A group of 21 vegans utilizing a raw food diet had higher blood levels of antioxidants (vitamins A, C, and E) than did a similar group consuming a cooked omnivorous diet. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 62:1221-7, 1995). These differences were seen even if the omnivores used antioxidant supplements. Although the vegans consumed more iron, a known pro-oxidant, measurements of iron in the body usually show vegans with an advantage over omnivores.
Copyright 1999 Phylis A Austin
A questionnaire given to pediatric residents demonstrated inadequate knowledge of breastfeeding techniques. The researchers called for additional training in this area, so that they may assist breastfeeding mothers in their practice. (American Journal of Preventive Medicine 11(1)26-33, 1996)
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
High-intensity resistance exercise programs reduce physical fraility and counteract muscle weakness in elderly persons. (New England Journal of Medicine 330:1769-1775, June 23, 1994) It reduces the number of painful falls by increasing muscle control and dexterity. Therefore the person suffers fewer fractures.
Copyright 1996 Phylis Austin
Even a modest weight gain in middle-age increases the risk of diabetes mellitus. The U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines which allow for weight gain after 35-years-of-age place women at increased risk. (Annals of Internal Medicine 122(7)481-486, April 1, 1995)
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
Caloric restriction delays the onset of menopause according to a study from Turkey. A study of over 1,000 women indicated that obese women enter menopause 1.7 years earlier than thinner women. They also observed that women who lived in rural settings had later menopause. Women who have never had children enter menopause about one year sooner than women who have had five or more children. (Gynecology and Obstetrical Investigation 37:40-42, 1994)
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
Women who use long-term estrogen replacement therapy are apparently at increased risk of developing fatal ovarian cancer according to a study from Emory University and the American Cancer Society. (American Journal of Epidemiology 141(9)828-35, 1995)
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
A study presented at the Society of Behavior Medicine meeting in San Diego revealed that exercise helps to control the mental and physical symptoms associated with menopause. Christina Lee from the department of psychology at the University of Newcastle, Australia, observed that women who exercised regularly had less stress and fewer menopause related symptoms than non-exercisers. Those who participated in exercise reported less depression and anxiety, fewer hot flashes, fewer night sweats, and better sleep patterns. Interestingly, even those women who were on hormone replacement therapy showed benefit from exercise. (Medical Tribune 26(8)20, April 20, 1995)
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
A study from Japan demonstrates a relationship between the use of sugar, milk, meat, fats and oils and death from prostate cancer. (Japanese Journal of Cancer 10(8)831-836, 1994)
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
The impact of diet on acne has been a topic of great debate, with many arguing that foods such as chocolate do not have an effect on acne. The original study suggesting that chocolate does not cause acne was done using a synthetic chocolate as a placebo. Both groups were actually receiving chocolate!
Dr. Walter Schnur of Cincinnati writes that in his 30 years of medical practice he has observed that the use of milk and other forms of lactose worsens many cases of acne. He also points out that in 1961 the incoming president of the American Dermatologic Association pointed out that teenagers who consumed the most milk and carbohydrates had the most acne. (Consultant, December 1995, p. 1762)
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
Extracts of Oregon grape root (Berberis aquifolium) have been applied to the skin in the treatment of psoriasis for many decades. It is now felt that berberine is the beneficial part of the plant. (American Journal of Natural Medicine 3(1)24, January-February 1996) Other berberine-containing herbs that may be just as effective as Oregon grape are Hydrastis canadensis and Berberis vulgaris.
Copyright 1996 Phylis A Austin
