Obese patients in need of a kidney transplant may find themselves denied one because of their weight, but a new study says that shouldn’t happen in all cases. Researchers have found that kidneys given to obese patients fared as well as those transplanted into normal-weight patients. In addition, no difference was seen in patient survival,… read on >
Though the term “functional foods” currently has no legal definition, it’s more than just a clever marketing catchphrase. According to health organizations like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, these are foods that go beyond providing calories and basic nutrition to actually improving your health. They can be whole foods in their natural state or… read on >
Carbohydrates supply glucose, which your body converts to energy. But not all carbs are created equal, and some experts believe that the type of carbs you eat — those with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients — matters more than the quantity. This is important if you’re battling diabetes or pre-diabetes to avoid blood sugar… read on >
Millions of Americans take angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors to lower their blood pressure, but a new study suggests they might also increase their odds of developing lung cancer. Among people taking these drugs for more than five years, the increased risk may be as high as 14 percent. Although that seems a small number, it… read on >
Has stroke hit your family particularly hard? A healthy lifestyle may be your best defense, new research shows. The study of more than 306,000 white British people found that exercising, eating right and not smoking lowered stroke risk — even for those whose DNA predisposed them to the attacks. The findings “highlight the potential of… read on >
Generics make up 80 percent of drug prescriptions filled in the United States and are a big cost savings for consumers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration mandates that they perform the same way and are as safe and effective as brand-name drugs. However, makers of generics don’t have to repeat the clinical trials done… read on >
There’s a good chance a dose of tiny plastic particles has taken up residence in your gut, a new, small study argues. Microplastics, as they are called, were found in stool samples from a handful of volunteers located across Europe and Asia, researchers report. Every single person out of the group of 8 had microplastics… read on >
Gum disease may interfere with high blood pressure control, a new study suggests. Researchers reviewed medical and dental records of more than 3,600 people diagnosed with high blood pressure. Compared to people with good oral health, those with gum disease were less likely to respond to high blood pressure medications and 20 percent less likely… read on >
Teens with allergies and asthma can enjoy Halloween as long as they take precautions, an allergist says. “There’s no reason a teen with allergies should have to miss anything,” said Dr. Bradley Chipps, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Teens usually know the drill when it comes to handling their food… read on >
Protein is key to your well-being and deserves a significant place in every diet. Knowing the best sources can boost your health as well as help you feel more satisfied on fewer calories. Seafood is an excellent protein source, with dozens of types of fish and shellfish to try. Eat a 3.5-ounce serving at least… read on >
