GTGH - 20 Health Tips

By Lois Thomson

What Is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey, a type of honey that's uncontaminated and bacterial-resistant, is produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush, a flower native to New Zealand. However, its importance lies in its ability to reduce tumor growth without harming healthy cells. A recent study indicated that the honey was associated with greater reductions in cancer cell growth, and was shown to stop cancer cells from growing and surviving by blocking key pathways they use.

Researchers acknowledge that more information is needed, but agree that what has been gained so far is reason to continue the studies.

Increases in Autism

In the late 1990s, an estimated 1 in 150 children were born with autism. That figure today is now 1 in 31.

This increase can be attributed to a number of factors. For example, there is a greater awareness of the disorder that has resulted in more youngsters being screened, and at an earlier age. In 1997, the average age of diagnosis was 4 years, 4 months, and has currently dropped to 3 years, 11 months. However, autism can be diagnosed as early as 2 years old.

Experts agree that it is difficult to pinpoint one particular answer, but concur that better availability to medical services has enabled earlier discovery and intervention. Additionally, environmental factors, such as air pollution, are considered to be a cause, along with premature births and older parents.

Myths About Strokes

Only elderly people can get strokes, right? Wrong. That is one myth associated with this condition. A stroke can happen at any age. Over the past 20 years, we have learned more about strokes. Other myths include (1) You can't do anything to prevent a stroke. Fact – maintaining good levels of blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and weight all aid in prevention. (2) There is no treatment for strokes. Fact – some extremely effective treatments have been developed, but they work better the earlier you seek help. (3) Warning signs are difficult to recognize. Fact – refer to the acronym BE FAST, which stands for Balance (unsteady), Eyes (blurred vision), Face (drooping), Arm (weakness), Speech (slurred), Time (call 911). (4) Women are not likely to have strokes. Fact – strokes occur slightly more often in women than in men.

Dry Eye

Dry eyes? No problem, just reach for a bottle of eye drops and move on, right? No, dry eye can be more than just an irritant. Along with making your eyes feel dry or tired, it can bring about burning, itching, and redness, and can eventually cause blurred vision and make your eyes sensitive to light. Further, it can lead to eye infections and damage to the surface of your eyes.

Discuss any problems with your doctor or an eye specialist to find the best solution for you.

Eat 'Colorful' This Summer

Now that summer is here, farmers markets are springing up in just about every neighborhood. When choosing your fresh fruits and vegetables, try to tailor your picks to be "colorful." We've been learning that the colors represent different beneficial, natural chemicals that are found in the produce that can help fight disease.

A few examples include red/purple (tomatoes, watermelon, blueberries, beets, plums, red apples) that may help protect against prostate cancer, and lung and heart disease, and can help prevent the formation of blood clots. Orange/yellow (carrots, cantaloupe, peaches, nectarines, sweet potatoes) contain cancer-fighting chemicals and foster repair of damaged DNA. Green (broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage) are also rich in cancer-blocking chemicals.

So enjoy some colorful meals while eating your way to a healthier self.

Getting the Proper Sleep

Ever since we were children, we've been told that we need at least 8 hours of sleep a night. But how many of us actually get that many? We know proper rest will help us feel refreshed and alert the next day, but are you aware of the other benefits it provides?

While you sleep, your body works to repair harm that has resulted from stress, ultraviolet rays, and other damaging things you're exposed to during the day. During sleep, your body releases hormones, some of which keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. Sleep can also help improve both your balance and your memory.

With all of this in mind, the idea of crawling under the covers a little earlier may be more appealing.

Changes in Assisted Living in Past 20 Years

Significant changes have taken place in senior living communities over the past 20 years, with many more options and services available today than two decades ago. As seniors have changed, so have the offerings presented to them. Now they can move from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing to memory care all within the same complex.

Facilities offer more dining options, more social events, and more fitness centers and classes. Advanced technology has resulted in better mobility devices, assistive equipment, and improved medication administration. The bottom line is that senior communities don't necessarily produce the anxiety that they previously did.

Staying Hydrated

Thirst isn't necessarily an indicator of being dehydrated, because if you're thirsty, you've probably already reached that point. Warnings about staying hydrated shouldn't fall on deaf ears, because the advice is sound, and with the warmer temperatures, it's more important than ever. Dehydration can cause problems such as dizziness, fatigue, swollen feet, a headache, or even life-threatening illnesses, such as heat stroke.

In addition to physical activity, hydration can occur if you have a heart condition, are over age 50, are overweight, or are merely sitting in the sun on a hot or humid day.

Diabetes Can Be Hereditary

Diabetes tends to run in families. For example, if a mother or father has type 2 diabetes, the risk factor for a child is approximately 30 percent. However, if both parents have diabetes, that figure increases to 70 percent.

But environmental issues also play an important role along with genetics. Factors such as obesity, inactivity, a poor diet, smoking, and stress can all contribute to the onslaught of the disease. Therefore, even if type 2 diabetes runs in the family, adhering to a healthier lifestyle may help prevent or delay the disease.

Can Fasting Help Fight Against Cancer?

Cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. Without nourishment, cancer cells become more vulnerable to chemotherapy and targeted treatments, and scientists are studying whether fasting, in combination with conventional treatment, can help arrest disease progression.

In an article in Epoch Health, radiation oncologist Liao Zhiying noted that cancer cells, to support their rapid growth, consume a large amount of glucose and generate energy through anaerobic respiration, but they also rely on nutrients such as fatty acids and amino acids. Therefore, Zhiying suggests that adjusting the diet to influence metabolism could be a practical approach.

However, this study is still in the trial stage and requires further data. Cancer patients should consult with a professional medical team, and not try anything on their own.

New News About ALS

There is no cure yet for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), but scientists and researchers are making breakthroughs that are giving hope. ALS is a rare progressive disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The disorder impacts motor neurons, which control voluntary muscle movement and results in a loss of the ability to eat, talk, walk, and eventually breathe.

A revolutionary once-a-day pill that regenerates nerve cell connections damaged by ALS has been approved by the FDA for ongoing clinical trials. The drug is now being given to those with ALS and could be a turning point in the treatment of the disease.

Additionally, scientists have developed a tool that can target the nerve cells destroyed by the disease and possibly deliver therapies where they are needed most. 

Importance of Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to move your joints and muscles in different directions with ease. With more focus being placed on physical activity in recent years, people are realizing that being flexible means being able to reach, bend, and stretch without causing damage or feeling uncomfortable. This is true even if you're just reaching for something off a high shelf.

Specific benefits of flexibility include improving the range of motion, reducing the risk of injuries, and helping with posture. Consistently doing some stretching or flexibility exercises can help maintain a healthier body.

Want to lower your cholesterol? Try beans!

The two kinds of cholesterol are LDL, or "bad," which contributes to fatty buildups in arteries, and HDL, the "good," which helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream. High LDL can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, but while medications can help lower the levels, they can also have undesirable side effects.

A healthier way to lower levels could be right inside your pantry: canned beans. The Journal of Nutrition published a study indicating that adults with high LDL levels who ate a cup of beans every day for four weeks – alternating between black, navy, pinto, and red and white kidney – noticed a decrease in total and LDL cholesterol.

20-20-20 Rule

As people spend more and more time in front of computers or on their phones, it's important to be aware of the strain those devices are putting on their eyes. To help alleviate that strain, try using the 20-20-20 rule as a guideline. The idea is that for every 20 minutes you are looking at a screen, take a 20-second break and focus on something that's 20 feet away. This will help to relax the eye muscles and help prevent discomfort.

Can Blood Pressure Be Too Low?

High blood pressure is a concern for many reasons, but what about low blood pressure? Can it be too low? And how low is too low?

Readings of 120/80 are generally considered to be healthy, but readings in the range of 90/60 could be low. Symptoms at that point may include blurred vision, feeling lightheaded, fainting, fatigue, trouble concentrating, or an upset stomach. Extremely low pressure could send a person into shock. Causes could be medications, certain diseases, infection, or poor diet, among others.

If your readings are consistently low, check with your doctor to determine the reason.

Could You Have Sleep Apnea?

Are you restless when you sleep and wake up several times during the night? Do you snore? Do you experience fatigue in the afternoon? These may be signs of sleep apnea, and the consequences could be more serious than just needing naps during the day.

If not treated, sleep apnea can lead to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. It has also been connected to serious health conditions like high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes. A sleep study – which can often now be done at home – can help determine if you're a victim, and a variety of CPAP masks have been developed recently that are not as unwieldy as in previous years.

Summer Activities for Autistic Kids

Summer is the time to be outdoors and enjoy the warm months. But while being outside with an autistic child may be a bit challenging, outdoor activities can prove to be highly beneficial. A simple walk in the park can enable the child to interact with nature. Water activities such as sprinklers or small pools can be very soothing. Setting up an obstacle course can improve motor skills and problem-solving. Gardening or planting can provide opportunities to experience the textures, scents, and colors of the outdoors. Even fun places like zoos and amusement parks have begun to take steps to accommodate autistic children. Don't spend your summer indoors!

July Is Social Wellness Month

Physical health is a point of considerable focus for most people. However, mental health is tied closely to physical health and therefore deserves equal attention. The month of July is set aside as Social Wellness Month, and is dedicated to promoting social wellness and building healthy relationships.

Such relationships can help improve self-esteem, make it easier to deal with stress, and help a person feel part of a community. Ways to build relationships can be done by spending quality time with family and friends, getting in touch with people you haven't seen for a while, volunteering, joining a club or group, and showing interest in people's lives and listening closely to what they have to say.

August Is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month

Because eyesight is so important to a child's overall development, some organizations recommend having a first eye screening between the ages of 6 and 12 months. This is especially important if there is a history of eye disease in the family. Other signs to look for at a young age are headaches or squinting.

Conditions that are not identified could interfere with healthy development and affect learning ability, and even vision loss. The goal of Children's Eye Health and Safety Month is to educate those in charge of a child's care on the important role vision and eye health plays in a child's development, learning ability, and social engagement.

September Is National Cholesterol Education Month

The September campaign is designed to educate on the dangers of high cholesterol and its link to heart disease. According to the CDC, nearly 94 million people over the age of 20 in the United States have cholesterol numbers that have crossed into or border on the high range.

Cholesterol can build up in your blood vessels and arteries as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle, increasing the risk of blocking proper blood flow, and possibly leading to a heart attack or stroke. There are virtually no warning signs that cholesterol is high; without getting it checked on a regular basis, a person may not know until they experience a problem.

Recommended Cancer Screenings

An estimated 2 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and more than 600,000 will die from the disease. However, cancer screenings can lead to early detection and treatment, which can help prevent deaths.

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, and while people can self-examine, seeing a dermatologist once a year is recommended. Because of its high fatality rate, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. People who have a history of heavy smoking, or those who have just recently quit, should be screened. Colorectal, or colon, cancer, is the third most common cancer in both men and women, other than skin cancers. A doctor can perform a colonoscopy.

Olive Oil May Protect Brain Health

An item already in your pantry may help preserve your cognitive health. With more than 55 million people worldwide suffering with dementia, and more than 10 million new cases each year, a relatively simple breakthrough is welcome news.

In a study conducted over nearly three decades, results found that people who daily consumed half a tablespoon of olive oil had a 28 percent reduced risk of dying from dementia, compared with people who did not use the product. Research has shown that including olive oil in your diet may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and lower blood pressure, and shows promising evidence for brain health as well. Researchers agree more study is needed in this area.