Posts by Dr. Youdeem
Back Pain Risk Factors in Kids
Interviews with 401 fifth grade students revealed that 182 experienced back pain within the previous three months. Further analysis show that the following are risk factors among students in this age group for developing back pain: watching television more than six hours a day; lifting heavy objects with poor posture; using a non-standard, two strap…
Read MoreExercise Can Help Schoolchildren Perform Better in School
A recent study found that children who exercised regularly for six months experienced improved academic performance, especially their verbal ability. Lead researcher Dr. Francisco Ortega adds, “If your children do not perform well academically, do not punish them … or withdraw them from an after-school sports activity, do just the opposite.” JAMA Network Open, August…
Read MorePeanuts May Aid Weight Loss
Compared with participants on a low-fat diet, those who consumed a reduced-calorie diet that included 35 grams of peanuts eaten before two meals each day experienced greater improvements in blood pressure, weight loss, and fasting glucose levels. The researchers note that peanuts have a high satiety value, which may have helped participants feel fuller for…
Read MoreAir Pollution’s Effect on Blood Protein
In a recent experiment, researchers observed that exposure to diesel exhaust stimulated adverse changes in the concentration of 90 proteins in blood plasma that are associated with inflammation, cellular repair, clotting, heart disease, and immune function. European Respiratory Society, September 2022
Read MoreHow to Floss Properly
The American Dental Association offers the following instructions on how to floss: use a piece of floss about 18 inches long; wrapped at each end around a finger; hold the floss taut between your fingers; gently and slowly slide the floss between each tooth; carefully shape the floss into a C at the gum line,…
Read MoreLifestyle Factors for Preserving Cognitive Function
The current research supports the following lifestyle behaviors for preserving cognitive function as one ages: don’t smoke, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, and get regular exercise. Applied Neuropsychology, Adult, November 2022
Read MorePosterior Shoulder Instability Management
Posterior shoulder instability is a shoulder injury that’s more common among young men who engaged in high-contact sports. A comprehensive review concluded that in most cases, patients with posterior shoulder instability should utilize non-surgical care options for at least six months before considering a surgical procedure. The review notes that care should concentrate on proprioceptive…
Read MoreUrban COPD Patients May Be at Fitness Disadvantage
A study that included 404 patients with mildto-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) identified an association between living in a more densely populated areas and fewer steps taken per day, more time spent engaged in sedentary activities, and less exercise capacity—all of which may lead to worse outcomes for COPD patients. Environmental Research, November 2022
Read MoreUltra-Processed Food Linked to Colorectal Cancer in Men
According to an analysis of data on over 200,000 adults, a high intake of pre-cooked and instant meals—particularly processed meat products—is associated with an elevated risk for colorectal cancer in men, but not women. BMJ, August 2022
Read MoreFine Particulate Air Pollution Linked to Gestational Diabetes
Fine particulate matter is a mixture of dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets in the air, most commonly from gasoline combustion and the burning of wood and coal. A recent study found that increased exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution during the second trimester of pregnancy is associated with higher blood glucose levels…
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