MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'heart health'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:53:09 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130718&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=35060&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthnewsblog.com%2Fblog%2F813111 The U.S. Postal Service has announced it will release a Heart Health stamp in 2012. The goal of the stamp is to raise public awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy heart and preventing coronary heart disease (CHD). The design of the stamp includes a yellow sun, leafy green tree icon and apple. A striding man is featured on the stamp with a red heart on his chest. Art director Derry Noyes teamed up with illustrator Nicholas Wilton to create the stamp, which will be released as a forever stamp next year. Photo: United States Postal Service Permalink | Facebook | Twitter | Recent Headlines | News Feeds (Source: HealthNewsBlog.com) HealthNewsBlog.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130718 Sat, 13 Aug 2011 20:00:00 +0100 5130718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103340&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ftips-to-beat-the-heat%2F2011.08.06 Dehydrated, cramped, limping? on a bike. Road nationals 2010. People who exercise outdoors face a new threat. It’s unrelenting. Consistent. Inescapable. Perhaps, even more dangerous than distracted or mean motorists. It’s the heat. Gosh, is it hot. If only I had a dollar for every time I heard someone say, “Doctor M, you aren’t riding in this heat; are you?” Well…Other than the fortunate souls smart (or lucky) enough to live in cooler climates, most of us are facing an extreme wave of hotness. As a Kentuckian, I live in the epicenter of this summer’s cauldron. Louisville sits in a wind-protected valley alongside the heat sink that is the Ohio River. Think hot and steamy. The excessive heat smacked me hard last evening. Normally, my highly-veined skin and northern European h... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103340 Sat, 06 Aug 2011 14:00:01 +0100 5103340 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086169&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fheart-health-related-to-satisfaction-with-life%2F2011.08.01 For centuries, health providers have focused on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. This time-honored paradigm has generated phenomenal advances in medicine, especially during the last 60 years. It has also created a bit of an image problem for providers. That’s because the paradigm encourages consumers to perceive health care as a negative good; an economic term describing a bundle of products and services that we use because we must, not because we want to. Recent trends towards empowered consumers are a symptom of this problem more than a solution to it, as I described here. Recently, the concept of Positive Health has emerged as a possible antidote for the malaise. Pioneered by University of Pennsylvania psychologist Martin Seligman, Positive Health encourages us to i... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086169 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:00:39 +0100 5086169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5077686&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcardiovascular-problems-stay-out-of-the-heat%2F2011.07.29 The brutal heat wave gripping much of the country this week is unpleasant for healthy folks. For people with cardiovascular trouble, hazy, hot, humid days can be downright dangerous. Your body shouldn’t get too hot (or too cold). If your temperature rises too far, the proteins that build your body and run virtually all of its chemical processes can stop working. The human body sheds extra heat in two ways, both of which stress the heart: Radiation. Like water flowing downhill, heat naturally moves from warm areas to cooler ones. As long as the air around you is cooler than your body, you radiate heat to the air. But this transfer stops when the air temperature approaches body temperature. Radiation requires rerouting blood flow so more of it goes to the skin. This makes the heart beat fa... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5077686 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:00:46 +0100 5077686 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069473&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fone-nurse-opens-her-heart-and-talks-about-her-life-in-the-medical-field%2F2011.07.27 Well, not my heart. I was contacted awhile ago and asked if I wanted the chance to read and review Tilda Shalof’s new book, Opening My Heart.  (Amazon link, but NOT an affiliate link – I live in California and due to a new law, Amazon has cut all ties with us). I had the chance to include a story in a book that Tilda edited a couple of years ago called Lives in the Balance.  So I had fond memories I’ll say up front that I enjoyed the book.  I had a range of emotions while reading it – frustration, worry, happiness.  Frustration because although Tilda is a very experienced ICU nurse, she doesn’t take her own health seriously at all.  I read with disbelief as she described her incredible denial of the obvious need to treat the heart condition she was born with. I was amused a... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069473 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:00:14 +0100 5069473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069479&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fnsaids-might-be-risky-for-people-with-heart-problems%2F2011.07.26 As if people with the combination of high blood pressure and heart disease don’t already have enough to worry about, a new study suggests that common painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) pose special problems for them. Among participants of an international trial called INVEST, those who often used NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and others), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, and others), or celecoxib (Celebrex) were 47% more likely to have had a heart attack or stroke or to have died for any reason over three years of follow-up than those who used the drugs less, or not at all. The results were published in the July issue of the American Journal of Medicine. Millions of people take NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation. They are generally safe and effectiv... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069479 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:00:35 +0100 5069479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997525&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fomega-3-fatty-acids-the-science-behind-their-potential-heart-health-benefits%2F2011.07.03 The Biology of Omega-3 fatty acids: (Just a little science:) When fish, flax-seeds or Brussels sprouts pass through the intestine, pancreatic enzymes transform the fat to free fatty acids. These acids are quickly taken up by the cells. Once in the cell, these fatty acids enter the mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and cytosol–places that you might recall because your mom helped you make a Cell sponge cake in 7th grade Biology. In the cells, the Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA, DHA and EPA) exert their healthy influence in three major ways: in the control of chemical messengers; in the flux of ions—cell electricity; in the smoothness and health of the cell membrane. That’s enough about cells. How do these (good) fats help our bodies? Omega-3 fatty acids reduce Inflammation: –Omega-3s ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997525 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:00:49 +0100 4997525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953396&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fi-always-had-good-blood-pressurewhat.html My last physical revealed that, for the first time in my life, I had borderline high blood pressure. What happened? Where did I go wrong? I've always prided myself in having good blood pressure. 130 to 140 over 70 were standard readings for me. In fact at my physical a few years ago, my doctor said that for my age my blood pressure was really good. Okay, so the "at your age" part didn't thrill me, but knowing that my blood pressure was good did.That all changed during my last physical. There are many factors. My weight was a little bit more, but my BP has been good at this weight. There has been a great increase in stress...big time...over the past several years, maybe that is catching up with me? My diet is pretty good, but maybe there are things I need to address in the diet. Here are a ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953396 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 21:03:00 +0100 4953396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883526&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F31%2Fhow-to-fail-at-building-a-relationship-with-a-patient-or-this-is-how-professional-fitness-cheerleaders-discourage-people%2F With the current car-free situation, I have been walking at least 2.5 extra miles each day, often more. This is objectively good for me – as long as I avoid cars that don’t bother to stop for pedestrians and too much sun. It’s a positive thing. Based on my recent experience with folks whose job it is to motivate people to be healthier, I should just be worried and OMG and am practically about to drop dead. Because my blood pressure was 120/70. No, really. It was a weight and blood pressure check thing, and I was curious about whether the walking had changed my weight any. I should have known better. I already know what ZOMG-GONNA-DROP-DEAD! BMI category I’m in. So this lady looks at my weight, and immediately asks, before the blood pressure cuff even went on, &#822... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883526 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:51:14 +0100 4883526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813287&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcould-a-low-salt-diet-be-bad-for-your-heart%2F2011.05.11 In this study of 3,681 men and women from Belgium, Bulgaria, Italy, Poland, Romania and Russia whose health was followed for eight years, participants with the lowest sodium excretion (which is a good measure of sodium intake) were 56% more likely to have died from cardiovascular disease than those with the highest sodium excretion. Among the nearly 2,100 participants with normal blood pressure at the study’s start, sodium excretion (sodium intake) had no effect on the development of high blood pressure. These are startling findings. If true, they would undercut major programs by the U.S. government to reduce Americans’ intake of salt—the main source of sodium—from prepared and processed foods and at home. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Harvard ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813287 Wed, 11 May 2011 16:00:07 +0100 4813287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813208&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F10%2F2011-tennessee-womens-health-report-card-highlights%2F Today marked the release of the 2011 Tennessee Women’s Health Report Card, a publication which provides a snapshot of the health status of women in our state, and the disparities they experience. It’s a handy resource for anyone interested in making a case – or understanding the need – for improved health services and community programs, and includes statistics that clearly illustrate some of the challenges we face. Among them: 18.4% of us – or almost 1 in 5 – smoked while we were pregnant. The rate is highest (21.4%) among white women, and lower among African American (10.3%) and Hispanic (2.4%) women. African American women experience tremendous disparities in their infant mortality rate, with 16 infant deaths per 1,000 live births, compared to 6 for... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813208 Wed, 11 May 2011 00:48:20 +0100 4813208 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4767994&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fbeer-bellies-anyone-waist-measurement-can-determine-risk-for-heart-disease%2F2011.04.30 Extra fat that accumulates around the abdomen goes by many names: beer belly, spare tire, love handles, apple shape, middle-age spread, and the more technical “abdominal obesity.” No matter what the name, it is the shape of risk. Abdominal obesity increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and other woes. The danger zone is a waist size above 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women. As I describe in the April 2011 issue of the Harvard Men’s Health Watch, beer is not specifically responsible for a beer belly. What, then, is to blame? Calories. Take in more calories with food and drink than you burn up with exercise, and you’ll store the excess energy in fat cells. Many studies indicate that people who store their extra fat around the midsection (ap... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4767994 Sat, 30 Apr 2011 12:00:10 +0100 4767994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4753696&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fstatin-use-is-increasing-dramatically-are-americans-healthier-for-it%2F2011.04.25 Baseball fans have the Baseball Prospectus annual. Political junkies can get their fix from Nate Silver’s 538 blog. For those of us with geeky interest in health and medicine statistics, graphs, and charts, the Health, United States, 2010 report from the National Center for Health Statistics is that kind of treat. The 41 charts and graphs and 148 trend tables in the 2010 report (it’s dated 2010 but was released earlier this year) could keep me happily occupied for hours. One graph that really caught my eye shows the percentage of Americans that take a statin. Statins are prescribed mainly to lower “bad” LDL cholesterol, but they may have other benefits, too. The statins include atorvastatin (sold as Lipitor), rosuvastatin (sold as Crestor), and simvastatin (sold as Zocor but also a... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4753696 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:00:48 +0100 4753696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4724283&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fconsidering-changing-over-to-organic.html Extra Virgin Olive oil, now often called "EVOO", is the only oil I use as a cooking oil. We have an oil and vinegar salad set with olive oil in the oil bottle, and balsamic vinegar in the vinegar bottle to sprinkle on our salads. Except for occasionally seasoning a dish with Sesame Oil, olive oil is really the only oil that we have in the house. This is because I am convinced that the olive oil is beneficial to the health, a reason why many more are using olive oil than ever before. I must admit that I haven't gone out of my way to find organic olive oil, but maybe it is something to be considered.  How oils are processed and how they are bottled can have an affect on their quality. I do make sure that the oils I purchase are cold-pressed, as heat processing can destroy some of the va... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4724283 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 16:16:00 +0100 4724283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684318&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhow-much-vitamin-d-do-you-need%2F2011.04.06 How much vitamin D is enough, and what’s the best way to get your daily dose of the so-called sunshine vitamin? It depends who you ask. I just attended the latest Forum at the Harvard School of Public Health. The title, “Boosting Vitamin D: Not Enough or Too Much?” was a tip-off that we weren’t going to get a simple take-home message. (Watch a video of the event beginning Wednesday, March 30.) Some background: Vitamin D isn’t really a vitamin. It’s a hormone. The body makes it when sunlight strikes the skin. This converts a cousin of cholesterol into a substance that ultimately becomes vitamin D. It is best known for helping the digestive system absorb calcium and phosphorus, so it is important for bone health. New research suggests—emphasis on suggests—that vitamin D may ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684318 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 23:00:03 +0100 4684318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4676727&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F04%2F03%2Fsunday-news-round-up-sunny-day-edition-2%2F The New England Journal of Medicine published a freely available Clinical Practice article, “Care of Transsexual Persons.” It covers hormones, surgery, and adolescents. Note that it does use the problematic gender identity “disorder” language as included in the DSM and it also promotes the standard psychological counseling hoops that transgender persons must jump through prior to obtaining treatment – Julia Serano‘s “Whipping Girl” provides a good primer on why those hoops can be problematic. It might be worth checking out what kinds of materials health care providers are seeing regarding these topics, including how they’re problematic. Relatedly, there’s a possibility that “gender identity disorder” will be renamed &... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4676727 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 23:04:37 +0100 4676727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4642593&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Felizabeth-taylor-and-understanding-heart-failure%2F2011.03.28 The condition that took Elizabeth Taylor’s life affects millions of Americans. Reports of Elizabeth Taylor’s death focused, as they should, on her life, not on her death from heart failure. But given how common this condition is—the American Heart Association says nearly 6 million Americans are living with heart failure and it kills about 300,000 each year—a little attention to it might be a good idea. What is heart failure? The term “heart failure” is a scary one, conjuring up images of a heart that is suddenly unable to work. In truth, it represents a gradual decline in the heart’s ability to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. As the heart weakens, all parts of the body suffer the consequences. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at H... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4642593 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:00:26 +0100 4642593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4577904&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmore-women-die-of-heart-attack-than-men-do%2F2011.03.12 Several studies have shown that women have a higher mortality rate than men if they have a heart attack. A study published in the American Heart Journal helps to explain why. The researchers looked at data from 2,542 women who had a heart attack. Compared to men, the women were older, less likely to be white, and less likely to smoke. They also had more serious health conditions than the men. They had diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We’ve known for a long time that women are about 10 years older than men at the time of their first heart attack. The authors believe that the reason women are more likely to die is because of these other conditions that are present. Women in the study were also m... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4577904 Sat, 12 Mar 2011 21:00:00 +0100 4577904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4552058&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fis-turbulence-good-for-the-heart%2F2011.03.05 It’s hard to believe that turbulence could be a good thing for the heart. Consider how the word turbulent is defined: “Characterized by conflict, disorder, or confusion; not controlled or calm.” Those traits don’t sound very heart-healthy. But when it comes to heart rhythm, it turns out that a turbulent response — to a premature beat — is better than a blunted one. The more turbulent the better. No, you haven’t missed anything, and turbulence isn’t another of my typos. Until [recently], heart rate turbulence was an obscure phenomenon buried in the bowels of heart rhythm journals. What Is Heart Rate Turbulence (HRT)? When you listen to the heart of a young physically-fit patient, you are struck not just by the slowness of the heartbeat, but also by the variability... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4552058 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 15:00:27 +0100 4552058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4512395&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcoronary-stent-thrombosis-and-your-body-clock%2F2011.02.23 Add coronary stent thrombosis to the list of cardiac events influenced by circadian rhythms, with more events occurring during the early morning hours and in a summertime window of late July and early August. Coronary stent thrombosis joins several other adverse cardiac events that also follow a circadian pattern, such as stroke, unstable angina pectoris, acute myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death, according to researcher published in JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions. Most studies that addressed circadian variations in cardiovascular disease were done before the advent of stents, so, researcher from Mayo Clinic-Rochester conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records and the clinic’s registry, finding 124 patients who presented with coronary stent thrombosis betwee... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4512395 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:00:00 +0100 4512395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4495203&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmri-safe-pacemakers-available-in-u-s-hospitals-soon-what-it-means-for-heart-patients%2F2011.02.18 This was the Guest Blog at Scientific American on February 16th, 2011. New wave of MRI-safe pacemakers set to ship to hospitals This week Medtronic will begin shipping to hospitals in the United States the first pacemaker approved by the FDA as safe for most MRI scans. For consumers, it is a significant step in what is expected to be a wave of new MRI-compatible implanted cardiac devices. But this is an example of one technology chasing another and the one being chased, the MRI scanner, is changing and is a step ahead of the new line of pacemakers. The pacemaker approved for U.S. distribution is Medtronic’s first-generation pacemaker with certain limitations, while its second-generation MRI-compatible pacemaker is already in use in Europe where approval for medical devices is not as dem... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4495203 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 21:00:00 +0100 4495203 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4478177&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fvalentines-day-and-heart-attacks.html Did you have a nice Valentine's Day yesterday? My husband and I celebrated our 32nd together...31 of them as a married couple. People say that's an accomplishment, I say it's a commitment that we made to one another to enjoy the good times together, and work through the challenging ones, and we've had our share of those. We take our vows before God seriously, if we didn't, I can honestly say I'm not sure where we'd be. I can tell you that if you don't work through the challenges, in many cases you may be missing out on the miracle of a stronger relationship on the other side of the challenge. A healthy marriage relationship is better for us in some ways than food. Most of you know that my husband has had a heart attack, and ongoing heart issues, we did have another scare last month that pu... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4478177 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:10:00 +0100 4478177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455434&cid=t_105063_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F02%2F09%2Fshelter-from-the-st-valentine%25e2%2599%25a5s-day-maacre%2F Having, hopefully, just paid at least the minimum owing on their Christmas credit card bills, gluttonous consumers are now being cajoled into the can’t-win Valentine’s Day debacle. Take heart…PLEASE! First of all, what are we teaching our kids when we buy them Flat Stanley-sized boxes of Valentine’s Day cards, so intimately perforated along the edges, [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455434 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 15:36:55 +0100 4455434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4436986&cid=t_105063_4_f&fid=38622&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffdatransparencyblog.fda.gov%2F2011%2F02%2F04%2Fwomens-health-video-blog%2F Today, FDA launched a new video blog that will focus on women’s health issues. The videos for this blog can be found here on the Transparency blog and on the FDA YouTube channel. February 4th is National Wear Red Day which means women across the country will be wearing red to help raise awareness of women’s heart disease. Nearly 43 million women, one-third of all women in America, are living with or are at risk for heart disease.  By some estimates that number could rise significantly by 2030.  Heart disease is also the leading cause of death among women, claiming more lives than chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and lung cancer combined. This video is part of our department’s The Heart Truth campaign, which gives women a wakeup call about the... FDA Transparency Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4436986 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 17:40:38 +0100 4436986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429017&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwere-overdosing-on-sodium-whose-responsibility-is-it%2F2011.02.02 I confess to loving Campbell’s tomato bisque soup. I mix it with 1 percent-fat milk and it’s hot and delicious and comforting, but one of the worst food choices I could make because one cup contains more sodium than I should have in a day. Knowing this, I have already relegated it to an occasional treat. But by the end of this blog post I will do more. We are overdosing on sodium and it is killing us. We need to cut the sodium we eat daily by more than half. The guidelines keep coming. The U.S. government has handed out dietary guidelines telling Americans who are over 50, all African Americans, people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease to have no more than 1,500 milligrams (mg) — or two thirds of a teaspoon — of sodium daily. That’s the majorit... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429017 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4429017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4399523&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fprevention-magazine-pushes-non-evidence-based-heart-screening%2F2011.01.26 The February issue of Prevention magazine has an article entitled “Surprising Faces of Heart Attack” profiling “three women (who) didn’t think they were at high risk. Their stories are proof that you could be in danger without even knowing it.” No, their stories are not proof of that. The story is about three women in their 40s. The story varyingly states that the three should have had the following screening tests: – Advanced cholesterol test, carotid intimal medial thickness test ( CIMT) – Advanced cholesterol test and stress echocardiography – Cardiac calcium scoring and CIMT  There’s an accompanying piece: ”7 Tests You’re Not Having That Could Save Your Life.” I asked one of our HealthNewsReview.org medical edit... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4399523 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:00:11 +0100 4399523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4281559&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FTWqUwzbpX80%2Fyour-nutrition-questions-answe.html Here's a round-up of recent questions from Nutrition Data users (and the answers!):Q. Could you explain how they calculate the total fat on the nutrition facts label. When I add up the three kinds of fat (saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated), it doesn't match the total fat. A.  There are a few compounds in foods, such as sterols, that are technically lipids (or fats) but they don't belong in any of the main categories. That's why the total fat is sometimes slightly higher than the sum of mono, poly, and saturated fats.  Q. I looked up the nutrition information for orange juice. A one cup serving provides 25g of carbs. Of that total, only 0.5g is from fiber and none are showing up for starch or sugars. So, what are these carbs?A. The tilde (~) symbol next to sugar an... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4281559 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 16:41:41 +0100 4281559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4272661&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F3Fhd-WUXcJU%2Fwhy-isnt-skinless-chicken-lowe.html Q. My wife is trying to reduce her cholesterol by eating healthy.  We've been using Nutrition Data as a resource but do not understand why chicken with skin has less cholesterol than chicken with the skin removed? That seems completely counter-intuitive. Can you explain?A.  You're right!  Even through removing the skin from your chicken cuts the fat content in half, a chicken breast with skin has 84 grams of cholesterol while the same size portion of skinless chicken breast has 85 grams. What gives? First, the difference between 84 and 85 mg of cholesterol per serving is so small as to be within the margin of measurement error. So for all intents and purposes, the two have the same amount of cholesterol. Why? Because the cholesterol is found primarily in the meat (muscle t... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4272661 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 13:24:38 +0100 4272661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266305&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FJZEA1rlASZU%2Fconfused-about-calcium-read-on.html Q. I'd like to know which calcium is best to take in pill form--calcium citrate or calcium carbonate. Which is better absorbed?A. Calcium citrate and calcium carbonate each have their pros and cons.  Calcium carbonate is inexpensive and contains a higher concentration of elemental calcium, which means you need to swallow fewer pills to get your dose.  Calcium citrate is more expensive and less concentrated (more pills). However, the chemical bonds that hold the calcium molecules to the citrate molecules are easier to break then those between calcium and carbonate, making the citrate form more absorbable. But you may not need to spring for the more expensive supplements.  Who might benefit from taking calcium citrate? Studies suggest that most people do just fine with calciu... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266305 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:57:19 +0100 4266305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4214523&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FgCrSKw13Qsw%2Fstop-throwing-away-those-yolks.html Q. I have friends who only eat egg whites because they think that most of the nutrients are in the whites. They think that the yolks only contain (bad) fat. Don't the yolks contain Omega 3 and lots of other nutrients?A. I'm with you on this one! Eggs are are a super-nutritious food. But when you throw away the yolks, you're throwing a lot of nutrition away. Egg whites are basically just water and high-quality protein.  But the yolk contains almost as much protein as the white! Plus the yolk contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, omega-3s, and an array of vitamins including A, D, and B12. See also: Cancer Questions: Vitamin D DeficiencyEgg yolks also contain a substantial amount of cholesterol, of course, along with a modest amount of saturated fat.  However, research cle... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4214523 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:40:22 +0100 4214523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172059&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fheart-smarts%2F2010.11.16 From the American Heart Association’s “Scientific Sessions 2010” in Chicago (November 13-17): Chicago Heart Smarts from Patient Power® on Vimeo. *This blog post was originally published at Andrew's Blog* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172059 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 19:00:39 +0100 4172059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4139238&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-clocks-tick-tock-and-our-tickers%2F2010.11.05 With the daylight savings fall-back date for 2010 rapidly approaching (remember: “Spring forward, fall back” — which is this Sunday, November 7th, 2010), I’m reminded of some research I read a few years back suggesting a link between daylight savings and heart attack risk. The research suggested the Monday effect of increased heart attacks was not related to stress, but rather the sleep cycle. When looked at from the daylight savings fall-back perspective, the research suggests the extra hour of sleep we gain from the November 7th, 2010 daylight savings fall-back date will be protective against heart attack risk. Good to know, especially if you’re the cardiologist on call the week following either date. *This blog post was originally published at T... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4139238 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100 4139238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4040512&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F07%2Fwhen-the-care-isnt-evidence-based-and-the-provider-doesnt-listen-why-patient-empowerment-matters%2F There has been a lot of recent discussion about empowered patients, e-patients, and participatory medicine – all shorthand for patients being actively involved in their own medical care and decision-making rather than simply accepting the authority of medical providers who issue recommendations and orders that patients then follow. The recent stories of two of my close relatives perfectly illustrate the problem of provider-patient relationships in which the patient is expected to simply accept the advice they’re given, and the hazards of doing so. First, a menopausal female who went to a doctor for a pelvic exam. She checked “frequent urination” on the intake form, and her provider – without asking any questions or exploring the patient’s feelings abou... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4040512 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 17:52:47 +0100 4040512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4031519&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FQIjFyaocFTk%2Fskin-saving-benefits-of-tomato.html It's true: Certain fruits and vegetables act as sunscreen from within. Researchers found that women whose diets provided 16 milligrams of lycopene every day were protected from the damaging effects of UV-rays, including reddening of the skin and cellular damage.  And lycopene is no one-trick pony: It's also been found to help ward off heart disease and osteoporosis. Skin Saving SuperfoodsLycopene is found in watermelon, guava, and tomatoes.  Cooked tomato products like salsa, tomato juice, and spaghetti sauce are especially good sources. You can get a skin-saving dose of lycopene from:1/3 tomato puree 1/2 cup salsa or marinara sauce6 ounces of V-82 cups watermelon ballsMake sure to eat some of these skin-loving foods every day! For more foods that keep your skin healthy and glowi... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4031519 Mon, 04 Oct 2010 13:05:39 +0100 4031519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999314&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2010%2F09%2Froutine-medical-exams-are-you-up-to.html I'm on a "mission" of sorts to get my medical tests and exams finished before the end of the year, and the start of Fall means we are in the last quarter. I am insured under my husband's insurance policy, pretty close to reaching the deductible for the year, so it seems wise to get all the tests suggested by my doctor finished before we start a new year, and new deductible due. I am in my late 50's...hard to believe, but it's true, and before 2010 is over, making sure I get my:Routine Physical - doneSkin cancer screening - doneMammogram - doneGynecological - this weekColonoscopy (least favorite test...prep "stinks" but the procedure is easy) - date set for early next month - had polyp the last time so have to have one every 3 years until none show, then can wait the usual 5 years."Bonus" t... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999314 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 02:41:00 +0100 3999314 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3994373&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FjTHlvqXSeBc%2Fwheres-the-sugar-in-your-diet.html As I'm sure you've noticed, fat is no longer the bad guy. Now, everyone from the American Dietetic Association to the American Cancer Institute to the American Heart Association agrees that sugar is the prime mover in obesity and disease.  Bonus: Need a diet that leaves room for wine or dessert? Check out the Workweek Diet!Getting Americans to cut back on added sugars is now job #1 for public health experts and educators and there are all kinds of new guidelines on how much sugar is OK.   Frankly, calculating how many grams of added (versus natural) sugar is in every food you eat is a pain in the neck. But when you look at where the added sugars in the typical American diet are coming from, it gets a whole lot simpler. (Source: The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Mo... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3994373 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 13:36:47 +0100 3994373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3973127&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FGAfGRHCLTLo%2Ffive-tips-for-national-5-a-day.html It seems simple enough.  Eat five servings of vegetables a day and reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity.  Yet most people continue to eat only about 2 servings of vegetables a day--and one of them is usually potatoes. In recognition of National 5-a-Day Month, here are five ways to get more vegetables into your day: 1.  Start at breakfast.You may not think of vegetables as morning fare but breakfast is a great opportunity to add vegetables to your day.  Add a slice of ripe tomato to your bagel.  Fold some spinach and mushrooms into an omelet. Or wrap scrambled eggs and salsa in a whole-wheat tortilla for breakfast on the go.  2. Double up at dinner.Instead of a single vegetable with dinner, serve two.  For example, you could... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3973127 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 13:45:09 +0100 3973127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3946703&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FDUF-kcGJWEI%2Flow-blood-pressure-is-my-probl.html Q. I have low blood pressure (90/60 is my average). I eat a lot of salt to compensate, but are there other foods I can eat to help keep my blood pressure up? A. A bit of extra salt can help with chronically low blood pressure but don't overlook the importance of staying well hydrated. Drinking more water can help keep your blood pressure from sinking too low. And eating a balanced, nutritious diet, including plenty of fresh vegetables--well, what doesn't that help?Try SELF.com's Seven Day Super-Foods Diet PlanWhat causes low blood pressure?It's also important to know what's causing your blood pressure. It could be that there is an underlying condition that requires treatment. Work with your physician to identify or rule out possible culprits.  For example, certain medications, in... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3946703 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:36:59 +0100 3946703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3933276&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Fu4EoabWdeRw%2Fget-more-antioxidants-from-you.html Tea may be just about the perfect beverage: refreshing, invigorating, and (contrary to conventional wisdom), a good way to stay hydrated. Plus it's full of good-for-you polyphenols, catechins, and other valuable antioxidants that help stave off ovarian and other cancers, osteoporosis, heart disease, and even gum disease!  Here are three ways to squeeze more health benefits from that tea bag: (Source: The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S.) The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3933276 Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:21:30 +0100 3933276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3903147&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FyJUydkGJTFM%2Fare-we-getting-the-whole-story.html We keep hearing that eating more whole grains is good for your heart. See also 15 Grains to Eat More Of For example, Dr. Steve Parker writes about a recent study showing that eating more whole grains can lower your blood pressure on Nutrition Data's Heart Health Blog. But that's not really the whole story. Every study I've ever seen (including this most recent one) shows that eating whole grains instead of refined grains is good for your heart. So are those heart-healthy benefits really the result of adding whole grains to the diet? Or are we seeing the benefits of subtracting refined grains?As far as I can see, what the research on whole grains really shows is that if you're going to eat grains, whole grains are better for your heart than refined grains. But if you don't eat a lot of r... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3903147 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 14:52:51 +0100 3903147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3889051&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2F196177%2F Heart Health: Over-the-counter painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen are linked to an increased risk of heart attack and possibly stroke. (via Reuters) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3889051 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:15:11 +0100 3889051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3885555&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FiDlh_9H5mQk%2Fare-your-drinking-habits-healt.html These days, it may not seem like a big deal to have a drink before dinner and a couple of glasses of wine with dinner. Yet, according to the National Institutes of Health, consuming that amount of alcohol puts you in a high risk category.Rethinking Drinking, a website run by the NIH, can help you assess the risks and/or benefits of your drinking habits.You might be surprised to see how just low the threshold for "low-risk" drinking is, especially when you consider the size of a "standard" drink is just 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. The newly (or once again) popular martini drinks usually contain the equivalent of 2 to 4 servings of alcohol.What do you think? Is this too heavy-handed an approach? Are we American's showing our latent puritanism here?  Are the risks of moderate drinking bei... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3885555 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 18:45:36 +0100 3885555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3872756&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Fum4Pb4kvE1U%2Fmcstatins-thats-not-even-funny.html I really hope they meant it as a joke. But even if they did, it's not funny.In a paper published this week in The American Journal of Cardiology, the authors suggest that fast food joints should dispense free cholesterol-lowering medications along with the cheeseburgers and fries to offset the harmful effects of the food.  Maybe this absurd proposal is simply a way to attract media attention. If so, it worked. But the authors stooped pretty low to make their point--which was fairly weak. What was their point, anyway? (Source: The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S.) The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3872756 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:12:14 +0100 3872756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3845102&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Famerica-has-a-heart%2F2010.08.08 As an American, I was proud when I heard the news. I grinned to myself. It was on my way to work, through a beautiful city park, with the sun rising over the hillside. The morning radio program reported the news that a California judge overturned their state’s ban on gay marriage. I know what you’re thinking: A medical blog is running amuck right into a political hornet’s nest. But isn’t it true that a nation’s kindness is a defining characteristic? America and Americans do much that is good and right. Examples of such goodness are too numerous to list. If you are a victim of a calamity, you can be sure that America will help. Ask Haiti. And it’s not just foreign countries, we help each other. There’s a flood and then there are volunteers. A powe... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3845102 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0100 3845102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3806034&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FLxSXh61D9ZE%2Fcalcium-supplements-too-much-t.html A lot of women are wondering whether to continue taking their calcium supplements today. A new study shows that taking calcium may increase your risk of a heart attack by 20 to 30 percent.  What's worse, it may not be doing all that much to strengthen your bones.In my opinion, the way we take calcium supplements today could best be described as "too much, too late."Too much, too lateKids and adolescents aren't getting nearly enough calcium during these years when the body is most actively laying down bone tissue.  Then, in our 30s, 40s, and beyond, we try to make up for lost time by taking large doses of supplemental calcium. This news may be as hard to swallow as one of those calcium horse-pills, but once you're in your 30s, your bone-building years are largely behind you. Peop... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3806034 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 11:58:01 +0100 3806034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3780586&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F23%2Fdash-your-way-to-a-healthier-heart%2F This article is part of a series on simple things everyone can do to keep their heart healthy and strong. (Source: Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog) Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3780586 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:10:57 +0100 3780586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3776633&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F22%2Fquit-stress-eating-and-find-healthy-ways-to-decompress%2F By Carlene Helble- Elite Nutrition Intern Stress has become part of our culture and undoubtedly, you may have experienced this sense of being overwhelmed quite often. For some, stress eating or stress drinking alcohol are an enormous saboteurs on the path to health and wellness. It’s not just the excess calories that can nudge you away from your goal though. Read on for common problems people struggle with and get some great solutions! Alcohol Backfires on Your Well-Being Stress drinking cocktails or a few beers after a hectic day at work is what some see as a ritual to unwind, but this canbackfire later. Alcohol prevents the brain from entering deep sleep leaving you unrested and restressed the next morning. Alcohol also dehydrates you If you do drink, keep it to one drink a night. That... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3776633 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 01:03:08 +0100 3776633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746708&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fflawless-to-a-fault-are-you-a-perfectionist%2F photo: Thinkstock We’ve all known since high school that perfectionism is a double-edged sword. While we might envy a golden girl’s body or brain, we certainly aren’t jealous of her bad temper or control-freak tendencies. Now there’s evidence that the stress of being a perfectionist has even higher stakes than we previously thought: Poor health. Researchers say that perfectionism is liked to bad health and death. In a study following 450 adults over 65 for 6.5 years, those who had high perfectionism scores had a 51% increased risk of death compared to those with low scores. We’ll be taking this new research as an excuse to act a little less than perfect today (which will be difficult for us). Like maybe we’ll pick off half our nail polish so we have weir... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746708 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:09:59 +0100 3746708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737316&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F09%2Fhow-to-motivate-behavior-changes-in-someone-you-love%2F It’s a time to bring awareness to heart disease and stroke, the number one killer in the United States, so you and people you love don’t become a statistic. I’ve been blogging about important topics like lowering your cholesterol, reducing heart disease risk and identifying heart healthy foods all month, and I want to continue the conversation with you by discussing how you can influence change in those you love. My mom has heart disease and I’ve spent countless hours helping her with nutrition and exercise. So I’m coming at this post as a daughter with experience in trying to get a loved one to change more so than rattling off “book smarts.” First, let me just say one important thing: it doesn’t matter how much you want someone to change, they have to want it too. Make ... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737316 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 05:23:48 +0100 3737316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3746694&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2F187105%2F Anxiety Leads to Heart Problems: A new study found that people with stable coronary heart disease and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) had a higher rate of cardiovascular events than patients without GAD. (via ABC News) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3746694 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 17:28:55 +0100 3746694 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721982&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FpZN2iGDPfBw%2Fwhats-all-this-saturated-fat-doing-in-my-hearthealthy-fish.html Q. I eat a lot of cold water fish such as herring and sardines for their healthy fat profile, but am often very surprised by their high saturated fat levels. For example,a can of Crown Prince Natural brisbane sardines in water has 17g of fat, 8g of sat fat and 2g omega-3. Is the saturated fat in fish any different or better than the saturated fat in a hamburger? A. It's true that fish (like all animal flesh) contains some saturated fat.  In the listing for sardines here on ND, only about 15% of the fat is saturated, while about 50% of the fat in the Crown Prince brand is saturated. Both brands contain about the same amount of omega-3s.  Frankly, I'm not sure why that brand has such a different fat profile.  But as for the saturated fat itself, it is chemically... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721982 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 17:36:36 +0100 3721982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733315&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F4lx77MqO-UQ%2Flove-of-salt-is-in-your-genes.html In the debate over whether to force manufacturers to reduce sodium in processed foods, I've observed that some will benefit more than others.  It appears that some will also suffer more than others.Although we know that people who eat a lot of salt develop a tolerance and preference for saltier foods, Penn State researchers find that genetics also plays a role in how salty you like your food.   While some are happy with (or can at least adjust to) food with less salt, others will always find low-sodium foods especially unpalatable. Interestingly, it seems as if those with hyper-sensitive taste buds (super-tasters) tend to choose saltier foods.  Although they experience salt as super-salty, they appear to need more salt in order to block or balance bitter tastes tha... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733315 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 21:53:04 +0100 3733315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683596&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F184253%2F Early Menopause Increases Heart Disease Risk: Women who go through menopause before the age of 46 may have more than twice the risk of developing heart disease than women who don’t not experience early menopause. (via Reuters) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683596 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:54:05 +0100 3683596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3676916&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FbfV-1ZMdWIg%2Fpreference-for-salt-has-a-genetic-component.html This study used healthy volunteers. What I'd like to see now is an investigation into whether the super-taster trait is more or less likely in those with salt-sensitive hypertension! (Source: The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S.) The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3676916 Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:01:08 +0100 3676916 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3666249&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FvfShYinpVGs%2Ftailoring-the-use-of-cholesterol-drugs-lets-go-even-further.html A group of researchers has suggested that instead of prescribing statins to everyone whose LDL cholesterol is above a certain target number, doctors should look at a wider range of risk factors. They suggest that patients with several risk factors for heart disease, such as a family history or diabetes, would get statins even if their cholesterol numbers were normal.  But those with elevated LDL and no other risk factors might not.  If this new system were adopted, say the researchers, more people would be treated with statins, but many of them would receive lower doses than they currently do. More importantly, they estimate that treating people at higher risk, regardless of their cholesterol levels, would result in 86,000 fewer heart attacks every year.The report, published in... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3666249 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:27:47 +0100 3666249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3656810&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-impact-of-attitude-on-life%2F2010.06.12 Life sometimes gets in the way of daily posting. Specifically, the treadmill of life sometimes roars too fast. But as I strolled through the hospital this morning, there was a plain piece of white paper taped to the wall around the nurses station. Although I’m not overly religious (and even highly conflicted about which rituals are the right ones), these words from a pastor/celebrity stopped me for a moment: Attitude The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than success, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company, a church... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3656810 Sat, 12 Jun 2010 22:00:00 +0100 3656810 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3621640&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fheart-attacks-more-likely-to-be-fatal-in-certain-areas%2F photo: Thinkstock Whether or not you survive a cardiac event could depend on where you are. Neighborhoods whose residents are poorer, less educated, and have more black residents yield higher death rates as a result of cardiac incidents. When researchers studied areas in Georgia, people who had a heart attack in Fulton County (Atlanta area) were up to three times more likely to die – and less likely to have bystanders perform CPR – than those who suffered heart attacks in other Georgia counties. Because heart disease is the number one killer of American women, it’s troubling to know that some deaths could be avoided if the victim walks down a different street. It’s impractical to avoid certain areas because there’s a chance you’ll have a heart attack while you&#... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3621640 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 19:50:48 +0100 3621640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3585870&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FMsCgv24sadw%2Ffoods-for-hearthealthy-weight-gain.html Q. How can I use your website to find foods that will help me gain weight without tipping my cholesterol count into an at-risk level? A.  In general, foods that are more calorie dense can be helpful for weight gain because they pack more calories in a smaller amount of food.   Foods that are high in fat are notoriously calorie-dense. But if you're also concerned about heart health, you probably want to prioritize those that are high in heart-healthy fats such as monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fats.Olives, nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocado, oily fish are all foods that fit the bill--and certainly offer plenty of culinary appeal as well!It's not clear from your question whether you're concerned about dietary cholesterol (the type found in foods) or your blood ... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3585870 Thu, 20 May 2010 16:00:04 +0100 3585870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577664&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FRQuw90awDoo%2Fcan-nd-help-the-lapd-get-in-shape.html As the population grows fatter, the U.S. military and law enforcement agencies are having trouble finding recruits that can pass basic fitness tests required for entry. (Read more from USA Today)  And the situation among the existing ranks may be even more dire. Once you're on the force, there are often no further fitness requirements. According to researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health, our first responders (police, fire, and emergency response personnel) are increasingly overweight, obese, and out of shape--putting both themselves and public safety at risk. Dr. Kevin Jablonski, of the Los Angeles Police Department, is concerned enough about the health, safety, and effectiveness of his force that he's hired a full-time Registered Dietitian to provide nutritio... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577664 Wed, 19 May 2010 15:17:23 +0100 3577664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577665&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FX94d7lV6il0%2Fwould-reducing-sodium-make-us-thinner.html As I'm sure you've heard, the U.S. government is considering new measures that would force food manufacturers to gradually reduce the amount of sodium in processed and packaged foods. Public health experts argue that reducing sodium would save lives, primarily by reducing high blood pressure. I have mixed feelings about this. There's the question of whether the government should be reaching this far into the marketplace and personal choices. There's the question of whether we should reduce everyone's salt intake, when only a minority of people actually benefit. There are even legitimate questions about whether that minority would benefit. (See this related post.) But maybe there's another benefit we're not considering.   Salty foods stimulate appetite and lead to overeating.&n... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577665 Tue, 18 May 2010 17:36:18 +0100 3577665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3549593&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FgYCJefSb7Q4%2Fwant-to-lose-belly-fat-stop-jogging.html An interesting statistic cited by cardiologist Arthur Agatston (South Beach Diet) in this morning's second session:Steady state exercise training (such as jogging at a steady pace) had no significant impact on belly fat or insulin levels, while intermittent high intensity training (such as interval training) produced significant reductions in both. Source: Trapp EG et all, Int J Obes (London) 2008; 32(4):684-691. (Source: The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S.) The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3549593 Mon, 10 May 2010 17:01:00 +0100 3549593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3533840&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhow-much-does-a-heart-attack-cost%2F2010.05.04 How much would a heart attack cost you? Quite a bit, according to CBS MoneyWatch.com: According to an article from the National Business Group on Health, the average total [editor's note: lifetime] cost of a severe heart attack -– including direct and indirect costs -– is about $1 million. Direct [lifetime] costs include charges for hospitals, doctors and prescription drugs, while indirect costs include lost productivity and time away from work. The average [lifetime] cost of a less-severe heart attack is about $760,000. Amortized over 20 years, that’s $50,000 per year for a severe heart attack and $38,000 per year for a less-severe heart attack. I’m all for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but before we get all hot and bothered about performing more testing to “prevent&#... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3533840 Tue, 04 May 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3533840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3530053&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FiEUDcLV4nmI%2Fspice-up-your-burgers-to-reduce-harmful-compounds.html Here's a study with delicious implications (recipe follows).A little biochemical background: When meats are cooked, certain fatty acids in them can form compounds that may play a role in heart disease and cellular mutations that can lead to cancer.  For some, this is just another good argument for avoiding animal protein. But for those who decide to eat meat anyway, researchers have found a way to dramatically reduce the formation of these "lipid peroxidation products" at your Memorial Day barbecue this year. (You have to love research that involves a grill!)The researchers cooked up two kinds of hamburgers: one just contained beef and salt. The other included an antioxidant-rich spice mixture including ground cloves, cinnamon, oregano, ginger, rosemary, ginger, black p... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3530053 Tue, 04 May 2010 14:54:51 +0100 3530053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3501727&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FuFm4yU2kQuw%2Fmore-evidence-linking-sugar-to-heart-disease.html The American Heart Association now recommends that you keep added sugars to less than 5% of your calorie intake.  That's about 25 grams or 1 1/2 teaspoons per day for an average-sized adult.  This week, a new study published in JAMA adds weight to the argument. A team of researchers analyzing dietary records from the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) found a strikingly linear correlation between added sugars and heart disease risk factors. As sugar intake went up, HDL ("good" cholesterol) levels went down and triglycerides went up. The average intake of added sugars, by the way, was about 16% of total calories.  Sweet and Natural It's tempting to blame excessive sugar consumption on too much processed food. And, re... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3501727 Fri, 23 Apr 2010 18:31:01 +0100 3501727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480952&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fsea-salt-is-better-for-your-heart.html We have been using only sea salt for the past 3-4 years, because it is so much better for you. Sea salt contains many minerals in it that occur naturally as it forms in the ocean. Standard table salt, sodium chloride, does not contain these minerals, is very refined, and sometimes only has iodine added which aids in preventing goiter, a thyroid condition.My husband has been told to avoid added salt in his diet because of blood pressure. In my reading, I've found that Sea Salt, or some of you may refer to it as salt sea, contains minerals that help to compensate for the negative affect that can happen if you use regular table salt, also known as sodium chloride. Among the minerals sea salt contains is calcium, magnesium and potassium...potassium and magnesium are both so important to proper... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480952 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 04:20:00 +0100 3480952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3460118&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F04%2F11%2Fsunday-news-round-up-back-online-edition%2F I’m finally back online at home! While I’ve been away, I’ve learned adult/child CPR/AED use and infant CPR, registered to be an organ donor, listened to a lot of classical music on the radio courtesy of the local public radio station, played a lot of Rummy and lost at Lord of the Rings Trivial Pursuit (as usual), had my first lunch at Swett’s, and read B is for Beer, Warbreaker, War Dances, The Lassa Ward and half of Middlemarch. Here are some things that transpired or were written with style in the interim. First, Our Bodies Ourselves is accepting nominations for the 2010 Women’s Health Heroes awards. Nominations are due by the end of this month, so make yours today! OBOS has also launched the Word by Word campaign, in which a donation to support the organi... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3460118 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 17:02:34 +0100 3460118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441086&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FaGvNEap0CX4%2Fis-cholesterol-an-essential-nutrient.html Q. Will you settle a dispute?  My friend claims that you must consume some cholesterol in order to be healthy.  I'm fairly certain that we don't need to consume cholesterol because our liver makes all we need. Am I correct? A. I hope you wagered big on this one because you are right.  We do need cholesterol to live--our bodies use it to shore up cell membranes, protect the spinal cord, and as a raw material for producing bile acids, steroid hormones like estrogen and testosterone, and vitamin D.So, cholesterol is essential. But it is not an essential nutrient. We don't need to eat it because, as you say, we can manufacture our own.  Your liver can make all the cholesterol you need as long as it has a source of dietary fats.  Vegans, for examp... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441086 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:19:01 +0100 3441086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420777&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F1A2i2gSfcpc%2Fwine-and-your-health.html Q.Everyone these days is talking about the positive effects of a glass of wine a day. I'm not currently drinking alcohol, so I have been substituting it with 4oz of 100% grape juice every morning. Am I receiving similar health benefits? Am I better off drinking a glass of wine instead? A. The health benefits of wine are thought to be due to a combination of things. Wine contains resveratrol, an antioxidant found in grape skins which is thought to be beneficial. Solid research on the benefits of resveratrol in humans is somewhat skimpy. But you can get the purported benefits of resveratrol just as well by drinking grape juice.  In addition, moderate alcohol consumption (whether in the form of wine or other alcoholic beverages) appears to be protective against hea... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420777 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 18:08:00 +0100 3420777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733319&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FYrRjt4dB-Vk%2Fis-saturated-fat-back-on-the-h.html Conclusion: Saturated fat does not cause heart disease. Cue rejoicing (not to mention "I told you so's") from Atkins and Paleo dieters.  (See Steve Parker's article on the study.) But now the Harvard School of Public Health is throwing a bucket of ice-water on the whole party. They did their own analysis of the relationship between fat and heart disease and found that it all depends on what you replace the saturated fat with. The Harvard authors note that previous clinical trials aimed at reducing saturated fat had "very mixed" results, "with most showing no significant effect."   But, they note, when health authorities started to recommend reducing saturated fat, they didn't offer much guidance in terms of what to replace it with. Some replaced those calories with hydrog... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733319 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 17:37:32 +0100 3733319 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3391017&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FVN0wt8qqMlE%2Fgrassfed-beef-and-omega3s-the-fine-print.html I'm all for grass-fed beef--mostly because I'm for raising livestock on pasture rather than feedlots. But I'm starting to sense a nutrition myth in the making here. One of the big "talking points" for grass-fed meat is that it is higher in omega-3 fatty acids. This is true. But while grass-fed beef is HIGHER in omega-3 than grain-fed beef, it is not HIGH in omega-3 fats.Let's take a closer look:I compared 100g of grass-fed beef to 100g of regular beef.  Both contained about 13g of fat and 5 grams of saturated fat. And, indeed, the amount of omega-3 in the grass-fed was 125% higher than in the regular beef.That sounds pretty impressive until you consider how little omega-3 fat is in either one.  The regular beef contains 38 mg of omega-3 fats; the grass... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3391017 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:29:26 +0100 3391017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342930&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FYzhX3bfJ3ww%2Fpotassium-for-muscle-cramps-not-necessarily.html Q. I am on high blood pressure meds and have noticed a lot of cramping in my legs. How much potassium in mgs should I be taking a day? A. The Institute of Medicine established 4.7 grams (4700 mg) of potassium as the adequate intake (AI) for most healthy people.   The average American gets between 2300 mg (women) and 3100 mg (men) from their diet. However, I wouldn't recommend that you start taking potassium supplements. First of all, the general recommendation may or may not be appropriate for you. Some high blood pressure meds can increase potassium requirements, others can cause high potassium levels. Secondly, I wouldn't assume that the cramps are caused by a lack of potassium.  Imbalances in potassium, sodium, and/or magnesium can all lead to muscle cramp... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342930 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:01:58 +0100 3342930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322658&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Fhh-8iRhtmMs%2Fbalancing-a-high-sodium-diet.html Q.  I'm a college student and while I definitely focus on maintaining a balanced diet I am concerned about my sodium intake.  With the amount of processed foods in the school cafeteria, it's almost impossible to maintain a low sodium diet.  I'm healthy and active with a normal blood pressure and I've always considered sodium the least worrisome of the food evils (though high blood pressure does run in my family). My personal assumption has always been that as long as I increase my water intake along with sodium, everything will "balance out" in the body.  Is there any truth to this? If so, how much water is necessary to offset 2400 mg sodium over the recommended daily value? A. First, I congratulate you for making nutrition a priority!&#016... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322658 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:13:15 +0100 3322658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302265&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F02%2F23%2Fmore-women-get-heart-disease-information-from-the-newspaper-than-the-internet%2F Last week, I posted at Our Bodies Our Blog about a new study of American women’s knowledge of heart disease and prevention published in the American Heart Association’s journal, Circulation. There, I noted my surprise how many women in the sample still did not identify heart disease as the leading cause of death for women, who would not call 911 right away, and who still believed hormone replacement was an effective preventive measure (rather than a risk increaser). The study survey was not given to a huge sample of women – ~1100 to ~2200 depending on the survey method – but one other item caught my eye that I didn’t get into at the OBOS blog – where the women reported getting their information about heart disease. The reported sources of information a... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302265 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 19:10:53 +0100 3302265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3292038&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F02%2F21%2F3-simple-recipe-swaps-for-heart-health%2F It’s officially heart health awareness month. This topic is important to me. This month it will be one year since my mom had her quadruple bypass surgery. But the good news is many of your heart disease risk can be lowered with your food choices. That’s right, people… four out of five of your heart disease risk factors can be reduced with healthy eating. Can you believe that? Yes, your every day decisions matter, even though you may not see the immediate reward. Here’s what we’re trying to do: Manage weight – excess weight, especially obesity increases risk for high cholesterol, blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes all which increase heart disease risk. The more of these you have, the higher your heart disease risk. We manage weight my daily... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3292038 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 13:35:58 +0100 3292038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283480&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F02%2F17%2Fat-our-bodies-our-blog-birth-related-events-and-american-womens-lack-of-knowledge-of-heart-disease%2F At Our Bodies Our Blog, I have a post on results of a survey assessing knowledge about heart disease and prevention among American women. I was a little surprised that just over half of the sample correctly identified heart disease as the leading cause of death for women, more surprised that almost 1 in 5 respondents still thought hormone therapy was an effective preventive measure, and shocked that only 53% of women said they’d call 911 if they experienced symptoms of a heart attack. I also posted this week on two opportunities for birth-related participation: an online discussion with the author of “Birth Day: A Pediatrician Explores the Science, the History and the Wonder of Childbirth” and a call for submissions of c-section-related art. Christine posted a news relea... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283480 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:21:57 +0100 3283480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267235&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FNqucQy5R3_A%2Fanother-perspective-on-the-sodium-wars.html Conclusions (Again)? As the JAMA authors point out, the move to restrict sodium intake is well-intentioned.  But jumping to conclusions sometimes makes things worse, not better. In 1980, for example,  the government advised everyone to reduce their fat intake. But as our fat intake declined, an epidemic of obesity and diabetes bloomed. In 2000, the government withdrew this recommendation.  Another piece of well-intentioned but ultimately bad advice: substituting margarine (trans fats) for butter (saturated fats).  What do you think? Is a governmental crusade to reduce sodium intake across the board premature? Online Surveys & Market Research (Source: The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S.) The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267235 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:37:27 +0100 3267235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259302&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fhelp-for-hearty-heart.html Valentines Day is this coming Sunday, and this is a "healthy heart" month. My Valentine, my dear husband, has experienced a heart attack, and is a diabetic, increasing his risks in this area. Over the years posting to this blog, I've done several posts about heart health, and our experience.To bring attention to them again at this time of the year, I thought I'd share links to some of those posts. They are:My Husband's Heart Attack - Part 1My Husband's Heart Attack - Part 2My Husband's Heart Attack - Part 3Hubby's Heart Attack - Final Post (I hope!)ORAC, Antioxidants, Free Radicals, and What?Heart Attacks and Women - Part 1Heart Attacks and Women - Part 2Anger and Heart HealthConnection Between the Heart and the TomatoSite Feed (Source: Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets) Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259302 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 04:18:00 +0100 3259302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3228036&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FkOCnagE4Wp0%2Ffeeling-stressed-chocolate-can-help.html It's no coincidence that Heart Health Month, Chocolate Lover's Month, and Valentine's Day are all celebrated in February.  It gives chocolate makers a great opportunity to remind us that the antioxidants in chocolate are good for hearts and sweethearts. And the good news on chocolate just keeps piling up. Chocolate can lift your mood and ease emotional stress. Now, research shows that it actually reduces the biochemical impact of stress as well.  People who rated themselves as "highly stressed" ate an ounce and a half of dark chocolate every day. After two weeks, researchers found that that the level of stress hormones and other markers of stress in the subjects were reduced.  (See study.) Online Surveys & Market Research (Source: The ND Blog: Notes from the ... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3228036 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 18:09:20 +0100 3228036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189439&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FAshgdHv3t5k%2Fthe-fifth-stage-decline.html An editorial in this month's Journal of the American Medical Association describes the four phases of the "epidemiological transition" that brought us into the modern medical age--and adds a depressing coda.Here's the topline: Phase 1: Pestilence and Famine.  Average life expectancy was 30 years during this phase, which stretched from the beginning of human history to late 19th century. Phase 2: Receding Pandemics.  Industrialization in the U.S. and Western Europe in the late 19th and early 20th century led to better nutrition and sanitation, reducing infant mortality and increasing life expectancy. Phase 3: Man-Made Disease:  In the middle of the century, smoking, reduced activity and changes in diet led to a peak in deaths from cancer and heart dis... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189439 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 17:34:30 +0100 3189439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172226&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fyou-can-still-eat-salt-just-use.html ...Sea Salt. And eat it in moderation. Sea Salt still has all the minerals intact and rather than raise blood pressure tends to keep it stable, or some say even lower it a bit. The problem with table salt is that all the good minerals have been removed from it, and the salt goes through a bleaching process. This is another case in which something in it's natural form, within reason, is better for you than what you may be buying in your supermarket. It is great to see that a few companies, most notably some of the companies that make soup, are changing over to sea salt rather than "regular" salt.2400 milligrams of sodium is the recommended daily amount (RDA) that should be consumed, less than a teaspoonful. Excess salt causes the body to retain water because the kidneys are not able to keep... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172226 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 20:08:00 +0100 3172226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3137658&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F6L4JkLmGbJ8%2F-estrogen-a-cholesterollowering-drug.html I was intrigued by this finding that LDL cholesterol levels rise as estrogen levels decline in the year or so before menopause.  For years we've assumed that estrogen was heart-protective. When estrogen replacement therapy failed to improve (and, in fact, worsened) heart risks in menopausal women, researchers began to wonder whether they might have gotten the link backward:  Could rising incipient heart disease in any way trigger menopause?(An obvious follow-up study: Is there any link between heart disease and age of menopause?)Now, many of you will be quick to argue that cholesterol does not cause heart disease.  Even if we bracket that particular issue for the moment, it's still interesting to contemplate the chicken-and-egg question: Is menopause a cause or ef... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3137658 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 17:11:00 +0100 3137658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3097088&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F5DBkHdODiYs%2Fstatins-for-everyone.html I'm sure you've seen the headlines: The FDA plans to approve the use of Crestor, a type of cholesterol-lowering drug known as a statin, for people with normal cholesterol levels.  The story is that giving Crestor to people who have normal cholesterol but elevated levels of C-reactive protein dramatically reduces heart attacks, strokes, and deaths.  C-reactive protein doesn't cause heart disease; it simply indicates the presence of systemic inflammation--which does appear to promote heart disease.  We've known for a while that statin drugs reduce inflammation in addition to lowering cholesterol. So none of this is particularly surprising. It's certainly not surprising that the pharmaceutical industry pursued this research. They've effectively ... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3097088 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:22:03 +0100 3097088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3085002&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F12%2F5-ways-to-reduce-fat-in-meat-dishes.html If you enjoy eating meat, but want to cut down on the cholesterol building fat while you are preparing or cooking your meat, here are some tips for you. Most of them are not original or new, but good reminders:Ground meat - If I don't buy a lean ground beef or use ground sausage, I use it only for browning to make chili or sauces, not in meat loaf. When I brown, I either drain the fat in a small colander into a container, or our trash can if it is full and has paper in it to absorb the fat. If I am not using the same frying pan that I browned the meat in to prepare the dish in, I "tip" the pan by taking it part way off the burner or putting something under one side, then move the meat to the high end of the pan. The fat pools to one side, when I'm ready, I remove the meat and put into the ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3085002 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 04:29:00 +0100 3085002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036063&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F1KnzpE9GDpY%2Fis-mercury-a-concern-with-wild-salmon.html Q. I eat wild salmon almost every day. Is there an issue with mercury from eating too much salmon, and how much salmon is safe to eat during the course of a week? Both wild and farmed salmon are considered low mercury fish, but the levels of mercury can vary wildly, depending on where the fish were farmed or caught.  Mercury levels in wild caught salmon from Canada were recently found to be three times higher than in Canadian farmed salmon, for example. But even the wild salmon did not contain enough mercury to be considered a "high mercury" fish. Developing fetuses and young children are most at risk from mercury exposure. The FDA and EPA advise that pregant women and kids avoid high-mercury fish like swordfish altogether--and eat no more than two servings per week of low-... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036063 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 22:41:31 +0100 3036063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2977498&cid=t_105063_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F11%2Ffamous-diabetes-friends-on-heart-health-vlogs.html Ooh, lucky me. I ran into two of my diabetes heroes at the Diabetes Technology Society Meeting late last week. More soon on the new developments I heard about there.  But for today, please enjoy these video testimonials on diabetes & heart health. First, from Francine Kaufman, MD, a world-renown pediatric endocrinologist at USC, former ADA president, [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2977498 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:00:08 +0100 2977498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2967251&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fconcerned-re-health-yup-proactive-nope%2F Are Americans concerned about their health? Yes, they are. Are they concerned enough to be proactive about staying healthy? Not so much. In fact, not really. Good health habits start young and we all know that children watch adults very closely. Parents can hardly expect their children to live a healthy lifestyle if they themselves don’t. Yet, despite this, the message of healthy living starts early doesn’t seem to be getting out. According to a study done by the Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association (PCNA), The national survey revealed that more than three in five (61%) Americans incorrectly believe that the processes related to heart disease do not begin until adulthood. Alarmingly, fewer than four in ten (38%) correctly surmise that people should be concerned about li... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2967251 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:42:41 +0100 2967251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2916462&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FAxDJNEJ3O7o%2Fhomocysteine-and-heart-disease.html You don't hear a whole lot about homocysteine these days but ten or fifteen years ago it was quite the buzzword in nutrition and preventive medicine circles--and a cash cow for nutritional supplement sellers. A little background on the homocysteine hypothesis Population studies (aka epidemiological studies) showed that people with high levels of homocysteine in their blood had a higher risk of heart disease. Homocysteine is an amino acid which is an normal byproduct of protein metabolism. Ideally, it is further converted into another amino acid, methionine. However, if this "recycling"  breaks down, homocysteine can build up in the blood.  When the link between high homocysteine and heart disease risk was noticed, researchers theorized that homocysteine might i... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2916462 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:06:19 +0100 2916462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2912555&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Fq9FWYjg1gpw%2Fhigh-cholesterol-no-cause-for-worry.html Q. I am a 24-year-old female. I'm a normal weight (5'7", 133 lbs). I work out at least 5 days per week. I  avoid all processed food and generally try to fill my days with whole grains, veggies, fruits and non-fat dairy sources. I usually have a small amount of caffeine in the mornings, I don't smoke, and I drink two or three times per month. All in all, I think I lead a pretty healthy lifestyle. However, I went to my doctor last week and was surprised to find that my cholesterol is slightly high (more than 200 mg/dL). I don't have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.  Is this a common problem in people who lead otherwise healthy lifestyles? I'm hoping to avoid taking prescription meds for the rest of my life. A. I think it's a lit... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2912555 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:05:00 +0100 2912555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2886664&cid=t_105063_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fpreventing-heart-attacks.html I’m off to Dallas today to take part in a special patient advisory council* for the American Heart Association, which is desperately trying to reach out to people with diabetes about heart health. They’ve created a program called Heart of Diabetes (sponsored by Takeda Pharmaceuticals) and are busy gathering patient stories in video format. Now they’re [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2886664 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:00:48 +0100 2886664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2828480&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FY_ukhhn-V10%2Feating-eggs-might-up-your-cholesterol-so-what.html Q. One of my friends still insists that dietary cholesterol contributes to body cholesterol. Since I wasn't able to convince him that this isn't true, I tried to look for actual studies and research to prove my point.  Could you direct me to a few studies that show that that dietary cholesterol does not affect our cholesterol levels? Thanks?!A. First, let me get this out of the way: Many experts strongly doubt that blood cholesterol levels have anything to do with heart disease and that worrying about cholesterol (in your food or your body) is a waste of time.But you didn't ask me to help convince your friend that he doesn't need to worry about his cholesterol levels; you asked me to supply some evidence that dietary cholesterol does not effect blood cholesterol level... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2828480 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:18:23 +0100 2828480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2824451&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F0PX_DM1qfd0%2Ftropical-oils-a-better-saturated-fat.html Shelly posted the following comment on a recent post on dietary fats: "I've been reading some information that says coconut oil does not cause plaque build-up like other saturated fats because it is a medium-chain fatty acid, which apparently means it is digested more like a carb and doesn't have a chance to become plaque. I'd like to find more sources of this information, just to build some confidence. (When I relay this information about coconut, people look at me as though I'm from Mars.)"Before I had a chance to respond, Dave posted a comment in response to Shelly's question:"Short-chain fatty acids do take a different route than most fats. Most fats we eat are packaged up by the small intestine in large lipo-protein molecules called chylomicrons, whi... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2824451 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:22:00 +0100 2824451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2793442&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FC3PJgkwnxi0%2Fis-paleo-the-new-mediterranean.html The Mediterranean Diet has been king of the hill for the last several years. While low-carb and low-fat camps continue to trade jabs, each amassing roughly the same number of studies in its favor, the Mediterranean diet (which is neither) has risen above the fray, trumping every diet it's compared with in study after study.Just last week, for example, I noted a study finding that the Mediterranean diet helped diabetics lose more weight and use fewer medications than a low-fat diet.But I sense a shift of power (or at least of focus) in the works.  The "Paleo Diet" has been garnering a larger and larger share of popular attention and support as the latest Solution To All Our Problems.  And now the research community is beginning to test the theory, designing studies... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2793442 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:04:30 +0100 2793442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2762173&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FvzfTZave6Yg%2Fcan-a-high-fat-diet-increase-insulin-resistance.html I was just re-reading Tara Parker Pope's article in the NY Times on the now-famous rat study which found that high-fat meals impaired cognitive and athletic performance. Predictably, the study was dissed and dismissed by the low-carb and pro-fat bloggerati.(By the way, for those who dismissed the study because it involved rodents, data from a parallel human study are still being analyzed but appear to line up with the original findings.)Whatever the merits and implications of this particular study, I was struck by the following quote from Pope's article:It’s not clear why fatty foods would cause a short-term decline in cognitive function. One theory is that a high-fat diet can trigger insulin resistance, which means the body becomes less efficient at using the glucose, or blood s... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2762173 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 17:47:55 +0100 2762173 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2730391&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F5OysDbe7t6o%2Fhow-much-potassium-do-you-need.html Q. How much potassium do I need? A.  The Daily Value (DV) for potassium is 3500mg per day. When you look at the nutrition detail for any food or recipe here on ND, you'll see the amount of potassium listed, along with the percentage of DV.  The Daily Value is a sort of one-size-fits all recommendation that is thought to represent the average needs of most healthy people. In 2004, the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine established an adequate intake (AI) recommendation for potassium based on the amounts that have been found to lower blood pressure, reduce salt sensitivity, and minimize the risk of kidney stones.  For adults, the AI is 4700mg per day. (Tip: You can personalize your nutrient targets using My Preferences.)Another reason to eat your ve... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2730391 Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:23:53 +0100 2730391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2716279&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FXQB0jOV6Hgo%2Fmore-evidence-that-saturated-fat-has-been-falsely-accused.html What if cancer, heart disease, and diabetes are really all the same disease? An excellent commentary in this month's issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association lays out a compelling and detailed map showing how obesity and insulin resistance interact to promote the growth of cancerous tumors. The authors argue that weight loss (if appropriate) should be a central feature of cancer prevention and treatment. Going a step further, the journal's editors suggest that obesity (and insulin resistance) is the common culprit in all of the Dreaded Three: cancer, diabetes and heart disease.  Now, if you ask the dietary establishment how to prevent obesity, cancer, and heart disease, they will most likely advise you to reduce your intake of t... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2716279 Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:24:05 +0100 2716279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2709423&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F1H_SMJoJ_l8%2Fare-grains-necessary-to-a-healthy-diet.html Q. What is the purpose of eating grains?  If you are tracking your nutrition and getting all of the necessary nutrients, is there any reason that you couldn't eliminate grains from your diet? A. What?! You want to eliminate one of the five basic food groups? Grains are the foundation of the Healthy Food Pyramid.  They must be essential to a healthy diet. I'm kidding, of course. As far as I'm concerned, grains (such as wheat, corn, oats, rye, etc.) are not essential to a healthy diet.  I think the main reason that grains have long been counted as a basic food group is that dietary policy-makers have viewed them as an innocuous way to cover one's calorie needs (plus maybe some pressure from agricultural lobbies and interests). You see, the powers-that... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2709423 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:28:30 +0100 2709423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2691796&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FlZPxG-NxO_0%2Ffour-steps-to-a-longer-healthier-life.html A giant study (involving over 20,000 subjects over 8 years) looked at how four "healthy lifestyle habits" affected the risk of common diseases like heart disease and cancer. The four habits they chose to track? 1. Never smoking 2. Maintaining a BMI of 30 or lower (Calculate your BMI here.) 3. Engaging in at least 3 1/2 hours of physical activity per week 4. Eating a healthy diet, which was defined as one high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in meat. (Don't shoot the messenger!) Less than 4% of the subjects had zero healthy behaviors. About twice as many (9%) could take credit for all four.  Here's what's making headlines: The Four-Behavior Group had: 93% lower risk of diabetes 81% lower risk of heart attack 50% lower risk of stroke 36% ... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2691796 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 18:45:59 +0100 2691796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2667761&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FELzDyJeyCMc%2Fseven-out-of-ten-kids-have-low-vitamin-d-levels.html A new report reveals that 70 million American kids (ranging in age from toddlers to teens) are at increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and bone problems due to deficient or insufficient levels of vitamin D.  Low vitamin D levels are about 6 times more common in young black Americans because darker skin produces less vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. See also this story in the Washington Post.) This storm has been gathering for quite some time.  Vitamin D levels in adults are also low and vitamin D deficiency is being linked to an increasing number of serious, chronic conditions and auto-immune diseases. (See also my post "Vitamin D. Now I'm a believer"). Everyone seems to agree on what's causing the problem. We spend less time outdoors, we've... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2667761 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:15:55 +0100 2667761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2660973&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FjCOMBv-0ce0%2Fmy-view-on-low-carb-diets-its-complicated.html Q.    From reading your blog it seems that a lot of your readers back low carb diets.  Being a student studying nutrition, everything I have read has said that a low carb diet is terrible for your health.  Can you address your views on this in your blog? A.   It's something that comes up a lot on the blog and always seems to elicit very strong opinions.  Several regular commenters are quite ardent about the evils of carbohydrates.  My views are somewhat more moderate.  I do think that refined carbohydrates are a big part of the problem with the Western diet.  I think that overconsumption of refined carbohydrates (especially in the context of a sedentary lifestyle) contributes to obesity, diabetes and re... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2660973 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:42:25 +0100 2660973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2622080&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FxJCQWBTti0Y%2Fsoy-sauce-may-help-you-reduce-salt-despite-its-high-sodium-levels.html If you're watching your sodium intake,  you probably steer well clear of soy sauce. A single tablespoon contains 1,000mg of sodium.  But it looks as if the sodium in soy sauce may go a lot further when it comes to seasoning your food. Researchers found that when they used soy sauce instead of salt in various dishes, they could reduce the total sodium content by up to 50% without tasters even noticing.  The researchers theorize that the more complex flavor and odor profile of soy sauce creates the sensation of saltiness and savour with less sodium. Interesting, huh? Try it yourself and see what you find.  I suggest that you measure any soy sauce you add to food or recipes, at least at first, so you can compare the amount of sodium to what you'd ordina... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2622080 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:36:00 +0100 2622080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2602259&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F07%2F10-facts-vitamin-b12-sources.html Vitamin B's are vital to our nutrition and health, and beneficial for so many things. There are different B's in the vitamin B family...in this post we'll take a look at Vitamin B-12.Here are some Vitamin B + B12 facts:1. Help promote energy2. Support the nervous system3. Help in times of stress4. Support and improve immune function5. Have an influence on the health of most of the organs of the body6. Though primarily available in meats, B12 is easily lost in cooking or processing of foods, so unless you eat raw (and not many eat raw meat) and have time to monitor your intake, supplementation is beneficial if not necessary.7. Most B-12 sources are animal based.8. Aids production of blood cells, red, white and platelets.9. B12 and B6 work together to control homocysteine levels, which when ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2602259 Tue, 14 Jul 2009 20:05:00 +0100 2602259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2593093&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fan-innovative-cpr-mattress%2F Hospital mattresses are soft and pliable. Great for the patient who wants to be comfortable. But not so great for medical staff if they have to perform CPR. Michigan Technology University Performing compressions on someone lying in a soft and pliable mattress will only result in the force going into the mattress and not the body. The standard answer is to get the patient on a crash board first but that requires extra time to roll the patient and position the board. Extra time that is often critical. But a group of innovative students at Michigan Tech may just have the answer. They have been developing a mattress that will allow faster and more effective cardiopulmonary resusciation (CPR). The idea: Suck the air out of the foam in the mattress and make it firm The means: some tubing, a litt... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2593093 Sun, 12 Jul 2009 00:27:47 +0100 2593093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2580508&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Ffscv4IdT_po%2Fsaturated-fat-no-longer-the-villain-was-it-ever.html I was glad to see this post from Dr. Steve Parker on our heart health blog: Are Saturated Fats Really That Bad?  Although the folks at the Weston Price Foundation have been arguing for years that saturated fats are good for you, I've always found their manifestos to be those of people who have already made up their minds and then gone looking for the evidence to support their point of view, ignoring or misrepresenting any evidence that seems to get in the way.  So, it was nice to see a more impartial review of this particular issue. I was particularly interested because I've been getting a lot of questions about coconut oil--a vegetable source of saturated fat. It's alleged health benefits are being heavily promoted but there's not much solid evidence to b... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2580508 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:15:03 +0100 2580508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2571301&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FYvbWHftB7qc%2Fcrp-inflammation-and-heart-disease.html Much has been made this week about some new studies showing that C-reactive protein, a compound that signals systemic inflammation, does not cause heart disease. See this description of the research from CNN (Study suggests C-reactive protein doesn't cause heart disease) and this reaction from the LA TImes: If C-Reactive protein isn't a cause of heart disease, what is? Frankly, I'm not sure what the fuss is all about.  The media is acting as if the link between inflammation and heart disease has been thrown into question. It hasn't. C-reactive protein is one of several markers for systemic inflammation. Elevated CRP levels indicate an increased risk for heart disease--and many other diseases as well.  While I guess it was important to make sure one w... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2571301 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:49:25 +0100 2571301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528226&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FrojfvfaDNrs%2Fare-bmi-guidelines-for-the-birds.html Q. I recently read that the standard BMI calculation and guidelines aren't accurate for African-Americans and other ethniticies. Can you explain why and do you have recommendations for ethnic specific guidelines? A. Your BMI, or body mass index, is nothing more than a way of expressing your weight in relation to your height.  When we say that a BMI of between 19 and 25 is considered ideal, we're really just saying that for every height, there is a suggested healthy weight range. I'm 5'9" for example.  The suggested healthy weight range for me is 128 to 169.  (Click here to look up your BMI) I think you're probably referring to a recent article in the British Journal of Nutrition  (reported in the Washington Post), which points out that... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528226 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:38:56 +0100 2528226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2515180&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fmusic-keeps-heart-beats-in-tune%2F There is something very therapeutic about music. It brings out emotions, makes us want to dance and sing, and soothes and relaxes when you’re weary. Now a new Italian study highlights the fact that  “music induces a continuous, dynamic—and to some extent predictable—change in the cardiovascular system.” This new study is a follow on from previous studies done by Luciano Bernardi and his team which had found that changes in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems mirrored musical tempos. To find out more about how the body responds to changing rhythms, they hooked up 24 volunteers - half experienced singers, half with no musical training - to monitors that measure physiological signals. The volunteers were then subjected to five random selections of Bach, Beethoven, Pu... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2515180 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:41:04 +0100 2515180 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2513475&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FkKNUE9gwlBQ%2Fregular-versus-instant-oatmeal.html Q. I have been eating instant oatmeal almost daily for a couple of years now. A friend recently told me I have been wasting my time if I thought I was eating it for nutritional reasons. Is instant oatmeal less effective than the regular stuff? A. Actually, the nutritional differences between regular and instant or quick-cooking oatmeal are so insignificant that the Nutrient Data Laboratory for the USDA has just one analysis which applies to all three kinds of oatmeal.  All three contain the same amount of fiber and the same amount of cholesterol-lowering compounds. The biggest difference is in taste and texture.  Regular oatmeal contains larger pieces of rolled oat grains and is a little chewier than the instant and quick-cooking varieties. (Ironically, it really doesn't t... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2513475 Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:53:30 +0100 2513475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2510384&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fthis-virtual-heart-pumps-up-the-realism%2F It looks like a real heart. It acts like a real heart. But in reality, it’s only a  super-realistic computer model. Created by a team of doctors from the Heart Hospital in London, this virtual heart is perfect for medical students to get indepth knowledge of the heart’s anatomy. It sure beats staring at a dull anatomy textbook or static model. It can be viewed from both inside and out, rotated around any axis with a simple flick or click of the computer mouse or keyboard.  It can even be made to simulate irregular heart beats and mirror the effects of various conditions and diseases. (source and image) Post from: Healthbolt (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2510384 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 10:48:40 +0100 2510384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2513479&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FX0fq4HdRn4Q%2Funderstanding-the-difference-between-dietary-cholesterol-and-blood-cholesterol.html Q. Here in Baja, squid is abundant and we like to eat alot of it. Your site says it is high in cholesterol. Is that bad cholesterol or the good stuff? Can you break it down for me?   A. Dietary cholesterol (the cholesterol found in foods such as eggs and seafood) is neither "good" nor "bad."   Those terms are often used to describe different types of cholesterol-containing compounds in your blood.  In your body, cholesterol is bonded to various types of proteins to form packages called lipoproteins. LDL and HDL are two types of cholesterol-containing lipoproteins.   LDL is often characterized as "bad" because elevated levels are one risk factor for heart disease. HDL cholesterol is often described as "good" becaus... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2513479 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:23:01 +0100 2513479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2513486&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fcoumadin-warfarin-and-vitamin-k_16.html Earlier on I had shared some things about the tests and things we've been going through to address my husband's heart conditions. We are happy that the nuclear stress test did not show any blockages, however he has quite a prominent atrial flutter, irregular beats, so is on warfarin which is the generic for coumadin, I believe, to prevent clots from forming in the heart chambers since they aren't "emptying" properly due to inefficient heartbeats...this until the doctor does whatever he is going to do to get the rhythm back to what it should be.The last visit to the doctor office they checked his levels since he is taking warfarin and we were told to avoid Vitamin K foods. Now he had been eating a very regular diet, which includes salad every single day consistently..and green leafy vegetab... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2513486 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:45:00 +0100 2513486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442958&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FWiRTV0lyC_0%2Fomega6-fats-have-they-gotten-a-bad-rap.html I don't know how much of this has percolated through to the mainstream media, but lately I've noticed quite a few articles and editorials directed at medical and nutrition professionals arguing that omega-6 fats have been unfairly maligned. Out of balance The idea that has taken hold in the popular consciousness is that we need to eat more omega-3 fats and less omega-6.  It's often pointed out that our ancestral (hunter/gatherer) diet provided roughly equal amounts of these two essential fatty acids and that the modern (post-agriculture) diet provides ten to twenty times as much omega-6 as omega-3.  This imbalance is thought to promote low-level systemic inflammation and hasten aging and disease. We can address the imbalance by eating more omega-3 (found in fish, fl... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442958 Fri, 29 May 2009 14:49:00 +0100 2442958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442959&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Fpl7fe5PnPXM%2Frestricting-carbs.html Q. I've read that you need to restrict carbs and calories in any diet attempt. However, I've also read that one should consume lots of fruits and veggies, both of which are primarily carbs. What do I do? A. First, let me point out that although restricting carbohydrates is a popular (and effective) approach to weight loss, it is not the only way to lose weight.  The only thing needed for a successful weight loss program is to consume fewer calories than you use.  You can cut calories by restricting carbs or fats--or simply by eating a little less of everything. But, back to the root of your question:  are the carbs in fruits and vegetables unhealthy? No!  You're absolutely correct that fruits and vegetables are close to 100% carbohydrates. Ho... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442959 Thu, 28 May 2009 14:35:07 +0100 2442959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442960&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FFyegqgkcJGM%2Fcardio-fitness-does-still-matter.html Have you noticed a bit of a backlash against cardiovascular exercise lately? The Cardio Free Diet, by Jim Karas, is a good example. The author argues that toiling away on a treadmill or stationary bike is the least efficient way to lose weight. I agree. In terms of burning fat and calories, you get more bang from your buck by spending that time on moderate- to high-intensity strength training. However, cardiovascular fitness is still important.  Although it may not be the shortest path to a sleek and toned physique, maintaining a moderate to high level of cardiovascular fitness slashes your risk of heart disease and increases your life expectancy, as reiterated by this latest report. The authors of this review pooled data from a number of large studies and found that people with ma... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442960 Tue, 26 May 2009 14:40:15 +0100 2442960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2424543&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fpersonal-update-on-hubbys-heart-and-me.html A week or so ago I told you that my husband would be going in for tests related to his heart, and I am due for another Colonoscopy.Tomorrow is the big day for my husband, he will be having a nuclear stress test which is said to be much more accurate than a "regular" stress test...we are very thankful that our insurance will cover this in a day when insurance companies are cutting back on what they will cover.It's a two part test, one part in the morning, then he will have an Echo-Cardiogram, then the 2nd part of the stress test in the afternoon...so this will take most of the day. I can tell you that this man has a heart of gold, he's a tender-hearted man, a good-hearted man...I love him and hope that his physical heart is in as fine shape as all of that.As for me and my colon, well, it's ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2424543 Tue, 19 May 2009 17:14:00 +0100 2424543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2390489&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fhubby-going-to-heart-doctor-this-week.html This coming July, it will be 2 years since my husband suffered a heart attack, and had to have stents "installed" in two of his arteries. I shared the story in a few posts as it was happening back then, here are links to part 1, part 2, part 3 and the final post.In the past couple of months, we have noticed that, even though he is walking every day and doing his best with diet, and keeping his diabetes under control the best he can, he has been experiencing a little shortness of breath. So needless to say we're a bit concerned, and hoping all will go well. I do feel badly for him, it is such a big job and responsibility to take care of yourself when you are a diabetic. A few tips that we hear over and over, but can never hear enough related to caring for the heart:Do some low-level exercis... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2390489 Tue, 05 May 2009 03:42:00 +0100 2390489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382873&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FBaGaGRaLOiM%2Feggs-for-breakf.html Do you remember those photos they used to put on cereal boxes, showing the cereal "as part of a complete breakfast." Invariably, they would include a bowl of cereal, topped with a few photogenic banana slices, a glass of milk, a glass of orange juice, and (inexplicably) a slice of toast with a pat of butter or margarine perched on top. In the current era of carb-consciousness, few would think of this as a healthy breakfast today. Instead, eggs are back in favor, having been rehabilitated from their undeserved bad rap as artery-clogging cholesterol bombs. The latest research indicates that eggs and other high-protein foods are an ideal choice for breakfast.  Eating eggs is not associated with elevated cholesterol or increased risk o... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382873 Fri, 01 May 2009 16:32:00 +0100 2382873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376906&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F_h11nkv_8-o%2Fnuts-and-fish-b.html My recent post on the effects of low-carb and low-fat diets touched off a heated debate among ND readers on which heart risk factors are most significant.  Various commenters argued that triglycerides were more important than cholesterol, or that HDL was more significant than LDL, or that various ratios were the key to assessing heart health risk.  Well, there's something for everyone in this latest study, which found that eating both walnuts and fish reduces a variety of heart health risk factors.  Eating four ounces of salmon twice a week lowered triglycerides about 12% and increased HDL levels by about 3%. Eating an ounce an a half of walnuts every day, on the other hand, lowered total cholesterol about 5% and LDL cholesterol by about 9%, thereby improving the ratio of ... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376906 Tue, 28 Apr 2009 16:59:44 +0100 2376906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2358920&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F7cuKuPASHBY%2Fwatch-out-the-r.html If you are trying to cut back on fat, you are probably on the look out for lower-fat versions of your favorite processed foods. However, if you're also watching your sodium, then you've no doubt noticed that it's hard to find reduced-fat versions of processed foods that are also reduced-sodium. In fact, the low-fat versions are often even higher in sodium than their regular counterparts. Food scientists have found that reducing the salt affects the flavor of low-fat foods more than it affects regular fat foods.  It seems that the absence of fat makes us more sensitive to the absence of salt.  That's why it's practically impossible to produce decent-tasting products like cheese or deli meats that are both low-fat and low-sodium. Why bother with these highly-processed foods, anyw... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2358920 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:16:03 +0100 2358920 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2347679&cid=t_105063_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F04%2F17%2Fnashville-tn-vms-gay-straight-alliance-health-fair-tomorrow-sat-apr-18-other-upcoming-events%2F Vanderbilt Medical School Gay-Straight Alliance Health Fair @ OutCentral When: Sat Apr 18 10am – Sat Apr 18 2pm Where: OutCentral, 1709 Church Street (http://www.outcentral.org/map) Description: A free health fair is offered to the Nashville community, and will include glucose screening, BMI/nutrition screening, HIV testing by Nashville Cares, stress reduction therapies, prostate/breast cancer information booth, domestic violence information booth, American Cancer Society information booth, STI testing by Metro Health, and blood pressure testing. There are a bunch more events coming up soon, too, including: -Keynote Lecture: The Epidemiology of Sexual Identity and Behavior - Mon, Apr 20 -Sex, Lies, and Medical Care: The Basics on LGBT Medical Concerns and Health Disparities - Tues, Apr 2... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2347679 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:55:00 +0100 2347679 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2342060&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F6M297PwB6aY%2Fagave-hype.html Q. I have seen lots of hype about "agave nectar" being low in calories and having a low-glycemic-index. But in comparing the data, I found that it contains almost exactly as many calories as something like honey which is definitely not low-calorie. Are there any other factors that would affect the body's glycemic response besides caloric density? A. I'm really glad you asked this question!  Many people, who have seen agave touted as a healthier sweetener, mistakenly believe that it's lower in calories. But you're absolutely right: Agave syrup or nectar contains virtually the same amount of calories as other liquid sweeteners like honey and maple syrup. However, caloric density is not the only thing that determines glycemic impact, or how a food is likely to affect your b... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2342060 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:14:00 +0100 2342060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2342061&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FeNPpARNWpVw%2Fwith-four-weeks.html We've reached the half-way point of our eight-week Heart Health Champion event!  Over the last four weeks Vanessa Bush has been diligently tracking her diet and transforming her nutritional profile, one habit at a time! A busy working mom, Vanessa is up against the sort of challenges and habits that keep many people from attaining their health goals: no time to exercise, lots of meals on the run, and a weakness for comfort foods. Nonetheless, having confronted the nutritional realities, and bolstered by the tips and support from the NutritionData community, Vanessa is "more determined than ever" to improve her diet and reduce her heart disease risk factors. Despite the speed-bumps thrown into her path by a bad cold, a family vacation, and holiday festivities, she's made s... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2342061 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:16:03 +0100 2342061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2342063&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FSs11Mh8t1fo%2Fanother-log-on.html The debate rages on:  Since the dawn of low-carb dieting back in the 70s, experts have worried that a low-carb, high-fat diet, such as that promoted by the late Dr. Atkins, would increase your risk of heart disease. Proponents of low-carb dieting insist that carbs, not fats, are the true culprit in heart disease.  Over the years, numerous studies have provided evidence to support both arguments--without leading to any real resolution or consensus. This week, a new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association adds another log to the fire.  Researchers at the University of Maryland in Baltimore compared the maintenance phases of three popular diets: Ornish (extremely low fat), Atkins (extremely low carb), and South Beach (moderate "smart" carb... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2342063 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:11:13 +0100 2342063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2302706&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F04%2Finflammation-causing-foods-and.html This article is part of a blog tour for book "The Great Cholesterol Lie".Yesterday the blog tour stopped with Christy Goldfeder who writes a book review of The Great Cholesterol Lie. Tomorrow it will continue with Carrie Huggings who displays a guest post about Myth of Cholesterol.Site Feed (Source: Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets) Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2302706 Sat, 04 Apr 2009 03:02:00 +0100 2302706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2302701&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Fvv0Lc4HYZGI%2Fmeat-and-mortal.html In this study, the researchers attempted to "adjust" for as many variables as they could. They took into account the subjects' age, race, physical activity, vegetable intake, vitamin supplements, alcohol use, body weight, smoking habits, and family health history.    But you can never account for everything. For example, they did NOT account for things like sugar, sodium, monounsaturated fat, or trans fat intake--dietary factors that all have a strong link to either cancer, heart disease, or both.  I wish we could see how adjusting for those factors affected the findings. Seeing Red But my main complaint with this study is not whether they accounted for enough (or the right) confounders but with the most basic aspect of the study's design. The division of meat i... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2302701 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:19:41 +0100 2302701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2302702&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2Fu9DcpNd_G7s%2Fis-taking-fish.html In a paper published in a Canadian medical journal last week, researchers argue that the benefits of taking fish oil are not well enough substantiated to justify its widespread use. The authors are concerned that the growing demand for fish oil will deplete fish populations. Not well enough substantiated?  That's pretty hard to fathom.  The evidence linking the consumption of oily fish or fish oil supplements with improved cardiovascular and brain health is over-whelming.  Compelling enough to cause the American Heart Association and the National Academies of Science (among others) to revise their nutritional guidelines to include specific recommendations for Omega-3 intake.  It's also fairly clear that plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, while beneficial, are not a... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2302702 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:20:55 +0100 2302702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2262144&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FijxmxCOH_jI%2Feight-weeks-to.html I want to introduce you to a new friend of mine! Vanessa Bush is a 44-year old mother of two with a family history of heart disease.  Recently diagnosed with high cholesterol, Vanessa can see herself starting down a road that too many family members have already gone down. Instead, she's agreed to be our new Heart Health Champion. "I don't want to inherit the health problems of my parents' and grandparents' generations," she writes. "I'm not currently taking medication for any health problems, and I don't want to start. So if there's something I can do right now to improve my chances of enjoying my life free of serious illness and disease, I want to be proactive. That's why I've decided to take the ND challenge." Heart Health Champions: Beating heart disease with... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2262144 Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:15:00 +0100 2262144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2262146&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F7lml2h5V1B8%2Fmore-on-alcohol.html My recent post on moderate drinking and breast cancer risk spurred a lot of comments.  So I thought you might also be interested in a new initiative from the National Institutes of Health called Rethinking Drinking. The goal is to help people assess the risks and/or benefits of their drinking habits. I think some people will be suprised to see how low the threshold for "low-risk" drinking is, especially when you consider the size of a "standard" drink is just 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. The newly (or once again) popular martini drinks usually contain the equivalent of 2 to 4 servings of alcohol. Our social norms make it completely unremarkable to have a drink before dinner and a couple of glasses of wine with dinner. This alone would put you in the high risk ca... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2262146 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:09:32 +0100 2262146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2218012&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F02%2Fheart-disease-and-children.html We're in the last few days of the month set aside to focus on heart health...heart disease is not a disease that starts when you're adult, except for hereditary conditions, it's a consequence of habits that can develop in childhood.Today I want to introduce you to a link at a website prepared by americanheart.org just for Kids. It has articles and activities to help children of all ages grow up aware of how to care for themselves, and prevent the kind of heart disease that comes from poor nutrition and health habits. It is broken down by age group, ie. Pre-K, K-2nd grade, 3rd - 5th grade, 6th- 8th grade. What a valuable resource, I encourage you to visit if you are a child, teen, parent or teacher.Site Feed (Source: Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets) Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2218012 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 06:01:00 +0100 2218012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2216534&cid=t_105063_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F02%2F25%2Fthe-connection-between-mental-physical-health%2F Every so often, I’m reminded of the plain truth that many people still do not “get” that your body’s physical health is interconnected and cannot be separated from your body’s mental health. One affects the other. This is no more clear than a spate of news articles from this week so far demonstrating this connection. And this is just a week’s worth of connections… if you go back over the past decade, you’ll find hundreds of such studies demonstrating the strong connection between our mind and body’s health. For instance, researchers at Bangor University in Wales found performance of a mentally fatiguing task prior to a difficult exercise test caused participants to reach exhaustion more quickly than when they did the same exercise when... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2216534 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:30:00 +0100 2216534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2207706&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F21%2Fgenetic-testing-for-heart-attack-risk%2F Soon you’ll get your cholesterol and your genes tested for heart attack risk. Myocardial Infarction Consortium researchers looked at about 1 million different spots in the genomes, the frequency of the letters in the genomes in cases and controls. The genome-wide study identified nine spots associated with an increased risk of heart attack, six of which had been previously described. They showed that when you combined the information from the nine different spots, the 20 percent of the people who had the most unfavorable profile had a 2.25-fold greater risk of having a heart attack, compared to the 20 percent with the best genetic profile. This simple test could be use to determine if statins should be perscribed earlier in life. I also would like to think an unfavorable test would m... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2207706 Sat, 21 Feb 2009 02:52:22 +0100 2207706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2195832&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F6d3DjVFoBoQ%2Fcoffee-and-chol.html Q. There have been a couple articles in the lay press suggesting there is a correlation between increased bad cholesterol and the use of a French Press coffee maker.  Is this just silliness or is there some truth in this correlation that would encourage one to use a drip coffee maker more freqently?  A. There is, in fact, research showing that drinking unfiltered coffee acts can raise cholesterol levels, but only in men.  In fact, the same studies found that drinking unfiltered coffee increased HDL (or "good") cholesterol levels in women!  It's not the caffeine, by the way, but another compound found in coffee that appears to affect cholesterol. This compound is effectively removed by passing the coffee through a filter, as in drip coffee.  If you hav... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2195832 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:07:00 +0100 2195832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2187701&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2009%2F02%2F13%2Frelationship-advice-from-a-9-year-old%2F You simply have to applaud this kid’s audacity and entrepreneurial spirit. Just 9 years old, Alex Greven doesn’t have a girlfriend and has never dated, and yet he’s already written a guide to dating that’s shot to the top of the New York Times bestseller list. Entitled How to Talk to Girls, it’s based on his week long observations of his classmates in the playground. It took a week to write. He showed it to his teacher, who showed it to the school’s principle, and the rest, as they say, was a total chain reaction. An appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres show lead to a contract with Harper Collins and a whirlwind media tour across the States. The books have since been published in five countries and there’s plans for Alex to write three more books for... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2187701 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 07:38:07 +0100 2187701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2174068&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FEUuKecEESso%2Fis-kosher-or-se.html Q. Which salts are lower in sodium? Table salt, kosher salt, sea salt, or rock salt? A.  All forms of salt contain about the same amount of sodium by weight, about 380 mg of sodium per gram.  (Exceptions are the low-sodium salt substitutes, which substitute other mineral salts, such as potassium chloride, for sodium chloride.) However, kosher and sea salts are usually lower in sodium by volume because the shape of the crystals make them less compact than the fine crystals in table salt. The coarser the grind, the more space it takes up and the less sodium by volume. For example: 1 teaspoon of table salt weighs 6 grams and contains about 2325mg of sodium. A teaspoon of sea salt weighs 5 grams and contains 1872mg of sodium. And a teaspoon of kosher salt weight just 3 grams and c... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2174068 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:22:00 +0100 2174068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2174073&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FX5D6p9L8JQ0%2Feating-chocolat.html February might originally have been chosen as Chocolate Lovers' Month because of Valentine's Day, a holiday traditionally linked with chocolate. But the fact that February is also Heart Health Month couldn't be more appropriate. Consumption of dark chocolate has been consistently linked with a host of heart-health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and inflammation, and improving cholesterol profiles and insulin resistance.  As the research has stacked up, sales of dark chocolate have increased 50%! Most people assume that the higher the cacao percentage of the chocolate, the better it is for you. Not necessarily!  Here's an updated guide to selecting the most beneficial chocolates: Region  As with gourmet coffee, you can now buy gourmet dark chocolate with a ... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2174073 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:45:00 +0100 2174073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2174075&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FNjBVElaXAzw%2Fhigh-fat-diet-n.html A study done at Georgetown University using mice found that a high fat diet did not provoke obesity. However, a high-fat diet combined with chronic stress, did.  Another study, recently published in Circulation, found that mice exposed to air pollution were more likely to develop insulin resistance and abdominal obesity compared with mice who ate the same high-fat diet but enjoyed cleaner air. We've known for a while that stress and heart disease are linked. Although these are rodent studies, I think its becoming clear that stress and environment may play a role in obesity and Type 2 diabetes, as well--and that we're going to need to think more holistically about tackling these problems. We spend a lot of time trying to figure out how individual nutrients and dietary factors affec... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2174075 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:37:25 +0100 2174075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2142021&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fmiddle-aged-adults-nutrition-fitness.html After my comments on my age in the previous post, I was happy to see that in the following article, the age range for "middle-aged adults" that were part of a study were aged 45-64! So I'm not quite a Senior after all...then why do I get AARP Magazine...hmmm:-)Getting serious now, here's a study that I think you'll find helpful...we can't get enough encouragement to eat the right kinds of foods, can we?Dr. Dana King and his team of researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have just completed a very inspirational study. Dr. King and his team set out to find if middle-aged adults could reap the rewards of habits like eating vegetables and walking 30 minutes a day.The researchers reported in June 2007 that middle-aged adults age 45 to 64 who began eating five or more fruits and... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2142021 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:27:00 +0100 2142021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2142023&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fcelebrating-wholesome-oats.html Last year I discovered that January is National Oatmeal month! My husband LOVES Oatmeal, but we never knew there was a special month set aside to recognize this healthy grain. According to the Quacker Oatmeal website, it is because Oatmeal is consumed more in January than any other month. It's no wonder...it's so cold outside in many parts of the country, and starting the day with a hot bowl of stick-to-the-ribs oatmeal is a soothing treat...not to mention it's health benefits, including aiding in the lowering of cholestorol. I do have some information about the health benefits of Oats at my website, stop by for some great information.Site Feed (Source: Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets) Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2142023 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:54:00 +0100 2142023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2116747&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2FNKZ0cNa3t68%2Ffarmed-salmon-g.html The latest nutrient data from the USDA shows that farmed Atlantic salmon has undergone what is perhaps the most dramatic nutritional makeover in history.  Salmon is known for being rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and, as you know, the anti-inflammatory diet is very big these days. (The recognition of inflammation as a key factor in heart disease and other common diseases was hailed by Time Magazine as one of the Top Ten Medical Breakthroughs of 2008.) Several years ago, I caused quite a stir by pointing out that farmed salmon was actually highly inflammatory. When I first published the IF Ratings, a 3-ounce serving had an IF Rating of -491. (For more background, see this related post on IF Ratings.)  As I (and others) pointed out, farmed Atlantic salmon was qui... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2116747 Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:09:00 +0100 2116747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2075905&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fgetting-comfortable-sleep-and-heart.html How well do you sleep at night? I know that in the past year, I am happy if I get 7 hours of sleep, it seems like 6 gets me through the day, anything under that, and it affects me mentally and physically.Last week I saw a headline indicating that there is a link between not getting enough sleep and heart health...my first thought was that it makes sense, because often a cause of lack of sleep is stress, which is generally unhealthy. I was able to pull up a New York Times article with more details about the study that was done, and how it appears to show that less sleep may increase the production of calcification in the arteries, but it doesn't appear that there is anything entirely conclusive as to why.But the bottom line is, we do need to get enough sleep. For most, that is 7-8 hours. If... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2075905 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 04:10:00 +0100 2075905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2036151&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fcan-children-be-taught-about-healthy.html I think so, it's never to early to learn what fats are healthy, and what fats are not. Such things were part of our way of eating as my children were growing up, and now they have the tools to know what is healthy and what is not. All we can do is provide the tools, and when they are under our roof, make sure the meals we serve set them on the right course. It is up to them to decide whether to stay on that course or not, but whatever good you do for your children now is helping their bodies at a time of rapid growth and change.Teaching children from a young age to eat healthy fats can have lifelong health benefits according to a new study published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation in August, 2007.The study focused on over one thousand children in Finland who were ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2036151 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 03:59:00 +0100 2036151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2026946&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2008%2F12%2F09%2Fhealthbolt-giveaway-win-a-timex-ironman-race-trainer%2F   Okay, I’ll be honest. I don’t usually spend much time checking my heart rate when exercising. I’m usually too busy simply trying to keep breathing and not collapsing. But I’ve just discovered a gadget that would probably let me do both. It’s the  Timex Ironman Race Trainer, a heart rate monitor system that allows the user (exerciser) to wirelessly download their workout data. Once downloaded, you can then analyze the information to find out how to improve and enhance your workouts, track your progress and attain any fitness goals you have. Here’s what you get with the Timex Ironman Race Trainer kit… Race Trainer digital heart rate monitor Digital 2.4 heart rate sensor and strap Data Xchanger USB device, and Free access to Timex Ironman online training site. Haven’t... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2026946 Tue, 09 Dec 2008 23:00:00 +0100 2026946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2017826&cid=t_105063_87_f&fid=35052&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FWomensBioethicsBlog%2F%7E3%2F477034875%2Fweek-in-review.html Embryo adoption reopens controversy. Back to the question of when does human life begin, and so what are our responsibilities toward all those frozen embryos out there.Sports gene test available for little kids. So little Johnny has the genes to be a sprinter, push him in that direction (whether he enjoys it or not)? One can also think of more disturbing uses, like using such a test for embryo election (excuse me, I’ve been in a reproductive rights course this semester, so these issues are top of mind!).Overseas clinical trials under the microscope—concern whether medical and ethical practices are being adhered to in developing countries. Out of sight, out of mind?Studies show arrogance and abusive behavior by doctors contributes tomedical mistakes, preventable complications, and even ... Women's Bioethics Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2017826 Sat, 06 Dec 2008 23:31:25 +0100 2017826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1985648&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F464160971%2Fwhere-can-i-go.html Q.  I am supposed to go on a low fat, low cholesterol diet (along with exercise).  How do I know how much of this I can have a day?  My cholesterol was found to be very high and I am at a potential cardiac risk.  Is there somewhere I can go to read or find out some basics?  Thank You for your site!! A.  You can learn more about nutrition and heart health on our Heart Health Resource Center. There, you'll learn more about all these factors and how to use and customize the tools on Nutrition Data to support your diet and health goals. There is some controversy over whether the old prescription of a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet is really the best advice for those concerned about heart disease.  First of all, research indicates that reducing dietary chole... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1985648 Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:10:00 +0100 1985648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1976543&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36988&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happynutritionistsnuggets.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fenergy-at-tip-of-your-tongue-almost.html Do you know what "Sub-lingual" means? It refers to the area under the tongue. There is a rich supply of veins just under the thin tissue under our tongue, and because of this, many things that are put under the tongue that are soluble will quickly find their way into the blood stream. This is why I am warned that if my diabetic husband has a low blood sugar episode, I am to quickly put sugar or squeeze some frosting from a tube of cake decorating frosting in his mouth under the tongue where it will mix with saliva and quickly find it's way through the tissue directly into his blood stream.There are supplements that are best taken by putting them under the tongue as well, homeopathics are well known for this.But so is vitamin B-12. B-12 is well known for it's ability to increase energy, in ... Happy Nutritionist's Nuggets blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1976543 Thu, 20 Nov 2008 04:51:00 +0100 1976543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1964715&cid=t_105063_167_f&fid=36989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FNutritionData%2F%7E3%2F454125684%2Fstatins-for-eve.html A study just published in the New England Journal of Medicine finds that some people with normal cholesterol levels may benefit from taking cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins), even more than those with elevated cholesterol do! What are we looking at here? In addition to lowering cholesterol, statins also turn out to have potent anti-inflammatory actions. For those with systemic inflammation, statins appear to dramatically lower the risk of heart attack and stroke--not by lowering cholesterol but by reducing inflammation.  Paul Ridker, a cardiologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, is quoted in this summary of the study from NPR.:"When I, as a cardiologist, prescribe statins to patients with high cholesterol, I do so because I believe they'll lower the risk of a ... The ND Blog: Notes from the Nutritionista by Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1964715 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 16:36:24 +0100 1964715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1918134&cid=t_105063_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FVZoD9OLV6VQ%2F We as women have to take better care of ourselves! I know there is so much to do and take care of, besides you, but it is so important. Just look at what the numbers are saying… I am just as guilty as the next women, I take care of everyone first and then forget about me but as I grow older I am realizing how important this is. The trend among women was more alarming, with hypertension rates in the 1990s reversing and beginning to increase, researchers said. Between the early 1990s and early 2000s, the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension in adult women increased from 17 percent to more than 22 percent. At the same time, the rate of hypertension in men decreased from 19 percent to 17 percent. Tags: blood-pressure, heart-health, womens-healthShare This (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1918134 Tue, 28 Oct 2008 16:11:05 +0100 1918134