Category Archives: Diet And Food

On the point ofoptimal nutrition, differences between the sexes are explained by the range of varying metabolic rates, reproductive functions and body structures.

Despite the fact that men and women have95.5 per cent identical DNAaccording to Harvard Medical School, on average men need a higher calorific intake with the NHS recommending 2,500 calories a day for men and 2,000 for women.

As we are finding out more I think it will help us to draw up dietary recommendations tailored to the needs of men and women,"Helen Bond, a dietician and spokesman for the British Dietetic Association toldThe Daily Mail.

So what are some of the helpful pointers to make sure youre getting the right nutrients you need?

Firstly, high levels of refined grains such as pasta ought to be avoided by women. Harvard Medical School recommend that carbohydrates should make up 45-65 per cent of the calorie intake for both men and women. However, a 12 year study by Harvard School of Public Health suggested a link between low moods and womens diets withhighlevels of refined grainssuch as white pasta.

The study found that women whose diets were high in refined grains were approximately a third more likely to suffer from depression.Nitu Bajekal, a consultant gynaecologist at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust told The Daily Mail the suggested link could be explained by blood sugars effect on levels of oestrogen that can also impact mood.

This area is not fully understood, but its sensible to eat vegetables with your pasta, because the fibre dampens the glucose response, she added.

By contrast, womens lower calcium levels would be benefit from enjoying more cheese. Women need more calcium in order to avoid osteoporosis in the bonesdue to the fact that they have a lower bone density than men on average andlose bone mass more rapidly. The menopause means a loss of oestrogen which also aids strong and healthy bones.

Women and men should have 700 mg of calcium per day in their diets, according to the NHS. Oregon State Universitys Linus Pauling Institute advises post-menopausal women to increase their daily calcium intake to 1,200 mg to counter the lack of oestrogen. Before the menopause, women also need to top up on iron levels because this is lost with each menstrual periodaccording to Harvard Medical School.

Men on the other hand, will be glad to hear they could benefit from eating more chocolate.

A study by Aberdeen University in 2012 found that while dark chocolate betters blood quality for both sexes, for men the effect is even stronger. After eating chocolate with a minimum of 70 per cent cocoa, the functioning of platelets was improved. These cells clot blood and their improved functioning is linked to reducing the risks of strokes.

Men can also benefit from enjoying more zinc-rich shellfish such as mussels. The NHS recommends 9.5 mg of zinc per day for men and 7 mg for women as the mineralcontributes to the healthy production of sperm, while also aidingimmune systems and cell function.

Zinc is easy to get from protein-rich foods such as seeds, nuts, shellfish and oysters, Ms Bond added.

Alcohol consumption is another point of difference with higher recommended amounts for men. Harvard Medical School suggest that for both genders, lower levelsappear to reduce the risk of heart attacks. But, even low amountsalso raise the risk of breast cancer, meaning that women could benefit from consuming half as much as the daily one to two drinks recommended for men.

According to Harvard Medical School, the dietary advice based on differences between genders is also largely based on average body size. While the average male muscle mass stands at 30 to 40 per cent more than for women, it is useful to remember that this is not universally the case, meaning the recommendationsdo not fit all.

A balanced diet, rich in vital minerals and vitamins is key for bothmen and womenbut advice on thefine points of nutritional differenceisworth adhering to if youre keen to keep a healthy and active lifestyle.

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As we are finding out more I think it will help us to draw up dietary recommendations tailored to the needs of men ... - The Independent

Which diet is the healthiest? This is a question we can debate for hours and still not come to an agreement.

So instead of focusing on whether a Paleo or aplant-based diet is better, why dont we look into why certain diets work. After all, there are folks who have had success with both diets.

Here are 5 things all successful diet plans have in common.

Theres a lot of evidence showing that veggies promote weight loss and lower risk of diseases. In fact, all popular diets (low-carb, paleo, vegan, and Mediterranean) encourage you to eat lots of veggies and fiber.

Fiber helps control hunger and regulates blood sugar levels. If you want to increase fiber intake, eat plant-based foods in every meal. And start snacking on fruits instead of junk food.

Here are tips for eating more vegetables.

Sugar is one of the worst foods you can put in your mouth. It has lots of calories but no nutrients.

Now, its easy to reduce intake of table sugar but added sugar is much harder to avoid. It is in all sorts of processed foods including tomato sauces, salad dressings and cereals.

First, find out if the foods you consume regularly contain added sugar. Then substitute them with healthier alternatives. For instance, you could substitute diet soda with fresh lemon juice. Reading labels can also help avoid added sugar. But keep in mind that companies use all sorts of tricks to hide sugar.

Refined grains can make it harder for you to drop pounds. They are low in nutrients and high in calories. They also trigger blood sugar spikes, which consequently increase appetite.

Highly consumed refined grains include bread, rice, pasta and cereal. Try to avoid these foods or opt for less processed alternatives like whole-wheat bread, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and oatmeal.

You cant lose weight if you eat too many calories. Just consume enough calories to help fuel your body but not too much that youll end up gaining weight.

Dont obsess over every single calorie, but you can have a rough estimate of your total calorie intake. Learn how to control portions without counting calories.

Trans fats wont just make you gain weight, they can make you sick. Research has linked them to inflammation and heart disease.

Common foods rich in trans fats include baked foods, biscuits, microwave popcorn, crackers, margarine, and cream-filled candy. Avoid these foods completely since they have no health benefits.

Which other principles of successful diet plans do you know?

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

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5 Things All Successful Diet Plans Have In Common - Care2.com

ScienceBlog.com (blog)

Blood test helps determine which diet will work ScienceBlog.com (blog) Evaluated across six major interventional diet studies utilizing a variety of nutrition strategies, these biomarkers were repeatedly proven as predictors of weight loss and maintenance success. The specific diets that will work differ based on whether ... Fasting plasma glucose and insulin are determinants of dietary weight loss successMedical Xpress all 2 news articles »

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Blood test helps determine which diet will work - ScienceBlog.com (blog)

Success on a weight-loss diet can be predicted by measuring a persons blood sugar and fasting insulin levels, according to a study presented at the American Diabetes Association meeting in San Diego.

Moreover, effective weight loss and control in some can be achieved without restricting calories, as long as the diet is rich in fiber.

The international study examined data from six studies of different diets designed to improve nutrition. It found that those biomarkers consistently predicted losing weight and keeping it off.

The kinds of diets that work depend on whether a patients blood sugar level is higher than normal as in prediabetes, or high enough to indicate diabetes. Results were presented at the American Diabetes diseaseAssociation 77th Scientific Sessions.

Those with type 2 diabetes can lose weight on a diet rich in plant fats, such as those from olive and avocado oil.

A fiber-rich diet without calorie restrictions is successful for many with prediabetes, the study found. Carbohydrate and fat intake should be adjusted according to fasting insulin levels.

"Remarkably, for many patients, use of these biomarkers can lead to a six- to seven-fold greater weight loss," study leader Arne Astrup said in a statement. He is head of the Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark.

"Going forward, we can educate patients when a diet they planned to follow would actually make them gain weight, and redirect them to a strategy that we know will work for them."

The study also included researchers from the University of Colorado, Tufts University, Centro de Investigacin Biomdica en Red de Fisiopatologa de la Obesidad y Nutricin (CIBER OBN) and Gelesis, Inc.

The study fits in with other research indicating that weight loss diets need to be matched to an individuals own metabolic profile.

And for the diets to really stick, they cant be temporary, but part of a changed lifestyle that people can embrace without feeling deprived.

Why do dietary guidelines keep failing?

Your best chances for losing weight and keeping it off

Study: Junk food not related to obesity

Belviq 'responders' lose more weight

Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers get an A

bradley.fikes@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-1020

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For successful weight loss dieting, check blood sugar and insulin ... - The San Diego Union-Tribune

Extension Agent spreads the word on food safety

It is that time of the year when grills are fired up and families get together for the all-famous traditional cookouts.

I want to continue to spread the word on food safety and possible risk associated with grilling foods. Some studies suggest there may be a cancer risk related to eating food cooked by high-heat cooking techniques as grilling, frying, and broiling. Based on present research findings, eating moderate amounts of grilled meats, like fish, lean meat, and poultry cooked without charring to a safe temperature does not pose a problem.

To prevent charring, remove visible fat that can cause a flare-up. Precook meat in the microwave immediately before placing it on the grill to release some of the juices that can drop on coals. Cook food in the center of the grill and move coals to the side to prevent fat and juices from dripping on them. Cut charred portions off the meat.

Its important to follow certain guidelines to prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying and causing foodborne illnesses according to USDA.

Here are some tips to help with make this grilling season a healthy one:

Tip 1 Choose healthy proteins

Ditch the hamburgers and hot dogs. Red meats like pork, lamb and beef, and processed meats, like hot dogs, ham, sausage and bacon can increase your risk for colorectal cancer. Instead, choose healthier proteins such as: skinless chicken, turkey breasts, fish.

These options are lower in fat and can help you maintain a lean body weight, says Stephanie Maxson, a senior clinical dietitian in MD Andersons Integrative Medicine Center. If you must keep hamburgers and hot dogs on the menu, choose low-fat and preservative-free meats. And, limit red meat to no more than 18 oz. thats six 3 oz. servings (each serving is about the size of your palm or a deck of cards) each week to curb your cancer risk.

Tip 2Choose in-season fruits and vegetables

Add a variety of colors to your plate with fruits and vegetables.

Theyre loaded with phytonutrients, antioxidants and vitamins to help prevent cancer and improve overall health, Maxson says. Plus, eating more plant foods makes it easier to reduce body fat and maintain a healthy weight. Maxson suggests grilling onions, zucchini, tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, corn on the cob and watermelon. Choose foods in season to enjoy the most flavors. To cook: Lightly oil the grill to keep food from sticking. Chop but dont peel veggies and leave corn on the cob whole and in the husk. The peels provide more nutrients and a smokier flavor. Use skewers, foil or a grilling pan as helpful cooking tools. Marinate or add a dash of seasoning to maximize flavor. For fruit, try cinnamon.

Tip 3 Fresh, chopped fruits and veggies are perfect add-ins for tossed salads. But when it comes to pasta and potato salads, try these healthy adaptions:

Use low-fat mayonnaise or replace half the mayo with non-fat Greek yogurt. Choose light salad dressing and use less than what the recipe requires. Pick whole wheat pasta.

Information retrieved from: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Barbecue_Food_Safety/ Barbecue and cancer: Make a healthy plate- Focused on Health July 2014 by Brittany Cordeiro-http://www.mdanderson.org/patient- and-cancer-information/cancer-information/cancer- topics/prevention-and- screening/food/barbecueandcancer.html

Katrina Kirby is a Family & Consumer Sciences Extension Agent with the Petersburg office of Virginia Cooperative Extension. The Extension's Agents mission is to teach Virginians how to improve their quality of life through providing education on various topics such as: Preventing chronic diseases with a healthy diet, identifying quality childcare, planning for home ownership, making good parenting decisions, handling food safely, being a wise grocery shopper, managing finances successfully, preparing for and coping with disasters. If you are interested in learning about our programs, have suggestions or just want to shoot me an email dont hesitate to contact me atkirby2@vt.edu or call the office 804-733-1880Visit our Website to find out more information regarding Virginia Cooperative Extension, http://offices.ext.vt.edu/petersburg/

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Does grilling pose a cancer risk? - Progress Index

Yuh still holdin me up, Daddy? I yelled over my shoulder, as dusk fell on a Belfast park. Uh-huh, came a faint reply. Peeking behind, I realised, with a surge of exhilaration, that I was on my own and that Daddys economy with the truth had eased me through one of lifes rites of passage: learning to ride a bike.

And what better time to discover the joys of cycling than during Irelands National Bike Week, which takes place from June 10th to June 18th. Perhaps, having attended Cycling Irelands recent Bike Fest on June 11th, youre keen to experience life on two wheels, and Cycling Irelands communications officer Heather Boyle is especially keen to share with The Irish Times some biking benefits.

Benefits of cycling

Socially, she says, cycling offers great opportunities to meet like-minded people from all walks of life. With over 400 cycling clubs in the country, theres bound to be a group for you. Cycling offers something to everyone: from adrenalin-fuelled racing to social touring, to a head-clearing cycle home after a hard days work.

And Boyle reminds me that Ireland has some of the most beautiful country roads in the world, with relatively low levels of traffic: On the bike, she enthuses, you see the country at a slower pace and from a different perspective. And from an environmental point of view cyclings a zero-emission activity, so while enjoying its health and fun benefits, youre also helping reduce our carbon footprint.

Cycling and health

The health benefits conferred by cycling are probably best explained by a leading surgeon for whom pedal power proved life-changing. Prof Chris Oliver who is on Twitter @CyclingSurgeon, is the professor of physical activity for health at the University of Edinburgh, and consultant orthopaedic surgeon at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. I cycled as a schoolboy, Oliver told The Irish Times, and as a medical student, I rode all over London. But later I became obese, weighed over 28 stone, developed Type 2 diabetes and couldnt cycle. However, I underwent gastric band surgery and got fit again; so fit that in 2013, I rode 3,500 miles across US from Los Angeles to Boston. The Type 2 diabetes disappeared when I lost weight.

Regular cycling, says Oliver, is a great way to increase longevity: Middle-aged people who cycle regularly typically enjoy the fitness level of someone 10 years younger, and gain two years in life expectancy; and cycling, combined with a healthy diet, helps control weight and lower the risk of diabetes. It raises the metabolic rate, builds muscle, burns body fat, and is a comfortable form of exercise which you can vary and build up slowly. A daily half-hour bike ride burns nearly five kilograms of fat over a year.

Oliver also notes that cycling can reduce ones risk of contracting cardiovascular disease, with regular cycling stimulating heart, lungs and circulation, reducing the risk of stroke, high blood pressure and heart attack: In addition, exercise reduces your risk of colon and breast cancer, and research has found cycling reduces the risk of bowel cancer. For bones and joints, he says, cycling improves co-ordination, strength and balance and may help prevent falls and fractures: Being low-impact, with little stress on joints, cycling is an ideal form of exercise for osteoarthritis. Around 70 per cent of body weight goes through the saddle and handlebars instead of your ankles; and the bigger you are, the more important that is!

As for mental health, Conditions like depression, stress and anxiety, explains Oliver, can be reduced by regular cycling. This is due to the effects of the exercise, producing endorphins, and because riding a bike can bring great enjoyment.

Boyle agrees: The mental health benefits are phenomenal, as highlighted, for example, by the huge support for Irelands annual Cycle Against Suicide event, which took place from April 23rd to May 6th this year, and whose message was Its okay not to feel okay; and its absolutely okay to ask for help.

With Cycling Ireland the countrys national governing body for cycling boasting a membership of over 29,000, which has grown by 720 per cent over the last decade, it is clear that the benefits conferred by cycling on all age groups, from primary schoolchildren to retirees, are being enjoyed by increasing numbers of people.

So come on; get on your bike and start cycling: its a life-enriching experience.

Great places to cycle

Waterford Greenway: Irelands longest greenway was officially opened on the March 25th with 46km of a dedicated cycling and walking trail along the old railway line. The trail stretches from Waterford City to Dungarvan, taking in 11 bridges, three viaducts and a 400m tunnel, and the route is a mix of coastal and inland section.

The Great Dublin Bike Ride: This is the only Dublin City-based leisure cycle; it offers a closed-road tour of Dublin City and County, and is on September 24th.

The Sport Ireland Cycle Series: This is a five-cycle series; you can do as many events as you like of the five that are on offer, with a variety of distances and routes that take in some of the best roads in Ireland like the Wild Atlantic Way, Copper Coast Drive, the Burren and the Ring of Beara.

Ring of Kerry: This is one of Irelands most scenic routes, the jewel in the crown of Kerrys world-renowned wondrous landscape. You can tackle it at your own pace at any time of year, or you could join the 10,000 cyclists up for one of Irelands best loved challenges on the July 1st, 2017.

The Gran Fondo Giro dItalia Northern Ireland: This takes cyclists around some of the spectacular countryside of Northern Irelands east coast, following similar routes to those taken by the professionals when the Giro dItalia visited Ireland in 2014.

The Mizmal: Prof Oliver says, Next year, Im planning to ride the Mizmal (about 550 miles) in a week from Mizen Head to Malin Head. It should be great! See mizmal.com

Boosting bike usage

Irelands cycling boom, according to Heather Boyle, can be attributed to several reasons, with the introduction of the Bike to Work Scheme (biketowork.ie) one of the key initial drivers: Bike rental schemes in Dublin, Cork and Galway, she says, made cycling accessible to everyone, and the increased and ongoing investment in cycle lanes, greenways and blueways has created safer environments for commuters, families and individuals. This investment is crucial if Ireland is looking to increase active travel, and together with cyclist.ie, Cycling Ireland is pushing for 10 per cent of the transport budget to be allocated to cycling.

But as Boyle explains, although cycling is enjoying a resurgence in popularity among middle-aged people, Cycling Ireland is keen to promote it to children: Trends have shown, she says, that fewer children cycle to school than in previous years. For example, in primary schools the number of children commuting by bike dropped from 22,400 in 1991 to 6,200 in 2011, according to the census.

One means of addressing this challenge is the Sprocket Rocket cycling skills programme, aimed at children aged 5-12, with a focus on basic cycling skills like cornering, balance, braking and pedalling. Its a programme, says Boyle, thats particularly popular with our clubs, who have recognised a significant improvement in the confidence and competence of the children who completed the course.

Then there is Cycle Right, launched in early 2017, with over 3,000 participants at 80 schools throughout Ireland signed up for training. Boyle explains that this is the first time Ireland has had a national standard for cycle training, and particular emphasis is placed on educating participants to become competent, confident cyclists who will have the skills to move safely on the road network.

The Scottish experience

Across the Irish Sea, Prof Oliver is actively engaged in turning policy into pedalling. Bike usage, he says, is best promoted by governments having an active travel plan and a good targeted, driven cycling policy. My best cycling project that has got people active is Play on Pedals (playonpedals.com). I raised the grant funding for this project, that not only engages pre-school children in cycling to improve the mental and physical health of future generations, but aims to give every pre-school child in Glasgow the opportunity to learn to ride a bike before starting school.

The project worked with 7,148 children over 2.5 years and trained 388 instructors and instructor trainers to deliver across Glasgow, a city with large areas of multiple deprivation and recognised health inequalities. Play on Pedals, says Oliver, has been a hugely popular programme. It has provided a fun and engaging way to increase physical activity, confidence and resilience among pre-school children and families in Glasgow. As one head teacher commented, There will be a generational change within the community because we have children who are leaving the nursery who can cycle and that can only add to how our environment will grow.

Is there scope in the future for a mutually beneficial cross-fertilisation of ideas between Dublin and Glasgow?

Cycling disciplines

Heather Boyle emphasises cyclings many facets: While many think of road cycling, Irelands mountain bike scene is one of the most vibrant and growing communities, with hubs of activities around the country attracting those with a love for adventures off the beaten track. The Emerald Enduro is a great day out for the family.

And BMX cycling enjoys a healthy resurrection. This is an area that has attracted many younger riders. While there are several top-class racing tracks for serious competitors, there are BMX tracks in most towns nationwide, making it extremely affordable and accessible.

Track cycling, says Boyle, is a fast, exciting and competitive discipline, with cyclists on single-gear brakeless bikes riding around in circles! Ireland has three outdoor tracks Dublin, Cork and Belfast and Irish riders such as Martyn Irvine, Caroline Ryan and our paracycling team have won many world medals.

However, road cycling is the most popular discipline in Ireland, with 65 per cent of Cycling Irelands members being leisure cyclists, participating in the many sportives held around the country. Ireland, adds Boyle, also has a booming competitive scene, with races like the An Post Rs and An Post Rs na mBan driving up the standard of the domestic riders, and feeding people into the Irish national teams and professional cycling teams.

Safety tips from Cycling Ireland

Never trust anyone else to look after your safety.

Always travel at a pace where you are in control.

Make sure you have full awareness of whats happening around you; if you are changing direction, always glance over your shoulder and do so when its clear.

When riding in a group always point out or call out obstacles to warn cyclists behind you.

Make sure that your bike and helmet are in good working order before hitting the road or trail.

Excerpt from:
Want to get fit? Get on your bike - Irish Times

Seniors wellness

The Twin Falls Senior Center will hold a presentation for senior citizens at 12:15 p.m. Monday at 530 Shoshone St. W.

Connie Campbell of Syringe Place will talk about the benefits of protein in the diet.

TOPS Club (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), a nonprofit weight-loss support group, will meet weekly at several locations.

The Twin Falls chapter will meet at 4:30 p.m. Monday at the Twin Falls Senior Center, 530 Shoshone St. W., 208-734-2641 or 208-734-5300.

Other local chapters will meet at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday at 2025 S. Highway 81 in Malta, 208-645-2438; 9:15 a.m. Thursday at the Jerome Public Library, 100 First Ave. E., 208-324-6693; 9:30 a.m. Thursday at 410 E. Third St. in Rupert, 208-436-6037 or 208-679-3518; and at 5:30 p.m. Friday at 1800 J St. in Heyburn, 208-678-8706 or 208-678-2622.

Free Breastfeeding 101 class, 7 p.m. Monday in Oak Room 4 on the lower level of St. Lukes Magic Valley, 801 Pole Line Road W., Twin Falls.

The class is for new mothers and breastfeeding mothers wanting to review their skills. Babies and your support person are welcome.

Free; pre-registration is required, 208-814-0402.

Morning Bliss Yoga, 9 a.m. Tuesday and Saturday at the Magic Valley YMCA, 1751 Elizabeth Blvd.

Stretch and strengthen your muscles through yoga with a strong focus on breath and body alignment.

Free to the community. 208-733-4384.

Last session of the series Living Well with Diabetes, 1 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday at Twin Falls Senior Center, 530 Shoshone St. W.

Qualis Health presents the program developed by Stanford University for individuals to learn how to better manage their diabetes.

The class is free. Pre-registration is required: 208-734-5084.

Magic Valley Caregiver Support Group, presented by Alzheimers Association, Greater Idaho Chapter, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at Bridgeview Estates, 1828 Bridgeview Blvd., Twin Falls. The group meets on the second Tuesday every month.

Information: facilitator Yolanda Martinez, 208-404-6720.

Caesarean childbirth class, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in the Oak Rooms 2-4 on the lower level of St. Lukes Magic Valley Medical Center, 801 Pole Line Road W., Twin Falls.

Topics: Caesarean delivery procedures, pain management, and non-conforming labors.

Free; pre-registration is required, 208-814-0402.

Prenatal Yoga Class, 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday at Center for Physical Rehabilitation, 754 N. College Road, Suite D, Twin Falls.

All levels are welcome to join and exercise safely. Sami Ashenbrener, doctor of physical therapy at Center for Physical Rehabilitation, is also a certified yoga instructor with specialized training in prenatal yoga.

Equipment is available, or bring your own equipment if desired. First class is free.

Ostomy Support Group, 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in the cafeteria at St. Lukes Magic Valley, 801 Pole Line Road W., Twin Falls.

The meeting is for ostomy patients and their families.

Magic Valley Parkinsons Support Group will meet at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Jerome Library, 100 First Ave. E.

Members of the group will share current news concerning Parkinsons symptoms and care. Time will be scheduled for questions and answers, tips on living more comfortably with Parkinsons, and suggestions for exercises that are helpful to delay the progression of symptoms.

The group meets monthly on the second Wednesday and offers coping skills for both patients and caregivers.

If you or someone in your family has Parkinsons, you are invited to participate. Information: nfturley@att.net or 208-358-5807.

St. Lukes Magic Valley Medical Centers prepared childbirth classes, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, June 14 through July 12, in Oak Rooms 2-4 on the lower level of St. Lukes, 801 Pole Line Road W., Twin Falls.

Topics: Wellness during pregnancy; labor and delivery process with relaxation and breathing techniques; caesarean birth; postpartum care for mother and newborn; infant CPR; car seat and home safety; and a tour of the maternal and child units. Bring a labor-support person if possible.

Cost is $25 for a five-week session. Pre-registration is required: 208-814-0402.

Alzheimers Association, Greater Idaho Chapters Caregiver Support Group meeting, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at DeSano Place Suites, 545 Nevada St., Gooding.

Information: 208-934-4623.

Safe Harbor will hold Al-Anon meetings at 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Recovery group meetings at 7 p.m. Thursdays at 213 Fifth Ave. W. in Twin Falls,

A meal will be provided at 6 p.m. Thursday; donations accepted.

Information: 208-735-8787.

Free asthma education class for patients and caregivers to assess and manage asthma will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday.

The class is presented by St. Lukes Magic Valley and meets on the third Thursday of each month.

Pre-registration is required. To register and for location of the class: 208-814-8765.

Anxiety Support Group, 6 p.m. every Thursday at Magic Valley Fellowship Hall, 801 Second Ave. N., Twin Falls.

Support for those who experience anxiety, panic attacks or depression. Learn about the signs, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and coping skills.

Information: Cathy Shaddy, 208-410-2768.

Griefshares last session of the series, 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Lighthouse Church, 960 Eastland Drive, Twin Falls.

Anyone who has lost a loved one or friend is welcome to attend. A separate class for pre-teen and teens will meet at the same time. Enter through the east doors at the rear of the building.

Information: 208-737-4667.

The American Cancer Societys Road to Recovery program provides free transportation to and from treatments for people with cancer who do not have a ride or are unable to drive. There are several volunteer drivers in the Mini-Cassia area who donate their time and the use of their car so patients can go to their treatments.

To schedule a ride to treatments, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 to be matched with a volunteer driver.

To do for you is a listing of health-related activities, events and education. Submit information by noon Thursday for publication in the following Mondays edition to ramona@magicvalley.com.

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To do for you - Twin Falls Times-News

You risk life and limb OK, maybe not life, but certainly limb to stuff your cat inside a carrier and endure the bawling from the back seat on the annual crosstown voyage for booster shots, only to have the vet say what you plainly can see but refuse to hear.

For the love of Puff, what can you possibly do about that? Its not as though hes a dog, eager for an extra walk and oblivious if slipped green beans instead of biscuits at bedtime. Your dog is going to love you no matter what.

But your cat? The one who herds you into the kitchen before the sun rises and worries incessantly over his food bowl? A diet? Hell be one unhappy fellow.

If the very thought of Your Cat On A Diet causes such anxiety that you unthinkingly reach for a spoon and a pint of Moose Tracks ice cream, relax. Theres a fat cat study going on at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine that just might help.

Its purpose is to find a way to keep the family purring while kitty loses weight.

We want to look at the owners perception of the weight loss plan, said Dr. Lauren Dodd, a clinical nutrition resident. If they feel their cat is unhappy, begging for more food, really, the owners are concerned about quality of life.

The cats or their own, she didnt quite say.

Half of Americans cats are overweight. Few will have much success going on a diet or sticking to it. As with people, obesity leads to an array of illnesses and early death.

Just recently I heard from a vet who said she has 10 different ways to explain to owners that their pet is obese. Most of them turn a blind eye, said Dr. Megan Shepherd, clinical assistant professor. Certainly, if its not presented appropriately, it can be offensive to just come out and say, Your cat is fat. Theres finesse to it.

For those pet owners willing to admit it, Dodd and Shepherd want to see if cats are better able to lose weight and lead a higher quality of life as perceived by their owners if given an individual weight loss plan.

The researchers are looking for 60 fat cats. Well, just 59 now.

Sophie, a sweet gray tabby, is their first volunteer.

Her person, Susan Heinze of Blacksburg, said Sophie isnt quite as hefty as she was a month ago. Shes quicker when climbing steps and can now jump on counters.

Sophie didnt appear to be nervous during her recent weigh-in at the vet school in Blacksburg.

The first time she threw up in the car on the way here. And on the way home, she was frothing at the mouth and pooped in the carrier, Heinze said. This time wasnt as bad.

As everyone fussed over Sophie, nutrition services coordinator Montez Vaught wiped a little spittle off the cats face, the only sign she wasnt pleased. Vaught serves as the intermediary between the researchers and the cats and their owners.

She hands off the cat to the researchers to weigh and feel for progress and relays information to the owners.

All the cats will eat the same prescription diet food that is being provided for free by Purina, the studys sponsor. The amount of food will vary, not because of the study design, but because of the heft of the cat.

The researchers know the variables that have to do with owners instructions, but they do not know which cat will be randomly assigned to which variable. Vaught knows everything, but the cats got her tongue. The variables are not being disclosed because the owners cannot know anything beyond what Vaught tells them.

About five or six cats are awaiting enrollment. Dozens more are needed. Their owners must be willing to bring them in once a month for a quick visit and to fill out a form rating how well their cat eats, grooms, rests and plays with people, pets and toys.

Heinze scored Sophie as slightly more playful.

Dodd and Shepherd soothed her before putting her through the drill. Her waist seemed smaller, but she could have just been standing taller.

While a cats weight is objective, the researchers need to also assign a body condition score, which can be subjective. The score comes from a chart, which most pet owners have spotted hanging in an exam room, that depicts cat shapes along a number line, with 1 being anorexic and 9 being grossly obese.

Ideally, cats should fall in the 4 or 5 range. When viewed from above, they have a waist. Their ribs can be felt when a hand glides over their sides, and they have a nice abdominal tuck.

The goal is to get the fat cats to fall in the ideal range. For most house cats, thats about 10 pounds.

The problem, Shepherd said, is obese is becoming the norm. So when pet owners see ideal, they think thats too skinny.

Sophie, at more than 15 pounds, scores in the 7 to 7.5 range.

To take part in the study, a cat needs to be healthy, hefty enough to score 7 or above and between 1 and 10 years old. Sophie is 8.

Shes really sweet, Dodd said while lifting up the feline to look at her ample belly. Thats the other thing with the criteria. You have to be able to handle them.

They cant get too stressed out, or theyll hate us, Shepherd said.

And they have to come each month for nine months. Weight loss of a half pound to two pounds a month is a good pace.

The cats must be willing to eat kibble no wet food is allowed. And they should come from single-pet homes or have owners like Sophies who are willing to separate them at feeding time.

Heinze said shes standing watch while Sophie eats her one-third cup of food twice a day. She has no idea how much Sophie used to eat.

She was a very small kitty when I got her. She just kind of liked food, Heinze said. Anything you put in front of her.

Sophie would gorge, upset her tummy and throw up.

She seems OK with her diet, and, Heinze said, is less grumpy.

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Vet school looking to put fat cats on purr-fect diet - Roanoke Times

The diabetes medication linagliptin can protect against stiffening of the left ventricle of the heart in overweight female mice, a new study suggests.

The finding may have implications for management of cardiovascular diseases in humans, particularly for obese and diabetic premenopausal women, who are more at risk of developing heart diseaseeven more than men of similar age and with similar health issues.

In previous studies, we showed that young, female mice consuming a Western diet, high in fat, sucrose, and high fructose corn syrup, not only gained weight, but also exhibited vascular stiffening consistent with obese premenopausal women, says Vincent DeMarco, a research associate professor of endocrinology at the University of Missouri School of Medicine and the lead author of the study.

Our current study sought to understand if linagliptin prevents cardiac stiffening caused by eating a Western-style diet.

Linagliptin is a medication prescribed to lower blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes. The medication works by blocking the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4, or DPP-4. Previous studies have shown that DPP-4 inhibitors offer protection against vascular inflammation and oxidative stressconditions associated with cardiovascular stiffening.

DeMarcos team studied 34 female mice that were fed either a normal diet or a simulated Western diet for four months. Another group of mice were fed a Western diet containing a low dose of linagliptin. The team used an ultrasound system, similar to that used in humans, to evaluate the function of the left ventricle of the heart.

A heartbeat actually is a two-part pumping action that takes less than a second in healthy humans, DeMarco says. The first part, known as diastole, involves relaxation of the left ventricle while it fills with oxygenated blood from the lungs. After the left ventricle fills with blood, it then contracts and pushes blood into the aorta. This part of the cardiac cycle is referred to as systole.

If the left ventricle becomes stiffer it will not be able to relax normally, and diastole will be impaired. This form of heart disease is known as diastolic dysfunction, which is a risk factor for a more serious heart condition known as diastolic heart failure, he explains.

The mice fed the Western diet alone gained weight, exhibited increased heart weight, and developed diastolic dysfunction. However, the mice fed the Western diet along with linagliptin did not develop diastolic dysfunction. They also exhibited less oxidative stress and inflammation in their hearts compared to the mice fed the Western diet alone.

Oxidative stress and inflammation are two factors that can promote excess accumulation of collagen, also known as fibrosis, in the walls of the left ventricle, DeMarco says. In our study, we found that Western diet-fed mice had increased fibrosis in the left ventricle that was prevented by linagliptin.

The team also found that linagliptin suppressed not only DPP-4 activity, but also TRAF3IP2 production. TRAF3IP2 is a protein responsible for initiating tissue oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in the heart.

This was a major novel finding of our study, DeMarco says. However, further research is required to determine exactly how linagliptin affects the function of this important protein.

DeMarco also cautions that linagliptin, like other DPP-4 inhibitors, can be expensive without insurance coverage.

Based on the results of this research and our previous studies, it is tempting to speculate that linagliptin could reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, DeMarco says. However, ongoing clinical trials will help determine what, if any, cardio-protective role linagliptin could play in the management of obesity-related heart disease.

The study appears in Cardiovascular Diabetology. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., the National Institutes of Health, and the Department of Veterans Affairs provided funding for the study.

Source: University of Missouri

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Could diabetes drug protect heart from bad diet? - Futurity: Research News

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Monday, June 12, 2017

On Friday, Japan's parliament, the National Diet, passed a law to allow Emperor Akihito to abdicate. The law gives Akihito three years to become the first emperor to abdicate since Emperor Kokaku in 1817, two hundred years ago.

The newly passed law, made in response to the country's Imperial Household Law's lack of abdication provisions, applies to only Akihito, aged 83. It prohibits Akihito's successors from abdicating.

Akihito ascended to the 2,000-year-old Chrysanthemum Throne when his father Emperor Hirohito died in 1989. Having a cardiac surgery and treatment for prostate cancer, Akihito in a televised address last year said age and health were interfering with his duties. Per Japan's current constitution, an emperor cannot make political statements, so Akihito did not explicitly mention abdication.

When abdication happens, under new law, Akihito's son and heir apparent Naruhito will ascend the throne, becoming the country's 126th emperor. Besides Naruhito, Akihito has another son and a daughter.

Emperor Akihito's heir apparent Naruhito, born in 1960, graduated from Oxford University and married a Harvard University graduate Masako Owada in 1993. Portland State University professor Kenneth Ruoff told the BBC that, while Akihito and his wife have been active in social causes, Naruhito and Masako have done little in this regard. A Kyoto Sangyo University emeritus professor Isao Tokoro said Naruhito "has been educated," is born, and is qualified "to be emperor[.]"

In 2006, the National Diet debated on allowing female ascendance, as the emperor lacked grandsons at the time, due to the current male-only royal ascendance laws. Then Hisahito, now 10, was born, and the debate lapsed.

Naruhito has only one child Aiki, 15, while his brother Prince Akishino, 51, has three children, including his only son Hisahito. Per current law, Hisahito is qualified to ascend after his uncle Naruhito and his father.

The royal family currently has 19 living members, including seven unmarried princesses and five males. Female royals, if marrying a commoner, would have to give up their royal status, leaving the royal family, while males would still be allowed to retain their royal status after marrying a commoner. Akishino's daughter Princess Mako announced her plans last month to relinquish her royal status and leave the royal family in order marry a commoner Kei Komuro, a graduate student and law firm worker, both of them aged 25. In 2005, Mako's aunt and Naruhito's sister Sayako, formerly Princess Nori, married a commoner Yoshiki Kuroda, a town planner, and was forced to relinquish her status and leave the family.

A Temple University Japan professor Jeff Kingston said a national succession crisis has people raising concerns about female princesses leaving the royal family when getting married. Kingston added the family "[has] a shortage of male heirs." Kingston also said ousting a female royal for marrying a commoner is "a very old-fashioned approach, totally out of sync with 21st-century norms" to many people around the world, including in Japan.

In a survey by Kyodo News conducted in May of about 3000 people at least 18 years old, 68 percent said the Imperial Household Law should be amended to allow future emperors to abdicate. 25 percent favored separately legislating each abdication. Four percent said abdication of emperors should never be allowed.

On questions involving female royals, 86 percent said to allow empresses, 59 percent supported both empresses and established branches of female lineages. 62 percent supported establishment of separate branches for princesses retaining their roles while marrying commoners; 35 percent opposed. 61 percent said female ascendance should be debated only after the abdication, while 28 percent said it shouldn't wait for the abdication.

Early this year, the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe considered giving imperial status to branches of those who left the royal family. In the survey, 22 percent supported the idea; 72 percent opposed.

The Abe government has avoided the debate of female ascendance but recently passed a non-binding resolution attached to the newly passed abdication law to consider how to strengthen female royal status, possibly including allowing them to retain their royal titles and continue their duties, to compensate for the declining royal population.

Read more from the original source:
Japan's National Diet passes law allowing Emperor Akihito to abdicate within three years - Wikinews