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Mauritania

Are there any health considerations to keep in mind when trying Mauritanian cuisine?

Introduction: Exploring Mauritanian Cuisine

Mauritanian cuisine is a unique blend of African and Arab culinary traditions, influenced by the country’s geography and history. This cuisine is characterized by the use of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and hearty grains such as millet and couscous. Some of the most popular Mauritanian dishes include thieboudienne, a flavorful fish and rice stew, and maafe, a peanut-based sauce served with vegetables and meat.

Nutritional Value of Mauritanian Dishes

Mauritanian cuisine is generally healthy and nutritious, with an emphasis on whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein sources. Many of the traditional dishes feature fish, which is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein. Vegetables such as sweet potatoes, onions, and tomatoes are also commonly used, providing important vitamins and minerals. Additionally, Mauritanian cuisine often incorporates whole grains such as millet, which are high in fiber and can help promote healthy digestion.

Potential Health Benefits of Mauritanian Spices

Mauritanian cuisine is known for its use of flavorful spices such as cumin, ginger, and turmeric. These spices not only add taste and aroma to dishes but may also have potential health benefits. For example, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and may help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Cumin has been shown to improve digestion and may aid in weight loss.

Watch Out for High Sodium Content

One potential concern when consuming Mauritanian cuisine is the high sodium content in some dishes. Many of the traditional recipes use salt and salted fish as a primary seasoning, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. To reduce sodium intake, it is recommended to limit the amount of added salt and to opt for fresh, unsalted fish whenever possible.

Concerns About Food Safety and Hygiene

Another consideration when trying Mauritanian cuisine is food safety and hygiene. As with any cuisine, it is important to ensure that the food is prepared and stored properly to avoid contamination and the risk of foodborne illness. Travelers should be cautious when consuming street food or dishes from informal markets and should take steps to protect themselves from potential foodborne illnesses.

Conclusion: Enjoying Mauritanian Food with Caution

Mauritanian cuisine offers a unique and delicious culinary experience, but it is important to be mindful of potential health considerations when consuming these dishes. By focusing on whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables, and being cautious of high sodium content and food safety concerns, individuals can enjoy the flavors and benefits of Mauritanian cuisine while maintaining good health.

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Mauritius

Are there any health considerations to keep in mind when trying Mauritian cuisine?

Introduction: Exploring Mauritian Cuisine

Mauritian cuisine is a unique blend of flavors that reflects the island’s diverse cultural influences. The dishes are a fusion of Indian, Chinese, African, and European cuisine, and they feature a wide range of spices, herbs, and ingredients. Some of the popular Mauritian dishes include fish vindaye, dholl puri, gateaux piments, and rougaille.

If you are planning to try Mauritian cuisine, it is essential to keep in mind the health considerations. While the dishes can be flavorful and tempting, they may also come with potential health risks. The article will discuss the spices, ingredients, and nutritional value of Mauritian cuisine, as well as the potential health benefits and risks.

Spices and Ingredients Used in Mauritian Cooking

Mauritian cuisine uses a wide range of spices and ingredients that add flavor and aroma to the dishes. Some of the common spices used in Mauritian cooking include cumin, coriander, turmeric, saffron, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon. These spices are believed to have medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

In addition to spices, Mauritian dishes also feature a variety of ingredients, including seafood, meats, vegetables, legumes, and grains. Fish and seafood are popular ingredients in Mauritian cuisine as the island is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Vegetables such as eggplants, pumpkins, and chayotes are also widely used. Legumes like lentils and chickpeas are a staple in many Mauritian dishes, and grains such as rice and wheat flour are used to make bread and roti.

Common Mauritian Dishes and Their Nutritional Value

Mauritian cuisine includes a range of dishes that offer various nutritional benefits. Dholl puri, a type of flatbread made with split peas, is high in protein and fiber. Rougaille, a tomato-based sauce with fish or meat, is rich in vitamins and minerals. Gateaux piments, a popular snack made with lentils, is high in protein and low in fat.

One of the most popular Mauritian dishes is fish vindaye, which is made with fish marinated in vinegar and spices. Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. However, it is important to note that some Mauritian dishes may be high in salt, sugar, or saturated fat, which can increase the risk of chronic diseases.

Potential Health Benefits of Mauritian Cuisine

Mauritian cuisine offers many potential health benefits due to the use of spices and ingredients that have medicinal properties. For example, turmeric is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Ginger is also known for its anti-inflammatory effects and may help reduce nausea and vomiting.

Mauritian cuisine also includes a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Potential Health Risks of Mauritian Cuisine

While Mauritian cuisine offers many potential health benefits, it is important to keep in mind the potential health risks. Some Mauritian dishes may be high in salt, sugar, or saturated fat, which can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Fried foods such as gateaux piments and samosas may also be high in calories and fat.

In addition, some Mauritian dishes may contain allergens such as nuts, shellfish, or gluten. It is important to check with the restaurant or cook about the ingredients used in the dish before consuming it.

Conclusion: Balancing Taste and Nutrition in Mauritian Cooking

Mauritian cuisine is a flavorful and diverse cuisine that offers a unique blend of spices and ingredients. While it offers many potential health benefits, it is important to keep in mind the potential health risks and balance taste with nutrition.

To ensure a healthy and balanced diet, it is recommended to choose dishes that are low in salt, sugar, and saturated fat, and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. It is also important to practice moderation and portion control when consuming Mauritian cuisine. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Mauritian cuisine while maintaining good health.

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Mexico

Are there any health considerations to keep in mind when trying Mexican cuisine?

Introduction: Exploring the Health Benefits and Risks of Mexican Cuisine

Mexican cuisine boasts a rich and diverse culinary tradition, with a wide range of flavorful dishes that can be enjoyed by food lovers around the world. From sizzling fajitas to spicy salsa and tangy guacamole, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant cuisine. However, like any other type of food, Mexican cuisine comes with certain health considerations that need to be taken into account when trying to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.

In this article, we will explore some of the key health benefits and risks of Mexican cuisine, and offer some tips on how to enjoy this delicious food while keeping your health in mind. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Mexican food or a newcomer to this cuisine, these insights can help you make informed choices about your diet and lifestyle.

Understanding Mexican Food: Ingredients and Preparation Methods

Mexican cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, which are achieved through the use of a wide range of herbs, spices, and condiments. Some of the most commonly used ingredients in Mexican food include chili peppers, cumin, garlic, oregano, and cilantro. These ingredients not only add a lot of flavor to the food but also have powerful health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, boosting digestion, and enhancing immune function.

However, Mexican food can also be high in fat and sodium, depending on the ingredients and preparation methods used. Popular dishes like burritos, chimichangas, and nachos often contain a lot of cheese, sour cream, and other high-fat ingredients, while some sauces and condiments can be loaded with salt. To enjoy Mexican cuisine in a healthy way, it’s important to choose dishes that are prepared with fresh ingredients and to use moderation when it comes to high-fat and high-sodium foods.

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Micronesia

Are there any health considerations to keep in mind when trying Micronesian cuisine?

Introduction: Exploring Micronesian Cuisine

Micronesia is a scattered group of islands located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is composed of four states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. Each state has its unique culture, language, and cuisine. Micronesian cuisine is a fusion of different cultures, including Spanish, Japanese, and American. It is known for its seafood dishes, tropical fruits, and coconut-based desserts.

The Health Benefits of Micronesian Cuisine

Micronesian cuisine is rich in fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables, which are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Studies have shown that consuming a diet rich in seafood can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and improve brain health. Additionally, coconut milk and oil, which are commonly used in Micronesian cuisine, have been found to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, boost the immune system, and improve digestion.

Traditional Ingredients and Their Nutritional Value

Traditional Micronesian dishes are mostly made up of fish, taro, breadfruit, cassava, and coconut. These ingredients are rich in nutrients such as fiber, potassium, vitamins C and E, and folate. Fish, in particular, is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for heart health and brain function.

Potential Health Risks of Certain Micronesian Dishes

Some Micronesian dishes may pose potential health risks for certain individuals. For instance, the consumption of raw or undercooked seafood can lead to foodborne illnesses such as hepatitis A and E, norovirus, and Vibrio infections. Additionally, the high sodium content in some Micronesian dishes may increase the risk of hypertension and other related diseases.

Recommendations for Safe Consumption of Micronesian Food

To reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, it is recommended to consume only fully cooked seafood. Additionally, it is important to follow proper food handling and storage practices, such as washing hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing and cooking food. As for the high sodium content in some Micronesian dishes, it is advisable to limit the intake of salty foods and to opt for fresh or steamed dishes instead of fried ones.

Conclusion: Finding Balance with Micronesian Cuisine

In conclusion, Micronesian cuisine is a rich and flavorful fusion of different cultures and traditions. While it offers numerous health benefits, it is essential to keep in mind the potential health risks associated with certain dishes. By following proper food handling and preparation practices and making informed choices, we can enjoy the delicious and nutritious flavors of Micronesian cuisine while maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.

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Moldova

Are there any health considerations to keep in mind when trying Moldovan cuisine?

Introduction: Moldovan cuisine

Moldovan cuisine is a blend of various influences, including Romanian, Ukrainian, Russian, and Turkish. It is characterized by the use of simple, fresh, and locally sourced ingredients, such as grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and meat. Moldovan cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, such as placinta (savory pies), mamaliga (a type of polenta), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and ciorba (sour soup).

Moldovan cuisine and its health benefits

Moldovan cuisine is generally considered to be healthy and nutritious, as it relies on whole foods and traditional cooking techniques. Many of its dishes are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining good health. For example, mamaliga is rich in complex carbohydrates and protein, while sarmale contains a mix of vegetables and meat that provides a balance of nutrients. Additionally, the use of fermented foods, such as sour cream and pickles, can improve digestion and boost immunity.

Common ingredients in Moldovan cuisine

Moldovan cuisine uses a range of ingredients that are commonly found in Eastern European cooking. Some of the most common ingredients include wheat, cornmeal, potatoes, onions, garlic, cabbage, carrots, peppers, tomatoes, dairy products, and various types of meat, such as pork, beef, and chicken. Additionally, Moldova is known for its wine production, and wine is often used as a cooking ingredient or served as a beverage alongside meals.

Potential health risks in Moldovan cuisine

While Moldovan cuisine is generally healthy, there are some potential health risks to keep in mind. One of the main concerns is the high use of salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems. Many Moldovan dishes also contain a lot of fat, either from meat or from added oils and fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease and obesity. Additionally, some Moldovan dishes, such as placinta and pastries, can be high in refined carbohydrates and sugar, which can lead to blood sugar imbalances and weight gain.

Tips for enjoying Moldovan cuisine without compromising health

To enjoy Moldovan cuisine without compromising health, there are some tips to keep in mind. First, try to choose dishes that are based on whole foods, such as vegetables, grains, and lean meat. Avoid dishes that are high in salt, fat, and sugar, or try to limit your portions. Additionally, you can ask for dishes to be prepared with less oil or fat, or choose grilled or roasted meats instead of fried. Finally, balance your meals with plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, and drink water or unsweetened beverages instead of sugary drinks.

Conclusion: Balance and moderation in Moldovan cuisine

In conclusion, Moldovan cuisine offers a range of delicious and nutritious dishes that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy lifestyle. While there are some potential health risks to keep in mind, such as high salt and fat content, these can be minimized by making smart choices and practicing moderation. By choosing whole foods, balancing your meals, and enjoying Moldovan cuisine in moderation, you can savor the flavors of this unique and flavorful cuisine while keeping your health in check.

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Monaco

Are there any health considerations to keep in mind when trying Monégasque cuisine?

Introduction: Discovering Monégasque cuisine

Monégasque cuisine is a blend of French and Italian influences, with an emphasis on seafood and fresh vegetables. It’s a cuisine that is characterized by its simplicity, with dishes that are often made with just a few ingredients. Monégasque cuisine is also known for its rich flavors, thanks in part to the use of olive oil, garlic, and herbs such as rosemary and thyme.

If you’re interested in trying Monégasque cuisine, it’s important to keep in mind that like any cuisine, there are some health considerations to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional profile of Monégasque cuisine, the potential health benefits and concerns, and how to enjoy this cuisine in balance.

Nutritional profile: Understanding the ingredients

The ingredients used in Monégasque cuisine are generally quite healthy. Seafood is a mainstay of the cuisine, and it’s a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health. Vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes are also commonly used, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Olive oil is another key ingredient in Monégasque cuisine, and it’s a healthier alternative to butter or other oils. It’s rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body. Garlic and herbs such as rosemary and thyme are also used frequently in Monégasque cuisine, and they have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, it’s worth noting that some dishes may be higher in salt or fat than others, so it’s important to pay attention to portion sizes and balance out your meals.

Health benefits: How Monégasque cuisine can be good for you

There are many potential health benefits to be gained from eating Monégasque cuisine. As we’ve already mentioned, seafood is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Olive oil and garlic also have cholesterol-lowering properties, which can help to improve heart health.

In addition, the Mediterranean diet, which Monégasque cuisine is based on, has been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, and it’s low in processed foods and red meat. Studies have also shown that the Mediterranean diet may help to improve brain function and reduce the risk of depression.

Potential drawbacks: Are there any health concerns?

While Monégasque cuisine can be quite healthy overall, there are some potential concerns to keep in mind. Some dishes may be high in salt or fat, and some traditional dishes may be prepared with added sugar. In addition, if you have a shellfish allergy, you’ll need to be careful when ordering seafood dishes.

Another potential concern is portion sizes. In general, the Mediterranean diet is based on balance and moderation, so it’s important not to overdo it on any one food or dish. If you’re eating out at a Monégasque restaurant, consider sharing dishes with your dining companions or asking for a half-portion.

Eating habits: How to enjoy Monégasque food in balance

To enjoy Monégasque cuisine in a healthy way, it’s important to focus on balance and moderation. Try to incorporate plenty of vegetables and seafood into your meals, and use olive oil and herbs for flavor instead of butter or cream. Be mindful of portion sizes, and consider sharing dishes or asking for a half-portion if you’re eating out.

In addition, try to balance out your meals by including a variety of foods from different food groups. For example, pair a seafood dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. And don’t forget to stay hydrated with plenty of water!

Conclusion: The verdict on Monégasque cuisine and your health

Overall, Monégasque cuisine can be a healthy and delicious choice if you approach it with balance and moderation. The cuisine is based on fresh, whole foods such as seafood and vegetables, and it’s rich in healthy fats and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as olive oil and garlic.

However, like any cuisine, there are some potential concerns to keep in mind, such as portion sizes and added sugars. By being mindful of what you’re eating and balancing out your meals, you can enjoy the flavors and health benefits of Monégasque cuisine without sacrificing your health.

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Food

Turmeric – Silver Bullet for Health

Whether as tea, lemonade, or smoothies. The stars swear by turmeric. Why is the yellow spice so healthy? We reveal it!

Whether in the metropolises of New York or Los Angeles or in the surfing mecca of Bali. You can buy “Tumeric Tonic” everywhere at the moment. This is a kind of lemonade made from water, turmeric, and maple syrup. The drink is said to be particularly healthy. Goldenseal, as turmeric is also called, is also used for turmeric latte or as a face mask. Because it is said to help against acne and other skin impurities due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric has played an important role in the traditional Indian healing art of Ayurveda for thousands of years. As mentioned, turmeric is known for its cleansing and healing properties. That is why turmeric is also known as the “magic tuber” or “spice of life”.

Goldenseal has an anti-inflammatory effect and a digestive effect. The liver is stimulated by the ingredients to release more bile acid. This binds dietary fats and makes the fat easier to digest. This effect can relieve flatulence and feelings of fullness.

Researchers from the Universities of Kiel, Frankfurt, and Jena have looked into the medicinal effects of turmeric and were able to discover that the root has anti-cancer properties. Turmeric can also make a contribution in relation to Alzheimer’s. In other experiments, the plant substance prevented the deposit of certain protein complexes in the brain. These complexes, in turn, may be involved in the development of Alzheimer’s. In practice, however, turmeric has so far only been used medicinally for digestive disorders.

Where is turmeric in?

Turmeric goes in all curry mixes and in all masalas except the red one. In the Middle Ages, goldenseal was also called “Indian saffron”. Like saffron, turmeric gives all dishes an intense yellow color.

A positive side effect: turmeric is significantly cheaper than saffron because it is obtained from a dried and ground root of a plant that is closely related to ginger.

If you want to buy turmeric, you should go for organic goods because of the low price. So you can be sure that it does not contain any harmful substances or has been irradiated.

Make Tumeric Tonic yourself

If you want to make Tumeric Tonic yourself, you only need the following ingredients:

  • 1 medium stick turmeric root (or 2 teaspoons turmeric powder)
  • 1 medium piece of ginger root (or 1 tsp ginger powder)
  • juice of 3 lemons
  • 1 pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 4 cups coconut water or water
  • Agave nectar, maple syrup, or honey to sweeten as needed

Put all the ingredients in a high-performance blender or juicer and blend until you get a homogeneous liquid. The resulting lemonade will keep in a closed jar in the fridge for 3-4 days, as lemon acts as a natural preservative.

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Food

Vegan Diet Endangers Children’s Health!

A vegan diet endangers children’s health! Veganism is widespread and a popular diet these days. For adults, this is largely harmless to health if the menu offers enough variety. However, more and more parents are now serving their children exclusively vegan foods. Pediatricians criticize this since a completely animal-free diet endangers the health of the children and can even lead to death.

Vegan Diet: Harmful to Children

More and more parents are feeding their children animal-free foods. However, a vegan diet is a deliberate threat to the well-being of the child, as the director of the Regensburg University Hospital for Pediatric Medicine, Prof. Michael Melter, explains to the “Bild am Sonntag”. By not eating animal-based foods, there would be a nutrient deficiency, which would lead to delayed growth, According to Prof. Michael Melter, the worst consequence for the children is death.

In addition to physical damage, the intense control that vegan diets require often leads to eating disorders. The pediatrician Dr. Barbara Mühlfeld speaks from experience and emphasizes: “There is a clear connection between veganism in children and anorexia”.

Some parents celebrate veganism like religion and do everything they can to keep their children healthy, but don’t realize the drastic consequences, explains Dr. Josef Kahl, Federal Press Spokesman of the Professional Association of Pediatricians. It is difficult to explain to “missionary” parents the negative consequences of vegan nutrition for their children.

That’s what nutritional science says

According to the European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN), children should not be fed a vegan diet as this increases the risk of severe neurological disorders and developmental delays for the child.

The German Society for Nutrition (DGE) also advises against vegan nutrition in sensitive phases of life, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, and childhood: Due to growth, children have high demands on nutrient density with low nutrient stores at the same time. The result is an increased risk of undersupply or nutrient deficiency.

Particularly critical nutrients are protein, iron, calcium, iodine, zinc, vitamins B2, B12, and D, and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. The development and health of the children can be seriously damaged if the offspring are only fed vegan.

A nutrient deficiency can lead to blood formation disorders (iron and vitamin B12 deficiency), growth retardation (energy-protein malnutrition), and sometimes irreversible neurological disorders such as mental retardation (vitamin B12 and iodine deficiency). An insufficient supply of the mother with the long-chain omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can also have a negative impact on the development of the infant’s brain and retina.

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health

Planetary Health Diet: This Diet Saves the Earth

Alarming climate values, diseases of civilization, and famine do not leave science untouched either. With the Planetary Health Diet, researchers have now presented the optimal meal plan that takes equal account of the health of people and our planet.

Can our diet positively influence not only our own health but also that of our planet? An international research team has dealt with this question and developed the “Planetary Health Diet”.

What is the goal of the Planetary Health Diet?

The Planetary Health Diet is the result of a large-scale research effort, the results of which have just been published (1). A team of researchers from 16 countries and from a wide range of areas from politics to agriculture, health, and environmental protection designed the optimal menu that should not only help prevent diseases such as heart attacks and diabetes, but also the limits and resources of our planet taken into account.

According to the research committee, the Planetary Health Diet should continue to ensure nutrition for the world population in 2050, which is forecast to grow to 10 billion. The report also shows that not only eating habits need to change, but also agriculture. Among other things, this should become more sustainable and do without fossil fuels in order to stop the loss of biodiversity. According to scientists, food waste must also be reduced by 15 percent.

What ends up on the plate with the Planetary Health Diet?

“What we eat and how we produce it determines the health of people and the planet. And we are making a serious mistake right now,” says Tim Lang, one of the study’s authors from the University of London. Because especially the consumption of red meat and sugar must be reduced by half. The proportion of vegetables in our food, on the other hand, should be increased. Fruit, nuts, and legumes should also be consumed in large quantities. How suitable is the Planetary Health Diet for everyday use?

With the values ​​of perfect nutrition determined by the scientists, one should of course take into account that these are daily average values. After all, 13 grams of the egg cannot be used to cook a filling meal. However, extrapolated to a week, the information can serve as an orientation for the weekly menu – then nothing stands in the way of an omelet once a week.

The main concern of the research team with the Planetary Health Diet was that it could be implemented in as many countries and culinary cultures as possible. “There is no one answer, there is one diet,” explains Tim Lang. It does not make sense, for example, to idealize the Mediterranean diet or to generally recommend eating fish to everyone in the world. Jessica Fanzo, one of the study’s authors, explains that it’s more about providing a reference meal plan that can and should be adapted for any diet around the world.

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Lifestyle

Toilet Paper Can be Harmful to Health: These Are Better Alternatives

The corresponding toilet paper is not only a major polluter, but can also contain dangerous chemicals.

270,000 trees are cut down every day to make toilet paper

Where does our toilet paper come from? If you get to the bottom of this question, the price for toilet paper that we pay in the supermarket or drugstore seems too low: According to Statista.de, 270,000 trees are cut down for the production of toilet paper every day.

This means that every two seconds an area of ​​primeval forest the size of a soccer field disappears. According to a study by the Industry Association for Personal Care and Detergents, every German uses around 64 rolls of toilet paper per year.

With our consumption, we are in the middle of the field worldwide. In the south, in Spain for example, only about half of our toilet paper requirements are consumed, while in Sweden twice as much. Americans top the list using an average of 141 rolls per capita per year.

Alternative to toilet paper: rainforest becomes toilet paper

The consumer determines the market – this is also the case here in Germany with toilet paper. Since we Germans prefer to use comfortable, white, soft, multi-layer, tear-resistant and fragrant toilet paper, the market also responds to our request. Since 1928, new toilet paper has been produced for us from freshly cut trees. For the production of toilet paper, the jungle has to give way for the cultivation of suitable trees, which are planted like plantations on the cleared jungle area.

Usually these are eucalyptus trees. The largest planting areas of eucalyptus plantations are in Brazil, Chile, Canada, Russia and Uruguay. In addition to eucalyptus, the woods of birch and spruce are suitable for processing. Cellulose fibers are required for the processing of toilet paper. To do this, these fibers must be detached from the wood of the tree in a specific process. However, around half of the tree is unusable for the production process and is burned after processing. Another problem: around 12,000 liters of water per hectare of plantation area are needed per day for eucalyptus plantations, as the Tropical Forest Foundation explains. This lowers the groundwater level drastically.

What a waste for a disposable item! Around 122,000 square kilometers of rainforest were lost last year for reasons such as the production of toilet paper. 42,100 square kilometers of it were previously untouched jungle. After long transport routes, the pulp finally reaches Germany from the production countries for further processing. There, the toilet paper is finished using a high level of energy and water consumption and is then placed on the shelves for us.

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