Health Briefs TV Celebrates National Public Health Week

The first full week of April is designated National PublicHealth Week in the United States. Health Briefs TV celebrates this national initiative to help promote healthy lives for everyone.

Throughout every state and every county in the state, no two health departments are the same. Each one has its own unique community and population striving to serve through program and services tailored to its residents, and often with dwindling funds. The people and community will change over the years, and as it does, the Health Departments have to change too. Here’s a look, nationally, at what this week is all about:

• Building healthy communities by committing funds to healthier schools, homes, parks, and community centers.
• Providing quality healthcare no matter the age, race, sex, income level of the resident.
• Ensuring that schools and other facilities provide healthy meals and exercise programs.
• Finding and implementing ways to curtail stress.
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The Health Briefs TV show also notes some of the top public health concerns Americans may have to contend with: obesity and diabetes, high blood pressure, Zika infection, climate change and how it affects public health, community environmental challenges and how to combat them, and keeping seniors healthy and mobile, and ensuring every person in the United States has clean, safe drinking water. Join us as we share news about National Public Health Week.

Health Briefs TV Offers Suggestions for Lowering Daily Sodium Intake

Sodium is another name for salt. It finds its way into the food we eat every day and we barely notice it. Health Briefs TV offers some suggestions for lowering our daily sodium intake.

The recommended daily intake is 2,300 milligrams (about a teaspoon) of sodium per day. Yet, many of the foods we consume pack double and even triple this amount.

Restaurant food, fast food and frozen food are known to be high in sodium.  It is used as a preservative and for flavoring. But before grabbing a bite out or taking that frozen pizza from the freezer, read the nutrition label to see what the sodium content is.

Bread, pickles, olive, nuts, crackers, diet food and even some sodas are a few culprits. Deli meat and cheese and packages of deli meat and cheese are also full of salt. Try whole grain breads instead of white. Rinse pickles and olives first before eating to reduce sodium.

Cook more at home. The only true way to reduce sodium is to make the meal yourself. Add herbs, spices, and a squeeze of lemon to add flavor instead of salt.

Pizza is an all-time favorite for many people, but it too pack in the salt. Healthy alternatives can be found by making your own using no salt added canned tomatoes or tomato slices. Roast vegetables to add flavor and sprinkle herbs on top.

The Health Briefs TV show suggests forgoing sodas at lunch and grabbing a bottle of water instead. Water is better for hydration and usually does not contain added sodium.

herbs and spices are tasty salt  alternatives

Health Briefs TV Reviews the Common Health Questions

This is the time of the year when the clocks are rolled back one hour. It is also the time of year when the common cold makes people miserable. So we want to ask and answer some common health questions readers might have.

According to a recent study, Americans spend $8 billion a year on over-the-counter medicines. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice found that the active ingredient in decongestants we take for a cold works no better than a placebo. The effectiveness of phenylephrine hydrochloride (PE HCl), which is common in OTC meds for nasal congestion, works no better than a sugar pill. Consumers who want to buy cold medicine with this ingredient have to ask a store clerk for it since it is no longer on open shelves. The main ingredient, PE HC1, in bulk, can be used to make meth which is illegal. Any OTC cold medicine with nasal decongestant will not contain this ingredient. Health Briefs TV encourages readers to find ways to stay healthy during cold and flu season. If medication is needed, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Milk – it does a body good. It does and in so many ways. But milk tends to get bad rep from people who are lactose intolerant, and for its fat (or fat-free) versions. While there are alternatives for the people who cannot digest lactose-laden ingredients, milk, in its regular form, is still a healthy choice. The division among people who say that fat-free or skim milk is healthier than whole or 2 percent fat milk rages on. Analysis of the European Journal of Nutrition found that whole milk fills people up more than fat-free milk, therefore leading to feeling satiated sooner and lowering the risk of obesity and diabetes. The Health Briefs television show also reminds readers that we don’t consume enough milk in one day to do any harm to our health. Pour a little whole of 2 percent milk in coffee, tea, and cereals to gain a little more calcium in the daily diet.

Health Briefs TV Reviews Why We Are Living Longer

Americans are living longer and dying less from common medical ailments. What can we credit for the lowering rates of death from cancer, stroke, diabetes and heart disease? Health Briefs TV reviews why we are living longer.

Credit can be given to living healthier, eating better and getting more exercise. We are slimming down and lowering the obesity rate, which in turn lowers the chances of developing heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Eating smaller, more healthful meals, snacking on fruit and getting exercise are simple, easy ways to lower risk factors.

A recent report published by the Journal of the American Medical Association states that deaths from all of these causes have dropped by an overall 43 percent. Heart disease deaths dropped more than 50 percent, as did the death rate for stokes. Cancer and diabetes deaths dropped to 18 and 17 percent respectively.

The Health Briefs television show believes that prevention is the key to living a longer, healthier life.  We have learned that behavior, the environment, social circumstances and participating in our health care gave us the opportunity to improve our lives and live longer.  Take some active steps today to prevent an early death: eat a healthy snack, take a short, brisk walk after dinner, quit smoking for one day, and see how you feel. 

Health Briefs TV Reports on Limiting High Fructose Corn Syrup

High fructose corn syrup is in many diet sodas

There have been many reports on the effects high fructose corn syrup has on our bodies and health. Some good and some bad. Health Briefs TV reports on how to limit it in your diet.

High fructose corn syrup can be found in many food and beverages. From tomato ketchup, frozen treats and diet soda, it seems it is in most of the things we consume. Despite the recent medical finding that it can increase the risk for heart disease, there are steps we can take to limit the amount of high fructose corn syrup in our daily diets.

Avoid drinking diet soda or sugar-free drinks every day. These drinks have a higher amount of fructose corn syrup than other beverages such as iced tea or water.

Make homemade ice treats by freezing natural fruit juices in molds with popsicle sticks. They are easy and taste better than the store bought kind. If this is not convenient, read the nutritional info on the box and buy ones with a lower amount of high fructose corn syrup.

Avoid eating fast food which can contain a larger amount of high fructose corn syrup.

Skip condiments that have high fructose corn syrup in it.

The Health Briefs TV show suggests reading food labels and sticking to organic condiments which tend to not contain high fructose corn syrup.  To find more food and beverage products with little or no high fructose corn syrup, click here. 

Health Briefs TV Examines the Low FODMAP Diet for People with IBS

Print and use as a grocery list

People who are affected by irritable bowel syndrome may find some relief from the Low FODMAP diet. But what is it? Health Briefs TV examines how this diet can spell relief for people with IBS.

FODMAP is an acronym for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharide and polyols. These are types of carbs which are difficult to digest and become fermented by bacteria which can cause bloating and discomfort. Nutritionists and doctors can guide someone with IBS on this diet.  Most of the people who are put on this plan report that it works better than a gluten-free diet.

Carbohydrates can be present in different forms in foods. They differ from being a long-chain carb, such as a starch, to simple sugars. These are usually well-digested. Fiber and resistant starch are long-chain carbs which are resistant to digestion. They are also important for stool formation.  An Australian group found through their research that short-chain carbs, or FODMAPs, can spell gastrointestinal trouble for some people who live with irritable bowel syndrome. When the FODMAPs are reduced in the diet, there are less IBS symptoms. The Health Briefs TV show also notes that this type of dietary change can be tailored to an individual’s lifestyle and eating habits. Those diagnosed with Celiac disease might want to discuss this plan with their doctor.

Health Briefs TV and How Your Eyes and Brain are Tied Together

We all know that our eyes and brain work together. But there is more to it than that, as Health Briefs TV explains.

A study by Psychological Science found that the small vessels behind the eyes can reveal how healthy the brain is. The scientists found that people with wider veins behind the eyes scored worse on IQ tests in middle age than those with small veins. Eye vessels and brain vessels are similar in size, structure and function.  When the eye doctor takes a retinal image , it gives him the ability to see what shape and how healthy the veins are, which in turn can determine how healthy the brain is.  The Health Briefs TV show also notes that regular eye exams can help track changes in the brain, and determine if someone is at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease in mid-life.

So don’t wait too long to get an eye check-up. Not only will it be able to determine how healthy your eyes are, but it can also indicate how healthy your brain is too. Don’t forget to eat brain food: fatty fish, broccoli, leafy greens, healthy oils such as olive oil, and dark chocolate. 

Health Briefs TV the Calorie Count during the Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is a favorite American event which most people enjoy. What people eat during this fan event is astounding. Health Briefs TV takes a look at the calorie count during the Super Bowl.

A recent study states that the amount of food bought and consumed during the week of the event adds up to 6,000 calories per U.S. household. That’s the highest amount for one week in the year. The second highest calorie consumed week is the week before the Super Bowl. That’s more than people eat during Thanksgiving, another feast event.

This report does not include the amount of food purchased in bars and restaurants or from food delivery services. The data was taken from a study of more than 200 buyers in New York who shopped in the grocery store. While most people try to eat healthier meals and snacks, the Super Bowl is one day where all caution is thrown into the wind. The study does not include the amount of calories from alcoholic beverages.

Health Briefs TV suggests making and taking a healthier dish to a Super Bowl party. Hosts might want to set up a buffet style table and let guests put their offerings on it. Walk around the table first and plan what to put on a plate. Then choose a smaller plate instead of larger ones. Here’s hoping your favorite team wins this year.

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Health Briefs TV on the Flu

The flu is widespread across America and there are many questions about it and the flu vaccine. Health Briefs finds and shares the answers.

Some people with the flu are contagious before they feel any symptoms. But for the most part, adults are considered contagious about 24 to 72 hours after contracting the virus and remain that way for up to five days after the onset of symptoms. Kids and people with compromised immune systems can be contagious to anyone around them for up to two weeks.

Flu symptoms are: headache, fever, chills, runny nose, muscle aches, sore throat, warm, flushed skin and watery eyes. The virus is spread when respiratory moisture droplets from an infected person are spread through sneezing, coughing, touching common surfaces and clothing.

Health Briefs suggests keeping a good supply of tissues in the home or classroom and making a visit with a healthcare professional if flu symptoms seem to be apparent. The flu vaccine is helpful in prevention of catching the virus, even though this year’s strain is not the same strain in the vaccine. Stay well.

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Health Briefs TV on How to Prevent Getting Colds and the Flu

Offices are not the best places to work during cold and flu season. Open work environments and even those with cubicles are the perfect places for cold and flu germs to spread. Health Briefs TV offers some suggestions about how to prevent getting colds and the flu this season.

Wash your hands. The lesson we learned in early childhood still holds true today: wash your hands after using the bathroom and before touching any part of the face. Use warm water, if available, and soap and vigorously rub hands together for 15 seconds. Use a paper towels to dry them.

Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing. Cubicle walls do not stop the germs flying through the air. Ask co-workers to do the same. Keep tissues on your desk also. 

Get a flu shot. It takes two weeks after the injection for immunity to build so now is the best time to visit the pharmacy.  The strain of the flu which is circulating now is particularly dangerous to seniors.

Reduce chronic stress, reduce the amount of sugar consumed, reduce salt intake and quit smoking. All of these will further boost the body’s immune system which fights of the viruses that attack it.

Health Briefs TV also recommends eating a diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals, whole grains, lean meat and fish. Get off the sofa at home and walk around the neighborhood. Clean outdoor air is good for us. Finally, lead a meaningful life. It doesn’t have to be grand. Find something that is important to you and embrace it. All of these also help build stronger bodies which can fight off colds and the flu every year.

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Health Briefs TV on How to Avoid Being Bloated

Nothing is as uncomfortable as being bloated. The extended belly, the tighter than usual jeans, and the stiffness can make one feel like they’ve just swallowed the Goodyear Blimp. Health Briefs TV offers some suggestions about how to avoid being bloated.

We can attest to the fact that eating too fast causes bloating.  Excessive air enters the mouth and works its way down to the stomach when we rush a meal. When we hurry to finish eating, we also don’t chew food well and larger pieces of it sit in the stomach waiting to be digested. This can leave us feeling stuffed. Slow down. It takes 20 minutes for the brain to register fullness. And that’s really not a long time.

Soda, also called pop in some parts of the country, is a carbonated drink. The tiny bubbles which we love in the drink cause bloating in the stomach. Sometimes, drinking soda through a straw can make this worse. To lessen the bubbles, pour carbonated beverages in a cup with ice cubes and let it sit on the counter or desk for a little while before drinking.

Sandwiches are usually loaded with sodium which can cause bloating. From the bread to the meat, cheese and veggies in them, the sodium in a Sammie can cause uncomfortable bloating.

Health Briefs TV also suggests avoiding low-fat or low-calorie foods which contain artificial sweeteners since they can sit in the stomach a long time and wreak havoc.

Banish the bloat by eating healthier foods more slowly.

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Health Briefs TV Debunks Some Metabolism Myths

The great debate on metabolism includes thoughts such as the age in which it slows down, men have a faster one and it can’t be changed. Health Briefs TV is pleased to debunk some of these common myths.

A slow metabolism is thought to be the main culprit for weight gain and lack of weight loss. In fact, what we eat and how much activity we get daily has more to do with weight gain and loss. A slow or fast metabolism doesn’t really factor into it, according to many health care professionals. Take time to prepare more healthful meals at home and at the very least, take a good walk after dinner.

Another common misconception about metabolism is that it slows down at age 30. Actually, it slows down at around 40 years of age.  We tend to lose muscle in our forties and muscles burn more calories than fat. The good news is that we can change this with exercise and specifically exercise using resistance bands which help tone muscle.

People who claim to have a fast metabolism probably have the same metabolism rate as the rest of us. Men too. The truth is that some people are healthier eaters and compensate when they overeat or eat less healthy. The HealthBriefs TV show believes we can kick our metabolism if we just become a little more active.

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Health Briefs TV on the Unknown Effects of Obesity

Most people know that obesity can cause heart trouble and diabetes. But it can also bring trouble for some of our other body organs too. Health Briefs TV offers information.

An overweight or obese person will often complain about knee pain. Extra weight on knees, hips and feet is common and can be avoided by participating in a weight loss program or consulting with a doctor about weight loss surgery. Overweight people can also suffer from migraines more than those who are not. In a recent study, people who were obese complained of having 14 migraines per month compared to those with a healthy weight. A cancer diagnosis can also be a negative outcome from being obese. Kidney, gallbladder, liver, colon and uterine cancer diagnoses were found with those who are overweight than those who were not. Ten percent were attributed to being overweight in a study conducted by The Lancet.

The Health Briefs TV show learns that obesity affects fertility. Women who are obese had a harder time becoming pregnant. They can also experience premature delivery of infants. Sleep disorders also affect people who are overweight and obese. When extra weight rests on the heart or lungs it affects the organs’ ability to function properly and can cause sleep troubles. Extra fat around the neck affects the soft tissues of the nose and can cause apnea. Along with all of these effects there are also the social effects of being obese which can range from family shame to being mistreated in a healthcare professional’s office which can cause depression. The best options for overweight and obese people are to seek the advice of a trusted doctor to find the best weight loss program. Because the unknown effects of obesity are just as harmful as the known ones.

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Health Briefs Reveals Why We Choose the Foods We Do

You are what you eat is an old Americana adage. If you eat unhealthy foods, you will become unwell and overweight. Health Briefs offers insight on why we choose the foods we do.

A recent study found that we tend to eat less healthy foods and more of them per serving when we share a meal with an overweight friend or family member. A group of young college students dined together. One of them was outfitted with a prosthesis which made her look overweight. When she ate more unhealthily, the others at the table also ate more unhealthily. When she ate a healthier meal, having more salad than pasta, the others also ate the same way.

Health Briefs TV knows that the best way to prevent overeating or eating too many unhealthy foods when dining out is to plan ahead. Choose a restaurant which offers a healthy menu, stick to the meal you want. Drink plenty of water before going out. Add more vegetables to the meal and skip bread. We choose the foods we do based on how hungry we are, who we are dining with and the choices on the menu. Pre-plan before heading out and enjoy a healthier meal no matter what. 

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Health Briefs on the Benefits of Eating Healthier Foods

People who enjoy healthier foods and meals benefit in ways that have nothing to do with weight loss. Health Briefs shares what the benefits are with readers.

Most people will eventually admit when they eat unhealthy foods such as those bought at fast food restaurants, that they do not feel all that great later. Over indulging at meal times is another way in which to feel unwell.

Healthy eating is not just about consuming nutritious foods. It is also about reducing portion size. Here are some of the super benefits people can gain when they eat more mindfully:

A New Zealand study found that a higher consumption of fruits and vegetables resulted in the participants’ reporting better moods, more energy and that they felt calmer. Another study found that the test subjects got more sleep and were more rested than those who did not consume five or more servings of produce per day. Skin looks healthier and is glowing when people eat more produce. The vitamins and minerals in them boosts cell growth too. Health Briefs TV knows that a healthy lifestyle also means healthier brains. A person who consumes beans, nuts, fish and produce as well as enjoying small servings of olive oil is more likely to have strong brain functions and be less prone to the smaller infarctions which lessen cognitive ability. Eating healthier is better for everyone and its benefits outweigh any objections anyone might think of.

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Health Briefs Asks Which Weight Loss Plans are Best

The debate over which weight loss plan is the most effective is ongoing. Is it the low carb one or the low fat one? Or is it one which offers a change to an overall healthier lifestyle? Health Briefs TV reviews which weight loss plans are best.

Every weight loss program has an abundance of fans that are loyal to it. But which ones are better than others depends on many factors: overall physical health before starting a weight loss program, health during the weight loss program, participant health goals and overall health when the program is completed. In a recent study, people who followed a low-carb plan lost more weight and reduced body fat more than those on a low-fat plan. They also tested better in good HDL cholesterol and triglycerides.  However, those following a low-carb lifestyle tended to not get enough fiber in their daily diets, compared to those who were on the low-fat diet plans. The Health Briefs TV show believes that the best weight loss plan is the one which fits one’s lifestyle best and one which is does not adversely affect health. There are many good weight loss programs and plans to choose from.  Ask friends and family if they can recommend one that worked best for them.  The success of each plan is entirely up to the person trying to lose weight and keep it off for more than a year.

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How to Find Healthy Food in Any Airport by Health Briefs TV

(there are healthy food options even at fast food restaurants)

Airports offer passengers a multitude of food choices –some healthy and some not so healthy.  Health Briefs TV provides suggestions on how to find healthy food in any airport.

More people travel today and as they pass through the world’s airports, they may grab a snack or a meal. For those who are searching for a nutritious and filling option, we have a few ideas.

Most fast food establishments will have grilled chicken sandwiches, small salads or small packages of crudités for those who choose not the order fried foods and French fries. Add a bottle of water to the meal to stay hydrated.

Stand-alone vendors may have smaller dishes such as pasta salads, hummus and veggies or crackers and yogurt cups for the health-minded traveler. Grab one to take on the plane or to enjoy while waiting to board.

The Health Briefs TV show also suggests getting a small bag of almonds and a large bottle of water for flights lasting longer than an hour. The almonds are a good source of protein to fill one up. Water is the best hydrator and is best bought after passing through security check points. A large bottle will last throughout most flights with exception of the longer ones across country or overseas. Before giving in to a craving for a burger and fries, look around the terminal for healthier options. Even the smallest of airports and terminals will have something to satiate.

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Health Briefs Reports on How Dieting Affects Women Later

(healthy lifestyle changes made with friends are better)

Teens and young adult women are usually quite aware when they gain even a small amount of weight. This leads to going on fad diets and diets which promise quick weight loss. Health Briefs looks at how this kind of dieting later affects the women.

Health and medical experts agree that in order for a young woman to stay healthy and remain healthy, she needs to make lifestyle changes instead of going on a fad diet. A study followed women for ten years who reported started to diet early in youth. The researchers found that 10 years after they were graduated from college, the women indulged in extreme weight-control behaviors, more alcohol consumption and misuse, and had a greater chance of being overweight or obese.

Health Briefs encourages teen girls and young women to seek the advice of a medical expert before starting any weight loss program. The key to any successful and long-lasting weight control is to make positive lifestyle changes. Healthy weight maintenance can be obtained with self control, lifestyle changes and support from parents, friends and healthcare professionals. Let’s all work together to give women of all ages the support they need to life a healthy lifestyle and maintain a positive self image into adulthood.

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Health Briefs—Sweet 2 to Eat-- Fruit Recall Expansion

Recently, peaches, plums, nectarines and pluots from Wawona Packaging have been recalled to a breakout of Listeria. They were packaged in the company’s Cutler, California plant. Health Briefs wishes to advise readers of an expansion to the recall in regard to the stores where the fruit was shipped.

The above mentioned fruit were shipped from June 1 through July 12 to the following stores: Costco, Kroger, Wal-Mart and now Whole Foods. Wal-Mart also operates Sam’s Club’s. Notices have also been sent to Trader Joe’s, Ralph’s and Food 4 Less. The recall is nationwide and stems from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The affected fruit will have a sticker on it which says “SWEET 2 EAT”.  Health Briefs TV advises readers to check the stickers on peaches, plums, nectarines and pluots.

As a general rule of thumb, always wash produce before eating to rid it of lingering pesticides and germs. Store it in a bowl or on a plate on kitchen counters instead of the fridge. The stickers on produce items actually mean something:

• Stickers on conventionally grown produce have four digit numbers
• Organic produce labels have five digit numbers and they always start with a "9"
• Genetically modified produce labels also have five digits, but they always start with "8"

This is same no matter where we buy produce. And it seems the stickers are edible. Who knew?

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