Sharing what I've learned in my neck (recovery) journey!
I've been trying out lots of exercises, and I mean, I've been through every youtube video showing any kind of neck-related thing. The most exercises hurt so much I would often end up curled up on the floor crying in pain after trying once, so I didn't want to try those anymore.
Then I thought that, since I've been eating very poorly this summer (bad garden year) I very likely am lacking some minerals in my body, and maybe that's making the pain worse. It actually is getting worse, I can't turn my head sideways anymore without pain. I watched a few videos on nutrient deficiencies, and decided that I probably lack magnesium, which helps muscles relax; my muscles are incredibly stiff and upset at all times. I also watched a video on how a person can end up paralyzed without enough b12, and I've barely been taking any, despite my plant-based diet, so I quickly got that too.
Then I saw a video on vitamin D deficiency, and I had, every single symptom, just all of them, spot on. So I got a packet of that too. And then next day I found a video saying that supplemental D vitamin is BAD and I need to get some from sunbathing instead. It's winter?!?? And I can't walk outside for long because of the neck pain??? Like what am I supposed to do about this.
I've also gone back to taking nettle infusions to get enough calcium! I was hoping supplemental vitamin D would help me absorb calcium, but we'll see about that, I guess? I'm so mad at all the conflicting information but I don't now enough biology to make a reasonable guess to what's right.
Okay so I also, finally, found some exercises that are meant for neck pain that don't hurt, and I'm sticking to them, I've done them twice and did not come close to passing out in pain so I'm just gonna assume these are correct and do them. I also found out that a specific pain I had in my back, for about 5 years now, is called rhomboid pain, and there are exercises to fix it! And I can do most of them. Which is amazing, I'd be happy to fix any type of pain right now.
I've wanted to go and do a blood test to see just what nutrients I'm lacking, but apparently you can only check calcium levels if your bone density is measured, and I know my doctor won't do that, and for lots of other stuff like potassium (which I lack for sure), the body maintains normal level even when you're extremely out, because it draws it out of your muscles and bones so you'd have normal levels in your blood because otherwise you'd die. So you can't efficiently check, you can only notice your body deteriorating from the lack of it. Fun!
Another 'fun' info I've found was about ibuprofen, I had to take quite a few because I was sick, and I'm not used to taking pain medicine, so I went to check what it does, and it's like, cool stuff, it prevents the creation of hormones that cause your nerves to be sensitive, and also those that cause inflammation, so you're basically less sensitive to all the pain going on in your system. However, those same hormones are responsible for creating a layer of mucus in your stomach, and you need that mucus, in order to be protected from your own digestive acid. Taking ibuprofen for 3-4 days will not do you harm, but if you take it for longer, or if you have a chronic stomach issue, it is very likely that you will expose your own stomach tissue to your digestive acid! Which will damage your stomach and hurt a lot. So be careful with the ibuprofen ladies! I know she's a good friend of yours but I never knew how serious it was to take it too often.
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Reasons Why Green Peppers Aren't Turning Red
Green peppers, with their vibrant colors and crisp textures, are a staple in many cuisines around the world. But have you ever wondered why some green peppers never make the transition to that delightful shade of red? It's a fascinating journey from green to red, and in this blog, we'll explore the intriguing reasons behind this transformation.
1. Genetic Factors:
Reason: The color of a pepper, whether green, red, yellow, or any other shade, is determined by its genetic makeup. Some pepper varieties are simply genetically predisposed to maintain their green color throughout their entire lifecycle. This is due to the absence or low expression of specific genes responsible for producing the red pigments, such as anthocyanins, in their fruit.
Solution: When dealing with genetic factors, your best course of action is to choose pepper varieties that are known for their ability to turn red when ripe. Look for specific cultivars labeled as "red bell peppers" or "ripening red peppers" when purchasing seeds or young plants. These varieties have been selectively bred over generations to produce the vibrant red colors you desire. By starting with the right genetic material, you give your pepper plants the best chance to transition from green to red.
2. Ripening Time:
Reason: Green peppers, like all peppers, undergo a natural ripening process that takes time. This transformation is influenced by various environmental factors, including temperature, sunlight, and soil conditions. Ripening is a complex biochemical process that involves the breakdown of chlorophyll (the green pigment) and the development of red pigments (such as anthocyanins).
Solution: To help your green peppers transition to red, practice patience and attentiveness:
Ensure your pepper plants receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. If necessary, consider pruning neighboring plants or branches to provide more sunlight.
By applying deep, even irrigation, soil moisture can be kept constant. Avoid letting the soil become overly dry or waterlogged, as extremes can stress the plant.
Regulate soil temperature by using mulch to insulate the soil. This helps create a stable environment for the roots and encourages even ripening.
Consider pruning your pepper plants selectively. Removing excess foliage redirects energy towards fruit production, aiding the ripening process.
3. Chilly Weather:
Reason: Green peppers are sensitive to cold temperatures, which can significantly slow down or halt the ripening process. When temperatures drop below a certain threshold, the enzymes responsible for ripening become less active.
Solution: Protect your pepper plants from chilly weather by:
Using row covers, cloches, or portable greenhouses to shield plants from cold winds and frost. These coverings create a microclimate that's more favorable for ripening.
Embracing container gardening, which allows you to move plants indoors during cold spells or frosty nights.
Opting for raised beds, as they tend to have warmer soil temperatures compared to ground-level beds.
4. Ethylene Gas:
Reason: Ethylene gas is a natural plant hormone responsible for initiating and regulating the ripening process in fruits and vegetables. If green peppers don't receive sufficient exposure to ethylene, their color change can be delayed.
Solution: To expedite ripening using ethylene gas:
Place green peppers in a paper bag along with ethylene-producing fruits such as bananas or apples.
Loosely seal the bag and allow it to sit at room temperature. Ethylene released by the fruits will accelerate the color change.
Check the peppers daily until they reach the desired red color, then remove them from the bag to prevent over-ripening.
5. Nutrient Deficiencies:
Reason: Inadequate soil nutrients, particularly essential elements like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, can limit the pepper plant's ability to produce red pigments and complete the ripening process.
Solution: Address nutrient deficiencies to support proper ripening:
Conduct a soil test to identify specific nutrient deficiencies in your garden soil.
Amend the soil with appropriate organic fertilizers or compost to rectify these deficiencies. Consult the soil test results or seek guidance from a local nursery or cooperative extension service for precise recommendations.
Ensure your soil remains well-balanced in terms of nutrients to promote healthy plant growth and ripening.
6. Pests and Diseases:
Reason: Pest infestations, such as aphids and whiteflies, can weaken pepper plants, diverting their energy away from ripening. Fungal diseases can also damage the plant and affect the ripening process.
Solution: Implement a comprehensive approach to manage pests and diseases:
Regularly inspect your pepper plants for signs of pest infestations or disease symptoms. Early detection allows for prompt action.
Use organic pesticides or insecticidal soaps to control common pests, applying them as needed but avoiding overuse to minimize environmental impact.
Maintain good garden hygiene by removing and disposing of affected plant parts, as this prevents the spread of diseases.
Consider companion planting with pest-repelling herbs and flowers to deter insects from your pepper plants.
Gardening requires careful attention to both the plants and their environment, and with these insights, you'll enhance your chances of a successful harvest.
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