Good to Know...Get Healthy, Be Healthy

Some recent research - quick facts from studies summarized in Nutrition Action -www.cspi.org

• Dehydration and Stroke Risk - studies show that dehydration raises the risk of a stroke by 4X caused by a hemorrhage, 2X more by a blocked blood vessel and 3X more caused by a TIA, especially in older adults - stay hydrated!

• Acupuncture and Back Pain - Studies show that adults with lower back pain for 3 months or more may benefit from 8-15 acupuncture sessions as much as typical treatments with opioids or NSAIDs.

• Saffron and Anxiety - A current trend to treat anxiety, stress, fatigue or depression with saffron extract is striking out - limited studies report no less anxiety with people taking 30 milligrams of Saffron are no better than a placebo.

• Pickleball and Eye Injury - As pickleball is gaining in popularity, so are the instances of eye injuries by either being hit by the ball, the paddle or falling. While it's a great form of exercise, consider wearing protective eyewear.

• GLP-1 drugs and Cancer - Studies of popular GLP-1 drugs like Ozxempic and Wegovy are showing a 25% LOWER risk of endometrial cancers and a 47% LOWER risk of ovarian cancer, but a 38% risk of kidney cancers. If you have a family history of certain thyroid cancers, studies suggest avoiding GLP-1 drugs.

• DASH Diets for Type 2 Diabetes - Dash diets tailored for diabetics (DASH4D) are higher in fruits, low-fat dairy, whole grains, beans, and nuts and lower in refined grains and sweets than the typical diet. It's proving to lower blood glucose levels - worth looking into.

• ZERO Proof Drinks - If you're reducing or eliminating the amount of alcohol you consume to improve health, cut empty calories or just feel better, try these zero proof substitutes that are said to be great tasting, modest in sugars and low-ish in calories compared to their alcohol brethren:

  • Craft Brewed Water - If you like craft brews, try HOPLARK.

  • Non-alcohol Wines - Wine producer Wolffer Estates has introduced a handful of alcohol removed wines to its repertoire.

  • Mocktails - Try Maison Perrier Chic - equal parts bubbles, fruit juice, flavor and mocktail.

  • Amaro liqueur provides a bittersweet note that afficionados love - try St Agresti's Amaro Falso.

• Oatmeal - The Healthiest Hot Cereals - Oatmeal is always whole grain but many packets are pricey, have too much sugar for breakfast or two low in calories and protein for a meal - try these:

  • Bob's Red Mill Protein Oats

  • Kodiak Classic Rolled Protein Oats

  • Quaker Protein Old Fashioned Rolled Oats

  • Whole Foods 365 Organic Quick Oats

  • For gluten free options, try TEFF, QUINOA or Millet