PEARLS FOR HEALTH by Dr. David L. Moore, MD - March 8, 2014

 KEEPING A SHARP MIND

Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias are the sixth leading cause of death in the United States which strikes 1 out of 3 persons over the age of 85 years old. As baby boomers age, the cost of caring for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias is expected to double by 2040 to $215 billion a year. But is there anything that can help prevent this devastating condition. Research reports that protein fragments called beta-amyloid causes plaques which are a hallmark in Alzheimer’s. 



The other common problem seen in this condition is damaged blood vessels. Recent studies identify 5 factors which increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. They include: 1) high blood pressure, 2) elevated blood sugars, 3) lack of physical activity, 4) excessive weight, and 5) mental and social inactivity. Over the next 3 weeks we will investigate these factors closer. May God help us to make healthful choices now, that we may always maintain “a sound mind.” 2 Tim. 1:7 (Source: Nutrition Action Health Letter - Jan/Feb 2014)

PEARLS FOR HEALTH by Dr. David L. Moore, MD - March 1, 2014

EATING AND SLEEPING WELL KEY TO LONGER LIFE

Science has once again verified the importance of the Eight Laws of Health in life expectancy. The Journal of the American College of Nutrition reports in the February 4, 2014 issue that good sleep patterns and a diverse diet are key in living longer. "Poor sleep has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease," said Professor Walhqvist of Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. "We found that for both genders, poor sleep was strongly correlated with poor appetite and poor perceived health. Women who were poor sleepers had a lower intake of vitamin B-6 from food than those whose sleep was rated fair or good. Fair sleepers had lower iron intakes than good sleepers.” Eating a well-rounded diet improves longevity in both men and women the study reported. So for better health eat and sleep well and make sure you get your vitamin B-6 rich foods. Good sources of vitamin B-6 include: seeds, nut, dried fruit, banana, spinach and avocados.