Health

Brain Benefits of Exercise

2012-03-14T19:14:00.000+05:00

A recent study conducted at the Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Dublin, Trinity College in Dublin asked a group of male college students who described themselves as "sedentary" to take part in a memory test followed by vigorous exercise. After exercising, they were asked to take the test again.

The study found that volunteers who exercised prior to the memory test performed better the second time around. Those who did not exercise did not show improvement.

What's more, blood samples taken during the test show that immediately after working out, the volunteers had higher levels of a protein known as BDNF, which is known to promote the health of nerve cells.

While scientists are still trying to figure out which parts of the brain are positively affected by exercise, this study conducted by the University of Dublin suggests that higher levels of BDNF brought about by exercise may improve memory and perhaps, overall brain function.

Other Brain Benefits

The cognitive upsides to regular exercise don't stop at memory. In fact, research has found that physical activity can have a variety of brain benefits:

1. Prevents cognitive decline such as dementia or Alzhemier's disease.

2. Improves symptoms associated with depression and bipolar disorder.

3. Combats stress and anxiety.

4. Enhances abilities associated with "planning, scheduling, inhibition, task coordination," according to a study conducted at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam.

Get Started Today

Going for a brisk walk three days a week, getting to the gym often, and running or riding your bike regularly can benefit you physically, emotionally, and intellectually. Research has supported this.

However, what if balancing work (maybe even two jobs), a family, and a personal life leaves you with little-to-no extra time or energy? What do you do then? A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that remaining active, even if it means cleaning, gardening, or walking to the store regularly can "[protect] against cognitive impairment."

So whether you're running five miles a day or cleaning five rooms a day, remaining active and keeping yourself moving can, and will, benefit your brain.

Sources:

Activity Energy Expenditure and Incident Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults
http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/171/14/1251

Exercise Appears To Improve Brain Function Among Younger People
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/12/061219122200.htm

Growing Stronger - Strength Training for Older Adults
http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/growingstronger/why/index.html

Aerobic exercise improves hippocampal function and increases BDNF in the serum of young adult males.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21722657

How to Make Exercise Fun

2012-03-11T09:30:00.000+05:00

People have a million excuses why they slack off on exercise like, "I don't have time," "it's too much work," "it's boring," or "I'd rather be with my friends." But what if exercise was fun? What if you enjoyed it so much that you made the time, looked forward to putting in the effort, found it exciting, and could do it with your friends and family?

These tips will make exercise fun again:

Make it a game. Soccer, tennis, golf, dodge ball, track meets, bowling, racquetball, and basketball are part of an endless list of sporting events that turn plain-old-exercise into game time with friends. These sporting events provide excellent opportunities to bump up your heart rate and stretch those muscles while you go out to play.

You can burn about 280 calories with a half-hour pick-up game of basketball and about 240 playing racquetball. Don't worry if none of your friends are game to join you. Exercise provides plenty of opportunities to meet new people.

Call your local golf course and ask to be added to a foursome. Show up at the park with your ball or sign up for your gym's handball tournament. Once you've found your buddies, schedule regular workouts to keep your game on.

Make it a party. When you exercise with other people, doing something you enjoy, suddenly, is no longer tedious. Try out the Zumba® class at your local community center or sign up for Tango lessons. Dance, kickboxing, spinning, and other group fitness activities pack all the exercise you need into super-social, fun events. Gather a group of friends and host a Wii^TM fitness party in your living room or take turns in each other's homes doing a new workout DVD every week. Nobody says you can't follow your fitness with a glass of something sparkly if that's what it takes to keep the party going.

Make it creative. If you've been doing the same old fitness routine for too long, it's time to mix it up. Get off the treadmill and try something new. Challenge yourself to try things you've never done before like kayaking, Pilates, ballroom dancing, power-yoga, swimming, skiing, and even wrestling. The point is to make your fitness routine challenging, motivating, and rewarding. If you try something and discover it's not for you, cross it off your list and move on to something else. Before you know it, you'll be toned, fit, and inspired.

Barre and Ballet Workouts: Get a Leg Up on Fitness

2012-03-10T09:58:00.000+05:00

Using a combination of ballet moves, weight training, stretching, and isometric body-weight exercises, barre/ballet workouts kick you into ballerina shape. It's not just for dancers, though. This workout may be the toughest one you've ever done in a leotard.

Three popular barre exercise methods are being taught in studios and on DVD all over the world. They all stem from The Lotte Berk Method total body workout. Developed by the late dancer Lotte Berk, this combination of strength-training, dance, back exercises, and Hatha yoga (choreographed to fast-paced, pulse-pumping music) provides an intense, hour-long (or longer) mind-body workout.

Newer methods like The Bar Method, Physique 57, and barre 3 all offer varying intensities on Berk's basics by adding hand weights and/or exercise balls.

Don't worry if you don't have a barre studio nearby or a barre in your own home. A sturdy chair in your living room, some hand weights, (three or eight-pounds, depending on which method you choose) and an exercise ball are all you need.

Each workout includes upper body/arm exercises using hand weights interspersed with stretching exercises.

The Bar Method uses three-pound hand weights while Physique 57 uses eight-pounders. Next, they focus on lower body/leg exercises that mimic those performed by dancers.

This is no lightweight workout. Be prepared to feel your leg, hip, and seat (that's ballet-speak for butt) muscles work harder than they've ever worked before. Then, you'll focus on abdominal exercises.

Physique 57 and barre 3 use an exercise ball for their six-pack workout. You'll finish with a cool-down and leave class feeling long, tall, tired, and toned.

The Bar Method studios have been around since 2000 with franchised studios all over the world. Classes last as long as 85 minutes and provide a solid workout using three-pound weights, push-ups, planks, tricep dips, and more. By focusing on safety and alignment and offering seven different fitness levels, the Bar Method is a good choice for dance or exercise beginners.

Physique 57 (Classic 57-minute workout) uses a wider variety of movements and eight-pound weights. The DVD shows several dancers at various fitness levels, which makes this workout do-able for beginners and non-dancers. Expect to feel the burn at the end of this one-hour workout, but also expect to see sculpted muscles and tight abs with diligent practice. Physique 57 is said to be Kelly Ripa's workout of choice.

Barre 3 is popular with celebrities like Madonna because the challenging workout also focuses on posture and elongation. This 40-minute workout could provide a nice supplement to your cardio workout.

Will Beetroot Juice Improve Your Running?

2012-03-09T09:28:00.000+05:00

Beetroot is the bulbous, reddish-purple part of a beet plant. The other part of the plant is the beet top (or beet greens), which are also highly nutritious. Beetroot juice is obtained by putting beets through a juicer and extracting its liquid.

This liquid is high in nutrients including folate, potassium, and vitamin C. It also has a high nitrate content, which is being credited for boosting runner's performances. Scientists aren't certain, but they think having more nitric oxide (a byproduct created by metabolizing nitrate) in your body helps athletes exercise with less oxygen.

Beetroot's impact on athletic ability was tested in two small studies performed at Exeter University. In these studies, athletes drank a half liter of beetroot juice several hours before taking part in cycling. Tests performed on the athletes determined they were able to exercise using less oxygen than normal and for twenty percent longer than control subjects who drank a placebo of black current juice.

The scientists concluded that the beetroot juice allowed them to reduce the amount of energy their muscles required, which increased their stamina.

Casual runners shouldn't expect that drinking beetroot juice will turn them into marathoners, but scientists think it can improve performance for serious runners. It might also help athletes bump past stubborn performance plateaus.

Beetroot juice provides benefits for athletes and non-athletes alike. Studies show that drinking beetroot juice lowers blood pressure and keeps it low for up to 24 hours.

It may also help fight inflammation, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

What's the downside of drinking beetroot juice? It takes a lot of juice to receive all the athletic and health benefits that have been attributed to beet juice and it has a strong, distinct flavor that not everyone loves.

You can mix it with other juices to improve its flavor, but watch out that you're not adding too many extra calories to your diet by drinking all that juice.

Can you get the same benefits by eating beets? Beets are high in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins and are a healthy ingredient for any diet, but it appears it's the juice (consumed in high quantities) that's responsible for increased athletic performance.

Sources:

A toast to health and performance! Beetroot juice lowers blood pressure and the O₂cost of exercise
Journal of Applied Physiology, December 2010
Leonardo F. Ferreira and Bradley Jon Behnke

Have Diabetes-Related Complications? Exercises to Avoid

2012-03-08T09:18:00.000+05:00

Chances are, you've heard about the benefits of exercise so often, you could list them in your sleep: it can lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol, help you lose weight, reduce body fat, reduce your stress level, and give you more energy. But if you're dealing with any diabetes-related complications, the rules are a little different.

"The benefits of exercise are enormous," says Kellie Rodriguez, RN, CDE, CPT, director of patient education at the Diabetes Research Institute. "But you need to be super-careful about doing exercise that is high impact, or that involves lifting weights and straining, when you have certain complications from diabetes."

Here are a few of the complications that should be a yellow light for you. Depending upon your doctor's recommendation, you'll be able to switch to a different form of fitness. There is an exercise program out there for nearly everyone; it's just a matter of finding one that's right for you.

● Peripheral neuropathy. When this complication occurs, an individual may not have good sensation in the feet, Rodriguez explains. And if you have no sensation, you could injure yourself while running, jogging, or skiing-or even just walking-and not even realize it. "This can be incredibly dangerous," Rodriguez says. "If you have peripheral neuropathy, after exercise you need to look at the bottoms of your feet for scratches, cuts, and blisters." Also be sure to wear cotton socks and well-fitting, comfortable shoes for exercise. One good activity for those who aren't supposed to be jogging, Rodriguez suggests, is swimming.

● Eye disease (diabetic retinopathy). If you develop this condition, you'll want to stay away from weight lifting. "It can raise the blood pressure, which can lead to bleeding in the back of the eye," Rodriguez says. Be sure to check with your eye specialist to find out what types of exercise are safe for you to do.

● Autonomic neuropathy. This condition affects the nerves that control such organs as the bladder, genitals, and intestinal tract. When an individual has autonomic neuropathy, he may no longer feel the symptoms of low blood sugar or he may even have a silent heart attack, Rodriguez explains. Be sure to get medical clearance before doing exercise, and plan a fitness program carefully.

Most individuals will be able to safely do a variety of exercises, says Hope Warshaw, RD, CDE, MMSc, co-author of the "Real-Life Guide to Diabetes." "Your doctor may want you to see an exercise physiologist or physical therapist to help you figure out what exercise is right for you," she says. "For people with type 2 diabetes, exercise has myriad benefits. It's all about finding the right program."

When you do choose an exercise program, be safe by following some simple rules. Wear your medical identification bracelet or necklace, carry your ID in your pocket, and always travel with food or glucose tablets to treat low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly if you exercise for over an hour: you may need a snack before you finish.

Sources:

"What I need to know about physical activity and diabetes." National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC), National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health.
http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/physical_ez/index.aspx

Colberg, Sheri R., Sigal, Ronald J., Fernall, Bo, Regensteiner, Judith G., Blissmer, Bryan J., Rubin, Richard R., Chasan-Taber, Lisa, Albright, Ann L., Braun, Barry. "Exercise and Type 2 diabetes." Diabetes Care. Volume 33, Number 12, December 2010.
http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/33/12/e147.abstract

What's Really Causing Your Foot Pain?

2012-03-07T09:15:00.000+05:00

Your feet bear the weight of your entire body and when they're not properly supported or they're expected to bear more than they're designed to carry, they react with pain. The delicate network of bones that make up the feet and allow us to walk and balance can get pushed out of alignment, which can irritate the joints, skin, nerves and connective tissue.

Weight loss, proper hygiene, and the right shoes are among of the most common recommendations doctors make when their patients come in with painful feet and ankles. They might also look for medical conditions associated with foot pain like diabetes and heart disease, (which can cause nerve damage and circulatory problems in the lower extremities) or broken bones. But while those conditions do cause feet to become painful, the most common causes of foot pain are:

Fallen arches, flat feet, or high arches that don't get enough arch support in a shoe
Bunions, calluses and corns, often caused by poorly fitting shoes
Hammer toes that curl down into a claw-like shape
Arthritis, inflammation of the joints in the foot
Plantar warts, which form on the sole of the foot and become painful when stepped on
Bursitis or tendonitis of the ligaments, tendons and surrounding areas
Morton's Neuroma, a bundle of thick nerve tissue between the toes
Gout, a disease process caused by buildup of uric acid in the toe
Sprains, especially in the ankle
Plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the connective tissue in the bottom of the foot
Stress fractures, caused by pressure, impact, or trauma
Fungal infections like athletes foot

Foot Pain Prevention

How do you avoid becoming a foot-pain victim? Try these methods:

1. Wear good shoes with low to medium heels and good arch support. Make sure they're appropriate for the activities you engage in. Don't substitute tennis shoes for running shoes or wear your old Keds to play basketball. Instead, consult a sport shoe expert and invest in the right shoe for your sport. Wear high heel shoes and flip-flops as rarely as possible.

2. Practice good foot hygiene. Wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day, wear clean socks, and contact your doctor if you see any rashes, cuts, sores, or abrasions. Always wear non-skid shoes on wet, slippery surfaces and locker room floors.

3. Exercise regularly and cross train to keep all the muscles in your ankles, legs, and back strong and to prevent overuse injuries in your ankles and feet.

Have your feet checked as part of your regular physical examinations. If you have diabetes or heart disease, have your doctor examine your feet every time you see him/her and as soon as you notice any alterations.

How to Get an Accurate Blood Pressure Reading

2012-03-06T09:14:00.000+05:00

Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. The top number (systolic) indicates the maximum pressure the heart exerts while beating. The bottom number (diastolic) is the pressure in the arteries between beats. Physicians consider a difference of more than 40 mm Hg between the two abnormal (this is called pulse pressure).

Factors That Affect Blood Pressure Readings

Stress and anxiety. A stressful situation can cause a dramatic, temporary spike in your blood pressure. A single incident is not cause for alarm; however, if this happens frequently, it can damage your blood vessels, heart, and kidneys. Stress can also cause you to engage in behavior that may further damage your heart, such as smoking or drinking.

The season. Blood pressure tends to be higher in the winter because low temperatures cause your blood vessels to narrow so you need more force to push the blood through your body.

Alcohol. Drinking three or more drinks at once may cause a temporary uptick in blood pressure. Over time, excessive drinking may cause a long-term increase.

Daily patterns. Your blood pressure is usually lower while you sleep and shortly after waking, then rises throughout the day, peaking in mid-afternoon.

Caffeine. Coffee and other caffeinated beverages can also cause a short but dramatic increase in your blood pressure.

Measurement errors. Your blood pressure measuring device may not be working properly, or you (or your healthcare provider) may not take your blood pressure correctly, which can cause a false high reading. Even something as innocuous as a tight belt can affect your reading.

If you experience a high blood pressure reading, try again later. Take a walk or practice slow, deep breathing so you're calm before you try again. Drinking water and avoiding certain foods, such as dark chocolate, garlic, and bananas beforehand may help ensure an accurate reading. If you continue to get high readings and you've ruled out outside factors as possible culprits, then see your physician. You can make simple lifestyle changes to lower your blood pressure, or if appropriate, seek medical care.

Sources:

Sheldon G. Sheps, M.D. "High blood pressure." Mayo Clinic. Web. 26 August 2011.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/white-coat-hypertension/AN02014

Mayo Clinic. "High blood pressure." Web. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/blood-pressure/AN01786

Ray, Claiborne. "Pressure Problems." New York Times. Web. 13 December 2010.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/14/science/14qna.html

10 Ways to Eat Well When Life Is Stressful

2012-02-23T10:03:00.000+05:00

If you eat in response to stress, you are not responding to real hunger but instead to a coping mechanism—comfort food.

A study reported in Physiology Behavior found that 73 percent of participants reported eating more sweets and fewer meal-type foods, such as meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables, during periods of stress.

Whether you overeat or eat poorly during times of stress, it helps to do a little "self-monitoring," and pay attention to your eating habits and the types of foods you eat.

Stress management tactics such as exercise or meditation usually require a long-term plan. But you can start with these tips to help you take control of emotional eating:

Maintain a normal eating schedule. Start with a healthy breakfast and eat a meal or a healthy snack every three to four hours. Eat enough to feel satisfied but not stuffed.
Don't skip meals. When you skip or delay meals, you become overly hungry and are more likely to overeat and less likely to make healthy food choices.
Keep healthy snacks on hand and ready to eat. If you start to randomly eat during stressful times, stock up on nutritious snacks such as cut-up raw vegetables, vegetable juice, fresh and dried fruit, whole-grain cereals, reduced-fat cheese sticks, and yogurt.
Plan your snacks. Schedule "mini meals" once or twice during the day so that you won't get too hungry. Rather than grabbing a handful of chips or cookies from the store, sit down to a healthier combination of foods such as a dozen grapes and a small container of yogurt sprinkled with cereal.
Pay attention to hunger. If it's not your normal meal or snack time but you are reaching for food, ask yourself if it's real hunger or emotional hunger. There are ways to tell: Real hunger comes on gradually, while emotional hunger is usually sudden and intense. Emotional eating involves cravings for specific types of foods as opposed to the combination of foods normally eaten at a meal.
Eat slowly and mindfully. Use mealtimes and snack times as rest periods. That way, you'll slow down and focus on your food rather than on the events that are causing you stress.
Pay attention to feelings of fullness. If you're eating while stressed, you are more likely to eat when you're not really hungry, and to keep eating even when you're full.
Enjoy your favorite foods in moderation. There's no point in denying yourself simple pleasures when you're under stress. Enjoy your favorite comfort foods in reasonable portions and in the context of an otherwise healthy diet.
Drink plenty of water. When you go to grab food, grab a cup or bottle of water instead. Use the time while you're drinking water to figure out if you're really hungry or just desire food for comfort.
Avoid consuming excess caffeine or energy drinks when you are already feeling over-stimulated.

Sources:

Oliver, G and Wardle, J; "Perceived Effects of Stress on Food Choice" Physiology & Behavior 1999 66(3)511-515 Web 25 Nov 2011
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031938498003229

Purdue University Student Wellness Office: Cut it! Keep it Small; don't eat it all.
http://www.purdue.edu/swo/nutrition/KnowItAll/HealthyEatingWeightManagement/CutIt.pdf

Temple University: Emotional Eating: Hunger vs. Stress Web 25 Nov 2011
http://www.temple.edu/hr/EmotionalEatingHungervs.Stress.htm

Apple Cider Vinegar: Is It a Super Tonic?

2012-02-22T10:00:00.000+05:00

Used as a salad dressing, apple cider vinegar could also be used as a natural remedy to help ease a sore throat, relieve sinus congestion, calm intestinal troubles, and rid your scalp of dandruff. Also, if you have diabetes, apple cider vinegar could even help keep your blood sugar balanced.

Although cider vinegar has not been subjected to a great deal of scientific investigation, many documented personal anecdotes and clinical reports seem to confirm what advocates of natural folk medicine have been saying for centuries about its curative powers.

If you want to test the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar for any of the following conditions, use these formulas as guides:

Sore throat. Gargle with a small amount of slightly diluted apple cider vinegar sprinkled with a pinch of hot (cayenne) pepper.

Cold and cough. According to Penny C. Royal, author of Herbally Yours, homemade cough syrup made with apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices can help soothe a persistent cough. Combine 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger and cayenne pepper, two tablespoons of water, one tablespoon of honey, and one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Cover and refrigerate the mixture until ready to use, then take one teaspoon at a time.

Dandruff. After shampooing, rinse your hair with a combination of one part cider vinegar to three parts water, or two tablespoons of vinegar diluted in six tablespoons (or 1/3 cup plus one teaspoon) of water.

Diarrhea. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water and stir in a tablespoon of honey.

Food Poisoning. Apple cider vinegar's antimicrobial properties may help offset gastrointestinal symptoms associated with food poisoning, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. They recommend adding two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to one cup of water, and drinking this combination several times a day.

Other Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

Besides treating minor medical disorders, diluted apple cider vinegar will clean hard surfaces around your house such as kitchen counters and appliances.

Try dabbing a little under your arms for natural odor protection. Vinegar alters the pH of your skin, which discourages the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

As a home remedy, apple cider vinegar may help soothe the symptoms of many common ailments, but it is never a substitute for professional medical care. If your symptoms persist, or if you have a fever or a serious medical condition, speak to your doctor.

Also, too much apple cider vinegar over time can lower your blood potassium levels and increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. If you regularly swallow straight cider vinegar for any reason, Harvard University's Dr. Richard Lee recommends that you rinse your mouth with plain water to preserve the enamel on your teeth.

Sources:

The Campus Barber/Duke University: Dandruff
http://www.duke.edu/~papabell/cbarber/faqs_dandruff.htm

Hlebowicz, J, et al.; "Efect of Apple Cider Vnegar on Delayed Gastric Emptying in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Pilot Study." Gastroenterology 2007; 7:46. Web. 7 Nov 11.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2245945/?tool=pubmed

Lee, R. "Is Vinegar Good for the Arteries?" Harvard Health Publications. Web. 7 Nov 11.
http://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/lower-back-pain-yoga-therapy-can-help

McMillen, B. "Home Remedy for a Cough." University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Bradfor, PA (Royal, Penny C. "Herbally Yours" 1982; Sound Nutrition) Web. 7 Nov 11.
http://www.pitt.edu/~cjm6/sp99cough.html

University of Maryland Medical Center
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/food-poisoning-000064.htm

Considering a Cardiac Implant? What You Should Know

2012-02-21T09:49:00.000+05:00

For some patients with serious heart conditions, a defibrillator (a device that helps the heart do its job) can be lifesaving. As with all medical interventions, however, there are benefits and risks. You may have heard about recent studies that report increased rates of infections in patients who've had one of these devices surgically implanted.

There are two main types of implanted defibrillators: ICDs (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) and CRT-Ds (cardiac resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator). A defibrillator monitors the electrical activity of the heart. If it detects a potentially dangerous change in the heart's rhythm, it will send small pulses of electricity to shock the heart back into its normal rhythm. Defibrillators are nicknamed "emergency rooms in the chest" because they can intervene when a patient's heart fails, potentially saving the patient's life.

The use of defibrillators doubled between 1993 and 2008. During the same time, the number of implanted device-related infections tripled. While most surgical wounds are likely to become contaminated from bacteria on the skin or in organs, some may progress and become clinical infections. Cardiologists estimate the risk of surgical site infections at five to 20 percent. Infections can prolong patients' hospital stays and may even lead to death. Patients who undergo surgery are also at risk for respiratory, urinary tract, and other bacterial infections.

Defibrillators can fail, especially CRT-Ds. In one study of 3,253 patients who received a CRT-D, 416 had a device-related event by 18 months, and of those, 390 needed surgical intervention. By four years, 50 percent needed surgery to replace the batteries. During the same time, only 10 percent of patients with an ICD needed an intervention (13 percent for dual-chambered ICDs). Furthermore, the rate of infection in patients with a CRT-D was higher. The researchers emphasized, however, that these events were not associated with worse clinical outcomes and did not change the risk of death.

Some heart specialists are also concerned that many patients who receive defibrillators don't actually need them. In one study, researchers found that nine out of 10 patients received no medical benefits from the device.

The FDA collects information about defibrillators, but it's not easy to analyze the data and not all device problems are reported. Furthermore, it's hard to calculate the costs and benefits of cardiac implants and to determine who is actually going to benefit most. If your cardiologist recommends an implanted cardiac device, have a frank discussion with him about all the potential benefits and risks.

Sources:

Bakalar, Nicholas. "Risks: Infections Follow Rise in Cardiac Implants." New York Times. Web. 29 August 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/30/health/30risks.html?_r=2

HealthGrades. "Defibrillator Implant." Web.
http://www.healthgrades.com/procedures/profile/Defibrillator_Implant

Feder, Barnaby J. "Defibrillators Are Lifesaver, but Risks Give Pause."New York Times. Web. 12 September 2008. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/13/business/13defib.html

Douglas, David. "Complex Cardioverter Defibrillators More Problem Prone." Medscape Medical News. Web. 7 June 2011. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/744136

Grens, Kerry. "Reports of Defibrillator Failures Incomplete." Medscape Medical News.Web.13 September 2011. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/749585

Gifford, C.,BA (Oxon) BMBCh, Christelis, N., MBBCH FRCA FFPMRCA FANZCA, and Cheng, A., MBBS FRACP MPH PhD. "Preventing Postoperative Infection." Continuing Education Anaesthia, Critical Care & Pain 11(5) (2011): 151-156. Medscape Medical News. Web. 27 September 2011. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/750224

Eat to Beat Bowel Cancer

2012-02-20T09:44:00.000+05:00

Fruits and vegetables provide some of the most important nutrients you can consume, namely, disease-fighting antioxidants in the form of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals (substances found only in plants that are known to protect your cells from destruction).

One of the many diseases that antioxidants can help prevent is bowel, or colorectal, cancer. But it gets even more specific than that. An Australian survey study, published in the October 2011 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, found that different fruits and vegetables may affect certain parts of the bowel.

Previous studies that link bowel cancer risk and fruit and vegetable consumption have had conflicting results. The Australian researchers point out that this could be because until now, no study has looked specifically at the relationship between diet and the different parts of the bowel where tumors could form.

Your gastrointestinal tract is a long tube that stretches from your mouth to your rectum, with lots of twists, turns, bulges, and folds in between. The food you eat travels this entire course to be broken down, digested, and stripped of its nutrients along the way. Those nutrients are absorbed through your intestinal wall and travel through your bloodstream to wherever they are needed. What's left of your meal is eliminated, along with any indigestible fiber contained in the food.

Your bowel has three main parts and each part is divided into distinct areas. Your distal colon includes the large intestine, sigmoid colon, and descending colon in your distal colon. Your proximal colon includes the cecum, appendix, ascending colon, and transverse colon. Your rectum leads to your anus, which is the end of your large intestine and the end of your gastrointestinal tract.

More clinical studies need to be performed to confirm these results, but upon analyzing the diets of almost 2,000 adults who participated in this study, the Australian researchers found the following associations:

Eating more cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts may be linked to a lower rate of cancer in both the distal and proximal colons.
Eating more apples and dark yellow or orange vegetables, such as winter squash, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and carrots may be linked to a lower risk of developing distal colon cancer.
Higher total fruit and vegetable intake may be linked to a lower risk of distal colon cancer, but not proximal colon cancer or rectal cancer.
Increased consumption of fruit juice may be linked to an increased risk of developing rectal or anal cancer.

Sources:

Annema, N. et al; "Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and the Risk of Proximal colon, Distal Colon, and Rectal Cancers in a Case-control Study in Western Australia." Journal of the American Dietetic Association 111(10):1479-1490 October 2011 Web 20 Oct 2011
http://www.adajournal.org/article/S0002-8223(11)01215-6/abstract

Science Daily: Fruits and Vegetables Reduce Risks of Specific Types of Colorectal Cancers, Study Finds 26 Sep 2011 Web 20 Oct 2011
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/09/110926083346.htm

How Safe Are Food Preservatives?

2012-02-19T09:24:00.000+05:00

Preservatives keep food products fresh long enough for them to get from the factory to the supermarket and eventually find a place on your dining table. They do this by slowing down the natural breakdown of fats, delaying the ripening process of fresh foods, and destroying or slowing down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that would otherwise grow on food.

Sometimes, preservatives are used strictly to keep foods safe, but they are also used to maintain the quality of a food. For instance, bacon and other processed meat products that contain preservatives stay fresh and safe to eat for longer periods of time than similar products that are preservative-free. Canned foods, however, stay safe to eat for years because of the temperatures and technology involved in the canning process. Any preservatives used in canned foods are most likely there to preserve the color, texture, or overall integrity of the product but have little or nothing to do with safety.

Salt and sugar are natural preservatives that help prevent spoilage if used in high enough amounts in certain foods, such as salt in dried meats and sugar in fruit jams. While you may want to limit the amounts of salt and sugar you consume in your overall diet, government leaders and consumer advocacy groups have few grounds for limiting their use by manufacturers in individual food products. When it comes to the level of chemical preservatives in some products, however, the food police step in.

Chemical food preservatives are included on the ingredient list required on all packaged foods. Some common preservatives you will see listed that are limited by government regulation include benzoates, sorbates, propionates, sulfites, sulfur dioxide, nitrites, nitrates, propyl gallate, BHA, BHT, erythorbic acid, and citric acid.

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), a consumer watchdog organization, categorizes these preservatives as follows:

Safe: citric acid, erythorbic acid, sorbic acid

Cut back: salt, sugar

Use with caution: BHT

Certain people should avoid: sodium benzoate, sulfites, sulfur dioxide

Avoid: BHA, propyl gallate, sodium nitrate, and sodium nitrite

In reviews of animal and human studies, CSPI found some associations between BHA, propyl gallate, sodium nitrate, and sodium nitrite and an increased risk of developing cancerous tumors. But because there is not enough evidence showing a direct cause and effect between these preservatives and the onset of disease, they remain in use.

Sources:

Center for Science in the Public Interest: Chemical Cuisine
http://www.cspinet.org/reports/chemcuisine.htm

Oberg, C. "Food Preservation," Weber State University. Web. 11 Nov 2011
http://faculty.weber.edu/coberg/3853%20Food%20Preservation.htm

How to Decode Cancer Statistics

2012-02-18T09:20:00.000+05:00

Trying to make sense of cancer statistics can be overwhelming. Adding to the confusion, many media reports lack context, and even reputable journals can promote misleading and overblown claims about cancer treatment. Understanding statistics, however, can help you evaluate treatment options and assess the reliability of the information you obtain.

Survival rates
When you learn you have cancer, you want to know what your chances are for a cure and how long you can expect to live. Survival rates give you a general idea about prognosis for people who have the same disease as you, but they don't tell you your chances for a cure or remission and they don't consider extenuating circumstances that may affect your outcomes.

Progression-free survival rate describes the length of time during and after treatment in which patients live with a disease that does not get worse. Disease-free survival rate is the percent of people who experience complete remission after finishing treatment.

The 5-year survival rate is probably the most common cancer statistic. It describes the percent of people in a study or treatment who are still alive five years after diagnosis or treatment for a disease, regardless if they still have the disease. For example, of 100 people who have bladder cancer, 80 were living five years after diagnosis. Scientists and oncologists often tout 5-year survival rates as evidence of success of treatment.

However, while 5-year survival rates are a valid measure for comparing cancer therapies in randomized trials, they can be misleading for describing how well cancer patients fare. Physicians are diagnosing cancers earlier and earlier, so they're finding more and more cases of cancer. They're also diagnosing benign cancers that never would have progressed (or progressed too slowly to cause problems). Both can make the 5-year survival rate look better than it actually is and does not consider patients' quality of life.

Mortality rates
The statistic cancer patients should be most interested in is mortality rate: the number of deaths with cancer as an underlying cause occurring in a specific population in a year.

We would expect mortality rates to decline with improvements in cancer control, but according to H. Gilbert Welch, MD, author of Should I Be Tested for Cancer?, screening has not reduced mortality and in fact, in some instances, mortality rates have increased.

"Mortality rates for thyroid, prostate, and breast cancers have hardly budged since 1973, yet 5-year statistics have skyrocketed," he said in an interview. "Since 1950, the 5-year survival rate for prostate cancer has risen from 40 to 98 percent, yet the death rate remained stable."

Sources:

Fischhoff, Baruch, Brewer, Noel T., and Downs, Julie S. "Communicating Risks and Benefits: An Evidence-Based User's Guide." Food and Drug Administration. Web. August 2011.http://www.fda.gov/downloads/AboutFDA/ReportsManualsForms/Reports/UCM268069.pdf
http://www.healthnewsreview.org/toolkit/tips-for-understanding-studies/

Evans, Imogen, Thornton, Hazel, Chalmers, Iain, and Glasziou, Paul. "Testing Treatments." Web.
http://www.testingtreatments.org/

National Cancer Institute. "Glossary of Statistical Terms." Web. 8 December 2009.
http://cancer.gov/statistics/glossary

Mayo Clinic. "Cancer survival rate: What it means for your prognosis." Web. 6 April 2011.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cancer/CA00049

Welch, H. Gilbert, Schwartz, Lisa M., and Woloshin, Steven. "Are increasing 5-year survival rates evidence of success against cancer?" JAMA 283(22) 2000: 2975-2978. Web.
http://www.vaoutcomes.org/papers/JAMA2975.pdf

National Cancer Institute. "Cancer Mortality Rate." Web. 4 December 2009.
http://cancer.gov/statistics/glossary/mortality

Cancer.net. "Understanding Statistics Used to Guide Prognosis and Evaluate Treatment." Web. 27 July 2011.http://www.cancer.net/patient/All+About+Cancer/Newly+Diagnosed/Understanding+Survival+Statistics

Lowe, Rachel Myers. "Cancer Screening Questioned." Cancerpage.com. Web. 14 December 2005.
http://www.cancerpage.com/news/article.asp?id=9164

Is the Blood-Type Diet for You?

2012-02-17T09:17:00.000+05:00

The basis of the blood-type diet, developed by the naturopathic physician Dr. Peter D'Adamo, is that blood delivers nutrients to every cell in the body. Because chemical reactions occur naturally between blood and food, blood types respond differently to certain types of diets. In other words, different blood types break down foods differently.

According to this theory, if you eat the wrong type of foods for your blood type, you suffer the equivalent of an allergic reaction. Your body essentially rejects the food and this process may cause any number of health problems, slow down your metabolic rate, and potentially cause weight gain.

The Diet Plan

The solution, according to Dr. D'Adamo, is to eat a specific diet according to your blood type to help restore and maintain the natural metabolic processes that keep you healthy. He recommends four different diets according to blood type.

The blood-type diet also includes exercise plans suitable for different blood types, with the goal of improving health and fitness levels and maintaining your best weight.

Although the blood-type diet advocates eating fresh, natural foods and eliminating processed foods for people with all blood types, it is a controversial plan because, for some blood types, it also recommends eliminating entire food groups.

For example, if you have blood type A or O, you are supposed to avoid dairy products, eliminating the best food sources of calcium and vitamin D. If you have blood type O, you are supposed to eliminate grains and beans, which are some of the best sources of B vitamin, iron, and plant protein.

In order to get the recommended daily amounts of these nutrients, you may have to take dietary supplements. Which is why, when Dr. D'Adamo first published his blood-type diet back in 1996, he also began promoting his own line of supplements to go with it.

What Health Experts Say

Dietitians and other nutrition experts believe that nutrients should come from food first and that vitamin and mineral supplements can provide a form of dietary insurance and fill in any nutritional gaps that result when you cannot eat a balanced diet.

Although elimination diets are often necessary for people with specific health problems, there is no scientific evidence available to prove the theory that diets should be prescribed by blood type. That doesn't mean it's not a valid theory, but it means there is no basis for recommending the diet.

When a diet plan recommends that whole populations of healthy people eliminate entire food groups, it raises a red flag for most health professionals because it creates a situation where supplements are not being used as extra insurance but, rather, as an essential component of the plan.

One question you can ask yourself if you are thinking about following the blood-type diet, or any restrictive diet, is this: Which seems the more natural, most effective way for you to get and stay healthy—eating a variety of whole foods or taking supplements to get the nutrients you need?

Sources:

Eat Right for Your Type
http://www.dadamo.com/

New York University Langone Medical Center: The Blood type Diet. Web. 11 Nov 2011
http://www.med.nyu.edu/content?ChunkIID=214387

University of Bridgeport: The Dr. Peter D'Adamo NaturopathicScholarship. Web 11 Nov 2011
http://www.bridgeport.edu/admissions/healthsciences/dadamo.aspx

Take a Bite Out of Bamboo

2012-02-16T09:15:00.000+05:00

Fresh, young, edible bamboo shoots are grown in some parts of the United States and are sold at local farmer's markets, specialty food stores, and in some restaurants. You can find canned bamboo shoots in the Asian food section of most supermarkets, but fresh shoots are a little more difficult to come by.

The shoots are low in calories and fat, have a good source of fiber and potassium, and carry phytochemicals (substances found only in plants that are known to help fight disease). These antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory agents have the potential to help prevent the development of cancer and heart disease.

In their raw state, bamboo shoots are bitter and indigestible. If you have access to fresh shoots and want to try them, follow these cooking directions from the Small Farms Team at Washington State University:

Peel off the outer leaves and trim off any tough flesh.
Cut the shoots across the grain into 1/8 inch thick slices.
Cook the sliced shoots, uncovered, in plenty of boiling water for 20 minutes or until tender-crisp. (It's important to leave the pot uncovered to allow naturally occurring bitter compounds in the shoots to boil out into the air.)
Use the parboiled shoots in stir-fries, sautéed vegetable mixtures, salads, and soups.
Even though they are traditionally used in Asian-style dishes, tender, cooked shoots can also be drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

Although no research has been done on humans to date, laboratory studies show that bamboo leaf extract significantly reduces the growth of tumors in mice when the extract is given prior to the onset of cancer.

Studies have also found that bamboo extract contains powerful antioxidants that suppress the growth of existing tumors. Other studies have found that bamboo extract suppresses the body's natural inflammatory response that leads to the development of type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and heart disease. The extract was also able to significantly lower blood lead levels in mice exposed to environmental lead.

Because bamboo extract appears to have a powerful medicinal effect, it can potentially have side effects that could interfere with other medical treatments. Speak to your physician or alternative health care provider if you are considering using bamboo extract as a self-treatment.

Sources:

Higa JK and Panee J; "Bamboo Extract Reduces Interleukin 6(IL-6) Overproduction Under Lipotoxic Conditions Through Inhibiting the Activation of NF=KB and AP-1 Pathways." Cytokine 2011 Jul;55(1):18-23 Web. 18 Nov 2011

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21474329

Jiao J, et al; "Reduciton of Blood Lead Levels in Lead-Exposed Mice by Dietary Supplements and natural Antioxidants." Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 2011 feb;91(3):485-91 Web 18 Nov 2011

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21218482

Seki, T and Maeda, H; "Cancer Preventive Effect of Kumaizasa Bamboo Leaf Extracts Administered Prior to Carcinogenesis." Anticancer Research 2010 Jan;30(1):111-8 Web 18 Nov 2011

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20150624

Seki, T, Kida K and Maeda, H; "Immunostimulation-Mediated Anti-Tumor Activity of Bamboo (Sasa Senanensis) Leaf Extracts Obtained Under 'Vigorous' Condition." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2010 Dec; 7(4):447-457 Web 18 Nov 2011

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2892347/

Washington State University Cooperative Extension and the American Bamboo Soceity: Bamboo Shoots
http://agsyst.wsu.edu/bambroc.pdf
http://smallfarms.wsu.edu/farms/BambooShootRecipes.asp

Are Tender Point Exams a Thing of the Past?

2012-02-15T09:09:00.000+05:00

Ever since 1990, tender point exams have been the gold standard for diagnosing fibromyalgia. In order to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, most patients had to have experienced significant pain for three months or longer in at least 11 of 18 specific areas located throughout the body.

While the exam worked for most, patients and doctors experienced problems achieving accurate diagnoses since patients' pain levels were self-reported and subjective and the severity and location of their pain varied over time. That's led rheumatologists to reconsider whether tender point exams, which were originally intended only to qualify subjects for clinical studies, not for use as a diagnostic tool, are the right diagnostic tool for the job. New diagnostic methods may mean that tender point exams are becoming a thing of the past.

There are no definite diagnostic tests (like blood or tissue examinations) for diagnosing fibromyalgia. Instead, doctors must rule everything else out and establish that patients are experiencing symptoms that are consistent with a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. The American College of Rheumatology says that approximately 25 percent of fibromyalgia patients don't meet the diagnostic criteria established in 1990 so they set out to establish new criteria.

After performing a multicenter study of 829 previously diagnosed fibromyalgia patients, the ACR determined that two new tools were more effective for diagnosing fibromyalgia. These include:

1. The Widespread Pain Index (WPI) determines by counting the number of areas on the body where the patient has felt pain in the last week. The checklist includes 19 specified areas.

2. The Symptoms Severity (SS) scale determines by rating on a scale of zero to three, (three being the worst), the severity of three common symptoms: fatigue, waking up unrefreshed, and cognitive symptoms. An additional three points can be added to account for the extent of additional symptoms such as numbness, dizziness, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome or depression. The final score is between 0 and 12.

To meet the criteria for a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, a patient would have seven or more pain areas and a symptom severity score of five or more; or three to six pain areas and a symptom severity score of nine or more.

The ACR says that using these tools will help identify 88.1 percent of patients with fibromyalgia and help track severity of the disease over time. Patients that suspect they may have fibromyalgia, but have not previously met diagnostic criteria based on tender point exams, should consult with a physician who is familiar with these newer diagnostic criteria. The ACR hopes this will lead more patients to successful treatment options to manage fibromyalgia symptoms and live a healthier life.

Sources:

National Fibromyalgia Association

http://www.fibromyalgiaaware.org/

National Institutes of Health

Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2010 May;62(5):600-10.

The American College of Rheumatology preliminary diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia and measurement of symptom severity.

Wolfe F, Clauw DJ, Fitzcharles MA, Goldenberg DL, Katz RS, Mease P, Russell AS, Russell IJ, Winfield JB, Yunus MB.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20461783

Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Could Your Child Have This?

2012-02-14T09:08:00.000+05:00

As any parent can attest, certain stages of children's developmental process include periods where they are especially difficult, such as the so-called terrible twos. However, sometimes children exhibit troubling behavior that's beyond what we'd normally expected at that age and stage of development.

Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) is a behavioral disorder that usually begins in early childhood. The psychiatric industry's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder defines ODD as a persistent pattern of angry and irritable mood with defiant and vindictive behavior. Children younger than five old must exhibit this behavior most days for at least six months, and children older than five must display such behavior at least once per week for at least six months to be diagnosed with ODD.

ODD is more common in children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Tourette syndrome (a nervous system condition that causes uncontrollable tics). In fact, about one-third to one-half of children with ADHD also have an accompanying behavior disorder. Individuals with Oppositional Defiance Disorder may also experience anxiety and depression.

Children with ODD tend to:

Lose their temper often,
Argue with adults or refuse to comply with rules and requests,
Be angry, resentful, or vindictive,
Annoy others or become easily annoyed themselves, and
Blame others for their mistakes or behaviors.

Mental health professionals consider ODD a family disorder since it tends to run in families. There may be a genetic component or ODD may simply be learned behavior. It's more likely in families in which parental limits are overly harsh or overly lax, the family lacks structure, or parents apply rules inconsistently. Children with ODD generally have at least one parent who models ODD behavior or at least one parent who is emotionally or physically unavailable to their child due to their own emotional problems. ODD behavior may be a way for children to feel safe, gain a sense of control, or get attention.

Some research indicates that ADHD symptoms place children at risk for behavior consistent with ODD, and other research suggests that children with elevated ODD symptoms seem to be persistently involved in the juvenile justice system and have a greater probability of eventually receiving charges for serious crimes.

Behavioral therapy, which focuses on changing behavior, is generally effective for addressing ODD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy may help older children. It can take time before you see results from therapy.

Sources:

American Psychiatric Association. "Oppositional Defiant Disorder." Web.

http://www.dsm5.org/ProposedRevisions/Pages/proposedrevision.aspx?rid=106

Encyclopedia of Mental disorders. "Oppositional defiant disorder." Web.

http://www.minddisorders.com/Ob-Ps/Oppositional-defiant-disorder.html

Pardini, Dustin A. Ph.D and Fite, Paula J., Ph.D. "Symptoms of Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Callous-Unemotional Traits as Unique Predictors of Psychosocial Maladjustment in Boys: Advancing an Evidence Base for DSM-V."

Journal of American Academy Child & Adolescent Psychiatry 49(11) (2010): 1134-1144. Web.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3064931/

Centers for Disease Control. "Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)." Web. 12 December 2011. http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/conditions.html

Just a Kiss? 4 Infections Transmitted Through Kissing

2012-02-09T10:00:00.000+05:00

You may think a kiss is just a kiss, but in reality, it can be much more. Smooching can be romantic, but it can also transmit a variety of infections.

"When I think of the infectious risk of kissing, what comes to mind are viral infections," says Bruce Hirsch, MD, attending physician in infectious diseases at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, New York.

Believe it or not, bacterial infections are much less likely to be transmitted through kissing, Hirsch says. "You don't think of bacteria as a major problem," he says.

A variety of respiratory illnesses can be transmitted from one person to the another through kissing, says Jorge Parada, MD, an infectious disease expert at Loyola University Health System in Maywood, Illinois. "Any infectious disease that would be shed from the airways of the body could be transmitted in a kiss," he says.

Before you lock lips with someone, consider that the following all may be transmitted through kissing:

1. Herpes simplex virus type 1. This virus, spread not just through sharing kisses but sharing towels and eating utensils, is the culprit that causes cold sores. (These are quite different from canker sores, which are inside the mouth and aren't contagious.) Once you get herpes simplex, the virus remains dormant in the nerve cells and can be reactivated by everything from sun exposure to stress.

2. Infectious mononucleosis. Famously known as the kissing disease, this illness is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It's transmitted through saliva and is most common in 15 to 17-year-olds.

"What happens is that high concentrations of virus are shared in the saliva and oral secretions," Hirsch explains. Mono typically causes a sore throat, swollen glands, and fatigue that persists for several weeks.

3. Colds. Just as there are over 100 viruses that cause a cold, so there are myriad ways to catch a cold. If you're around a cold victim who talks, coughs or sneezes, you may be the next unlucky victim. Colds also are spread through hand to hand contact (like sharing utensils or towels), but you can also catch a cold through kissing, Hirsch says.

4. Flu. You can not only spread this virus to others who are up to six feet away, but you can get flu even by touching an object that has some virus on it - and then touching your mouth or nose. You can also get it from kissing someone with the flu, Parada says, and you may not even know the other person is sick. A person starts being contagious a day before he develops symptoms, and continues to be contagious for up to a week after getting sick.

While it's sometimes apparent when someone has a contagious illness--there's a visible cold sore on their lip, or they're coughing and sneezing--it's not always easy to tell.

"A person has viral shedding even before they have any outward manifestation of a cold sore," Parada says. So you could kiss someone with perfectly normal looking lips and wind up with herpes simplex.

One thing you don't have to worry about catching from a kiss is gingivitis, or gum disease. "That has more to do with somebody's personal hygiene," Parada says. "It has more to do with the care that you take of your teeth."

Sources:

"Cold sores: Causes." The Mayo Clinic.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cold-sore/DS00358/DSECTION=causes

"Common cold: causes. The Mayo Clinic."

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/common-cold/DS00056/DSECTION=causes

"How Flu Spreads." National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. National Institutes of Health.

http://www.niaid.nih.gov/topics/Flu/understandingFlu/Pages/howFluSpreads.aspx

Diabetes and Driving: Questions Answered

2012-02-08T10:00:00.000+05:00

Deciding if a person with diabetes is at risk while driving should be done on an individual basis, according to a new position statement from the American Diabetes Association. The statement, which appears in the magazine Diabetes Care and was reported by msnbc.com, says assessing a driver's ability to drive safely should be "tied to concrete evidence of risk, rather than on a diagnosis of diabetes alone."

The annual update of the ADA's Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes contains a section on driving and diabetes that calls for "individual assessment by a health care professional knowledgeable in diabetes" when considering restrictions for licensure.

"This country needs a far more consistent, fair, and equitable means of determining driving risk when it comes to people with diabetes," said Daniel Lorber, MD, FACP, CDE, according to msnbc.com.

Added Lorber, who's director of endocrinology at New York Hospital of Queens in Flushing, New York: "The vast majority of people with diabetes have no problems driving safely whatsoever, and should not be held to restrictions that may interfere with their ability to work or live an otherwise normal life."

However, individuals with diabetes should always take certain precautions before they get behind the wheel-and while driving. Before you even get into the car to drive, test your blood sugar, says Alison Massey, MS, RD, LDN, CDE, registered dietitian and diabetes educator at the Center for Endocrinology at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore.

Ideally, your blood sugar should be above 70 mg., she says. If it's lower, eat a snack before you drive. And take your diabetes supplies with you in the car so you'll be able to check your blood sugar periodically during long drives, Massey says.

Take along some sweets as well. "I recommend that you have snacks in the car," says Mary Ellen Roberts, DNP, of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. "Keep hard candy or even a tube of gel icing that you can squirt under your tongue if feel yourself developing hypoglycemia."

If you suddenly feel hypoglycemic, pull your car over to a safe location immediately, says Massey. Test your blood sugar and if it's low, treat it with 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate (4 glucose tablets or 4 ounces of juice or regular soda, for instance.) Wait 15 minutes and then retest your blood sugar to make sure it's gone up to the target range before starting to drive again.

Watch out for high blood sugar, too, if you're planning to drive. Hyperglycemia can cause symptoms like blurry vision, Massey says. "It could potentially impact your visual acuity, which is important for safe driving," she explains.

And, says Spyros Mezitis, MD, of Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, high blood sugar also can cause weakness and lethargy - two reasons to not get behind the wheel. "If your blood sugar is over 300, you should not be driving," he says. If you have diabetic complications like retinopathy or neuropathy, these could impact your driving ability, too. "A diminished sensation in the hands and feet can certainly impact one's ability to drive safely in regards to operating the steering wheel and pushing the pedals," Massey says. "And diabetic retinopathy can impact vision in different ways."

To determine if your eye disease is advanced to the point where you should not be driving, get regular eye exams from your ophthalmologist and discuss any changes you've noticed in your vision, Massey advises.

Source:

"Driving and diabetes: one size does not fit all." 20 December 2011. Marketwire. Msnbc.com. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45741348\

10 Healthy, Kid-Friendly Kitchen Must-Haves

2012-02-07T11:30:00.000+05:00

Want your kids to start enjoying the healthy meals and snacks you prepare for them? You may need to rethink your grocery shopping list. If you're buying the same items week in and week out, your child may be bored with your cooking. Switch things up a bit, nutrition experts suggest, by buying the makings for meals kids will love despite the fact that the meals are healthy.

Here's what to add to your list, suggest experts Bonnie Taub-Dix, RD, author of Read It Before You Eat It, Vandana R. Sheth, RD, CDE, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and Karen Ansel, MS, RD, CDN, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

●Frozen berries. Even when it's not berry season, you can treat your child to nutritious shakes and smoothies made with strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. "These get kids going in the morning, and they are a great hunger squasher in the afternoon," says Taub-Dix. Berries are a powerhouse of antioxidants and vitamins, and they require no peeling or slicing. You can also turn them into a breakfast parfait by layering them with yogurt and crunchy granola.

●Greek yogurt. It's got protein, plus calcium and potassium, and its thick texture makes it a natural for dips. "Make a savory dip by adding a little soup mix to it," advises Taub-Dix. "Or serve as is with apple slices or other fruits." It's also a tasty, healthy alternative to sour cream for topping potatoes, burritos, and tacos, says Ansel.

●Almond butter. For something a little different from peanut butter, try this creamy spread, a good source of fiber, protein, and B vitamins. "Almonds have a higher fiber content than other nuts, and they contain calcium as well as healthy fats," Taub-Dix explains. Besides spreading it on toast or English muffins, you can put it on apple slices for a filling and sweet snack.

●Jicama. It's flavorful and crunchy, and great to serve with hummus or guacamole for dipping. If your kids are getting bored with carrots and celery, give this veggie a place on your table.

●Mangoes. This nutrient-loaded fruit looks like sunshine and tastes so sweet, it's a natural dessert. Try a sundae with lowfat frozen yogurt topped with diced fresh mangoes; make kabobs with chunks of mangoes, whole strawberries, and pineapple chunks (cut tips off skewers before serving to kids); or pack some wedges in your child's lunchbox for dessert.

●Dried fruits. Raisins aren't the only dried fruit to pack for kids to snack on. Pick up some fiber-rich dried cranberries, blueberries, figs, and dates. "Besides a lot of fiber, dried fruit has potassium and antioxidants," says Sheth. Mix dried fruit with nuts and seeds for a high-fiber, healthy snack.

●Sweet potatoes. These are "super kid friendly," Ansel says. She suggests peeling them and slicing into strips, then tossing with olive oil and baking for a healthy alternative to French fries.

●Bagged coleslaw mix. Not only is this convenient, but it's got fiber and vitamins. "Lighten up coleslaw by swapping full fat mayo for non-fat Greek yogurt and canola oil in the dressing," Ansel says. "Coleslaw makes a great side dish, or use it to add crunch to sandwiches, burgers, and fish tacos."

●Avocadoes. A great source of heart-healthy nutrients like monounsaturated fat, potassium, and fiber, this is the main ingredient in guacamole, Ansel says. Serve the guac with red pepper strips for dipping, she suggests. "The healthy fat in the avocado will help your child absorb fat-soluble nutrients in the peppers," she says.

●Edamame. "Forget about trying to get your kids to eat their peas," Ansel says. "It's much more fun for them to pop open these edamame pods. Not only are they packed with protein, they're an outstanding source of fiber, too."

●Tomato sauce. Don't think of this antioxidant-rich sauce just for pasta, Ansel says. Use it to top veggies or grilled chicken breasts, too. Or for a healthy (and surprising!) breakfast, top toasted English muffin halves with tomato sauce and grated skim mozzarella, then broil until the cheese is melted.

Can a Heart Attack Occur Without Chest Pain?

2012-02-06T11:30:00.000+05:00

How many times have you seen this act on TV? The character on the screen gets a glazed look in his eyes, stumbles, and clutches his chest as he slowly (and dramatically) falls to the ground. This is the classic Hollywood depiction of a heart attack. And while this scenario might accurately describe some heart attacks, it's not representative. In fact, the notion that severe chest pain must indicate a heart attack, or a heart attack must come with severe chest pain, is not always true.

A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reports that chest pain severity is not an indicator of who is having, or is likely to have, a heart attack. Patient history and cardiovascular risk factors are better indicators than pain score.

What is a heart attack?

When a blockage limits the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart, it can cause a heart attack, or myocardial infarction. Clots develop when fat and other substances accumulate in the coronary artery, which supplies crucial blood and oxygen to the heart. If not treated right away, damaged heart muscles can die.

Symptoms of a heart attack

Chest pain is the number one reason people visit the emergency room and the most common heart attack symptom. The pain can be severe, but can just as likely start slowly as mild pain or discomfort; it may even come and go. When severe, patients describe it as a crushing or searing pain that radiates to the back, neck, jaw, shoulders and arms, especially the left arm. The researchers in this new study believe the brain may interpret signals from the heart as pain located elsewhere, or as other health problems caused by a damaged heart.

Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the U.S. They do not discriminate, and women are just as likely to have a heart attack as men are. While chest pain may not indicate a heart attack, it is a sign that something is wrong. You should seek immediate emergency medical care in case you are having a heart attack. About half the deaths from heart attacks occur within an hour of the start of symptoms and before people reach the hospital. Time is of the essence.

Be aware of the other symptoms of heart attacks as well. In addition to chest pain, patients may experience shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, faintness, sweating, dizziness, or unexplained pain that's not in the chest.

Sources:

Busko, Marlene. " Chest Pain Severity Not a Telltale Sign for MI." Medscape Medical News. Web. 29 July 2011. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/748240

Mayo Clinic. "Chest pain." Web. 11 February 2011.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chest-pain/DS00016

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. "Heart Attacks." Web.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003079.htm

Emotional Benefits of Being a Working Mom

2012-02-05T11:30:00.000+05:00

Several recent studies have demonstrated that working, especially part time, provides mental health benefits for women.

A study in the December 2011 issue of the Journal of Family Psychology examined several aspects of well being in mothers who worked part time compared to those who worked full time or not at all. The researchers found that there was little data about this particular category of working mothers (defined as working up to 32 hours per week), particularly through their children's middle childhood. However, up to 25 percent of all women work part time and most will eventually work at least part time.

They found that part-time employment has distinct positive associations with mothers' psychosocial well being and with how they perceive work-family conflicts, although the patterns vary by children's developmental periods and for particular aspects of family life. Part-time working mothers are more likely to report overall better health and fewer work-family conflicts, and less likely to report depressive symptoms. They were also more likely to be engaged in their children's schooling and provide learning experiences for their children.

A December 2011 issue of Time described a study of 1,600 working and stay-at-home moms that found employed women had better mental health status as long as they had realistic expectations of what they could reasonably accomplish and rejected the idea they could be a supermom. Not surprisingly, performing enjoyable work was a contributing factor to positive mental health status.

According to writer Sara Sutton Fell, working at least part time helps mothers develop patience with their kids and teach children that hard work-and working hard-are good. Children of working moms learn to respect women as equals, and retaining a professional career allows women to contribute financially to their kids' well being and future. Employers should recognize part-time work as both a legitimate career approach and a key ingredient to maintaining healthy family lives.

Thanks to the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA), the government recognizes the importance of facilitating working parents' ability to participate in early childrearing. The Act prohibits employer discrimination based on gender and reinforces the importance of mothers (and fathers) balancing demands of the workplace with needs of the family.

Sources:

Buehler, Cheryl and O'Brien, Marion. "Mothers' Part-Time Employment: Associations With Mother and Family Well-Being." Journal of Family Psychology 25 (6) (2011): 895-906. Web. http://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/fam-25-6-895.pdf

Rochman, Bonnie. "Working Women Who Try to Be 'Supermom' May Be More Depressed." Time. Web. 23 August 2011.http://healthland.time.com/2011/08/23/working-women-who-subscribe-to-the-supermom-myth-are-more-likely-to-be-depressed/#ixzz1iy4XDP1h

Fell, Sara Sutton. "4 Benefits of Being a Working Mom." Flexjobs.com. Web. 14 July 2011.

http://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/4-benefits-of-being-a-working-mom/

Poduval, Jayita and Poduval, Murali. "Working Mothers: How Much Working, How Much Mothers, And Where Is The Womanhood?" The Mens Sana Monographs 7 (1) (2009): 63 - 79. Web.

http://www.msmonographs.org/article.asp?issn=0973-1229;year=2009;volume=7;issue=1;spage=63;epage=79;aulast=Poduval

Can Talk Therapy Provide Pain Relief?

2012-02-04T11:30:00.000+05:00

Could talking it out help relieve your pain? According to recent studies, it might. It might also make living with chronic pain less challenging and debilitating.

Pain is a subjective sensation that's experienced both in your head and in your body. Your brain incorporates your mood, state of health, anxiety level and other emotional components while processing pain sensations and transmitting messages about how to handle it. Since pain is processed along many of the same neural pathways the brain uses to process emotions and mood that may increase how much pain we feel. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford demonstrated that when people are depressed or feeling sad, they experience more pain than when they're feeling upbeat. The authors speculated that a sad emotional state disables our ability to regulate negative emotions associated with feeling pain, which may make the pain feel worse.

Other studies demonstrate that talk therapy, both in-person and over the phone, are effective in dramatically reducing chronic pain. Cognitive behavioral therapy is particularly successful because it teaches patients to recognize the way they think about their pain, change their thoughts and behaviors associated with it and observe how those changes impact their pain level. Patients who participated in studies that utilized cognitive behavioral therapy reported dramatic improvements that were not reported by patients using traditional medical treatments.

Patients who live with chronic pain have unique emotional challenges and increased stressors that healthier people do not experience. Chronic pain can cause sleep deprivation, low self-esteem, anxiety, make performing daily tasks and maintaining a job difficult, alter relationships and cause isolation. It's no wonder then that 25-50 percent of pain patients report depression and 65 percent of depressed patients report pain.

Many pain management clinics incorporate individual and group therapy into their patients' care plans to help strategize coping techniques and deal with the emotional impact of living with pain. Patients report that this type of emotional support improves their quality of life and makes the challenges of living with chronic pain more manageable.

If you have a chronic pain condition, talk with your doctor about your risks for depression and ask for recommendations for therapists with experience treating pain patients.

Sources:

Induction of Depressed Mood Disrupts Emotion Regulation Neurocircuitry and Enhances Pain Unpleasantness.

Biological Psychiatry, 2010; 67 (11): 1083

Chantal Berna, Siri Leknes, Emily A. Holmes, Robert R. Edwards, Guy M. Goodwin, Irene Tracey.

Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center

Managing Chronic Pain, Depression & Antidepressants:
Issues & Relationships

Michael Clark, M.D., M.P.H.

http://www.hopkins-arthritis.org/patient-corner/disease-management/depression.html

Eyebrow Plucking, Waxing, and Threading

2011-04-12T18:59:00.000+05:00

The toil of achieving the perfect set of eyebrows is enough to make anyone weary. Yet millions of women (and men, too!) show up at the salon every few weeks to be threaded or waxed—while others stay home to take on the challenge with tweezers. Many would agree that no method of eyebrow shaping is perfect, but what are the pros and cons of each?

Plucking

This method of eyebrow shaping is the most economical way of grooming your eyebrows. You can buy tweezers at any drug or beauty store, which are ideal for removing coarse hair or small groups of hair. However, tweezing can be time- consuming and oftentimes takes precision and skill to get the shape you want.

Additionally, your skin's reaction to this very act can be unpredictable, potentially resulting in hyperpigmentation, folliculitis, scarring, ingrown hairs, and distorted follicles.

Waxing

Like plucking, waxing removes the hair from the hair shaft proving-and it could 2-3 weeks before hair begins to grown back. Although this method is the most expensive, it's considered to be the most effective as well because unlike plucking, waxing removes larger quantities of hair from the hair shaft. Instead of opting for a DIY home waxing kit, though, allow an experienced operator from a sanitary beauty salon to work her magic on you. She will provide quicker and more precise results.

Also, keep in mind the waxing-zones that are off-limits. They include areas where there are moles and warts as well as skin that's irritated, sunburned, or broken. The same potential effects of eyebrow plucking (hyperpigmentation, folliculitis, scarring, ingrown hairs, and distorted follicles) can exist for waxing. However, experts say this mode of hair removal may reduce regrowth because repeated waxing helps to destroy hair follicles.

Finally, if you're using a retinoid skin treatment that is systemic or topical, refrain from waxing for at least months after you've stopped treatment. This way, you'll avoid any possible skin tearing or scarring.

Threading

This ancient technique involves the use of a lengthy, twisted loop of thread that is rapidly rotated across the desired hair. Then, the tight coil pulls or breaks off the trapped hair. Some consider this method to be very painful while others are barely bothered. And interestingly, side effects are similar to plucking and waxing.

Conclusion

While no method is without fault, each has merit, too. A talk with your dermatologist can help you further determine which will yield the best results and be gentlest on your skin.

Sources:

Nonlaser Hair Removal Techniques
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1067139-overview

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