Discontinuing Exercise May Increase Depressive Symptoms
Node Smith, ND A new research study on mental health from the University of Adelaide concludes that cessation of exercise can actually result in an increase of depressive symptoms.1 This supports the well documented finding that exercise is actually one of the most consistently beneficial treatments for mild to moderate depression. The study reviewed many […]
Insomnia Cure: Embrace a Victorian Sleep Pattern
Node Smith, ND A new theory on sleep health is beginning to question commonly held beliefs about insomnia. The theory comes from sleep habits of individuals in Victorian times. “Biphasic” sleep pattern Before electric lighting was commonplace in homes, people would typically go to bed when it got dark and sleep about 5 hours and […]
Intermittent Fasting 5:2 Diet Better than Daily Calorie Restriction Diets
Node Smith, ND Intermittent fasting is getting a lot of press for its positive effects on metabolism, weight loss, cognitive function and health in general. A new study compared a popular intermittent fasting protocol (or “diet”), the 5:2 diet, with a conventional daily calorie restriction diet.1 The study found that the 5:2 diet resulted in […]
Exercise Reduces Risk for Dementia in Women
Node Smith, ND A recent study found that middle aged women who are engaged in a high level of physical fitness are 90 percent less likely to develop dementia later in life.1 This is a great finding because many people are under the impression that there is little that can be done to actually prevent […]
Lead Exposure Can Be an Issue For Adults as Well
Node Smith, ND We all know that lead exposure during childhood causes developmental delays and neurological damage, as well as inflammation, kidney damage and even cancer. The effects of even low levels of lead in children are relatively well known, but this heavy metal also affects adults who are exposed to excessive amounts during life. […]
Herbal Treatment for Urinary Incontinence and Overactive bladder
Node Smith, ND Chances are, if you suffer from an overactive bladder, or urinary incontinence, you know about it. Frequent bathroom visits and nighttime awakening to urinate may have become very frustrating. Many people who try prescription drugs for these conditions have had limited success, while many others refuse to use pharmaceuticals and attempt to […]
It May Not be Hormones that Make Teenagers so Difficult
Node Smith, ND Adolescence is a difficult time. It is a time of incredible change, as the brain develops higher level cognitive abilities, muscles grow, hair grows, and speech changes. Social behavior also undergoes a radical shift, as we learn how to involve our peer group into our social sphere in addition to our nuclear […]
Connection Between Coffee and Cannabis?
Node Smith, ND Studies on coffee are always fun. Anything to support our love and craving for our favorite morning beverage. A recent study from Northwestern Medicine, looked at over 800 blood metabolite changes after consuming between 4 and 8 cups of coffee.1 The study adds further research to the dozens of ways that coffee […]
Rocker Bottom Shoes Help with Low Back Pain
Node Smith, ND We’ve all seen them, and wondered what they are for and why people wear them: rocker bottom shoes. A recent study has confirmed that these shoes may help strengthen back muscles and reduce low back pain by improving posture. Unstable shoes create more balance, better posture Researchers have found that wearing shoes […]
Participatory Games Could Help Problem Behavior in Kids
Node Smith, ND Behavioral problems at school are a concern for many parents, school administrators, as well as teachers. Often problems with outbursts, violent behavior, bullying, or lack of cooperation or participation have multifactorial causes, many of which, are not under the control of teachers or school staff members. With many dual-career families, more children […]