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  • Skin-To-Skin Cuddling Improves Neurodevelopment, Says Study

    Skin-To-Skin Cuddling Improves Neurodevelopment, Says Study

    Looking after preemies demands specialized knowledge and nuanced care. But what if they just need warm cuddles to boost their cognitive skills? A study revealed that even small increases in the amount of skin-to-skin time with them could make a measurable difference in their neurologic development in the first year.

    The skin-to-skin time with parents, often called kangaroo care, is a simple intervention where a newborn, dressed only in a diaper, is held close to the chest. Kangaroo care has been a prevalent technique for improving newborn survival rates in low-income countries, benefiting not only preterm infants but also healthy full-term newborns. The caring technique helps them keep warm, improves parent-child bonding, and helps initiate breastfeeding.

    The new study suggests kangaroo care as an effective technique for improving cognitive skills in babies, particularly those born prematurely, who are at risk for long-term neurodevelopmental problems, including developmental delays and learning disabilities.

    “It is interesting and exciting that it doesn’t take much to really improve babies’ outcomes. It didn’t matter if the baby was from a high- or low-income family; the effects we found were the same. And it didn’t matter if the baby was sicker or less sick — both responded to this treatment,” Katherine Travis, the study’s senior author, said in a news release.

    For the study, the researchers looked at the medical records of 181 premature infants, those born at least eight weeks early at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, California, between May 1, 2018, and June 15, 2022. The amount of skin-to-skin care given to babies was estimated from patients’ medical charts kept at the hospital.

    All the infants were free from genetic or congenital conditions known to affect their neurodevelopment. They were born on average, at around 28 weeks gestation, or roughly 12 weeks before their expected due dates, and spent an average of about two and a half months in the hospital.

    During the follow-up evaluations at six months and 12 months, the infants were assessed for their visual-motor problem-solving skills and expressive and receptive language skills using simple tests such as dropping a cube into a cup or testing to see if they turn to where the sound of a bell comes from.

    The results showed that even small increases in skin-to-skin care made a large difference in their neurodevelopmental scores at 12 months, with an average of 20 minutes more of kangaroo care tied to a 10-point increase in the neurodevelopment score.

    The link between increased frequency and duration of skin-to-skin contact and cognitive scores existed even after controlling for possible confounding factors, such as their gestational age, medical complications, frequency of getting admitted to NICU, and the family’s socioeconomic status.

    “We think of the womb as our benchmark for preterm babies. In utero, a fetus is physically contained, listening to the maternal heartbeat, hearing mom’s voice, and probably hearing her digest her sandwich. In the NICU, they’re not next to anybody, and they hear the fan in the incubator; it’s a very different environment. Skin-to-skin care is probably the closest we can get to mimicking the womb,” study co-author Dr. Melissa Scala explained.

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  • A 12-Minute Meditation for Nurturing Your Heart

    A 12-Minute Meditation for Nurturing Your Heart

    About the author

    Jonathan Fisher

    Dr. Jonathan Fisher is a cardiologist who focuses on healing the heart in the broadest sense, encompassing both the physical and emotional aspects of cardiac care. Educated at Harvard and Mt. Sinai, he is a mindfulness meditation teacher and organizational well-being leader. Reflecting on his journey, he shares, “I took care of 20,000 other hearts before taking care of my own.” His experience with anxiety and burnout has transformed his approach to health. Dr. Fisher has designed programs for an organization with 38,000 team members, reducing stress and enhancing well-being. He has delivered keynotes, workshops, and retreats for organizations globally across various industries. His efforts in addressing burnout in healthcare have garnered international attention, including co-founding the Ending Clinician Burnout Global Community and organizing the world’s first global summit dedicated to ending clinician burnout, with over a thousand participants from 43 countries. Named on Charlotte Magazine’s “Best Doctors” list, he is a regular contributor to Mindful.org. He resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife, three children, and two doodles. His mission is to help others ‘train the mind and heal the heart.’ His best-selling first book, Just One Heart: A Cardiologist’s Guide to Healing, Health, and Happiness, is about harnessing the power of the mind-heart connection.



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  • Flex Your Way to Fitness: The Importance of Stretching Before and After Workouts

    Flex Your Way to Fitness: The Importance of Stretching Before and After Workouts

    The Power of Flexibility: Why Stretching Before and After Workouts is Crucial for Optimal Fitness

    When it comes to achieving optimal fitness, many of us focus on the intensity and duration of our workouts, neglecting a crucial aspect that can make all the difference: flexibility. Stretching before and after workouts is an often-overlooked yet vital component of a well-rounded fitness routine. In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of flexibility, the benefits of stretching, and provide tips on how to incorporate it into your daily routine.

    Why Flexibility Matters

    Flexibility refers to the range of motion of a joint or a group of joints. It’s the ability to move your body freely and comfortably, without restriction or stiffness. Flexibility is not just important for athletes or individuals who engage in high-intensity activities; it’s essential for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Here are a few reasons why flexibility matters:

    • Injury Prevention: Tight muscles and joints are more prone to injury. By increasing flexibility, you reduce the risk of strains, pulls, and tears. When your muscles and joints are flexible, they’re better equipped to absorb shock and stress, reducing the likelihood of injury.

    • Improved Performance: Flexibility enhances athletic performance by allowing for more efficient movement patterns. When your muscles and joints are flexible, you can generate more power, speed, and agility.

    • Reduced Muscle Soreness: Stretching after a workout can help reduce muscle soreness, also known as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). This is especially important for individuals who engage in high-intensity or unfamiliar exercises.

    The Benefits of Stretching

    Stretching has numerous benefits that can improve overall fitness and well-being. Here are a few of the most significant advantages:

    • Reduces Muscle Tension: Stretching helps to relax tense muscles, reducing muscle fatigue and improving overall muscle function.

    • Improves Circulation: Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

    • Enhances Range of Motion: Stretching increases flexibility, allowing for greater range of motion and improved mobility.

    • Reduces Stress: Stretching can help to reduce stress and anxiety by releasing tension in the muscles and promoting relaxation.

    Stretching Before Workouts

    Stretching before a workout is crucial for several reasons:

    • Prevents Injury: Stretching before a workout can help to prevent injuries by increasing flexibility and reducing muscle tension.

    • Improves Performance: Stretching before a workout can improve performance by increasing power, speed, and agility.

    • Reduces Muscle Soreness: Stretching before a workout can help to reduce muscle soreness by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle tension.

    Stretching After Workouts

    Stretching after a workout is just as important as stretching before:

    • Reduces Muscle Soreness: Stretching after a workout can help to reduce muscle soreness by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle tension.

    • Promotes Recovery: Stretching after a workout can help to promote recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

    • Improves Flexibility: Stretching after a workout can help to improve flexibility by increasing range of motion and reducing muscle stiffness.

    Tips for Incorporating Stretching into Your Routine

    Incorporating stretching into your daily routine can be easy and convenient. Here are a few tips to get you started:

    • Make it a Habit: Make stretching a habit by incorporating it into your daily routine, such as right after waking up or before bed.

    • Start Slow: Start with gentle stretches and gradually increase intensity and duration as you become more comfortable.

    • Focus on Major Muscle Groups: Focus on stretching major muscle groups, such as hamstrings, quadriceps, chest, back, and shoulders.

    • Hold Stretches for 15-30 Seconds: Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds to allow for maximum relaxation and flexibility.

    • Breathe Naturally: Breathe naturally while stretching, avoiding holding your breath.

    Conclusion

    Incorporating stretching into your fitness routine is crucial for optimal flexibility, performance, and overall well-being. By stretching before and after workouts, you can reduce the risk of injury, improve performance, and promote recovery. Remember to make stretching a habit, start slow, focus on major muscle groups, hold stretches for 15-30 seconds, and breathe naturally. With consistent practice, you’ll be flexing your way to fitness in no time!

    FAQs

    Q: How often should I stretch?
    A: Aim to stretch at least 2-3 times per week, with a minimum of 10-15 minutes per session.

    Q: What are some common stretching mistakes?
    A: Common stretching mistakes include bouncing or jerking while stretching, holding stretches for too long, and neglecting to stretch major muscle groups.

    Q: Can I stretch with weights or resistance bands?
    A: Yes, you can stretch with weights or resistance bands to increase the intensity and challenge of your stretches.

    Q: How long does it take to see results from stretching?
    A: With consistent practice, you can start to see results from stretching within 2-4 weeks, including increased flexibility and reduced muscle soreness.

    Q: Can I stretch if I have a pre-existing injury or condition?
    A: Consult with a healthcare professional or fitness expert before starting a stretching routine, especially if you have a pre-existing injury or condition. They can help you modify your stretches to accommodate your specific needs.

    flex-your-way-to-fitness-the-importance-of-stretching-before-and-after-workouts

  • How Does My Credit Score Affect My Debt?

    How Does My Credit Score Affect My Debt?



    Discover How Your Credit Score Affects Your Debt Obligations

    Many people across the United States are dealing with some form of debt. In fact, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the overall household debt in the U.S. reached a total of $17.3 trillion! If you are struggling with debt, it’s easy to feel discouraged about your situation and you may be unsure of what steps you should take to move forward.

    Of course, there are different methods available that can help alleviate your debt obligations. But first, it is important to understand the different factors that led to your predicament in order to find a viable solution. For example, unpredictable things like emergency expenses and inflation are difficult to control and avoid. However, bad spending habits can lead you to struggle with excess debt if you don’t put in the work to change them. By working with effective financial strategies like a budget plan, it becomes easier to bypass your circumstances and learn how to manage your finances!

    It’s important to note, though, that your credit score does not exist in a vacuum, and having a low credit score can impact many aspects of your life. If you’re asking, “How does my credit score affect my debt?” you can continue reading to learn the correlation between your debt obligations and your credit history:

    Low Credit Scores May Keep You in Debt

    A low credit score can have many consequences that will affect your finances in the long run. Not only can it disrupt your chances of securing a debt consolidation loan, but it can also limit your renting options and employment opportunities. Auto and homeowners insurance companies use your credit score to determine your insurance premiums and may increase your rates if you have a bad credit score. 

    Let’s say you’re able to secure the loan you need to reduce your debt, but your credit score is low. In that case, it’s possible that you’d obtain a high interest rate that makes it 10x more expensive to borrow money. If you mix those monthly loan payments with your current expenses, it can be difficult to escape that debt cycle. 

    If you’re trying to alleviate your debt, then a bad credit score has the potential to keep you trapped in debt. Fortunately, secured loans like title loans tend to be easier to obtain despite your current credit history. Simply use an asset as collateral for the loan and get the funds you need for your financial situation. In some cases, you may qualify for competitive interest rates compared to those from a regular debt consolidation loan. 

    Opening Too Many Credit Cards Can Impact Your Score and Tempt You 

    If you’re dealing with debt, you may think a credit card is the best solution to cover your payments. However, if you open multiple accounts in a short amount of time, your credit score can take a nosedive. Additionally, lenders will view you as a lending risk and may not approve you for the loan you need to consolidate your debt! 

    That’s why it’s essential to thoroughly review your situation and determine if having more than one credit card is necessary. While it seems like a safe solution to reduce your debt with a credit card, it’s best to limit your impulses and find other ways to cover your payments. You may have a harder time dealing with your current debt if you add more to it with new credit cards.  

    How Can I Keep My Credit Score in Good Standing?

    As mentioned above, your credit score can affect your ability to get out of debt in several ways. However, it’s possible to put your finances back on track by raising your credit score and obtaining more optimal interest rates on a debt consolidation loan if you qualify. 

    Take a look at some methods you can use to boost your credit score into a higher range:

    • Pay Your Bills and Expenses on Time
    • Keep Your Credit Utilization Rate as Low as Possible
    • Limit Credit Applications
    • Get Credit for Being Consistent with Your Monthly Bills
    • Ask Your Landlord to Report Your Rent Payments to the Credit Bureaus

    It’s important to note that improving your credit score isn’t necessarily a quick solution. The amount of time it takes to grow your credit will vary depending on the factors that kept it in a low standing. If you have poor credit because you don’t have a big credit history, it may only take a few months to enhance your score. But, if your credit is low because of missed payments, it can take longer to get your credit in a good position.

    Other Factors that Impact Your Credit Score

    Did you know that the length of your credit history makes up around 15% of how your FICO score is calculated? While it sounds minimal, it can significantly impact your credit score, which can consequently affect your debt. However, the influences of a credit history’s length can be both positive and negative. For example, having an open line of credit for an extended period can boost your score and increase your chances of getting approved for a new credit card. A bank or credit union may feel hesitant to approve you for a credit card if you have a low credit history because they can’t determine if you’re a responsible borrower.

    On the other hand, closing a credit card account can decrease your score because it changes the length of your credit history and consequently increases your credit utilization. It’s understandable to want to close an account when you’re struggling with debt and want to reduce the amount you owe. However, the consequences of closing an account can lower your credit and ultimately disrupt your chances of getting a debt consolidation loan. To avoid this issue, it is important to not close old accounts unless it’s absolutely necessary. If you have to close an account, ensure you repay all your outstanding balances so you don’t have to deal with them later. It’s best to clear your remaining amount before closing an account since that will boost your credit score. 

    Conclusion –  Be Mindful of Your Credit Score When Repaying Your Debt

    Your credit score can significantly hinder your ability to get out of debt. If you’re maintaining a higher score, you can have the opportunity to apply for a debt consolidation loan and get your finances back on track. However, you may have to find other solutions like a secured loan to consolidate your debt if you have poor credit.

    Stay on top of your credit and learn how to effectively manage your debt in order to avoid the issues that come with having a bad credit score. If you want to find tips on maintaining your credit score, you can always contact a financial advisor for guidance on what to do in your situation.

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  • When Cancer Spreads | NIH News in Health

    When Cancer Spreads | NIH News in Health

    August 2024

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    Improving Treatments for Metastasis

    A cancer diagnosis can be scary. Some cancers can be cured if caught early. Treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can destroy many early-stage cancers. But cancer can be difficult to treat when caught later on, after it spreads.

    Cancer cells are sneaky and stubborn. They are hard to stop from growing and spreading. Cancer cells can also break away from their original location and settle in other parts of the body.

    When this happens, it’s called metastatic cancer, or metastasis. This is sometimes called stage 4 or stage IV cancer. When cancer migrates to other organs, it can disrupt their function and cause life-threatening problems.

    Metastatic cancer is serious and hard to treat. In fact, most cancer-related deaths (about 90%) are caused by metastatic cancer and not the original tumor, called the primary tumor.

    Researchers have been working to better understand how metastasis occurs so they can find new ways to prevent or treat it. Thanks to medical advances, some people can live for many years with metastatic cancer when it is well-controlled.

    Adapting to New Locations

    Cancer cells can spread to almost any part of the body. The liver, lung, and bones are the most common places. Different types of cancer tend to spread to certain locations. For instance, pancreatic and colon cancer commonly spread to the liver. Breast cancer and a type of skin cancer called melanoma can spread to the brain.

    Metastatic cancer is considered to be the same type of cancer as the original tumor, even though it has moved to a new place.

    “It can sometimes be confusing. Breast cancer that spreads to bone is still considered to be breast cancer and not bone cancer,” says Dr. Rosandra Kaplan, a physician and cancer researcher at NIH. “So a patient with cancer may have bone pain or feel a lump somewhere else. But it doesn’t mean there’s a new primary cancer. It’s most often the original cancer. But it has figured out how to escape and grow in a new place.”

    Researchers have been scrutinizing how cancer cells do this. Once cells break away from the original tumor, they can squeeze into blood vessels and travel to other sites. At this point, escaping cells are usually destroyed by the body’s The system that protects your body from invading viruses, bacteria, and other microscopic threats.
    immune system    .

    But sometimes our own body helps hide or protect the tumor cells. If any cells survive, they can take root in a new location. The cells can form a growing clump that prompts new blood vessels to grow. This blood supply then helps the metastatic tumor to thrive.

    Cancer cells have to undergo many changes to survive in a new part of the body. They keep some features of the original tumor cells.

    “But we are learning that as cancers become metastatic, they become very different from the primary tumors they started off as,” explains Dr. Karuna Ganesh, a physician scientist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. “Once these cancers spread, they become really hard to treat.”

    The treatments used to shrink the original tumor become much less effective in the cancer that spreads. Ganesh and colleagues have been studying the complex changes that occur when cancer cells adapt to new environments. They’ve found that the invading tumor cells can easily turn different genes off and on. This helps them adapt to new places and resist treatment.

    “We’ve found that there’s a crosstalk between the tumor cells and the surrounding cells. The cancer cells can reprogram the surrounding cells to support them,” Ganesh says. “By understanding this crosstalk, we can manipulate those interactions to better control the cancer cells.”

    Revving Up Defenses

    In recent decades, scientists have uncovered new ways to use the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. This is called immunotherapy. One type, called immune checkpoint inhibitors, is now widely used. It can extend the lives of many patients with metastatic cancer.

    “Tumor cells are good at hiding from the immune system. They do this by displaying proteins that send the signal: ‘Do not attack me,’” explains Dr. Christine Nadeau, an NIH expert on metastasis. “Immune checkpoint inhibitor drugs block those protein signals.” This “unmasks” the cancer cells so immune cells can destroy them.

    Immune checkpoint inhibitors can treat patients who have metastatic melanoma and some types of kidney, lung, head, and neck cancers. Although these drugs can be effective, they don’t work for everyone. And they can have harsh side effects. Researchers are developing artificial intelligence tools to help doctors identify who will most likely benefit from these drugs. That way, patients who won’t be helped can receive different treatments.

    Another type of immunotherapy is called cell-based therapy. It essentially uses a person’s own immune cells as drugs. “Cell therapies involve removing some of the patient’s immune cells and then altering them so they can work even better against their cancer,” Kaplan says. The enhanced immune cells can be grown in large batches and injected back into the patient’s bloodstream.

    One type of cell therapy, called CAR T-cell therapy, has been used for years to treat some blood cancers, like leukemia. In early 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first cell-based therapy for treating a solid tumor. It’s used to treat metastatic melanoma. Recent clinical trials at NIH have used other types of cell therapy to treat people who have metastatic cancer of the colon or breast.

    “Cell therapy may become a real game-changer for many patients with metastatic cancer,” Kaplan says. She is now leading a first-in-human clinical trial to see if another type of immune cell therapy, called GEMys, can keep cancer from spreading.

    Coping With Metastatic Cancer

    “A diagnosis of metastatic cancer can be overwhelming,” Nadeau says. “But treatment options continue to improve. There are reasons to be hopeful.”

    The goal of treating metastatic cancer is usually to stop or control its growth to extend the person’s lifespan. Other treatments are designed to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. This type of treatment is called palliative care. It can be given at any point during cancer treatment. Learn more about palliative care.

    “Joining advocacy or support groups for your particular cancer can also help,” Nadeau adds. “These groups include people who have been through similar treatments. They understand the challenges.”

    Learn more about coping with cancer.

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  • Eating to Lower Lp(a) 

    Eating to Lower Lp(a) 

    What should we eat—and not eat—to lower the cardiovascular disease risk factor lipoprotein(a)?

    Lipoprotein A, also known as Lp(a), is an independent, genetic, and causal factor for cardiovascular disease and heart attacks. At any level of LDL cholesterol, our risk of heart attack and stroke is two- to three-fold higher when our Lp(a) is elevated. With a high enough Lp(a) level, atherosclerosis continues to progress even if we get our LDL cholesterol way down, which may help explain why so many people continue to have heart attacks and strokes even under treatment for high cholesterol. It’s been suggested that “it would be worthwhile to check Lp(a) levels in a patient who has suffered an event but has no traditional risk factors to explain it.” What’s the point of checking it, though, if there isn’t much we can do about it? “To date, no drug to reduce circulating Lp(a) levels has been approved for clinical use.”

    Some researchers blame our lack of knowledge on the fact that Lp(a) is not found in typical lab animals, like rats and mice. It’s only found in two places in nature: primates and hedgehogs. Hedgehogs? How strange is that? No wonder Lp(a) is “an enigmatic protein that has mystified medical scientists ever since” it was first discovered more than half a century ago. But who needs mice when you have men? The level in our bloodstream is “primarily determined” by genetics. For the longest time, Lp(a) was not thought to be significantly influenced by factors such as diet. Given its similarity to LDL, though, one might assume lifestyle changes, “such as increased physical activity or the adoption of a healthy diet,” would help. “However, the effects of these interventions on Lp(a) concentrations are so far either only marginal or lacking in evidence,” but might that be because they have not tried a plant-based diet yet?

    As I discuss in my video How to Lower Lp(a) with Diet, when it comes to raising LDL cholesterol, we’ve known for years that the trans fats found in meat and dairy are just as bad as the industrially produced trans fats found in partially hydrogenated oil and junk food. But, when it comes to Lp(a), as you can see below and at 2:05 in my video, trans fats from meat and dairy appear to be even worse. 

    Just cutting out meat and following a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet did not appear to help, but, as you can see below and at 2:19 in my video, when study participants were put on a whole food, plant-based diet packed with a dozen servings of fruits and vegetables a day, their Lp(a) levels dropped by 16 percent within four weeks. 

    Of course, in those 30 days, the study subjects also lost about 15 pounds, as you can see below and at 2:28, but weight loss does not appear to affect Lp(a) levels, so you figure that it must have been due to the diet. 

    If you’re already eating a healthy plant-based diet and your Lp(a) levels are still too high, are there any particular foods that can help? As with cholesterol, even if the average total cholesterol of those eating strictly plant-based may be right on target at less than 150, with an LDL under 70, there’s a bell curve with plus or minus 30 points that fall on either side, as you can see below and at 2:45 in my video. 

    Enter the “Portfolio Diet,” which is not only plant-based, but also adds specific cholesterol-lowing foods—so, think nuts, beans, oatmeal, and berries to drag cholesterol down even further. The infographic is below and at 3:11 in my video.  

    What about Lp(a)? Nuts have been put to the test. Two and a half ounces of almonds every day dropped levels, but only by about 8 percent. That is better than another nut study, though, that found no effect at all, as you can see below and at 3:29 in my video. An additional study found “no significant changes,” and researchers reported that subjects in their study “did not experience a change in Lp(a).” Ah, nuts.  

    There is one plant that appears to drop Lp(a) levels by 20 percent, which is enough to take people exceeding the U.S. cut-off down to a more optimum level. And that plant is a fruit: Emblica officinalis, otherwise known as amla or Indian gooseberry. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study asked smokers before and after the trial about their “mouth hygiene, cough with expectoration, shortness of breath on exertion, loss of appetite, feelings of impending doom, palpitation, sleep deprivation, irritability, heartburn and tiredness,” as well as such objective measurements as their blood count, cholesterol, DNA damage, antioxidant status, and lung function. The amla extract used “showed a significant improvement compared to the placebo group in all the subjective and objective parameters tested with no reports of adverse events.” No side effects at all. That’s unbelievable! No, that’s unbelievable. And indeed, it’s completely not true.  

    Yes, subjective complaints got better in the amla group, but they got better in the placebo group, too, with arbitrary scoring systems and no statistical analysis whatsoever. And, of the two dozen objective measures, only half could be said to reach any kind of before-and-after statistical significance and only three were significant enough to account for the fact that if you measure two dozen things, a few might pop up as positive if only by chance. Any time you see this kind of spin in the abstract, which is sometimes the only part of a study people read, you should suspect some kind of conflict of interest. However, no conflicts of interest were declared by the researchers, but that’s bullsh*t, as the study was funded by the very company selling those amla supplements! Sigh.

    Anyway, one of those three significant findings was the Lp(a), so it might be worth a try in the context of a plant-based diet, which, in addition to helping with weight loss, can dramatically improve blood pressure (even after cutting down on blood pressure medications) and contribute to a 25-point drop in LDL cholesterol. Also, it may contribute to a 30 percent drop in C-reactive protein and significant reductions in other inflammatory markers for “a systemic, cardio-protective effect”—all thanks to this single dietary approach.

    You may be interested in my video on Trans Fat in Meat and Dairy. Did you know that animal products are exempted from the ban? See Banning Trans Fat in Processed Foods but Not Animal Fat.

    For more on amla and what else it can do, check out the related posts below.

    If you missed my previous video on Lp(a), watch Treating High Lp(a)—A Risk Factor for Atherosclerosis. 



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  • Expert Insights During Breastfeeding Awareness Month

    Expert Insights During Breastfeeding Awareness Month

    Breastfeeding is a rewarding journey for many women, deepening the bond with their newborn while providing essential nutrition and care.

    However, it’s common for new mothers to feel overwhelmed when they first begin. Contrary to what some might believe, breastfeeding does not always come naturally, it requires practice, and the early days can be challenging. Misconceptions surrounding breastfeeding often discourage women from trying.

    During this Breastfeeding Awareness Month, Avery Young, an international board-certified lactation consultant at Nourished Young from Atlanta, shares the facts to help dispel these myths.

    Myth#1 Formula milk is equally good as breast milk

    Fact: Both formula and breastmilk have sufficient calories and vitamins to help babies grow and thrive, comparing them would be like an apples-to-oranges comparison.

    So what’s the main difference? As Young puts it, “Formula is safe. Breast milk is amazing.” The main distinction lies in the origin of the milk used in the formula. Unlike human breast milk, formula is derived from other mammals like cows or goats. This means that the milk is naturally designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of that particular animal, not a human baby. Since every mammal has slightly different requirements, the composition of their milk reflects that, making it necessary to modify the formula to better suit the needs of infants.

    “Through science, we have learned how to alter formula milk and make it better and safer for human babies, but it will never be able to fully replicate human milk because it does not come from humans,” Young told Medical Daily.

    “Unlike formula, breastmilk is alive. It’s a dynamic substance that changes to meet a growing baby’s specific needs, not just to help a baby be protected from illnesses, but even over a day to help deliver the right hormones and the right time, and over a year to adapt to the growing nutrient needs of a baby as they transition to toddlerhood and beyond, to make it an ideally suited product for human babies,” she explained.

    Myth#2 Breastfeeding mothers should stop feeding if they fall sick

    Fact: Continuing to breastfeed can be beneficial for the baby.

    “When you’re ill, your body produces antibodies to combat the infection, and these are passed through your breast milk. Even if you’re unwell, your breast milk helps protect your baby by boosting their immune system with these vital antibodies. Additionally, your baby is likely to be exposed to your illness simply by being close to you, so continuing to breastfeed ensures they receive the protective benefits of your milk,” Young said.

    However, for more serious health issues or concerns about a specific situation, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

    Myth# 3 Breastfeeding mothers should have a special diet and eat only plain food

    Fact: Breastfeeding does not mean mothers need to be on a restrictive diet. Eating a varied and flavorful diet, including spices and diverse foods, can benefit both the baby and the mother.

    The misconception that gassy foods in adults, particularly those high in fiber, will affect breast milk and cause discomfort in babies is common. However, fiber is not digested and doesn’t make its way into breast milk, so it doesn’t directly cause gassiness in a baby.

    “Spices and different foods can alter the flavor of your breast milk, helping to pre-expose your baby to a range of tastes and encouraging them to develop a more varied palate. Plus, a diverse diet provides you with key vitamins and nutrients that support your health and well-being. So, savor your meals and this special time with your new baby,” Young said.

    Myth#4 Breastfeeding is always painful

    Fact: New mothers may experience some discomfort while starting, but this doesn’t make it biologically normal.

    Pain is a sign that something is not quite right. It often indicates issues with the baby’s latch, nipple sensitivity, positioning, or even underlying conditions like infections. Addressing these factors can help ensure a more comfortable breastfeeding experience.

    “Since latching isn’t a one-size-fits-all process, what works for one mother-baby pair may not work for another. If you’re experiencing pain, it’s a sign that adjustments to the latch or other factors may be needed. Seeking help from an experienced lactation consultant can ensure that your breastfeeding experience is comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your baby,” Young said.

    Myth#5 Exercise affects the taste of breast milk

    Fact: Moderate exercise benefits both mother and baby. The changes in breastmilk composition, particularly the increase in lactic acid after intense exercise are temporary.

    “Research, including double-blind studies, shows that these minor changes in composition don’t affect a baby’s ability or desire to feed. Lactic acid in breast milk breaks down quickly, so any impact is temporary and safe for your baby. Many mammals exercise and feed their young right after, demonstrating that this is a natural and manageable process,” Young explained.

    “However, if you have concerns, you can time your workouts and feedings to keep your baby content. If your baby becomes fussy, remember it’s likely temporary and everything will be okay,” she added.

    Myth#6 Many mothers can’t produce enough milk

    Fact: Most mothers produce sufficient milk for their babies.

    According to Young, it’s a common misconception for mothers to assume their baby is crying due to hunger. While some women may encounter difficulties with milk production, the majority of mothers produce enough milk for their babies. Often, a baby’s cries are misread as signs of hunger, causing unnecessary worry and self-doubt. In reality, babies cry for many reasons, such as discomfort or the need for attention, not just hunger.

    “If concerns about milk supply persist, consulting a lactation specialist can provide valuable guidance and support. They can help you troubleshoot the root cause of your baby’s discomfort and give you the confidence to know that your body is capable of nourishing and supporting your new baby,” Young said.

    Myth #7 You can’t take any medications while breastfeeding

    Fact: Most medications are compatible with breastfeeding, and there are often effective alternatives to those that are not safe.

    The most important thing is to consult with a knowledgeable healthcare provider who can guidance on safe options and dosages.

    “Utilizing trusted online resources such as LactMed and InfantRisk can help you cross-check information and explore safe alternatives, which you can then discuss with your healthcare provider. With the right guidance and resources, you can effectively manage your health while continuing to breastfeed,” Young said.

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  • LP02-CB – Learn2Lick

    LP02-CB – Learn2Lick

    Product Name: LP02-CB – Learn2Lick

    Click here to get LP02-CB – Learn2Lick at discounted price while it’s still available…

    All orders are protected by SSL encryption – the highest industry standard for online security from trusted vendors.

    LP02-CB – Learn2Lick is backed with a 60 Day No Questions Asked Money Back Guarantee. If within the first 60 days of receipt you are not satisfied with Wake Up Lean™, you can request a refund by sending an email to the address given inside the product and we will immediately refund your entire purchase price, with no questions asked.

    (more…)

  • What dietitians need to know about Ozempic

    What dietitians need to know about Ozempic


    Are you interested to learn more about the rapidly evolving landscape of obesity-management medications? Join us for an insightful episode with Dr Terri-Lynne South, a Medical Doctor and Accredited Practising Dietitian with over 25 years of healthcare experience. Dr Terri-Lynne provides an update on the latest obesity-management medications available in Australia, discusses the most recent dietary recommendations for patients on these medications, and explores the pivotal role dietitians play in supporting this growing population group. Passionate about holistic metabolic healthcare, Dr Terri-Lynne is dedicated to breaking down the stigma, bias and shame associated with obesity.

    Hosted by Brooke Delfino

    Biography

    Dr Terri-Lynne South is the Director of a specialised health service, Lifestyle Metabolic. She is passionate about holistic metabolic healthcare that achieves positive outcomes anchored in evidence, innovation and experience. Terri-Lynne is dedicated to breaking down the stigma, bias and shame associated with the label “obesity” and ultimately strives to help patients living in a larger body. Terri-Lynne promotes the science behind the concept of pathological excess body fat as both a health risk and a chronic medical condition.

    ​

     

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • An overview of five obesity-management medications, including Ozempic
    • How they work, costs and common side effects
    • Dr Terri-Lynne’s experience working with patients taking obesity-management medications
    • Ways dietitians can support patients taking obesity-management medications
    • Why language is important to break the stigma associated with obesity

    Additional resources

    Connect with Dr Terri-Lynne South on her website or on LinkedIn

    ‘Nutritional considerations for anti-obesity medications’ – read paper here

    Are you craving a quick, impactful way to stay ahead in the nutrition world? Click here to learn more about Dietitian Connection’s NEW 30-minute Lunch & Learn sessions! ​

    The content, products and/or services referred to in this episode are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see here for terms and conditions.


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  • Beginner-Friendly Headlines

    Beginner-Friendly Headlines

    Beginner-Friendly Headlines: The Secret to Grabbing Attention and Boosting Engagement

    As a content creator, you know that crafting the perfect headline is crucial for grabbing attention and enticing readers to click on your article. But what makes a headline truly effective? The answer lies in creating beginner-friendly headlines that resonate with your target audience.

    In this article, we’ll dive into the world of beginner-friendly headlines, exploring what makes them tick and how you can incorporate them into your content strategy. From the importance of simplicity to the power of emotional connections, we’ll cover it all.

    The Importance of Simplicity

    When it comes to beginner-friendly headlines, simplicity is key. Avoid using complex jargon or overly technical terms that might confuse or intimidate your readers. Instead, focus on using clear and concise language that conveys the main idea of your article.

    A great example of a simple headline is: "10 Easy Ways to Improve Your Productivity." This headline is easy to understand, and the use of numbers creates a sense of structure and organization. It also appeals to the reader’s desire to improve their productivity, making it a compelling reason to click.

    The Power of Emotional Connections

    Emotional connections are a powerful way to engage your readers and make them more invested in your content. By tapping into your readers’ emotions, you can create a sense of empathy and understanding that keeps them coming back for more.

    A great example of an emotional headline is: "How to Overcome Fear and Achieve Your Dreams." This headline speaks directly to the reader’s fears and desires, creating a sense of emotional connection that makes them want to read on.

    The Use of Questions

    Using questions in your headlines is another effective way to engage your readers and make them more curious about your content. By posing a question, you’re inviting the reader to engage with your article and explore the answers for themselves.

    A great example of a question-based headline is: "What’s the Secret to Writing a Best-Selling Novel?" This headline is intriguing and creates a sense of curiosity that makes the reader want to click and find out the answer.

    The Importance of Authenticity

    Authenticity is key when it comes to creating beginner-friendly headlines. Avoid using cheesy or manipulative tactics that might come across as insincere. Instead, focus on being genuine and transparent in your headline writing.

    A great example of an authentic headline is: "My Struggle with Anxiety and How I Found Relief." This headline is real and honest, and the use of the author’s personal experience creates a sense of connection and empathy with the reader.

    The Role of Humor

    Humor can be a powerful tool in creating beginner-friendly headlines. By injecting a bit of humor into your headline, you can make it more engaging and memorable.

    A great example of a humorous headline is: "Why I’m a Total Failure at Adulting (But You Don’t Have to Be)." This headline is lighthearted and relatable, making it a fun and engaging read.

    Conclusion

    Creating beginner-friendly headlines is all about simplicity, emotional connections, questions, authenticity, and humor. By incorporating these elements into your headline writing, you can create a sense of engagement and connection with your readers that keeps them coming back for more.

    Remember, the goal of your headline is to grab attention and entice readers to click on your article. By using these beginner-friendly headline techniques, you can create a sense of curiosity and engagement that drives traffic and boosts engagement.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: What makes a headline beginner-friendly?
    A: A beginner-friendly headline is one that is simple, clear, and easy to understand. It should convey the main idea of the article and be free of complex jargon or technical terms.

    Q: How can I make my headlines more emotional?
    A: To make your headlines more emotional, try tapping into your readers’ emotions and desires. Use words that create a sense of empathy and understanding, and pose questions that resonate with your target audience.

    Q: What is the best way to use questions in my headlines?
    A: The best way to use questions in your headlines is to pose a question that is relevant to your target audience and creates a sense of curiosity. This can be a great way to engage your readers and make them more invested in your content.

    Q: How can I make my headlines more authentic?
    A: To make your headlines more authentic, try being genuine and transparent in your writing. Avoid using cheesy or manipulative tactics, and focus on creating a sense of connection and empathy with your readers.

    Q: Can humor be used in beginner-friendly headlines?
    A: Yes, humor can be a powerful tool in creating beginner-friendly headlines. By injecting a bit of humor into your headline, you can make it more engaging and memorable, and create a sense of connection with your readers.