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June 30, 2009

Is Botox Just the Beginning?

Marijuana is often labeled as a "gateway" drug.  It is considered a starter drug, that once a tolerance is achieved, many move on to more "serious" drugs.  Botox has been considered the same with regard to the plastic surgery genre.  Botox has become more commonplace, both for it's seeming benefits and it's considered low price. Despite the fact that it is the most toxic protein known, it is used world over in minute quantities to treat muscle spasms. Administered properly, it prevents a muscle from contracting for three to four months at a time, which makes it appealing for those with facial lines and such.  But, what happens when the effects of Botox don't' seem enough anymore?  Many are moving from Botox, to Restalyne, to full-on face lifts.  As I've said before, I am for whatever makes you feel good about yourself, because YOU have to look at yourself in the mirror each day and one's perception of them self is reflected in all aspects of their life.  However, there is something to be said for living a healthy life, and growing old gracefully. 

By Cindy Burreson

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:56 AM |

June 03, 2009

Female Athletes Could be at Increased Health Risks

By Cindy Burreson 

Female athletes such as ballerinas or track participants could be at risk for several health problems such as low bone density and abnormal vascular function according to a new study.  Because these athletes are exerting more energy, but not necessarily eating enough calories to support it or overstressing their bodies, they can develop eating disorders, dehydration, and the cessation of menstruation and other conditions which can lead to additional medical problems.  In the study I read, done on a group of young ballerinas, thirty-six percent of the group had disordered eating habits and 77 percent were in a calorie deficit. Twenty-seven percent were currently amenorrheic, 23 percent had low bone mass density and nine percent were taking birth control.  Arterial ultrasound measurements revealed that 64 percent had abnormal artery dilation in response to blood flow.  It is a catch-22 that being athletic is seemingly healthy, but sometimes the things one does to their body to achieve overall success in athleticism is counterproductive.  As a parent, if your children are involved in sports, encourage them to have healthy diets and exercise programs. 

Source: 

Medical College of Wisconsin. "Ballerinas And Female Athletes Share Quadruple Health Threats." ScienceDaily 31 May 2009. 3 June 2009 <http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2009/05/090530094456.htm>.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 06:33 AM |

June 02, 2009

Are You Waiting For The “Health Pill”?

by Derek Burreson

A study of middle-aged and older Americans who eat right, exercise and keep their weight down has declined substantially in the past two decades. Only 26 percent of Americans ages 40 to 74 said they ate five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day -- down from 42 percent in 1988. When it came to exercise, 43 percent said they worked out at least 12 times per month, versus 53 percent in 1988.
If you fall into this category, what are you waiting for?
Our health is of the greatest importance, but we must make an effort to take responsibility to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Modern medicine has made incredible advances in treating sickness and disease, but our goal should be to do all we can to prevent or prolong it in the first place.  Take an honest look at your health habits today then think about how that may affect you five, ten and even twenty years from now. How does your future look? If you’re not happy with the road you’re on, change it. Make small steps toward a healthier future and give yourself at least ninety days to let your new habits become part of your life style.
The prescription for health lies within you, don’t wait around for a health pill.

Source:
Fewer Americans Following A Healthy Lifestyle
http://health.yahoo.com/news/reuters/us_fewer_lifestyle.html

Posted by Derek Burreson at 10:51 AM |