In the journals: Fast food packs unexpected calories
Patrons of fast-food restaurants consistently underestimate the number of calories in their meals across a wide range of ages.
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Month: August 2013
Ask the doctor: Can tai chi improve balance?
Tai chi can improve leg strength, flexibility, range of motion, and reflexes-all of which can help you stay balanced and prevent a fall.
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Dry eyes? Finding the right lubricating drops is essential
Lubricating drops can ease the aggravation of dry eyes. An eye exam can pinpoint the cause of dry eyes and what kind of drop is needed. Daily gentle cleaning of the eyelid edges may be needed. Changes to reduce a dry home or work environment also help.
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Ask the doctor: Warfarin interactions
A long list of drugs and substances affect warfarin’s blood-thinning effect. They may make the warfarin more or less effective. Or they may affect blood clotting in different ways that increase the risk of bleeding.
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Research we’re watching: Vitamin D, heart disease and race
Low vitamin D has been linked to heart disease. A new study suggests this may apply to whites but not blacks.
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Important nutrients you could be missing
Nutritional deficiencies become more common as women get older. Vitamins B12 and D, iron, and calcium are among the most common deficiencies with age. It’s important for women to be checked for deficiencies and to take a supplement if needed.
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Research we’re watching: Lack of sleep harmful to women’s hearts
Women with heart disease who don’t sleep well have higher levels of inflammation markers, such as interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein. Inflammation has been found to increase the risk for heart disease and heart attacks.
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Flu shot: Good insurance, not a guarantee
The flu vaccine does not protect everyone, but it is still worth getting. It’s especially important for people with lung disease, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic conditions.
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Research we’re watching: COPD rates rise in women
Today, women are 37% more likely than men to have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and they account for more than half of COPD deaths each year.
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Relief from intestinal gas
Various foods generate intestinal gas. To identify the culprits, keep a detailed record of what you eat and when symptoms appear. Avoiding suspected foods and adding them back one by one can reveal one or more gas-forming culprits.
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