Business Information:

• Name: DS Painters
• Website: https://dspainters.com/
• Address: Libertyville, IL 60048
• Phone: 872.888.9991

Description:

DS Painters is a premier painting and restoration service dedicated to enhancing the beauty of homes and businesses in Libertyville, IL, and its neighboring areas, including Gurnee and Northbrook. If you’re in search of skilled painters or cabinet specialists, our seasoned team is ready to provide exceptional quality on every project. We recognize the transformative power of a new coat of paint—not only does it elevate the appearance of your property, but it also boosts curb appeal and protects your investment. Our professionals approach each task with precision, a strong commitment to craftsmanship, and a focus on ensuring customer satisfaction. We offer a comprehensive suite of services, including interior and exterior painting, cabinet refinishing, and pressure washing, all designed to refresh and maintain your property’s aesthetic. Additionally, we specialize in deck sealing, fence preservation, and wood restoration, offering protection against the elements while preserving the natural beauty of your outdoor spaces. Utilizing only high-quality paints, finishes, and restoration materials, we guarantee stunning, durable results that showcase our dedication and professionalism. As trusted painters serving Libertyville, Gurnee, and Northbrook, we pride ourselves on customizing our services to meet the specific needs of each client—from minor residential touch-ups to extensive commercial projects. Our team collaborates closely with you to select the ideal colors, finishes, and techniques, crafting personalized environments that reflect your unique vision. At DS Painters, we are committed to fostering lasting relationships built on integrity, dependability, and outstanding workmanship. Reach out to us today to learn how we can revitalize your space and discover why we are the preferred choice for painting and restoration in the area.

Additional Information:

If you’re looking for skilled **painters in Libertyville**, look no further than DS Painters. This full-service painting and restoration company has been transforming homes and businesses across Libertyville, Gurnee, and Northbrook with their expertise and dedication to quality. With a fresh coat of paint, you can dramatically enhance your property’s curb appeal while also protecting your investment. The experienced team at DS Painters understands the importance of detail, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction, ensuring each project is completed to perfection.

DS Painters offers a comprehensive range of services, including interior and exterior painting, cabinet painting, and pressure washing. Their cabinet painters near me are particularly skilled at revitalizing your kitchen or bathroom with beautiful finishes that breathe new life into your cabinetry. In addition to painting, they also specialize in deck sealing, fence sealing, and wood restoration, which are essential services for maintaining outdoor structures against harsh weather conditions. Using only premium-grade products, DS Painters guarantees stunning results that are both visually appealing and built to last.

What sets DS Painters apart from other **painters in Gurnee** and neighboring areas is their personalized approach. They understand that every client has unique needs and preferences, so the team works closely with you to choose the right colors, finishes, and techniques that align with your vision. Whether it’s a small residential project or a large commercial renovation, their commitment to quality remains consistent. They believe in building long-term relationships with their clients based on trust, reliability, and exceptional craftsmanship.

When you choose DS Painters, you’re not just hiring a service; you’re investing in a partnership focused on enhancing your space. As the go-to **painters in Northbrook**, they pride themselves on delivering results that exceed expectations. If you’re ready to transform your home or business, contact DS Painters today. Discover how their skilled team can help you achieve a beautiful and inviting atmosphere that reflects your personal style. With their dedication to service and quality, it’s easy to see why they are the top choice for local painting and restoration needs.

Location:

Business Information:

• Name: Happy Kinder Parties
• Website: https://www.happykinderparties.com
• Address: 6, Franklin House, Watts St, London, E1W 2PY
• Phone: 07900 911 881

Description:

Happy Kinder Parties is a premier provider of themed children’s celebrations in London, transforming ordinary gatherings into extraordinary adventures. Specializing in a diverse array of customizable themes—from thrilling Pokemon quests to magical Frozen journeys and heroic Superhero escapades—Happy Kinder Parties guarantees a distinctive and memorable event for every child. What truly distinguishes Happy Kinder Parties is their dedication to making party planning a breeze while delivering outstanding entertainment. From the first inquiry to the final moments of the celebration, parents enjoy personalized service with a variety of options, including decorations, games, and catering. The party atmosphere is infused with joy through vibrant balloons, themed tableware, and imaginative centerpieces, all while maintaining a focus on safety so families can relax and enjoy the festivities. In addition to their exciting themes, Happy Kinder Parties provides delightful add-ons such as face painting, crafts, and interactive games to keep the young guests engaged throughout the event. Their meticulous planning and attention to detail ensure a seamless experience, complemented by open communication at every stage. The entertainers, carefully vetted for their skills, bring enthusiasm and warmth, creating a welcoming environment where every child feels included and entertained. Parents appreciate the convenience of Happy Kinder Parties’ all-inclusive packages, which take care of everything from invitations to cleanup. With a commitment to crafting enchanting experiences, Happy Kinder Parties has established itself as a standout in London’s children’s party market, delivering unforgettable themed celebrations that delight kids and provide peace of mind for parents.

Additional Information:

Happy Kinder Parties is a standout choice for families in London looking for exciting and memorable celebrations. As a leading provider of themed kids’ parties, this company transforms ordinary gatherings into magical experiences. With an extensive selection of customizable themes ranging from thrilling Pokemon adventures to the enchanting world of Frozen, every child’s dream can come to life. Their talented childrens party entertainers breathe life into these themes, captivating young imaginations with characters like clowns, magicians, and beloved princesses, ensuring each event is unique and unforgettable.

What truly sets Happy Kinder Parties apart is their dedication to making party planning a stress-free process for parents. From the moment you reach out, their personalized service shines through. Families can choose from a variety of options, including decorations, games, and catering, all tailored to fit the chosen theme. The venue is filled with vibrant balloons, themed tableware, and creative centerpieces, creating an atmosphere of fun and excitement. Plus, with a strong focus on safety, parents can relax and enjoy the celebration, knowing their little ones are in good hands.

To keep the fun going, Happy Kinder Parties offers delightful extras such as face painting, crafts, and interactive games that ensure children are entertained throughout the event. Their seamless planning and attention to detail guarantee that everything runs smoothly. The carefully vetted childrens party entertainers bring an infectious energy and warmth that fosters an inclusive atmosphere where every child feels welcome and engaged.

Parents appreciate the convenience of Happy Kinder Parties’ comprehensive packages, which cover everything from invitations to cleanup. This all-in-one approach makes it easier for families to focus on creating joyful memories rather than stressing over logistics. With a commitment to crafting enchanting experiences, Happy Kinder Parties has carved out a special place in London’s children’s party scene. They provide unforgettable themed celebrations that delight children while giving parents peace of mind, making them a top choice for anyone seeking quality childrens party entertainers in the area.

Location:

Business Information:

• Name: Apex Tuition Australia – Private Tutoring
• Website: https://www.apextuitionaustralia.com/
• Address: Level 2/700 Swanston Street, Carlton Vic, 3053
• Phone: 0405 532 487

Description:

Apex Tuition Australia is dedicated to providing exceptional tutoring services for students from Year 1 to Year 12, catering to learners of all skill levels. We understand that the most effective learning experience comes from connecting with someone who has recently navigated the same academic challenges. Our team consists of accomplished tutors who are recent high school graduates, boasting an impressive median ATAR of 99.45. This enables us to offer not only comprehensive mastery of the curriculum but also tailored support to empower our students in achieving their academic aspirations.

Additional Information:

Apex Tuition Australia is a premier choice for those seeking exceptional private tutoring services tailored to students of all abilities from years 1 through 12. Understanding that each learner has unique challenges, Apex Tuition focuses on providing personalized support that resonates with students. The company’s approach is rooted in the belief that learning is most effective when guided by someone who has recently navigated the same educational journey.

What sets Apex Tuition apart is its team of high-achieving tutors, all of whom are recent high school graduates with a stellar median ATAR of 99.45. This impressive academic background not only equips them with a comprehensive understanding of the course material, but also enables them to connect with students on a personal level. They are well-versed in the current curriculum and can share valuable insights that make the learning process engaging and effective.

At Apex Tuition, the focus is on fostering confidence and academic excellence through customized private tutoring sessions. Tutors work closely with students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, developing tailored lesson plans that cater specifically to individual learning styles. This personalized attention ensures that students are not just memorizing information, but truly understanding it, which is crucial for long-term success in their studies.

The supportive and encouraging environment created by Apex Tuition allows students to feel comfortable expressing their difficulties. Rather than simply focusing on grades, the tutors emphasize the importance of mastering the material and developing critical thinking skills. This holistic approach to learning not only helps students achieve their immediate academic goals but also prepares them for future challenges.

If you are looking for a dedicated and effective private tutoring option in Australia, Apex Tuition is an excellent choice. With a team of passionate tutors who are committed to student success, they provide the guidance necessary for students to excel academically. By prioritizing personal connections and tailored instruction, Apex Tuition Australia empowers students to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams. Whether your child needs help with specific subjects or general study skills, their expert tutors are ready to help make learning a positive and rewarding experience.

Location:

Business Information:

• Name: Here on the Spectrum – ABA Therapy Service Montreal
• Website: https://aba-therapy.ca/montreal/
• Address: 1155 Metcalfe St, Montreal, Quebec H3B 2V6
• Phone: (514) 819-3565

Description:

**Aba Therapy Montreal Services** At Aba Therapy Montreal, we specialize in delivering personalized, evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy aimed at empowering individuals with autism to achieve their fullest potential. Founded by Janice, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a passion for supporting families worldwide, our mission is to make a meaningful impact in the autism community. Janice brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Special Education from the University of British Columbia, along with a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Queen’s University in Belfast, she is well-equipped to provide high-quality care. Since 2013, Janice has dedicated her career to assisting individuals with autism as a behavior interventionist, case manager, and consultant. Her extensive experience spans working with early learners, youth, and adults facing autism and other complex disorders. At Aba Therapy Montreal, we are committed to fostering growth and development for every individual we serve.

Additional Information:

Here on the Spectrum offers specialized ABA therapy services in Montreal, designed to help those with autism reach their full potential. Founded by Janice, a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA), the clinic focuses on personalized, evidence-based approaches. With a background in Psychology and Special Education from the University of British Columbia, and a Master of Science in Applied Behaviour Analysis from Queen’s University, Belfast, Janice brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice.

Since 2013, Janice has dedicated her career to supporting individuals in the autism community. Her extensive experience as a behaviour interventionist, case manager, and consultant has equipped her to work with early learners, youths, and adults facing autism and other complex disorders. This broad expertise ensures that every client receives tailored support that addresses their unique needs.

At Here on the Spectrum, the mission goes beyond therapy. The goal is to empower families by providing them with the tools and skills needed to foster growth and independence. By utilizing ABA therapy in Montreal, the clinic emphasizes practical strategies that can be integrated into daily life, making it easier for families to support their loved ones outside of session hours.

The approach is collaborative, involving parents and caregivers in the therapeutic process. This partnership ensures that strategies are consistently applied at home, reinforcing the skills learned during therapy sessions. In addition, Janice’s commitment to ongoing education keeps her up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in the field of ABA therapy, further enhancing the quality of care offered.

If you’re looking for effective, compassionate ABA therapy services in Montreal, Here on the Spectrum is a fantastic option. The focus on individual needs and a strong support system makes it a go-to choice for families seeking to help their loved ones thrive. Ultimately, it’s about creating a positive impact in the lives of those affected by autism, and Janice and her team are dedicated to making that happen. With Here on the Spectrum, you can expect a nurturing environment where growth and development take center stage.

Location:

Business Information:

• Name: That’s Innovative Pte Ltd
• Website: https://thatsinnovative.com/
• Address: 8@TradeHub 21, Boon Lay Wy, #09-12 Tradehub 21, Singapore 609964
• Phone: +65 9744 2288

Description:

At That’s Innovative, we prioritize open and personal connections with our clients, ensuring that every interaction is meaningful and engaging. Our commitment is to deliver exceptional event experiences, guiding you through every phase of your event, from initial planning to flawless execution. With over a decade of industry experience, we leverage our expertise and cultural insights to create fresh and innovative ways to engage your audience. Our dedicated team is passionate about crafting unique event concepts, ensuring that both you and your attendees enjoy unforgettable and impactful experiences.

Additional Information:

When searching for an exceptional event company in Singapore, look no further than That’s Innovative Pte Ltd. With over a decade of experience in the industry, this company prides itself on creating genuine connections with clients, ensuring that every interaction is personal, engaging, and tailored to individual needs. From the initial planning stages to the final execution, the team at That’s Innovative walks alongside clients, offering expert guidance and support to make the event experience as seamless as possible.

What sets That’s Innovative apart from other event companies in Singapore is their commitment to cultural distinctiveness and innovation. Their team is passionate about using their experience to craft unique event ideas that resonate with audiences. They believe that every event should tell a story, and they work diligently to ensure that clients’ visions come to life in memorable ways. Whether it’s a corporate function, a wedding, or a community event, That’s Innovative applies creativity and expertise to deliver results that exceed expectations.

The collaborative approach taken by That’s Innovative ensures that clients feel heard and valued throughout the entire process. They understand that no two events are the same, which is why they take the time to listen to client goals and aspirations. By fostering these personal connections, they can develop tailored solutions that not only meet but also enhance the overall event experience. Their dedication to client satisfaction is evident in the success of the events they plan and execute.

If you are looking to create an unforgettable experience for your audience, partnering with an event company in Singapore like That’s Innovative is a smart choice. Their team’s passion and expertise shine through in everything they do, ensuring that every event is not just a gathering but a memorable experience. With their innovative techniques and commitment to quality, clients can rest assured that their events will be executed flawlessly, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

In summary, That’s Innovative Pte Ltd stands out among event companies in Singapore due to their personal touch, innovative ideas, and dedication to client satisfaction. Whether you’re organizing a small gathering or a large corporate event, their team is ready to help you create something truly special.

Location:

Business Information:

• Name: Safe Responsible Movers
• Website: https://saferesponsiblemovers.com/
• Address: 24 Denby Rd #28, Boston, MA 02134
• Phone: 617-606-9098

Description:

Safe Responsible Movers has established itself as a leading moving service in Boston for over 15 years, specializing in residential relocations across Massachusetts. Whether it’s maneuvering through the narrow streets of Charlestown, assisting families in the North End, or facilitating suburban moves, their team possesses the expertise to ensure a smooth transition for every client. This company excels in household moving but offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to diverse moving needs. From apartment relocations and college transitions to commercial office moves, Safe Responsible Movers is equipped to handle projects of any scale. Their fleet includes 16-foot and 26-foot trucks, enabling them to manage everything from compact apartments to expansive homes and office spaces. For those needing just moving labor, Safe Responsible Movers also provides rental truck loading and unloading, pod assistance, and in-home moving services. This includes furniture rearrangement, intra-building moves, and transitions between units in the same building. Their adaptability shines through with the option for last-minute moves, with skilled teams ready to assist even on short notice. Renowned for their reliability, Safe Responsible Movers has garnered high ratings on platforms such as Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Their commitment to exceptional service has earned them accolades as the *Best Boston Movers* by the *Improper Bostonian*, along with features on major networks like NBC10 and WGBH. Whether you’re planning a large relocation or require urgent help with loading, Safe Responsible Movers delivers dependable service that Massachusetts residents count on. With their extensive experience and dedication to customer satisfaction, they are the go-to choice for all your moving needs.

Additional Information:

When it comes to relocating in Massachusetts, Safe Responsible Movers stands out as a premier choice among Boston movers. With over 15 years of experience, this top-rated Boston moving company specializes in residential moving services tailored to the unique challenges of the area. Whether you’re navigating the narrow streets of Charlestown or managing a move in the North End, Safe Responsible Movers has the expertise to ensure a smooth transition for individuals and families alike.

Their offerings extend beyond just household moves, making them a versatile option for various relocation needs. If you’re searching for apartment movers, college movers, or even commercial movers in Boston, look no further. Safe Responsible Movers is fully equipped to handle moves of all sizes, from small studio apartments to expansive family homes and offices. With a fleet of 16-foot and 26-foot moving trucks, no job is too big or too small.

For those who may only need assistance with labor, Safe Responsible Movers provides specialized services such as movers to load a POD or truck. They offer loading and unloading services for rental trucks and pods, making it convenient for customers looking for labor-only movers. Additionally, their in-home moving services can help with rearranging furniture or relocating items within the same building, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive support regardless of their specific needs.

Recognized for their reliability and customer satisfaction, Safe Responsible Movers has built a strong reputation in the Boston moving industry. Their commitment to exceptional service has earned them high ratings on platforms like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). With accolades such as being named the *Best Boston Movers* by the *Improper Bostonian*, it’s clear why Massachusetts residents trust them for all types of moves.

Whether you’re planning a move across the city or need immediate assistance with last-minute relocation, Safe Responsible Movers is ready to provide professional service you can depend on. Their experienced crews are available on short notice to accommodate unexpected situations, making them the go-to choice for Watertown movers and beyond. With a dedication to customer care and a wealth of experience, Safe Responsible Movers is the local moving partner you can count on for all your moving needs.

Location:

Business Information:

• Name: Fabulous Swim
• Website: https://fabulousswim.com/
• Address: 101 Upper Cross St, #07-10, Singapore 058357
• Phone: +65 9744 2288

Description:

Fabulous Swim is a premier swimming academy dedicated to fostering a seamless learning experience and achieving excellence in aquatic skills. Catering to students as young as six months, they offer both personalized coaching and group or private lessons tailored to individual needs. Utilizing cutting-edge underwater videography, Fabulous Swim allows swimmers to assess and enhance their techniques effectively. The school prides itself on creating a comfortable, private atmosphere led by skilled instructors, ensuring each swimmer enjoys a fulfilling and progressive journey in the water. Furthermore, they provide coach certification programs to uphold their commitment to top-tier teaching standards.

Additional Information:

Fabulous Swim stands out as a premier destination for anyone seeking private swimming instructors in Singapore. With a commitment to effortless learning and excellence, this swimming school caters to students as young as six months old, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to develop essential swimming skills in a supportive environment. Their personalized coaching approach allows instructors to tailor lessons to meet the unique needs of each swimmer, whether in a group setting or through private lessons.

One of the innovative features that Fabulous Swim offers is the use of underwater videography. This cutting-edge technology allows students to review their swimming techniques, providing a visual feedback mechanism that enhances their learning experience. By analyzing their form and movements, swimmers can identify areas for improvement, making each lesson more effective and enjoyable. This emphasis on personalized coaching combined with advanced technology truly sets Fabulous Swim apart from other swimming schools in the region.

The learning environment at Fabulous Swim is designed to be both private and convenient, which is especially beneficial for those who may feel intimidated in larger classes. With expert coaches who are passionate about teaching, students can expect a comprehensive and enjoyable swimming journey. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills, the private swimming instructors in Singapore at Fabulous Swim are dedicated to helping you achieve your swimming goals.

Moreover, Fabulous Swim is committed to maintaining high teaching standards through their coach certification programs. These programs ensure that all instructors are well-trained and up to date with the latest swimming techniques and teaching methodologies. By prioritizing the continuous education of their coaches, Fabulous Swim guarantees that students receive the best possible instruction, making it an excellent choice for families looking for quality swimming education.

In conclusion, if you are searching for private swimming instructors in Singapore who prioritize personalized coaching, innovative teaching methods, and a supportive learning environment, look no further than Fabulous Swim. With their unique offerings and commitment to excellence, they are well-equipped to guide swimmers of all ages on their journey to becoming confident and skilled swimmers. Dive into the transformative experience at Fabulous Swim and discover the joy of swimming today.

Location:

Consuming food and water is essential for human life. Your body needs energy from food sources and hydration from water to function properly. The many systems in your body work optimally with a varied diet and adequate daily water intake.

But our bodies can survive for days without water. We can go days or sometimes weeks without food because we adjust our metabolism and energy use.

Why the period varies

Eliminating food intake and water intake for a significant period of time is also called starvation. Your body may starve after a day or two without food or water. At this point, the body begins to function differently to reduce the amount of energy it burns. Eventually, starvation leads to death.

There is no hard and fast “rule of thumb” for how long you can live without food. There is a lack of scientific research on hunger because it is now considered unethical to study hunger in human subjects.

There are some studies that examine old research on hunger and examine more recent occurrences of hunger in the real world. These cases include hunger strikes, religious fasting, and other situations.

These studies have uncovered several observations about hunger:

An article in Archiv Fur Kriminologie states that the body can survive 8 to 21 days without food and water and up to two months if there is access to adequate water intake.

Modern hunger strikes have provided insight into hunger. A study in the British Medical Journal cited several hunger strikes that ended after 21 to 40 days. These hunger strikes ended because of the severe, life-threatening symptoms experienced by the participants.

There appears to be a specific “minimum” number on the body mass index (BMI) scale for survival. According to the journal Nutrition, men with a BMI of less than 13 and women with a BMI of less than 11 cannot sustain life.
An article in the British Medical Journal concludes that those who are normal weight lose a higher percentage of their body weight and muscle tissue faster than those who are obese if they starve to death during the first three days.

According to Nutrition magazine, the body composition of women makes them endure hunger longer.

How is this possible?
Being able to live for days without food or water seems unimaginable to many of us. After all, fasting for days or even going for hours without food and water can leave many of us irritable and low on energy.

Your body actually adapts when you fast for short periods of time or are unable to access food and water for very long periods of time. This allows people to religiously fast and even try “fasting” diets like the Eat-Stop-Eat approach without irreparably damaging their bodies.

It takes about eight hours without eating for your body to change the way it functions. Before that, it functions as if you were eating regularly.

Under normal circumstances, your body breaks down food into glucose. The glucose provides energy for the body.

Once your body has not had access to food for 8 to 12 hours, your glucose stores are depleted. Your body begins to convert glycogen from your liver and muscles into glucose.

After your glucose and glycogen are depleted, your body begins to use amino acids to provide energy. This process affects your muscles and can starve your body for about three days before your metabolism makes a major shift to maintain lean body tissue.

To prevent excessive muscle loss, the body begins to rely on fat stores to create ketones for energy, a process known as ketosis. You will experience significant weight loss during this time. One of the reasons women can go hungry longer than men is because their bodies have a higher fat composition. Women are also able to hold protein and lean muscle tissue better than men during starvation.

The more fat stores available, the longer a person can usually survive during starvation. Once fat stores are fully metabolized, the body returns to muscle breakdown for energy, as it is the only remaining fuel source in the body.

You will experience severe adverse symptoms during starvation when your body is using its muscle reserves for energy. A study in the British Medical Journal states that those who undergo starvation should be closely monitored for severe side effects of starvation after they have lost 10 percent of their body weight. It also says that very serious conditions occur when a person loses 18 percent of their body weight.

Why does water intake affect this?
You are much more likely to starve yourself for weeks – and possibly months – if you can consume a healthy amount of water. Your body has many more reserves to replace food than liquid. Your kidney function will decline within a few days without adequate hydration.

According to one article, those on their deathbeds can survive between 10 and 14 days without food and water. Some longer survival times have been noted, but are less common. Remember that people who are bedridden do not use much energy. A person who is healthy and mobile would likely perish much sooner.

One study that looked at hunger strikes suggested that a person needs to drink at least 1, 5 liters of water per day to survive hunger for an extended period of time. The study also suggested adding half a teaspoon of salt per day to the water to support kidney function.

Side effects and risks of restricted eating
Living without access to food and water can have a detrimental effect on your body. Your body’s many systems begin to deteriorate, even though your body can go on for days and weeks without food and water.

Some of the side effects of starvation include:

• fainting
• dizziness
• drop in blood pressure
• slowing of the heart rate
• hypotension
• weakness
• dehydration
• thyroid dysfunction
• abdominal pain
• low potassium
• fluctuation of body temperature
• post-traumatic stress or depression
• heart attack
• organ failure

Those who experience prolonged starvation cannot immediately begin to eat normal amounts of food. The body must be eased back into eating very slowly to avoid side effects known as refeeding syndrome, including:

• heart disease
• neurological conditions
• swelling of the body tissues

Resuming eating after starvation requires the supervision of a physician and may include cooked vegetables, lactose-free foods, and a low-protein, low-sugar diet.

Conclusion
The human body is quite resilient and can function for days and weeks without proper food and water. This is not to say that going without food for an extended period of time is healthy or should be practiced.

Your body can sustain itself for a week or two without access to food and water and possibly even longer if you consume water. Those who suffer from hunger need to be monitored by a doctor to recover after the period without food to avoid this syndrome.

Food poisoning, also called foodborne illness, is a disease caused by eating contaminated food. Infectious organisms – including bacteria, viruses, and parasites – or their toxins are the most common causes of food poisoning.

Infectious organisms or their toxins can contaminate food at any processing or production site. Contamination can also occur at home when food is mishandled or cooked.

Symptoms of food poisoning that may occur within hours of eating contaminated food often include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Most of the time, food poisoning is mild and resolves without treatment. But some people need to go to the hospital.

Problem Description

Food poisoning symptoms vary with the source of contamination. Most types of food poisoning cause one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Watery or bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Fever

Signs and symptoms may begin within hours of eating the contaminated food or start days or even weeks later. Illness caused by food poisoning generally lasts from a few hours to several days.

When to see a doctor
If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, seek medical attention.

• Frequent episodes of vomiting and inability to keep fluids down
• Bloody vomit or stool
• Diarrhea for more than three days
• Extreme pain or severe abdominal cramps
• An oral temperature higher than 100.4 F (38 C)
• Signs or symptoms of dehydration-excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Neurological symptoms such as blurred vision, muscle weakness, and tingling in the arms

Hrt
Contamination of food can happen at any point of production: Growing, harvesting, processing, storing, shipping or preparing. Cross-contamination-the transfer of harmful organisms from one surface to another-is often the cause. This is especially problematic for raw, ready-to-eat foods such as salads or other produce. Because these foods are not cooked, harmful organisms are not destroyed before eating and can cause food poisoning.

Many bacterial, viral, or parasitic agents cause food poisoning. The following table shows some of the possible contaminants when you can feel symptoms and common ways the organism spreads.

Risk factor
Whether you get sick after eating contaminated food depends on the organism, the amount of exposure, your age, and your health. Risk groups include:

Elderly.

As you get older, your immune system may not respond as quickly or effectively to infectious organisms as it used to.
Pregnant. During pregnancy, changes in your metabolism and circulation may increase your risk of food poisoning. Your reaction may be more severe during pregnancy. Rarely, your baby may also get sick.
Infants and young children. Their immune systems are not fully developed.

People with chronic diseases. A chronic disease – such as diabetes, liver disease, or AIDS – or chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer reduces your immune response.

Complication
The most common serious complication of food poisoning is dehydration – a severe loss of water and essential salts and minerals. If you are a healthy adult and drink enough to replace fluids you lose through vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration should not be a problem.

Infants, older adults, and people with suppressed immune systems or chronic illnesses can become severely dehydrated if they lose more fluids than they can replace. In this case, they may need to be hospitalized and receive intravenous fluids. In extreme cases, dehydration can be fatal.

Some types of food poisoning have potentially serious complications for certain people. These include:

Listeria infection. Complications of Listeria food poisoning can be most severe for an unborn baby. Early in pregnancy, a Listeria infection can cause miscarriages. Later in pregnancy, Listeria infection can lead to stillbirths, premature births, or potentially fatal infection of the baby after birth – even if the mother was only mildly ill. Infants who survive a Listeria infection may experience long-term neurological damage and delayed development.

Escherichia coli (E. coli). Certain strains of E. coli can cause a serious complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome. This syndrome damages the lining of tiny blood vessels in the kidneys and sometimes leads to kidney failure. Older adults, children under age 5, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing this complication. If you are in one of these risk categories, see your doctor at the first sign of severe or bloody diarrhea.

Prevention
To prevent food poisoning at home:

Wash your hands, utensils, and food surfaces frequently. Wash your hands well with warm, soapy water before and after handling or preparing food. Use hot soapy water to wash utensils, cutting boards, and other surfaces you use.

Keep raw foods separate from ready-to-eat foods. When shopping for, preparing, or storing food, keep raw meat, poultry, fish, and shellfish away from other foods. This prevents cross-contamination.

Cook foods to a safe temperature. The best way to determine if food is cooked to a safe temperature is to use a food thermometer. You can kill harmful organisms in most foods by cooking them to the proper temperature.

Cook ground beef to 160 F (71.1 C), steaks, roasts and chops, such as lamb, pork and veal, to at least 145 F (62.8 C). Cook chicken and turkey to 165 F (73.9 C). Make sure fish and shellfish are thoroughly cooked.

Refrigerate or freeze perishable foods immediately – within two hours of purchase or preparation. If room temperature is above 90 F (32.2 C), refrigerate perishable foods within one hour.
Defrost foods safely. Do not thaw foods at room temperature. The safest way to thaw food is to thaw it in the refrigerator. If you microwave frozen food on the “defrost” or “50% power” setting, cook it immediately.

When in doubt, throw it out. If you are not sure if a food was safely prepared, served or stored, discard it. Food left at room temperature too long may contain bacteria or toxins that cannot be destroyed by cooking. Don’t try food you’re not sure about – just throw it away. Even if it looks and smells good, it may not be safe to eat.

Food poisoning is especially serious and potentially life-threatening to young children, pregnant women and their fetuses, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. These individuals should take extra precautions by avoiding the following foods:

• Raw or rare meat and poultry
• Raw or uncooked fish or shellfish, including oysters, clams, mussels and scallops
• Raw or uncooked eggs or foods that may contain them, such as cookie dough and homemade ice cream
• Raw sprouts such as alfalfa, beans, clover and radishes
• Unpasteurized juices and cider
• Unpasteurized milk and milk products
• Soft cheeses such as feta, brie and camembert; blue cheese; and unpasteurized cheese
• Chilled pies and meat spreads
• Uncooked hot dogs, lunch meats and sausages

Digestion time varies between individuals and between men and women. After eating, it takes about six to eight hours for food to pass through the stomach and small intestine. Food then enters your large intestine (colon) for further digestion, water absorption and finally elimination of undigested food. It takes about 36 hours for food to move through the entire colon. All told, the entire process – from the time you swallow food until it leaves your body as feces – takes about two to five days, depending on the individual.