Archive

Everyday questions regarding the swine flu

Put the words "swine" and "flu" together and you generate all kinds of confusing questions in people's minds. Fears of the virus otherwise known as the 2009 H1N1 virus led to widespread slaughtering of pigs in Egypt last spring and a Chinese ban on importing U.S. pork that was finally canceled a couple of weeks ago.


Adequate vitamin D sustains bones, health

During the past few years, interest in vitamin D has grown rapidly. In fact, more than 1,500 scientific articles were published about vitamin D so far this year.


Athletes hope stockings can improve blood flow

If your excuse for not exercising is sore muscles, then Kona Ironman athletes might have a solution for you. Ultra-athletes recently have been seen wearing knee-high elastic compression stockings.


Economic benefits short in building on farm land

As the human population continues to grow, farming becomes increasingly important for human survival. Despite steadily increasing needs for food production, land development pressures are irreversibly converting prime agriculture land into other forms of land use.


Law shields consumers from dodgy products

Many myths about nutrition and health have persisted for centuries despite scientific knowledge to the contrary. Some unethical marketers of dietary supplements use these myths and other misinformation to make a great deal of money.


All essential nutrients needed to stay healthy

If anyone reading this column has not already heard that too much sugar can be detrimental to your health, please raise your hand. Q: What nutrition issues should people be focusing on to stay healthy?


Age exerts major effect on healthy body weight

Developing generalized public health recommendations is complicated by the fact that "one size does not fit all." One of the most widely pronounced recommendations is to maintain a healthy body weight. But, what is healthy?


Study says organic food offers few advantages

People have many reasons for choosing organic foods. Some people may be most concerned with environmental sustainability, preservation of the soil quality of farm land, or avoidance of pesticide exposure.


'Natural' supplements not necessarily healthy

Many people turn to dietary supplements to help meet their essential nutrient requirements. Some are self-medicating with supplements in attempts to fix minor or major ailments, and others hope to maintain their memory or even extend their life span.


Cut calories, but not nutrients, as you age

Calorie needs can vary greatly from one adult to another based on differences in body size, physical activity level and age. Most people reach their peak of calorie burning during their late teens.