These Underrated Vegetables Are Way Healthier Than You Realize

A stern warning from the doctor about the need to eat more produce hasn’t done much to improve American eating habits. Only 8.9% of adults in the U.S. are eating the recommended amount of vegetables, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most Americans barely make it past one serving a day.

Which vegetables should you eat? The next time you hit the grocery store, think about picking up some of these underrated vegetables.

1. Carrots 

The vibrant orange hue should give you a clue as to how great this veggie is. The color indicates high levels of carotenoids, powerful compounds that research has linked to a reduced risk of some types of cancer and eye disease. Other veggies in the same color spectrum have similar nutritional benefits, but Eat This, Not That! pointed out carrots are probably the easiest to prepare.

2. Bok choy  

A member of the cruciferous vegetable family, bok choy doesn’t get very much attention here in the States. Consider it your secret weapon because, according to Livestrong.com, 1 cup contains only 10 calories, but gives you a good dose of fiber and vitamins A and C. Studies indicate eating cruciferous veggies may also help prevent certain types of cancer. And bok choy is a complete bargain compared to its pricier vegetable siblings.

3. Parsley 

Parsley is sort of the forgotten herb. It’s usually used as a pasta garnish while cilantro, basil, and mint steal the spotlight. But this B vitamin has long been touted as an important nutrient for pregnant women, and the benefits don’t stop there. One 2012 meta-analysis published in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases found sufficient folate intake could reduce the risk of heart disease. And according to Reader’s Digest, you can eat 2 full cups for just 35 calories.

4. Onions 

Onions can do a world of good for your health. A recent study from the British Journal of Nutrition found regular doses of onion skin extract helped lower blood pressure for adults with hypertension. The key player is likely quercetin, a type of antioxidant that’s also found in tea and berries. Onions are also pretty smart for those watching their weight. WebMD reports an entire allium is just 63 calories and also contains loads of vitamin C.

5. Watercress 

Very few people buy watercress at the grocery store. When they do, it’s usually just for some sort of garnish. What this green lacks in popularity, it makes up for in nutritional value. Self Nutrition Data shows the calorie count is almost negligible and it’s a great source of vitamins and other nutrients, including lutein, a potent antioxidant.

6. Potatoes 

When they’re not fried in grease or smothered in sour cream, potatoes are nutritional powerhouses. According to Mother Nature Network, one medium potato is about 100 calories and contains plenty of vitamins C and B6, plus more potassium than a banana.

7. Frozen peas 

Think fresh is always best? Think again. When any type of produce is picked, it immediately starts losing nutritional value. Peas are particularly finicky and lose their nutrients a lot faster than sturdier vegetables.

8. Celery 

According to the USDA’s nutrient database, 1 cup of chopped celery stalks is only 16 calories and provides you with a decent amount of vitamin A and folate. Most notably, though, celery is an excellent source of vitamin K, a key nutrient for bone and blood health. If that’s not enough to convince you to chow down, consider the boost it could give your sex life. Men’s Health says celery is loaded with pheromones, chemicals that get both you and ladies in the mood.

9. Cabbage 

One of the biggest bargains in the supermarket, cabbage doesn’t get much attention aside from the occasional slaw. According to Verywell, 1 cup of chopped, raw cabbage will only cost you 22 calories and you’ll get a good dose of fiber and vitamin C. Cabbage is also a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which includes kale and cauliflower. These veggies all contain substances called glucosinolates. According to the National Cancer Institute, they break down into a number of compounds that have been linked to a reduced risk of cancer.

10. Radishes 

This water-packed veggie offers more than just a spicy kick for your salad. WebMD says a full cup contains 19 calories plus a good amount of vitamin C and fiber. Radishes are also filled with phytosterols, a type of compound that can help lower cholesterol, according to Cleveland Clinic.

11. Broccoli 

It’s a known fact that broccoli is healthy, but it’s actually one of the most nutritionally dense foods on Earth. It’s rich in a sulfur-containing plant compound known as glucosinolate, as well as sulforaphane, a by-product of glucosinolate that it has been shown to help prevent cancer. It’s also loaded with nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate.

12. Ginger  

Technically, ginger is considered a vegetable — and it’s one of the best ones you can put in your body. Ginger contains potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful in treating inflammation disorders like lupus and arthritis. It is also well-known for its anti-nausea benefits, and it may even decrease blood sugar in diabetics.

Unusual (But Deadly) Signs That Mean You Might Have Heart Disease

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in the United States. This disease often goes unnoticed until it’s too late, even though there are actually several symptoms that show up long before a heart attack or stroke.

Here is a list of heart disease symptoms that you want to watch out for, along with some very surprising yet potentially deadly signs.

Shortness of breath 

Your heart and lungs are responsible for bringing in oxygen and transporting it to all areas of your body. If you’re having trouble breathing, it signals that either the heart or lungs could be having a serious problem. Typically, shortness of breath that lasts for a few weeks or more is a sign of an underlying heart condition. 

Chest pain 

One of the most common signs of heart disease is chest pain. Chest pain happens when your heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood, and it’s also known as angina. It’s one of the main symptoms of heart disease and often occurs because an artery is partially blocked, causing decreased blood flow. 

Numbness 

Numbness or tingling in your arms or legs can be a sign of poor circulation. Poor circulation could mean narrowed blood vessels and heart disease. Legs that are pale and cool to the touch could also be a sign of narrowed blood vessels and poor circulation and is sometimes accompanied by pain during exercise. 

Chest tightness or pressure 

If your body is suffering from heart disease, you might feel tightness or pressure in your chest. If it feels like your chest is being squeezed (which can feel different from dull chest pain), it’s one of the most common signs that something is wrong with your heart. It’s important to see your doctor right away; you might also notice tightness in your lungs. 

Racing or slow heartbeat 

A normal heartbeat is anywhere from 60 to 100 beats per minute. But if the heartbeat is too slow, it can signal a problem with the heart’s electrical system. On the other hand, a heart rate that is too quick can mean that the heart is working harder to try and circulate blood throughout the body. This usually happens when there is some sort of blockage. 

Dizziness 

Dizziness is another symptom of poor blood circulation. Cardiomyopathy and heart arrhythmia are commonly associated with dizziness. But dizziness can be a cause of many health problems, so also check for other heart disease symptoms. If you feel lightheaded, always try to lie down or put your head between your knees to avoid passing out. 

Fatigue 

With a weak heart muscle, it’s difficult for blood to be efficiently pumped throughout the body. When that happens, the heart diverts blood to more important areas, like the brain, instead of less important areas, such as muscles. This can lead to fatigue. 

Exhaustion or chest pain during exercise 

If your heart doesn’t work well during physical activity, it could mean you have stable angina. Stable angina typically occurs only when your heart works harder than normal. This is different from unstable angina, which can occur at any time. If you notice chest pain during exercise or you’re quickly exhausted, it could be a sign that something is causing a blockage in your heart. 

Jaw pain 

Sometimes heart pain can disguise itself as jaw pain. That’s because the pain from your heart can actually spread to different areas due to the nerves being so close together. Your brain might be signaling pain in the heart, but it shows up as pain in the jaw, neck, or back. It might be a heart condition if the pain can’t be pinpointed to one muscle, so it’s important to see a doctor. 

Creased earlobes 

One unsuspecting cause of heart disease is something known as Frank’s Sign. It is a term used to describe earlobes with a diagonal crease going from one side of the earlobe to another. The line usually runs at a 45-degree angle. It is thought to occur due to the loss of vascular fibers in that area when someone has heart disease. Several studies have shown a connection between the two, but not enough evidence has been found to prove it completely true. But if you notice those creases, it’s better to be safe and get checked out. 

Fatty bumps 

Yellow, fatty bumps, which are called xanthomas, are another sign of heart disease that you might be unaware of. They usually appear on the elbows, knees, buttocks, and sometimes the eyelids. They can result from having extremely high cholesterol that the body then needs to put somewhere. The body creates fatty deposits in order to store the cholesterol, which is how the xanthomas are formed. If your cholesterol is too high, it could lead to serious heart problems. 

Clubbed fingernails 

Clubbed fingernails, also known as digital clubbing, can occur when oxygen is not reaching the fingers the way it should be. As a result, more tissue is produced as the fingers try to justify the lack of oxygen. When more tissue is produced, the nails can start to grow differently. Clubbed fingernails are typically painless, but they can definitely signal a serious heart problem. Clubbed fingernails can also signal many other types of disease. 

Halo eyes 

If you ever notice a strange looking ring around your cornea, it could be a sign of heart disease. Sometimes, when cholesterol and triglyceride levels are too high, a grey-colored ring forms around the cornea as a result. It can happen at any age, but it’s more common when you’re under 60. Regardless, any eye changes could be a sign of health problems, so it’s always best to get it checked out. 

Gum and tooth problems 

Your mouth is filled with bacteria. Sometimes, that bacteria can get into your bloodstream and affect your heart. Any sign of something wrong in the mouth could mean that there’s a bigger problem. If you notice any gum inflammation or begin losing teeth, it’s important to see a doctor to get to the root of the problem. In some cases, you might need to take medication before having a regular dental checkup. 

Blue lips 

Blue lips are a common sign of heart disease that occurs at birth, or congenital heart disease. It has to do with blood not properly flowing through the heart and getting the amount of oxygen that it needs before leaving to go to the rest of the body. If the valves in the heart are not working properly, the blood might not have enough oxygen, which can lead to cyanosis. Cyanosis refers to mucous membranes and skin turning a bluish color.

The 7 Worst Pizza Chains in America

National pizza chains serve some of the worst pizza in America. Similarly, some of the most widely known fast food restaurants serve the worst food. We’ve rounded up eight pizza chains serving the worst pies in America. Ahead, find out if one of these chains is in your town. Keep in mind, these chains are in no particular order. We’ll also take a quick look at the best pizza places in America and the cities they’re found in.

Papa John’s 

Named Pizza Chain Brand of the Year by The Harris Poll EquiTrend, Papa John’s makes our list as one of the worst pizza chains in America. The “pizza is nasty,” a former employee writes on the job site, Glassdoor. Papa John’s has “expensive food,” a delivery driver says. Expensive, nasty pizza is the last thing anyone wants. Pass up this chain the next time you have a hankering for pizza.

Little Caesar’s 

I grew up eating Little Caesar’s Hot ‘n Ready pizzas. The low cost and convenience factor is sometimes still too good to pass up. Although the old saying, “you get what you pay for” is true with Little Caesar’s. A $5 pizza isn’t anything special. The cheese only and pepperoni pizza options are dismal. For those who order higher priced pizzas, they’re memorable for bad reasons only. Somehow, none of the pizzas ever seem fresh. To add insult to injury, the sauce is a nightmare for those who suffer from heartburn.

Pizza Hut 

I must confess, I love Pizza Hut. The golden crispy underside of the crust is my kryptonite. However, I’m in the minority. Pizza Hut’s status as the top dog among pizza chains is changing. After four years as the Pizza Chain Brand of the Year by The Harris Poll EquiTrend, they’re no longer no. 1. Yelp reviews make it clear why. “I think the staff are aware they are serving horrible food and their moods / service reflects that,” a Yelp reviewer says. Poor service and bad food makes Pizza Hut one of the worst pizza chains in America.

Sbarro 

Sbarro is the quintessential mall pizza. Hungry shoppers may have fond memories of eating a giant slice of Sbarro’s pizza but TripAdvisor reviews say otherwise. “[I] had absolutely the worst piece of pizza in my life. I don’t know how they did that. The dough was raw tasting. The sauce was way too salty. There were sprinkles of cheese,” one reviewer says. “Technically, Sbarro is not tasty,” Carey Polis of Bon Apéptit writes.

Cici’s Pizza 

People are saying “Cici you later” to Cici’s Pizza. The buffet serves pizza with “not much cheese, [and] very little toppings,” a Google reviewer said. “The food was cold and old,” another person wrote. And, finally, one Cici’s customer knows the employees don’t eat the pizza at Cici’s. “The staff there was sitting eating Taco Bell so that alone should tell you how the food is,” the review says. Pizza light on cheese and sauce is no winning slice. An old, cold slice of pizza with hardly any toppings is even worse.

Jet’s Pizza 

Known for their square pizza, Jet’s Pizza is home to thick slices of pizza. For those who adore thin crust pizza, Jet’s is the last place to grab a slice. Jet’s Pizza is known to be costly and greasy. Don’t be surprised if feeding your family costs upwards of $50. The chain’s saving grace is their ranch. The creamy, tangy concoction is a must-have condiment.

Domino’s 

After conducting consumer tests, Domino’s found that their pizza “crust tastes like cardboard,” Patrick Doyle, the president of Domino’s U.S. operations said in a video, according to Bloomberg. Other comments include “the sauce tastes like ketchup” and “this is an imitation of pizza.” Domino’s has tweaked their recipe since receiving these comments but the pizza is still greasy and not very memorable.

 These are the best pizza places in America.

New Haven, Connecticut 

• Hot spots: Pepe’s, Sally’s Apizza, and Modern Apizza

It’s “apizza,” not pizza in New Haven. Rooted deeply in its pure Italian ancestry, the New Haven-style is the direct offspring of the Neapolitan-style pie, and if you haven’t tasted it first hand, you’re missing out. The oval-shaped, thin-crusted delicacies are charred to perfection. And for connoisseurs looking to get their fill, that can all be done at Wooster Square. As for the legendary stops that must be made — Sally’s Apizza, Modern Apizza, and Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana (Pepe’s). All three shops have been firing pies since the ’20s and ’30s.

Chicago, Illinois 

• Hot spots: Pizzeria Uno, Pequad’s, and Giordano’s

For the sake of tradition, the top choices of pizza in Chicago are of the deep dish variety. While the origin of the deep dish hasn’t quite been nailed down, there’s no argument when it comes to its deliciousness. Pequad’ssignature pie is encircled with caramelized cheese and an all-time favorite. Uno’s has been pumping out pies since 1943 and is now a worldwide company, meaning it shouldn’t be hard to find one in your city. Last but certainly not least, Giordano’s has locations sprinkled all over the Windy City. You can’t really go wrong with any of their famous stuffed deep dishes.

Brooklyn, New York 

• Hot spots: Monte’s, Best Pizza, and Di Fara

New York City is known for its pizza, whether by the foldable slice or the whole pie. But, Brooklyn deserves some love too. Admittedly it’s a bold move to declare one pizza joint reigning supreme over another one anywhere in the country, but it’s particularly risky to do so in Brooklyn. Nevertheless, Monte’s is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in Brooklyn. Give the Margherita, Salsiccia, or the Reale a try. Williamburg’s Best Pizza is using a 100-year old wood-fired oven to pump out their pies, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. As for Di Fara, the pizzeria has been whipping up pies for over 50 years. The imported ingredients create a perfect storm for a crispy, flavorful pizza experience.

Portland, Oregon 

• Hot spots: Lovely’s Fifty Fifty, Apizza Scholls, and Scottie’s Pizza Parlor

Of course, the hipster capital of the world has a foothold on serving up delicious pies. Lovely’s Fifty Fifty on Mississippi Avenue has made a mark of its own with what they call Northwest style pizzas. Lovely’s uses toppings on its pizza that would make New Yorkers scoff. Portlanders, on the other hand, love it. Apizza Scholls, on the other hand, is the place in Portland to find New Haven-style pizza. You’ll likely have to wait in a line, but trust us, it’s worth it. Scottie’s is run by Brooklyn-native Scottie Rivera and wife Amy Coplen. The couple knows how to make delicious pies. And if you hit up Scottie’s during happy hour, you’ll snag a $2 slice.

San Francisco, California 

• Hot spots: Arinell Pizza, Capo’s, and Za Pizza

San Francisco gives New Yorkers a run for their money on the pizza front, specializing in all avenues of the pie game. Arinell’s serves up slices for the lunch and late-night crowds. The straight-forward, foldable slices will put a smile on your face every time. If you’re searching for a deep dish, Capo’s is the place to go. Chef Tony Gemignani’s Crown Point deep dish has won numerous awards. Plus, if the deep dish isn’t your bag, Capo’s also serves thin crust. The small neighborhood pizza shop, Za Pizza, specializes in thin crust and has been pumping them out for over two decades. Opt for one of its seven specialty pizzas or build your own.

Phoenix, Arizona 

• Hot spots: Pizzeria Bianco, Vito’s, and Federal Pizza

The idea of Phoenix, Arizona as a pizza mecca doesn’t sit well with most pizza lovers. But guess what? The city holds its own. For starters, Pizzeria Bianco’s Chris Bianco is the creme de la creme of pizza proprietors. People line up for hours just to snag a table at the 30-year-old restaurant. The New York Times even claimed it to be “perhaps the best pizza in America.” Vito’s first location opened back in 1986. You can build your own or try a chef’specialty. Federal Pizza is making dreams come true with its drive-thru pizza joint. Not only are the pies amazing, but customers can even snag a perfectly paired brew to take with the pie.

High Blood Pressure? 27 Foods You Should Avoid as Much as Possible

High blood pressure is a common health issue, and one that requires active management. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three U.S. adults has high blood pressure. Surprisingly, only about half of these people have it under control. And some folks might not even know their blood pressure is problematic if it’s been a while since they’ve visited the doctor.

Known as “the silent killer,” uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious health risks and even death, the American Heart Association says. There are even complications you’ve probably never considered, including loss of vision and kidney failure. What this means is it’s time to start taking high blood pressure seriously, and that begins with knowing your numbers.

While your doctor may be the first one to spot it, it’s up to you to stay on top of keeping your blood pressure where it needs to be by exercising and eating right. You’re your own best wellness advocate, so knowing what’s helping, and harming, your overall health is key.

If your doctor has determined you have high blood pressure, here are 27 foods you should limit, or avoid. We’ll also take a look at seven foods you should eat.

Sodium and salt 

If you have high blood pressure, you need to be particularly mindful of how much sodium you consume on a daily basis. Why? The AHA explains water is pulled into the blood vessels when you have excess sodium in your system, increasing the amount of blood and, ultimately, causing your blood pressure to increase. The same story adds about 77% of sodium consumed comes from packaged, prepared, and restaurant food.

What’s even more frightening is another 12% comes from foods that naturally contain sodium, which still doesn’t account for your salt shaker. To help people limit their salt intake, the AHA created a list of foods that add the most sodium to our diets, so you definitely want to limit them.

1. Breads and rolls: One piece can contain 230 milligrams.
2. Cold cuts and cured meats: Pre-packaged turkey can contain 1,050 milligrams of sodium per serving.
3. Pizza: One slice can contain 760 milligrams.
4. Poultry: 3 ounces of frozen and breaded nuggets can contain 600 milligrams.
5. Soup: One cup of canned chicken noodle soup can contain 940 milligrams.
6. Sandwiches: All in, your sandwich can easily surpass 1,500 milligrams. 

Saturated fats 

Saturated fats raise the cholesterol in your blood, which can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. So, it’s important for those with high blood pressure to be aware of how much they’re eating. The AHA recommends getting no more than 6% of your daily calories from saturated fat. This means you’ll want to cut back on these six foods.

1. Fatty beef
2. Lamb
3. Pork
4. Lard and cream
5. Butter
6. Cheese 

Sweets and added sugars 

Sugar has long been known to contribute to obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Interestingly, some research shows sugar can impact a person’s blood pressure directly, independent of weight gain. Consider this one more reason to pass on those office doughnuts. Here are five sweet treats you should limit.

1. Sugar-sweetened beverages
2. Candy
3. Grain-based desserts like cakes, cookies, and pies
4. Fruit drinks
5. Dairy desserts and milk products like ice cream and sweetened yogurt 

Trans fat and partially hydrogenated oils 

More often than not, trans fat is found in processed foods, which is bad news for people who’ve been following a typical American diet their whole lives. According to the AHA, “Trans fats raise your bad (LDL) cholesterol levels and lowers your good (HDL) cholesterol levels. Eating trans fats increases your risk of developing heart disease and stroke. It’s also associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.” Clearly, everyone should limit this unhealthy fat.

Because some processed foods can be sneaky about how they label their trans fat, it’s important to have a discerning eye. Reader’s Digest says you should be wary of these five foods.

1. Nondairy coffee creamer
2. Peanut butter
3. Popcorn
4. Frozen pizza
5. Margarine

High blood pressure is certainly nothing to mess around with, which is why a heart-healthy diet is a key factor in maintaining your overall health and well-being. Skip this stuff and go for more nutritious foods instead. 

Caffeine 

You might not think too much about your morning cup of coffee, but it can actually cause a sharp spike in blood pressure. According to the Mayo Clinic, some researchers believe caffeine can actually block a hormone that keeps your arteries widened, or consuming it causes an adrenaline release. Both of these things can lead to higher blood pressure — even if it’s just temporary.

To find out whether or not your daily caffeine fix is affecting your blood pressure, you should ask your doctor. You can also do a test yourself — check your blood pressure within 30 to 120 minutes of consuming caffeine. If it increases by five to 10 points, you might want to cut down your intake. Here are a few foods with high levels of caffeine.

1. Protein bars 
2. Chocolate
3. Coffee (regular and decaf)
4. Coffee or chocolate ice cream
5. Black tea 

1. Bananas 

Bananas are one of your best options. As it turns out, foods high in potassium help manage high blood pressure because it can minimize the impact sodium has. The American Heart Association says one medium banana has about 420 milligrams of potassium, which is a significant amount for a relatively small amount of food. The daily recommended potassium intake for adults is 4,700 milligrams, so just one fruit will have you well on your way. 

2. Whole grains 

Registered dietitian Keri Gans tells Health going for whole grains ensures you get all the good stuff — bran, germ, and endosperm. Refined grains, on the other hand, have been stripped of the bran and germ. Luckily, there’s a long list of whole grains to choose from, including quinoa, barley, and brown rice. 

3. Low-fat yogurt 

Unless you also happen to be lactose intolerant, you’re good to go when it comes to dairy products. Some evidence indicates dairy is beneficial for lowering blood pressure, but you want to make sure you’re choosing the low-fat variety, as we know people with high blood pressure should avoid trans and saturated fats. Need more convincing? The DASH Diet, which has been praised for lowering blood pressure, encourages people to incorporate low-fat dairy products into their diets. This includes low-fat yogurt and fat-free milk. 

4. Fish  

Everyone needs their protein, but red meat definitely isn’t the way to go if you’re trying to control high blood pressure. Because fish contains less saturated fat, it’s a good option. Plus, according to the AHA, the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The best options for a heart-healthy diet include halibut, tuna, and salmon. 

5. Nuts 

Nuts contain heart-healthy omega-3 fats, so there’s little argument about their importance in a diet focused on lowering high blood pressure. Additionally, SFGate says certain nuts could lower cholesterol, which is often a huge offender among those with high blood pressure. So, whether you prefer pistachios to walnuts, snacking on these staples will help keep your heart healthy. 

6. Legumes 

Legumes aren’t half bad, either. One study examined the role these fiber-rich foods play in controlling blood pressure among patients with diabetes. In a press release, lead study author Dr. David Jenkins said legumes have a “blood pressure-lowering effect in diabetic patients.” Not to mention, legumes are a great source of protein. Check out these delicious recipes, all starring the mighty bean. 

7. Olive oil 

In addition to being good for those with arthritis, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, olive oil is loaded with heart-healthy fats. According to Mayo Clinic, the healthy fats found in olive oil are monounsaturated fatty acids. These healthy fats can help lower total cholesterol, along with LDL (bad) cholesterol. The Arthritis Foundationrecommends 2 to 3 tablespoons daily, and points out that extra-virgin olive oil is a better option, as it isn’t as heavily processed.

The Eufala Oak The Owns Itself

There once stood a huge oak tree near the center of Eufala, a small city in Alabama, the United States. The 65-foot-tall tree was the city’s landmark and a favorite place for local children to play under. In 1919 a violent tornado lashed through the city, but the oak tree survived. Later, the tree also survived a fire. The locals thought it was a divine sign and petitioned the city council to deed the tree to itself.  

In 1936, a “deed of sentiment” was granted which reads in part: “I. E. H. Graves, as Mayor of the City of Eufaula, do hereby grant, bargain, sell and convey unto the ‘Post Oak Tree,” not as an individual, partnership nor corporation, but as a creation and gift of the Almighty, standing in our midst—to itself—to have and to hold itself, its branches, limbs, trunk and roots so long as it shall live.”

Photo credit: al.com

And just like that, the Eufala oak became the second tree in America to own itself—the first one is located in Athens, in the state of Georgia.

Unfortunately, after withstanding many storms, the tree was destroyed in 1961 when destructive winds swept through Eufaula. At the time, the tree was estimated to be greater than 200 years old.

The tree was replaced by another tree only to die again and be replaced. The tree that currently stands there retains the ownership to itself.

Photo credit: al.com