UC San Diego Study:Prediabetes and Stroke Risk May Be Associated

A new study in the British Medical Journal by researchers at the University of California San Diego found evidence of a link between prediabetes and stroke risk.Prediabetes is the precursor condition for type 2 diabetes and is rampant in the developed world,while spreading through populations in the emerging markets as well.According to the National Diabetes Education Program,an estimated 79 million Americans age 20 and over are prediabetic.In prediabetes,the fasting glucose level is between 100-125 mg/dl.The new study analysed fifteen other studies of a total of 716,000 patients.It showed that patients with a fasting glucose level of 110-125 mg/dl,the upper range of prediabetes,have a 21% greater likelihood of having a stroke.Prediabetes has also been linked to a greater risk of developing heart disease.The good news is,prediabetics who work to reduce their risk factors for type 2 diabetes,such as overeating,poor diet and lack of exercise,have a better than 50% chance of delaying or even preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes.Prediabetes is being taken more and more seriously by health care providers as type 2 diabetes becomes more common,and evidence that prediabetes is harmful in itself gets more voluminous.Health Care Select Sector SPDR(XLV),iShares Dow Jones US Healthcare Sector Index Fund(IYH)

Heart Patient:The Hinterland

His heart was making a lot of noise in the stethoscope:something isn't right.The routine physical was instantly transformed into anything but.He had the sensation of falling into thin air.
The office lady made the referral.He would see a cardiologist in 10 days.
In the car,tears of fear and grief:he's sick;he's a heart patient.The hinterland of this life had never been so clear.

Amazing Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial in a number of ways.They can lower harmful fatty acids and lessen the risk of arrhythmia,or irregular heartbeat,which can be deadly,as well as plaque build-up in the arteries.They can also possibly counteract cancer,arthritis and diabetes,and may enhance brain function.
Omega-3 can lower the risk of death for heart attack patients by up to 30%.It may even reduce the skin inflammation that promotes wrinkles.You can take Omega-3 in pill form or get it naturally from fish-especially cold water fish such as sardines,mackerel or salmon,as well as shellfish-walnuts,canola oil,flaxseed and olive oil.Two servings a week are recommended for those who do not have heart disease;daily consumption is advised for those who do.
It is possible to take too much Omega-3.Bleeding may result.As always,consult your doctor before altering your diet in a significant way.I am not responsible for the misjudgement of readers with regard to this topic or any other matter.Professional medical advice is needed to ensure your well-being.

Health Uncle:Whole Grain Helps

Typically,an American eats 12 grams of fiber a day,but 25-38 grams are recommended to lower cholesterol,control weight,and prevent conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.Researchers at the University of Minnesota followed 14,000 American adults for 13 years.Their study showed that the participants who ate one extra serving of whole grains a day were seven percent less likely to experience heart failure.

Whole grain foods include oatmeal,cereal and wheat bread.Developing a taste for dark bread may help you considerably.Many oat cereals are available,including inexpensive private label cereals.The same holds true for wheat bread.

Health Uncle:Pistachios Beneficial

Pistachio nuts may be helpful in lowering LDL cholesterol by up to 12%.The Penn State study shows that one or two handfuls a day may be effective.Besides being linked to lower cholesterol,the nuts are high in fiber and cell-protecting anti-oxidants.A 100 calorie serving of pistachios amounts to about 30 nuts.
When you've eaten your nuts,consider flossing or rinsing to prevent gum disease.Gum disease is associated with a number of other chronic diseases,from heart conditions to oral and lung cancers.Particles of food stuck on or between the teeth attract the bacteria that eventually infect your gums.More than 75% of Americans suffer from some stage of gum disease.