The genes of humans have been reported to contain unknown alien DNA. It suggests to be true of a theory that the human race emerged from a mix of ape and alien DNA. However, has this possible artificial evolution of the human race been proven to be too much too soon for the human race to handle?
In the IQ score report of different races worldwide, East Asians and Ashkenazi Jews are found to have the highest average race IQ compared to Whites who have higher average race IQ compared to Blacks.
A look at the recent world history saw the western nations created 2 world wars. The Whites enslaved lots of Blacks out of greed. The Japanese joined in WWII and enslaved many countries in South East Asia. The US destroyed much of Afghanistan harming lots of innocent civilians, countless of their soldiers suffered Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome and many committed suicide. Recently, the middle East used weapons created and supplied by the western nations to fuel their wars. North Korea has constantly been testing its nuclear weapons threatening to attack South Korea and the US. China also threatened Taiwan with military action due to its One China policy. Russia and Crimea started fighting each other with modern weapons.
Just like the misused of nuclear energy, it seems like the intelligence of humanity has also been greatly misused for supporting mass violence. Perhaps the artificial evolution of the human race has proved to be too much for humanity to handle responsibly.
The movie Planet of the Apes is a movie that clearly showed how the misuse of technology led to the self-destruction of the human race. And the lower IQ apes eventually took over and ruled over the humans. It seems like humanity is heading towards a similar direction. The modern western nations might destroy themselves and the aborigines and the indigenous people of various nations would remain intact and be the future of humanity.
If all of humanity still had the 'intelligence' of the Aborigines, Indigenous people, and the Blacks in Africa, perhaps the world would be a much peaceful and caring place.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
The countless everyday things that can cause cancer that people don't realize
Many people don't understand the causes of cancer. They think that the way to eliminate cancer is to kill cancer cells. All these people think of cancer is to fight it like retards.
The real cause of cancer is the unnatural interference of the cells' reproduction. When cells don't reproduce properly, they mutate into abnormal cells that become cancerous. Everyone has in their body a very small amount of such abnormal mutated cells that did not copy properly.
The everyday things that can increase such cancerous cells in the bodies are things that interfere with the normal cell reproduction. Such factors range from the chemicals in skin and beauty products, the toxic pesticide and herbicide chemicals in food, the chemicals in meat, the electromagnetic radiation from cellphones and internet usage etc etc.
Many people especially women use lots of beauty products, which is why they have such a high number of breast cancer rate. People should cut down the number of chemical-filled products they buy from stores and not get caught up by beauty advertisements that only encourage people to keep on using those chemical-filled products like there's no tomorrow.
The ways to prevent cancer is to:
cut down the usage of such artificial ingredients in skin care products,
eat more pesticide-free organic foods,
use a wired earpiece for talking on phones,
drink distilled water,
wear slippers at home so that one's feet would not get into contact with the residue from floor detergent on the floor,
swim only in clean water rather than the chlorine-rich swimming pool,
prevent spraying perfume on the skin,
use chemical-free sunblock,
wear gloves when using kitchen cleaning spray,
eat less processed preserved foods,
take natural antibiotics such as colloidal silver rather than artificial medicine,
take lemon juice for sore throat rather than strepsils or cough syrup,
rinse and don't wash the dishes and pots with detergent if possible,
reduce using hair products with chemicals but use coconut oil instead,
use natural dyes for colouring the hair,
reduce using eye drops but use water instead,
avoid using lots of make up,
rinse the mouth with salt water and lemon juice instead of using mouth wash,
use colloidal silver lotion for pimples rather than overdose on pimple cream,
use cheap shampoo that contain natural ingredients,
use coconut oil for moisturiser rather than chemical-filled moisturisers,
use kid's toothpaste rather than adult toothpaste,
try not to wash the clothes so often that would only expose the skin to lots of chemicals from detergent,
try not to use chlorine to whiten the clothes,
coat hands with coconut oil to prevent chemicals from things like receipts from entering the skin,
use home made shaving cream instead of store bought ones,
use negative ion devices to prevent cancer,
eat less microwaved food,
use BPA-free plastic bottles and use more glass containers to store food,
reduce grilling and baking of food,
take frequent breaks to recover from one's exposure to chemicals and radiation by staying home and resting.
Sunday, September 7, 2014
My Thoughts about Lucy, the Movie Starring Scarlett Johansson about a woman who gets to use 100% of the brain
The movie perpetuates the false myth that a person can be more intelligent simply by utilizing a higher percentage of the brain at one time.
It has been said that the brain has logical and artistic sides being the left and right sides respectively. So if people can get these two parts of the brain working better in cooperation, they would be able to perceive a bigger picture of reality and understand it at a much higher level.
The movie Limitless where the main character gets to have his brain's neural network to become more organized and efficient that helps him to deal with his problems is a more accurate reflection of how the brain works.
Ten percent of brain myth
Ten percent of brain myth
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_percent_of_brain_myth
Lucy and the 10 Percent Brain Myth
http://blog.brainfacts.org/2014/07/lucy-and-the-10-percent-brain-myth/#.VAxKMOOSw9c
Humans Already Use Way, Way More Than 10% of Their Brains
Lucy and the 10 Percent Brain Myth
http://blog.brainfacts.org/2014/07/lucy-and-the-10-percent-brain-myth/#.VAxKMOOSw9c
Humans Already Use Way, Way More Than 10% of Their Brains
http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/07/you-already-use-way-way-more-than-10-percent-of-your-brain/374520/
Scarlett Johansson uses more than 10 percent of her brain
http://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2014/07/23/its-a-myth-that-we-only-use-10-percent-of-our-brains-no-matter-what-scarlett-johansson-says/
Do People Only Use 10 Percent of Their Brains?
Scarlett Johansson uses more than 10 percent of her brain
http://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2014/07/23/its-a-myth-that-we-only-use-10-percent-of-our-brains-no-matter-what-scarlett-johansson-says/
Do People Only Use 10 Percent of Their Brains?
I have solved the mystery of why Asians consistently have higher average IQ than westerners, getting a high IQ is not necessarily a good thing!
Long boring story short:
the IQ test was created in 1950s to gauge the basic mental response of mentally-retarded children so that they could be identified and get proper assistance in school. The IQ test was created to test the mentally-retarded children's skills for recognizing basic patterns from reality such as basic number progression, pattern recognition etc
Asians fare higher in average IQ scores compared to westerners because most Asians focus very much on interacting with the basic patterns of reality rather than focus on the other minor details. This is seen in the Chinese written language where the characters form the basic outline patterns of pictorial symbols. So because Asians rely mainly on the basic patterns, they are very used to recognizing and relying with these patterns that are frequently used in Mensa IQ tests.
For example, the Chinese word for mouth looks like a square box. While Asians focus mainly on the pattern of this square box, westerners on the other hand, are more focused on what is found inside the pattern of the square box and can be concerned with the teeth and tongue for example.
Most Asians focus on the basic superficial things in life such as earning money and being successful while westerners focus more on living one's dreams and being truly happy. Focusing on the pattern of the mouth and missing out on the other important finer details is obviously not a good thing.
Using mental resources on working with the complicated Chinese characters also wastes precious mental resources(short term memory for example) that could instead have been utilized on dealing with complicated thoughts and ideas.
The Writing on the Wall
It is said that there are many types of intelligence. While the main type of intelligence is that of a basic pictorial pattern such as the square box to represent the mouth, the other types of intelligences are found within the square pattern inside the square box.
This different ways of thinking for Asians and Westerners could answer the question of why Asians are less technologically advanced compared to westerners. Asians are good in copying westerners' technology but because they often cannot think beyond the basic pattern of the box(cannot think outside the box), they lack the creativity gained from multiple perspective to create new things.
Getting high IQ scores for Asians is not necessarily a good thing because being skilled and focused too much on the basic patterns of reality might cause one to be dis-focused from the other important details found beyond the basic patterns. Getting a high IQ score therefore might not seem like a very good reflection of one's ability to recognize the other important things in life.
I think that being too focused on the basic patterns of life might be due to a cultural influence. Asians are culturally influenced to focus on the basic survival skills and to gain good superficial appearances to earn money and respect(the fake kind). This can cause them to be lost on the path to personal happiness that can only be found from recognizing one's own uniqueness.
In addition, Asians in the East follow strictly a social hierarchy system where interaction and the flow of alternative information can be heavily limited between people of different 'social standing', which can severely limit alternative thinking and creativity.
Conclusion: Having a higher average IQ score for Asians does not necessarily mean that they are more intelligent than Westerners on the whole. It simply means that they are more dependent on working with the basic patterns of reality. Relying on the basic patterns of reality might reflect a primitive form of thinking, and moving beyond this basic pattern intelligence to focus on the other patterns beyond the basic ones might be a sign of mental evolution.
Should westerners aspire to gain higher IQ scores for themselves?
Gaining higher IQ scores on a test originally created for mentally retarded children may not seem like a good thing, it might simply mean that one is thinking similar in line like mentally-retarded children.
There are exceptions to this case however, I feel that there are some people who do score high on the IQ test being skilled in identifying both the basic and advanced patterns of reality. They are also skilled in other types of intelligence that the IQ test failed to measure properly.
References to other similar blog posts and writings on this subject:
My Theory on Why East Asians and Ashkenazi Jews Have Highest Average IQ Scores in the World
http://thethinktankguideforsmarterliving.blogspot.sg/2014/04/my-theory-on-why-east-asians-have.html
Mensa recruits members who think like its founders(I say lots of bad things about Mensa)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/119277304751102/
The group's explanation:
In short, I claim here that Mensa members generally think like lawyers. Mensa's founders were both lawyers(one doubled as a scientist) and their limited perception created a strong bias in the test that filters people based on similar 'lawyer traits'.
<<What is Intelligence?>>
According to Cognitive Science, the fundamental component of Intelligence is pattern recognition.
"the act of taking in raw data and taking an action based on the category of the pattern"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattern_recognition
Definition of Intelligence--
"Mainstream Science on Intelligence defines intelligence as the general mental ability to analyze, comprehend and utilize one's immediate environment."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intelligence
"A very general mental capability that, among other things, involves the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend complex ideas, learn quickly and learn from experience. It is not merely book learning, a narrow academic skill, or test-taking smarts. Rather, it reflects a broader and deeper capability for comprehending our surroundings - “catching on”, “making sense” of things, or “figuring out” what to do."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainstream_Science_on_Intelligence
<<The Mensa test is heavily biased by its founders>>
The founders of Mensa were both lawyers(one doubled as a scientist) and they created the Mensa IQ test in the 1950s based on their own definitions of intelligence and their own similar ways of thinking(thought processes).
Since they were lawyers and a scientist, their views of intelligence were influenced by their own thinking characteristics like lawyers and scientists. With reference to questions found in Mensa tests created by them, we can find many questions that require investigation, cross referencing and finding of loopholes-- these are main crucial skills of lawyers, scientists and investigators. Therefore it is logical to imply that people who score well in the IQ test would possess the most similar thinking traits as the founders, and people who score poorly would possess the least similar thinking traits as the founders.
A look through the general characteristics of Mensa members and we can find general lawyer and scientist traits. Mensa members generally look, talk and behave like lawyers and scientists.
<<There are different forms of Intelligence>>
The most basic form of intelligence is to recognize and match the patterns of a desire with the patterns of a solution that can resolve that desire-- this creates experience. Humans are intelligent because they can recognize patterns that they have experienced before.
Pattern recognition is not only present in basic traits of lawyers, scientists and investigators. The skill of pattern recognition is also found in common tasks such as-- art, fashion design, styling, cooking, writing, drama, film-making, language, music, hospitality etc. In the handling of these tasks, analysis, comprehension, reasoning, planning, abstract thinking, and handling of complexity are all required.
The questions in the Mensa test only tested specialized forms of intelligence, they do not test multiple forms of intelligence. It is unrealistic to proclaim a person's overall intelligence by testing only from *some* of the many forms of intelligence. This is not intelligent and adaptable(smart).
There were reports stating that Emotional Intelligence(EQ) is also part of Intelligence.
<<The test is ineffective to test intelligence>>
Mensa forbids people from taking the test more than twice, therefore, those who studied for the test have defeated the very purpose of the test. Studying for the test shifts intelligence-testing over to memory-testing and generates an inaccurate high IQ score. This shows people's desperation to think like Mensa's founders in order to get accepted into their club.
"It is not merely book learning, a narrow academic skill, or test-taking smarts."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainstream_Science_on_Intelligence
The Mensa test itself also reveals an inaccurate form of intelligence testing by using the multiple choice format. Mensa even encourages the person taking the test to guess the answers, thereby miscalculating intelligence and adding flaws to an already flawed MCQ test.
"The most serious disadvantage is the limited types of knowledge that can be assessed by multiple choice tests. Multiple choice tests are best adapted for testing well-defined or lower-order skills. Problem-solving and higher-order reasoning skills are better assessed through short-answer and essay tests. However, multiple choice tests are often chosen, not because of the type of knowledge being assessed, but because they are more affordable for testing a large number of students. This is especially true in the United States where multiple choice tests are the preferred form of high-stakes testing."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multiple_choice
MCQs require a simple tick and do not require the user to input defined reasons for choosing any specific answer, causing a vague rather than thorough testing of the individual.
Mensa even admits members based on SAT or GMAT scores-- the tests were not designed to test intelligence.
Some Mensa MCQ tests that are reused for testing individuals are highly susceptible to cheaters who can cheat by sourcing answers for the last few most difficult MCQ questions.
<<What is a Mensa member?>>
Mensa members are not better than others in terms of multiple forms of Intelligence, rather, they were tested to be better in only *some* of the many forms of Intelligence. People who do not score well to get in Mensa might be superior to Mensa members in other forms of intelligence.
In short, Mensa members think like lawyers. Their IQ score do not necessarily deem them to be better than the rest of the populace in overall intelligence.
<<Mensa is not effective in its roles>>
"Mensa's constitution lists three purposes:
to identify and to foster human intelligence for the benefit of humanity;
to encourage research into the nature, characteristics, and uses of intelligence;
and to provide a stimulating intellectual and social environment for its members."
http://www.mensa.org/constitution2005.pdf
Mensa may have fulfilled the 3rd objective but it has done poorly in the first 2. It's elitist and ignorant mindset segregates itself from other forms of intelligence, to its own undoing. It is not a round-table society of minds. Mensa has over 110,000 members worldwide. I'm glad I am not part of it.
Update: Someone told me long ago that the IQ test was firstly developed by Alfred Binet who was a psychologist, but I was lazy to check. So, if it really matters to you, just replace the mentioned lawyers and scientists with psychologists. But it doesn't matter really, since psychologists are professionals who think like lawyers and scientists. They even have a 'Dr' to their name— they are the true doctors of the mind. So this edit can be considered an 'upgrade'.
the IQ test was created in 1950s to gauge the basic mental response of mentally-retarded children so that they could be identified and get proper assistance in school. The IQ test was created to test the mentally-retarded children's skills for recognizing basic patterns from reality such as basic number progression, pattern recognition etc
Asians fare higher in average IQ scores compared to westerners because most Asians focus very much on interacting with the basic patterns of reality rather than focus on the other minor details. This is seen in the Chinese written language where the characters form the basic outline patterns of pictorial symbols. So because Asians rely mainly on the basic patterns, they are very used to recognizing and relying with these patterns that are frequently used in Mensa IQ tests.
For example, the Chinese word for mouth looks like a square box. While Asians focus mainly on the pattern of this square box, westerners on the other hand, are more focused on what is found inside the pattern of the square box and can be concerned with the teeth and tongue for example.
Most Asians focus on the basic superficial things in life such as earning money and being successful while westerners focus more on living one's dreams and being truly happy. Focusing on the pattern of the mouth and missing out on the other important finer details is obviously not a good thing.
Using mental resources on working with the complicated Chinese characters also wastes precious mental resources(short term memory for example) that could instead have been utilized on dealing with complicated thoughts and ideas.
The Writing on the Wall
How Asian Orthography Curbs Creativity
"This well-written, well-documented book convincingly argues that there is a 'creativity gap' between East Asian countries and the West."—Choice
"Students in Japan, China, and Korea are among the world's top performers on standardized math and science tests. The nations of East Asia are also leading manufacturers of consumer goods that incorporate scientific breakthroughs in telecommunications, optics, and transportation. Yet there is a startling phenomenon known throughout Asia as the "creativity problem." While East Asians are able to use science, they have not demonstrated the ability to invent radically new systems and paradigms that lead to new technologies. In fact, the legal and illegal transfer of technology from the West to the East is one of the most contentious international business issues. Yet Asians who study and work in the West and depend upon Western languages for their research are among the most creative and talented scientists, no less so than their Western counterparts.
William C. Hannas contends that this paradox emerges from the nature of East Asian writing systems, which are character-based rather than alphabetic. Character-based orthographies, according to the author, lack the abstract features of alphabetic writing that model the thought processes necessary for scientific creativity. When first learning to read, children who are immersed in a character-based culture are at a huge disadvantage because such writing systems do not cultivate the ability for abstract thought. Despite the overwhelming body of evidence that points to the cognitive side-effects, the cultural importance of character-based writing makes the adoption of an alphabet unlikely in the near future."
*End Quote*
It is said that there are many types of intelligence. While the main type of intelligence is that of a basic pictorial pattern such as the square box to represent the mouth, the other types of intelligences are found within the square pattern inside the square box.
This different ways of thinking for Asians and Westerners could answer the question of why Asians are less technologically advanced compared to westerners. Asians are good in copying westerners' technology but because they often cannot think beyond the basic pattern of the box(cannot think outside the box), they lack the creativity gained from multiple perspective to create new things.
Getting high IQ scores for Asians is not necessarily a good thing because being skilled and focused too much on the basic patterns of reality might cause one to be dis-focused from the other important details found beyond the basic patterns. Getting a high IQ score therefore might not seem like a very good reflection of one's ability to recognize the other important things in life.
I think that being too focused on the basic patterns of life might be due to a cultural influence. Asians are culturally influenced to focus on the basic survival skills and to gain good superficial appearances to earn money and respect(the fake kind). This can cause them to be lost on the path to personal happiness that can only be found from recognizing one's own uniqueness.
In addition, Asians in the East follow strictly a social hierarchy system where interaction and the flow of alternative information can be heavily limited between people of different 'social standing', which can severely limit alternative thinking and creativity.
Conclusion: Having a higher average IQ score for Asians does not necessarily mean that they are more intelligent than Westerners on the whole. It simply means that they are more dependent on working with the basic patterns of reality. Relying on the basic patterns of reality might reflect a primitive form of thinking, and moving beyond this basic pattern intelligence to focus on the other patterns beyond the basic ones might be a sign of mental evolution.
Should westerners aspire to gain higher IQ scores for themselves?
Gaining higher IQ scores on a test originally created for mentally retarded children may not seem like a good thing, it might simply mean that one is thinking similar in line like mentally-retarded children.
There are exceptions to this case however, I feel that there are some people who do score high on the IQ test being skilled in identifying both the basic and advanced patterns of reality. They are also skilled in other types of intelligence that the IQ test failed to measure properly.
References to other similar blog posts and writings on this subject:
My Theory on Why East Asians and Ashkenazi Jews Have Highest Average IQ Scores in the World
http://thethinktankguideforsmarterliving.blogspot.sg/2014/04/my-theory-on-why-east-asians-have.html
Mensa recruits members who think like its founders(I say lots of bad things about Mensa)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/119277304751102/
The group's explanation:
In short, I claim here that Mensa members generally think like lawyers. Mensa's founders were both lawyers(one doubled as a scientist) and their limited perception created a strong bias in the test that filters people based on similar 'lawyer traits'.
<<What is Intelligence?>>
According to Cognitive Science, the fundamental component of Intelligence is pattern recognition.
"the act of taking in raw data and taking an action based on the category of the pattern"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattern_recognition
Definition of Intelligence--
"Mainstream Science on Intelligence defines intelligence as the general mental ability to analyze, comprehend and utilize one's immediate environment."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intelligence
"A very general mental capability that, among other things, involves the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend complex ideas, learn quickly and learn from experience. It is not merely book learning, a narrow academic skill, or test-taking smarts. Rather, it reflects a broader and deeper capability for comprehending our surroundings - “catching on”, “making sense” of things, or “figuring out” what to do."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainstream_Science_on_Intelligence
<<The Mensa test is heavily biased by its founders>>
The founders of Mensa were both lawyers(one doubled as a scientist) and they created the Mensa IQ test in the 1950s based on their own definitions of intelligence and their own similar ways of thinking(thought processes).
Since they were lawyers and a scientist, their views of intelligence were influenced by their own thinking characteristics like lawyers and scientists. With reference to questions found in Mensa tests created by them, we can find many questions that require investigation, cross referencing and finding of loopholes-- these are main crucial skills of lawyers, scientists and investigators. Therefore it is logical to imply that people who score well in the IQ test would possess the most similar thinking traits as the founders, and people who score poorly would possess the least similar thinking traits as the founders.
A look through the general characteristics of Mensa members and we can find general lawyer and scientist traits. Mensa members generally look, talk and behave like lawyers and scientists.
<<There are different forms of Intelligence>>
The most basic form of intelligence is to recognize and match the patterns of a desire with the patterns of a solution that can resolve that desire-- this creates experience. Humans are intelligent because they can recognize patterns that they have experienced before.
Pattern recognition is not only present in basic traits of lawyers, scientists and investigators. The skill of pattern recognition is also found in common tasks such as-- art, fashion design, styling, cooking, writing, drama, film-making, language, music, hospitality etc. In the handling of these tasks, analysis, comprehension, reasoning, planning, abstract thinking, and handling of complexity are all required.
The questions in the Mensa test only tested specialized forms of intelligence, they do not test multiple forms of intelligence. It is unrealistic to proclaim a person's overall intelligence by testing only from *some* of the many forms of intelligence. This is not intelligent and adaptable(smart).
There were reports stating that Emotional Intelligence(EQ) is also part of Intelligence.
<<The test is ineffective to test intelligence>>
Mensa forbids people from taking the test more than twice, therefore, those who studied for the test have defeated the very purpose of the test. Studying for the test shifts intelligence-testing over to memory-testing and generates an inaccurate high IQ score. This shows people's desperation to think like Mensa's founders in order to get accepted into their club.
"It is not merely book learning, a narrow academic skill, or test-taking smarts."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainstream_Science_on_Intelligence
The Mensa test itself also reveals an inaccurate form of intelligence testing by using the multiple choice format. Mensa even encourages the person taking the test to guess the answers, thereby miscalculating intelligence and adding flaws to an already flawed MCQ test.
"The most serious disadvantage is the limited types of knowledge that can be assessed by multiple choice tests. Multiple choice tests are best adapted for testing well-defined or lower-order skills. Problem-solving and higher-order reasoning skills are better assessed through short-answer and essay tests. However, multiple choice tests are often chosen, not because of the type of knowledge being assessed, but because they are more affordable for testing a large number of students. This is especially true in the United States where multiple choice tests are the preferred form of high-stakes testing."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multiple_choice
MCQs require a simple tick and do not require the user to input defined reasons for choosing any specific answer, causing a vague rather than thorough testing of the individual.
Mensa even admits members based on SAT or GMAT scores-- the tests were not designed to test intelligence.
Some Mensa MCQ tests that are reused for testing individuals are highly susceptible to cheaters who can cheat by sourcing answers for the last few most difficult MCQ questions.
<<What is a Mensa member?>>
Mensa members are not better than others in terms of multiple forms of Intelligence, rather, they were tested to be better in only *some* of the many forms of Intelligence. People who do not score well to get in Mensa might be superior to Mensa members in other forms of intelligence.
In short, Mensa members think like lawyers. Their IQ score do not necessarily deem them to be better than the rest of the populace in overall intelligence.
<<Mensa is not effective in its roles>>
"Mensa's constitution lists three purposes:
to identify and to foster human intelligence for the benefit of humanity;
to encourage research into the nature, characteristics, and uses of intelligence;
and to provide a stimulating intellectual and social environment for its members."
http://www.mensa.org/constitution2005.pdf
Mensa may have fulfilled the 3rd objective but it has done poorly in the first 2. It's elitist and ignorant mindset segregates itself from other forms of intelligence, to its own undoing. It is not a round-table society of minds. Mensa has over 110,000 members worldwide. I'm glad I am not part of it.
Update: Someone told me long ago that the IQ test was firstly developed by Alfred Binet who was a psychologist, but I was lazy to check. So, if it really matters to you, just replace the mentioned lawyers and scientists with psychologists. But it doesn't matter really, since psychologists are professionals who think like lawyers and scientists. They even have a 'Dr' to their name— they are the true doctors of the mind. So this edit can be considered an 'upgrade'.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
4 Popular Healthy Foods That are Really Not Healthy
Olive Oil
Olive oil can constrict the blood vessels that can contribute to heart disease.
Best Heart Benefits From Canola and Fish Oils -- Not Olive Oil
http://connecticare.com/GlobalF.../HealthNews/article.asp...
"The olive oil meal caused vessels to constrict by 34%, whereas the canola oil and salmon meals caused insignificant changes in blood vessels, Vogel reports. Because such constrictions injure the blood vessels' endothelium, they contribute to heart disease."
Cocoa
Correlation Analysis of Cocoa Consumption Data with Worldwide Incidence Rates of Testicular Cancer and Hypospadias
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2672359/
"This correlation analysis suggests that cocoa consumption during early life might be correlated to both TC incidence among young men aged 20–34 years and hypospadias, a reproductive congenital defects supposed to underline the same pathogenetic mechanism of TC.
In particular, the increasing incidence of TC over time in developed countries is consistent with increases in the consumption of cocoa. The intake of some of the main sweet ingredients, in fact, such as cocoa and sweeteners increased significantly during the last 45 years in developed countries [8,9]. Over the years 1961–2004 cocoa consumption overall in developed countries grew at an average rate of 1 % per year [9]. For example, in Denmark cocoa consumption more than doubled in the period 1961–2004. Similar trends have been observed in other European countries [8,9]. The magnitude of these increases is similar to those noted for incidence rates of testicular cancer and other MRD. The reduced risk for testicular cancer for the cohorts of Danish, Norwegian, Swedish and Japanese men born during World War II is also consistent with a greatly reduced supply of sweet foods and cocoa during the war.
Data from food balance sheets (FAOSTAT) indicate that the consumption of cocoa in Denmark, where TC and hypospadias rates are elevated, is among the highest in the world and is more than three times that in Finland, where MRD rates are rather low [9].
Is there any evidence that this association may be causal?
Cocoa powder is a complex substance containing several biologically active compounds, including theobromine, caffeine, serotonin, phenylethylamine and cannabinoid-like fatty acids [11].
Various studies reported that theobromine, the main stimulant of cocoa, exerts toxic effects on the testis, inducing testicular atrophy accompanied by aspermatogenesis or oligospermatogenesis and that even low doses of cocoa impair sperm quality [10–14]."
oil-free salad dressings
Carotenoid bioavailability is higher from salads ingested with full-fat than with fat-reduced salad dressings as measured with electrochemical detection
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/80/2/396.full
The study found that salads eaten with 28grams of fat allowed for greater absorption of cartenoids such as vitamin A. 28 grams of fat is equivalent to 2 tablespoons of fat/oil.
fruit juices
Study: High Fructose Intake Linked to Slightly Higher Risk of Death
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/high-fructose
"those who consumed lots of liquid sugar—from sodas, sports drinks, juices, etc.—had higher odds of dying of any cause (from cardiovascular disease, in particular). Why? It could be because sugars from beverages are rapidly absorbed, resulting in significant blood-sugar spikes, the scientists say."
"While this study just proved association, not causation, scientists do have a theory: Fructose produces "advanced glycation end-products," or AGEs, which may damage the walls of your arteries, encourage bad cholesterol to hang around"
"You don't, of course, have to give up fruit, which is a staple of any well-balanced diet. But you may want to cut back on your intake of other sources of fructose: fruit juices, soft drinks, preserves, applesauce, dried fruit, and candies."
http://time.com/94573/5-smart-steps-to-cut-down-on-sugar/
The False Notion of Every Food within Mediterranean Diet Being Healthy
There are many people who think that everything that is eaten in the traditional Mediterranean diet is healthy. However, olive oil that is commonly consumed in such a diet has been found to dilate and damage the endothelium(one-cell lining of blood vessels), which allows plaque to build up and constrict the blood vessels that can lead to heart disease and heart attacks.
Best Heart Benefits From Canola and Fish Oils -- Not Olive Oil
http://connecticare.com/GlobalFiles/HealthNews/article.asp?ID=091e9c5e8000735f&Cat=0&Num=6
"The olive oil meal caused vessels to constrict by 34%, whereas the canola oil and salmon meals caused insignificant changes in blood vessels, Vogel reports. Because such constrictions injure the blood vessels' endothelium, they contribute to heart disease."
What Is Atherosclerosis?
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/atherosclerosis/
"Atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis) is a disease in which plaque (plak) builds up inside your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other parts of your body.
Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows your arteries. This limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body.
Atherosclerosis can lead to serious problems, including heart attack, stroke, or even death."
The omega 3 fatty acids from foods such as fish in the diet can improve the endothelial function, and therefore prevent the olive oil from constricting and damaging the endothelium.
"Supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids significantly improves the endothelial function without affecting endothelium-independent dilation."
Olive oil taken without omega 3 fatty acids would be detrimental. People who assume that every food found within the traditional Mediterranean diet are mistaken.
Beneficial fats that contain high amounts of omega 3 can be found in foods like tofu, soya beans, soybean oil, soymilk, flaxseeds, walnuts etc. A good balance of omega 3 and 6 is already found in soybeans but if one can choose to consume flaxseeds to gain more omega 3 fats.
Best Heart Benefits From Canola and Fish Oils -- Not Olive Oil
http://connecticare.com/GlobalFiles/HealthNews/article.asp?ID=091e9c5e8000735f&Cat=0&Num=6
"The olive oil meal caused vessels to constrict by 34%, whereas the canola oil and salmon meals caused insignificant changes in blood vessels, Vogel reports. Because such constrictions injure the blood vessels' endothelium, they contribute to heart disease."
What Is Atherosclerosis?
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/atherosclerosis/
Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows your arteries. This limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body.
Atherosclerosis can lead to serious problems, including heart attack, stroke, or even death."
The omega 3 fatty acids from foods such as fish in the diet can improve the endothelial function, and therefore prevent the olive oil from constricting and damaging the endothelium.
Effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on endothelial function: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22317966
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22317966
"Supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids significantly improves the endothelial function without affecting endothelium-independent dilation."
The postprandial effect of components of the Mediterranean diet on endothelial function.
"CONCLUSIONS: In terms of their postprandial effect on endothelial function, the beneficial components of the Mediterranean and Lyon Diet Heart Study diets appear to be antioxidant-rich foods, including vegetables, fruits, and their derivatives such as vinegar, and omega-3-rich fish and canola oils."
Beneficial fats that contain high amounts of omega 3 can be found in foods like tofu, soya beans, soybean oil, soymilk, flaxseeds, walnuts etc. A good balance of omega 3 and 6 is already found in soybeans but if one can choose to consume flaxseeds to gain more omega 3 fats.
Friday, August 8, 2014
US Research Implies Abstinence-Only Message of Section 377A Does Not Lead to Abstinence Behaviour, This Implies Section 377A Would Have No Deterrence Effect in Keeping in Check Homosexual-Related STDs and Hypothetical Sexual-Related 'Social Immorality'
(This is a copy of an email that I sent to the Prime Minister and the Members of Parliament about my request to amend Section 377A of the Penal Code.)
Research reports from the United States have found that abstinence-only sex education does not lead to abstinence in sexual behaviour.
This implies that keeping Section 377A would not have an effect in keeping in check the rate of sexually transmitted diseases among homosexuals. This also implies that Section 377A would not have an effect in keeping in check any hypothetical sexual-related 'social immorality'.
People who assumed that Section 377A can keep in check any hypothetical 'social morality' would therefore be proven wrong.
Section 377A was recently mentioned in Court to have been enacted during colonial times to curb male prostitution long ago. This new research report would prove that even such a possible deterrence to curb male prostitution with abstinence would not have any resultant effect in the past. Male prostitution during that time could have dwindled due to other factors.
If people need to or are desperate to have sex for any reason, they will continue to do it out of need or desperation.
The better way to prevent any sexual-related diseases is through public education such as sex education and behaviour-related campaigns, and not through abstinence as seen in the keeping of Section 377A.
Abstinence-only education does not lead to abstinent behavior, UGA researchers find
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/11/111129185925.htm
"States that prescribe abstinence-only sex education programs in public schools have significantly higher teenage pregnancy and birth rates than states with more comprehensive sex education programs, researchers from the University of Georgia have determined.
The researchers looked at teen pregnancy and birth data from 48 U.S. states to evaluate the effectiveness of those states' approaches to sex education, as prescribed by local laws and policies.
"Our analysis adds to the overwhelming evidence indicating that abstinence-only education does not reduce teen pregnancy rates," said Kathrin Stanger-Hall, assistant professor of plant biology and biological sciences in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences."
My Concluding Thoughts:
Keeping Section 377A has no proven benefits but has been suggested to have more harm than good as in the case of higher increased rates of unprotected sex and STDs mentioned in the research reports.
I therefore propose the government to amend Section 377A so that it can start to impose safe-sex education for homosexuals as well as counselling. I propose the government to not grant any future requests for same-sex marriages and adoptions.
If the government really wants to do something about social health for homosexuals, it should consider removing the abstinence-related law of 377A and start to implement safe-sex education and counselling for homosexuals right away.
Homosexuals are also citizens of Singapore(even though they are in the minority), the government should do its best to ensure their well-being.
Research reports from the United States have found that abstinence-only sex education does not lead to abstinence in sexual behaviour.
This implies that keeping Section 377A would not have an effect in keeping in check the rate of sexually transmitted diseases among homosexuals. This also implies that Section 377A would not have an effect in keeping in check any hypothetical sexual-related 'social immorality'.
People who assumed that Section 377A can keep in check any hypothetical 'social morality' would therefore be proven wrong.
Section 377A was recently mentioned in Court to have been enacted during colonial times to curb male prostitution long ago. This new research report would prove that even such a possible deterrence to curb male prostitution with abstinence would not have any resultant effect in the past. Male prostitution during that time could have dwindled due to other factors.
If people need to or are desperate to have sex for any reason, they will continue to do it out of need or desperation.
The better way to prevent any sexual-related diseases is through public education such as sex education and behaviour-related campaigns, and not through abstinence as seen in the keeping of Section 377A.
Abstinence-only education does not lead to abstinent behavior, UGA researchers find
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/11/111129185925.htm
"States that prescribe abstinence-only sex education programs in public schools have significantly higher teenage pregnancy and birth rates than states with more comprehensive sex education programs, researchers from the University of Georgia have determined.
The researchers looked at teen pregnancy and birth data from 48 U.S. states to evaluate the effectiveness of those states' approaches to sex education, as prescribed by local laws and policies.
"Our analysis adds to the overwhelming evidence indicating that abstinence-only education does not reduce teen pregnancy rates," said Kathrin Stanger-Hall, assistant professor of plant biology and biological sciences in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences."
My Concluding Thoughts:
Keeping Section 377A has no proven benefits but has been suggested to have more harm than good as in the case of higher increased rates of unprotected sex and STDs mentioned in the research reports.
I therefore propose the government to amend Section 377A so that it can start to impose safe-sex education for homosexuals as well as counselling. I propose the government to not grant any future requests for same-sex marriages and adoptions.
If the government really wants to do something about social health for homosexuals, it should consider removing the abstinence-related law of 377A and start to implement safe-sex education and counselling for homosexuals right away.
Homosexuals are also citizens of Singapore(even though they are in the minority), the government should do its best to ensure their well-being.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
I See Lots of Logically Fallacious False Dilemmas and Slippery Slope Arguments(unproven hypothetical scenarios) Used By Parliament MPs in 2007 in Not Supporting Repeal of Section 377A, Also the Intention to Restrict Freedom of Speech and Unfair Censorship
(This is a copy of a thread topic that I made at the government-operated REACH forum)
I See Lots of Logically Fallacious False Dilemmas and Slippery Slope Arguments(unproven hypothetical scenarios) Used By Parliament MPs in 2007 in Not Supporting Repeal of Section 377A, Also the Intention to Restrict Freedom of Speech and Unfair Censorship
I took a look into the arguments used by parliament MPs in 2007 in their non-support of repealing Section 377A of the Penal Code, and found lots of misconstructed and logically fallacious slippery slope arguments.
I am extremely well-trained in formal debate and I find these false dilemmas and slippery slope arguments very faulty and disturbing.
[The Logically Misconstructed Arguments]
Some MPs have assumed that repealing Section 377A is equated to people accepting homosexual lifestyles. But I cannot see the logic in this line of thought.
Here are the lists of Parliment videos on the matter:
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5AB3D0B89F8206C7
Saying that just because people don't accept something then the only option should be criminalisation? This is not logical.
In formal debate, this line of faulty reasoning is known as False Dilemma
FALSE DILEMMA
http://www.logicallyfallacious.com/index.php/logical-fallacies/94-false-dilemma
"Description: When only two choices are presented yet more exist, or a spectrum of possible choices exists between two extremes. False dilemmas are usually characterized by “either this or that” language, but can also be characterized by omissions of choices."
Many people do not accept prostitution, yet it is not criminalised. Many people do not accept smoking, yet it is not criminalised. Many people do not accept gambling, yet it is not criminalised.
There are lots of logically misconstructed arguments that put one's non-acceptance of something into the same category as criminalisation.
If people don't accept certain behaviours, they can simply don't practice it themselves, it doesn't necessarily mean that they should criminalise it. Going by this logic, if people find certain religion unacceptable, they should make a law to criminalise the followers of such religion? I see no logic in this line of thought.
[The Slippery Slope Arguments]
Many MPs who opposed the repeal of Section 377A say that if it is repealed, then gay-rights activists would definitely push for same-sex marriages and adoptions. However, there is no evidence that this will happen.
In formal debate, this line of argument is known as Slippery Slope.
SLIPPERY SLOPE
http://www.logicallyfallacious.com/index.php/logical-fallacies/163-slippery-slope
"Definition: When a relatively insignificant first event is suggested to lead to a more significant event, which in turn leads to a more significant event, and so on, until some ultimate, significant event is reached, where the connection of each event is not only unwarranted, but with each step it becomes more and more improbable. Many events are usually present in this fallacy, but only two are actually required -- usually connected by “the next thing you know...”
Even if Section 377A is repealed, it doesn't necessarily mean that gay marriages and adoptions will be allowed by law. The gay rights activists can request all they want for such things but Parliament and the people do not necessarily have to give in to their requests.
Why should Parliament and the people be afraid of such requests when they have the power and support not to grant such requests? This is not logical.
[What do I think is the agendas of the LGBTs in Singapore?]
Homosexuals can already get married overseas, they don't need to request to enact laws and wait forever for them to get married in Singapore. If they want to adopt children and can afford it, it would be much easier and affordable for them if they migrate overseas and do it there.
I feel that the request of gay-rights activists to ammend Section 377A is simply to lessen the bullying and hatred they receive so that they can have a neutral common space to live their lives in peace and harmony.
[Restriction on Freedom of Speech and Unfair Censorship]
If the argument of not repealing Section 377A is simply to prevent gay-rights activists from not hypothetically requesting such gay marriages and adoptions in future, is this not an intention to restrict on their freedom of speech to talk to parliament and the government? Is this not unfair censorship?
I took a look into the arguments used by parliament MPs in 2007 in their non-support of repealing Section 377A of the Penal Code, and found lots of misconstructed and logically fallacious slippery slope arguments.
I am extremely well-trained in formal debate and I find these false dilemmas and slippery slope arguments very faulty and disturbing.
[The Logically Misconstructed Arguments]
Some MPs have assumed that repealing Section 377A is equated to people accepting homosexual lifestyles. But I cannot see the logic in this line of thought.
Here are the lists of Parliment videos on the matter:
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5AB3D0B89F8206C7
Saying that just because people don't accept something then the only option should be criminalisation? This is not logical.
In formal debate, this line of faulty reasoning is known as False Dilemma
FALSE DILEMMA
http://www.logicallyfallacious.com/index.php/logical-fallacies/94-false-dilemma
"Description: When only two choices are presented yet more exist, or a spectrum of possible choices exists between two extremes. False dilemmas are usually characterized by “either this or that” language, but can also be characterized by omissions of choices."
Many people do not accept prostitution, yet it is not criminalised. Many people do not accept smoking, yet it is not criminalised. Many people do not accept gambling, yet it is not criminalised.
There are lots of logically misconstructed arguments that put one's non-acceptance of something into the same category as criminalisation.
If people don't accept certain behaviours, they can simply don't practice it themselves, it doesn't necessarily mean that they should criminalise it. Going by this logic, if people find certain religion unacceptable, they should make a law to criminalise the followers of such religion? I see no logic in this line of thought.
[The Slippery Slope Arguments]
Many MPs who opposed the repeal of Section 377A say that if it is repealed, then gay-rights activists would definitely push for same-sex marriages and adoptions. However, there is no evidence that this will happen.
In formal debate, this line of argument is known as Slippery Slope.
SLIPPERY SLOPE
http://www.logicallyfallacious.com/index.php/logical-fallacies/163-slippery-slope
"Definition: When a relatively insignificant first event is suggested to lead to a more significant event, which in turn leads to a more significant event, and so on, until some ultimate, significant event is reached, where the connection of each event is not only unwarranted, but with each step it becomes more and more improbable. Many events are usually present in this fallacy, but only two are actually required -- usually connected by “the next thing you know...”
Even if Section 377A is repealed, it doesn't necessarily mean that gay marriages and adoptions will be allowed by law. The gay rights activists can request all they want for such things but Parliament and the people do not necessarily have to give in to their requests.
Why should Parliament and the people be afraid of such requests when they have the power and support not to grant such requests? This is not logical.
[What do I think is the agendas of the LGBTs in Singapore?]
Homosexuals can already get married overseas, they don't need to request to enact laws and wait forever for them to get married in Singapore. If they want to adopt children and can afford it, it would be much easier and affordable for them if they migrate overseas and do it there.
I feel that the request of gay-rights activists to ammend Section 377A is simply to lessen the bullying and hatred they receive so that they can have a neutral common space to live their lives in peace and harmony.
[Restriction on Freedom of Speech and Unfair Censorship]
If the argument of not repealing Section 377A is simply to prevent gay-rights activists from not hypothetically requesting such gay marriages and adoptions in future, is this not an intention to restrict on their freedom of speech to talk to parliament and the government? Is this not unfair censorship?
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Back to the early 90s music weekend
There is this argument on Youtube about comparing Ariana Grande and Mariah Carey. People have been saying that Mariah Carey is the best of all. But I think there is no such thing as being the best for every type of song genre. Mariah can the best for only certain types of song genre such as R&B, for other genre such as for the song If You Ask Me To, Celine Dion easily beats her by being more suitable to sing the song. Everyone has their own place in this world, no one is actually the best for everything. Everyone is special, unique and is the best for being in their place and doing what they do. Comparing is just illogical.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Please Consider to Amend Section 377A to Create a More Neutral Common Space in Society for Greater Peace and Harmony
(This is a copy of an email that I sent to the Prime Minister and the Members of Parliament about my request to amend Section 377A of the Penal Code. I made this post just to share with more straight and LGBT people about my thoughts on Section 377A and the LGBT community in Singapore.)
By Timothy Tang
To the Prime Minister and the Members of Parliament,
I am writing to share my most concerned thoughts on the crucial need for Parliament to amend Section 377A of the Penal Code with much legitimate good reasons. I hope you can hear my reasons and give much consideration to them.
Today, I read a news article about Racial Harmony Day where Education Minister Heng Swee Keat stressed the need for Singapore to build strong community bonds to meet the challenges of today's volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous global environment.
We must embrace diversity - and not just among Singapore's 'main races': Heng
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/we-must-embrace-diversity/1274208.html
He mentioned a recent study on indicators of racial and religious harmony by the Institute of Policy Studies and OnePeople.sg where it showed that there is room for improvement, specifically, in building interest in intercultural understanding and interaction.
He also said,
"We also need to go beyond understanding the main races to respecting all people regardless of race, language or religion, who live and work in Singapore - for the happiness, prosperity and progress of our nation."
I agree with everything the Education Minister said in the article, which is why I feel that Section 377A of the Penal Code is best to be amended for the good of all Singaporeans.
A Voices writer to TODAY newspaper recently mentioned the need for a common space in the library. The letter was addressed to NLB’s withdrawal of 3 books about minority families.
Preserve common space or regress to a feuding society
http://www.todayonline.com/voices/preserve-common-space-or-regress-feuding-society
I totally agree for the need of a “common space” in the public library where people are unrestricted in getting educated about the complex modern world we face today.
Other than the need for a crucial neutral space in the library, I also see the crucial need for a common neutral space in Singapore society.
The recent Philippine Independence Day celebration was meant to be held at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza until it received complaints from some Singaporeans. The complainers misunderstood the event and thought that it would be held in a public space. They perceived the celebrations to be infringing on a common neutral space in society, which they saw as disrespectful and conflicting with the interests of Singaporeans. I eventually wrote in to TODAY to try to resolve the misunderstanding and explained that the venue for the event was actually non-public space.
Venue for Philippine celebration would not have been ‘public space’
http://www.todayonline.com/voices/venue-philippine-celebration-would-not-have-been-public-space
I feel that the establishment of such a common neutral space in society is of the utmost importance especially as Singapore heads towards a more challenging and demanding future. If left unchecked and unmaintained, the infringement of such a crucial neutral space in society could go on to create lots of misunderstanding that can erode social peace and harmony, leading to instability and loss of confidence for citizens and foreign investors.
A neutral space for citizens and foreign workers is created out of strong respect and tolerance for one another’s race, religion, lifestyle, sexuality and beliefs. I feel that such a neutral space is based on a neutral secular morality. This mention of a secular morality has recently been mentioned by ex-civil servant Donald Low, Associate Dean & Senior Fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.
NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD AND THE EROSION OF OUR SECULAR MORALITY
https://www.facebook.com/notes/806203306080312/
http://www.therealsingapore.com/content/national-library-board-and-erosion-our-secular-morality
In his article, he mentions the need for civil servants to practice secular morality, a neutral form of morality rather than their own private (or religious) morality – to assess decisions that affected the common good.
NLB’s wise decision to place the 3 books in a proper section of the library finally led to a compromise and resolved the matter. The whole experience taught me something very important, it is very important for a nation like Singapore that has so much diversity to create a common neutral societal space where peace and harmony can reside.
To me, the presence of Section 377A of the Penal Code creates a loop-sided imbalance for the creation of a common neutral space in society. Extremists can use the lack of a neutral common space to enforce their bias and hatred for homosexuals, which can lead to much anti-social behaviour. Examples can be seen from the recent Wear White Movement and the “We Are Against Pinkdot in Singapore” Facebook group.
I feel that the haters of the LGBT community have seriously misunderstood the LGBT’s ‘pride’ events as a promotion of their “lifestyle”, which the haters perceive to be infringing on a common neutral space. Rather, I perceive the local ‘pride’ events held by the local LGBT community as a show of request to gain a common neutral space for themselves to live their own lives without facing much hatred and bullying. I really do not believe such pride events are meant to promote homosexuality in society that some haters have believed.
Such a misunderstanding is very similar to the Philippine Independence Day celebration where the complainers misunderstood the event to be held on public space and therefore infringing on a common neutral space.
People can use the lack of a common neutral space due to the presence of Section 377A, as a good reason to justify anti-social behaviour and bullying towards homosexuals and people they perceive to be similar to them. If they are parents of children, such behaviour from parents can influence their children to bully other kids that they perceive to be homosexuals.
In addition, people can also use an “appeal to the majority” tactic to justify such anti-social behaviour if there are many people who are also behaving like them. I recently wrote to TODAY newspaper to address such a “majority wins” tactic that was employed by people who support NLB’s initial decision to pulp the 3 books on minority families.
‘Majority wins’ not representative of true democracy
http://www.todayonline.com/voices/majority-wins-not-representative-true-democracy
I feel that the presence of Section 377A can promote much bullying and much anti-social behaviour in society. Every little bit can add up to become very large. Many people can get caught in the middle and suffer due to such conflict.
I urge the government to create a more substantial common neutral space between the LGBT community and their opposers, by amending Section 377A so that the LGBT would not be seen to be socially-discriminated against.
If Section 377A remains, bullying and anti-social behaviour could become more established in Singapore. I have recently heard of a cyber-bullying of a 12-yr old Singaporean boy by those who perceived him to be homosexual:
Singaporean boy, 12, stands up to “gay” bullies
http://sg.theasianparent.com/theo-chen-stands-up-to-gay-bullies/
Theo Chen's speech on homophobic bullying during International Women's Day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bx7-Jl8vwuI
The hatred shown to the Philippine Independence Day celebrations as well as the intolerance shown by some Singaporeans in other examples has worried me greatly as a citizen. I worry for Singapore’s economic future and social stability. I hope that the government, along with the help from concerned and outspoken citizens like me, can help to create a strong neutral common space in Singapore as much as it can for the benefit of all Singaporeans. I strongly feel that amending Section 377A is a good step in this direction.
I would also like to talk about the on-going appeal of Section 377A of the Penal Code in Singapore's court of law.
Trio appealing against court’s ruling on Section 377A
http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/trio-appealing-against-courts-ruling-section-377a?page=1
In the news report of the appeal proceedings, surveys on gay acceptance in Singapore were brought up by Chief Prosecutor Aedit Abdullah to justify the need to keep section 377A.
(He said, "Recent survey results on gay acceptance in Singapore “shows the controversy in society”.)
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-07-14/singapore-top-court-tackles-challenge-to-1938-gay-sex-ban.html
Upon closer examination of the most recent government-commissioned survey of 4000 Singaporeans, with data collected from 1 December 2012 to 31 January 2013, it was found that 47 percent rejected “gay lifestyles,” 26 percent were receptive and 27 percent neutral.
OUR SINGAPORE CONVERSATION SURVEY
http://www.reach.gov.sg/Portals/0/Microsite/osc/OSC-Survey.pdf
(Bloomberg report mentions 47 percent of 4,000 Singaporeans rejected “gay lifestyles”)
Singapore Top Court Tackles Challenge to 1938 Gay-Sex Ban
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-07-14/singapore-top-court-tackles-challenge-to-1938-gay-sex-ban.html
The survey asked people's acceptance of "gay lifestyle", which included options indicating "neutral", "satisfied", "very satisfied", "dissatisfied' and "very dissatisfied".
Even though the survey indicates of a controversy related to "gay lifestyles" in society, there was absolutely no mention in the survey that indicated anyone to suggest or favour a jail sentence for such "gay lifestyle". Nor was there any mention of the public to favour criminalising homosexuals for consented sexual acts done in private.
Is the mere public opinion of feeling "dissatisfied' and "very dissatisfied" sufficient and accurate to be equated with their intention to criminalise homosexuals? This important question needs to be carefully considered.
Such a survey that has absolutely no mention of the public's desire to criminalise homosexuals is not sufficent and appropriate to be used to measure the public's view of section 377A. Using such a survey in arguments to justify keeping section 377A is therefore inappropriate, illogical and unfair.
When asked about the case in an interview in June, Law Minister K. Shanmugam was quoted saying, “The majority of the population still favors the current legal framework”. With all due respect to the law minister, I could find no indication to support this.
(Law Minister K. Shanmugam's quote in an interview)
Singapore Top Court Tackles Challenge to 1938 Gay-Sex Ban
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-07-14/singapore-top-court-tackles-challenge-to-1938-gay-sex-ban.html
I urge the government to look into a better way of gauging public opinion on Section 377A.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Timothy Tang
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
My thoughts on the republished Seralini rat study on GMOs: The need for the worst case scenario conditions
There are some people who said that the study done by Seralini is inaccurate but I don't see what is wrong with the study. A study such as this to find the most harmful effects of GMOs has to use the worst case scenarios that can be created in the study. People who said that the paper are biased are not aware of this need for the worst case scenario so they say that the study is trying to find fault with GMOs.
Why are the people who claimed the study to be flawed so stupid?
If a scientist wants to find the effects of the AIDS virus on humans, would he then ask his test subjects to wear the most amount of protection possible? I don't think so.
Cancer is always formed in the worst case scenario condition, so to recreate cancer, the worst case scenario conditions have to be created.
People need to think more before perceiving the study to be flawed.
I quote from http://theness.com/neurologicablog/index.php/seralini-gmo-study-republished/
"- The population of rats used have a high propensity for tumors. This causes a great deal of background noise, and would likely favor a false positive result."
Humans who get cancer are exactly those who have a high propensity for tumors. Nothing wrong here.
"- There were only 20 rats in the control group, and 80 in the exposure groups, an atypical asymmetry."
Higher number in the exposure group can have a higher chance of detecting any strange tumors. Nothing wrong here.
"- The data reports that “some” of the test groups had a higher tumor incidence, while others did not – sounds suspiciously like cherry picking the data."
Again, the need for the worst case scenario effects would require the choosing of the higher tumor incidence. There is specifically the need for cherry picking the higher tumor incidence.
"- The statistical analysis done by the team was atypical, characterized by nutrition researcher Tom Sanders as ”a statistical fishing trip,” while a more standard analysis was excluded."
Again, I emphasise the need to find the worst case scenario effects.
"- Exposure to GM corn or the herbicide Roundup had the same negative effects. It is inherently implausible (admittedly not impossible) for such distinct mechanisms to have the same effect."
Everybody knows correlation is not causation, so? What the study is doing is to narrow down the suspect not to prove anything. Move on.
"- There was no dose response at all – which is a critical component of demonstrating a toxic effect."
Irrelevant. There is a need for bioaccumulation duration in the liver. Toxins need to take time to bioaccumulate in the liver.
"- The researchers did not control for total amount of food consumed, or fungal contaminants, both of which increase tumors in this population of rat."
Again, there is the need for the worst case scenario conditions. The rats can eat how much they want, who can determine the right 'standard' amount they should eat? Dumbass.
All these factors are deliberately meant to create the worst case scenario conditions to find the worst possible effects of GMOs on the rats.
Why are the people who claimed the study to be flawed so stupid?
If a scientist wants to find the effects of the AIDS virus on humans, would he then ask his test subjects to wear the most amount of protection possible? I don't think so.
Cancer is always formed in the worst case scenario condition, so to recreate cancer, the worst case scenario conditions have to be created.
People need to think more before perceiving the study to be flawed.
I quote from http://theness.com/neurologicablog/index.php/seralini-gmo-study-republished/
"- The population of rats used have a high propensity for tumors. This causes a great deal of background noise, and would likely favor a false positive result."
Humans who get cancer are exactly those who have a high propensity for tumors. Nothing wrong here.
"- There were only 20 rats in the control group, and 80 in the exposure groups, an atypical asymmetry."
Higher number in the exposure group can have a higher chance of detecting any strange tumors. Nothing wrong here.
"- The data reports that “some” of the test groups had a higher tumor incidence, while others did not – sounds suspiciously like cherry picking the data."
Again, the need for the worst case scenario effects would require the choosing of the higher tumor incidence. There is specifically the need for cherry picking the higher tumor incidence.
"- The statistical analysis done by the team was atypical, characterized by nutrition researcher Tom Sanders as ”a statistical fishing trip,” while a more standard analysis was excluded."
Again, I emphasise the need to find the worst case scenario effects.
"- Exposure to GM corn or the herbicide Roundup had the same negative effects. It is inherently implausible (admittedly not impossible) for such distinct mechanisms to have the same effect."
Everybody knows correlation is not causation, so? What the study is doing is to narrow down the suspect not to prove anything. Move on.
"- There was no dose response at all – which is a critical component of demonstrating a toxic effect."
Irrelevant. There is a need for bioaccumulation duration in the liver. Toxins need to take time to bioaccumulate in the liver.
"- The researchers did not control for total amount of food consumed, or fungal contaminants, both of which increase tumors in this population of rat."
Again, there is the need for the worst case scenario conditions. The rats can eat how much they want, who can determine the right 'standard' amount they should eat? Dumbass.
All these factors are deliberately meant to create the worst case scenario conditions to find the worst possible effects of GMOs on the rats.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Explaining the real health threats from GMOs
GMO OMG is the documentary to watch in 2014 about the health effects of GMOs. Rats fed with GMOs in studies have been found with giant-sized tumours. A 2-year lifespan of a rat is equal to a lifetime period for humans. By the end of the first year, the rats were found to have those tumors.
GMOs that are altered to withstand Monsanto's Round Up herbicide have the greatest levels of herbicides/pesticides, conventional have moderate and organic have the least contamination.
GMO OMG documentary on Chemical Food Conspiracy w/ Jeremy Seifert
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQUm5Qg4-5I
GMO OMG Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/gmoomgfilm
Monsanto denies link between GMOs and cancer, birth defects in Argentina
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sY16uNIjzKk
Glyphosate induces human breast cancer cells growth via estrogen receptors
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691513003633
"Glyphosate is an active ingredient of the most widely used herbicide and it is believed to be less toxic than other pesticides. However, several recent studies showed its potential adverse health effects to humans as it may be an endocrine disruptor. This study focuses on the effects of pure glyphosate on estrogen receptors (ERs) mediated transcriptional activity and their expressions."
"These results indicated that low and environmentally relevant concentrations of glyphosate possessed estrogenic activity."
Bioaccumulation
http://toxics.usgs.gov/definitions/bioaccumulation.html
Bioaccumulation – “Progressive increase in the amount of a substance in an organism or part of an organism which occurs because the rate of intake exceeds the organism’s ability to remove the substance from the body.”
GMO OMG documentary on Chemical Food Conspiracy w/ Jeremy Seifert
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQUm5Qg4-5I
GMO OMG Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/gmoomgfilm
Monsanto denies link between GMOs and cancer, birth defects in Argentina
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sY16uNIjzKk
Glyphosate induces human breast cancer cells growth via estrogen receptors
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691513003633
"Glyphosate is an active ingredient of the most widely used herbicide and it is believed to be less toxic than other pesticides. However, several recent studies showed its potential adverse health effects to humans as it may be an endocrine disruptor. This study focuses on the effects of pure glyphosate on estrogen receptors (ERs) mediated transcriptional activity and their expressions."
"These results indicated that low and environmentally relevant concentrations of glyphosate possessed estrogenic activity."
Bioaccumulation
http://toxics.usgs.gov/definitions/bioaccumulation.html
Bioaccumulation – “Progressive increase in the amount of a substance in an organism or part of an organism which occurs because the rate of intake exceeds the organism’s ability to remove the substance from the body.”
Saturday, June 21, 2014
What I think is the reason for the huge surge of vegans in Sweden
I heard someone in a vegan Facebook group talking about the huge surge of vegans in Sweden, and I thought about the reason. It seems like the reason is found in a blog post I recently wrote.
Even Ikea is going to introduce vegetarian meatballs very soon. I have seen the meatballs at Ikea but could not eat them due to my preference for vegan food, but now I can finally try them.
IKEA Will Soon Serve Vegetarian Meatballs
http://time.com/70650/ikea-vegetarian-meatballs/
One in ten Swedes is vegetarian or vegan, according to study
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/one-in-ten-swedes-is-vegetarian-or-vegan-according-to-study-9212176.html
Here is what I think to be the reason for the surge:
I think the main reason is the lack of religion in Sweden, which does not constrict the people in thinking for themselves. This means there is less mind control and brainwashing, and therefore less resistance for any positive new ways of living.
AAI 2010: Lone Frank - The life and mutations of a cognitive parasite Complete
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcQC7-_ymuc
Insight: S2014 Ep8 - Changing a Mindset
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14Fovpy6lmg
I believe the main thing that is restricting many people from going vegan is cultural and religious mind control and brainwashing. Nations that have very few religious people are the ones that would embrace new ways of living much faster than other countries.
For India, perhaps their strong vegetarianism is due to religious and cultural brainwashing and mind control, rather than the people thinking for themselves on how is the best way to eat and treat the environment.
The Swedes are a more caring and supportive group of people compared to many other groups of people in the world. They face less resistance in going vegan compared to more aggressive groups of people in other countries. (China is also seeing a rise in vegetarians)
The recent rise of vegan products in Sweden gives them the opportunity to finally change their diet for the better.
If you go to the Swedish vegan group on Facebook, you can see them discussing many new vegan products such as textured vegetable protein and vegan cheese that seems to be relatively new to some of them.
Vegetarianer och Veganer i Sverige
https://www.facebook.com/groups/243147290951/
Even Ikea is going to introduce vegetarian meatballs very soon. I have seen the meatballs at Ikea but could not eat them due to my preference for vegan food, but now I can finally try them.
IKEA Will Soon Serve Vegetarian Meatballs
http://time.com/70650/ikea-vegetarian-meatballs/
One in ten Swedes is vegetarian or vegan, according to study
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/one-in-ten-swedes-is-vegetarian-or-vegan-according-to-study-9212176.html
Here is what I think to be the reason for the surge:
I think the main reason is the lack of religion in Sweden, which does not constrict the people in thinking for themselves. This means there is less mind control and brainwashing, and therefore less resistance for any positive new ways of living.
AAI 2010: Lone Frank - The life and mutations of a cognitive parasite Complete
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcQC7-_ymuc
Insight: S2014 Ep8 - Changing a Mindset
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14Fovpy6lmg
I believe the main thing that is restricting many people from going vegan is cultural and religious mind control and brainwashing. Nations that have very few religious people are the ones that would embrace new ways of living much faster than other countries.
For India, perhaps their strong vegetarianism is due to religious and cultural brainwashing and mind control, rather than the people thinking for themselves on how is the best way to eat and treat the environment.
The Swedes are a more caring and supportive group of people compared to many other groups of people in the world. They face less resistance in going vegan compared to more aggressive groups of people in other countries. (China is also seeing a rise in vegetarians)
The recent rise of vegan products in Sweden gives them the opportunity to finally change their diet for the better.
If you go to the Swedish vegan group on Facebook, you can see them discussing many new vegan products such as textured vegetable protein and vegan cheese that seems to be relatively new to some of them.
Vegetarianer och Veganer i Sverige
https://www.facebook.com/groups/243147290951/
Thursday, June 19, 2014
How to Have Good Hair and Skin Health
Hair and skin are made up of protein, and one needs to consume good amount of protein to maintain hair and skin structure. It is already known that good skin needs vitamin E and vitamin C to stay healthy. However, what many people don't realize is that hair and skin need to be constantly moisturised with vegetable fats in order to stay moist and healthy. Skin that is protected by oils are much less prone to irritation and bacterial infection.
When buying shampoo and shower lotion, buy those that contain avocado, argan oil, grape seed oil, shea butter, oatmilk, carnelian rose oil etc Such oils can be used to moisturise both hair and body to prevent dry, itchy and brittle conditions, and ensure shiny and smooth hair and skin.
Coconut oil is not just suitable for consumption, it can also be used to be applied on hair and skin. It is anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal.
Home-made sugar scrub can be made with fine sugar and coconut oil, and can be used to exfoliate dead skin cells and recondition skin, to create a super smooth and soft result.
Use facial mud wash and mud masks to unblock pores and exfoliate skin.
Cucumber extract and watermelon skin extract can be used to nourish skin, as well as to moisturise and alkalise.
The most important of all, one should avoid consuming meat and dairy as they can cause skin irritation and acne. One should drink plenty of distilled water to ensure hair and skin are well hydrated at all times.
When buying shampoo and shower lotion, buy those that contain avocado, argan oil, grape seed oil, shea butter, oatmilk, carnelian rose oil etc Such oils can be used to moisturise both hair and body to prevent dry, itchy and brittle conditions, and ensure shiny and smooth hair and skin.
Coconut oil is not just suitable for consumption, it can also be used to be applied on hair and skin. It is anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal.
Home-made sugar scrub can be made with fine sugar and coconut oil, and can be used to exfoliate dead skin cells and recondition skin, to create a super smooth and soft result.
Use facial mud wash and mud masks to unblock pores and exfoliate skin.
Cucumber extract and watermelon skin extract can be used to nourish skin, as well as to moisturise and alkalise.
The most important of all, one should avoid consuming meat and dairy as they can cause skin irritation and acne. One should drink plenty of distilled water to ensure hair and skin are well hydrated at all times.
Necessary Fat Intake For Proper Brain and Blood Vessel Function
The brain is made up 60% of fat and fat is very necessary to be consumed to ensure proper brain functions. Vegan diet groups like 30 BAD(bananas a day) have gotten the wrong biased view that fat should be avoided for the sake of weight loss, and I realize that their level of bias seems to relate very accurately to their low level of food and health intelligence. Other health diet preachers who have appeared in food documentaries have gotten the biased view that all oils are detrimental for the endothelial cells in the blood vessels but this is not true, it is only olive oil that has been found to pose such a problem.
There is science research that has found olive oil to be able to dilate blood vessels possibly due to the polyphenols that have an astringent effect. So people who have problems with their blood vessels might be wise to avoid olive oil and take other kinds of fat.
Dr Vogel's research properly explains how olive oil can significantly injure the endothelium and that the effects of other oils used in the research such as canola oil had insignificant effects on the endothelium.
http://connecticare.com/GlobalFiles/HealthNews/article.asp?ID=091e9c5e8000735f&Cat=0&Num=6
"The olive oil meal caused vessels to constrict by 34%, whereas the canola oil and salmon meals caused insignificant changes in blood vessels, Vogel reports. Because such constrictions injure the blood vessels' endothelium, they contribute to heart disease."
The postprandial effect of components of the Mediterranean diet on endothelial function.
Since Dr Vogel's research has found that oils such as canola "caused insignificant changes in blood vessels", other oils such as flaxseed and hemp oils should be alright to consume. Oils rich in omega 3 has been found to improve endothelium function.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22317966
Effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on endothelial function: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
"Supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids significantly improves the endothelial function without affecting endothelium-independent dilation."
Beneficial fats that contain high amounts of omega 3 can be found in foods like tofu, soya beans, soybean oil, soymilk, flaxseed oil, walnuts etc. A good balance of omega 3 and 6 is already found in soybeans but if one can choose to consume flaxseed oil to gain more omega 3 fats.
The recommended daily requirement for fat intake is 65grams. So each meal could contain about 20grams of fat.
A 14g tablespoon of flaxseed oil contains 14grams of fat and about 7000mg of omega 3. A 14g tablespoon of soybean oil contains about 1000mg of omega 3. 7 full pieces of walnuts of 28g contains 18grams of fat and 10000mg of omega 3.
Flaxseed oil
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fats-and-oils/7554/2
Soybean oil
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fats-and-oils/507/2
Walnuts
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3138/2
There is science research that has found olive oil to be able to dilate blood vessels possibly due to the polyphenols that have an astringent effect. So people who have problems with their blood vessels might be wise to avoid olive oil and take other kinds of fat.
Dr Vogel's research properly explains how olive oil can significantly injure the endothelium and that the effects of other oils used in the research such as canola oil had insignificant effects on the endothelium.
http://connecticare.com/GlobalFiles/HealthNews/article.asp?ID=091e9c5e8000735f&Cat=0&Num=6
"The olive oil meal caused vessels to constrict by 34%, whereas the canola oil and salmon meals caused insignificant changes in blood vessels, Vogel reports. Because such constrictions injure the blood vessels' endothelium, they contribute to heart disease."
The postprandial effect of components of the Mediterranean diet on endothelial function.
"CONCLUSIONS: In terms of their postprandial effect on endothelial function, the beneficial components of the Mediterranean and Lyon Diet Heart Study diets appear to be antioxidant-rich foods, including vegetables, fruits, and their derivatives such as vinegar, and omega-3-rich fish and canola oils."
Since Dr Vogel's research has found that oils such as canola "caused insignificant changes in blood vessels", other oils such as flaxseed and hemp oils should be alright to consume. Oils rich in omega 3 has been found to improve endothelium function.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22317966
Effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on endothelial function: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
"Supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids significantly improves the endothelial function without affecting endothelium-independent dilation."
Beneficial fats that contain high amounts of omega 3 can be found in foods like tofu, soya beans, soybean oil, soymilk, flaxseed oil, walnuts etc. A good balance of omega 3 and 6 is already found in soybeans but if one can choose to consume flaxseed oil to gain more omega 3 fats.
The recommended daily requirement for fat intake is 65grams. So each meal could contain about 20grams of fat.
A 14g tablespoon of flaxseed oil contains 14grams of fat and about 7000mg of omega 3. A 14g tablespoon of soybean oil contains about 1000mg of omega 3. 7 full pieces of walnuts of 28g contains 18grams of fat and 10000mg of omega 3.
Flaxseed oil
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fats-and-oils/7554/2
Soybean oil
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fats-and-oils/507/2
Walnuts
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3138/2
People Including Vegans Need to Consume Sufficient Vitamin B12
Many people including vegans themselves don't realize the nutrients they are missing from a vegan diet. Many people including meat-eaters are suffering from Vitamin B12 deficiency, especially those who have trouble absorbing the vitamin. Many vegans are also deficient in vitamin B12, they don't realize how much of the vitamin they should consume in a day in order to properly absorb the nutrient. B12 deficiency can cause irreversible nerve and brain damage in the long term.
I discovered there are 2 types of vitamin B12 being sold, cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin. Cyanocobalamin needs to be converted to methylcobalamin in the body in order for it to be utilized, so it is better to take B12 in the form of methylcobalamin to better ensure the body gets what it needs. I read that the liver only converts 1% of ingested cyanocobalamin into methylcobalamin.
The recommended daily allowance(RDA) for B12 may be a small amount like 4mcg, but one needs to ensure that the body would get at least that amount after the process of absorption, so one should buy B12 supplements that should have much more than the RDA amount of 4mcg. The RDA for various vitamins is for preventing deficiency, to ensure good health, one has to consume more than the RDA.
Research has found that the small intestine absorbs B12 in varying percentages due to the limitations of the Intrinsic Factor. If B12 is taken in small amounts such as 5-50mcgs, then the absorption amount is limited to about 1.5 mcgs, falling below the RDA, so it has to be taken at least twice during the day to fulfill the RDA, while giving the Intrinsic Factor a few hours' time to recover. But if B12 is taken in a high dosage such as 1000 mcg each time, the vitamin will be absorbed in 10-15 mcgs, fulfilling the RDA in one dosage.
http://www.veganhealth.org/b12/formula
There are some people on the internet saying that one does not need to take too much B12, and that B12 that comes with over 100s of mcgs are due to companies wanting to make money. But they are actually stupid to not realize that B12 also needs to be undergo the process of absorption, and not all the amounts would eventually get used by the body(I think this would also apply to other vitamins and minerals).
http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitaminb12/
"Dietary supplements
In dietary supplements, vitamin B12 is usually present as cyanocobalamin [5], a form that the body readily converts to the active forms methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin. Dietary supplements can also contain methylcobalamin and other forms of vitamin B12.
Existing evidence does not suggest any differences among forms with respect to absorption or bioavailability. However the body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 from dietary supplements is largely limited by the capacity of intrinsic factor. For example, only about 10 mcg of a 500 mcg oral supplement is actually absorbed in healthy people [8]."
"Some people—particularly older adults, those with pernicious anemia, and those with reduced levels of stomach acidity (achlorhydria) or intestinal disorders—have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from food and, in some cases, oral supplements [22,23]. As a result, vitamin B12 deficiency is common, affecting between 1.5% and 15% of the general population [24,25]. In many of these cases, the cause of the vitamin B12 deficiency is unknown"
Perhaps the ignorance about the proper intake amount of B12 has led to severe brain and nervous system damage in lots of vegans. And those crazy and emotionally extreme animal rights activists could be one of those suffering from extreme B12 deficiency.
More links to information about vitamin B12:
http://www.prohealth.com/library/showarticle.cfm?libid=481
http://www.dadamo.com/B2blogs/blogs/index.php/2004/02/07/cyanocobalamin-versus-methylcobalamin?blog=27
http://www.naturalnews.com/032766_cyanocobalamin_vitamin_B-12.
I discovered there are 2 types of vitamin B12 being sold, cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin. Cyanocobalamin needs to be converted to methylcobalamin in the body in order for it to be utilized, so it is better to take B12 in the form of methylcobalamin to better ensure the body gets what it needs. I read that the liver only converts 1% of ingested cyanocobalamin into methylcobalamin.
The recommended daily allowance(RDA) for B12 may be a small amount like 4mcg, but one needs to ensure that the body would get at least that amount after the process of absorption, so one should buy B12 supplements that should have much more than the RDA amount of 4mcg. The RDA for various vitamins is for preventing deficiency, to ensure good health, one has to consume more than the RDA.
Research has found that the small intestine absorbs B12 in varying percentages due to the limitations of the Intrinsic Factor. If B12 is taken in small amounts such as 5-50mcgs, then the absorption amount is limited to about 1.5 mcgs, falling below the RDA, so it has to be taken at least twice during the day to fulfill the RDA, while giving the Intrinsic Factor a few hours' time to recover. But if B12 is taken in a high dosage such as 1000 mcg each time, the vitamin will be absorbed in 10-15 mcgs, fulfilling the RDA in one dosage.
http://www.veganhealth.org/b12/formula
There are some people on the internet saying that one does not need to take too much B12, and that B12 that comes with over 100s of mcgs are due to companies wanting to make money. But they are actually stupid to not realize that B12 also needs to be undergo the process of absorption, and not all the amounts would eventually get used by the body(I think this would also apply to other vitamins and minerals).
http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitaminb12/
"Dietary supplements
In dietary supplements, vitamin B12 is usually present as cyanocobalamin [5], a form that the body readily converts to the active forms methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin. Dietary supplements can also contain methylcobalamin and other forms of vitamin B12.
Existing evidence does not suggest any differences among forms with respect to absorption or bioavailability. However the body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 from dietary supplements is largely limited by the capacity of intrinsic factor. For example, only about 10 mcg of a 500 mcg oral supplement is actually absorbed in healthy people [8]."
"Some people—particularly older adults, those with pernicious anemia, and those with reduced levels of stomach acidity (achlorhydria) or intestinal disorders—have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from food and, in some cases, oral supplements [22,23]. As a result, vitamin B12 deficiency is common, affecting between 1.5% and 15% of the general population [24,25]. In many of these cases, the cause of the vitamin B12 deficiency is unknown"
Perhaps the ignorance about the proper intake amount of B12 has led to severe brain and nervous system damage in lots of vegans. And those crazy and emotionally extreme animal rights activists could be one of those suffering from extreme B12 deficiency.
More links to information about vitamin B12:
http://www.prohealth.com/library/showarticle.cfm?libid=481
http://www.dadamo.com/B2blogs/blogs/index.php/2004/02/07/cyanocobalamin-versus-methylcobalamin?blog=27
http://www.naturalnews.com/032766_cyanocobalamin_vitamin_B-12.
Monday, June 16, 2014
Super Effective Weight Loss Tip #7 Replace French fries and mashed potatoes with mashed chickpeas(hummus)
Mashed potatoes are high glycermic Index foods with a GI score of 90 and above, meaning they can get converted to fat very easily. For effective weight loss, it is crucial to stick to low GI foods so that the calories can have more time to be utilized by the body instead of turning into fat too quickly.
Mashed chickpeas(hummus) have a GI score of around 30 and tastes just like French fries and mashed potatoes.
Soak dried chickpeas overnight for at least 8 hours, then boil for 15 to 20 mins until soft. Then process in a food processor. One can add salt, dried Italian herbs, ground black pepper and replace the fat with coconut oil. Add coconut cream to make it more creamy like having butter. Or you can add coconut mayo instead of sour cream for weight loss.
If you want to eat roasted potatoes or french fries, you can roast or fry them in coconut oil(that can cause weight loss) instead of regular oil.
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