Healthy Living & Prevention
Laser Liposuction—Weight Loss Tool or Scam?
As American waistlines have expanded, the attraction of a quick weight loss fix has increased. Diet and exercise are the key to safe weight loss, but for many of us, the results are discouraging. As a result, liposuction is the third most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the United States, after breast augmentation and nose reshaping. However, the procedure can result in severe though rare complications including infection, cardiac arrest, blood clots, excessive fluid loss, fluid accumulation, damage to the skin or nerves, seizures, bruising, swelling, and damage to vital organs. Plastic surgeons often present laser liposuction as a safer, effective alternative which works by inserting a laser beneath the skin and liquifying fat. But does it work and is it really safe? Read More
My Plate: A New Alternative to the Food Pyramid
The new USDA model, MyPlate, replaces the familiar “food pyramid” diagram that underwent several changes in the 19 years since it was first introduced. The MyPlate model shows the five food groups (fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, and dairy) in a place setting. It is designed to be easier to understand in the context of a single meal than the more confusing pyramid. Read More
Pets and Health: The Impact of Companion Animals
Animals play an important role in many people’s lives. In addition to seeing-eye dogs and dogs that can be trained to detect seizures, animals can also be used in occupational therapy, speech therapy, or physical rehabilitation to help patients recover. Aside from these designated therapeutic roles, animals are also valued as companions. Learn more about the possible benefits of that companionship. Read More
Unnecessarily Invasive Breast Biopsies
Jennifer Shapiro April 2011 When a doctor finds a suspicious lump on a breast, a biopsy may be necessary to determine if it is cancer. A study by physicians at the University of Florida has found that doctors are performing … Read More
Not-Quite-Everything you Need to Know about Lap-Bands
Lap-Bands help many people lose weight rather dramatically – some lose 50-100 pounds in the first 6 months or year. Are Lap-Bands a lasting solution to obesity? Not necessarily. Are they safe? Often they aren’t Read More
Plastic Wrap and Plastic Food Containers: Are They Safe?
Until there is more conclusive research available about the safety of food and plastic contact, here are some tips to play it safe. Read More
Kids Talk about Healthy Eating
Find out what kids have to say about eating healthy! Read More
Guide to Healthy Eating: The New Food Pyramid
The new USDA Food Pyramid, which helps provide a guide to healthy eating, looks different from previous models. The old “building block” approach (see below on the right) has been replaced with stripes going from the base to the top, emphasizing the goal of including all types of foods in our meals. Read More
How Do I Get My Child to Eat Healthier Foods?
Between parents’ work schedules, after school activities, homework, and chores, you may find it impossible to make time for healthy meals that your kids actually want to eat. The challenge is even greater when kids get hooked on the pizza, soda, and chips provided at friends’ houses, activities, and parties. Even the most conscientious parent may find it hard to avoid the temptation of fast food and favorite snacks. But there are solutions! Read More
Ten Easy Tips to Get Your Family Eating Healthy
Does switching to healthier foods seem like an impossible chore? It doesn’t have to be! Change your habits gradually with these 10 simple tips. Read More