Medical Facts...and Fiction

The goal of this section is to define the problem, the epidemic of obesity in this country in adults and in children. Data in this section are designed for the health care professions as well as for the public, with relevant references. In this regard, we will not re-invent the wheel, but will access all useful sources already published...invoking the "Fair Use Doctrine" for this educational effort when actual citations are not given. Of course, with over 50 years of clinical experience represented among the professional complement of this family enterprise, in addition to the experience of guest contributors, we will often express our own insights and opinions.

GS

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Various Topics for March 5, 2009

March 5, 2009

VITAMIN D:  WHAT’S TO KNOW:

 

  • It is vital to good health.
  • Most people are deficient in Vitamin D, even those taking multivitamins.
  • It is necessary not only for adequate bone growth and health, but also for many other body functions.  For example, persons deficient in Vitamin D have a 30+%increase in frequency of colds.  Also, low Vitamin E has been found associated with a higher risk of cognitive impairment. 
  • The blood 25-OH Vitamin D total should be measured in everyone.  If the level is below 30, moderate to high supplementation should be prescribed by your MD to achieve and maintain adequate levels. 

 

OBESITY, in addition to all of its other problems, has been found to carry as high a mortality risk as smoking. 

 

MORE ON DIETS AND DIETING:

  • No diet works in the long-term if the dieter does not have a regular support system of friends, family or medical professionals over many months.  Even regular telephone contacts work. 
  • No diet works in the long-term without attention to CALORIES IN vs. CALORIES OUT.  Thus, the importance of being aware of calorie intake and of regular exercise, life-long. 
  • Do not use weight loss pills and medications, prescribed or otherwise.  They don’t work; and they are a risk to your health.
  • Getting paid to lose weight, “economic incentives”, works in the short-run.  Nothing is known of the long-term effectiveness…unless, I guess, you have a long-term relationship with a “sugar daddy” or rich uncle. 
  • A particular type of obesity known as Metabolic Syndrome (associated with “pear-type” obesity) is particularly associated with other health risks. 
  • Obesity promotes Diabetes Mellitus, which promotes all-cause mortality risks. 
  • A low Glycemic Index diet beats other diets, including those using high cereal fiber content. 

 

FOR DIABETICS:

  • Intensive control of blood sugar and Hemoglobin A1C levels was found not to prevent micro-vascular complications (eg. Heart, brain, kidney, eye…).  However, intensive control is associated with increased numbers of low blood sugar attacks – which can kill you.  Therefore, keep your blood sugar above 80, at all times.

GS


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