Get ready to put your sweet tooth into hibernation. It’s hardly a secret that too much sugar can lead to health conditions like diabetes, obesity, tooth decay and heart disease. But the entire litany of illnesses it might contribute to might astound you. Chinese researchers in a recent study note the risk of 45 ailments is heightened by excessive sugar consumption. They recommend no more than six teaspoons of sugar a day and just one sugary drink per week. Their review of the scientific literature on sugar offers a list of problems not often associated with the addictive ingredient that is a staple of the American diet. Add gout to the list. And seven kinds of cancer, including breast, prostate and pancreatic tumors. Also include asthma and depression. Let’s look at gout, a painful form of inflammatory arthritis. One study showed that each additional weekly serving of a sugar-ladened drink adds a 4% hike to one’s risk of gout. Scientists note much more research is needed to investigate the association between sugar and any one particular disease. But evidence suggests sugar should be dispensed in moderation. Historians believe that the human domestication of sugar cane dates to 8,000 B.C., predating the invention of writing by a couple of thousand years. At first, the sugar cane stalk might have been chewed raw. Other experts believe it was more often a fodder crop used to fatten pigs. Today, it represents 20% of the world’s caloric consumption. And it’s one big piece in the U.S. obesity epidemic. Humanity took its sweet time recognizing the health dangers of sugar. Modern science is putting a spotlight on it.

Get ready to put your sweet tooth into hibernation. It’s hardly a secret that too much sugar can lead to health conditions like diabetes, obesity, tooth decay and heart disease. But the entire litany of illnesses it might contribute to might astound you. Chinese researchers in a recent study note the risk of 45 ailments is heightened by excessive sugar consumption. They recommend no more than six teaspoons of sugar a day and just one sugary drink per week. Their review of the scientific literature on sugar offers a list of problems not often associated with the addictive ingredient that is a staple of the American diet. Add gout to the list. And seven kinds of cancer, including breast, prostate and pancreatic tumors. Also include asthma and depression. Let’s look at gout, a painful form of inflammatory arthritis. One study showed that each additional weekly serving of a sugar-ladened drink adds a 4% hike to one’s risk of gout. Scientists note much more research is needed to investigate the association between sugar and any one particular disease. But evidence suggests sugar should be dispensed in moderation. Historians believe that the human domestication of sugar cane dates to 8,000 B.C., predating the invention of writing by a couple of thousand years. At first, the sugar cane stalk might have been chewed raw. Other experts believe it was more often a fodder crop used to fatten pigs. Today, it represents 20% of the world’s caloric consumption. And it’s one big piece in the U.S. obesity epidemic. Humanity took its sweet time recognizing the health dangers of sugar. Modern science is putting a spotlight on it.

Excess sugar can be a health wrecker

Dogs explore the world through their mouths, but unfortunately that can mean trouble when the items they swallow include things like clothing, paper, bones and many other items that can wreak havoc on their gastrointestinal system. Cats often will ingest thread, wool, plant materials and small toys, among other things, and are similarly at risk for foreign body obstruction. On this show, Dr. Kathleen Ham will discuss what happens when something gets stuck and causes a foreign body obstruction, what treatments are needed and what pet owners can do to minimize risks associated with this problem, both inside and outside of the household.

Dogs explore the world through their mouths, but unfortunately that can mean trouble when the items they swallow include things like clothing, paper, bones and many other items that can wreak havoc on their gastrointestinal system. Cats often will ingest thread, wool, plant materials and small toys, among other things, and are similarly at risk for foreign body obstruction. On this show, Dr. Kathleen Ham will discuss what happens when something gets stuck and causes a foreign body obstruction, what treatments are needed and what pet owners can do to minimize risks associated with this problem, both inside and outside of the household.

My Pet Ate What? Foreign Body Ingestion and How to Minimize Risk

It may be time to encourage children to be a little “antisocial.” The U.S. Surgeon General recently issued an advisory warning about the serious impacts social media can have on young people’s mental health and well-being. Ninety-five percent of children between the ages of 13 and 17 use social media, one-third of them reporting they do so almost constantly. Studies indicate correlations between depression, anxiety and social media use at all age levels. Social media can expose children and teenagers to inappropriate sexual content. Online bullying is a danger. Constant comparison to others can contribute to body image issues and eating disorders. And there’s FOMO [foh-moh], or fear of missing out. We’ve all seen vacation pics that make us resent our friends. And while notifications, infinite scrolling and suggested content keep users engaged, too much exposure can overstimulate the brain’s reward center, causing changes that look a lot like addiction. Social media can, of course, have positive impacts. Marginalized youth can find crucial social support systems online and an increased sense of identity. Ultimately, the warning noted there is simply not enough evidence to show social media is safe for children and adolescents. It calls for stronger safety standards, increased data transparency and making health and safety a priority at the design stage. But parents and caregivers can help reduce social media’s potential harm.  Create a family media plan, encourage tech-free zones and in-person friendships. Why not set an example and take your own social media break?

It may be time to encourage children to be a little “antisocial.” The U.S. Surgeon General recently issued an advisory warning about the serious impacts social media can have on young people’s mental health and well-being. Ninety-five percent of children between the ages of 13 and 17 use social media, one-third of them reporting they do so almost constantly. Studies indicate correlations between depression, anxiety and social media use at all age levels. Social media can expose children and teenagers to inappropriate sexual content. Online bullying is a danger. Constant comparison to others can contribute to body image issues and eating disorders. And there’s FOMO [foh-moh], or fear of missing out. We’ve all seen vacation pics that make us resent our friends. And while notifications, infinite scrolling and suggested content keep users engaged, too much exposure can overstimulate the brain’s reward center, causing changes that look a lot like addiction. Social media can, of course, have positive impacts. Marginalized youth can find crucial social support systems online and an increased sense of identity. Ultimately, the warning noted there is simply not enough evidence to show social media is safe for children and adolescents. It calls for stronger safety standards, increased data transparency and making health and safety a priority at the design stage. But parents and caregivers can help reduce social media’s potential harm.  Create a family media plan, encourage tech-free zones and in-person friendships. Why not set an example and take your own social media break?

Social media, youth and mental health

Allergy season, as we all know, is nothing to sneeze at. That congested, wheezy feeling can make life miserable. And for those with respiratory problems, including millions of Americans with asthma, high pollen counts can be downright dangerous. Not only is sniffle season is getting worse, it’s lasting longer. A recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Scientists found global warming is increasing the duration of pollen seasons and making them more severe. Warmer air, along with higher levels of carbon dioxide, have created the double whammy for North American allergy sufferers. Scientists say the warming planet has moved up the start of pollen season by 20 days since 1990. And there is 21% more pollen in the air. Researchers say the trend is accelerating. The effects, the study says, are most pronounced in Texas, the Midwest and the Southeast. Cooler, northern climes fare a little better, including New England and the Great Lakes states. The study examined readings from 60 pollen monitoring stations across the United States. Using satellite imagery, investigators determined that land-use changes or anomalies in tree growth hadn’t skewed pollen counts. Allergies have a huge impact on society. Previous studies have shown they can cause students to perform poorly. Associated medical expenses cost the nation billions of dollars. Scientists believe allergy season might make us more susceptible to respiratory viruses, including colds and flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial [sin-sish-uhl] virus, or RSV. So, keep the tissues handy and consult your doctor about possible treatment.

Allergy season, as we all know, is nothing to sneeze at. That congested, wheezy feeling can make life miserable. And for those with respiratory problems, including millions of Americans with asthma, high pollen counts can be downright dangerous. Not only is sniffle season is getting worse, it’s lasting longer. A recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Scientists found global warming is increasing the duration of pollen seasons and making them more severe. Warmer air, along with higher levels of carbon dioxide, have created the double whammy for North American allergy sufferers. Scientists say the warming planet has moved up the start of pollen season by 20 days since 1990. And there is 21% more pollen in the air. Researchers say the trend is accelerating. The effects, the study says, are most pronounced in Texas, the Midwest and the Southeast. Cooler, northern climes fare a little better, including New England and the Great Lakes states. The study examined readings from 60 pollen monitoring stations across the United States. Using satellite imagery, investigators determined that land-use changes or anomalies in tree growth hadn’t skewed pollen counts. Allergies have a huge impact on society. Previous studies have shown they can cause students to perform poorly. Associated medical expenses cost the nation billions of dollars. Scientists believe allergy season might make us more susceptible to respiratory viruses, including colds and flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial [sin-sish-uhl] virus, or RSV. So, keep the tissues handy and consult your doctor about possible treatment.

Allergy season now longer, more intense

There’s a little something extra — and something missing — inside the cereal box that catches a child’s eye. The extra ingredient is sugar. And what’s missing? Nutrients more likely to be found in less flashy packages. A group of Canadian researchers have found that’s no coincidence. Packaged foods with the most child-appealing packaging contain more added sugar than those with less-appealing packaging. To determine that, the researchers looked at nearly 6,000 individual food products relevant to children’s diets. Approximately one in every six products had child-appealing marketing. And those products packed a sugar wallop, containing about 63% more sugar. On average, that’s an extra 1.4 teaspoons of sugar per serving in child-appealing products compared with standard-packaged products. Among the foods that were studied by scientists at the universities of Toronto and Ottawa, two stood out: More than 50% of cereals and toaster pastries had child-centered marketing. The researchers said child-friendly packaged foods most often contain visual designs that appear fun or cool to youngsters or make use of characters familiar to them. So, what can be done to stem the tsunami of sugary foods aimed at children? The researchers say parents can do their part by educating kids about healthier foods and eating habits. Pediatricians can push for more regulations on the marketing of unhealthy foods to kids. The pushback against extra sugar can also start in the grocery store aisles. For parents, that means looking closely at nutrition labels — and sometimes saying no to kids, even if they’re already sold on a particular brand or item.

There’s a little something extra — and something missing — inside the cereal box that catches a child’s eye. The extra ingredient is sugar. And what’s missing? Nutrients more likely to be found in less flashy packages. A group of Canadian researchers have found that’s no coincidence. Packaged foods with the most child-appealing packaging contain more added sugar than those with less-appealing packaging. To determine that, the researchers looked at nearly 6,000 individual food products relevant to children’s diets. Approximately one in every six products had child-appealing marketing. And those products packed a sugar wallop, containing about 63% more sugar. On average, that’s an extra 1.4 teaspoons of sugar per serving in child-appealing products compared with standard-packaged products. Among the foods that were studied by scientists at the universities of Toronto and Ottawa, two stood out: More than 50% of cereals and toaster pastries had child-centered marketing. The researchers said child-friendly packaged foods most often contain visual designs that appear fun or cool to youngsters or make use of characters familiar to them. So, what can be done to stem the tsunami of sugary foods aimed at children? The researchers say parents can do their part by educating kids about healthier foods and eating habits. Pediatricians can push for more regulations on the marketing of unhealthy foods to kids. The pushback against extra sugar can also start in the grocery store aisles. For parents, that means looking closely at nutrition labels — and sometimes saying no to kids, even if they’re already sold on a particular brand or item.

Foods marketed to kids contain more sugar

Neanderthals walking the earth 100,000 years ago and more recent ancient humans had tartar and dental plaque just like modern folks. Minus the dentist, of course. At first blush, it’s difficult to see how bad teeth from the Stone Age would have relevance more than 40,000 years after Neanderthals became extinct. But scientists are now able to extract ancient 100,000-year-old microbial genetic material from the aged dental plaque. And that just might help them unlock some of the ingredients for new drugs in the 21st century. Fossilized bacteria reside in plaque. German and Harvard scientists say in a recent study that they have figured out how to gather and piece together pieces of bacterial DNA from ancient plaque. It’s daunting because strands of the bacterial genome are broken into many pieces. One scientist likened putting them together to solving a billion-piece jigsaw puzzle. But researchers developed synthetic molecular biotechnology techniques to squeeze more complete information from these scattered genetic pieces. In essence, scientists used modern bacteria to produce the chemicals encoded in ancient DNA. The result? Modern bacteria that produce unique molecules last seen in the paleolithic era. Molecules in their countless varieties and combinations are the building blocks of modern drugs. So, accessing ancient molecules expands the range of ingredients available to pharmaceutical makers. The biggest potential benefit might be the development of new antibiotics at a time when antibiotic-resistant microbes are one of medicine’s biggest challenges. It could become a Stone Age solution to an Information Age problem.

Neanderthals walking the earth 100,000 years ago and more recent ancient humans had tartar and dental plaque just like modern folks. Minus the dentist, of course. At first blush, it’s difficult to see how bad teeth from the Stone Age would have relevance more than 40,000 years after Neanderthals became extinct. But scientists are now able to extract ancient 100,000-year-old microbial genetic material from the aged dental plaque. And that just might help them unlock some of the ingredients for new drugs in the 21st century. Fossilized bacteria reside in plaque. German and Harvard scientists say in a recent study that they have figured out how to gather and piece together pieces of bacterial DNA from ancient plaque. It’s daunting because strands of the bacterial genome are broken into many pieces. One scientist likened putting them together to solving a billion-piece jigsaw puzzle. But researchers developed synthetic molecular biotechnology techniques to squeeze more complete information from these scattered genetic pieces. In essence, scientists used modern bacteria to produce the chemicals encoded in ancient DNA. The result? Modern bacteria that produce unique molecules last seen in the paleolithic era. Molecules in their countless varieties and combinations are the building blocks of modern drugs. So, accessing ancient molecules expands the range of ingredients available to pharmaceutical makers. The biggest potential benefit might be the development of new antibiotics at a time when antibiotic-resistant microbes are one of medicine’s biggest challenges. It could become a Stone Age solution to an Information Age problem.

Ancient teeth aid modern health

Even a moderate amount of airplane noise can jeopardize a good night’s sleep. While that seems like common sense, a new study by Boston University researchers shows just how little aircraft noise it takes to disrupt a trip to dreamland. People exposed to airplane noise as low as 45 decibels were more likely to sleep less than seven hours a night. For comparison’s sake, a typical refrigerator generates about 50 decibels of sound. The study is the first large-scale analysis of sleep duration that includes the disruptive effects of airplane noise, nighttime lighting and other factors. Researchers say the idea is to learn more about how aircraft noise plays a role in disrupted sleep and the resulting health outcomes. The researchers analyzed airplane noise exposure and self-reported sleep disturbances among more than 35,000 people living near 90 major U.S. airports between 1995 and 2015. The results showed that airport proximity decreased the odds of sleeping more than seven hours a night. The effect was increased among some groups, including those who live in the western U.S, near a major cargo airport or close to a body of water. It’s also one of the few times when hearing loss might be beneficial: People with full hearing were more likely to have their sleep disrupted by airplane noise. The researchers noted that, of course, losing sleep while living near an air cargo hub makes sense. Cargo centers tend to have older, heavily loaded planes that tend to be louder. And they fly more at night. So, for those who live near an airport, take note: If you’re hearing planes, you might not be counting as many sheep.

Even a moderate amount of airplane noise can jeopardize a good night’s sleep. While that seems like common sense, a new study by Boston University researchers shows just how little aircraft noise it takes to disrupt a trip to dreamland. People exposed to airplane noise as low as 45 decibels were more likely to sleep less than seven hours a night. For comparison’s sake, a typical refrigerator generates about 50 decibels of sound. The study is the first large-scale analysis of sleep duration that includes the disruptive effects of airplane noise, nighttime lighting and other factors. Researchers say the idea is to learn more about how aircraft noise plays a role in disrupted sleep and the resulting health outcomes. The researchers analyzed airplane noise exposure and self-reported sleep disturbances among more than 35,000 people living near 90 major U.S. airports between 1995 and 2015. The results showed that airport proximity decreased the odds of sleeping more than seven hours a night. The effect was increased among some groups, including those who live in the western U.S, near a major cargo airport or close to a body of water. It’s also one of the few times when hearing loss might be beneficial: People with full hearing were more likely to have their sleep disrupted by airplane noise. The researchers noted that, of course, losing sleep while living near an air cargo hub makes sense. Cargo centers tend to have older, heavily loaded planes that tend to be louder. And they fly more at night. So, for those who live near an airport, take note: If you’re hearing planes, you might not be counting as many sheep.

Study finds that airport proximity reduces sleep

It’s no secret that children model behaviors they see in adults from their earliest years. After all, many children spend more time with their mother than anyone else. Research offers specifics about what kind of effects, for better or worse, this can have on kids. A five-year study by researchers in Australia found a mother’s dietary and television-watching habits directly influenced her children’s body mass index, or BMI, and their lifestyle patterns. The study of more than 400 children and their mothers found those women who followed healthy diets high in fruits and vegetables were more likely to have children who picked up good habits and have a healthy BMI. In contrast, children of mothers who reported watching more than 130 minutes of television each day were more likely to have unhealthy lifestyles and higher BMIs. More than 50% of the kids had healthy lifestyles and mid-range BMIs, while 17% had unhealthy lifestyles and high BMIs. Interestingly, about 30% of the children had unhealthy lifestyles but low BMIs. The researchers noted kids in this category had the lowest birth weights and lowest percentage of mothers with obesity, which may have contributed to the lower BMI scores. There’s no doubt that children learn by imitating what they see, the good as well as the bad. The team said their study underscores the importance of setting good examples early, especially during this crucial period, which can put a child on a path toward obesity … or healthy habits. This can also be a teachable moment for mothers, who can be motivated by the love for their children to change their own unhealthy tendencies.

It’s no secret that children model behaviors they see in adults from their earliest years. After all, many children spend more time with their mother than anyone else. Research offers specifics about what kind of effects, for better or worse, this can have on kids. A five-year study by researchers in Australia found a mother’s dietary and television-watching habits directly influenced her children’s body mass index, or BMI, and their lifestyle patterns. The study of more than 400 children and their mothers found those women who followed healthy diets high in fruits and vegetables were more likely to have children who picked up good habits and have a healthy BMI. In contrast, children of mothers who reported watching more than 130 minutes of television each day were more likely to have unhealthy lifestyles and higher BMIs. More than 50% of the kids had healthy lifestyles and mid-range BMIs, while 17% had unhealthy lifestyles and high BMIs. Interestingly, about 30% of the children had unhealthy lifestyles but low BMIs. The researchers noted kids in this category had the lowest birth weights and lowest percentage of mothers with obesity, which may have contributed to the lower BMI scores. There’s no doubt that children learn by imitating what they see, the good as well as the bad. The team said their study underscores the importance of setting good examples early, especially during this crucial period, which can put a child on a path toward obesity … or healthy habits. This can also be a teachable moment for mothers, who can be motivated by the love for their children to change their own unhealthy tendencies.

Setting a good example can pay healthy dividends

A friend in need is a friend indeed, and those of us with less-than-rosy childhoods may benefit from strong social bonds in ways that make up for adverse early childhood experiences. A new study from Duke University looked at nearly 200 baboons in southern Kenya, finding that adversity experienced early in life negatively affected the primates’ lifespan. However, strong social bonds with other baboons forged in adulthood restored the years previously “lost.” Specifically, baboons with difficult childhoods regained two years of life expectancy by forming close friendships. Previous studies have found that people who experience traumatic events while growing up, like neglect or parental abuse, are more likely to have a shortened lifespan. Self-reported data from people has limitations, however, so researchers followed individual baboons, noting which animals they spent time with and how they progressed throughout their lifetimes. They found baboons who experienced more adversity early on had a dip in survival. For nine out of 10, that was due to direct effects of their early negative experiences, like being born in a drought year or losing their mother. Each additional hardship was linked to 1.4 years of life lost. But those who developed strong social bonds with other baboons added 2.2 years to their lives, regardless of any negative events they faced as young baboons. The closeness of these social bonds was measured by how often they groomed their pals. So, though we can’t change our own histories, making a concerted effort to foster and maintain friendships is one way to live longer and ensure the extra time is well-spent.

A friend in need is a friend indeed, and those of us with less-than-rosy childhoods may benefit from strong social bonds in ways that make up for adverse early childhood experiences. A new study from Duke University looked at nearly 200 baboons in southern Kenya, finding that adversity experienced early in life negatively affected the primates’ lifespan. However, strong social bonds with other baboons forged in adulthood restored the years previously “lost.” Specifically, baboons with difficult childhoods regained two years of life expectancy by forming close friendships. Previous studies have found that people who experience traumatic events while growing up, like neglect or parental abuse, are more likely to have a shortened lifespan. Self-reported data from people has limitations, however, so researchers followed individual baboons, noting which animals they spent time with and how they progressed throughout their lifetimes. They found baboons who experienced more adversity early on had a dip in survival. For nine out of 10, that was due to direct effects of their early negative experiences, like being born in a drought year or losing their mother. Each additional hardship was linked to 1.4 years of life lost. But those who developed strong social bonds with other baboons added 2.2 years to their lives, regardless of any negative events they faced as young baboons. The closeness of these social bonds was measured by how often they groomed their pals. So, though we can’t change our own histories, making a concerted effort to foster and maintain friendships is one way to live longer and ensure the extra time is well-spent.

Investing in friends can balance out childhood adversity, study says

When you’re 8 years old and nursing a broken forearm, a couple hours in the waiting room of an ER can feel like forever. Now, a portable ultrasound device may act as a handy, time-saving alternative. Researchers from Griffith University looked at outcomes in children who received an ultrasound and those who received an X-ray to diagnose a suspected forearm fracture. Nurses, physiotherapists and emergency physicians treated 270 children between the ages of 5 and 15. After 28 days, the pediatric patients went in for a checkup, which was repeated at the eight-week mark. The findings showed that the majority of children had similar recoveries and were, eventually, right as rain. In fact, fewer than a third of the children who received a portable ultrasound from the device needed a follow-up X-ray and care at an orthopaedic clinic. Those without a buckle fracture, a type of bone break common in kids, were discharged. In general, children who had the ultrasound had fewer X-rays and were in the emergency room a shorter amount of time, which led to happier families. Diverting some fractures to the ultrasound device also freed up X-rays for more acute cases, reducing cost without affecting patient safety. More importantly, the study’s findings point to the device being key in locations with less hospital care. Families would be able to refrain from traveling with an injured child and be able to access quick care — and results — nearby. A broken bone is bad enough when you’re a kid, and a cast or splint is nothing to sneeze at — but soon, parents might at least be able to find the time spent on diagnosis to be a little less painful.

When you’re 8 years old and nursing a broken forearm, a couple hours in the waiting room of an ER can feel like forever. Now, a portable ultrasound device may act as a handy, time-saving alternative. Researchers from Griffith University looked at outcomes in children who received an ultrasound and those who received an X-ray to diagnose a suspected forearm fracture. Nurses, physiotherapists and emergency physicians treated 270 children between the ages of 5 and 15. After 28 days, the pediatric patients went in for a checkup, which was repeated at the eight-week mark. The findings showed that the majority of children had similar recoveries and were, eventually, right as rain. In fact, fewer than a third of the children who received a portable ultrasound from the device needed a follow-up X-ray and care at an orthopaedic clinic. Those without a buckle fracture, a type of bone break common in kids, were discharged. In general, children who had the ultrasound had fewer X-rays and were in the emergency room a shorter amount of time, which led to happier families. Diverting some fractures to the ultrasound device also freed up X-rays for more acute cases, reducing cost without affecting patient safety. More importantly, the study’s findings point to the device being key in locations with less hospital care. Families would be able to refrain from traveling with an injured child and be able to access quick care — and results — nearby. A broken bone is bad enough when you’re a kid, and a cast or splint is nothing to sneeze at — but soon, parents might at least be able to find the time spent on diagnosis to be a little less painful.

New device may cut down on ER wait time

Walking a dog is a time to unwind and bond with your furry best friend. But it can also raise the risk of injuries, especially among women and older people. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University did a deep dive into two decades of injuries related to walking leashed dogs. More than 420,000 U.S. adults sought emergency room treatment from dog-walking accidents between 2001 and 2020. Nearly half the patients were 40 to 64 years old and three-fourths were women. The top three injuries were broken fingers, traumatic brain injuries and sprained shoulders. Traumatic brain injuries included concussions and non-concussive head trauma, including bruised brain tissue and bleeding around the brain’s outer membrane. Most of the injuries stemmed from falls after being pulled by a dog or getting tangled in or tripping on a leash. Women were 50% more likely than men to break a bone. Older dog walkers had three times more risk of falling than younger people and were twice as likely to break a bone. Why study dog-walking injuries? Not only is dog ownership pervasive —53% of U.S. households have at least one — researchers say little is known about the extent of dog-walking injuries. Also, injuries more than quadrupled during the two-decade review period, something researchers attribute in part to rising dog ownership rates and the growing popularity of dog walking as a fitness activity. The researchers hope their findings will make dog owners more aware of potential risks and encourage doctors to discuss those hazards. So, stay aware of the dog’s leash and your surroundings when em-BARK-ing on your next dog walk.

Walking a dog is a time to unwind and bond with your furry best friend. But it can also raise the risk of injuries, especially among women and older people. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University did a deep dive into two decades of injuries related to walking leashed dogs. More than 420,000 U.S. adults sought emergency room treatment from dog-walking accidents between 2001 and 2020. Nearly half the patients were 40 to 64 years old and three-fourths were women. The top three injuries were broken fingers, traumatic brain injuries and sprained shoulders. Traumatic brain injuries included concussions and non-concussive head trauma, including bruised brain tissue and bleeding around the brain’s outer membrane. Most of the injuries stemmed from falls after being pulled by a dog or getting tangled in or tripping on a leash. Women were 50% more likely than men to break a bone. Older dog walkers had three times more risk of falling than younger people and were twice as likely to break a bone. Why study dog-walking injuries? Not only is dog ownership pervasive —53% of U.S. households have at least one — researchers say little is known about the extent of dog-walking injuries. Also, injuries more than quadrupled during the two-decade review period, something researchers attribute in part to rising dog ownership rates and the growing popularity of dog walking as a fitness activity. The researchers hope their findings will make dog owners more aware of potential risks and encourage doctors to discuss those hazards. So, stay aware of the dog’s leash and your surroundings when em-BARK-ing on your next dog walk.

Dog walking linked to risk of traumatic brain injury

For many people, music and movies serve as distractions from stress and anxiety. A new study suggests that for women in an especially stressful place, there’s a unique option that can help ease their burden: watching Disney movies. Researchers at a cancer center in Vienna, Austria knew studies have shown that music can improve your health. Uplifting movies can have similar results. Why not combine the two? And who does this better than Disney? In a yearlong trial, women with gynecologic cancers were either shown Disney movies or not during six cycles of chemotherapy. Before and after every cycle, they completed questionnaires about their fatigue levels and how they were faring emotionally and socially. The team carefully chose eight movies, including “Cinderella,” “Lady and the Tramp,” “The Sword in the Stone,” and “Mary Poppins.” The other films used in the research were “The Jungle Book,” “Aristocats,” “Robin Hood” and “The Little Mermaid.” All were produced between 1950 and 1989. The stories have strong main characters who surmount difficulties without necessarily resolving them. And, importantly, they have happy endings. Patients in the Disney group felt significantly less tense and worried less than patients in the control group. Watching Disney movies also was associated with less encroachment on their family life and social activities, and fewer symptoms of fatigue. Life is not a movie, and not every ending is happy. But when going through a tough time, being able to go back to a happier time, while humming a familiar tune, may make the road ahead a little less frightening.

For many people, music and movies serve as distractions from stress and anxiety. A new study suggests that for women in an especially stressful place, there’s a unique option that can help ease their burden: watching Disney movies. Researchers at a cancer center in Vienna, Austria knew studies have shown that music can improve your health. Uplifting movies can have similar results. Why not combine the two? And who does this better than Disney? In a yearlong trial, women with gynecologic cancers were either shown Disney movies or not during six cycles of chemotherapy. Before and after every cycle, they completed questionnaires about their fatigue levels and how they were faring emotionally and socially. The team carefully chose eight movies, including “Cinderella,” “Lady and the Tramp,” “The Sword in the Stone,” and “Mary Poppins.” The other films used in the research were “The Jungle Book,” “Aristocats,” “Robin Hood” and “The Little Mermaid.” All were produced between 1950 and 1989. The stories have strong main characters who surmount difficulties without necessarily resolving them. And, importantly, they have happy endings. Patients in the Disney group felt significantly less tense and worried less than patients in the control group. Watching Disney movies also was associated with less encroachment on their family life and social activities, and fewer symptoms of fatigue. Life is not a movie, and not every ending is happy. But when going through a tough time, being able to go back to a happier time, while humming a familiar tune, may make the road ahead a little less frightening.

Watching Disney flicks can help ease stress

Disinfectant wipes became a weapon of choice against the coronavirus when the COVID-19 panic began in 2020. Many of us continue to use them. But the good intentions of using wipes to prevent disease might come with some unsettling trade-offs. Toxic chemical researchers say the zeal to eradicate the coronavirus might have exposed us to potentially dangerous chemicals. This danger comes from a chemical group called quaternary [kwaa·tur·neh·ree] ammonium compounds, commonly called quats [kw-ahts]. If you’ve seen a disinfectant spray or wipe that boasts it kills 99.9% of germs, it’s probably got a quat in it. Recent research suggest these chemicals are associated with serious health problems, including infertility, metabolic disruption, birth defects and asthma. Worse still, the chemicals might exacerbate antimicrobial resistance. Indeed, researchers say the government should consider asking consumers to restrict disinfectants to the most essential uses. Quats aren’t found only in disinfectants. You can also find them in paints, pesticides and some personal care products. One frightening study checked the blood serum of 200 Indiana residents before and after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigators found that detectable quat levels doubled during the pandemic. And researchers warn that these chemicals don’t disappear quickly. They accumulate in the environment and the body. Scientists say they are not suggesting that disinfectants don’t have a role in preventing illness. But overuse poses serious concerns. They also note that an old-fashioned, safe germ-fighter is only slightly less effective than disinfectants: soap and water.

Disinfectant wipes became a weapon of choice against the coronavirus when the COVID-19 panic began in 2020. Many of us continue to use them. But the good intentions of using wipes to prevent disease might come with some unsettling trade-offs. Toxic chemical researchers say the zeal to eradicate the coronavirus might have exposed us to potentially dangerous chemicals. This danger comes from a chemical group called quaternary [kwaa·tur·neh·ree] ammonium compounds, commonly called quats [kw-ahts]. If you’ve seen a disinfectant spray or wipe that boasts it kills 99.9% of germs, it’s probably got a quat in it. Recent research suggest these chemicals are associated with serious health problems, including infertility, metabolic disruption, birth defects and asthma. Worse still, the chemicals might exacerbate antimicrobial resistance. Indeed, researchers say the government should consider asking consumers to restrict disinfectants to the most essential uses. Quats aren’t found only in disinfectants. You can also find them in paints, pesticides and some personal care products. One frightening study checked the blood serum of 200 Indiana residents before and after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigators found that detectable quat levels doubled during the pandemic. And researchers warn that these chemicals don’t disappear quickly. They accumulate in the environment and the body. Scientists say they are not suggesting that disinfectants don’t have a role in preventing illness. But overuse poses serious concerns. They also note that an old-fashioned, safe germ-fighter is only slightly less effective than disinfectants: soap and water.

Danger lurks in the zeal to disinfect

You’re finally asleep after a tough day when, out of nowhere, your calf recoils in a pain so intense you’re seeing stars. A charley horse has seized your limb, and you’re now wide awake — and in agony. These involuntary spasms come out of nowhere and ball up the muscles, typically in the calf. They can last for seconds or minutes, and several hours of soreness usually follow. You’re hardly alone in your pain: According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, about 60% of people in the U.S. report having charley horses. But what causes them and how can you keep from getting them? There have been many studies, but researchers can point to no specific trigger. It could be dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance, flat feet or circulation problems. Prolonged sitting could be the reason. Perhaps you worked out too much or not enough. It could be a sign of a neurological disorder, neuropathy or even Parkinson’s disease. Of course, when you’re hollering in pain, all you care about is making it stop. Once the spasm has eased, consider taking a hot bath or a cold shower. Drink plenty of water or gulp down some pickle juice. One study found that drinking pickle juice reduces cramps 40% faster than drinking water. To keep ol’ charley at bay, stretching your leg muscles every day is often recommended. Stay hydrated and keep the bed covers loose around your feet. If the cramps keep coming back, tell your doctor. Your body may not be getting enough of a specific vitamin or mineral. Follow these steps and you may be able to get rid of charley — and the horse he rode in on.

You’re finally asleep after a tough day when, out of nowhere, your calf recoils in a pain so intense you’re seeing stars. A charley horse has seized your limb, and you’re now wide awake — and in agony. These involuntary spasms come out of nowhere and ball up the muscles, typically in the calf. They can last for seconds or minutes, and several hours of soreness usually follow. You’re hardly alone in your pain: According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, about 60% of people in the U.S. report having charley horses. But what causes them and how can you keep from getting them? There have been many studies, but researchers can point to no specific trigger. It could be dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance, flat feet or circulation problems. Prolonged sitting could be the reason. Perhaps you worked out too much or not enough. It could be a sign of a neurological disorder, neuropathy or even Parkinson’s disease. Of course, when you’re hollering in pain, all you care about is making it stop. Once the spasm has eased, consider taking a hot bath or a cold shower. Drink plenty of water or gulp down some pickle juice. One study found that drinking pickle juice reduces cramps 40% faster than drinking water. To keep ol’ charley at bay, stretching your leg muscles every day is often recommended. Stay hydrated and keep the bed covers loose around your feet. If the cramps keep coming back, tell your doctor. Your body may not be getting enough of a specific vitamin or mineral. Follow these steps and you may be able to get rid of charley — and the horse he rode in on.

Help for sudden leg cramps

You’re restless, tossing and turning. The pillow’s too hot. The room is too cold. The clock on your nightstand reads 2:17 a.m. You calculate how much time you have left until it’s time to wake up — only five hours of sleep left. This stresses you out and wrecks any chance of falling asleep anytime soon. Now, a new study from Indiana University confirms something that alarm clock owners may have long suspected — watching the clock while trying to fall asleep will only make your insomnia worse, as well as your reliance on sleep aids. Researchers asked nearly 5,000 patients at a sleep clinic to complete questionnaires about the severity of their insomnia, their use of sleep medication and the time they spent monitoring their own behavior while trying to fall asleep. The findings were straightforward: The more folks fretted over what time it was, how much sleep they would get and how long it would take them to fall asleep, the more upset they became. Consequently, they had a much harder time falling asleep. After that, their tendency to turn to sleep aids to correct the problem increased. Insomnia affects between 4% and 22% of adults and can encourage a bevy of unpleasant health problems, like heart disease and diabetes. So, what is a sleep-deprived person to do? Turn your alarm clock around or cover it altogether. Stash your phone far enough out of reach that you’re physically unable to constantly check the time. Once your ability to measure time is removed, falling asleep becomes much easier. You may not be able to turn back the hands of time, but you’ll sleep easier without watching them.

You’re restless, tossing and turning. The pillow’s too hot. The room is too cold. The clock on your nightstand reads 2:17 a.m. You calculate how much time you have left until it’s time to wake up — only five hours of sleep left. This stresses you out and wrecks any chance of falling asleep anytime soon. Now, a new study from Indiana University confirms something that alarm clock owners may have long suspected — watching the clock while trying to fall asleep will only make your insomnia worse, as well as your reliance on sleep aids. Researchers asked nearly 5,000 patients at a sleep clinic to complete questionnaires about the severity of their insomnia, their use of sleep medication and the time they spent monitoring their own behavior while trying to fall asleep. The findings were straightforward: The more folks fretted over what time it was, how much sleep they would get and how long it would take them to fall asleep, the more upset they became. Consequently, they had a much harder time falling asleep. After that, their tendency to turn to sleep aids to correct the problem increased. Insomnia affects between 4% and 22% of adults and can encourage a bevy of unpleasant health problems, like heart disease and diabetes. So, what is a sleep-deprived person to do? Turn your alarm clock around or cover it altogether. Stash your phone far enough out of reach that you’re physically unable to constantly check the time. Once your ability to measure time is removed, falling asleep becomes much easier. You may not be able to turn back the hands of time, but you’ll sleep easier without watching them.

Clocks exacerbate insomnia, study suggests

Take a closer look at the products sitting in your kitchen and bathroom cabinets. There’s a chance some of them contain one or more chemicals linked to cancer and other health problems. In fact, more than 100 types of common consumer products fit that description. The list includes products that cover most aspects of daily life: Shampoo, soap, lotion, dish soap, nail polish and all-purpose cleaners. And it’s not just products used at home. Degreasers, adhesives and lubricants typically used on job sites also made the list. To establish their findings, researchers at the Silent Spring Institute near Boston used two databases run by the state of California. One of those is a list of products that release volatile organic compounds when a product is used. The other is a list of chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive and development issues. They include formaldehyde, a preservative and known carcinogen, as well as diethanolamine [di-eth-an-o-lam-ine], or DEA. Also a known carcinogen, DEA was a listed ingredient in 40 household items. The potential threats come in different forms. Some products contain many chemicals. In other cases, people can be exposed to the same dangerous chemical in many different products. To counter all that, the researchers identified 11 chemicals and 30 products they believe should be subject to additional regulation or redesigned by their makers. Until new regulations or reformulated products come along, here’s what you can do: Make sure there’s plenty of ventilation when using household products and look for fragrance-free products to reduce exposure to volatile organic chemicals.

Take a closer look at the products sitting in your kitchen and bathroom cabinets. There’s a chance some of them contain one or more chemicals linked to cancer and other health problems. In fact, more than 100 types of common consumer products fit that description. The list includes products that cover most aspects of daily life: Shampoo, soap, lotion, dish soap, nail polish and all-purpose cleaners. And it’s not just products used at home. Degreasers, adhesives and lubricants typically used on job sites also made the list. To establish their findings, researchers at the Silent Spring Institute near Boston used two databases run by the state of California. One of those is a list of products that release volatile organic compounds when a product is used. The other is a list of chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive and development issues. They include formaldehyde, a preservative and known carcinogen, as well as diethanolamine [di-eth-an-o-lam-ine], or DEA. Also a known carcinogen, DEA was a listed ingredient in 40 household items. The potential threats come in different forms. Some products contain many chemicals. In other cases, people can be exposed to the same dangerous chemical in many different products. To counter all that, the researchers identified 11 chemicals and 30 products they believe should be subject to additional regulation or redesigned by their makers. Until new regulations or reformulated products come along, here’s what you can do: Make sure there’s plenty of ventilation when using household products and look for fragrance-free products to reduce exposure to volatile organic chemicals.

Toxic chemicals abound in common household products

Have you ever watched a baseball player make a seemingly impossible catch? Snatched a tumbling toddler from mid-air before they hit the floor? Intercepted a wiley dog attempting to squirt through an open gate to freedom? If you have, you likely have a sense of what scientists know: That there are highly precise interactions going on between our visual and motor systems. Neuroscientists at the University of Rochester say there’s something else at work during such feats. And that’s the ability to visually predict movement. The researchers set up an experiment using marmosets, which are small, long-tailed South American monkeys with cute tufts on the sides of their head. They used high-speed cameras and video data from an artificial intelligence tool called DeepLabCut that measures and tracks arm and hand movements. They measured an 80-millisecond delay in the primate’s visuomotor behavior — that is, the gap between the exact moment when vision and movement begin working in tandem to make the monkey’s hand move toward the object, which in this experiment, was a cricket. Marmosets find crickets to be a yummy snack. Despite the delay, the marmosets still were able to grab the crickets. That means the monkeys had to be able to predict the crickets’ movement. Perhaps surprisingly, the scientists’ goal in building a detailed model of vision-guided reaching behavior has nothing to do with improving humans’ reflexes or athletic ability. Instead, they said they hope that better understanding will give scientists better insight into what’s going wrong when neurological disorders interrupt humans’ ability to perform such tasks.

Have you ever watched a baseball player make a seemingly impossible catch? Snatched a tumbling toddler from mid-air before they hit the floor? Intercepted a wiley dog attempting to squirt through an open gate to freedom? If you have, you likely have a sense of what scientists know: That there are highly precise interactions going on between our visual and motor systems. Neuroscientists at the University of Rochester say there’s something else at work during such feats. And that’s the ability to visually predict movement. The researchers set up an experiment using marmosets, which are small, long-tailed South American monkeys with cute tufts on the sides of their head. They used high-speed cameras and video data from an artificial intelligence tool called DeepLabCut that measures and tracks arm and hand movements. They measured an 80-millisecond delay in the primate’s visuomotor behavior — that is, the gap between the exact moment when vision and movement begin working in tandem to make the monkey’s hand move toward the object, which in this experiment, was a cricket. Marmosets find crickets to be a yummy snack. Despite the delay, the marmosets still were able to grab the crickets. That means the monkeys had to be able to predict the crickets’ movement. Perhaps surprisingly, the scientists’ goal in building a detailed model of vision-guided reaching behavior has nothing to do with improving humans’ reflexes or athletic ability. Instead, they said they hope that better understanding will give scientists better insight into what’s going wrong when neurological disorders interrupt humans’ ability to perform such tasks.

Key to a great catch? Predicting movement.

Doesn’t it seem like we’re always being told about all the things we shouldn’t eat? For once, let’s talk about something we can eat with impunity. And that something, friends, is blueberries. July is national blueberry month. So it’s a perfect time to think about this unique berry and all the reasons it’s great for our health. A 2015 study from Harvard University researchers found an inverse relationship between some fruits and weight gain — meaning that the more specific fruits were incorporated into the diet, the more weight dieters lost. Those fruits included apples, pears and you guessed it: blueberries. In 2014, Appalachian State University researchers found that athletes who ate a little less than 2 cups of blueberries a day for six weeks reduced the oxidative stress on their bodies caused by long-distance running. More important, the athletes doubled their “killer cell” counts. Killer cells are white blood cells that target virus-infected and cancerous cells in the body. Blueberries are nutrient-dense, packing high doses of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese, which aids in bone development and converting proteins, carbohydrates and fats into energy. Aside from all the health benefits, blueberries are easy to add to your diet. Take blueberries, some yogurt and a banana, throw them in a blender and you’ve got a perfect smoothie. Toss them on cereal, oatmeal or into a salad. Or just enjoy them as they come. One cup of blueberries contains roughly 84 calories, no cholesterol and about one gram of protein. You’ll have done your body good and no one can even wag so much as a finger at you about it.

Doesn’t it seem like we’re always being told about all the things we shouldn’t eat? For once, let’s talk about something we can eat with impunity. And that something, friends, is blueberries. July is national blueberry month. So it’s a perfect time to think about this unique berry and all the reasons it’s great for our health. A 2015 study from Harvard University researchers found an inverse relationship between some fruits and weight gain — meaning that the more specific fruits were incorporated into the diet, the more weight dieters lost. Those fruits included apples, pears and you guessed it: blueberries. In 2014, Appalachian State University researchers found that athletes who ate a little less than 2 cups of blueberries a day for six weeks reduced the oxidative stress on their bodies caused by long-distance running. More important, the athletes doubled their “killer cell” counts. Killer cells are white blood cells that target virus-infected and cancerous cells in the body. Blueberries are nutrient-dense, packing high doses of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese, which aids in bone development and converting proteins, carbohydrates and fats into energy. Aside from all the health benefits, blueberries are easy to add to your diet. Take blueberries, some yogurt and a banana, throw them in a blender and you’ve got a perfect smoothie. Toss them on cereal, oatmeal or into a salad. Or just enjoy them as they come. One cup of blueberries contains roughly 84 calories, no cholesterol and about one gram of protein. You’ll have done your body good and no one can even wag so much as a finger at you about it.

Blueberries: a perfect summer snack

Parlez-vous français? Sprechen sie Deutsch? ¿Hablas español? The bilingual among us might have a leg up on those who speak only their native tongue. German researchers in a recent study analyzed data from hundreds of older adults and found that those who speak two languages daily performed better on tests of memory, learning, language and self-control. That is in contrast to those speaking just their mother tongue. Neuroscientists suggest that bilingualists have brains trained to easily switch between languages. This then contributes to other skills that might prevent or slow cognitive decline or dementia. Those other skills include multitasking, self-control and managing emotions. An active brain, it seems, has a protective effect. Researchers studied 746 people ages 59 to 76, all of whom had normal cognition scores. Some had memory problems, while others did not. Participants took tests measuring vocabulary, memory, attention span and difficulty with calculation tasks. Older adults who used a second language between the ages of 13 to 65 posted higher scores than those who spoke only one language at the same ages. This work builds on other investigations showing some of the same brain impacts. But some warn that not all research finds bilingualism advantageous to brain health. Even so, the strength of this newer study is the large number of speakers it examined. Unclear is the benefit of speaking three languages. One can only guess what these scientists would make of the unassuming carpet cleaner in Washington, D.C., profiled by the media in 2022. His language tally is 24.

Parlez-vous français? Sprechen sie Deutsch? ¿Hablas español? The bilingual among us might have a leg up on those who speak only their native tongue. German researchers in a recent study analyzed data from hundreds of older adults and found that those who speak two languages daily performed better on tests of memory, learning, language and self-control. That is in contrast to those speaking just their mother tongue. Neuroscientists suggest that bilingualists have brains trained to easily switch between languages. This then contributes to other skills that might prevent or slow cognitive decline or dementia. Those other skills include multitasking, self-control and managing emotions. An active brain, it seems, has a protective effect. Researchers studied 746 people ages 59 to 76, all of whom had normal cognition scores. Some had memory problems, while others did not. Participants took tests measuring vocabulary, memory, attention span and difficulty with calculation tasks. Older adults who used a second language between the ages of 13 to 65 posted higher scores than those who spoke only one language at the same ages. This work builds on other investigations showing some of the same brain impacts. But some warn that not all research finds bilingualism advantageous to brain health. Even so, the strength of this newer study is the large number of speakers it examined. Unclear is the benefit of speaking three languages. One can only guess what these scientists would make of the unassuming carpet cleaner in Washington, D.C., profiled by the media in 2022. His language tally is 24.

Bilingualism might protect against dementia

We’ve got smartphones, smartwatches and smart homes. Get ready for smart bandages, too. Scientists say smart bandages will one day be available at a pharmacy near you. But don’t expect to deploy these technological wonders when nicking yourself shaving or after cutting a finger on a sharp kitchen knife. Scientists at the California Institute of Technology are experimenting with a smart bandage to be used for people with chronic wounds. These are the difficult-to-heal cuts and burns that are often debilitating. An example is a person with diabetes, a disease that can slow the healing process, leaving wounds with the potential of becoming infected. Festering wounds are a major drain on health care, with estimated annual costs of $25 billion in the United States alone. But a Caltech medical engineer has developed a bandage made of a flexible polymer with electronics and medication embedded in it. The electronics can monitor wound temperature for infection or inflammation, sending an alert to a patient’s computer or smartphone. It can send a message via Wi-Fi to a doctor. At the same time, a bandage sensor can release a small dose of an antibiotic or other medication. Meanwhile, an electrical field is applied to the wound to stimulate tissue growth. More research is needed, scientists say, and it must be tested on humans. Caltech isn’t alone in the development of these scientific marvels. University of Arizona researchers, for example, are also working on prototypes. And don’t worry. There will probably always be a place in our medicine cabinet for not-so-smart bandages that handle routine cuts and scrapes.

We’ve got smartphones, smartwatches and smart homes. Get ready for smart bandages, too. Scientists say smart bandages will one day be available at a pharmacy near you. But don’t expect to deploy these technological wonders when nicking yourself shaving or after cutting a finger on a sharp kitchen knife. Scientists at the California Institute of Technology are experimenting with a smart bandage to be used for people with chronic wounds. These are the difficult-to-heal cuts and burns that are often debilitating. An example is a person with diabetes, a disease that can slow the healing process, leaving wounds with the potential of becoming infected. Festering wounds are a major drain on health care, with estimated annual costs of $25 billion in the United States alone. But a Caltech medical engineer has developed a bandage made of a flexible polymer with electronics and medication embedded in it. The electronics can monitor wound temperature for infection or inflammation, sending an alert to a patient’s computer or smartphone. It can send a message via Wi-Fi to a doctor. At the same time, a bandage sensor can release a small dose of an antibiotic or other medication. Meanwhile, an electrical field is applied to the wound to stimulate tissue growth. More research is needed, scientists say, and it must be tested on humans. Caltech isn’t alone in the development of these scientific marvels. University of Arizona researchers, for example, are also working on prototypes. And don’t worry. There will probably always be a place in our medicine cabinet for not-so-smart bandages that handle routine cuts and scrapes.

Bandages are getting smarter

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