Why people susceptible to colds, asthma, and sinusitis must be careful while having ash gourd or petha
What Does An At-Home Food Sensitivity Test Tell You? I Tried One To Find Out
A cruel irony to being a food and travel writer is that I often suffer from stomach problems. My IBS (previously a colitis diagnosis) can turn any grand tasting into a terror with cramping, bloating, and, well, I'll spare you the more graphic details.
Though I've never tested positive for major food allergies or intolerances including gluten (a common culprit) or dairy, I've always wondered if I had any sensitivities that I was unaware of, especially as someone who eats everything and anything at any given moment.
Joey Skladany/CNETEnter Everlywell: The $199 at-home food sensitivity kit measures your body's immune response to 96 common foods.
"At-home lab testing for IgG (short for the responsive antibodies called immunoglobulin G) reactivity can be a great way for those with relatively mild, food-related symptoms to start their journey to feeling better," says Dr. Gabe Gaviola, MD, MPH, senior medical director at Everlywell.
"Traditional temporary elimination diets are highly restrictive and can provide massive disruptions to someone's normal dietary routine. By identifying the most likely candidates for problem foods, the Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test helps take the guesswork and dietary disruption out of a traditional elimination diet."
While there are mixed opinions on using IgG levels as a marker for food allergies, intolerances or sensitivities, curiosity got the best of me (as it usually does) and I decided to order the test and assume the role of guinea pig.
Here's how it all went down.
Note: As with any health condition, please always seek the guidance of a licensed medical professional for proper diagnoses.
How the Food Sensitivity Test Works Joey Skladany/CNET"The Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test was developed using an immunoassay platform, which selects certain food isolates," explains Gaviola. "The test measures someone's IgG antibody response to these foods. IgG is an antibody that is separate from conditions such as food intolerances or food allergies."
"Research suggests that for some individuals, higher IgG immune responses to specific foods may mean those foods are more likely to cause uncomfortable GI symptoms, including nausea, bloating, GI upset, and abdominal pain," he adds.
While more evidence is needed on IgG to make sweeping generalizations about its relationship to food sensitivities, Everylwell believes that they can provide a base level understanding of why people's guts react the way that they do. This isn't meant to be a diagnosis, by any means, but rather something to consider as you identify potential gastrointestinal triggers.
My Unique Stomach Issues Wilted greens are murder on my stomach. HUIZENG HU/Getty ImagesAside from overly rich foods, wilted greens, and wine consumed in excess, there aren't many ingredients that bring on immediate bouts of indigestion. Most of my stomach issues, according to my gastroenterologist, are either hereditary (my grandmother has severe colitis) or anxiety-induced.
That said, there are two fruits that often cause physical reactions while eating: apples and avocados. The former makes my lips tingle and swell up, which may be more of a pesticide on skin problem, and the latter makes me instantly nauseated when consumed as slices on sandwiches or chunks in a salad. Oddly enough, guacamole has zero effect on me.
The Food Sensitivity Test Process Everything you need to test food sensitivity at home. Joey Skladany/CNETWhile nobody enjoys pricking their fingers to draw droplets of blood, the testing process could not have been more straightforward and simple.
Each kit comes with instructions and the instruments needed to execute the test. This includes a collection card, alcohol prep pad, lancets, biohazard bag, gauze, bandage, return envelope and a return label.
An abbreviated sequence of events:Results typically take about a week or two and can be accessed online (where you'll register your unique kit ID upon receiving it).
Here's what the test results said I eat chicken as much as anything and it never seems to upset my stomach, despite Everywell's analysis. Kseniya Ovchinnikova/GettyLuckily for me, nothing came back higher than mild reactivity. And out of the 98 foods tested, I only had elevated IgG levels for eight: black tea, chicken, chickpea, eggplant, garlic, grape leaf, pomegranate and sunflower seed.
These results were equal parts surprising and hilarious -- surprising because I have never noticed a GI reaction to any of them and hilarious because I received these results while on vacation in, wait for it, Greece! Needless to say, I was eating a *lot* of literally every ingredient that may have been causing digestive distress.
Oddly, there was no indication that the aforementioned apple or avocado would lead to any type of immune response. I can't assume that they don't negatively affect my body, but I would have guessed that they'd be at the top of the results document.
What to do after results An elimination diet will help determine if the foods isolated are indeed a cause of GI distress. David Watsky/CNETAside from providing article resources and answers to nearly a dozen common questions, Everlywell suggests five next steps to continue your stomach health journey:
Remember, the Food Sensitivity Test does *not* test for food allergies and should not be used for this purpose.
"The results from the Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test are not diagnostic and are only meant to help identify top foods for someone to prioritize in a temporary elimination diet," adds Gaviola.
Food sensitivity test accuracy The food test instructions were crystal clear, but the results didn't align with my history of distress. Joey Skladany/CNETAs research appears to be conflicting, Gaviola is the first to remind customers that, again, any type of food allergy can only be diagnosed by a doctor.
"The tests measure totally different biomarkers and only a healthcare provider or allergy specialist is able to diagnose a food allergy, " he stresses. "Everlywell also recommends against any allergic reaction food trials that do not take place under the observation and direction of an allergy specialist."
Additionally, while testing companies like Everlywell operate in accordance with clinical guidelines and CLIA-certified laboratories, they are the first to advise speaking with a licensed healthcare provider.
Final thoughtsWhile I'm certainly not planning to eliminate chicken and hummus from my diet and don't have any evidence to support those foods being an issue for my stomach, the test did give me something to think about. In fact, I plan to use some upcoming travel downtime to eliminate these foods temporarily and see if they make a difference. It can't hurt, right? And at the very least, it certainly won't hurt as much as a debilitating stomach cramp.
Top 8 Best Grapeseed Oils In 2024
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Grapeseed oil, obtained from grape seeds, is a preferred oil in cooking due to its high smoke point, making it perfect for cooking techniques that involve high heat like frying and sautéing. It's also favored in making salad dressings and marinades due to its subtle taste and thin texture.
When it comes to choosing the best grapeseed oil, there are a few critical things to consider. One of the most important factors is the method of extraction. Cold-pressed grapeseed oil is considered the highest quality, as it is extracted without the use of heat or chemicals, which can alter the oil's flavor and nutritional content.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the best grapeseed oil is the source of the grapes. Grapes that are grown using organic farming methods are generally considered to be of higher quality than conventionally grown grapes, as they are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
We spent hours researching and testing various brands of grapeseed oil to identify the ones that offer the best flavor and nutritional value. In the following sections, we will share our findings and recommendations for the best grapeseed oils on the market.
Best Grapeseed OilsWe have researched and tested various grapeseed oils to bring you our list of the best products. Grapeseed oil is a popular cooking oil due to its high smoke point, neutral flavor, and health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, making it a great addition to your diet. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of the best grapeseed oils available on Amazon.
1. Pompeian 100% Grapeseed OilIf you're looking for a light and subtle cooking oil that won't overpower the flavor of your dishes, Pompeian 100% Grapeseed Oil is a great option. With a high smoke point of up to 510 degrees, it's perfect for high-heat cooking methods like frying, baking, and stir-frying. Plus, it's rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and Omega-6.
Pros
Cons
We've found that Pompeian 100% Grapeseed Oil is a great choice for dishes that require high heat, like frying and baking. Its light and subtle flavor won't disrupt the taste of your food, making it a versatile option for a variety of dishes. We also appreciate that it's imported from France for high quality.
That being said, some may prefer a stronger flavor in their cooking oil, and it may not be as versatile as other oils like olive or avocado. Additionally, it may be more expensive than other options on the market.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality grapeseed oil for high-heat cooking, Pompeian 100% Grapeseed Oil is definitely worth considering.
2. NOW Solutions Grapeseed OilWe highly recommend the NOW Solutions Grapeseed Oil as a versatile, lightweight, and moisturizing oil that is perfect for all skin types.
Pros
Cons
We have used NOW Solutions Grapeseed Oil as a base for our homemade lotions and conditioners and have been highly impressed with its performance. The oil has a rich, silky texture that is perfect for soothing away dryness and is suitable for all skin types since it won't clog pores or cause breakouts. We also love that the oil is mild enough to use as a conditioner for all hair types, making it a versatile addition to our beauty routine.
One downside to the product is that the bottle does not come with a pump, making it difficult to dispense the oil without making a mess. Additionally, the oil has a mild odor that some users may find unpleasant. Finally, individuals with nut allergies may want to avoid using this product, as grapeseed oil is derived from grapes, which are a type of nut.
Overall, we highly recommend NOW Solutions Grapeseed Oil for anyone looking for a versatile, lightweight, and moisturizing oil that is perfect for all skin types.
3. La Tourangelle Grapeseed OilWe highly recommend purchasing La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil for its mild and easy-to-use nature, as well as its great taste and versatility.
Pros
Cons
La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil is a high-quality, expeller-pressed oil that is perfect for everyday cooking. Its light and delicate flavor does not overpower other ingredients, making it a great addition to stir-fries, sautés, and marinades. It also has a high smoke point, making it ideal for frying.
We appreciate that La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil is non-GMO, Kosher, and Gluten-free, and we love that it is also great for skin and hair. It is chemical-free and not extracted with hexane, making it a safe and natural moisturizer or soother for mature skin.
The only drawbacks we found were that it is more expensive than other oils and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies. Additionally, the packaging is not eco-friendly, which may be a concern for some consumers.
Overall, La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil is a high-quality and versatile oil that is perfect for everyday cooking. Its mild flavor and high smoke point make it a must-have in any kitchen.
4. La Tourangelle Grapeseed OilWe highly recommend La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil due to its mild flavor, versatility, and sustainability.
Pros
Cons
La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil is a great addition to any kitchen. It has a mild flavor that doesn't interfere with the taste of other ingredients, making it perfect for stir-fries and sautés. Additionally, it has a high smoke point, which means it won't burn easily.
We love that La Tourangelle uses natural and sustainable ingredients in their products. This grapeseed oil is expeller-pressed, non-GMO, and kosher. It's also gluten-free and vegan, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
One potential downside is that some may find the flavor too mild. Additionally, the packaging can be a bit tricky to pour from, so be careful when using it. Lastly, it is more expensive than some other grapeseed oil options on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend La Tourangelle Grapeseed Oil for its mild flavor, versatility, and sustainability. It's a great choice for both cooking and skincare.
5. Sky Organics Organic Grapeseed OilWe highly recommend Sky Organics Organic Grapeseed Oil for anyone looking for a natural and effective way to moisturize, clarify, and brighten their skin.
Pros
Cons
Sky Organics Organic Grapeseed Oil is a great addition to any skincare routine. It can be used on its own or as a concentrated radiance booster by combining 2-3 drops with your favorite serum or cream to help lock in moisture. The oil is USDA certified organic, 100% vegan and cruelty-free, and responsibly made in small batches using the highest quality ingredients.
In our experience, the oil is easy to apply and quickly absorbed by the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. It is also effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion.
Overall, we highly recommend Sky Organics Organic Grapeseed Oil to anyone looking for a natural and effective way to moisturize, clarify, and brighten their skin.
6. Handcraft Grapeseed OilIf you're looking for a versatile and natural oil, Handcraft Grapeseed Oil is a great choice.
Pros
Cons
If you're looking for a natural and versatile oil, Handcraft Grapeseed Oil is a great option. It's perfect for use as a moisturizer, massage oil, or carrier oil for essential oils. Plus, its light texture and absorbability make it a great choice for those looking for a non-greasy skincare product.
One of the best things about Handcraft Grapeseed Oil is its purity. It's 100% natural, fragrance-free, and chemical-free, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin. Plus, it's loaded with vitamins A, E, and K, which can help to nourish and protect your skin.
Another great thing about this oil is its light texture. It absorbs easily into the skin, making it a great choice for use as a moisturizer or massage oil. Plus, it won't leave your skin feeling greasy or sticky like some heavier oils can.
While there are a few potential downsides to this oil, such as its mild scent and potential allergenicity, overall we think it's a great choice for anyone looking for a natural and versatile skincare product.
7. Maple Holistics Grapeseed OilIf you're looking for a natural oil packed with antioxidants and fatty acids, then Maple Holistics Grapeseed Oil is a great option for you. It's a premier hair oil with no additives or fillers, making it perfect for adding to your favorite natural hair care products. Our grapeseed oil for skin care is ultra-hydrating and can be used as a body massage oil, facial oil, or anti-aging moisturizer for DIY skin care you will love. It's also a great essential oil carrier, allowing you to get more out of your essential oils for skin and hair care.
Pros
Cons
We have used Maple Holistics Grapeseed Oil for a few months now and are impressed with the results. It's a lightweight oil that absorbs well, leaving our skin feeling soft and smooth. We also love that it's a natural oil with no additives or fillers, making it perfect for adding to our favorite natural hair care products. It's a great essential oil carrier, allowing us to get more out of our essential oils for skin and hair care.
One thing to keep in mind is that if you have a grape allergy, this product may not be suitable for you. Additionally, the pump dispenser may be difficult to use, so be careful when dispensing the oil. Finally, we have noticed that the bottle may leak during shipping, so be sure to check the bottle before using it.
Overall, we highly recommend Maple Holistics Grapeseed Oil for anyone looking for a natural oil packed with antioxidants and fatty acids. It's a great moisturizing body oil for dry skin, an essential oil carrier, and a premier hair oil with no additives or fillers.
8. Brooklyn Botany Grapeseed Oil for Skin, Hair and FaceIf you're looking for a versatile oil that can be used for skin, hair, and massage therapy, Brooklyn Botany Grapeseed Oil is a great option.
Pros
Cons
Overall, Brooklyn Botany Grapeseed Oil is a great addition to your beauty routine. It's versatile, natural, and provides many benefits for the skin, hair, and body. We highly recommend it!
Buying GuideWhen it comes to choosing the best grapeseed oil, there are a few factors to consider. In this buying guide, we'll go over some of the key features to look for to ensure that you're getting a high-quality product.
Extraction MethodOne of the most important factors to consider when choosing grapeseed oil is the extraction method. There are two main methods used to extract oil from grape seeds: cold-pressed and solvent-extracted.
Cold-pressed grapeseed oil is extracted using a mechanical press, which results in a high-quality oil that retains its natural flavor and nutrients. Solvent-extracted oil, on the other hand, is extracted using chemicals, which can result in a lower-quality oil that may contain residual solvents.
PurityAnother important factor to consider is the purity of the oil. Look for a product that is 100% pure grapeseed oil, without any added fillers or synthetic ingredients. This will ensure that you're getting a high-quality oil that is free from contaminants.
PackagingThe packaging of the grapeseed oil can also be an important factor to consider. Look for a product that comes in a dark glass bottle, which will help to protect the oil from light and heat. This can help to preserve the quality of the oil and ensure that it stays fresh for longer.
PriceFinally, consider the price of the grapeseed oil. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, keep in mind that higher-quality oils may be more expensive. Look for a product that fits within your budget while still meeting your quality standards.
By considering these factors when choosing a grapeseed oil, you can ensure that you're getting a high-quality product that will provide you with all of the benefits that this versatile oil has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions What is the smoke point of grapeseed oil and why does it matter for cooking?The smoke point of grapeseed oil is around 420°F, making it a great choice for high-heat cooking methods such as frying, sautéing, and roasting. It matters because when an oil reaches its smoke point, it starts to break down and release harmful compounds, which can affect the taste and nutritional value of your food. Using an oil with a high smoke point ensures that your food is cooked properly without any unpleasant flavors or harmful substances.
How can you tell if grapeseed oil is cold-pressed and what are the benefits?Cold-pressed grapeseed oil is made by pressing the seeds without the use of heat or chemicals, which helps to preserve its nutritional value. You can tell if grapeseed oil is cold-pressed by checking the label or asking the manufacturer. The benefits of using cold-pressed grapeseed oil include higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help to support overall health and wellness.
Which brands offer the highest quality organic grapeseed oil for skincare?Some of the highest quality organic grapeseed oil brands for skincare include Aura Cacia, NOW Foods, and Life-Flo. These brands offer pure, organic grapeseed oil that is free from harmful chemicals and additives, making it a great choice for sensitive skin. Organic grapeseed oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can help to nourish and protect the skin from damage.
What are the advantages of using grapeseed oil on the face according to user reviews?According to user reviews, using grapeseed oil on the face can help to moisturize and nourish the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture and tone. Grapeseed oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can help to protect the skin from damage and promote healthy, youthful-looking skin.
Can grapeseed oil be used for frying and what are its benefits over other oils?Yes, grapeseed oil can be used for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. Its benefits over other oils include its high levels of healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins, which can help to support overall health and wellness. Grapeseed oil is also low in saturated fats, making it a healthier choice than many other cooking oils.
How does grapeseed oil compare to olive oil in terms of health benefits?Grapeseed oil and olive oil both offer a range of health benefits, including high levels of healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. However, grapeseed oil is higher in polyunsaturated fats and has a higher smoke point, making it a better choice for high-heat cooking methods. Olive oil, on the other hand, is higher in monounsaturated fats and has a lower smoke point, making it a better choice for low-heat cooking methods or as a finishing oil.
Grapes Were Probably The First Fruit Domesticated By Humans
Scientists have unearthed more information on the origins of wine, using genomics to discover that grapevines were first domesticated simultaneously in two separate regions of the world around 11,000 years ago
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Three glasses with white, rose and red wine on a wooden barrel in a vineyard.
gettyThe earliest archaeological evidence for viticulture and wine drinking was unearthed around 8,000 years ago in the Caucasus, but the origin of grapevine domestication has remained mysterious, until now. Using genomics, scientists report that grapevines were first domesticated simultaneously in two separate geographic regions shortly after the glaciers retreated around 11,000 years ago. At this time, it appears that Neolithic farmers began cultivating the best vines with the biggest, juiciest grapes.
To learn more about the route that domesticated grapevines followed, a genomic analysis of grapevine varieties was conducted by an extremely large and varied international scientific collaboration (89 scientists!!) from 23 institutions across 17 countries. This research, which was primarily conducted during the pandemic lockdown, identified two separate domestication events for grapes that led to their use in winemaking. According to the data, these domestication events occurred more or less simultaneously, about 1000 km (620 mi) apart in Western Asia (the Levant [CG1, for 'cultivated grape 1']; modern day Israel, Palestine, Lebanon and Jordan) and the south Caucasus ([CG2]; modern day Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan) (Figure 1). These separate grapevine domestication events coincide with the development of agricultural farming as well as with the domestication of table grapes.
F I G U R E 1A map highlighting the key domestication centres, plus Cultivation Groups (CG) 1 and ... [+] 2 and and their human dispersal routes. (doi:10.1126/science.Add8655)
doi:10.1126/science.Add8655The researchers began their work by sequencing the genome of wild V. Sylvestris, from Tunisia, to act as their reference. They then sequenced genomes of an additional 3,186 different grapevine varieties obtained from scientific collections, including 2,237 samples from domesticated wine grapes and 949 wild grapes. The researchers also included genomic data from 339 previously sequenced grapevines, including data from 73 wild grapes. Of this group, 2,448 genomes were unique, including 844 from wild vines. The analysis also revealed previously undocumented domesticated grape cultivars lurking in old vineyards, which their discoverers named.
Comparisons of the grapes' genomic differences and similarities allowed the researchers to trace the grapevines' family tree and piece together their domestication history and early geographical journey. According to these data, all modern varieties of grapes appear to have originated from an ancient wild grape that lived across much of Eurasia and North Africa for the past 400,000 years.
F I G U R E 2Origination of V. Vinifera groups (CG3 to CG6) by the end of the Neolithic period. ... [+] Geographic distributions of CG groups are shown by coloured circles. (doi:10.1126/science.Add8655)
doi:10.1126/science.Add8655Comparisons and analyses of these genomic sequences found that wild grapevines could be lumped into four groups whereas domesticated grapevines formed six distinct groups (west Asian table grapes, Caucasian wine grapes, Muscat table and wine grapes, Balkan wine grapes, Iberian wine grapes and western European wine grapes).
Previous archaeological studies suggested that the CG2 grapevines were the first to be domesticated, and these gave rise to grape varieties that migrated with the Neolithic spread of agriculture throughout Europe. However, this study indicates that CG2 cultivars were mainly confined to the Caucasus Mountains, and contributed little to domesticated grapevine diversification.
In contrast, this study shows that CG1 grapevines from the Levant, which initially provided table grapes instead of wine grapes, had a tremendous influence over the development of modern grapevines. These grapevines moved through the Inner Asian Mountain Corridor (a journey followed by other food crops) and spread eastward through central Asia into India and China, north to the Caucasus and over the Zagros mountains, and then traveled northwest through Anatolia to the Balkans. At the same time, grapevines also spread westward across the north African coastline. Most significantly for wine, they also travelled to Iberia and Western Europe.
Most modern grapevines descended from just four ancient cultivars from Europe and one from the Caucasus, and domesticated grapevines were hybridized with their wild cousins to make them more suitable for wine production. As any wine drinker knows, there are many varieties of grapevines — merlot, cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir — but they all belong to one domesticated species, Vitis vinifera.
"We care about this grape so much we gave each variety a specific name", senior author of the study, evolutionary biologist Wei Chen, a senior research scientist at Yunnan Agricultural University, pointed out in a media briefing. "We don't do it for, like, wheat or barley."
According to the study authors, communities began to trade 'superior grapevine cultivars along trade routes', sharing not only their seeds but also their skills and knowledge. Further, this study supports previous archaeological evidence that the development of agriculture was accompanied by (and possibly motivated by) fermented beverages.
"The grapevine was probably the first fruit crop domesticated by humans", Dr Chen said.
"It was one of the first globally traded goods", added a co-author of the study, plant biologist Peter Nick, a professor of botany at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. "It's justified to say that the domestication of grapevines was really one of the driving forces of civilization."
Further, despite domestication, there still are wild grapes out there. Although those ancestral grapevines produce small bitter grapes, they are valuable to modern wine producers.
"These wild grapes and these very old varieties still have these resilience genes, which we will need to render the grape resistance against the challenge of climate change."
Yang Dong, Shengchang Duan, Qiuju Xia, Zhenchang Liang, Xiao Dong, et al., (2023). Dual domestications and origin of traits in grapevine evolution, Science 379(6635):892-901doi:10.1126/science.Add8655
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