PETER'S PRINCIPLES - Jan 7-11, 2008
Gary from Redford emails,he’s been eating right and exercising but can’t seem to lose weight. What is he doing wrong?
The first question gary, what are you eating? There are some foods out there that you may think are healthy, but they’re actually packed with sugar and fat. First up, granola bars. Many are dipped in sugar or chocolate. Try making your own trail mix with nuts, unsweetened fruit and whole grain cereal. Next-pretzels. This snack is nutritionally empty. Sure they have less fat than chips, but they’re still full of calories and salt! If you can’t resist, try picking up a whole wheat, unsalted brand. Finally-rice cakes! Yep that‘s right-even though they’re low fat, low cholesterol, they have no nutritional value. To boost them up, try adding hummus or sliced veggies on top.
Tim from West Bloomfield emails, he’s been working the overnight shift for years, could it be taking a toll on his health?
Tim, it could be. Experts say the graveyard shift may increase your risk of cancer. In fact next month the international agency for research on cancer-which is part of the world cancer agency, will classify shift work as a “probable” carcinogen. Scientists suggest the shift work is dangerous because it disrupts the circadian rhythm-the body’s clock. Also people working in artificial light may have lower melatonin levels, which can raise their chances of developing cancer. Some people have no choice but to work overnights or a swing shift.
Patrick from Clarkston emails, he was told he has high levels of testosterone, is this bad.
Actually Patrick in some cases it could be good. Researchers studied more than 11 thousand men who had no cancer or cardiovascular disease. They found those men in the upper 25 percent of natural testosterone had a 41 percent lower risk of dying from heart attack, stroke, other cardiovascular conditions and cancer. Researchers actually believe low testosterone levels could increase a man’s risk of cardiovascular death, but experts warn, men should not begin testosterone supplementation based on this study since the benefits and risks of hormone therapy for men are unknown.
Betty from Royal Oak emails, her baby was over nine pounds when he was born, is he too plump?
Betty having a bigger baby could mean your child will be a happier adult. Researchers studied almost 5 thousand babies over 40 years. They found low birth weight babies were more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety later in life. Researchers also found, the bigger the baby, the likelikhood of depression and anxiety decreased. Other studies have linked low birth weight to a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease later in life. Experts stress-proper nutrition for pregnant women is crucial.
Karen from Berkely emails, she has breast cancer. What can she do to help fight the disease?
Karen, keep your weight in control. Researchers studied more than 4 thousand women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. They found for every 11 pounds a woman gains after being diagnosed with breast cancer, the chances of it being fatal go up 14 percent!! Previous research found women who exercised after being diagnosed with breast cancer cut their chance of dying by as much as one half! It’s critical for women fighting any disease to exercise and eat right.
