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Tag Archives: child’s health


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ONE OF THE GRAVEST TRAGEDY OF OUR TIME

New research from Yale University reveals a grave tragedy of our times, ~ 12 % of all children in the US suffer some sort of confirmed neglect, physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by the time they reach age 18.

The following are some of possible effects of child abuse and neglect on a child’s mental health:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Dissociation
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Academic problems in school-aged children and adolescents
  • Withdrawn and/or difficulty connecting with others
  • Flashbacks
  • Increased hyper vigilance
  • Difficulty sleeping

These are some common effects observed in children who have been physically or sexually abused and/or neglected:

  • Bruises, welts or swelling
  • Sprains or fractures
  • Burns
  • Lacerations or abrasions
  • Difficulty in walking or sitting
  • Torn, stained or bloody clothing
  • Pain or itching in the genital area; bruises or bleeding in the external genital area
  • Sexually transmitted infections or diseases
  • Lack of adequate supervision, nutrition or shelter
  • Poor hygiene
  • Inappropriate dress

Children may develop these as ways to cope with complex trauma, or perhaps even to forget or suppress the traumatizing memories.

  • Possible emotional and behavioral effects of trauma include:
  • Eating disorders
  • Drug use
  • Risky sexual decision-making
  • Self-harm
  • Troubled sleeping
  • Discomfort with physical touch

I can’t think any more greater tragedy than a child living through the horrors of Abuse.

If you want to take action, support Collin County Child Advocacy Center.

– Source: JAMA, joyfulheartfoundation


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DON’T GET TICKED

It is Spring and that means TICKS are back.

Searching for victims.

They carry some pretty serious diseases that can make our lives very difficult. Georgia ticks are known to transmit Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Tularemia, Anaplasmosis, Human Ehrlichiosis and Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness. The three tick species that bite and cause most of the problems are the Lone Star tick, the American Dog tick and the Black-legged tick.

A tick usually has to be on you for at least 24 hours to transmit a disease.

How do you prevent tick?

Avoid dense vegetation areas.

Ticks can’t jump, fly or climb very high so they latch on with their hook-like claws as your walk by.

Tuck your pants into your socks, your shirt into your pants and button your shirt.

No Shorts.

Spay “Deet” on your clothing and skin. Repellents containing the insecticide permethrin can be used on clothing only.

Check for ticks twice a day. The longer the tick feeds on you, the greater the chance of transmitting disease.

Use tweezers to pull the tick straight out without twisting and leaving mouthparts that might cause infection.


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NEWS FLASH: 2013 CHILD DISEASE UPDATE

Polio can be avoided with a vaccine:

The World Health Organization say there’s been an outbreak of the potentially deadly disease polio in Syria. They confirmed ten cases of Polio have been identified in young children, the first time in 14 years that the disease has been found there.

Encephalitis, or swelling of the brain has a vaccine too

Health officials in northern India are battling to confront a new outbreak of encephalitis, a disease that has this year killed at least 350 children in one state alone.

WHOOPING COUGH is another disease that has a vaccine prevention

Last year, the United States had the highest number of whooping cough cases since 1955, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. During 2012, the CDC received reports of 48,000 cases and 18 deaths, with most of the deaths occurring in infants. Researchers compared areas with significant numbers of parents who chose not to vaccinate their children for nonmedical reasons to areas that were affected by the 2010 whooping cough outbreak in California. They found that people living in areas with high nonmedical vaccine exemption rates were 2.5 times more likely to also be located in an area with high levels of whooping cough.

How about the outbreak of Measles in Fort Worth

The outbreak in Texas is the perfect example of how contagious measles is. The recent situation is strikingly similar to a 2005 case in Indiana, Offit said, in which a teen went to a church picnic with 500 people after visiting an orphanage in Romania. Of the 465 people at the picnic who had been vaccinated or previously infected, three people got sick. Of the 35 who had not been vaccinated, 31 got measles.

Would you rather have HiB?

Before the vaccine for Haemophilus influenzae type B existed, its meningitis killed 600 children a year, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. And many who survived suffered from brain damage, seizures or deafness.

The good news is that these types of outbreaks are rare and, in some cases, preventable. For example, make sure your family is up-to-date on their vaccinations and remember to read up on the latest flu season information every year so that you are immunized against the latest flu strains.


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CIGARETTE FACTS

Cigarette has fire at one end and a fool at the other. Whenever you light a cigarette you actually are putting your health, your life expectancy and your money on fire. Cigarette industries earn about $400 billion a year as cigarette is the most traded item in the world. It is a sad truth that initially people start smoking to look cool, stylish and sexy and gradually they become dependent on smoking both physically and psychologically because nicotine is a highly addictive substance.

Something you perhaps didn’t know about Cigarettes, Cigars or Other Tobacco products.

· The American cigarette manufacturers sell less cigarettes to Americans as compared to the number that they sell to non-Americans.

· 70 % of the cigarette market is owned by major brands like Marlboro, Camel, Kent and kool.

· Out of total cigarettes sold all over the world, 25 % are smuggled.

· Legally tobacco cannot be sold to people younger than 18 years in most of countries except Japan where legal age for the purpose is 20 years.

· Within 10 seconds of inhalation of cigarette smoke, nicotine reaches every part of body including brain.

· Cigs are now added with flavors with toppings of substances like, clove, licorice, orange oil, apricot stone, lime oil, lavender oil, cocoa and many others.

· Sometimes, Urea, which is excreted in urine is used to flavor the cigarettes.

· There is a myth that smoking helps in digestion. In fact smoking slows digestion by diverting the blood towards other organs, away from intestine where it is required for digestion.

AND THE BEST

It has been proven by research that smokers’ life expectancy is reduced by 14 years.

Following is a short account of the most horrible diseases caused by smoking.

1. Respiratory disease: Smoking over a longer period of time can lead to development of breathing problems, commonly known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During first phase of the disease patient develops chronic bronchitis, which means longstanding inflammation of airways, followed by bronchiectesis, which means destruction of airways, and eventually emphysema, which means destruction of alveoli (small balloons where oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange takes place). Hence one shouldn’t smoke in the first place and if you have already started smoking quit it as soon as possible.

2. Gum Disease: Smoking can inflict serious damage and disease to oral mucosa and gums because it leads to deposition of toxins over gums and mucosa causing their staining.

3. Blindness: Recent research has revealed that smoking also contributes towards blindness by atrophy of muscles leading to degeneration of macula and by reducing blood supply leading to degeneration of retina.

4. Diabetes Mellitus: Not only the risk of developing diabetes is increased manifold by smoking but also that of developing secondary complications of diabetes like heart disease, vascular disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye disease and foot problems.

5. High BP: Smoking causes narrowing of the blood vessels resulting in increased blood pressure, which leads to increased risk of heart disease, peripheral vascular disease and stroke.

6. Peripheral Vascular Disease: Smoking causes atherosclerosis, which means deposition of fat on the inner side of the walls of the blood vessels and stiffening of these walls resulting in loss of their elasticity. These changes not only result in rise in blood pressure but also reduction in blood flow through the blood vessels. This impairment in blood flow can lead to tissue ischemia, which means death of tissues due to lack of blood supply, especially in legs. This ischemia can eventually lead to amputation of lower limbs, hence it is said that either you can have your cigarettes or your legs.

7. Stroke – Smoking causes vascular disease resulting in reduced blood supply to brain and weakness of walls of blood vessels. Hence stroke can result either from obstruction in blood supply to brain or from rupture of weak blood vessel wall resulting in bleeding into brain.

8. CANCER – Most common cancer caused by smoking is lung cancer. Other types of cancer that are caused by smoking include blood cancer, mouth, tongue, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, bladder, kidney, stomach, pancreas and cervix.

9. HEART DISEASE – Smoking causes atherosclerosis of the blood vessels, which means deposition of fat on the inner side of blood vessels and hardening of walls of blood vessels resulting in loss of their elasticity. Atherosclerosis of coronary arteries (arteries that supply blood to the heart itself) results in reduced blood supply to heart hence reduced work capacity of the heart while atherosclerosis of peripheral arteries results in increased resistance to blood flow and consequently putting increased work load over the heart. This imbalance in work load over the heart and blood supply to the heart results in extra stress and strain over the heart causing angina and myocardial infarction.

Takeaway:

TALK to your child about the dangers of smoking.


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RETHINK YOUR CHILD’S HALLOWEEN CANDY

Do you realize what the Halloween candy that you child brings contain?

Read the ingredients and if you find any of these, think twice before you let them gobble.

1. Vanillin – Vanillin is a phenolic aldehyde. You’ll find this ingredient in most cheap chocolate candy. Most synthetic vanillin is today synthesized from the petrochemical precursors guaiacol and glyoxylic acid. Vanillin can trigger allergic reactions and migraine headaches in some people.

2. Soy lecithin – this is an emulsifier to bind fat and water together. Thanks to the FDA and Monsanto, soybeans grown in the U.S. are almost exclusively genetically modified. If you are religious Soy-derived lecithin is prohibited on Passover for Ashkenazi Jews.

3. Shellac – Also known as “confectioner’s glaze”. Shellac is a resin secreted by the female lac bug. It is used in combination with wax for preserving and imparting a shine to citrus fruits, such as Lemons. It is also used in denture production.

4. Carmine – This gives the bright red color to candies. It is made of powdered cochineal (insect) corpses. Carmine may cause severe allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock to a subset of people.

5. Castoreum – is generally listed as “natural flavors”. Castoreum is the yellowish secretion of the castor sac which is, in combination with the beaver’s urine, used during scent marking of territory. Castoreum has been traditionally used in Scandinavia for flavoring snaps.

6. Tertiary Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) – This lab creation is an antioxidant and used in preserving Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. At higher doses, it has some negative health effects on lab animals, such as producing precursors to stomach tumors and damage to DNA

7. Mono- and Diglycerides – They are often found in bakery products, beverages, ice cream, peanut butter, chewing gum, shortening, whipped toppings, margarine, confections, and candies (like Twizzlers). These are synthetic fats derived from cows or hogs, or partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.

8. Lanolin – Often called “gum base” and used as base for chewing gum. lanolin is a yellow waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals.

9. Allura Red, Food Red 17, C.I. 16035, FD&C Red 40 & Related dyes include Sunset Yellow FCF, Scarlet GN, tartrazine, and Orange B – This food dye is made from coal tar or petroleum and is found in a lot of candies like Jolly Ranchers, Starburst, Dum Dums, Tootsie pops. The following additives were tested in the research:

· Sunset yellow (E110) (FD&C Yellow #6) — coloring found in soft drinks

· Carmoisine (E122) (FD&C Red #3) — red coloring in gelatin foods

· Tartrazine (E102) (FD&C Yellow #5) — yellow coloring

· Ponceau 4R (E124) — red coloring

· Sodium benzoate (E211) — preservative

· Quinoline Yellow WS (E104) (Food Yellow 13) — food coloring

· Allura red AC (E129) (FD&C Red #40) — orange / red food dye[6]

The study found increased levels of hyperactivity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children consuming the chemicals.

10. Gelatin – Used as a gelling agent in food, pharmaceuticals, photography, and cosmetic manufacturing. Gelatin is derived from pork skins, pork, horses, and cattle bones, or split cattle hides and used in yogurts and Jello. Gelatin is also used in nail polish remover and makeup applications. Vegans and strict vegetarians choose not to eat foods containing gelatin made from animals. Islam, Hindus and Jains forbids consumption of pork and thus gelatin

11. Sorbitol – Sorbitol is a sugar substitute. Sorbitol can be used as a non-stimulant laxative via an oral suspension or enema. Even mild oversumption of this sugar alcohol causes diarrhea. Sorbitol also may aggravate irritable bowel syndrome,and similar gastrointestinal conditions, resulting in severe abdominal pain for those affected, even from small amounts ingested. It has been noted that the sorbitol added to SPS (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate, used in the treatment of hyperkalemia) can cause complications in the GI tract, including bleeding, perforated colonic ulcers, ischemic colitis and colonic necrosis, particularly in patients with uremia.

12. Sugar is a cancer-feeder. By cutting off sugar it cuts off one important food supply to the cancer cells. Sugar substitutes like NutraSweet, Equal,Spoonful, etc are made with Aspartame and it is harmful. A better natural substitute would be Manuka honey or molasses but only in very small amounts.

13. Benzoic Acid – Used in low sugar products. It can temporarily inhibit digestion and deplete glycine levels.

14. BVO – brominated vegetable oil. The toxic flame retardant chemical was first used to keep plastics from catching on fire. In the last decade we have seen it enter in a variety of foods to keep the artificial flavoring chemicals from separating from the rest of the liquids. It is found in certain sodas, juices, and sports drinks, including Mountain Dew, Fanta Orange, Sunkist Pineapple, and some Powerade flavors. (Gatorade announced it would remove the compound from its drinks in Spring 2013.) Scientists have linked too much BVO to bromide poisoning symptoms like skin lesions, memory loss, and nerve disorders.

15. Titanium dioxide: This was primarily used to make food look much whiter and thus convey a feeling of “clean”. Commonly used in paints and sunscreens, food companies add it to lots of things we eat, including processed salad dressing, coffee creamers, and icing. Titanium is a mined substance that is sometimes contaminated with toxic lead.

Also read:

1. DANGERS OF FOOD COLOR ADDITIVES http://txnaturalpediatrics.com/2013/08/12/dangers-of-food-color-additives/

2. Chemicals to Avoid: http://txnaturalpediatrics.com/resources/parenting/chemicals-to-avoid/

Source: Multiple including Wikipedia,


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ONE OF THE TOP 5 REASONS OF DEATH THAT IS COMPLETELY PREVENTABLE

WHY IT MATTERS?

Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death among children between 1 and 4 years old. And it’s the third leading cause of death among children. In the United States 3,500 to 4,000 drowning occur on average each year. Many non-fatal drownings result in brain damage and life-long disabilities. Most often children drown in swimming pools and older children and adults in natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers.

In 2011, 70% of all fatal boating accident victims drowned, and of those who drowned, 84% were not wearing a life jacket.

WHY KIDS DROWN?

Lack of swimming ability
Lack of barriers like pool fences
Lack of supervision of young children near pools and other water
Failure to wear personal floatation devices or life jackets
Alcohol use in or near the water

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Never leave your child unattended around water. We know it sounds strict, but there is no room for compromise on this one. Babies can drown in as little as one inch of water.

Put the cell phone away, forget about all the other things you have to do and give young children 100 percent of your attention when they are near or around water.

Empty all tubs, buckets, containers and wading pools immediately after use. Store them upside down and out of children’s reach.

Keep toilet lids closed and use toilet seat locks to prevent drowning. It’s also a good idea to keep doors to bathrooms and laundry rooms closed.

Parents have a million things to do, but learning CPR should be on the top of the list. It will give you tremendous peace of mind – and the more peace of mind you have as a parent, the better. Local hospitals, fire departments and recreation departments offer CPR training.

Plano Fire-Rescue’s Water Watcher Tags are tangible reminders to the adults who are tasked with supervising children in or near the water. While wearing the Water Watcher Tag, the adult does not take their eyes off the pool and does not leave the area before handing the tag and the job of supervising the pool off to another adult. Water Watcher Tags may be requested by emailing peggyha or calling 972-941-7421.

Always have your children wear a life jacket approved by the U.S. Coast Guard while on boats, around open bodies of water or when participating in water sports. Make sure the life jacket fits snugly. Have the child make a “touchdown” signal by raising both arms straight up; if the life jacket hits the child’s chin or ears, it may be too big or the straps may be too loose.

A large portion of boating accidents each year involve alcohol consumption by both boat operators and passengers. To keep you and your loved ones safe, it is strongly recommended not to drink alcoholic beverages while boating.

Infants and young kids are at a higher risk for hypothermia, so if you are taking a baby on a boat, just take a few extra precautions to keep your baby warm. If your children seem cold or are shivering, wrap them tightly in a dry blanket or towel.

Teach children that swimming in open water is not the same as swimming in a pool: They need to be aware of uneven surfaces, river currents, ocean undertow and changing weather.

LEARN MORE:

Check out http://www.usa.safekids.org/water/


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NEWS FLASH: PROBIOTICS AND BEAUTY

Humans have more than 10 times the number of bacteria in their body than they have cells – about 100 trillion, representing more than 500 different species. When in proper balance, a delicate and precise ratio of 85 percent friendly bacteria to 15 percent "unfriendly" bacteria, the human organism quite naturally heals itself. But when something upsets that delicate balance, be it general lack of nutrition, exposure to certain or numerous toxins (depending on the individual) or a medically prescribed course of antibiotics, problems can arise. Under these desperate conditions, the body shifts into survival mode (sympathetic nervous system), bringing its own innate healing abilities (parasympathetic nervous state) to a slow or full stop.

But the miracle of probiotics can help restore us to optimal health. As the antithesis of antibiotics, which kills bacteria indiscriminately (both unfriendly and friendly) while still allowing other harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeast to proliferate unchallenged, probiotics work to rebuild and rebalance this intestinal flora so critical to our health and our absorption of vital nutrients. In fact, probiotics are quite necessary in the aftermath of any course of antibiotics, and when taken properly, in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle, it can help improve health dramatically. Their many benefits include, but are not limited to, the following:

Relief from gastrointestinal disorders

With gastrointestinal conditions on a steady rise in recent years, improving overall gut function may be the most appropriate and obvious application for probiotics. Common signs of intestinal imbalance – meaning the "bad" bacteria have taken over – include diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, headaches, gas and bloating, nausea and cravings for sugars and refined, carb-heavy foods. Instead of reaching for the nearest over-the-counter symptom quick-fix, incorporating probiotics into your diet may be a better and longer-lasting alternative, as they can repopulate your gut with more "good" bacteria.

Better digestion and nutrient absorption

An unhealthy gut does not digest foods properly. That means the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for survival may be greatly impaired. Probiotics change that by keeping harmful organisms in check and allowing for improved overall digestion and nutrient uptake.

Increased immune function

A healthy bowel is critical to immune function. The friendly bacteria of probiotics assist the immune system in recognizing harmful pathogens, like those that lead to cold and flu. Probiotics may be especially helpful for those with autoimmune diseases, who have a tendency for infection and who may be taking medications which actually suppress immune function, on the condition that a more gentle probiotic is chosen. One containing too many species or particularly strong yeast, for example, may pose a potential risk of overgrowth for an already compromised immune system.

Reversed metabolic syndrome and encouraged weight loss

Research indicates that obese people have more harmful bacteria in the gut than lean people, while lean people have more friendly bacteria in their guts than those who are obese. Studies show that these unfriendly gut bacteria may actually cause low-grade inflammation in the body, contributing to obesity and making losing that weight more difficult. Probiotics may help on their own for a short time, but as always and especially in this case, they should be taken as a complement to a healthy diet. Processed foods and a diet high in sugars and unhealthy fats will only encourage the growth of unfriendly bacteria, insulin resistance and weight gain.

Clearer, better nourished skin

Studies indicate that probiotics may help to heal the systemic inflammation associated with certain skin disorders, such as eczema and acne. A Norwegian study has found that babies born to pregnant women taking probiotics had only half the risk of developing eczema, and in those children who did develop it, the severity of symptoms was greatly reduced. A separate study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science indicated that probiotics may also inhibit the growth of bacteria associated with acne.

Improved urogenital health in women

Similar to the intestinal tract, the ecosystem of the vagina is one of delicate balance, often challenged not just by antibiotics, but by spermicides and birth control pills too. Probiotics can help rebuild the microflora to a balance necessary for the prevention of yeast infections, urinary tract infections and bacterial vaginosis.

Beneficial probiotics are available in the form of dietary supplements, and they are also found in fermented foods and organic cultured milk products like yogurt. When it comes to choosing those best suited to your own health, be sure to do your homework. Research the product you’re considering thoroughly before use, as it is possible that not all bacteria listed on the label will be effective for your condition. Because they’re present already in a naturally functioning, normal digestive system, probiotics are generally considered safe; however, it may be wise to consult with a health professional regarding the mixture of certain probiotics, as well as preferred applications for specific medical conditions.

Remember too that a well-balanced lifestyle and a non-toxic, nutrient-rich diet is necessary in order to ensure maximum gain from any probiotics routine. Reducing all types of stress is also particularly important, especially during the holiday season. Good daily habits are the foundation of health, after all, and probiotics can assist in supporting that foundation.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com

http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0905c.shtml

http://drlwilson.com/ARTICLES/FLORA.htm

http://www.naturalnews.com

http://www.naturalnews.com

http://cid.oxfordjournals.org/content/46/Supplement_2/S96.short

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/041092_probiotics_radiant_health_skin.html#ixzz2YSzMgDIg


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NEWS FLASH: PEPSI AND CANCER CAUSING 4-methylimidazole CHEMICAL

What exactly is 4-MEI? It’s a compound formed during the production of some caramel coloring agents and is found in colas, beers, soy sauces, breads, and coffee, according to the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. Under a state law called Proposition 65, California requires manufacturers to label toxic substances. And the state added 4-MEI to its list last year after “studies published in 2007 by the federal government’s National Toxicology Program showed that long-term exposure to 4-MEI resulted in increases in lung cancer in male and female mice,” the state environmental website said.

A report released just before July 4th by an environmental group seems to have gotten lost in the holiday weekend haze, despite findings that link cola and cancer. Pepsi continues to sell sodas made with 4-methylimidazole, or 4-MEI—ruled a carcinogen last year by the state of California—according to the Center For Environmental Health.

The nonprofit group noted that Pepsi sold inside California had been reformulated to comply with state rules about the substance, yet drinks sold outside the state continue to include higher amounts of 4-MEI, which helps give the company’s cola drinks their caramel hue. The group found little to no 4-MEI in Coca-Cola (KO), which has switched to a modified caramel coloring.

In a response published in the Center for Environmental Health’s report, PepsiCo said its “coloring suppliers have been working on modifying the manufacturing process to reduce the amount of 4-MEI,” adding that drinks sold in the rest of the U.S. will have reduced levels of the chemical “by February 2014.”

In a statement issued on Friday afternoon, the company elaborated: “We strongly refute any claim that any product we sell anywhere is unsafe. The safety of our products is PepsiCo’s top priority, and we abide by the regulatory guidelines everywhere we do business,” PepsiCo said. “While we meet the strict FDA guidelines, when the regulatory requirements changed in California PepsiCo moved immediately to meet the new requirements and, in order to maintain a harmonized supply chain, globally committed to rolling out the changes across the rest of the U.S. and internationally.”

Aside from cola, the Center for Environmental Health did not find high levels of 4-MEI in other products, in part because people generally consume more soda than, say, soy sauce, says Charles Margulis, a spokesman for the group.

Federal regulators haven’t yet sounded any alarms about 4-MEI. In an e-mailed statement, the the U.S. Food and Drug Administration explained the disparity between California rules this way: “Based on the available information, FDA has no reason to believe that there is any immediate or short-term danger presented by 4-MEI at the levels expected in food from the use of caramel coloring.”

Last year, FDA spokesman Douglas Karas said a person would have to drink more than a thousand cans of soda in a day to match the doses administered in studies that showed links to cancer in rodents. The American Beverage Association denied the harmfulness of 4-MEI in 2012.

Still, the FDA says it “is currently reviewing” data on the chemical and its relationship to cancer to determine “what, if any, regulatory action needs to be taken.”

Source: Business Week, By Venessa Wong, http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-07-05/pepsi-plans-to-drop-disputed-cancer-chemical


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PROCESSED FOOD – MORE MARKETING -> MORE UNHEALTHY FOR OUR KIDS

In Cereals, most heavily marketed brands are actually the most unhealthy

STUDY BY YALE: In 2011, children cereals got $264 million in advertising, with "aggressive marketing" for Reese’s Puffs, Kellogg’s Froot Loops, and Post’s Fruity Pebbles.

These three brands, however, had the highest amount of sugar and the lowest amount of nutritional value.

Kids normally eat more than one serving of cereal a morning, meaning "before they leave the house in the morning, children eating these presweetened cereals will have consumed as much sugar as they should eat in an entire day," the report said.

Also from the report:

Children’s exposure to TV ads increased for seven child-targeted cereals — including Kellogg’s Froot Loops (+79%); General Mills’ Reese’s Puffs (+55%) and Trix (+29%); and Post’s Pebbles (+25%).

Kellogg nearly doubled banner advertising on children’s websites for its child targeted brands. General Mills increased banner advertising for four brands, including Honey Nut Cheerios (+185%), Lucky Charms (+58%), and Cinnamon Toast Crunch (which was not advertised in 2008-2009). Banner advertising for Post’s Pebbles doubled.

Despite an overall decline in TV ads for child-targeted cereals, black children’s total exposure to TV ads for child-targeted brands increased by 7.5%— with the biggest increases for Kellogg’s Froot Loops (+88%) and General Mills’ Reese’s Puffs (+72%).

Cereal company spending on Spanish-language TV more than doubled— from $26 million to $65 million. Hispanic preschoolers, on average, saw 90 Spanish-language TV ads for cereals in 2011 (in addition to ads on English TV). Kellogg and General Mills launched new Spanish-language TV campaigns to promote Froot Loops and Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

Source: http://www.cerealfacts.org/


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DANGERS OF FOOD COLOR ADDITIVES

FOOD COLORING

Americans are now eating five times as much food dye as we did in 1955. Food coloring, or color additive, is any dye, pigment or substance that imparts color when it is added to food or drink. Food coloring is also used in a variety of non-food applications including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, home craft projects and medical devices.

SOME DANGEROUS SIDE EFFECT OF FOOD COLORING

A 2007 British study found that children who consumed a mixture of common synthetic dyes displayed hyperactive behavior within an hour of consumption.

• Cochineal (E120), a red dye derived from the cochineal insect. (Not Vegan or vegetarian).

• Red No. 3 – Erythrosine, E127 (is commonly used in glacé cherries). Erythrosine is linked to thyroid tumors in rats.

• Yellow No. 5 – Tartrazine, E102 (yellow shade). Tartrazine causes hives in less than 0.01% of those exposed to it.

• Yellow 5 and yellow 6: The store-bought mac and cheese has dangerous dyes made from coal tar, which is also used to seal-coat and preserve products like shiny industrial floors as well as to kill bugs in lice shampoo.

• Blue 1 and blue 2 are most commonly found in sports drinks: Similar to yellow 5 and 6, these blue dyes are a rainbow of health risks, including messing with the cognitive function of hyperactive kids, who performed poorly on tests that measured their ability to recall images, according to a U.S. study published in the journal Science.

• The three most widely used culprits—Yellow 5, Yellow 6 and Red 40—contain compounds, including benzidine and 4-aminobiphenyl, that research has linked with cancer.

• Additionally, some natural food colors can sometimes cause allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock in sensitive individuals.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Look for foods bearing the green-and-white USDA certified organic label, but be aware that foods labeled “made with organic ingredients” may still contain synthetic dyes.

Pick an organic brand, which means no added artificial colors, no dairy from cows treated with synthetic hormones, and no genetically modified ingredients. Even better, look for one that’s gluten- and wheat-free.

Water is your best friend during short workouts. For longer activities, you may want to supplement water intake with the new performance drink darling: natural coconut water. It’s a good source of electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium.

Ben Feingold created a popular elimination diet designed to treat hyperactivity. This diet proposes the elimination of artificial colorings, flavorings, and preservatives in order to decrease hyperactivity. Some studies have disproved Feingold’s theory. Nevertheless, many parents who have tried it have reported an improvement in their child’s behavior.


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12 STEPS TO PREVENT DIABETES

Diabetes is a serious disease and the number of people affected with it has skyrocketed in the last couple of years. Here are few tips to help lower your chances of getting diabetes.

· Reduce your portion size

· Get physically active

· Add lots of whole grain in your diet

· Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Don’t Skip.

· Avoid fatty foods and Sugary drinks

· Eat many veggies & Load up on Fiber

· Add Soy and Green tea to diet

· Try to lower stress level & Sleep well

· Drink a lot of water

· Soak in the sun

· Avoid diabetes with spices
According to a German research, adding spices to your diet especially cinnamon helps to activate the enzymes in your body, which helps to stimulate insulin receptor. Besides, it also helps to lower down cholesterol and reduces the risk of developing cholesterol.

· Pure cocoa help diabetes

· 15-min walk after meals cuts diabetes risk


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SUMMER HEALTH ISSUES IN KIDS

Saw a good article that I believe is worth sharing with our community:

SUMMER HEALTH ISSUES IN KIDS

SMOG/MOLD: More smog and air pollution, high pollen levels and increased mold growth due to high humidity all cause a spike in asthma attacks in summer. Check local air pollution and pollen counts at airnow.gov. Stay indoors, in air conditioning if levels are high.

SWIMMERS EARS: Ear care is especially important during the summer months when heat and humidity can fuel the growth of the bacteria and fungi that can cause swimmer’s ear. To prevent water from getting stuck in the ear canal, dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering. Tilt your head so one ear faces down to allow water to escape the ear canal. Then gently pull your ear lobe in several directions to help the water drain out. If the water is still stuck, you can use a hair dryer to remove it —keep the dryer on the lowest heat setting and hold it several inches away from your head. And, never stick a cotton swab or other object in your ear. "Leave the ear wax alone — it protects the lining of the ear from infections such as swimmer’s ear

FOOD POISONING: Prevent food poisoning by keeping perishable foods refrigerated or in a cooler with ice. In temperatures higher than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, food should not be left out for more than one hour. In many cases it can lead to diarrhea. Loss of water volume and electrolytes due to a diarrheal illness can cause dehydration and frequently send kids to ERs.

HYPERTHERMIA: Chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, poor circulation and obesity can also hinder a person’s ability to cool down. To prevent heat-related illnesses, avoid exerting yourself outdoors during the hottest hours of the day, and seek air conditioning — on hot days. drink eight to nine glasses of water a day.

HAND FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE: The summer-loving Coxsackie virus causes hand, foot and mouth disease. Infections, which usually affect children younger than ten, can cause fever, sore throat, oral ulcers and small blisters on the hands and feet. Coxsackie is spread person-to-person through saliva, mucous and feces. Symptoms usually go away on their own within a week. A saltwater mouth rinse of 1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water may help soothe the pain from mouth ulcers. if your child becomes dehydrated from not drinking or develops a high fever, seek medical help.

LYME DISEASE: Lyme disease peaks during the summer months when people are exposed to ticks in yards and woods. See a doctor if you experience fever, headache, body aches, rash, facial paralysis or arthritis after a tick bite. The disease can be treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can lead to joint, heart and nerve damage. Prevent tick bites by using a repellent that contains 20 percent or more DEET on exposed skin, and one that contains the insecticide permethrin on clothing. Always conduct a full-body tick check after coming in from a wooded or bushy area.

POISON IVY: Though you can get a rash from a poison ivy plant at any time of the year (even in the winter when the plant has no leaves) poison ivy is more common in the summer when people are more likely to have contact with the plant on their skin. Painful swelling and itching can be treated at home with hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion and an oral antihistamine. But see a doctor if the rash appears on your eyelids, lips, face or genitals, the skin around the rash appears infected, or you have a fever — prescription medication may be needed.

Source: http://www.livescience.com/


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LIPSTICK AND KIDS

LIPSTICK AND KIDS

STUDY

Testing of 32 commonly sold lipsticks and lip glosses found they contain lead, cadmium, chromium, aluminum and five other metals — some at potentially toxic levels, according to researchers at the University of California-Berkeley’s School of Public Health. Its findings appear in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Health Perspectives.

"This study is saying, ‘FDA, wake up and pay attention,’ "

When not blotted on tissue or left as kiss marks, lipstick and lip gloss are ingested or absorbed by the user. For even the average user, the study found that some of the lipsticks could result in excessive exposure to chromium, a carcinogen linked to stomach tumors.

WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT IT?

Use less. Especially, don’t use beauty products on kids.

Since no level of lead exposure is considered safe for children, we discourages kids from playing with lipstick or using it for beauty contests or as substitute for candy.


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A NEW TREND IN ADDICTION AMONG KIDS

A NEW TREND IN ADDICTION AMONG KIDS

STUDY:

A study from Drugfree.org suggest that only 14% of the parents have discussed abuse of prescription drugs with their kids. One in four teens in the study said they had misused or abused a prescription drug at least once. One in eight teens report misusing or abusing the drugs Ritalin or Adderall. Some parents didn’t see a significant risk in teens misusing prescription drugs. More shockingly, some kids are having “skittles parties,” where the teens throw all the pills they poach from home into a big bowl, mix them up and then take a few without knowing exactly what they were ingesting.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Talk to your kid about the dangers and risk of prescription drugs. They are just as potent and in some cases, more deadly a chemical than street drugs.

Lock away unsafe drugs in a cabinet and keep track of it.

Keep an eye on your kid’s habit and know their friends. As the famous saying goes “You are, the company you keep”.

For more read “The Partnership at Drugfree.org”


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ASTHMA CIGARETTES

THE DANGER OF BELIEVING IN ADS

This classic advertisement from the early 20th century shows how crooked companies have exploited people.

It is an ad. for a tobacco cigarette and they sell on its “Asthma curing abilities.”

Ooh! But they are considerate …. It is not recommended for children under 6!

And the kicker: It is called DOCTOR BATTY’S. Exploiting the trust consumers place on the word “Doctor”.

MORAL OF THE STORY:

Don’t trust commercial speak.

Know their motives.

And on the same vein, if you come across a study, check out who funded the study.


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1 SODA – ONE SWEET DEATH SENTENCE

European Study confirms earlier American study results that 12 Ounces of Sugary Soda a Day Raises Diabetes Risk by 22%!!!

STUDY:

The finding in the journal Diabetologia is based on an analysis of data collected from more than 28,000 people in Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

The study found an association between consumption of sugar-sweetened soft drinks and heightened risk of type 2 diabetes. Consumption of pure or diluted fruit juice was not significantly associated with diabetes risk, according to the report.

The 22 percent increased risk of diabetes among Europeans who drink sugar-sweetened soft drinks is similar to previous research showing that North Americans who consume these types of beverages have a 25 percent increased risk of diabetes, the researchers said in a journal news release.

SO WHAT?

Diabetes is very serious disease. Ask someone suffering from it and you will hear horror stories of its effect on blood vessels, lungs, eyes and wound healing. Additionally, since it is non reversible (in most cases) one has to live with-in limits for the rest of the life. Would you ever wish that on your worst enemy?

No! So why do we let our children knowing or unknowingly consume so much sugar.

Do you realize that there are 16 stacks of sugar cubes in one soda?

ACT:

a) Avoid Soda. In fact cut out soda from any parties or restaurant meal and replace it with water or fresh fruit juices instead. This is what we do in our family.

b) Check the labels on your food items to find the level of sugar. To learn more, check out: http://www.sugarstacks.com/

c) Minimize use of white sugar and substitute with natural sweeteners like honey, dates etc.

But before we go preaching to our kids, let us start by cutting soda and refined sugar out from our own diet.

A journey of a thousand mile, Lao Tzu says, starts with one step.


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IS YOUR CHILD AT RISK FOR SKIN CANCER?

IS YOUR CHILD AT RISK FOR SKIN CANCER?

STUDY:

According to an epidemiologic study published online in Pediatrics, since the 1970s, the incidence of melanoma (Skin Cancer) has been rising about 2% per year in adolescents, similar to adults.

However they are not sure of the reasons for this increase. UVB exposure did not appear to be the primary factor contributing to the increase in melanoma, the researchers noted. These data are consistent with those of previous studies that have reported increasing rates of melanoma in the pediatric populations of Australia, Sweden, and England.

OBSERVATION:

Melanoma was nearly twice as common in girls compared to boys overall (61% vs. 39%) with similar percentages within each age group (0-9 years, 10-14 years, and 15-19 years).

The incidence increased with age. The majority of melanomas – 77% – were diagnosed in adolescents aged 15-19 years.

The most frequent melanoma sites in girls were the lower limbs and hips.

Among boys, melanomas were most common on the skin of the face and trunk.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

All significantly increasing trends for melanoma occurred in sun-exposed areas of the body. So cover your body. And use a high index SPF sun block cream when your kids go out in the sun.

Don’t allow your kids to tan. This finding also suggests that tanning facilities may instead be a major source of the increase in incidence.

For more information, read this.


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SIMPLE STEPS TO PREVENT ALLERGY

Does your little one sniffles after a play in the park outdoor?

It is spring allergy time.

Prevention is the best approach to allergies.

Before you head out, check out the POLLEN COUNT at

http://www.weather.com/health/pollen/forecast/75023

Don’t go outside on windy, dry, and sun shiny days: This is when the Pollen counts are highest.

Morning are worse than in the afternoon.

If you don’t want pollen entering the home, keeping your windows closed at all times.

If you head out, wear a hat and a oversized and wraparound glasses to keep pollen away from your face.

Change clothes immediately and shower before bed.

If you have older kids, try the neti pot to clean up the sinuses.


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Most Restaurant Children’s Meals Are Still Unhealthy

You like eating out? So do we. However this article in the NY Times make us pause and think….

THE STUDY:

Many menu items don’t meet the restaurant association’s own standards for healthful children’s meals, the New York Times reports.

The New York Times: Most Children’s Meals At Large Restaurant Chains Are Still Unhealthy, A Study Finds.

A new study of the nutritional quality of meals for children on the menus of the nation’s largest chain restaurants has found that 91 percent do not even meet the standards set by the National Restaurant Association’s Kids LiveWell program. An even larger percentage — 97 percent of restaurant children’s meals — failed to meet stricter standards developed by a panel of nutrition and health experts for the Center for Science in the Public Interest, the nonprofit research and advocacy group that commissioned the study (Strom, 3/28).

WHAT DO YOU DO?

1) Avoid fast food joints. Food must be savored and eaten slowly. Pre-cooked or plat manufactured food typically have high levels of unnecessary chemicals.

2) Most restaurants serve larger portion than needed. Order smaller plates or from the kid’s menu.

3) Kids watch what you eat. Set an example and eat healthy

4) Avoid overindulging in food with too much fat, alcohol, sugar and salt.

5) Eat lean (remember the food pyramid?) or in other words eat more veggies instead of meat.

6) When and where possible substitute fruits for desserts and salad for fries.

Better yet, eat out less. Cook at home and involve your child in the process. They will love it.