Preventing Autoimmune Diseases: The Role of Vitamin D and Fish Oil

Before I talk about this week’s blurb, here’s what one reader had to say about my blurbs:

“Jerry,

     Your Blurbs are always interesting, but this one really rang a bell for me. THANK YOU!!!”

Alice Krum

Thanks, Alice. I do have request if you’re getting benefits from my blurbs to please email your contacts list about signing up to receive this weekly in their inbox! 

They can click on this link to sign up to receive the Blurb in their box - https://www.mcssl.com/WebForms/WebForm.aspx?wid=10b70610-7e19-4da3-b954-e8d69e441b05

Thanks

Jerry V. Teplitz

And now for this week’s article: 

The Role of Vitamin D in Your Immune Systems Health

More than 24 million Americans suffer from autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are conditions where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells, tissues, and organs. This can lead to a variety of chronic conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. 

While the exact causes of autoimmune diseases remain largely unknown, research has suggested that lifestyle factors, including diet and supplementation, can play a role in both the prevention and management of these conditions. 

Among the most studied nutrients for their potential protective effectiveness are vitamin D and Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil which can help people over 50 avoid these diseases.

Now-a-days Vitamin D, which is called the “sunshine vitamin,” is not the easiest thing to get naturally. First of all, if you live in a more northern climate, you won’t get any Vitamin D during the winter. Secondly, many people today spend much of their time indoors looking at screens. Third, putting sunscreen on prevents Vitamin D from even being created in your body. 

It turns out that Vitamin D is essential for your immune system since it helps regulate the body’s immune responses and reduce inflammation. Adequate levels of vitamin D allow the immune system to function correctly by enhancing the pathogen-fighting effects of immune cells, like T cells, while also preventing the immune system from overreacting. This is important because an overreacting immune system is a major factor in the development of autoimmune diseases.

Several studies suggest that low levels of Vitamin D are associated with an increased risk of autoimmune diseases. For example, individuals with MS tend to have lower vitamin D levels, and research has shown that supplementing with Vitamin D may reduce disease activity in MS patients. Similarly, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of type 1 diabetes, which involves the immune system attacking the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Fish Oil: Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Immune Regulation

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosatetraenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These essential fats have anti-inflammatory properties and play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced immune response. Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of autoimmune diseases, so reducing this inflammation can help prevent or manage autoimmune conditions.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to modulate the immune system in several ways. They help balance the activity of various immune cells, such as T cells and B cells. Omega-3s also promote the production of molecules that stop inflammation, such as resolvins and protectins.

Studies have shown that fish oil supplementation can help reduce joint pain, inflammation, and disease activity. Additionally, research suggests that fish oil can help protect against the development of autoimmune diseases by promoting immune tolerance — the body's ability to recognize and not attack its own cells.

Now the Heart of the Matter - How Vitamin D and Fish Oil Work Together

While vitamin D and fish oil have distinct mechanisms of action, they complement each other in supporting immune health and preventing autoimmune diseases. Vitamin D enhances the function of immune cells that help regulate inflammation, while omega-3s actively reduce inflammation. Together, these nutrients may help maintain a healthy immune balance.

How to Get Vitamin D and Omega-3s

As I mentioned, it can be difficult to get enough Vitamin D from food alone, especially for individuals who live in areas with limited sunlight. Plus, the only way to tell if you have enough Vitamin D in your system is by having your Doc do a blood test. You want to aim for a level around 40 to 80 ng (ng is how you measure Vitamin D). As an example, many years ago when I had my blood tested for Vitamin D, I was at 12 ng. This meant I was almost totally deficient in Vitamin D. By taking Vitamin D3 supplements, I’m now at 67 ngs.

For Omega-3s, fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, are excellent choices. For vegetarians or vegans, other sources for Omega 3s include chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts. You can look at taking fish oil supplements or algae-based supplements which can also help ensure you have an adequate Omega-3 intake.

Final Thoughts: A Holistic Approach to Preventing Autoimmune Diseases

Although vitamin D and fish oil are not a cure-all, they play an essential role in maintaining immune system balance and may help prevent the development or progression of autoimmune diseases. If you’re at risk of autoimmune conditions or already manage one, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether supplementation with vitamin D and omega-3s could be beneficial for you.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent autoimmune diseases, ensuring that your body has the right nutrients may provide the immune support it needs to function properly and avoid harmful inflammation. So…sit outside in the sunshine for about 20 minutes a day when you can, take Vitamin D supplements, eat fish a couple of times a week or take an Omega 3 supplement.
(Reported Harvard Health Annual, 2023)

A Type Exercise You May Never Have Heard of - Slow Walking and Slow Running

 Huh? What in the world is slow walking and slow running? Don’t you want to exercise at a fast pace? Doesn’t slowing down seem counterintuitive? It did to me when I first heard about it, but after watching a video on it, I’ve starting using slow walking as a part of my exercising. I’ll give you the link to that video at the end of this Blurb.

When it comes to walking or running, there’s often a misconception that you either have to push yourself to the limit with high-intensity effort. However, an approach that combines both slow and fast intervals can offer a unique set of benefits. With this approach you’ll alternate between periods of slow and fast movement. You’ll do 3 minutes of slow walking or running followed by 3 minutes of faster walking or running. You’ll do a number of repetitions.

This simple method allows you to challenge your cardiovascular system, build endurance, and incorporate both recovery and exertion periods into your routine.

With slow running you’ll want to run at a “conversational pace” - meaning you can still talk without gasping for breath, and you’re engaging your muscles in a way that’s sustainable over a longer period. You’ll be jogging at a slower pace than what you’d typically run. It’s not about racing or pushing for speed; it’s about focusing on a relaxed, controlled effort.

Benefits of Alternating Slow and Fast Intervals

There are an amazing number of benefits from doing Slow Walking and Running. Let’s take a look at what they are:

1. Improved Cardiovascular Fitness

By alternating between slow and fast paces, you give your heart and lungs a workout that challenges their efficiency. During the fast intervals, your heart rate increases, improving cardiovascular health, while the slow intervals allow your heart rate to come down slightly, giving your body the chance to recover and prepare for the next push. Over time, this will increase your overall endurance and aerobic capacity.

2. Enhanced Fat Burning

One of the key benefits of interval training—whether it’s through walking or running—is its ability to promote fat burning. During the fast intervals, you push your body into a higher intensity, where you burn more calories in a shorter period of time. The slower intervals, on the other hand, allow you to continue burning fat at a lower intensity. This combination creates an efficient fat-burning workout that can be sustained for longer periods than just going all-out.

3. Muscle Endurance and Strength

Switching between slow and fast paces helps activate different muscle fibers. During the slow intervals, your body focuses on endurance, while the fast intervals engage more fast-twitch muscle fibers, improving your strength and power. This balance between endurance and strength helps build a more well-rounded fitness foundation.

4. Reduced Risk of Injury

One of the most common concerns with running or walking at a fast pace is the potential for injury, particularly when pushing your body too hard without proper recovery. Alternating slow and fast intervals reduces the strain on your body by incorporating active recovery periods. The slow intervals give your muscles a chance to relax, recover, and reset, which helps prevent overuse injuries often associated with constant high-intensity exercise.

5. Mental Focus and Motivation

Alternating between slow and fast paces can make your workout feel more manageable. The knowledge that you only need to push yourself for a short amount of time during each fast interval can help maintain motivation. The slow intervals offer a mental break, allowing you to refocus and prepare for the next burst of speed. This approach helps combat mental fatigue and makes the workout feel more varied and enjoyable.

6. Improved Running or Walking Form

The combination of slow and fast intervals can also help improve your overall walking or running technique. During the slower intervals, you can focus on refining your posture, stride length, and breathing technique. The faster intervals, meanwhile, challenge you to maintain good form while increasing speed. Over time, alternating between these paces helps you develop a more efficient and fluid movement pattern.

So…I’d say this is quite a list of benefits from just slowing down.

Here’s How You Can Implement Slow-Fast Intervals

• Start Slow: If you’re new to interval training, begin with a comfortable pace for your slow intervals. This is a time for your body to relax and recover. For walking, aim for a pace that allows you to breathe easily and feel at ease. For running, go at a pace where you’re able to have a conversation without struggling to catch your breath.

• Push During Fast Intervals: When it’s time to speed up, increase your pace to something challenging but sustainable. For walking, aim for a brisk pace that elevates your heart rate. For running, push yourself to a pace that makes it difficult to carry on a conversation, but you should still be able to maintain form.

• Consistency is Key: The beauty of this approach is that it can be adapted to your fitness level. If 3 minutes of fast intervals feel too much at first, start with 1 or 2 minutes and gradually build up to longer fast intervals. As you become more accustomed to this type of training, you can increase the duration of your fast intervals or the overall length of your workout.

• Cool Down: After your intervals, it’s important to cool down by walking slowly for a few minutes to bring your heart rate back to normal. This helps in preventing injury and allows your muscles to recover.

Let me share my wife Elizabeth’s experience with doing Slow Walking. First of all, Elizabeth is not a big fan of exercising by walking. Since she’s started doing Slow Walking her whole attitude towards exercising this way has totally changed.

She now goes out twice a day to do her Slow Walking. She says she feels great doing it.

I’ve also added Slow Walking to my exercising (I haven’t attempted slow running at this point).

Here’s the link to the video that you can watch about this approach which was discovered in Japan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z71aHZ4scMs.

Sooooo…I urge you do start to do slow walking and see how it feels to you!

Can You Trust the Recommendations of Major Health Care Groups?

We trust organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the Arthritis Foundation (AF) to guide us with recommendations backed by the latest research. Whether it’s cancer, arthritis, or any other condition, these organizations help both doctors and patients make informed decisions about treatment options, including drugs, supplements, and preventive measures.

But what if I told you that this trust might be misplaced?

According to a report from the Alliance for Natural Health USA, many of these prominent health organizations may not be as independent as they seem. In fact, a troubling study revealed that a large number of major health groups are receiving substantial financial support from big pharmaceutical companies—funding that could influence their recommendations.

A recent study found that 83% of these groups, similar to ACS and AF, were receiving significant donations from pharmaceutical giants. Even more concerning? Many of these donations are hidden from the public eye.

Let’s take a look at a few examples:

• In 2023, AbbVie, the maker of the immunosuppressant drug Humira for rheumatoid arthritis, donated $1 million to the Arthritis Foundation.

• Merck, the company behind the anti-cancer drug Keytruda, gave $1 million to the American Cancer Society.

• Novo Nordisk, which manufactures the popular weight loss drug Wegovy, has donated over $25 million to weight loss specialists in the past decade.

The figures are even more staggering when you consider the total. From 2010 to 2022, drug companies donated over $6 billion to these organizations. Yes, you read that right—BILLIONS.

So why don’t we hear more about this? The answer lies in the way the media works. Pharmaceutical companies are major advertisers in mainstream outlets. They fund studies that often show better outcomes for patients than independent research. They place ads in medical journals, ensuring their products are front and center. And let’s not forget their financial support to medical schools, where future doctors are trained.

Are you starting to see the bigger picture?

This close relationship between major health organizations and the pharmaceutical industry raises important questions about the recommendations we receive. When health advice is influenced by financial interests, it’s harder to know whether it’s truly in the best interest of patients—or if it’s shaped by corporate influence.

So, what does this mean for you? It’s more important than ever to stay informed, explore all your options, and consider alternatives. Taking control of your health means being aware of these potential conflicts of interest and not relying solely on the advice of major organizations.

Takeaway: Stay proactive in your health journey. Do your research, question the motives behind recommendations, and never stop seeking the best possible care for yourself. (Reported in WDDTY, January/February 2025 – a reliable source to subscribe to for more insights.)

A Non-Surgical Way Treat a Herniated Disc

Herniated discs are no fun! There’s now what I would call a revolutionary approach to healing. This involves a substance called condoliase which is an enzyme-based treatment that specifically targets the core material of the herniated disc, which is called nucleus pulposus.

I’m writing about this because my Neurologist was one of the authors of this study.

Until now people with herniated discs would attempt a variety of treatments ranging from physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, pain relievers to surgery. Traditional treatments like surgery have been the mainstay of care. So, what if there was a less invasive option that could offer relief? 

And that’s condoliase’s cue!

This enzyme breaks down the glycosaminoglycans (a big word!) in the disc, which are responsible for the disc’s structure and its ability to hold water. This reduces the size of the nucleus pulposus which is the soft, jelly-like center of the disc. 

The nucleus pulposus is composed mostly of water, collagen fibers, and proteoglycans (molecules that help the disc hold water). The high-water content gives the nucleus pulposus its compressibility which allows it to function as a cushion or shock absorber for the spine, which is especially important during activities like walking, running, or lifting.

A herniated disc occurs when this soft inner material of the disc bulges or ruptures out of its outer casing, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness. This can be caused by aging, injury, or repetitive stress on the spine. The main goal in treating a herniated disc is to relieve the pressure on the nerves and to restore normal spinal function.

What condoliase is doing is alleviating the pressure on surrounding nerve roots and tissues, which is often the primary cause of pain in individuals with herniated discs. The condoliase is directly injected into the affected disc, where it begins to break down the chemical components of the nucleus pulposus. 

The result is a reduction in the size of the disc herniation, relieving pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. The reduction in pressure can often lead to an improvement in symptoms such as pain and numbness which gives patients a less invasive option for healing.

There are a number of benefits to going the condoliase treatment route:

1. Non-Surgical Option

One of the most attractive benefits of condoliase is that it offers a non-surgical alternative to traditional treatments like spinal fusion or removing the disc from the spine. For many individuals, surgery can be intimidating, costly, and requires a significant recovery period. The condoliase treatment also allows patients to avoid the potential risks and complications of surgery.

2. Minimal Recovery Time

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, condoliase treatment typically requires a much shorter recovery time compared to surgery. Most patients can return to their regular activities soon after the procedure, with less downtime and a reduced risk of complications.

3. Targeted Treatment

Unlike general pain management options, such as medications or injections, condoliase specifically targets the source of the herniated disc – the damaged nucleus pulposus. This means that patients may experience long-lasting relief from their symptoms because the underlying cause, the herniation, is being addressed and not just the pain.

4. Effectiveness in Pain Reduction

Bringing the patient significant pain relief and a reduction in the size of the hernia often leads to improved mobility and function. Patients have reported experiencing reduced pain, increased flexibility, and better quality of life following treatment.

5. Minimally Invasive with Few Side Effects

Condoliase injections are generally well-tolerated and have minimal risk of side effects. The procedure is performed with a needle under local anesthesia which avoids all the risks associated with surgery.

Condoliase works best for patients with moderate disc herniation and who have not found relief with treatments like physical therapy, oral medications, or epidural injections. If you have severe disc degeneration or a very large herniation, you may still have to go the surgery route. A spine specialist or orthopedic surgeon can determine if condoliase is a viable treatment option.

So…would it make sense to explore an effective, minimally invasive, non-surgical option with a relatively quick recovery option for a herniated disc? YOU BET IT WOULD!(Reported The Spine Journal, August 2024)

Progressive Eyeglasses Have a Bunch of Problems You May Not Be Aware of

Progressive eyeglasses have become a popular solution for people who need both near and far vision correction. Unlike bifocals or trifocals, which have visible lines separating different prescriptions, progressive lenses provide a seamless transition between various focal points, offering a more natural visual experience. They allow you to see clearly at all distances, from reading a book up close to focusing on distant objects like a street sign.

While progressive lenses offer convenience and aesthetic appeal, there are hidden dangers associated with them that many people may not be aware of. I want to make you aware of these

pitfalls so you can operate from an informed place and be able to share this with friends and family members who might be using or be considering getting them.

1. Adjustment Period

One of the biggest challenges with progressive lenses is the adjustment period. When you first start wearing them, it can take some time for your brain and eyes to adapt to the new way of seeing. This can lead to discomfort, dizziness, and even headaches. The lenses have multiple focal points (for near, intermediate, and distance vision), which means your eyes have to constantly adjust as you shift your gaze.

For some people, the transition can be difficult and cause temporary problems like nausea, eye strain, and blurred vision, especially if they are new to wearing any form of prescription eyewear. The discomfort might subside with time, but it’s not guaranteed for everyone.

2. Peripheral Distortion

Progressive lenses operate by having areas of the lens dedicated to different vision ranges, but the edges of the lens are often not as clear as the center. This is especially true for the areas that provide intermediate and near vision. The edges of the lenses tend to have distortions, which can make objects appear out of focus or blurry.

For some wearers, this distortion can be problematic, especially when turning your head or looking out of the corner of your eyes. For example, you might not notice an obstacle while walking or driving if you’re looking out of the periphery. This could result in accidents or even falls, particularly for older individuals who rely heavily on their vision.

3. Increased Risk for Older Adults

Older adults who require progressive lenses may be even more vulnerable to the hidden dangers from progressive lenses. The problem is as we age our depth perception and balance tend to decline, making us more prone to falls or accidents. Progressive lenses, with their peripheral distortions and the need for constant eye adjustment, can complicate this issue.

There’s been research looking at this and they found that older folks who wear progressive lens were almost twice as likely to fall verse people wearing single-vision lenses.

A compilation of studies in the Journal of Refractive Surgery found that people were three times more likely to trip and fall outside the house.

 Moreover, some elderly individuals may already have difficulty with spatial awareness, and the use of progressive lenses could further impair their ability to judge distances accurately. This is especially true when the person is driving, walking on uneven surfaces, and especially when using the stairs. 

When we walk without glasses, we see the ground about 5 or 6 feet in front of you. With progressive lens you only see a little more than a foot in front of you. This means you could miss stairs and obstacles outside. 

One ophthalmologist pointed out that professionals in the field may not be aware of this problem because when someone falls, they go to the hospital and not to their optometrist or ophthalmologist. As a matter of fact, 23 states have no requirement that opticians have education and training to be licensed. 

4. Difficulty with Certain Activities

While progressive lenses are great for general everyday activities, they may not be ideal for specialized tasks that require very precise vision, such as reading fine print or engaging in hobbies like knitting or sewing. The lower portion of the progressive lens is designed for near vision, but it might not provide enough clarity for very detailed tasks. If you’re an avid reader or need sharp vision for intricate work, you may find the limitations of progressive lenses frustrating.

Additionally, activities like using a smartphone, working on a computer, or driving at night can be challenging. For example, progressive lenses can cause glare or difficulty focusing on small screens. Some wearers report feeling more fatigued after long periods of digital screen use because of the constant shifting of their focal points.

5. Potential for Incorrect Prescription

Not all progressive lenses are created equal, and it’s essential to ensure that your prescription is accurate. An improper fit or poorly made lenses can exacerbate the issues discussed above, leading to even more discomfort or vision problems. If your lenses are not calibrated to your specific needs, you may find yourself with blurred vision, headaches, or even eye strain that could cause long-term damage.

If your optometrist doesn’t take proper measurements or if you choose low-cost lenses from less reputable brands, you may be setting yourself up for a frustrating experience.

6. Compromised Peripheral Vision

In addition to distortion at the edges of the lenses, progressive glasses can also compromise your peripheral vision. The side areas of the lens, designed for near vision, can be hard to navigate without awkward head tilting. The wider your field of vision, the more pronounced the peripheral limitations may feel. This could affect activities like walking in crowded spaces or driving in traffic, where a wide and clear field of vision is critical.

7. Cost and Maintenance

Progressive lenses tend to be more expensive than regular single-vision lenses or bifocals. While they offer convenience, the higher cost could lead some users to settle for lower-quality products or lens options that don't fully address their visual needs. Additionally, progressive lenses often require specialized care and adjustments, meaning you may need to visit your optometrist more frequently for tweaks or repairs.

Conclusion: Are Progressive Glasses Right for You?

Progressive eyeglasses can certainly improve quality of life for many people by providing a more seamless transition between different focal points. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers and challenges they present. From adjustment difficulties to peripheral distortions and increased risks for older adults, these lenses aren’t always the perfect solution for everyone.

One option would be to get a pair of single focus lens to use when you go for a walk or driving your car.

So…to progressives or not, that is your question!
(Reported AARP.org/Bulletin, October 2024)

The Amazing Power of an Amino Acid You’ve Never Heard of - Taurine

I'm taking the hoildays off from writing the Blurb. The next one will be published on January 11.

Happy Hoikdays and Happy New Year!!! 

Jerry

Now for this weeks Blurb:

In the world of health and wellness, taurine often flies under the radar. I for one have never heard of it. Yet, this amino acid is a powerhouse with a myriad of benefits that can enhance your overall well-being. Let's take a look at taurine and why it’s so powerful!

What is Taurine?

Taurine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in various tissues throughout the body, particularly in the heart, brain, eyes, and muscles. Unlike other amino acids, taurine is not used to build proteins. Instead, it plays a crucial role in many physiological processes in the body. Take a look at what taurine does in the body. 

The Benefits of Taurine

1. Heart Health: Taurine is known for its cardioprotective properties. It helps regulate blood pressure, improves heart function, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. By supporting the heart's contractility and reducing arterial stiffness, taurine ensures your heart stays strong and healthy.

2. Brain Function: Taurine acts as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator in the brain. It helps stabilize cell membranes, supports the growth of new brain cells, and protects against neurodegenerative diseases. Enhanced cognitive function and improved mood are just a couple of its brain-boosting benefits.

3. Muscle Performance: For athletes and fitness folks, taurine is a game-changer. It aids in muscle contractions, reduces muscle fatigue, and accelerates your recovery after an intense workout. It even maintains electrolyte balance and reduces oxidative stress which helps you perform at your peak.

4. Eye Health: Taurine is abundant in the retina and plays a vital role in maintaining eye health. It protects retinal cells from damage, supports visual development, and may help prevent age-related macular degeneration and other eye disorders.

5. Antioxidant Properties: Taurine is a potent antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation. By neutralizing free radicals, it protects cells from damage and supports overall cellular health.

6. Digestive Support: Taurine aids in the metabolism of fats and glucose, making it beneficial for weight management and metabolic health. It even helps regulate insulin sensitivity and supports healthy blood sugar levels and protects the liver from oxidative stress.

7. Reproduction: It helps make sperm more active and hardier which increases the possibility of pregnancy.

8. Lungs: It can even ease asthma and COPD.

So, all these benefits do make it sound like taurine is snake oil – just take a supplement and it can heal everything! 

As you can see from this list that these benefits are real. As a matter of fact, researchers at Cambridge University found that people over 60 have 80% less taurine in their blood than children. After doing a study for over 13 years, these scientists felt that taurine is the equivalent of an anti-aging tonic. Pretty powerful for a simple amino acid!

While Taurine is found in various foods, including meat, fish, and dairy products, you might want to consider taking a supplement just to make sure you’re getting a good supply of taurine in your body. For vegetarians and vegans, taurine supplements are almost a must.

So…snake oil anyone…oops, I mean taurine anyone.
(Reported Bottom Line Health, November 2024)

Why Cursive Writing Still Matters in the Digital Age

In a world dominated by screens and keyboards, the art of cursive writing is often seen as outdated or unnecessary. As a matter of fact, many schools have even removed cursive instruction from their curricula, opting instead to focus on typing skills. While proficiency in typing is undoubtedly important in today’s digital age, abandoning cursive altogether may deprive children of critical developmental and cognitive benefits.

Here’s why children should continue learning cursive alongside their tech skills:

Boosts Cognitive Development

Cursive writing engages the brain differently than typing or printing. Studies show that the act of forming connected letters requires fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and simultaneous mental processing. These activities stimulate neural connections in ways that enhance learning, memory, and creativity.

One recent study found cursive writing created far more elaborate brain connectivity patterns than just typing. Just think as to how exacting a child needs to be too successful make a cursive letter ‘a’ verse how little of the brain come into play when hitting the letter ‘r’ on a keyboard.

Children who write in cursive also often display improved reading and spelling skills because the fluid motion helps them connect letters to sounds, reinforcing language comprehension.

Encourages Individual Expression

Cursive writing can be viewed as a personal and expressive art form. Each child’s cursive handwriting is unique, serving as a reflection of their individuality and personality. This creative expression is lost when communication is reduced to the uniformity of typed fonts. 

Years ago, I studied handwriting analysis (it was called Graphology) and its level of accuracy in interpreting a person’s personality traits was, in my experience, quite accurate.

I also got to see with clients, if they deliberately changed their handwriting, they actually changed their personality, too.

In addition, the rhythm and flow of cursive writing can have a calming, meditative effect, promoting focus and emotional well-being.

A Key to Understanding History

While we focus on the future, don’t forget the past. The ability to read and write in cursive opens a window into this past. Historical documents like the Declaration of Independence, personal letters, and journals were written in cursive. Without the ability to read cursive, future generations may struggle to connect with these rich cultural treasures.

By teaching children cursive, we ensure that they remain literate in historical contexts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the stories and struggles that shaped our world.

Improves Notetaking and Retention

Handwriting, particularly cursive, has been shown to improve information retention compared to typing. Writing by hand forces the brain to process information more deeply, making it easier to understand and recall.

For students, this can mean better performance in school and stronger study habits. Cursive’s faster writing style also makes it ideal for taking notes during lectures or brainstorming ideas.

When I was in Law School, I took notes voraciously in my classes, even when I had no idea what they were talking about. When I went to study for exams, suddenly my notes made sense to me. 

In addition, when I was studying for the Bar Exam what I did was to take notes by hand on the study guides they gave us for the different areas of the law. When I finished, I then created an outline of my notes and suddenly I was able to understand the principles of law that we needed to know. And amazingly, I passed the first time!

Balances Digital and Analog Skills

While typing is essential for navigating the digital world, cursive writing offers a balance, providing children with a tangible, tactile way to connect with their thoughts. This duality ensures that they are not overly reliant on technology and can communicate effectively in any setting.

Preserving a Valuable Skill

Cursive writing and typing are not mutually exclusive. Each has its place and purpose in a child’s education. By embracing both, we give children the tools to excel in a fast-paced, tech-driven world while preserving the cognitive and cultural benefits of handwriting.

So…what if we actually celebrate cursive writing as both an art form and also as a practical skill that complements the technological tools of today’s world. Teaching children both cursive and typing will prepare their brains to navigate the complexities of life with a well-rounded set of skills.