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My Review of OneSkin Skincare Products

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My Review of OneSkin Skincare Products


Skincare suddenly becomes more important to women once we’ve reached our thirties and forties. The products that seemed like a luxury before now seem essential for looking and feeling our best. OneSkin is a skincare company that develops products to promote skin health at the molecular level.

I love their products, which support healthy skin from the outside while I focus on my diet for the inside. While it’s a topical product, I’m fascinated by how they focus on rejuvenation from within the cell. 

Here are my thoughts on OneSkin products and how they’re revolutionizing the way we look at skincare and promoting skin longevity.

What Causes Skin to Age?

Skin health is very much connected to our overall health. In fact, the skin often reflects what’s going on inside the gut and the blood vessels. Aging in general is caused by a loss of integrity within the cells of the body – wherever they may be, including our skin cells. 

How fast our skin ages depends on our genetics and our environment. Things like too much sun, pollution, diet, and lifestyle choices can make aging worse. These skin stressors damage the skin and create senescent “zombie” cells, now known to be the root cause of skin aging.

When cells become senescent, they stop dividing like normal cells. They grow larger and just sit there like zombies, accumulating over time. However, they still influence metabolism, and not in a good way. While taking up space, they begin secreting pro-aging factors, including inflammatory cytokines, and immune modulators.

Senescent cells also influence the healthy cells surrounding them. They trigger neighboring cells to begin aging faster and start breaking down collagen. This leads to widespread inflammation, poor barrier function, and visible signs of aging. That’s when we look in the mirror and start noticing sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Our skin is also the main protective barrier against the external environment. It filters out toxins, controls hydration, protects us against UV radiation, and more. Maintaining healthy, strong skin throughout our lives protects the health of our internal organs.

What Can We Do to Reduce Internal Aging?

Inflammation is key when it comes to aging. There’s a term out there called “inflammaging,” which reflects that close association. Diet can make a massive difference. Focusing on a whole-food diet with plenty of fresh produce can reduce internal aging. 

Fresh foods are high in vitamins and antioxidants that fight free radicals. They also supply polyphenols, minerals, and other nutrients necessary for healthy cells.

Avoiding sugar is also key. Sugar contributes to inflammation, oxidative stress, and the internal aging process. Internal aging leads to structural changes in the skin, leading to fine lines, sagging, wrinkles, and dryness.

Sleep is also a vital part of slowing down skin aging. According to a 2017 study, just two days of sleep restriction makes a person look older and less healthy. Regularly getting a full night’s sleep (at least 8 hours) can make you appear healthier and more youthful.

So what else can we do to help our skin be its healthiest?

What Sets OneSkin Apart in Reducing External Aging? 

Most skincare products out there have toxic ingredients that can age us from the outside! Ingredients like parabens, toxic metals, and phthalates can break down the skin barrier. They can also create free radicals and oxidative damage. Even retinol can be irritating and drying to the skin, doing more harm than good. It also doesn’t remove senescent cells. 

Many of the so-called “anti-aging” cosmetics out there could be accelerating aging. Irritating ingredients and toxins can increase the accumulation of senescent cells.

I love that OneSkin has cutting-edge research into skin biology, genetics, and aging. The results speak for themselves. First, they have plenty of clinical studies to prove their products work. Second, co-founder Alessandra Zonari has a biological age 15 years younger than her current age! 

What sets OneSkin apart is its discovery of a new peptide called OS-01. Peptides are fragments of proteins, the structural components of the human body, including skin. The scientists at OneSkin studied over 900 different peptides before discovering a unique one they called OS-01. 

The Science Behind OneSkin Products

The OS-01 peptide really changes dermatology and anti-aging science. That’s because it’s the only peptide scientifically proven to reverse the skin’s biological age. This means your skin could age at a slower rate than the years pass. Your skin could be younger than you are!

OS-01 peptide reduces the accumulation of senescent cells, helping the skin tissue look and behave years younger. It also supports collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis, which are considered biomarkers of healthy skin.

To offset the daily exposure to damaging oxidative stress, OS-01 peptide also supports repair pathways at the cellular level. As a result, the skin more effectively heals from sun damage and maintains its elasticity. That means you can still get vitamin D from the sun but not worry as much about damage.

OneSkin’s Other Active Ingredients

Besides the OS-01, OneSkin has six other active ingredients in their Face formulation. These elements were selected to complement the peptide’s ability to rejuvenate skin:

  • Pracaxi oil – Praxaci oil comes from the seeds of the Pracaxi tree and helps the skin in several ways. It’s moisturizing, smoothing, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It may reduce the appearance of scars by supporting collagen production.
  • Andiroba oil – Andiroba oil is an oil from the seeds of the andiroba tree. It’s rich in antioxidants to help protect the skin from free radical damage. This can help prevent fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. It also has compounds known to stimulate cell regeneration and tissue repair.
  • Niacinamide – Aka vitamin B3, niacinamide is an important nutrient for the skin. Niacinamide helps strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss. It also stimulates collagen production and helps even out skin tone.
  • Oleic Pau Mulato Extract – This extract comes from the seeds of the Pau Mulato tree, also known as Brazilian mahogany. Oleic Paul Mulato extract also supports the skin barrier, reducing dehydration. Plus it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and stimulates tissue repair.
  • Allantoin – Allantoin naturally occurs in several plants, including comfrey and chamomile. It’s known to soothe, moisturize, and condition the skin. It also promotes tissue regeneration by stimulating collagen synthesis.
  • Hyaluronic Acid – Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a molecule found in human skin, connective tissues, and eyes. It’s important for maintaining hydration, lubrication, and elasticity in tissues. HA is used in skincare products for its hydrating and plumping effects.

OneSkin Products

OneSkin includes OS-01 in all its products, including those in its Face and Body lines. The Face line includes an entire skincare routine, including a facial cleanser, daily moisturizer, and eye cream. They’ve even created a sunscreen to further protect the skin from UV rays.

OS-01 Face 

  • The PREP Facial Cleanser – This cleanser has enzymes that help break down impurities and product residues without damaging the skin. It protects the skin’s natural barrier so it’s best prepared for the OneSkin topical supplements. Studies have shown using PREP can increase peptide absorption by 200%.
  • OneSkin OS-01 FACE Topical Supplement – OneSkin’s Face product is a topical supplement that targets the root cause of skin aging. It includes those six ingredients above, plus antioxidant ingredients like grape seed oil, rose hips, and plum seed oil.
  • OS-01 EYE Topical Supplement – The eye cream adds specific nutrients to nourish the delicate skin around the eyes. Moringa, algae, and vegan collagen help reduce dark circles and boost collagen production.
  • OS-01 SHIELD Protect + Repair – The “shield” refers to this product’s ability to help shield the skin against UV rays, reducing damage from sun exposure. This sunscreen adds vitamin C, green tea, acai extract, and tara fruit extract to further support the skin. While I don’t recommend sunscreen every day, this is a good option for those times when it’s needed!

OS-01 Body

OneSkin also has an OS-01 Body lotion to help reduce senescence throughout the body.  And clinical research shows their Topical Supplement improves skin hydration while supporting the skin barrier. Seventy percent of study participants noticed improved skin texture.

My Experience with OneSkin

I started using OneSkin products after researching their ingredients and scientific development processes. It was important to me that they were truly clean and appropriate for all skin types before recommending them on Wellness Mama.

I got to try an early release of their eye product and I absolutely loved it! Their Body lotion is great as well. I tried it for the first time after a freezing cold, windy, and long day outside in the sun. My skin just drank up the lotion and instantly felt so much better. 

I use their Face lotion for a good part of the year and my skin instantly feels lighter, tighter, and nourished. The bottle lasts me over a month and is one product that I always have in my bag when I travel.

You can learn more by tuning in to my interview with OneSkin co-founder Alessandra Zonari here. And check out OneSkin products for yourself here!

Have you tried OneSkin yet? How did it work for you? Share with us below!



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Spread of West Nile Virus Across Europe Linked to Climate Change

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Spread of West Nile Virus Across Europe Linked to Climate Change


The mosquito-transmitted West Nile virus (WNV) has emerged as a new public health concern in Europe. This research demonstrates that the geographical spread of WNV in Europe has been influenced by climate change, in addition to alterations in land use and human population density. By employing ecological models to evaluate both actual and hypothetical scenarios, researchers have been able to distinguish the specific role of climate change in influencing the likelihood of WNV transmission.

The results indicate a significant expansion in the region ecologically conducive to WNV transmission from 1901 to 2019. In contrast, this region shows little change in a hypothetical scenario without climate change. They demonstrate that the sharp rise in the population at risk of WNV exposure can be attributed partially to historical shifts in population density.

“Our assessment indicates that Europe experienced a notable increase in WNV ecological suitability from the 1980s, which coincides with a rapid warming during this time in Europe as well as the establishment of WNV hotspots in Romania from 1996, in Italy from 2008, and in Greece from 2010,” according to investigators. “We here find that the relative contributions of air temperature in summer and winter to the ecological suitability of WNV were higher than the one of spring temperatures.”

3 Key Takeaways

  1. The research highlights climate change as a driver in expanding the geographical reach of WNV in Europe, impacting the ecological conditions conducive to mosquito vectors and the spread of the virus.
  2. Utilizing ecological niche models to analyze the impact of climate change on WNV transmission provides an understanding of the disease’s dynamics, emphasizing the importance of such tools in forecasting and preventing future outbreaks.
  3. The findings advocate for the integration of climate change adaptation into public health strategies, addressing the broader environmental determinants of health is essential for the control and prevention of mosquito-borne diseases.

The researchers developed ecological niche models to forecast the likelihood of WNV transmission resulting in human infections. This enabled them to isolate the specific impact of climate change by contrasting actual simulations with a hypothetical scenario that reflects the same environmental shifts but assumes a stable climate with no long-term trends.

“We identify that current WNV hotspots in Europe are most likely to be attributed to climate change,” according to the investigators. “With climate change emerging as a critical public health challenge, future work should explore the evolution of infectious disease distributions under different scenarios of future climate change to inform surveillance and intervention strategies.”

The study faces limitations in analyzing WNV ecological suitability. First, the absence of historical data on mosquito and bird diversity/abundance limits the models. Second, the reliance on ISIMIP environmental data restricts the incorporation of land-use variables to understand mosquito-bird interactions in WNV transmission. Third, the use of WNV presence/absence data, instead of incidence rates or serological surveys, assumes an equal surveillance effort across different areas, which may distort the accuracy of the models. Fourth, the models only indirectly account for human impacts on the climate and are based on data up to 2019, highlighting the necessity for continuous updates to the models.

Understanding the relationship between environmental shifts and the pattern of disease is essential to avert upcoming vector-borne outbreaks and safeguard public health.

Reference

Erazo D, Grant L, Ghisbain G, Marini G, Wint W, et, al. Contribution of Climate Change to the Spatial Expansion of West Nile Virus in Europe. Nature Communications. Published February 8, 2024. Accessed February 22, 2024. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-45290-3



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Vegetable Lo Mein Recipe (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

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Vegetable Lo Mein Recipe (Ready in 20 Minutes!)


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20-minute Vegetable Lo Mein is a super easy weeknight dish loaded with fresh, stir-fried veggies! With crisp vegetables and tender egg noodles all combined in a savory sauce, this is a knockout recipe that the whole family will go crazy over!

Skip the takeout and enjoy this vegetable lo mein dish at home with your family. For more better-than-takeout goodness, try this P.F. Chang’s Copycat Mongolian Beef, 20-Minute Garlic Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein, or Bang Bang Chicken!

20 Minute Vegetable Lo Mein

Craving takeout but short on time? This Easy 20-Minute Vegetable Lo Mein is the answer! It’s packed with flavor and comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or side dish to your other favorite Asian meals.

This vegetable lo mein is way better than takeout. And it’s a breeze to prepare, so making it is a no-brainer! So grab your favorite veggies and let’s get cooking.

Ingredient List

The beauty of cooking at home is being able to tweak everything to your liking. So throw in any other additional vegetables you like, or adjust the sauce to taste! Here is a list of everything I used, and as always, exact measurements can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

  • Noodles: You can use traditional lo mein noodles or spaghetti for a more accessible option.
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for stir-frying the vegetables and noodles in. Any neutral cooking oil will work here.
  • Veggies: I used a blend of julienned red bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, button mushrooms, bean sprouts, and broccoli. Give me alll the texture!
  • Minced Garlic: Gives the vegetable lo mein a savory base flavor.
  • Minced Ginger: Keeps things bright and not too salty.
  • Sesame Seeds (for garnish, optional): Add extra texture and nutty flavor. A must-add for me!

What Kind of Noodles Work Best?

Egg noodles (preferably about 1/4-inch thick) are best for a more traditional version of this veggie lo mein, but spaghetti can also be used as a convenient alternative!

Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: The base of the sauce for the vegetable lo mein. Regular or low-sodium will work, but I recommend using low-sodium so the dish doesn’t get too salty too fast.
  • Hoisin Sauce: Adds a sweet and umami depth to the sauce.
  • Sesame Oil: Don’t skip those nutty flavors!
  • Brown Sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
  • Mirin or Rice Vinegar: Adds a hint of acidity that brightens the flavor of the lo mein overall.

How to Make Veggie Lo Mein in 20 Minutes:

Grab that wok and let’s get cooking! It’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you spent all that money on Chinese takeout. (Speaking from experience.)

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Strain and set aside.
  2. Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
  3. Add in all the vegetables except the bean sprouts. Sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  5. Stir in the sauce, cooked noodles, and bean sprouts and toss to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the noodles are heated through.
  6. Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired, and serve immediately.

For the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl whisk together all the ingredients and set aside until needed.

Tips for Making Vegetable Lo Mein

  • To Make it Gluten-Free: Make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce, or replacing it with liquid aminos! You will also want to use rice noodles instead of egg noodles.
  • Add Your Favorite Veggies! Change up the vegetables to your liking. You can use just a few, or add as many as you like! There never can be too many veggies, this is vegetable lo mein after all!
  • Using Ginger Paste: Instead of using fresh ginger, you can use ginger paste! You can also freeze any leftover fresh ginger you have and use a microplane to grate it right out of the freezer when you’re ready to use it in another recipe.
  • Keep Your Noodles From Sticking: After draining your noodles, toss them with a couple of tablespoons of oil to prevent them from sticking together until you’re ready to add them to the pan.

Can You Make Vegetable Lo Mein Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare this Vegetable Lo Mein ahead of time by cooking the dish as instructed, then letting it cool completely and storing in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. If you are going to store this, you will want to make extra sauce, because the noodles may dry out when reheated.

Can You Freeze Vegetable Lo Mein?

Yes! Vegetable Lo Mein is a great recipe for making ahead and freezing for up 3 months. Defrost the Vegetable Lo Mein in the refrigerator, then reheat in a wok or skillet, adding extra sauce as needed if your Lo Mein noodles seem to be dried out. I also like to freeze individual freezer bags for single servings for my boys to reheat for a quick snack if they need something fast.

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Lo Mein

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Strain and set aside.

  • Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.

  • Add in all the vegetables except the bean sprouts. Sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.

  • Add in garlic and cook for an additional minute.

  • Stir in the sauce, cooked noodles, and bean sprouts and toss to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the noodles are heated through.

  • Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired, and serve immediately.

Originally posted March 12, 2019
Updated on March 8, 2024

Calories: 299kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 9gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 0.1mgSodium: 1046mgPotassium: 352mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 3757IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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What Are Vaginal Gummies? Debunking the Latest Health Craze

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What Are Vaginal Gummies? Debunking the Latest Health Craze


March 7, 2024 – Let’s start with this: Your vagina “is naturally self-cleaning, meaning that it does not need to be washed or rinsed in order to be ‘fresh,’”

That’s the bottom line from Karen Adams, MD, an OB-GYN and clinical professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Yet, there is a common misperception that vaginas need to smell and taste extravagant to indicate that its healthy, according to Heather Irobunda, MD, an OB-GYN with NYC Health + Hospitals. “People have this expectation that their vagina is supposed to smell like roses, or chocolates, or orange cream sickles,” Irobunda said. “The vagina is meant to smell like a vagina.” 

Despite this, vaginal health gummies are all the rage on TikTok and Instagram, touted by celebrities and influencers who tout the supplements’ ability to get your vagina in optimal shape by improving its pH balance, taste, odor, and freshness. With these products being sold at major US retailers – like Amazon, Target and Ulta Beauty – experts like Adams and Irobunda are bringing opposing views on just how safe, effective, and necessary these sweet-as-candy supplements are in getting your vagina in its “most favorable state” – a controversial earmark in itself. 

The vaginal biome, or vaginal flora, is filled with microorganisms that shape the way your vagina functions. A healthy vagina has a pH balance of around 4.0. ‌The pH scale measures the acidity of a substance. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic, 7 being neutral, and 14 being the most basic. For example, battery acid has a pH of 0, water has a pH of 7, and drain cleaner has a pH of 14.

The vagina organically produces probiotics, or “healthy bacteria,” such as lactobacillus, along with small amounts of yeast, Adams said. 

The vagina also contains “bad bacteria,” which can cause a disruption in your pH balance when it outgrows good bacteria. If this happens, an infection called bacterial vaginosis (BV) can occur and lead to a change in your vagina’s natural taste and odor.

Many vaginal health gummies, which, as health supplements are not licensed by the FDA, contain good bacteria. Lemme Purr, vaginal gummies created by Kourtney Kardashian Barker, contains Bacillus coagulans, or SNZ 1969. It is a clinically studied probiotic that is not naturally found in your body and has been found to make it through the trek from your highly acidic stomach to your vagina. “SNZ 1969 is a powerful, stand-alone strain in supporting the vaginal biome, especially in preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, including ones that lead to bacterial vaginosis,” according to Leona Fox, a certified functional medicine nutritionist and advisor for Lemme Purr.

Lemme Purr is also sold in capsules that contain SNZ 1969, along with three types of lactobacillus strains. “Four key strains present in Lemme Purr encourage the balance of vaginal bacteria and promote optimal pH levels for a healthy, vaginal environment,” Fox said. “This, in turn, helps maintain normal vaginal taste and odor.” 

But, again, some experts stress that vaginas do not need additional products to function properly. 

There is also the age-old myth that eating pineapples can boost the taste of your vagina, which is false, said Adams. But there are foods with natural probiotics that can boost the number of good bacteria for your vagina, Irobunda said. These include sauerkraut, yogurt, kimchi, and other fermented foods. 

One critical note: if you find your vagina smelling “fishy” or you notice green or gray watery discharge, this is a tell tale sign of bacterial vaginosis. Do not reach for vaginal health gummies. Instead, consult your doctor immediately, as these types of vaginal infections require specific treatment and antibiotics from a licensed medical professional.

Other tips for a naturally healthy vagina include ditching your underwear before bed (let your vagina breathe!) and solely using water to clean both your vulva and inside of your vagina, said Irobunda. If you do choose to use soap, make sure that it is unscented. Upping your water intake can also help. “Hydration is key because people do see differences in terms of the character of their vaginal discharge,” Irobunda said. 

Most importantly, always try to differentiate between insecurities about the natural state of your vagina vs. a serious vaginal infection. “I’m especially concerned that young women – teens – might buy into this idea that their vagina is ‘smelly’ or ‘tastes bad,’” said Adams. “This is absolutely harmful to young women! Our vaginas are normal and perfect just as they are.” 



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Justifying Use of Non-Carbapenems for Infected NeCrotizing PancrEatitis

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Justifying Use of Non-Carbapenems for Infected NeCrotizing PancrEatitis


Management of necrotizing pancreatitis is challenging and has been associated with an overuse and misuse of antibiotics.1 Most patients with sterile necrotizing pancreatitis can be managed without intervention (ie, necrosectomy or percutaneous drainage) and without antibiotics.2-10 Additionally, randomized controlled trials have failed to show the benefit of prophylactic antibiotics in the setting of acute and necrotizing pancreatitis.2,3

In the setting of infected necrotizing pancreatitis, however, antibiotics are universally recommended.4-12 Diagnosis of infected necrotizing pancreatitis is difficult as the inflammatory process seen in severe pancreatitis may be indistinguishable from infection. Clinical signs and symptoms of infection (ie, persistent fever, abdominal pain, elevated procalcitonin) and imaging showing gas in peripancreatic tissues are considered evidence of infected necrotizing pancreatitis (Table 1).6-8,11,13

Once a diagnosis of infected necrotizing pancreatitis is made, antibiotics should be started as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes hydration, pain control, nutritional support, and surgical intervention when necessary. Multiple guidelines recommend the use of carbapenems as treatment of infected necrotizing pancreatitis largely based on pharmacokinetic data from the 1980s and 1990s demonstrating imipenem’s ability to penetrate pancreatic tissue.14-16 However, non-carbapenem beta-lactams (ie, ceftriaxone, cefepime, piperacillin-tazobactam) may also be considered as part of the pancreatic treatment arsenal based on pharmacokinetic data published later demonstrating adequate pancreatic concentrations.17


Antibiotic Choice: What do the Guidelines Say?

Various national and international guidelines have addressed the management of infected necrotizing pancreatitis (Figure 1).4-12,14-16,18,19 Most suggest utilizing antibiotics known to penetrate pancreatic necrosis.5,8,10 The 2013 American College of Gastroenterology Guideline (ACG) on the Management of Acute Pancreatitis recommends carbapenems, quinolones, and metronidazole, a conditional recommendation based on low quality of evidence.5 Interestingly, this same guideline also mentions that antibiotics shown to penetrate pancreatic tissue in clinical trials include carbapenems, quinolones, metronidazole, and high-dose cephalosporins. The 2018 European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline also includes high-dose cephalosporins as a treatment option for infected necrotizing pancreatitis.8 The 2019 World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) guidelines recommend that carbapenems should be used only in very critically ill patients due to the spread of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.10

The Ideal Antibiotic: What Does the Data Say?

Ideal antibiotics for the management of infected necrotizing pancreatitis include those with activity against gastrointestinal commensal bacteria and penetrate necrotic pancreatic tissue.8 Pharmacokinetic characteristics favorable for penetrating necrotic pancreatic tissue include high lipophilicity and a large volume of distribution. Early human studies investigating antibiotic penetration into pancreatic tissues often included metronidazole, quinolones, and carbapenems, which all demonstrated penetration of necrotic pancreatic tissue and achieved concentrations above typical minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for most pathogens of concern.14-16 In later years, cefepime, piperacillin-tazobactam, and ceftriaxone were also investigated for their abilities to penetrate necrotic pancreatic tissues (Table 2).

In 1997, Ceftriaxone pancreatic concentrations were collected from 10 pancreatic surgery patients following a single 1g dose.20 In most patients, concentrations were greater than MICs for common pathogens. In 2001, cefepime pancreatic concentrations were measured from nine patients who received a single 2g dose of cefepime.21 Results showed high cefepime concentrations in pancreatic pseudocyst fluid, pancreatic tissue, and pancreatic fistula fluid and concluded potential use of cefepime in the treatment of pancreatic infections. Additional studies have also shown adequate cefepime pancreatic concentrations.22,23 In 2006, piperacillin-tazobactam pancreatic concentrations were measured from 15 patients with acute necrotizing pancreatitis, which showed effective penetration into necrotic pancreatic tissue and to inflammatory ascites surrounding the pancreas.18

Conclusion

In the setting of infected pancreatitis, antibiotics should be utilized as part of a multimodal treatment strategy. Carbapenem-sparing regimens include piperacillin-tazobactam, cefepime plus metronidazole, or ceftriaxone plus metronidazole. Fluoroquinolones may be considered as oral step down for treatment; however, they should be reserved for select cases due to the prevalence of resistance and potential collateral damage.

References

  1. Timmerhuis HC, van den Berg FF, Noorda PC, van Dijk SM, van Grinsven J, Weiland CJ, Umans DS, Mohamed YA, Curvers WL, Bouwense SA, Hadithi M. Over-and Misuse of Antibiotics and the Clinical Consequence in Necrotizing Pancreatitis: An Observational Multicenter Study. Annals of Surgery. 2023 Jan 3:10-97.
  2. Isenmann R, Rünzi M, Kron M, et al; German Antibiotics in Severe Acute Pancreatitis Study Group. Prophylactic antibiotic treatment in patients with predicted severe acute pancreatitis: a placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. Gastroenterology. 2004 Apr;126(4):997-1004. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2003.12.050.
  3. Dellinger EP, Tellado JM, Soto NE, et al. Early antibiotic treatment for severe acute necrotizing pancreatitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Ann Surg. 2007 May;245(5):674-83. doi: 10.1097/01.sla.0000250414.09255.84.
  4. Solomkin JS, Mazuski JE, Bradley JS, et al. Diagnosis and management of complicated intra-abdominal infection in adults and children: guidelines by the Surgical Infection Society and the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis. 2010 Jan 15;50(2):133-64. doi: 10.1086/649554.
  5. Tenner S, Baillie J, DeWitt J, Vege SS; American College of Gastroenterology. American College of Gastroenterology guideline: management of acute pancreatitis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2013 Sep;108(9):1400-15; 1416. doi: 10.1038/ajg.2013.218.
  6. Working Group IAP/APA Acute Pancreatitis Guidelines. IAP/APA evidence-based guidelines for the management of acute pancreatitis. Pancreatology. 2013 Jul-Aug;13(4 Suppl 2):e1-15. doi: 10.1016/j.pan.2013.07.063.
  7. Greenberg JA, Hsu J, Bawazeer M, et al. Clinical practice guideline: management of acute pancreatitis. Can J Surg. 2016 Apr;59(2):128-40. doi: 10.1503/cjs.015015.
  8. Arvanitakis M, Dumonceau JM, Albert J, et al. Endoscopic management of acute necrotizing pancreatitis: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) evidence-based multidisciplinary guidelines. Endoscopy. 2018 May;50(5):524-546. doi: 10.1055/a-0588-5365.
  9. Crockett SD, Wani S, Gardner TB, Falck-Ytter Y, Barkun AN; American Gastroenterological Association Institute Clinical Guidelines Committee. American Gastroenterological Association Institute Guideline on Initial Management of Acute Pancreatitis. Gastroenterology. 2018 Mar;154(4):1096-1101. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.01.032.
  10. Leppäniemi A, Tolonen M, Tarasconi A, et al. 2019 WSES guidelines for the management of severe acute pancreatitis. World J Emerg Surg. 2019 Jun 13;14:27. doi: 10.1186/s13017-019-0247-0.
  11. Pezzilli R, Zerbi A, Campra D, et al. Consensus guidelines on severe acute pancreatitis. Digestive and Liver Disease. 2015;47(7):532-43. doi.org/10.1016/j.dld.2015.03.022.
  12. Takada T, Isaji S, Mayumi T, et al. JPN clinical practice guidelines 2021 with easy-to-understand explanations for the management of acute pancreatitis. J Hepatobiliary Pancreat Sci. 2022 Oct;29(10):1057-1083. doi: 10.1002/jhbp.1146.
  13. van Baal MC, Bollen TL, Bakker OJ, et al; Dutch Pancreatitis Study Group. The role of routine fine-needle aspiration in the diagnosis of infected necrotizing pancreatitis. Surgery. 2014 Mar;155(3):442-8. doi: 10.1016/j.surg.2013.10.001.
  14. Brattström C, Malmborg AS, Tydén G. Penetration of imipenem into human pancreatic juice following single intravenous dose administration. Chemotherapy. 1989;35(2):83-7. doi: 10.1159/000238652.
  15. Büchler M, Malfertheiner P, Friess H, et al. Human pancreatic tissue concentration of bactericidal antibiotics. Gastroenterology. 1992 Dec;103(6):1902-8. doi: 10.1016/0016-5085(92)91450-i.
  16. Bassi C, Pederzoli P, Vesentini S, et al. Behavior of antibiotics during human necrotizing pancreatitis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1994 Apr;38(4):830-6. doi: 10.1128/AAC.38.4.830.
  17. Maguire C, Agrawal D, Daley MJ, Douglass E, Rose DT. Rethinking Carbapenems: A Pharmacokinetic Approach for Antimicrobial Selection in Infected Necrotizing Pancreatitis. Ann Pharmacother. 2021 Jul;55(7):902-913. doi: 10.1177/1060028020970124.
  18. Otto W, Komorzycki K, Krawczyk M. Efficacy of antibiotic penetration into pancreatic necrosis. HPB (Oxford). 2006;8(1):43-8. doi: 10.1080/13651820500467275.
  19. Boxhoorn L, van Dijk SM, van Grinsven J, et al; Dutch Pancreatitis Study Group. Immediate versus Postponed Intervention for Infected Necrotizing Pancreatitis. N Engl J Med. 2021 Oct 7;385(15):1372-1381. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2100826.
  20. Martin C, Cottin A, François-Godfroy N, et al. Concentrations of prophylactic ceftriaxone in abdominal tissues during pancreatic surgery. J Antimicrob Chemother. 1997 Sep;40(3):445-8. doi: 10.1093/jac/40.3.445.
  21. Delcenserie R, Dellion-Lozinguez MP, Yzet T, et al. Pancreatic concentrations of cefepime. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2001 May;47(5):711-3. doi: 10.1093/jac/47.5.711.
  22. Sağlamkaya U, Mas MR, Yaşar M, Simşek I, Mas NN, Kocabalkan F. Penetration of meropenem and cefepime into pancreatic tissue during the course of experimental acute pancreatitis. Pancreas. 2002 Apr;24(3):264-8. doi: 10.1097/00006676-200204000-00009.
  23. Papagoras D, Giamarellos-Bourboulis EJ, Kanara M, et al. Pancreatic concentrations of cefepime in experimental necrotizing pancreatitis. J Chemother. 2003 Feb;15(1):43-6. doi: 10.1179/joc.2003.15.1.43.
  24. Roberts EA, Williams RJ. Ampicillin concentrations in pancreatic fluid bile obtained at endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. 1979 Sep 1;14(6):669-72.



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The BEST Egg Salad Recipe

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The BEST Egg Salad Recipe


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This amazing egg salad recipe is made with simple ingredients and is so creamy and delicious! So easy to put together and perfect for sandwiches. It will be your new potluck go-to.

I am loving all things light and tasty with simple ingredients. I have a few salad sandwich recipes that are great for group gatherings- try Avocado Chicken Salad, Cashew Chicken Salad or Chicken Caesar salad Wraps. They’re all so tasty!

Egg salad in a gray bowl.

How to Make the Best Egg Salad Sandwich

When I think of egg salad sandwiches I always think about bridal showers, baby showers, springtime and Easter. All the great events that are warm, bright, and bring everyone together! I love the simplicity of this classic egg salad, made with only a few ingredients. Boiled eggs, mayonnaise, a touch of a mustard and herbs like dill and chives to add that extra touch of perfection. The flavor is so good, you might just want to eat it on its own! (Guilty!)

This really is the best egg salad recipe that I’ve tried, and it’s so easy to make. A win-win! Its herby, savory flavor and creamy texture will have everyone raving. Who knew a classic potluck dish could be so good? This egg salad recipe is anything but boring!

Ingredient List

Just a few ingredients for this egg salad recipe! Nothing fancy, just a few pantry staples that will give the salad the best flavor and texture. See the recipe card below for all measurements.

  • Eggs: The base of your egg salad. This recipe calls for 8 large eggs, which will be boiled, peeled, and chopped. If you need a tutorial on how to hard boil your eggs easily, try this one! It uses the air fryer to make prep a breeze.
  • Mayonnaise: Makes everything smooth and also adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can also use plain Greek yogurt, sour cream, or hummus.
  • Dill: Fresh dill adds a bright, herby flavor. Since this egg salad recipe doesn’t use a ton of ingredients, you’ll want to make sure you don’t skip the herbs. Without them, your salad may turn out a little bland.
  • Chives: Another fresh herb that adds a subtle oniony flavor.
  • Dijon Mustard: For tangy, delicious flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper: Make everything taste better! Add to taste.

Need a Refresher on Hard-Boiling Your Eggs?

Place eggs in a large saucepan. Cover them with cool water by 1 inch. Then cover with a lid and bring water to a boil over high heat; when the water has reached a boil, set the timer for 6-7 minutes. And voila! Perfect hard-boiled eggs. You can also use this recipe for easy, air fryer hard-boiled eggs!

The Best Egg Salad Recipe

Only a few simple steps to put together this classic egg salad. So easy, so delicious, and perfect for taking on the go!

  1. Cook Eggs: Add the eggs to a saucepan and fill with cold water. Bring water to a boil and immediately remove from heat. Cover and let the eggs stand for 10-12 minutes. Take the eggs out of the water and then let cool.
  2. Chop: Peel and chop the eggs and add them to a medium-sized bowl.
  3. Combine With Other Ingredients: Add mayonnaise, dill, chives, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Mix well. Then spread on bread or use with your favorite crackers.
2-photo collage of the eggs in one bowl, and the salad ingredients in the other.

More Mix-Ins

This egg salad recipe is the perfect canvas for all of your favorite mix-ins. Here are a few ideas:

  • Tangy Flavor: Add pickle juice, diced pickles or relish.
  • Crunch: Chopped celery, diced tomatoes, olives, or carrots for texture.
  • Protein: Add some protein such as diced cooked shrimp, chopped bacon, or small, square chunks of chicken or ham!
  • Healthy Fats: Chunks of avocado!

Closeup of a serving of egg salad.

How Long Does Egg Salad Last?

Properly stored, egg salad will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Because bacteria grows rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, egg salad should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

2 slices of an egg salad sandwich.

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  • Add the eggs to a saucepan and fill with cold water.  Bring water to a boil and immediately remove from heat.  Cover and let the eggs stand for 10-12 minutes.  Take the eggs out of the water and let cool.  

  • Peel and chop the eggs then add them to a medium-sized bowl.  

  • Add mayonnaise, dill, chives, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.  Mix until combined. 

  • Spread on bread or use with your favorite crackers!

Originally posted on February 26, 2019
Updated on March 7, 2024

Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 13gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 378mgSodium: 606mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 847IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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How To Make Relaxing Shower Steamers

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How To Make Relaxing Shower Steamers


Sometimes after a tiring day, I like taking a nice long shower. Shower steamers are a great way to make it even more relaxing! They’re similar to bath bombs, but you use them in the shower instead. Here’s how to make shower steamers with different scents for an at home spa experience.

These have a more concentrated scent than most of my skincare recipes since they’re not meant to go directly on the skin. It’s a great way to get the benefits of aromatherapy while you take time for self-care. Shower steamers also make nice gifts for Christmas or birthdays.

What Are Shower Steamers?

Also known as shower bombs or shower melts, they’re kind of like bath bombs. I’ll put one on the side of the tub where the shower water can reach it and release the scent.

Homemade shower steamers are activated once wet and fizz and smell good in the shower. Unlike bath bombs which also offer skin benefits, these are more for the aromatherapy benefits.

Shower Steamer Ingredients

Shower steamers are made with a variety of ingredients that typically include baking soda, Epsom salts, citric acid, essential oils, and witch hazel. You’ll also find clay, botanicals, food coloring, fragrance oils, and mica powder or colorant (depending on the recipe).

My recipe uses baking soda and citric acid as a base. The Epsom salts help harden them and castor oil acts as an emulsifier so they’re less likely to crumble. Kaolin clay also makes them harder and can add a nice color. You could also add some mica powder or natural food coloring if desired.

How to Use Shower Steamers

If you use a mini muffin-size mold the shower steamer should last for a regular-length shower. For smaller molds, you may need two.

You’ll want to place it in your shower where the water can reach them, but not wash them down the drain immediately. If they’re on the shower floor they’ll only last a few minutes (if that). The best place is the bathtub ledge or a shower shelf. If the only option you have is the shower floor, make sure it’s as far away from the shower head as possible.

Different Scent Ideas

To make life easier you can just use a premade blend from one of my favorite essential oil companies. I came up with a few recipes though that have a variety of benefits and smell amazing!

Breathe Better Blend

This invigorating blend helps open up the sinuses. It’s not safe for little ones but older kids and adults feel free to enjoy! For a kid-safe version, this Sniffle Stopper blend is a good alternative.

Springtime Blend

Uplifting and helps with seasonal allergies. Lemon brightens the mood and helps thin congestion. Lavender is calming and also works as an antihistamine. Even if you don’t have allergies, it’s definitely worth trying!

Earthy Blend

This blend also uplifts the mood and also helps ground the emotions. Some studies show just smelling grapefruit may help promote a healthy weight! Bergamot is used to relieve anxious feelings and stress. Cedarwood helps with nervous tension, stress, coughs, and mucus.

Shower Steamer Recipe

Add one of these to your next shower for a relaxing, aromatherapy experience. They also make great gifts.

Prep Time5 minutes

Active Time5 minutes

Drying Time1 day

Total Time1 day 10 minutes

Yield: 7 shower steamers

Author: Katie Wells

  • In a glass mixing bowl combine all of the dry ingredients together with your hand. I wore a glove for this. You can either crush any lumps with your hands or sift the baking soda before adding it to the mixing bowl.

  • Add the drops of essential oil and castor oil and mix well with your hand until the mixture resembles wet sand.

  • If the mixture is too dry, then use a fine mist spray bottle filled with vodka or witch hazel to moisten the mixture. Only do 2 sprays at a time to avoid getting it too wet.

  • Once you can squeeze the shower steamer mixture into a clump that holds its shape it’s done.

  • Immediately press the mixture into your molds, pressing firmly.

  • Let air dry for 24 hours before unmolding and using.

Store these in an airtight container, like a glass Mason jar, away from heat and moisture. 
This recipe makes 7 shower steamers if using a mini muffin pan. If you use a silicone mold the exact yield will depend on the size of your molds. 

How to Make Shower Steamers FAQ

While the recipe uses simple ingredients, it can be a little difficult to make DIY shower steamers if you’re a beginner. I’ve found a few tricks to make the recipe work better in case you need to troubleshoot!

Add Just Enough Liquid

The citric acid is what gives the recipe a fizzy, foaming action. If it gets too wet while mixing though, it will activate prematurely and your shower steamers won’t hold together.

You can use either 80-proof vodka or witch hazel to add just enough moisture to hold the steamers together. It wets the dry ingredients enough that they’ll stick together, but the alcohol is also a little drying to prevent it from getting too wet.

Get Out the Clumps

Make sure the powder is thoroughly mixed before adding the wet ingredients. You can even sift the dry ingredients together first to make this easier (minus the Epsom salts).

Can I Just Use Water?

Witch hazel has some alcohol in it which is what makes it work here. Vodka is another good option. Don’t worry, the smell from the alcohol goes away as they dry. I don’t even notice it as I’m pressing them into the molds.

My Shower Steamers Fell Apart

Don’t take them out of the molds too early or the shower steamers will crumble. They need 12-24 hours to fully dry at room temperature. Using too much liquid will also cause them to fall apart.

If your environment is really humid, like in the summer or certain climates, you’ll need less vodka or witch hazel. The dry ingredients will pull moisture from the air. So adjust the liquid used as needed.

What are your favorite scents to use for DIY bath and shower products? Ever made shower steamers before? Leave a comment and let us know!



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Enhancing Hepatitis B Vaccine Efficacy in People with HIV

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Enhancing Hepatitis B Vaccine Efficacy in People with HIV


There is limited data on individuals who do not respond to standard Hepatitis B vaccines. These traditional vaccines, which target the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) using the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), can achieve a protective immune response, defined as antibody levels of 10 mIU/mL or higher seroprotection response (SPR), in 35-80% of people with HIV (PWH) after 3 doses. The HepB-CpG vaccine has an ingredient called a TLR-9 agonist adjuvant. This ingredient helps the vaccine work better in PWH. Notably, for PWH who had not responded to previous vaccination attempts, both 2-dose and 3-dose regimens of the HepB-CpG vaccine demonstrated improved SPR rates when compared to the traditional 3-dose HepB-alum regimen.

By week 12 of the ACTG A5379 study, over 90% of those who received HepB-CpG achieved SPR, especially in comparison to traditional vaccine responses. 3 doses of HepB-CpG resulted in a higher proportion achieving titers above 1000 mIU/ml compared to 2 doses, and 3 doses of HepB-alum. Adverse events related to the vaccines were reported by 33%, 45%, and 36% of participants in the 2-CpG, 3-CpG, and 3-alum groups, respectively, primarily of Grade 1 and 2 severities. The most common adverse events were pain at the vaccination site, fatigue, headache, malaise, and myalgia.

Participants were divided into 3 equal groups. The first group got 2 shots of the HepB-CpG vaccine at the start and in the fourth week. Each shot contained 20 mcg of a protein from the HBV and 3000 mcg of an ingredient to boost the vaccine’s effect. The second group received 3 shots of the HepB-CpG vaccine at the start, in the fourth week, and after 24 weeks. The third group got 3 shots of a different vaccine called HepB-alum at the same time. The primary SPR was determined at week 12 for the 2-CpG group and at week 28 for the 3-CpG and 3-alum groups. The study was designed to evaluate the non-inferiority of the 2-CpG regimen compared to the 3-alum regimen with a margin of 10% and to determine whether the 3-CpG regimen was superior to the 3-alum regimen.

The study analyzed 505 participants (99% of the 508 in the primary analysis cohort). SPR was reached by 93% of participants receiving 2-CpG (n=174), 99% of those receiving 3-CpG (n=169), and 80% of the 3-alum group (n=162). The SPR difference between the 2-CpG and 3-alum groups was 13% (97.5% CI: 5%, 22%), demonstrating non-inferiority and indicating superiority. The SPR for 3-CpG was superior to 3-alum with a 19% difference (97.5% CI: 11%, 27%).

Eligible participants included people who were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) with CD4 counts of 100 cells/mm^3 or higher and HIV-1 RNA levels below 1000 copies/mL, without past or present signs of HBV infection or a response to the HBV vaccine.

Out of 561 qualified participants recruited across 41 locations in 10 countries: 64% were male, 42% were Black, 35% White, 17% Asian, and 22% Hispanic. The median age was 46 years (with a range of 18-70), 56% were enrolled in the US, 21% in Africa, 17% in Asia, and 6% in South America. The median CD4 count was 638 cells/mm^3, 94% had HIV-1 RNA levels below 40 copies/mL, 29% had a BMI over 30, and 13% had diabetes. A total of 96% completed all required doses.

As the ACTG A5379 study is currently ongoing, investigators at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI), present the open-label trial assessing the immunogenicity of the vaccine in PWH who have not responded to previous vaccinations. The findings from this study suggest that the HepB-CpG vaccine, both in 2-dose and 3-dose regimens, offers a highly effective alternative. Considerations around vaccine safety, cost-effectiveness, and implementation strategies will be essential in translating these findings into clinical practice. These results could lead to more inclusive and effective vaccination strategies, reducing HBV in vulnerable populations.

Reference

Marks K, Kang M, Umbleja T, et. al. HepB-CpG Vaccine Is Superior to HepB-alum in People With HIV and Prior Vaccine Nonresponse: A5379. Poster #209 presented at CROI 2024. March 3-6, 2023. Denver, CO.



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Donut Cake Recipe | The Recipe Critic

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Donut Cake Recipe | The Recipe Critic


This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

Donut cake has all the flavors you love in a donut, but in a moist and delicious bundt cake form that’s sure to wow friends and family. It has a supremely tender vanilla bean cake base topped with homemade icing. Everyone will want a slice!

Love bundt cake? So do we! Try these other recipes next: rum cake, praline apple bundt cake, or marble bundt cake next.

Donut Cake Recipe

This Donut Cake is the stuff dessert dreams are made of. It captures all the delightful flavors of a glazed donut and transforms them into an impressive bundt cake. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up!

The secret to that irresistible donut flavor lies in the combination of buttermilk and sour cream. These ingredients help keep the crumb moist and tender, so you get a delightful cake that practically melts in your mouth. And let’s not forget the glaze! It’s simple to make with just powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, but adds the perfect finishing touch! Donut cake is a simple dessert, but it shines with its buttery, tender texture and all the sweet, vanilla bean flavor in each bite. I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

Ingredients in Donut Cake

Donut cake has a simple ingredient list, so it’s important that you use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Because of this, I recommend you use vanilla bean paste if you can find it! If not, substitute with pure vanilla extract.

For the Cake:

  • Unsalted Butter (Softened): Provides richness and flavor to the cake, and softening it helps it blend together well with the sugar.
  • Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture to the donut cake and also keeps it nice and tender.
  • Granulated Sugar: For that perfect donut flavor!
  • Large Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s rise.
  • Vanilla Bean Paste: Adds a more intense vanilla flavor compared to extract. (Regular vanilla extract can also be used in its place if you can’t find vanilla bean paste.)
  • All-Purpose Flour: Gives the donut cake structure.
  • Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Leavening agents that help the cake rise.
  • Salt: Just a pinch to enhance flavors!
  • Buttermilk & Sour Cream: Add tanginess, moisture, and contribute to a tender crumb. Don’t skip them!

For the Glaze:

  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and creates the smooth texture of the glaze.
  • Whole Milk: Thins the glaze to your desired consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract or Paste: Adds an extra touch of vanilla flavor.

Let’s Get Baking!

Donut cake is so easy to make, no special cooking methods required! Just mix up that batter, pop it in the oven, and then top it off with your 3-ingredient glaze!

  1. Preheat Oven, Prepare Bundt Pan: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit. Spray a 10-cup bundt pan well with pan spray, preferably with a pan spray that contains flour such as Baker’s Joy. If any spray pools in the bottom of the pan, blot it out with a paper towel.
  2. Butter Mixture: Add the butter, oil, and sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer and beat on medium-high for 2-3 minutes, until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
  3. Mix in Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla bean paste and mix until incorporated.
  4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together the buttermilk and sour cream in a separate bowl.
  5. Combine: Add the dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture to the wet ingredients alternating the two. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed, until completely combined.

Baking and Adding Frosting

  1. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
  2. Cool and Flip: Let the cake cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before inverting on a cooling rack. Flip it once more so what is normally the bottom of a bundt cake is facing up and becomes the top of the cake. Let it cool this way, so it doesn’t flatten out on the cooling rack.
  3. Prepare Glaze: When the cake is cooled, prepare the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla together until smooth. Pour over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. You may thin the glaze down by adding an additional tablespoon or two of milk if you prefer a thinner glaze.

Tips and Variations

  • For Nutty Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract for a little bit of a sugar cookie flavor in your cake.
  • Sour Cream Substitute: The sour cream can be replaced with plain Greek yogurt if desired.
  • Chocolate Icing: Make a chocolate icing by pouring 1/3 cup steaming heavy cream over 1 cup of chocolate chips. Let the chocolate sit for at least 2 minutes before whisking it together until smooth and pouring over the cooled cake.
  • Make Your Own Pan Spray: If you do not have a pan spray with flour in it, spray the bundt pan with regular pan spray and dust it with flour, tapping out the excess.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I Freeze Donut Cake?

Yes! To freeze the cake, it’s best sliced first. Lay the individual slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it in the freezer until the slices are completely frozen. Place the slices in a large freezer ziplock and keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remove the slices as desired and let them thaw for an hour or so at room temperature.

The cake without icing cake be frozen as a whole. Place the cake on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place the pan in the freezer for 2 hours. Wrap the frozen cake tightly in 2-3 layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Let the cake thaw for 3-4 hours at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator before icing a serving.

More Mouthwatering Cake Recipes

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  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit. Spray a 10-cup bundt pan well with pan spray, preferably with a pan spray that contains flour such as Baker’s Joy. If any spray pools in the bottom of the pan, blot it out with a paper towel.

  • Add the butter, oil, and sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer and beat on medium-high for 2-3 minutes, until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.

  • Add the eggs and vanilla bean paste and mix until incorporated.

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together the buttermilk and sour cream in a separate bowl.

  • Add the dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture to the wet ingredients alternating the two. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed, until completely combined.

  • Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before inverting on a cooling rack. Flip it once more so what is normally the bottom of a bundt cake is facing up and becomes the top of the cake. Let it cool this way, so it doesn’t flatten out on the cooling rack.

  • When the cake is cooled, prepare the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla together until smooth. Pour over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. You may thin the glaze down by adding an additional tablespoon or two of milk if you prefer a thinner glaze.

Calories: 564kcalCarbohydrates: 88gProtein: 6gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 82mgSodium: 439mgPotassium: 116mgFiber: 1gSugar: 60gVitamin A: 403IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 53mgIron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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Can You Really Lose Weight With Two Workouts a Week?

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Can You Really Lose Weight With Two Workouts a Week?


March 6, 2024 – It turns out there may be something to the “weekend warrior” mentality after all. 

A recent study suggested that concentrating all your exercise into just 1 or 2 days could work as well for fat loss as spreading it throughout the week. 

The research builds on growing evidence that the weekend warrior exercise pattern can aid your health. A 2023 study of nearly 90,000 people found that weekend warriors were less likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure than inactive people. Another study of nearly 351,000 adults found no difference in risk of early death between weekend warriors and those who exercised three or more times a week. 

The new study was the first to examine the weekend warrior pattern and body fat, which was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA scan). 

“In [our] fast-paced society, we are interested in exploring alternatives to stay fit for individuals who cannot meet the recommended frequency,” said study author Lihua Zhang, MD, PhD, a health care scientist at Fuwai Hospital’s National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases in Beijing.

Using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), Zhang and colleagues analyzed data from 9,600 people. About 4,000 reported exercising for at least 150 minutes a week – the minimum amount of exercise recommended for adults. Most spread it out over 3 or more days, but 772 people, the weekend warriors, crammed it all into just 1 or 2 days.

Both groups – the weekend warriors and the more frequent movers – had less belly fat, a smaller waist, a lower body mass index, and less body fat than people who did not exercise regularly. And both groups were roughly the same on those measures, despite differences in exercise frequency. 

The results held regardless of diet. “No matter if someone had a healthy diet or not, the weekend warrior still was associated with lower adiposity,” or body fat, said Zhang.

Exercise and Weight Loss

That may be surprising, given that most research indicates that exercise alone plays a relatively small role in weight loss. (Though evidence does suggest that exercise may be important for maintaining body weight.) In studies that show weight loss resulting from exercise, the activity amount is usually substantial and the intensity high. 

In general, public health guidelines advise at least 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise a week for weight loss. Even then, results may not be dramatic: A 2022 analysis of 25 trials concluded that at least 3 months of regular aerobic exercise resulted in “modest” waist size reductions of a little more than 1 inch in adults who were overweight or obese. 

The weekend warriors in the recent study did indeed work out harder and longer than those exercising throughout the week. In fact, they worked out for 147.6 minutes, on average, per session – well over 2 hours at a time. 

That part is key. In this and other studies, weekend warriors are, by definition, meeting or exceeding recommended exercise levels. They just happen to do it over fewer days.

“We don’t know that it’s the weekend pattern per se that is responsible for the findings rather than simply comparing 150 minutes accumulated in two versus three or more bouts of exercise with the same weekly total,” said Peter Hall, PhD, a professor of public health at the University of Waterloo, Ontario. 

Another caveat is the study design. “This is a cross-sectional study, and the researchers looked at associations between type of exercise patterns and obesity outcomes,” said Alexandra van den Berg, PhD, a professor of health promotion and behavioral sciences at the University of Texas. “This study design does not allow for the testing of causal relationships.”

That is, exercise was linked to lower body weight – but we can’t say for sure that exercise caused a lower body weight. What’s more, the NHANES data surveyed people only once and did not track them over time. The study authors acknowledge this limitation in their paper, stating they “cannot account for changes over time or the causal relationship between physical activity patterns and body fat reduction.”

Consider, too, that the weekend warriors tended to be younger than the other groups. Their average age was 35.9, while those who exercised throughout the week had an average age of 37.5, and those in the inactive group averaged 40.5 years old. 

The weekend warriors “may have been healthier than the traditional exercise group and the control group to start,” said Kimberley Dawson, PhD, a professor of sport and exercise psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. “Therefore, they didn’t need as much activity to make a difference.”

Still, the study authors suggest there could be more to it than that, saying that long weekend workouts may affect the body differently than more traditional exercise patterns. Previous studies have shown that short-term exercise may increase blood levels of stress hormones called catecholamines and boost blood flow through fat tissue, which could help the body burn more fat. 

But not everyone agrees. “It’s not the movement that will improve our health but rather the sedentariness that will decrease it,” Dawson said. “Sitting for five days and moving for two does not adequately decrease the lack of movement to gain physiological effects of movement.” 

At the same time, exercising less often might increase the risk of injury, Zhang warned. A 2014 study found that out of 351 adults who had a severe injury, 55% got hurt on the weekend, while 45% were injured between Monday and Friday. The authors suggested lack of experience and low fitness could be to blame, or it could be that more people take part in riskier sports on days they don’t have work. 

What This Means for You

If you want to make exercise work for weight loss, aim for 60 to 90 minutes of moderate physical activity most days – the amount recommended for weight loss. 

Keep in mind that doesn’t need to be done all at one time; you could do 20- to 30-minute bouts three times a day, for instance. 

Consider monitoring your diet as well. The weight loss plans that work the best combine better nutrition with an increase in physical activity, research shows.

If you only have weekends available to work out, expect to exercise long and hard during those sessions if you want to lose weight. (They’re called “warriors” for a reason!) 

“I would rather see individuals move as much as they can during the week and enjoy longer durations of exercise on weekends when their schedules permit it,” Dawson said. “From a behavior modification perspective, this approach will lead to sustained activity change.”

And regardless of when you choose to exercise, it may be wise to measure your expectations about weight. People tend to become discouraged when their true weight loss falls short of their hopes. Instead, focus on improving your quality of life and the health benefits – you’ll get those and a more capable body even if the scale doesn’t budge.



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