Like the song says, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, but did you know doctors prescribed it to treat maladies in the 18th century? Sugar is more than just a sweetener for your coffee — it is a sweet topic with a long history and many interesting uses. From its ancient origins to its place in the Milky Way (not the candy), this tasty ingredient may be more intriguing than you realize. Candied Facts About Simple Sugar SUGAR IS THOUSANDS OF YEARS OLD. Sugar has been a pantry staple for our entire lifetimes, but its origins go back to 8000 BCE. Researchers believe sugar cane plants were first cultivated in New Guinea and used by native people as chewing gum. One of the earliest written mentions of sugar was in The Mahabhashya of Patanjali, a study of Sanskrit, written around 400–350 BCE. Over time, sugar cane plants made their way across the globe, coming to America in the 15th century. Sugar cane is now one of the most produced crops in the world. SUGAR WAS NOT ORIGINALLY A SWEETENER. Though visions of cupcakes and other desserts spring to mind when we think of sugar, it was first used as a spice and medicine. In 9th century Iraq, it was combined with fruits and spices to create medical syrups and infusions. British doctors prescribed it to treat a wide range of ailments, including eye irritations, which were treated by blowing sugar right into a person’s eye. When it came to England, the wealthy first used it to season savory dishes. It wasn’t until the 19th century that working-class people began to use it to sweeten baked goods or tea. THERE IS SUGAR IN SPACE. Sugar is literally out of this world. In 2000, scientists discovered a simple form of sugar called glycolaldehyde in the center of the Milky Way and near a star about 400 light years away from the Earth. While this is not the same type of sugar we consume, it plays a significant role in creating DNA and could signal the possibility of life outside our planet. Next time you sprinkle sugar on your cereal or enjoy a sweet treat, remember you are indulging in a fascinating ingredient with a history as rich as its flavor!
Embrace Mindful Self-Care on World Mental Health Day PRIORITIZE YOU
There is no health without mental health.
This statement by the World Health Organization encapsulates the central role mental health plays in our lives. One in eight people worldwide is living with mental health problems that can harm their physical health and their ability to connect with others and make a living. In recognition of World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, we encourage you to reflect on the importance of self-care in maintaining strong mental health. This includes mindfulness of one’s own well-being and a willingness to ask for help when needed. The theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day is, "Mental Health at Work," highlighting the fact that many people's mental health issues surface in work environments and, unfortunately, often worsen there.
Work can be a source of satisfaction and joy. Engagement with one’s job is linked with better mental health in workers, leading to greater well-being and life satisfaction and reduced risk of anxiety and depression.
However, managers with negative attitudes toward mental health issues can discourage employees from seeking needed treatment. Workers with mental health issues who fear discrimination may adopt self-defeating attitudes that prevent them from succeeding at work or even keeping a job. Also, a lack of control over one’s workload and schedule can lead to tension, stress, and a higher likelihood of mental health problems. At our firm, we acknowledge that mental well-being is important, and we try to take care of ourselves and look out for each other, too. One way we accomplish this is by helping each other maintain a healthy work-life balance. Our staff is never expected to work overtime or on weekends. We also strive to maintain and grow the bond of our team through regular team meetings where everyone is encouraged to provide input and feels respected and valued. Quarterly team-building activities give us the opportunity to relax and have fun together outside of the normal work routine. Seeking help for mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling, do not hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, but with the right support and resources, recovery and improved well-being are possible. Remember, prioritizing mental health is an essential part of living a healthy, fulfilling life. Whether it is through self-care, counseling, or fostering a supportive workplace environment, every step you take toward mental health matters.
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