Thursday, September 18, 2014
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Alzheimer's Prevention for 30 somethings
Oh do we love to read this! This is how it is supposed to work!!
http://online.wsj.com/articles/alzheimers-prevention-for-30-somethings-with-no-symptoms-1410823276
http://online.wsj.com/articles/alzheimers-prevention-for-30-somethings-with-no-symptoms-1410823276
What's a big reason why being overweight is harmful?
Overeating increases the immune response. This increased immune response causes the body to generate excessive inflammation, which may lead to a number of chronic diseases. It is therefore important to keep a balance. Too little and too much nutrition may both upset the immune defense system and increase the risk of disease.
Storage of energy causes an inflammatory reaction. The explanation lies in the close connection between the body's immune system, energy conversion and the way in which we store energy. Humans are not made to eat so much. We are intended to toil for our food.
Overeating causes stress to the mitochondria. The mitochondria are the cells' powerhouses, converting fatty acids to energy. When the cells receive excessive energy, the system starts to falter. Long-term stress on the mitochondria causes low-grade chronic inflammation over many years. When damaged mitochondria accumulate, the immune response is activated. This immune response is what causes the inflammation.
Storage of energy causes an inflammatory reaction. The explanation lies in the close connection between the body's immune system, energy conversion and the way in which we store energy. Humans are not made to eat so much. We are intended to toil for our food.
Overeating causes stress to the mitochondria. The mitochondria are the cells' powerhouses, converting fatty acids to energy. When the cells receive excessive energy, the system starts to falter. Long-term stress on the mitochondria causes low-grade chronic inflammation over many years. When damaged mitochondria accumulate, the immune response is activated. This immune response is what causes the inflammation.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Better blood sugar breakfast
Blood sugar surges -- after-meal glucose "spikes" -- can be life threatening for the 29 million Americans with diabetes. Diabetic blood sugar spikes have been linked to cardiovascular disease, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, kidney failure, and retinal damage. Now a new study, published in Diabetologia, suggests a novel way to suppress these deadly post-meal glucose surges: the consumption of whey protein concentrate, found in the watery portion of milk separated from cheese curds, before breakfast. According to the study, consumption of whey protein before meals may even keep diabetics' need for insulin treatment at bay.
The researchers found that glucose levels were reduced by 28 percent after the whey pre-load over the 180-minute post-meal period, with a uniform reduction during early and late phases. With whey pre-load, insulin and GLP-1 responses also were significantly higher (105 and 141 percent, respectively), producing a 96 percent increase in early insulin response.
Bonnie: This has to do with whey being a protein. Protein normalizes blood sugar, which is why we have always suggested eating a protein with carbohydrates.
The researchers found that glucose levels were reduced by 28 percent after the whey pre-load over the 180-minute post-meal period, with a uniform reduction during early and late phases. With whey pre-load, insulin and GLP-1 responses also were significantly higher (105 and 141 percent, respectively), producing a 96 percent increase in early insulin response.
Bonnie: This has to do with whey being a protein. Protein normalizes blood sugar, which is why we have always suggested eating a protein with carbohydrates.
Infant feeding practices
A recent study in Pediatrics found:
An association between longer duration of breast-feeding and later introduction of foods and beverages other than breast milk, and lower rates of ear, nose, throat, and sinus infections.
An association between longer breast-feeding and increased consumption of water, fruit, and vegetables, and decreased consumption of fruit juice and sugar-sweetened beverages at age six years.
An association between longer duration of breast-feeding and later introduction of foods and beverages other than breast milk, and lower rates of ear, nose, throat, and sinus infections.
An association between longer breast-feeding and increased consumption of water, fruit, and vegetables, and decreased consumption of fruit juice and sugar-sweetened beverages at age six years.
Blood Type Matters for Memory Loss
People with blood type AB may be more likely to develop memory loss in later years than people with other blood types, according to a study published in the September 10, 2014 issue of Neurology.
AB is the least common blood type, found in about 4 percent of the U.S. population. The study found that people with AB blood were 82 percent more likely to develop the thinking and memory problems that can lead to dementia than people with other blood types.
The study was part of a larger study of more than 30,000 people followed for an average of 3.4 years. In those who had no memory or thinking problems at the beginning, the study identified 495 participants who developed thinking and memory problems, or cognitive impairment, during the study. They were compared to 587 people with no cognitive problems. People with AB blood type made up 6 percent of the group who developed cognitive impairment, which is higher than the 4 percent found in the population.
Researchers also looked at blood levels of factor VIII, a protein that helps blood to clot. High levels of factor VIII are related to higher risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. People in this study with higher levels of factor VIII were 24 percent more likely to develop thinking and memory problems than people with lower levels of the protein. People with AB blood had a higher average level of factor VIII than people with other blood types.
AB is the least common blood type, found in about 4 percent of the U.S. population. The study found that people with AB blood were 82 percent more likely to develop the thinking and memory problems that can lead to dementia than people with other blood types.
The study was part of a larger study of more than 30,000 people followed for an average of 3.4 years. In those who had no memory or thinking problems at the beginning, the study identified 495 participants who developed thinking and memory problems, or cognitive impairment, during the study. They were compared to 587 people with no cognitive problems. People with AB blood type made up 6 percent of the group who developed cognitive impairment, which is higher than the 4 percent found in the population.
Researchers also looked at blood levels of factor VIII, a protein that helps blood to clot. High levels of factor VIII are related to higher risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. People in this study with higher levels of factor VIII were 24 percent more likely to develop thinking and memory problems than people with lower levels of the protein. People with AB blood had a higher average level of factor VIII than people with other blood types.
Combat prolonged sitting with short walks
In recent years, the evidence that long hours sitting at a desk or on a couch is bad for one's health has mounted. But new research suggests a quick five-minute walk every hour can reverse the ill-effects of a person's hunched posture and sedentary nine-to-five routine.
The experiment looked at sitting's ill effects -- specifically at the consequences for blood flow, or arterial function. Participants who sat for three hours showed declining arterial function, as expected. But those who walked for five minutes once each hour were able to mostly mitigate that decline. The study included only healthy, non-obese men, ages 20 to 35.
American adults sit for approximately eight hours a day. The impairment in endothelial function is significant after just one hour of sitting.
The study will be published in the next issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
The experiment looked at sitting's ill effects -- specifically at the consequences for blood flow, or arterial function. Participants who sat for three hours showed declining arterial function, as expected. But those who walked for five minutes once each hour were able to mostly mitigate that decline. The study included only healthy, non-obese men, ages 20 to 35.
American adults sit for approximately eight hours a day. The impairment in endothelial function is significant after just one hour of sitting.
The study will be published in the next issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
Thursday, September 04, 2014
Fish really is brain food and more!
Cook Your Fish Right
Eating a piece of baked or broiled fish -- any fish -- once a week boosts brain health, according to new research by doctors at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Regular fish consumers were also found to be better educated about healthier lifestyles.
Feds Get in on the Act
FDA and EPA Issue Draft Updated Advice for Fish Consumption
Emerging science indicates that limiting or avoiding fish during pregnancy and early childhood can mean missing out on these important nutrients that have a positive impact on growth and development before birth, in early infancy for breastfed infants, and in childhood. As a result, FDA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are encouraging pregnant women, those who might become pregnant, breastfeeding mothers, and young children to eat more fish—and to eat a variety of fish lower in mercury. Here’s how:
Deciphering How Omega-3's Function in the Brain
Consuming oils with high omega-3s is beneficial for the health because their presence makes the membranes more malleable and therefore more sensitive to deformation and fission by proteins. The results, published August 8th in Science, help explain why the abundance of these lipids in the brain represent a major advantage for cognitive function.
Considering that the body cannot synthesize them and that they can only be supplied by a suitable diet (rich in oily fish, etc.), it seems important to continue this work to understand the link between the functions performed by these lipids in the neuronal membrane and their health benefits.
Eating a piece of baked or broiled fish -- any fish -- once a week boosts brain health, according to new research by doctors at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Regular fish consumers were also found to be better educated about healthier lifestyles.
Feds Get in on the Act
FDA and EPA Issue Draft Updated Advice for Fish Consumption
Emerging science indicates that limiting or avoiding fish during pregnancy and early childhood can mean missing out on these important nutrients that have a positive impact on growth and development before birth, in early infancy for breastfed infants, and in childhood. As a result, FDA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are encouraging pregnant women, those who might become pregnant, breastfeeding mothers, and young children to eat more fish—and to eat a variety of fish lower in mercury. Here’s how:
- Eat 8 to 12 Ounces of Fish/Shellfish Per Week. (That’s 2 or 3 servings of fish a week.)
- Give young children 2 to 3 servings of fish a week with the portion right for the child’s age and calorie needs
- Choose Fish That Are Lower in Mercury.Many of the most commonly eaten fish are lower in mercury, such as salmon, shrimp, pollock, tuna (light canned), tilapia, catfish and cod.
- Avoid 4 Types of Fish: tilefish from the Gulf of Mexico, shark, swordfish and king mackerel. These fish are highest in mercury. Limit white (albacore) tuna to 6 ounces a week.
- Pay attention to fish advisories when eating fish you or others have caught from streams, rivers, and lakes, on those bodies of water. If advice isn’t available, adults should limit consumption of these fish to 6 ounces a week and young children to 1 to 3 ounces a week, and not eat other fish that week.
Deciphering How Omega-3's Function in the Brain
Consuming oils with high omega-3s is beneficial for the health because their presence makes the membranes more malleable and therefore more sensitive to deformation and fission by proteins. The results, published August 8th in Science, help explain why the abundance of these lipids in the brain represent a major advantage for cognitive function.
Considering that the body cannot synthesize them and that they can only be supplied by a suitable diet (rich in oily fish, etc.), it seems important to continue this work to understand the link between the functions performed by these lipids in the neuronal membrane and their health benefits.
Newest reason to choose organic
People with food allergies always have to watch what they eat. Now, they may have to watch what their fruits and vegetables eat, as it seems it's possible to have an allergic reaction to antibiotic residues in food.
An article published in the September issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, examines the case of a 10 year-old girl who had an anaphylactic (severely allergic) reaction after eating blueberry pie. Although she had a medical history of asthma and seasonal allergies, and known anaphylaxis to penicillin and cow's milk, she wasn't known to be allergic to any of the ingredients in the pie.
After weeks of testing on both the young girl and a sample of the pie, the article authors decided that what had caused the reaction was a streptomycin-contaminated blueberry. Streptomycin, in addition to being a drug used to fight disease, is also used as a pesticide in fruit, to combat the growth of bacteria, fungi, and algae.
"As far as we know, this is the first report that links an allergic reaction to fruits treated with antibiotic pesticides," said allergist Anne Des Roches, MD,FRCP, lead study author. "Certain European countries ban the use of antibiotics for growing foods, but the United States and Canada still allow them for agricultural purposes."
An article published in the September issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, examines the case of a 10 year-old girl who had an anaphylactic (severely allergic) reaction after eating blueberry pie. Although she had a medical history of asthma and seasonal allergies, and known anaphylaxis to penicillin and cow's milk, she wasn't known to be allergic to any of the ingredients in the pie.
After weeks of testing on both the young girl and a sample of the pie, the article authors decided that what had caused the reaction was a streptomycin-contaminated blueberry. Streptomycin, in addition to being a drug used to fight disease, is also used as a pesticide in fruit, to combat the growth of bacteria, fungi, and algae.
"As far as we know, this is the first report that links an allergic reaction to fruits treated with antibiotic pesticides," said allergist Anne Des Roches, MD,FRCP, lead study author. "Certain European countries ban the use of antibiotics for growing foods, but the United States and Canada still allow them for agricultural purposes."
Iodine lacking for pregnant and breastfeeding women
Many pregnant and breastfeeding women in the U.S. may be lacking iodine in their diets, which is an essential element for their babies’ brain development, according to a new policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Most of the salt in the U.S. diet is from processed foods, and that salt is not iodized. As consumption of processed foods has increased, so has the level of iodine deficiency, with about one-third of pregnant women in the U.S. being deficient. Pregnant and lactating women should take supplements that contain adequate levels of iodine, but only about 15 percent of this group does so.
Adequate iodine intake is needed to produce thyroid hormone, which is critical for brain development in children. Severe, untreated hypothyroidism in infancy has serious, permanent effects on the brain, and milder cases of hypothyroidism can also affect a child’s cognitive development. In addition, iodine deficiency in a mother increases both mother and child’s vulnerability to the effects of certain environmental pollutants -- most notably thiocyanate (found in cruciferous vegetables and tobacco smoke) and nitrate (found in certain leafy and root vegetables).
The AAP recommends iodine supplementation for breastfeeding mothers and should be considered for some other women of childbearing age.
Most of the salt in the U.S. diet is from processed foods, and that salt is not iodized. As consumption of processed foods has increased, so has the level of iodine deficiency, with about one-third of pregnant women in the U.S. being deficient. Pregnant and lactating women should take supplements that contain adequate levels of iodine, but only about 15 percent of this group does so.
Adequate iodine intake is needed to produce thyroid hormone, which is critical for brain development in children. Severe, untreated hypothyroidism in infancy has serious, permanent effects on the brain, and milder cases of hypothyroidism can also affect a child’s cognitive development. In addition, iodine deficiency in a mother increases both mother and child’s vulnerability to the effects of certain environmental pollutants -- most notably thiocyanate (found in cruciferous vegetables and tobacco smoke) and nitrate (found in certain leafy and root vegetables).
The AAP recommends iodine supplementation for breastfeeding mothers and should be considered for some other women of childbearing age.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Stress Related Skin?
Anyone who's had a pimple form right before an important event may wonder if stress caused the break out. While commonly linked anecdotally, proving the relationship between stress and inflammatory skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis and rosacea, is another matter.
The American Academy of Dermatology says experimental data support the idea that the nervous system and stress affect inflammatory skin conditions in humans. Many types of cells in the skin, including immune cells and endothelial cells (cells that line blood vessels), can be regulated by neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, which are chemicals released by the skin's nerve endings. Stress can result in the skin's nerve endings releasing an increased level of these chemicals. When this occurs, it can affect how and at what level our body responds to many important functions, such as sensation and control of blood flow, and can contribute to the symptoms of stress that we feel. In addition, the release of these chemicals can lead to inflammation of the skin.
How does current research impact how people with inflammatory skin conditions are treated? More research needs to be done to further understand the role of the nervous system and stress on inflammatory skin conditions, especially since other factors play a role, including genetics.
You can experiment with stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi, but should continue your treatment plan as prescribed by their dermatologist if you have a skin condition.
The American Academy of Dermatology says experimental data support the idea that the nervous system and stress affect inflammatory skin conditions in humans. Many types of cells in the skin, including immune cells and endothelial cells (cells that line blood vessels), can be regulated by neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, which are chemicals released by the skin's nerve endings. Stress can result in the skin's nerve endings releasing an increased level of these chemicals. When this occurs, it can affect how and at what level our body responds to many important functions, such as sensation and control of blood flow, and can contribute to the symptoms of stress that we feel. In addition, the release of these chemicals can lead to inflammation of the skin.
How does current research impact how people with inflammatory skin conditions are treated? More research needs to be done to further understand the role of the nervous system and stress on inflammatory skin conditions, especially since other factors play a role, including genetics.
You can experiment with stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi, but should continue your treatment plan as prescribed by their dermatologist if you have a skin condition.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
High Schoolers Need a Later School Day
Let them sleep!
That's the message from the nation's largest pediatrician group, which, in a new policy statement, says delaying the start of high school and middle school classes to 8:30 a.m. or later is "an effective countermeasure to chronic sleep loss" and the "epidemic" of delayed, insufficient, and erratic sleep patterns among the nation's teens.
Multiple factors, "including biological changes in sleep associated with puberty, lifestyle choices, and academic demands," negatively impact teens' ability to get enough sleep, and pushing back school start times is key to helping them achieve optimal levels of sleep – 8½ to 9½ hours a night, says the American Academy of Pediatrics statement, released Monday and published online in Pediatrics.
Just 1 in 5 adolescents get nine hours of sleep on school nights, and 45% sleep less than eight hours, according to a 2006 poll by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF).
"As adolescents go up in grade, they're less likely with each passing year to get anything resembling sufficient sleep," says Judith Owens, director of sleep medicine at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and lead author of the AAP statement. "By the time they're high school seniors, the NSF data showed they were getting less than seven hours of sleep on average."
Chronic sleep loss in children and adolescents "can, without hyperbole, really be called a public health crisis," Owens says.
That's the message from the nation's largest pediatrician group, which, in a new policy statement, says delaying the start of high school and middle school classes to 8:30 a.m. or later is "an effective countermeasure to chronic sleep loss" and the "epidemic" of delayed, insufficient, and erratic sleep patterns among the nation's teens.
Multiple factors, "including biological changes in sleep associated with puberty, lifestyle choices, and academic demands," negatively impact teens' ability to get enough sleep, and pushing back school start times is key to helping them achieve optimal levels of sleep – 8½ to 9½ hours a night, says the American Academy of Pediatrics statement, released Monday and published online in Pediatrics.
Just 1 in 5 adolescents get nine hours of sleep on school nights, and 45% sleep less than eight hours, according to a 2006 poll by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF).
"As adolescents go up in grade, they're less likely with each passing year to get anything resembling sufficient sleep," says Judith Owens, director of sleep medicine at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., and lead author of the AAP statement. "By the time they're high school seniors, the NSF data showed they were getting less than seven hours of sleep on average."
Chronic sleep loss in children and adolescents "can, without hyperbole, really be called a public health crisis," Owens says.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Risks With Growth Hormone for Short Stature
The use of growth hormone for the treatment of short stature or growth hormone deficiency in childhood may increase the long-term the risk for stroke in young adulthood, hemorrhagic strokes in particular, French registry data show.
Investigators at the University of Lorraine in France found a significantly higher risk for stroke among patients treated with growth hormone in childhood compared with 2 population-based registries used as reference controls.
The excess risk for stroke was mainly attributable to a "very substantially and significantly higher risk" of hemorrhagic stroke, at a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) ranging from 3.5 to 7.0, depending on the registry rates considered.
The study was published online August 13 in Neurology.
Investigators at the University of Lorraine in France found a significantly higher risk for stroke among patients treated with growth hormone in childhood compared with 2 population-based registries used as reference controls.
The excess risk for stroke was mainly attributable to a "very substantially and significantly higher risk" of hemorrhagic stroke, at a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) ranging from 3.5 to 7.0, depending on the registry rates considered.
The study was published online August 13 in Neurology.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Relief for Ragweed Pollen Sufferers
It is the height of ragweed season in the Chicagoland area. If you are allergic to ragweed, you can reduce your symptoms in half by removing food cross-reactors until the season is over (3-6 weeks from now). Here is a complete list of cross-reactors and suggested replacements from our Conquering Allergy and Intolerance Action Plan.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Acid Suppression with Medication Raises Infection Risk.
A study published yesterday in JAMA Pediatrics concluded that acid-suppression use results in gastric bacterial overgrowth of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Even more shocking is that acid-suppression was associated with greater concentrations of bacteria in the lung. The researchers conclude that, "these results suggest that acid suppression use may need to be limited in patients at risk for infections".
Monday, August 18, 2014
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Young teeth: it's not just the sugar
Dental researchers are warning parents of the dangers of soft drinks, fruit juice, sports drinks and other drinks high in acidity, which form part of a "triple-threat" of permanent damage to young people's teeth.
For the first time, researchers in the Journal of Dentistry have demonstrated that lifelong damage is caused by acidity to the teeth within the first 30 seconds of acid attack.
The researchers say drinks high in acidity combined with night-time tooth grinding and reflux can cause major, irreversible damage to young people's teeth.
Dental erosion can lead to a lifetime of compromised dental health that may require complex and extensive rehabilitation -- but it is also preventable with minimal intervention. Often, children and adolescents grind their teeth at night, and they can have undiagnosed regurgitation or reflux, which brings with it acidity from the stomach. Combined with drinks high in acidity, this creates a triple threat to young people's teeth which can cause long-term damage.
For the first time, researchers in the Journal of Dentistry have demonstrated that lifelong damage is caused by acidity to the teeth within the first 30 seconds of acid attack.
The researchers say drinks high in acidity combined with night-time tooth grinding and reflux can cause major, irreversible damage to young people's teeth.
Dental erosion can lead to a lifetime of compromised dental health that may require complex and extensive rehabilitation -- but it is also preventable with minimal intervention. Often, children and adolescents grind their teeth at night, and they can have undiagnosed regurgitation or reflux, which brings with it acidity from the stomach. Combined with drinks high in acidity, this creates a triple threat to young people's teeth which can cause long-term damage.
What Is a Certified Nutrition Specialist?
While you may think registered dietitian is the only certification available to those in the nutrition field, think again.
To be a Certified Nutrition Specialist, you must have an advanced degree. This is why you see many doctors, nurses, and other health professionals besides nutritionists seek CNS certifications.
More importantly, the organization is not beholden to Big Food sponsors like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is.
For more information, go to cbns.org.
To be a Certified Nutrition Specialist, you must have an advanced degree. This is why you see many doctors, nurses, and other health professionals besides nutritionists seek CNS certifications.
More importantly, the organization is not beholden to Big Food sponsors like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is.
For more information, go to cbns.org.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Like You Needed Another Reason to Stop Soda
A study in the September issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined the association of soda, including specific types of soda, and risk of hip fracture in postmenopausal women over a 30 year period.
Each additional serving of total soda per day was associated with a 14% increased risk of hip fracture. Risk was significantly elevated in consumers of both regular soda AND diet soda and also did not significantly differ between colas and noncolas or sodas with or without caffeine.
Aside from the chemicals, sugars, and noncaloric artificial sweeteners, the the large amounts of phosphorous in soda is awful for your bones.
Each additional serving of total soda per day was associated with a 14% increased risk of hip fracture. Risk was significantly elevated in consumers of both regular soda AND diet soda and also did not significantly differ between colas and noncolas or sodas with or without caffeine.
Aside from the chemicals, sugars, and noncaloric artificial sweeteners, the the large amounts of phosphorous in soda is awful for your bones.
Thursday, August 07, 2014
Help your intestinal lining
Good bacteria that aid in digestion help keep the intestinal lining intact. The findings, reported in the journal Immunity, could yield new therapies for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and a wide range of other disorders.
Scientists found that absorption of a specific bacterial byproduct is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelium -- the single-cell layer responsible for keeping intestinal bacteria and their toxins inside the gut and away from the rest of the body. Breaching of the intact intestinal epithelium is associated with a number of diseases.
A metabolite called indole 3-propionic acid (IPA) -- produced exclusively by so-called commensal bacteria, which aid in digestion -- both strengthens the intestinal epithelium's barrier function and prevents its inflammation.
Adding probiotics to the intestine is another option we may be able to use to prevent or treat IBD and other inflammatory disorders that occur when the intestinal epithelium has been compromised.
Scientists found that absorption of a specific bacterial byproduct is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelium -- the single-cell layer responsible for keeping intestinal bacteria and their toxins inside the gut and away from the rest of the body. Breaching of the intact intestinal epithelium is associated with a number of diseases.
A metabolite called indole 3-propionic acid (IPA) -- produced exclusively by so-called commensal bacteria, which aid in digestion -- both strengthens the intestinal epithelium's barrier function and prevents its inflammation.
Adding probiotics to the intestine is another option we may be able to use to prevent or treat IBD and other inflammatory disorders that occur when the intestinal epithelium has been compromised.
Over 65 and Vitamin D Deficient? You'd Better Read This.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a substantially increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older people, according to the most robust study of its kind ever conducted.
An international team, led by Dr David Llewellyn at the University of Exeter Medical School, found that study participants who were severely Vitamin D deficient were more than twice as likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
The team studied elderly Americans who took part in the Cardiovascular Health Study. They discovered that adults in the study who were moderately deficient in vitamin D had a 53 per cent increased risk of developing dementia of any kind, and the risk increased to 125 per cent in those who were severely deficient.
Similar results were recorded for Alzheimer's disease, with the moderately deficient group 69 per cent more likely to develop this type of dementia, jumping to a 122 per cent increased risk for those severely deficient.
The study was part-funded by the Alzheimer's Association, and is published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. It looked at 1,658 adults aged 65 and over, who were able to walk unaided and were free from dementia, cardiovascular disease and stroke at the start of the study. The participants were then followed for six years to investigate who went on to develop Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
They expected to find an association between low Vitamin D levels and the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, but they actually found that the association was twice as strong as we anticipated.
The study also found evidence that there is a threshold level of Vitamin D circulating in the bloodstream below which the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease increases. The team had previously hypothesized that this might lie in the region of 25-50 nmol/L, and their new findings confirm that vitamin D levels above 50 nmol/L are most strongly associated with good brain health.
Bonnie: Levels over 50? Hmm, from whom have we heard that before? When I see results like this, it makes me smile from ear to ear.
An international team, led by Dr David Llewellyn at the University of Exeter Medical School, found that study participants who were severely Vitamin D deficient were more than twice as likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
The team studied elderly Americans who took part in the Cardiovascular Health Study. They discovered that adults in the study who were moderately deficient in vitamin D had a 53 per cent increased risk of developing dementia of any kind, and the risk increased to 125 per cent in those who were severely deficient.
Similar results were recorded for Alzheimer's disease, with the moderately deficient group 69 per cent more likely to develop this type of dementia, jumping to a 122 per cent increased risk for those severely deficient.
The study was part-funded by the Alzheimer's Association, and is published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. It looked at 1,658 adults aged 65 and over, who were able to walk unaided and were free from dementia, cardiovascular disease and stroke at the start of the study. The participants were then followed for six years to investigate who went on to develop Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
They expected to find an association between low Vitamin D levels and the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, but they actually found that the association was twice as strong as we anticipated.
The study also found evidence that there is a threshold level of Vitamin D circulating in the bloodstream below which the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease increases. The team had previously hypothesized that this might lie in the region of 25-50 nmol/L, and their new findings confirm that vitamin D levels above 50 nmol/L are most strongly associated with good brain health.
Bonnie: Levels over 50? Hmm, from whom have we heard that before? When I see results like this, it makes me smile from ear to ear.
Wednesday, August 06, 2014
Unlikely cause of food intolerance
A study from the FASEB Journal has just shown that perinatal exposure to low doses of BPA, which is considered to be risk-free in humans, could increase the risk of developing food intolerance in adulthood.
A sizable portion of the global population suffer from food intolerance. Aside from diet, an environmental origin for these adverse food reactions is strongly suspected.
These findings support the decision made by the French authorities to ban the use of BPA in any amount in containers used for infant foods as early as 2013, and in all food packaging as from 2015.
A sizable portion of the global population suffer from food intolerance. Aside from diet, an environmental origin for these adverse food reactions is strongly suspected.
These findings support the decision made by the French authorities to ban the use of BPA in any amount in containers used for infant foods as early as 2013, and in all food packaging as from 2015.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Vegetarians Require Extra Nutrients to Avoid Osteoporosis
Vegetarian diets should be used with caution for weight management. Vegetarians should increase intakes of vitamin B-12, zinc, increase intakes of calcium, magnesium, fiber, protein, and vitamins A, C, and E.
Some research suggests that vegetarian diets, especially vegan diets, are associated with lower bone mineral density (BMD). Oxalic acid and phytic acid can potentially interfere with absorption and retention of calcium and thereby have a negative effect on BMD. Impaired vitamin B-12 status also negatively affects BMD.
The authors from the study in the July issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggest attention to the shortfall nutrients through the careful selection of foods or fortified foods or the use of supplements to help ensure healthy bone status to reduce fracture risk in individuals who adhere to vegetarian diets.
Some research suggests that vegetarian diets, especially vegan diets, are associated with lower bone mineral density (BMD). Oxalic acid and phytic acid can potentially interfere with absorption and retention of calcium and thereby have a negative effect on BMD. Impaired vitamin B-12 status also negatively affects BMD.
The authors from the study in the July issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggest attention to the shortfall nutrients through the careful selection of foods or fortified foods or the use of supplements to help ensure healthy bone status to reduce fracture risk in individuals who adhere to vegetarian diets.
Antioxidants and Allergy, Asthma
The western diet is becoming more popular around the world even though it is characterized by a reduction of fresh fruits and vegetables with an increase of processed foods. As pulmonary and systemic oxidative stress increase allergic inflammation, dietary or supplemental antioxidants have been proposed to counteract the incidence and morbidity of allergic disease.
Studies of variable quality suggest associations of low dietary intake of antioxidants and increased asthma and allergy. High levels of antioxidants are found in the Mediterranean diet which is associated with a decrease in asthma and allergic disease suggesting high levels of antioxidants in the diet are beneficial. Antioxidant supplementation may be protective under certain conditions where vulnerable populations have a deficiency in dietary antioxidants and/or are exposed to environmental oxidants, as summarized in a study from the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Blog on May 2014.
Studies of variable quality suggest associations of low dietary intake of antioxidants and increased asthma and allergy. High levels of antioxidants are found in the Mediterranean diet which is associated with a decrease in asthma and allergic disease suggesting high levels of antioxidants in the diet are beneficial. Antioxidant supplementation may be protective under certain conditions where vulnerable populations have a deficiency in dietary antioxidants and/or are exposed to environmental oxidants, as summarized in a study from the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Blog on May 2014.
New Discovery: Why Antibiotics Don't Work
Researchers have discovered the link between antibiotics and bacterial biofilm formation leading to chronic lung, sinus and ear infections. The study results, published in the current issue of PLOS ONE, illustrate how bacterial biofilms can actually thrive, rather than decrease, when given low doses of antibiotics.
The research addresses the long standing issues surrounding chronic ear infections and why some children experience repeated ear infections even after antibiotic treatment. Once the biofilm forms, it becomes stronger with each treatment of antibiotics.
Biofilms are highly structured communities of microorganisms that attach to one another and to surfaces. The microorganisms group together and form a slimy, polysaccharide cover. This layer is highly protective for the organisms within it, and when new bacteria are produced they stay within the slimy layer. With the introduction of antibiotic-produced glycogen, the biofilms have an almost endless food source that can be used once antibiotic exposure has ended.
There are currently no approved treatments for biofilm-related infections. Therefore, bacteria forced into forming stronger biofilms will become more difficult to treat and will cause more severe chronic infections. Adults will suffer protracted lung infections as the bacteria hunker down into their protective slime, and children will have repeated ear infections. What may appear to be antibiotic resistance when an infection does not clear up may actually be biofilms at work.
Modern medicine needs to find ways of detecting and treating biofilm infections before the bacteria are able to form these protective structures.
The research addresses the long standing issues surrounding chronic ear infections and why some children experience repeated ear infections even after antibiotic treatment. Once the biofilm forms, it becomes stronger with each treatment of antibiotics.
Biofilms are highly structured communities of microorganisms that attach to one another and to surfaces. The microorganisms group together and form a slimy, polysaccharide cover. This layer is highly protective for the organisms within it, and when new bacteria are produced they stay within the slimy layer. With the introduction of antibiotic-produced glycogen, the biofilms have an almost endless food source that can be used once antibiotic exposure has ended.
There are currently no approved treatments for biofilm-related infections. Therefore, bacteria forced into forming stronger biofilms will become more difficult to treat and will cause more severe chronic infections. Adults will suffer protracted lung infections as the bacteria hunker down into their protective slime, and children will have repeated ear infections. What may appear to be antibiotic resistance when an infection does not clear up may actually be biofilms at work.
Modern medicine needs to find ways of detecting and treating biofilm infections before the bacteria are able to form these protective structures.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Friday, July 25, 2014
Five Hour Energy Drink Sued
Two attorneys general from the Northwest have sued the companies responsible for the popular 5-Hour Energy drink, alleging they engaged in deceptive advertising.
The Oregon lawsuit filed Thursday in Portland contends 5-Hour Energy falsely claims customers get extra energy and focus from a unique blend of ingredients, when the boost actually comes from a concentrated dose of caffeine.
The suit also targets claims that users don't experience a crash when the effects subside and that the product is OK for adolescents.
Oregon has been part of a group leading a 33-state investigation into the accuracy of the product's claims. Washington state's attorney general filed a similar lawsuit Thursday in King County Superior Court in Seattle.
Other states are expected to file suit as well, said Kristina Edmunson, a spokeswoman for the Oregon Department of Justice.
The Oregon lawsuit filed Thursday in Portland contends 5-Hour Energy falsely claims customers get extra energy and focus from a unique blend of ingredients, when the boost actually comes from a concentrated dose of caffeine.
The suit also targets claims that users don't experience a crash when the effects subside and that the product is OK for adolescents.
Oregon has been part of a group leading a 33-state investigation into the accuracy of the product's claims. Washington state's attorney general filed a similar lawsuit Thursday in King County Superior Court in Seattle.
Other states are expected to file suit as well, said Kristina Edmunson, a spokeswoman for the Oregon Department of Justice.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Lipoic Acid Continues to Show Its Value
Researchers have discovered a possible explanation for the surprisingly large range of biological effects that are linked to a micronutrient lipoic acid: It appears to reset and synchronize circadian rhythms, or the "biological clock" found in most life forms.
The ability of lipoic acid to help restore a more normal circadian rhythm to aging animals could explain its apparent value in so many important biological functions, ranging from stress resistance to cardiac function, hormonal balance, muscle performance, glucose metabolism and the aging process.
The findings were published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, through the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Almost one-third of all genes are influenced by circadian rhythms, and when out of balance they can play roles in obesity, cancer, heart disease, inflammation, hormonal imbalance and many other areas.
The ability of lipoic acid to help restore a more normal circadian rhythm to aging animals could explain its apparent value in so many important biological functions, ranging from stress resistance to cardiac function, hormonal balance, muscle performance, glucose metabolism and the aging process.
The findings were published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, through the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Almost one-third of all genes are influenced by circadian rhythms, and when out of balance they can play roles in obesity, cancer, heart disease, inflammation, hormonal imbalance and many other areas.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Polyphenols and glucose
A diet rich in polyphenols, one that includes dark chocolate, green tea, coffee, and extra virgin olive oil, among other foods, significantly improved glucose metabolism in individuals at high risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The results of the new study was presented at the European Atherosclerosis Society 2014 Congress.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Children with Autism Have Altered Gut Bacteria
Most gut bacteria are beneficial, aiding food digestion, producing vitamins, and protecting against harmful bacteria. If left unchecked, however, harmful bacteria can excrete dangerous metabolites or disturb a balance in metabolites that can affect the gut and the rest of the body, including the brain.
Increasing evidence suggests that children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) have altered gut bacteria. In order to identify possible microbial metabolites associated with ASD researchers looked for and compared the compounds in fecal samples from children with and without ASD. They found that children with ASD had significantly different concentrations of seven of the 50 compounds they identified.
Most of the seven metabolites play a role in the brain, working as neurotransmitters or controlling neurotransmitter biosynthesis. They suspect that gut microbes may alter levels of neurotransmitter-related metabolites affecting gut-to-brain communication and/or altering brain function."
Of particular interest was the significantly higher glutamine/glutamate ratio in children with ASD. Glutamine and glutamate are further metabolized to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter. An imbalance between glutamate and GABA transmission has been associated with ASD-like behaviors such as hyper-excitation.
Children with ASD also harbored distinct and less diverse gut bacterial composition. The study was presented in May at the American Society for Microbiology.
Increasing evidence suggests that children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) have altered gut bacteria. In order to identify possible microbial metabolites associated with ASD researchers looked for and compared the compounds in fecal samples from children with and without ASD. They found that children with ASD had significantly different concentrations of seven of the 50 compounds they identified.
Most of the seven metabolites play a role in the brain, working as neurotransmitters or controlling neurotransmitter biosynthesis. They suspect that gut microbes may alter levels of neurotransmitter-related metabolites affecting gut-to-brain communication and/or altering brain function."
Of particular interest was the significantly higher glutamine/glutamate ratio in children with ASD. Glutamine and glutamate are further metabolized to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter. An imbalance between glutamate and GABA transmission has been associated with ASD-like behaviors such as hyper-excitation.
Children with ASD also harbored distinct and less diverse gut bacterial composition. The study was presented in May at the American Society for Microbiology.
Greatest Impact on a Child's Beneficial Bacteria?
The factor that has the greatest impact on the development of a child's gut flora is whether the child is breastfed, according to a new study from Applied and Environmental Microbiology. The study shows that breastfeeding promotes the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria in the baby's gut flora, which are beneficial to the development of the child's immune system.
A number of studies have shown that breastfed babies grow slightly slower and are slightly slimmer than children who are fed with infant formula. Children who are breastfed also have a slightly lower incidence of obesity, allergies, diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease later in life. This may be due to the fact that breastfeeding promotes the development of beneficial bacteria in the baby's gut.
There are significant changes in the intestinal bacterial composition from nine to 18 months following cessation of breastfeeding and other types of food being introduced. However, a child's gut microbiota continues to evolve right up to the age of three, as it becomes increasingly complex and also more stable.
Steve: This probably means that there is a 'window' during those early years, in which intestinal bacteria are more susceptible to external factors than what is seen in adults.
A number of studies have shown that breastfed babies grow slightly slower and are slightly slimmer than children who are fed with infant formula. Children who are breastfed also have a slightly lower incidence of obesity, allergies, diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease later in life. This may be due to the fact that breastfeeding promotes the development of beneficial bacteria in the baby's gut.
There are significant changes in the intestinal bacterial composition from nine to 18 months following cessation of breastfeeding and other types of food being introduced. However, a child's gut microbiota continues to evolve right up to the age of three, as it becomes increasingly complex and also more stable.
Steve: This probably means that there is a 'window' during those early years, in which intestinal bacteria are more susceptible to external factors than what is seen in adults.
Gluten May Contribute to Depression
The aim of a recent Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics study was to investigate the major effect of gluten on mental state and not necessarily on gastrointestinal symptoms. The researchers found that gluten ingestion was associated with higher overall depression scores compared to placebo.
Exercise benefits the good bugs in our gut
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/06/18/exercise-and-the-good-bugs-in-our-gut/?ref=health
Friday, July 11, 2014
Thursday, July 10, 2014
MS and the gut
Researchers are making some intriguing discoveries about the gut of patients with multiple sclerosis.
One new study has identified both pro- and anti-inflammatory epigenetic factors in the intestinal microbiome of patients with MS that may contribute to disease pathogenesis. The new findings was presented at the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting.
There were no significant differences in dietary patterns between patients with MS and control patients. About 13% of the MS and 24% of the control groups had a history of vegetarian dieting, 52% of both groups had high milk consumption, and 67% of the MS and 48% of control groups had a high level of yogurt consumption.
The researchers found two organisms with anti-inflammatory properties that were lower in MS vs control patients and that increased with treatment.
There were differences in gut microbes associated with other autoimmune diseases. For example, patients with new-onset rheumatoid arthritis are enriched for Prevotella copri, and in inflammatory bowel disease, butyrate producers are depleted.
One new study has identified both pro- and anti-inflammatory epigenetic factors in the intestinal microbiome of patients with MS that may contribute to disease pathogenesis. The new findings was presented at the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting.
There were no significant differences in dietary patterns between patients with MS and control patients. About 13% of the MS and 24% of the control groups had a history of vegetarian dieting, 52% of both groups had high milk consumption, and 67% of the MS and 48% of control groups had a high level of yogurt consumption.
The researchers found two organisms with anti-inflammatory properties that were lower in MS vs control patients and that increased with treatment.
There were differences in gut microbes associated with other autoimmune diseases. For example, patients with new-onset rheumatoid arthritis are enriched for Prevotella copri, and in inflammatory bowel disease, butyrate producers are depleted.
Food as Medicine Celebrated
This year’s Institute for Functional Medicine conference on ‘Food and Nutrition as the Ultimate Upstream Medicine’ reminds us that besides humans, food-as-medicine is the way all other animal species do it. It’s also the way we’ve done it throughout our evolutionary history, barring the most recent 0.004%.
Here are some takeaways from the conference:
Here are some takeaways from the conference:
- This year, for the first time in human history, more people will die worldwide from obesity than from starvation, much of it caused by excess consumption of sugars and other refined carbohydrates.
- The recent focus by the food industry and governments on low-fat products and cholesterol have increased, not reduced, the obesity epidemic.
- Modern interpretations of the paleo diet go a long way to helping people to avoid refined carbs
- Declining vegetable intakes in recent years are causing serious phytochemical deficiencies which in turn contribute to higher disease burdens.
- The food industry is corrupt and knowingly exploits the ‘bliss point’ for the sake of profit, in the knowledge that it is contributing to the epidemic of obesity and other chronic diseases.
More Evidence Healthy Lifestyle = Healthy Life
Live longer thanks to fruit, an active lifestyle, limited alcohol and no cigarettes. This is the conclusion of a study by public health physicians in the journal Preventive Medicine, who documented for the first time the impact of behavioral factors on life expectancy in numbers.
An individual who smokes, drinks a lot, is physically inactive and has an unhealthy diet has 2.5 fold higher mortality risk in epidemiological terms than an individual who looks after his health. Or to put it simply: a healthy lifestyle can help you stay ten years younger.
Smoking seems to be the most harmful. Compared with a group of non-smokers, smokers have a 57 percent higher risk of dying prematurely. The impact of an unhealthy diet, not enough sport and alcohol abuse results in an elevated mortality risk of around 15 percent for each factor. The probability of a 75-year-old man with all risk factors surviving the next ten years is, for instance, 35 percent, without risk factors 67 percent -- for a woman 47 and 74 percent respectively.
An individual who smokes, drinks a lot, is physically inactive and has an unhealthy diet has 2.5 fold higher mortality risk in epidemiological terms than an individual who looks after his health. Or to put it simply: a healthy lifestyle can help you stay ten years younger.
Smoking seems to be the most harmful. Compared with a group of non-smokers, smokers have a 57 percent higher risk of dying prematurely. The impact of an unhealthy diet, not enough sport and alcohol abuse results in an elevated mortality risk of around 15 percent for each factor. The probability of a 75-year-old man with all risk factors surviving the next ten years is, for instance, 35 percent, without risk factors 67 percent -- for a woman 47 and 74 percent respectively.
FDA set to act on sodium reductions in food
The FDA intends to issue voluntary guidelines for food producers to reduce sodium levels.
Today’s U.S. food supply has 35% more sodium per person than it did in the early 1900s based on Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion data.
It is important to note that sodium plays many functional roles in foods, including texture improvement, color enhancement and microbial control. Restoring these qualities when reducing sodium is challenge enough for food developers, but that is only part of the equation. Consumers will judge low-sodium products by their flavor, and that could make or break a product.
For example, in 2010, the Campbell Soup company announced it would lower the sodium content across more than half of its condensed canned soup line by as much as 45%—in some cases dropping totals from 800 mg of sodium per serving to 480 mg. The initiative earned widespread praise from constituencies ranging from public health advocates and government officials to members of the medical community. But the general consensus from consumers was a resounding "yuck". Just a year and a half later, facing sagging sales of its reformulated products, Campbell's reversed course and brought the salt back.
Bonnie: A perfect example for how difficult it is to change the public's taste buds when they have so conditioned to taste sweet, salty, and fatty! However, there are plenty of examples of companies that use spices to make foods wonderfully tasty! Trader Joes makes an olive oil potato chip that is higher in potassium than sodium.
Today’s U.S. food supply has 35% more sodium per person than it did in the early 1900s based on Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion data.
It is important to note that sodium plays many functional roles in foods, including texture improvement, color enhancement and microbial control. Restoring these qualities when reducing sodium is challenge enough for food developers, but that is only part of the equation. Consumers will judge low-sodium products by their flavor, and that could make or break a product.
For example, in 2010, the Campbell Soup company announced it would lower the sodium content across more than half of its condensed canned soup line by as much as 45%—in some cases dropping totals from 800 mg of sodium per serving to 480 mg. The initiative earned widespread praise from constituencies ranging from public health advocates and government officials to members of the medical community. But the general consensus from consumers was a resounding "yuck". Just a year and a half later, facing sagging sales of its reformulated products, Campbell's reversed course and brought the salt back.
Bonnie: A perfect example for how difficult it is to change the public's taste buds when they have so conditioned to taste sweet, salty, and fatty! However, there are plenty of examples of companies that use spices to make foods wonderfully tasty! Trader Joes makes an olive oil potato chip that is higher in potassium than sodium.
Tuesday, July 08, 2014
Update on Pregnancy and Eating Carbs, Fish
An upcoming study in the August issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that higher maternal dietary glycemic index and glycemic load in early pregnancy are associated with greater risk of obesity in childhood. Grain carbohydrates and added sugars are the foods most indicated for high GI and GL.
FDA, along with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), issued a draft updated advice on fish consumption to include a recommended minimum amount of low-mercury fish for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or may become pregnant, as well as young children.
FDA and EPA previously recommended maximum amounts of fish that these groups should consume, but had not recommended a minimum amount. However, the importance of appropriate amounts of fish in the diets of pregnant and breastfeeding women, and young children is undeniable. All we can say is, "it's about time".
Choices lower in mercury include some of the most commonly eaten fish, such as shrimp, pollock, salmon, canned light tuna, tilapia, catfish and cod.
FDA, along with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), issued a draft updated advice on fish consumption to include a recommended minimum amount of low-mercury fish for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or may become pregnant, as well as young children.
FDA and EPA previously recommended maximum amounts of fish that these groups should consume, but had not recommended a minimum amount. However, the importance of appropriate amounts of fish in the diets of pregnant and breastfeeding women, and young children is undeniable. All we can say is, "it's about time".
Choices lower in mercury include some of the most commonly eaten fish, such as shrimp, pollock, salmon, canned light tuna, tilapia, catfish and cod.
Thursday, July 03, 2014
Magnesium Lowers CRP
A clinical randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial in the May 7, 2014 issue of the Archives of Medical Research found that oral magnesium supplements lowered C-Reactive Protein levels in prediabetic patients.
This is not the first time low blood levels of magnesium have been found to be correlated with elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, a marker for inflammation.
This is not the first time low blood levels of magnesium have been found to be correlated with elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, a marker for inflammation.
Sacchromyces boulardii for diarrhea
The probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii may be used safely to relieve acute diarrhea in children, according to a recent report in Pediatrics.
Fluid and electrolyte replacement is the treatment of choice for dehydration caused by diarrhea, but S. boulardii has also been shown in numerous trials to be effective in the management of diarrhea.
The daily dose of S. boulardii for most of the trials was 1 to 10 billion colony-forming units, and the duration of treatment ranged from 5 to 10 days.
The use of S. boulardii was associated with a 19.7-hour shorter duration of diarrhea.
Steve: Clients familiar with our recommendations will not be surprised by this finding.
Fluid and electrolyte replacement is the treatment of choice for dehydration caused by diarrhea, but S. boulardii has also been shown in numerous trials to be effective in the management of diarrhea.
The daily dose of S. boulardii for most of the trials was 1 to 10 billion colony-forming units, and the duration of treatment ranged from 5 to 10 days.
The use of S. boulardii was associated with a 19.7-hour shorter duration of diarrhea.
Steve: Clients familiar with our recommendations will not be surprised by this finding.
Growing Doubt on Statin Drugs: A Doc's View
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/827675 (may need to sign up first)
Yet another weight loss plan?
A new study, published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, suggests that minimal calories and maximal exercise can significantly reduce body fat in just four days — and the loss lasts for months. The catch, of course, is that those four days are pretty grueling.
Researchers in Spain and Sweden had 15 healthy but overweight Swedish men restrict their calories to about 360 a day, a reduction of approximately 1,800 calories. What calories they did ingest came in liquid form: Some men drank mostly sugary carbohydrates, others a high-protein drink. The men also exercised — a lot. Their days began with 45 minutes of cranking an arm-pedaling machine for an upper-body workout. Then, as a group, the men strolled for eight hours across the Swedish countryside, with only a 10-minute break every hour. They were allowed as much of a low-calorie, sports-type beverage as they wanted during their walks.
After four days, the men had each lost almost 11 pounds, with nearly half of that coming from body fat; the rest of the loss came primarily from muscle mass.
But given the doleful statistics on weight loss — most people regain everything they lose dieting and more — these results are startling. They also, at the moment, are inexplicable. “The only explanation we can offer” for the sustained loss, the researchers say, is that the men were inspired by their hypercompressed success to change their lifestyles. The men moved more and ate less than before.
Researchers in Spain and Sweden had 15 healthy but overweight Swedish men restrict their calories to about 360 a day, a reduction of approximately 1,800 calories. What calories they did ingest came in liquid form: Some men drank mostly sugary carbohydrates, others a high-protein drink. The men also exercised — a lot. Their days began with 45 minutes of cranking an arm-pedaling machine for an upper-body workout. Then, as a group, the men strolled for eight hours across the Swedish countryside, with only a 10-minute break every hour. They were allowed as much of a low-calorie, sports-type beverage as they wanted during their walks.
After four days, the men had each lost almost 11 pounds, with nearly half of that coming from body fat; the rest of the loss came primarily from muscle mass.
But given the doleful statistics on weight loss — most people regain everything they lose dieting and more — these results are startling. They also, at the moment, are inexplicable. “The only explanation we can offer” for the sustained loss, the researchers say, is that the men were inspired by their hypercompressed success to change their lifestyles. The men moved more and ate less than before.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Most Americans prefer surgery, meds to lose weight
Obese and overweight Americans who have tried losing weight report far greater overall satisfaction with weight loss surgery and prescription weight loss medications than with diet, exercise and other self-modification methods, according to results presented at the joint meeting of the International Society of Endocrinology and the Endocrine Society.
Of more than 39,000 respondents, 58.4 percent of obese people were not currently taking any steps to lose weight. The percentage of obese respondents who reported being extremely or very satisfied with their weight loss method was 39.3 percent in the Surgery/Rx group versus only 20.2 percent in the group that used self-modification methods.
The researchers observed similar findings in the overweight respondents, with 44.4 percent of the Surgery/Rx group being extremely or very satisfied with their treatment compared with 19.7 percent of participants who used self-modification.
Electrocute Yourself to Lose Weight?
On June 17, an FDA advisory panel moved closer to full FDA approval on VBLOC—a new implant designed to curb appetite by electrocuting stomach nerves. The device is implanted under the skin of the chest, and delivers electrical shocks down the two trunks of the vagus nerve (the nerve that controls the digestive system, heart, lungs, and some glands). The jolts stun nerves around the stomach, decreasing hunger pangs and simulating a feeling of fullness.
The panel voted 8-to-1 that the device is safe, 6-to-2 that the device’s benefits outweigh its risk, and 4-to-5 that the device will effectively help patients lose weight (that is, a majority voted that it would not help patients lose weight). The side effects of VBLOC, produced by EnteroMedics, Inc., include pain, heartburn, constipation, nausea, depression, diarrhea, infection, organ or nerve damage, device movement, and device malfunction. The vagus nerve is one of the body’s most important organs. If it is damaged, the effects will be horrendous for health.
This is absolutely shocking.
Of more than 39,000 respondents, 58.4 percent of obese people were not currently taking any steps to lose weight. The percentage of obese respondents who reported being extremely or very satisfied with their weight loss method was 39.3 percent in the Surgery/Rx group versus only 20.2 percent in the group that used self-modification methods.
The researchers observed similar findings in the overweight respondents, with 44.4 percent of the Surgery/Rx group being extremely or very satisfied with their treatment compared with 19.7 percent of participants who used self-modification.
Electrocute Yourself to Lose Weight?
On June 17, an FDA advisory panel moved closer to full FDA approval on VBLOC—a new implant designed to curb appetite by electrocuting stomach nerves. The device is implanted under the skin of the chest, and delivers electrical shocks down the two trunks of the vagus nerve (the nerve that controls the digestive system, heart, lungs, and some glands). The jolts stun nerves around the stomach, decreasing hunger pangs and simulating a feeling of fullness.
The panel voted 8-to-1 that the device is safe, 6-to-2 that the device’s benefits outweigh its risk, and 4-to-5 that the device will effectively help patients lose weight (that is, a majority voted that it would not help patients lose weight). The side effects of VBLOC, produced by EnteroMedics, Inc., include pain, heartburn, constipation, nausea, depression, diarrhea, infection, organ or nerve damage, device movement, and device malfunction. The vagus nerve is one of the body’s most important organs. If it is damaged, the effects will be horrendous for health.
This is absolutely shocking.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Why Food Stamp Changes Only Helped Hispanic Children?
Beginning in 2009, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) revised its food packages and provided more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables and fewer foods with high saturated fat content.
Eighteen months following the WIC food package revisions, significant decreases in total fat and saturated fat, increases in dietary fiber, and overall diet quality were observed among Hispanic children only. No significant changes in nutrient intake or diet quality were observed for any other group.
Bonnie: Unfortunately, the American Journal of Preventive Medicine study leaves us with more questions than answers. Hopefully, if we give the changes more time to take, we will get better results for all groups at all ages.
Eighteen months following the WIC food package revisions, significant decreases in total fat and saturated fat, increases in dietary fiber, and overall diet quality were observed among Hispanic children only. No significant changes in nutrient intake or diet quality were observed for any other group.
Bonnie: Unfortunately, the American Journal of Preventive Medicine study leaves us with more questions than answers. Hopefully, if we give the changes more time to take, we will get better results for all groups at all ages.
What is Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Known as the universal antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid is most commonly known for addressing blood sugar balance disorders and neuropathy, but according to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration, has been studied for its contribution for helping 48 different maladies. Alpha lipoic acid is accessible to every type of cell of every organ system in the body. Dosing is completely dependent on the individual and the issue(s) at hand. Because of its blood sugar lowering capacity, be very careful using it if on blood sugar lowering medication.
Friday, June 06, 2014
Circadian rhythm and inflammation
A disruption of circadian rhythms, when combined with a high-fat, high-sugar diet, may contribute to inflammatory bowel disease and other harmful conditions, according to a recent study. "Circadian rhythms, which impose a 24-hour cycle on our bodies, are different from sleep patterns," the first author of the study explained. "Sleep is a consequence of circadian rhythms." While circadian rhythm disruption may be common among some, the research suggests that it may be contributing to a host of diseases. The study is online at the peer-reviewed, open-access journal, PLOS ONE.
Thursday, June 05, 2014
American kids failing fitness
American children are scoring failing marks in fitness because of the lure of the Internet, time-pressed parents and the culture of the car, fitness experts say.
Only one quarter of children aged 6 to 15 meet the current guidelines of 60 minutes of moderate physical activity per day, said Dr. Russell R. Pate, chairman of the non-profit National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP) Alliance, which issued the first U.S. report card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth.
"Fifty percent of waking hours are spent in sedentary activity," said Pate, professor in the Department of Exercise Science in the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina.
Fitness experts say it is up to parents and policy makers to get their children to be more active.
Only one quarter of children aged 6 to 15 meet the current guidelines of 60 minutes of moderate physical activity per day, said Dr. Russell R. Pate, chairman of the non-profit National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP) Alliance, which issued the first U.S. report card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth.
"Fifty percent of waking hours are spent in sedentary activity," said Pate, professor in the Department of Exercise Science in the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina.
Fitness experts say it is up to parents and policy makers to get their children to be more active.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Tesco bans sweets from checkouts in all stores
The UK's largest retailer, Tesco, is to ban sweets and chocolates from its checkouts after a survey of customers showed overwhelming support for the move.
Research for Tesco found that 65% of shoppers wanted confectionery removed from checkouts to help them make healthier choices when shopping. Even more (67%) said it would help them choose healthier options for their children.
Tesco removed sweets and chocolates from checkouts at its 740 larger Tesco stores 20 years ago, but they will now be removed from checkouts at all stores, including 1,800 Tesco Metro and Express convenience stores in Britain and Ireland. The retailer committed to removing them by the end of December 2014, but has brought forward the move after surveying its customers.
Research for Tesco found that 65% of shoppers wanted confectionery removed from checkouts to help them make healthier choices when shopping. Even more (67%) said it would help them choose healthier options for their children.
Tesco removed sweets and chocolates from checkouts at its 740 larger Tesco stores 20 years ago, but they will now be removed from checkouts at all stores, including 1,800 Tesco Metro and Express convenience stores in Britain and Ireland. The retailer committed to removing them by the end of December 2014, but has brought forward the move after surveying its customers.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Helping You Get 7-a-Day
Eating seven or more portions of fruit and vegetables a day reduces your risk of death at any point in time by 42% compared to eating less than one portion, according to a new study from Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health.
Eating seven or more portions reduces the specific risks of death by cancer and heart disease by 25% and 31% respectively. The research also showed that vegetables have significantly higher health benefits than fruit.
This is the first study to link fruit and vegetable consumption with all-cause, cancer and heart disease deaths in a nationally-representative population, the first to quantify health benefits per-portion, and the first to identify the types of fruit and vegetable with the most benefit.
Compared to eating less than one portion of fruit and vegetables, the risk of death by any cause is reduced by 14% by eating one to three portions, 29% for three to five portions, 36% for five to seven portions and 42% for seven or more.
Fresh vegetables had the strongest protective effect, with each daily portion reducing overall risk of death by 16%. Salad contributed to a 13% risk reduction per portion, and each portion of fresh fruit was associated with a smaller but still significant 4% reduction.
There was no benefit from fruit juice.
Bonnie: The recipe is easy: 1 vegetable AND fruit serving with breakfast. 1 vegetable AND fruit serving with lunch. 1 vegetable AND fruit serving with dinner. 1 vegetable serving with a morning or afternoon snack. If you don't snack, just add 1 extra vegetable serving at a meal of your choice.
If you want, have three servings with each meal. Why? A study presented at the American College of Cardiology Annual Meeting followed 18-30 year-old women from the 1980's to the present with the aim of tracking heart health. Women who reported eating eight to nine servings a day of fruits and vegetables were 40 percent less likely to have calcified plaque in their arteries in their 40s, compared with those who ate three to four servings a day.
Eating seven or more portions reduces the specific risks of death by cancer and heart disease by 25% and 31% respectively. The research also showed that vegetables have significantly higher health benefits than fruit.
This is the first study to link fruit and vegetable consumption with all-cause, cancer and heart disease deaths in a nationally-representative population, the first to quantify health benefits per-portion, and the first to identify the types of fruit and vegetable with the most benefit.
Compared to eating less than one portion of fruit and vegetables, the risk of death by any cause is reduced by 14% by eating one to three portions, 29% for three to five portions, 36% for five to seven portions and 42% for seven or more.
Fresh vegetables had the strongest protective effect, with each daily portion reducing overall risk of death by 16%. Salad contributed to a 13% risk reduction per portion, and each portion of fresh fruit was associated with a smaller but still significant 4% reduction.
There was no benefit from fruit juice.
Bonnie: The recipe is easy: 1 vegetable AND fruit serving with breakfast. 1 vegetable AND fruit serving with lunch. 1 vegetable AND fruit serving with dinner. 1 vegetable serving with a morning or afternoon snack. If you don't snack, just add 1 extra vegetable serving at a meal of your choice.
If you want, have three servings with each meal. Why? A study presented at the American College of Cardiology Annual Meeting followed 18-30 year-old women from the 1980's to the present with the aim of tracking heart health. Women who reported eating eight to nine servings a day of fruits and vegetables were 40 percent less likely to have calcified plaque in their arteries in their 40s, compared with those who ate three to four servings a day.
Is carbon dioxide depleting crop protein?
Elevated levels of carbon dioxide inhibit plants' assimilation of nitrate into proteins, indicating that the nutritional quality of food crops is at risk as climate change intensifies.
Findings from a wheat field-test study were reported in the journal Nature Climate Change.
Protein concentrations in the grain of wheat, rice and barley -- as well as in potato tubers -- decline, on average, by approximately 8 percent under elevated levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
When this decline is factored into the respective portion of dietary protein that humans derive from these various crops, it becomes clear that the overall amount of protein available for human consumption may drop by about 3 percent as atmospheric carbon dioxide reaches the levels anticipated to occur during the next few decades.
Findings from a wheat field-test study were reported in the journal Nature Climate Change.
Protein concentrations in the grain of wheat, rice and barley -- as well as in potato tubers -- decline, on average, by approximately 8 percent under elevated levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
When this decline is factored into the respective portion of dietary protein that humans derive from these various crops, it becomes clear that the overall amount of protein available for human consumption may drop by about 3 percent as atmospheric carbon dioxide reaches the levels anticipated to occur during the next few decades.
Glucosamine extends life span in animal study
Glucosamine extends life span in evolutionary distinct species by mimicking a low-carbohydrate diet, according to a study in the April 8 issue of Nature Communications.
The current findings indicate that glucosamine at pharmacologically relevant concentrations is capable of extending life span in C. elegans (worm) and aging mice. This appears to be a result of decreased glycolysis and a compensatory increase of amino-acid turnover.
Unlike most other life span-extending compounds, extensive published evidence indicates that glucosamine is safe for human use even at high doses, making it readily available for interventions to extend human healthspan particularly because, on an observational and uncontrolled basis, it has been repeatedly suggested that supplementation with glucosamine may decrease overall mortality in humans.
The current findings indicate that glucosamine at pharmacologically relevant concentrations is capable of extending life span in C. elegans (worm) and aging mice. This appears to be a result of decreased glycolysis and a compensatory increase of amino-acid turnover.
Unlike most other life span-extending compounds, extensive published evidence indicates that glucosamine is safe for human use even at high doses, making it readily available for interventions to extend human healthspan particularly because, on an observational and uncontrolled basis, it has been repeatedly suggested that supplementation with glucosamine may decrease overall mortality in humans.
Nutrition labeling changes may affect your supplements
Lurking within the 108 pages of the FDA’s proposed rule changes for food labels are some deeply concerning issues.
- The FDA wants to prevent the term ‘folate’ being applied on the labels of any supplements. This presumably means that reduced folate forms will no longer be eligible – only the synthetic and oxidised form, folic acid, will be permitted on labels. Is this because the FDA means to reserve calcium methylfolate – the stabilized form of folate manufactured by Merck – for use as a medical food or drug?
- The FDA incorrectly assumes that all supplements and fortified foods currently contain only the synthetic, oxidized form of folate, folic acid, which many of us don’t metabolize fully.
- The FDA is proposing big changes to the way in which dietary reference intakes (DRIs) are calculated – reducing them, in many cases, below the already very low levels. The FDA wants to reduce the existing DRI of 14 out of 27 essential vitamins, one of them by 10 times (biotin, from 300 mcg to 30 mcg). Despite increasing evidence of the effects of deficiency of vitamin B12 (and other B vitamins) on Alzheimer's disease risk, the FDA sees fit to reduce the DRI of vitamin B12 to 40% of its existing level (from 6 mcg to tiny 2.4 mcg, just below the EU’s 2.5 mcg Recommended Daily Allowance).
- The FDA claims there are no benefits for supplements when taking levels greater than the Tolerable Upper Level – something any nutritionist or functional medicine practitioner will tell you is false.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Produce and Cereal: Stating the Obvious
Two reports in the last week made major headlines. However, none of us should be surprised by the results.
Produce Lowers Stroke Risk
Eating more fruits and vegetables may reduce stroke risk by almost a third, according to a fresh look at recent evidence. The benefits rose along with the amounts of produce consumed. Stroke risk fell by 32 percent for every 200 grams per day of fruit people ate, and 11 percent with every 200 g of vegetables.
Kids' Cereals Loaded With Sugar
Eating a bowl of kids’ cereal every day would add up to eating 10 pounds of sugar a year, according to a new Environmental Working Group analysis of more than 1,500 cereals, including 181 marketed for children.
Virtually all of the cold cereals contained added sugar, but kids’ cereals were especially prone to extreme sweetening. The average “serving” – an unrealistically small amount, in most cases – had nearly as much sugar as three Chips Ahoy! cookies. Children’s cereal contained an average of 40 percent more sugar per “serving” than adult cereals.
Produce Lowers Stroke Risk
Eating more fruits and vegetables may reduce stroke risk by almost a third, according to a fresh look at recent evidence. The benefits rose along with the amounts of produce consumed. Stroke risk fell by 32 percent for every 200 grams per day of fruit people ate, and 11 percent with every 200 g of vegetables.
Kids' Cereals Loaded With Sugar
Eating a bowl of kids’ cereal every day would add up to eating 10 pounds of sugar a year, according to a new Environmental Working Group analysis of more than 1,500 cereals, including 181 marketed for children.
Virtually all of the cold cereals contained added sugar, but kids’ cereals were especially prone to extreme sweetening. The average “serving” – an unrealistically small amount, in most cases – had nearly as much sugar as three Chips Ahoy! cookies. Children’s cereal contained an average of 40 percent more sugar per “serving” than adult cereals.
Resveratrol study underwhelms
A study of Italians who consume a diet rich in resveratrol -- the compound found in red wine, dark chocolate and berries -- finds they live no longer than and are just as likely to develop cardiovascular disease or cancer as those who eat or drink smaller amounts of the antioxidant, as described in the May 12 issue of JAMA Internal Medicine.
Despite the negative results, researchers say, studies have shown that consumption of red wine, dark chocolate and berries does reduce inflammation in some people and still appears to protect the heart. It's just that the benefits, must come from other polyphenols or substances found in those foodstuffs.
We have never jumped on the resveratrol bandwagon. While we do recommend many of the foods that contain resveratrol, we do not endorse them because of resveratrol.
Despite the negative results, researchers say, studies have shown that consumption of red wine, dark chocolate and berries does reduce inflammation in some people and still appears to protect the heart. It's just that the benefits, must come from other polyphenols or substances found in those foodstuffs.
We have never jumped on the resveratrol bandwagon. While we do recommend many of the foods that contain resveratrol, we do not endorse them because of resveratrol.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Here comes maple water
As we alerted out NCI Well Connect subscribers to over a year ago, maple water is starting to pop up on shelves.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2014/05/01/bottled-maple-sap-available-in-american-stores/8566515/
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2014/05/01/bottled-maple-sap-available-in-american-stores/8566515/
FDA gets it right with aspirin
In the latest development in a long-simmering debate, the FDA has announced that aspirin should not be marketed for the prevention of a first heart attack or stroke in people with no history of cardiovascular disease. The announcement follows FDA’s rejection on Friday of Bayer Healthcare’s decade-old petition requesting approval of a primary prevention indication.
In its statement the FDA said it had “reviewed the available data and does not believe the evidence supports the general use of aspirin for primary prevention of a heart attack or stroke. In fact, there are serious risks associated with the use of aspirin, including increased risk of bleeding in the stomach and brain.”
In its statement the FDA said it had “reviewed the available data and does not believe the evidence supports the general use of aspirin for primary prevention of a heart attack or stroke. In fact, there are serious risks associated with the use of aspirin, including increased risk of bleeding in the stomach and brain.”
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Food Addiction Deflects Weight Bias?
A study in the June issue of Appetite examined the impact of the food-addiction model of obesity on weight stigma directed at obese people. Randomly assigned participants were asked to evaluate four stories of obese people.
The food-addiction model produced less stigma, less blame, and lower perceived psychopathology. The food-addiction model also produced less blame toward obese people in general and less fear of fat.
The finding suggests that presenting obesity as an addiction does not increase weight bias and could even be helpful in reducing the widespread prejudice against obese people.
What do you think? Would this be helpful?
The food-addiction model produced less stigma, less blame, and lower perceived psychopathology. The food-addiction model also produced less blame toward obese people in general and less fear of fat.
The finding suggests that presenting obesity as an addiction does not increase weight bias and could even be helpful in reducing the widespread prejudice against obese people.
What do you think? Would this be helpful?
Thursday, May 08, 2014
Sorry Angelenos. You Can't have it All.
Los Angeles has the worst smog in the nation, despite California's tight environmental standards and years of progress fighting pollution, according to a new report by the American Lung Association.
The report, released on Wednesday, also said another California city, Fresno, has the highest level of pollution from particles in the air, mostly caused by vehicle exhaust.
"We've made significant improvements, but we still have a long ways to go," said John Balmes, a medical doctor and professor of Environmental Health Sciences at the University of California at Berkeley.
The Los Angeles metropolitan area had the highest levels of ozone pollution, or smog, formed by a combination of sunlight and other pollutants in the atmosphere, according to the report.
The report looked at levels of pollutants in major U.S. cities from 2010 through 2012. Results can be viewed at: stateoftheair.org.
Outside of California, Houston, the Washington-Baltimore-area and Las Vegas had some of the worst problems with ozone pollution, which can create or worsen lung conditions like asthma, the report said.
Atlanta and Pittsburgh registered high levels of particle pollutants, which have also been linked to many health issues, including breathing difficulties and heart attacks.
The report, released on Wednesday, also said another California city, Fresno, has the highest level of pollution from particles in the air, mostly caused by vehicle exhaust.
"We've made significant improvements, but we still have a long ways to go," said John Balmes, a medical doctor and professor of Environmental Health Sciences at the University of California at Berkeley.
The Los Angeles metropolitan area had the highest levels of ozone pollution, or smog, formed by a combination of sunlight and other pollutants in the atmosphere, according to the report.
The report looked at levels of pollutants in major U.S. cities from 2010 through 2012. Results can be viewed at: stateoftheair.org.
Outside of California, Houston, the Washington-Baltimore-area and Las Vegas had some of the worst problems with ozone pollution, which can create or worsen lung conditions like asthma, the report said.
Atlanta and Pittsburgh registered high levels of particle pollutants, which have also been linked to many health issues, including breathing difficulties and heart attacks.
Eat Healthy, Help the Environment
Courtesy of Reuters Health - Foods with the largest environmental footprint tend to also provide less nutrition and cost more per unit than foods with a smaller impact on the environment, a recent French study found. But that isn't the rule across the board.
Cutting meat intake has been one recommended strategy for curbing greenhouse gas emissions linked to global warming. For the first time, researchers aimed to compare the nutrient density, environmental impact and price of common foods.
"The food system accounts for approximately one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, and global obesity is on the rise," said Gabriel Masset, lead author of the study and a research assistant at Aix-Marseille Universite in Marseille.
"Identifying foods more likely to be part of healthy and low-carbon diets could be an effective way to help consumers in their daily choices," Masset told Reuters Health in an email. The study was published April 7 online in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Masset and his team used a French dietary survey conducted in 2006 and 2007 to identify the 391 foods and beverages most commonly consumed in that country by more than 1,900 people between the ages of 18 and 79. The environmental impact of these items was gauged based on three measures: greenhouse gas emissions, emissions to the atmosphere that lead to acid rain and ion buildup in water, which can cause the development of undesired algae.
Next, the researchers evaluated the nutritional quality of the foods by calculating a ratio of "good" nutrients, such as fiber, iron and protein, to "bad" ones, including sodium and added sugars. Food prices were assessed using information from a 2006 French consumer panel, which is based on 12,000 households.
The results reiterated previous findings that animal-based products are tougher on the environment than plant foods. Fruits and vegetables packed the most nutrition, while fruits, vegetables and meats tended to be pricy. Starchy foods, including pasta, cooked beans and mashed potatoes, were the cheapest, both by weight and calorie count.
Sugary foods with little nutritional value, including pastries and soft drinks, were inexpensive sources of calories with an environmental footprint on the average to smaller side.
"Our results highlighted that it would be overly simplistic and misleading to affirm that low-carbon foods and diets are healthier," Masset said.
The study "reinforces that we need to continue to focus on ways that the food sector affects our environment," said Alicia Romano, a dietitian at the Frances Stern Nutrition Center at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, in an email. Romano was not involved in the study.
The impact of animal products on the planet means that the "greenest" diet is one with less meat and dairy - or none at all. For the sake of the environment, the authors said, diets should include more plant-based foods.
"People should be aware that foods of animal origin, despite being essential sources of nutrients, do have a higher carbon footprint than plant-based foods," Masset said.
In addition, healthcare providers should be prepared to help patients make changes to their diets.
"They should be more inclined towards (meatless) choices and be ready to assist individuals trying to reduce their meat, fish and egg intake," Masset said.
Cutting meat intake has been one recommended strategy for curbing greenhouse gas emissions linked to global warming. For the first time, researchers aimed to compare the nutrient density, environmental impact and price of common foods.
"The food system accounts for approximately one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, and global obesity is on the rise," said Gabriel Masset, lead author of the study and a research assistant at Aix-Marseille Universite in Marseille.
"Identifying foods more likely to be part of healthy and low-carbon diets could be an effective way to help consumers in their daily choices," Masset told Reuters Health in an email. The study was published April 7 online in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Masset and his team used a French dietary survey conducted in 2006 and 2007 to identify the 391 foods and beverages most commonly consumed in that country by more than 1,900 people between the ages of 18 and 79. The environmental impact of these items was gauged based on three measures: greenhouse gas emissions, emissions to the atmosphere that lead to acid rain and ion buildup in water, which can cause the development of undesired algae.
Next, the researchers evaluated the nutritional quality of the foods by calculating a ratio of "good" nutrients, such as fiber, iron and protein, to "bad" ones, including sodium and added sugars. Food prices were assessed using information from a 2006 French consumer panel, which is based on 12,000 households.
The results reiterated previous findings that animal-based products are tougher on the environment than plant foods. Fruits and vegetables packed the most nutrition, while fruits, vegetables and meats tended to be pricy. Starchy foods, including pasta, cooked beans and mashed potatoes, were the cheapest, both by weight and calorie count.
Sugary foods with little nutritional value, including pastries and soft drinks, were inexpensive sources of calories with an environmental footprint on the average to smaller side.
"Our results highlighted that it would be overly simplistic and misleading to affirm that low-carbon foods and diets are healthier," Masset said.
The study "reinforces that we need to continue to focus on ways that the food sector affects our environment," said Alicia Romano, a dietitian at the Frances Stern Nutrition Center at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, in an email. Romano was not involved in the study.
The impact of animal products on the planet means that the "greenest" diet is one with less meat and dairy - or none at all. For the sake of the environment, the authors said, diets should include more plant-based foods.
"People should be aware that foods of animal origin, despite being essential sources of nutrients, do have a higher carbon footprint than plant-based foods," Masset said.
In addition, healthcare providers should be prepared to help patients make changes to their diets.
"They should be more inclined towards (meatless) choices and be ready to assist individuals trying to reduce their meat, fish and egg intake," Masset said.
Probiotics on the duration of illness for acute respiratory infection
In the April issue of British Journal of Nutrition, the effect of probiotics, specifically Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, on the duration of acute respiratory infections in otherwise healthy children and adults was significant. There were significantly fewer numbers of days of illness per person, shorter illness episodes by almost a day, and fewer numbers of days absent from day care/school/work in participants who received a probiotic intervention than in those who had taken a placebo.
Thursday, May 01, 2014
Statin Users Often Stray From Well Eating Habits
Individuals prescribed statin therapy for high cholesterol levels have increased their caloric intake by nearly 10% and their intake of fat by 14% over a recent 10-year period, while no changes in eating habits have been observed among statin nonusers, a new study shows. In addition, researchers report that individuals prescribed a statin had a larger increase in body-mass index (BMI) than those who weren't taking the lipid-lowering medication.
Presenting their findings April 24, 2014 here at the Society of General Internal Medicine Meeting , the researchers say the study showed that statin users were consuming an extra 192 kcal per day in 2009–2010 than they were in 1999–2000, and this could have contributed to the increase in BMI, which was the equivalent of a 3- to 5-kg weight gain.
Dr Rita Redberg (University of California, San Francisco), the editor of JAMA: Internal Medicine, said she has treated many patients with statins over the years and has observed a "false reassurance" among those who receive the cholesterol-lowering medications. There is a perception, she writes, that "statins can compensate for poor dietary choices and a sedentary life." The new data raise concerns of a potential hazard with statins, where the focus on "cholesterol levels can be distracting from the more beneficial focus on healthy lifestyle to reduce heart-disease risk," suggests Redberg.
Presenting their findings April 24, 2014 here at the Society of General Internal Medicine Meeting , the researchers say the study showed that statin users were consuming an extra 192 kcal per day in 2009–2010 than they were in 1999–2000, and this could have contributed to the increase in BMI, which was the equivalent of a 3- to 5-kg weight gain.
Dr Rita Redberg (University of California, San Francisco), the editor of JAMA: Internal Medicine, said she has treated many patients with statins over the years and has observed a "false reassurance" among those who receive the cholesterol-lowering medications. There is a perception, she writes, that "statins can compensate for poor dietary choices and a sedentary life." The new data raise concerns of a potential hazard with statins, where the focus on "cholesterol levels can be distracting from the more beneficial focus on healthy lifestyle to reduce heart-disease risk," suggests Redberg.
Gluten Indicated in Migraines
Migraines May Be a Sign of Gluten Intolerance.
The following LA Times article confirms what we have known for a while. Of course, migraines are just one of the multitude of symptoms brought on by gluten for those who are intolerant.
http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-twitter-migraine-side-20140426,0,6515753.story#axzz30BoozVtm
The following LA Times article confirms what we have known for a while. Of course, migraines are just one of the multitude of symptoms brought on by gluten for those who are intolerant.
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