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Hold the Calcium Pill?
Created on 7/30/2010
The best way to get your nutrients is through a healthy diet, no question, but there are times when supplementing your diet makes good sense.
Calcium has been one of the nutrients often supplemented, especially in older women, to help prevent osteoporosis.
A newly published study suggests, however, that calcium taken without other forms of treatment against osteoporosis, including vitamin D, may increase the risk of heart attack. Eating calcium-rich foods appears safe.
Certainly more study needs to be done, but if you are currently taking calcium you should ask your doctor if you are doing so safely.
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Exercise Saves lives
Created on 7/23/2010
Squeeze in a few more minutes of exercise each day and you might squeeze in a few more days of living - as well as better squeeze into your pants!
A recent study showed that moderately intensive physical activity performed 5 days a week can help lessen the risk of death from all medical causes.
As is often stated, if that came in a pill we'd all be taking it!
Interestingly, daily walking only showed mild benefit. To really get the health benefits of exercise you need to exert yourself a little more most days of the week. Make sure your doctor knows you are starting a new exercise program first!
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AGEs and Aging
Created on 7/13/2010
AGEs, in this instance, stands for Advanced Glycation Endproducts, but they can have an impact on how well we age.
AGEs are formed by the body in small amounts but are also found in food, especially food cooked under "dry" conditions (for example grilling, broiling and frying). When present in high concentrations AGEs contribute to the development of chronic illness.
The good news? Whole grains, vegetables and fruits are low in AGEs, and the concentration of AGEs in animal protein can be reduced significantly simply by marinating the meat in a mixture of lemon juice and vinegar.
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Gastroparesis - When Ingested Food Moves Very Slowly
Created on 7/9/2010
Most of us have experienced meals where it seems the food is hanging around in our stomach longer than usual.
What if that happened with every meal? Such is the case with gastroparesis, a condition most commonly occuring as the result of damage to the vagus nerve, and a common complication of diabetes.
If you have gastroparesis don't despair - a good nutritionist can help devise a healthy eating plan for you. If need be your doctor can prescribe medications to help, too. Ginger could be helpful, as might acupuncture.
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Medication Causing Weight gain?
Created on 7/2/2010
Prescription drugs are often double-edged swords - they help us stay well but often come with bothersome side effects, if not worse.
What if your recent weight gain is due to the medication you are taking?
Exercise and a healthy diet will help, but the best thing you can do is talk with your doctor or pharmacist to see if another drug that doesn't cause weight gain is appropriate for you.
Fortunately, there are often many good alternatives to a specific medication.
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