Melatonin Production in Preschoolers Inhibited by Bright Light
Node Smith, ND A recent study has shown that an hour of bright light inhibits melatonin production in preschoolers for up to 50 minutes after the lights are turned off.1 Melatonin is known as the principle sleep-regulating hormone and is largely responsible for the circadian rhythm of sleep in the body. It is produced by […]
Research Links Childhood Obesity to Diabetes Drug Taken During Pregnancy
Node Smith, ND A recent research study has concluded that when women take the common diabetes drug, Metformin, during pregnancy, their children have a significantly increased likelihood of being overweight or obese.1 Metformin crosses placenta and passes to the fetus There are 2 common reasons why a woman might be prescribed Metformin, one is the […]
Increasing Peer Awareness of Depression Increases Help-Seeking
Node Smith, ND A recent paper was published that discusses a new approach to facilitating community awareness of mental health. The approach concentrates on peer-to-peer education and interaction at the high school and junior high level.1 The program is called the Peer-to-Peer Depression Awareness Campaign (P2P). Peer-to-Peer Depression Awareness Campaign (P2P) High schools nationwide report […]
Growing up surrounded by greenery increases cognitive function later in life
Node Smith, ND Humans have an intimate connection with nature; it is part of the human evolutionary process, to be in contact with the natural world. This is commonly referred to as the biophilia hypothesis, and more and more research is supporting its practical impact on our lives, and especially the lives of our children […]
Study: Beetroot Juice is Great for Heart and Kidneys
Node Smith, ND Two recent studies on beetroot juice supplements support their use in certain disorders of the heart, and as protection for the kidneys after radioactive isotopes are used for imaging techniques.1,2 Specifically, beetroot juice was found to enhance the exercise capacity of individuals with heart failure. Beetroot Juice and Heart Failure The research […]
Study Links Alcohol Use and Dementia
Node Smith, ND A new study from the Lancet Public Health journal shows that overconsumption of alcohol, as from an alcohol use disorder, may be one of the most crucial avoidable risk factors of all types of dementia – and especially early-onset dementia.1 The study looked at over one million adults diagnosed with dementia. The […]
The Word “Exercise” is Outdated and Here’s Why
Node Smith, ND Let’s Stop Using the Word “Exercise” The word “exercise,” for most people, is associated with a structured regimen, plan, or program that involves a certain level of skill, knowledge or training. This idea places a huge obstacle in front of individuals who have not been “trained” in any specific type of “exercise.” […]
Detect Autism with Blood and Urine Tests
Node Smith, ND Autism Rates Have Skyrocketed in Recent Decades Thousands of children are diagnosed with various degrees of autism, or placed on the “autism spectrum,” each year. It is estimated that as many as 1 in 68 children in the United States falls within the diagnostic criteria of autism. These diagnoses are primarily based […]
Mental Health Side Effects of Over the Counter Pain Medicines
Node Smith, ND OTC Pain Medications and Their Effects on Information Processing and Emotional Response A recent research study looks at the negative influence over the counter pain medications may have on information processing and emotional response.1 Painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen were seen to impact how an individual processes information, experiences hurt feelings, […]
Study Supports Using Mindfulness Techniques to Reduce Seizures
Node Smith, ND A study was recently published in the journal Neurology, that supports using mindfulness techniques to reduce seizures in people suffering from epilepsy.1 The lead author, Sheryl R. Haut, MD of montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, NY, and member of the American Academy of Neurology, […]