Why it is better to regret something you HAVE done than something you haven't

This article was found at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2001931/Why-IS-better-regret-youve-havent.html

The saying 'it's better to have loved and lost than never have loved at all' is true, scientists say. The pain of lost chances lingers on far longer than the short term regret of doing something wrong according to the study by two U.S. universities. And painful as they are, regrets can actually spur us on to future success, by ensuring that we take chances in the future to avoid missing out on career or love success.

I agree completely! I think if you have regrets about something you have done, this is, of course, not a good feeling.  However, the feeling will lessen and go away. If you regret something that you haven’t done, I can imagine the feeling of regret will linger and stay longer. I think a good motto regarding this subject is ‘at least I tried’. Although things may not work out the way you had imagined, you will have at least, given it a try. This feeling of regret for something you have done can be turned into something positive. Feelings of regret about something you haven’t done is more difficult to turn into something more positive.

Dried fruit 'just as healthy as fresh' and can help combat cancer and heart problems

The article was found at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2001868/Dried-fruit-just-healthy-fresh-help-combat-cancer-heart-problems.html

The article is about the positive effects of dried fruits. Researchers have found that dried fruits are just as healthy as fresh fruits. It can help combat cancer, metabolic disease and heart problems. They are also a good source of fibers, vitamins and minerals. The article also mentions that fruit juices contains too much sugar and is too sweet. Fruit juices are therefore not healthy, drinking water is a better alternative.

As a person who loves fruit and dried fruit as well, this is good news to me. I think that dried fruits are an easy way to get the vitamins and minerals that you need, it is very quick and it does not require any preparation. It is a very healthy snack. I am surprised to hear that dried fruits are just as healthy as fresh fruit, I thought dried fruits would be just a healthier alternative to sweets and candy. Glad to hear it is not just better for you, but actually healthy and good for you. I do assume that if you eat an entire bag of dried fruit, that would be overdoing it and it would not be healthy anymore. So I will enjoy healthy dried fruit, but also with moderation.

Fitness flip-flops: What's behind this sandal fad?

This article was found on bbc.co.uk:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-13669714

The  article is about footwear that is supposed to help people lose weight and tone their muscles. The article reveals if there is any evidence to support this. After sports footwear, there is now beach footwear, sandals that are supposed to be an easy way to tone up. According to the article the sandal is good compared to regular sandals but not an alternative to working out. The sandals are not suitable for everyone, people with flat feet should avoid them. They are seen as comfortable because of the thick sole.

It seemed a bit too good to be true. I can imagine that the sandals and the sneakers that are supposed to tone your body have maybe more effect than regular footwear, but, obviously, it is not a full body workout and an alternative to being active. I don’t think I would buy them for that purpose. I would perhaps purchase them because they are comfortable and better for you than regular footwear. The ugly truth is that if you want to lose weight of tone your body you need to actually workout and break a sweat!

Amazing uses for animal body parts are revealed on new TV show

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/weird-world/2011/06/08/amazing-uses-for-animal-body-parts-are-revealed-on-new-tv-show-115875-23186910/

This article is written by Rachael Bletchly, Daily Mirror.

The article explains how animal parts are not only used for meat and leather. A new BBC3 series called Kill It, Cut it, Use will reveal the weird world of animal by-products.

The first show on Monday at 9pm will unveil the amazing array of things made from inedible parts of cattle. As an example, many parts of the cow are used; the blood is used to put into plywood, glue, dye etc. The hooves contain a protein used in fire extinguisher foam on airplanes. The horns are used in clothes and buttons. The small intestines are used for tennis racquet strings. The fat from a cow is used in roads, explosives and drugs. The hair is amongst other things, used in paintbrushes.

I didn’t know there were so many uses for all these different body parts of the cow. I think it is good that we use all these parts. If an animal is killed, I think it is important to use every part and not let it go to waist. I am a bit shocked about all these different uses, many of them I did not know at all! I sure didn’t think of a dead cow the last time I played tennis! Perhaps it is better not to know! Just the fact  that a lot of parts have a purpose is plenty of information for me.

From Drugs to Mugs: Shocking before and after images show the cost of drug addiction

From Drugs to Mugs: Shocking before and after images show the cost of drug addiction

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthpicturegalleries/8345461/From-Drugs-to-Mugs-Shocking-before-and-after-images-show-the-cost-of-drug-addiction.html

I found this article in The Telegraph. The article shows shocking before and after images that reveal the effects of drug addiction on the human face. 'From Drugs to Mugs' is the follow up to the controversial 2004 'Faces of Meth' release which highlighted the effects of methamphetamine use.

The pictures are released in the hope that they will make kids think twice about ever touching drugs, the pictures show how addicts have lost teeth and scratched their skin to the bone.

Picture: Methamphetamines user first pictured in 2001, left, and then in 200

I know drugs do serious damage to the body but I forgot how shocking it is! This is just one of the many before and after pictures on the website, some are even worse. I think it’s a good idea to confront kids with the facts. This is the way it is, this is what drugs do. Kids get warned about drugs at home and at school. I think some of these warnings are effective for some children, but it is still far from reality to them. If you show them pictures, especially shocking ones like these, they’ll remember the effects that drugs have much better than just telling them about it. This is very visual, very real and also important, very scary. What teenager would want to take the risk to look like this? I think it will help, but it won’t prevent all kids from using drugs, unfortunately!

E.coli outbreak believed to be new strain of bacteria

This article is found in the telegraph at the link below.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/8552557/E.coli-outbreak-believed-to-be-new-strain-of-bacteria.html

The article explains how the E. coli outbreak at the centre of a German outbreak is believed to be a new strain of bacteria never seen before.

Seven people in the UK have been affected by the virus, including three British and four German nationals.

Investigations suggest the strain is a mutant form of two different E.coli bacteria.

Hilde Kruse, a food safety expert at the WHO, told the Associated Press: "This is a unique strain that has never been isolated from patients before. Various characteristics that make it more virulent and toxin-producing".

It is not uncommon for bacteria to continually evolve and swap genes but the new strain appears to be more virulent than other strains of E.coli.

Yuk, scary! I really hope they find a way to fight this bacteria quickly. Does this bacteria pass on from person to person or can one only get ill by eating the or touching the infected foods? I also do wonder if this sort of thing is caused by all the human intrusion with the growth and the whole process with foods. Isn’t it a lot better to go the natural way and just let nature take its course, in a organic way. I have no proof or an idea for that matter if bacteria like these wouldn’t exist with organic foods, but common sense does tell me it can not be good to change nature’s course the way that we do. There should be a research regarding the cause and effect of the bacteria as well as a way to fight it.

Help kids fall in love with books

The article is written by Natasha Harding and Caitlin Black, Sun Online.

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/woman/parenting/3583976/Help-kids-fall-in-love-with-books.html

The article starts by mentioning that up to one in five 16-year-olds will leave school with a below average reading ability and that the new Department of Education figures also reveal that 20 per cent of children will fail the SATS reading test. The article also mentions that studies show poor reading skills leave children with low self-esteem, a higher rate of absence and poor exam results.

The article tells us the many reasons why reading is so important.

Film and television are wonderful but all the work is done for you. Whereas, when you read a book, you have to use your imagination and ask questions.

It's a quieter, more personal thing and you set the pace yourself and can totally immerse yourself in the story.

Some children however, need some encouragement to read. This article mentions some ways to do so. First of all, it’s important to have books around, make story-time part of a bedtime or daily routine, find books they respond to, don’t be judgmental about the topic of type of reading material and do not force it. It doesn’t matter what their choices are, as long as they are developing a love of reading.

I think in Holland we have the same issue. Kids these days do not read unless they have to. We don’t have to discuss why this is a problem, we all know the benefits of reading. I think this article has a very good point and it’s good to give parents and teachers tips on how to get kids reading again. I think the most important thing is to have books around that draw their attention. You can not force books on them that they do not respond to. If anything, this will make them dislike books. Another good point is to have children make their own choices on what they want to read. As long as they develop a positive attitude towards reading. I think this is very much needed, also in Holland.

Paralysed man walks again thanks to revolutionary spinal electrode treatment

The article is written by Mike Swain, daily Mirror

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/05/21/paralysed-man-walks-again-thanks-to-revolutionary-spinal-electrode-treatment-115875-23145172/

Rob

The article is about 25-year-old Rob Summers. Who was paralyzed after a hit and run accident five years ago. Thanks to a revolutionary treatment where electrodes were implanted into his spine and turned on, he was able to walk again. Rob was crippled from the chest down and thought he would never walk again. This pioneering treatment took 30 years to perfect. After the electrodes were implanted, the tiny electric shocks bypass the brain and teach the spinal cors to control limbs and body function. A ports able stimulation unit is strapped to the hip. He is now able to push himself up and take steps when supported. He is not there yet, it is going to take a lot of hard work, patience and fighting through ups and downs. He had four years of physiotherapy and training to prepare him for the electrodes treatment.

I think it is amazing what can be done medically these days. This treatment will give many people the hope they need to carry on. It is very important that patients realize that this is not a instant cure, but a tool to get to the point where they want to be. This treatment should give patients realistic hope and the drive to make an effort to work hard for results. I assume that after 30 years of researching this treatment they are sure of its safety and the effects on the long run. 

Pole dance classes for children of 12

The article is called ‘Pole dance classes for children of 12’ and is written by Laurie Hanna from the Daily Mirror.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/05/21/pole-dance-classes-for-children-of-12-115875-23145027/

Pole dancer at Secrets Nightclub (Pic:Rex)

The article explains how a pole dance teacher offers pole dance classes for girls as young as 12. The lessons are being promoted as a “gymnastic art” with organizers claiming young girls will end up fitter, stronger and more self confident. The founder of the company said: “Many people don’t understand the difference between fitness pole dancing and exotic dancing.“There is a big difference and it is unfortunate that those criticizing my decision to run kids’ classes haven’t educated themselves as to the difference. To understand fitness pole dancing you have to see the pole as a climbing frame which basically means it is a gymnastic apparatus. But the pole dancing venture for 12 to 15-year-olds was immediately condemned. Here are some reactions: “It’s diabolical. It’s sick.“At that age, they should be playing rounders or netball. I work in a school and I see plenty of kids growing up too fast. It’s more important than ever to protect their innocence. Another person says: It’s just wrong. I was into dance at a young age – hip hop, disco, freestyle. There is plenty for kids to do to keep fit and have fun. Another reaction was: ‘No matter what you argue, the girls will be recreating the moves they’ve learnt as soon as they go out. We do not want 12-year-olds parading as if in some kind of strip club. We are concerned children are being targeted with an activity that’s part of a male club culture which objectifies women.’

When I first read the title I was shocked! This is absolutely ridiculous! A child of 12 years should not be introduced to pole dancing! And although the pole dance teacher has a point that the dancing itself does make a person very fit and strong, I still strongly believe it has no place in a child’s life. You can call it an gymnastic apparatus, but everybody associates pole dancing as exotic dancing as part of a male club culture which objectifies woman.  I have to agree that kids these days are growing up too fast, it is now more important than ever to protect their innocence and teach them to respect themselves and not put their body and sexual moves on display! There are plenty of ways to get children fit and strong. Pole dance lessons for young girls is just crossing the line, we don’t want to teach our children to copy strippers. I can’t imagine parents would allow their daughter to follow  pole dance lessons, it doesn’t seem like a very healthy activity for your child, but I guess you never know. A lot of parents surprise me in how they raise their children. And it seems that nowadays things can’t get enough crazy. Just ‘explain’ how this is different and good for children because it’s fitness. Well, hopefully people won’t fall for that one. What kind of message will you send your child if allow her to parade around as a stripper? No, this one is just wrong!

Why No smoking signs actually ENCOURAGE smokers to light up’.

The article is called: ‘Why No smoking signs actually ENCOURAGE smokers to light up’.

The article is written by a Daily Mail Reporter.

Webaddress: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-1383962/Why-No-smoking-signs-actually-ENCOURAGE-smokers-light-up.html

The article explains how telling smokers not to light up may increase their desire for nicotine and is therefore a wrong approach.

Psychological studies suggest the No smoking signs may drive more people to light up because it increases their craving. Without being aware of it, they react to the signs by thinking of cigarettes and wanting to smoke. No smoking signs are everywhere, if you walk down the street, you pass several of them, this will boost a smokers craving.

The article explains several tests done to prove the statement above.

Follow-up research, indicates that anti-smoking messages really do prompt smokers to light up.

In my opinion there are two things being discussed here. The article seems to mix them up. The first is that the image of a cigarette boosts the craving for one. The second is that anti-smoking messages prompt smokers to light up. We have to think of the message we are sending. If a sign is simply telling you, you may not smoke here, it doesn’t matter whether the smoker gets a craving, just walk down the street and smoke somewhere where it is aloud. If you want to encourage smokers to stop smoking, then perhaps this article has a point and there might be a better way to do it. A smoker who has quit smoking is going to have cravings anyway, I don’t think the anti-smoking messages are actually making things a lot more difficult for them. 

All guns blazing: Arnold Schwarzenegger ramps up the return to his Hollywood career by announcing another movie

The article is called: ‘All guns blazing: Arnold Schwarzenegger ramps up the return to his Hollywood career by announcing another movie’ And the article is written by Jody Thomppsen, writer for The Daily Mail.

Webaddress: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1384443/Arnold-Schwarzenegger-announces-movie-role-ramps-return-film-career.html

After years of concentrating on his political career, Arnold Schwarzenegger is stepping down as governor and returning to Hollywood to play in another movie. At the ripe age of 63, he is going to star in a movie drama about horse trainer who is hired to kidnap a 9 year old boy. He is also going to return in the reboot of the Terminator franchise.

Appearently this movie will be different. Arnold always played these big muscular guys, but there's a sweetness to Arnold in real life, and we want to bring that sweetness to the screen.' So said the producer.

I guess as a not so big Terminator fan I should not comment on this piece. I didn’t like the movies back then, so I can’t imagine an old dude playing the part will be enjoyable. I fear he will not be taken seriously as an actor anymore. Although, I have to add, I was surprised when he became governor and didn’t think he would be taken seriously, but that all worked out, so I guess you never know. I do think it would be a good idea for him to continue his career in a different direction. A muscular fighting machine might not be very believable at age 63, an older horse trainer might fit a better picture. Good for him, for at least giving it a try I guess, I just won’t be standing in line to watch the movie.

Thousands back call to ban wild animals in circuses

The article is called: ‘Thousands back call to ban wild animals in circuses’

The article is written by Martin Hickman, Consumer Affairs Correspondent at The Independent.

Webaddress: http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/thousands-back-call-to-ban-wild-animals-in-circuses-2280344.html

The Independent has been backed in its call for a ban on wild animals performing in circuses by thousands of people. Almost 3000 readers signed an online petition and hundreds more left messages of support on twitter and their website.

The circuses that use wild animals say that the animals are well taken care of, but animal welfare groups and vets say that enclosures smaller than those in zoos, constant travel and performances in front of loud crowds make wild animals unsuitable.

The government has not agreed on a ban. Actress Virginia McKenna responds: "If the Government hasn't thought it through, the public has – more than nine out of ten of us say a resounding no to the continued exploitation of wild animals in circuses in the name of so-called 'entertainment'."

I have to agree, I believe that wild animals belong in the wild and should not be used for entertainment. I feel the government should take the publics’ opinion into account and agree on a ban. People who want to see wild animals can go to a safari park or zoo and see them in a more natural environment. Wild animals doing tricks should not be a source of pleasure for people.  

Central London’s top 10 budget eats

The article is called: ‘Central London’s top 10 budget eats’. The article is written by Tony Naylor, reporter for the Guardian.

Webadres: http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2011/mar/11/central-london-restaurants-budget-eats?intcmp=239

The article starts off telling us how visiting London can be an expensive business, but how you needn’t spend a lot of money to eat well. Tony Naylor chooses the 10 best restaurants and cafes in central London. In this article Tony Naylor the zooms into one of them. He explains how ‘Daddy Donkey’ is a very popular Mexican takeaway food restaurant. This is one of the many mobile trailers to offer high-quality food at a highly competitive price. Conclusion is that the food is not as revelatory as the hype might suggest, but the food is very good as are the prices.

If I were to be going to London and I would like to have a nice meal, but not pay a fortune, I don’t think that Daddy Donkey’s would be the first place I would go to. If I were to be looking for a quick but good bite, I would most certainly pass by this place. The article brings the place down a bit by talking about the fast food and the mobile trailer, but then again recognizes that it is a very popular place, the food is good and it has very descent prices. In my opinion the article should be called ‘Central London’s top 10 budget fast-food eats’. Or does budget automatically mean fast-food? What about healthy budget eats?  

Bringing up boys with a life-limiting condition

The article is called :’Bringing up boys with a life-limiting condition’

The story is written By Michelle Roberts Health reporter, BBC News.

Summary:

The story tells us about the Davison family. The young couple have 2 small children with cystic fibroses. This is a incurable inherited disease that cuts short the life expectancy. The mother tells about how their world fell apart when they found out both their sons have this disease and what a shock it was since no-one in the family has this disease. The mother also tells us how normal day life is influenced by this disease. She talks about the medication, the physiotherapy and the difficulties it brings. She also talks about how they try not to look at the sad side of things, but enjoy the time they have together.

Reaction:

It is amazing how positive this family is although they have this dark cloud hanging over them and how well they cope with their situation. It really makes you as a reader realize how precious life is and how important it is to cherish every moment of it with the people you love. 

This is it!