health benefits of both.
Restore lifeless hair
If you use a lot of heat on your hair such as blow dryers and flat irons, you are probably accustomed to dealing with brittle ends and dry, lifeless locks. Lauric acid, the main fatty acid in coconut oil, has been shown to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively than other oils that simply sit on the surface. Use a coconut oil mask every few weeks to give your thirsty hair the moisture it craves.
Eliminate bad breath
Oil pulling, or swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 20 minutes before spitting it out, can improve your oral health and eliminate bad breath once and for all. Since coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, this practice can also help clear away germs in the mouth, prevent gum infection, and even leave your teeth whiter.
Act as a mild sunscreen
Though coconut oil won’t keep you from burning if you spend hours in the sun, it provides about 20% protection from the sun’s UV rays and can be an adequate daily sunscreen for normal activities. Always be sure to cover up in the bright sun and use a higher SFP mineral sunscreen when spending significant time outdoors.
Note: Always use unrefined organic coconut oil.
–Susan Patterson, Certified Health Coach, and Master Gardener
Even the best “high quality” dark roasts can make an acidic cup of coffee, though cheaper blends are notorious for being overly acidic. And acid can be hard on a sensitive stomach, particularly if you enjoy more than one cup of coffee a day. So how does baking soda improve an acidic cup of Joe?
Even the best coffee beans produce acid
Beyond using it as a natural cleaning agent to remove stains for your coffee pot, some believe that baking soda can actually improve the taste of coffee. It’s no secret that coffee can be a tad acidic. But for many, giving up their morning cup of coffee is not an option. And truthfully, with science continuing to study coffee and the many benefits it provides, it’s easy to see why coffee lovers would never want to give up their morning cup of brew. Yet, if drinking coffee is contributing to excess stomach acid and causing you digestive upset, then you’re probably thinking you’d be better off without it. Think again.
According toHarvard Health, coffee drinking is associated with a lower risk of depression among women, a lower risk of fatal prostate cancer among men, and a lower risk of stroke among both men and women. Human and animal studies show some protection against Alzheimer’s disease and a lower risk for some cancers like estrogen-negative breast cancer.
Coffee is fairly acidic on a pH scale
Coffee has a pH of five, and baking soda can help neutralize it.
Acidity is something that’s measured on the pH scale, which uses 7.0 as an indicator of neutrality. So, numbers under seven as are naturally more acidic than numbers above seven. For instance, according toScience Buddies, battery acid is zero. Clearly, that’s highly acidic. Lemon juice registers at about two, and black coffee registers at a pH of about five. But rather than kicking your “acidic” coffee habit — and there are clearly good reasons to keep drinking coffee — why not neutralize the acid in your brew?
Helps neutralize an acidic cup of coffee
In water, baking soda is mildly alkaline and can be used to neutralize the acid. That’s why, when it dissolves in water, it works well as a natural antacid remedy. Its alkalinity is also why it makes a great deodorizer — by countering slightly acidic scent molecules. On the pH scale baking soda registers as a nine.
That means by simply adding a little baking soda to your coffee you could neutralize the acid to avoid stomach upset. There’s two way you can do that. You can add about a quarter teaspoon to your coffee beans for a pot of coffee, or you can add just a pinch (small pinch) to your cup of coffee.
Helps acid reflux or GERD
Research shows that baking soda can counteract acid reflux.
Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee exacerbate gastroesophageal reflux according to a Germanstudy. However, coffee creates more reflux than simply caffeine added to water. This suggests that other components of coffee contribute to acid reflux. A small pinch of baking soda can help counteract acid reflux.
May help relieve gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis, according to theArthritis Foundation. It develops in some people who have high levels of uric acid in the blood. The acid can form painful needle-like crystals in a joint and cause severe episodes of pain, tenderness, redness, warmth, and swelling.
Due to baking soda’s pH neutralizing effects, it may help lower uric acid levels. According toGoutDiet.org baking soda introduced to the blood alkalinizes it, causing the uric acid structures to break up. Then, they can easily filter out the kidneys and expel through the urine. Add a pinch to your coffee or more as needed.
If you suffer from ulcers, baking soda can help
Since baking sodaneutralizes stomach acid, it can help make coffee drinking more bearable if you suffer from a stomach ulcer. Add a quarter to a half teaspoon to your coffee grounds.
Let’s break down baking soda
Most of the baking soda in America comes from Wyoming.
While most of us often keep a box of baking soda in the house for baking, as a deodorizer for the fridge, or as anatural cleaning alternative (and now for neutralizing acidic coffee), some still aren’t sure what exactly baking soda is. So, let’s break it down.
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical salt that occurs naturally as the mineral nahcolite. This is a soft, colorless, or white carbonate mineral. Nahcolite was first described in 1928 when it was found in a lava tunnel at Mount Vesuvius, Italy.NaHCO3, as it’s known chemically, contains sodium (NA), hydrogen (H) and carbonate (CO).
Baking soda in North America
So, where does America get its baking soda from? Well, most baking soda in the U.S. comes from Green River, Wyoming. According toArm & Hammer, the baking soda from Green River is mined from trona ore. Trona deposits were molded over four million years ago after the evaporation of great salt lakes in Wyoming. Trona also comes from Kenya, Egypt, Venezuela and the deserts of Central Asia. After it’s mined, it’s heated to make soda ash, which is then dissolved in water. When carbon dioxide bubbles under pressure through the solution, sodium bicarbonate is formed.
Side effects of baking soda
Now that you know all about baking soda, let’s talk about how to use it properly. Although larger quantities of bakingsoda have been used to remedy indigestion, in much the same way antacids are used, you can still go overboard and risk side effects. Drinking baking soda is like drinking saltwater. It’s extremely high in sodium and will raise your blood pressure. And too much sodium is linked to kidney and heart issues in healthy people.
And of course, too much baking soda in your coffee can leave you with a less than tasty cup that leaves you with a soapy taste in your mouth. Generally, to reduce the acidic nature of coffee, just a small pinch is all you need. Enjoy!
-Susan Patterson, Certified Health Coach, and Master Gardener
Many of us rely on our morning cup of coffee to get the day started. The delicious aroma of a warm cup of coffee just sets the tone for the day ahead. What you might not know is that coffee itself, as well as the grounds, are good for so much more.
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