Early humans were probably jacks of all trades when it came to food—they ate what was available, and the amount of carbohydrates, proteins and fats in their diet varied dramatically depending on where they lived. Except for honey, there were likely no sweeteners to “spice” up their meals. That all changed 200 years ago when … Continue reading Sugars, Fructose and Your Health
Metabolism
A Healthy Diet: A Prescription for a Healthy Life!
We have all heard the phrase “You are what you eat.” Not only is there a lot of truth in that little saying, it is also a great reminder for us to be aware of everything we put into our bodies. Everything we eat and drink has an effect on our being and our physical … Continue reading A Healthy Diet: A Prescription for a Healthy Life!
What Alcohol Can Do to Your Body Is Not Always So ‘Cheer’y
“Cheers!” is a word often associated with alcohol consumption, conjuring up images of celebration and good times. However, it is important to remember that alcohol is a drug as much as any other drug, prescription or otherwise. In fact, alcohol is the most widely abused drug in the U.S. Alcohol misuse affects every organ in … Continue reading What Alcohol Can Do to Your Body Is Not Always So ‘Cheer’y
When’s the Best Time to Eat? Your Body Clock Knows
The American Heart Association recently released a statement suggesting that when and how often you eat could affect your risk for developing heart disease and stroke. Until now, the focus on diet has been primarily about how much and what you eat. This news—that the time of day you eat may also be important—could change … Continue reading When’s the Best Time to Eat? Your Body Clock Knows
It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Your Thyroid Gland!
The thyroid gland—a small, butterfly-shaped gland found at the base of the neck—is the “Clark Kent” of endocrine organs. The thyroid’s actions are extremely powerful, but most people don’t know about its secret superpowers. An endocrine organ releases substances called hormones into the bloodstream. These hormones are carried to other areas of the body where … Continue reading It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Your Thyroid Gland!
Are You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?
During American Diabetes Month in November, you may notice more people are talking about diabetes, a disease that affects 29 million Americans. It’s a great time to learn more about diabetes and the ways that you can decrease or manage your risk of developing the disease. Diabetes mellitus is a problem with how your body … Continue reading Are You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?
Depression + Pregnancy = Diabetes?
Morning sickness, swollen ankles and a growing belly are just a few of the many physiological changes that women experience during pregnancy. The changes we can see are just the tip of the iceberg. Blood volume, bones, heart rate, skin and many other parts of a woman’s body function differently during pregnancy. Pregnancy-related changes can … Continue reading Depression + Pregnancy = Diabetes?
Shhh … I’m Hibernating!
As the days grow shorter, many animals, such as bats, bears and bees, begin getting ready to hibernate. It’s a process that allows animals to spend the winter months conserving energy by reducing metabolism, oxygen consumption and body temperature. So why don’t humans do it, too? Well, a new study suggests that some humans—specifically those … Continue reading Shhh … I’m Hibernating!