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Green Protein? Getting Protein From Plants Instead Of Meat Could Extend Your Life.

Green Protein? Getting Protein From Plants Instead Of Meat Could Extend Your Life. New study tells veggie lovers to eat their share and meat lovers not to despair. The amount, as well as the source, of protein you consume may affect your lifespan, according to a research study recently published in JAMA Internal Medicine. Conducted […]

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New study tells veggie lovers to eat their share and meat lovers not to despair.

The amount, as well as the source, of protein you consume may affect your lifespan, according to a research study recently published in JAMA Internal Medicine. Conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital, the new analysis found that people who consumed a large amounts of animal protein had a higher-than-average risk of perishing over the next few decades, especially if those individuals favored processed red meat as opposed to fish or poultry. Conversely, individuals who consumed more plant-based protein had a lower-than-average risk of death.

The new research incorporated data from two long-term studies, which monitored more than 170,000 total participants collectively. These studies’ participants were tracked for 26 to 30 years and responded to survey questionnaires about their health and eating habits every few years. On average, the test subjects received approximately 14% of their daily calories from animal protein and about 4% from plant-based protein. During the course of the study, more than 36,000 of the participants died.

After an adjustment of the results to account for lifestyle and other risk factors, researchers discovered that individuals who consumed the most animal protein —designated as any type of meat, eggs, or dairy — had a slightly increased risk of death. Individual who consumed less animal protein and ingested more protein from plant-based sources — such as breads, cereals, beans, nuts, pastas, and legumes —were the least likely to perish during the study.

Yet, the results of the new should not cause meat lovers to completely despair. The increased risk of death only applied to individuals who possessed at least one “unhealthy lifestyle” factor, such as being a heavy drinker, a smoker, overweight, obese, or a non-exerciser. For participants in the study who lived overall healthy lifestyles, the connection evaporated.

The study authors suspect that, in addition to lifestyle factors, the specific types of meat consumed also played a role.

“While we expected we might find the associations to be weaker in the healthy lifestyle group, we did not expect them to completely disappear,” said Mingyang Song, MD, a research fellow in the Massachusetts General Hospital Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit and Division of Gastroenterology, in a press release. “But when we looked deeper into the data, we found that — at similar levels of animal protein intake — those in the unhealthy lifestyle group consumed more red meats, eggs, and high-fat dairy, while the healthy lifestyle group consumed more fish and poultry.”

Actually, when researchers reclassified the study results into specific types of animal protein, they discovered that the connection between animal protein and increased risk of death applied primarily to individuals who consumed lots of processed and unprocessed red meats (including beef and pork), and not to poultry or fish.

Although this constitutes the largest study to examine the effects of different types of protein, its findings aren’t especially surprising. For a long time, experts have recommended plant-based proteins, poultry, and fish over red meat, which tends to be high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Health contributing nutrition editor Cynthia Sass, RD, notes that individuals who ingest less meat tend to weigh less and have lower rates of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Also, it’s not necessary to be a card-carrying vegetarian to embrace veggie-friendly habits, she explained in a post on Health.com last year. Eating more protein-packed pulses (peas, beans and lentils) can also offer benefits.

In that regard, this latest research study adds additional weight to what Sass and other nutrition experts have preached for years.

“Our findings suggest that people should consider eating more plant proteins than animal proteins,” said Dr. Song. “And when they do choose among sources of animal protein, fish and chicken are probably better choices.”

 
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CMMC Compliance: Essential Steps to Secure Your Business

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In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, maintaining robust cybersecurity measures is more crucial than ever. For businesses working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), achieving Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) compliance is a critical step in safeguarding sensitive information. This blog will guide you through the essential steps to secure your business and achieve CMMC compliance.

Understanding CMMC Compliance

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a unified cybersecurity standard required for organizations that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in DoD contracts. The CMMC framework consists of five levels, each with increasing cybersecurity practices and processes to protect sensitive data.

Why is CMMC Compliance Important?

CMMC compliance is not just a regulatory obligation; it is a strategic necessity to protect your company’s data and maintain trust with the DoD. Non-compliance can lead to severe repercussions, including losing contracts and damaging your organization’s reputation. By obtaining CMMC certification, you demonstrate your commitment to cybersecurity excellence and enhance your competitive edge in the defense sector.

Steps to Achieve CMMC Compliance

Step 1: Conduct a Comprehensive Gap Analysis

The first step towards CMMC compliance is conducting a thorough gap analysis. This involves assessing your current cybersecurity posture, identifying areas of weakness, and understanding the requirements of the CMMC level applicable to your business. Collaborate with a certified CMMC assessor to gain insights into your compliance status and areas that need improvement.

Step 2: Develop a Cybersecurity Roadmap

Once you’ve identified the gaps, create a detailed cybersecurity roadmap outlining the necessary actions to achieve CMMC compliance. Prioritize tasks based on risk levels and resource availability. Your roadmap should include implementing security controls, enhancing policies, and establishing a clear timeline for each phase of the compliance process.

Step 3: Implement Required Security Controls

To meet CMMC requirements, your organization must implement the necessary security controls and practices. This may involve upgrading your IT infrastructure, deploying advanced threat detection systems, and improving access controls. Regularly update and patch software to mitigate vulnerabilities and ensure your security measures are up-to-date.

Step 4: Train Your Workforce

Human error is a significant risk factor in cybersecurity incidents. Educate your employees about the importance of CMMC compliance and best practices for data protection. Conduct regular training sessions to raise awareness about potential threats like phishing attacks and social engineering tactics. Foster a culture of cybersecurity within your organization to minimize risk and ensure everyone is vigilant.

Step 5: Monitor and Continuously Improve

CMMC compliance is not a one-time achievement; it requires ongoing vigilance and improvement. Regularly monitor your systems for vulnerabilities and assess the effectiveness of your cybersecurity measures. Conduct periodic internal audits to identify any deviations from compliance standards and take corrective actions promptly.

Achieving CMMC compliance is a vital step in securing your business and protecting sensitive information from emerging cyber threats. By following these essential steps, you can strengthen your cybersecurity posture, gain a competitive advantage, and demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding valuable data.

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Clear Aligners for Adults: Achieving a Straight Smile at Any Age

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Teeth whitening. Woman with white smile holding Invisible teeth tray . Orthodontic silicone trainer. Invisible braces aligner.

Advancements in dental care make achieving a straight, beautiful smile more accessible than ever. Adults who want to enhance their smile should consider clear aligners in Chicago as an ideal solution. These modern orthodontic tools transform your teeth with ease while maintaining aesthetic appeal throughout the process. With the rising popularity of clear aligners for adults, many individuals have discovered the benefits of this innovative treatment.

Why Clear Aligners for Adults?

A perfect smile conveys confidence and openness. Many adults desire this enhancement but hesitate at the thought of traditional braces. Clear aligners tackle these concerns directly. They offer an effective solution without the inconvenience of metal brackets. Their virtual invisibility allows you to pursue orthodontic treatment without sacrificing your natural appearance.

Clear aligners provide comfort that traditional braces cannot match. These custom-made aligners fit snugly over your teeth, eliminating painful adjustments often associated with metal braces. Adults appreciate the convenience of removable aligners, which simplify brushing, flossing, and eating.

Clear Aligners vs. Traditional Braces

When considering orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of both clear aligners and traditional braces. Clear aligners offer several advantages. They provide a nearly invisible treatment option that allows adults to maintain their professional and personal lives without self-consciousness. In contrast, traditional braces appear more conspicuous and may require dietary restrictions to prevent damaging the brackets and wires. Clear aligners remove these concerns, seamlessly integrating into your daily life.

Another key consideration is comfort. Crafting clear aligners from smooth plastic reduces the risk of irritation or injury inside the mouth. Traditional braces, however, may cause discomfort with their metal components.

The Aligner Process

The aligner process begins with an initial consultation. During this appointment, your orthodontist assesses your dental needs and goals. They take digital impressions to create a treatment plan tailored specifically for you. This detailed approach ensures you achieve precise and efficient results.

Advanced technology plays a crucial role in the aligner process. Orthodontists employ 3D imaging and computer modeling to design each set of aligners. These technologies provide a clear roadmap for your treatment and enable you to visualize the potential outcomes before even starting.

Once you begin using your aligners, you typically switch to a new set every one to two weeks. Each new aligner set adjusts teeth incrementally until you achieve the desired alignment. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist help track your progress and provide an opportunity for any necessary adjustments.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

Some adults believe that clear aligners only suit mild cases of misalignment, but this is a misconception. Clear aligners effectively treat a wide range of dental issues, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, and even some complex cases. However, consulting a qualified orthodontist remains crucial to determine if they are the right choice for your specific needs.

Another common misunderstanding is that clear aligners require a longer treatment duration than traditional braces. While treatment time varies based on individual needs, many people find that clear aligners offer comparable or even shorter treatment periods due to the precise planning involved.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Perfect Smile

If you’re an adult living in Chicago and considering orthodontic treatment, clear aligners offer a discreet, comfortable, and efficient path to achieving your dream smile. Don’t wait another day to boost your confidence and transform your appearance. Schedule a personalized consultation to explore how clear aligners can meet your specific needs.

About Aligner Experts

Aligner Experts specialize in providing top-tier orthodontic solutions to help patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. They utilize cutting-edge technology and personalized treatment plans for optimal results. Visit Aligner Experts to learn more about their services and book your consultation today.

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Top 7 Questions to Ask About Your Business Owners Policy

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In the world of entrepreneurship, protecting your business is as critical as nurturing it. One way to ensure your company is safeguarded against unexpected risks is by investing in a Business Owners Policy (BOP). A BOP bundles various types of coverage into one package, tailored specifically for small to medium-sized businesses. While this sounds straightforward, knowing the right questions to ask when considering a BOP can make all the difference in ensuring your business is adequately protected. Here are the top 7 questions to guide your decision-making process.

1. What Does a BOP Typically Cover?

Understanding what a Business Owners Policy covers is foundational. Generally, a BOP includes property insurance, liability protection, and business interruption insurance. Property insurance covers damage to your building and its contents, while liability protection covers legal responsibilities if your products or services cause harm. Business interruption insurance will help replace lost income if you’re unable to operate due to a covered loss. Knowing these basics will help you identify if a BOP is sufficient for your needs or if additional policies are necessary.

2. Does My Business Qualify for a BOP?

Not every business qualifies for a BOP, as it’s specifically designed for small to medium-sized enterprises. Factors such as your industry, the size of your business, and annual revenue are considered. For instance, businesses with large-scale operations may need more comprehensive coverage beyond what a BOP offers. Be sure to discuss these details with your insurance provider to ascertain eligibility and the best type of coverage for your business.

3. Are There Any Coverage Limitations or Exclusions?

While a BOP provides broad coverage, there may be limitations or exclusions specific to your industry or the nature of your business. For example, a BOP might not cover certain natural disasters like floods or earthquakes, which may require specialized policies. It’s crucial to thoroughly review the exclusions with your insurance provider to avoid surprises when filing a claim.

4. How is the Premium Determined?

Understanding how premiums are calculated can help you budget for your insurance needs. Various factors can influence the cost, including the size of your business, location, claims history, and the specific risks associated with your industry. Ask your agent to walk you through the premium calculation process, and inquire about potential discounts for combining policies or implementing risk management strategies.

5. Can I Customize My Policy?

Every business is unique, and your insurance policy should reflect that. While a BOP offers standard coverage, many insurance providers allow for customization to better suit your needs. You might consider adding data breach coverage, professional liability insurance, or other endorsements. Discuss customization options with your provider to ensure your policy aligns with your specific risks.

6. What is the Claims Process Like?

In the event of a loss, understanding the claims process is vital. Ask your provider about the steps involved in filing a claim, the documentation required, and the average time frame for claims processing. Additionally, inquire about the support and resources available to assist you during the claims process. A clear understanding of these details will help you manage expectations and minimize stress during difficult times.

7. How Often Should I Review My Policy?

Businesses evolve, and so do their insurance needs. Regularly reviewing your BOP is essential to ensure it remains aligned with your current operations. Ask your provider how often you should review your policy and what factors might prompt a reassessment. Whether you’re expanding, scaling back, or diversifying, keeping your coverage up to date is crucial for comprehensive protection.

Securing a Business Owners Policy is a prudent step in safeguarding your business. By asking the right questions and understanding the ins and outs of your policy, you can ensure that your business is well-protected against potential risks. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to tailor your policy to your specific requirements. Remember, your business is an investment—protecting it should be a priority.

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