Six Popular Foods That Are High In Sodium: An American Heart Association Infographic

The infographic from the American Heart Association highlights the six popular foods that have high levels of sodium. These are bread and rolls, cold cuts, cured meat, pizza, poultry, soup, and sandwiches.

RELATED LINKS

American Heart Association
White Potatoes Linked To High Levels Of Potassium And Low Fat, Cholesterol, and Sodium
Avocado In Daily Diet Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels
Potato Consumption Declining
Space Food 101 - Spirulina
Study On Effects of Deep Space Travel Reveals Sodium Rhythm Cycle of the Human Body

Salk Scientists Develop Diet Pill, Fexaramine: Safe and Effective Treatment for Obesity and Diabetes

A new fat burning compound can lead to weight loss without causing side effects. The pill, fexaramine, remains in the intestine rather than dissolve in the blood stream like other appetite suppressants or caffeine-based diet drugs. Researchers are confident that fexaramine can be an effective treatment for obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.

Fexaramine works by making the body think that it has consumed calories which causes it to burn fat. In trials, researchers who developed the drug at the Salk Institute found that they effectively stopped weight gain, lowered cholesterol, controlled blood sugar and minimized inflammation.

Initially they used fexaramine in obese and diabetic mice, the researchers note that in five weeks of daily intake, the mice stopped gaining weight, lost fat and had lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels than untreated mice. In addition, the mice had a rise in body temperature--which signals metabolism ramping up--and some deposits of white fat in their bodies converted into a healthier, energy-burning beige form of the tissue.

The effects of the drug in mice led the scientists to believe that fexaramine can be an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity in humans.

Working Nights Associated With Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer

In a report in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, a study notes that women working rotating night shifts have a risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.

The study conducted by an international team of researchers covered 74,862 US nurses and 22 years of data as basis for their study. They note that the longer the nurses work in rotating night shifts, the higher the increase in all-cause and CVD mortality. For the study, rotating shift work is defined as working at least three nights per month in addition to days or evenings in that month

Working nights disrupts the body's circadian system, which is an internal mechanism that schedules regular body activities based on a 24 hour period. This system, together with sleep, maintains the body's cardiovascular health and antitumor activity. Because of the nature of working nights, this activity directly impacts the circadian system and increases the risk of cancer and CVD, leading to higher mortality.

In 2007 the World Health Organization classified night shift work as a probable carcinogen due to circadian disruption.

AHA Infographic: Love Your Heart Help Your Brain

As part of their "Love your heart, help your brain" campaign, the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) released a new infographic highlighting the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables.

The infographic cites new research that drives home the fact that eating fruits and vegetables, around 4 to 5 servings a day based on a 2000 calorie diet, may prevent the risk of stroke and improve health.

The campaign aims to boost the consumption of fruits and vegetables worldwide to reduce the global impact of stroke.

Learn more about how to understand more about the risk factors that affect stroke at StrokeAssociation.org/prevent.

Health Mechanics of Flavanols in Dark Chocolate Discovered

Chocolate, specifically its main ingredient cocao, is known to have health benefits. It is one of the most popular food today. On average, a person would consume ten pounds of it annually.

Although, scientists look at a category of flavonoids called flavonols as the reason for its healthy properties, the exact reason why has been unknown for years. Scientists now believe they have pinpointed the reason for this in findings that. were unveiled at the 247th National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS).

They explain that the abundant flavanols in cocoa such as catechin, epicatechin and polymers are consumed by certain bacteria in the stomach and convert it into anti-inflammatory compounds that are good for the heart.

Flavonoids (the main category of flavanols) can be found naturally in fruits, vegetables and beverages (tea, coffee, dark chocolate, beer, wine and fruit drinks). Flavonoids possess beneficial effects on human health as they are said to have antiviral, anti-allergic, antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, antitumor and perform antioxidant activities.

Rate Of Obesity and Diabetes Linked To Ownership of Devices in Low to Med Income Countries

An international study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal show that in low and medium income countries, ownership of devices such as televisions, computers, and even cars are now being associated with an increased rate of obesity and diabetes. They note that the rate of obesity increased from 3.4% for no devices owned to 14.5% for 3 devices owned.

For high income countries, there was no relationship between household devices ownership and obesity or diabetes. The researchers explain that this is so because the negative impact of the devices on health have already occurred and are already reflected in the high rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes in these countries.

Ownership of these type of devices open up opportunities for sedentary entertainment like television, computers and video games. Because of this, physical activity diminishes. Recent research indicates that recommended levels of physical activity - at least 35-60 minutes per day - increases bone strength specially for children.

American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity - Infographic

The American Heart Association released an infographic on its recommendations for adult physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

With today's more sedentary lifestyle at home and at work, it is a challenge for most adults to be physically active. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. Aside from that, it also reduces other risk factors such as high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, excess body weight and diabetes.

Any regular physical activity from climbing stairs, walking the dog, or just stretching can have have a positive effect on the body.

Dr. Russell Pate, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Exercise at the University of South Carolina notes that one of the great public health challenges of this century is building back physical activity back into a person's daily life. “Our bodies were designed to be physically active, and they don’t do well with long-term exposure to sedentary living. Lack of physical activity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease”, he adds.

The infographic gives a general outline on the AHA's recommendations for regular physical activity that would help bring about a healthy adult lifestyle.

American Academy of Pediatrics Endorses Ban on Sale of Unpasteurized Milk

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a policy statement strongly recommending that pregnant women, infants and young children should avoid raw or unpasteurized milk and milk products and only consume pasteurized products. They also endorse the ban on the sale of unpasteurized milk and milk products in the same statement.

Milk is pasteurized to get rid of disease causing pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter.

Pasteurization is a process where milk is heated at a temperature of 72°C (161°F) for 15 seconds then immediately cooled. Another similar process is Ultra-high temperature processing (UHT) where the milk is exposed to a temperature of 138°C (280°F) for a minimum of two seconds.

Studies have shown that there is no difference in the levels of proteins, carbohydrates, calcium, vitamins and enzymes in both pasteurized and unpasteurized milk. Claims that unpasteurized milk is healthier and prevents lactose intolerance has not been substantiated by scientific studies.

In the early 20th century, tubercolosis was spread through the consumption of contaminated unpasteurized milk.

Other health organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP), the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), and the World Health Association (WHA) have also taken this stand on unpasteurized milk.

Studying 007 James Bond's Drinking Habits

Researchers studied James Bond's drinking habits by reading all 14 books and found that Bond drinks over four times the recommended amount. Based on this, the level of functioning he displays is inconsistent with the physical, mental, and indeed sexual functioning expected from someone drinking this much alcohol.

They also put into context super spy James Bond's preference for martinis that are shaken not stirred. They theorize that James Bond suffers from alcohol tremors that makes it difficult for him to stir.

The objective of this study is to quantify the spy's alcohol consumption as detailed in the novels by Ian Fleming. Based on the 14 Bond books by Fleming, James Bond consumes around 92 units a week which is four times more than the recommended amount. Out of 87.5 days, only 12 days were alcohol free and his maximum alcohol consumption in one day was 48 units.

Because of the level of alcohol intake, James Bond has a high risk of alcohol related disease such as alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, impotence, alcohol-induced tremor, and an early death.

Although James Bond is a fictional character, the authors of the study feel that alcohol consumption, being a global health problem, is portrayed by the character in a positive manner.

Study On Coffee Improving Blood Flow In Small Blood Vessels Presented at AHA Scientific Sessions 2013

Coffee can significantly help small blood vessels in improving blood flow. Researchers from the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa, Japan presented the study at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2013.

The study based on observations done on 27 adults showed a 30% increase in blood flow over a period of 75 minutes compared to those who drank decaffeinated coffee. It should be noted that the test subjects were not regular coffee drinkers.

Coffee is the most consumed beverage in the world. It is the primary source of caffeine which stimulates the central nervous system. It makes the brain more alert and active. The US FDA treats caffeine both as a drug and a food additive. It is legal and unregulated in nearly all parts of the world.

Aside from the latest study, regular consumption of coffee has been linked to other health benefits such as a lowered risk of heart disease and stroke, improved function of large arteries, and improved brain metabolism in diabetic patients.

Healthy Lifestyle Advice Same For Diabetics and Non-diabetics

A study published by the German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke in Nuthetal, Germany suggests that the suggested lifestyle of people with diabetes is not different from the lifestyle advised for the general public. It is just that diabetics would benefit more from the healthy lifestyle in comparison with non-diabetics.

People with diabetes have problems maintaining their glucose (blood sugar) levels because of insulin production. Either their body cannot produce enough insulin or that the insulin is rejected by the body. Diabetes is a condition where insulin production and/or insulin action is defective.

If left untreated, glucose levels in the blood starts rising and a condition called hyperglycemia sets in. Hyperglycemia can cause damage to nerves, blood vessels, and other body organs. Hyperglycemia is strongly associated with heart attacks and death in subjects with no coronary heart disease or history of heart failure.

There is no cure for diabetes but the disease can be regulated through medication and maintaining a healthy lifestyle characterized by proper nutrition and exercise. The newly published study states that the suggested lifestyle is the same for both diabetics and non-diabetics but comes out more beneficial to non-diabetics.

Genetic Discovery Hints at Hereditary Risk of Esophageal Cancer and Barrett's Esophagus

Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Australia studied the DNA samples and medical data of more than 8,000 patients and have found four genetic variants in DNA that is associated with increased risk of esophageal cancer and Barrett's esophagus.

Barrett's esophagus is a disorder in which the lining of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach) is damaged by stomach acid and changed to a lining similar to that of the stomach. There is a small chance that people afflicted with Barrett's esophagus develop esophageal cancer.

Previously, esophageal cancer and its precursor, Barrett's esophagus are blamed on factors such as obesity, gastroesophageal reflux , smoking and an unhealthy diet. This latest discovery hints that the disease can also be hereditary.

Aquarium Based Skin Disease Caused by Mycobacterium Marinum Bacteria is Under-diagnosed

Aquarium Granuloma, a skin disease that is commonly associated with aquariums is under-diagnosed according to a study presented at the Infectious Diseases Society of America's annual meeting in San Francisco.

Aquarium granuloma is caused by the Mycobacterium marinum bacteria. The bacteria is a a non-tuberculous mycobacterium found in non-chlorinated water. Infection starts when an open wound on the arm or hand is exposed to the bacteria. The disease causes skin lesions and takes from 11 to 56 days to incubate.

People most susceptible to Aquarium Granuloma are those who work with fish or own aquariums

According to the study, patients with the disease may not associate it with aquariums because of the prolonged incubation period. Also, people do not usually tend to think of aquariums being host to bacteria. This may lead to the patient not getting the appropriate treatment.

Running Improves Memory and Learning

Did you know that running can make you smarter? It’s true. It can also improve your memory and your test scores. That’s the latest news from assistant professor of psychology from the University of Illinois Justin Rhodes writing for Scientific American. “A growing body of evidence suggests we think and learn better when we walk or do another form of exercise,” writes Rhodes while citing a recent study that found “students who exercise perform better on tests than their less athletic peers.”

Rather than worry about the legendary “freshman 15” trend whereby new college students typically gain 15 pounds in their first year, many students are lacing up their running shoes and signing up for a local 5K (3.1 mile) run. And that’s where adopting a 5K training schedule comes in. The only way to experience the physical and mental benefits of exercise is to do it on a regular basis.

Omega-3 Fish Oil Helps Protect Against Dementia.

A Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine study suggests that Omega-3 fish oil helps protect the brain from alcohol related dementia. Researchers found that omega 3 helps protect the brain from against inflammation and cell death.

Previous studies show that omega-3 fatty acids or polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are important for brain function, as well as normal growth and development. Omega-3 fatty acids include the nutrients called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

They have also been found to reduce the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association (AHA) has recommended eating fish (particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) at least twice a week.

A study a year ago published in Neurology, shows that a diet lacking in omega-3 fatty acids, may cause the brain to age faster and lose some of its memory and thinking abilities.

Dementia is the loss of brain function that occurs with certain diseases. It negatively affects memory, thinking, language, judgment, and behavior. It causes a serious loss of global cognitive ability in a previously unimpaired or normal person that is beyond what might be expected from normal aging.

Socioeconomic Factors and Food Industry Practices Major Influence to Prevalence of Obesity

A video released by Academic Earth (embedded below) focuses on the economic cost of obesity. James Hill, director of the Center of Human Nutrition at Colorado Health Sciences University, believes that socioeconomic class a more accurate predictor for obesity than biological and genetic factors. Policies such as food subsidies, have had a direct role in driving the obesity crisis.

A study by Eric Finkelstein, Ph.D., associate research professor in the Duke Global Health Institute and Deputy Director in the Health Services Research Program at Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School in Singapore, shows that by 2030, 42% of the U.S. population could be obese by 2030 and would translate to around $550 billion in medical spending over the next twenty years.

Obesity

Obesity is a disorder where a person has too much body fat. It is a medical condition that can lead to a reduction in the quality of life and more serious disorders such as diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. Obesity starts when the regular calorie intake of a person is more than what the body burns. The unused calories are stored as fat by the body.

White Potatoes Linked To High Levels Of Potassium And Low Fat, Cholesterol, and Sodium

A newly released study links high intakes of potassium with the consumption of white potatoes. The study also adds it offers less calories when compared to bananas (which are generally associated with potassium) with the same potassium content.

Potassium is an important nutrient for the body. It is in the top ten common element by mass at 0.2% of the body, it is usually ranked between the 8th and 9th most common element, tying with sulfur and chlorine.

Potassium cations (positive ions) are used by the body for brain and nerve functions, specifically in the neurons. It also helps in regulating the balance between cells and the interstitial fluid (a solution that bathes and surrounds the cells). Potassium also is associated with lowering blood pressure and can reduce the risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease.

Bananas are the most common associated food with potassium but compared to potatoes, potatoes offers more of the nutrient while having less calories, fat, and cholesterol levels than a banana. Other foods rich in potassium are tomatoes, oranges, beet greens, white beans and other fresh fruits and vegetables.

Berries Protect Brain From Toxins and Improve Behavior and Cognitive Functions

Researchers from the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University and University of Maryland Baltimore County conducted studies on the positive effects of a berry enriched diet on the brain. They found that having berries on a diet increases its protective functions against toxins that can cause alzheimer's disease and that it alleviates stress by improving the brain's behavior and cognitive functions.

Previous studies on berries, particularly strawberries and blueberries, show that regular consumption of berries slows down the degeneration of cognitive functions. In older women, the study shows a delayed cognitive aging by up to 2.5 years.

Current studies on berries extend its positive effects from delaying cognition to also protecting the brain from toxic accumulation as well as mitigating stress related behavior and cognitive decline. Phytonutrients present in the berries such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, and tannins is believed to be the contributing factor for this effect.

Pharmaceutical Pollution And Its Effect on the Environment

Wappinger Creek in New York's Hudson Valley was one of the streams investigated in the study.
Credit: Rebecca Allan

Pharmaceutical pollution may be affecting aquatic life and water quality in bodies of water such as streams and rivers. It is still unknown how this affects the environment and the organisms that is sustained by it.

Another source , albeit lesser known, of pollution is pharmaceutical pollution or contamination. Also known as PPCP or Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products as Pollutants, products involved refer to those use for personal health, cosmetic reasons, or used by agribusiness to enhance growth or health of livestock.

Pharmaceutical contamination covers pollution caused by these products such as prescription and over-the-counter medicine, therapeutic drugs, veterinary drugs, fragrances, lotions, and even cosmetics.

The main medium of pharmaceutical pollution is water. The United State's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has cited that studies have shown traces of pharmaceuticals in the nation's water bodies. Although there is no evidence of ill effects on human health, findings suggests that there may be some ecological and environmental harm when certain drugs are present.

Avocados Contribute To Significantly Better Nutrient Intake and More Positive Health Indicators

New analysis of data suggest that people who consume avocados as part of their diet have a better diet quality, higher nutrient intake levels and manifests more positive health indicators than those who don't.

The avocado fruit (Persea Americana) has recently been researched as a good source of anti-oxidants. The anti-oxidants found in avocados, specifically in avocado oil, are far better than those found in other fruits.

Last year, research done at the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo in México showed that avocado contains anti-oxidants protect mitochondria (the part of the cell responsible for producing energy) from free radicals.

Anti-oxidants found in other fruits and vegetables are unable to protect the mitochondria enabling free radicals to damage it. This causes energy production to stop causing the cell to collapse and die.

Now, in a related study by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), data confirms the health benefits of consuming avocados and expands on the previous study by including other beneficial factors such as positive health indicators and better nutrient intake.