#neural tube defects

[drforambhuta]

The commonly seen congenital disorders are:

1. Down Syndrome:

• Cause: Trisomy 21 during conception, linked to maternal age.

• Characteristics: Includes musculoskeletal issues, thyroid dysfunction.

• Diagnosis: Non-invasive prenatal testing, genetic screening.

• Treatment: Personalized healthcare with early intervention.

2. Cleft Lip and Palate:

• Cause: Genetic predisposition, environmental factors.

• Characteristics: Encompasses visible and psychological aspects.

• Diagnosis: Improved prenatal diagnoses through imaging, genetic testing.

• Treatment: Surgical correction, ongoing regenerative medicine research.

3. Congenital Heart Defects:

• Cause: Genetic, environmental factors, maternal influences.

• Characteristics: Examines neurodevelopment, overall quality of life.

• Diagnosis: AI and machine learning for early detection.

• Treatment: Beyond surgery, regenerative therapies, precision medicine.

4. Neural Tube Defects:

• Cause: Genetics, maternal nutrition, environmental factors.

• Characteristics: Focus on long-term neurological impacts.

• Diagnosis: Advanced imaging, molecular diagnostics.

• Treatment: Surgical interventions, neuroregenerative approaches.

5. Cystic Fibrosis:

• Cause: Complex genetic mutations, cellular mechanisms.

• Characteristics: Beyond respiratory, digestive impacts, considers psychological, nutritional aspects.

• Diagnosis: Precision medicine, advanced genetic testing.

• Treatment: Gene therapies, targeted medications advancements.

6. Sickle Cell Anemia:

• Cause: Genetic, molecular intricacies.

• Characteristics: Examines long-term impacts beyond clinical manifestations.

• Diagnosis: Early detection through genetic testing, newborn screening.

• Treatment: Exciting prospects with gene-editing technologies.

7. Hemophilia:

• Cause: Genetic, molecular underpinnings.

• Characteristics: Broader impact on joint health, quality of life.

• Diagnosis: Precision enhanced by molecular profiling.

• Treatment: Beyond clotting factor replacement, explores gene therapies.

8. Muscular Dystrophy:

• Cause: Specific genetic mutations associated with different forms.

• Characteristics: Progression impacts respiratory function, cardiac health.

• Diagnosis: Advanced imaging, molecular diagnostics.

• Treatment: Research into gene therapies, exon-skipping, pharmacological approaches.

9. Spinal Muscular Atrophy:

• Cause: Genetic intricacies, modifier genes, environmental influences.

• Characteristics: Beyond motor deficits, impact on respiratory function.

• Diagnosis: Advances in genetic testing, newborn screening.

• Treatment: Evolving landscape with gene-targeted therapies.

10. Williams Syndrome:

• Cause: Genetic deletions, insights into neurodevelopment.

• Characteristics: Encompasses delays, facial features, cognitive strengths/challenges.

• Diagnosis: Advanced genetic testing for accurate, early diagnoses.

• Treatment: Tailored education, early intervention, cardiovascular management.

Early diagnosis of the above conditions can be made with the help of regular full body health checkups for your child. You can opt for a full body health checkup at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in New Delhi, which is regarded to be one of the finest hospitals in Delhi.

[chiefobservationpeace]

 Know how a diet affects pregnancy

Know how a diet affects pregnancy

Did you know that your diet during pregnancy will have an effect on your baby’s health, tastes, and preferences? Hence as soon as a woman gets to know she is pregnant, it is vital to make immediate changes to her diet and lifestyle. Healthy nutritious food along with a perfect routine of physical activity will definitely help to keep the baby and mother healthy in a long-term. What you eat for the next nine months of your pregnancy can impact your baby’s health as well as yours for decades to come.

Poor diet during pregnancy and its effects

Pregnant women need to follow a healthy and nutritious diet for optimal development of their baby. Although a timely treat to satisfy a pregnancy craving is generally alright, but too much junk food during pregnancy can be hazardous to both mother and baby.

Neural Tube Defects and Low IQ

Folate and essential fatty acids are very important during pregnancy for the growth and development of the fetus. Lack of these essentials are associated with poor brain development and can also hinder the growth of the spine and spinal cord.

Malnutrition

Pregnancy diet and nutrition plays a vital role during these nine months for the healthy development of the fetus and also for the mother. Hence, a proper and nutritious meal plan should be followed by the pregnant women which include all the vitamins, proteins, carbs, fats, minerals and other nutrients. Lack of this might lead to malnutrition among the babies.

Heart diseases and hypertension

The pregnant woman who eats more of junk food, carbonated drinks, and other sugary items are at a risk to develop obesity for themselves as well as their babies. This will lead to increase in bad cholesterol levels and also spikes the blood sugar levels which can, in turn, be a reason to cause various heart diseases, breathing problems, obesity, diabetes and also hypertension among the babies.

Underdeveloped bones

A lack of vitamin D can affect the growth and development of bones in fetuses and lack of vitamin K can hinder the development of the face and teeth and with mineral deposition in fetal bones. Minerals like calcium, zinc, iron, and iodine are vital for both the baby and the mother to have a full term pregnancy.

Pregnancy foods

During pregnancy, eating a healthy and well-balanced diet which is low in saturated fats and rich in fresh fruits and vegetables is crucial. Some pregnancy foods include:

Fortified Breakfast Cereal

Dried Beans and Lentils

Non-fat milk

Broccoli

Eggs

Cheese

Bananas

Oatmeal

Leafy greens

Whole grain bread

Oranges

Dry fruits and nuts

Soy foods

Salmon

Sweet potatoes

Greek yogurt

Water

Poor health and nutrition during pregnancy directly affect a baby’s building blocks and its ill effects cannot be reversed. Pregnant women need to make sure that their diet provides enough nutrients for the baby to develop and grow healthily. They also need to make sure that her body is strong enough to deal with the changes that will occur.

READ MORE...Best Indian Diet Plan Weight Loss Weight gain

[capricornbones]

I never posted here to Tumblr! This is my best work to date.

This post is long overdue, but finally, this long anticipated project is ready to share. Pictures just don’t do this sweet little soul justice for how unique he truly is. This stillborn kitten was born with a deformity known as Diprosopus, which causes two faces to form in the same skull.

Diprosopus is a rare, life-threatening developmental defect during embryogenesis, and a subtype of conjoined twins, characterized by partial or complete duplication of the facial structures on a single head, neck, trunk and body.

Diprosopus often occurs in combination with other congenital disorders, particularly anencephaly, neural tube defect and cardiac malformations. When present, the brain may show abnormalities ranging from partial to complete duplication of brain structures, and/or underdevelopment of brain tissues. Cats with the condition are known as 'Janus cats', after the Roman god.

This was such a strange and yet amazing specimen to be trusted to work with. I’m so pleased with how he turned out and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.

[darkmaga-retard]

A study published last month found that billions of humans across the globe are dangerously deficient in important vitamins and minerals.

“On the basis of estimates of nutrient intake from food (excluding fortification and supplementation), more than 5 billion people do not consume enough iodine (68% of the global population), vitamin E (67%), and calcium (66%). More than 4 billion people do not consume enough iron (65%), riboflavin (55%), folate (54%), and vitamin C (53%). Within the same country and age groups, estimated inadequate intakes were higher for women than for men for iodine, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium and higher for men than for women for magnesium, vitamin B6, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A, thiamin, and niacin,” the study stated in the ‘Findings’ section of the Summary.

Infowars.com reports: The researchers detailed how lacking these critical micronutrients affects human health.

“Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia, leading to impaired cognition and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of preventable blindness globally, affecting mostly children and pregnant women. Both vitamin A and zinc have a crucial role in immunity, especially for populations facing a high burden of infectious diseases. Folate is needed early in pregnancy to reduce the risk of stillbirths and neural tube defects, and iodine is essential for pregnant and breastfeeding women because of its role in fetal and child cognitive development,” the study said in the ‘Introduction’ section. “Deficiencies in these and other micronutrients collectively contribute to a large burden of morbidity and mortality.”

The researchers estimated the global nutrient deficiencies for various age groups of both genders.

[healtylife05]

women prenatal

Prenatal vitamins are a fundamental mix of important vitamins and minerals that are critical for the development of the unborn child as well as the well-being of the pregnant mother. women prenatal-Beli Best Women prenatal Vitamins (Review 2024)

They are needed for women's prenatal health. Folic acid, also known as folate, calcium, iron, vitamin D, and iodine are often included in this specific formulation. All of these nutrients are essential for maintaining the health of the mother and promoting the best possible growth of the fetus at every stage of pregnancy.

Women's prenatal vitamins benefits

The benefits of women's prenatal vitamins are manifold, catering to the diverse needs of expectant mothers and their developing babies. These specialized supplements provide essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, calcium, and iodine, crucial for supporting maternal health and optimal fetal development throughout pregnancy.

Best prenatal vitamins

Ranked among the best prenatal vitamins, Beli Women's prenatal vitamins are meticulously formulated to cater to the nutritional requirements of women during preconception, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding. Loaded with 20 essential nutrients deemed critical for fetal development and maternal well-being, Beli earns a remarkable 9.7 rating for its excellence.

beli.pxf.io

Complete nutrition from conception to pregnancy and beyond 

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 

 Shop & Save 10%

On Beli's Website

Pros:

Enjoy 10% Off Beli Women prenatal vitamins.

Boost preconception nutrition and postpartum healing.

400mg of choline aids in healthy neural tube development.

Quality iron and TRAACS minerals for enhanced absorption.

Optimal levels of methyl folate support healthy fetal development.

Cons:

Can be pricey compared to other prenatal supplements.

What's in the Beli Women Prenatal Vitamins

These vitamins are made up of a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other healthful components. Important elements consist of:

Methylated folate: is essential for the early, healthy development of the fetal brain, spine, and neural tube.

Iron: Essential for the synthesis of red blood cells and the prevention of anemia.

Choline: Lowers the risk of neural tube defects and promotes brain growth.

Iodine: Necessary for healthy thyroid function and the development of a baby's brain.

Vitamin D: Aids in the immune system and bone health.

B vitamins: Support the production of red blood cells, nerve transmission, and energy.

beli.pxf.io

Complete nutrition from conception to pregnancy and beyond 

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 

 Shop & Save 10%

On Beli's Website

What Benefits Prenatal Vitamins for Beli Women Can Offer: Beli Women's prenatal vitamins provide a nutritional boost for several aspects of fertility, pregnancy, fetal growth, and postpartum healing when combined with a nutritious diet. Advantages consist of:

consistent regular dietary assistance.

Promotion of fetal development.

Increased vigor and energy.

assistance for healthy muscles and bones.

reduction of morning sickness and indigestion

How Much Do Beli Women's Prenatal Vitamins Cost:

A one-month supply costs $50, but regular specials offer discounts. Sold via monthly subscription, subscribers enjoy free shipping and can cancel anytime.

Do You Need to Take Beli Women's Prenatal Vitamins?

You can benefit from Beli Women prenatal vitamins if:

You intend to get pregnant, nursing, or both.

You are looking for a complete prenatal vitamin.

You like your ingredients to be verified as high-quality.

Beli Women may not benefit from prenatal vitamins if:

You suffer from certain allergies or dietary limitations.

You now take prenatal supplements or vitamins.

Budgetary restrictions are a problem.

beli.pxf.io

Complete nutrition from conception to pregnancy and beyond

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.  

 Shop & Save 10%

On Beli's Website

[healthyhustleusa]

## A Trusty Companion Throughout My Pregnancy: A Review of Prenatalin

Finding out I was pregnant was a whirlwind of emotions – joy, excitement, and a touch of nervousness. With a tiny human growing inside me, I knew I needed to be extra mindful of my health and well-being. My doctor recommended Prenatalin vitamins, and after researching the brand and its ingredients, I decided to give them a try. Here's why Prenatalin became a trusted companion throughout my pregnancy journey.

**Prenatal Essentials:**

Prenatalin offers a comprehensive range of essential nutrients crucial for both mom and baby during pregnancy. Folic acid, known for its role in preventing neural tube defects, is present in a readily absorbable form. Additionally, the vitamins provide a good dose of iron, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body, especially important as blood volume increases during pregnancy. Calcium for strong bones and teeth development in the baby, along with Vitamin D to aid calcium absorption, are also included.

**More Than Just the Basics:**

Prenatalin goes beyond the standard prenatal vitamin by offering additional support. It contains choline, a nutrient vital for healthy brain development in the baby. For moms experiencing morning sickness, the inclusion of Vitamin B6 can be a lifesaver, as it helps alleviate nausea and vomiting.

**Easy to Swallow and Gentle on the Stomach:**

Prenatal vitamins can be notorious for their size and causing nausea. Thankfully, Prenatalin comes in easy-to-swallow capsules. I never experienced any stomach upset throughout my entire pregnancy, which was a major plus.

**Peace of Mind with a Reputable Brand:**

Prenatalin is a well-established brand with a long history of providing quality prenatal vitamins. Knowing they are manufactured with strict quality control standards gave me peace of mind.

**A Supportive Partner on My Pregnancy Journey:**

Taking Prenatalin daily became a reassuring ritual throughout my pregnancy. Knowing I was providing my developing baby with the essential nutrients for healthy growth was incredibly empowering. Prenatalin not only supported my nutritional needs but also helped alleviate some pregnancy discomforts. It was a small but significant way I could prioritize my health and well-being during this transformative time.

Prenatalin lived up to its reputation as a comprehensive and reliable prenatal vitamin. It provided me with the essential nutrients I needed to nourish myself and my growing baby, all in an easy-to-swallow and gentle-on-the-stomach formula. For any mom-to-be seeking a high-quality prenatal vitamin, I highly recommend giving Prenatalin a try.

**Final Thoughts:**

**Disclaimer:** I am not a medical professional. Please consult your doctor to determine the best prenatal vitamin for your individual needs.

[soysaucevictim]

I'm not particularly squeamish, but it is intellectually fascinating stuff like diprosopus and neural tube defects.

It can teach us about the genes that signal various clumps of embryonic cells to develop into functioning organs.

But I'm not under any illusion that keeping diprosopus anything alive is a mercy (in all but the absolute mildest presentations of that genetic error).

Also just gotta remind anyone who needs to know - eat plenty of folate-rich food if you're pregnant. It's one of the best things you can do to prevent NTDs.

[cannabiscomrade]

I've never seen the term "grey" used in context with degenerative conditions. I tried looking it up, but am not sure if I got the correct meaning. Does it mean that it has something to do with grey matter in the brain?

So “grey” in this context is referring to diagnoses that aren’t explicitly or immediately terminal, but can become terminal over time with complications and comorbidities.

ALS is considered a degenerative disease that is classified as terminal, but not generally classified as such until the individual is showing signs of progression beyond the point that interventions have shown signs of improvement and remission. MS is similar in that it takes on individualized presentations in people and reduces life expectancy, but is not considered terminal. These are both “grey” diagnoses because they don’t immediately qualify you for end-of-life support, but they can progress enough to be deadly or the complications and comorbidities can indirectly cause death.

Another example are in-utero diagnoses that can be considered “grey” because the disabled fetus may or may not survive pregnancy and labor/delivery like Dandy Walker Syndrome, gastroshisis, encephalocele and other neural tube defects, and CMAMMA.

[shebirth]

During pregnancy, it's crucial to ensure you're getting a variety of nutrients to support both your health and the development of your baby. Key nutrients include folic acid, which helps prevent neural tube defects, iron to support the increased blood volume, calcium for bone development, omega-3 fatty acids for brain and eye development, and protein for overall growth. Additionally, staying hydrated is essential, so drink plenty of water. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products can help provide these nutrients. However, it's also advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to ensure you're meeting your specific nutritional needs during pregnancy.

#HealthyPregnancy #NutritionForMomAndBaby #PrenatalHealth #FolicAcid #Iron #Calcium #Omega3 #Protein #Hydration #BalancedDiet #MaternalHealth #shebirth

[wafflenati0n]

Incase you didn't know. This is what the different ribbon colors mean!

❤ - The red ribbon represents AIDS/HIV, alcohol and substance abuse, Vasculitis, love, heart, and disease.

🧡 - The orange ribbon represents hunger, leukemia, animal protection awareness, self harm awareness, multiple sclerosis, ADHD (attention defficent hyperactive disorder) and kidney cancer.

💛 - The yellow ribbon represents supporting our troops, suicide prevention, genocide awareness, sarcoma and bone cancer awareness.

💚 - The green ribbon represents tissue and organ donations or transplants, mental health, mental illness, leukemia, environment, kidney neural tube defects, save the earth movement, go green movement, and the recycling movement.

💙 - The blue ribbon represents child abuse prevention, arthritis, sex trafficking and slavery, and prostate cancer.

💜 - the purple ribbon represents Sarcoidosis lupus, fibromyalgia, religious tolerance, violence against women, domestic violence, cycstic fibrosis, Alzheimer's disease, pancreatic cancer, and epilepsy.

Violet - Hodgkin's lymphoma.

🤍 - The white ribbon represents victims of Terrorism, peace, blindness, and Holocaust Remembrance.

🖤 - The black ribbon represents mourning and melanoma.

Lime green - The lime green ribbon represents lymphoma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, muscular dystrophy, and mental health.

Teal - The team ribbon represents gynelogicial cancer, and sexual assault.

Periwinkle - The periwinkle ribbon represents eating disorders, pulmonary hypertension esophageal cancer and stomach cancer.

💗 - The pink ribbon represents breast cancer.

Cream - The cream ribbon represents Paralysis, spinal cord injuries, spinal diseases and disorders.

Light Blue - The light blue ribbon represents prostate cancer and men's health.

Lavender - The lavender ribbon represents all cancers (general cancer awareness), and Eplisey.

Pearl - The pearl ribbon represents lung cancer and lung disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Gray - The gray ribbon represents diabetes, brain cancer, and asthma.

Silver - The silver ribbon represents Brain disorders.

Gold - The gold ribbon represents childhood cancer.

Zebra Patterned - The zebra patterned ribbon represents rare diseases and cancers, such as nueroendocrine, tumors, carcinoid cancer, Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes and Whipple's disease. These are just examples, this is not excluding any other rare dieseases or cancers. (Credit to @

Hope this helps someone! If I'm missing one or got one wrong, let me know in my asks box.

[chansaw]

i’ve been turning 2x6 over and over in my head over the past few days and i know it’s not what some people were expecting; the horror could’ve been grislier, more disturbing. but that’s when it hit me: despite all the Supernatural Wilderness Bullshit going on, there’s also the horror of real life. the God Of That Place and the One With No Eyes and Dead Cabin Guy may be threats, but so is the cold. so is their malnourishment.

there are a whole host of complications that come with vitamin deficiencies. aside from the obvious symptoms of weight loss, mental haze and confusion, various vitamin deficiencies can cause muscle and heart weakness (B1), anemia and hair loss (B5), and good old fashioned scurvy (C). shauna absolutely wasn’t getting enough folic acid (B9) which is essential to ensuring the growing baby’s brain, skull, and spinal cord develop correctly. if the baby had survived, he may have had spinal bifida or another neural tube defect.

in my opinion, the fact that shauna’s loss is grounded in reality makes it even more tragic. the wilderness might slowly be driving the team mad, but real life is just as fucked up as any supernatural element the show may have to offer.

[healtylife05]

women prenatal

Prenatal vitamins are a fundamental mix of important vitamins and minerals that are critical for the development of the unborn child as well as the well-being of the pregnant mother. women prenatal-Beli Best Women prenatal Vitamins (Review 2024)

They are needed for women's prenatal health. Folic acid, also known as folate, calcium, iron, vitamin D, and iodine are often included in this specific formulation. All of these nutrients are essential for maintaining the health of the mother and promoting the best possible growth of the fetus at every stage of pregnancy.

Women's prenatal vitamins benefits

The benefits of women's prenatal vitamins are manifold, catering to the diverse needs of expectant mothers and their developing babies. These specialized supplements provide essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, calcium, and iodine, crucial for supporting maternal health and optimal fetal development throughout pregnancy.

Best prenatal vitamins

Ranked among the best prenatal vitamins, Beli Women's prenatal vitamins are meticulously formulated to cater to the nutritional requirements of women during preconception, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and breastfeeding. Loaded with 20 essential nutrients deemed critical for fetal development and maternal well-being, Beli earns a remarkable 9.7 rating for its excellence.

Complete nutrition from conception to pregnancy and beyond 

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 

 Shop & Save 10%

On Beli's Website

Pros:

Enjoy 10% Off Beli Women prenatal vitamins.

Boost preconception nutrition and postpartum healing.

400mg of choline aids in healthy neural tube development.

Quality iron and TRAACS minerals for enhanced absorption.

Optimal levels of methyl folate support healthy fetal development.

Cons:

Can be pricey compared to other prenatal supplements.

What's in the Beli Women Prenatal Vitamins

These vitamins are made up of a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other healthful components. Important elements consist of:

Methylated folate: is essential for the early, healthy development of the fetal brain, spine, and neural tube.

Iron: Essential for the synthesis of red blood cells and the prevention of anemia.

Choline: Lowers the risk of neural tube defects and promotes brain growth.

Iodine: Necessary for healthy thyroid function and the development of a baby's brain.

Vitamin D: Aids in the immune system and bone health.

B vitamins: Support the production of red blood cells, nerve transmission, and energy.

Complete nutrition from conception to pregnancy and beyond 

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 

 Shop & Save 10%

On Beli's Website

What Benefits Prenatal Vitamins for Beli Women Can Offer: Beli Women's prenatal vitamins provide a nutritional boost for several aspects of fertility, pregnancy, fetal growth, and postpartum healing when combined with a nutritious diet. Advantages consist of:

consistent regular dietary assistance.

Promotion of fetal development.

Increased vigor and energy.

assistance for healthy muscles and bones.

reduction of morning sickness and indigestion

How Much Do Beli Women's Prenatal Vitamins Cost:

A one-month supply costs $50, but regular specials offer discounts. Sold via monthly subscription, subscribers enjoy free shipping and can cancel anytime.

Do You Need to Take Beli Women's Prenatal Vitamins?

You can benefit from Beli Women prenatal vitamins if:

You intend to get pregnant, nursing, or both.

You are looking for a complete prenatal vitamin.

You like your ingredients to be verified as high-quality.

Beli Women may not benefit from prenatal vitamins if:

You suffer from certain allergies or dietary limitations.

You now take prenatal supplements or vitamins.

Budgetary restrictions are a problem.

Complete nutrition from conception to pregnancy and beyond

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.  

 Shop & Save 10%

On Beli's Website

[krujuice]

Avocados: they're not just for plastering on toast and charging you an extra $2 at your favorite brunch spot. No, these wrinkly green wonders are like the Swiss Army knives of the fruit world—versatile, useful, and full of surprises. Just without the hidden toothpick and mini-scissors, of course.

Firstly, let's talk health benefits that everyone can enjoy, whether you identify as male, female, or a moody houseplant. Avocados are crammed full of good fats—specifically, monounsaturated fats. Now, despite being called "fat," these nutrients are not plotting against you in a secret underground lair. They actually help lower bad cholesterol levels, making your arteries as smooth as a jazz radio host's voice (Hu, F.B., Stampfer, M.J., Manson, J.E., et al., 1997, [Journal of the American Medical Association](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/417034)).

Fiber? Avocados have got it in spades. One avocado contains about 13.5 grams of fiber, which is roughly 45% of the daily recommended intake. It's like the fruit is telling your digestive system, "I've got you, buddy!" (U.S. Department of Agriculture, FoodData Central, 2019, [USDA Website](https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html)).

Now, for the gents out there concerned with testosterone levels: avocados have your back, or should I say, your glands. They're rich in zinc, a mineral that plays a critical role in testosterone production. So, no need to buy that "Macho Man Vitality Elixir" you saw advertised during late-night infomercials. Nature’s got you covered (Prasad, A.S., Mantzoros, C.S., Beck, F.W., Hess, J.W., Brewer, G.J., 1996, [Nutrition](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8875519/)).

For women, avocados come equipped with a hefty dose of folate, a key nutrient during pregnancy. It helps protect against neural tube defects in the developing fetus. It's like baby-proofing, but at the cellular level (Czeizel, A.E., Dudás, I., 1992, [New England Journal of Medicine](https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199201163260301)).

So let's recap: avocados are fantastic for your heart, your digestion, they boost testosterone, and they're prenatal superheroes. If avocados had a LinkedIn profile, it'd be endorsed for "Skills in Nutritional Overachievement" by everyone.

And let’s not forget the micronutrients! Potassium, vitamins K, E, C, and various B-vitamins. Avocados are like the multi-level marketing scheme of nutrition, except they actually deliver on their promises and won’t make family gatherings awkward.

So, the next time you're grumbling about the extra charge for guacamole, just remember: you're investing in your health, one creamy, green scoop at a time.

[dk-thrive]

She's a beautiful little seahorse in my sleepless ocean

The test takes three days to process...I'm alone when the hospital calls. The nurse at the end of the line clears her throat before giving me the potentially devastating news but she's finefinefine a girl! My God, a girl! And she has absolutely normal genetic markers, the nurse says - no cleft palate, no neural tube defects, no small skull. I call Sean right away, jumping up and down with the phone in my hand, the fist of fear in my chest gone and my heart suddenly, for the first time in months, skipping down the street. We're going to have a girl and Finch will have a sister. She's a beautiful little seahorse in my sleepless ocean and I hold on to this fact like a buoy that's been thrown from a golden ship with everyone smiling and waving In that moment, the insomnia burn in my body feels worth it. The black-dog hallucinations and the night fear wash away and for a few tender hours the world feels sweet and unburdened and full of light.

— Melissa Bond, “Blood Orange Night: My Journey to the Edge of Madness” (Gallery Books, June 14, 2022) 

[camillejones]

Avocados are a real super food. They are an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats and they help control blood sugar levels, which may prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. They also contain folate, a B vitamin that is important for the normal functioning of the nervous system and the production and repair of DNA. Folate is important for pregnant women because it helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby. Avocados are high in fiber and also contain vitamin K and vitamin C, which are important for healthy bones, blood vessels, and gums. They are a good source of vitamin B6, potassium, manganese, and magnesium, and contain a decent amount of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that protects the body from free radical damage.