September 2, 2001- Nectarine Notions

Tired of apples and oranges? Add some variety to your fruit bowl with nutrient-rich nectarines. Nectarines, the smooth-skinned cousin of the peach, contain beta-cryptoxanthin, a carotenoid whose potential cancer-fighting powers scientists have only recently begun to explore. Plus, nectarines are a great source of fiber, which can help reduce your risk of colon cancer. Eating a diverse diet, including 4 servings of fruit per day, can help reduce your chances or cardiovascular diseases and even cancer.
SOURCE: Real Age Health Information, ©2001

September 9, 2001- Kidney Stone Killer

Want to keep your kidneys free from painful stones? Don't forget to take your calcium supplement.  Many people belive that if you take calcium, you increase your risk of kidney stones; which is the exact opposite.

Research suggests that a diet high in calcium could reduce your risk of developing kidney stones, small crystals that can form in the kidneys, bladder, or urinary tract and cause pain. Experts speculate that calcium may prevent the formation of kidney stones by inhibiting the body's excretion of oxalate, a compound commonly found in the stones.
SOURCE: University of Massachusetts , ©2001

September 16, 2001- Getting Past Grief

During difficult times, finding ways to express your feelings may be one of the keys to dealing with grief.

Traumatic events can take both a physical and psychological toll due to increased stress levels. However, spending time with loved ones, talking through disturbing experiences, or writing about your feelings in a journal can help you cope with upsetting events and ease their effects. During stressful times, strong friendships can reduce stress and high blood pressure  which in turn can help reduce many cardiovascular problems.
SOURCE: Real Age Health Information, ©2001

September 23, 2001- Shake on cinnamon, shake off diabetes

According to USDA research, cinnamon helps to control blood-sugar levels. Ground cinnamon -- the spice, not the synthetic flavoring -- works by stimulating the production of glucose-burning enzymes, while simultaneously boosting your own insulin's effectiveness. In one study, cinnamon made insulin up to 20 times more capable of breaking down blood sugars. "Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to your diet each day will give you the benefit," says Richard A. Anderson, Ph.D., a scientist with the USDA.
SOURCE: Richard A. Anderson, Ph.D., USDA, ©2001

September 30, 2001- Shock Therapy

Want to protect your bones during high-impact activities? Research suggests that shock-absorbing insoles can cushion the blow.

In one study, active adults who wore shock-absorbing insoles in their sneakers during workouts were less likely to experience stress fractures compared to people who didn't wear the insoles. Getting 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium in your daily diet and doing bone-building, weight-bearing exercises are other ways to steer clear of stress fractures.
SOURCE: University of Arizonia, ©2001