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It’s not the tryptophan turkey making you sleepy

December 26, 2022 by Andrew Leave a Comment

For many people, the end of December is a festive occasion with gatherings, gifts and feasts. Turkey dinners are a family challenge; once everyone has eaten, you may find people yawning and feeling sleepy.

Is there a particular reason why Christmas dinners make people feel so sleepy? You might have been told about turkey being rich in an amino acid called tryptophan.

This is not a medical article, but let’s look at the Turkey meat and drowsiness hypothesis.

[AI rendered] Christmas turkey dinner

Turkey meat and drowsiness hypothesis

The hypothesis that eating turkey meat causes drowsiness is commonly known as the “tryptophan turkey meat and drowsiness hypothesis”. It is based on the idea that the chemical tryptophan, found in turkey meat, is responsible for drowsiness.

The drowsiness experienced after eating turkey meat is caused by tryptophan being converted into serotonin in the human body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep and thus can induce sleepiness.

However, studies have shown that the amount of tryptophan found in turkey meat is insufficient to cause drowsiness. It is more likely that the tiredness experienced after eating turkey meat is due to the large amounts of carbohydrates consumed in combination with the turkey, which trigger a surge in insulin levels. This, in turn, causes the body to absorb more tryptophan, increasing serotonin levels and drowsiness.

Which other foods have Tryptophan

According to Wikipedia, the top 5 foods for tryptophan to food weight are;

  1. Egg white, dried
  2. Spirulina, dried
  3. Cod, Atlantic, dried
  4. Soybeans, raw
  5. Cheese, Parmesan

Some foods have a higher tryptophan/protein ratio, though, such as;

  1. Chia seeds, dried (2.64)
  2. Milk (2.34)
  3. Sesame seed (2.17)

Why do we eat turkeys for Christmas?

The tradition of eating turkey for Christmas originated in England during the 16th century. At the time, turkey was a relatively inexpensive meat, so it was a popular choice for large family dinners. As the tradition of eating turkey on Christmas spread throughout Europe, it eventually made its way to America.

Turkeys are a large bird, and they can feed many people with one bird. Additionally, their flavour is suitable for a variety of accompaniments. From the classic roast potatoes and stuffing to cranberry sauce and vegetables, the turkey is the perfect centrepiece for a festive feast.

It is thought that in America, the tradition of eating turkey for Christmas was further popularized by Charles Dickens in his novella, A Christmas Carol. In the story, the Cratchit family feast on a turkey on Christmas Day.

From there, the tradition was firmly established and continues to this day.
So, there you have it – why do we eat turkey for Christmas? Turkey is a relatively inexpensive meat, it feeds a lot of people, and it is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides. As Charles Dickens said, “What could be more pleasant than to expect a good dinner on Christmas Day?”

Where are Turkeys from originally?

In one last twist, Turkeys are not native to the UK.

Turkeys are native to North America and were first domesticated by indigenous peoples in Mexico centuries ago. Over time, they were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers, and eventually, they made their way to the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe.

In Pure Spirit

What’s your favourite family-sized feast?

The healing power of a simple smile

October 7, 2022 by Geist Escrigui Leave a Comment

We all sometimes take the little things for granted. And there’s one simple remedy for many of life’s ills that we all carry around with us every day but probably rarely give a second thought to — our smiles.

Sure, we look for smiles to see whether someone is angry with us or enjoying our company, and we offer a friendly smile to a child or someone who could use a little reassurance. But how many of us ever consider the healing possibilities of that simple little facial expression?

Smiling flower (slightly creepy)

Smiling enhances your mood.

It may seem contradictory to recommend putting a grin on your face when you’re down, but wearing a smile even when you not feeling happy can put you in a better mood. Of course, thinking of those things that inspire joy and happiness will put a smile on our faces and thus lead to a better disposition. But even the act of smiling itself can trigger a brighter frame of mind. Emotions are not only activated by thoughts but also by physical cues. The next time you find yourself in a sour mood, try lifting the edges of those lips and see if it doesn’t lift your spirits.

Smiling can reduce stress and lower your blood pressure.

An added benefit of the elevated mood our smiles bring us is its effect on our physical well-being. Sour moods can cause our bodies to tense up, tightening our muscles and restricting blood vessels. Not only is this a recipe for discomfort, but it can also noticeably increase our blood pressure. Taking a deep breath, thinking happy thoughts, and putting a smile on our faces will relax those tense muscles and allow the blood to flow more freely, improving our health in the short and long run.

The healing of a smile is contagious.

Not only does smiling make us feel better, but wearing a warm smile can brighten the mood of other people around us. Human beings have a natural tendency to imitate, or ape, others people around them, often subconsciously. One or two moody individuals will usually bring down the whole group. But the reverse is also true. Going into a social situation with a large smile on your face will trigger a reaction in the faces of others in the group, and before long, everyone is smiling and feeling happier. Smiling regularly within a group you frequent, such as work or school, can set into motion a chain reaction that improves the overall atmosphere for everyone.

Smiling even has its own day.

You may be wondering why, if smiling has so many amazing benefits, it has not received more recognition. Well, it has. Graphic designer Harvey Ball, famous for creating the iconic smiley face design, founded the World Smile Foundation in 1999 to promote “good cheer and good works”. In addition to backing several children’s charities, the foundation established World Smile Day on the first Friday of each October. The event’s motto is “do an act of kindness — help one person smile,” a worthy gem of advice to follow every day of the year.

In Pure Spirit

Do you believe in the healing power of smiles?

Ways to Connect With Your Community and Help Others in Need

September 22, 2022 by Guest Author Leave a Comment

There are so many ways you can give back, pay forward, and otherwise contribute to the overall well-being of your local and global community.

Even if you aren’t set up to be a major philanthropist and don’t have tons of time on your hands for volunteering, you can still contribute to the overall betterment of those you share the earth with.

people in an grassy field helping to pick up littler

In Pure Spirit presents some different options for helping others, depending on where you are in your life right now.

Help Others Financially
Whether giving directly to individuals or supporting charitable organizations, financial donations remain an important way to help others.

  • Donate to a reputable charity (do some reading to figure out which charitable organizations have the best ratings for making the most of their funds and being the most ethical and transparent).
  • Find a good sponsorship program and use it to support a child, making sure they have access to food, water, clothing, health care, and education.
  • Contribute financial support to a local group or nonprofit that provides services to the less advantaged in your community. Better yet, you can set up your own nonprofit to a cause that’s near and dear to your heart.

Volunteer Locally or Globally
Volunteer work can be a great way to get involved on a more personal level, connect with like-minded persons, and find out more about the needs of your community at home and around the world.

  • Look for a good soup kitchen in your area where you can help out by sourcing, cooking, or serving meals, or by helping with cleaning or administrative tasks.
  • Reach out to your church to help connect you with volunteer opportunities both in your community and church.
  • You can also get involved with educational or cultural trusts, to help keep arts and literacy available and affordable for all.

Help People on an Individual Level
Often you can make a difference by going out of your way to help people you know of who are in need or in a rough spot.

  • Keep an eye out for GoFundMe or JustGiving campaigns and other fundraisers to support individuals and families needing financial help to get them through difficulties, such as illness, job loss, or bereavement.
  • Find out whether there are any local programs for helping veterans. Veterans may be in need of food or transportation assistance, or simply a friendly face and someone to talk to.
  • Offer to help the elderly clean up their living space and declutter. These efforts may seem small, but they can reduce stress and increase mood, which are both important for older adults who may feel isolated. Your time there will also help them feel connected to others.
  • If there are immigrants in your community, see if you can help them settle in, find work, and make connections. One way immigrants can earn a living is to work as translators, so find out how much translators make, and see if you can help set them up as freelancers.

Get Involved Politically
As a public official, you can put your energy into supporting, promoting, and spearheading initiatives for community betterment.

  • If you’re up for it, consider a run for office – but make sure you give some serious thought to what this entails, and discuss it with family and loved ones first.
  • Even if you’re not ready to run for office, find a political cause and get involved. Perhaps you’re interested in climate change or LGBTQ rights. Find organizations in your area pushing for national change in your passion areas and volunteer.

Whether it’s helping one person or a whole community, it’s always worth your while to plug in and make a difference. And hopefully, you will inspire others to contribute their gifts and talents to help people around you.

In Pure Spirit

Are you looking for interesting reading that will inspire you to believe and think differently? Then check out In Pure Spirit. We offer a variety of readings to inspire your curiosity.

About the Author

Betty Vaughan understands that achieving work-life balance has never been harder. She has experienced first-hand how remote work blurs the line separating one’s work from the rest of their life. That’s why she created Nine To Thrive. Through the site, she hopes to help anyone struggling with a work-life imbalance find and sustain that needed balance so that they can live a life where they can fully thrive.

Photo Credit: Anna Shvets via Pexels

Photography Tips & Tricks for Capturing the BEST British Wildlife Images

April 25, 2022 by Guest Author Leave a Comment

Interested in wildlife photography? Whether you’re a beginner or pro, our helpful guide from experts at Lafayette Photography will ensure you snap award-worthy pictures of these native creatures and critters. 

British Birds

British birds

There’s nothing more iconic than images of a Robin Redbreast set against a wintry background. These common birds are easy to find, but why not discover rare British birds for an even more striking photograph.

From dainty Willow Tits to majestic White-Tailed Eagles, you can stalk these super rare subjects to ensure jaw-dropping dramatic shots with every click. 

Scotland is home to some of the most magnificent winged wildlife in the world. So head to the highlands armed with weather-resistant lenses that allow maximum zoom and Panasonic settings to include breathtaking backgrounds. Make sure your camera is blur proof by using a tripod and shooting in burst mode. Choose secluded areas like glens and natural parks and try to blend in by wearing muted colours.

As a last resort, why not befriend a fellow birder who can lead the way to an excellent experience with remarkable birdlife and secure that winning shot. 

Butterflies

photo credit Chemihv Flickr
(Photo credit Chemihv Flickr)

British butterflies were born to be photographed. Thanks to their aesthetics and elegant flutter, these special species are a real treat for wildlife photographers everywhere. 

The best time to capture butterflies is early morning or late afternoon. This is when you’ll find them perched upon a plant absorbing warmth from the sun. When approaching the butterfly, be as gentle and lightfooted as possible because they’re super sensitive to vibrations and will depart before getting your picture.

Butterflies aren’t super fast. In fact, their dainty, ethereal movements can be shot on your everyday iPhone. But if you want a more professional feel, choose a digital camera with a fast shutter speed and lie on the ground to capture them mid-flight. 

If you’re one of the lucky people to have a butterfly alight upon your body, then put your camera away and just enjoy the magical moment. 

 

Squirrels

Photo credit Ervin Kobakci
(Photo credit Ervin Kobakci)

Red squirrels are rare, so snapping one in their natural habitat is a real feat. These fluffy-tailed animals are super fast, so it’s essential to remain stealthy and give them a wide birth for natural-looking pictures. 

To find British Red Squirrels, head to woodland in Autumn time. A practical tip to attract them is to take some squirrel snacks along, like pine nuts and sunflowers seeds and sprinkle them around as you scour the scene for the perfect picture. Next, use a camera with a fast shutter speed lens which will enable you to keep your distance without startling your subject. 

Timing is everything when it comes to capturing images of squirrels. And waiting is the name of the game when trying to take excellent shots of nature. So, wear comfy shoes and wait for your furry friends to strike a pose. 

 

Foxes 

Focusing on foxes can produce images of all kinds. Whether dark and macabre or lighthearted and humorous, these cunning Canidae make the best photography subjects. 

photo credit Naturetti
(Photo credit Naturetti)

Foxes are super easy to find too! Most urban areas in the UK have a wondering fox or two, making wildlife photography a breeze. The tricky part is they only surface after dark, so make sure you stay safe when searching for your foxy pictures. 

Even though you’ll need to edit night images, it’s critical to use lenses with a dynamic range when shooting without light. Otherwise, you won’t have clear, crisp pictures of your Mr Fox. Equally important is the need for reduced noise, so a camera that allows for sensory control will help you get those exciting shots without scaring your subject away. 

British Badgers

photo credit Robert Canis
(Photo credit Robert Canis)

Trying to shoot pictures of wild badgers can get a little complicated. Of course, this is excellent news for the more adventurous photographer, but if you’re a beginner, here are some simple tricks to get you started.

Badgers come out after dusk, so head to woodland areas before that time. Getting there early gives you a chance to look out for badger droppings, so you know where to set up, bait and wait. 

If you didn’t already know, badgers are fierce, have an epic sense of smell, and move quickly in the opposite direction if you’re wearing strong scents. Remote photography would be best for these unique animals if you have the specialised equipment. 

To create the clearest, most charming photographs of badgers, always use a wide lens to paint a storybook picture people can invest in. 

In Pure Spirit

What tips do you have for wildlife photography?

This article was written by Faye Lord on behalf of Lafayette Photography, UK and Ireland’s leading photography company since 1880; services include portraiture, corporate photography, graduate ceremonies and historical photography. In Pure Spirit was not paid to host it and received no other compensation.

This is how to safely fit an anti-COVID-19 (coronavirus) mask

April 3, 2020 by Andrew Leave a Comment

Right now, the role of masks in preventing the COVID-19 (coronavirus) spread is in question. Two things are known to be accurate; masks help stop infected people from passing the virus on and medical professionals working in the thick of it benefit from masks, as do their patients.

What about the rest of us? Do we cut the risk of infection by wearing a mask? That’s not clear. One of the known problems with members of the general public wearing masks is that, statistically, we’re rubbish at it.

People put their masks down, get them contaminated from the dirty surface and then strap the infection onto their face. Untrained people also take their masks off in such a way as to transfer the virus to their hands and then catch the disease.

How to safely wear a mask

This video is from University of Minnesota Health. It was made a year ago; in other words, this is a purely instructional video that was made and published without anyone trying to make money off the coronavirus scare.

Hindsight is key, isn’t it? Don’t touch the front of the mask and wash your hands afterwards!

In Pure Spirit

Are you wearing masks during the COVID-19 pandemic? Are you planning on buying a stash of masks afterwards to keep in the house?

Little Victories on World Autism Day

April 2, 2020 by Andrew Leave a Comment

The 2nd of April is World Autism Day. As you’d expect, the NHS has a helpful site on autism where you can read more, in summary, autism isn’t a ‘condition’ that needs to be cured.

Little Victories - Autism Through a Father's Eyes
Little Victories

Autism does mean having a brain that works differently to other people, and some people with autism may need extra help in some areas.

Yvon Roy is a Canadian author and illustrator. His son was diagnosed with autism and the sometimes hilarious, sometimes sad family struggles that followed are retold in Little Victories. Little Victories, which will soon be published in English for the first time, recounts how Roy gradually got his son used to hugs, or that there might be a small amount of dust in the bath and the fact that life does not always follow a routine.

Yvon Roy has worked on several children’s stories, won Best Biography Award from the Disability Fund and Society, received the INSPIREO High School Students Award for most inspiring youth book and the Literary Award for Citizenship from the Maine Teachers’ League.

In Pure Spirit has permission from Titan Comics and Statix Press to share some internal panels from the comic book.

Little Victories

In Pure Spirit

Does autism touch your life?

You can pre-order Little Victories on Amazon.

The easy to understand science of the coronavirus (Covid-19)

March 24, 2020 by Andrew Leave a Comment

Sadly, there is plenty of false and misleading information on the internet about the coronavirus (Covid-19).

While there is plenty of accurate information too much of it is easier dumbed down too much or written for a medically trained audience.

The good news is that Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell is a trusted channel on YouTube that works hard to explain complex topics with easy to follow, but intelligent videos.

This video explains the science of Covid-19 nicely and clearly, while also treating the audience as an intelligent one.

In Pure Spirit

What tips do you have to make self-isolation and social distancing easier for you?

International Women’s Day 2020: Gender switching brand mascots

March 7, 2020 by Andrew Leave a Comment

March the 8th is International Women’s Day. Yes, there’s an International Men’s Day too.

Did you know that brand mascot as twice as likely to be male than female?

It’s a marketing stunt, but I think it’s a nice one, as kitchen appliance brand CDA tried to fix this. Without simply changing colours to pink or adding ribbons and bows, CDA worked with an illustrator to re-imagine some iconic brand mascots as female ones.

Toilet Duck

Mr Muscle

Pringles

Green Giant Sweetcorn

Rice Krispies

Captain Birds Eye

Frosties

Homepride

In Pure Spirit

How successful do you think CDA have been? I think they’ve done pretty well, but if you disagree there are the comments below to say so.

Which brand mascot do you think would be better as a woman?

The long dragons and real life

July 26, 2018 by Andrew 1 Comment

The artist of Chinese artist Guodong Zhao is incredible. Based in Beijing, this talented illustrator takes photographs and paints on a layer of fantasy.

The painted long dragons

In Pure Spirit

Sad or surreal? It’s as these long Asian dragons should be majestic, proud and perhaps even a little menacing. By showing them, sometimes, ruined and wrecked against the sharp contrast of reality Zhao easily transforms them into being of sadness and despair.

Discover the Folktales of the Cryptids

June 30, 2018 by Andrew 1 Comment

[Buy a copy]

Folktales of the Cryptids is a collection of short comic book horror stories. As the name implies, each story features a cryptid and the dangers of getting too close to one.

Joseph Oliveria wrote the cryptid stories and published them through Afterlight Comics the indie publisher he founded only in 2017. A Kickstarter raised over £3,500 to bring the comic to life.

Which Cryptids feature?

Good question. You can expect to see brief sightings off the Mothman, Chupacabra, The Legend of Momo and The Pukwudgie.

The Folktales of the Cryptids review

There’s no messing around with this comic. Joseph Oliveria’s stories pack a punch, and it comes straight at you. Don’t expect much in the way of plot twists or deviations. Cryptids isn’t a comic book collection designed to drag your expectation around. This is a comic book collection written to be a homage to the legends and myths that have made these cryptids familiar.

And while there’s no messing around and there are plenty of straight up by the book plays you would be wrong to take the Folktales of the Cryptids for granted. The delivery is top notch, paced perfectly and concluded with a marksman like perfection.

I’m especially fond of the illustrations and colouring in the last tale – Romance is Dead – where Brendan Purchase drew and Roman Stevens coloured. There are some surreal touches.

There are some common strands in the four horror stories. We’re better off leaving the Cryptids alone. They’re probably better off if we leave them alone too. It also seems to be the case that whether you’re a good person or a bad person that bad things can still happen to you. It’s a cruel world out there. However, if you can keep your wits about you then, perhaps, you’ll have a chance.

While the four stories are each blessed with their own cryptid it is the human characters that give them life and interest. This might because the characters used in the adventures are familiar, don’t need an introduction and so we’re easily at ease with them.

Where can I buy Folktales of the Cryptids

The comic book is available in stores in the UK. You can also buy it directly from Afterlight Comics.com.

Will there be a sequel?

Neither Afterlight Comics nor Joseph Oliveria has announced plans for a follow up. However, right now there’s a Kickstarter for a new series called Wendigo Wood. This Kickstarter is asking for less money and, at the current rate of pledges, will raise more. That’s probably a good endorsement of the quality of the previous work.


[Back this Campaign]

In Pure Spirit

Are there any cryptid or horror comic book series that you will recommend?

In Pure Spirit’s copy of Folktales of the Cryptids was provided for review.

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