I took folic acid with my prenatal vitamins, but now I am hearing that I should be giving my child folic acid, as it decreases risk of certain diseases, such as cancer. Is that true, and should I be giving my child a supplement of folic acid?
There is some truth behind this. There is research that has shown that the incidence of certain types of chldhood cancers, such as Wilms tumor, are decreased when there is folic acid supplementation. The FDA mandated folic acid supplementation in food in 1998, so it is included in cereals, breads, and rice. It
Saunas and Exercise Prevent Colds
by R. Carnavale May 31st, 2012 | Common Conditions, Exercise
Did you know that the common cold is the illness you will experience most frequently throughout your life? Here are two easy ways to prevent a cold, and, if you’re already coming down with one, reduce symptoms - twice weekly sauna bathing and regular exercise.
Researchers say that using a sauna at least twice a week speeds recovery from a cold, and it may cut the risk of catching one in half. Though scientists are uncertain as to how resting in a sauna helps, there’s a general consensus that dry heat may strengthen the immune system. People in a sauna
Read More
Researchers say that using a sauna at least twice a week speeds recovery from a cold, and it may cut the risk of catching one in half. Though scientists are uncertain as to how resting in a sauna helps, there’s a general consensus that dry heat may strengthen the immune system. People in a sauna
Action Plan – Osteoporosis
by Lori Sciame May 28th, 2012 | Health Observance
Osteoporosis - the word strikes fear into many women, especially those who have relatives who suffer from this debilitating bone disease; however, instead of being afraid, act! Â Taking steps now to prevent bone loss is much easier than building bone later. It may not be as easy as 1, 2, 3 to keep osteoporosis at bay, but an action plan can increase your chances of keeping strong bones for your entire life.
As a health educator, I firmly believe in the benefits of prevention. Â If you have a steadfast commitment to your body's overall health, learning about stopping problems before
Read More
As a health educator, I firmly believe in the benefits of prevention. Â If you have a steadfast commitment to your body's overall health, learning about stopping problems before
Heartburn
by Dean Heller MD May 25th, 2012 | Ask the Doctor
I get heartburn everytime I eat pizza, potato chips, and some of my other favorite foods. Do I have to stop eating them for the rest of my life?
Certainly if there are foods that consistently give you heartburn, it is best to avoid them; however, if your favorite food always gives you heartburn, try chewing a few Tums, or Maalox before you eat that food; it may help. You can also try one of the over the counter medications that lower the acid levels in the stomach, such as Prilosec OTC. If you have persistent symptoms, you should see
Read More
Certainly if there are foods that consistently give you heartburn, it is best to avoid them; however, if your favorite food always gives you heartburn, try chewing a few Tums, or Maalox before you eat that food; it may help. You can also try one of the over the counter medications that lower the acid levels in the stomach, such as Prilosec OTC. If you have persistent symptoms, you should see
Kids Feeling Winded
by Tom Seman MD FAAP May 24th, 2012 | Pediatrician on Call
My ex-husband insists that our 11 year-old has asthma because she feels winded while exercising. I feel that response to exertion is natural. We both want what is best for her. How do I know if she needs to be tested or this condition?
Feeling winded or short of breath can be normal or abnormal in an 11 year old girl during exercise. At the beginning of the season, if the child has not been involved with another sport, the child's endurance may be down and the increased oxygen demand of the activity would make the child breath heavier and
Read More
Feeling winded or short of breath can be normal or abnormal in an 11 year old girl during exercise. At the beginning of the season, if the child has not been involved with another sport, the child's endurance may be down and the increased oxygen demand of the activity would make the child breath heavier and