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Diet, Cognitive Ability May Play Role in Heart Disease
November 19, 2009
Study finds fewer deaths among higher-functioning seniors who eat lots of fruits, vegetables. Seniors who eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and who have good cognitive function are much less likely to die from heart disease than those who have poorer cognitive function and eat fewer fruits and vegetables, a new study has found.
Cognitive function refers to the ability to think, remember, plan and organize information.
Researchers at the Drexel University School of Public Health in Philadelphia analyzed diet and cognitive data on 4,879 people (3,101 women and 1,778 men), age 70 and older, who took part in the U.
Cognitive function refers to the ability to think, remember, plan and organize information.
Researchers at the Drexel University School of Public Health in Philadelphia analyzed diet and cognitive data on 4,879 people (3,101 women and 1,778 men), age 70 and older, who took part in the U.
Niacin Adds No Benefit for Statin Patients
Study
November 18, 2009
Taking the B vitamin didn't reverse or stall carotid artery disease. Taking the B vitamin niacin offers no additional benefit to seniors with coronary artery disease who are already prescribed cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, U.S. researchers say.
Heartburn Drugs Can Thwart Popular Blood Thinner
November 17, 2009
Combination can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, U.S. officials say. Combining the antacid Prilosec with the popular blood thinner Plavix (clopidogrel) can cut the effectiveness of Plavix by half, putting patients at risk for heart attack or stroke, U.S. health officials said Tuesday.
Folic Acid Fortification Might Boost Cancer Risk
November 17, 2009
Norwegian study found supplementation raised chances of disease by 21%. Although folic acid fortification of foods can prevent many birth defects, it may also increase the risk for developing cancer, Norwegian researchers report.
Since 1998, many countries have mandated folic acid (vitamin B9) fortification of foods to decrease the incidence of neural-tube defects in newborns. By October 2009, the flour produced in these countries, plus the flour that is fortified voluntarily, represented 30 percent of the world's wheat flour produced in large mills.
Since 1998, many countries have mandated folic acid (vitamin B9) fortification of foods to decrease the incidence of neural-tube defects in newborns. By October 2009, the flour produced in these countries, plus the flour that is fortified voluntarily, represented 30 percent of the world's wheat flour produced in large mills.
Benefits of Eating Fish May Depend on Preparation
November 17, 2009
Baked or boiled beats fried or dried for heart health, researchers say. You'll get more heart-healthy benefits from omega-3 fatty acids if you eat baked or boiled fish instead of fried, dried or salted fish, according to a new study, which also found that adding low-sodium soy sauce or tofu is a good idea for women.
"It appears that boiling or baking fish with low-sodium soy sauce [shoyu] and tofu is beneficial, while eating fried, salted or dried fish is not. In fact, these methods of preparation may contribute to your risk," study author Lixin Meng, a doctoral candidate at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, said in a news release from the American Heart Association.
"It appears that boiling or baking fish with low-sodium soy sauce [shoyu] and tofu is beneficial, while eating fried, salted or dried fish is not. In fact, these methods of preparation may contribute to your risk," study author Lixin Meng, a doctoral candidate at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, said in a news release from the American Heart Association.
Selenium Supplements May Pose Heart Risk
November 17, 2009
Increased cholesterol levels worry researchers. Taking selenium supplements could boost your cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease, English researchers suggest.
Selenium .
Selenium .
Biotech Soybeans Good Source of Omega-3
November 17, 2009
Oil from engineered beans might help reduce heart attacks, researchers say. Oil from genetically modified soybeans boosts levels of an important omega-3 fatty acid in the body, which may reduce the risk of heart attacks, U.S. researchers say.
Qutenza Approved for Post-Shingles Nerve Pain
November 17, 2009
Active ingredient is found in chili peppers The Qutenza (capsaicin) skin patch has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat pain due to postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), the nerve pain that may follow shingles, drug maker NeurogesX said in a news release.
Low Vitamin D Levels Linked to Heart Disease
November 16, 2009
But further trials are needed to prove this conclusively, researchers say. If your levels of vitamin D are too low, you may be at significantly increased risk for stroke, heart disease and death, a new study suggests.
Researchers followed 27,686 people, aged 50 and older, with no history of cardiovascular disease. The participants were divided into three groups based on their vitamin D levels: normal (more than 30 nanograms per milliliter), low (15 to 30 nanograms per milliliter), or very low (less than 15 nanograms per milliliter).
Researchers followed 27,686 people, aged 50 and older, with no history of cardiovascular disease. The participants were divided into three groups based on their vitamin D levels: normal (more than 30 nanograms per milliliter), low (15 to 30 nanograms per milliliter), or very low (less than 15 nanograms per milliliter).
Lysteda Approved for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
November 16, 2009
Designed to help blood to clot Tranexamic acid (Lysteda) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the first non-hormonal drug to treat heavy menstrual bleeding, a medical condition called menorrhagia.
Child Food Allergies on the Rise in U.S.
November 16, 2009
Experts unsure if growth stems from more awareness or actual increase in numbers. Pediatric food allergies, which can sometimes be life-threatening, are increasing at a dramatic rate in the United States, new research shows.
But the study authors aren't sure if the rise in reports of food allergies reflects an increase in actual prevalence or if better awareness has led more people to seek treatment for their symptoms.
Whatever the cause, it's clear that the number of children with food allergies has gone up 18 percent and the number seeking treatment for food allergy at emergency departments or hospitals has tripled since 1993.
But the study authors aren't sure if the rise in reports of food allergies reflects an increase in actual prevalence or if better awareness has led more people to seek treatment for their symptoms.
Whatever the cause, it's clear that the number of children with food allergies has gone up 18 percent and the number seeking treatment for food allergy at emergency departments or hospitals has tripled since 1993.
Tapping Into Curry's Health Benefits
November 13, 2009
Curcumin capsules might boost body's ability to absorb potent antioxidant. Tiny capsules could increase the body's absorption of the yellow curry ingredient curcumin, which is being tested in clinical trials for the treatment of colon cancer, psoriasis and Alzheimer's disease.
Curcumin, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, is a potent antioxidant. However, digestive juices in the gastrointestinal tract quickly destroy curcumin, which means little of it actually makes it into the blood.
Curcumin, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, is a potent antioxidant. However, digestive juices in the gastrointestinal tract quickly destroy curcumin, which means little of it actually makes it into the blood.
Another Swine Flu Vaccine Approved for Children
November 13, 2009
CSL's shot now for ages 6 months and older CSL Limited's H1N1 influenza vaccine has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to include children 6 months and older, the agency said.
FDA Questions Safety of Caffeinated Alcoholic Drinks
November 13, 2009
Companies asked to show proof of safety and lawfulness of selling such beverages. Federal health officials said Friday that they plan to look into the safety and legality of making and selling popular alcohol drinks that contain caffeine.
Prompted by a request from several states' attorneys general, the U.S.
Prompted by a request from several states' attorneys general, the U.S.
Web Giants Urge FDA to Update Ad Guidelines
November 13, 2009
Google and Yahoo join forces with drug makers at Internet marketing hearing. Internet giants Google and Yahoo have lined up with the pharmaceutical industry in asking the U.S. government to draft new rules that would give drug companies more latitude to advertise online.
Health Tip
Signs That You Might Be Malnourished
November 13, 2009
And that you should see a doctor You know that it's important to eat a healthy, balanced diet with all the nutrients that your body needs. A poor diet lacking in essential vitamins and minerals can lead to serious health problems.
Here are warning signs of serious malnutrition that warrant a visit with your doctor and prompt treatment:
Losing consciousness or fainting.
Here are warning signs of serious malnutrition that warrant a visit with your doctor and prompt treatment:
Losing consciousness or fainting.
Chocolate Soothes the Stressed-Out Soul
November 12, 2009
Study found eating dark version lowered levels of stress hormones. Feeling stressed? A dose of dark chocolate could cheer you right up by lowering your stress hormone levels, a new study suggests.
Swiss researchers, who report their findings in the online issue of the Journal of Proteome Research, tracked volunteers who said they were highly stressed.
"The study provides strong evidence that a daily consumption of 40 grams [1.
Swiss researchers, who report their findings in the online issue of the Journal of Proteome Research, tracked volunteers who said they were highly stressed.
"The study provides strong evidence that a daily consumption of 40 grams [1.
Trial Data on Anti-Seizure Drug Might Have Been Manipulated
Report
November 11, 2009
Study found outcome measures differed between company documents, published reports. An unusual look at internal documents from a pharmaceutical company suggests that clinical data was manipulated to make a popular anti-seizure drug, gabapentin (Neurontin), look more effective than it actually was, thereby increasing possibilities for its off-label usage, according to a new report.
"This means we're not seeing the full picture, and the picture we are seeing is suspect because perhaps there was selective reporting of outcomes so that only the positive outcomes were reported," said Kay Dickersin, senior author of a paper reporting the alleged deception in the Nov. 12 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
"This means we're not seeing the full picture, and the picture we are seeing is suspect because perhaps there was selective reporting of outcomes so that only the positive outcomes were reported," said Kay Dickersin, senior author of a paper reporting the alleged deception in the Nov. 12 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
Gut Bacteria Might Be Making People Fat
November 11, 2009
Study in mice suggests link between intestinal microbes, diet and obesity. Eating a Westernized diet with lots of sugar and carbohydrates caused almost instantaneous changes in the gut flora of mice .
Teen Obesity Ups MS Risk in Women
November 10, 2009
Researchers suspect lower vitamin D levels may be to blame. While there are plenty of good reasons to avoid obesity in your teens, a new study now suggests that extra weight in adolescence may increase your risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) later.
Reporting in the Nov. 10 issue of Neurology, Harvard researchers found that being obese at age 18 more than doubles a woman's risk of developing MS later in life compared to her slimmer peers.
Reporting in the Nov. 10 issue of Neurology, Harvard researchers found that being obese at age 18 more than doubles a woman's risk of developing MS later in life compared to her slimmer peers.
To Feel Better, Low-Fat Diet May Be Best
November 09, 2009
Comparison of plans finds differences in mood despite similar weight loss. Both a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet such as the popular Atkins program and a low-fat, high-carb diet appear to help people lose pounds over the course of a year.
But as for mood? Only the low-fat diets will result in long-term improvement in mood, according to a study in the Nov. 9 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.
But as for mood? Only the low-fat diets will result in long-term improvement in mood, according to a study in the Nov. 9 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.
Istodax Approved for Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
November 06, 2009
It's a disfiguring cancer affecting the skin The Gloucester Pharmaceuticals drug Istodax (romidepsin) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in people who have tried at least one prior systemic therapy, the drug's manufacturer said in a news release.
Good Sleepers More Likely to Eat Right
November 06, 2009
Adequate shuteye is linked to healthier food choices in study. Getting enough sleep can help you make healthier food choices, researchers say.
The new study included 542 male motor freight workers, who often work long hours and have irregular shifts. The average age of the participants was 49, and 83 percent were white.
The new study included 542 male motor freight workers, who often work long hours and have irregular shifts. The average age of the participants was 49, and 83 percent were white.
Green Tea May Help Prevent Oral Cancer
November 05, 2009
Small study reports evidence of cancer-fighting properties. A new study appears to add to growing evidence that green tea might help protect against cancer.
U.S.
U.S.
FDA Initiative Seeks to Reduce Accidental Overdoses
November 04, 2009
The program will enlist health-care workers, drug makers, consumers, patients. U.S. health authorities unveiled Wednesday an initiative designed to reduce preventable injuries and deaths caused by misuse of medications.
Fast Eating Limits Gut Hormones That Induce Fullness
November 04, 2009
The result is overeating, research shows. Eating too fast can lead to overeating because gulping down food limits the release of hormones in the gut that trigger the feeling of being full, Greek researchers have found.
For the study, volunteers ate 300 milliliters of ice cream at different rates. Blood levels of glucose, insulin, lipids and gut hormones were measured before and after consumption of the ice cream.
For the study, volunteers ate 300 milliliters of ice cream at different rates. Blood levels of glucose, insulin, lipids and gut hormones were measured before and after consumption of the ice cream.
Sugar Shortens Life Span in Worms
November 03, 2009
But it's unclear whether the same holds true for humans, researchers say. For a certain kind of worm, the sweet life may also be the short life.
New research suggests that added sugar in their diet robs the creatures of 20 percent of their life span.
It's unclear what the findings mean for humans, but they raise questions about the impact of diets high in sugar, according to the study authors, who report their findings in the November issue of the journal Cell Metabolism.
New research suggests that added sugar in their diet robs the creatures of 20 percent of their life span.
It's unclear what the findings mean for humans, but they raise questions about the impact of diets high in sugar, according to the study authors, who report their findings in the November issue of the journal Cell Metabolism.
FDA Issues Warning for Diabetes Drug
November 03, 2009
Reports of kidney problems for those using Byetta prompted action. Reports about possible kidney problems, including renal failure, in people taking the diabetes drug exenatide (Byetta) have prompted changes to the drug's prescribing information, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Monday.
Living With Less TV, More Sweat Boosts Weight Loss
November 05, 2009
Home environment plays role in effort to drop pounds, experts say. If you want to lose weight, exercise and diet are crucial. But a new study says other factors appear to play a role, too .
Diet Soda, Sodium Tied to Kidney Trouble
Studies
November 02, 2009
It's more proof that what you eat and drink affects health, researchers say. A diet high in salt or artificially sweetened drinks increases the risk of kidney function decline, two studies show.
"There are currently limited data on the role of diet in kidney disease," researcher Dr. Julie Lin, of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, said in a news release.
"There are currently limited data on the role of diet in kidney disease," researcher Dr. Julie Lin, of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, said in a news release.
Food Stamps Help Stave Off Hunger in Many U.S. Homes
November 02, 2009
Over 30-year period, nearly half of American children received nutrition assistance, analysis shows. At some point, nearly half of all American children and teens will live in a home that receives food stamps, a new study shows.
Researchers analyzed 30 years (1968 to 1997) of national data collected by the Panel Study of Income Dynamics and found that by the time they were 1 year old, 12.1 percent of U.
Researchers analyzed 30 years (1968 to 1997) of national data collected by the Panel Study of Income Dynamics and found that by the time they were 1 year old, 12.1 percent of U.
Pumpkin May Fight Yeast Infections
October 30, 2009
Age-old folk remedy may lead to new antibiotic therapy, study finds.
As you carve your Halloween jack-o-lantern, consider this new finding: That pumpkin holds potential as a treatment for yeast infections in adults and babies.
Korean researchers, reporting online recently in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, examined whether proteins extracted from pumpkin rinds might stop yeast-infection fungus from growing.
Pumpkins have long been used as folk medicine in some regions of the world, and researchers have suggested they might have antibiotic powers.
As you carve your Halloween jack-o-lantern, consider this new finding: That pumpkin holds potential as a treatment for yeast infections in adults and babies.
Korean researchers, reporting online recently in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, examined whether proteins extracted from pumpkin rinds might stop yeast-infection fungus from growing.
Pumpkins have long been used as folk medicine in some regions of the world, and researchers have suggested they might have antibiotic powers.
Veggies in Pregnancy Lowers Child's Diabetes Risk
October 30, 2009
Type 1 less likely in kids whose moms favored these foods, study found. Children born to mothers who ate plenty of vegetables during pregnancy are less likely to have type 1 diabetes, Swedish researchers say.
"This is the first study to show a link between vegetable intake during pregnancy and the risk of the child subsequently developing type 1 diabetes, but more studies of various kinds will be needed before we can say anything definitive," study author Hilde Brekke, a clinical nutritionist at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, said in a news release from the university.
Brekke and colleagues studied 6,000 5-year-olds and found that 3 percent either had fully developed type 1 diabetes or had elevated levels of antibodies that indicate a risk of developing the disease.
"This is the first study to show a link between vegetable intake during pregnancy and the risk of the child subsequently developing type 1 diabetes, but more studies of various kinds will be needed before we can say anything definitive," study author Hilde Brekke, a clinical nutritionist at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, said in a news release from the university.
Brekke and colleagues studied 6,000 5-year-olds and found that 3 percent either had fully developed type 1 diabetes or had elevated levels of antibodies that indicate a risk of developing the disease.
Fructose May Raise Blood Pressure
October 30, 2009
Drinking more than two sweetened sodas a day boosts risk of hypertension, study finds. Here's a new reason to put down that sugary soft drink: Research suggests that a diet high in fructose, a common sweetener, boosts the risk of high blood pressure.
High-fructose corn syrup is found in many processed foods and beverages. Americans consume 30 percent more fructose now than 20 years ago, and researchers have linked higher fructose consumption to the growing obesity epidemic.
High-fructose corn syrup is found in many processed foods and beverages. Americans consume 30 percent more fructose now than 20 years ago, and researchers have linked higher fructose consumption to the growing obesity epidemic.
Diet, Exercise Thwart Diabetes
Study
October 29, 2009
Lifestyle changes really do work to prevent type 2, experts say. Diet and exercise can keep diabetes at bay for a decade, cutting the risk for the disease by more than a third in the most susceptible people, a new study finds.
About 11 percent of U.S.
About 11 percent of U.S.
New Clues to How Fish Oils Help Arthritis Patients
October 28, 2009
Findings may boost treatments for other inflammatory diseases, researchers say. Researchers think they now understand the way that fish oils benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions linked to inflammation.
The body converts an ingredient in fish oils called DHA into a chemical called Resolvin D2, which reduces the inflammation that can lead to various diseases, the scientists from Queen Mary, University of London and Harvard Medical School explained in their study published in the Oct. 28 issue of the journal Nature.
The body converts an ingredient in fish oils called DHA into a chemical called Resolvin D2, which reduces the inflammation that can lead to various diseases, the scientists from Queen Mary, University of London and Harvard Medical School explained in their study published in the Oct. 28 issue of the journal Nature.
Herbicides, Fibrate Drugs May Block Taste Receptors
October 27, 2009
More research needed to determine the health consequences of compounds in question, experts say. Some common herbicides and cholesterol drugs block a nutrient-sensing receptor known as T1R3, researchers report.
"Compounds that either activate or block T1R3 receptors could have significant metabolic effects, potentially influencing diseases such as obesity, type II diabetes and metabolic syndrome," study author Dr. Bedrich Mosinger said in a news release.
"Compounds that either activate or block T1R3 receptors could have significant metabolic effects, potentially influencing diseases such as obesity, type II diabetes and metabolic syndrome," study author Dr. Bedrich Mosinger said in a news release.
Arzerra Approved for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
October 27, 2009
Affects some 16,000 people annually Arzerra (ofatumumab) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
Short-Term, High-Dose Vitamin D2 May Ease Deficiency
October 27, 2009
Expert says treatment could prevent several bone problems. Researchers are reporting that eight weeks of treatment with large doses of vitamin D2 can eliminate vitamin D deficiency, and twice-monthly doses can keep the condition at bay for up to six years.
The dosage .
The dosage .
Sebelius
There Will Be Swine Flu Vaccine for All Who Want It
October 26, 2009
But the HHS secretary admits that delays are limiting supplies so far. While acknowledging delays in getting the swine flu vaccine to Americans, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said Monday that the vaccine "is coming out the door as fast as it comes off the production line.
6 Million U.S. Kids Lack Enough Vitamin D
October 26, 2009
Minority children are hit hardest, nationwide study finds. While the optimal amount of vitamin D is still subject to debate, a new study finds one thing is sure: over 6 million American children are getting too little of this essential nutrient.
"There are a lot of studies demonstrating associations between low levels of vitamin D and a laundry list of poor health outcomes," noted lead researcher Dr. Jonathan Mansbach, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and a pediatrician at Children's Hospital Boston.
"There are a lot of studies demonstrating associations between low levels of vitamin D and a laundry list of poor health outcomes," noted lead researcher Dr. Jonathan Mansbach, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and a pediatrician at Children's Hospital Boston.
Health Tip
Dietary Needs of Aging Women
October 26, 2009
Find out what your body needs As women age, their dietary needs change. A healthy diet is always important, but even more so as women get older.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests women should consume:
At least 1,500 milligrams daily of calcium, which may be found in dairy products and leafy green vegetables, or dietary supplements.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests women should consume:
At least 1,500 milligrams daily of calcium, which may be found in dairy products and leafy green vegetables, or dietary supplements.
Obama Declares Swine Flu a National Emergency
October 25, 2009
Action allows hospitals to better handle large numbers of patients as outbreak spreads President Barack Obama has declared the H1N1 swine flu a national emergency.
His proclamation, signed Friday night and released by the White House Saturday, will allow hospitals and doctors' offices to get legal waivers of federal rules so they can handle large numbers of sick people as the outbreak spreads.
"The H1N1 is moving rapidly, as expected.
His proclamation, signed Friday night and released by the White House Saturday, will allow hospitals and doctors' offices to get legal waivers of federal rules so they can handle large numbers of sick people as the outbreak spreads.
"The H1N1 is moving rapidly, as expected.
Swine Flu Vaccine Still in Short Supply
October 23, 2009
Goal of 40 million doses by end of October won't be met, CDC says. Production delays continue to hamper distribution of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine, a leading U.S. health official said Friday.
Cocoa in Chocolate May Be Good for the Heart
October 23, 2009
Study shows it reduces inflammation associated with heart disease. If you're tempted to raid your child's Halloween candy stash at the end of this month, here's one reason you might not have to restrain yourself.
Spanish researchers put 42 men and women on a diet that included 40 grams of unsweetened cocoa powder (about 1.4 ounces) mixed with skim milk daily, or plain skim milk.
Spanish researchers put 42 men and women on a diet that included 40 grams of unsweetened cocoa powder (about 1.4 ounces) mixed with skim milk daily, or plain skim milk.
Red-Grape Compound May Improve Diabetes
October 22, 2009
But so far resveratrol works only as an injection into the brain of mice, study finds New research provides further insight into how a health-boosting compound found in red grapes may help the body fend off type 2 diabetes.
But scientists have only seen the effect in mice who received injections in the brain, and no evidence has emerged that consuming red wine or other products made with grapes will alleviate the blood sugar disease.
The findings do tell scientists about how the compound known as resveratrol works on the brain, said senior study author Roberto Coppari.
But scientists have only seen the effect in mice who received injections in the brain, and no evidence has emerged that consuming red wine or other products made with grapes will alleviate the blood sugar disease.
The findings do tell scientists about how the compound known as resveratrol works on the brain, said senior study author Roberto Coppari.
Health Tip
You Need Vitamin B-12
October 21, 2009
What can happen if you're low Vitamin B-12 is an essential vitamin that's found in dairy foods and many types of meat. It plays a role in the health of your nervous system and in the production of red blood cells.
The American Academy of Family Physicians says here are the possible health consequences of a vitamin B-12 deficiency:
Dementia.
The American Academy of Family Physicians says here are the possible health consequences of a vitamin B-12 deficiency:
Dementia.
Seasonal Flu Vaccine Approved for Children
October 20, 2009
Fluarix sanctioned for kids aged 3 to 17 GlaxoSmithKline's seasonal flu vaccine, Fluarix, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for children aged 3 to 17, the agency said in a news release.
School Meals Need to Get Healthier
Report
October 20, 2009
New recommendations tackle obesity epidemic in U.S. New guidelines are needed to improve the diets of U.S. school children, finds a new government report that would set maximum calorie counts for school breakfasts and lunches.
Common Antioxidant Might Slow Parkinson's
October 20, 2009
But too much urate can also cause trouble, so more study is needed, experts say. A new look at some old data adds convincing evidence that high body fluid levels of the antioxidant urate slow the progressive nerve damage of Parkinson's disease.
However, the researchers also warned of the potential danger of putting that information to immediate use.
"The study doesn't prove that urate is slowing down the disease, and we need clinical trials to see if progression is based on levels of urate," explained study senior author Dr.
However, the researchers also warned of the potential danger of putting that information to immediate use.
"The study doesn't prove that urate is slowing down the disease, and we need clinical trials to see if progression is based on levels of urate," explained study senior author Dr.
Votrient Approved for Advanced Kidney Cancer
October 20, 2009
Designed to thwart blood vessel growth in tumors Votrient (pazopanib) has been approved to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer in which cancerous cells invade the lining of small tubes in the kidney called tubules, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said in a news release.
Gardasil Approved to Prevent Genital Warts in Males
October 19, 2009
Caused by human papillomavirus The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved use of the cervical cancer vaccine Gardasil to prevent genital warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11 in boys and men, ages 9 through 26.
Minnesota Pig Infected With H1N1 Flu
October 19, 2009
Federal officials say there's no danger in eating pork products. A pig that was shown at the Minnesota State Fair two months ago has tested positive for the H1N1 virus, making it the first case of a pig contracting the virus in the United States, federal officials said Monday.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Mercury Levels Not Abnormal in Autistic Children
October 19, 2009
Study finds no differences when compared to kids without disorder. A new study finds no differences in blood mercury levels between children who are developing normally and those diagnosed with autism or autism spectrum disorders.
The findings, appearing online Oct. 19 in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, may quell some of the debate surrounding mercury and autism.
The findings, appearing online Oct. 19 in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, may quell some of the debate surrounding mercury and autism.
Micardis Given Wider Approval
October 19, 2009
For cardiac patients who can't take an ACE inhibitor Micardis (telmisartan) has received expanded approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in people 55 or older who cannot take a class of cardiovascular drugs called ACE inhibitors, maker Boehringer Ingelheim said Monday.
Health Tip
The Importance of Folic Acid
October 19, 2009
It can help prevent birth defects Folic acid is particularly important for pregnant women, and should be taken, if possible, beginning at least three months before they become pregnant.
The U.S.
The U.S.
11 More Children Die From Swine Flu
CDC
October 17, 2009
And vaccine production delays mean fewer shots will be available by month's end. Eleven more U.S. children died from H1N1 swine flu during the past week, a federal health official said Friday, adding that the disease is now so widespread it has surpassed epidemic proportions.
11 More Children Die From Swine Flu
CDC
October 16, 2009
And vaccine production delays mean fewer shots will be available by month's end. Eleven more U.S. children died from H1N1 swine flu during the past week, a federal health official said Friday, adding that the disease is now so widespread it has surpassed epidemic proportions.
New FDA Study Seeks Feedback on Lasik Surgery
October 16, 2009
Warnings issued to 17 centers for lax reporting of procedure-related adverse events. The percentage of patients who experience serious quality-of-life problems after Lasik eye surgery is being studied by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which has also issued warning letters to a number of Lasik facilities that weren't properly reporting problems with the procedure.
Cervarix Approved to Help Prevent Cervical Cancer
October 16, 2009
Vaccine blocks strains of human papilloma virus GlaxoSmithKline's Cervarix vaccine has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to prevent the leading cause of cervical cancer, the Associated Press reported Friday.
Soda Taxes Not Making a Dent in U.S. Waistlines
October 16, 2009
Small increases in cost for sugary drinks haven't slowed obesity epidemic, study finds. Current state taxes and levies on soft drinks are slowing consumption, but not enough to curb the obesity epidemic in the United States, researchers say.
In an analysis of 16 years of data (1990 to 2006) on how various forms of soft drink taxation affected body mass index, researchers found that taxation has only a minor effect on BMI, which is a measurement based on weight and height. For example, a 1 percent tax increase causes a BMI decrease of 0.
In an analysis of 16 years of data (1990 to 2006) on how various forms of soft drink taxation affected body mass index, researchers found that taxation has only a minor effect on BMI, which is a measurement based on weight and height. For example, a 1 percent tax increase causes a BMI decrease of 0.
Common Antioxidant Might Slow Parkinson's
October 13, 2009
But too much urate can also cause trouble, so more study is needed, experts say. A new look at some old data adds convincing evidence that high body fluid levels of the antioxidant urate slow the progressive nerve damage of Parkinson's disease.
However, the researchers also warned of the potential danger of putting that information to immediate use.
"The study doesn't prove that urate is slowing down the disease, and we need clinical trials to see if progression is based on levels of urate," explained study senior author Dr.
However, the researchers also warned of the potential danger of putting that information to immediate use.
"The study doesn't prove that urate is slowing down the disease, and we need clinical trials to see if progression is based on levels of urate," explained study senior author Dr.
Outbreak Investigation Highlights Drug Safety Issues
October 13, 2009
Noncompliance with manufacturing regulations led to contaminated syringes, report says. An outbreak of bloodstream infections in the United States a few years ago was caused by contamination of pre-filled heparin and saline syringes made by a company that wasn't following safety regulations, according to a new report that identified areas in medical monitoring systems that need to be improved.
Between October 2007 and February 2008, 162 bloodstream infections caused by the bacteria Serratia marcescens were reported at health-care facilities in nine states. An investigation traced the problem to pre-filled syringes from a single manufacturer.
Between October 2007 and February 2008, 162 bloodstream infections caused by the bacteria Serratia marcescens were reported at health-care facilities in nine states. An investigation traced the problem to pre-filled syringes from a single manufacturer.
Healthier Neighborhoods Help Keep Diabetes at Bay
October 12, 2009
Quality of local food stores and parks influences risk, research shows. People who live in neighborhoods that promote physical activity and offer access to healthy foods may be less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, researchers say.
Their study included 2,285 people, aged 45 to 84, living in neighborhoods in Baltimore, Forsyth County, N.C.
Their study included 2,285 people, aged 45 to 84, living in neighborhoods in Baltimore, Forsyth County, N.C.
Berinert Approved for Rare Genetic Disease
October 12, 2009
To treats symptoms of hereditary angiodema Berinert (C1-esterase inhibitor) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the first sanctioned treatment for a rare genetic disease called hereditary angiodema (HAE), the agency said in a news release.
A Little Cash Buys a Lot of Calories at the Corner Store
October 12, 2009
Kids are purchasing cheap junk food on way to and from school, survey finds. Kids who shop at the corner store before or after school purchase nearly 360 calories worth of food and beverage, on average, during each visit, according to a study of Philadelphia students.
Junk food is the most popular purchase, including chips, candy and sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, the study found. Results are in the November issue of Pediatrics.
Junk food is the most popular purchase, including chips, candy and sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, the study found. Results are in the November issue of Pediatrics.
Want Leaner Kids? Parents May Need to Toe the Line
October 11, 2009
Health experts say much can be done to keep weight in check. It's a trend that has health experts worried: Young kids are becoming increasingly oversized .
Vitamin D Good for Breast Cancer Patients
October 09, 2009
Supplements help fight treatment-related bone loss, researchers say. Many breast cancer patients have low levels of vitamin D, which could lead to weaker bones and increased risk of fractures, say U.S. researchers who recommend high doses of vitamin D for them.
Nutrition Still Not 'A' Grade in U.S. Schools
Studies
October 07, 2009
Guidelines are helping, but more is needed to stem teen obesity, researchers say. Schools in the United States are becoming healthier places thanks to more nutritious food and an increased focus on exercise, but still more is needed to combat teen obesity, a series of studies concludes.
Among the findings of the studies, which appear in a September supplement to the Journal of Adolescent Health:
Students in California schools have a choice of healthier foods and beverages. More than 85 percent of 56 schools studied complied with state beverage standards that went into effect two years ago, and nearly 64 percent meet standards regarding healthy food in their cafeterias and other venues.
Among the findings of the studies, which appear in a September supplement to the Journal of Adolescent Health:
Students in California schools have a choice of healthier foods and beverages. More than 85 percent of 56 schools studied complied with state beverage standards that went into effect two years ago, and nearly 64 percent meet standards regarding healthy food in their cafeterias and other venues.
Program Helps Kids Switch Over to Healthy Behaviors
October 06, 2009
Triple intervention enforces message at home, school and in the community, researchers say. A family, school and community intervention program improved children's eating and exercise habits and reduced the amount of time they spent in front of the television, a U.S. study has found.
Leafy Greens Top Risky Food List
October 06, 2009
Advocacy group notes illness outbreaks usually linked to 'healthy' foods. Leafy greens head a list of the top 10 riskiest foods regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, a report released Tuesday by a public advocacy group says.
Schools Provide Less Junk Food Today
CDC
October 05, 2009
Teens less likely to get soda, unhealthy snacks, but some states still lag behind, report finds. The amount of unhealthy foods and drinks available in American secondary schools has declined, especially in states with strong school nutrition standards and policies, says a federal government study released Monday.
Among 34 states that collected 2006-08 data, the median percentage of secondary schools that didn't sell soda, or fruit drinks that aren't 100 percent fruit juice, increased from 38 percent in 2006 to 63 percent in 2008. The median percentage of secondary schools that didn't sell candy, or salty snacks not low in fat, also rose from 46 percent to 64 percent, according to the U.
Among 34 states that collected 2006-08 data, the median percentage of secondary schools that didn't sell soda, or fruit drinks that aren't 100 percent fruit juice, increased from 38 percent in 2006 to 63 percent in 2008. The median percentage of secondary schools that didn't sell candy, or salty snacks not low in fat, also rose from 46 percent to 64 percent, according to the U.
Mercury in Fish Linked to High Blood Pressure
October 05, 2009
But researcher downplays importance of effect. Although new research links mercury in seafood with high blood pressure, this isn't reason enough for most people to stop eating fish, the study leader says.
"The small increase of blood pressure due to methylmercury will never outweigh the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids," said Dr. Eric Dewailly, a professor in the department of social and preventive medicine at Laval University in Quebec and lead author of a report in the Oct.
"The small increase of blood pressure due to methylmercury will never outweigh the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids," said Dr. Eric Dewailly, a professor in the department of social and preventive medicine at Laval University in Quebec and lead author of a report in the Oct.
Mediterranean Diet May Help Prevent Depression
October 05, 2009
Lower incidence seen in Spanish study. People who followed the Mediterranean diet, an eating regimen that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and nuts, were less likely to develop depression in a Spanish study.
"We are speaking of a relative reduction in risk of 42 percent to 51 percent," said study co-author Dr. Miguel A.
"We are speaking of a relative reduction in risk of 42 percent to 51 percent," said study co-author Dr. Miguel A.
Health Tip
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
October 05, 2009
To help prevent heart attack and stroke Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, but you can reduce your risk by eating a heart-healthy diet.
The National Women's Health Information Center offers these suggestions:
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods.
Opt for low-fat or no-fat dairy products.
The National Women's Health Information Center offers these suggestions:
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods.
Opt for low-fat or no-fat dairy products.
As TV Drug Ads Increase, So Do Concerns
October 04, 2009
Experts question commercials' value to patients and health-care system overall. You can't channel surf at all these days without stumbling across drug advertisements featuring happy people, sunny days, vague descriptions and a quickly mumbled list of side effects.
If you think you're seeing more of these ads than ever before, you're right.
The amount of money spent by pharmaceutical companies on direct-to-consumer advertising more than tripled between 1997 and 2005, growing from $1.
If you think you're seeing more of these ads than ever before, you're right.
The amount of money spent by pharmaceutical companies on direct-to-consumer advertising more than tripled between 1997 and 2005, growing from $1.
Daily Dose of Vitamin D Helps Prevent Falls in Seniors
October 02, 2009
Supplements of 700 to 1,000 IU linked to reduced risk, study finds. A daily high-dose vitamin D supplement can reduce the risk of falls in seniors, say researchers who reviewed the findings of eight fall prevention studies involving participants aged 65 and older.
The analysis revealed that taking between 700 and 1,000 international units (IU) of supplemental vitamin D per day (vitamin D2 or D3) reduces falls by 19 percent and by up to 26 percent with vitamin D3. The beneficial effect was significant within two to five months of starting treatment, extended beyond 12 months, and was independent of age, type of dwelling, or additional calcium supplementation, the researchers noted.
The analysis revealed that taking between 700 and 1,000 international units (IU) of supplemental vitamin D per day (vitamin D2 or D3) reduces falls by 19 percent and by up to 26 percent with vitamin D3. The beneficial effect was significant within two to five months of starting treatment, extended beyond 12 months, and was independent of age, type of dwelling, or additional calcium supplementation, the researchers noted.
Study Counters Warnings on Quit-Smoking Drug
October 02, 2009
No clear evidence found that Chantix has dangerous side effects, say UK researchers. The smoking cessation drug varenicline (Chantix) does not increase the risk for self-harm or depression, according to a new British study.
In July, the U.S.
In July, the U.S.
Study Finds Fish Won't Prevent Heart Failure
September 30, 2009
Benefits confined to heart attack, other types of cardiovascular disease. While eating fish does appear to help protect against heart attacks and other cardiovascular disease, a new Dutch study finds it doesn't seem to guard against the development of heart failure.
Heart failure is a degenerative condition, but with the right treatment and lifestyle people are living longer with it. In fact, some 5.
Heart failure is a degenerative condition, but with the right treatment and lifestyle people are living longer with it. In fact, some 5.
Eating in America Still Unhealthy
CDC
September 29, 2009
State-by-state report finds too few people meet fruit and veggie guidelines. Most Americans don't eat the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables, says a U.S. government study released Tuesday.
Heart Patients Benefit From At-Home Care, Study Finds
September 28, 2009
Improvements seen in depression, quality of life for those with chronic heart failure. Patients with worsening chronic heart failure may find "hospital-at-home" care is a good alternative to treatment in a traditional hospital, Italian researchers report.
An estimated 5 million North Americans suffer from chronic heart failure, a condition in which the heart struggles to pump blood to the body. In the United States, worsening chronic heart failure is the cause of more than 1 million hospital admissions a year, and patients have a 50 percent risk of readmission within six months of discharge, according to the authors of a study published in the Sept.
An estimated 5 million North Americans suffer from chronic heart failure, a condition in which the heart struggles to pump blood to the body. In the United States, worsening chronic heart failure is the cause of more than 1 million hospital admissions a year, and patients have a 50 percent risk of readmission within six months of discharge, according to the authors of a study published in the Sept.
Vitamin D May Improve Melanoma Survival
September 27, 2009
But levels are too low in many Americans, researchers say. Higher levels of vitamin D are linked to less severe, less deadly melanoma lesions in people with skin cancer, new research suggests.
The findings provide more support for the idea that vitamin D is crucial to skin health. Many Americans, however, don't get enough of it, perhaps because they limit sun exposure and drink less milk than in the past.
The findings provide more support for the idea that vitamin D is crucial to skin health. Many Americans, however, don't get enough of it, perhaps because they limit sun exposure and drink less milk than in the past.
Stelara Approved for Psoriasis
September 25, 2009
Helps block overproduction of skin cells Stelara (ustekinumab) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
Folotyn Approved for Aggressive Type of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
September 25, 2009
For those who have relapsed or haven't responded to other therapies The drug Folotyn (pralatrexate) has been approved to treat Peripheral T-cell Lymphoma (PTCL), an often aggressive form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Friday.
FDA Acknowledges Mistakes in Knee-Device Approval
September 25, 2009
Agency says it will review procedure for endorsing medical devices. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration violated procedures last year when it approved a knee repair device even though its own scientists recommended against approval, agency officials said Thursday.
Lack of Vitamin D Linked to High Blood Pressure
September 24, 2009
Effect seen 15 years later, researchers report. Low blood levels of vitamin D in younger women tripled their risk of high blood pressure 15 years later, new research has found.
Vitamin D deficiency, defined as less than 80 nanomoles per liter of blood, was measured in 1993 at the start of the Michigan Bone Health and Metabolism Study, explained study author Flojaune C. Griffin, a doctoral candidate at the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
Vitamin D deficiency, defined as less than 80 nanomoles per liter of blood, was measured in 1993 at the start of the Michigan Bone Health and Metabolism Study, explained study author Flojaune C. Griffin, a doctoral candidate at the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
Fructose Boosts Blood Pressure, Studies Find
September 24, 2009
Tests in mice and men link sugar to hypertension and say time of day may matter, too. America's sweet tooth may be contributing to the ever-increasing number of people with high blood pressure.
Two new studies link fructose, the kind of sugar in soft drinks and many sweetened foods, to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
"It raises the possibility that fructose may have a role in the pathogenesis of hypertension," said Dr.
Two new studies link fructose, the kind of sugar in soft drinks and many sweetened foods, to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
"It raises the possibility that fructose may have a role in the pathogenesis of hypertension," said Dr.
With Fancy Coffees, Calories Can Add Up
September 23, 2009
Popular blended beverages may be 'weighing you down,' health official says. Love your afternoon pick-me-up? A blended coffee beverage might hit the spot but pack on the pounds, a new study suggests.
A survey of about 3,000 purchases from 115 restaurant chains in New York City found that servings of brewed coffee or tea average about 63 calories, even when some include milk and sugar. But get a blended beverage and you're looking at 239 calories on average .
A survey of about 3,000 purchases from 115 restaurant chains in New York City found that servings of brewed coffee or tea average about 63 calories, even when some include milk and sugar. But get a blended beverage and you're looking at 239 calories on average .
New Drug May Offer Hope to Some With Lung Cancer
September 20, 2009
Pemetrexed improves survival with advanced non-small-cell tumors, study finds. Maintenance therapy with the drug pemetrexed improves the survival of people with non-small-cell lung cancer whose disease has not progressed after chemotherapy, a new study has found..
1st Doses of Swine Flu Vaccine Set for Early October
September 18, 2009
Initial vaccine will be a nasal spray, followed shortly by injectable one: CDC. The first doses of the H1N1 swine flu vaccine will start shipping the first week in October, slightly earlier than expected, U.S. health officials said Friday.
More Whole Grains May Mean Less Fat
September 17, 2009
In older eaters, fiber content of cereals has biggest effect, study finds. Eating more whole-grain foods may help reduce body fat in older adults, says a new U.S. study.
Bones May Suffer From Green Tea Consumption
September 17, 2009
Research on mice reveals loss of density and thickness. Green tea may weaken bones, suggests a U.S. study on mice.
'Soda Tax' Wins Health Experts' Support
September 16, 2009
Researchers cite a win-win for health care and obesity, but beverage industry balks at proposal. A national tax of 1 cent per ounce of soda and other sugary drinks could stem the United States' obesity epidemic, while generating $14.9 billion the first year alone, health experts say.
That windfall could help finance proposed health care reform, while also funding programs to prevent obesity, say a group of prominent researchers in an article in the Sept.
That windfall could help finance proposed health care reform, while also funding programs to prevent obesity, say a group of prominent researchers in an article in the Sept.
Tasty Foods Send Signal to Brain to Keep Eating
September 16, 2009
Beef and dairy most likely to lead to overindulgence, lab study shows. Can't stop eating fatty food? Blame your brain, researchers say.
A new study suggests that molecules of some kinds of fat travel to the brain, which then tell the body that it doesn't need to stop eating just yet.
"Normally, our body is primed to say when we've had enough, but that doesn't always happen when we're eating something good," study senior author Deborah Clegg, an assistant professor of internal medicine at University of Texas Southwestern, said in a university news release.
A new study suggests that molecules of some kinds of fat travel to the brain, which then tell the body that it doesn't need to stop eating just yet.
"Normally, our body is primed to say when we've had enough, but that doesn't always happen when we're eating something good," study senior author Deborah Clegg, an assistant professor of internal medicine at University of Texas Southwestern, said in a university news release.
Health Tip
Eat Your Fruits and Veggies
September 16, 2009
Why Mom's mantra is good advice Since childhood, lots of people have heard the parental plea to eat their fruits and vegetables.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Ovarian Cancer Test Approved
September 11, 2009
Helps doctors decide on appropriate surgical options The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new test for women with pelvic tumors that are known to need surgery.
FDA Panel Backs Giving HPV Vaccine Gardasil to Young Males
September 10, 2009
The advisors also recommend approval of second HPV vaccine, Cervarix, to prevent cervical cancer. U.S. drug advisors recommended Wednesday that use of the vaccine Gardasil, already administered to help prevent cervical cancer in women, be expanded to help prevent genital warts in young males.
Metozolv Approved for Diabetic Stomach Disorder, GERD
September 08, 2009
But long-term use could cause serious side effects Metozolv (metoclopramide) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat diabetic gastroparesis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), drug maker Salix Pharmaceuticals said Tuesday.
FDA to Require Faster Reporting of Food-Safety Problems
September 08, 2009
Companies must alert agency of potential trouble within 24 hours. All companies that manufacture, process or distribute food for people or animals to eat must now report any problems that could lead to food-borne illness within 24 hours, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday.
Blueberry Drink Protects Mice From Obesity, Diabetes
September 04, 2009
Lab results indicate that juice/bacteria combination could help people, too. Blueberry juice with a little added bacteria may one day help people fight obesity and diabetes.
Canadian researchers found that juice "biotransformed" with bacteria from the fruit's skin decreased hyperglycemia in diabetic mice and protected young pre-diabetic mice from developing obesity and diabetes, according to a study appearing online in August in the International Journal of Obesity.
"Results of this study clearly show that biotransformed blueberry juice has strong anti-obesity and anti-diabetic potential," senior author Pierre S.
Canadian researchers found that juice "biotransformed" with bacteria from the fruit's skin decreased hyperglycemia in diabetic mice and protected young pre-diabetic mice from developing obesity and diabetes, according to a study appearing online in August in the International Journal of Obesity.
"Results of this study clearly show that biotransformed blueberry juice has strong anti-obesity and anti-diabetic potential," senior author Pierre S.
Fruit Even Healthier Than Thought
Study
September 04, 2009
Apples, peaches, nectarines packed with 'extractable' disease-fighting polyphenols, research finds. Fruit may contain more beneficial antioxidants than previously thought, a new international study says.
A study done on apples, peaches and nectarines found these fruits contain up to five times more polyphenols, chemical substances believed to contain disease-fighting properties, than scientists suspected.
Researchers at the Institute of Food Research in Norwich, England, looked at previously ignored nonextractable polyphenols, ones in fruit cells that cannot be broken down and measured as easily as the "extractable polyphenols" that researchers usually study.
A study done on apples, peaches and nectarines found these fruits contain up to five times more polyphenols, chemical substances believed to contain disease-fighting properties, than scientists suspected.
Researchers at the Institute of Food Research in Norwich, England, looked at previously ignored nonextractable polyphenols, ones in fruit cells that cannot be broken down and measured as easily as the "extractable polyphenols" that researchers usually study.
Intuniv Approved for Pediatric ADHD
September 03, 2009
No known potential for abuse, maker says Intuniv (guanfacine) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in people aged 6 to 17, drug maker Shire Plc said Thursday.
Respirator Masks Best for Swine Flu Health Workers
September 03, 2009
Medical personnel should use them, but not the general public, experts say. Because people can catch the new H1N1 swine flu by inhaling the virus, health-care workers who deal with flu patients should wear properly fitted N95 disposable respirator masks, a new report from the Institute of Medicine advises.
These masks are not the same as loosely fitted surgical masks. N95 respirators fit tightly around the mouth and nose and have filters that can block about 95 percent of the flu virus, according to the report released Thursday.
These masks are not the same as loosely fitted surgical masks. N95 respirators fit tightly around the mouth and nose and have filters that can block about 95 percent of the flu virus, according to the report released Thursday.
Health Tip
Eating Fish and Shellfish
September 03, 2009
Almost all contain mercury Mercury is an element found in the environment, from natural sources and as a byproduct of man-made pollution.
Mercury seeps into the soil and water, contaminating some of the foods people eat, the National Women's Health Information Center says.
Almost all types of shellfish and fish contain some mercury.
Mercury seeps into the soil and water, contaminating some of the foods people eat, the National Women's Health Information Center says.
Almost all types of shellfish and fish contain some mercury.
Caffeine Without Healthy Diet Linked to Heart Risk
September 02, 2009
Atrial fibrillation patients seem to drink lots of coffee but don't eat right, study suggests. People who drink lots of coffee but who don't follow a Mediterranean-style diet are more likely to have atrial fibrillation, a new study shows.
Italian researchers asked patients who'd been recently diagnosed with the common heart arrhythmia to supply information about their dietary habits, including caffeine consumption. Their diets were compared with those of people without atrial fibrillation.
Italian researchers asked patients who'd been recently diagnosed with the common heart arrhythmia to supply information about their dietary habits, including caffeine consumption. Their diets were compared with those of people without atrial fibrillation.
Health Tip
Gauging Mercury Levels in Fish
September 02, 2009
What's considered safe? While fish and shellfish may be delectable and in many cases, part of a healthy diet, they often contain mercury.
Women of childbearing age and children should be cautious about the amounts they eat, since mercury can harm a developing nervous system.
The U.
Women of childbearing age and children should be cautious about the amounts they eat, since mercury can harm a developing nervous system.
The U.
Health Tip
Pack Your Child's Lunch
September 01, 2009
Why it's worth the extra time Between helping with homework, making dinner, and the nightly bedtime routine, it's difficult to find the time to pack a healthy lunch each day for your child.
The Nemours Foundation says it's worth the effort. It offers these benefits of packing your child's lunch:
Improved control over your child's eating habits.
The Nemours Foundation says it's worth the effort. It offers these benefits of packing your child's lunch:
Improved control over your child's eating habits.
Valcyte Approved for Cytomegalovirus in Children
August 31, 2009
A leading cause of infection in transplant patients The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Valcyte (valganciclovir hydrochloride) to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease in children 4 months to 16 years who are undergoing kidney or heart transplant, Swiss drug maker Roche said Monday.
Meat, Dairy Won't Up Odds for Breast Cancer
August 28, 2009
Two studies find no clear link; other research supports fiber to ward off the disease. An adult woman's intake of meat, eggs and dairy products should not boost her risk for breast cancer, new research shows.
For years, dietary factors have been debated as either boosting or reducing the risk of breast cancer, with research yielding conflicting results. But in the new research, scientists could not conclude that meat, eggs or dairy product intake as an adult raised breast cancer risk.
For years, dietary factors have been debated as either boosting or reducing the risk of breast cancer, with research yielding conflicting results. But in the new research, scientists could not conclude that meat, eggs or dairy product intake as an adult raised breast cancer risk.
Zenpep Approved for Pancreatic Disorder
August 28, 2009
Makes up for lack of digestive enzymes The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Zenpep (pancrelipase) delayed-release capsules to treat a pancreatic disorder that prevents people from properly digesting food, Dutch drug maker Eurand NV said.
Whole Grains, Bran May Fight Hypertension in Men
August 28, 2009
New findings replicate similar data for women, experts say. Men, want to keep high blood pressure at bay? Try reaching for whole grains.
That's the message from a Harvard study that found that whole grain foods and foods high in bran bring a boost to heart health. Although this study is among men, data from the Women's Health Study found similar results, the researchers say.
That's the message from a Harvard study that found that whole grain foods and foods high in bran bring a boost to heart health. Although this study is among men, data from the Women's Health Study found similar results, the researchers say.
Soluble Fiber, But Not Bran, Soothes Irritable Bowel
August 28, 2009
Nutrient known as psyllium seems to ease symptoms, study finds. People with the chronic condition known as irritable bowel syndrome may find relief by consuming soluble fiber (psyllium).
But they'll get no relief .
But they'll get no relief .
Asparagus May Ease Hangover
August 28, 2009
The veggie seems to ease troubles 'the day after' and protect liver from damage, experts say. To treat a hangover, drink lots of water, get plenty of rest .
Regular Yoga May Improve Eating Habits
August 27, 2009
Body awareness plays a key role in weight maintenance, researchers say. Practicing yoga regularly may help your eating habits so you can maintain a healthier weight, a new study says.
Researchers at the Seattle-based Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center reported a link between yoga practitioners and "mindful eaters," people who were better aware of their feelings of hunger and fullness and why they ate. These mindful eaters, as opposed to those who ate regardless of hunger or to soothe anxiety or depression, tended to be less likely to be obese, the study found.
Researchers at the Seattle-based Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center reported a link between yoga practitioners and "mindful eaters," people who were better aware of their feelings of hunger and fullness and why they ate. These mindful eaters, as opposed to those who ate regardless of hunger or to soothe anxiety or depression, tended to be less likely to be obese, the study found.
Milk Allergy Symptoms May Ease With Exposure
August 27, 2009
With continued consumption, children's tolerance can improve, study shows. Children who are allergic to milk may be able to overcome their allergy by drinking increasingly higher doses of milk, a new study finds.
In 2008, researchers from Johns Hopkins Children's Center in Baltimore reported that children with a severe milk allergy could "retrain" their immune systems to tolerate milk and other dairy products by gradually consuming increasingly higher doses.
In the current study, researchers followed up with 18 children aged 6 to 16 whose symptoms had eased or gone away during the previous study.
In 2008, researchers from Johns Hopkins Children's Center in Baltimore reported that children with a severe milk allergy could "retrain" their immune systems to tolerate milk and other dairy products by gradually consuming increasingly higher doses.
In the current study, researchers followed up with 18 children aged 6 to 16 whose symptoms had eased or gone away during the previous study.
Wheat Consumption May Contribute to Diabetes
August 26, 2009
Overreaction in gut noted in study of people with type 1 version of disease. An abnormal immune response to wheat proteins may contribute to type 1 diabetes, Canadian researchers say.
Their study of 42 people with type 1 diabetes found that nearly half had immune system T-cells that overreacted to wheat. The researchers also identified genes associated with this abnormal immune response.
Their study of 42 people with type 1 diabetes found that nearly half had immune system T-cells that overreacted to wheat. The researchers also identified genes associated with this abnormal immune response.
Xyzal Approved for Younger Kids
August 25, 2009
Antihistamine sanctioned for children as young as 6 months The antihistamine Xyzal (levocetirizine dihydrochloride) has been approved for children aged six months and older for indoor allergies and hives, drug makers UCB and Sanofi-Aventis said.
The medication, available as a liquid or pill, had been approved previously for people aged six years and older. The expanded approval also sanctions the drug's use to treat outdoor allergies in children aged two years and older.
The medication, available as a liquid or pill, had been approved previously for people aged six years and older. The expanded approval also sanctions the drug's use to treat outdoor allergies in children aged two years and older.
Americans Are Urged to Cut Sugar Intake
August 24, 2009
Experts recommend far fewer teaspoons a day than average person now consumes. Most American women should not consume more than 100 calories of added sugar a day, while men should limit their intake to no more than 150 calories, according to a new recommendation from the American Heart Association.
"Added sugar" refers to sugars added to foods during processing, during cooking or when a food is consumed.
The recommendation works out to about six teaspoons of added sugar a day for women and about nine teaspoons for men.
"Added sugar" refers to sugars added to foods during processing, during cooking or when a food is consumed.
The recommendation works out to about six teaspoons of added sugar a day for women and about nine teaspoons for men.
Sabril Approved for Infantile Spasms
August 21, 2009
In children ages 1 month to 2 years Sabril (vigabatrin) Oral Solution has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat infantile spasms in children aged 1 month to 2 years, the agency said Friday in a news release.
Folic Acid Fortification Shouldn't Be Forced
August 21, 2009
Irish researchers find vitamin levels in foods adequate for new moms, babies. Mandatory fortification of foods with folic acid (vitamin B9) may be unnecessary for new mothers and their babies, Irish researchers report.
Their study of blood samples found that most new moms and babies get enough folic acid from foods that are voluntarily fortified by food companies.
Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid before and during pregnancy helps reduce the risk of certain birth defects, such as spina bifida.
Their study of blood samples found that most new moms and babies get enough folic acid from foods that are voluntarily fortified by food companies.
Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid before and during pregnancy helps reduce the risk of certain birth defects, such as spina bifida.
New Hib Vaccine Granted Accelerated Approval
August 20, 2009
To help remedy vaccine shortage Accelerated approval for Hiberix, a Haemophilus b Conjugate Vaccine, has been granted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, drug maker GlaxoSmithKline said.
Scientists Spot How Sugar 'Feeds' Tumors
August 20, 2009
Finding could lead to new cancer treatments, researchers say. New information about how sugar "feeds" tumors has been uncovered by U.S. researchers, who said the finding may also have implications for other diseases such as diabetes.
Cervical Cancer Vaccine Seems Safe
August 18, 2009
Fainting most common adverse event with Gardasil, study finds. The vaccine that protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a cause of cervical cancer, appears safe, with relatively few serious side effects, according to a new U.S. government study.
Antioxidants Abound in Cereals, Popcorn, Whole-Grain Snacks
August 18, 2009
Study finds these foods contain high levels of polyphenols. Eating a bowl of your favorite cereal every day is a great source of natural antioxidants, new research shows.
Joe Vinson, a professor of chemistry at the University of Scranton, in Pennsylvania, and his team have found that nearly all whole-grain breakfast cereals and many common, grain-based snacks contain substantial amounts of polyphenols, a form of antioxidants that is thought to have major health benefits. Vinson was scheduled to present his findings Tuesday at the American Chemical Society annual meeting, held in Washington, D.
Joe Vinson, a professor of chemistry at the University of Scranton, in Pennsylvania, and his team have found that nearly all whole-grain breakfast cereals and many common, grain-based snacks contain substantial amounts of polyphenols, a form of antioxidants that is thought to have major health benefits. Vinson was scheduled to present his findings Tuesday at the American Chemical Society annual meeting, held in Washington, D.
New Drug Approved for Gaucher Disease
August 18, 2009
An inherited metabolic disorder A new drug can be used to treat patients with a rare genetic disorder called Gaucher disease before the drug gets full marketing approval, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Antioxidants Pose No Melanoma Threat
August 17, 2009
Despite earlier study, new report finds no risk from common vitamin and mineral supplements. Vitamins C, E and other antioxidants do not increase the risk for melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, a new study found.
A recent study had suggested that the risk for melanoma was increased four-fold among women who took supplemental vitamins C and E, beta carotene, selenium and zinc. Because 48 to 55 percent of U.
A recent study had suggested that the risk for melanoma was increased four-fold among women who took supplemental vitamins C and E, beta carotene, selenium and zinc. Because 48 to 55 percent of U.
Extavia Approved for Multiple Sclerosis
August 17, 2009
A type of interferon Extavia (interferon beta-1b) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat multiple sclerosis, drug maker Novartis said Monday.
Web Is Becoming One-Stop Shopping for Health Help
August 16, 2009
For support, advice or treatment, online interventions now await. People regularly turn to the Internet for games and gossip, news and entertainment, essential information and high weirdness.
And now, apparently, for their health as well.
A number of successful online medical interventions have been reported in recent months, helping folks quit smoking, lower their blood pressure and deal with any number of ailments.
And now, apparently, for their health as well.
A number of successful online medical interventions have been reported in recent months, helping folks quit smoking, lower their blood pressure and deal with any number of ailments.
Wine May Shield Breast Cancer Patients From Radiation Side Effects
August 14, 2009
Italian study suggests its natural antioxidants protect the skin. A glass of wine a day cut the risk of treatment-linked skin toxicity by two-thirds in women undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer, Italian researchers report.
Skin reactions are a common side effect of cancer radiation therapy, and, while medications can help prevent these problems, they can be expensive and often have their own side effects. In some cases, drugs used to reduce radiation-linked side effects can actually protect breast cancer tumor cells, according to a news release from the American Society for Radiation Oncology.
Skin reactions are a common side effect of cancer radiation therapy, and, while medications can help prevent these problems, they can be expensive and often have their own side effects. In some cases, drugs used to reduce radiation-linked side effects can actually protect breast cancer tumor cells, according to a news release from the American Society for Radiation Oncology.
Saphris Approved for Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder
August 14, 2009
Two severe psychiatric illnesses The drug Saphris (asenapine) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat adults with either schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder, the agency said Friday.
Restrictive Diet for Kids May Backfire
August 14, 2009
Children need to learn self-control to avoid becoming overweight, researchers say. Parents who try to battle the childhood obesity epidemic by forbidding their kids to eat certain foods are not going to keep them from gaining weight and may actually be making the situation worse, researchers say.
Parents play a critical role in helping children make food choices that will allow them to maintain a healthy weight, according to doctors and experts. But success depends on using the right approach.
Parents play a critical role in helping children make food choices that will allow them to maintain a healthy weight, according to doctors and experts. But success depends on using the right approach.
It's Time for More Moms to Breast-Feed, U.S. Officials Say
August 13, 2009
Experts note rates are too low when benefits are so high. With breast-feeding rates still not at the levels health-care providers and policymakers would like, two U.S. health agencies have decided it's time to take action.
FDA Details Access to 'Investigational' Drugs
August 12, 2009
Goal is to help patients who might benefit from experimental medications. By clarifying rules governing patient access to so-called investigational drugs, U.S. health officials said Wednesday that they hope to expand the number of people who might benefit from these not-yet-approved medications.
Suicide Risk With Antidepressants Falls With Age
August 12, 2009
Study reiterates that young are most vulnerable. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is doing its part to make sure that doctors and patients alike are aware of the latest data on the link between antidepressant use and suicide, which indicate that the risk declines steadily with age.
Beetroot Juice May Boost Stamina
August 07, 2009
Study findings could apply to athletes, elderly, researchers say. Beetroot juice can boost physical stamina and increase exercise endurance by up to 16 percent, a new British study shows.
The researchers found that nitrate in beetroot juice reduces oxygen uptake to a degree that can't be achieved by any other means. The findings could benefit endurance athletes, elderly people and those with cardiovascular, respiratory or metabolic diseases, the study authors suggest.
The researchers found that nitrate in beetroot juice reduces oxygen uptake to a degree that can't be achieved by any other means. The findings could benefit endurance athletes, elderly people and those with cardiovascular, respiratory or metabolic diseases, the study authors suggest.
Health Tip
Eating Right While You're Pregnant
August 07, 2009
Diet is even more important when you're expecting.
Health Tip
Anemia Caused by Iron Deficiency
August 06, 2009
Factors that may be responsible Anemia occurs when a person's red blood cells lack enough hemoglobin, a protein that helps carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
One form of anemia is triggered when a person doesn't get enough iron. The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list of common causes for iron deficiency:
Consuming an insufficient amount of iron in foods.
One form of anemia is triggered when a person doesn't get enough iron. The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list of common causes for iron deficiency:
Consuming an insufficient amount of iron in foods.
Food Allergy Facts Need More Focus
August 06, 2009
Many U.S. adults unaware there is no cure, survey finds. More than two-thirds of U.S. adults mistakenly believe that daily medicine can be taken to prevent a food allergy reaction, according to a survey that found a widespread lack of knowledge and awareness about food allergy among the general public.
Fish Oils May Prevent and Treat Heart Disease
August 05, 2009
Review of studies involving 40,000 people points up benefits. A new review shows that the omega-3 fatty acids found in certain fish not only prevent cardiovascular disease, but may even help treat it.
"A lot of people know that omega-3 fatty acids are a good thing, but have thought of them in the area of nutritional or health foods," said study author Dr. Carl J.
"A lot of people know that omega-3 fatty acids are a good thing, but have thought of them in the area of nutritional or health foods," said study author Dr. Carl J.
Certain Arthritis, Crohn's Drugs May Raise Kids' Cancer Risk
FDA
August 05, 2009
Agency strengthens 'black box' warning on medicines such as Enbrel, Remicade. Drugs widely used to fight rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease and other inflammatory disorders must now carry an updated "black box" warning label cautioning patients and doctors that the medicines may boost cancer risk in children and adolescents, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday.
FDA Approves Avastin for Most Common Kidney Cancer
August 04, 2009
In combination with a second drug The drug Avastin has been approved in the United States for treating people with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, the most common form of kidney cancer.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Elder Abuse, Neglect Make Early Death Far More Likely
August 04, 2009
Finding illustrates need to report suspected problems, expert says. When seniors stop taking proper care of themselves, their risk for death increases nearly sixfold, a new study shows.
In addition, elderly people who are abused physically, emotionally, financially or through withdrawal of care don't fare much better. Their risk for dying more than doubles, the researchers report.
In addition, elderly people who are abused physically, emotionally, financially or through withdrawal of care don't fare much better. Their risk for dying more than doubles, the researchers report.
Livalo Approved for High Cholesterol
August 04, 2009
A risk factor for heart disease Livalo (pitavastatin) is the newest statin to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat high cholesterol.
Sustained-Release Antipsychotic Approved for Schizophrenia
August 03, 2009
Invega Sustenna injected once monthly Invega Sustenna (paliperidone palmitate) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat schizophrenia, drug maker Janssen said in a news release.
Vitamin D Deficiency Linked to Heart Risk Factors in Kids
August 03, 2009
Studies find many U.S. children not getting enough. Most American youngsters aren't getting enough vitamin D, and that deficiency is associated with an increased incidence of risk factors for cardiovascular problems such as heart attack and stroke, two new studies find.
Simultaneous publication of both papers in the Aug. 3 online edition of Pediatrics is coincidental, the lead authors of the reports said.
Simultaneous publication of both papers in the Aug. 3 online edition of Pediatrics is coincidental, the lead authors of the reports said.
Onglyza Sanctioned for Type 2 Diabetes
July 31, 2009
A once-daily tablet to help control blood sugar Onglyza (saxagliptin) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, the agency said Friday.
Colcrys Approved for Acute Gout, Mediterranean Fever
July 31, 2009
Remedy long used to treat these two inflammatory conditions Colcrys has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat acute gout and familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), two inflammatory disorders.
'Organic' May Not Mean Healthier
July 29, 2009
British study finds no better nutrient value than in conventionally produced foods . Food that beckons from the organic aisles of grocery stores may not be any better for you than what lines the rest of supermarket shelves.
According to a British review of studies done over the past 50 years, organic and conventionally produced foods have about the same nutrient content, suggesting that neither is better in terms of health benefits.
"We did not find any important differences in nutrient content between organically and conventionally produced foods," said study author Alan Dangour, a registered public health nutritionist with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
According to a British review of studies done over the past 50 years, organic and conventionally produced foods have about the same nutrient content, suggesting that neither is better in terms of health benefits.
"We did not find any important differences in nutrient content between organically and conventionally produced foods," said study author Alan Dangour, a registered public health nutritionist with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Tanning Beds Get Highest Carcinogen Rating
July 29, 2009
Melanoma risk rises 75 percent when device use begins before age 30, international panel says. The International Agency for Research on Cancer on Tuesday moved tanning beds to its highest cancer risk category .
FDA Calls for Stricter Controls on Mercury Fillings
July 28, 2009
But notes dental devices pose no great risk to most people; consumer organization aghast at ruling. U.S. health authorities on Tuesday placed tighter safety controls on the use of mercury dental fillings.
More Dairy, Calcium in Childhood Could Mean Longer Life
July 28, 2009
Study beginning in 1930s suggests link, but experts unsure. A 65-year-long study finds that people who took in lots of calcium and dairy products as children tended to avoid stroke and live longer than those who didn't.
"This study shows a modest protective effect of dietary calcium intake in childhood against stroke risk later in life, and a modest protective effect against mortality from any cause from higher intake of milk in childhood," said Dr. David L.
"This study shows a modest protective effect of dietary calcium intake in childhood against stroke risk later in life, and a modest protective effect against mortality from any cause from higher intake of milk in childhood," said Dr. David L.
Many Cancer Survivors Don't Adopt Healthy Lifestyle
July 27, 2009
Study finds just 7 percent of older survivors meet diet, exercise guidelines. Most older, long-term cancer survivors struggle with good health habits, such as regular exercise and a proper diet, a new study shows.
Those who did exercise and eat well after their treatment, however, tended to have more vitality and a better quality of life, the study also found.
The report, from researchers from the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, is published online and in the Sept.
Those who did exercise and eat well after their treatment, however, tended to have more vitality and a better quality of life, the study also found.
The report, from researchers from the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, is published online and in the Sept.
With Autism, Diet Restrictions May Do More Harm Than Good
July 27, 2009
Study finds no increase in gastrointestinal problems in kids with the disorder. Children with autism do not have a higher incidence of gastrointestinal problems than other children, a new study has found.
However, autistic children do have a higher rate of constipation and eating issues, such as eating the same foods over and over, according to the study. But any number of factors, including medication, could cause these issues, the researchers said.
However, autistic children do have a higher rate of constipation and eating issues, such as eating the same foods over and over, according to the study. But any number of factors, including medication, could cause these issues, the researchers said.
Forteo Approved for Drug-Related Osteoporosis
July 24, 2009
For people taking glucocorticoid medications Eli Lilly's Forteo (teriparatide injection) has received expanded approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat osteoporosis associated with long-term use of glucocorticoid medication, the company said Thursday.
Fresh-Meat Additives May Be Dangerous for Kidney Patients
July 23, 2009
High potassium and phosphate content is common, but labeling is not required, report states. Additives used to "enhance" uncooked meat and poultry can pose serious health risks for people with kidney disease, researchers say.
Many fresh meat and poultry products are injected with water, sodium, potassium salts, antioxidants and flavorings that are not required to be listed on food labels, according to a report published online July 23 in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.
But dialysis patients must limit their intake of dietary phosphate, which can boost levels in the blood and cause premature death.
Many fresh meat and poultry products are injected with water, sodium, potassium salts, antioxidants and flavorings that are not required to be listed on food labels, according to a report published online July 23 in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.
But dialysis patients must limit their intake of dietary phosphate, which can boost levels in the blood and cause premature death.
Fatty Acids in Diet Linked to Bowel Disease Risk
July 23, 2009
Red meat may raise odds for ulcerative colitis, but oily fish could be protective, study shows. Consuming too much of a common polyunsaturated fatty acid could be a contributing factor in an estimated 30 percent of all cases of ulcerative colitis, researchers say.
In a new study, participants who had the highest intake of linoleic acid had more than double the chance of developing the painful inflammation and blistering of the bowels as did those whose diet contained the least of the acid. The report is published online in Gut.
In a new study, participants who had the highest intake of linoleic acid had more than double the chance of developing the painful inflammation and blistering of the bowels as did those whose diet contained the least of the acid. The report is published online in Gut.
Eating Habits in the Obese May Echo Drug Addicts' Patterns
July 22, 2009
Sensitization could be at play, nutrition expert says. When it comes to weight control, it might not be the kind of snack that matters, but who eats it.
When researchers gave similarly "sinful" snacks to obese and non-obese women, the healthy-weight women wanted less of the treat over time, but obese women kept wanting more.
"Obese and non-obese women respond to high-energy, high-density snacks in different ways," said Jennifer Temple, lead author of the study, which appears in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
When researchers gave similarly "sinful" snacks to obese and non-obese women, the healthy-weight women wanted less of the treat over time, but obese women kept wanting more.
"Obese and non-obese women respond to high-energy, high-density snacks in different ways," said Jennifer Temple, lead author of the study, which appears in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Weight-Loss Enzyme Identified
July 21, 2009
Researchers may have found a way to curb hunger, rev up energy. Reducing levels of a brain enzyme may curb appetite and boost energy, thereby helping people to control their weight, says a new study.
Prolylcarboxypeptidase (PRCP) regulates the alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a body chemical that reduces hunger while revving up the body's energy levels. If PRCP enzyme is blocked, alpha-MSH levels stay high and keep appetite in check.
Prolylcarboxypeptidase (PRCP) regulates the alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a body chemical that reduces hunger while revving up the body's energy levels. If PRCP enzyme is blocked, alpha-MSH levels stay high and keep appetite in check.
No Firm Evidence Green Tea Helps Prevent Cancer
July 21, 2009
Researchers have not uncovered conclusive findings, review shows. Does drinking green tea really help prevent cancer? The answer is still unclear, according to a review of 51 previous studies done over two decades.
The review, published online in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, found that green tea may offer some help against liver cancer, breast cancer and, in men, prostate cancer, but consumption may actually increase one's chances of developing urinary bladder cancer. Conflicting evidence was found in the case of gastrointestinal (esophagus, colon or pancreas) cancers, though the authors noted "limited moderate to strong evidence" of green tea protecting against lung, pancreatic and colorectal cancer.
The review, published online in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, found that green tea may offer some help against liver cancer, breast cancer and, in men, prostate cancer, but consumption may actually increase one's chances of developing urinary bladder cancer. Conflicting evidence was found in the case of gastrointestinal (esophagus, colon or pancreas) cancers, though the authors noted "limited moderate to strong evidence" of green tea protecting against lung, pancreatic and colorectal cancer.
Studies Show Genetic Activity of Antioxidants
July 21, 2009
Clues found on how they help arteries stay clear and healthy. Using the latest genetic technology, researchers have begun to discover the exact molecular reasons why foods such as turmeric .
FDA Approves Seasonal Flu Vaccine for 2009-2010
July 20, 2009
Health experts still working on H1N1 swine flu vaccine, which should be ready by fall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the vaccine to protect against the 2009-2010 seasonal flu, health officials announced Monday.
In New York City, Trans Fat Ban Is Working
July 20, 2009
Success has spawned similar efforts across the U.S., report finds. When the New York City Health Department mandated that city restaurants change their menus to restrict trans fats, known to be a health hazard, the action was greeted with resistance and grumbling.
"There were the usual 'nanny state' comments," said Dr. Lynn Silver, assistant commissioner of the department's Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Control.
"There were the usual 'nanny state' comments," said Dr. Lynn Silver, assistant commissioner of the department's Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Control.
High-Salt Diet Dampens Effects of Blood Pressure Drugs
July 27, 2009
To avoid sodium in processed foods, experts advise reading food labels. Not only does a high-salt diet contribute to hypertension, but it can also reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medications, a new study finds.
"What is striking about these results is the degree of the effect," said Dr. David A.
"What is striking about these results is the degree of the effect," said Dr. David A.
Seasonal Flu Vaccine Approved
July 20, 2009
But it won't protect against swine flu The vaccine for 2009-2010 seasonal influenza has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the agency said Monday.
Probiotics Supplement May Help After Gastric Bypass Surgery
July 17, 2009
In study, patients lost weight faster and avoided vitamin B deficiency Taking a probiotics supplement after gastric bypass surgery helps patients lose weight faster and avoid vitamin B deficiency, a new study finds.
Probiotics are the "good" bacteria found in yogurt and in dietary supplements that aid digestion.
The Stanford University School of Medicine study included 44 patients who had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery and were randomly assigned to either a probiotics group or a control group.
Probiotics are the "good" bacteria found in yogurt and in dietary supplements that aid digestion.
The Stanford University School of Medicine study included 44 patients who had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery and were randomly assigned to either a probiotics group or a control group.
Baking Soda May Be Key Ingredient for Kidney Patients
July 17, 2009
Progression of chronic disease appears to slow with daily tablet, study finds. A dose of baking soda a day may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, a new study has found.
The study included 134 advanced chronic kidney disease patients with metabolic acidosis, a condition caused by low bicarbonate levels. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, one of which took a small daily tablet of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda).
The study included 134 advanced chronic kidney disease patients with metabolic acidosis, a condition caused by low bicarbonate levels. The patients were randomly divided into two groups, one of which took a small daily tablet of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda).
FDA Investigating Safety of Asthma Drug Xolair
July 16, 2009
Injected medication may be linked to higher risk of heart attack, stroke, agency says. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has begun a safety review of the asthma drug Xolair (omalizumab) after reports of an increased risk of heart attack, abnormal heart rhythm, heart failure and stroke, the agency said Thursday.
Onsolis Approved for Severe Cancer Pain
July 16, 2009
Due to abuse risks, patch will be available under restricted distribution The potent opioid medication Onsolis (fentanyl buccal soluble film) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat breakthrough cancer pain, the agency said Thursday.
Dietary Oils May Help Some Fight Fat
July 16, 2009
Two common supplements lower body fat, build muscle in obese older women with diabetes, researchers find. For certain people, dietary oil supplements could help ward off unwanted fat, according to a new study.
Obese older women with type 2 diabetes who added safflower oil or conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplements to their diet either decreased their body mass index or boosted their muscle mass, researchers found.
"I don't think it's a magic bullet, but I think it could have enhancing effects," said the study's lead author, Martha A.
Obese older women with type 2 diabetes who added safflower oil or conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplements to their diet either decreased their body mass index or boosted their muscle mass, researchers found.
"I don't think it's a magic bullet, but I think it could have enhancing effects," said the study's lead author, Martha A.
Bottle-Feeding Moms Ignored
July 14, 2009
Many feel pressured to breast-feed and ill-informed about alternative, researchers find. The lack of information and support for mothers who bottle-feed could put the health of their infants at risk, say British researchers who reviewed 23 studies that included more than 13,000 participants.
Most infants will receive some formula milk during their first year of life, even if their mothers have decided to breast-feed, said Dr. Rajalakshmi Lakshman and colleagues, from the University of Cambridge.
Most infants will receive some formula milk during their first year of life, even if their mothers have decided to breast-feed, said Dr. Rajalakshmi Lakshman and colleagues, from the University of Cambridge.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Falls Short in Alzheimer's Trials
July 13, 2009
No significant benefits seen with DHA, either in terms of prevention or treatment. Two trials that looked at whether the omega-3 fatty acid DHA might treat or prevent Alzheimer's disease have produced mixed results.
The studies were done because of "a long history of epidemiological studies that related fish consumption to cognitive function," explained Bill Thies, chief medical and scientific officer of the Alzheimer's Association. Fish is rich in DHA, but the research scheduled to be presented Sunday at the association's annual meeting in Vienna, Austria, used DHA derived from algae.
The studies were done because of "a long history of epidemiological studies that related fish consumption to cognitive function," explained Bill Thies, chief medical and scientific officer of the Alzheimer's Association. Fish is rich in DHA, but the research scheduled to be presented Sunday at the association's annual meeting in Vienna, Austria, used DHA derived from algae.
Effient Sanctioned for Angioplasty Patients
July 10, 2009
To reduce the risk of blood clots The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the Eli Lilly blood-thinner Effient (prasugrel) to prevent clots in people who have an artery-clearing procedure called angioplasty.
Meatless Burgers, Hot Dogs Not Always Full of Veggies
July 08, 2009
Read labels to select items with more vegetables, less sodium, experts say. Not all vegetarian burgers and hot dogs are alike. It seems that some, in fact, may not offer much at all in the way of vegetables.
"Arguably, if food doesn't taste good, people are less likely to eat it even if it does wear an impressive nutrition label," registered dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, said in a news release from the organization.
"Arguably, if food doesn't taste good, people are less likely to eat it even if it does wear an impressive nutrition label," registered dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, said in a news release from the organization.
U.S. Unveils Stricter Food-Safety Standards
July 07, 2009
Measures aimed at reducing salmonella and E. coli outbreaks. In an effort to reduce salmonella, E. coli and other outbreaks of food-borne illness, U.S.
FDA Mandates Tougher Warnings for Pain Pills
July 07, 2009
Drugs like Darvon, Darvocet have been linked to fatal overdoses. Concerns about the possibility of fatal overdoses led U.S. health officials Tuesday to take several steps to limit the risk of using pain medications containing propoxyphene, including Darvon and Darvocet.
Alimta Approved as Maintenance Therapy for Advanced Lung Cancer
July 06, 2009
To prevent disease progression The drug Alimta (pemetrexed) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to prevent progression of certain types of advanced or metastatic (spreading) lung cancer, the agency said Monday.
Kids May 'Learn' to Tolerate Food Allergens
July 05, 2009
Experiments show it's possible to develop resistance to peanuts, eggs and more. Doctors have long used allergy shots to desensitize children and adults to environmental allergens such as bee stings, pollen, mold and dust mites.
Now researchers are trying to apply that theory to food allergies, through processes called oral immunotherapy and sublingual immunotherapy.
They believe they can build up a child's tolerance for a food that prompts an allergic reaction by exposing the child to tiny amounts of that food.
Now researchers are trying to apply that theory to food allergies, through processes called oral immunotherapy and sublingual immunotherapy.
They believe they can build up a child's tolerance for a food that prompts an allergic reaction by exposing the child to tiny amounts of that food.
Living Healthily on Less
July 05, 2009
Even when budgets are tight, experts say, health and fitness need not suffer. Most people are cutting back in these tough economic times, trying to save more and make do with less. But can you cut back when it comes to your health?
As it turns out, experts say you can .
As it turns out, experts say you can .
If 2 Painkillers Are Banned, What Next?
July 02, 2009
Other options, available and in the pipeline, could plug a Percocet-Vicodin gap, experts say. Banning the popular painkillers Percocet and Vicodin, which a U.S. health advisory panel has urged, would not be as drastic as it sounds, some medical experts contend.
Multaq Sanctioned for Heart Rhythm Disorders
July 02, 2009
Atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter Multaq (dronedarone) tablets have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to promote a normal heart rhythm in people with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
Anti-Smoking Drugs Get FDA 'Black-Box' Warning
July 01, 2009
Reports link Chantix and Zyban to risk of psychiatric side effects, including suicidal thoughts. Two drugs prescribed to help people quit smoking, Chantix and Zyban, will now carry "black-box" warnings on the potential risks of psychiatric problems, including depression and suicidal thoughts, U.S. health officials said Wednesday.
Celiac Disease Making Inroads in U.S.
July 01, 2009
'Something has changed,' researcher says, but just what remains unclear. Celiac disease, a serious digestive system disorder, has become far more common in recent years, a new Mayo Clinic study has found.
According to a report in the July issue of Gastroenterology, the disease is four times more prevalent in the United States today than in the 1950s. In addition, the researchers found that the death rate was four times higher during the 45 years of the study among people who had the disease but did not know it than it was among those who did not have celiac disease.
According to a report in the July issue of Gastroenterology, the disease is four times more prevalent in the United States today than in the 1950s. In addition, the researchers found that the death rate was four times higher during the 45 years of the study among people who had the disease but did not know it than it was among those who did not have celiac disease.
TV Ads Trigger Mindless Eating
July 01, 2009
Kids watching food commercials consumed 45 percent more snacks, study shows. Watching food ads on TV leads to a boost in snacking among children and adults, increasing the risk of weight gain, U.S. researchers say.
FDA Panel Urges Ban on Vicodin, Percocet
July 01, 2009
Also recommends dosing limits for OTC painkillers that contain acetaminophen, like Tylenol or Excedrin, because of link to liver damage. The popular prescription painkillers Vicodin and Percocet, which combine acetaminophen with an opiate narcotic, should be banned, and the maximum dose of over-the-counter painkillers with acetaminophen, like Tylenol or Excedrin, should be lowered, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel urged Tuesday.
Comic Strip Aims to Educate Families About Diabetes
June 30, 2009
Storyline tackles lack of information about the disease in the Hispanic community. The syndicated comic strip "Baldo" will feature a storyline on diabetes in order to boost awareness about prevention and treatment of the disease among Hispanics.
The comic strip features a Hispanic teen named Baldo Bermudez. In a series of strips that will begin June 30, Baldo will learn his father has diabetes.
The comic strip features a Hispanic teen named Baldo Bermudez. In a series of strips that will begin June 30, Baldo will learn his father has diabetes.
Eating Well On the Road
June 28, 2009
Map out a healthy-food plan before leaving on vacation, nutritionist advises. Don't let the road to a summer vacation put you on a crash course with an unhealthy, fast-food diet.
"Nowadays, you can eat a healthy, balanced, calorie-appropriate meal no matter where you travel," Duke University's Elisabetta Politi, nutrition director of the North Carolina school's diet and fitness center, said in a news release.
To eat better on the road, Politi suggests:
Take healthy snacks with you.
"Nowadays, you can eat a healthy, balanced, calorie-appropriate meal no matter where you travel," Duke University's Elisabetta Politi, nutrition director of the North Carolina school's diet and fitness center, said in a news release.
To eat better on the road, Politi suggests:
Take healthy snacks with you.
Soy in the Diet May Protect Lung Function
June 26, 2009
Chronic lung disease rates lower in those who consume soy, researchers say. Consuming lots of soy foods such as tofu and soy milk may improve lung function and lower the chances of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), new research suggests.
Researchers asked 300 COPD patients in Japan and 340 age-matched healthy people about their soy intake. The results, published online in the journal Respiratory Research, indicate that consumption of soy products is associated with better lung function and reduced risk of COPD.
Researchers asked 300 COPD patients in Japan and 340 age-matched healthy people about their soy intake. The results, published online in the journal Respiratory Research, indicate that consumption of soy products is associated with better lung function and reduced risk of COPD.
Eating Animal Fat May Lead to Pancreatic Cancer
June 26, 2009
Added risk is tied to red meat and dairy products, study finds. Fat from red meat and dairy products can increase your risk for pancreatic cancer, researchers from the U.S. National Cancer Institute report.
Teens With Eating Disorders Benefit From Parents' Help
June 26, 2009
Research shows that recovery improves with family involvement. When a teenager has an eating disorder, it's not just the teen's problem. It's a family problem.
So, parents should join in on the treatment, a growing number of experts believe.
So, parents should join in on the treatment, a growing number of experts believe.
FDA Seizes All Drugs From Generics Maker
June 26, 2009
Agency cites poor quality at Michigan plants, warns of potential shortage of one pain reliever. The seizure of all drugs and drug ingredients at a Michigan-based manufacturer by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration could lead to a shortage of a particular type of pain reliever, the agency said on Thursday.
Extra Helpings of Vegetables, Olive Oil May Extend Life
June 24, 2009
Not all items on the Mediterranean diet are equally beneficial, study shows. Some components of a Mediterranean diet may be more vital to good health than others, a new report suggests.
A study from researchers at the University of Athens Medical School links longer life to consuming large quantities of vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes and olive oil, keeping alcohol intake moderate and avoiding too much meat. Meanwhile, eating lots of fish or seafood and going light on dairy products does not seem to increase longevity.
A study from researchers at the University of Athens Medical School links longer life to consuming large quantities of vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes and olive oil, keeping alcohol intake moderate and avoiding too much meat. Meanwhile, eating lots of fish or seafood and going light on dairy products does not seem to increase longevity.
Eat Well, Live Longer
June 23, 2009
Age-old advice to eat healthy pays off in longevity, study finds. If you eat a healthy diet, you're likely to live longer.
It might be trite advice, but a new study offers proof that it can make a difference in your longevity.
Those with the best diets reduced their risk of death by up to 25 percent over a 10-year follow-up, said study author Ashima Kant, a professor of nutrition at Queens College of the City University of New York.
It might be trite advice, but a new study offers proof that it can make a difference in your longevity.
Those with the best diets reduced their risk of death by up to 25 percent over a 10-year follow-up, said study author Ashima Kant, a professor of nutrition at Queens College of the City University of New York.
Obama Signs Tough New Anti-Smoking Law
June 22, 2009
FDA gets the authority to regulate tobacco manufacturing and marketing. President Barack Obama signed into law Monday the nation's toughest anti-smoking law that gives the U.S. Food and Drug Administration unprecedented powers to regulate tobacco products.
Vinegar Might Help Keep Off Pounds
June 22, 2009
Researchers find fat-fighting properties in the lab and in mice. Not only is vinegar low in calories, but it might actually help avoid weight gain, a new study suggests.
In a study in mice, Japanese researchers fed one group a high-fat diet along with acetic acid, a main component of vinegar, for six weeks. The others were fed a high-fat diet and given water.
In a study in mice, Japanese researchers fed one group a high-fat diet along with acetic acid, a main component of vinegar, for six weeks. The others were fed a high-fat diet and given water.
Does Location Affect Kids' Weight?
June 19, 2009
Study refutes belief that living near fast-food joints makes children fat. Living near a fast-food outlet doesn't make children fat, nor does living near a supermarket stocked with fresh fruits and vegetables make them thin, new research shows.
The study by Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis researchers examined a decade of data on more than 60,000 children aged 3 to 18. They compared the children's weights before and after fast-food outlets or supermarkets opened near their homes.
The study by Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis researchers examined a decade of data on more than 60,000 children aged 3 to 18. They compared the children's weights before and after fast-food outlets or supermarkets opened near their homes.
Lure of Bottled Water May Not Be Health Driven
June 19, 2009
Users say convenience is what motivates their choice. While many people believe bottled water is healthy, they can't list any actual benefits, a new British study reports.
The finding, published in the journal BMC Public Health, stemmed from interviews that University of Birmingham researchers conducted with users of the university's sports center.
"The majority of participants believed that bottled water has some health benefits but that they were not necessarily significant or superior to the benefits provided by tap water," study leader Lorna Ward said in a news release from the journal's publisher.
The finding, published in the journal BMC Public Health, stemmed from interviews that University of Birmingham researchers conducted with users of the university's sports center.
"The majority of participants believed that bottled water has some health benefits but that they were not necessarily significant or superior to the benefits provided by tap water," study leader Lorna Ward said in a news release from the journal's publisher.
Nestlé Recalls Cookie Dough Products
June 19, 2009
Move comes after FDA reports 66 cases of E. coli infection in 28 states. U.S. health officials are warning consumers not to eat any Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough products because of the risk of E.
Ozurdex Implant Approved for Macular Edema
June 18, 2009
When cause is blocked vein, doctors have a new therapy to offer. An injectable eye implant approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Thursday is the first product sanctioned to treat the eye disorder macular edema when it is caused by blockage of the retinal vein, the device's maker said.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Might Curb Depression in Heart Patients
June 18, 2009
Study found low levels in bloodstream correlated with increased risk. New research suggests a relationship between low levels of omega-3 fatty acids and an increased risk of depression in heart patients.
The study, reported online in the Journal of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, looked at 987 adults with coronary heart disease. Among those with the lowest levels of omega-3 fatty acids, 23 percent suffered from depression.
The study, reported online in the Journal of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, looked at 987 adults with coronary heart disease. Among those with the lowest levels of omega-3 fatty acids, 23 percent suffered from depression.
Drug May Stem Slide Into Alzheimer's for Some
June 15, 2009
Aricept did not affect others with mild memory loss, study finds. Depression might increase the chance of developing Alzheimer's disease among those already experiencing memory problems, a new study says.
But the drug donepezil (Aricept), commonly prescribed for people with Alzheimer's, could slow the depressed person's slide into the disease, the study also found.
The findings are reported in the June 16 issue of Neurology.
But the drug donepezil (Aricept), commonly prescribed for people with Alzheimer's, could slow the depressed person's slide into the disease, the study also found.
The findings are reported in the June 16 issue of Neurology.
Asthma Drugs Get 'Precaution' Labeling for Possible Psychiatric Side Effects
June 13, 2009
FDA says users of Singulair and similar meds should watch for such problems The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday requested that the makers of a class of asthma drugs called leukotriene receptor agonists place a "precaution" on the drugs' labeling, warning of the potential for neuropsychiatric events.
Caldolor Is First Approved Injected Ibuprofen
June 12, 2009
For hospital patients who can't take oral drug Caldolor, the first injected form of ibuprofen, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat pain and fever, the agency said in a news release.
Tobacco Control Bill Heads to White House as Health Groups Cheer
June 12, 2009
Legislation to let FDA regulate tobacco manufacturing and marketing called long overdue. Legislation that gives the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulatory control over tobacco products headed to the White House Friday for President Obama's signature, as health organizations across the country cheered.
Cornflakes, White Bread Could Boost Heart Risk
June 11, 2009
'High-glycemic' carbs like these hamper blood vessel function, study shows. Eating a diet rich in carbohydrates that boost blood sugar levels .
Health Tip
Always Hungry?
June 11, 2009
Here are possible reasons Everyone has days when they eat too much. But if you always seem to be hungry, there may be a medical explanation.
The U.
The U.
FDA Panel OKs Newer Antipsychotics for Children
June 11, 2009
Seroquel, Zyprexa and Geodon have been linked to certain health risks, experts note. A U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel voted overwhelmingly Wednesday that Seroquel and Zyprexa, two powerful antipsychotic drugs, be approved to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in children aged 13 to 17.
Morning Sickness Drug Gets Green Light in Study
June 10, 2009
Israeli researchers find short-term use during pregnancy should be safe. A new study suggests that women who experience morning sickness early in pregnancy can safely take the medication metoclopramide to relieve their symptoms.
The study, which included nearly 3,500 pregnant women who took metoclopramide (Reglan), a drug developed to treat gastrointestinal (GI) problems, found no significant increases in the risk of birth defects, premature delivery, low birth weight or fetal death.
"It appears that metoclopramide is safe for short-term use to control GI problems in pregnant women when used as prescribed," said the study's senior author, Amalia Levy, a senior lecturer in epidemiology at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel.
The study, which included nearly 3,500 pregnant women who took metoclopramide (Reglan), a drug developed to treat gastrointestinal (GI) problems, found no significant increases in the risk of birth defects, premature delivery, low birth weight or fetal death.
"It appears that metoclopramide is safe for short-term use to control GI problems in pregnant women when used as prescribed," said the study's senior author, Amalia Levy, a senior lecturer in epidemiology at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel.
'Eco-Atkins' Diet Sheds More Than Pounds
June 08, 2009
Study found subbing plant-based proteins for animal ones also lowered cholesterol. A modified Atkins diet, one that substitutes plant-based proteins for animal-based ones, helps people lose weight and lowers their cholesterol, new research shows.
"In just two weeks on the so-called 'Eco-Atkins' diet, everything starts to look much better metabolically ..
"In just two weeks on the so-called 'Eco-Atkins' diet, everything starts to look much better metabolically ..
Health Tip
Making Better Choices for Fast Food
June 08, 2009
Recommendations for healthier eating Fast food may be inexpensive and convenient, but it is often high in calories, fat, sugar and salt.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Researchers Uncover Why Turmeric Helps Heal
June 05, 2009
Component of ancient spice makes cells more resistant to infection, report says. Modern technology has revealed the ancient secret behind the healing power of turmeric, a spice regarded as "holy powder" in India.
Turmeric has been used for centuries to treat wounds, infections and other ailments. It's long been believed that curcumin .
Turmeric has been used for centuries to treat wounds, infections and other ailments. It's long been believed that curcumin .
Parental Eating Habits Don't Rub Off on Kids
June 05, 2009
What Mom and Dad consume has little effect on children's choices, study finds. Parents' eating habits don't seem to influence their children's food choices as much as experts have thought, new research suggests.
"We found that the resemblance in dietary intake between parents and children is weak," said study senior author Dr. Youfa Wang, an associate professor of international health and epidemiology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore.
"We found that the resemblance in dietary intake between parents and children is weak," said study senior author Dr. Youfa Wang, an associate professor of international health and epidemiology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore.
Grilled Meats Not Tied to Breast Cancer in Older Women
June 05, 2009
Study finds no added risk for eating meat, even when cooked at high temps. Eating meat doesn't increase postmenopausal women's risk for breast cancer, new research has found.
Previous studies looking at whether eating meat and increased breast cancer risk might be linked have yielded inconsistent results.
In the new study, researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University analyzed data on 120,755 older American women, including the types of food the women ate, how often they ate certain foods and how they prepared their meat.
Previous studies looking at whether eating meat and increased breast cancer risk might be linked have yielded inconsistent results.
In the new study, researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University analyzed data on 120,755 older American women, including the types of food the women ate, how often they ate certain foods and how they prepared their meat.
Making Obese Mice Slim, Without Diet or Exercise
June 03, 2009
Findings might someday help overweight humans, too, experts say. Researchers have come up with two new ways to control weight and blood sugar levels in obese mice .
New Drug Fights Cancer in Dogs
June 03, 2009
Palladia approved to treat dangerous skin tumors Palladia (toceranib phosphate) is the first drug to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically to treat cancer in dogs, the agency said in a news release Wednesday.
Want to Stop Cancer? You Can, Experts Say
June 03, 2009
Lifestyle changes have been shown to lower odds, even for those at higher risk. Although some believe that certain people are destined to get cancer and nothing can be done to change their fate, that's just not the case, experts say.
Even people who have genes that predispose them to certain types of cancer might be able to reduce their risk by living a healthy lifestyle, they say.
"Between 27 and 49 percent of people think preventing cancer is impossible or highly unlikely," said Karen Collins, a registered dietitian and a nutrition adviser for the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Even people who have genes that predispose them to certain types of cancer might be able to reduce their risk by living a healthy lifestyle, they say.
"Between 27 and 49 percent of people think preventing cancer is impossible or highly unlikely," said Karen Collins, a registered dietitian and a nutrition adviser for the American Institute for Cancer Research.
FDA to Study Ways to Be More Open With Public
June 02, 2009
Agency hopes to better explain its decisions to regain lost trust. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, an agency long criticized for not informing the public about its inner workings, announced Tuesday that it has created a task force to study how to be more transparent.
Health Tip
Get Enough Dietary Protein
June 02, 2009
Here's how Protein helps your body replace damaged cells and make new ones. Women who are pregnant, children and teens should be especially careful to get enough protein, according to the U.S.
Depression Treatment Wanes Following FDA Warnings
June 01, 2009
Advisories led to 'unintended consequences,' researchers say. Newly diagnosed cases of depression in America have dropped sharply since the government's warning of an increased risk of suicidal behavior among children and teens taking antidepressants, a new analysis finds.
Researchers at the University of Colorado say the U.S.
Researchers at the University of Colorado say the U.S.
Health Tip
Eat Enough Fiber
June 01, 2009
It's a needed part of a healthy diet Fiber is a plant substance that's required eating for a healthy diet. Lots of fiber is needed each day to help reduce the risk of heart disease, improve digestion, prevent constipation and maintain a healthy body weight, the U.S.
Women Who Run May Benefit From Extra Folic Acid
May 31, 2009
In athletes who stop menstruating, supplements boost vascular function, study finds. High-dose folic acid supplementation improved vascular function in young female runners who stopped menstruating (amenorrhea) because their caloric intake was lower than their energy output, researchers say.
The findings suggest that folic acid may decrease cardiovascular risk and also improve performance in young female athletes, according to the Medical College of Wisconsin researchers.
"Previous studies have shown that amenorrheic women runners have decreased dilation in the main (brachial) artery of the arm in response to blood flow.
The findings suggest that folic acid may decrease cardiovascular risk and also improve performance in young female athletes, according to the Medical College of Wisconsin researchers.
"Previous studies have shown that amenorrheic women runners have decreased dilation in the main (brachial) artery of the arm in response to blood flow.
Besivance Approved for Bacterial Conjunctivitis
May 29, 2009
Contagious condition often called 'pink eye' Besivance (besifloxacin ophthalmic suspension 0.6 percent) has been approved by the U.S.
Ankle Replacement Device Approved
May 28, 2009
For people with deformed or arthritic joint The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR) system for people whose ankle is deformed or crippled by arthritis, the agency said Thursday in a news release.
Too Much Cola Can Cause Muscle Problems
May 27, 2009
Drop in potassium levels may lead to mild weakness or temporary paralysis, study finds. Drinking too much cola can increase the risk of a muscle problem called hypokalemia, experts warn.
In people with hypokalemia, a drop in blood potassium levels results in problems with vital muscle functions. Symptoms can range from mild weakness to serious paralysis, say Greek researchers who conducted a review of people who drank between two to nine liters of cola a day.
In people with hypokalemia, a drop in blood potassium levels results in problems with vital muscle functions. Symptoms can range from mild weakness to serious paralysis, say Greek researchers who conducted a review of people who drank between two to nine liters of cola a day.
Adcirca Approved for Lung Disorder
May 26, 2009
Drug has the same active ingredient as Cialis United Therapeutics has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to market Adcirca (tadalafil) to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a high blood pressure disorder affecting the arteries that carry oxygen from the heart to the lungs.
Skip the Burgers and Throw Some Veggies on the Grill
May 22, 2009
Health concerns raised by barbecued meats spur new ideas for the summer cookout. If you're given the choice between a grilled hamburger or a grilled Portobello mushroom this Memorial Day weekend, go for the veggie.
Eating meat that's charred or well-done raises the risk of pancreatic cancer, according to a recent study. Grilled veggies don't carry the same risk.
Eating meat that's charred or well-done raises the risk of pancreatic cancer, according to a recent study. Grilled veggies don't carry the same risk.
Synthetic Vitamin A-Like Molecule Blocks Early MS
May 22, 2009
Tests in mice show AM80 prevents early symptoms but not chronic ones, study finds. A synthetic vitamin A molecule has shown promise as an early treatment for multiple sclerosis.
In tests in mice, Christian Klemann and colleagues at the National Institute of Neuroscience in Tokyo found that the man-made retinoid AM80 prevents early symptoms of the autoimmune disease by blocking the function of Th17 T-cells, a type of immune cell known to play a role in the onset of multiple sclerosis. However, AM80 did not prevent chronic symptoms of the disease, according to the findings published in the June issue of the American Journal of Pathology.
In tests in mice, Christian Klemann and colleagues at the National Institute of Neuroscience in Tokyo found that the man-made retinoid AM80 prevents early symptoms of the autoimmune disease by blocking the function of Th17 T-cells, a type of immune cell known to play a role in the onset of multiple sclerosis. However, AM80 did not prevent chronic symptoms of the disease, according to the findings published in the June issue of the American Journal of Pathology.
Low Vitamin D Levels May Initiate Cancer Development
May 22, 2009
Study suggests loss of communication among cells tied to this nutritional deficit. Low levels of vitamin D may contribute to cancer development, U.S. researchers have found.
Vitamin D May Help Keep Aging at Bay
May 22, 2009
Researchers speculate that brain might benefit from supplements. High levels of vitamin D might help keep the brain healthy as people age, new research suggests.
For the study, which included more than 3,000 European men aged 40 to 79, the researchers assessed the men's memory and how quickly they processed information. They also examined other factors that affect mental agility, such as physical activity levels and mood.
For the study, which included more than 3,000 European men aged 40 to 79, the researchers assessed the men's memory and how quickly they processed information. They also examined other factors that affect mental agility, such as physical activity levels and mood.
E-Mailing Your Way to Healthier Habits
May 20, 2009
People move more and eat better when messaged to do so, study finds. E-mail messages suggesting small ways to eat more healthfully or boost physical activity can significantly improve health habits, a new study has found.
Participants in a worksite e-mail program walked more, ate more fruits and vegetables and consumed less saturated fats and trans fats than workers who didn't receive the e-mails, according to a report in the June issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
People whose dietary habits and physical activity levels were below recommended levels at the start of the study realized the greatest improvements, the researchers reported.
Participants in a worksite e-mail program walked more, ate more fruits and vegetables and consumed less saturated fats and trans fats than workers who didn't receive the e-mails, according to a report in the June issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
People whose dietary habits and physical activity levels were below recommended levels at the start of the study realized the greatest improvements, the researchers reported.
Risperdal Consta Approved for Bipolar Disorder
May 18, 2009
Long-acting version of antipsychotic The Janssen Pharmaceuticals drug Risperdal Consta (risperidone) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for people with Bipolar 1 disorder, the drug maker said Monday.
Multivitamins Might Prolong Life
May 18, 2009
By preserving protective ends of DNA, aging might be slowed, study suggests. Multivitamins may help women live longer by preventing parts of their DNA from shortening, a new study has found.
Telomeres, or the end portion of chromosomes, protect chromosomes from damage. Because telomeres shorten slightly when cells divide, researchers speculated that preventing this shortening could protect new cells and thus reduce the effects of aging.
Telomeres, or the end portion of chromosomes, protect chromosomes from damage. Because telomeres shorten slightly when cells divide, researchers speculated that preventing this shortening could protect new cells and thus reduce the effects of aging.
Nutrient-Rich Diet Lowers Risk of Age-Related Eye Disease
May 15, 2009
Study finds foods high in vitamins, minerals cut chances of macular degeneration. A nutritious diet could help with the health of your eyes as well as the rest of your body, according to a new study.
Eating foods rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids and that have less impact on blood sugar levels (so-called low-glycemic index foods) can lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), researchers have found.
Citrus fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables and cold-water fish contain higher levels of these eye-healthy nutrients.
Eating foods rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids and that have less impact on blood sugar levels (so-called low-glycemic index foods) can lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), researchers have found.
Citrus fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables and cold-water fish contain higher levels of these eye-healthy nutrients.
New Insights Show Ginseng Fights Inflammation
May 15, 2009
Scientists spot anti-inflammatory components in the traditional remedy. Ginseng has been used in medicine for centuries, and now its reputation for improving health is expanding: A new study has found that the herb, which is used in traditional Chinese and other Asian medicine, fights inflammation.
Researchers from the University of Hong Kong identified seven constituents of ginseng, called ginsenosides, that showed immunosuppressive effects.
The findings are published online in the Journal of Translational Medicine.
Researchers from the University of Hong Kong identified seven constituents of ginseng, called ginsenosides, that showed immunosuppressive effects.
The findings are published online in the Journal of Translational Medicine.
Ginger Eases Nausea From Chemo
May 15, 2009
Spice produced 40% reduction in symptoms among breast cancer patients. Researchers have discovered the nausea-easing powers of ginger that many grandmothers are already familiar with, and report that the spice helped cancer patients who were undergoing chemotherapy.
"Ginger at a daily dose of 0.5-to-1 gram significantly aids in the reduction of chemotherapy-related nausea on the first day of chemotherapy, and reduced nausea will lead to improved quality of life in many cancer patients," said study author Julie Ryan, an assistant professor of dermatology and radiation oncology at the James P.
"Ginger at a daily dose of 0.5-to-1 gram significantly aids in the reduction of chemotherapy-related nausea on the first day of chemotherapy, and reduced nausea will lead to improved quality of life in many cancer patients," said study author Julie Ryan, an assistant professor of dermatology and radiation oncology at the James P.
Cimzia Approved for Rheumatoid Arthritis
May 14, 2009
Previously sanctioned for Crohn's disease The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Cimzia (certolizumab pegol) to treat moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, Belgian drug maker UCB said Thursday in a news release.
Scorpion Anti-Venom Speeds Children's Recovery
May 13, 2009
Available in Mexico but not in U.S., it could make ICU stays unnecessary, study suggests. An anti-venom medication used in Mexico but not approved for use in the United States appears able to quickly and completely help children recover from the nerve poisoning caused by the bark scorpion's sting, a new study finds.
It typically took less than two hours for the irregular eye movements, involuntary thrashing of limbs, breathing difficulties and other symptoms to disappear in all eight children in the study who were given the drug after suffering a bite from a bark scorpion, according to the research lead by University of Arizona researchers.
Seven children who were also stung but given a placebo continued to have symptoms for more than four hours and needed heavy sedation and hospitalization to fully recover, the researchers say.
It typically took less than two hours for the irregular eye movements, involuntary thrashing of limbs, breathing difficulties and other symptoms to disappear in all eight children in the study who were given the drug after suffering a bite from a bark scorpion, according to the research lead by University of Arizona researchers.
Seven children who were also stung but given a placebo continued to have symptoms for more than four hours and needed heavy sedation and hospitalization to fully recover, the researchers say.
Folic Acid Reduces Infant Heart Defects
May 13, 2009
Adding B vitamin to grain products cut congenital heart defects in newborns, researchers say. Since the mandatory addition of folic acid to flour, pasta and other grain products took effect in Canada more than a decade ago, fewer babies have been born with congenital heart defects, researchers report.
Folic acid, a type of vitamin B, has been shown to reduce neural tube birth defects, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Now it seems folic acid may also prevent heart defects.
Folic acid, a type of vitamin B, has been shown to reduce neural tube birth defects, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Now it seems folic acid may also prevent heart defects.
Before Conceiving, Take Folic Acid for One Full Year
May 12, 2009
Preemie risk 50 percent lower in those who take supplements that long, research shows. When taken for at least a year before conception, folic acid supplements can help reduce the chance of a premature birth by at least 50 percent, University of Texas researchers say.
Their study, published in the May 12 issue of PLoS Medicine, found no link to a reduction in the odds of giving birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy if the supplements were taken for less than a year before conception. The researchers also found no ties between adding folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, to a woman's diet and any pregnancy complications.
Their study, published in the May 12 issue of PLoS Medicine, found no link to a reduction in the odds of giving birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy if the supplements were taken for less than a year before conception. The researchers also found no ties between adding folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, to a woman's diet and any pregnancy complications.
Frequent Feedings May Be Making Babies Fat
May 12, 2009
Moms might not notice signs that infants are full, study concludes. Mothers who fail to notice signs that their babies are full tend to overfeed them, resulting in excess weight gain when the infants are between 6 months and a year old, a new study has found.
The finding comes from a study by Rutgers University researchers of 96 low-income black and Hispanic mothers who formula-fed their babies. The mothers recorded information about their babies' feedings, and researchers visited the mothers when the babies were 3, 6 and 12 months old to observe feedings and to weigh the babies.
The finding comes from a study by Rutgers University researchers of 96 low-income black and Hispanic mothers who formula-fed their babies. The mothers recorded information about their babies' feedings, and researchers visited the mothers when the babies were 3, 6 and 12 months old to observe feedings and to weigh the babies.
Creon, a Pancreatic Enzyme Substitute, Approved
May 07, 2009
Derived from pig pancreas Creon (pancrelipase), a pancreatic enzyme replacement for people with cystic fibrosis and other conditions that involve exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for adults and children.
Avastin Gets New Approval for Brain Cancer
May 07, 2009
Of the type affecting Senator Kennedy It had been more than 10 years since a new treatment for glioblastoma was approved, but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has now granted accelerated approval for the cancer drug Avastin for use against the aggressive brain cancer tumors, Business Week reports.
Fanapt Sanctioned for Schizophrenia
May 07, 2009
But FDA warns against off-label use A new pill to treat adults with schizophrenia has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Cycloset Approved for Type 2 Diabetes
May 06, 2009
Helps control blood sugar via the brain Cycloset (bromocriptine), a drug that takes the novel approach of managing blood sugar via the brain, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, maker VeroScience Inc.
Vitamin E, Selenium and Soy Won't Prevent Prostate Cancer
May 01, 2009
Study found no effect among men with precancerous lesions. Despite earlier promise, three nutrients - vitamin E, selenium and soy - do not seem to prevent prostate cancer in men with precancerous prostate lesions, Canadian researchers report.
"There has been a collection of scientific data that has suggested that these agents could have a tremendous impact in preventing prostate cancer," said lead researcher Dr. Neil E.
"There has been a collection of scientific data that has suggested that these agents could have a tremendous impact in preventing prostate cancer," said lead researcher Dr. Neil E.
FDA Recalls Dietary Supplements Tied to 1 Death, Liver Damage
May 01, 2009
Hydroxycut products are sold as fat-burners, energy boosters, agency says. U.S. health officials are warning consumers to stay away from Hydroxycut dietary supplement products marketed under the Iovate and MuscleTech brand names because of reports of liver problems resulting in at least one death .
Can't Control Junk Food Cravings? Blame the Brain
May 01, 2009
Study attributes level of willpower to cerebral differences. Two areas of the brain work together to give some people the self-control to reject unhealthy foods, a new study has found.
California Institute of Technology researchers used MRI to scan the brains of volunteers as they looked at photos of dozens of types of foods and decided which ones they'd like to eat. They found significant differences in the brain activity between people who had self-control in terms of making food choices and those with no self-control.
California Institute of Technology researchers used MRI to scan the brains of volunteers as they looked at photos of dozens of types of foods and decided which ones they'd like to eat. They found significant differences in the brain activity between people who had self-control in terms of making food choices and those with no self-control.
More Educated Choose Healthier Foods, But Pay More
May 01, 2009
Higher quality diets also associated with higher income levels, study finds. People with higher levels of education and income tend to eat healthier diets, but pay more for selecting foods that are less energy-dense (lower calorie/higher nutrient content), a U.S. study finds.
FDA Mandates New Warnings for Botox
April 30, 2009
Injection to relax muscle spasms carries severe risks, agency says. Reports of deaths among people using popular anti-wrinkle injections such as Botox to treat muscle spasms have prompted a change in labeling.
Botox and similar products will now be required to carry boxed warnings, the most serious type of label warning, the U.S.
Botox and similar products will now be required to carry boxed warnings, the most serious type of label warning, the U.S.
Dysport, a Botox Competitor, Approved
April 30, 2009
Derived from botulinum toxin A new wrinkle remover, like Botox derived from botulinum toxin, has been approved in the United States, the Bloomberg news service reported Thursday.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Folic Acid Might Offer Allergy Relief
April 30, 2009
But use of supplements should await further study, expert says. Folic acid, also known an vitamin B9, might help treat allergies and asthma, suggests a new study.
Researchers from the Johns Hopkins Children's Center reviewed the medical records of more than 8,000 people, ages 2 to 85, to track the effect of folic acid levels on respiratory and allergic symptoms and on levels of IgE antibodies, the immune system markers that increase in response to an allergen.
They found that people with higher blood levels of folic acid had fewer IgE antibodies, fewer reported allergies and less wheezing and were less likely to develop asthma.
Researchers from the Johns Hopkins Children's Center reviewed the medical records of more than 8,000 people, ages 2 to 85, to track the effect of folic acid levels on respiratory and allergic symptoms and on levels of IgE antibodies, the immune system markers that increase in response to an allergen.
They found that people with higher blood levels of folic acid had fewer IgE antibodies, fewer reported allergies and less wheezing and were less likely to develop asthma.
U.S. Public Lacks Confidence in FDA
Poll
April 30, 2009
More than half of those surveyed believe agency is falling behind in safeguarding food, drugs. Although the American public feels a little better about the job the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is doing now than a year ago, about half still believes the agency isn't doing enough to safeguard the country's food and drugs, a new Harris Interactive/HealthDay poll finds.
Critically Ill Patients Lack Vitamin D
April 29, 2009
Almost half of those in ICU had deficient levels, study shows Vitamin D levels are deficient in many critically ill patients, new research shows.
In a small study, Australian researchers found that almost half of people in an intensive care unit were deficient in vitamin D.
"Vitamin D deficiency is likely to be common in seriously ill patients," said study author Dr.
In a small study, Australian researchers found that almost half of people in an intensive care unit were deficient in vitamin D.
"Vitamin D deficiency is likely to be common in seriously ill patients," said study author Dr.
Some Diet Sodas May Ward Off Kidney Stones
April 29, 2009
Other research finds that pomegranate juice could slow prostate cancer. Drinking diet sodas, especially those with a citrus flavor, might help ward off painful calcium deposits known as kidney stones.
The drinks contain citrate, which is known to inhibit calcium formation, according to the authors of a study that was to be presented Sunday at the American Urological Association annual meeting, in Chicago.
And there's more good news in the drinks department: A second study being presented at the same meeting found that pomegranate juice might slow the progression of prostate cancer.
The drinks contain citrate, which is known to inhibit calcium formation, according to the authors of a study that was to be presented Sunday at the American Urological Association annual meeting, in Chicago.
And there's more good news in the drinks department: A second study being presented at the same meeting found that pomegranate juice might slow the progression of prostate cancer.
Remembrance of Fat May Be at Root of Cravings
April 29, 2009
Once a survival tool, ability could be making people today fat, expert says. When you eat fat-rich foods, your brain forms long-term memories of the experience, says a new study.
The finding adds to knowledge about the link between dietary fats and appetite control and could lead to new ways of treating obesity and other eating disorders, according to researchers from the University of California, Irvine.
In previous studies, they found that oleic acids from fats are transformed into a compound called oleoylethanolamide (OEA) in the upper region of the small intestines.
The finding adds to knowledge about the link between dietary fats and appetite control and could lead to new ways of treating obesity and other eating disorders, according to researchers from the University of California, Irvine.
In previous studies, they found that oleic acids from fats are transformed into a compound called oleoylethanolamide (OEA) in the upper region of the small intestines.
Acrylamide Doesn't Raise Lung Cancer Risk
April 28, 2009
Controversial food byproduct even showed protection for women, study finds. Acrylamide, a food byproduct that some research has linked to certain cancers, doesn't raise the risk of lung cancer in men and may even offer slight protection for women, new research suggests.
In a study that included more than 120,000 men and women, Dutch researchers reported that they found no association between lung cancer and acrylamide in men and an 18 percent lower risk in women for a 10-microgram/day average intake of acrylamide.
"After taking smoking and other lung cancer risk factors into account, it turned out that men who ingested more acrylamide were not more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than men who consumed less acrylamide," said study author Janneke G.
In a study that included more than 120,000 men and women, Dutch researchers reported that they found no association between lung cancer and acrylamide in men and an 18 percent lower risk in women for a 10-microgram/day average intake of acrylamide.
"After taking smoking and other lung cancer risk factors into account, it turned out that men who ingested more acrylamide were not more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than men who consumed less acrylamide," said study author Janneke G.
Smoking, Hypertension Each Account for 1 in 5 U.S. Deaths
April 28, 2009
Prevention efforts 'have run out of steam,' expert says. Want to reduce your risk of dying prematurely? Don't smoke and keep a healthy blood pressure level.
Each of those factors accounts for about one in five deaths among U.S.
Each of those factors accounts for about one in five deaths among U.S.
Hidden Salt in Diet Haunts Many With Heart Failure
April 25, 2009
Study finds high sodium intake, despite efforts to cut back. Eating a low-salt diet is one of the most important lifestyle changes people with heart failure can make, but only a third adhere to the recommendation, a new study has found.
Researchers asked 116 people with heart failure to write down everything they ate for three days. Though the recommended daily intake of sodium for people with heart failure is 2,000 milligrams, participants in the study were consuming an average of 2,671 mg a day.
Researchers asked 116 people with heart failure to write down everything they ate for three days. Though the recommended daily intake of sodium for people with heart failure is 2,000 milligrams, participants in the study were consuming an average of 2,671 mg a day.
Simponi Approved for Immune-Related Arthritis
April 24, 2009
A drug injected monthly Simponi (golimumab) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat three forms of arthritis that occur when the body's immune system attacks the joints.
A Pre-Workout Meal to Help You Burn Fat
April 23, 2009
Stay away from white bread, other 'high-glycemic' carbs, researchers say. The type of carbohydrates you eat before a workout may influence how much fat you burn during your exercise session, new research suggests.
Women who ate a breakfast rich in carbohydrates that do not cause a spike in blood sugar .
Women who ate a breakfast rich in carbohydrates that do not cause a spike in blood sugar .
FDA Approves 'Plan B' Pill for 17-Year-Olds
April 23, 2009
Decision is latest involving controversial birth-control drug. Responding to a federal judge's directive, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that it will now allow 17-year-olds to get the controversial "morning-after" birth control pill without a doctor's prescription.
Staying Slim Is Good for the Environment
April 22, 2009
Sustaining heavier people produces more greenhouse gases, researchers say. Watching your weight does more than protect your health. It also may help fight climate change.
Researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine say that because food production is a major contributor to greenhouse gases, a lean population, such as in Vietnam, consumes about 20 percent less food and produces fewer greenhouse gases than a population in which 40 percent of people are obese, a rate close to that of the United States.
Researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine say that because food production is a major contributor to greenhouse gases, a lean population, such as in Vietnam, consumes about 20 percent less food and produces fewer greenhouse gases than a population in which 40 percent of people are obese, a rate close to that of the United States.
Fatty Fish May Cut Heart Failure Risk in Men
April 22, 2009
Study finds benefit from consuming just one serving a week. Men who consume fatty fish and marine omega-3 fatty acids appear to have a reduced risk of heart failure, a new study has found.
Between 1998 and 2004, U.S.
Between 1998 and 2004, U.S.
Walnuts May Help Keep Breast Cancer at Bay
April 21, 2009
Study in mice finds fewer, smaller tumors in those that ate the nuts. Walnuts contain compounds that may help prevent breast cancer, suggest findings from a study involving mice specially created to develop tumors.
One group of mice was fed a daily diet that included what would be equivalent to 2 ounces of walnuts in humans, while another group of mice ate a regular diet. The mice that ate the diet with walnuts had a much lower incidence of breast tumors, fewer glands with a tumor and smaller-sized tumors.
One group of mice was fed a daily diet that included what would be equivalent to 2 ounces of walnuts in humans, while another group of mice ate a regular diet. The mice that ate the diet with walnuts had a much lower incidence of breast tumors, fewer glands with a tumor and smaller-sized tumors.
Wine May Guard Against Lymphoma Recurrence
April 21, 2009
Patients who drank before diagnosis had reduced risk of relapse or death, study finds. Patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma who drank wine before their diagnosis appeared to have a reduced risk of relapse or death, according to a study that's the first to identify this connection.
The researchers looked at more than 500 women with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and found that, overall, those who drank wine before their diagnosis had a 76 percent five-year survival rate, compared with 68 percent for those who didn't drink wine. The five-year, disease-free survival rate was 70 percent for wine drinkers and 65 percent for non-wine drinkers.
The researchers looked at more than 500 women with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and found that, overall, those who drank wine before their diagnosis had a 76 percent five-year survival rate, compared with 68 percent for those who didn't drink wine. The five-year, disease-free survival rate was 70 percent for wine drinkers and 65 percent for non-wine drinkers.
Compound in Berries May Lessen Sun Damage
April 21, 2009
Study in mice finds ellagic acid, also in nuts, limits wrinkling. You probably already knew that berries are nutritious. But new research shows that a compound found in berries, nuts and other fruits might help prevent wrinkles and repair skin damage caused by the sun.
Researchers in Korea applied ellagic acid, an antioxidant found in raspberries, strawberries, cranberries and pomegranates, to human skin cells in the lab and to the skin of hairless mice that had been exposed to strong, ultraviolet rays.
Researchers in Korea applied ellagic acid, an antioxidant found in raspberries, strawberries, cranberries and pomegranates, to human skin cells in the lab and to the skin of hairless mice that had been exposed to strong, ultraviolet rays.
Charring Meat May Boost Risk of Pancreatic Cancer
April 21, 2009
Increases production of carcinogens thought to invite disease, study finds. You may love your steak well done, but eating burned or charred meat may increase your risk of pancreatic cancer, a new study suggests.
Researchers used data on the meat intake, preferred cooking methods and doneness preferences of nearly 63,000 participants taking part in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Multi-Center Screening Trial
Over the course of nine years, 208 developed pancreatic cancer.
Meat-eaters who preferred their steak very well done were almost 60 percent more likely to get pancreatic cancer compared to those who ate steak less well done or did not eat steak.
Researchers used data on the meat intake, preferred cooking methods and doneness preferences of nearly 63,000 participants taking part in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Multi-Center Screening Trial
Over the course of nine years, 208 developed pancreatic cancer.
Meat-eaters who preferred their steak very well done were almost 60 percent more likely to get pancreatic cancer compared to those who ate steak less well done or did not eat steak.
Grapefruit Juice Boosts Anti-Cancer Drug's Effects
April 20, 2009
Small study finds 8-ounce glass enhances absorption of rapamycin 3 to 4 times. Grapefruit juice boosts the anti-cancer effects of the drug rapamycin, according to a small study that included 25 patients with advanced solid tumors, for which there is no effective treatment.
The patients took 15- to 35-milligram doses of the drug, as a liquid, once a week. After the first week of the study, they also drank a glass (eight ounces) of grapefruit juice immediately after taking the drug and once a day for the rest of the week.
The patients took 15- to 35-milligram doses of the drug, as a liquid, once a week. After the first week of the study, they also drank a glass (eight ounces) of grapefruit juice immediately after taking the drug and once a day for the rest of the week.
Kids and Veggies
Offer Them and They Will Eat
April 20, 2009
Availability in poor areas more of an issue than youngsters' tastes, studies find. Good nutrition may be more an issue of supply than demand in the poorest parts of the lower Mississippi Delta.
A new study found that children in these rural areas are open to eating more fruits and vegetables, but other research shows these products are not readily available and could become even less so if the economy continues to lag.
The findings are from two studies that were to be presented Sunday at the Experimental Biology conference in New Orleans as part of a program sponsored by the American Society for Nutrition.
A new study found that children in these rural areas are open to eating more fruits and vegetables, but other research shows these products are not readily available and could become even less so if the economy continues to lag.
The findings are from two studies that were to be presented Sunday at the Experimental Biology conference in New Orleans as part of a program sponsored by the American Society for Nutrition.
Gum Chewing May Cut Craving for Snacks
April 20, 2009
Study suggests that sugarless brands can help control appetite and weight. You might be able to cut down on snacking by chewing more sugarless gum.
During an experiment, people were offered a variety of snacks three hours after a standard lunch and were told they could eat as much of the snacks as they desired. One afternoon the participants also chewed sugarless gum for 15 minutes each hour in the period between lunch and snack time.
During an experiment, people were offered a variety of snacks three hours after a standard lunch and were told they could eat as much of the snacks as they desired. One afternoon the participants also chewed sugarless gum for 15 minutes each hour in the period between lunch and snack time.
Low Vitamin A, C Intake Tied to Asthma Risk
April 16, 2009
But British team says findings don't prove cause and effect. People who don't get enough of the antioxidant vitamins A and C in their diet may be at increased risk for asthma, British researchers say.
The pooled results of 40 studies conducted between 1980 and 2007 showed that people with asthma had a significantly lower dietary intake of vitamin A than those without the disease. The average intake among those with asthma was 182 micrograms a day, which is between a quarter and a third of recommended daily intake.
The pooled results of 40 studies conducted between 1980 and 2007 showed that people with asthma had a significantly lower dietary intake of vitamin A than those without the disease. The average intake among those with asthma was 182 micrograms a day, which is between a quarter and a third of recommended daily intake.
Health Tip
Preventing the Return of Pancreatitis
April 16, 2009
How you can help ward off a recurrence Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that plays a key role in the body's digestive system.
Although the disease isn't fully understood, here are steps you can take to prevent it from returning, the American Gastroenterological Association says:
If your doctor has told you that your illness is related to alcohol, avoid all alcoholic beverages.
Eat a healthy diet and avoid foods that are high in fat or very greasy, especially if your illness is related to gallstones.
Although the disease isn't fully understood, here are steps you can take to prevent it from returning, the American Gastroenterological Association says:
If your doctor has told you that your illness is related to alcohol, avoid all alcoholic beverages.
Eat a healthy diet and avoid foods that are high in fat or very greasy, especially if your illness is related to gallstones.
Nearly 18 Million Will Have Macular Degeneration by 2050
April 14, 2009
But newer treatments could reduce related blindness by almost 35%, study suggests Although the rate of age-related macular degeneration is on the increase, newer treatments could help reduce the most serious effects of the disease by about 35 percent, new estimates suggest.
In a study funded by the U.S.
In a study funded by the U.S.
Review Confirms Links Between Diet, Heart Health
April 13, 2009
Vegetables, nuts, and 'Mediterranean' fare most beneficial, researchers find. Vegetables, nuts and the so-called "Mediterranean" diet are heart-friendly, while trans fats and foods with a high glycemic index can harm your heart, say researchers who reviewed 189 studies published between 1950 and 2007.
The studies included 146 prospective cohort studies (which examined past habits of participants) and 43 randomized controlled trials (volunteers were randomly assigned to consume a certain kind of diet).
"The relationship between dietary factors and coronary heart disease has been a major focus of health research for almost half a century," wrote Andrew Mente, of the Population Health Research Institute, and colleagues.
The studies included 146 prospective cohort studies (which examined past habits of participants) and 43 randomized controlled trials (volunteers were randomly assigned to consume a certain kind of diet).
"The relationship between dietary factors and coronary heart disease has been a major focus of health research for almost half a century," wrote Andrew Mente, of the Population Health Research Institute, and colleagues.
How Much Fish to Eat While Pregnant?
April 11, 2009
Experts debate pros, cons of consumption and mercury exposure. Women who are pregnant should include fish in their diet for optimal maternal health and fetal growth and development. That much health experts agree on.
But just how much seafood moms-to-be can safely consume without exposing their unborn babies to dangerous levels of mercury is a matter of ongoing debate.
But just how much seafood moms-to-be can safely consume without exposing their unborn babies to dangerous levels of mercury is a matter of ongoing debate.
Benzyl Alcohol Lotion Approved for Head Lice
April 10, 2009
In people 6 months and older A prescription medication, benzyl alcohol lotion 5 percent, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat head lice.
FDA Reverses Stance on Removal of Morphine Painkiller
April 10, 2009
Appeals from hospice experts mean an unapproved drug, one of 14 given recent warning, will remain on the market, agency says. Bowing to the pleas of hospice experts, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has backed off its intent to remove from the market an unapproved liquid morphine painkiller given to dying patients.
Declines in Foodborne Illness Have Plateaued, Report Says
April 09, 2009
FDA official cites need to modernize government efforts. After "important declines" seen in previous years, the incidence of many foodborne illnesses in the United States has leveled off since 2004, U.S. health officials announced Thursday.
Health Tip
Plan Ahead for Healthy Meals
April 09, 2009
Spend time deciding on upcoming menus Many people have the best intentions when it comes to cooking and eating healthy, but late nights at work and juggling family schedules can make it a challenge.
The American Diabetes Association says you should carefully plan your meals. It offers these suggestions:
Create a menu for the week ahead.
The American Diabetes Association says you should carefully plan your meals. It offers these suggestions:
Create a menu for the week ahead.
Psoriasis Drug Raptiva Pulled From U.S. Market
April 09, 2009
Drug manufacturer acts after link found to rare brain infection The troubled psoriasis drug Raptiva is being withdrawn from the U.S. market, California-based drug maker Genentech announced Wednesday.
FDA Panel Snubs Seroquel as 1st Choice Depression Treatment
April 09, 2009
Safety concerns mean the drug should only be used when other medications don't work, advisers say. In a unanimous vote, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel determined Wednesday that AstraZeneca's antipsychotic drug Seroquel has too many safety concerns to make it a first-line treatment against depression or anxiety disorders.
Coartem Approved to Treat Malaria
April 08, 2009
U.S. travelers to stricken areas are at risk of infection The Novartis drug Coartem (artemether and lumefantrine) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat uncomplicated malaria in adults and children, the agency said Wednesday in a news release.
Rapid Test to Detect Bird Flu in People Approved
April 08, 2009
Results available in less than 40 minutes A rapid test to detect the H5N1 strain of avian influenza has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the agency said in a news release.
Protein Might Be a Troublesome Nutrient
April 07, 2009
Study in rats links it to diabetes risk, but human application is unclear. You may want to put down that protein shake .
Kids Who Lack Self-Control May Be Prone to Weight Gain
April 06, 2009
New research finds that need for instant gratification might play a part. Small children who can't keep their hands out of the cookie jar .
Broccoli May Ward Off Serious Stomach Ailments
April 06, 2009
Results of small study hint at cancer-preventing ability, researcher says. Eating 2.5 ounces a day of broccoli sprouts appeared to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and probably stomach cancer in a Japanese trial.
Gastric cancer thus joins a long list of malignancies for which studies have shown a reduced risk associated with a diet that contains broccoli .
Gastric cancer thus joins a long list of malignancies for which studies have shown a reduced risk associated with a diet that contains broccoli .
Sports Drinks May Be Tough on Teeth
April 03, 2009
Experts even suggest delaying brushing after consumption. Though some might see sports drinks as a healthier alternative to soda, a new study shows that the citric acid they contain can damage teeth.
The finding comes from a study involving teeth from cows. New York University College of Dentistry researchers cut the teeth in half and placed them in top-selling sports drinks.
The finding comes from a study involving teeth from cows. New York University College of Dentistry researchers cut the teeth in half and placed them in top-selling sports drinks.
Nicotine Replacement May Help Smokers Quit Gradually
April 03, 2009
But products' use in U.S. to help people cut back remains controversial. For smokers who want to cut down on the number of cigarettes they smoke, using nicotine replacement therapy not only helps them smoke less but makes it twice as likely that they will quit altogether, British researchers report.
Although using nicotine replacement therapy .
Although using nicotine replacement therapy .
Grapefruit-Heavy Diet Helped Spur Dangerous Clot
April 03, 2009
The fruit, combined with contraceptive pill and a genetic mutation, almost cost woman her leg, doctors say. A rare set of interactions involving grapefruit juice, birth control pills and a genetic mutation almost cost a 42-year-old woman her leg, physicians report.
"It started when she was driving in the car one afternoon," said Dr. Lucinda Grande, a recent medical school graduate who is doing her residency in family medicine at the Providence Hospital of St.
"It started when she was driving in the car one afternoon," said Dr. Lucinda Grande, a recent medical school graduate who is doing her residency in family medicine at the Providence Hospital of St.
Fewer Sugary Drinks Key to Weight Loss
April 02, 2009
Cutting down on sodas, other sweet beverages may work better than eating less, study finds. When it comes to losing weight, cutting back on the calories in sugar-sweetened drinks, rather than food, may be most important.
So say researchers who found that cutting back on calories from sugary beverages .
So say researchers who found that cutting back on calories from sugary beverages .
Antioxidant-Rich Foods Lose Nutritional Luster Over Time
April 02, 2009
Studies found levels of good compounds dropped after 6 months. For those who swear by antioxidant-rich food and drink, two new studies show those health benefits can wane if the products are stored for too long a time.
The findings focus specifically on how well antioxidant activity holds up in commercially available green tea bags and olive oil when stored unopened and unexposed to light or moisture. And, in each case, the research revealed that steep drops in antioxidant activity take place within the first six months.
The findings focus specifically on how well antioxidant activity holds up in commercially available green tea bags and olive oil when stored unopened and unexposed to light or moisture. And, in each case, the research revealed that steep drops in antioxidant activity take place within the first six months.
The Dark Side of Vegetarianism
April 01, 2009
For some teens and young adults, otherwise healthy diet may be concealing eating disorders. Despite its proven health benefits, a vegetarian diet might in fact be masking an underlying eating disorder, new research suggests.
The study, in the April issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, found that twice as many teens and nearly double the number of young adults who had been vegetarians reported having used unhealthy means to control their weight, compared with those who had never been vegetarians. Those means included using diet pills, laxatives and diuretics and inducing vomiting to control weight.
The study, in the April issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, found that twice as many teens and nearly double the number of young adults who had been vegetarians reported having used unhealthy means to control their weight, compared with those who had never been vegetarians. Those means included using diet pills, laxatives and diuretics and inducing vomiting to control weight.
FDA Investigating Salmonella-Tainted Pistachios
March 30, 2009
Recall said to involve 1 million pounds of nuts sold in at least 31 states. U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials said Monday night that the agency is investigating a salmonella contamination that could involve 1 million pounds of pistachios that were sold in at least 31 states.
Afinitor Approved for Advanced Kidney Cancer
March 30, 2009
When cancer progresses despite other treatments The Novartis drug Afinitor (everolimus) has been approved to treat advanced kidney cancer in people whose cancer has progressed despite treatment with other therapies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Monday.
Omega-3s of No Added Benefit to Heart Attack Patients
March 30, 2009
Standard therapy wipes out any protection the supplement might provide, study finds. Patients receiving optimal drug therapy after suffering a heart attack do not gain any additional benefit from taking supplemental omega-3 fatty acids, a new study finds.
In a study of almost 4,000 people who suffered heart attacks, researchers found no difference in rates of heart attack, stroke, sudden cardiac death or death from any cause regardless of whether they were taking the supplements or not. This finding contradicts previous studies, which suggested that taking omega-3 fatty acids improved long-term survival.
In a study of almost 4,000 people who suffered heart attacks, researchers found no difference in rates of heart attack, stroke, sudden cardiac death or death from any cause regardless of whether they were taking the supplements or not. This finding contradicts previous studies, which suggested that taking omega-3 fatty acids improved long-term survival.
Rapid Infant Weight Gain Linked to Childhood Obesity
March 30, 2009
Harvard study suggests earliest intervention may reduce risk. Babies who gain weight quickly during the first six months of life may be more prone to obesity as toddlers, Harvard researchers report.
"We need to start our preventive methods when children are much younger," said study author Dr. Elsie M.
"We need to start our preventive methods when children are much younger," said study author Dr. Elsie M.
Families That Eat Together Serve Up Good Dietary Habits
March 27, 2009
Kids make smarter food choices later on, study finds. A new long-term study says that kids in families that have at least five meals together a week tend to practice good eating habits.
University of Minnesota researchers reported that adolescents who eat these so-called "regular family meals" had more healthful diets, meaning they consumed more vegetables, calcium-rich food, dietary fiber and essential nutrients.
For the study, the eating habits of 677 youths were assessed through questionnaires they filled in during their pre- and early teen years and again five years later.
University of Minnesota researchers reported that adolescents who eat these so-called "regular family meals" had more healthful diets, meaning they consumed more vegetables, calcium-rich food, dietary fiber and essential nutrients.
For the study, the eating habits of 677 youths were assessed through questionnaires they filled in during their pre- and early teen years and again five years later.
Diabetics May Soon Have Low-Sugar Vegetable Juice
March 26, 2009
Chinese scientists used bacteria to strip the drink of carbs. Chinese scientists say they've developed a low-calorie, low-sugar vegetable juice for diabetics and people with high blood sugar.
They said it uses lactic acid-producing bacteria (LAB) to remove carbohydrates while retaining the juice's good taste, vitamins and other nutrients. LAB, also known as probiotics, are used to make common products such as yogurt and cheeses.
They said it uses lactic acid-producing bacteria (LAB) to remove carbohydrates while retaining the juice's good taste, vitamins and other nutrients. LAB, also known as probiotics, are used to make common products such as yogurt and cheeses.
Using Too Much Salt Is Common in U.S., CDC Says
March 26, 2009
Report finds that average sodium intake far exceeds recommendations, raising health risks. The average American consumes far more salt each day than is considered healthy, a new government report finds.
Researchers from the U.S.
Researchers from the U.S.
Health Tip
Your Children Need Iron
March 26, 2009
The very young may be deficient Young children are at great risk for iron deficiency because of rapid growth and increased iron requirements, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Urine Test May ID Unhealthy Diets
March 26, 2009
Low potassium level indicates poor nutrition, study finds. Someday, a doctor's office assessment of the overall quality of your diet may come from a simple $8 urine test, researchers report.
Levels of urinary potassium correlate closely with nutrition in general, said study author Dr. Alexander Logan, a professor of medicine at the University of Toronto.
Levels of urinary potassium correlate closely with nutrition in general, said study author Dr. Alexander Logan, a professor of medicine at the University of Toronto.
U.S. Urged to Start 'Fixing the Problem' of Food Safety
March 25, 2009
Creation of a separate federal agency is needed, new report says. A new report calls for a radical overhaul of the U.S. food safety system, including the creation of a separate food safety administration with its own food safety czar.
Oral Yogurt 'Vaccine' Could Blunt Ouch Factor
March 25, 2009
Study in mice reports a more powerful immune response than from an injection. Imagine how much nicer it would be to get vaccinated by drinking a yogurt smoothie instead of being poked by a needle.
That might someday be the case, thanks to Northwestern University researchers who developed a new oral vaccine using probiotics, which are healthy bacteria found in dairy products such as yogurt and cheese.
In a preclinical study, they found that this approach created immunity to anthrax exposure.
That might someday be the case, thanks to Northwestern University researchers who developed a new oral vaccine using probiotics, which are healthy bacteria found in dairy products such as yogurt and cheese.
In a preclinical study, they found that this approach created immunity to anthrax exposure.
A Child's Sweet Tooth May Be All in the Bones
March 25, 2009
Study suggests that fast-growing youth have greater fondness for treats. Ever wonder why your children will eat only a few bites of dinner but have no problem scarfing down a big bowl of ice cream?
Blame it on their growing bones.
New research suggests that children who are growing rapidly have a higher preference for sweets than children growing at a slower rate.
Researchers gave 143 children ages 11 to 15 sugar-water and orange Kool-Aid with increasing levels of sweetness.
Blame it on their growing bones.
New research suggests that children who are growing rapidly have a higher preference for sweets than children growing at a slower rate.
Researchers gave 143 children ages 11 to 15 sugar-water and orange Kool-Aid with increasing levels of sweetness.
Licorice May Block Absorption of Organ Transplant Drug
March 24, 2009
Study finds potential interaction with cyclosporine could lead to fatal complications. People taking the immunosuppressant cyclosporine should avoid consuming licorice because it may weaken the drug's effectiveness and possibly lead to deadly consequences, new research suggests.
Chemists in Taiwan report that lab rats taking cyclosporine .
Chemists in Taiwan report that lab rats taking cyclosporine .
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Guard Against Advanced Prostate Cancer
March 24, 2009
Even men genetically predisposed to disease benefit from eating fish, study finds. Omega-3 fatty acids could help protect men against advanced prostate cancer, researchers report.
Eating fish at least once a week may reduce the risk of developing advanced prostate cancer even if one is genetically predisposed to developing the disease, but more work is needed to see if the association is real, the researchers said.
"Eating a healthy diet that includes dark fish and other sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids may decrease risk of more advanced prostate cancer even if one has a cox-2 genetic predisposition to the disease," said lead researcher John S.
Eating fish at least once a week may reduce the risk of developing advanced prostate cancer even if one is genetically predisposed to developing the disease, but more work is needed to see if the association is real, the researchers said.
"Eating a healthy diet that includes dark fish and other sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids may decrease risk of more advanced prostate cancer even if one has a cox-2 genetic predisposition to the disease," said lead researcher John S.
Soy May Help Shield Asian-American Girls From Breast Cancer
March 24, 2009
Early consumption seems most beneficial, but needs further study, experts say. Asian-American women who consumed high amounts of soy during childhood appear to have reduced their risk for breast cancer, a U.S. National Cancer Institute study has found.
Symbyax Approved for Treatment-Resistant Depression
March 23, 2009
For people who don't respond to other antidepressants The bipolar depression drug Symbyax (fluoxetine hydrochloride; olanzapine) has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval as a therapy for people with treatment-resistant depression, Eli Lilly & Co.
Too Much Red Meat May Shorten Life Span
March 23, 2009
Major study finds an effect, but critics say meat offers important nutrients. Diets high in red meat and in processed meat shorten life span not just from cancer and heart disease but from Alzheimer's, stomach ulcers and an array of other conditions as well, a U.S. National Cancer Institute study has found.
Many Americans Fall Short on Their Vitamin D
March 23, 2009
Recommended levels in foods need to be increased, experts say. Over the course of two decades, vitamin D levels have dramatically decreased among Americans, a new study finds.
Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with rickets in children and lower bone mineral density in adults. Recent research has also linked insufficient vitamin D to cancer, heart disease, infection and poorer health overall.
Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with rickets in children and lower bone mineral density in adults. Recent research has also linked insufficient vitamin D to cancer, heart disease, infection and poorer health overall.
Improved Fungicides May Be Easier on Environment
March 23, 2009
Products in development expand on plants' natural defenses, researchers explain. A new group of environmentally friendly fungicides may prove to be safer, more selective and less likely to fall victim to pests becoming resistant to them over time, Canadian researchers report.
Called phytoalexin detoxification inhibitors, or paldoxins, the fungicides bolster a plant's natural defenses by blocking access to the chemical pathways that fungi use to weaken a plant's resistance. Unlike conventional fungicides that kill everything .
Called phytoalexin detoxification inhibitors, or paldoxins, the fungicides bolster a plant's natural defenses by blocking access to the chemical pathways that fungi use to weaken a plant's resistance. Unlike conventional fungicides that kill everything .
New Yogurt May Ease Stomach Ulcers
March 23, 2009
Japanese researchers say added antibody fights H. pylori bacteria. A new type of yogurt available in some Pacific Rim countries appears to help prevent and fight ulcers and gastritis, according to Japanese researchers.
The finding came from a study involving 42 people who had tested positive for the ulcer-causing bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
The finding came from a study involving 42 people who had tested positive for the ulcer-causing bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
FDA Expands Weight-Loss Products Safety Alert
March 20, 2009
Agency says some contain prescription-only drugs that can harm consumers. An expanded nationwide alert about tainted weight-loss products that contain undeclared, active pharmaceutical ingredients was announced Friday by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Lexapro Approved for Adolescent Depression
March 20, 2009
For people aged 12 to 17 with major depressive disorder The Forest Laboratories antidepressant Lexapro (escitalopram oxalate) has been approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in people aged 12 to 17, the company said Friday in a news release.
Some 2 million teens in the United States have had a bout of MDD in the past year, the company said.
Approved for adults in 2002, Lexapro is among a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Some 2 million teens in the United States have had a bout of MDD in the past year, the company said.
Approved for adults in 2002, Lexapro is among a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Health Tip
Your Body Needs Zinc
March 20, 2009
Here's why Zinc is an important mineral found in almost every cell in the human body.
The U.S.
The U.S.
FDA Panel Backs New Anti-Clotting Drug
March 20, 2009
Rivaroxaban could replace heparin after hip- or knee-replacement surgery. The benefits of the experimental blood-thinning drug rivaroxaban outweigh its risks, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel said Thursday.
Gleevec Prevents Return of Intestinal Cancer, Study Confirms
March 19, 2009
Drug is shown to be most effective on larger tumors. Taking Gleevec after surgery to remove a gastrointestinal stromal tumor improves tumor-free survival, a U.S. study has confirmed.
Black Male Children Face Highest Risk for Food Allergies
March 17, 2009
Peanuts and shrimp cause the most problems, survey finds. Researchers analyzing a survey on food sensitivities have found that black male children may have a greater risk of having a food allergy.
The national survey included 8,203 people, from infants to seniors who tested positive for the allergen antibody linked to possible issues with eggs, milk, peanuts and shrimp. The sensitivity levels to these potential food allergens was then tested in all participants.
The national survey included 8,203 people, from infants to seniors who tested positive for the allergen antibody linked to possible issues with eggs, milk, peanuts and shrimp. The sensitivity levels to these potential food allergens was then tested in all participants.
Steroid Concoction May Ease Sinusitis
March 16, 2009
Small study finds benefits, but drug does not have FDA approval for such use. A steroid nasal wash can help reduce symptoms of chronic sinusitis without affecting adrenal gland function, according to a small U.S. study.
Exposure to Peanuts May Build Tolerance to Allergy
March 16, 2009
The therapy is still experimental, and more research is needed, study says. Exposing children with peanut allergies to a carefully administered daily oral dose of peanuts helped them build tolerance to the point where some of them appear to have lost their allergies, a new study found.
However, the researchers, from Duke University Medical Center and Arkansas Children's Hospital, cautioned that the approach is still experimental and should not be tried by parents on their own.
"This is not something to be done at home," said Dr.
However, the researchers, from Duke University Medical Center and Arkansas Children's Hospital, cautioned that the approach is still experimental and should not be tried by parents on their own.
"This is not something to be done at home," said Dr.
Child's Food Allergies Take Toll on Family Plans
March 16, 2009
Work schedules, finances and getaway destinations are affected, studies find. Two new reports show that food allergies can be a burden on a family's finances and even its vacation plans.
The studies, expected to be presented in Washington, D.C.
The studies, expected to be presented in Washington, D.C.
First DNA Tests for HPV Approved
March 13, 2009
The virus associated with most cases of cervical cancer The first DNA test to screen for two types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that are responsible for most cases of cervical cancer in the United States has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Health Tip
Exercise for Bone Health
March 12, 2009
It will help keep bones strong As you age, your bones tend to lose density, become weaker and are more likely to fracture. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to help keep bones strong.
Besides recommending that you get enough bone-building vitamin D and calcium in your diet, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these exercise recommendations:
Walking and jogging.
Besides recommending that you get enough bone-building vitamin D and calcium in your diet, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these exercise recommendations:
Walking and jogging.
Second-Generation Female Condom Approved
March 11, 2009
Protects against pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease The Female Health Co.'s FC2 Female Condom has been approved by the U.S.
Health Tip
The Signs of Hunger
March 11, 2009
Each time you eat, are you really hungry? When you have a desire to eat, are you really hungry? Other factors can make you feel like you want to eat, including feeling sad or lonely, the time of day, craving certain foods, or being thirsty.
The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list of actual hunger signs:
Your stomach growls or rumbles.
You feel hunger pangs in your stomach.
The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list of actual hunger signs:
Your stomach growls or rumbles.
You feel hunger pangs in your stomach.
More Vitamin C May Mean Less Chance of Gout
March 09, 2009
With 1,500 milligrams a day, men cut their risk by 45%, study finds. Consuming more vitamin C may help reduce a man's risk of gout, according to researchers who studied almost 47,000 men over a 20-year span.
During that time, more than 1,300 of the men developed gout. Compared with those whose vitamin C intake through food and supplements was less than 250 milligrams a day, the risk for gout was 17 percent lower among men with a daily intake of 500 to 999 milligrams, 34 percent lower for those who took in 1,000 to 1,499 milligrams, and 45 percent lower with a daily intake of 1,500 milligrams or more.
During that time, more than 1,300 of the men developed gout. Compared with those whose vitamin C intake through food and supplements was less than 250 milligrams a day, the risk for gout was 17 percent lower among men with a daily intake of 500 to 999 milligrams, 34 percent lower for those who took in 1,000 to 1,499 milligrams, and 45 percent lower with a daily intake of 1,500 milligrams or more.
Device Approved for Child Heart Operations
March 09, 2009
Helps minimize scarring after surgery A device that helps reduce the severity of adhesions in children who have open heart surgery has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Hip Osteoarthritis Therapy No Better Than Placebo
March 06, 2009
FDA-approved injection for knees less effective in deep joint areas, French study finds. A single injection of hyaluronic acid is no more effective than a placebo in treating hip osteoarthritis (OA), a new French study finds.
Hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance found in normal joint fluid, is used to restore the elasticity of synovial fluid, which lubricates and protects joints. The use of HA injections to treat knee OA is approved by the U.
Hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance found in normal joint fluid, is used to restore the elasticity of synovial fluid, which lubricates and protects joints. The use of HA injections to treat knee OA is approved by the U.
Gene Explains How High-Fructose Diets Lead to Insulin Resistance
March 06, 2009
Corn syrup more easily metabolizes to fat in liver, which may trigger disease, study says. A gene called PGC-1b appears to play a role in insulin resistance that can be caused by consuming large amounts of high-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener found in most sodas and many processed foods.
Researchers found that mice fed a high-fructose diet were protected from insulin resistance when PGC-1b activity was blocked in the rodents' liver and fat tissue. The findings were published in the March issue of Cell Metabolism.
Researchers found that mice fed a high-fructose diet were protected from insulin resistance when PGC-1b activity was blocked in the rodents' liver and fat tissue. The findings were published in the March issue of Cell Metabolism.
Teens' Lung Health Is Linked to Their Diet
March 06, 2009
Eating fruit and fish might lessen asthma, bronchitis symptoms, research suggests. Teenage junk-food addicts aren't doing their bodies any favors, and their lungs are no exception.
Researchers have found that diets lower in fruit, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids are associated with lower pulmonary function in adolescents.
Jane S.
Researchers have found that diets lower in fruit, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids are associated with lower pulmonary function in adolescents.
Jane S.
Healthy Foods Harder to Find in Poor Neighborhoods
March 06, 2009
Wealthier areas offer residents more nutritious items in stores, studies find. New research suggests that stores in poor neighborhoods are much less likely to offer healthy foods than those in wealthier parts of town.
"Where you live matters in terms of your diet," said study author Dr. Manuel Franco, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore.
"Where you live matters in terms of your diet," said study author Dr. Manuel Franco, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore.
Mom Was Right
Eat Your Broccoli
March 05, 2009
Study finds substance in sprouts cuts inflammation linked to asthma, heart disease. A compound found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables may help prevent respiratory inflammation linked to diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to a University of California, Los Angeles, study.
The compound sulforaphane stimulates increased production of antioxidant enzymes in the airway that protect against the large amounts of tissue-damaging free radicals humans breathe in every day in polluted air, pollen, diesel exhaust and tobacco smoke. This tissue damage can lead to inflammation.
The compound sulforaphane stimulates increased production of antioxidant enzymes in the airway that protect against the large amounts of tissue-damaging free radicals humans breathe in every day in polluted air, pollen, diesel exhaust and tobacco smoke. This tissue damage can lead to inflammation.
Bias Against Obesity Is Found Among Future Dietitians
March 05, 2009
Attitude could affect care patients might get, experts warn. Just 2 percent of those training to be dietitians have positive or neutral attitudes toward people who are obese, and the rest are moderately biased against their prospective patients, a new study has found.
"Essentially, this shows that future dieticians are not immune to weight bias, and there are negative attitudes toward obese patients that may have a negative impact on the quality of care," said Rebecca Puhl, the study's lead author and the director of research and stigma initiatives at Yale University's Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity.
Most of the almost 200 dietetic students who participated in the study had pejorative views about the attractiveness, self-control, overeating, insecurity and self-esteem of people who are obese.
"Essentially, this shows that future dieticians are not immune to weight bias, and there are negative attitudes toward obese patients that may have a negative impact on the quality of care," said Rebecca Puhl, the study's lead author and the director of research and stigma initiatives at Yale University's Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity.
Most of the almost 200 dietetic students who participated in the study had pejorative views about the attractiveness, self-control, overeating, insecurity and self-esteem of people who are obese.
Half of Black Teens May Be Vitamin D Deficient
March 04, 2009
More foods should be fortified with the essential nutrient, experts say. Many teens today, especially black teens, aren't getting enough of vitamin D, the so-called sunshine vitamin that is essential for cells to function, say researchers from Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to many chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, immune system problems and inflammatory diseases.
"There is evidence that the levels of vitamin D we have been using in the past may have been too low," said lead researcher Dr.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to many chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, immune system problems and inflammatory diseases.
"There is evidence that the levels of vitamin D we have been using in the past may have been too low," said lead researcher Dr.
Older Americans May Lack Adequate Nutrition
March 04, 2009
But those taking supplements often exceed recommended levels, study finds. Many middle-age and older Americans aren't getting enough micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin C, all of which play an important role in maintaining health, a new study finds.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 6,200 people in four ethnic groups .
Researchers analyzed data from more than 6,200 people in four ethnic groups .
School Lunches Too Fatty and Sugary, Critics Say
March 04, 2009
Assessment urges more veggies plus restrictions on unhealthy options. Despite some improvements, U.S. school meal programs are still laden with unhealthy fat, salt and sugar, nutrition experts contend.
U.S. Diet Needs Heart-Felt Overhaul
March 03, 2009
Doctors urge all levels of society to encourage good eating habits, cut coronary risks. Every level of society must contribute to strategies meant to make it easier for people to eat a heart-healthy diet, according to the American Heart Association.
"Health problems caused by the U.S.
"Health problems caused by the U.S.
B12 Deficit May Boost Risk of Birth Defects
March 02, 2009
Women who are vegans and vegetarians most affected, study says. Women who do not have enough vitamin B12 in their blood before and after conception have a greater chance of having a baby with brain or spinal cord defects, a new study says.
Most at risk may be vegans and vegetarians, since B12 is far more common in meat and animal-based foods, noted an American and Irish research team whose findings were published in the March issue of Pediatrics..
Most at risk may be vegans and vegetarians, since B12 is far more common in meat and animal-based foods, noted an American and Irish research team whose findings were published in the March issue of Pediatrics..
Travel Safety Can Be a Passport to Good Health
February 28, 2009
Just because it's a resort, doesn't mean precautions should be abandoned, experts note Staying healthy while on a trip is as important as packing the right clothes.
"Just because it says resort or five-star hotel doesn't mean it's safe," Laura Gonzalez, a nurse with The Loyola University Health System International Medicine and Travelers Immunization Clinic, said in a news release issued by the school. "You still need to watch what you eat, protect against insect bites and don't go out at night alone.
"Just because it says resort or five-star hotel doesn't mean it's safe," Laura Gonzalez, a nurse with The Loyola University Health System International Medicine and Travelers Immunization Clinic, said in a news release issued by the school. "You still need to watch what you eat, protect against insect bites and don't go out at night alone.
Antibiotic Combo Fights Resistant TB
February 26, 2009
2 FDA-approved drugs inhibit both normal and virulent strains, study finds. Combination treatment with two FDA-approved drugs shows promise in treating extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB), a U.S. study shows.
Solostar Injection Pen Approved for Diabetes
February 26, 2009
Prefilled with Apidra, a rapid-acting insulin Sanofi-Aventis's Apidra (insulin glulisine) Solostar injection pen has been approved to treat diabetes, the company said Thursday in a news release.
The disposable pen with rapid-acting insulin was approved for adults with type 2 diabetes and for children four years and older with type 1 diabetes.
The device requires lower injection force than competing products, the drug maker said.
The disposable pen with rapid-acting insulin was approved for adults with type 2 diabetes and for children four years and older with type 1 diabetes.
The device requires lower injection force than competing products, the drug maker said.
Want to Lose Weight? Just Eat Less, Diet Study Suggests
February 25, 2009
Comparison of 4 diet plans finds all produce similar results. If you want to lose weight, it doesn't seem to matter what type of diet plan you choose. What really matters is that you just eat less.
A study in the Feb.
A study in the Feb.
Iodine in Prenatal Vitamins Varies Widely
February 25, 2009
Labeling doesn't always reflect content, which is crucial to fetal neurological development, researchers note. Most prenatal vitamins marketed in the United States don't contain as much iodine as is stated on the label, researchers report.
The variance is troubling, they say, since iodine is critically important to the health of a developing fetus.
In a letter appearing in the Feb.
The variance is troubling, they say, since iodine is critically important to the health of a developing fetus.
In a letter appearing in the Feb.
FDA Halts New Applications From Indian Drug Maker's Plant
February 25, 2009
Agency says Ranbaxy Laboratories facility falsified scientific data U.S. health officials have halted the review of any new drug applications from a Ranbaxy Laboratories plant in India after determining the facility was falsifying scientific data.
Too Little Vitamin D May Mean More Colds and Flu
February 23, 2009
Whether adding supplements would help still needs testing, experts say. Forget the apple. The largest study of its kind to date shows that vitamin D each and every day is what will keep the doctor away when it comes to the common cold or the flu.
The finding is based on an assessment of vitamin D levels, nutritional habits and respiratory infection rates among nearly 19,000 American men and women.
The finding is based on an assessment of vitamin D levels, nutritional habits and respiratory infection rates among nearly 19,000 American men and women.
Calcium Helps Ward Off Colon Cancer
February 23, 2009
Effect is strongest for women, study finds, and doesn't extend to non-digestive system malignancies. High dietary intake of calcium may reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer, especially for women, but has no apparent effect in reducing other malignancies, a U.S. National Cancer Institute study finds.
FDA Warns Users on Psoriasis Drug
February 19, 2009
Three have died from rare brain infection while taking Raptiva, officials report in health advisory. U.S. health officials issued a public health advisory Thursday for the psoriasis drug Raptiva after confirming that three people using the medication have died.
More Fast-Food Joints in Neighborhoods Mean More Strokes
February 19, 2009
Analysis is interesting, but doesn't prove cause and effect, researchers says. Living in neighborhoods packed with fast-food joints could increase your risk for stroke by 13 percent, compared to residing in places where such restaurants are less plentiful, a new study suggests.
Whether the link proves to be causal is not known, though, said study author Dr. Lewis B.
Whether the link proves to be causal is not known, though, said study author Dr. Lewis B.
B Vitamins Might Lower Stroke Risk
February 19, 2009
But jury is still out on their value, experts note. People with heart disease who take high doses of B vitamins are somewhat less likely to suffer from stroke, especially if they're under 70, a new Canadian study suggests.
But other studies have come to opposite conclusions about whether vitamins really protect against cerebrovascular disease, noted Dr. Larry B.
But other studies have come to opposite conclusions about whether vitamins really protect against cerebrovascular disease, noted Dr. Larry B.
Implanted Device Approved for Severe Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
February 19, 2009
Reclaim device delivers electrical stimulation to the brain Medtronic Inc's Reclaim DBS Therapy device has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to deliver electrical brain stimulation to people with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the agency said Thursday in a news release.
Sunken, Unexploded Bombs Pose Cancer Risk
February 18, 2009
Munitions in water off Puerto Rico transfer toxins into seafood, scientist says. Unexploded bombs in the oceans leak cancer-causing toxins that are absorbed by marine life and may be transferred to humans who eat seafood, one ecologist warns.
"Unexploded bombs are in the ocean for a variety of reasons .
"Unexploded bombs are in the ocean for a variety of reasons .
Many Clinical Trials Moving Overseas
February 18, 2009
Study says trend raises ethical, medical issues. A new report contends many clinical drug trials are now being run outside the United States and in far reaches of the globe, and that the trend raises troubling ethical and medical issues.
The implications of this, according to Dr. Kevin A.
The implications of this, according to Dr. Kevin A.
Doctors' Guide to Cancer Drugs May Need Revising
February 17, 2009
Physicians often rely on outdated data when making 'off-label' decisions, study says. Doctors may not always have complete or clear information when they prescribe cancer medications for uses beyond what the drugs have been approved for, a new study finds.
According to the report, published in the Feb. 17 online issue of Annals of Internal Medicine, the online and hard-copy resource used by oncologists and pharmacists, known as the compendia, does not always contain clear or updated information on using medications for "off-label" purposes, such as treating diseases other than those approved by the U.
According to the report, published in the Feb. 17 online issue of Annals of Internal Medicine, the online and hard-copy resource used by oncologists and pharmacists, known as the compendia, does not always contain clear or updated information on using medications for "off-label" purposes, such as treating diseases other than those approved by the U.
Add More Facts to Drug Ads, Experts Urge
February 16, 2009
Study wants FDA to mandate boxes that clearly state how well medication works. People could make better decisions about which drug to choose if all ads carried a facts box clearly stating the medication's pros and cons, a new study suggests.
"People just don't have access to information about how well drugs work," said Dr. Steven Woloshin, an associate professor of medicine and community and family medicine at Dartmouth Medical School and co-author of the study.
"People just don't have access to information about how well drugs work," said Dr. Steven Woloshin, an associate professor of medicine and community and family medicine at Dartmouth Medical School and co-author of the study.
Uloric Approved for Gout
February 16, 2009
The first new treatment option in 40 years Takeda Pharmaceuticals' Uloric (febuxostat) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat gout, a painful condition characterized by elevated levels of uric acid that can build up in the blood, joints and soft tissue.
Chocolate for Your Valentine a Healthy Idea
February 13, 2009
Expert says the dark kind protects against cancer, along with being sweet. Giving dark chocolate to your Valentine might be more than sweet; it could help guard your true love against cancer.
"The great news this Valentine's Day is that in addition to being decadent and delicious, moderate amounts of dark chocolate may play a role in cancer prevention," Sally Scroggs, a health education manager at the University of Texas M.D.
"The great news this Valentine's Day is that in addition to being decadent and delicious, moderate amounts of dark chocolate may play a role in cancer prevention," Sally Scroggs, a health education manager at the University of Texas M.D.
New Drug Shows Promise Against Heartbeat Abnormality
February 11, 2009
Dronedarone reduced strokes, heart attacks in those with atrial fibrillation A new drug for a common heartbeat abnormality produced promising results in its latest trial.
The drug, dronedarone, is being tested for atrial fibrillation, which affects an estimated 2.2 million Americans.
The drug, dronedarone, is being tested for atrial fibrillation, which affects an estimated 2.2 million Americans.
Dietary Aid Helps Kidney Patients Stay Safe
February 10, 2009
Too much phosphorus in food can cause harm, but new tool helps spot the danger. Too much dietary intake of phosphorus can be dangerous for people with kidney disease, but a new educational aid helps patients reduce the risk, a U.S. study finds.
Garlic Yields Up Its Health Secret
February 10, 2009
It's the same compound that gives it that distinct smell, scientists say. The same source of garlic's pungent aroma and taste may provide its benefits to health, scientists say.
They say an acid produced by the decomposition of an organic compound called allicin provides the food's health benefits.
It's long been suspected that allicin, which gives garlic its aroma and flavor, might also be a powerful antioxidant.
They say an acid produced by the decomposition of an organic compound called allicin provides the food's health benefits.
It's long been suspected that allicin, which gives garlic its aroma and flavor, might also be a powerful antioxidant.
FDA Seeks Better Regulation of Painkillers
February 09, 2009
Powerful opioid drugs can pose risks even for patients, agency says. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced plans Monday to tackle growing concern over the misuse of powerful painkillers by requiring manufacturers of certain opioid drugs to help develop a plan to reduce the risks associated with the medications.
Vitamins Do Older Women Little Good
February 09, 2009
Study finds they don't reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer. In yet another blow to the dietary supplement industry, researchers find no evidence that multivitamin use helps older women ward off heart disease and cancer, the top two killers of women, respectively.
"Women can be encouraged by the fact that these vitamins seem to do no harm, but they also seem to confer no benefit," said study co-author Sylvia Wassertheil-Smoller, a professor of epidemiology and population health at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. "The kind of vitamins you get from diet is quite different, because foods are very complex and have a lot of chemicals we don't know about that interact with each other.
"Women can be encouraged by the fact that these vitamins seem to do no harm, but they also seem to confer no benefit," said study co-author Sylvia Wassertheil-Smoller, a professor of epidemiology and population health at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. "The kind of vitamins you get from diet is quite different, because foods are very complex and have a lot of chemicals we don't know about that interact with each other.
1st Drug From Genetically Altered Animals Approved
February 09, 2009
ATryn sanctioned for rare genetic blood disorder The first drug made with materials from genetically engineered animals has gained U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, potentially paving the way for a new class of medical therapies.
FDA
Company Knowingly Shipped Tainted Peanut Products
February 07, 2009
Agency now reports that Peanut Corp. of America sent out supplies it knew contained salmonella The peanut company at the center of the nationwide salmonella outbreak that has sickened hundreds knowingly shipped tainted product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced late Friday.
First Ablation Catheters Approved for Atrial Fibrillation
February 06, 2009
Designed to treat irregular heartbeat when medication doesn't work The first ablation catheters to treat a common form of abnormal heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Zinc May Counter Effects of Alcohol in Early Pregnancy
February 05, 2009
But findings don't mean it's safe for expectant moms to drink, study says. Zinc supplements may help mothers-to-be reduce the risk for birth defects linked to alcohol use early in pregnancy, Australian researchers report.
The study, conducted in mice, was published online and in the April print issue of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.
"Alcohol's damage to the fetus depends not only on the amount and duration of alcohol exposure, but also on the timing of the exposure relative to the development of the cells and tissues involved," study co-author Peter Coyle, an associate professor at the Hanson Institute in Adelaide, said in a journal news release.
The study, conducted in mice, was published online and in the April print issue of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.
"Alcohol's damage to the fetus depends not only on the amount and duration of alcohol exposure, but also on the timing of the exposure relative to the development of the cells and tissues involved," study co-author Peter Coyle, an associate professor at the Hanson Institute in Adelaide, said in a journal news release.
Vitamin D Deficit May Trigger MS Risk Gene
February 05, 2009
Supplements during pregnancy and early years could cut child's susceptibility, study says. A direct interaction between vitamin D and a common genetic variant may affect a person's risk of multiple sclerosis, according to British and Canadian researchers who also said that vitamin D deficiency while in the womb and early in life may increase the risk of MS later in life.
Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in MS, a neurological condition that affects 2.5 million people worldwide.
Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in MS, a neurological condition that affects 2.5 million people worldwide.
Tainted China Formula Caused High Rate of Kidney Stones in Kids
February 04, 2009
Almost 10% of infants who ingested melamine developed deposits, study finds. The melamine-tainted infant formula in China that sickened more than 50,000 kids last fall resulted in more than 10 percent of the youngest ones developing kidney problems, according to just-released Beijing research on the scandal.
About 20 percent of melamine-exposed infants in Taiwan and 10 percent of those who drank the formula in Beijing ended up getting kidney stones. And children born prematurely had an even greater risk, concluded the authors of a study released online Wednesday in the New England Journal of Medicine and scheduled to appear in the journal's March 12 print issue.
About 20 percent of melamine-exposed infants in Taiwan and 10 percent of those who drank the formula in Beijing ended up getting kidney stones. And children born prematurely had an even greater risk, concluded the authors of a study released online Wednesday in the New England Journal of Medicine and scheduled to appear in the journal's March 12 print issue.
Plan Hopes to ID Early Halt in Reproductive Function
February 04, 2009
Guidelines could diagnose primary ovarian insufficiency in women under 40. Guidelines to help doctors diagnose and treat a menopause-like condition in girls and women younger than age 40 has been developed by a U.S. government scientist.
Vectical Ointment Approved for Psoriasis
February 04, 2009
Vitamin D3 is active ingredient Galderma Laboratories' Vectical (calcitriol) ointment has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis in adults, the company said.
New Standards Set for Heparin and Glycerin
February 04, 2009
Stricter testing is aimed at keeping tainted drugs, products off U.S. market. In a continuing effort to prevent counterfeit and adulterated medications from reaching American consumers, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is adopting stricter standards for heparin and glycerin .
Many Kids Don't Need the Vitamins They're Taking
February 02, 2009
But poor children who do need supplements aren't getting them, study shows. Many healthy U.S. children and teenagers may be popping vitamins and mineral supplements they don't need, researchers report.
Obama Orders Review of FDA in Salmonella Outbreak
February 02, 2009
Saying his daughter should be able to eat peanut butter without getting sick, president acts as salmonella outbreak, peanut recalls, criminal probe continue President Barack Obama has ordered a comprehensive review of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the investigation and peanut product recalls continue in the salmonella outbreak.
Kapidex Approved for Acid Reflux
February 02, 2009
A reformulated version of Prevacid Takeda Pharmaceuticals said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Kapidex, a reformulated version of its popular acid reflux drug Prevacid.
U.S. Launches Criminal Probe Into Salmonella Outbreak
January 30, 2009
Justice Department acts after revelation that Peanut Corp. of America shipped tainted product months before the current outbreak, FDA announces. U.S. officials have launched a criminal investigation into the salmonella outbreak tied to tainted peanut products that have sickened more than 500 people and may have caused at least eight deaths.
Adult Fast-Food Diets Tied to Too Much TV as Teen
January 30, 2009
Hours of ads for greasy, sugary fare may be to blame, researchers say. limiting TV watching and instilling healthful eating habits, Barr-Anderson said.
"Parents need to adhere to the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendation that children watch less than two hours of quality television per day," she said. "Parents need to restrict what their kids are eating and try and provide a better example for their kids, making sure they are getting the nutrients and proper food that they need as opposed to the high-fatty foods, high-sugar foods, low-nutrient-dense foods.
"Parents need to adhere to the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendation that children watch less than two hours of quality television per day," she said. "Parents need to restrict what their kids are eating and try and provide a better example for their kids, making sure they are getting the nutrients and proper food that they need as opposed to the high-fatty foods, high-sugar foods, low-nutrient-dense foods.
Plavix Plus Heartburn Drugs May Hike Heart Risk
January 28, 2009
Combination might interfere with Plavix's anticlotting ability, experts say. People taking the clot-preventing drug Plavix and an acid-reducing proton pump inhibitor medication after a heart attack have a dramatically higher risk of a second heart attack than those taking Plavix alone, a Canadian study finds.
That increased risk could have enormous public health implications. Proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec and Prevacid are among the most widely prescribed drugs, and Plavix (clopidogrel) is the second highest-selling drug in the world, the researchers said.
That increased risk could have enormous public health implications. Proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec and Prevacid are among the most widely prescribed drugs, and Plavix (clopidogrel) is the second highest-selling drug in the world, the researchers said.
Gelnique Approved for Overactive Bladder
January 28, 2009
A topical gel for treating symptoms The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Watson Pharmaceuticals' Gelnique (oxybutynin chloride) to treat symptoms of overactive bladder, the company said in a news release.
Health Tip
Be Wary of Fad Diets
January 28, 2009
If they promise too much, be concerned If you're looking to help kick start your weight loss program, it's important to carefully research a diet plan before you commit to one.
Look for these warning signs of an unhealthy fad diet, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:
A diet that promises very fast weight loss .
Look for these warning signs of an unhealthy fad diet, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:
A diet that promises very fast weight loss .
All Products at Georgia Peanut Plant Recalled
January 29, 2009
Recall covers everything made in the last two years; lawmakers demand criminal probe after U.S. health officials say company sent out questionable peanut products long before salmonella outbreak. U.S. health officials announced a startling nationwide recall late Wednesday for all peanut products made over the last two years at the Georgia plant involved in the current salmonella outbreak.
Study Finds High-Fructose Corn Syrup Contains Mercury
January 28, 2009
Half of batches tested positive, third of popular sweetened products showed traces. Almost half of tested samples of commercial high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) contained mercury, which was also found in nearly a third of 55 popular brand-name food and beverage products where HFCS is the first- or second-highest labeled ingredient, according to two new U.S. studies.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids Can Be Good for You
January 26, 2009
New advisory puts worries about possible link to heart disease to rest. All that discussion about the omega-6 fatty acids found in vegetable oils, nuts and seeds possibly being bad for your heart is unfounded, a new science advisory from the American Heart Association claims.
"There has been a lot of talk in the nutrition world that omega-6 fatty acids might be bad," said William S. Harris, the nutritionist heading the committee that issued the report in the Jan.
"There has been a lot of talk in the nutrition world that omega-6 fatty acids might be bad," said William S. Harris, the nutritionist heading the committee that issued the report in the Jan.
Health Tip
Problems With a Picky Eater?
January 26, 2009
Suggestions to maintain proper nutrition If your child is a picky eater and refuses to eat or try new foods, the University of Maryland Medical Center offers these suggestions:
Set an example by eating various healthy foods yourself.
Fix foods that are attractive. Decorate your child's plate with bright, colorful foods with different consistencies.
Set an example by eating various healthy foods yourself.
Fix foods that are attractive. Decorate your child's plate with bright, colorful foods with different consistencies.
Seventh Salmonella Death Linked to Peanut Products
January 24, 2009
At least 38 companies across U.S. involved in recalls as salmonella outbreak action continues; Girl Scouts, Hershey and Kraft Foods say their products are safe. Another person has died from salmonella poisoning believed to come from peanut paste products, bringing the nationwide number to seven.
According to a reports in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, state health officials say the death of an elderly Minnesota woman Jan. 23 was caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhimurium.
According to a reports in the Minneapolis Star Tribune, state health officials say the death of an elderly Minnesota woman Jan. 23 was caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhimurium.
FDA OKs 1st Embryonic Stem Cell Trial
January 23, 2009
Might improve function in paralyzed patients, experts say. The first human trial using embryonic stem cells as a medical treatment has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Supplement Hampers Thyroid Cancer Treatment
January 21, 2009
Iodine from kelp in dietary aid compromised therapy, researchers say. People taking dietary supplements need to be careful that those don't interfere with any medical treatments they might be getting, a new report emphasizes.
The case in point was a 55-year-old man being treated for thyroid cancer who was supposed to be on a low-iodine diet as part of his treatment, but his levels of iodine continued to increase. The researchers found that a selenium supplement he was taking contained kelp, which is a rich source of iodine and significantly increased his iodine levels.
The case in point was a 55-year-old man being treated for thyroid cancer who was supposed to be on a low-iodine diet as part of his treatment, but his levels of iodine continued to increase. The researchers found that a selenium supplement he was taking contained kelp, which is a rich source of iodine and significantly increased his iodine levels.
Salmonella Infection Numbers Still Rising; Recalls Rise Also
January 21, 2009
NutriSystem, pet food company join grocers and food suppliers in pulling products from shelves as FDA advises consumers not to eat anything but jars of peanut butter while probe continues. The number of people sickened in the salmonella outbreak involving peanut butter products has now climbed to 486 in 43 states and Canada, with possibly six deaths, U.S. health officials said Wednesday afternoon.
Why Saying No to Foods May Be Harder for Women
January 20, 2009
Gender differences might be explained by hormones and evolution, study finds.Why Women Have a Tougher Time Shunning Favorite Foods New research on the brain suggests that women unconsciously have a tougher time resisting their favorite foods than men do.
"This gives us another piece to put into this puzzle," said Dr. Gene-Jack Wang, the study's author, who speculated that women may have more trouble saying no to food because they sometimes have to eat for two.
"This gives us another piece to put into this puzzle," said Dr. Gene-Jack Wang, the study's author, who speculated that women may have more trouble saying no to food because they sometimes have to eat for two.
More Peanut Butter Products Join Recall List
January 20, 2009
More companies pull products from shelves as FDA advises consumers not to eat anything but jars of peanut butter while salmonella probe continues. Peanut butter products continued to disappear from store shelves Tuesday as more grocery chains and specialty companies joined a growing list of precautionary recalls.
The flood of recalls follows a U.S.
The flood of recalls follows a U.S.
Health Tip
Nutrition for Athletic Performance
January 20, 2009
If you're training for a big event, be sure to eat and drink right If you've been training for an athletic event .
Peanut Butter Product Recalls Mount
January 19, 2009
More companies pull products from shelves as FDA advises consumers not to eat anything but jars of peanut butter while salmonella probe continues. The drum roll for recalls of peanut butter products continued without letup Monday, as more companies pulled back everything from cookies to candies on store shelves as precautionary moves.
Meanwhile, Kellogg of Battle Creek, Mich., said Monday that tests confirmed salmonella bacteria in a single package of one of its recalled peanut butter crackers.
Meanwhile, Kellogg of Battle Creek, Mich., said Monday that tests confirmed salmonella bacteria in a single package of one of its recalled peanut butter crackers.
Women in Coastal Areas Have Higher Mercury Levels
January 19, 2009
Study finds increase tied to income, ethnicity, types of seafood consumed. Where a woman lives, how much she makes for a living, and her ethnicity may all be linked to the amount of mercury in her blood, a new survey says.
The report, published in the January issue of Environmental Health Perspectives, found women residing in coastal areas in the Northeastern United States had three to four times the risk of exceeding acceptable blood mercury (BHg) concentration levels than women who lived in inland areas of the country. Nearly one in five Northeastern women exceeded this 3.
The report, published in the January issue of Environmental Health Perspectives, found women residing in coastal areas in the Northeastern United States had three to four times the risk of exceeding acceptable blood mercury (BHg) concentration levels than women who lived in inland areas of the country. Nearly one in five Northeastern women exceeded this 3.
Preschool Lunch Doesn't Always Pack Nutritious Punch
January 19, 2009
Study finds meals from home often lack fruits, veggies, whole grains. When parents pack their preschoolers' lunches, they may be sacrificing nutrition by giving the children food they like.
That's one of the conclusions of a new study in the January issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The study also found that 71 percent of packed lunches didn't have enough fruits and vegetables, and that one in four preschool tots didn't get enough milk with lunch.
That's one of the conclusions of a new study in the January issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The study also found that 71 percent of packed lunches didn't have enough fruits and vegetables, and that one in four preschool tots didn't get enough milk with lunch.
FDA Warns Consumers Not to Eat Peanut Butter Products
January 18, 2009
Agency advises against everything but jars of peanut butter as salmonella probe widens; more companies issue recall notices for products; toll at 470 sickened, 6 dead, in 43 states and Canada. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to eat peanut butter products containing peanut butter or peanut butter paste, as the recall of products widened Sunday while the salmonella outbreak probe continued.
FDA Warns of Skin-Numbing Drug Dangers
January 16, 2009
Popular topical anesthetics can cause severe reactions when used improperly, agency says. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday warned consumers and health-care providers about serious and life-threatening risks associated with improper use of topical anesthetics available in over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription forms.
Riastap Approved for Rare Blood Disorder
January 16, 2009
Congenital fibrinogen deficiency can cause uncontrolled bleeding The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Riastap to treat a blood disorder caused by a rare genetic condition.
Savella Approved for Fibromyalgia
January 15, 2009
Expected in pharmacies by March Savella (milnacipran hydrochloride) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat fibromyalgia, a chronic condition characterized by restricted movement and widespread pain, makers Forest Labs and Cypress Bioscience announced.
FDA Issues Final Regulations for Genetically Engineered Animals
January 15, 2009
Consumer labeling is not required for foods from these animals, agency says. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Thursday issued its final regulations governing the approval of genetically engineered animals.
Kellogg Halts Sales of Peanut Butter Crackers
January 15, 2009
Cereal giant calls action 'precautionary' as salmonella outbreak probe continues; 5 deaths now linked; victim count up to 430 in 43 states. Cereal giant Kellogg has asked stores to stop selling its popular Keebler and Austin brand peanut butter crackers, as health officials reported two more deaths in the nationwide salmonella outbreak that is linked to peanut butter.
Kellogg, of Battle Creek, Mich., said it hadn't received any complaints or discovered any problems with the crackers, but took the action as a "precautionary measure" after one of its peanut paste suppliers, Peanut Corp.
Kellogg, of Battle Creek, Mich., said it hadn't received any complaints or discovered any problems with the crackers, but took the action as a "precautionary measure" after one of its peanut paste suppliers, Peanut Corp.
Health Tip
What Seniors Eat
January 15, 2009
Diet is still crucial when you're older Nutrition is an important part of a healthy lifestyle at any age, a requirement that doesn't change as you get older.
Here are some dietary guidelines for older people, courtesy of the Cleveland Clinic:
Seniors should get 1- to 1.2-grams of protein each day per kilogram of their weight.
Here are some dietary guidelines for older people, courtesy of the Cleveland Clinic:
Seniors should get 1- to 1.2-grams of protein each day per kilogram of their weight.
More Peanut Butter Recalled in Salmonella Outbreak
January 14, 2009
Va. company issues nationwide recall as number of people sickened in outbreak rises to 425 in 43 states; 3 deaths appear linked. A nationwide recall of peanut butter made in a Georgia plant was issued late Tuesday even as the number of people sickened by salmonella-contaminated peanut butter rose to 425 in 43 states.
Peanut Corp. of America, based in Lynchburg, Va.
Peanut Corp. of America, based in Lynchburg, Va.
Diagnostic Approved to Detect C. diff
January 13, 2009
An infection commonly acquired in hospitals The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved BD Diagnostics' GeneOhm Cdiff molecular assay, a stool test that rapidly detects infection with Clostridium difficile (C.
Minn. Confirms Tainted Peanut Butter Link to Salmonella Outbreak
January 13, 2009
Health officials report finding a genetic match; Ohio distributor recalls two King Nut brands; CDC says more than 400 in 43 states sickened. Lab tests on a tainted tub of peanut butter produced a genetic match to the strain of salmonella that has struck nationwide, Minnesota health officials reported Monday.
Meanwhile, the victim toll has risen to 410 people in 43 states, according to U.S.
Meanwhile, the victim toll has risen to 410 people in 43 states, according to U.S.
Sodium, Potassium Intake Tied to Heart Disease
January 12, 2009
Study finds 24% greater risk per unit increase in salt-to-mineral ratio. Too much sodium and too little potassium in one's diet may increase one's risk of cardiovascular disease, a new study suggests.
The findings, based on a long-term analysis by the U.S.
The findings, based on a long-term analysis by the U.S.
Peanut Butter Recalled as Salmonella Search Continues
January 12, 2009
Ohio distributor issues recall of King Nut brand after Minn. officials find bacteria in one container; almost 400 Americans in 42 states have been sickened since last fall. An Ohio peanut butter distributor issued a voluntary recall Saturday for two brands of peanut butter after health officials in Minnesota on Friday said they had found salmonella bacteria in a tub of peanut butter that is distributed to schools and hospitals.
The recall, and the Minnesota report, could be the breakthrough in the search for the source of a salmonella outbreak that has struck in 42 states so far.
Officials from the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture issued a product warning Friday after preliminary laboratory testing indicated the presence of salmonella in a container of creamy peanut butter from King Nut, according to published reports.
The recall, and the Minnesota report, could be the breakthrough in the search for the source of a salmonella outbreak that has struck in 42 states so far.
Officials from the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture issued a product warning Friday after preliminary laboratory testing indicated the presence of salmonella in a container of creamy peanut butter from King Nut, according to published reports.
Garlic as a Cancer Fighter? Maybe Not
January 09, 2009
Evidence that strong-smelling herb prevents cancer is said to be weak. Since ancient times, eating garlic has been credited with many medical benefits, including fighting viruses, bacteria and cancer as well as lowering cholesterol.
But a new review finds that the evidence linking garlic to a reduced risk for many cancers is not creditable and, for others, it is very limited.
"The public wants to believe that garlic may be effective in reducing the risk of cancer, but so far scientific evidence is limited to conclude [it works] for all types of cancers," said Dr.
But a new review finds that the evidence linking garlic to a reduced risk for many cancers is not creditable and, for others, it is very limited.
"The public wants to believe that garlic may be effective in reducing the risk of cancer, but so far scientific evidence is limited to conclude [it works] for all types of cancers," said Dr.
Officials Still Seek Source of Salmonella Outbreak
January 09, 2009
Almost 400 Americans in 42 states have been sickened. The source of a salmonella outbreak that has sickened almost 400 Americans in 42 states remains unknown, U.S. health officials said Friday, adding that more cases are expected.
Americans Consuming More Sugary Beverages
January 09, 2009
Adults gulping an average of 300 calories every day, study finds. If you're like many Americans, soda and coffee drinks have become a staple of your daily diet.
But the findings from a new study may make you drop that super-sized, sweetened beverage.
Published in the January issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the research found that people are now drinking almost 50 additional calories of sweetened beverages daily compared to two decades ago, for an average of about 300 calories daily coming from such drinks.
But the findings from a new study may make you drop that super-sized, sweetened beverage.
Published in the January issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the research found that people are now drinking almost 50 additional calories of sweetened beverages daily compared to two decades ago, for an average of about 300 calories daily coming from such drinks.
FDA Backs Cholesterol Drug Vytorin
January 08, 2009
Review says it lowered bad cholesterol more effectively than Zocor. After nearly a year of review, U.S. health officials said Thursday that they supported the continued use of the controversial cholesterol-lowering drug Vytorin.
9 Genes Are Linked to Alzheimer's
January 07, 2009
Finding also bolsters tie between vitamin D and the brain disease. Researchers have identified nine genes that might make people more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.
In addition, they confirmed earlier reports that a variation in the vitamin D3 receptor gene, on chromosome 12, might also increase risk for Alzheimer's. Low levels of vitamin D have been found in people with Alzheimer's and other dementias, leading researchers to suspect a link.
In addition, they confirmed earlier reports that a variation in the vitamin D3 receptor gene, on chromosome 12, might also increase risk for Alzheimer's. Low levels of vitamin D have been found in people with Alzheimer's and other dementias, leading researchers to suspect a link.
It Pays to Eat Less as You Age
January 06, 2009
Cutting calories can cut down on pounds in middle age, study says. Eat less, weigh less.
While it may sound painfully obvious, nutrition experts have been divided over whether cutting calories leads to long-term weight loss, because the practice can sometimes boomerang, triggering binge eating and weight gain.
But, new research suggests that eating less can pay big dividends, particularly as you age.
While it may sound painfully obvious, nutrition experts have been divided over whether cutting calories leads to long-term weight loss, because the practice can sometimes boomerang, triggering binge eating and weight gain.
But, new research suggests that eating less can pay big dividends, particularly as you age.
Health Tip
More Than You Can Chew
January 06, 2009
What to do when chewing becomes difficult If you develop trouble chewing, it's important to make sure you are still getting each day's worth of vital nutrients.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Health Tip
Budget Your Calories
January 05, 2009
How to use your extras The U.S. Department of Agriculture suggests that you budget calories the way you do money .
Prenatal Nutrition, Postnatal Allergy Protection
January 04, 2009
Certain foods consumed during pregnancy might protect against asthma and eczema. An apple a day while you're pregnant may indeed keep the doctor away. But the real beneficiary could be your unborn child.
Recent research suggests that when moms-to-be eat apples during pregnancy, their offspring have lower rates of asthma.
Recent research suggests that when moms-to-be eat apples during pregnancy, their offspring have lower rates of asthma.
Osteoporosis Drug Prompts Increase in Certain Bone Cells
December 31, 2008
Scientists not sure if finding points to potential problems; maker stands by medication. Women who took the osteoporosis drug Fosamax for up to three years saw an increase in their number of osteoclasts, or cells that remove old, brittle bone, a new study says.
These women also had "giant" osteoclasts .
These women also had "giant" osteoclasts .
Grape Seed Extract Kills Leukemia Cells in Lab
December 31, 2008
Finding might lead to new treatment for blood cancers, researchers say. More than three-quarters of laboratory leukemia cells exposed to an extract from grape seeds died within 24 hours, effectively killing themselves while leaving other cells unharmed, a new study shows.
University of Kentucky researchers say they found that the extract activates JNK, a protein that regulates the cell-signaling pathway the leads to cell death, or apoptosis.
The findings appear in the Jan.
University of Kentucky researchers say they found that the extract activates JNK, a protein that regulates the cell-signaling pathway the leads to cell death, or apoptosis.
The findings appear in the Jan.
Nucleic Acid Test Screens for HIV
December 31, 2008
In donated blood and tissue The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the nation's first nucleic acid test to detect the presence of HIV in donated blood and tissue.
Dubious Drugs, Tainted Foods Top 2008's Health Stories
December 31, 2008
But deaths from heart disease, cancer show encouraging drop. Doubts over the safety of diabetes and heart treatments, disappointing results for vitamins as cancer fighters, and the withdrawal of over-the-counter cold medicines for kids were some of 2008's top health stories.
But there was good news, too, including a historic drop in deaths from both heart disease and cancer, and a breakthrough in the search for a malaria vaccine.
Here are some of the biggest health headlines for 2008:
Troubles Surface for Heart, Diabetes Treatments
Throughout 2008, data emerged supporting the notion that two blockbuster diabetes medications .
But there was good news, too, including a historic drop in deaths from both heart disease and cancer, and a breakthrough in the search for a malaria vaccine.
Here are some of the biggest health headlines for 2008:
Troubles Surface for Heart, Diabetes Treatments
Throughout 2008, data emerged supporting the notion that two blockbuster diabetes medications .
Vitamins Fail to Prevent Cancer
Study
December 30, 2008
C, E and beta carotene didn't halt women's risk of developing disease. In another blow to the supposed cancer-fighting powers of vitamins C and E, new research suggests that supplement forms of the vitamins don't prevent the disease in women.
And another widely touted supplement, beta carotene, didn't help either, the new study found.
"Simply taking antioxidant supplements is insufficient to prevent cancer development," said study lead author Jennifer Lin, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.
And another widely touted supplement, beta carotene, didn't help either, the new study found.
"Simply taking antioxidant supplements is insufficient to prevent cancer development," said study lead author Jennifer Lin, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.
Health Tip
Travel Well, Eat Well
December 30, 2008
Healthy eating while on vacation Going on vacation doesn't mean that you have to blow your diet. You can still eat well while you're traveling.
The American Society of Travel Agents offers these suggestions for eating healthy on the road:
If you're flying to your destination, ask for a low-fat or vegetarian meal on the plane.
The American Society of Travel Agents offers these suggestions for eating healthy on the road:
If you're flying to your destination, ask for a low-fat or vegetarian meal on the plane.
Degarelix Approved for Advanced Prostate Cancer
December 29, 2008
Suppresses testosterone production The injected drug degarelix has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat advanced prostate cancer.
Gastric Bypass Halts Diabetes in Obese Teens
January 05, 2009
Surgery could help them avoid long-term complications of blood sugar disease, scientists say. Obese teenagers who have gastric bypass surgery not only lose weight but see their type 2 diabetes disappear, a new study finds.
Also called bariatric surgery, the procedure works by limiting the size of the stomach and thereby reducing the amount of food one can eat. In this study, researchers used the Lapband method, which involves placing an adjustable band to block off most of the stomach.
Also called bariatric surgery, the procedure works by limiting the size of the stomach and thereby reducing the amount of food one can eat. In this study, researchers used the Lapband method, which involves placing an adjustable band to block off most of the stomach.
Vigorous Treadmill Workout Curbs Appetite Hormones
December 26, 2008
U.K. researchers say findings may lead to more effective ways to control weight. Aerobic exercise is better than non-aerobic activities at suppressing appetite, according to a U.K. study.
Honey Bees on Cocaine 'Dance' When Food Is Found
December 25, 2008
Research backs theory that insects' brain reward system activates pleasure centers. Give a foraging honey bee cocaine, and it will dance to reap and share the rewards of success, a new study says.
The finding, published in this month's issue of the The Journal of Experimental Biology, supports the theory of a reward system in an insect's brain and altruism in the bee world.
Cocaine affects the transit of octopamine, a neurochemical that's abundant in the brains of foraging honey bees.
The finding, published in this month's issue of the The Journal of Experimental Biology, supports the theory of a reward system in an insect's brain and altruism in the bee world.
Cocaine affects the transit of octopamine, a neurochemical that's abundant in the brains of foraging honey bees.
Fish Oil's Benefits Remain Elusive
December 24, 2008
Review finds it may cut cardiac mortality but not help those with heart rhythm problems. Consuming fish oil appears to reduce the chance of death from heart problems, but it may not help those with heart rhythm problems, a new analysis shows.
The conclusions are based on a Canadian review of dozens of fish oil studies involving more than 30,000 people. The study, by a team at the University of Alberta, in Edmonton, was published in the online edition of BMJ.
The conclusions are based on a Canadian review of dozens of fish oil studies involving more than 30,000 people. The study, by a team at the University of Alberta, in Edmonton, was published in the online edition of BMJ.
FDA Warns About Weight Loss Products
December 23, 2008
Agency says more than 2 dozen contain dangerous ingredients not listed on label. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers Monday to avoid more than two dozen products marketed for weight loss because they contain undeclared ingredients that could pose serious health risks.
Zolpimist Approved for Insomnia
December 22, 2008
Oral spray contains Ambien's active ingredient NovaDel Pharma's Zolpimist (zolpidem tartrate) oral spray has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for short-term treatment of insomnia, the drug's maker said Monday.
Gleevec Approved for Use After Cancer Surgery
December 22, 2008
Drug first sanctioned in 2001 Gleevec, a "miracle drug" in curing certain types of adult leukemia, has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval to stop cancer growth after gastrointestinal cancer surgery.
Vitamin D Deficit in Pregnancy Tied to Caesarean Risk
December 22, 2008
Women with deficiency at time of delivery had almost 4 times the odds, study says. Vitamin D deficiency greatly increases a pregnant woman's likelihood of having a Caesarean delivery, U.S. researchers report.
Eating Strategies for Healthier Holiday Parties
December 21, 2008
Easy-to-follow tips can take the guilt, and the calories, out of the equation. Rather than worry about gaining or losing weight during the holidays, focus on simply keeping steady on the scales by following some simple healthy eating strategies, one dietitian says.
"Trying to diet during the holidays is setting yourself up for failure and personal torture," Jennifer Ventrelle, clinical nutritionist and registered dietitian at Rush University Medical Center, said in a news release issued by the Chicago facility. "Set an achievable goal: to maintain your weight through the holiday season.
"Trying to diet during the holidays is setting yourself up for failure and personal torture," Jennifer Ventrelle, clinical nutritionist and registered dietitian at Rush University Medical Center, said in a news release issued by the Chicago facility. "Set an achievable goal: to maintain your weight through the holiday season.
For the Obese, Holiday Tables Serve Platefuls of Doubt
December 20, 2008
But fear of social pressures can be overcome with honest approach to food, expert says. The holiday season can be especially difficult for overweight or obese people as they struggle to control their eating habits and cope with widely held misconceptions, according to a Duke University expert.
"Social situations make people feel self-conscious about what they wear and what they eat to the point where they feel they're being judged for every morsel that touches their lips," Martin Binks, director of behavioral health at the Duke Diet and Fitness Center, said in a university news release.
"Some of the popular misconceptions about obesity are that people bring it on themselves, and that they look forward to the holidays so they can eat more," he said.
"Social situations make people feel self-conscious about what they wear and what they eat to the point where they feel they're being judged for every morsel that touches their lips," Martin Binks, director of behavioral health at the Duke Diet and Fitness Center, said in a university news release.
"Some of the popular misconceptions about obesity are that people bring it on themselves, and that they look forward to the holidays so they can eat more," he said.
Most Kids With Type 1 Diabetes Lack Vitamin D
December 19, 2008
Deficiency can increase bone fracture risk, researchers say. Almost 75 percent of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes have insufficient levels of vitamin D, researchers at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston report.
A deficit in vitamin D can lead to bone problems later in life, especially among those with type 1 diabetes. While vitamin D is usually gotten from exposure to sunlight or from the diet, researchers suggest that supplements are needed to boost vitamin D levels.
A deficit in vitamin D can lead to bone problems later in life, especially among those with type 1 diabetes. While vitamin D is usually gotten from exposure to sunlight or from the diet, researchers suggest that supplements are needed to boost vitamin D levels.
Limiting School Snacks Boosts Fruit, Veggie Consumption
December 19, 2008
The increase, while modest, was significant, study finds. Restricting the availability of unhealthy snacks in elementary schools led to a small increase in fruit and vegetable consumption among fifth-graders, a new study found.
The roughly 3 percent increase in fruit and vegetable intake among those children in schools that restricted the availability of snacks was still significant, said study co-author Edward A. Frongillo, chairman of the University of South Carolina's department of health promotion, education and behavior.
The roughly 3 percent increase in fruit and vegetable intake among those children in schools that restricted the availability of snacks was still significant, said study co-author Edward A. Frongillo, chairman of the University of South Carolina's department of health promotion, education and behavior.
Mozobil Boosts Stem Cells Before Bone Marrow Transplants
December 19, 2008
Could help people with certain forms of blood cancer The Genzyme Corp. drug Mozobil (plerixafor) has been approved by the U.S.
Health Tip
Your Diet After Cancer Treatment
December 19, 2008
Healthy meals still matter Once you've completed treatment for cancer, it's not the time to stop planning healthy meals.
The American Cancer Society offers these suggestions for maintaining a healthy diet after cancer treatment:
Ask you doctor if there are any foods that you should avoid.
Work with a dietitian to develop a healthy and nutritious meal plan.
The American Cancer Society offers these suggestions for maintaining a healthy diet after cancer treatment:
Ask you doctor if there are any foods that you should avoid.
Work with a dietitian to develop a healthy and nutritious meal plan.
Low Doses of Melamine Won't Harm Kids' Kidneys
December 19, 2008
Hong Kong researchers found most of those exposed to tainted products were OK. Low doses of melamine did not cause severe kidney problems in children exposed to the industrial chemical during the recent tainted milk scandal in China, Hong Kong researchers report.
The study is one of the first to measure the health impact of exposure to low doses of melamine, which was added to infant formula and other foods in mainland China to boost their protein content and help them pass muster on food-quality tests. Contaminated products were also sold in Hong Kong, but the researchers noted that those products contained much lower concentrations of melamine than the tainted products sold in mainland China.
The study is one of the first to measure the health impact of exposure to low doses of melamine, which was added to infant formula and other foods in mainland China to boost their protein content and help them pass muster on food-quality tests. Contaminated products were also sold in Hong Kong, but the researchers noted that those products contained much lower concentrations of melamine than the tainted products sold in mainland China.
Toxic Poinsettias? Hangover Cures? It May Be All Fiction
December 18, 2008
Researchers debunk common holiday and wintertime health myths. It's that magical time of year when people are willing to suspend disbelief just a little bit and hope that holiday miracles, like Santa delivering presents across the globe in a single evening, can actually happen.
It also appears to be a time of year when people might be willing to suspend critical thinking and buy into some common holiday and wintertime health myths, according to researchers from Indiana University School of Medicine.
In the Christmas issue of BMJ published online Dec.
It also appears to be a time of year when people might be willing to suspend critical thinking and buy into some common holiday and wintertime health myths, according to researchers from Indiana University School of Medicine.
In the Christmas issue of BMJ published online Dec.
Phenols in Quality Olive Oil Suppress Breast Cancer Gene
December 17, 2008
But study cautions lab findings were at levels unlikely to be achieved in real life. Spanish researchers have identified anti-cancer chemicals in extra-virgin olive oil that may help explain the apparent link between eating an olive oil-rich Mediterranean diet and a reduced risk of breast cancer.
Extra-virgin olive oil, which is produced by pressing olives without the use of heat or chemical treatments, contains phytochemicals that are otherwise lost in the refining process. The Spanish researchers separated extra-virgin olive oil into fractions and tested these against breast cancer cells in the lab.
Extra-virgin olive oil, which is produced by pressing olives without the use of heat or chemical treatments, contains phytochemicals that are otherwise lost in the refining process. The Spanish researchers separated extra-virgin olive oil into fractions and tested these against breast cancer cells in the lab.
FDA Adds Suicide Warning to Epilepsy Drugs
December 16, 2008
Says patients on antiepileptics need to be monitored for indications of mood changes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday that it was adding a label warning on heightened suicide risk for users of antiepileptic drugs.
FDA Faults Drug Information for Consumers
December 16, 2008
Pamphlets given out by pharmacies aren't always easy to understand. The printed consumer information that accompanies new prescription drugs is often difficult to read or understand, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Tuesday.
'Mediterranean'-Style Diet Best for Blood Sugar Control
December 17, 2008
Another study finds type 2 diabetes increases cancer death risk. Chowing down on lentil soup and pasta seems to be the way to go if you have type 2 diabetes.
A new study found that a diet of "low-glycemic foods" .
A new study found that a diet of "low-glycemic foods" .
ICU Nutritional Program Failed to Boost Outcomes
December 16, 2008
Early feeding didn't cut length of stay either, study finds. Providing earlier nutritional support for intensive care unit (ICU) patients didn't reduce their length of stay in the ICU or their risk of death, according to a study by researchers in Australia and New Zealand.
Previous research had suggested that early nutritional support (provided within 24 hours of injury or ICU admission) was important for critically ill patients and reduced their risk of death. However, up to 40 percent of eligible patients remain unfed after 48 hours in the ICU.
Previous research had suggested that early nutritional support (provided within 24 hours of injury or ICU admission) was important for critically ill patients and reduced their risk of death. However, up to 40 percent of eligible patients remain unfed after 48 hours in the ICU.
TriLipix Approved to Help Lower Cholesterol
December 16, 2008
To be used alone, or in combination with a statin The Abbott Laboratories drug TriLipix (fenofibric acid) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to help lower cholesterol.
New Food Pyramid Is Aimed at Kids
December 13, 2008
'MyPyramid for Preschoolers' helps parents expand little ones' diet in a healthy way. A new federal government food pyramid for preschoolers may help parents deal with picky eating problems, especially as youngsters are introduced to new kinds of foods during Christmas meals.
The MyPyramid for Preschoolers interactive Web site (MyPyramid.gov) offers individualized nutrition guidance to meet the needs of children aged 2 to 5, according to the U.
The MyPyramid for Preschoolers interactive Web site (MyPyramid.gov) offers individualized nutrition guidance to meet the needs of children aged 2 to 5, according to the U.
Fruits and Veggies May Strengthen Bones
December 12, 2008
Could join calcium and vitamin D in fight against osteoporosis, study finds. Eating lots of protein and cereal grains causes excess acid production in the body, experts say, which could increase calcium excretion and result in weakened bones.
However, a new study finds that boosting alkali levels with a pill or by consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables can strengthen bones.
The study included 171 men and women aged 50 and older who were randomly assigned to receive a placebo or doses of either potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium chloride for three months.
However, a new study finds that boosting alkali levels with a pill or by consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables can strengthen bones.
The study included 171 men and women aged 50 and older who were randomly assigned to receive a placebo or doses of either potassium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium chloride for three months.
Study Suggests Sugar May Be Addictive
December 10, 2008
Finding might yield new insights into eating disorders, experts say. Science is verifying what many overeaters have suspected for a long time: sugar can be addictive.
In fact, the sweetener seems to prompt the same chemical changes in the brain seen in people who abuse drugs such as cocaine and heroin.
The findings were to be presented Wednesday at the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology's annual meeting, in Nashville.
In fact, the sweetener seems to prompt the same chemical changes in the brain seen in people who abuse drugs such as cocaine and heroin.
The findings were to be presented Wednesday at the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology's annual meeting, in Nashville.
2 Diabetes Drugs Double Fracture Risk in Women
December 10, 2008
Both Avandia and Actos lower bone density, new analysis shows. Two widely prescribed diabetes drugs, Avandia and Actos, double the risk of fractures in women but not in men, a new British analysis finds.
Avandia (rosiglitazone) and Actos (pioglitazone) are used to lower blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes. Recent studies have suggested that the risk for heart failure, death and heart attack were increased with Avandia, touching off a controversy that resulted in new U.
Avandia (rosiglitazone) and Actos (pioglitazone) are used to lower blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes. Recent studies have suggested that the risk for heart failure, death and heart attack were increased with Avandia, touching off a controversy that resulted in new U.
Selenium, Vitamins E and C Won't Prevent Prostate Cancer
December 09, 2008
Large trials fail to confirm suspected benefit Selenium, vitamin E and vitamin C won't prevent men from getting prostate cancer.
In findings that were released early because of the public health implications, the results of two large randomized, controlled clinical trials showed the supplements failed to provide a cancer-prevention benefit, despite past findings that seemed to indicate great promise ..
In findings that were released early because of the public health implications, the results of two large randomized, controlled clinical trials showed the supplements failed to provide a cancer-prevention benefit, despite past findings that seemed to indicate great promise ..
Mediterranean Diet Enriched With Nuts Cuts Heart Risks
December 08, 2008
Study says metabolic abnormalities better regulated when following this approach. In older adults at risk for heart disease, a Mediterranean diet plus daily servings of mixed nuts may help manage metabolic syndrome, according to a Spanish study.
Metabolic syndrome describes a group of health problems that includes abdominal obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and high glucose levels ..
Metabolic syndrome describes a group of health problems that includes abdominal obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and high glucose levels ..
Mineral May Reduce High-Risk Bladder Disease
December 08, 2008
Study says selenium, particularly for women and those with p53 gene mutation, may help. Selenium, a trace mineral found in grains, nuts and meats, may help prevent high-risk bladder cancer, a U.S. study finds.
Holidays Don't Have to Make You Heavier
December 07, 2008
Maintaining weight, instead of dieting, is a good way to keep pounds off, experts say. The holiday season is always extra challenging for those watching their weight, but there are ways to participate in the fun without packing on the pounds.
Julie Redfern, manager of the Nutrition Consult Services at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, recommends trying to simply maintain your weight rather than shedding pounds as a good strategy. In a news release issued by the hospital, she also offered these tips:
Before going to a holiday party, eat a light snack.
Julie Redfern, manager of the Nutrition Consult Services at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, recommends trying to simply maintain your weight rather than shedding pounds as a good strategy. In a news release issued by the hospital, she also offered these tips:
Before going to a holiday party, eat a light snack.
Portion Distortion
December 07, 2008
In the fight against obesity, Americans need to re-learn proper serving sizes for meals. All-you-can-eat buffets, super-sized meals and cavernous drinks may help keep your wallet full, but they're also helping to expand your waistline.
Nutrition experts say portion control is one of the biggest factors in successfully losing weight. But Americans aren't very good at recognizing reasonable portion sizes anymore.
Nutrition experts say portion control is one of the biggest factors in successfully losing weight. But Americans aren't very good at recognizing reasonable portion sizes anymore.
Vitamin K Slows Insulin Resistance in Older Men
December 05, 2008
But effect for women not same, as study cites obesity as possible cause. Vitamin K slows the development of insulin resistance in older men, but not women, a new study found.
Insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, occurs when the body cannot use insulin properly. As a result, glucose builds up in the blood.
Insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, occurs when the body cannot use insulin properly. As a result, glucose builds up in the blood.
Generic Heart Drugs as Good as Brand-Name Counterparts
December 02, 2008
Review found most were as effective, despite editorials urging opposite. Brand-name drugs used to treat cardiovascular disease are no better than generics, a new review of available evidence shows.
Yet a number of editorials in medical journals, written by specialists, have urged against substituting the less expensive generics for their designer counterparts.
Yet a number of editorials in medical journals, written by specialists, have urged against substituting the less expensive generics for their designer counterparts.
High Salt Levels Common in Many Foods
December 02, 2008
Cereals, licorice, pancakes, among other products, home to sodium, study says. There can be plenty of sodium ..
Folate in Early Pregnancy May Boost Wheezing in Baby
December 02, 2008
Infants born to moms who took it in first 3 months more likely to have respiratory woes. Infants whose mothers take folic acid (folate) during early pregnancy may have an increased risk for respiratory illness, according to a Norwegian study.
Folate is recommended to reduce the risk of birth defects, and many countries fortify their flour with folic acid.
Folate is recommended to reduce the risk of birth defects, and many countries fortify their flour with folic acid.
FDA Touts Efforts to Enhance Food Safety
December 01, 2008
Critics see problems with the agency's goals, commitment and resources. Responding to criticism that it has done a poor job safeguarding the nation's food supply, the U.S.
