Friday's Top 5 Tips and Trends

Welcome to our last Tips and Trends blog of 2013. We’ll be back at it in the New Year, but until then, have a safe and happy holiday—and maybe even make use of some of these new research results.

1. Singing may help those with COPD

For those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), walking up a simple flight of stairs can be a daunting and exhausting task. An estimated 64 million people around the world have this lifelong condition that makes breathing a constant struggle, but new research is showing that simply singing can make a huge difference. Joining a choir or practising singing regularly can help improve lung function by encouraging deeper, controlled breathing.

2. A healthy baby is up to Dad, too!

Guys, you’re not off the hook when it comes to a healthy baby! A new study (albeit on mice) found that the offspring of males who are deficient in folate were more likely have birth defects. It’s been long-known that folate for pregnant women can help reduce birth defects, but now the role of men is being more closely examined. If you’re thinking of having a baby, consider getting your folate levels checked, and make sure to eat a healthy diet!

3. Meet the unflushables

The David Suzuki Foundation is asking that we start thinking more carefully about what we’re flushing down the toilet. Gross? Perhaps, but also an important environmental topic. Hair and floss are on the “unflushable” list—as are some things that companies tell us can be flushed, namely feminine hygiene products and disposable wipes. Check out their recent blog post for all the details!

4. Antacids linked to vitamin B12 deficiency

Pills for heartburn are some of the most common medications taken, but new research is suggesting that they may lead to a deficiency in vitamin B12 if taken long-term. If you suffer from heartburn regularly, learn the reason behind it, and try to mitigate it naturally through diet and natural supplements—check out our recent article “Heartburn” to learn more. Keep in mind that heartburn pills aren’t the only drugs that can cause vitamin deficiencies. Our article “Drug-Induced Nutritional Deficiency” breaks it all down for you!

5. Environmental Defence tells us who’s been naughty and nice

Looks like some cosmetics companies will be receiving a lump of coal this year. Environmental Defence has just released a new report ranking big personal care companies in their efforts (or lack thereof) to use safer ingredients, disclose chemicals used, and protect the environment. From best to worst, here they are:

1. Procter & Gamble
2. Johnson & Johnson
3. Unilever
4. Estée Lauder
5. L’Oréal

Environmental Defence concludes that progress is being made, but it is slow. You can check out the entire report card at their website. In the meantime, your best bet to find safer cosmetics and skin care products is to check out your local natural health retailer