Irritable Bowel Disease
New research has shown that a "probiotic" preparation containing the beneficial microbe Bifidobacterium infantis relieves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a common problem that usually involves cramping, diarrhea, abdominal pain and discomfort, bloating and constipation.
Natural practitioners have always known this, but the researchers also noted that the symptom relief achieved with B. infantis was comparable to that seen with Zelnorm (tegaserod) and Lotronex (alosetron), two drugs that have been recently approved for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
Cancer Prevention
The American Cancer Society reported on Thursday that more than 60 percent of all cancer deaths could be prevented if Americans stopped smoking, exercised more, ate healthier food and underwent recommended cancer screenings.
They estimate that in 2005, more than 168,140 cancer deaths will be caused by tobacco use. Approximately one third of all cancer deaths expected to occur in 2005 will be related to poor nutrition, physical inactivity, overweight, obesity and other lifestyle factors. In other words, maintain a healthy body weight and get more physical activity.
Belly Fat and Diabetes in Men
New research shows that abdominal obesity appears to be the better predictor of Type 2 diabetes. The authors also suggest using both the BMI and waist circumference measurements for assessing health risk. But abdominal fat measured by waist circumference can indicate a strong risk for diabetes whether or not a man is considered overweight or obese according to his BMI.
The study findings also suggest that the currently recommended cutoff for high waist circumference of 102 cm (40 inches) for men may need to be lowered to 95 cm (37 inches).
Yours in Health,
Dr. Rick
Dr. Rick Schlussel is a Chiropractor and Applied Kinesiologist providing preventive health care, treatment for pain and injuries, holistic health assessments and a variety of natural therapies. He can be reached at Presence Wellness Center and Spa at 530-889-0388 or by email at drrick@mydrrick.com
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