Health Tips for the month of September

Weekly Health Tips for the month of September
If you'd like to sign up to receive these tips in your e-mail each week, click here.

September 4, 2005- Keen on Chromium
Keep the chromium coming to help support cardiovascular health.

Low levels of chromium, a trace element involved in glucose metabolism, may increase the risk of nonfatal heart attacks in men, a recent study concludes. Do not, however, take a supplement; too much chromium can be dangerous. Most people can get their fill through diet by eating foods such as whole grains, low-fat dairy, and broccoli.

Chromium is a trace element the body needs to enhance glucose use and improve insulin sensitivity, which in turn may affect blood lipids. Mounting evidence suggests loss of sensitivity to insulin -- a key feature of metabolic syndrome -- and diabetes contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD). In a recent study, researchers found higher toenail chromium levels in healthy men compared to men who had suffered a nonfatal heart attack. Most people need about 120 micrograms of chromium per day; however, no one should take a chromium supplement unless advised by a health care provider. Too much chromium can raise blood pressure and contribute to irregular heartbeat. The best way to lower your CVD and diabetes risk is to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein sources such as fish, skinless chicken, and legumes.

Source: American Journal of Epidemiology, ©2005

September 11, 2005- Get Hip to Exercise
A little strength training may help relieve achy hip pain.

For people whose hip pain is the result of osteoarthritis, regular strength training may decrease pain and disability while improving hip function, a recent study concludes. Find a physical therapist or personal trainer who can develop an exercise program tailored to your needs.

The exact cause of osteoarthritis is unknown. Symptoms include painful, stiff, achy joints that can hamper daily activity and mobility. Regular exercise is one of the mainstays of osteoarthritis treatment. However, certain exercises can make pain worse, so follow a doctor's advice regarding exercise. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming, biking, and walking, are ideal because they work the muscles supporting the joint without putting too much strain on the joint. Applying heat and ointment rubs to the affected area, as well as taking pain medication as directed by a healthcare provider, also may help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.

Source: The Journal of Rheumatology, ©2005

September 18, 2005- Better Than a Bottle
Turn to your diet first to fulfill your nutritional needs.

Getting your nutrition through a healthful, diverse diet may help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other chronic conditions better than getting it through supplements, evidence suggests. Don't toss your supplements, however. They are a good way to fill in nutrition gaps when your diet falls short.

Nutrients are essential compounds in food your body needs to function properly; however, researchers continue to study and revise the optimal amounts of nutrients we need for peak health. An emerging body of evidence suggests eating nutritious food promotes health and reduces your risk of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and osteoporosis better than relying on supplements. Nutrients and beneficial compounds in food may augment each other and work synergistically to prevent disease. Eat a healthy, varied diet full of colorful produce, low-fat dairy, lean protein, and whole grains to get your daily fill of health-promoting nutrients.

Source: The Journal of the American Medical Association, ©2005

September 25, 2005- The Last Straw

Help save your smile by sipping carbonated beverages through a straw.

Carbonated beverages tend to be acidic, which can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. Switching to water is one way to prevent the damage. However, if you do indulge in a fizzy soda, sipping it through a straw with the end placed near the back of your mouth can decrease contact time between your teeth and the acids.

Just using a straw may not be enough to protect your teeth against caustic sodas, which eat away at tooth enamel. To be effective, you'll need to place the straw near the back of your mouth to minimize the amount of time your teeth are in contact with fizzy drinks. Placing the straw just past your lips may increase tooth exposure to the soda. Rinsing your mouth with water after you finish a carbonated drink may help evacuate leftover acids. Stay on top of regular brushing, flossing, and professional teeth cleaning to keep your mouth healthy.

Back Home
Questions