Are You At Risk For Cancer?

January 17, 2007

30837198761.jpgAm not sure if there is a season of cancer but just reading the local newspapers nowadays, you see obituaries of prominent people all with the same diagnosis of early death due to the Big C!  We fear cancer that we dread just hearing it as a diagnosis of our ailment.  So what can we do to prevent cancer and who is at risk? 

Actually everyone has some risk for cancer. In one survey in the US:” cancer is likely to affect 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women at least once in their lifetime.”  Meaning we all have that risk that we should know and try to change the factors that increase our risk.  So what are these factors that affect our risk?

  • tobacco use,
  • lifestyle choices (such as diet and exercise),
  • family history, and
  • factors in your workplace and environment.

The real question however is: How can I protect myself from getting cancer? Just like ones risk for diabetes, or other chronic ailments, some risk factors for cancer like the family history are non modifiable. But you can definitely modify some of the risk factors like:

  •  Your diet ( eating more red meat for example increases your risk for some cancers)
  • exercise habits ( sedentary lifestyle and obesity)
  • Too much sun exposure and
  • The use tobacco products. .. smoking 2 packs or more per day increases ones risk to cancer 20 fold. 

For most types of cancer, the sooner the cancer is found and treatment begins, the better your chances of recovering and improved survival.  We have screening tests already available.  So if you assessed yourself to be at risk then … better act early…

Know if You Are At Risk… Then Do Something About It! 

Read My Other Related Posts:

Posted in General Health Tips, Lifestyle Measures | Leave a Comment »

Is Chromium Good For You?

January 16, 2007

2922756499.jpgChromium as a metal is known but not as a supplement or a health drug.  The reports of chromium and improvement in sugar control started with a chinese publication and since then more reports of its benefits have been studied.  I see a lot of patients asking my opinion on this supplement and so far the best summary I’ve read was recently published in the January 2007 issue of Harvard Men’s Health Watch.

  • Chromium and cholesterol. With such scattered scientific information, it’s too early to recommend chromium supplements for cholesterol. But there may be an exception to that rule when it comes to low HDL (good) cholesterol. The best ways to boost HDL levels are lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet. But if those don’t help, chromium may be worth a try. Some clinical trials have reported a benefit.
  • Chromium and heart disease. A new study reports a link between chromium levels and heart attack risk: the lower the levels, the higher the risk. The association of low chromium and heart attacks was unrelated to diabetes or diet.
  • Chromium and diabetes. Chromium influences insulin action and glucose metabolism. However, studies have yielded conflicting results. The American Diabetes Association states that “at present, benefit from chromium supplements has not been conclusively demonstrated.” It’s an invitation for more scientific study.
  • Chromium and weight loss. Despite the popularity of chromium picolinate as a diet aid, scientists agree that chromium supplements are not effective in producing sustained weight loss.

Sources of natural dietary chromium includes: whole grains, nuts, broccoli, and green beans.  All are healthy and worth munching while benefiting your good cholesterol, improve your heart disease risk and hopefully lower the blood sugar level.

My advise for now is…2393097542.jpggo for the natural sources of chromium… stay away from the supplements as we dont know yet the exact dose that will provide you of the necessary benefits.

Be Informed…Eat Right!

Read My Other Related Posts:

Posted in General Health Tips, Medical News Bits, The Diabetes Facts | 10 Comments »

The Food Diary: How It Can Help One Lose Weigth

January 14, 2007

4204617119.jpgObesity and overweight are becoming prevalent and more complicated. To be overweight gets you more complications of developing other illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.  You’ve seen friends losing weight but then gain back their lost weight because of fad diets which really don’t work.  The basic requirement of maintaining ones weight is determination and discipline in changing ones lifestyle. 

While reading a post on How To Lose Weight, the article points out that just being conscious of what you eat helps.  And basically this is the purpose why we ask for a food diary on any patient who asks for obesity management.  By being more aware of what you eat … you end up avoiding habits that make you unconsciously eat when in fact you’re no longer hungry.  Likewise the diary helps you analyze later on the day… which servings were more than they should be with plenty of calories that you can avoid later on.

Basic Rules To Remember:

Write Everything You Eat:
From a simple gum, to a can of juice to a big piece of pie.  Write everything you eat everytime you nibble and don’t forget to bring your diary anywhere you go.

Be Specific:
Include the extra cup of added sauce when you ate steak… or the 4 french fries you ate while watching TV or the pack of popcorn while watching the movie.

Write The Amount To The Detail:
¼ cup of rice or 1 palm size of meat or a tablespoon of sugar to the exact number of chips

Again it’s not difficult…it’s a matter of doing it. The attitude should NOT be… I can’t lose weight because…BUT rather … I need to lose weight…and therefore how can  I lose weight! 

The Food Diary… Practical, Simple and Easy! Try  Doing It!

Read My Other Related Posts:

Posted in General Health Tips, Lifestyle Measures, Weight Loss Tips | 2 Comments »

Body Pains You Should Not Ignore!… The Warning Signs

January 12, 2007

3582617281.jpgWe often wake-up with a headache or bodyache.  We complain of some kind of chest discomfort that we just disregard as nothing but heartburn. But these complaints may mean something else if they occur everyday or becomes severe overtime.  Let me share with you some warning signs that should not be ignored.

Severe Headache

If you developed the so called: ” Worst Headache I Ever Had“… this could be something that needs immediate help. Conditions like a bleeding brain tumor or an aneurysm could cause this warning sign.  Or it may just be a plain migraine or colds. In short…if the headache is severe and persistent… seek medical help! 

“An Elephant Sitting on my Chest!”

Majority of heart ailments will manifest as merely chest discomfort that may radiate to the arm or jaw!  It can even present as abdominal discomfort like an ulcer.  So if you have risk factors for heart disease like diabetes… seek medical help right away!. A heart attack can feel like an elephant sitting on your chest!  The discomfort may have been there for quite sometime, usually occurs when walking or dancing but goes away when sitting down. So if your discomfort comes with activity and goes away when you rest… seek help!

Severe Abdominal Pain

An aneurysm perhaps? or Gallstones or some people describe this as ” excruciating Pain”… the kidney stones.  Or it can also be your appendix about to rupture. 

Pain in Lower Back or Between Shoulder Blades

Two possibilities with this kind of pain: a heart attack or abdominal problems. You may just mistake it for plain and simple arthritis but one danger is the so called aortic dissection, which can present as either a nagging or sudden pain. Those that should be more conscious about this include people who have high blood pressure, those who smoke especially if with diabetes.

So the more informed you are of the warning signs… the better!

The earlier the disease is discovered… the better!

and…the earlier you seek help… the better!

Know Your Body Better!

Read My Other Related Posts:

Posted in General Health Tips, Healthy Practice Tips | 2 Comments »

Are Sleeping Pills Safe? Tips To Induce Sleep…

January 10, 2007

2265466448.jpgAnxiety, stress, too many things to think about, drinking too much coffee are some good reasons why people can’t sleep. Not getting enough sleep puts one at risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes and depression.  And if this happens almost everyday, then almost always one will need to seek medical help.  And the obvious immediate help given is the sleeping pill!  But how safe are the Sleeping Pills?

Below is the list of available sleeping pills noting its duration of action and more specifically the risk of developing dependence which can be disabling in the future.   The ones highlighted are available to us locally.

Drug

   Duration of Effects Side Effects Dependence
Diphenhydramine   4-6 hours (sleepiness may last longer) Daytime sleepiness; confusion and difficulty urinating in older people. Low
Selective GABA Medicines

  • Ambien or Stillnox (zolpidem tartrate)
  • Ambien CR (zolpidem tartrate extended release)
  • Lunesta (eszopiclone)
  • Sonata (zaleplon)
  6-8 hours Usually few. Memory disturbances, hallucinations, behavior changes possible. Med(usually low)
Sleep-Wake cycle Modifiers

  • Rozerem (ramelteon)
  4-6 hours Headache, drowsiness, dizziness. Uncommonly, problems with sex drive. Loss of menses or problems getting pregnant. Low
Benzodiazepines

  • Ativan (lorazepam)
  • Halcion (triazolam)
  • Restoril (temazepam)
  • Valium (diazepam)
  • Xanax or Xanor  (alprazolam)
  Varies (from 4 hours to more than 12) Sedation, loss of muscle coordination, dizziness, habit-forming. Higher
Tricyclic Antidepressants

  • Adapin (doxepin)
  • Aventyl (nortriptyline)
  • Elavil (amitriptyline)
  • Pamelor (nortriptyline)
  • Sinequan (doxepin)
  • Trazodone (desyrel)
. Not well studied Low at usual doses for insomnia. Dizziness, blurry vision, difficulty urinating, cardiac arrhythmias possible. Trazodone can cause prolonged, painful erections. Low

 Remember….all sleep medicines have untoward side effect and the most problematic of all is their potential for causing dependence…mainly psychological dependence, not physical.  So if you have to use these pills, get the one with the low dependence risk.

Before resorting to pills…I outlined some remedies in my previous post: Sleepless Nights?.  But do take time to try some other natural remedies that may help induce you to sleep tightly:

  • Warm milk contains high levels of tryptophan known to be a natural sedative.
  • Aromatherapy especially with massage using jasmine oil, lavender oil, and other relaxing essential oils, may actually help induce one to achieve sleep.
  • Relaxation techniques such as meditation may help.
  • And more importantly, avoid mentally stimulating activities in the evening hours… that is… don’t bring your job to bed!

Weigh the Risk Before Resorting To The Pills!

Read My Other Related Posts:

  1. Does Melatonin Work?
  2. Sleepless Nights? Why and What To Do
  3. Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

Posted in General Health Tips, Healthy Practice Tips, Lifestyle Measures | 9 Comments »

The Risk of Being ANGRY….

January 8, 2007

4030644144.jpgYou woke up early in the morning… ate your breakfast hoping for a nice day at work only to find out that nothing has been done right!  The sudden surge of cathecolamines causes the feeling of heat that eventually results into anger…  Now… hold on… calm down… and take a deep breath!  Because Anger can be bad for your health!

A recent webcast form the American Heart Association Scientific Session showed a study funded by the National Institute of Health that ” acute episodes of anger may cause potentially fatal heart rhythm disturbances.”

This study involved more than 30 medical centers around the United States and patients were asked about their lifestyle habits and medical histories.  These are patients who have implanted defibrillator and were then asked to record anytime they receive a shock and to record circumstances during that episode.

  • 3.2 times more likely for irregular heart rate if pt is moderately angry, as compared to periods of no anger
  • 16.7-fold increased risk of having the arryhthmia if participants were very angry and furious.

In conclusion, the authors have this to say….“Our results suggest that emotions, particularly anger, can trigger dangerous rhythm disturbances.”  And therefore can be fatal!

“Next time you are about to blow up… ask yourself this question … 

Is the Cause of Anger Worth The Risk?

Read My Other Related Post:

Posted in General Health Tips, Lifestyle Measures, Medical News Bits | 8 Comments »

Foods To Eat If You Are A Diabetic

January 5, 2007

23543096601.jpgAs an endocrinologist handling patients with diabetes during these holidays is a challenge.  Keeping them on the right path in terms of eating what is right can be a daunting task.  A simple diet regimen should keep them at bay and prevent them from overworking their pancreas lest they will require insulin as a treatment once their pancreas fails.

This recommendation also holds true to siblings and kids of patients with diabetes and those paitients deemed at risk.  The source of this simple regimen came from the book published by the Cleveland Clinic Foundation – Diabetes: Eating Right.

It is important that once you are diagnosed to be diabetic or prediabetic is to always keep blood sugar as close to normal as possible.  And to do this , it’s important to follow the right meal plan… it should be a well planned and a well-balanced diet.

You will need to keep close track of the carbohydrates you eat since they have the most immediate effect on your blood sugar. Carbohydrates are in these food groups:

  • Fruit
  • Milk and yogurt
  • Bread, cereal, rice, pasta
  • Starchy vegetables

You should eat plenty of fiber since it plays a role in the digestive process, reduces heart disease risk, and can improve blood sugars. Choose from:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Cooked dried beans and peas
  • Whole grain breads, cereals, and crackers
  • Brown rice
  • Bran products

It’s important to eat foods that are low in fat. Good choices are:

  • Lean meats. Bake, broil, grill, roast, or boil – never fry
  • Low-fat dairy. That includes cheese milk, yogurt
  • Low-fat vegetable cooking spray
  • Low-fat margarines and salad dressings

Avoid high-sodium foods, which can cause high blood pressure:

  • Salt
  • Boxed mixes of potatoes, rice, pasta
  • Canned meats
  • Canned soups and vegetables
  • Processed and packaged foods (lunch meat, sausage, bacon ham)
  • Salty snack foods

 Simple… Concise.. And Practical…

Remember, it’s what you put inside your mouth that counts!

Eating Right Can Make A Big Difference!

Read My Other Related Posts:

Posted in General Health Tips, Nutrition Health Tips, The Diabetes Facts | 59 Comments »

Is Advil Safe? Know The Facts!

January 4, 2007

39985664971.jpgOne of the most commonly used and prescribed medications over the counter are the pain relievers.  And one of the most marketed pain relievers is Advil. We take them when we have headache, toothache, joint pains or back aches.  People from all ages and all walks of life cant live without the pain relievers to help us alleviate the symptoms and make us be more active.  But recent controversies came up with the pulling out from the market of the most prescribed OTC med- a brand of Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Agent or NSAIDs jolted the medical community as well as the consumers.  We still continue to have safe OTC pain relievers but before buying or using one I thought of sharing with you some of the common considerations you have to do before using one: 

  • Do not use them for more than 10 days.
  • Know the side effects which include gastric ulcers and allergic reactions.  Recently cardiovascular complications were noted especially if taken daily for a long time.
  • Most NSAIDs are present in other OTC products like colds and the flu medicines.
  • Be careful if you have either a kidney or liver disease.   If you need to take one then use the alternatives to NSAIDs like Tylenol (acetaminophen.)
  • Other non medical alternatives include physical therapy, biofeedback, yoga, meditation, and acupuncture can also reduce their pain. 
  • Most importantly… if you have joint pains and overweight… weight loss is the key!
  • Do not mix these meds with alcohol since once risk for stomach bleeding is increased with just 1 drink per week.
  • All NSAIDs have the potential to raise high blood pressure.  So talk to your doctor if you have high blood pressure.

My advise is simple:OTC pain relievers are safe as long as we take them short term like 2-3 days or occasionally because of headache or toothache.  If you have to take them daily for any reason then take it for 2-3 days then stop for few days before taking them again.

Better Be Safe… Know The Facts! 

Posted in General Health Tips, Lifestyle Measures | 12 Comments »

Start Right After The Holidays: Tips To Prevent Weight Gain

January 2, 2007

3489305539.jpgThese post holiday blues… feeling guilty for having eaten too much and having gained a few more pounds… let me share with you some simple facts and tips from the American Academy of Family Physicians as to why we become overweight and what to do to help us shed those few pounds we’ve gained during the holidays.

  • Reasons Why We Become Overweight:

    • Eating when you’re lonely, sad, bored or stressed.
    • Eating because you feel pressured by friends or family to eat.
    • Using food for recreation, or eating just because food is available.
    • Taking medicine that makes you feel hungry.
    • Having hormone problems that slow your metabolism (how fast your body burns calories).

    Tips For a Healthy Lifestyle:

    • Eat breakfast.
    • Eat your biggest meal of the day at lunchtime.
    • Begin meals with a low-fat salad, soup, broth or a glass of water.
    • Eat more vegetables and whole grains at each meal.
    • Drink fewer sugar-sweetened beverages (such as regular soda and fruit juice).
    • If you drink more than one regular soda per day, replace one of them with a diet soda, water or skim milk.
    • Limit your alcohol intake.
    • Know what 1 portion looks like — and stick to it.
    • Eat slowly so your body has time to know when you are full.
    • Be more active in your daily life.
    • Replace some of the sugar in your diet with non-caloric sweeteners
    • Get support from family and friends. Support is very important for long-term success in adopting healthy habits.

    • Resolve To Do Better This New Year…Health-wise!

    Posted in General Health Tips, Lifestyle Measures, Nutrition Health Tips | 4 Comments »

    A Family Vacation: A Great Way To Bond with Your Kids

    December 31, 2006

    This Christmas vacation, my wife and I decided to bring our kids to South Korea.  To explore what a cold place can offer.  playing-the-snow.JPGWe were there at the time when it was the coldest of the season which reminded me of my time while training in Minnesota.  For me… going out on a family trip is the best way to spend quality time with the kids since you are with them from the time they wake up, take a bath, eat breakfast up the time they sleep. No household help at all and the kids spend the whole day with us.

    South Korea was a delight and a surprising find in terms of excitement and fun.  The kids loved the theme park Everland and the Lotte World Complex. lotte-world.JPG the-snow-buster.JPGBoth offered quality, entertaining and fun games, rides and shows. If you see the smiling faces of the kids and the contentment they express after the visit… then all the hard part of taking care of them is all worth it!  But I was really longing for my weekly massage now that am back home! Whew!

    One does not need to go out of the country to spend quality time with the kids. Explore areas around you where interaction with your kids is the priority from day to night.  Bet you… you will feel the satisfaction even if tired and the fun even if  you feel wasted! 

    Indeed… A Family Vacation is worth it… even if you need another vacation afterwards!

    This New Year….

    Let’s Spend More Time With Our Family!

    Posted in Memories and Trips, Personal Thoughts | 4 Comments »

    How To Prevent Wrinkles….

    December 21, 2006

    2957708148.jpgBeauty is pretty expensive nowadays…it’s a booming business.  Medical tourism in our country is also being promoted as a future come on for consumers with special focus on cosmetic surgery.  While sorting out news reviews, I came accross this Consumer Report article which focused on beauty and anti wrinkle creams and I found it very interesting.  Let me highlight the important facts:

    1. There is no correlation between price and effectiveness in the wrinkle creams they tested.  In fact one of the cheapest — Olay Regenerist — performed slightly better than the more expensive ones.
    2. None of the tested brands produced dramatic results in terms of reducing wrinkles.
    3. Investigators found little relationship between the active ingredients in the products and their overall performance.

    The report further noted that of all the creams tested, “at $57 for the cream, lotion, or serum, Olay Regenerist was the top performing product, followed by Lancome Paris Renergie, at $176, and RoC Retin-Ox+, at $135.”  To think, one of the most expensive creams in the market, La Praire Cellular sold at $335 for a ounce of day cream was one of the worst performing products.  It therefore shows that the price has little to do with effectiveness when it comes to antiaging skin products.

    The study further substantiates the benefit of daily sunscreen which actually did more to prevent new wrinkles than any the more expensive and well marketed face creams on the market.  A very good news to the husbands indeed…..

    Beauty does not need to be expensive after all…

    Apply Your Sunscreens Daily and Avoid Wrinkles!

    Posted in General Health Tips, Medical News Bits, Personal Thoughts | 1 Comment »

    When To Get A Second Opinion

    December 18, 2006

    6803703241.jpgWhether we’re talking about venturing into a new business, or looking for the best school for our kids… we tend to get somebody else opinion.  It is often said: Two heads are better then One!  The same is true for anybody’s health.  Seeking another doctor’s opinion should not be hard at all.  The problems lies when your doctor gets disappointed because you did not trust his diagnosis nor his management.  But the truth is… as true to our professional ethics… we value a second opinion and I encourage it!  If your physician gets angry because you sought somebody else idea then obviously he has something to hide and is unsure of what your problem is and what to do with it.  Then you definitely need another professional help!

    I see a lot of patients coming to see me because they want a second opinion.  So I thought of sharing with you this nice compilation of reasons why you need to seek another opinion …tips fron the Washington University School of Medicine:

    • If your doctor has recommended surgery.
    • If your doctor’s diagnosis or recommendation doesn’t sound credible to you.
    • If your doctor diagnoses you with a condition that’s life-threatening.
    • If your doctor recommends an invasive procedure, when a less complicated procedure maybe available.
    • If you’ve been prescribed long-term medication.
    • If you’re not comfortable with the meds given.
    • If the medication is not making you feel better and
    • If your doctor can’t make a diagnosis.

    Simple tips to help you decide whether or not to seek another doctor’s help or recommendation.  You can always go back to your primary doctor to make the final recommendation.  In fact if a patient seeks a second opinion, and he sees me back…it does not mean he trusts me less but rather now his trust for me gets better!

    For Any Decisions in Life…. 

    It’s Worth To Seek A Second Opinion!

    Posted in General Health Tips, Lifestyle Measures, Personal Thoughts | 3 Comments »

    Tips on Buying Safe Christmas Gifts

    December 15, 2006

    445278888.jpgMy wife and I are now busy distributing our Christmas gifts.  But mind you, it has been since early November that we have started scouting for the right gifts making sure they are right for the age of our godchildren.  It was not easy but it was fun!  But for those who are late shoppers and haven’t started wrapping gifts yet… I found this nice article on what are some of the safe gifts we can give this Christmas.

    When picking up toys though … here are some simple reminders from the University Of Cinicinnati: 

    •  read product warnings and labels on toys;
    • avoid items with sharp edges and points;
    • look for sturdy construction;
    • quickly discard plastic wrappings after the toy is opened; and
    • keep older children’s toys away from younger siblings.

    The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers the following age-appropriate guidelines for toys:

    • Newborns to age one: crib gyms, floor activity centers, activity quilts, squeaky toys, soft dolls or stuffed animals.
    • Ages one to three: soft blocks, large blocks, push and pull toys, books, pounding and shaping toys.
    • Ages three to five: nontoxic art supplies, pretend toys (i.e. play money, telephone), teddy bears or dolls, outdoor toys (i.e. tricycle and helmet).
    • Ages five to nine: arts and crafts kits, puppets, jump ropes, action figures, miniature dolls.
    • Ages nine to 14: handheld electronic games, board games, sports equipment with protective gear, model kits, musical instruments.

    Those vulnerable to injuries from toys are children between the ages three to five years particularly to airway obstruction.  The kids of this age group have a tendency to explore things by putting them inside their mouths.  As a result choking was the cause of more than 90 percent of toy-related deaths in the United States in 2003.  Of these, toy balls and latex balloons were responsible for most of those deaths.  Buying toys for this age group therefore requires much thought to ensure the safety of the kids. 

    Remember, Christmas is a time to Celebrate and Enjoy…

    Have a Safe Merry Christmas To All!

    Posted in General Health Tips, Personal Thoughts | Leave a Comment »

    The Benefit of a Low Carb Diet

    December 13, 2006

    3015962829.jpgThe fight against obesity has been pretty discouraging as no magic pill has been discovered yet that will allow people to eat whatever we like and not gain weight.  It is now known that by losing weight, one reduces the risk of obesity related illnesses like heart disease and diabetes.  The fad of low carb diet has its followers since it can really make one lose weight albeit temporarily….but arguments against low carb diets include its recommendation to increase consumption of high protein sources to include animal products which unfortunately are high in fat.  So Where does Low Carb Diet stand in terms of Health issues?

    One study and so far the first study to answer this question was recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine (November 9 issue), that looked at the relationship between low carb diet and the risk of heart disease.  

    The good news is …There is an association between low-carb diets and low heart disease risk!

    • The low risk is based on a high protein diet from vegetable sources and not animal products. 
    • The types and not the total amount of fat or carbohydrate have an appreciable relationship with risk of CHD.
    • Vegetable fat was associated a lower risk of risk of CHD, whereas higher dietary glycemic load typical of a high-carb diet–was strongly associated with increased heart disease risk.

    The study further noted that… “when vegetable sources of fat and protein were chosen instead of animal sources, the low-carbohydrate-diet was associated with a 30% lower risk of CHD.”

    So… remember… if you embrace the Low Carb Diet….

    The quality of fat and carbohydrate is more important than quantity!

    Posted in General Health Tips, Medical News Bits, Nutrition Health Tips, Weight Loss Tips | 2 Comments »

    Can Diabetes Be Prevented?

    December 11, 2006

    1442957732.jpgOne of the highlights in the recent World Diabetes Congress held in South Africa was the release of a study that highlighted the answer to a question: Can Diabetes Be Prevented?

    The initial findings of the study was released in EASD in Denmark also this year called the DREAM study which provided exciting results that can help us endocrinologists “prevent” the onset of diabetes. The study showed that for patients diagnosed withPrediabetes, starting them on Rosiglitazone ( Avandia) can help significantly delay the onset of the disease compared to placebo by more than 60 %.

    In the IDF sponsored World Congress, the ADOPT study looked at whether there is a difference among diabetic patients started on different oral medications in terms of disease progression. As expected, Rosiglitazone (Avandia) was able to show that compared with a sulfonylurea, it was able to delay the progression of the disease by > 60% and by > 30% compared with a metformin.

    The studies proved …that now, we have a tool, that can significantly help our patients… not only in controlling blood sugar and therefore prevent complications but more so…delay and slow down the progression of their disease. Remember… if we are able to slow down the disease process then we can delay the onset of complications like heart disease and stroke.  And if we delay the disease progression before a patient dies… then we are indeed preventing it!

    I am a believer of this drug, not only because it improves both fasting and post meal blood sugars,  but more so because,  it is the only tool we have that acts directly on the two major causes of why ones blood sugar goes up: the Insulin Resistance state and Beta cell dysfunction. By improving insulin sensitivity using Rosiglitazone, we now have outcome studies that proved… we can indeed delay the disease process.

    Indeed a Good News to all diabetic patients….

    To Delay A Disease is a Tool to Prolong Life!

    Read My Other Related Posts:

    Posted in General Health Tips, The Diabetes Facts | 3 Comments »

    Enjoying Cape Town and The Safari…Malaria Free

    December 10, 2006

    with-nelson-mandela-and-pres-de-klerk.JPGOne of the top three places for me so far is Cape Town of South Africa.  The trip coincided with the 19th World Diabetes Congress held every 2 to3 years. A wonderful place to visit thanks to the former President Nelson Mandela whose biography is worth reading.  If not for his long battle against the apartheid… the freedom gained from his struggles now is bearing fruit for the country.  As a result… the country’s main income now comes from tourism.  And of course… a visit to the Safari is a must in South Africa.

    In this part of the country… Cape Town has her own character and beauty.  It’s truly a paradise in the true sense of the word.  The Table Mountain is the landmark of Cape Town.  at-table-mountain-with-robben-island-at-the-back.JPGYour visit is not complete if you dont reach the top.  Unfortunately for some, the weather in South Africa changes every minute so that fog usually covers the most part of the mountain peak.  We were so fortunate that when we visited the place…the skies were crystal clear and the spectacular view was awesome.

    The Cape Point is also a must see in this part of the world…cape-point.JPGtruly a magnificent view and breathtaking site!  ts the the tip of the African Continent.  On the way to the site the journey was likewise exciting with wonderful views of the harbour and bay along the stretch of the the Southern part of Africa.

    The Safari of course was worth the visit… joust to get the feel of what a safari is all about. with-cheetah.JPG You get a close encounter with the Rhinoceros, the lion, the Spring Backs ( the country’s national animal) and of course our chance to sit beside the Cheetah.  The best part of the trip was the place being malaria free.

    I idolize Nelson Mandela for what he did for South Africa…but after my visit to South Africa… I thank him for his struggles because now people from all over the world can now bear witness to his struggles where whites and blacks mingle and work together but most of all… the opportunity to enjoy the Paradise of South Africa.

    South Africa…One of the Must- See Places To Visit! 

    Posted in Personal Thoughts | 4 Comments »

    Are Your Kids Watching Wrestling on TV?

    December 1, 2006

    Here in Cebu, we will be hosting the ASEAN summit and as a result schools will be closed for the holidays earlier.  So from Dec 8 onwards…it’s the start of a long vacation.  And from Dec 2 to 9, 23785211401.jpgmy wife and I will travel to explore South Africa…so while we’re away…our kids fortunately will be in school during the day but will be with their yayas in the afternoon.  And when these kids stay home…either they’re hooked to the computer or to the TV.  Unsupervised…we may wonder what these kids are up to.  So my son’s activities have been limited to just playing Jump Start series for Grade 1 and 2 and no internet in the computer while his TV time is also limited.  He’s into sports like soccer 3 x a week, swimming and taekwando once a week. 

    2410829857.jpgConcerns arise with the kinds of TV shows and the access to internet that our kids now have.  One such TV show that can have lasting impact on our kids is professional wrestling.  In a recent study published in August issue of Pediatrics , wrestling was shown to encourage aggressive behavior in teens to include violent tendencies and carrying of weapons when they date.  It was further noted that these violent tendencies are more pronounced in girls who watch more wrestling.

    Other findings in the study that is really of concern to me as a parent that I want to share with other parents include:

    The results suggest that violence begets violence:

    • the more these kids are exposed to violence on TV or other media like the internet, the more likelihood that these kids will also engage in violence.

    • 184753018.jpg“women are often degraded and appear as both the victims and instigators of violence. And this has a spillover effect for teens who watch wrestling.”

    • The wrestlers talk in derogatory terms… and kids have the tendency to follow! 

    • The concept the kids understand is that watching violence on TV is acceptable and entertaining.

     So while we’re away either at work or on vacation… we make sure our kids know what their limits are. Likewise we make sure our helpers know what they need to monitor but a disciplined child knows that too…

    Make Sure You Know Well What You’re Kids Are Into Before It’s Too Late!

    Posted in Medical News Bits, Personal Thoughts | 2 Comments »

    How To Boost Your Memory!

    November 30, 2006

    609286469.jpgI am often asked by my patients… is this pill gonna help me boost my memory?  I seem to be getting forgetful these days. Just like questions of aging… we all want the magic pill to help us preserve our youth not only in looks but in thinking as well.

    Here’s a tip: Vegetables , vegetables…vegetables…. that is… if you eat three servings a day, based on a new study published in October issue of Neurology.   Interestingly, the same effect is not found in those who eat lots of fruit.

    “People who consumed two or more vegetables a day had a 35 to 40 percent decrease in the decline in thinking ability over six years. That’s the equivalent of being five years younger in age.” This means…people that eat vegetables will have less problems about forgetting things necessary for daily tasks like remembering phone numbers or names of friends.

    Examples of the green vegetables frequently taken in by subjects in the study included: lettuce and tossed salad, spinach, kale and collards.

    It is said that the antioxidant content of vegetables may be responsible for this protective effect against damage to neurons in the brain that contribute to dementia.   Likewise previous studies have shown that consumption of healthy fats, such as the polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats found in foods such as olive oil, were similarly protective.

    So the next time you eat bread…dip it in olive oil.  If you’re going to have a salad… Dr Morris the lead author recommends: putting the good fats on them, such as an oil-based salad dressing on salads, healthy-fat mayonnaise on cole slaw, and healthy-fat margarine on vegetables.   It is said that these healthy fats help absorb the vitamin E, an antioxidant that may be beneficial to the brain.

    Simple tip for the whole family to follow…

    Eat Your Veggies Now Before You Forget!

    Posted in General Health Tips, Medical News Bits, Nutrition Health Tips | 2 Comments »

    Which Is Better: Wine or Beer?

    November 28, 2006

    1053017253.jpgThe so call French Paradox of wine and health started when an Irish doctor noted that chest pain was far less common in France than in Ireland.  Eventually epidemiological studies have shown that there is a comparatively low rate of heart disease in France despite a diet that includes plenty of butter and cheese.  Opinions by some experts have suggested that the benefit should come from the French passion of drinking red wine.

    It is said that red wine may contain various substances in addition to alcohol that can prevent heart disease. Likewise the diet and lifestyle in France, especially the south, have much in common with other Mediterranean regions, which may account for some of the protection against heart disease.

    But how about Beer? Beer is a common beverage easily available compared to wine.  Does it have any effect at all in protecting the heart?

    A report from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, has shown that beverage choice makes no difference.  

    In this study the drinking habits of more than 38,000 men over a 12-year period were examined. What the researchers found out is that moderate drinkers were 30-35% less likely to have had a heart attack than non-drinkers.  Likewise the reduction was observed among men who drank wine, beer, or spirits, and was similar for those who drank with meals and those who drank outside of meal time.

    But remember…even for health reasons… for now…

    If you dont drink…dont start. 

    Read My Other Related Post:

    Posted in General Health Tips, Medical News Bits, Nutrition Health Tips | 5 Comments »

    The Benefits of Small Frequent Feedings

    November 25, 2006

    142997682.jpgThe moment we wake up… it’s too late to eat breakfast…we then rush to take a bath and drive to work.  We often miss our breakfast.  But you may thought… this should be good… I will only eat 2x in a day and it should be healthy.  I get to see this practiced by my patients often and I have to say this… IT’s wrong and UNHEALTHY!

    Unhealthy in the sense you allowed your metabolic rate to remain very low after an overnight fast such that by the time you eat brunch or lunch… you end up storing all the calories you took in.  You overwork your pancreas if you are a diabetic and you will end up having a defective machine that in the long run will no longer produce insulin and you will end up giving yourself the shots!

    The Harvard Health Review  summarized the studies to prove that small frequent nibbling is indeed better and healthier:

    • a study from Great Britain involving 14,500 individuals showed that the people who ate more frequently had lower cholesterol levels.  such that their cardiac risk was reduced by 10%–20% compared with people who eat once or twice a day. Those that eat more frequently were also leaner than “gorgers,” even though they took in more calories.
    • In France, a 2002 study of 330 men found that those who eat more frequently have less body fat than those who eat less frequently.
    • Finally, a more recent study of 499 Massachusetts residents showed that people who ate four or more times a day were 45% less likely to be obese than those who ate three or fewer times a day.

    What do these studies mean? The Harvard Researchers have this to say….

    “If you don’t have time to cook three healthy meals each day, it can be less daunting to know you have options. But, don’t forget that some things never change: If you snack on the wrong food or pack in too many calories, you’ll lose ground. And if you don’t cover enough ground with your exercise “snacks,” you won’t get the full benefit of physical activity. The whole is still equal to the sum of its parts.”  AMEN!

    No More Reason Not To Be A Healthy Muncher!

    Read My Other Related Posts:

    Posted in General Health Tips, Nutrition Health Tips | 4 Comments »

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