Diet and Health Continued

Three studies have recently been published in the nutritional journals that just emphasize what I have been "ranting" about in many posts.

In the first, another study confirmed that the Mediterranean diet, consisting of fruits and vegetables, olive oil and nuts and similar healthy foods was associated with a 30% lower mortality from heart attacks and strokes.

In another, a high fiber diet resulted in lower rates of heart disease. Every 7-g daily increase in total dietary fiber intake (e.g., the amount in about 1 cup of bran flakes, 1 cup of raw green peas, or 2 apples) resulted in a 10% decrease in risk; the recommendation is for at least 25gms per day.

And finally, a retrospective study showed that a metabolite of the now banned pesticide DDT has a close correlation with Alzheimer's disease. DDT was banned in 1972; not because of its affects on man, but because it was getting into the food chain and killing higher animals like eagles. This is another reason to eat organic.

I personally try and eat organic whenever possible; and also feel guilty any day without a salad or high fiber intake. And I feel great!

Back in Town!

After a wonderful trip to Patagonia and Argentina we are back in town and I have lots of stuff to post. I have also started a blog and will be sending a mass email with every posting. You will be able to opt out if you prefer just to check facebook. Your email will not be used for other purposes. Here are some shots from the southern Hemisphere.

An Interesting Article about Vaccinations and Health

I found this article quite interesting. I have never seen a complication of a common vaccination. I have, however, seen several patients who had serious complications of vaccine preventable diseases.

Before vaccines and common hygiene, children were exposed to many diseases when they were very young; often less than 6 months old. They commonly had their mother's immunity transmitted in utero and breast milk, so developed their own antibodies without major illness. A good example of this was polio, which became a serious health issue only when children under 6 months old were no longer exposed to the virus (which is present in human waste) as society developed sewers.

http://www.slate.com/articles/life/family/2014/01/growing_up_unvaccinated_a_healthy_lifestyle_couldn_t_prevent_many_childhood.html?google_editors_picks=true

Working in Weston, Florida

For anyone interested I will be available to see patients for consultations on Tuesday morning January 28 in the Weston office, located near the Weston Town Center. You can call (during business hours) at 954-349-3030 for appointments and directions!

Vitamins and Alzheimer's

Recently a study was published about the beneficial effects of Vitamin E in Alzheimer's patients. Does this mean we should all start taking Vitamin E? I would strongly say no.

First, in the recent study, 2000U of vitamin E daily did slow deterioration of motor activities (such as dressing, eating, etc) but unfortunately had no effects on cognition or thinking. As well, the patients studies were all moderate to advanced Alzheimer patients; it is unlikely treatment will be preventative.

Two other studies are worth mentioning. In the first, done in 2005, Vitamin E supplementation in normal adults was associated with an increased mortality or death rate. And in 2012, patients given anti-oxidants actually deteriorated faster than those given placebo.

Once again, a healthy diet, plenty of greens, exercise (both mental and physical) are the keys to productive and healthy aging!