Editor’s note
Anthony L. Komaroff, M.D., editor in chief of the Harvard Health Letter, introduces a special issue focused on exercise.
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Getting a leg up on sciatica
The pain of sciatica can be relieved through surgery, but evidence suggests that over time, conservative treatment (NSAIDs, physical therapy, perhaps a steroid injection) provides equivalent relief.
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Preserving and improving memory as we age
As people age, it is normal to have concerns about maintaining good memory function. Practicing good general health habits and keeping the mind active can help preserve and protect memory.
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Medical memo: Do it yourself?
A study that tracked healthy older men for several years found that overzealous pursuit of household chores and activities was responsible for an increased risk of falling.
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Counting every step you take
A pedometer is an inexpensive tool that can be an effective motivator to encourage walking more.
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Ask the doctor: Do people on warfarin need to avoid vitamin supplements that contain vitamin K?
You mentioned Centrum Cardio, a new multivitamin supplement that supposedly lowers cholesterol. Taking two tablets a day would deliver 25 micrograms of vitamin K. Is it wise to recommend this product for someone taking warfarin or other anticoagulants?
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Vitamin E: Separate and unequal?
Expectations for vitamin E’s ability to protect the body against illness and disease have not been met, but certain types of vitamin E may have more effective antioxidant properties than others.
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By the way, doctor: What is the healthiest amount of sleep?
I heard about a study that found people who sleep six and a half to seven hours a night will live longer than those sleeping eight to nine. What is the right amount of sleep?
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In Brief: Vitamin D may prevent falls
Research appears to support the idea that a regular dose of vitamin D helps improve strength and balance in older people, which helps reduce the incidence of falls.
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In the journals: No cardiovascular help from B vitamins in high-risk women
A study found that women at high risk for cardiovascular disease did not benefit from taking B vitamins, even though they lowered levels of homocysteine, which at high levels has been linked to cardiovascular trouble.
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