With grocery prices already sky-high, new tariffs on agricultural imports could make your next shopping trip even more painful. But there’s a smart, sustainable way to outsmart the price spikes: join a local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program.
Tariffs are taxes placed on goods imported from other countries. They directly raise the cost of everything from avocados to bell peppers when applied to food. Worse, retaliatory tariffs and rising equipment costs mean that even domestic farms may start raising prices to stay afloat. It’s a ripple effect, and consumers are stuck with the bill.
Enter the CSA: a subscription to a local farm that delivers fresh, seasonal produce right to your door or a nearby pickup site. It’s one of the best ways to get nutrient-rich food at a fair price and helps your local farmers stay in business during uncertain times.
CSA veggies are typically harvested within 24 hours, meaning they’re fresher, tastier, and often more nutritious than supermarket produce that’s been shipped across the globe. And since you’re buying directly from the source, you’re often getting a better deal than you would at the store, especially when tariffs jack up the price of imported goods.
Even better? You’re investing in your community. Local CSAs strengthen regional food systems and keep money circulating close to home. They also reduce the environmental impact of long-distance food transport.
In a time when food prices are unpredictable and supply chains are shaky, your CSA box could be the smartest grocery decision you make all year. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about building resilience, one fresh head of lettuce at a time.
If you’re male and you haven’t done this already, get to know your testes. All men should know how their testicles feel and report any changes to their physician. If you’re experiencing testicular atrophy (shrinking testicles) you’re probably a little frightened and wondering what the heck is happening. Let’s delve into possible reasons and solutions for shrinking testicles.
Get more sleep
Most understand the importance of a good night’s rest for overall health. But if your testicles are shrinking, it could be due to a lack of sleep.A study from the University of Southern Denmark found a link between the quality of sleep and testicle size. Researchers conducted a cross-sectional study that included 953 young Danish men from the general population. Researchers studied sleep schedules, interruptions in sleep, and sleep habits. The men’s testicles were also measured. Researchers also took sperm and assessed for sperm count and viability.
It turns out that sleep-deprived men actually have lower testosterone levels. They also have reduced sperm counts — not to mention, testicle shrinkage. In those men who suffered from insomnia, staying up late, or had inconsistent sleep throughout the night and woke up often, researchers found that sperm counts dropped by 29 percent. Additionally, sperm was more deformed and testicles were smaller.
Cool it on the booze
If you are a lover of beer, wine, or liquor and you’re noticing shrinkage “down under,” listen up! An animal and human study published in ScienceDirect found that chronic alcohol consumption caused changes to Leydig cell shape and function. These cells are located adjacent to the testicular seminiferous tubules (where sperm cells are produced). Alcohol causes the tubules to shrink. Additionally, the processes involving the way alcohol alters testicular energy metabolism and sperm cell mitochondria leads to cell death. Together, these processes eventually lead to testicular shrinkage in both animals and humans.
However, the study was primarily created to see if testicles could “bounce back” to their original size through alcohol abstinence. And the good news is, if you stop drinking, or even reduce your chronic intake of alcohol, your testicles will likely regain their full size.
Avoid aluminum
Aluminum can be found in common household items, like deodorant, and it contributes to testicles shrinking.
Aluminum can be found widely throughout our daily lives. In fact, it’s the most abundant metal in the earth’s crust. Aluminum is used to make food and beverage cans, pots and pans, airplanes, siding and roofing, foil, and a variety of consumer products such as:
Antacids and buffered aspirins
Astringents and cosmetics
Antiperspirants
Flour and baking powder
Coloring agents and anti-caking agents
Aluminum compounds can also be found in water treatment, pharmaceuticals, utensils, and food additives. So, this makes it difficult to avoid exposure. The problem is, overexposure to aluminum may contribute to alow sperm count and infertility in men, with a side effect of smaller testicles.A study published in the International Journal of Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology reviewed the toxic effect of aluminum exposure on the male reproductive system.
Researchers found a link between exposure and adverse effects on sperm motility, viability, and count, histology of testis and epididymis (duct behind the testis) as well as reproductive hormone levels. Exposure may also lead to oxidative stress in the testicles, causing cells to die and the testicles to shrink.
Limit your exposure to aluminum by choosing aluminum-free deodorants, personal care products, antacids, and buffered aspirin. In fact, according to theAgency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry antacids contain 300 to 600 milligrams of aluminum hydroxide (about 104 to 208 milligrams of aluminum) per tablet. And buffered aspirin may contain 10 to 20 milligrams of aluminum per tablet.
Protect your testicles
Just the mention of getting kicked in the gonads can cause a man to wince. That’s because testicles have the most pain receptors concentrated in any one area of a man’s body, with nerves extending to the ears, stomach, and groin. Because the testes are located within the scrotum, which hangs outside of the body, they’re not protected by muscles and bones, says theCleveland Clinic. That means it’s easier for testes to be struck, hit, kicked, or crushed, which happens most often during contact sports.
Ina study by the Department of Radiology at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the University of Cambridge, researchers found that trauma to the scrotum is not only a cause of testicular atrophy but may also affect testicular size months or years following an injury. Researchers performed clinical and sonographic examinations in 10 patients who had suffered blunt trauma to the testicles. A significant reduction in the volume of the injured testis was found in five out of 10 cases.
So, while most men don’t experience such trauma daily, athletes should make sure they are well-protected by wearing athletic cups during sports and even skateboarding.
Stop smoking weed
Smoking too much marijuana can contribute to testicles shrinking.
Although studies on weed and its effect on reproductive hormones have been conflicting, some studies suggest that chronic marijuana use may lead to lower testosterone levels and a reduction in testicular size. Apparently, shrinking testicles have been observed in rodents and dogs after being administered cannabis extract. According toa study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, THC (the main active compound in marijuana) is apparently to blame. But, the research is relatively outdated.
Nevertheless, although outdated, the study suggests that smoking weed lowers testosterone levels, either directly or through precursor hormones. Or, it causes testicular atrophy in animals. So, if you’ve noticed a difference in testicular size and you’re a chronic smoker, it’s best to try and stop.
Cool it on the soy
The benefits and dangers of soy may be up for debate. But one of the more disturbing claims is that soy “feminizes” men. While soy milk provides many potential health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease and protection from prostate cancer, some research suggests it may have negative side effects for men when consumed frequently. In fact, soy is even thought to shrink testicles andlower testosterone levels.
Soybeans are rich in phytoestrogens. The chemical structure of phytoestrogens is very similar to that of the human sex hormone estrogen. This similarity allows phytoestrogens to sometimes mimic or hinder the hormone with estrogen receptors.
A study from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey set out to determine if a commonly used soy protein supplement exhibits biological activity. Researchers studied healthy male volunteers, aged 18 years or older that were in good health. They consumed two scoops of pure soy protein powder daily for 28 days. It turns out soy protein powder actually decreased testosterone levels, thanks to the estrogen. This same estrogen may also cause testicular shrinkage. The good news is, when study participants discontinued the soy protein powder, testosterone levels increased within two weeks.
Stop using steroids
Steroids can have several harmful side effects, including shrinking of the testicles.
Testicular atrophy, or shrinking balls, are most commonly associated with steroid use. Anabolic steroids are synthetic types of the male sex hormone testosterone. Some common names for anabolic steroids are gear, juice, roids and stackers. A medical professional may prescribe steroids to treat hormonal issues, such as delayed puberty. They can also treat diseases that cause muscle loss, such as cancer and AIDS, suggests theNational Institute of Drug Abuse (NIH).
The problem begins when some athletes and bodybuilders abuse steroids to boost their performance or improve their physical appearance. With that may come more than you bargained for. According to the NIH, steroid use may also:
Decrease sperm count
Contribute to baldness
Encourage the development of breasts
Increase your risk for prostate cancer
And, you guessed it, shrink your testicles
When the brain senses that there are high levels of testosterone in the blood, it assumes the testosterone is coming from the testicle. So, the brain then shuts off the production of FSH, a hormone that stimulates the production of testosterone in the testicle. As a result, the testicles begin to shrink.
When to visit your doctor
More than likely there is a simple reason behind your shrinking testicles. However, if shrinkage is accompanied by pain or diminished libido, visit your doctor. You may also want your doctor to test your testosterone to estrogen levels. Take charge of your health. Shrinking testicles may seem scary and embarrassing. But, being proactive will help prevent any long-term complications.
A new study reveals a deeply troubling truth: children’s mattresses may be silently polluting the air they breathe while they sleep. Researchers from the University of Toronto measured the air in 25 bedrooms of children aged 6 months to 4 years. They discovered alarming levels of toxic chemicals—over two dozen phthalates, flame retardants, and UV filters—concentrated near the beds.
The culprit? The mattresses themselves.
A companion study tested 16 new children’s mattresses and found them to be key sources of these emissions. Even a child’s body heat and weight can accelerate the release of these toxins, intensifying exposure during sleep.
These substances—many linked to hormonal disruption, reproductive issues, and cognitive damage—were present in mattresses purchased from major retailers. The chemicals appeared regardless of brand, price, or origin. One mattress even exceeded legal safety limits for a banned carcinogen.
Despite bans on some dangerous flame retardants like PBDEs, newer replacements, such as organophosphate esters (OPFRs) are now widespread. These, too, are linked to developmental and nervous system harm, especially in toddlers.
Parents are urged to take action:
Choose mattresses and bedding made from natural materials like cotton, wool, or latex.
Avoid bright colors, which often contain UV filters.
Wash sheets and sleepwear frequently to reduce skin contact with contaminants.
Let new products off-gas outdoors before use.
Limit synthetic personal care items and avoid unnecessary bedding extras like mattress pads and stuffed toys.
Ultimately, experts say stronger regulations are needed. “Parents can’t shop their way out of this,” warns Healthy Babies, Bright Futures. Until companies phase out toxic chemicals entirely, vigilance at home is critical. Your child’s health depends on it.
Asparagus isn’t just a springtime favorite or a pretty side dish—it’s a nutritional powerhouse packed into a tender green spear. With barely 20 calories per half-cup serving, asparagus delivers an impressive punch of fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and a hefty dose of folate—all of which add up to some serious health perks.
First off, your gut will thank you. Asparagus is rich in fiber and inulin, a natural prebiotic that fuels your good gut bacteria. It keeps digestion moving smoothly and helps ease constipation. Your belly stays happy, and your microbiome thrives.
But asparagus doesn’t stop at digestion—it’s also a quiet ally in the fight against rising blood sugar. Animal studies suggest it can help lower glucose and cholesterol levels, acting like certain diabetes medications. While more human research is needed, the potential is promising.
Asparagus shines in heart health. Its compounds help bind bile acids, which aids in cholesterol regulation. Animal models have shown that this tasty vegetable can lower blood pressure—good news for your cardiovascular system.
Perhaps most intriguing are its potential anti-cancer benefits. Asparagus contains powerful bioactive compounds like saponins and polysaccharides that may reduce inflammation, support detoxification, and help protect against oxidative stress, which is crucial in lowering cancer risk.
And let’s not forget your immune system. Asparagus encourages healthy immune responses by supporting red and white blood cell activity and even helping produce antibodies. It may also help defend against bacteria like E. coli.
If you’re aiming to trim body fat, asparagus might be a helpful addition. The compound asparagine appears to act directly on fat cells, aiding fat breakdown—another reason this veggie deserves more than a passing glance in the produce aisle.
If traditional workouts aren’t your thing, here’s some encouraging news: everyday activities like brisk housecleaning or rushing up stairs could slash your risk of heart disease, without ever stepping into a gym.
In a large study published in Circulation, researchers tracked over 24,000 adults who reported no formal exercise. They found that those who moved with a bit more intensity during daily tasks—think speed vacuuming or fast-paced stair climbing—had significantly better heart health outcomes over the next eight years.
Even short bursts mattered. Just five minutes a day of vigorous activity, like walking briskly or hurrying up stairs, was linked to a nearly 40% reduction in heart-related death. Moderate activity—about 24 minutes daily—cut the risk by up to 50%. Meanwhile, light activity like slow walking helped too, but required over two hours a day to show much benefit.
The key? Intensity. Researchers used smart trackers and machine learning to measure how hard people were pushing themselves—even during chores. It turns out, moving with purpose makes a difference.
We’ve long known that bees are in trouble. But now, scientists may have uncovered a surprising new culprit behind their decline: air pollution is damaging their gut health.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have found that black carbon—a type of particulate pollution produced by fossil fuels—disrupts the delicate microbial community inside bumble bees’ guts. Just like humans, bees rely on a healthy gut microbiome for immune function, digestion, and overall vitality. And when that balance is thrown off? It can weaken their entire system.
At the heart of this study is a beneficial gut bacterium called Snodgrassella alvi, which forms protective biofilms in the bee’s intestines—think of it like a good bacterial “plaque” that guards their gut lining. But when exposed to black carbon, this bacteria’s behavior and structure changed. In lab tests, the biofilm formation was weakened. In live bees, gut samples showed significant declines in the abundance of these beneficial microbes after pollution exposure.
This discovery adds a new layer to the already long list of stressors facing bee populations—alongside habitat loss, pesticides, and disease. According to lead author Dr. Hannah Sampson, this new data highlights air pollution as “an underexplored risk” that could be quietly destroying pollinator health by disrupting their internal microbial balance.
Why does this matter? Because bees aren’t just honey-makers—they’re essential for pollinating crops and maintaining biodiversity. Their survival directly impacts food security and ecosystem health.
As Professor Julie Morrissey points out, this research doesn’t just apply to bees. If air pollution is disrupting microbial health in insects, it raises big questions about how it’s affecting us, too.
What we pump into the air doesn’t stay there. It may be damaging the smallest creatures in the biggest ways.
If there’s one plant that deserves a permanent spot on your kitchen windowsill, it’s aloe vera. This humble succulent isn’t just easy to grow—it’s a multitasking powerhouse packed with practical and health-supporting benefits.
First and foremost, aloe vera is your go-to first aid in a pot. Burn your finger on a hot pan? Slice your skin while chopping onions? Snap off a leaf, squeeze out the gel, and apply it directly to the skin. Its natural anti-inflammatory and cooling properties help soothe burns, cuts, and even bug bites almost instantly. No synthetic creams are needed.
But aloe isn’t just for emergencies. The fresh inner gel can also be used internally (in small, properly prepared amounts) to support digestion, ease constipation, and promote gut health. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and enzymes that help reduce inflammation and support your immune system.
Regarding care, aloe is a dream for even the most forgetful plant parent. It thrives in sunny spots, needs minimal water, and can live happily in a small pot. As it grows, you can trim off mature leaves to use and pot them up, making it a renewable, natural resource right at home.
Let’s not forget that aloe vera adds a refreshing pop of green to your space. It brings life into the kitchen, purifies the air, and reminds you to slow down and care for yourself naturally.
Whether you’re into herbal remedies, sustainable living, or just want an attractive and functional plant, aloe vera is the one to grow. It’s low-maintenance, high-reward, and may be the most underrated kitchen essential you can own.
It’s summer, your garden is blooming, and you are anxious to host weekend outdoor parties and show off your beautiful patio and yard, but… you live in an area where mosquitoes are like vicious sharks, seemingly waiting in the air to attack. Perhaps you have tried those noisy bug zappers that annoyingly let you know every time they annihilate a flying pest (some of which are not bad pests, either). Between the annoyance and guilt, it may be time to try something more natural to keep the unwanted guests from crashing your party. Here are a few great options.
A public health alert has been issued for a wide range of soup products after it was discovered that cilantro used in the soups was contaminated with wood fragments.
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) warns that affected soups were sold in institutional locations and retail restaurants across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio—but the reach may expand nationwide.
The alert includes products from well-known brands such as Campbell’s, Molly’s Kitchen, Sysco, Life Cuisine, and Verve, all linked to production facility P-17644. Another affected product under the Crafted Market label from establishment CA-711 is also included.
Among the recalled items:
Campbell’s Chicken Tortilla, Wicked Thai, and Baja Chicken Enchilada Soups
Molly’s Kitchen Chicken Enchilada, Mexican Chicken Tortilla, and Chicken Chili
Sysco Chicken Tortilla Soup
Life Cuisine Vital Pursuit Southwest Style Taco Bowl
Crafted Market Coconut Chicken Thai Style Soup
These soups have best-by dates ranging from May 2025 to December 2026. View a full list of products here.
If you have any of these products, do not eat them. Return them to the store for a refund or safely discard them. While no injuries have been reported, anyone feeling unwell after consuming these soups should consult a healthcare provider.
Even trace amounts of wood can pose serious health risks. For further information or questions about food safety, contact the USDA at MPHotline@usda.gov.
Ants may be small, but their design points to something far greater than chance. Their precision, coordination, and purpose reveal the wisdom of the Creator—and they offer some humbling lessons for us.
In Proverbs 6:6, we’re told, “Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.” And science is just beginning to catch up with that ancient wisdom. In a recent study, researchers tested groups of ants and humans in solving a maze.
The ants had to maneuver a T-shaped object through narrow turns. The result? The ants—despite not having a leader—outperformed the humans. Why? Because they stayed focused, adapted quickly, and worked in unity toward a single goal.
Meanwhile, the human teams were distracted, often overthinking or getting in each other’s way. The ants didn’t argue, hesitate, or compete—they just worked.
There’s something deeply convicting about that. In a world obsessed with individual achievement and control, the ant shows us the power of humility, collaboration, and trust in a greater purpose.
Some ants perform amputations on injured nestmates to save their lives—a form of sacrificial service hardwired into their behavior. Others take turns working and resting, showing a built-in balance between productivity and recovery.
Ants even farm. Leafcutter ants grow fungus with the help of bacteria, showing an agricultural system that reflects stewardship.
From engineering to empathy, ants are nothing short of amazing. If we slow down and pay attention, these tiny creatures can teach us how to work together, serve one another, and walk with purpose.
Don’t let its thick texture and bittersweet taste fool you—blackstrap molasses is one of the most underrated superfoods in your kitchen. This dark syrup is a by-product of sugar cane refining, but unlike refined sugar, it’s packed with essential minerals that actually support your health.
Blackstrap molasses is created during the final stage of sugar extraction, when most of the sugar has been removed—leaving behind a concentrated source of iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
In fact, just one tablespoon delivers around 100 mg of magnesium, along with 10% of your daily iron needs and a solid dose of calcium and potassium.
This mineral-rich syrup has long been used as a natural remedy for everything from anemia and menstrual discomfort to muscle cramps and digestive support.
Its high magnesium content may help regulate nerve function, reduce inflammation, and even support better sleep. Its iron content makes it especially helpful for women and those prone to low energy levels.
Looking to add it to your routine? Stir a tablespoon into warm water with a splash of lemon for a mineral-rich morning drink, or blend it into smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods for a deep, molasses-rich flavor with real health benefits.
Unlike most sweeteners, blackstrap molasses gives back more than it takes—delivering nutrients your body needs to thrive.
The next time you crave something sweet, skip the refined sugar and reach for this powerhouse by-product instead.
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