Pregnant women and newborns are more vulnerable to foodborne illness than others, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says. Here are the agency’s suggestions for pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid foodborne illness: Clean hands and surfaces often. Separate foods to avoid spreading contamination. Cook foods to proper temperature. Use a meat thermometer when appropriate. Chill… read on >
Want to help your kids succeed at school? Watch what they eat. Research shows that children who have a nutritious breakfast have better concentration, more energy and do better in school, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Some schools provide breakfast. If your kids’ school does not, make sure they eat a breakfast… read on >
One sleepless night might tip the body’s metabolism toward storing fat while depleting muscle, new research suggests. Many studies have linked poor sleep — whether from insomnia or working the night shift — to weight gain and health conditions like type 2 diabetes. But that type of research leaves open the question of whether sleep… read on >
Could baby poop hold the key to a healthy gut? A new study suggests that might be the case. An analysis of fecal samples collected from the diapers of 34 healthy infants identified 10 strains of gut bacteria that may boost the body’s production of short-chain fatty acids. “Short-chain fatty acids are a key component… read on >
It’s an age-old question, whether it’s better to exercise before or after eating. Research done in the United Kingdom might provide the impetus for some people: According to a small study, exercise burns more body fat when you do it on an empty stomach. The research compared the effects of exercising after eating breakfast to… read on >
A well-planned vegetarian diet is healthy for an infant or toddler, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says. But it’s crucial to make sure that the young child gets all necessary nutrients, the academy says. These nutrients include: Vitamin B12 — This vitamin can be obtained by consuming dairy products and eggs. Vegans may opt… read on >
Cases of childhood obesity have risen steadily over the past two decades, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Children who are obese are more likely to be bullied, are at higher risk of developing other chronic health problems and are more likely to remain obese as adults, the agency says. The CDC… read on >
While grapefruit is a great source of vitamin C and potassium, it may interact with your medication, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns. The FDA says these types of medication may become an issue when taken with grapefruit juice or grapefruit: Some statins to control cholesterol, such as Zocor (simvastatin) and Lipitor (atorvastatin). Some… read on >
If your child has a food allergy, safety prevention belongs at the top of your back-to-school checklist. “Ensuring that parents and school personnel are all on the same page as far as preventing exposures and treating symptoms is critical to keeping food-allergic children safe,” said Dr. B.J. Lanser, director of the Pediatric Food Allergy Program… read on >
Some simple steps can reduce danger when you venture into the great outdoors, an expert says. “Knowing your limits, not trying to do too much, knowing where you’re going and what you might encounter there and being aware of the environment you’re in are the best ways to avoid problems outdoors,” said Dr. Henderson McGinnis,… read on >
