Category: Points of interest

Animal Facts~

These Animal Facts Will Blow Your Mind

We are constantly learning new information about animals. In fact, we still discover hundreds of new species a year! And the more we learn about the animal kingdom, the more we discover facts that truly blow our minds. Here are 10 animal facts that do just that.

Some animals may be immortal

You know how most animals get older as time goes on? Turns out that isn’t true 100 percent of the time. Several species demonstrate what researchers refer to as “negligible senescence,” meaning there is little, if any, evidence they age.

For instance, crocodiles are just as likely to die at 10 years old as they are at 100. Their cells don’t degenerate with age like ours do. Crocodiles never stop growing either, so they require more food as they get older.

Turritopsis dohrnii is perhaps the best-known animal with negligible senescence. This species of jellyfish, often referred to as “the immortal jellyfish,” has the ability to revert back to a prepubescent state after reaching sexual maturity. Basically, this jellyfish can reverse its age, making it biologically immortal. Most of these jellyfish will die due to disease or predators, instead of aging.

Penguins propose with pebbles

Humans aren’t the only species who require material possessions to establish a mate. What humans do with rings, penguins do with pebbles. When choosing a mate, a male penguin will present a pebble to her that could be used in a nest for their offspring. When you consider that penguins are already wearing tuxedos, it starts to become clear that we copied a lot of our wedding traditions from them. The phrase “penguins propose with pebbles” also alliterates quite nicely.

Planarian flatworm will regrow itself indefinitely

If you cut a planarian flatworm into two pieces, each piece will regenerate into a full individual. Cut it into three pieces and you’ll get three new individuals. Anytime part of the individual is separated, the remaining piece will grow back the part it’s missing.

This does mean that one planarian flatworm could be used as a completely sustainable source of food. Just eat half and wait for the other half to re-grow. Then we’d have to eat worms though, and who wants that?

Only six to seven percent of shark attack victims are female

Studies out of Australia showed that even though men and women both like to swim in the ocean, sharks seem to go after males far more than females. One study showed that out of a 100 shark attack victims, on average only six to seven of them will be female.

No hard science can show why this is, and the sharks themselves aren’t talking. Some speculate that the reason men are more likely to be attacked by a shark is similar to why more men get in car accidents: a propensity for reckless behavior.

While men and women both like to swim in the ocean, guys are far more likely to be engaging in dumb behavior while in there. This can include swimming or surfing in more dangerous locations, long distance swimming and engaging in riskier water sports that could make them prone to shark attacks.

Ants have built-in GPS

An ant understands its surroundings far better than we do, and possibly even better than our iPhones. A recent study showed that ants understand which direction they are heading, even when they are traveling backward. Scientists believe that ants use tiny magnet-like sensors in their antennae in order to determine where they are in relation to where they want to go via the Earth’s natural magnetic field. So, even if you were to spin an ant around repeatedly in a circle (don’t do that), the ant would still know exactly where it is in relation to where it wants to go.

Chimpanzees go to war

Chimpanzees are our closest living relative on the planet. As such, they share many of our good, and not-so-good, characteristics. These animals, just like us, can be pretty violent. Also, like us, they occasionally go to war.

From 1974 to 1978, Jane Goodall documented “the Gombe Chimpanzee War” between two rival communities of chimpanzees. The community began to separate into two sub-groups in the early 70s. Eventually, they became divided into northern and southern locations of habitat they previously shared together. The southern group was smaller. Over the course of four years, the northern group succeeded in taking over their territory, killing all the males in the community.

The “pizzly bear” now exists

What is a “pizzly bear,” you ask? It is a hybrid polar-grizzly bear that we may be seeing more of in the future. As global sea ice continues to disappear, polar bears are having to travel farther and farther to mate. As such they are ending up in grizzly bear habitat and mating with them.

Last summer in Nunavut, Canada, hunters discovered a pizzly, leading to speculation that more are out there. It is thought that polar bears may eventually go extinct as they begin to mix their DNA with other bear species.

Orangutans were believed to be human

We share 97 percent of our genes with orangutans, which may help to explain why they used to be thought of as rather hairy human beings. Indigenous people of Malaysia and Indonesia used to believe that orangutans were just human beings who preferred to hang out in the forest as opposed to, you know, having to work and stuff. The name “orangutan” is derived from “orang hutan” which literally translates to “person of the forest.”

Sea otters hold hands while they sleep

Sea otters will naturally float, but when sleeping they are at risk of just drifting away. Luckily, these adorable little creatures have developed an easy system to prevent that from happening: they hold hands. Groups of sea otters will all hold hands while eating, sleeping or resting so they all stay together wherever they may drift. A group of otters holding hands is referred to as a “raft.”

Dogs have unique nose prints

If your dog commits a crime, they better make sure to wipe off their nose prints from the scene, otherwise they will be caught for sure. That is because a dog’s nose print is much like our fingerprints, no two sets are identical. A similar phenomenon involves tigers, with no two tigers sharing the exact same set of stripes.

Aren’t animals awesome? We sure think so. Let us know your favorite animal facts in the comments.

— Ian Careyhttps://www.thealternativedaily.com/animal-facts-that-will-blow-your-mind/

Paleo Diet~Ooooh!

Risks for heart disease, study implies…

ANI | Aug 8, 2019

People who follow paleo diet

 were found to have twice the amount of a key blood biomarker that is linked closely to heart diseases, suggests a study.

The study published in the ‘European Journal of Nutrition’ examined the impact of the diet on gut bacteria.

Researchers compared 44 people on the diet with 47 following a traditional Australian diet. They measured the amount of trimethylamine-n-oxide (TMAO) in participants’ blood. High levels of TMAO, an organic compound produced in the gut, are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

The controversial Paleo (or ‘caveman’) diet advocates eating meat, vegetables, nuts and limited fruit, and excludes grains, legumes, dairy, salt, refined sugar and processed oils.

Dr Angela Genoni, the lead researcher said that with the diet’s growing popularity, it was important to understand the impact it could have on overall health.

“Many Paleo diet proponents claim the diet is beneficial to gut health, but this research suggests that when it comes to the production of TMAO in the gut, the Paleo diet could be having an adverse impact in terms of heart health,” she said.

“We also found that populations of beneficial bacterial species were lower in the Paleolithic groups, associated with the reduced carbohydrate intake, which may have consequences for other chronic diseases over the long term.”

She said the reason TMAO was so elevated in people on the Paleo diet appeared to be the lack of whole grains in their diet.

“We found the lack of whole grains were associated with TMAO levels, which may provide a link between the reduced risks of cardiovascular disease we see in populations with high intakes of whole grains,” she said.

The researchers also found higher concentrations of the bacteria that produce TMAO in the Paleo group.

“The Paleo diet excludes all grains and we know that whole grains are a fantastic source of resistant starch and many other fermentable fibres that are vital to the health of your gut microbiome,” Dr Genoni said.

“Because TMAO is produced in the gut, a lack of whole grains might change the populations of bacteria enough to enable higher production of this compound.

“Additionally, the Paleo diet includes greater servings per day of red meat, which provides the precursor compounds to produce TMAO, and Paleo followers consumed twice the recommended level of saturated fats, which is cause for concern,” she said.

https://m.timesofindia.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/paleo-diet-may-increase-risk-of-heart-disease-study/amp_articleshow/70589140.cms

Lol

Diatomaceous~ What Does It Do?

10 Ways To Use Diatomaceous Earth (And The Benefits)

10 Ways To Use Diatomaceous Earth (And The Benefits)

It is no secret that Mother Nature is very powerful. Our earth is rich with multiple resources that feed us, quench our thirst, clothe us, provide us shelter, heal us when we are ill and overall nourish us. When we take responsibly from the earth’s bounty, we can find everything we need for sustenance.

This goes for everything in and on the earth… but how about eating earth itself? It sounds strange, but there is a type of earth that we can eat, one which has multiple healing uses in our bodies and in our daily lives. This mysterious type of earth is known as diatomaceous earth, often simply called DE.

What is diatomaceous earth? 

Diatomaceous earth can replenish silica and flush toxins out of the body.
Diatomaceous earth can replenish silica and flush toxins out of the body.

DE is more than just a type of soil. This substance, which looks like a whitish, dusty powder, is actually what remains of ancient one-celled phytoplankton called diatoms. It is mined from dehydrated ancient lake beds and it is comprised mostly of silica, with other trace minerals. If it remains dry, this stuff can last virtually forever without spoiling.

While it may sound strange, diatomaceous earth is indeed edible. It is deemed to be safe for general consumption, although you should always consult a health professional you trust before starting a regimen with a new natural substance. As humans generally do not get as much silica in our diets as we need, supplementing with DE can help to replenish this trace element. DE also has a strong negative charge, and can thus latch onto toxins to flush them away.

The following are just ten of the many beneficial ways to use diatomaceous earth:

1. Rid your home of insects

One very popular use for DE is insect control. Because the tiny grains are hard and have sharp edges, insects of various types are destroyed when they ingest it (don’t worry, humans and other animals do not suffer this effect). To use DE for insect control, simply sprinkle a bit around doorways, floorboard cracks and other areas in your home that insects can enter through.

You can also use DE in your garden to help keep bugs off of your plants. Sprinkle a bit around shrugs, flower beds and plants… anywhere you want to keep insects away.

2. Keep pests off of your produce

The insect-destroying properties of DE can also help to protect your fruits, vegetables and bulk grains and legumes from infestation. Sprinkle a bit of DE in the bottom of fruit bowls and veggie bins and containers. You can also add them to bulk containers of dried beans, peas, lentils, rice and pasta to keep would-be invaders from burrowing in and laying eggs in your dry goods.

3. Filter your water

Diatomaceous earth can be highly effective in a water filter, thanks to its detoxifying powers. Research has found that this substance can help to clean many toxic substances, including viruses and heavy metals, out of drinking water. If you’re looking for a solution to purify your tap water, a DE filter may be one thing to research closely.

4. Enjoy radiant skin

Diatomaceous earth can keep skin looking youthful.
Diatomaceous earth can keep skin looking youthful.

Silica is wonderful for skin health, as it is largely comprised of collagen. Using DE (which is mostly silica) can help to keep your skin looking young and radiant. It can also help to correct various skin issues, including acne, eczema and rashes. To use DE on your skin, simply combine some of the powder with organic, extra-virgin coconut oil. Use this mixture to moisturize, or apply to problem areas.

5. Strengthen your hair

Silica is as good for your hair as it is for your skin. Using DE in your hair care routine can help to keep your hair looking healthy, as well as your scalp. It may also help to correct hair damage, such as from coloring, treating or chemical exposure (think chlorine). To use, simply add some DE to your natural shampoo or conditioner. Or, you can make a hair mask by combining DE with coconut oil, smoothing the mixture over your hair and washing after an hour.

6. Detoxify your body

One of the most popular uses of diatomaceous earth is detoxification. Because of its shape, sharp edges and negative charge, DE can latch onto toxins, microorganisms and heavy metals and flush them out of your body. Think of it as “exfoliating your insides.”

When detoxing with DE, start slowly. You don’t want to push your body too hard, too fast. Start with about a teaspoon of DE in a glass of water, once per day. You can add some raw honey to your water to sweeten. Alternately, add a teaspoon of DE to a smoothie — just be sure to drink plenty of water afterward.

7. Rid your body of intestinal parasites

Along with detoxing microorganisms and heavy metals, DE can also help to flush intestinal parasites from your body. Taking DE can actually help to chop up larger parasites that may be lurking in your digestive system, and flush them out for good. Again, start slow if you are doing any kind of detox with DE.

Note: Although DE can help to destroy parasites, it will not kill your beneficial gut bacteria, so don’t worry!

8. Reduce chronic inflammation

Diatomaceous earth can detox the body to get rid of inflammation.
Diatomaceous earth can detox the body to get rid of inflammation.

One of the effects of detoxifying your body with DE is a resulting reduction in inflammation. Taking DE can also help to ease inflammatory pain, such as muscle and joint pain. As chronic inflammation is one of the most dangerous things you can harbor in your body, this is truly an important benefit.

9. Reduce blood pressure

By reducing inflammation throughout your body, DE can also help to reduce your blood pressure. As high blood pressure can put you at risk for heart attack and stroke, this is a great reason to give diatomaceous earth a try.

10. Support bone health

Taking silica, such as in the form of DE, can help to deposit minerals into our bones. Making sure that your silica intake is sufficient can help to protect your bones (as well as your teeth) as you age. This can help to prevent osteoporosis and other conditions from taking hold.

How to use diatomaceous earth

  • Take DE in the morning, as it may bring with it a burst of energy that may not be welcome at night.
  • Look for food-grade DE from a source you trust — make sure to research the company you are buying from thoroughly.
  • When taking DE internally, start with one teaspoon in a glass of water. You can work up to one tablespoon slowly as needed, but —I’ll say it again — take your time. You don’t want to detox too fast, as this can make you feel ill.

– Tanya Mead

Fall Gardening Hacks

Gardening Tips For the Fall

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Follow these tips in your garden this fall
Gardening tips for fall
CC flickr photo by mjmonty

In the fall, after harvest, most gardeners are content to close up shop and consider the gardening season over with. Besides growing extra crops, which is possible in the fall (including many lettuces, cabbages, potatoes, and so forth), the fall also offers the conscientious gardener an opportunity to prepare for the next season and get a jump-start on garden maintenance.

Pick

Obviously, your garden will need to be “picked clean” so you can prepare it for next year. This means pulling all plants that are no longer productive and removing any fruits and vegetables that may have been left behind.

Clean

Thoroughly cleaning the beds of debris and leftovers has several advantages. First, it clears them for easy cover crop planting (see below). Next, it removes any vegetable matter that could be potentially carrying disease that can over-winter in the organic matter until spring. Third, it goes a long way towards aesthetics and gives you a chance to look closely at your soil after the season is done.

Fall Composting

Obviously, everything organic you pull from your soil and garden beds should be composted. (The only exception is diseased plants or weeds with seeds that could survive and come back to haunt you in the spring.) Compost is gardener’s gold and the more you have, the better off you are. Many gardeners who are not planting cover crops (and even some who are) like to till compost that is almost finished decaying into the soil so it can complete its nutrition release by spring. Another method is to add compost (without tilling) and add mulch on top.LEARN MORE:  Bells Jars in the Garden

Leave Seeds for Birds

Any seeds you’re not going to use should be thrown to the birds. If you aren’t planting cover crops, seeds on the bare soil or mulch can encourage birds to spend time there. Their leavings will enhance your garden, even if only a little. Any is better than none.

Garden Notes

Be sure to complete your gardener’s notes for the season and to fill in what you did during the fall. Your notebook is your record of what was planted where, how it did, and what you did or didn’t do that might improve it next time. It also gives you something to do to keep your green thumb active during the winter months. Here’s a really great gardening journal.

Minimize Pests

Crop rotation, cover crops (see below), and amendments (see below) can all help treat current and future pest infestations. Some pests are only abundant in the fall, such as late-appearing grasshoppers or the caterpillars of spring butterflies that fatten up before winter. If these are a problem for your area, there are many options for fall treatments.

Fall Cover Crops

Likely the most overlooked option for fall gardening, cover crops (or cool weather crops) can greatly enhance your garden’s health and vitality. Several options are available, depending on your climate zone, and crops can be tuned to do anything from providing extra organic matter in the spring to adding nitrogen to your soil.

Soil Amendments

As mentioned above in composting, soil amendments in the fall are a great way to enhance your soil’s health before spring planting comes around. Check your local garden center for available options. Many amendments are specifically meant for fall addition and are best added when no food crops are present. Lime is a good example of this.LEARN MORE:  Growing Edible and Cut Flowers in The Home Garden

Fall Planter Maintenance

If you have window or porch planters, now is the time to clean them out and prepare them for storage. Leaving the soil in them over the winter, exposed, is generally a bad idea and the soil in containers should be replaced (or heavily amended) annually anyway. Often the best solution is to add the soil to your winter compost heap.

Pet Owner~ What Certain Dog Behaviors Mean

Interpreting Common Dog Behaviors & the Meaning Behind His Moods

Published byErin Ollila Contributor Photo‎

Your pup’s actions tell you a lot about his mood. And although you may not be fluent in the canine tongue–short of what it means when it salivates–you do need to learn how to interpret dog behavior. Have you ever witnessed your dog licking certain textures or circling the same spot in front of you? There are many reasons a specific dog state of mind or health concern may cause him to do these things. Once you pay attention to his behavior, you’ll be able to help him.

1. Bad Breath

Dogs aren’t known for having wonderfully minty breath, but if you notice a marked change with even a little halitosis, it might be time to take a trip to the veterinarian. There could be something wrong with your dog’s oral health.

A change in the smell of your dog’s breath may also be a cause for concern with respect to his gastrointestinal tract, liver, or kidneys. If your dog’s breath smells of urine, for instance, he could have a kidney problem. Sweet-smelling breath is a sign to vets that your dog may have diabetes (especially if he’s drinking more water and urinating more often). His overall dog mood may appear happy, but if his breath has changed, pay attention – let your veterinarian know.

2. Biting

Puppies may nip at you as they learn how to communicate with their pet parents. This usually happens while playing, as young dogs often communicate with their mouths when they interact. It may also happen during training, or for simply no reason you can identify. If your young one is nipping regularly, though, it’s important to stop it before it develops into a more problematic dog behavior down the line.

Dogs bite out of anxiety, fear, or aggression. Can you identify which is motivating your pet to do so? Is his mood influencing his actions? If you’re having trouble teaching your dog not to bite, consider working with a professional trainer, or better yet, a veterinary behaviorist. Your veterinarian should be able to recommend one for you.

3. Circling

Dogs who can’t stop walking in circles may have a health issue. Yes, sometimes it’s fun to chase your tail, but if your pup can’t shake the compulsion, there’s a problem beneath the surface. Ear infections may cause circling, but compulsive tail chasing may occur with bull terriers

Of course there may be other reasons your buddy is circling. Older dogs may suffer from idiopathic vestibular syndrome, and, not to alarm you, but all dogs are at risk for poisoning or a brain tumor. Only your vet can determine the cause of your dog’s circling, so get him in for a checkup.

4. Digging

Dogs dig in the ground for many reasons: to escape, to track animals, to make a cool spot to lie, or to hide something important to them. However, some dogs “dig” inside as well. Have you ever noticed your dog scratching at the blankets or couch in order to find the perfect place to lie down? This dog behavior happens most often at night and during nap times, and it is completely normal.

If your dog’s digging starts to bother you, or damage your furniture, consider working with a professional trainer to reduce this stubborn habit.

5. Eating poop

Dogs eat feces for many reasons; it can be a normal (while distasteful to us) dog behavior. Young dogs may watch their mother clean them (who ingests feces as a result), and mimic her. Fear may even cause your dog to eat feces if he’s afraid of the repercussions. Then again, your dog may just be curious. He may smell certain scents in the feces and wonder what it tastes like.

Eating poop can also be an instinctive solution to a nutritional deficiency. Make sure you feed your dog a well-balanced food like Hill’s® Ideal Balance®, so you can completely rule out malnutrition as a reason for his eating waste. Contact your veterinarian especially if your dog is losing weight as well.

6. Head Pressing

If you notice your dog pressing his head against the wall or another firm object, there’s a need for your immediate attention. Head pressing is a common sign of numerous serious problems, such as toxic poisoning or brain disease. Make an appointment with your dog’s vet right away.

7. Panting

Dogs expel most of their body heat from their mouths. When your dog pants, he’s probably too warm, so he is regulating his body temperature. However, it’s important to pay attention to panting, as he may do it when in pain as well. Help your pal regulate his temperature and make sure he’s well hydrated before any physical activity–especially as the weather warms up. If your dog was injured, get him to the vet immediately. Some other health problems may also show increased panting as a sign, so if you have a question, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.

8. Sitting on Your Feet or Between Your Legs

This is often mistaken for possessive behavior, but is most often a sign of anxiety or nervousness. “Dominance” is rarely the problem; your dog is probably trying to feel safer by staying close.

Yellow lab puppy sitting at owner's feet on a leash

Anxiety is often more than a dog trainer is qualified to help with so discuss the behavior with your veterinarian and see if your dog would benefit from a referral to a veterinary behavior specialist.

9. Scooting

Have you ever watched your dog drag himself across the floor . . . with his bottom on the ground? It may seem funny (or kind of disgusting). But it is also called scooting, and it means there’s something irritating your dog’s anus. It’s possible that your pup’s anal sacs are full and need to be expressed.

If your dog’s anal sacs aren’t backed up, the problem could be irritation for some other reason. Allergies may only show up as an itchy rear. While it’s common to blame worms, it is an uncommon reason for the behavior. Check with your veterinarian to be sure your pal is on an appropriate parasite prevention program.

Finally, a dog who’s a grass-eater, or likes to lick around the house, could have strands of grass or hair trapped in his anus that he’s rubbing the ground to get out. This is the least-severe reason for scooting but the easiest for you to help him take care of.

10. Urinating

If your dog is house trained, it may come as a surprise if you see him urinating in your home. Dog behavior doesn’t usually change without reason. Formerly reliable dogs who suddenly begin urinating inside need your attention! This is a sign that something may be very wrong with your furry friend, and when he relieves himself frequently–even if he is in the correct location–it can be a sign of a urinary tract, bladder, or kidney infection. In an older dog, it may even be a sign of dementia.

11. Yawning

American Staffordshire terrier puppy, white with black eye patch, yawns sitting on wooden boards

Although you might think he needs some sleep, a dog yawn doesn’t usually mean he’s tired. He may be interested in napping, but he could also be showing a sign of fear or stress. If your dog appears to yawn at an increased rate around a new person, don’t rush the introduction. He’s either picking up vibes he doesn’t feel comfortable with, or is fearful for a less-obvious reason. No matter what the case, a forced introduction isn’t a good idea.

12. Anxiety Shows in Many Ways

Signs of anxiety include shaking, tail tucking, escapist behavior, defecating in the home, biting or injuring himself, barking, and many more, according to PetMD.

Because they’re technically pack animals, your dog may become fearful when left alone. If separation anxiety is a chronic issue for your dog, you’ll both need to learn how to create a relaxing environment when you leave the house. Consider taking your dog for a long walk or play a rigorous game of fetch in your backyard to tire him out before you go. Don’t make a big deal out of your departure, either. If you’re still having trouble with separation anxiety, consider involving a professional who can work on behavioral training.

If your dog is experiencing any of these behaviors, and it’s not normal for him, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with his vet to rule out any systemic medical issues. Your once social, extremely energetic dog won’t suddenly become lethargic and withdrawn. If he does, he’s asking for some help.

Cleaning TIP

Eliminate upholstery stains with shaving cream.

There’s no need to hire an expensive professional to get those stains out of your upholstery. Instead, rub a little bit of shaving cream (anything but the gel kind) into the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes or overnight, and then blot it dry. Just make sure that you test this method out on a hidden area of your couch before actually putting it to use, as there is always the small chance of damaging the fabric.

Slide 2 of 31: There’s no need to hire an expensive professional to get those stains out of your upholstery. Instead, rub a little bit of shaving cream (anything but the gel kind) into the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes or overnight, and then blot it dry. Just make sure that you test this method out on a hidden area of your couch before actually putting it to use, as there is always the small chance of damaging the fabric.

Keto Rash

Keto Rash Is the Latest Side Effect of the Low-Carb Diet—Here’s How to Treat It

On the keto diet? Experts explain how to keep your skin from breaking out. By Samantha Lauriello/HEALTH.COM

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GETTY IMAGES

When it comes to the keto diet, you either love it or you hate it. But even the biggest keto devotees admit that the high-fat, low-carb plan can have some unwanted side effects (think stinky breath, diarrhea, and flu-like symptoms).

Lately, we’ve been hearing about a new side effect to add to the diet’s rap sheet, and it’s called keto rash. Here’s everything we know about this red, itchy body rash some keto followers wind up with, including the main symptoms and most effective treatments.

Keto rash symptoms

Keto rash, officially known as prurigo pigmentosa, is a rare form of dermatitis, or skin inflammation. It appears as raised, red, itchy bumps on the skin that take on a web-like appearance. The rash may resemble contact dermatitis, or an allergic reaction, but it can be distinguished by the brownish discoloration of the skin that remains after the inflammation subsides. Keto rash can show up anywhere on the body, but it’s more common on the chest, back, and neck.

What about the keto diet causes it?

Experts aren’t sure, but there are a few theories. “Because the keto diet is 75% to 90% fat, people may be eating large quantities of common allergens, including dairy, eggs, and seafood,” Cynthia Sass, RD, Health contributing nutrition editor, tells Health. “These foods can also be triggers of food sensitivities, which are non-allergic reactions that cause the immune system to release inflammatory compounds which in turn lead to reactions, including skin inflammation and joint pain.”

Another possible cause, according to Sass, is that the diet’s lack of fiber and plant-based foods alters gut bacteria in a way that increases the production of inflammatory compounds. “A high intake of red meat, another common pattern in a keto diet, can do the same,” she adds. Yet another theory has it that the keto diet exposes the body to a larger chemical load, thanks to the emphasis it places on meat and dairy.

“In my opinion, keto rash is a sign that your body is not responding well to the keto diet,” she says.

How to treat keto rash

In many cases, keto rash can be eased by adding carbs back into your diet. But if you’re not ready to give up on keto, Sass advises that you “prioritize plant-based monounsaturated fats, like extra virgin olive oil and avocado, over cream and butter.” She also suggests eating at least five cups of veggies per day, adding back a few servings of fresh fruit, limiting or eliminating red meat, and consuming small portions of nutrient- and fiber-rich whole carbs, such as lentils, quinoa, potatoes, and oats.

Debra Jaliman, MD, New York City-based dermatologist, tells Health that reintroducing foods like fruits and veggies to your diet will also provide your body with essential vitamins your skin may have been missing while on keto. “The best diet for the skin is one that’s varied with antioxidants,” Dr. Jaliman says. She also recommends eating a moderate amount of healthy omega fats, which can be found in foods like salmon, flaxseeds, and soybeans.

If your keto rash doesn’t go away by making these tweaks to your diet, speak with your doctor. Some antibiotics, such as minocycline and doxycycline, can treat prurigo pigmentosa. Your doctor can also help you get to the bottom of what caused the rash in the first place and made it noticeable when you started keto.