Sugar Drinks Linked to Childhood Asthma
Node Smith, ND The American Thoracic Society recently concluded in a study that children who consume large amounts of sugary beverages in early childhood, or their mothers drank these types of drinks while pregnant, may be at greater risk for developing asthma.1 Asthma is an increasingly common respiratory condition marked by a constriction of the […]
A Concussion Could Impact Your Gut Health
Node Smith, ND More Elaboration on the TBI and Gut Connection A recent research study has elaborated on the connection between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and gastrointestinal changes.1 It has been observed that gut changes often follow a TBI, however this research reports that these intestinal changes may contribute to a higher risk of infection, […]
I’m not a Liar, I’m Emotional
Node Smith, ND Research on Memory is so Interesting We all want to believe that we remember things accurately and that memory is dependable, especially when these memories are emotional. Many of us would attest that we remember extremely emotional situations with vivid and concise clarity – something often referred to as “flashbulb memory,” because […]
Preventing Dry Eyes this Winter
Node Smith, ND Dry Eyes Season is Upon us Many people complain more about dry, itchy and watery eyes during the winter than any other time of the year. It’s largely due to the cold weather leading people to live indoors with the heat on all day, which dries out the mucus membranes and can […]
Certain Personalities May Protect Against Anxiety and Depression
Node Smith, ND Multiple Layers of Personality Impact Specific Symptoms A new research study has found that the personality traits of extraversion and conscientiousness may have a protective effect against depression and anxiety.1 It is generally known that high levels of neuroticism predispose people to depression or anxiety, or both. However, if those same individuals […]
Too Much Screen Time Could be a Risk Factor for Depression and Suicide
Node Smith, ND Screen Time and Suicide A new research study suggests that adolescents who spend more time on smartphones and other digital devices may be more likely to experience depression and suicidal ideation.1 Attempted suicide attempts also seem to be correlated with increase in screen time. The study, published in Clinical Psychological Science, states […]
“Screen Addiction” + Warning Signs in Children
Node Smith, ND How vs How Much Many parents and caregivers are asking the question: “How much screen time is too much?” According to a recent study1 conducted at the University of Michigan, this may be the wrong question. The study suggests that how a child uses a device is far more important than how […]
Marriage May Protect Against Dementia
Node Smith, ND Life Partners May Prevent Dementia A recent study, published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, suggests that having a life partner may actually serve a preventive role against the development of dementia.1 Specifically, the study found that long-standing “singles” and widows have an increased risk of developing the neurodegenerative disease. […]
Later School Start Times = More Teen Sleep
Node Smith, ND Teens Need more Sleep There is a debate in education regarding whether school (especially high school) should start later. If you are a parent, you likely have opinions on this matter, and may even be involved in campaigns to change current start times. The support for extending school start times stems from […]
Do Different Types of Alcohol Elicit Different Emotional Responses?
Node Smith, ND Research Finds Some Truth in the Belief That Different Types of Booze Brings out Different Emotions It is not uncommon to hear an individual claim that a certain type of liquor creates a different experience than another; whiskey or tequila for instance. A research team from the United Kingdom has investigated these […]