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Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket

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Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket


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

Upgrade the flavors of a classic appetizer with these jalapeño popper pigs in a blanket. Smokey cocktail sausages and jalapeño cream cheese wrapped in a blanket of buttery crescent dough. The jalapeño popper flavors add a creamy and spicy layer that tastes like it was meant to be there all along!

I love bringing delicious appetizers to game days or parties that I know everyone will go crazy over. Similar to this homemade cheese dip, my popular little smokies, or these crispy egg rolls.

Close view of jalapeno popper pigs in a blanket stacked on a black plate with a bite out of one.

Pigs in a Blanket

Jalapeño pigs in a blanket is the best of both worlds. Smokey sausage and creamy jalapeño bacon flavors are all bundled up inside a buttery crescent roll. The creamy cheese melts and every bite is incredible! Everyone loves to snack on pigs in a blanket at a party game day! It’s just one of those appetizers that kids AND adults can’t get enough of.

Jalapeño popper anything is always a hit! Starting with classic jalapeno poppers, you can never go wrong serving these as an appetizer. And if you want more jalapeño popper-inspired recipes, try this soup or this dip!

Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Ingredients

Pigs in a blanket with a jalapeño popper spin? Yes, please! This classic appetizer is now even better, and your guests will devour them! Plus, you’ll love the added cream cheese layer loaded with jalapeños and bacon!

  • Cream Cheese: Use room temperature cream cheese.
  • Fresh Jalapeños: Deseeded and minced for the perfect amount of heat. Add the seeds if you like it spicy!
  • Bacon: Crispy chopped bacon is extra yummy in this appetizer.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste!
  • Garlic Powder: Adds garlic flavor and is SO delicious!
  • Cocktail Sausages: Use cocktail sausages or 8 hot dogs cut into 3rds.
  • Crescent Rolls: Canned crescent roll sheets are so convenient but canned crescent rolls if you can’t find the rolls.
  • Egg: The egg wash gives them a pretty sheen, but you can use melted butter if you prefer.

Jalapeño Popper Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

These jalapeño popper pigs in a blanket are just as easy to make as my original pigs in a blanket recipe. Only a few simple steps and then you’ll have a tasty appetizer your family and friends will love!

  1. Preheat Oven, Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Mix Cream Cheese Filling: Add the cream cheese, minced jalapeño, bacon, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to a large bowl. Beat together using an electric hand mixer.
  3. Cut Crescent Dough: Open the tube of crescent roll dough and spread it out flat on a clean surface. If using crescent rolls instead of crescent sheets, pinch the diagonal seams together. Cut the dough into 12 even strips, and then again in half so you have 24 strips total.
  4. Spread on Cream Cheese Mixture: Spread the cream cheese mixture over each strip with a knife or a small spatula. I eyeballed this, but it was about a teaspoon on each strip. If you have extra spread, feel free to add more or save any leftovers to use elsewhere–It’s delicious on a toasted bagel!
  5. Add Sausage and Roll Up: Roll each strip of dough around one cocktail sausage. I had enough dough to wrap fully around them twice, but it will depend on the size of the hot dogs you have. Don’t worry if it’s not all the way around twice. Place them with the open seam down on the prepared baking tray.
  6. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water then brush on the dough with a pastry brush.
  7. Bake: Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
First photo of the cream cheese, bacon, jalapenos, and seasoings in a bowl. Second photo of the crescent dough cut. Third photo of the dough wrapping round the smokies. Fourth photo of the pigs in a blanket lined on a sheet pan before baking.

Variations

Jalapeño popper pigs in a blanket are easy to make, and also customizable! I have a few simple variations below to switch things up.

  • Dough: If you like more dough around your cocktail sausages, skip the step where you cut the strips of dough in half and make 12 pigs in a blanket. You can also use puff pastry instead of crescent dough!
  • Butter Glaze: Instead of egg wash, you can brush your pigs right out of the oven with some melted butter mixed with garlic powder and salt for a garlic butter finish!
  • Spice it Up: I chose to deseed my jalapeño before mincing it, but you may keep the seeds for a spicier filling! You may also substitute drained diced green chilis or canned or pickled jalapeños to change things up.

Top view of jalapeno popper pigs in a blanket on a wood board lined with a cooling rack.

Storing Leftovers

I highly doubt you will have leftovers of these jalapeño popper pigs in a blanket because they are always such a hit! But if you do, here are my tips for storing and reheating any leftovers!

  • In the Refrigerator: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 25-30 seconds or bake in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes, until heated through. Alternatively, you may heat them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Make in Advance: Prepare your pigs in advance! Once wrapped in the dough, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking them.

Close view of pigs in a blanket close together on a cooling rack.

More Tasty Appetizers For a Crowd

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  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

  • Add the cream cheese, minced jalapeños, bacon, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to a large bowl. Beat together using an electirc hand mixer.

  • Open the tube of crescent roll dough and spread it out flat on a clean surface. If using crescent rolls instead of crescent sheets, pinch the diagonal seams together. Cut the dough into 12 even strips, and then again in half so you have 24 strips total.

  • Spread the cream cheese mixture over each strip with a knife or a small spatula. I eyeballed this, but it was about a teaspoon on each strip. If you have extra spread, feel free to add more or save any leftovers to use elsewhere–It’s delicious on a toasted bagel!

  • Roll each strip of dough around one cocktail sausage. I had enough dough to wrap fully around them twice, but it will depend on the size of the hot dogs you have. Don’t worry if it’s not all the way around twice! Place them with the open seam down on the prepared baking tray.

  • In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water then brush on the dough with a pastry brush.

  • Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Calories: 63kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.001gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 166mgPotassium: 32mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 119IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.2mg

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





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Apply for 2024 Marketplace insurance today!

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Apply for 2024 Marketplace insurance today!


Open Enrollment for 2024 health insurance is officially here! From now until January 15, 2024, you can apply for new health coverage or make changes to your existing plan for next year. 

Mark your calendar. If you enroll by December 15, your coverage will start on January 1.

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Apply & enroll at HealthCare.gov

While there are many ways to apply and enroll, filling out an application online is usually faster and easier. Here’s how:

Questions? 

  • You can get help filling out your application 3 ways: by phone, with an in-person assister, or with an agent/broker.
  • We’re here to make sure you have the support you need to apply and make informed decisions about your health coverage. 

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30 Minute Fennel Soup

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30 Minute Fennel Soup


Every winter when cooler weather hits I’m ready for a cozy blanket and a bowl of hot soup. Soup for dinner can get old after a while though if you don’t have some variety. This caramelized fennel soup is fast, easy, and full of flavor! It’s also naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with veggies.

Fennel Soup Recipe

My fennel soup is a little bit different than some of the recipes you’ll find out there (in a good way!). Instead of using white beans, like cannellini beans, or potatoes to thicken the soup I keep it simple and stick to fresh fennel. The flavor is much stronger this way and it’s still just as filling.

If you’re not familiar with fennel, it looks like celery but has a subtle anise or licorice flavor to it. Fennel seeds have a stronger anise taste, while the bulb and fennel fronds are lighter tasting. Instead of steaming or boiling it in chicken stock or vegetable stock, we’re caramelizing it in olive oil. This really helps bring out more depth of flavor!

Once the fennel has cooked down and sauteed I add chicken broth and seasonings. You could also use vegetable broth if preferred, but I think the chicken adds really good flavor (and nutrition). I’ll often make my own chicken stock, but when I don’t have time I use Kettle and Fire brand.

Soup Equipment

You’ll notice that unlike most soup recipes I’m using a skillet instead of a large pot. A Dutch oven will also work here. The idea is to have something with a heavy bottom that holds heat well. Since the fennel needs to caramelize and cook down for a while, it can burn in a thinner bottomed soup pot.

There are two ways to make this soup depending on how you want the final texture. For a thick and creamy soup use a high-speed blender or an immersion blender. A food processor doesn’t work the best here because it won’t turn it into a smooth puree. You can also leave it as a broth with pieces of fennel in it. Either way it’s delicious!

Fennel Soup Garnishes

While this soup is great as is, the toppings can really take it to the next level. Here are a few different ideas to top your soup.

  • Fresh chives
  • Fresh or dried dill
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Drizzle of olive oil
  • A dollop of yogurt
  • Drizzle of heavy cream
  • Crispy bacon pieces
fennel soup

30-Minute Fennel Soup

Caramelized fennel in savory chicken broth, topped with fresh parsley. Quick, flavorful, and comforting.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced fennel and saute until caramelized and brown (around 12 minutes).

  • Add broth, salt, and pepper and simmer for another 10-13 minutes until flavors meld.

  • Choose between a broth or a creamy soup by blending. Puree the soup in batches with a high-speed or immersion blender for a smooth texture.

  • Ladle into bowls, top with parsley, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

30-Minute Fennel Soup

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 252
Calories from Fat 144

% Daily Value*

Fat 16g25%

Saturated Fat 3g19%

Polyunsaturated Fat 2g

Monounsaturated Fat 11g

Sodium 1392mg61%

Potassium 1451mg41%

Carbohydrates 25g8%

Fiber 9g38%

Sugar 12g13%

Protein 9g18%

Vitamin A 709IU14%

Vitamin C 40mg48%

Calcium 160mg16%

Iron 3mg17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and use within several days. Reheat as needed over medium heat on the stove.

More Soup Recipes

Looking for more filling recipes on a cool day? Try one of these hearty soup recipes!

Have you cooked with fennel before? What are some of your favorite ways to use it? Leave a comment and let us know!



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Sustained Virologic Response Shown to Improve Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic HCV

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Sustained Virologic Response Shown to Improve Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic HCV


Huiying Rao, MD

photo credit: Peking University People’s Hospital

This article originally appeared on our sister site, HCPLive.

Findings from a recent study are providing clinicians with an overview of longitudinal changes in the health-related quality of life in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV).

Results highlighted the significant influence of sociodemographic factors, including gender, age, income, and HCV genotype, on patients’ long-term well-being, also calling attention to the benefit of achieving sustained virological response (SVR).1 “Although there are some relevant studies, there is currently a lack of prospective longitudinal studies in the real world on HRQoL of hepatitis C patients who have achieved SVR,” wrote investigators.1 “It is not yet clear which factors will continue to impact the quality of life of HCV patients after virus elimination.”

Although an estimated 58 million people have chronic HCV infection, the advent of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy has offered a cure with the potential to cure 95% of these cases. Even with an available cure, the disease burden associated with HCV remains significant and the factors continuing to impact patients’ quality of life after achieving SVR are not comprehensively understood.2

To assess the longitudinal impact of achieving SVR after antiviral therapy on patients’ well-being and health-related quality of life, Huiying Rao, MD, chief physician and associate professor of hepatology at Peking University People’s Hospital in China, and colleagues conducted a prospective, multicenter, observational study in adult patients recently diagnosed with chronic HCV infection at 28 university hospitals across China. Following the initial cross-sectional phase of the study, patients were invited to participate in a 5-year follow-up.1

What You Need to Know

The study underscores the substantial influence of sociodemographic factors, including gender, age, income, and HCV genotype, on the long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with hepatitis C.

The research highlights the positive impact of achieving sustained virological response (SVR) on patients’ well-being and HRQoL.

The study provides insights into the longitudinal changes in HRQoL after antiviral therapy, showing improvements in the SVR group, although the differences diminished by the fifth year. Furthermore, the research identifies age, income, and SVR24 as significant predictors of EQ-5D utility, while gender, age, HCV genotypes, and SVR24 are associated with EQ visual analog scale (EQ-VAS) over time.

A total of 512 patients were enrolled in the study, 18 of whom dropped out during follow-up and 15 who were additionally excluded due to protocol violations. Investigators noted another 23 patients were excluded because they were unable to provide health-related quality of life data, leaving 456 patients in the final analysis. Among the cohort, the median age was 46.5 (Interquartile range [IQR], 36.5–57.0) years and 57.5% of participants were male.1

Investigators collected information about patients’ sociodemographic and clinical characteristics as well as their responses to EQ-5D questionnaires about their mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression health status. Responses yielded scores converted into a single EQ-5D utility for health status, with 1 representing full health and 0 representing death.1

Among the cohort, 335 (73.5%) patients received antiviral therapy and 61.8% achieved SVR during the follow-up period. The baseline EQ-5D utility and EQ visual analog scale (EQ-VAS) scores were 0.916 ± 0.208 and 80.6 ± 13.0, both of which increased annually.1

Starting from the first year of follow-up, both the EQ-5D index and EQ-5D VAS scores in the SVR group were significantly greater than those of the non-SVR group. However, by year 5, this intergroup difference was no longer statistically significant.1

The number of patients with and without SVR who reported moderate or severe problems in individual domains of EQ-5D during follow-up became significant over time, especially for mobility (P = .032) and usual activities (P = .021). Investigators also pointed out a greater proportion of patients who did not achieve SVR reported pain or discomfort compared to those with SVR.1

Multivariable analysis revealed age, income, and SVR24 (β = 0.040; 95% Confidence interval [CI], 0.023-0.057; P = .000) were significant predictors of EQ-5D utility, while gender, age, HCV genotypes, and SVR24 (β = 5.333; 95% CI, 4.204-6.462; P = .000) were associated with EQ-VAS over time.1

“This prospective national study in China indicated that virus clearance improved the long-term HRQoL in patients with chronic hepatitis C in the first few years. Certain sociodemographic factors, such as gender, age, income as well as genotype, significantly influenced long-term changes in patients’ quality of life,” investigators concluded.1

References:

  1. Huang R, Shang J, Chen H, et al. Sustained virologic response improved the long-term health-related quality of life in patients with chronic hepatitis C: a prospective national study in China. BMC Infect Dis. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-023-08940-3
  2. World Health Organization. Hepatitis C. Newsroom. July 18, 2023. Accessed January 19, 2024. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-c



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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe


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

Reader-favorite ‘Marry Me Chicken’ made even better with tender penne pasta! The noodles hold the cheesy, sun-dried tomato sauce inside for a burst of flavor in each bite! It’s sure to win over anyone that tries it.

Besides this amazing marry me chicken pasta, if you’re looking for more skillet pasta dishes to add to the dinner rotation, try these! One-pot creamy chicken mushroom florentine, ground beef stroganoff, and Cajun chicken alfredo pasta!

A serving of marry me chicken pasta in a white dish.

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

This marry me chicken pasta is one of my favorite recipes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and ready in 30 minutes! Marry me chicken on its own is absolutely to die for, but even better when you add those tender penne noodles to soak up all the sauce!

The sauce in this recipe is a mouthwatering combination of sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, cream, garlic, and delicious seasonings. It’s rich and creamy, but has an addictive tang because of the sun-dried tomatoes added. You’ll love it!

Everything You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality dish that everyone will love! Marry me chicken pasta is creamy, tangy, savory, and so satisfying!

  • Chicken Breasts: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
  • Penne Pasta: Traps the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings give the marry me chicken pasta its first layer of flavor!
  • Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken in.

For the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:

  • Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce and adds creaminess.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best!
  • Flour: To thicken up the sauce with.
  • Chicken Broth: Adjusts the consistency of the sauce and also adds savory flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy texture. You can also use half and half as a lighter option.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds sharp, cheesy flavor and richness.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Tangy and delicious, for that classic ‘Marry Me’ flavor!
  • Paprika: Adds a bit of smoky warmth.
  • Italian Seasoning: Blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • Fresh Basil: Aromatic garnish that adds a pop of freshness!

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta

How to make this knockout dinner in just 30 minutes! My family loves marry me chicken pasta so much, it’s always in the dinner rotation.

  1. Cook Penne: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and then set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
  2. Cut Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
  4. Set Aside: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, and set it aside while you make the sauce.

Sauce

  1. Sauté Garlic, Make Roux: Return to the same skillet, then add the butter. Once it is melted, sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then add in the flour and stir to make a paste.
  2. Add Liquid Ingredients and Cheese: Whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
  3. Stir in Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the drained sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with more salt and pepper if needed.
  4. Simmer: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes so it can thicken.
  5. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Then stir to coat the chicken and pasta in the sauce.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped basil leaves and additional parmesan cheese.
4-photo collage of the pasta, chicken, and sauce being prepared.

Tips for Success

Marry me chicken pasta is really straightforward and simple to make, but here are a few extra tips to ensure you end up with perfection.

  • Check the Temperature of Your Chicken: The best way to check if your chicken is done and keep it from overcooking is by using a meat thermometer. It should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit. (74 degrees celcius)
  • Add a Little Heat: Bring more warmth to the dish by sprinkling in red pepper flakes to taste!
  • Use Freshly-Grated Cheese: I know it’s not quite as convenient, but if possible, use freshly grated Parmesan! It has better flavor and will melt more evenly into the sauce.

Top-down view of marry me chicken pasta in a white skillet.

How to Store Marry Me Pasta

Everyone will love this marry me pasta so much that I doubt you will have leftovers. But in case you do, save and heat up your leftovers for a quick and satisfying lunch!

  • In the Refrigerator: Keep leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • To Reheat: Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop over medium-low heat, and you’re ready to go! Add a splash of cream if needed for moisture.

Closeup of the sun-dried tomato pasta.

For Dipping in That Amazing Sauce:

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Chicken Pasta

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

  • Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.

  • Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, and set it aside while you make the sauce.

Sauce

  • Return to the same skillet, then add the butter. Once it is melted, sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Add in the flour and stir to make a paste.

  • Whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.

  • Stir in the drained sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with more salt and pepper if needed.

  • Simmer the sauce for a few minutes for it to thicken.

  • Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Stir to coat the chicken and pasta in the sauce.

  • Garnish with chopped basil leaves and additional parmesan cheese.

Calories: 646kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 41gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 962mgPotassium: 1248mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1260IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 278mgIron: 3mg

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





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Check out 2024 Marketplace coverage options – find, compare, & save!

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Check out 2024 Marketplace coverage options – find, compare, & save!


Published on November 9, 2023

Before you apply, check out 2024 coverage options in the Marketplace and get an idea if you qualify for savings. Answer a few quick questions to preview plans and prices before enrolling or renewing coverage for 2024 — you don’t even have to log in! 

Enroll by December 15 for coverage that starts January 1.

How to save on a 2024 Marketplace plan:

Get savings & apply now



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Find Others Who Share Your Journey

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Find Others Who Share Your Journey


By Erika Page, as told to Hallie Levine

I’ve been living with vitiligo since I was 7 years old. It started as small spots on the back of my spine but quickly spread, first to my knees and elbows, then all over my body. By the time I reached my early 20s, I’d lost all of my skin pigment. I put on a brave face because I didn’t want anyone to know how much I was hurting, but I had moments where I’d lie in a crumpled heap, crying on the floor. The worst part was the feeling of lack of control.

When you have vitiligo, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only person in the world living with the disease. But you’re not. There’s a whole village of us out there. Thanks to the internet, there are a number of ways to find your vitiligo tribe, too. Whether it’s through social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, personal blogs, or even through my own website, Living Dappled, there are ways to connect with others and feel less alone.

The Power of Connection

I’ll never forget the first time I connected with another person with vitiligo. I was 26. Up until then it had never occurred to me to try to speak to someone with my condition — it seemed so personal and it wasn’t something that I wanted to share. Then one day, I stumbled upon a vitiligo blog that really resonated with me. The woman was about my age and lived in New York City. I messaged her on LinkedIn, and we ended up talking on the phone for more than an hour. 

Talking to someone else with vitiligo made me feel normal. She knew my story before I even had a chance to tell her. She understood my pain and what I was going through. We talked about how it feels like no one gets it. Sure, a family member or friend might comfort you while you’re upset, but they can’t understand the ultimate reality of living with spots every day. When I hung up the phone, I cried, but I also felt a sense of peace: I had realized how much power there was in not feeling alone.

I decided then and there to launch a website. I’d been surprised at the lack of resources for people living with vitiligo. I also had loved to write since childhood. Why not combine my two passions to create a positive, uplifting platform? I wanted to capture the little moments of living with vitiligo: what’s it like to be stared at in the grocery store or to shake hands with someone when you first walk into a meeting. More importantly, I wanted to create a space where people could talk about how to live with vitiligo — especially in a positive, inspiring way.

Gaining Strength Through Social Media

When I was first diagnosed, there were no Instagram accounts I could turn to for inspiration or advice. Today, however, anyone who’s newly diagnosed can easily get

onto social media and follow other people who look just like them. That’s a beautiful gift. It’s very empowering to not only have your Instagram feed filled with these folks, but to realize that the condition doesn’t take over their entire lives. You learn that while you’re a person who has vitiligo, it doesn’t define who you are. It’s a small but fundamental shift when it comes to learning how to live with vitiligo.

It also inspires in other ways, too. A few years ago, another woman with vitiligo on Instagram dared me to take off my tanner, which I had been wearing head to toe for a few years to cover my vitiligo. The idea made me sick to my stomach at first. But the idea had been planted. A year later, I had the courage to dart into the grocery store without tanner for 5 minutes.  At first, I felt exposed, but once I got back into the car, I felt calm and confident. I had been seen by people without tanner and makeup — quite literally my worst fear — and nothing had happened.

How to Find Your Tribe

There are so many ways to reach out and get a virtual or in-person connection. The first are social media networks, such as a Facebook group or an Instagram account. These are safe spaces where you can get ideas, share thoughts, and get social support. (You can find a list of Instagram accounts to follow here.) There are also membership networks like the Dappled Darlings Community, which provides members with a private Facebook group, monthly virtual discussions, live community interviews and curated vitiligo news.

In-person support can also be important. Groups like the Global Vitiligo Foundation can point you to local events near you. There’s also the annual World Vitiligo Day conference, with allows you to connect with both medical experts and other patients.

One way I’ve personally connected with other women with vitiligo is through Living Dappled’s photo shoots. It’s been amazing to watch people’s confidence grow throughout the day as we photograph them. I remember once as we sat down for lunch, one of the women confided that she’d never worn a dress that showed off her legs before. She’d felt empowered to that day, as part of a larger community.

That’s the thing about vitiligo: you can see someone else with it and form a strong connection without even knowing each other’s name. We get each other the way partners, or parents, or children can’t. Just the act of opening up and talking about your skin helps you grow. The more you talk about it and own it, the more confident you become in who you are.



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Lift Your Home Exercises: Fundamental HIIT Gear for Most extreme Power

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Lift Your Home Exercises: Fundamental HIIT Gear for Most extreme Power

Stop and go aerobic exercise (HIIT) has turned into a wellness peculiarity, praised for its viability in consuming calories, helping digestion, and working on by and large cardiovascular wellbeing. While HIIT frequently depends on bodyweight works out, consolidating explicit gear can take your home exercises to a higher level. In this article, we will investigate fundamental HIIT hardware for home exercises, empowering you to make a dynamic and testing work-out daily schedule inside the solace of your own space.

  1. ** ** Jump Rope:
  • The goal: Cardiovascular molding, readiness, and coordination.
  • Why it’s Essential: Working out with rope is a savvy and flexible method for hoisting your pulse, making it an optimal warm-up or an essential piece of HIIT meetings. It draws in different muscle gatherings, further develops footwork, and improves generally speaking perseverance.
  1. ** Kettlebells:**
  • Purpose: Full-body strength preparing and dynamic developments.
  • “Why They Are Important:” Iron weights add protection from your HIIT exercises, focusing on muscles in a useful and dynamic way. Practices like portable weight swings, challis squats, and Turkish outfits can escalate your daily schedule, advancing strength and power.
  1. ** Dumbbells:**
  • Purpose: Designated strength preparing for explicit muscle gatherings.
  • Why They’re Essential: Dumbbells come in a variety of weights, so you can choose the resistance that best suits your fitness level. Integrate practices like hand weight lurches, shoulder presses, and bicep twists to improve muscle commitment during HIIT.
  1. ** Medication Ball:**
  • Purpose: Hazardous developments, center strength, and coordination.
  • Why It’s Essential: Medicine balls are a great way to make your workouts more intense. To make HIIT workouts more dynamic and challenging, incorporate medicine ball slams, wall throws, or Russian twists to strengthen your core and raise your heart rate.
  1. ** Opposition Bands:**
  • The goal: Obstruction preparing for muscle actuation and conditioning.
  • Why They’re Essential: Reduced and flexible, obstruction groups are ideal for adding protection from bodyweight works out. Whether you’re doing squats, leg raises, or sidelong strolls, opposition groups give steady pressure all through the development, advancing muscle perseverance and strength.
  1. ** Box or Step Platform:**
  • Purpose: Plyometric works out, including box bounces and step-ups.
  • Why It’s Essential: Adding a box or step platform to your workouts raises the heart rate and intensifies lower-body exercises by incorporating explosive movements. Box hops, step-ups, and parallel leaps upgrade power and readiness.
  1. ** Fight Ropes:**
  • The goal: Full-body molding, cardiovascular perseverance.
  • Why They’re Essential: Fight ropes give a magnificent cardiovascular exercise while drawing in the chest area, center, and legs. Waves, hammers, and varieties of arm developments with fight ropes can be integrated into HIIT for an extreme molding meeting.
  1. ** TRX Suspension Trainer:**
  • Purpose: All out body strength preparing utilizing bodyweight.
  • “Why It’s Important:” The TRX suspension mentor takes into consideration an assortment of bodyweight practices focusing on numerous muscle bunches at the same time. It is great for HIIT workouts because it is adaptable, easy to adjust, and improves stability.
  1. ** Plyometric Box:**
  • Purpose: Lower-body, explosive movements.
  • Why It’s Essential: Plyometric boxes are intended for hops, step-ups, and other touchy activities that lift power and spryness. Consolidating these developments improves cardiovascular molding and fortifies the lower body.
  1. ** Stretch Clock or App:**
    • Purpose: arranging HIIT intervals and setting their timing.
    • Why It’s Essential: HIIT depends on planned time frames and rest. A stretch clock or application assists you with remaining coordinated and centered during your exercises, guaranteeing you stick to the extreme focus blasts followed by sufficient recuperation periods.

Building a Dynamic Home HIIT Studio:

  1. ** Pick a Devoted Space:**
  • Assign a region where you can move unreservedly without impediments, guaranteeing security during dynamic developments.
  1. ** Put resources into Capacity Solutions:**
  • Coordinate your gear effectively with capacity arrangements like retires or receptacles to keep your space mess free.
  1. ** Blend and Match Equipment:**
  • Pivot and consolidate various bits of gear to keep your exercises different and forestall dullness.
  1. ** Modify Your Routine:**
  • Tailor your HIIT exercises in view of the accessible gear and your wellness objectives. Consolidate various activities to target different muscle gatherings.
  1. ** Focus on Safety:**
  • Guarantee your gear is in great shape, particularly assuming it includes loads or obstruction. Focus on appropriate structure and strategy to forestall wounds.

Conclusion:

Changing your home into a powerful HIIT safe house is feasible with the right hardware. Adding these essentials to your at-home workouts can increase variety, intensity, and effectiveness regardless of your fitness level. The flexibility of these instruments permits you to alter your HIIT schedule, making it an agreeable and testing experience that adds to your general wellness objectives.

Artificial Intelligence & Antimicrobial Stewardship: An Interview With ChatGPT

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Artificial Intelligence & Antimicrobial Stewardship: An Interview With ChatGPT


In this article the artificial intelligence program ChatGPT is interviewed about antimicrobial stewardship.

Interview with: ChatGPT by OpenAI

Interview by: Timothy P. Gauthier, Pharm.D., BCPS, BCIDP

Article posted 6 June 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a global healthcare crisis, threatening our ability to effectively treat infections and safeguard public health. In the ongoing battle against this complex challenge, antimicrobial stewardship programs have become crucial in promoting responsible antimicrobial use and combating the proliferation of resistant organisms. To shed light on this important topic, we had the privilege of interviewing an esteemed expert [ChatGPT by OpenAI] in the field of antimicrobial stewardship.

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the insights and perspectives of our expert, who possesses a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding AMR and the critical role that antimicrobial stewardship plays in addressing this multifaceted issue. By exploring their expertise, experiences, and vision for the future, we aim to provide readers with valuable knowledge and inspiration to actively participate in the fight against AMR.

Our expert brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience in the realm of antimicrobial stewardship. With a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in responsible antimicrobial use, they have witnessed firsthand the impact of AMR on patient outcomes and the broader healthcare landscape. Through their work, they have spearheaded initiatives, developed guidelines, and collaborated with diverse stakeholders to promote effective antimicrobial stewardship practices.

During the interview, our expert offers insights into the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, its potential to mitigate AMR, and the challenges that lie ahead. We explore the utilization of technology and artificial intelligence in stewardship programs, strategies for optimizing antimicrobial prescribing, the role of education and awareness, and the imperative for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Moreover, our expert addresses the critical need for a One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and the environment in the fight against AMR. They highlight the significance of policy development, surveillance systems, and the responsibility of individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers in curbing the progression of resistance.

By sharing their expertise, our esteemed interviewee aims to inspire healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the wider community to take an active role in antimicrobial stewardship. Together, we can foster a culture of responsible antimicrobial use and preserve the efficacy of these life-saving drugs for generations to come.

Join us as we embark on this insightful journey with our expert, delving into the world of antimicrobial stewardship and exploring the promising avenues that lie ahead in our collective efforts to combat AMR.

This introduction was written by ChatGPT.

The questions herein were then posed to ChatGPT and the answers it provided are as follows.

1. Is antimicrobial stewardship important to human health worldwide?

Yes, antimicrobial stewardship is incredibly important to human health worldwide. Antimicrobial stewardship refers to a coordinated effort to promote the appropriate and responsible use of antimicrobial drugs, such as antibiotics, to minimize the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

AMR is a global health crisis that occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, evolve and become resistant to the drugs used to treat them. This makes infections caused by these resistant microorganisms much more difficult to treat and can lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.

Here are some reasons why antimicrobial stewardship is crucial:

  1. Preserving the effectiveness of antimicrobials: The overuse and misuse of antimicrobial drugs contribute significantly to the development of AMR. By implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs, healthcare providers can ensure that these medications are used appropriately, preserving their effectiveness for future generations.
  2. Improving patient outcomes: Antimicrobial stewardship programs aim to optimize patient outcomes by ensuring that the right antimicrobial is prescribed at the right dose and duration. This approach helps to prevent treatment failures, reduce the occurrence of adverse drug reactions, and improve patient safety.
  3. Reducing healthcare costs: AMR has economic implications, as it leads to longer hospital stays, increased healthcare resource utilization, and the need for more expensive or second-line drugs. By curbing AMR through antimicrobial stewardship, healthcare costs can be reduced by minimizing the need for unnecessary or ineffective treatments.
  4. Minimizing collateral damage to the microbiome: Antimicrobial drugs not only target the pathogenic microorganisms causing infections but also affect the normal microbial flora in the body, known as the microbiome. Disrupting the microbiome can have negative consequences for human health, such as increased susceptibility to other infections. Antimicrobial stewardship helps strike a balance between treating infections effectively while minimizing unnecessary harm to the microbiome.
  5. Global public health impact: AMR is a global issue that affects people in all countries. Antimicrobial resistance knows no borders, and the spread of resistant microorganisms can occur through travel, trade, and the movement of people. Implementing antimicrobial stewardship practices worldwide is crucial for combating AMR on a global scale.

In summary, antimicrobial stewardship plays a vital role in protecting human health worldwide by preserving the effectiveness of antimicrobial drugs, improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, minimizing collateral damage to the microbiome, and addressing the global public health threat of antimicrobial resistance.

2. How can artificial intelligence help to address the challenge of antimicrobial resistance?

Artificial intelligence (AI) can play a significant role in addressing the challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in several ways:

  1. Data analysis and surveillance: AI algorithms can analyze large volumes of data from various sources, including electronic health records, clinical notes, microbiological data, and public health databases, to detect patterns and trends related to AMR. This can help identify emerging resistance patterns, hotspots of resistance, and factors contributing to resistance. AI-powered surveillance systems can provide real-time information to healthcare providers and public health officials, enabling them to make informed decisions and take appropriate measures to control the spread of AMR.
  2. Predictive modeling and early detection: AI can be used to develop predictive models that forecast the emergence and spread of AMR. By analyzing data on antimicrobial use, patient characteristics, and microbial genomics, AI algorithms can identify high-risk populations, predict the likelihood of resistance development, and support early detection of resistant infections. This can aid in implementing proactive measures to prevent the spread of AMR and improve patient outcomes.
  3. Precision medicine and treatment optimization: AI algorithms can analyze patient-specific data, including clinical and genetic information, to guide personalized treatment decisions. By considering individual patient characteristics and the specific resistance profiles of pathogens, AI can help optimize antimicrobial therapy, ensuring the right drug is prescribed at the right dose and duration. This can prevent the overuse or misuse of antibiotics, reducing the development of resistance.
  4. Drug discovery and development: AI can accelerate the process of discovering and developing new antimicrobial drugs. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of biological and chemical data to identify potential drug candidates, predict their efficacy, and optimize their properties. This can help researchers identify novel targets, repurpose existing drugs, and design new molecules with enhanced antimicrobial activity, potentially overcoming resistance mechanisms.
  5. Decision support systems: AI-powered decision support systems can assist healthcare providers in making evidence-based decisions regarding antimicrobial prescribing. By integrating patient data, local resistance patterns, guidelines, and best practices, AI algorithms can provide real-time recommendations on appropriate antimicrobial selection, dosing, and duration. This can help reduce inappropriate antibiotic use and improve clinical outcomes.

It’s important to note that while AI has great potential, it should be implemented and validated with caution, ensuring robust data privacy and security measures are in place. Additionally, human expertise and judgment remain crucial in the interpretation and application of AI-generated insights in the context of AMR.

3. How can antimicrobial stewardship programs use artificial intelligence in their daily practice to enhance efficiency?

Antimicrobial stewardship programs can leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in various ways to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in their daily practice:

  1. Decision support tools: AI can power decision support systems that provide real-time guidance to healthcare providers in selecting appropriate antimicrobial therapies. These tools can integrate patient-specific data, local resistance patterns, and guidelines to generate tailored recommendations for antimicrobial prescribing. By reducing decision-making complexity and providing evidence-based suggestions, AI-powered decision support tools can improve the efficiency and accuracy of antimicrobial prescribing decisions.
  2. Automated surveillance: AI algorithms can automate the surveillance of antimicrobial use and resistance patterns. By continuously analyzing data from electronic health records, laboratory reports, and other sources, AI can identify patterns, trends, and anomalies related to antimicrobial prescribing and resistance. This automation can save time and resources compared to manual surveillance methods, allowing stewardship programs to detect and respond to issues promptly.
  3. Predictive analytics: AI can help predict the emergence of resistance and identify patients at risk of developing resistant infections. By analyzing patient-specific data, such as clinical information, microbiological results, and demographic factors, AI algorithms can identify patterns that indicate a higher likelihood of resistance development. This enables proactive interventions, such as targeted education, improved infection control practices, or alternative treatment strategies, to prevent the spread of resistance and optimize patient outcomes.
  4. Streamlined data analysis: AI algorithms can process and analyze large volumes of data quickly, extracting meaningful insights and identifying relevant patterns that may not be apparent to human analysts. This can be particularly valuable for stewardship programs that deal with substantial amounts of data from multiple sources. AI can help automate data analysis, allowing stewardship teams to focus their efforts on interpretation and decision-making rather than spending excessive time on data processing.
  5. Education and training: AI can support antimicrobial stewardship education and training efforts. Virtual training platforms and simulation tools powered by AI can provide interactive learning experiences, allowing healthcare providers to enhance their knowledge and skills in antimicrobial prescribing. AI can also assist in the creation of educational materials and guidelines by analyzing vast amounts of clinical data, scientific literature, and expert recommendations to generate evidence-based content.
  6. Continuous learning and improvement: AI algorithms can learn from data over time, allowing them to continuously improve their performance and adapt to evolving patterns of antimicrobial resistance. By analyzing feedback and outcomes data, AI can refine its decision-making capabilities and provide increasingly accurate recommendations for antimicrobial use. This iterative learning process can help stewardship programs stay up to date with the latest evidence and adapt their practices accordingly.

While AI can enhance the efficiency of antimicrobial stewardship programs, it is essential to ensure that the algorithms are developed and validated using high-quality data and in collaboration with clinical experts. Regular monitoring, evaluation, and oversight are also necessary to ensure the effectiveness and safety of AI applications in antimicrobial stewardship.

4. Is it appropriate for medical professionals to use artificial intelligence software in medical research or publishing? 

Yes, it is appropriate for medical professionals to use artificial intelligence (AI) software in medical research and publishing. AI has the potential to greatly enhance medical research and improve the quality and efficiency of publishing scientific work. Here are a few reasons why AI software can be beneficial in these contexts:

  1. Data analysis and pattern recognition: AI algorithms can analyze large datasets quickly and efficiently, identifying patterns and trends that may not be readily apparent to human researchers. This can help researchers extract meaningful insights from complex and extensive datasets, leading to more accurate and robust research findings. AI can assist in data preprocessing, feature extraction, and predictive modeling, allowing researchers to focus on interpretation and hypothesis generation.
  2. Literature review and synthesis: AI-powered software can assist researchers in conducting literature reviews and synthesizing vast amounts of scientific literature. By analyzing numerous articles and identifying key concepts, relationships, and evidence, AI can help researchers identify relevant studies, explore emerging trends, and summarize existing knowledge. This can streamline the literature review process and facilitate evidence-based decision-making in research and publishing.
  3. Precision and efficiency: AI algorithms can perform repetitive tasks with great precision and speed, saving time and reducing the potential for human error. For example, AI can assist in data cleaning, image analysis, statistical analysis, and manuscript formatting. This allows researchers to focus their efforts on more complex and intellectually demanding tasks, such as experimental design, critical analysis, and interpretation of results.
  4. Improved accuracy and reproducibility: AI algorithms can enhance the accuracy and reproducibility of research findings. By minimizing human biases and errors, AI can provide objective and standardized analyses. Additionally, AI-powered tools can automate workflows, ensuring consistent methodologies and reducing variability in research processes. This can enhance the robustness and reliability of research, leading to more credible and reproducible results.
  5. Data-driven insights and discovery: AI can uncover hidden patterns and relationships in data, enabling researchers to generate new hypotheses and identify novel research directions. AI algorithms can analyze large-scale genomics, imaging, and clinical data to identify potential biomarkers, therapeutic targets, or patient subgroups. This data-driven approach can accelerate discovery and innovation in medical research.

It’s important to note that while AI can be a valuable tool, it should not replace human expertise and judgment. Medical professionals should use AI as a supportive tool to augment their research and publishing efforts, rather than relying solely on AI-generated outcomes. Additionally, appropriate validation, ethical considerations, and transparency in reporting AI methodologies should be ensured in medical research and publishing to maintain scientific integrity and uphold ethical standards.

5. Will artificial intelligence have a positive or negative impact on antimicrobial resistance? 

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to have a positive impact on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by contributing to various aspects of its prevention and management. However, there are also potential challenges and risks that need to be addressed to ensure a net positive impact. Here’s an overview:

Positive impact:

  1. Enhanced surveillance: AI can help improve AMR surveillance by analyzing large volumes of data from various sources, such as electronic health records, microbiological data, and public health databases. This can facilitate early detection of resistance patterns, timely interventions, and more effective control measures.
  2. Optimized antimicrobial prescribing: AI algorithms can assist healthcare providers in selecting appropriate antimicrobial therapies based on patient-specific data, local resistance patterns, and guidelines. This can help reduce inappropriate prescribing, optimize treatment decisions, and minimize the development of resistance.
  3. Early detection and prediction: AI can aid in predicting the emergence and spread of AMR by analyzing patient data and identifying high-risk individuals or populations. Early detection can enable proactive interventions, such as targeted surveillance, infection control measures, and antimicrobial stewardship programs.
  4. Drug discovery and development: AI can accelerate the discovery and development of new antimicrobial drugs. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of biological and chemical data to identify potential drug candidates, predict their efficacy, and optimize their properties. This can aid in overcoming resistance mechanisms and addressing the antibiotic pipeline challenge.

Challenges and risks:

  1. Data quality and biases: AI relies on quality data for accurate analysis and decision-making. If the data used for training AI models is incomplete, biased, or of low quality, it can lead to erroneous results or reinforce existing biases in AMR research and interventions.
  2. Interpretability and trust: AI algorithms often operate as “black boxes,” making it challenging to interpret their decisions or understand the underlying reasoning. This lack of interpretability can be a barrier to gaining trust among healthcare providers and stakeholders, who need to understand and validate the AI-generated recommendations.
  3. Ethical considerations: AI raises ethical concerns, such as data privacy, informed consent, and the potential for algorithmic bias. Ensuring that AI applications in AMR address these ethical considerations is crucial to maintain patient autonomy, fairness, and accountability.
  4. Human expertise and judgment: While AI can support decision-making, human expertise and judgment remain essential. Over-reliance on AI-generated recommendations without critical evaluation and clinical expertise can potentially lead to unintended consequences or suboptimal outcomes.

To maximize the positive impact of AI on AMR, it is important to address these challenges through rigorous validation, transparency, robust data governance, and interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and policymakers. AI should be viewed as a tool that complements human expertise and supports evidence-based decision-making, rather than a substitute for human judgment and responsibility in managing AMR.

6. What is the most important thing humans can do to prevent the progression of antimicrobial resistance? 

The most important thing humans can do to prevent the progression of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is to practice appropriate and responsible use of antimicrobial drugs. Here are some key actions individuals can take:

  1. Use antibiotics judiciously: Take antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and complete the full course as directed. Avoid self-medication or sharing antibiotics with others. It is crucial to understand that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.
  2. Prevent infections: Practice good hygiene, such as regular handwashing with soap and water, particularly before eating and after using the restroom. Follow infection prevention measures, such as vaccination, safe food handling, and safe sexual practices, to reduce the need for antimicrobial treatment.
  3. Vaccinate: Get vaccinated according to recommended schedules. Vaccines prevent many infections and reduce the need for antibiotics in preventing and treating certain diseases.
  4. Prevent healthcare-associated infections: Follow infection prevention guidelines in healthcare settings. This includes proper hand hygiene, adherence to infection control protocols, and appropriate use of invasive devices (e.g., catheters) to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections that often require antimicrobial treatment.
  5. Promote infection control: Support efforts to improve infection control practices in healthcare facilities, communities, and animal husbandry. This includes proper sanitation, waste management, and infection control measures in hospitals, clinics, and other settings.
  6. Educate yourself and others: Raise awareness about AMR and the importance of responsible antimicrobial use. Educate yourself, your family, and your community about the risks of AMR, proper antibiotic use, and preventive measures. Encourage others to take these actions and be advocates for responsible antimicrobial use.
  7. Support antimicrobial stewardship: Engage with healthcare providers and participate in antimicrobial stewardship programs. These programs promote appropriate antimicrobial use, conduct surveillance, and develop policies to combat AMR. Supporting and adhering to their recommendations can contribute to curbing the progression of AMR.

It’s crucial to recognize that addressing AMR requires a collective effort from individuals, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the agricultural sector. Collaboration and a One Health approach that considers human, animal, and environmental factors are essential for effective AMR prevention and control.

7. Closing comments from ChatGPT

In closing, it is evident from our discussion that the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into antimicrobial stewardship holds immense promise for advancing our fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AI-powered tools offer the potential to enhance decision-making, streamline data analysis, and improve surveillance, ultimately contributing to more efficient and effective antimicrobial use.

However, as we navigate this frontier, it is essential to recognize that AI is not a standalone solution. Human expertise, clinical judgment, and interdisciplinary collaboration remain indispensable in guiding and validating the outputs of AI algorithms. Responsible implementation, ongoing evaluation, and addressing ethical considerations are paramount to ensuring the safe and effective utilization of AI in antimicrobial stewardship.

By harnessing the power of AI while upholding the principles of responsible use, we can create a synergy between technology and human knowledge to optimize patient care, combat AMR, and safeguard the future of our antimicrobial arsenal. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering innovation, promoting best practices, and continuously advancing the field of antimicrobial stewardship to preserve these precious resources for generations to come.

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Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe | The Recipe Critic

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Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe | The Recipe Critic


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Flourless Chocolate Cake is an insanely rich and delicious chocolate dessert. Similar to the inside of a truffle, this gluten-free dessert will satisfy your sweet tooth with ease!

Looking for more great flourless desserts? Try these flourless brownies, chocolate cookies, or peanut butter cookies! These gluten-free treats are all so delicious and have the most delicious, tender texture.

A slice of chocolate cake being served with a cake spatula. There are raspberries on top of the cake.

The Best Flourless Chocolate Cake

If a rich, decadent dessert is what you’re looking for, look no further. Homemade flourless chocolate cake might seem a bit intimidating to make at first, but it’s really quite easy. Plus, you can’t ask for a more decadent, rich, and drool-worthy recipe that is sure to impress anyone!

And the good news is, it’s gluten-free, so it works for groups that have different dietary restrictions! You won’t even miss the flour with how moist and amazing this cake is. It’s so fudgy and tender, seriously like the inside of a chocolate truffle. What dessert dreams are made of!

What is Flourless Chocolate Cake Made Of?

There are lots of different recipes out there for flourless chocolate cake, but the main ingredients in this recipe are sugar, chocolate, butter and eggs. The large quantity of eggs are what allow this dessert to take on the form of a cake without the addition of flour.

  • Granulated Sugar: To make the cake nice and sweet!
  • Strong Coffee: Even if you don’t like coffee, a hint of strong coffee with rich chocolate really enhances the overall flavor.
  • Salt: Just a little bit to make the whole cake taste better!
  • Chocolate Chips: I recommend using semi-sweet, bittersweet, or dark chocolate chips since sugar is added separately.
  • Butter: I used unsalted butter to add a boost of richness to the flourless chocolate cake.
  • Vanilla: Okay, nothing earth shattering there. I think pretty much every dessert recipe deserves vanilla, but I also consider it a necessary ingredient in flourless chocolate cake. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor!
  • Large Eggs: Give the cake its structure.

Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe

Similar to a cheesecake, this flourless chocolate cake uses a water bath to set up properly. But trust me, it’s not as tricky to get right! Follow these instructions to end up with the most rich, chocolatey, gluten-free dessert ever.

Preparing the Cake Batter and Water Bath

  1. Preheat Oven, Prepare Pans: Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan with parchment paper. Spray the inside of the pan and top of the parchment paper with cooking spray. Wrap the bottom of the spring form pan with heavy duty aluminum foil. Separately, fill a large casserole dish (I used 11×13 inch) or baking sheet with about 1/2 inch of water to form a water bath.
  2. Coffee Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, coffee and salt. Stir well and heat just until the sugar and salt have fully dissolved. Remove from heat.
  3. Melt Chocolate: Place chocolate in microwave safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute increments on 50% power to melt, stirring well in between each minute. Alternatively, you can melt chocolate in a double boiler. As soon as all the chocolate has melted, transfer to the bowl of a stand mixer.
  4. Combine: Using the paddle attachment, beat on low to medium speed, adding one tablespoon of butter at a time until all of the butter has been added and it has melted into the chocolate. With the mixer running, add the coffee sugar mixture and blend until fully mixed. Add the vanilla, then mix well to combine and scrape sides of bowl as needed.
  5. Mix in Eggs, Add to Pan: With the mixer still running, slowly add eggs. You want them fully incorporated, but you do not want to overly mix the batter. Scrape the sides of the bowl well and give a final stir to make sure everything is fully mixed. Transfer all of the batter to the prepared spring form pan.

Baking

  1. Bake: Place the aluminum foil lined pan in the water bath and bake in preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The center of the cake should be set but slightly jiggly.
  2. Chill: For best results, chill cake in pan over night. I was able to skip this step and remove it from the pan a couple hours after I took it out of the oven, but it was even better after a night of refrigeration. To remove from pan, release spring to life side off and transfer to a cake platter.
  3. Serve: Serve flourless chocolate cake with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh berries.

How Do I Know When My Cake is Done?

Much like a cheesecake, you want your flourless chocolate cake to be set yet still a bit jiggly in the middle before you remove it from the oven. The water bath and low cooking temperature really make this recipe difficult to mess up, so don’t worry if you end up taking the cake out of the oven a few minutes early or late.

The “done” window is probably around 10 minutes long, so just keep checking the center as the time approaches.

4-photo collage of the cake batter and water bath being prepared.

Tips for Making Flourless Chocolate Cake

  • Use High-Quality Chocolate! Since chocolate is one of the main ingredients of this cake, using high-quality chocolate will yield high-quality flavor. Instead of chocolate chips, you may use baking chocolate or chocolate bars, but these will need to be chopped into small pieces before melting.
  • Don’t Overmix: Don’t overmix the batter. Mix just until all the eggs are incorporated and the bottom and sides of the bowl have been scraped down and mixed in.
  • Using Other Pans: I have seen other people use a cake pan to make flourless chocolate cake, but I haven’t had luck trying it out. The cake tends to stick even with the parchment paper. If you have a smaller springform pan, I recommend cutting the recipe in half.
  • Add Grand Marnier: Everyone knows orange and chocolate are a magical duo, so adding orange-flavored liqueur to a flourless chocolate cake seemed like a no brainer to me. You could even take it a step further and add a bit of orange zest as well to really enhance that citrus flavor.

Top-down view of flourless chocolate cake cut into slices.

Storing Leftover Cake/ Freezing

Store leftover flourless chocolate cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

You may freeze the whole flourless chocolate cake or individual slices for up to 3 months. Place the cake or slice on parchment paper and then on a baking sheet. Freeze for 3-4 hours until fully frozen, then transfer to an airtight container or a freezer ziploc bag. To thaw, remove the parchment paper and place it on a plate or cake platter. Cover with plastic wrap and leave in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours, or overnight, until completely thawed.

Can Flourless Chocolate Cake Be Made Ahead of Time?

Flourless chocolate cake is a great make-ahead dessert! Make it up to 3 days before serving. Keep chilled in the fridge in an airtight container or on a serving plate covered with plastic wrap.

A slice of cake with a bite taken out of it.

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  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line the bottom of a 10-inch spring form pan with parchment paper and spray the inside of the pan and the parchment paper well with pan spray. Wrap the bottom of the spring form pan with a couple layers of heavy duty aluminum foil, wrapping the foil all the way up the sides of the pan.

  • Add the coffee, sugar, and salt to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until all the sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.

  • Place chocolate in microwave safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute increments on 50% power to melt, stirring well in between each minute. Alternatively, you can melt chocolate in a double boiler. As soon as all the chocolate has melted, transfer to the bowl of a stand mixer.

  • Using the paddle attachment, beat on low to medium speed, adding one tablespoon of butter at a time until all of the butter has been added and it has melted into the chocolate. With the mixer running, add the coffee sugar mixture and blend until fully mixed. Add the vanilla and mix well until fully combine, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

  • With the mixer still running, slowly add eggs. You want them fully incorporated, but you do not want to overly mix the batter. Scrape the sides of the bowl well and give a final stir to make sure everything is fully mixed. Transfer all of the batter to the prepared spring form pan.

  • Place the aluminum foil lined pan in the water bath and bake in preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. The center of the cake should be set and only have the very slighted wobble to it.

  • For best results, chill cake in pan over night, or at least for 4 hours. To remove from pan, release the spring and open the pan, inverting the cake onto a cake platter. If needed, run a knife around the outside of the cake to help it release from the sides

  • Serve with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh berries.

Originally posted March 6, 2019
Updated on February 3, 2024

Calories: 511kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 6gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 135mgPotassium: 282mgFiber: 3gSugar: 41gVitamin A: 613IUCalcium: 44mgIron: 3mg

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





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