Poor dietary choices, the promiscuous use of antibiotics, and the unhealthy state of the intestinal tract that often results are likely the main factors behind the high rate of candida infections so commonly found today. The article below gives a comprehensive overview surrounding the issues involving candida, as well as some recommendations regarding the prevention and treatment of candidiasis.
Candida is truly a child of the Standard American Diet (SAD), as well as a result of the abuse of many common prescription drugs, largely the result of poor advice from physicians and the pushing of these profitable drugs by the pharmaceutical companies. The health of the intestinal tract is one of the major indicators of overall body wellness, and when intestinal bacteria becomes knocked out of balance, many health problems may occur.
Changing to a healthy diet, performing periodic digestive tract cleansing and eliminating foods that contribute to bacterial imbalance are the most important factors in fighting and avoiding candida. The use of a quality probiotic product that restores beneficial bacteria to the gut along with an effective anti-fungal such as Mediterranean oregano oil is also critical.
The Candida and Fungus Among Us
by Leigh Erin Connealy, M.D.
(NaturalNews) It is estimated that one in every two people will be affected by Candidiasis in their lifetime but many will not be aware of it or may even think that the symptoms are all in their head. The unfortunate reality is that many people who seek medical advice from their health care providers are told that there is absolutely nothing wrong with them. This is due to the fact that the mainstream medical establishment has been slow to recognize Candidiasis as a real issue; the Integrative Medicine community, however, has been treating the condition successfully for decades. If you feel that you're one of the many who have suffered without validation or relief from this life-altering illness, please read on.
Here are some common symptoms experienced by people with Candidiasis:
* Do you regularly experience any of the following symptoms - bloating, headaches, depression, fatigue, memory problems, impotence or loss of libido, unexplained muscle aches, brain "fogginess"?
* Do you crave sweets, products containing white flour, or alcoholic beverages?
* Do you have repeated vaginal infections?
* Do you repeatedly experience any of these health difficulties - inappropriate drowsiness, mood swings, rashes, bad breath, dry mouth, post-nasal drip or nasal congestion, heartburn, urinary frequency or urgency?
* Do you have repeated fungal infections ("jock itch," athlete's foot, ringworm)?* Have you recently taken repeated courses of antibiotics or steroids (e.g. cortisone)?* Have you used birth-control pills?
If you answered yes to two or more of these questions then you may be suffering from a common yet drastically under-diagnosed condition: Candidiasis.
Candidiasis is the medical term for yeast overgrowth. We all have bacteria living in our intestinal tract - some of which we consider to be "good", such as acidophilus and Bifidobacteria, and some of which we consider to be "bad", such as Candida albicans. Candida albicans is a form of yeast that can be dangerous to the body if it spreads. In order to prevent this from happening, the "good" bacteria produces antifungal substances that keep the "bad" bacteria in check. This "good" bacteria also ferments carbohydrates into lactic acid, which maintains an ideally balanced pH within the intestines to keep Candida albicans at bay. As long as the "good" bacteria co-exist with the "bad" bacteria in healthy ratios and the intestinal pH is correctly balanced, the GI tract can live in peace. Havoc occurs, however, when the pH balance shifts and the "good" bacteria come under attack.
Proper pH balance is vital for so many reasons. If the body becomes too acidic (a condition known as acidosis), it adversely affects the functioning of all its parts: heart cells, blood cells, brain cells, nerve cells, muscle cells, bone cells, skin cells, hair cells and hormonal levels. It also creates a hostile environment with less available oxygen – a condition key to the growth of microorganisms such as Candida albicans. As the bacteria fueled by these new, toxic conditions die off, the toxic waste produced by their decomposition further contributes to the already acidic environment. This cycle continues on and on into a situation with potentially grave consequences. Researchers suspect that most degenerative diseases including cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, acid reflux and heartburn can be contributed to chronic acidosis.
While an imbalanced pH creates the perfect battleground for the "bad" bacteria to spread, a number of other enemies are waiting in the wings to take aim at the "good" bacteria.
The single largest enemy of "good" bacteria is sugar, which can single-handedly weaken the immune system, thereby weakening the "good" bacteria. But the sugar doesn't stop there! This sweet invader packs a dangerous one-two punch and feeds the "bad" bacteria, encouraging it to proliferate throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Since a weakened immune system generally goes hand-in-hand with illness, antibiotics or steroids may be administered, which further takes its toll on the "good" bacteria, killing the illness-causing bacteria along with the vital "good" bacteria. Once the "good" bacteria are out of the picture, the "bad" bacteria are able to take over and sink its teeth into the intestinal walls, eventually breaking down the barrier that exists between the bowel and rest of the body. This intestinal breach then opens up the flood gates for toxic debris, yeast waste products, and partially digested proteins to enter the bloodstream, resulting in allergic and toxic reactions all over the body – the symptoms of which could manifest themselves differently for every person.
Dietary factors play a key role in the survival of Candida albicans. These "bad" bacteria thrive on sugar and as a result, intense sugar cravings may ensue. Likewise, dairy foods can be excellent supporters for Candida albicans for two reasons: (1) Non-organic dairy products contain traces of antibiotics, which can kill the "good" bacteria that have managed to survive and (2) dairy products contain the sugar lactose, which is one of Candida albicans' preferred meals, feeding the bacteria and further encouraging it to grow and spread. Other products that cause Candida albicans to grow are yeast and glutens that also convert into sugar.
Environmental factors can also be big supporters of Candida albicans' proliferation. Exposure to pollutants such as pesticide residues, car exhaust, industrial chemicals and heavy metals (particularly those found in mercury amalgam dental fillings) may encourage the growth of these "bad" bacteria.
Because Candidiasis suppresses the immune system, symptoms of the illness span a broad range and include chronic fatigue; weight gain; mental issues such as depression, anxiety, irritability, confusion, loss of memory, and severe mood swings; digestive problems including gas, bloating, cramps, chronic diarrhea, constipation, and heartburn; respiratory issues including food and airborne allergies, asthma, nasal or lung congestion, sinus pressure, hay fever, coughing; recurrent fungal infections ("jock itch", athlete's foot, ringworm, fingernail or toenail fungus) or vaginal/urinary infections; skin problems including rashes, hives, acne and scaly skin; migraines, headaches and sleep disturbances.
Everyone is at risk of developing Candidiasis; however, people with weakened immune systems (whether from severe illness or chronic stress), those with diets high in sugars and carbohydrates, anyone who has taken repeated courses of antibiotics or steroids, women currently taking oral birth-control medications or who have taken them in the past, and women of child-bearing age are most at risk.
Diagnosing Candidiasis can be tricky as the symptoms of this condition mimic the symptoms of many other illnesses. I generally consider several factors before pronouncing a diagnosis of Candidiasis: medical history, a physical examination, lab test results and failure to respond to previous treatments. If I am then able to come to an adequate conclusion, I immediately begin my patients on a treatment protocol. Catching the condition in its early stages and commencing treatments immediately can be vital to heading off the more serious diseases that yeast overgrowth can lead to (diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease, acid reflux, heartburn and even cancer).
My Healthy Recommendations:
Treating Candidiasis requires a degree of commitment but with dedication it is completely possible to reverse the condition.
The first step in any treatment plan begins with some key dietary changes. Sugar is the main fuel for Candida albicans, therefore it must be removed out of the diet completely. A "Candida Diet" requires that sugar; alcohol; milk and dairy products; and foods containing mold and yeast must all be avoided. These foods actively encourage the growth of Candida albicans and the condition cannot be properly resolved as long as the "fuel" remains in place.
When you suspect that you may be living with a Candida problem, don't put off speaking with your physician. While this condition is entirely treatable, the consequences of delaying treatment are too high to ignore. See your doctor and begin the process of restoring balance in your intestines, your body and your life!
http://www.naturalnews.com/z023084.html
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Big Pharma Markets Vice Pills Despite Potential Depression
Once again the pharmaceutical companies are trying to fast talk the public and the medical community into believing that they have the best interests of consumers in mind while pushing medications that are clearly linked to known health hazards. I wish I could be a fly on the wall when these companies are discussing the potential for sales and profits from drugs that are designed to block the pleasure centers of the brain so that people can supposedly stop overeating, quit smoking, or break a dependence on other drugs. Marketing executives must be drooling at the thought of the size of the customer base that could be established here. The only problem is that a significant percentage of people who take such drugs are having urges to kill themselves, and in some cases have gone through with it.
This is a classic example of the twisted thinking that pervades the propaganda fed to us by drug companies, advertisers, and even many in conventional medicine. A pill for a symptom and then another pill for the side-effects from the first pill and before long the patient is on 8 different meds for what started out to be something as benign as desiring to lose weight. A prime example of how many people get "legally hooked" on drugs - the dream that Big Pharma wants for everyone.
Instead of addressing the root cause such as poor dietary and lifestyle habits, and a general lack of self-discipline in our daily lives, the American people are offered a "quick-fix" mentality through pills to pop that promise to help them avoid the pain of change. This approach to dealing with health concerns is alarming enough, but add to the mix that many of these medications are fraught with dangerous side effects, and the situation becomes even more ludicrous. One of the reasons that our culture is so rapidly deteriorating is due to the greedy tactics of unscrupulous corporations, such as Big Pharma, that have enabled individuals to seek out easy fixes, like the latest drug, instead of taking the tough character-building steps necessary to overcome destructive habits, and in the process learning how to establish a balanced, well-adjusted lifestyle that will continue to produce good fruit for years to come. We must remember that our health concerns do not come from the lack of the latest drug or pill, but from a body that is out-of balance or experiencing dis-ease. The best answer is always to dig deep enough to find the root cause. In doing that symptoms will be alleviated and the body will heal completely and properly.
Risk of depression dims hopes for anti-addiction pills
By MARILYNN MARCHIONE / 4 days ago
CHICAGO (AP) - Two years ago, scientists had high hopes for new pills that would help people quit smoking, lose weight and maybe kick other tough addictions like alcohol and cocaine.
The pills worked in a novel way, by blocking pleasure centers in the brain that provide the feel-good response from smoking or eating. Now it seems the drugs may block pleasure too well, possibly raising the risk of depression and suicide.
Margaret Bastian of suburban Rochester, N.Y., was among patients who reported problems with Chantix, a highly touted quit-smoking pill from Pfizer Inc. that has been linked to dozens of reports of suicides and hundreds of suicidal behaviors.
"I started to get severely depressed and just going down into that hole - the one you can't crawl out of," said Bastian, whose doctor took her off Chantix after she swallowed too many sleeping pills and other medicines one night.
Side effects also plague two other drugs:
_ Rimonabant, an obesity pill sold as Acomplia in Europe, was tied to higher rates of depression and a suicide in a study last month. The maker, Sanofi-Aventis SA, still hopes to win its approval in the United States.
_ Taranabant, a similar pill in late-stage testing, led to higher rates of depression and other side effects in a study last month. Its maker, Merck & Co., stopped testing it at middle and high doses.
The makers of the new drugs insist they are safe, although perhaps not for everyone, such as people with a history of depression. Having to restrict the drugs' use would be a big setback because it would deprive the very people who need help the most, since addictions and depression often go hand-in-hand, doctors say.
A bigger fear is that the whole approach may be in trouble. Researchers say blocking pleasure, especially the way the obesity drugs do, might take the fun out of many things, not just the harmful substances and behaviors these drugs target.
It may be possible to improve the drugs so they act more precisely. Chantix targets a different pathway - nicotine pleasure switches - and in a different way than the obesity drugs, which aim at the same pathway that gives pot smokers the munchies. That is one reason many doctors are optimistic that any risks about Chantix will prove manageable.
But doctors are no longer talking about so-called "super pills" for a host of addictions.
"It certainly diminishes my enthusiasm" to see these side effects, said Mark Egli, co-leader of medicine development at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
The buzz started four years ago, when studies showed rimonabant helped people shed weight and keep it off longer than previous pills had. It also was being tested for smoking cessation. The Associated Press and other media reported extensively on prospects for a pill that might tackle two big problems at once.
Rimonabant won approval in Europe. But advisers to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration opposed it because of depression risks that became clearer with further study. Sanofi withdrew its U.S. application and said it hoped to resubmit after more research.
But in a new study last month, 43 percent of people taking rimonabant developed psychiatric issues versus 28 percent of those on dummy pills. One rimonabant patient committed suicide and one in the placebo group tried to. Unlike previous studies, this one did not exclude people who had depression in the past.
"I felt it was important to do an 'all-comers' study" to see how real-world patients might fare, said Cleveland Clinic's Dr. Steven Nissen, who led the work.
Sanofi now tells doctors to avoid giving the drug to people with a history of depression, said a company vice president, Dr. Douglas Greene.
"We are at the cutting edge of being able to manage this risk," he said.
Meanwhile, Merck had bad news from a study of its obesity drug, taranabant, which showed an increased risk of depression and other side effects among people taking medium and high doses.
"We're doing a lot to define this risk-benefit," including adding another year to all studies under way and going forward only with the lowest dose, said a Merck vice president, Dr. John Amatruda.
Others were less optimistic.
"The door is closing" on this approach, said Dr. James Stein, a University of Wisconsin-Madison cardiologist. If another study he is helping lead does not show benefit for rimonabant, "this drug's already slim chances of approval will be even more jeopardized," he said.
The situation is murkier with Chantix, which went on sale in the U.S. in 2006 and is sold as Champix in other countries.
The drug binds to the same spots in the brain that nicotine does when people smoke, causing release of a "feel-good" chemical, dopamine. Taking it is supposed to keep any inhaled nicotine from giving the same buzz.
In February, the FDA said a link between Chantix and psychiatric problems appears "increasingly likely." Pfizer added warnings to the drug's label and said that although a link had not been proved, it could not be ruled out.
But a Pfizer vice president, Dr. Ponni Subbiah, said nicotine withdrawal and even quitting smoking can cause mood swings and depression.
It is hard to know "what is causing what," she said. "We know that smokers are at higher risk of suicide than non-smokers, and heavy smokers are at higher risk than lighter smokers."
Some doctors agreed.
"Psychologically, just giving up this 'friend' that they've had many years in their life can be depressing," said Dr. Geoffrey Williams, co-director of the Greater Rochester Area Tobacco Cessation Center and a paid speaker for Pfizer.
Jeanne Morrison, 63, of suburban of Louisville, Ky., looked forward to giving up cigarettes when she and a friend went on Chantix. The friend did well, but Morrison lasted only 10 days on it.
"I got so depressed, I didn't want to go anywhere. I didn't want to do anything, and I'm a very high-energy person. It was a depression like I've never experienced in my life," she said. She also had "major, major nightmares. These would wake me up, and I would be absolutely shaking and sweating."
Several doctors said such reactions are rare, and that most patients do well on Chantix.
Morrison's doctor, psychiatrist Dr. Jesse Wright at the University of Louisville, said Chantix helped one of his schizophrenic patients, "who smoked like a smokestack," without worsening his psychological symptoms.
"The risk-benefit ratio is still very much on the side of use of the medication," Williams said. "The alternative, smoking, is extremely highly risky."
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iitxY52gN51-uGrhdxaz3PkPEodQD907NDK81
This is a classic example of the twisted thinking that pervades the propaganda fed to us by drug companies, advertisers, and even many in conventional medicine. A pill for a symptom and then another pill for the side-effects from the first pill and before long the patient is on 8 different meds for what started out to be something as benign as desiring to lose weight. A prime example of how many people get "legally hooked" on drugs - the dream that Big Pharma wants for everyone.
Instead of addressing the root cause such as poor dietary and lifestyle habits, and a general lack of self-discipline in our daily lives, the American people are offered a "quick-fix" mentality through pills to pop that promise to help them avoid the pain of change. This approach to dealing with health concerns is alarming enough, but add to the mix that many of these medications are fraught with dangerous side effects, and the situation becomes even more ludicrous. One of the reasons that our culture is so rapidly deteriorating is due to the greedy tactics of unscrupulous corporations, such as Big Pharma, that have enabled individuals to seek out easy fixes, like the latest drug, instead of taking the tough character-building steps necessary to overcome destructive habits, and in the process learning how to establish a balanced, well-adjusted lifestyle that will continue to produce good fruit for years to come. We must remember that our health concerns do not come from the lack of the latest drug or pill, but from a body that is out-of balance or experiencing dis-ease. The best answer is always to dig deep enough to find the root cause. In doing that symptoms will be alleviated and the body will heal completely and properly.
Risk of depression dims hopes for anti-addiction pills
By MARILYNN MARCHIONE / 4 days ago
CHICAGO (AP) - Two years ago, scientists had high hopes for new pills that would help people quit smoking, lose weight and maybe kick other tough addictions like alcohol and cocaine.
The pills worked in a novel way, by blocking pleasure centers in the brain that provide the feel-good response from smoking or eating. Now it seems the drugs may block pleasure too well, possibly raising the risk of depression and suicide.
Margaret Bastian of suburban Rochester, N.Y., was among patients who reported problems with Chantix, a highly touted quit-smoking pill from Pfizer Inc. that has been linked to dozens of reports of suicides and hundreds of suicidal behaviors.
"I started to get severely depressed and just going down into that hole - the one you can't crawl out of," said Bastian, whose doctor took her off Chantix after she swallowed too many sleeping pills and other medicines one night.
Side effects also plague two other drugs:
_ Rimonabant, an obesity pill sold as Acomplia in Europe, was tied to higher rates of depression and a suicide in a study last month. The maker, Sanofi-Aventis SA, still hopes to win its approval in the United States.
_ Taranabant, a similar pill in late-stage testing, led to higher rates of depression and other side effects in a study last month. Its maker, Merck & Co., stopped testing it at middle and high doses.
The makers of the new drugs insist they are safe, although perhaps not for everyone, such as people with a history of depression. Having to restrict the drugs' use would be a big setback because it would deprive the very people who need help the most, since addictions and depression often go hand-in-hand, doctors say.
A bigger fear is that the whole approach may be in trouble. Researchers say blocking pleasure, especially the way the obesity drugs do, might take the fun out of many things, not just the harmful substances and behaviors these drugs target.
It may be possible to improve the drugs so they act more precisely. Chantix targets a different pathway - nicotine pleasure switches - and in a different way than the obesity drugs, which aim at the same pathway that gives pot smokers the munchies. That is one reason many doctors are optimistic that any risks about Chantix will prove manageable.
But doctors are no longer talking about so-called "super pills" for a host of addictions.
"It certainly diminishes my enthusiasm" to see these side effects, said Mark Egli, co-leader of medicine development at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
The buzz started four years ago, when studies showed rimonabant helped people shed weight and keep it off longer than previous pills had. It also was being tested for smoking cessation. The Associated Press and other media reported extensively on prospects for a pill that might tackle two big problems at once.
Rimonabant won approval in Europe. But advisers to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration opposed it because of depression risks that became clearer with further study. Sanofi withdrew its U.S. application and said it hoped to resubmit after more research.
But in a new study last month, 43 percent of people taking rimonabant developed psychiatric issues versus 28 percent of those on dummy pills. One rimonabant patient committed suicide and one in the placebo group tried to. Unlike previous studies, this one did not exclude people who had depression in the past.
"I felt it was important to do an 'all-comers' study" to see how real-world patients might fare, said Cleveland Clinic's Dr. Steven Nissen, who led the work.
Sanofi now tells doctors to avoid giving the drug to people with a history of depression, said a company vice president, Dr. Douglas Greene.
"We are at the cutting edge of being able to manage this risk," he said.
Meanwhile, Merck had bad news from a study of its obesity drug, taranabant, which showed an increased risk of depression and other side effects among people taking medium and high doses.
"We're doing a lot to define this risk-benefit," including adding another year to all studies under way and going forward only with the lowest dose, said a Merck vice president, Dr. John Amatruda.
Others were less optimistic.
"The door is closing" on this approach, said Dr. James Stein, a University of Wisconsin-Madison cardiologist. If another study he is helping lead does not show benefit for rimonabant, "this drug's already slim chances of approval will be even more jeopardized," he said.
The situation is murkier with Chantix, which went on sale in the U.S. in 2006 and is sold as Champix in other countries.
The drug binds to the same spots in the brain that nicotine does when people smoke, causing release of a "feel-good" chemical, dopamine. Taking it is supposed to keep any inhaled nicotine from giving the same buzz.
In February, the FDA said a link between Chantix and psychiatric problems appears "increasingly likely." Pfizer added warnings to the drug's label and said that although a link had not been proved, it could not be ruled out.
But a Pfizer vice president, Dr. Ponni Subbiah, said nicotine withdrawal and even quitting smoking can cause mood swings and depression.
It is hard to know "what is causing what," she said. "We know that smokers are at higher risk of suicide than non-smokers, and heavy smokers are at higher risk than lighter smokers."
Some doctors agreed.
"Psychologically, just giving up this 'friend' that they've had many years in their life can be depressing," said Dr. Geoffrey Williams, co-director of the Greater Rochester Area Tobacco Cessation Center and a paid speaker for Pfizer.
Jeanne Morrison, 63, of suburban of Louisville, Ky., looked forward to giving up cigarettes when she and a friend went on Chantix. The friend did well, but Morrison lasted only 10 days on it.
"I got so depressed, I didn't want to go anywhere. I didn't want to do anything, and I'm a very high-energy person. It was a depression like I've never experienced in my life," she said. She also had "major, major nightmares. These would wake me up, and I would be absolutely shaking and sweating."
Several doctors said such reactions are rare, and that most patients do well on Chantix.
Morrison's doctor, psychiatrist Dr. Jesse Wright at the University of Louisville, said Chantix helped one of his schizophrenic patients, "who smoked like a smokestack," without worsening his psychological symptoms.
"The risk-benefit ratio is still very much on the side of use of the medication," Williams said. "The alternative, smoking, is extremely highly risky."
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iitxY52gN51-uGrhdxaz3PkPEodQD907NDK81
Monday, April 28, 2008
Thirsty? Stay Away From Soft Drinks
I found the article posted below to be interesting for several reasons. It raises questions about the safety and wisdom of consuming carbonated soft drinks, and for good reasons. The hazards of these beverages are many, with this article concentrating on the harmful effects of phosphoric acid as it relates to bone loss. Phosphoric acid in combination with the high amounts of sugar in many soft drinks are also major factors in tooth decay, especially amongst youngsters, the age group with the largest per capita consumption of sodas in the US.
The soft drink industry has done their homework and identified young people as their main target market. As I have mentioned before on this blog, it is particularly shameful the way they push the latest fad in soft drinks - high energy beverages loaded with caffeine that have the look and taste of alcohol.
The only beverage that the body needs and wants for health is water. Many chemical reactions in the body depend on water, and it is a factor itself in numerous biochemical reactions. Water availability is crucial to cells, to the fluid surrounding the cells called interstitial fluids (fluids that surround joints, muscles, and organs), and also to the matrix of the blood. We need to be teaching our children the joys of drinking pure, clean water, and how necessary and beneficial this habit can be to achieving and maintaining wellness. Sometimes it helps to spice up the taste of water a bit by adding a slice of organic lemon and a bit of organic honey, which also provides the added benefit of helping to keep the body's pH levels in balance.
The Nationwide Food Consumption Surveys have indicated that a portion of the population may be mildly dehydrated. Several factors may increase the likelihood of chronic, mild dehydration, including a poor thirst mechanism, dissatisfaction with the taste of water, consumption of caffeine and alcohol, exercise, and environmental conditions. Dehydration of as little as 2% loss of body weight results in impaired physiological and performance responses. Water consumption can have an effect on the risk of urinary stone disease, cancers of the breast, colon and urinary tract, childhood and adolescent obesity, mitral valve prolapse, salivary gland function, and overall health in the elderly. Fluids fill every space in cells and between them. As the primary fluid in the body, water serves as a solvent for minerals, vitamins, amino acids, glucose, and many other nutrients. Water also plays a key role in the digestion, absorption, transportation, and use of nutrients. Water is the medium for the sole elimination of toxins and waste products, and whole body thermoregulation is critically dependent on it. From energy production to join lubrication to reproduction, there is no system in the body that does not depend on water. (Kleiner SM 1999)
One more thing. Make sure that the water you drink is stored in glass or stainless steel. Plastics, especially plastic water bottles, leach chemicals into the water. Pure water is important so take care to store it properly.
Cola May Be Bad to the Bones
Research suggests the beverage contributes to osteoporosis
By Serena Gordon
Posted 4/26/08
SATURDAY, April 26 (HealthDay News) - While enjoying a cola or two every day might seem harmless enough, recent research suggests that those tasty drinks could be compromising your bone health.
"There is enough evidence that high consumption of soda and carbonated beverages is associated with somewhat lower bone mass in children, and that's a real concern and people should be aware of it," said Dr. Lawrence Raisz, director of the University of Connecticut Center for Osteoporosis.
The exact mechanism behind the problem isn't clear, but experts believe that drinking soda -- particularly colas -- affects bone density in several ways. One reason may be that people who drink colas are simply less likely to get enough calcium and vitamin D in their diets, because the soda is replacing more nutritious beverages, such as milk or calcium-fortified juice.
Or, it could be related to the caffeine in colas, because caffeine has been linked to a higher risk of osteoporosis.
The third possible explanation focuses on one of the ingredients found in colas: phosphoric acid.
Phosphoric acid can cause an imbalance in the body as the body seeks to neutralize the acid with calcium. If there isn't enough calcium in the diet, the body will take calcium from the bones.
"Phosphate is in milk, but milk also contains calcium and vitamin D. In soft drinks, there is just phosphoric acid and no calcium. Extra overzealous drinking may lead to a phosphoric acid imbalance, and if there's not enough calcium, the body goes to the bones to restore the balance," explained Dr. Primal Kaur, director of the Osteoporosis Center at Temple University Health Sciences Center in Philadelphia.
Low levels of calcium are associated with the development of osteoporosis, a disease that thins the bones so much that they're at risk of fracture. More than half of Americans, especially postmenopausal women, have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
In a study that included more than 2,500 people with an average age of about 60, researchers from Tufts University found that cola consumption by women was associated with lower bone mineral density at three hip sites, regardless of age, menopause, total calcium and vitamin D intake. The women reported drinking an average of five carbonated drinks a week, four of which were colas.
There was less of a problem with decaffeinated cola, but the findings were similar for diet soft drinks. The researchers didn't find an association between cola drinking and lower bone mass in men.
Results of the study were published recently in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
"Moderation is really important. If you really like soft drinks, you don't need to take them out of your diet completely, but limit yourself to one or two glasses" a week, Kaur said.
And, she added, make sure you're getting enough calcium and vitamin D to protect your bone health. Vitamin D needs vary by age, and where you live, so check with your doctor to find out how much vitamin D you should be consuming each day. Kaur said that if you're not getting at least 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily from your diet, you should take a calcium supplement to ensure you're getting adequate amounts of the mineral.
Another important way to prevent osteoporosis, according to Raisz, is to exercise.
"The standard recommendation is a half an hour a day for adults and an hour a day for kids, but anything is better than nothing," he said. "Try to walk at least a half a mile a day, and engage in a weight-bearing exercise of some sort."
http://health.usnews.com/usnews/health/healthday/080426/cola-may-be-bad-to-the-bones_print.htm
The soft drink industry has done their homework and identified young people as their main target market. As I have mentioned before on this blog, it is particularly shameful the way they push the latest fad in soft drinks - high energy beverages loaded with caffeine that have the look and taste of alcohol.
The only beverage that the body needs and wants for health is water. Many chemical reactions in the body depend on water, and it is a factor itself in numerous biochemical reactions. Water availability is crucial to cells, to the fluid surrounding the cells called interstitial fluids (fluids that surround joints, muscles, and organs), and also to the matrix of the blood. We need to be teaching our children the joys of drinking pure, clean water, and how necessary and beneficial this habit can be to achieving and maintaining wellness. Sometimes it helps to spice up the taste of water a bit by adding a slice of organic lemon and a bit of organic honey, which also provides the added benefit of helping to keep the body's pH levels in balance.
The Nationwide Food Consumption Surveys have indicated that a portion of the population may be mildly dehydrated. Several factors may increase the likelihood of chronic, mild dehydration, including a poor thirst mechanism, dissatisfaction with the taste of water, consumption of caffeine and alcohol, exercise, and environmental conditions. Dehydration of as little as 2% loss of body weight results in impaired physiological and performance responses. Water consumption can have an effect on the risk of urinary stone disease, cancers of the breast, colon and urinary tract, childhood and adolescent obesity, mitral valve prolapse, salivary gland function, and overall health in the elderly. Fluids fill every space in cells and between them. As the primary fluid in the body, water serves as a solvent for minerals, vitamins, amino acids, glucose, and many other nutrients. Water also plays a key role in the digestion, absorption, transportation, and use of nutrients. Water is the medium for the sole elimination of toxins and waste products, and whole body thermoregulation is critically dependent on it. From energy production to join lubrication to reproduction, there is no system in the body that does not depend on water. (Kleiner SM 1999)
One more thing. Make sure that the water you drink is stored in glass or stainless steel. Plastics, especially plastic water bottles, leach chemicals into the water. Pure water is important so take care to store it properly.
Cola May Be Bad to the Bones
Research suggests the beverage contributes to osteoporosis
By Serena Gordon
Posted 4/26/08
SATURDAY, April 26 (HealthDay News) - While enjoying a cola or two every day might seem harmless enough, recent research suggests that those tasty drinks could be compromising your bone health.
"There is enough evidence that high consumption of soda and carbonated beverages is associated with somewhat lower bone mass in children, and that's a real concern and people should be aware of it," said Dr. Lawrence Raisz, director of the University of Connecticut Center for Osteoporosis.
The exact mechanism behind the problem isn't clear, but experts believe that drinking soda -- particularly colas -- affects bone density in several ways. One reason may be that people who drink colas are simply less likely to get enough calcium and vitamin D in their diets, because the soda is replacing more nutritious beverages, such as milk or calcium-fortified juice.
Or, it could be related to the caffeine in colas, because caffeine has been linked to a higher risk of osteoporosis.
The third possible explanation focuses on one of the ingredients found in colas: phosphoric acid.
Phosphoric acid can cause an imbalance in the body as the body seeks to neutralize the acid with calcium. If there isn't enough calcium in the diet, the body will take calcium from the bones.
"Phosphate is in milk, but milk also contains calcium and vitamin D. In soft drinks, there is just phosphoric acid and no calcium. Extra overzealous drinking may lead to a phosphoric acid imbalance, and if there's not enough calcium, the body goes to the bones to restore the balance," explained Dr. Primal Kaur, director of the Osteoporosis Center at Temple University Health Sciences Center in Philadelphia.
Low levels of calcium are associated with the development of osteoporosis, a disease that thins the bones so much that they're at risk of fracture. More than half of Americans, especially postmenopausal women, have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
In a study that included more than 2,500 people with an average age of about 60, researchers from Tufts University found that cola consumption by women was associated with lower bone mineral density at three hip sites, regardless of age, menopause, total calcium and vitamin D intake. The women reported drinking an average of five carbonated drinks a week, four of which were colas.
There was less of a problem with decaffeinated cola, but the findings were similar for diet soft drinks. The researchers didn't find an association between cola drinking and lower bone mass in men.
Results of the study were published recently in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
"Moderation is really important. If you really like soft drinks, you don't need to take them out of your diet completely, but limit yourself to one or two glasses" a week, Kaur said.
And, she added, make sure you're getting enough calcium and vitamin D to protect your bone health. Vitamin D needs vary by age, and where you live, so check with your doctor to find out how much vitamin D you should be consuming each day. Kaur said that if you're not getting at least 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium daily from your diet, you should take a calcium supplement to ensure you're getting adequate amounts of the mineral.
Another important way to prevent osteoporosis, according to Raisz, is to exercise.
"The standard recommendation is a half an hour a day for adults and an hour a day for kids, but anything is better than nothing," he said. "Try to walk at least a half a mile a day, and engage in a weight-bearing exercise of some sort."
http://health.usnews.com/usnews/health/healthday/080426/cola-may-be-bad-to-the-bones_print.htm
Friday, April 25, 2008
Classic McMarketing Defends Fast Food
In a move that earned a posting on a web site that publishes weird or unusual happenings in the world of advertising, fast food giant McDonalds is running a campaign designed to bolster public relations when it comes to the quality and nutrition of their menu offerings.
Despite the outrageously high fat and sodium content of their most popular products, as well as disclosure of such unsavory ingredients as anti-foaming agents, the corporation has chosen to go public with this information. Given the current climate amongst most American diners, I suspect that this potentially damaging information will not put Ronald McDonald in the unemployment line. Unfortunately, once people get hooked on eating junk, it becomes what they prefer, and it is not much use trying to confuse them with the facts, that is, until a health concern manifests.
The greatest hope for breaking the cycle of poor dietary and lifestyle habits lies in the hearts of our children. If we as parents can instill in them a love for wholesome, nutritious foods - and stop the addiction to fat, sugar, simple carbohydrates, and other empty calories before it begins - we have an excellent chance of beating the advertisers at their own game. Perhaps it is time to do a bit of our own marketing at home, teaching the truth about nutrition and living it out by example. This will mean implementing changes in our own personal eating habits - adjustments that may be difficult at first - but as the body begins to move towards health and well-being, the rewards will be priceless. Remember: Change is only a decision away!
MCDONALDS BOASTS ABOUT NUTRITION (REALLY)
From "Fast Food Nation" to "Super Size Me," McDonalds has become the go-to villain in the United States obesity drama.
Not willing to become the de facto whipping boy, the company best known for its indulgent burgers and greasy fries has already added salads, fruits and other new menu options. Now, it's defending the rest of its food lineup as well.
The "what we're made of" campaign includes TV commercials, in-store promotions and a Web site boasting about its beef, chicken and other basic ingredients. In the coming weeks, the company also plans to add billboards and expand the Web site to include more information about cooking methods, suppliers and other practices.
Molly Starmann, McDonalds director of U.S. marketing, said the company hasn't changed the farming or preparation methods that have drawn so much criticism. The point of the campaign, she said, is simply to provide more information about what the company already does.
"Our customers love the taste of our food and they just had some questions about how it's created," she said.
The most striking thing about the campaign is that it exposes what the company is up against. Click on lettuce, and McDonalds will tell you that it washes its lettuce "at least twice." Under eggs, it notes that they are delivered to stores twice a week.
Forget quality or taste - if a company has to dispel the myth that it doesn't follow basic hygiene practices, it's obviously in for an uphill battle.
Still, some of McDonalds attempts to inform are strikingly uninformative. Click on "potatoes," and you'll get a blurb about why fries have salt on them. That's not exactly going to answer burning questions about food production, healthfulness and what exactly is meant by the ingredient "natural beef flavor (wheat and milk derivatives)." Under tomatoes, the company only discloses what kind it likes to use in salads.
Elsewhere on the site, McDonalds lets you build a meal and see its nutritional value and ingredients. Nutrition information also can now be found on the back of the companys tray liners and on other packaging.
McDonalds deserves credit for having the guts to make such information easily accessible, even if eaters may well cringe at the high fat content - including trans fats - and unpronounceable ingredients.
For example, parents may not be too pleased to realize that six pieces of Chicken McNuggets contain 15 grams of fat and include the ingredient "dimethylpolysiloxane added as an antifoaming agent." The visual images conjured by the words "antifoaming" in food are plentiful, and none are pretty.
http://adblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/04/22/912157.aspx
Despite the outrageously high fat and sodium content of their most popular products, as well as disclosure of such unsavory ingredients as anti-foaming agents, the corporation has chosen to go public with this information. Given the current climate amongst most American diners, I suspect that this potentially damaging information will not put Ronald McDonald in the unemployment line. Unfortunately, once people get hooked on eating junk, it becomes what they prefer, and it is not much use trying to confuse them with the facts, that is, until a health concern manifests.
The greatest hope for breaking the cycle of poor dietary and lifestyle habits lies in the hearts of our children. If we as parents can instill in them a love for wholesome, nutritious foods - and stop the addiction to fat, sugar, simple carbohydrates, and other empty calories before it begins - we have an excellent chance of beating the advertisers at their own game. Perhaps it is time to do a bit of our own marketing at home, teaching the truth about nutrition and living it out by example. This will mean implementing changes in our own personal eating habits - adjustments that may be difficult at first - but as the body begins to move towards health and well-being, the rewards will be priceless. Remember: Change is only a decision away!
MCDONALDS BOASTS ABOUT NUTRITION (REALLY)
From "Fast Food Nation" to "Super Size Me," McDonalds has become the go-to villain in the United States obesity drama.
Not willing to become the de facto whipping boy, the company best known for its indulgent burgers and greasy fries has already added salads, fruits and other new menu options. Now, it's defending the rest of its food lineup as well.
The "what we're made of" campaign includes TV commercials, in-store promotions and a Web site boasting about its beef, chicken and other basic ingredients. In the coming weeks, the company also plans to add billboards and expand the Web site to include more information about cooking methods, suppliers and other practices.
Molly Starmann, McDonalds director of U.S. marketing, said the company hasn't changed the farming or preparation methods that have drawn so much criticism. The point of the campaign, she said, is simply to provide more information about what the company already does.
"Our customers love the taste of our food and they just had some questions about how it's created," she said.
The most striking thing about the campaign is that it exposes what the company is up against. Click on lettuce, and McDonalds will tell you that it washes its lettuce "at least twice." Under eggs, it notes that they are delivered to stores twice a week.
Forget quality or taste - if a company has to dispel the myth that it doesn't follow basic hygiene practices, it's obviously in for an uphill battle.
Still, some of McDonalds attempts to inform are strikingly uninformative. Click on "potatoes," and you'll get a blurb about why fries have salt on them. That's not exactly going to answer burning questions about food production, healthfulness and what exactly is meant by the ingredient "natural beef flavor (wheat and milk derivatives)." Under tomatoes, the company only discloses what kind it likes to use in salads.
Elsewhere on the site, McDonalds lets you build a meal and see its nutritional value and ingredients. Nutrition information also can now be found on the back of the companys tray liners and on other packaging.
McDonalds deserves credit for having the guts to make such information easily accessible, even if eaters may well cringe at the high fat content - including trans fats - and unpronounceable ingredients.
For example, parents may not be too pleased to realize that six pieces of Chicken McNuggets contain 15 grams of fat and include the ingredient "dimethylpolysiloxane added as an antifoaming agent." The visual images conjured by the words "antifoaming" in food are plentiful, and none are pretty.
http://adblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/04/22/912157.aspx
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Most American Parents Ignorant Regarding DHA
According to a survey discussed in the article below, a majority of parents in this country do not understand the necessity for a nutritional building block called DHA to be included in the diet of their children. This compound is one of two primary omega-3 fatty acids, and DHA is critical to the healthy formation of cell membranes throughout the body, especially in the brain, retinas, and heart. Ample amounts of DHA are essential to proper child development, particularly between birth and the age of five. DHA is also an important nutrient for pregnant and nursing mothers.
Unfortunately, the SAD that most Americans consume is very low in foods that supply DHA, such as tuna, salmon, leafy green veggies, walnuts, and flax seeds. We as parents have a window of opportunity in the lives our young children to introduce them to quality foods so that they can develop a taste and preference for them. It is said that children who have never tasted sugar, a common occurrence in some parts of the world, naturally find it to be distasteful the first time they are exposed to it, unless they get used to it, of course. Indoctrinating our kids with healthful eating habits can set the direction of their diets and other lifestyle choices either for good or for bad. As parents become more educated about the benefits of a natural, whole-foods based diet, this can then be passed on to future generations so that a family legacy of wellness can be established.
2008 Children's Nutrition Survey Reveals Majority of U.S. Parents Unaware of DHA Benefits to Children's Health
Survey finds majority of U.S. parents aren't aware of the critical part DHA
plays in the development of children's heart, brain and eyes
SANTA ANA, Calif., April 21 /PRNewswire/ - Stremicks Heritage
Foods(TM) today announced the results of its 2008 Children's Nutrition
Survey, which indicates that a majority of U.S. parents aren't aware of the
critical benefits of DHA in the development of their children's heart,
brain and eyes. The research, conducted by Harris Interactive, reveals that
68 percent of U.S. parents are not sure what omega-3 DHA does, and 59
percent of parents are not aware of the benefits of omega-3 DHA to their
child's health.
Though nearly three in four (72%) of the survey respondents said that
they make a conscious effort to include certain vitamins and nutrients such
as vitamin C (55%) and calcium (53%) in their child's daily diet, only
seven percent are consciously including omega-3 DHA. And while about one in
five are aware of the importance of omega-3 DHA before (19%) and during
pregnancy (22%), less than one in five recognize the importance of this
nutrient to a newborn (18%) or infant (18%), and even fewer know that
omega-3 DHA is especially important to the health of toddlers (16%) and
preschool-aged children (14%).
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid found throughout the body, with
significant amounts found in the heart, retinas and brain, where it
accounts for up to 20 percent of total brain mass. DHA is important for
brain and eye development and function throughout the lifecycle, but is
particularly important between birth and five years of age, when the brain
increases approximately three-and-a-half times in mass, and DHA content
increases from 1 gram to approximately 4.5 grams. DHA also is the primary
structural fat in both the brain and retina, and ensures that cells in the
brain, retina, heart and other parts of the nervous system develop and
function properly.
"Our survey makes it clear that parents need to understand the
importance of DHA, and how to easily get the nutrient into their children's
diets to ensure optimal growth and development," said Sam Stremick,
Director of Sales and Marketing for Stremicks Heritage Foods. "Most
American children consume less than optimal levels of DHA primarily because
the foods that naturally contain DHA are organ meats and fatty fish, which
are not generally liked by young children. In addition, picky and
unbalanced eating habits, as well as food allergies make it difficult for
parents to ensure their children are obtaining optimal levels of DHA."
While the FDA does not have a regulation establishing a recommended
daily intake for DHA, the agency has not objected to the use of 160mg as a
daily value for DHA for children over four and adults. Many leading health
authorities and pediatricians recommend 150 mg/day for children. The
average U.S. child, ages from one to five years old, is shown to have DHA
intakes ranging from only 20-30 mg/day.
"Including DHA in the diet is the most reliable way to ensure thatsufficient amounts of DHA are available to support optimal growth and development," notes Stremick.
About the Survey
Harris Interactive is a global leader in custom market research. This
2008 Children's Nutrition Survey was conducted online within the United
States by Harris Interactive on behalf of Stremicks Heritage Foods between
March 20-25, 2008 among 1,244 U.S. adults ages 18+ who are parents or legal
guardians of children under the age of 18. This online survey is not based
on a probability sample and therefore no estimates of theoretical sampling
error can be calculated. For complete methodology, including weighting
variables, please contact Sharon Villanueva Scott at (323) 957-2745.
2008 Children's Nutrition Survey Key Findings
-- A majority of U.S. parents (68%) are not sure exactly what omega-3 DHA
does.
-- 59% of parents are not aware of the benefits of omega-3 DHA to their
child's health.
-- Though nearly three in four (72%) make a conscious effort to include
certain vitamins and nutrients such as vitamin C (55%) and calcium
(53%) in their child's daily diet, only 7% are consciously including
omega-3 DHA.
-- Parents are twice as likely to consider omega-3 fatty acids in general
(15%) as they are to consider omega-3 DHA in particular (7%) for their
child's diet.
-- Nearly two in three parents (63%) say they didn't realize omega-3 DHA
is a specific type of omega-3 fatty acid.
-- Only about one in three parents (35%) is familiar with a variety of
sources of omega-3 DHA.
-- About one in five are aware of the importance of omega-3 DHA before
(19%) and during pregnancy (22%). Less than one in five recognize the
importance of this nutrient to a newborn (18%) or infant (18%). And
even fewer know that omega-3 DHA is also important to the health of
toddlers (16%) and preschool-aged children (14%).
-- Not surprisingly, women are more likely than men to be aware of the
benefits of omega-3 DHA at certain phases of development.
-- Few parents report that their child regularly (at least twice a week)
consumes natural sources of omega-3 DHA such as tuna (24%), salmon
(7%) or flaxseed/flaxseed oil (4%).
-- Only one in ten (10%) says their child regularly consumes omega-3 DHA
fortified dairy products such as milk (5%) or eggs (7%).
-- A majority of parents (72%) agree that it would be easier to ensure
their child gets the recommended amount of omega-3 DHA if they didn't
have to try to get their child to eat foods like salmon and flaxseed
oil.
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/04-21-2008/0004796417&EDATE
Unfortunately, the SAD that most Americans consume is very low in foods that supply DHA, such as tuna, salmon, leafy green veggies, walnuts, and flax seeds. We as parents have a window of opportunity in the lives our young children to introduce them to quality foods so that they can develop a taste and preference for them. It is said that children who have never tasted sugar, a common occurrence in some parts of the world, naturally find it to be distasteful the first time they are exposed to it, unless they get used to it, of course. Indoctrinating our kids with healthful eating habits can set the direction of their diets and other lifestyle choices either for good or for bad. As parents become more educated about the benefits of a natural, whole-foods based diet, this can then be passed on to future generations so that a family legacy of wellness can be established.
2008 Children's Nutrition Survey Reveals Majority of U.S. Parents Unaware of DHA Benefits to Children's Health
Survey finds majority of U.S. parents aren't aware of the critical part DHA
plays in the development of children's heart, brain and eyes
SANTA ANA, Calif., April 21 /PRNewswire/ - Stremicks Heritage
Foods(TM) today announced the results of its 2008 Children's Nutrition
Survey, which indicates that a majority of U.S. parents aren't aware of the
critical benefits of DHA in the development of their children's heart,
brain and eyes. The research, conducted by Harris Interactive, reveals that
68 percent of U.S. parents are not sure what omega-3 DHA does, and 59
percent of parents are not aware of the benefits of omega-3 DHA to their
child's health.
Though nearly three in four (72%) of the survey respondents said that
they make a conscious effort to include certain vitamins and nutrients such
as vitamin C (55%) and calcium (53%) in their child's daily diet, only
seven percent are consciously including omega-3 DHA. And while about one in
five are aware of the importance of omega-3 DHA before (19%) and during
pregnancy (22%), less than one in five recognize the importance of this
nutrient to a newborn (18%) or infant (18%), and even fewer know that
omega-3 DHA is especially important to the health of toddlers (16%) and
preschool-aged children (14%).
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid found throughout the body, with
significant amounts found in the heart, retinas and brain, where it
accounts for up to 20 percent of total brain mass. DHA is important for
brain and eye development and function throughout the lifecycle, but is
particularly important between birth and five years of age, when the brain
increases approximately three-and-a-half times in mass, and DHA content
increases from 1 gram to approximately 4.5 grams. DHA also is the primary
structural fat in both the brain and retina, and ensures that cells in the
brain, retina, heart and other parts of the nervous system develop and
function properly.
"Our survey makes it clear that parents need to understand the
importance of DHA, and how to easily get the nutrient into their children's
diets to ensure optimal growth and development," said Sam Stremick,
Director of Sales and Marketing for Stremicks Heritage Foods. "Most
American children consume less than optimal levels of DHA primarily because
the foods that naturally contain DHA are organ meats and fatty fish, which
are not generally liked by young children. In addition, picky and
unbalanced eating habits, as well as food allergies make it difficult for
parents to ensure their children are obtaining optimal levels of DHA."
While the FDA does not have a regulation establishing a recommended
daily intake for DHA, the agency has not objected to the use of 160mg as a
daily value for DHA for children over four and adults. Many leading health
authorities and pediatricians recommend 150 mg/day for children. The
average U.S. child, ages from one to five years old, is shown to have DHA
intakes ranging from only 20-30 mg/day.
"Including DHA in the diet is the most reliable way to ensure thatsufficient amounts of DHA are available to support optimal growth and development," notes Stremick.
About the Survey
Harris Interactive is a global leader in custom market research. This
2008 Children's Nutrition Survey was conducted online within the United
States by Harris Interactive on behalf of Stremicks Heritage Foods between
March 20-25, 2008 among 1,244 U.S. adults ages 18+ who are parents or legal
guardians of children under the age of 18. This online survey is not based
on a probability sample and therefore no estimates of theoretical sampling
error can be calculated. For complete methodology, including weighting
variables, please contact Sharon Villanueva Scott at (323) 957-2745.
2008 Children's Nutrition Survey Key Findings
-- A majority of U.S. parents (68%) are not sure exactly what omega-3 DHA
does.
-- 59% of parents are not aware of the benefits of omega-3 DHA to their
child's health.
-- Though nearly three in four (72%) make a conscious effort to include
certain vitamins and nutrients such as vitamin C (55%) and calcium
(53%) in their child's daily diet, only 7% are consciously including
omega-3 DHA.
-- Parents are twice as likely to consider omega-3 fatty acids in general
(15%) as they are to consider omega-3 DHA in particular (7%) for their
child's diet.
-- Nearly two in three parents (63%) say they didn't realize omega-3 DHA
is a specific type of omega-3 fatty acid.
-- Only about one in three parents (35%) is familiar with a variety of
sources of omega-3 DHA.
-- About one in five are aware of the importance of omega-3 DHA before
(19%) and during pregnancy (22%). Less than one in five recognize the
importance of this nutrient to a newborn (18%) or infant (18%). And
even fewer know that omega-3 DHA is also important to the health of
toddlers (16%) and preschool-aged children (14%).
-- Not surprisingly, women are more likely than men to be aware of the
benefits of omega-3 DHA at certain phases of development.
-- Few parents report that their child regularly (at least twice a week)
consumes natural sources of omega-3 DHA such as tuna (24%), salmon
(7%) or flaxseed/flaxseed oil (4%).
-- Only one in ten (10%) says their child regularly consumes omega-3 DHA
fortified dairy products such as milk (5%) or eggs (7%).
-- A majority of parents (72%) agree that it would be easier to ensure
their child gets the recommended amount of omega-3 DHA if they didn't
have to try to get their child to eat foods like salmon and flaxseed
oil.
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/04-21-2008/0004796417&EDATE
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Food Shortages Developing in US
The next time you go to the grocery store, you may be surprised to find that certain staples you often buy, such as flour, oil, or rice, may be available only in limited amounts, or perhaps not at all. Most Americans take the large quantities and varieties of foods at their disposal for granted, a situation that is not common throughout the rest of the world. We are spoiled in this country by our surplus of just about everything, but the days of unlimited food supplies at relatively inexpensive prices may be coming to an end.
Stories such as the one below are excellent reminders that dependence on the commercial food supply to meet our nutritional needs can be much riskier than most people might think. As we have often discussed on this blog, one of those risks involves the poor quality of many products, exposing consumers to nutritionally deficient foods that are often laced with harmful additives. Another risk involves disruption of the food supply due to shortages and price hikes, a situation that appears to be currently impacting parts of the US.
Growing your own food can help to address both of these issues, providing quality organic foods that are both high in nutrition and cost-effective. If we want to stay well by providing real, healthful foods that our bodies need to thrive, and protect ourselves against an uncertain food supply, starting a home garden is definitely one of the best ways to go. If space is an issue, then container gardening is easy and effective. Our food supply is rapidly being attacked and adulterated by genetic modifications, hormones, and toxic chemicals. We need to be proactively pursuing alternatives that can adequately provide for our needs and for those of our loved ones both now and in the future.
Food Rationing Confronts Breadbasket of the World
By JOSH GERSTEIN, Staff Reporter of the Sun April 21, 2008
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. - Many parts of America, long considered the breadbasket of the world, are now confronting a once unthinkable phenomenon: food rationing.
Major retailers in New York, in areas of New England, and on the West Coast are limiting purchases of flour, rice, and cooking oil as demand outstrips supply. There are also anecdotal reports that some consumers are hoarding grain stocks.
At a Costco Warehouse in Mountain View, Calif., yesterday, shoppers grew frustrated and occasionally uttered expletives as they searched in vain for the large sacks of rice they usually buy.
"Where's the rice?" an engineer from Palo Alto, Calif., Yajun Liu, said. "You should be able to buy something like rice. This is ridiculous."
The bustling store in the heart of Silicon Valley usually sells four or five varieties of rice to a clientele largely of Asian immigrants, but only about half a pallet of Indian-grown Basmati rice was left in stock. A 20-pound bag was selling for $15.99.
"You can't eat this every day. It's too heavy," a health care executive from Palo Alto, Sharad Patel, grumbled as his son loaded two sacks of the Basmati into a shopping cart. "We only need one bag but I'm getting two in case a neighbor or a friend needs it," the elder man said.
The Patels seemed headed for disappointment, as most Costco members were being allowed to buy only one bag. Moments earlier, a clerk dropped two sacks back on the stack after taking them from another customer who tried to exceed the one-bag cap.
"Due to the limited availability of rice, we are limiting rice purchases based on your prior purchasing history," a sign above the dwindling supply said.
Shoppers said the limits had been in place for a few days, and that rice supplies had been spotty for a few weeks. A store manager referred questions to officials at Costco headquarters near Seattle, who did not return calls or e-mail messages yesterday.
An employee at the Costco store in Queens said there were no restrictions on rice buying, but limits were being imposed on purchases of oil and flour. Internet postings attributed some of the shortage at the retail level to bakery owners who flocked to warehouse stores when the price of flour from commercial suppliers doubled.
The curbs and shortages are being tracked with concern by survivalists who view the phenomenon as a harbinger of more serious trouble to come.
"It's sporadic. It's not every store, but it's becoming more commonplace," the editor of SurvivalBlog.com, James Rawles, said. "The number of reports I've been getting from readers who have seen signs posted with limits has increased almost exponentially, I'd say in the last three to five weeks."
Spiking food prices have led to riots in recent weeks in Haiti, Indonesia, and several African nations. India recently banned export of all but the highest quality rice, and Vietnam blocked the signing of a new contract for foreign rice sales.
"I'm surprised the Bush administration hasn't slapped export controls on wheat," Mr. Rawles said. "The Asian countries are here buying every kind of wheat."
Mr. Rawles said it is hard to know how much of the shortages are due to lagging supply and how much is caused by consumers hedging against future price hikes or a total lack of product.
"There have been so many stories about worldwide shortages that it encourages people to stock up. What most people don't realize is that supply chains have changed, so inventories are very short," Mr. Rawles, a former Army intelligence officer, said. "Even if people increased their purchasing by 20%, all the store shelves would be wiped out."
At the moment, large chain retailers seem more prone to shortages and limits than do smaller chains and mom-and-pop stores, perhaps because store managers at the larger companies have less discretion to increase prices locally.
Mr. Rawles said the spot shortages seemed to be most frequent in the Northeast and all the way along the West Coast. He said he had heard reports of buying limits at Sam's Club warehouses, which are owned by Wal-Mart Stores, but a spokesman for the company, Kory Lundberg, said he was not aware of any shortages or limits.
An anonymous high-tech professional writing on an investment Web site, Seeking Alpha, said he recently bought 10 50-pound bags of rice at Costco. "I am concerned that when the news of rice shortage spreads, there will be panic buying and the shelves will be empty in no time. I do not intend to cause a panic, and I am not speculating on rice to make profit. I am just hoarding some for my own consumption," he wrote.
For now, rice is available at Asian markets in California, though consumers have fewer choices when buying the largest bags. "At our neighborhood store, it's very expensive, more than $30 for a 25-pound bag", a housewife from Mountain View, Theresa Esquerra, said. "I'm not going to pay $30. Maybe we'll just eat bread."
http://www.newyorksun.com/news/food-rationing-confronts-breadbasket-world
Stories such as the one below are excellent reminders that dependence on the commercial food supply to meet our nutritional needs can be much riskier than most people might think. As we have often discussed on this blog, one of those risks involves the poor quality of many products, exposing consumers to nutritionally deficient foods that are often laced with harmful additives. Another risk involves disruption of the food supply due to shortages and price hikes, a situation that appears to be currently impacting parts of the US.
Growing your own food can help to address both of these issues, providing quality organic foods that are both high in nutrition and cost-effective. If we want to stay well by providing real, healthful foods that our bodies need to thrive, and protect ourselves against an uncertain food supply, starting a home garden is definitely one of the best ways to go. If space is an issue, then container gardening is easy and effective. Our food supply is rapidly being attacked and adulterated by genetic modifications, hormones, and toxic chemicals. We need to be proactively pursuing alternatives that can adequately provide for our needs and for those of our loved ones both now and in the future.
Food Rationing Confronts Breadbasket of the World
By JOSH GERSTEIN, Staff Reporter of the Sun April 21, 2008
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. - Many parts of America, long considered the breadbasket of the world, are now confronting a once unthinkable phenomenon: food rationing.
Major retailers in New York, in areas of New England, and on the West Coast are limiting purchases of flour, rice, and cooking oil as demand outstrips supply. There are also anecdotal reports that some consumers are hoarding grain stocks.
At a Costco Warehouse in Mountain View, Calif., yesterday, shoppers grew frustrated and occasionally uttered expletives as they searched in vain for the large sacks of rice they usually buy.
"Where's the rice?" an engineer from Palo Alto, Calif., Yajun Liu, said. "You should be able to buy something like rice. This is ridiculous."
The bustling store in the heart of Silicon Valley usually sells four or five varieties of rice to a clientele largely of Asian immigrants, but only about half a pallet of Indian-grown Basmati rice was left in stock. A 20-pound bag was selling for $15.99.
"You can't eat this every day. It's too heavy," a health care executive from Palo Alto, Sharad Patel, grumbled as his son loaded two sacks of the Basmati into a shopping cart. "We only need one bag but I'm getting two in case a neighbor or a friend needs it," the elder man said.
The Patels seemed headed for disappointment, as most Costco members were being allowed to buy only one bag. Moments earlier, a clerk dropped two sacks back on the stack after taking them from another customer who tried to exceed the one-bag cap.
"Due to the limited availability of rice, we are limiting rice purchases based on your prior purchasing history," a sign above the dwindling supply said.
Shoppers said the limits had been in place for a few days, and that rice supplies had been spotty for a few weeks. A store manager referred questions to officials at Costco headquarters near Seattle, who did not return calls or e-mail messages yesterday.
An employee at the Costco store in Queens said there were no restrictions on rice buying, but limits were being imposed on purchases of oil and flour. Internet postings attributed some of the shortage at the retail level to bakery owners who flocked to warehouse stores when the price of flour from commercial suppliers doubled.
The curbs and shortages are being tracked with concern by survivalists who view the phenomenon as a harbinger of more serious trouble to come.
"It's sporadic. It's not every store, but it's becoming more commonplace," the editor of SurvivalBlog.com, James Rawles, said. "The number of reports I've been getting from readers who have seen signs posted with limits has increased almost exponentially, I'd say in the last three to five weeks."
Spiking food prices have led to riots in recent weeks in Haiti, Indonesia, and several African nations. India recently banned export of all but the highest quality rice, and Vietnam blocked the signing of a new contract for foreign rice sales.
"I'm surprised the Bush administration hasn't slapped export controls on wheat," Mr. Rawles said. "The Asian countries are here buying every kind of wheat."
Mr. Rawles said it is hard to know how much of the shortages are due to lagging supply and how much is caused by consumers hedging against future price hikes or a total lack of product.
"There have been so many stories about worldwide shortages that it encourages people to stock up. What most people don't realize is that supply chains have changed, so inventories are very short," Mr. Rawles, a former Army intelligence officer, said. "Even if people increased their purchasing by 20%, all the store shelves would be wiped out."
At the moment, large chain retailers seem more prone to shortages and limits than do smaller chains and mom-and-pop stores, perhaps because store managers at the larger companies have less discretion to increase prices locally.
Mr. Rawles said the spot shortages seemed to be most frequent in the Northeast and all the way along the West Coast. He said he had heard reports of buying limits at Sam's Club warehouses, which are owned by Wal-Mart Stores, but a spokesman for the company, Kory Lundberg, said he was not aware of any shortages or limits.
An anonymous high-tech professional writing on an investment Web site, Seeking Alpha, said he recently bought 10 50-pound bags of rice at Costco. "I am concerned that when the news of rice shortage spreads, there will be panic buying and the shelves will be empty in no time. I do not intend to cause a panic, and I am not speculating on rice to make profit. I am just hoarding some for my own consumption," he wrote.
For now, rice is available at Asian markets in California, though consumers have fewer choices when buying the largest bags. "At our neighborhood store, it's very expensive, more than $30 for a 25-pound bag", a housewife from Mountain View, Theresa Esquerra, said. "I'm not going to pay $30. Maybe we'll just eat bread."
http://www.newyorksun.com/news/food-rationing-confronts-breadbasket-world
Monday, April 21, 2008
Coffee and Acetaminophen: A Dangerous Combination
If you use Tylenol or another form of acetaminophen as a method of dealing with pain, you are probably aware that it can be very damaging to your liver. A newly released study gives preliminary evidence that drinking coffee while taking this drug can increase the hazards considerably. The study was not done directly on the human liver, so the results are not fully conclusive, but they do reveal that the use of caffeine and acetaminophen can be potentially hazardous.
This research is important, as caffeine and acetaminophen are two of the most highly used and abused drugs in this country. Natural remedies for pain such as magnesium oil, MSM, enzymes, flax seed oil, far infra red therapy, massage, hydrotherapy, herbs such as Boswellia, and relaxation techniques are much safer than the use of acetaminophen or any prescription or over-the-counter drug. As far as drinking coffee and other forms of caffeine goes, if one of your New Years resolutions (is it almost May already?) was to break the habit, perhaps it is time to reevaluate your intentions and finally take some action.
Taking Common Painkiller (acetaminophen) with Coffee is Extremely Toxic to the Liver
by David Gutierrez
(NaturalNews) Combining caffeine with the active ingredient in Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be extremely dangerous for the liver, according to new research conducted at the University of Washington and reported in the journal Chemical Research in Toxicology.
Researchers performed the study on E. coli bacteria that had been genetically modified to produce a human liver enzyme that breaks down the pain killing chemical paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen. A toxic byproduct of this enzyme's activity is what leads to liver damage in cases of paracetamol overdose.
When the scientists expose the bacteria to a large combined dose of caffeine and paracetamol, production of the toxic byproduct tripled. According to researchers, this translates to three times the risk of permanent liver damage.
According to British health expert Dr. Simon Thomas of the University of Newcastle, paracetamol is the culprit in 40 percents of drug overdoses in the United Kingdom, leading to 100 deaths or liver transplants yearly. But Thomas said that it would be hasty to draw too many conclusions about the human liver from a study conducted on bacteria.
"There are a million miles between E. coli and humans in terms of how paracetamol and caffeine are metabolized," he said.
Prior studies have shown that caffeine exacerbates paracetamol-induced liver damage in rats, and that mixing alcohol with the painkiller intensifies its effects on the liver. However, this is the first study to provide evidence that a mix of paracetamol and caffeine may be dangerous.
But the researchers noted that the doses they used in the study were enormous, and that there is as yet no evidence what dose would be required to be dangerous to humans. Because of this uncertainty, however, they advised caution in mixing the two drugs.
"The bottom line is that you don't have to stop taking acetaminophen or stop taking caffeine products, but you do need to monitor your intake more carefully when taking them together, especially if you drink alcohol," said researcher Sid Nelson.
http://www.naturalnews.com/z023073.html
This research is important, as caffeine and acetaminophen are two of the most highly used and abused drugs in this country. Natural remedies for pain such as magnesium oil, MSM, enzymes, flax seed oil, far infra red therapy, massage, hydrotherapy, herbs such as Boswellia, and relaxation techniques are much safer than the use of acetaminophen or any prescription or over-the-counter drug. As far as drinking coffee and other forms of caffeine goes, if one of your New Years resolutions (is it almost May already?) was to break the habit, perhaps it is time to reevaluate your intentions and finally take some action.
Taking Common Painkiller (acetaminophen) with Coffee is Extremely Toxic to the Liver
by David Gutierrez
(NaturalNews) Combining caffeine with the active ingredient in Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be extremely dangerous for the liver, according to new research conducted at the University of Washington and reported in the journal Chemical Research in Toxicology.
Researchers performed the study on E. coli bacteria that had been genetically modified to produce a human liver enzyme that breaks down the pain killing chemical paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen. A toxic byproduct of this enzyme's activity is what leads to liver damage in cases of paracetamol overdose.
When the scientists expose the bacteria to a large combined dose of caffeine and paracetamol, production of the toxic byproduct tripled. According to researchers, this translates to three times the risk of permanent liver damage.
According to British health expert Dr. Simon Thomas of the University of Newcastle, paracetamol is the culprit in 40 percents of drug overdoses in the United Kingdom, leading to 100 deaths or liver transplants yearly. But Thomas said that it would be hasty to draw too many conclusions about the human liver from a study conducted on bacteria.
"There are a million miles between E. coli and humans in terms of how paracetamol and caffeine are metabolized," he said.
Prior studies have shown that caffeine exacerbates paracetamol-induced liver damage in rats, and that mixing alcohol with the painkiller intensifies its effects on the liver. However, this is the first study to provide evidence that a mix of paracetamol and caffeine may be dangerous.
But the researchers noted that the doses they used in the study were enormous, and that there is as yet no evidence what dose would be required to be dangerous to humans. Because of this uncertainty, however, they advised caution in mixing the two drugs.
"The bottom line is that you don't have to stop taking acetaminophen or stop taking caffeine products, but you do need to monitor your intake more carefully when taking them together, especially if you drink alcohol," said researcher Sid Nelson.
http://www.naturalnews.com/z023073.html
Green Tea Makes a Great Sports Drink
As the spring and summer seasons descend upon us, many people pick up the pace a bit when it comes to exercising and working out. Heat also becomes more of a factor, so it is even more important to stay properly hydrated. Commercial sports drinks may help to some degree, but they typically contain artificial ingredients that many of us would rather not put into our bodies. A new study indicates that green tea may have excellent benefits specifically geared towards athletes and other active individuals.
Once again, nature shows her tenacity towards providing for our nutritional and health needs without the need for artificial substances. Perhaps the use of green tea, either hot or cold, or a quality green tea supplement, may prove be beneficial, along with ample amounts of pure, clean water. Combine this with excellence in overall nutrition, and it is likely that even the most ambitious athletes will find such choices to be more than adequate for sustaining their bodies while working out.
Green tea for sports nutrition?
By Stephen Daniells
15/04/2008- Antioxidant-rich green tea may counter the effects of resistance exercise by reducing the detrimental effects of oxidative stress, suggests a small trial from Brazil.
If the results can be repeated in a bigger trial it could see green tea added to the market for energy drinks and sports nutrition, which has blossomed over the last few years.
While the thought of athletes knocking back a cup of green tea after a workout may seem strange, it may signal a possibility for antioxidant-rich green tea extracts to be formulated in sports drinks, and supported by science like the new study from the May issue of the journal Nutrition.
Researchers from the Federal University of Santa Catarina, and the Center of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Sports of Santa Catarina State University studied the effects of daily green tea consumption for seven days in athletes undertaking resistance training, which can increase the production of free radicals beyond the tissues' antioxidant defense capacity, and causing oxidative stress.
"The inadequate intake of dietary antioxidants among the physically active populations must be considered," wrote lead author Vilma Simoes Pereira Panza.
"This study suggests that green tea intake may offer a protective effect against oxidative damaged induced by resistance exercise."
According to market analyst Mintel, the sports drink market in the UK was worth $252 million in 2003, and is dominated by isotonic drinks like Lucozade Sport, Powerade and Gatorade.
In the US, the sports drinks market is reported to have generated almost $3 billion, with Gatorade dominating the market at 82 per cent of the market. Powerade is a distant second with a reported 13 per cent of the market.
Study details
Panza and co-workers recruited 14 healthy men aged between 19 and 30 to consume either water or green tea three times per day for seven days. The average polyphenol content of the tea was 771.0 micrograms per mL, while the average intake of green tea polyphenols was calculated to be 4.6 micrograms per day.
After seven days of consuming the beverages, the volunteers were required to perform a bench press exercise (four sets, 10 to 4 repetitions). The researchers analysed blood samples and calculated the total antioxidant capacity according to the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assay, and levels of reduced glutathione and lipid hydroperoxide.
According to the results, consumption of green tea was associated with a 64 per cent reduction in the levels of lipid hydroperoxide after exercise, while blood levels of polyphenols were approximately 27 per cent high before and after exercise.
Moreover, post-exercise levels of glutathione, a protein that is important in protecting the body from oxidative (free radical) damage, were approximately 37 per cent higher in the green tea group.
"There is evidence that supplementation with antioxidants may decrease the oxidation of blood GSH after exercise," stated the researchers. "Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that dietary strategies, such as daily GT intake, may also benefit the glutathione system of athletes by elevating blood GSH levels before and after effort."
Consumption of green tea also provided pre-exercise benefits, with the pre-exercise FRAP value
about 21 per cent higher compared with the control group.
"Consumption of green tea, a beverage rich in polyphenols, may offer protection against the oxidative damage caused by exercise, and dietary guidance for sports participants should be emphasised," concluded the researchers.
Panza and co-workers also noted that future studies should elucidate the time course and recovery periods associated with green tea consumption, while other studies "should corroborate our findings using other polyphenol-rich foods and beverages, thus widening the dietary strategies applied to training."
Green tea market
According to recent report from Frost & Sullivan, the market for green tea extracts, currently worth around $44million, is expected to grow by more than 13 per cent over the next seven years.
The analysts state that science is the reason for the ingredient's growing popularity, and that it is generally accepted that green tea has a beneficial role in reducing Alzheimer's, certain cancers, cardiovascular and oral health.
Once again, nature shows her tenacity towards providing for our nutritional and health needs without the need for artificial substances. Perhaps the use of green tea, either hot or cold, or a quality green tea supplement, may prove be beneficial, along with ample amounts of pure, clean water. Combine this with excellence in overall nutrition, and it is likely that even the most ambitious athletes will find such choices to be more than adequate for sustaining their bodies while working out.
Green tea for sports nutrition?
By Stephen Daniells
15/04/2008- Antioxidant-rich green tea may counter the effects of resistance exercise by reducing the detrimental effects of oxidative stress, suggests a small trial from Brazil.
If the results can be repeated in a bigger trial it could see green tea added to the market for energy drinks and sports nutrition, which has blossomed over the last few years.
While the thought of athletes knocking back a cup of green tea after a workout may seem strange, it may signal a possibility for antioxidant-rich green tea extracts to be formulated in sports drinks, and supported by science like the new study from the May issue of the journal Nutrition.
Researchers from the Federal University of Santa Catarina, and the Center of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Sports of Santa Catarina State University studied the effects of daily green tea consumption for seven days in athletes undertaking resistance training, which can increase the production of free radicals beyond the tissues' antioxidant defense capacity, and causing oxidative stress.
"The inadequate intake of dietary antioxidants among the physically active populations must be considered," wrote lead author Vilma Simoes Pereira Panza.
"This study suggests that green tea intake may offer a protective effect against oxidative damaged induced by resistance exercise."
According to market analyst Mintel, the sports drink market in the UK was worth $252 million in 2003, and is dominated by isotonic drinks like Lucozade Sport, Powerade and Gatorade.
In the US, the sports drinks market is reported to have generated almost $3 billion, with Gatorade dominating the market at 82 per cent of the market. Powerade is a distant second with a reported 13 per cent of the market.
Study details
Panza and co-workers recruited 14 healthy men aged between 19 and 30 to consume either water or green tea three times per day for seven days. The average polyphenol content of the tea was 771.0 micrograms per mL, while the average intake of green tea polyphenols was calculated to be 4.6 micrograms per day.
After seven days of consuming the beverages, the volunteers were required to perform a bench press exercise (four sets, 10 to 4 repetitions). The researchers analysed blood samples and calculated the total antioxidant capacity according to the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assay, and levels of reduced glutathione and lipid hydroperoxide.
According to the results, consumption of green tea was associated with a 64 per cent reduction in the levels of lipid hydroperoxide after exercise, while blood levels of polyphenols were approximately 27 per cent high before and after exercise.
Moreover, post-exercise levels of glutathione, a protein that is important in protecting the body from oxidative (free radical) damage, were approximately 37 per cent higher in the green tea group.
"There is evidence that supplementation with antioxidants may decrease the oxidation of blood GSH after exercise," stated the researchers. "Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that dietary strategies, such as daily GT intake, may also benefit the glutathione system of athletes by elevating blood GSH levels before and after effort."
Consumption of green tea also provided pre-exercise benefits, with the pre-exercise FRAP value
about 21 per cent higher compared with the control group.
"Consumption of green tea, a beverage rich in polyphenols, may offer protection against the oxidative damage caused by exercise, and dietary guidance for sports participants should be emphasised," concluded the researchers.
Panza and co-workers also noted that future studies should elucidate the time course and recovery periods associated with green tea consumption, while other studies "should corroborate our findings using other polyphenol-rich foods and beverages, thus widening the dietary strategies applied to training."
Green tea market
According to recent report from Frost & Sullivan, the market for green tea extracts, currently worth around $44million, is expected to grow by more than 13 per cent over the next seven years.
The analysts state that science is the reason for the ingredient's growing popularity, and that it is generally accepted that green tea has a beneficial role in reducing Alzheimer's, certain cancers, cardiovascular and oral health.
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/printNewsBis.asp?id=84652
Friday, April 18, 2008
Laughter is Good for the Soul - and the Body
I believe we as humans intuitively know that laughter can be a healing factor in our lives, both mentally and physically, and the benefits of humor are recognized in ancient wisdom literature sources such as the Bible and others. Increasingly more research is providing scientific evidence as additional support to back up this claim. Todays article discusses findings indicating that even the anticipation of laughter can lower stress and strengthen the immune system.
I often discuss lifestyle changes on this blog - changes such as diet, exercise, and others that can have a profound impact on our health. Enjoying a good laugh is also a positive lifestyle choice that perhaps does not receive its fair share of credit. Humor is a wonderful way to keep our minds and bodies at ease, and it is also a great method of connecting and bonding with other people in our lives. Amidst the busyness of our daily schedules we really need to slow down from time to time and learn to laugh and smile at the many humorous aspects of ourselves, others, and the world around us.
By Seeking Out Positive Experiences That Make Us Laugh We Can Do A Lot On Our Own To Stay Well
08 Apr 2008
In 2006 researchers investigating the interaction between the brain, behavior, and the immune system found that simply anticipating a mirthful laughter experience boosted health-protecting hormones. Now, two years later, the same researchers have found that the anticipation of a positive humorous laughter experience also reduces potentially detrimental stress hormones. According to Dr. Lee Berk, the study team's lead researcher of Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, "Our findings lead us to believe that by seeking out positive experiences that make us laugh we can do a lot with our physiology to stay well."
In their earlier work the researchers found that the anticipation of "mirthful laughter" had surprising and significant effects. Two hormones - beta-endorphins (the family of chemicals that alleviates depression) and human growth hormone (HGH; which helps with immunity) - increased by 27 and 87 percent respectively when volunteers anticipated watching a humorous video. There was no such increase among the control group who did not anticipate watching the humor film.
Using a similar protocol, the current research found that the same anticipation of laughter also reduced the levels of three stress hormones. Cortisol (termed "the stress hormone"), epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and dopac, a dopamine catabolite (brain chemical which helps produce epinephrine), were reduced 39, 70 and 38 percent, respectively (statistically significant compared to the control group). Chronically released high stress hormone levels can weaken the immune system.
The research is entitled Cortisol and Catecholamine Stress Hormone Decrease Is Associated with the Behavior of Perceptual Anticipation of Mirthful Laughter. It was conducted by Lee Berk with Stanley A. Tan, both of the Oak Crest Health Research Institute, Loma Linda, CA; and Dottie Berk, Loma Linda University Health Care, Loma Linda. Lee Berk is presenting the team's findings at the 121st Annual Meeting of the American Physiological Society, part of the Experimental Biology 2008 scientific conference.
The Study
Having found that the anticipation of a laughter event increased certain "beneficial" chemicals/hormones, the researchers proposed that the anticipation of a laughter event might reduce stress hormones. To test their theory they studied 16 healthy fasting male volunteers for cortisol and catecholamine level changes. The participants were assigned to either the control group or the experiment group (those anticipating a humorous event).
Blood was drawn from both groups prior to the event (anticipation), four times during the event, and three times afterward (event and residual effect). Analysis showed that the blood levels in the anticipatory phase decreased for stress hormones cortisol, epinephrine and dopac in the experimental group. Trend analysis showed a progressive pattern of the decrease for the three hormones through the event.
As a result, the researchers suggest that anticipating a positive event can decrease stress hormones that can be detrimental when chronically released. These findings have implications for understanding the modalities that can benefit stress reduction in health and wellness programs.
The "Biology of Hope"
Norman Cousins was a journalist and an editor of the Saturday Review. He was also a pioneer in the idea that beliefs, thoughts and emotions have biological effects ("biotranslation"). His view about the body's unrecognized ability to heal itself was captured in his 1979 book, "Anatomy of an Illness (As Perceived by the Patient)."
Forty years ago, few scientists would likely have agreed with Cousins. Today, researchers like Berk are beginning to pinpoint exactly what thoughts can drive which affects. Researchers like Berk are finding that, in addition to what resides in our bodies, what resides in our brains and mind is important, too.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/103208.php
I often discuss lifestyle changes on this blog - changes such as diet, exercise, and others that can have a profound impact on our health. Enjoying a good laugh is also a positive lifestyle choice that perhaps does not receive its fair share of credit. Humor is a wonderful way to keep our minds and bodies at ease, and it is also a great method of connecting and bonding with other people in our lives. Amidst the busyness of our daily schedules we really need to slow down from time to time and learn to laugh and smile at the many humorous aspects of ourselves, others, and the world around us.
By Seeking Out Positive Experiences That Make Us Laugh We Can Do A Lot On Our Own To Stay Well
08 Apr 2008
In 2006 researchers investigating the interaction between the brain, behavior, and the immune system found that simply anticipating a mirthful laughter experience boosted health-protecting hormones. Now, two years later, the same researchers have found that the anticipation of a positive humorous laughter experience also reduces potentially detrimental stress hormones. According to Dr. Lee Berk, the study team's lead researcher of Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, "Our findings lead us to believe that by seeking out positive experiences that make us laugh we can do a lot with our physiology to stay well."
In their earlier work the researchers found that the anticipation of "mirthful laughter" had surprising and significant effects. Two hormones - beta-endorphins (the family of chemicals that alleviates depression) and human growth hormone (HGH; which helps with immunity) - increased by 27 and 87 percent respectively when volunteers anticipated watching a humorous video. There was no such increase among the control group who did not anticipate watching the humor film.
Using a similar protocol, the current research found that the same anticipation of laughter also reduced the levels of three stress hormones. Cortisol (termed "the stress hormone"), epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and dopac, a dopamine catabolite (brain chemical which helps produce epinephrine), were reduced 39, 70 and 38 percent, respectively (statistically significant compared to the control group). Chronically released high stress hormone levels can weaken the immune system.
The research is entitled Cortisol and Catecholamine Stress Hormone Decrease Is Associated with the Behavior of Perceptual Anticipation of Mirthful Laughter. It was conducted by Lee Berk with Stanley A. Tan, both of the Oak Crest Health Research Institute, Loma Linda, CA; and Dottie Berk, Loma Linda University Health Care, Loma Linda. Lee Berk is presenting the team's findings at the 121st Annual Meeting of the American Physiological Society, part of the Experimental Biology 2008 scientific conference.
The Study
Having found that the anticipation of a laughter event increased certain "beneficial" chemicals/hormones, the researchers proposed that the anticipation of a laughter event might reduce stress hormones. To test their theory they studied 16 healthy fasting male volunteers for cortisol and catecholamine level changes. The participants were assigned to either the control group or the experiment group (those anticipating a humorous event).
Blood was drawn from both groups prior to the event (anticipation), four times during the event, and three times afterward (event and residual effect). Analysis showed that the blood levels in the anticipatory phase decreased for stress hormones cortisol, epinephrine and dopac in the experimental group. Trend analysis showed a progressive pattern of the decrease for the three hormones through the event.
As a result, the researchers suggest that anticipating a positive event can decrease stress hormones that can be detrimental when chronically released. These findings have implications for understanding the modalities that can benefit stress reduction in health and wellness programs.
The "Biology of Hope"
Norman Cousins was a journalist and an editor of the Saturday Review. He was also a pioneer in the idea that beliefs, thoughts and emotions have biological effects ("biotranslation"). His view about the body's unrecognized ability to heal itself was captured in his 1979 book, "Anatomy of an Illness (As Perceived by the Patient)."
Forty years ago, few scientists would likely have agreed with Cousins. Today, researchers like Berk are beginning to pinpoint exactly what thoughts can drive which affects. Researchers like Berk are finding that, in addition to what resides in our bodies, what resides in our brains and mind is important, too.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/103208.php
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Bariatric Surgery: A Risky Procedure Indeed
The hazards of bariatric surgery, sometimes called gastric bypass or weight loss surgery, are well documented, even in the conventional medical community. Major complications can occur leading to many serious medical problems including blood clots, digestive dysfunction, and malnutrition. In fact, the fatality rate for gastric bypass is very high, approximately one death for every 200-300 procedures performed. New research now indicates that the suicide rate for patients who have undergone such a procedure is also much higher than normal. These findings are an excellent indicator that there is a holistic connection between the mind and what happens to the body, even if we do not fully understand how this applies in this particular situation as of yet.
This type of surgery is a tragic example of how many treatments available in modern medicine seek to provide patients with a quick fix (and doctors with more income) without taking into consideration the potential dangers, known and unknown, that may be associated with them. Instead of counseling patients to lose weight by changing their lifestyle and dietary habits, choices that will lead them towards a lifetime of wellness, bariatric surgery is often recommended as an easy solution to the problem. Unfortunately, as is too often the case in medicine, the cure typically turns out to be worse than the cause.
This type of surgery is a tragic example of how many treatments available in modern medicine seek to provide patients with a quick fix (and doctors with more income) without taking into consideration the potential dangers, known and unknown, that may be associated with them. Instead of counseling patients to lose weight by changing their lifestyle and dietary habits, choices that will lead them towards a lifetime of wellness, bariatric surgery is often recommended as an easy solution to the problem. Unfortunately, as is too often the case in medicine, the cure typically turns out to be worse than the cause.
Extremely High Rate of Suicide Discovered Among Bariatric Surgery Patients
by David Gutierrez
(NaturalNews) Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery appear to commit suicide at five to 10 times the population average, according to a recent study published in the journal Archives of Surgery. Researchers examined data collected from the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost and Containment Council and the Pennsylvania state health agency's Division of Vital Records. Approximately 1 percent of patients undergoing bariatric surgery died within a year of the operation, while approximately 6 percent died within five years. Among the 16,683 procedures that the researchers examined, 440 patients died over a 10-year period.
Forty-five of these deaths were classified as "traumatic," including 10 motor vehicle crashes, three homicides, two falls, 16 suicides and 14 drug overdoses that could not be proven to be deliberate.
Based on the average rate of suicide in the United States, only 3 out of 440 deaths would be expected to be due to suicide. "There is a substantial excess of suicide deaths, even excluding those listed only as drug overdose," the researchers said.
Among the non-traumatic deaths, 19.2 percent were caused by coronary heart disease, 13.9 percent by sepsis, 11.0 percent by pulmonary embolism, 11.4 percent by therapeutic complications and 10.6 percent by cancer.
Taking into account the overall numbers, bariatric surgery does not appear to be particularly dangerous, said Dr. Edward Livingston of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, who was invited to critique the study.
"What was unexpected was the frequency of suicide and drug overdoses," he said.
But Livingston emphasized that "it may be a greater hazard to not induce weight loss for morbidly obese patients with concomitant medical complications."
The researchers suggested that more intense followup treatment may be required for bariatric surgery patients, with an emphasis on detecting and treating depression. In addition, doctors should focus on the risk factors for the most common causes of death in these patients. These risk factors include smoking, hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia.
"The simple fact about bariatric surgery," added consumer health advocate Mike Adams, "is that these patients need nutritional support, counseling and effective behavior modification. They do not need to have their internal organs cut away by barbaric surgeons who leave them unable to experience normal, healthy digestion for the rest of their lives. There is no evidence whatsoever that bariatric surgery makes people healthy. There is strong evidence, however, that it makes them suicidal."
http://www.naturalnews.com/z022994.html
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Diet That Prevents Disease: What A Concept!
It seems a bunch of stories have made the news lately that support the idea that what we eat (or avoid eating) can actually prevent disease. We in the natural health community have been touting this for years, and this truth has been foundational ever since the beginning of time, long before drugs, medical treatments, or the media were ever around. However, it is always a nice perk to see such coverage gain momentum in the public eye.
This study is particularly interesting in that it covers almost 90,000 participants over a 25-year period, highlighting the benefits of a diet high in vegetables, fruits, and meat alternatives, and low in certain types of harmful fats. It also proposes that not only can eating in such a manner prevent hypertension, but that it reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease as well. The more that healthful alternatives to the Standard American Diet (SAD) are publicized, the greater the chances of turning the tide against the onslaught of debilitating conditions that have become more the norm than the exception in our society today.
Risk of Women's Heart Attack or Stroke Appears to Be Lowered by 'DASH' Diet
BOSTON, April 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Women who adhered to the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which is high in fruits and vegetables and low in animal protein, significantly lowered their risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, according to a study published today (April 14) in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
The study indicates for the first time that the diet, which had previously been shown to lower blood pressure, also reduces risk of heart attack and stroke among middle-aged women.
The study was lead by Teresa Fung, Sc.D, a nutrition professor in the Simmons School for Health Studies in Boston (http://www.simmons.edu/shs), with colleagues at the Harvard School of Public Health.
The DASH diet was developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and previously was widely promoted as a diet to treat high blood pressure. It is a diet low in cholesterol and sodium and contains no more than 30 percent of calories from fat. It is high in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole gains and low-fat dairy products, and low in red and processed meats and sweetened beverages.
Fung's study created a score to measure how closely women's diets resemble the DASH diet, then looked to see if those with a high score (stricter adherence to the DASH diet) would have a lower risk of developing heart attacks and stroke than those with low adherence to the diet and a low DASH score.
Over 24 years of follow-up, the study found that women in the top 20 percent of the DASH score were 24 percent less likely to have heart disease and 18 percent less likely to have a stroke, than the women who scored in the bottom 20 percent of the DASH score.
The data also showed the risk reduction for stroke was stronger in women with a history of hypertension at baseline, compared with those who did not.
"This is a diet that seems worth recommending, because it is backed by strong scientific evidence," Fung said. "Not only does it contain healthy food, but it's also shown to link to lower risk of cardiovascular disease."
The data analysis looked at more than 88,000 women enrolled in the Nurses' Health Study, who provided dietary information seven times over 24 years. The women were ages 34 to 59 who were free of cardiovascular disease or diabetes at
the time of enrollment.
The National Institutes of Health funded the study, Adherence to a DASH-Style Diet and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke in Women.
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/risk-of-womens-heart-attack,351177.shtml
This study is particularly interesting in that it covers almost 90,000 participants over a 25-year period, highlighting the benefits of a diet high in vegetables, fruits, and meat alternatives, and low in certain types of harmful fats. It also proposes that not only can eating in such a manner prevent hypertension, but that it reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease as well. The more that healthful alternatives to the Standard American Diet (SAD) are publicized, the greater the chances of turning the tide against the onslaught of debilitating conditions that have become more the norm than the exception in our society today.
Risk of Women's Heart Attack or Stroke Appears to Be Lowered by 'DASH' Diet
BOSTON, April 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Women who adhered to the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which is high in fruits and vegetables and low in animal protein, significantly lowered their risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, according to a study published today (April 14) in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
The study indicates for the first time that the diet, which had previously been shown to lower blood pressure, also reduces risk of heart attack and stroke among middle-aged women.
The study was lead by Teresa Fung, Sc.D, a nutrition professor in the Simmons School for Health Studies in Boston (http://www.simmons.edu/shs), with colleagues at the Harvard School of Public Health.
The DASH diet was developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and previously was widely promoted as a diet to treat high blood pressure. It is a diet low in cholesterol and sodium and contains no more than 30 percent of calories from fat. It is high in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole gains and low-fat dairy products, and low in red and processed meats and sweetened beverages.
Fung's study created a score to measure how closely women's diets resemble the DASH diet, then looked to see if those with a high score (stricter adherence to the DASH diet) would have a lower risk of developing heart attacks and stroke than those with low adherence to the diet and a low DASH score.
Over 24 years of follow-up, the study found that women in the top 20 percent of the DASH score were 24 percent less likely to have heart disease and 18 percent less likely to have a stroke, than the women who scored in the bottom 20 percent of the DASH score.
The data also showed the risk reduction for stroke was stronger in women with a history of hypertension at baseline, compared with those who did not.
"This is a diet that seems worth recommending, because it is backed by strong scientific evidence," Fung said. "Not only does it contain healthy food, but it's also shown to link to lower risk of cardiovascular disease."
The data analysis looked at more than 88,000 women enrolled in the Nurses' Health Study, who provided dietary information seven times over 24 years. The women were ages 34 to 59 who were free of cardiovascular disease or diabetes at
the time of enrollment.
The National Institutes of Health funded the study, Adherence to a DASH-Style Diet and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke in Women.
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/risk-of-womens-heart-attack,351177.shtml
Monday, April 14, 2008
Green Tea and Superbugs
Most of us are aware of the antioxidant benefits associated with drinking green tea, but a newly released study indicates that green tea has excellent antibiotic qualities as well. In some cases, the effectiveness of standard antibiotic drugs was nearly doubled when combined with drinking green tea. This is a good tidbit to know since "superbugs" seem to be getting more and more resistant to even the "big gun" antibiotics.
In addition to the herbs, thyme, and marjoram that are mentioned in the last paragraph of the article, oil of oregano should also be added. Harry G. Preuss, MD, MACN, CNS, who is a professor of physiology and biophysics, led a research team that tested oregano oil on staphylococcus bacteria - which is responsible for an assortment of severe infections and is steadily becoming resistant to many antibiotics. Oregano oil was combined with the bacteria in a test tube, and the study compared the effects of oregano oil to those of the standard antibiotics streptomycin, penicillin and vacnomycin. Oregano oil at relatively small doses was found to curb the growth of the staphylococcus bacteria in the test tubes as adequately as the basic antibiotics did.
Taking this data to the next level, which often is not done when such information is released in the mainstream media, leads to the conclusion that certain foods and beverages, such as green tea and others, can help the body stay well and resistant to infection so that drugs like antibiotics can be reserved for only the toughest of infections. As with all prescription medicines, there are harmful side effects linked to antibiotics, so the best route to take regarding staying healthy is to pursue a whole natural diet that provides the nutrients designed by our Creator to prevent disease. However, should you need an antibiotic, make sure that you are also consuming an advanced probiotic in order to keep the digestive tract populated with friendly bacteria and the yeast population under control.
Green Tea Helps Beat Superbugs, Study Suggests
ScienceDaily (Apr. 1, 2008) - Green tea can help beat superbugs according to Egyptian scientists speaking March, 31, 2008 at the Society for General Microbiology's 162nd meeting.
The pharmacy researchers have shown that drinking green tea helps the action of important antibiotics in their fight against resistant superbugs, making them up to three times more effective.
Green tea is a very common beverage in Egypt, and it is quite likely that patients will drink green tea while taking antibiotics. The medical researchers wanted to find out if green tea would interfere with the action of the antibiotics, have no effect, or increase the medicines' effects.
"We tested green tea in combination with antibiotics against 28 disease causing micro-organisms belonging to two different classes," says Dr Mervat Kassem from the Faculty of Pharmacy at Alexandria University in Egypt. "In every single case green tea enhanced the bacteria-killing activity of the antibiotics. For example the killing effect of chloramphenicol was 99.99% better when taken with green tea than when taken on its own in some circumstances."
Green tea also made 20% of drug-resistant bacteria susceptible to one of the cephalosporin antibiotics. These are important antibiotics that new drug resistant strains of bacteria have evolved to resist.
The results surprised the researchers, showing that in almost every case and for all types of antibiotics tested, drinking green tea at the same time as taking the medicines seemed to reduce the bacteria's drug resistance, even in superbug strains, and increase the action of the antibiotics. In some cases, even a low concentration of green tea was effective.
"Our results show that we should consider more seriously the natural products we consume in our everyday life," says Dr Kassem. "In the future, we will be looking at other natural herb products such as marjoram and thyme to see whether they also contain active compounds which can help in the battle against drug resistant bacteria".
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/03/080330200640.htm
In addition to the herbs, thyme, and marjoram that are mentioned in the last paragraph of the article, oil of oregano should also be added. Harry G. Preuss, MD, MACN, CNS, who is a professor of physiology and biophysics, led a research team that tested oregano oil on staphylococcus bacteria - which is responsible for an assortment of severe infections and is steadily becoming resistant to many antibiotics. Oregano oil was combined with the bacteria in a test tube, and the study compared the effects of oregano oil to those of the standard antibiotics streptomycin, penicillin and vacnomycin. Oregano oil at relatively small doses was found to curb the growth of the staphylococcus bacteria in the test tubes as adequately as the basic antibiotics did.
Taking this data to the next level, which often is not done when such information is released in the mainstream media, leads to the conclusion that certain foods and beverages, such as green tea and others, can help the body stay well and resistant to infection so that drugs like antibiotics can be reserved for only the toughest of infections. As with all prescription medicines, there are harmful side effects linked to antibiotics, so the best route to take regarding staying healthy is to pursue a whole natural diet that provides the nutrients designed by our Creator to prevent disease. However, should you need an antibiotic, make sure that you are also consuming an advanced probiotic in order to keep the digestive tract populated with friendly bacteria and the yeast population under control.
Green Tea Helps Beat Superbugs, Study Suggests
ScienceDaily (Apr. 1, 2008) - Green tea can help beat superbugs according to Egyptian scientists speaking March, 31, 2008 at the Society for General Microbiology's 162nd meeting.
The pharmacy researchers have shown that drinking green tea helps the action of important antibiotics in their fight against resistant superbugs, making them up to three times more effective.
Green tea is a very common beverage in Egypt, and it is quite likely that patients will drink green tea while taking antibiotics. The medical researchers wanted to find out if green tea would interfere with the action of the antibiotics, have no effect, or increase the medicines' effects.
"We tested green tea in combination with antibiotics against 28 disease causing micro-organisms belonging to two different classes," says Dr Mervat Kassem from the Faculty of Pharmacy at Alexandria University in Egypt. "In every single case green tea enhanced the bacteria-killing activity of the antibiotics. For example the killing effect of chloramphenicol was 99.99% better when taken with green tea than when taken on its own in some circumstances."
Green tea also made 20% of drug-resistant bacteria susceptible to one of the cephalosporin antibiotics. These are important antibiotics that new drug resistant strains of bacteria have evolved to resist.
The results surprised the researchers, showing that in almost every case and for all types of antibiotics tested, drinking green tea at the same time as taking the medicines seemed to reduce the bacteria's drug resistance, even in superbug strains, and increase the action of the antibiotics. In some cases, even a low concentration of green tea was effective.
"Our results show that we should consider more seriously the natural products we consume in our everyday life," says Dr Kassem. "In the future, we will be looking at other natural herb products such as marjoram and thyme to see whether they also contain active compounds which can help in the battle against drug resistant bacteria".
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/03/080330200640.htm
When The Label Says Organic - Buyer Beware!
As hard as it is to determine the accuracy of foods categorized as organic, it is even more difficult when it comes to personal care products. And now some in the industry have come up with a new system of certification that is extremely deceptive, making the issues of purchasing and using truly organic skin-care products even more confusing for consumers. It is known as the Oasis Standard (in no way associated with Oasis Advanced Wellness), and is designed to pull the wool over the eyes of the buying public.
According to Organic Consumers Association, the OCA has issued Cease and Desist letters to the companies who tested positive for Dioxane that make organic brand or label claims: Jason Pure, Natural & Organic; Avalon Organics; Natures Gate Organics; Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic; Juice Organics, Giovanni Organic Cosmetics; Head Organics; Desert Essence Organics; Ikove Organic; Stella McCartney CARE 100% Organic; Estee Lauder. The OCA has also sent Cease and Desist letters to companies and certifiers that did not test positive for Dioxane contamination, but who regardless use petrochemical compounds in conventional cleansing ingredients in products with organic branding claims, including: Juice Organics; Avalon Organics; Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic; Desert Essence Organics; Head Organics; Ikove Organic and the certifier Ecocert. Learn more about 1,4-Dioxane by reading our fact sheet here, and for a list of ingredients to look out for on a product label that will indicate the likely presence of 1,4-Dioxane, click here.
As corporations continue to see dollar signs in the organic and natural markets, it is increasingly important for us to know and understand the sources and ingredients of the products we use on or put into our bodies. Unfortunately, when the profit motive is put before the health and welfare of the customer, it is not always wise to trust the claims of many manufacturers - even those in the natural health industry. Once again the phrase Buyer Beware becomes an appropriate guideline when it comes to finding legitimately organic personal care products.
Industry Creates New Bogus "OASIS" Organic Standard for Personal Care Products
Organic Consumers Association, 3/14/2008
The OASIS standard was spearheaded and created exclusively by conventional industry members like Estee Lauder (owner of Aveda), LOreal and Hain (Jason, Avalon), without any input or comment period from organic consumers, organic farmers or personal care companies who have achieved USDA National Organic Program certification for the majority of their products.
The OASIS standard allows a product to be labeled outright as Organic (rather than Made with Organic Specified Ingredients) even if it contains hydrogenated and sulfated cleansing ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate made from conventional agricultural material grown with synthetic fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, and preserved with synthetic petrochemical preservatives like Ethylhexylglycerin and Phenoxyethanol. [Reference: OASIS Standard section 6.2 and AntiMicrobial List]
Products certified under the OASIS standard must only contain 85% organic content, which means that organic water extracts and aloe vera will greenwash conventional synthetic cleansing ingredients and preservatives, since the water content of water/ detergent based personal care products like bodywashes and shampoos represents around 85% of the product. The OASIS standard is not merely useless but deliberately misleading to organic consumers looking for a reliable indicator of true organic product integrity in personal care.
Organic consumers expect that cleansing ingredients in products labeled Organic be made from organic not conventional agriculture, to not be hydrogenated or sulfated, and to be free from synthetic petrochemical preservatives.
OASIS claims to be the first U.S. organic beauty care standard. In actuality, the USDA National Organic Program has been certifying personal care products for over four years. This year, in particular, marks a watershed, because in 2008 there are more genuinely organic products on the market, bearing the USDA Organic seal on the front label than ever before.
http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_10886.cfm
According to Organic Consumers Association, the OCA has issued Cease and Desist letters to the companies who tested positive for Dioxane that make organic brand or label claims: Jason Pure, Natural & Organic; Avalon Organics; Natures Gate Organics; Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic; Juice Organics, Giovanni Organic Cosmetics; Head Organics; Desert Essence Organics; Ikove Organic; Stella McCartney CARE 100% Organic; Estee Lauder. The OCA has also sent Cease and Desist letters to companies and certifiers that did not test positive for Dioxane contamination, but who regardless use petrochemical compounds in conventional cleansing ingredients in products with organic branding claims, including: Juice Organics; Avalon Organics; Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic; Desert Essence Organics; Head Organics; Ikove Organic and the certifier Ecocert. Learn more about 1,4-Dioxane by reading our fact sheet here, and for a list of ingredients to look out for on a product label that will indicate the likely presence of 1,4-Dioxane, click here.
As corporations continue to see dollar signs in the organic and natural markets, it is increasingly important for us to know and understand the sources and ingredients of the products we use on or put into our bodies. Unfortunately, when the profit motive is put before the health and welfare of the customer, it is not always wise to trust the claims of many manufacturers - even those in the natural health industry. Once again the phrase Buyer Beware becomes an appropriate guideline when it comes to finding legitimately organic personal care products.
Industry Creates New Bogus "OASIS" Organic Standard for Personal Care Products
Organic Consumers Association, 3/14/2008
The OASIS standard was spearheaded and created exclusively by conventional industry members like Estee Lauder (owner of Aveda), LOreal and Hain (Jason, Avalon), without any input or comment period from organic consumers, organic farmers or personal care companies who have achieved USDA National Organic Program certification for the majority of their products.
The OASIS standard allows a product to be labeled outright as Organic (rather than Made with Organic Specified Ingredients) even if it contains hydrogenated and sulfated cleansing ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate made from conventional agricultural material grown with synthetic fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, and preserved with synthetic petrochemical preservatives like Ethylhexylglycerin and Phenoxyethanol. [Reference: OASIS Standard section 6.2 and AntiMicrobial List]
Products certified under the OASIS standard must only contain 85% organic content, which means that organic water extracts and aloe vera will greenwash conventional synthetic cleansing ingredients and preservatives, since the water content of water/ detergent based personal care products like bodywashes and shampoos represents around 85% of the product. The OASIS standard is not merely useless but deliberately misleading to organic consumers looking for a reliable indicator of true organic product integrity in personal care.
Organic consumers expect that cleansing ingredients in products labeled Organic be made from organic not conventional agriculture, to not be hydrogenated or sulfated, and to be free from synthetic petrochemical preservatives.
OASIS claims to be the first U.S. organic beauty care standard. In actuality, the USDA National Organic Program has been certifying personal care products for over four years. This year, in particular, marks a watershed, because in 2008 there are more genuinely organic products on the market, bearing the USDA Organic seal on the front label than ever before.
http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_10886.cfm
Friday, April 11, 2008
Tart Cherries & Inflammation
Despite threats in the past from the FDA, the cherry industry may be opening themselves up to new scrutiny by having the audacity to suggest that cherries are good for your health and help to prevent disease. A new study done on animals indicates that certain compounds in tart cherries help to lower inflammation, one of the leading markers of diabetes, heart disease, and other more serious health conditions. Cherries have long been a natural remedy for gout as well as a natural preventative measure.
I found it interesting that the rats used in the studies were fed, along with the cherries, a typical high-fat Standard American Diet (SAD). How much better would the health benefits of cherries be combined with a natural, healthy diet that in and of itself contributes to wellness and prevents many forms of illness? Hopefully, as more and more stories appear in the media regarding the health advantages of consuming a healthy diet, the message will begin to sink-in to the masses. When people become educated and then make the lifestyle changes needed to turn their health around, we can begin to gain the political clout necessary to refute the ridiculous policies of the FDA, instead of being at their mercy. There is power in knowledge and education. Use it for your advantage!
Tart Cherries May Reduce Inflammation, Lower Risk For Type 2 Diabetes & Heart Disease
10 April 2008
A new study shows tart cherries, one of today's hottest "Super Fruits," may help reduce inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in animals. The study was presented by University of Michigan researchers today at the Experimental Biology annual meeting. As science continues to reveal inflammation may be a marker for many chronic diseases, the researchers say emerging studies like this are important in examining the role diet may play in disease management and prevention.
At-risk rats with metabolic syndrome (obese, pre-diabetic) and lean, healthy rats were fed a cherry-enriched "Western Diet," characterized by high fat and moderate carbohydrate - in line with the typical American diet. Cherry-enriched diets, which consisted of whole tart cherry powder as 1 percent of the diet, reduced two known markers of inflammation by up to 50 percent. TNF-alpha was reduced by 50 percent in the lean rats and 40 percent in the at-risk rats and interleukin 6 (IL-6) was lowered by 31 percent in the at-risk rats and 38 percent in the lean rats.
While inflammation is a normal process the body uses to fight off infection or injury, according to recent science, a chronic state of inflammation could increase the risk for diseases.
"We're learning how important reducing inflammation is for our overall health and lowering the risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes - two of the most critical health epidemics we have in this country today," said study co-author Dr. Steven F. Bolling, a cardiac surgeon at the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center who also heads the U-M Cardioprotection Research Laboratory, where the study was performed. "This study offers further promise that foods rich in antioxidants, such as cherries, could potentially reduce inflammation and lower disease risk."
Both lean and at-risk rats also experienced lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels on the cherry-enriched diet, two other key risk factors for heart disease. The most at-risk animals also reduced their abdominal fat and total fat mass - particularly important given the link between excess abdominal fat and disease. Researchers say the animal study is encouraging and will lead to further clinical studies in humans to explore the link between diet, inflammation and lowering disease risk.
The Power of Eating Red
Tart cherries, frequently sold as dried, frozen or juice, contain powerful antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which provide the bright, rich red color. Studies suggest these colorful plant compounds may be responsible for cherries' anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits.
This new study is the latest linking this red hot "Super Fruit" to protection against heart disease and inflammation. In fact, research suggests the red compounds in cherries that deliver the anti-inflammatory benefits may also help ease the pain of arthritis and gout. There have been more than 65 published studies on the potential health benefits which can be found in the Cherry Nutrition Report posted on http://www.choosecherries.com.
The study was funded by the Cherry Marketing Institute, which provided an unrestricted grant to the University of Michigan to conduct the research and was not directly involved in the design, conduct or analysis of the project. For more information visit http://www.choosecherries.com.
Article URL: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/103390.php
I found it interesting that the rats used in the studies were fed, along with the cherries, a typical high-fat Standard American Diet (SAD). How much better would the health benefits of cherries be combined with a natural, healthy diet that in and of itself contributes to wellness and prevents many forms of illness? Hopefully, as more and more stories appear in the media regarding the health advantages of consuming a healthy diet, the message will begin to sink-in to the masses. When people become educated and then make the lifestyle changes needed to turn their health around, we can begin to gain the political clout necessary to refute the ridiculous policies of the FDA, instead of being at their mercy. There is power in knowledge and education. Use it for your advantage!
Tart Cherries May Reduce Inflammation, Lower Risk For Type 2 Diabetes & Heart Disease
10 April 2008
A new study shows tart cherries, one of today's hottest "Super Fruits," may help reduce inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in animals. The study was presented by University of Michigan researchers today at the Experimental Biology annual meeting. As science continues to reveal inflammation may be a marker for many chronic diseases, the researchers say emerging studies like this are important in examining the role diet may play in disease management and prevention.
At-risk rats with metabolic syndrome (obese, pre-diabetic) and lean, healthy rats were fed a cherry-enriched "Western Diet," characterized by high fat and moderate carbohydrate - in line with the typical American diet. Cherry-enriched diets, which consisted of whole tart cherry powder as 1 percent of the diet, reduced two known markers of inflammation by up to 50 percent. TNF-alpha was reduced by 50 percent in the lean rats and 40 percent in the at-risk rats and interleukin 6 (IL-6) was lowered by 31 percent in the at-risk rats and 38 percent in the lean rats.
While inflammation is a normal process the body uses to fight off infection or injury, according to recent science, a chronic state of inflammation could increase the risk for diseases.
"We're learning how important reducing inflammation is for our overall health and lowering the risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes - two of the most critical health epidemics we have in this country today," said study co-author Dr. Steven F. Bolling, a cardiac surgeon at the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center who also heads the U-M Cardioprotection Research Laboratory, where the study was performed. "This study offers further promise that foods rich in antioxidants, such as cherries, could potentially reduce inflammation and lower disease risk."
Both lean and at-risk rats also experienced lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels on the cherry-enriched diet, two other key risk factors for heart disease. The most at-risk animals also reduced their abdominal fat and total fat mass - particularly important given the link between excess abdominal fat and disease. Researchers say the animal study is encouraging and will lead to further clinical studies in humans to explore the link between diet, inflammation and lowering disease risk.
The Power of Eating Red
Tart cherries, frequently sold as dried, frozen or juice, contain powerful antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which provide the bright, rich red color. Studies suggest these colorful plant compounds may be responsible for cherries' anti-inflammatory properties and other health benefits.
This new study is the latest linking this red hot "Super Fruit" to protection against heart disease and inflammation. In fact, research suggests the red compounds in cherries that deliver the anti-inflammatory benefits may also help ease the pain of arthritis and gout. There have been more than 65 published studies on the potential health benefits which can be found in the Cherry Nutrition Report posted on http://www.choosecherries.com.
The study was funded by the Cherry Marketing Institute, which provided an unrestricted grant to the University of Michigan to conduct the research and was not directly involved in the design, conduct or analysis of the project. For more information visit http://www.choosecherries.com.
Article URL: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/103390.php
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Clean, Pure Food vs. Corporate Greed
The article posted below discusses the worst of the worst when it comes to the acceleration of our deteriorating health freedoms, and the extensive corporate and government abuses that have enabled this ongoing process to occur. It is clear that plans exist regarding modification of literally the entire food supply in the US and around the world. This agenda is driven by greed, but masked with altruistic motives. It is hard to believe that such unethical, deceptive, and manipulative actions are not only allowed, but in some cases sanctioned by regulatory agencies in this country.
Monsanto and their tactics of intimidation are a glaring reminder that we as a people must proactively take the wellness of our families into our own hands while we still have the chance. The time is rapidly approaching when genetically pure, natural seeds may become unavailable or even illegal, and small family farms that produce dairy, meat, and other products that are free from harmful additives may be a thing of the past. It is time to return to the days of yesteryear when almost everyone, even city dwellers, had a home garden. Most people today are so used to depending on the local grocery store to feed their families that harvesting homegrown fruits and vegetables, once a common practice, has become a rarity. The practice of passing down gardening knowledge and secrets to children is almost non-existent. Such dependence on corporations to provide our food has only made it easier for them to control and alter the food supply. The consequences to consuming such unnatural foods may not be fully felt for several generations, but the time to oppose such measures and look to alternative sources for our nutritional needs is now.
Monsantos Harvest of Fear
Monsanto already dominates Americas food chain with its genetically modified seeds. Now it has targeted milk production. Just as frightening as the corporations tactics - ruthless legal battles against small farmers - is its decades-long history of toxic contamination.
Gary Rinehart clearly remembers the summer day in 2002 when the stranger walked in and issued his threat. Rinehart was behind the counter of the Square Deal, his old-time country store, as he calls it, on the fading town square of Eagleville, Missouri, a tiny farm community 100 miles north of Kansas City.
The Square Deal is a fixture in Eagleville, a place where farmers and townspeople can go for lightbulbs, greeting cards, hunting gear, ice cream, aspirin, and dozens of other small items without having to drive to a big-box store in Bethany, the county seat, 15 miles down Interstate 35.
Everyone knows Rinehart, who was born and raised in the area and runs one of Eaglevilles few surviving businesses. The stranger came up to the counter and asked for him by name.
Well, thats me, said Rinehart.
As Rinehart would recall, the man began verbally attacking him, saying he had proof that Rinehart had planted Monsantos genetically modified (G.M.) soybeans in violation of the companys patent. Better come clean and settle with Monsanto, Rinehart says the man told him - or face the consequences.
(Please click here to read more)
Monsanto and their tactics of intimidation are a glaring reminder that we as a people must proactively take the wellness of our families into our own hands while we still have the chance. The time is rapidly approaching when genetically pure, natural seeds may become unavailable or even illegal, and small family farms that produce dairy, meat, and other products that are free from harmful additives may be a thing of the past. It is time to return to the days of yesteryear when almost everyone, even city dwellers, had a home garden. Most people today are so used to depending on the local grocery store to feed their families that harvesting homegrown fruits and vegetables, once a common practice, has become a rarity. The practice of passing down gardening knowledge and secrets to children is almost non-existent. Such dependence on corporations to provide our food has only made it easier for them to control and alter the food supply. The consequences to consuming such unnatural foods may not be fully felt for several generations, but the time to oppose such measures and look to alternative sources for our nutritional needs is now.
Monsantos Harvest of Fear
Monsanto already dominates Americas food chain with its genetically modified seeds. Now it has targeted milk production. Just as frightening as the corporations tactics - ruthless legal battles against small farmers - is its decades-long history of toxic contamination.
Gary Rinehart clearly remembers the summer day in 2002 when the stranger walked in and issued his threat. Rinehart was behind the counter of the Square Deal, his old-time country store, as he calls it, on the fading town square of Eagleville, Missouri, a tiny farm community 100 miles north of Kansas City.
The Square Deal is a fixture in Eagleville, a place where farmers and townspeople can go for lightbulbs, greeting cards, hunting gear, ice cream, aspirin, and dozens of other small items without having to drive to a big-box store in Bethany, the county seat, 15 miles down Interstate 35.
Everyone knows Rinehart, who was born and raised in the area and runs one of Eaglevilles few surviving businesses. The stranger came up to the counter and asked for him by name.
Well, thats me, said Rinehart.
As Rinehart would recall, the man began verbally attacking him, saying he had proof that Rinehart had planted Monsantos genetically modified (G.M.) soybeans in violation of the companys patent. Better come clean and settle with Monsanto, Rinehart says the man told him - or face the consequences.
(Please click here to read more)
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Benefits of Consuming Fish While Pregnant: But Watch the Mercury
Some interesting research has just been released that indicates a correlation between better brain health for youngsters and the amount of fish their mothers eat. Actually we should not be surprised, as Essential Fatty Acids are just that - Essential! Compared to other organs of the body, the brain harbors the largest density of fat. During the last three months of pregnancy and then continuing through the first year of the childs life, fatty acids are integrated into brain cells and also the retina of the eye. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, and arachidonic acid (ARA) are the most important fatty acids for brain and retina development. The accumulation of DHA in the fetal brain chiefly comes from the mothers intake of fish. DHA concentrations in brain tissues continue to increase three to five times during the last trimester of pregnancy, and then as much again during the first three months of the babys life. DHA accumulation in the brain then persists for at least the first 2 years after birth.
Unfortunately, because of the toxicity of our oceans, rivers, and streams, eating significant amounts of fish can lead to excessive mercury exposure and all the risks related to that. The fish that are highest in omega-3 fatty acids are also often high in mercury. A good solution is to find other foods high in omega-3 such as organic flax seed, organic hemp seed, and hemp seed milk for example, or the use of quality supplements that can provide an excellent source of such nutrients. Implementing a lifestyle that promotes natural health and wellness is certainly not an easy task in this day and age of toxic food, water, and environment, but with strong desire and discipline along with the willingness to educate ourselves regarding all the options, it definitely can be accomplished and the pay offs are priceless.
Mom's fish intake may boost child's brain power
But mothers must be careful to avoid high-mercury varieties of seafood
Reuters
updated 4:00 p.m. CT, Tues., April. 1, 2008
Preschoolers whose mothers regularly ate low-mercury fish during pregnancy may have sharper minds than their peers, a study suggests.
Researchers found that among 341 3-year-olds, those whose mothers ate more than two servings of fish per week during pregnancy generally performed better on tests of verbal, visual and motor development.
On the other hand, tests scores were lower among preschoolers whose mothers had relatively high mercury levels in their blood during pregnancy.
And mothers who regularly ate fish during pregnancy were more likely to have such mercury levels than non-fish-eaters were, the researchers report in the American Journal of Epidemiology.
The findings add to evidence that fish can be brain-food, but underscore the importance of choosing lower-mercury fish during pregnancy.
"Recommendations for fish consumption during pregnancy should take into account the nutritional benefits of fish as well as the potential harms from mercury exposure," write the researchers, led by Dr. Emily Oken of Harvard Medical School in Boston.
Show caution with fatty fishOily fish such as tuna, salmon and sardines contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are important in fetal and child brain development. The problem is that fatty fish are more likely to be contaminated with mercury, a metal that is toxic to brain cells, particularly in fetuses and young children.
Because of this, pregnant women are advised to avoid certain fish altogether: shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. These fish are particularly high in mercury because they eat other fish and are long-lived, over time accumulating mercury in their fat tissue.
Less clear is how the benefits of other omega-3-containing fish stack up against the potential risks. Currently, U.S. health officials recommend that pregnant women eat no more than 12 ounces, or roughly two servings, of fish per week.
For the current study, Oken's team collected blood samples from 341 women during their second trimester and asked them how often they ate various foods, including fish. When their children were 3 years old, they took standard tests of vocabulary, visual-spatial skills and fine-motor coordination of the hands and fingers.
Overall, the researchers found, children whose mothers ate fish more than twice a week had higher test scores.
However, children whose mothers had mercury levels in the top 10 percent of the study scored more poorly than those whose mothers had lower mercury levels.
Only 2 percent of mothers who never ate fish during pregnancy had blood mercury levels that high, versus 23 percent of those who ate fish more than twice weekly.
Low-mercury varieties urgedAccording to Oken's team, the bottom line is that eating fish lower in mercury could "allow for stronger benefits of fish intake."
Fish that are high in omega-3 but relatively lower in mercury include canned light tuna, which has less mercury than albacore tuna, and smaller oily fish like salmon. White-meat fish such as cod and haddock tend to be low in mercury, but have less omega-3 than fattier fish.
The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health and Harvard. Some of Oken's co-researchers have received funding from the food and supplement industry.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23904065/
Unfortunately, because of the toxicity of our oceans, rivers, and streams, eating significant amounts of fish can lead to excessive mercury exposure and all the risks related to that. The fish that are highest in omega-3 fatty acids are also often high in mercury. A good solution is to find other foods high in omega-3 such as organic flax seed, organic hemp seed, and hemp seed milk for example, or the use of quality supplements that can provide an excellent source of such nutrients. Implementing a lifestyle that promotes natural health and wellness is certainly not an easy task in this day and age of toxic food, water, and environment, but with strong desire and discipline along with the willingness to educate ourselves regarding all the options, it definitely can be accomplished and the pay offs are priceless.
Mom's fish intake may boost child's brain power
But mothers must be careful to avoid high-mercury varieties of seafood
Reuters
updated 4:00 p.m. CT, Tues., April. 1, 2008
Preschoolers whose mothers regularly ate low-mercury fish during pregnancy may have sharper minds than their peers, a study suggests.
Researchers found that among 341 3-year-olds, those whose mothers ate more than two servings of fish per week during pregnancy generally performed better on tests of verbal, visual and motor development.
On the other hand, tests scores were lower among preschoolers whose mothers had relatively high mercury levels in their blood during pregnancy.
And mothers who regularly ate fish during pregnancy were more likely to have such mercury levels than non-fish-eaters were, the researchers report in the American Journal of Epidemiology.
The findings add to evidence that fish can be brain-food, but underscore the importance of choosing lower-mercury fish during pregnancy.
"Recommendations for fish consumption during pregnancy should take into account the nutritional benefits of fish as well as the potential harms from mercury exposure," write the researchers, led by Dr. Emily Oken of Harvard Medical School in Boston.
Show caution with fatty fishOily fish such as tuna, salmon and sardines contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are important in fetal and child brain development. The problem is that fatty fish are more likely to be contaminated with mercury, a metal that is toxic to brain cells, particularly in fetuses and young children.
Because of this, pregnant women are advised to avoid certain fish altogether: shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. These fish are particularly high in mercury because they eat other fish and are long-lived, over time accumulating mercury in their fat tissue.
Less clear is how the benefits of other omega-3-containing fish stack up against the potential risks. Currently, U.S. health officials recommend that pregnant women eat no more than 12 ounces, or roughly two servings, of fish per week.
For the current study, Oken's team collected blood samples from 341 women during their second trimester and asked them how often they ate various foods, including fish. When their children were 3 years old, they took standard tests of vocabulary, visual-spatial skills and fine-motor coordination of the hands and fingers.
Overall, the researchers found, children whose mothers ate fish more than twice a week had higher test scores.
However, children whose mothers had mercury levels in the top 10 percent of the study scored more poorly than those whose mothers had lower mercury levels.
Only 2 percent of mothers who never ate fish during pregnancy had blood mercury levels that high, versus 23 percent of those who ate fish more than twice weekly.
Low-mercury varieties urgedAccording to Oken's team, the bottom line is that eating fish lower in mercury could "allow for stronger benefits of fish intake."
Fish that are high in omega-3 but relatively lower in mercury include canned light tuna, which has less mercury than albacore tuna, and smaller oily fish like salmon. White-meat fish such as cod and haddock tend to be low in mercury, but have less omega-3 than fattier fish.
The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health and Harvard. Some of Oken's co-researchers have received funding from the food and supplement industry.
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23904065/
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Hospitals a Dangerous Place for Children
Here is something to think about if your child is put in the hospital. A study released this week places the risks of children being exposed to medication errors while hospitalized at significantly higher levels than previously estimated. As the article below points out, even the alarming findings of this research are likely underestimated. It is clear we cannot depend on voluntary reporting by health care workers and institutions to get a clear picture of unsafe conditions in our hospitals.
If hospitalization for your child is absolutely necessary, be very watchful and proactive about the care he/she receives. Many children in the study experienced multiple medication errors in the same hospital stay! This can easily lead to a potentially life threatening situation. Always question health care providers about all medication and procedures being used to treat your child. Make sure that you, your spouse, or a trusted family member is with the child at all times. If we as parents do not speak up, often times all of the options and reasoning behind the medication and procedures are not offered. You have the right and responsibility to be privy to all pertinent information regarding the health care of your children.
One more thing. Do not ever allow practitioners, nurses, or hospital aides touch your child unless you have witnessed that they have freshly washed hands or they have put on a new pair of protective gloves. This goes not only for hospital stays but also for doctors office visits. Do not be afraid to speak up, as this is all about preventing the spread of illness and disease.
Drug errors hurt 1 in 15 hospitalized kids
New tool detects far more medication mix-ups, overdoses and bad reactions
The Associated Press
updated 7:41 a.m. CT, Mon., April. 7, 2008
CHICAGO - Medicine mix-ups, accidental overdoses and bad drug reactions harm roughly one out of 15 hospitalized children, according to the first scientific test of a new detection method.
That number is far higher than earlier estimates and bolsters concerns already heightened by well publicized cases like the accidental drug overdose of actor Dennis Quaid's newborn twins last November.
These data and the Dennis Quaid episode are telling us that these kinds of errors and experiencing harm as a result of your health care is much more common than people believe. It's very concerning, said Dr. Charles Homer of the National Initiative for Children's Healthcare Quality. His group helped develop the detection tool used in the study.
Researchers found a rate of 11 drug-related harmful events for every 100 hospitalized children. That compares with an earlier estimate of two per 100 hospitalized children, based on traditional detection methods. The rate reflects the fact that some children experienced more than one drug treatment mistake.
The new estimate translates to 7.3 percent of hospitalized children, or about 540,000 kids each year, a calculation based on government data.
Simply relying on hospital staffers to report such problems had found less than 4 percent of the problems detected in the new study.
Triggers reveal drug mistakes
The new monitoring method developed for the study is a list of 15 triggers on young patients' charts that suggest possible drug-related harm. It includes use of specific antidotes for drug overdoses, suspicious side effects and certain lab tests.
By contrast, traditional methods include nonspecific patient chart reviews and voluntary error reporting.
The researchers said their findings highlight the need for aggressive, evidence-based prevention strategies to decrease the substantial risk for medication-related harm to our pediatric inpatient population.
The study is being released Monday in the April issue of the journal Pediatrics.
It involved a review of randomly selected medical charts for 960 children treated at 12 freestanding children's hospitals nationwide in 2002. Triggers mentioned in the charts promoted an in-depth review of the patients' care.
Patient safety experts said the problem is likely even bigger than the study suggests because it involved only a review of selected charts. Also, the study didn't include general community hospitals, where most U.S. children requiring hospitalization are treated.
Study author Dr. Paul Sharek said evidence is needed to show whether a big push to prevent medical errors in recent years has put a dent in the problem since 2002, when the data were gathered.
Homer, of the children's healthcare initiative, said some hospitals have started using trigger methods similar to those in the study. But he added, we still have a long way to go.
Painkillers cause overdoses, reactions
Among triggers on the list was use of the drug naloxone, an antidote for an overdose of morphine and related painkillers. Symptoms include breathing difficulty and very low blood pressure.
More than half the problems the study found were related to these powerful painkillers, including overdoses and allergic reactions.
While 22 percent of the problems were considered preventable, most were relatively mild. None were fatal or caused permanent damage, but some did have the potential to cause some significant harm, said Sharek, who is medical director of quality at Stanford University's Lucile Packard Children's Hospital.
Other triggers included use of vitamin K, an antidote for an overdose of the blood thinner Coumadin; use of a blood test that detects insulin overdoses; and a lab test that identifies blood-clotting problems that can come from an overdose of the blood thinner heparin and other drugs.
Quaid's twins got accidental life-threatening heparin overdoses in a Los Angeles hospital shortly after they were born last November. The actor and his wife, Kimberly, have since formed a foundation to prevent medical errors. The babies recovered and Quaid said in an interview with The Associated Press on Saturday that they appear to be normal kids, very happy and healthy.
Monitor caregivers, Quaid urges
Quaid praised the new study for raising awareness about an under-recognized problem, and said he'd never envisioned having to play the role of public health advocate before the harrowing experience. He called it the most frightening time of his life.
Quaid's advice to parents of hospitalized children?
Every time a caregiver comes into the room, I would check and ask the nurse what they're giving them and why, Quaid said.
Allen Vaida of the Institute for Safe Medication Practices said trigger methods like those used in the study can help. Still, amore comprehensive approach is needed, he said, to detect the most serious, least common errors like those involving the Quaids.
Voluntary reporting by hospital staffers is still needed, along with methods to detect errors in time to prevent or lessen any harm to patients, Vaida said.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23982564/
If hospitalization for your child is absolutely necessary, be very watchful and proactive about the care he/she receives. Many children in the study experienced multiple medication errors in the same hospital stay! This can easily lead to a potentially life threatening situation. Always question health care providers about all medication and procedures being used to treat your child. Make sure that you, your spouse, or a trusted family member is with the child at all times. If we as parents do not speak up, often times all of the options and reasoning behind the medication and procedures are not offered. You have the right and responsibility to be privy to all pertinent information regarding the health care of your children.
One more thing. Do not ever allow practitioners, nurses, or hospital aides touch your child unless you have witnessed that they have freshly washed hands or they have put on a new pair of protective gloves. This goes not only for hospital stays but also for doctors office visits. Do not be afraid to speak up, as this is all about preventing the spread of illness and disease.
Drug errors hurt 1 in 15 hospitalized kids
New tool detects far more medication mix-ups, overdoses and bad reactions
The Associated Press
updated 7:41 a.m. CT, Mon., April. 7, 2008
CHICAGO - Medicine mix-ups, accidental overdoses and bad drug reactions harm roughly one out of 15 hospitalized children, according to the first scientific test of a new detection method.
That number is far higher than earlier estimates and bolsters concerns already heightened by well publicized cases like the accidental drug overdose of actor Dennis Quaid's newborn twins last November.
These data and the Dennis Quaid episode are telling us that these kinds of errors and experiencing harm as a result of your health care is much more common than people believe. It's very concerning, said Dr. Charles Homer of the National Initiative for Children's Healthcare Quality. His group helped develop the detection tool used in the study.
Researchers found a rate of 11 drug-related harmful events for every 100 hospitalized children. That compares with an earlier estimate of two per 100 hospitalized children, based on traditional detection methods. The rate reflects the fact that some children experienced more than one drug treatment mistake.
The new estimate translates to 7.3 percent of hospitalized children, or about 540,000 kids each year, a calculation based on government data.
Simply relying on hospital staffers to report such problems had found less than 4 percent of the problems detected in the new study.
Triggers reveal drug mistakes
The new monitoring method developed for the study is a list of 15 triggers on young patients' charts that suggest possible drug-related harm. It includes use of specific antidotes for drug overdoses, suspicious side effects and certain lab tests.
By contrast, traditional methods include nonspecific patient chart reviews and voluntary error reporting.
The researchers said their findings highlight the need for aggressive, evidence-based prevention strategies to decrease the substantial risk for medication-related harm to our pediatric inpatient population.
The study is being released Monday in the April issue of the journal Pediatrics.
It involved a review of randomly selected medical charts for 960 children treated at 12 freestanding children's hospitals nationwide in 2002. Triggers mentioned in the charts promoted an in-depth review of the patients' care.
Patient safety experts said the problem is likely even bigger than the study suggests because it involved only a review of selected charts. Also, the study didn't include general community hospitals, where most U.S. children requiring hospitalization are treated.
Study author Dr. Paul Sharek said evidence is needed to show whether a big push to prevent medical errors in recent years has put a dent in the problem since 2002, when the data were gathered.
Homer, of the children's healthcare initiative, said some hospitals have started using trigger methods similar to those in the study. But he added, we still have a long way to go.
Painkillers cause overdoses, reactions
Among triggers on the list was use of the drug naloxone, an antidote for an overdose of morphine and related painkillers. Symptoms include breathing difficulty and very low blood pressure.
More than half the problems the study found were related to these powerful painkillers, including overdoses and allergic reactions.
While 22 percent of the problems were considered preventable, most were relatively mild. None were fatal or caused permanent damage, but some did have the potential to cause some significant harm, said Sharek, who is medical director of quality at Stanford University's Lucile Packard Children's Hospital.
Other triggers included use of vitamin K, an antidote for an overdose of the blood thinner Coumadin; use of a blood test that detects insulin overdoses; and a lab test that identifies blood-clotting problems that can come from an overdose of the blood thinner heparin and other drugs.
Quaid's twins got accidental life-threatening heparin overdoses in a Los Angeles hospital shortly after they were born last November. The actor and his wife, Kimberly, have since formed a foundation to prevent medical errors. The babies recovered and Quaid said in an interview with The Associated Press on Saturday that they appear to be normal kids, very happy and healthy.
Monitor caregivers, Quaid urges
Quaid praised the new study for raising awareness about an under-recognized problem, and said he'd never envisioned having to play the role of public health advocate before the harrowing experience. He called it the most frightening time of his life.
Quaid's advice to parents of hospitalized children?
Every time a caregiver comes into the room, I would check and ask the nurse what they're giving them and why, Quaid said.
Allen Vaida of the Institute for Safe Medication Practices said trigger methods like those used in the study can help. Still, amore comprehensive approach is needed, he said, to detect the most serious, least common errors like those involving the Quaids.
Voluntary reporting by hospital staffers is still needed, along with methods to detect errors in time to prevent or lessen any harm to patients, Vaida said.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23982564/
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