Friday's Top 5 Tips and Trends

What’s new in the world of natural health? Find out in our weekly roundup!

1. Dad’s health contributes to baby’s health

It’s not just mom-to-be who has to take control of her health—more and more research is showing just how important the father’s health is at the time of conception, in influencing the health of the future offspring. According to this new animal study, offspring of males who were obese, ate a high-fat diet, and had diabetes suffered altered gene expression, which put them at risk of future obesity, premature aging, degenerative diseases, and cancer. Check out our article “Natural Ways to Boost Fertility” for tips.

2. Is central heating making us fat?

Sure, being toasty warm in the winter may be comfortable, but some experts are warning that it may also reduce calorie burning, leading to weight gain. When it’s slightly cold out, we burn more calories to keep warm. According to this new research, 66 F (19 C) is a good compromise. Nevertheless, more research needs to be done. To learn more about surprising environmental culprits that lead to weight gain, read “Is Something Else Making Us Fat?”

3. Opening the debate on caramel colouring in soft drinks

You might remember, years ago, hearing controversy about the potential health effects of caramel colouring used in pop such as cola. Although the research was deemed inconclusive, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently decided to do more research. The concern, in this case, is a chemical called 4-methylimidazole that can occur in caramel colouring, which has been a suspected carcinogen for some time. Learn more about hidden chemicals in foods and drinks in the article, “The Meaning of ‘Natural’”.

4. Be happy, live longer?

A new study published by the Canadian Medical Association adds to the theory that optimism/happiness and longevity go hand in hand. The study followed more than 3,199 seniors for eight years. Those who claimed to be happy were also more physically active and walked faster and more vigorously—and stayed that way for much longer than the self-proclaimed unhappy seniors. Learn more by reading our article on the subject, “Social Seniors.”

5. Even more to love about omega-3s!

The list of omega-3 benefits continues to grow! One type of omega-3 in particular, called DHA, is receiving some much-deserved time in the spotlight. DHA is now thought to help prevent fatty liver disease, which is increasing in prevalence due to obesity and poor eating habits. DHA is also showing promise in helping to reduce complications in diabetic patients. DHA can be found in fatty fish and supplements.