People who love sugary sodas and flavored milk may have a heightened risk of type 2 diabetes. The good news, researchers said, is that swapping just one of those drinks each day — for water or unsweetened coffee or tea — could lower diabetes risk by up to 25 percent. Overall, the study found, the more sugary soda or sweetened milk that people consumed, the higher their risk of developing diabetes. For every extra daily serving, the risk of diabetes rose by about 22 percent.
If you find water too bland, put a cinnamon stick in boiling water, to make a sweet-tasting tea without sugar.
By training, I am a American Board Certified Pediatrician. But in my younger years I grew up with natural alternatives. As a mom I have tried to incorporate both for my kids and it has worked wonders. And finally, as I am studying natural & alternative medicines, I realize the beauty and wisdom of living closer to earth. Hence in my practice I integrate both...for acute ailments I follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation but for simple and/or chronic conditions I prefer natural alternatives.
In western training we were raised to think that "health is the absence of symptoms and problems". But eastern sensibilities has educated me that "Health is state that allows one to use the full capabilities of their body, mind and intellect. Therefore, healthy living is a balanced state of well being: physically, mentally, socially and spiritually." This implies that healing is not a "one-pill-fits-all", but a personalized experience.
