HEALTH HUB Latest Articles
More muscles equals faster metabolic rate
More muscles equals faster metabolic rate By naturopath Margaret Jasinska As we age we lose muscle mass. This typically causes a slowing down of the metabolic rate. Fortunately there are ways to help preserve your muscle mass and maintain an efficient metabolism as you get older. Sarcopenia means loss of muscle mass The medical definition is the gradual loss of muscle mass, strength and function with age. It typically begins in the late 50s but can begin earlier or later in life, and the speed at which it progresses varies. Sarcopenia can greatly reduce your quality of life [...]
These foods raise the risk of lupus in women
These foods raise the risk of lupus in women By naturopath Margaret Jasinska Systemic lupus erythematosus is one of the most common autoimmune diseases in women. New research published in the journal Arthritis Care & Research has found that a high intake of ultra processed foods increases the risk of lupus by more than 50 percent in women. Those women with positive anti–double-stranded DNA antibodies were at highest risk. These are antibodies that indicate connective tissue autoimmune disease either right now or in the future. Only women were tested in this particular study, so men who eat ultra [...]
90 percent of people with chronic kidney disease aren’t aware their kidneys are failing
90 percent of people with chronic kidney disease aren’t aware their kidneys are failing By naturopath Margaret Jasinska A recent Australian study has found that 90 percent of people with stage 3 or higher chronic kidney disease are undiagnosed. This is a frightening statistic because chronic kidney disease can significantly shorten a person’s lifespan. Chronic kidney disease usually causes no symptoms at all. The majority of kidney function can be lost before symptoms start to appear. By then it is usually not possible to halt or slow the progression of kidney failure. The kidneys are bean shaped [...]
Children need Magnesium
Children need Magnesium By Dr Sandra Cabot Magnesium is a critical mineral for the function and growth of the bones, muscles and the nervous system. Magnesium is required for over 300 enzyme systems in the body and is critical for energy production and metabolism. Magnesium is predominantly found in dark green leafy greens and legumes and if your child does not get enough of these foods, they will be deficient. Most of the magnesium in the body is found in the bones so a blood test is not an accurate measure of total body magnesium levels. Symptoms and [...]
Iodine offers protection against many types of cancer
Iodine offers protection against many types of cancer By naturopath Margaret Jasinska Iodine is such an important nutrient for good health and so many people aren’t getting enough. Your body requires iodine to manufacture thyroid hormones and they are necessary for good energy and achieving a healthy weight. Iodine has other benefits in your body though. Recent research shows it helps reduce the risk of cancer. Unfortunately most of the patients I see are iodine deficient when we test them. Iodine can help to prevent cancers via the following mechanisms: Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory Pro-differentiating Pro-apoptotic effects Protecting breasts and [...]
Does your child complain of earache?
Does your child complain of earache? By Dr Sandra Cabot Earache can vary from slight to severe and it can be hard to diagnose the cause in a screaming child. Your doctor will look inside the external ear canal with an auriscope to view the ear drum (tympanic membrane) which encloses the side of the middle ear cavity. Ear pain is most commonly caused by infection and inflammation in the middle ear. The middle ear contains three small bones, and the eardrum lies between the middle [...]
Australians and Mesothelioma
Australians and Mesothelioma Article supplied by the Mesothelioma Centre One uncommon but deadly type of cancer that has affected many Australians is mesothelioma. This illness, which has impacted people all over the nation and is frequently associated with asbestos exposure, has prompted initiatives for treatment, prevention, and awareness. In the heart of Sydney, the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for those battling mesothelioma. Cancer specialists at this esteemed institution have been at the forefront of research and care, striving to improve outcomes for patients and their families. Australia's history with asbestos dates back [...]
Diabetes linked with early menopause
Diabetes linked with early menopause By naturopath Margaret Jasinska Recent studies have shown that women who are diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes early in life are likely to experience an earlier menopause than non diabetics. This is useful to know, because menopause can trigger a lot of emotional and physical changes. Early menopause in type 1 diabetics is likely if diagnosed younger than 30 years. For type 2 diabetes, if diagnosed between ages 30 and 39, an early menopause is likely. It is thought that the inflammation generated by diabetes can cause oxidative damage to [...]
Does your child complain of tummy (abdominal) problems?
Does your child complain of tummy (abdominal) problems? By Dr Sandra Cabot It is not uncommon for a child to complain of abdominal discomfort and in most cases, it is temporary and does not recur. Temporary abdominal pains are most commonly due to food poisoning, constipation, colic, a viral infection or excess intestinal gas. If abdominal pain is severe and located around the umbilicus (belly button) and/or lower right abdomen, think of appendicitis which is often associated with fever and vomiting. Also keep in mind that a urinary tract infection can cause abdominal pain. The onset of puberty [...]
What causes low white blood cells?
What causes low white blood cells? By naturopath Margaret Jasinska Low white blood cells are a common finding on a blood test result. There are several possible explanations. If the deficiency is classed as mild, it is usually not investigated further. It is always best to get as much information as possible about your blood test results and find out how you can improve your health. Having low white blood cells can compromise your immune system, making it much harder for your body to fight infections. It is not uncommon to see a patient whose blood count shows [...]