U.S. adults continue to rate obesity as the biggest health problem for children, according to a 2009 poll conducted by C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.
Although childhood obesity ranked No. 1 last year also, this is the first year it ranked at the top for whites, Hispanics, and African-Americans. Last year, Hispanics rated smoking as the top child health concern and African-Americans ranked teenage pregnancy.
Stress, which came in at No. 8, made the top 10 list for the first time this year. It ranked especially high among lower-income participants, perhaps reflecting the stresses that children face as their parents struggle in the current economy.
The complete list of children's health concerns rated as a "big problem:"
1. Childhood obesity2. Drug abuse3. Smoking/tobacco use4. Bullying5. Internet safety6. Child abuse and neglect7. Alcohol abuse8. Stress9. Not enough opportunities for physical activity10. Teen pregnancy
The fact that stress -- and many other problems on the list -- are behavioral or psychological in nature means that families need more than just good health care; they also need “guidance from community health and educational programs that cultivate healthy, protective behaviors and offer support when health problemsarise,” poll director Matthew Davis, MD, says in a written statement. Davis is an associate professor of general pediatrics and internal medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School and an associate professor of public policy at the University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.
The nationally representative survey was conducted in May 2009 and included 2,017 randomly selected adults 18 or older. Participants were asked to rank 23 different health concerns facing children in their communities. The margin of error is plus or minus three to four percentage points.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Can Your Diet Help Relieve Rheumatoid Arthritis?
If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, you may have heard that a specific diet or certain foods can ease your pain, stiffness, and fatigue. Someday, food may be the medicine of choice for those with arthritis and related inflammatory diseases. For now, though, here's information that may help you separate the facts from the myths about diet and rheumatoid arthritis.
Can the arthritis diet help my rheumatoid arthritis?
Eating certain foods or avoiding certain foods may help your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. However, according to the Arthritis Foundation, there is no scientifically substantiated "arthritis diet." On the other hand, if you find certain foods worsen your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and others help your symptoms to improve, it makes sense to make some adjustments in your diet.
A recent study showed that 30% to 40% of people with rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from excluding "suspect" foods that are identified with an elimination diet. An elimination diet guides you in removing suspected "trigger" foods from your daily diet. Then, after a period of time, you slowly add the suspect foods back into your diet and watch for increased pain and stiffness. For some people, eliminating those foods that seem to trigger pain and stiffness may help decrease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Can some fats increase the inflammatory response in people with rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes. Studies show that saturated fats may increase inflammation in the body. Foods high in saturated fats, such as animal products like bacon, steak, butter, and cream, may increase pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that cause inflammation, pain, swelling, and joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis.
In addition, some findings confirm that meat contains high amounts of arachidonic acid.
Arachidonic acid is a fatty acid that's converted to pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body.
Some people with rheumatoid arthritis find that a vegetarian diet helps relieve symptoms of pain and stiffness. Other people with rheumatoid arthritis, however, get no benefit from eating a diet that eliminates meat.
Is omega-6 fatty acid linked to increased inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis?
Omega-6 fatty acids are in vegetable oils that contain linoleic acid. That includes corn oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, wheat germ oil, and sesame oil. Studies show that a typical western diet has more omega-6 fatty acids compared to omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acid is a polyunsaturated fat found in cold-water fish.
Consuming excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids may promote illnesses such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. It may also promote inflammatory and/or autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis. Ingesting fewer omega-6 fatty acids and more omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, may suppress inflammation and decrease the risk of illness.
Many studies show that lowering the ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids contained in the diet can reduce the risk of illness.
How can omega-3 fatty acids help rheumatoid arthritis?
Omega-3 fatty acids, the polyunsaturated fats found in cold-water fish, nuts, and other foods, may have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body. The marine omega-3 fatty acids contain EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are substances that may decrease inflammation. Some studies show a positive anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids with rheumatoid arthritis. The same is true for cardiovascular disease. This is important because people with rheumatoid arthritis have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Human studies with marine omega-3 fatty acids show a direct relationship between increased DHA consumption and diminished C-reactive protein levels. That means reduced inflammation.
Which foods have omega-3 fatty acids that might be good for rheumatoid arthritis?
For omega-3 fatty acids, select cold-water fish such as salmon, tuna, and trout. Some plant foods are also sources of omega-3 fatty acids. They include walnuts, tofu and soybean products, flaxseed and flaxseed oil, and canola oil.
Can fish oil supplements help rheumatoid arthritis?
According to the American College of Rheumatology, some patients with rheumatoid arthritis report an improvement in pain and joint tenderness when taking marine omega-3 fatty acid supplements. You may not notice any benefit at first from taking a fish oil supplement. It may take weeks or even months to see a decrease in symptoms. But studies do show that some people who have a high intake of omega-3 fatty acids benefit from decreased symptoms and less use of anti-inflammatory drugs.
The American College of Rheumatology reminds consumers that fish oil supplements may have high levels of vitamin A or mercury.
Can a Mediterranean-type diet help rheumatoid arthritis?
Many studies suggest that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and vitamin C may be linked to a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, we know that rheumatoid arthritis is less severe in some Mediterranean countries such as Greece and Italy. In those countries, the main diet consists of large amounts of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and fatty fish high in omega-3s. The
Mediterranean-type diet may even protect against severe rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes are high in phytonutrients. These are chemicals in plants that have disease-fighting properties and immune-boosting antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and the carotenoids. A plant-based diet is also high in bioflavonoids. These are plant compounds that reportedly have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activities.
Nutrition researchers who test the antioxidant activity of foods believe that certain foods may reduce the risk of some degenerative diseases associated with aging. These diseases include arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. More recent findings show that the higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids with the Mediterranean diet may be linked to the improvement in rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
What vitamins and minerals are important for people with rheumatoid arthritis?
Folic acid, or folate, is a B vitamin found in food. It can also be obtained by supplementation. It is important to you if you take methotrexate, a commonly prescribed medication for rheumatoid arthritis. Your body uses folic acid to manufacture red blood cells. Supplementing with folic acid may allow people with rheumatoid arthritis to stay on methotrexate longer. That way they can benefit from relief of pain and inflammation without suffering the medication's side effects.
Selenium helps to fight free radicals that cause damage to healthy tissue. There are some studies that indicate people with rheumatoid arthritis have reduced selenium levels in their blood.
Current findings are preliminary and so no recommendations have been made for selenium supplementation. One 3.5-ounce serving of tuna gives you a full day's requirement of selenium.
Supplementing your diet with bone-boosting calcium and vitamin D is important, especially if you take corticosteroids (like prednisone) that can cause bone loss. The risk of bone loss is higher in people with rheumatoid arthritis. So check with your doctor to see how much calcium and vitamin D you need to get daily through foods, supplements, and sunlight.
What about alcohol and rheumatoid arthritis?
A recent study published in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases (2008) concluded that drinking alcohol may be linked to a significantly reduced chance of getting rheumatoid arthritis. While the researchers did not know how alcohol protects against rheumatoid arthritis, they believed the data should encourage further study on how arthritis may be prevented through diet and lifestyle measures. Talk to your doctor about drinking alcohol if you take any rheumatoid arthritis medication. Avoid alcohol if you take methotrexate because liver damage could be a serious side effect.
Can weight loss help my rheumatoid pain and stiffness?
Yes. Studies show that dropping extra pounds is important for your joints and overall health. Excess pounds put extra strain on knees, hips, and other weight-bearing joints, not to mention your heart. Being overweight or obese actually worsens the joints -- making them stiffer and more painful -- and can exacerbate rheumatoid arthritis flares.
Can the arthritis diet help my rheumatoid arthritis?
Eating certain foods or avoiding certain foods may help your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. However, according to the Arthritis Foundation, there is no scientifically substantiated "arthritis diet." On the other hand, if you find certain foods worsen your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and others help your symptoms to improve, it makes sense to make some adjustments in your diet.
A recent study showed that 30% to 40% of people with rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from excluding "suspect" foods that are identified with an elimination diet. An elimination diet guides you in removing suspected "trigger" foods from your daily diet. Then, after a period of time, you slowly add the suspect foods back into your diet and watch for increased pain and stiffness. For some people, eliminating those foods that seem to trigger pain and stiffness may help decrease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Can some fats increase the inflammatory response in people with rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes. Studies show that saturated fats may increase inflammation in the body. Foods high in saturated fats, such as animal products like bacon, steak, butter, and cream, may increase pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that cause inflammation, pain, swelling, and joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis.
In addition, some findings confirm that meat contains high amounts of arachidonic acid.
Arachidonic acid is a fatty acid that's converted to pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body.
Some people with rheumatoid arthritis find that a vegetarian diet helps relieve symptoms of pain and stiffness. Other people with rheumatoid arthritis, however, get no benefit from eating a diet that eliminates meat.
Is omega-6 fatty acid linked to increased inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis?
Omega-6 fatty acids are in vegetable oils that contain linoleic acid. That includes corn oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, wheat germ oil, and sesame oil. Studies show that a typical western diet has more omega-6 fatty acids compared to omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acid is a polyunsaturated fat found in cold-water fish.
Consuming excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids may promote illnesses such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. It may also promote inflammatory and/or autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis. Ingesting fewer omega-6 fatty acids and more omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, may suppress inflammation and decrease the risk of illness.
Many studies show that lowering the ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids contained in the diet can reduce the risk of illness.
How can omega-3 fatty acids help rheumatoid arthritis?
Omega-3 fatty acids, the polyunsaturated fats found in cold-water fish, nuts, and other foods, may have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body. The marine omega-3 fatty acids contain EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are substances that may decrease inflammation. Some studies show a positive anti-inflammatory effect of omega-3 fatty acids with rheumatoid arthritis. The same is true for cardiovascular disease. This is important because people with rheumatoid arthritis have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Human studies with marine omega-3 fatty acids show a direct relationship between increased DHA consumption and diminished C-reactive protein levels. That means reduced inflammation.
Which foods have omega-3 fatty acids that might be good for rheumatoid arthritis?
For omega-3 fatty acids, select cold-water fish such as salmon, tuna, and trout. Some plant foods are also sources of omega-3 fatty acids. They include walnuts, tofu and soybean products, flaxseed and flaxseed oil, and canola oil.
Can fish oil supplements help rheumatoid arthritis?
According to the American College of Rheumatology, some patients with rheumatoid arthritis report an improvement in pain and joint tenderness when taking marine omega-3 fatty acid supplements. You may not notice any benefit at first from taking a fish oil supplement. It may take weeks or even months to see a decrease in symptoms. But studies do show that some people who have a high intake of omega-3 fatty acids benefit from decreased symptoms and less use of anti-inflammatory drugs.
The American College of Rheumatology reminds consumers that fish oil supplements may have high levels of vitamin A or mercury.
Can a Mediterranean-type diet help rheumatoid arthritis?
Many studies suggest that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and vitamin C may be linked to a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, we know that rheumatoid arthritis is less severe in some Mediterranean countries such as Greece and Italy. In those countries, the main diet consists of large amounts of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and fatty fish high in omega-3s. The
Mediterranean-type diet may even protect against severe rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes are high in phytonutrients. These are chemicals in plants that have disease-fighting properties and immune-boosting antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and the carotenoids. A plant-based diet is also high in bioflavonoids. These are plant compounds that reportedly have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activities.
Nutrition researchers who test the antioxidant activity of foods believe that certain foods may reduce the risk of some degenerative diseases associated with aging. These diseases include arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. More recent findings show that the higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids with the Mediterranean diet may be linked to the improvement in rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
What vitamins and minerals are important for people with rheumatoid arthritis?
Folic acid, or folate, is a B vitamin found in food. It can also be obtained by supplementation. It is important to you if you take methotrexate, a commonly prescribed medication for rheumatoid arthritis. Your body uses folic acid to manufacture red blood cells. Supplementing with folic acid may allow people with rheumatoid arthritis to stay on methotrexate longer. That way they can benefit from relief of pain and inflammation without suffering the medication's side effects.
Selenium helps to fight free radicals that cause damage to healthy tissue. There are some studies that indicate people with rheumatoid arthritis have reduced selenium levels in their blood.
Current findings are preliminary and so no recommendations have been made for selenium supplementation. One 3.5-ounce serving of tuna gives you a full day's requirement of selenium.
Supplementing your diet with bone-boosting calcium and vitamin D is important, especially if you take corticosteroids (like prednisone) that can cause bone loss. The risk of bone loss is higher in people with rheumatoid arthritis. So check with your doctor to see how much calcium and vitamin D you need to get daily through foods, supplements, and sunlight.
What about alcohol and rheumatoid arthritis?
A recent study published in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases (2008) concluded that drinking alcohol may be linked to a significantly reduced chance of getting rheumatoid arthritis. While the researchers did not know how alcohol protects against rheumatoid arthritis, they believed the data should encourage further study on how arthritis may be prevented through diet and lifestyle measures. Talk to your doctor about drinking alcohol if you take any rheumatoid arthritis medication. Avoid alcohol if you take methotrexate because liver damage could be a serious side effect.
Can weight loss help my rheumatoid pain and stiffness?
Yes. Studies show that dropping extra pounds is important for your joints and overall health. Excess pounds put extra strain on knees, hips, and other weight-bearing joints, not to mention your heart. Being overweight or obese actually worsens the joints -- making them stiffer and more painful -- and can exacerbate rheumatoid arthritis flares.
Make Yourself Beautiful on a Budget
Throughout history, women have tried some bizarre DIY beauty treatments: Geishas applied nightingale droppings; English nobility used mercury and puppy urine; Cleopatra reportedly soaked in sour donkey milk.
Today, we still want to keep our complexions radiant, smooth, and firm. Fortunately, there’s no need to slap disgusting -- or potentially deadly -- ingredients onto our skin. You just need to make a trip to your local grocery store to whip up some of the most beneficial and budget-friendly facials you can find.
Here’s how some of the pros cook up skin care at home:
Let a Breakfast Staple Double as an Exfoliating Cleanser
For a simple DIY scrub, mix a teaspoon of white sugar, corn meal, baking soda, or cooled coffee grounds into your daily cleanser.
A packet of instant maple brown sugar oatmeal is one of the beauty secrets Cristina Bartolucci, founder of DuWop Cosmetics and celebrity makeup artist, uses to keep her skin soft. She combines a handful of the oatmeal with a few pumps of cleanser in her palm and packs it on her skin. In about 10 minutes, Bartolucci gently scrubs it off. The oats fight irritation while the brown sugar exfoliates. Plus, you can use the leftovers for breakfast!
Look to Your Spice Rack for an Irritation-Fighting Facial
New York City restaurateur Donatella Arpaia squeezes fresh apricots onto sunburned skin to relieve itching and burning. Another way to calm irritated skin: Soak a washcloth in cooled whole milk and apply it to your face.
Expert facialist and founder of Lather skin care, Emile Hoyt says turmeric is one of the best anti-inflammatory ingredients around. Mix a half teaspoon of the spice with 6 ounces of plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons of honey, and half a cup of oat flour and spread it on clean skin. Hoyt says that dry, irritated complexions will feel moisturized and refreshed after 15 minutes of this treatment.
Brew Up an Oil-Erasing Mask
Oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from brewer’s yeast. Whisk two egg whites with 2 teaspoons of the yeast and apply with a paint brush or large makeup brush. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse.
Rather than pay for an expensive mud mask, a bottle of Milk of Magnesia can dry up oil just as well. Paula Begoun, author of The Complete Beauty Bible, advises blotting unflavored Milk of Magnesia on your skin and letting it dry. Rinse it away with a washcloth in about 15 minutes for a shine-free fix.
Take advantage of buttermilk’s astringent qualities and dip a cotton ball in it, dab on your skin, let it dry for a few minutes, and rinse away with a gentle cleanser to send excess oil down the drain.
Try Some All-Natural Anti-aging Agents
Nutritionist Keri Glassman, author of The Snack Factor Diet, suggests mashing a banana and grating five almonds for a mask that exfoliates, smoothes, and fights aging.
Normal complexions will soak up the age-fighting, antioxidant benefits from olive oil, says dermatologist Leslie Baumann. Dab the oil onto flaky areas, or mix a teaspoon of brown sugar with a quarter cup of olive oil for a nutritious cleanser.
Ole Henriksen, founder of the Ole Henriksen Spa in Los Angeles, says you can perk up your skin with a cleanser that combines a cup of plain yogurt and 2 teaspoons of dry red tea leaves. Sponge on the mixture and use it as a cleanser. Henriksen says the yogurt helps fade uneven pigmentation and the tea leaves are gentle enough to scrub any complexion.
Insider Tip: How to Make the Most of Your Homemade Beauty Treatments
Although all the good-for-your-skin ingredients are crucial for a facial to work, the method used to apply them is just as important. “The reason you look so great after a facial is because you have increased blood circulation to your skin due to the facial massage,” says Eva Scrivo, owner of Eva Scrivo Salons in New York City.
It just takes three minutes and you can do it whenever applying a homemade beauty treatment or even just cleansing. “This is the reason aestheticians have beautiful skin,” Scrivo says. Here’s how she advises getting your complexion into shape: Whenever you apply a treatment or cleanse, apply light pressure -- enough so you can feel the bones of your face -- with your finger tips. Start at the jaw line and move up to the forehead using upward strokes.
Today, we still want to keep our complexions radiant, smooth, and firm. Fortunately, there’s no need to slap disgusting -- or potentially deadly -- ingredients onto our skin. You just need to make a trip to your local grocery store to whip up some of the most beneficial and budget-friendly facials you can find.
Here’s how some of the pros cook up skin care at home:
Let a Breakfast Staple Double as an Exfoliating Cleanser
For a simple DIY scrub, mix a teaspoon of white sugar, corn meal, baking soda, or cooled coffee grounds into your daily cleanser.
A packet of instant maple brown sugar oatmeal is one of the beauty secrets Cristina Bartolucci, founder of DuWop Cosmetics and celebrity makeup artist, uses to keep her skin soft. She combines a handful of the oatmeal with a few pumps of cleanser in her palm and packs it on her skin. In about 10 minutes, Bartolucci gently scrubs it off. The oats fight irritation while the brown sugar exfoliates. Plus, you can use the leftovers for breakfast!
Look to Your Spice Rack for an Irritation-Fighting Facial
New York City restaurateur Donatella Arpaia squeezes fresh apricots onto sunburned skin to relieve itching and burning. Another way to calm irritated skin: Soak a washcloth in cooled whole milk and apply it to your face.
Expert facialist and founder of Lather skin care, Emile Hoyt says turmeric is one of the best anti-inflammatory ingredients around. Mix a half teaspoon of the spice with 6 ounces of plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons of honey, and half a cup of oat flour and spread it on clean skin. Hoyt says that dry, irritated complexions will feel moisturized and refreshed after 15 minutes of this treatment.
Brew Up an Oil-Erasing Mask
Oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from brewer’s yeast. Whisk two egg whites with 2 teaspoons of the yeast and apply with a paint brush or large makeup brush. Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse.
Rather than pay for an expensive mud mask, a bottle of Milk of Magnesia can dry up oil just as well. Paula Begoun, author of The Complete Beauty Bible, advises blotting unflavored Milk of Magnesia on your skin and letting it dry. Rinse it away with a washcloth in about 15 minutes for a shine-free fix.
Take advantage of buttermilk’s astringent qualities and dip a cotton ball in it, dab on your skin, let it dry for a few minutes, and rinse away with a gentle cleanser to send excess oil down the drain.
Try Some All-Natural Anti-aging Agents
Nutritionist Keri Glassman, author of The Snack Factor Diet, suggests mashing a banana and grating five almonds for a mask that exfoliates, smoothes, and fights aging.
Normal complexions will soak up the age-fighting, antioxidant benefits from olive oil, says dermatologist Leslie Baumann. Dab the oil onto flaky areas, or mix a teaspoon of brown sugar with a quarter cup of olive oil for a nutritious cleanser.
Ole Henriksen, founder of the Ole Henriksen Spa in Los Angeles, says you can perk up your skin with a cleanser that combines a cup of plain yogurt and 2 teaspoons of dry red tea leaves. Sponge on the mixture and use it as a cleanser. Henriksen says the yogurt helps fade uneven pigmentation and the tea leaves are gentle enough to scrub any complexion.
Insider Tip: How to Make the Most of Your Homemade Beauty Treatments
Although all the good-for-your-skin ingredients are crucial for a facial to work, the method used to apply them is just as important. “The reason you look so great after a facial is because you have increased blood circulation to your skin due to the facial massage,” says Eva Scrivo, owner of Eva Scrivo Salons in New York City.
It just takes three minutes and you can do it whenever applying a homemade beauty treatment or even just cleansing. “This is the reason aestheticians have beautiful skin,” Scrivo says. Here’s how she advises getting your complexion into shape: Whenever you apply a treatment or cleanse, apply light pressure -- enough so you can feel the bones of your face -- with your finger tips. Start at the jaw line and move up to the forehead using upward strokes.
Sen. Ted Kennedy Dies of Brain Cancer
Massachusetts Sen. Edward Kennedy died late last night at his home in Hyannis Port, Mass., of brain cancer at age 77.
Kennedy had a malignant glioma, a type of brain cancer. A glioma is a brain tumor that begins in glial cells, which are cells that surround and support nerve cells.
In a statement posted on Kennedy's senate web site, the Kennedy family says, "We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness, and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it's hard to imagine any of them without him."
Kennedy Remembered
Condolences and remembrances have been posted by officials from both sides of the political aisle.
In a statement posted on the White House's web site, President Barack Obama says, "Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy."
"For five decades, virtually every piece of major legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well-being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts," Obama says.
Sen. Orrin Hatch, a Republican Senator from Utah, issued a statement saying that America had "lost a great elder statesman ... and I lost a treasured friend." Hatch called Kennedy "larger than life" and said that "many had come before, and many will come after, but Ted Kennedy's name will always be remembered as someone who lived and breathed the United States Senate and the work completed in its chamber."
Nancy Reagan, widow of former President Ronald Reagan, issued a statement saying she was "terribly saddened" to hear of Kennedy's death. "Given our political differences, people are sometimes surprised by how close Ronnie and I have been to the Kennedy family. But Ronnie and Ted could always find common ground, and they had great respect for one another. In recent years, Ted and I found our common ground in stem cell research, and I considered him an ally and dear friend. I will miss him."
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Republican Senator of California and husband of Kennedy's niece, Maria Shriver, is quoted by the Associated Press as saying that he had "personally benefited and grown from his experience and advice, and I know countless others have as well. Teddy taught us all that public service isn't a hobby or even an occupation, but a way of life and his legacy will live on."
Kennedy's Brain Cancer
Kennedy's doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital announced his brain cancer diagnosis on May 20, 2008.
Kennedy left Massachusetts General Hospital for his home on Cape Cod, Mass., on May 21, 2008.
In June 2008, Kennedy underwent successful brain surgery at Duke University Medical Center and returned home to Massachusetts, where he got chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Last Cause: Health Care Reform
Kennedy, a U.S. senator since 1962, returned to the Senate on July 9, 2008, for a vote on Medicare. "I wanted to be here," Kennedy said in a statement. "I wasn't going to take the chance that my vote could make a difference."
In 2009, Kennedy pressed for health care reform while continuing his brain cancer treatment. In June 2009, Kennedy, who served as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, released the "Affordable Health Choices Act."
Kennedy was honored and gave a speech at the Democratic National Convention in Denver in August 2008. In that speech, he said "the torch will be passed to a new generation of Americans" in the 2008 presidential election. "The work begins anew. The hope rises again. And the dream lives on."
Kennedy had a malignant glioma, a type of brain cancer. A glioma is a brain tumor that begins in glial cells, which are cells that surround and support nerve cells.
In a statement posted on Kennedy's senate web site, the Kennedy family says, "We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness, and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it's hard to imagine any of them without him."
Kennedy Remembered
Condolences and remembrances have been posted by officials from both sides of the political aisle.
In a statement posted on the White House's web site, President Barack Obama says, "Michelle and I were heartbroken to learn this morning of the death of our dear friend, Senator Ted Kennedy."
"For five decades, virtually every piece of major legislation to advance the civil rights, health and economic well-being of the American people bore his name and resulted from his efforts," Obama says.
Sen. Orrin Hatch, a Republican Senator from Utah, issued a statement saying that America had "lost a great elder statesman ... and I lost a treasured friend." Hatch called Kennedy "larger than life" and said that "many had come before, and many will come after, but Ted Kennedy's name will always be remembered as someone who lived and breathed the United States Senate and the work completed in its chamber."
Nancy Reagan, widow of former President Ronald Reagan, issued a statement saying she was "terribly saddened" to hear of Kennedy's death. "Given our political differences, people are sometimes surprised by how close Ronnie and I have been to the Kennedy family. But Ronnie and Ted could always find common ground, and they had great respect for one another. In recent years, Ted and I found our common ground in stem cell research, and I considered him an ally and dear friend. I will miss him."
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Republican Senator of California and husband of Kennedy's niece, Maria Shriver, is quoted by the Associated Press as saying that he had "personally benefited and grown from his experience and advice, and I know countless others have as well. Teddy taught us all that public service isn't a hobby or even an occupation, but a way of life and his legacy will live on."
Kennedy's Brain Cancer
Kennedy's doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital announced his brain cancer diagnosis on May 20, 2008.
Kennedy left Massachusetts General Hospital for his home on Cape Cod, Mass., on May 21, 2008.
In June 2008, Kennedy underwent successful brain surgery at Duke University Medical Center and returned home to Massachusetts, where he got chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Last Cause: Health Care Reform
Kennedy, a U.S. senator since 1962, returned to the Senate on July 9, 2008, for a vote on Medicare. "I wanted to be here," Kennedy said in a statement. "I wasn't going to take the chance that my vote could make a difference."
In 2009, Kennedy pressed for health care reform while continuing his brain cancer treatment. In June 2009, Kennedy, who served as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, released the "Affordable Health Choices Act."
Kennedy was honored and gave a speech at the Democratic National Convention in Denver in August 2008. In that speech, he said "the torch will be passed to a new generation of Americans" in the 2008 presidential election. "The work begins anew. The hope rises again. And the dream lives on."
Relieve Back Pain With Core Strength Training
Pierce Dunn thought surgery had put an end to nearly 15 years of back pain. After a double discectomy about eight years ago, he says, “I could wake up in the morning without worrying that I wouldn’t be able to get out of bed. I became a human being again!”
Feeling revitalized, Dunn, now 57, a partner in a Baltimore investment advisory firm, decided to return to his former hobby: golf. “I played as frequently as I could,” says Dunn. “Since then I’ve been told that golf is about the worst thing you can do if you have a back problem. Soon I was having back spasms that left me incapacitated for a day or two at a time.”
Weak Muscles Lead to Back Pain
Dunn was referred to the sports medicine program at Life-Bridge Health and Fitness Center, part of a regional health network in Maryland overseen by medical director Michael Kelly, MHSc, a certified neuromuscular therapist. Kelly soon found that, although Dunn was very fit for a man his age, he’d neglected some areas of his body. “The muscle groups I was using were in good shape, but then I’d isolate other muscle groups, and I could barely lift the weight. I was like an infant,” Dunn says.
About 25% of Americans are affected by back pain in a given year, and they spend more time at the doctor’s office for back pain than for any other medical condition except high blood pressure and diabetes.
Instead of jumping for pills or surgery, says Kelly, people with chronic back pain should first seek out a thorough functional assessment from a qualified trainer with experience in sports medicine.
Exercising for Back Pain
“A lot of back pain is due to postural alignment problems,” Kelly says. “If you catch it soon enough and correct the problem with exercise and strengthening, you can avoid future pain.”
Today, Dunn has learned a number of ways to use exercise to relieve and prevent back pain. For example, he works hard on strengthening the muscles involved in the body’s core stabilization such as the glutes, a key element in a golfer’s swing.
“When your torso and hips are moving rapidly from back to front, your back can keep your torso rotating and put incredible strain on your spine,” he says. “When you engage your glutes at the end of the swing, it’s like a brake on the spine.”
Back pain can be relieved by many different types of exercises. For instance, a knees-to-chest exercise can be a big help if your pain is due to spinal stenosis, a narrowing of areas in the spine that can put pressure on the nerves. That’s because lying on your back and pulling the knees to the chest for about 60 seconds opens up the disc space in the back, which relieves pressure on the nerves, says Kelly.
Today, Dunn says, “I still have a tight back from time to time, but the pain has almost completely gone away.” Even better: “I haven’t had to give up golfing!”
Feeling revitalized, Dunn, now 57, a partner in a Baltimore investment advisory firm, decided to return to his former hobby: golf. “I played as frequently as I could,” says Dunn. “Since then I’ve been told that golf is about the worst thing you can do if you have a back problem. Soon I was having back spasms that left me incapacitated for a day or two at a time.”
Weak Muscles Lead to Back Pain
Dunn was referred to the sports medicine program at Life-Bridge Health and Fitness Center, part of a regional health network in Maryland overseen by medical director Michael Kelly, MHSc, a certified neuromuscular therapist. Kelly soon found that, although Dunn was very fit for a man his age, he’d neglected some areas of his body. “The muscle groups I was using were in good shape, but then I’d isolate other muscle groups, and I could barely lift the weight. I was like an infant,” Dunn says.
About 25% of Americans are affected by back pain in a given year, and they spend more time at the doctor’s office for back pain than for any other medical condition except high blood pressure and diabetes.
Instead of jumping for pills or surgery, says Kelly, people with chronic back pain should first seek out a thorough functional assessment from a qualified trainer with experience in sports medicine.
Exercising for Back Pain
“A lot of back pain is due to postural alignment problems,” Kelly says. “If you catch it soon enough and correct the problem with exercise and strengthening, you can avoid future pain.”
Today, Dunn has learned a number of ways to use exercise to relieve and prevent back pain. For example, he works hard on strengthening the muscles involved in the body’s core stabilization such as the glutes, a key element in a golfer’s swing.
“When your torso and hips are moving rapidly from back to front, your back can keep your torso rotating and put incredible strain on your spine,” he says. “When you engage your glutes at the end of the swing, it’s like a brake on the spine.”
Back pain can be relieved by many different types of exercises. For instance, a knees-to-chest exercise can be a big help if your pain is due to spinal stenosis, a narrowing of areas in the spine that can put pressure on the nerves. That’s because lying on your back and pulling the knees to the chest for about 60 seconds opens up the disc space in the back, which relieves pressure on the nerves, says Kelly.
Today, Dunn says, “I still have a tight back from time to time, but the pain has almost completely gone away.” Even better: “I haven’t had to give up golfing!”
Palliative Cancer Care Lifts Spirits
Palliative care may boost mood and quality of life for people with advanced cancer, but it may not help them live longer, a new study shows.
Palliative care is a kind of care for people who have a serious illness that usually isn't going to go away and gets worse over time. It aims to ease pain and suffering by helping patients and their families manage symptoms and the side effects of treatments. It also provides emotional support to patients and their families.
It's not the same as hospice care, which serves terminally ill patients who are no longer seeking treatment to cure their illness.
Researchers from the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center wanted to investigate the effectiveness of palliative care in patients with advanced cancer. Their study is published in the Aug. 19 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association.
The researchers studied 322 patients newly diagnosed with advanced cancer from clinics in New Hampshire and a VA medical center in Vermont. Half of the patients were assigned to telephone-based palliative care intervention; the palliative care consisted of four weekly sessions followed by ongoing monthly calls conducted by specially trained advanced practice nurses. They also received traditional cancer treatment.
The palliative care sessions conducted in the study focused on encouraging active patient involvement in a number of areas, including:
Communication with family members and the medical treatment team
Symptom management
Coping and problem-solving skills
Advance care planning
Treatment decision-making
The other group received usual cancer care, which included use of all oncology and supportive services available at their institutions, including referral to a palliative care service.
All patients were reassessed on quality of life, symptom intensity, and mood after one month and then every three months until death or the conclusion of the study. The study was conducted from 2003-2008.
Those patients who received the palliative care intervention reported improvements in quality of life and depressed mood over patients undergoing usual care. There were no significant differences between the groups, however, in the intensity of symptoms, the number of trips to the emergency room, the number of days spent in the hospital or intensive care unit, or survival.
"Comprehensive, high-quality cancer care includes interdisciplinary attention to improving physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and existential concerns for the patient and his or her family," the researchers write. "While our study did not show that early intervention for patients with advanced cancer by a nurse-led program improved symptoms or reduced use of some resources, the study did show that it provides some patients with advanced cancer a higher quality of life and mood."
As for the next steps, the researchers say they would like to study a larger, more diverse group of people. They also recommend additional research examining the effects of in-person palliative care as opposed to telephone-based sessions.
Palliative care is a kind of care for people who have a serious illness that usually isn't going to go away and gets worse over time. It aims to ease pain and suffering by helping patients and their families manage symptoms and the side effects of treatments. It also provides emotional support to patients and their families.
It's not the same as hospice care, which serves terminally ill patients who are no longer seeking treatment to cure their illness.
Researchers from the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center wanted to investigate the effectiveness of palliative care in patients with advanced cancer. Their study is published in the Aug. 19 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association.
The researchers studied 322 patients newly diagnosed with advanced cancer from clinics in New Hampshire and a VA medical center in Vermont. Half of the patients were assigned to telephone-based palliative care intervention; the palliative care consisted of four weekly sessions followed by ongoing monthly calls conducted by specially trained advanced practice nurses. They also received traditional cancer treatment.
The palliative care sessions conducted in the study focused on encouraging active patient involvement in a number of areas, including:
Communication with family members and the medical treatment team
Symptom management
Coping and problem-solving skills
Advance care planning
Treatment decision-making
The other group received usual cancer care, which included use of all oncology and supportive services available at their institutions, including referral to a palliative care service.
All patients were reassessed on quality of life, symptom intensity, and mood after one month and then every three months until death or the conclusion of the study. The study was conducted from 2003-2008.
Those patients who received the palliative care intervention reported improvements in quality of life and depressed mood over patients undergoing usual care. There were no significant differences between the groups, however, in the intensity of symptoms, the number of trips to the emergency room, the number of days spent in the hospital or intensive care unit, or survival.
"Comprehensive, high-quality cancer care includes interdisciplinary attention to improving physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and existential concerns for the patient and his or her family," the researchers write. "While our study did not show that early intervention for patients with advanced cancer by a nurse-led program improved symptoms or reduced use of some resources, the study did show that it provides some patients with advanced cancer a higher quality of life and mood."
As for the next steps, the researchers say they would like to study a larger, more diverse group of people. They also recommend additional research examining the effects of in-person palliative care as opposed to telephone-based sessions.
Ideal Weight or Happy Weight?
Maybe you've been struggling -- without success -- to get down to the size you were in high school or on your wedding day. But do you really need to go that low? The truth, experts say, is that you can weigh more than your ideal weight and still be healthy (not to mention happy).
If you're overweight, losing just 10% of your body weight is associated with a myriad of health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugar, and reducing your risk for heart disease. Not only that, experts say, but this kind of weight loss is easier to attain and maintain, setting you up for success in the long run.
Your Weight "Set Point"
Just as your body temperature is programmed to stay around 98.6 degrees, your body weight is naturally regulated to stay within a range of 10%-20%, says Thomas Wadden, PhD, director of the Center for Weight and Eating Disorders at University of Pennsylvania Medical School. This weight range is known as the "set point."
A complex set of hormones, chemicals, and hunger signals help your body naturally maintain your weight within this range, says American Dietetic Association spokeswoman Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD.
It is not just a matter of genetics, though. Your eating and exercise habits can also help to determine your set point.
"Overeating swamps the internal regulatory system, and, as a result, the set point increases -- which is much easier to do than it is to lower it," says Wadden. The body adjusts to the higher weight and "resets" the set point to defend the new weight.
It is difficult, but not impossible, to set your range lower. "With changes in healthy eating and exercise behavior, you can lower your set point," says Blatner.
The 10% Solution to Weight Loss
A recent book, Break Through Your Set Point: How to Finally Lose the Weight You Want and Keep It Off, by George Blackburn, MD, suggests that maintaining a 10% loss for six months to a year helps your body adjust to the lower weight and thus reset the set point.
Wadden explains that when you lose large amounts of weight at once, you set up an internal struggle and hormones like ghrelin spike to make you hungrier as your body tries to defend its comfortable range.
Instead, experts recommend that you try losing 10% the old-fashioned way -- by slowly changing eating and exercise behaviors -- then maintain this new weight for a few months before trying to lose more. Not only will your body get the signal to lower its "set point," but you'll give yourself a chance to get used to new food choices, smaller portions, and regular exercise.
“When patients lose 10% it may not be the pant size they want, but they start to realize how a little weight loss impacts their health in very positive ways," says Blatner. "They feel better, sleep better, have more energy or less joint pain, and some people are able to reduce medications."
How Much Should I Weigh?
Most people overestimate how much weight they can realistically lose, which leads to frustration, says Blatner. To find your happy or healthy weight, Blatner suggests looking back on your weight history as an adult and identify a weight you were able to maintain naturally and fairly easily.
And if you've gained more than a few pounds since your wedding day, forget trying to fit into that bridal gown. "As you gain weight, you experience an increase in fat cell size and number, which will probably prevent you from getting back to your married weight," says Wadden.
Instead of focusing on the numbers on the scale, Blatner suggests setting behavioral goals: "Eat breakfast every day, go for daily walks, eat more fruits and vegetables -- when you set behavior goals, they are easier to accomplish and they make you feel good." Stick with these behaviors for 3-6 months and they will become part of your life.
Based on your current weight, eat about 10 calories per pound of nutritious food (low in fat, rich in lean protein, high in fiber), get regular exercise, and assess your weight after a month or so.
"Your weight will settle out and typically you will lose 10%, then hit a plateau, which is a good time to maintain the weight loss," says Wadden.
As you get to a healthy weight, you can go up to 12 calories per pound.
Tips for Weight Loss Success
Here are some tips from Blatner for weight loss success:
Eat regular meals. People who eat regular meals consume fewer calories than those who eat irregular meals.
Use a plate, sit down, and enjoy your meals. Folks who do this eat 43% smaller portions than those who eat out of containers or on the run, according to Blatner.
Get at least 30 minutes of moderate activity each day.
How much and what you eat makes a big difference. Enjoy normal portions of foods that are high in fiber (fruits, veggies, whole grains) and rich in lean or low fat protein is the secret to feeling full.
Think positive: Focus on the benefits of a healthier lifestyle rather than the scale.
If you're overweight, losing just 10% of your body weight is associated with a myriad of health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugar, and reducing your risk for heart disease. Not only that, experts say, but this kind of weight loss is easier to attain and maintain, setting you up for success in the long run.
Your Weight "Set Point"
Just as your body temperature is programmed to stay around 98.6 degrees, your body weight is naturally regulated to stay within a range of 10%-20%, says Thomas Wadden, PhD, director of the Center for Weight and Eating Disorders at University of Pennsylvania Medical School. This weight range is known as the "set point."
A complex set of hormones, chemicals, and hunger signals help your body naturally maintain your weight within this range, says American Dietetic Association spokeswoman Dawn Jackson Blatner, RD.
It is not just a matter of genetics, though. Your eating and exercise habits can also help to determine your set point.
"Overeating swamps the internal regulatory system, and, as a result, the set point increases -- which is much easier to do than it is to lower it," says Wadden. The body adjusts to the higher weight and "resets" the set point to defend the new weight.
It is difficult, but not impossible, to set your range lower. "With changes in healthy eating and exercise behavior, you can lower your set point," says Blatner.
The 10% Solution to Weight Loss
A recent book, Break Through Your Set Point: How to Finally Lose the Weight You Want and Keep It Off, by George Blackburn, MD, suggests that maintaining a 10% loss for six months to a year helps your body adjust to the lower weight and thus reset the set point.
Wadden explains that when you lose large amounts of weight at once, you set up an internal struggle and hormones like ghrelin spike to make you hungrier as your body tries to defend its comfortable range.
Instead, experts recommend that you try losing 10% the old-fashioned way -- by slowly changing eating and exercise behaviors -- then maintain this new weight for a few months before trying to lose more. Not only will your body get the signal to lower its "set point," but you'll give yourself a chance to get used to new food choices, smaller portions, and regular exercise.
“When patients lose 10% it may not be the pant size they want, but they start to realize how a little weight loss impacts their health in very positive ways," says Blatner. "They feel better, sleep better, have more energy or less joint pain, and some people are able to reduce medications."
How Much Should I Weigh?
Most people overestimate how much weight they can realistically lose, which leads to frustration, says Blatner. To find your happy or healthy weight, Blatner suggests looking back on your weight history as an adult and identify a weight you were able to maintain naturally and fairly easily.
And if you've gained more than a few pounds since your wedding day, forget trying to fit into that bridal gown. "As you gain weight, you experience an increase in fat cell size and number, which will probably prevent you from getting back to your married weight," says Wadden.
Instead of focusing on the numbers on the scale, Blatner suggests setting behavioral goals: "Eat breakfast every day, go for daily walks, eat more fruits and vegetables -- when you set behavior goals, they are easier to accomplish and they make you feel good." Stick with these behaviors for 3-6 months and they will become part of your life.
Based on your current weight, eat about 10 calories per pound of nutritious food (low in fat, rich in lean protein, high in fiber), get regular exercise, and assess your weight after a month or so.
"Your weight will settle out and typically you will lose 10%, then hit a plateau, which is a good time to maintain the weight loss," says Wadden.
As you get to a healthy weight, you can go up to 12 calories per pound.
Tips for Weight Loss Success
Here are some tips from Blatner for weight loss success:
Eat regular meals. People who eat regular meals consume fewer calories than those who eat irregular meals.
Use a plate, sit down, and enjoy your meals. Folks who do this eat 43% smaller portions than those who eat out of containers or on the run, according to Blatner.
Get at least 30 minutes of moderate activity each day.
How much and what you eat makes a big difference. Enjoy normal portions of foods that are high in fiber (fruits, veggies, whole grains) and rich in lean or low fat protein is the secret to feeling full.
Think positive: Focus on the benefits of a healthier lifestyle rather than the scale.