Drink More Diet Soda, Gain More Weight?

Overweight Risk Soars 41% With Each Daily Can of Diet Soft Drink

People who drink diet soft drinks don't lose weight. In fact, they gain weight, a new study shows.

The findings come from eight years of data collected by Sharon P. Fowler, MPH, and colleagues at the University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio. Fowler reported the data at the annual meeting of the American Diabetes Association in San Diego.

"What didn't surprise us was that total soft drink use was linked to overweight and obesity," Fowler tells WebMD. "What was surprising was when we looked at people only drinking diet soft drinks, their risk of obesity was even higher."

In fact, when the researchers took a closer look at their data, they found that nearly all the obesity risk from soft drinks came from diet sodas.

"There was a 41% increase in risk of being overweight for every can or bottle of diet soft drink a person consumes each day," Fowler says.

More Diet Drinks, More Weight Gain

Fowler's team looked at seven to eight years of data on 1,550 Mexican-American and non-Hispanic white Americans aged 25 to 64. Of the 622 study participants who were of normal weight at the beginning of the study, about a third became overweight or obese.

For regular soft-drink drinkers, the risk of becoming overweight or obese was:

26% for up to 1/2 can each day

30.4% for 1/2 to one can each day

32.8% for 1 to 2 cans each day

47.2% for more than 2 cans each day.

For diet soft-drink drinkers, the risk of becoming overweight or obese was:

36.5% for up to 1/2 can each day

37.5% for 1/2 to one can each day

54.5% for 1 to 2 cans each day

57.1% for more than 2 cans each day.

For each can of diet soft drink consumed each day, a person's risk of obesity went up 41%.

Diet Soda No Smoking Gun
Fowler is quick to note that a study of this kind does not prove that diet soda causes obesity. More likely, she says, it shows that something linked to diet soda drinking is also linked to obesity.

 

"One possible part of the explanation is that people who see they are beginning to gain weight may be more likely to switch from regular to diet soda," Fowler suggests. "But despite their switching, their weight may continue to grow for other reasons. So diet soft-drink use is a marker for overweight and obesity."

Why? Nutrition expert Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD, puts it in a nutshell.

"You have to look at what's on your plate, not just what's in your glass,".

People often mistake diet drinks for diets, says Bonci, director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and nutrition consultant to college and professional sports teams and to the Pittsburgh Ballet.

"A lot of people say, 'I am drinking a diet soft drink because that is better for me. But soft drinks by themselves are not the root of America's obesity problem," she says. "You can't go into a fast-food restaurant and say, 'Oh, it's OK because I had diet soda.' If you don't do anything else but switch to a diet soft drink, you are not going to lose weight."

 

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Good Posture - Just How Important Is It?

Posture ranks right up at the top of the list when you are talking about good health. It is as important as eating right, exercising, getting a good night's sleep and avoiding potentially harmful substances like alcohol, drugs and tobacco. Good posture is a way of doing things with more energy, less stress and fatigue. Without good posture, you can't really be physically fit.

Surprised? Well, you're not alone. The importance of good posture in an overall fitness program is often overlooked by fitness advisers and fitness seekers alike. In fact, the benefits of good posture may be among the best kept secrets of the current fitness movement.

The good news is that most everyone can avoid the problems caused by bad posture...and you can make improvements at any age.

Good Posture is Good Health

We're a health conscious society today and good posture is a part of it. Because good posture means your bones are properly aligned and your muscles, joints and ligaments can work as nature intended. It means your vital organs are in the right position and can function at peak efficiency. Good posture helps contribute to the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Without good posture, your overall health and total efficiency may be compromised. Because the long-term effects of poor posture can affect bodily systems (such as digestion, elimination, breathing, muscles, joints and ligaments), a person who has poor posture may often be tired or unable to work efficiently or move properly.

Even for younger people, how you carry yourself when working, relaxing or playing can have big effects. Did you know that just fifteen minutes reading or typing when using the wrong positions exhausts the muscles of your neck, shoulders and upper back?

Poor Posture - How Does it Happen?

Often, poor posture develops because of accidents or falls. But bad posture can also develop from environmental factors or bad habits. This means that you have control.

Today, posture-related problems are increasing:

1) As we become a society that watches more television than any previous generation;
2) As we become a more electronic society, with more and more people working at sedentary desk jobs or sitting in front of computer terminals;
3) As more and more cars are crowding our roads, resulting in accidents and injuries;
4) and as we drive in cars with poorly designed seats.

In most cases, poor posture results from a combination of several factors, which can include:

1. Accidents, injuries and falls
2. Poor sleep support (mattress)
3. Excessive weight
4. Visual or emotional difficulties
5. Foot problems or improper shoes
6. Weak muscles, muscle imbalance
7. Careless sitting, standing, sleeping habits
8. Negative self image
9. Occupational stress
10. Poorly designed work space

Poor Posture & Pain

A lifetime of poor posture can start a progression of symptoms in the average adult. It can start with...

Fatigue - your muscles have to work hard just to hold you up if you have poor posture. You waste energy just moving, leaving you without the extra energy you need to feel good.

Tight, achy muscles in the neck, back, arms and legs - by this stage, there may be a change in your muscles and ligaments and you may have a stiff, tight painful feeling. More than 80% of the neck and back problems are the result of tight, achy muscles brought on by years of bad posture.

Joint stiffness and pain - at risk for "wear and tear" arthritis, or what is termed degenerative osteoarthritis. Poor posture and limited mobility increase the likelihood of this condition in later years. Your chiropractor will help you minimize those effects by removing spinal subluxations which contribute to bad posture and often first cause it to occur. 

 

For more information, contact a Vancouver Wa Chiropractor

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Today's Fashion Can Be Tomorrow's Pain

Looking your best might not always be the best thing for you. Today's society is extremely fashion and style conscious. Unfortunately, clothing designers and stylists aim to please by creating unique looks that might not always be practical or even comfortable. 

The look of the season shows runway models in high platform heels and tight skirts or pants. Models have perfected the runway "walk," but the popular looks and accessories are frequently impractical and could create leg, back, and spine or neck problems. "Sometimes I see a woman walking down the street with high heels and a two-ton bag, and I want to stop her and make her aware of what she is doing to her body," said ACA national spokesperson, Dr. Jerome McAndrews. 

Women generally wear high heels to complement an outfit, not for comfort, but some might not realize that these shoes can cause serious discomfort in the feet and can also exacerbate back pain. High heels alter the balanced position of a person's body. When a woman wears high heels, a new dynamic equilibrium occurs. Dr. McAndrews compared the musculoskeletal system to a mobile, hanging in dynamic equilibrium, each part balancing the other. If one part becomes 'fixed,' the whole system will compensate with a movement or restriction. Essentially, wearing high heels for any length of time increases the normal forward curve of the back and causes the pelvis to tip forward. This alters the normal configuration of the pelvis and spine necessary for the body to maintain a center of gravity. 

"The legs are the foundation of the musculoskeletal system, and a person standing flat-footed or bare-footed would be completely balanced," said Dr. McAndrews. "While standing, the hamstrings are taut and both parts of the pelvis are stabilized so that the support is normal. By bringing the heel up, you encourage the shortness of the hamstring muscles." 

Women and men alike fall into the fashion trap. However, women, more than men, tend to wear clothes that are too tight. Stylish tight tube skirts and tight pants can be attractive, but are often too restrictive. Clothes that are too tight throw a person off-balance, and simple everyday tasks such as bending, sitting and walking become difficult. "Tight clothes restrict a person from moving comfortably, resulting in poor posture and misalignment of the spine," said Dr. McAndrews. 

Another unhealthy fashion statement is the use of heavy purses, backpacks and handbags. Women and men tend to carry too many items in one bag, or briefcase, and are often not aware of the potential health risks associated with toting an excessive amount of "stuff." Carrying a bag with detectable weight-more than 10 percent of your body weight-can cause improper balance. When hiked over one shoulder, it interferes with the natural movement of the upper and lower body. "The person carrying the bag will hike one shoulder to subconsciously guard against the weight, holding the other shoulder immobile," said Dr. McAndrews. "This results in the unnatural counterbalance movement of one shoulder and little control over the movements of the arms and legs. Even worse, the spine curves toward the shoulder." 

More and more people carry their credit cards, ATM cards and personal identification in the back pocket of their pants. This might be a convenient way of carrying the necessary items with you each day, but carrying your wallet in the back pocket of your pants can cause discomfort. Dr. McAndrews suggested men and women remove their wallets or other items before sitting for long periods of time. "Sitting on your wallet or card holder for the entire day will create a pocket in the muscle lying underneath the wallet, and whether your pants are tight or loose-fitting, this can result in discomfort or pain." 

In today's society, it might be important to you to look fashionable, but it is more important to choose clothes, shoes and bags that are comfortable and that suit your style. By following and remembering these simple steps, it is possible to look and feel your best. 

• Choose comfortable shoes. If you must wear high heels, bring a pair of flat shoes along with you to change into should you become uncomfortable. If you walk to work, wear flat shoes and change into your more fashionable shoes when you arrive to alleviate any pain or discomfort.


• If the shoe is uncomfortable while standing, chances are it will not be any more comfortable while walking. The wrong shoe can affect the body's center of gravity.


• Choose supportive shoes. Designer spikes or non-supportive loafers may look nice but do not allow for easy, symmetrical walking.


• While sitting, whether or not you are wearing heels, it is important to take frequent stretch breaks to alleviate atrophy of the hamstring muscles.


• Avoid excessive wear of tight pants or clothing. If you prefer tighter clothes, choose styles that allow you to perform daily tasks with ease.


• Select a briefcase or purse with a wide adjustable strap. Ideally, the strap should be long enough to place over the head. This evenly distributes the bulk of the weight across the body.


• When carrying a bag, or briefcase, switch sides frequently to avoid placing the burden of the weight on one side of your body.


• Take the time to empty unnecessary items from your bag.


• Place all necessary items-such as wallets and cellular phones-in the front pockets of the bag. Stretching around to reach for your wallet can result in a pulled neck or back.


• If you are driving or sitting for long periods of time, remove your wallet or card holder from the back pocket of your pants.


• Think about your daily tasks. If your clothes affect your movements, consider outfits that fit your lifestyle.

Designers and stylists tend to be more concerned about the way something looks rather than the way it feels. Listen to your body. One of the most important aspects of being in style and looking your best is to maintain healthy judgement. By following simple suggestions, being fashionable can be comfortable. 

Vancouver Chiropractic Care Can Help...
If the pain persists, see a doctor of chiropractic. The goal of a chiropractor is to manipulate, or adjust the spine and help stimulate your body's natural healing process.

Does Low Fat = Deadly Fat?

Today, more than ever, our choices of foods are enormous. Prepared/processed foods are everywhere. Although we are gaining convenience, we are losing health. It is a dangerous misconceptions that a product labeled "Low Fat" is healthy for us.

Most of the products that are labeled "Low Fat" contain a dangerous form of fat that is most often labeled as: "Partially Hydrogenated Oil". This type of oil (which can be soybean, corn, palm, cottonseed etc.) actually increases dangerous free radicals in our body. Free radicals are known to increase the risk of cancer. These oils, labeled sometimes as "Trans-Fats" or "Margarine" also cause inflammation within our joints and blood vessels. The inflammatory process can worsen arthritis and heart diseases. 

It would be healthier to choose products without "Partially Hydrogenated Oils" (margarine or trans- fats). Ideally you should limit the intake of saturated fats as well. These include meat and dairy fat (such as cheese and butter). In moderation the saturated fats are not as dangerous as the Partially Hydrogenated Fats. Any "trans fat" is dangerous. 

If you are searching for the healthiest oil, the answer can be found in the Mediterranean diet. The staple fat of this diet is Olive Oil. If you don't care for the taste, Canola oil is the next best alternative. If you take the time to read some labels, you may be surprised at the amount of unhealthy oil you eat. The rewards of eliminating this deadly fat could be years on your life. 

Ask your chiropractor about some of the common foods you may eat that contain these dangerous oils. The answers may surprise you and some simple changes may save your life. 

 

Chiropractors and Subluxation Correction

Chiropractors and Subluxation Correction

The location and correction of the subluxation is unique to the chiropractic profession. Massachusetts State Law (Chapter 112, section 89) defines chiropractic as "the science of locating, and removing interference with the transmission or expression of nerve force in the human body, by the correction of misalignments or subluxations of the bony articulation and adjacent structures, more especially those of the vertebral column and pelvis, for the purpose of restoring and maintaining health."

To understand chiropractic you first have to understand how the body works. Our bodies have the knowledge and ability ( chiropractors call this "Innate Intelligence") to keep us healthy. This power controls heart rate, breathing, digestion and every other vital function. Instructions from your brain via the spinal cord are sent to every organ and cell in your body. If the instructions are received and followed properly, your body is able to reach and maintain its optimum level of health. However, if there is any interference with the transmission of those instructions the result is less-than-optimum health. Your body can no longer function normally.

Messages to and from the brain are electrical impulses traveling along a complex system of nerve fibers including the spinal cord, which extends from the base of the skull down the center of the back. It is protected by the spinal column -- sometimes called the backbone -- which forms a "tunnel" of small interlocking bones called vertebrae. Spaces between the bones allow nerves to branch off to various parts of the body. This tunnel has to be strong enough to safeguard the nerves from injury, but flexible enough to allow the body to bend and move freely.

You have approximately 200 bones in your body. Where these bones come together, either in the spinal column or elsewhere in the body, they form a "joint" or articulation which allows you to move. This area is where subluxation may occur. The vertebral subluxation is an alteration of the normal position and/or motion of the spinal bones. This alteration creates interference to vital nerve signals on their way to and from the brain.

Subluxation is furthur defined by the following 5 components:

• Kinesiopathology or problems with spinal motion.
• Neurophysiology or nerve irritation or compression.
• Myopathology or muscle problems.
• Histopathology or problems on a cellular level.
• Pathophysiology or problems with body's ability to function correctly. These effects may be seen in other organ systems that these nerves supply.

Vertebral subluxation can be caused by any type of stress that is greater than the body can handle. Physical stresses such as falls, accidents, a difficult birth, sports, computer work or long car rides can strain the muscles, ligaments and joints, causing spinal subluxation. Chemical stresses such as pollutants and emotional stresses can cause an overall tightening of the muscular system and therefore cause spinal strain.

The purpose of chiropractic is to locate and correct subluxations. Detecting subluxations is a complicated and exacting science. A large part of a chiropractor's education deals with how to locate and analyze improper placement and motion of the vertebrae and adjacent structures of the body.

Chiropractors give spinal adjustments to correct subluxations. Although there are several different adjusting techniques, they all accomplish the same thing. They restore the joint or vertebrae to their normal postion or function so that the nerve flow can resume its normal course. The instructions being sent throughout the body by Innate Intelligence can once again reach their destinations without interference.

You will experience the positive effects of the chiropractic adjustment as decreased pain and increased range of motion and improved body function.

The Association of Chiropractic Colleges paradigm states that chiropractic "is concerned with the preservation and restoration of health, and focuses particular attention on the subluxation. A subluxation is a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health. A subluxation is evaluated, diagnosed, and managed through the use of chiropractic procedures based on the best available rational and empirical evidence."

Doctors of Chiropractic are the experts in locating and correcting subluxations. When you are free of vertebral subluxations, you are more balanced with less stress on your nervous system and body structure. Free of vertebral subluxations, you can better tune in to your inner resources of life, health and healing.

Source: http://www.masschiro.org/Articles.php?topic=9&story=42

Whiplash Injuries - Serious Spinal Trauma

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a generic term applied to certain injuries of the neck. Injuries that occur when the neck is suddenly and/or violently jolted in one direction and then another, creating a whip-like movement. Whiplash is most commonly seen in people involved in motor vehicle accidents, but it can also occur from falls, sports injuries, work injuries, and other incidents. Most whiplash injuries are associated with forward and backward movement of the head and neck on the shoulders. Side-impact crashes, or crashes when that happen while a person's head is turned, may result in side-to-side or even oblique whiplash-style injuries to the neck. Although severe whiplash injuries can result in paralysis and even death, most such injuries range from relatively mild to moderate. Keep in mind that even mild injuries may have a significant effect on the spine and your health.

What structures are injured in a whiplash?

Whiplash most often results in sprain and strain injuries of the neck. A sprain of the spine occurs when the ligaments that help support, protect, and restrict excessive movement of the vertebrae are torn. The joints in the back of the spine are called the facet joints; ligaments called facet capsules cover these joints. The facet capsules seem to be particularly susceptible to whiplash injury. Additionally, muscles and tendons are strained during a whiplash injury. They are stretched beyond their normal limits, causing tears within the muscles and tendons. The discs between the vertebrae, which are essentially ligaments, can be torn, potentially causing a disc herniation. The nerve roots between the vertebrae may also be stretched and become inflamed. Even though it is rare, vertebrae can be fractured and/or dislocated in a whiplash injury.

What are the common signs and symptoms of whiplash?

Approximately two thirds of people involved in motor vehicle accidents develop symptoms of whiplash. Interestingly, the violence of the crash is not a definitive indicator of pain or even the amount of pain. Generally speaking, however, those involved in more severe accidents have more signs and symptoms.

Another important and interesting aspect of whiplash is that the signs and symptoms often do not develop until 2 to 48 hours after the injury. This scenario is relatively common but not completely understood. Some speculate that it may be due to delayed muscle soreness, a condition seen in other circumstances.

The most common symptoms of whiplash are pain and stiffness in the neck. These symptoms are generally found in the areas that are "whiplashed." To illustrate what can happen during a whiplash, imagine a car being struck from behind. First, the head is lifted up from the upper-cervical spine as it moves backward towards the impact. Next, the head recoils forward and down away from the impact over-stretching muscles, tendons, and ligaments along the back of the spine and neck. This back and forward motion is the recreates a whip-like action, therefore the term "whiplash." It's important to note that the weight of the head is significant in comparison to the size of the cervical spine. As the head moves back and forth, the action creates a sprain/strain in the region just below the skull, further down in the mid cervical spine, and in the muscles and tendons of the neck. Turning the head often makes the pain and discomfort worse. Headache, especially at the base of the skull, is also a common symptom, seen in more than two thirds of patients. These headaches may be one-sided (unilateral) or experienced on both sides (bilateral). In addition, the pain and stiffness may extend down into the shoulders and arms, upper back, and even the upper chest.

Going beyond musculoskeletal symptoms, some patients also experience dizziness, difficulty swallowing, nausea, and even blurred vision after a whiplash injury. While these symptoms are disconcerting, in most cases, they can resolve within a relatively short time. If they persist, it is very important to inform your doctor that they are not resolving. Some whiplash victims can experience vertigo (the sensation of the room spinning), ringing in the ears, and/or pain in the jaw (TMJ). Others will have complaints of irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms also resolve in most cases. In rare cases, symptoms can persist for weeks, months, or even years.

How is whiplash diagnosed?

To make a diagnosis, a thorough history of the injury and the patient's previous medical history are taken. Preexisting conditions, such as arthritis and/or previous injury, may increase the severity of the signs and symptoms of whiplash. After obtaining the patient's history, an in-depth physical examination is performed, with special concentration on the neuromusculoskeletal system. When appropriate, X-rays may be taken. If the doctor suspects that the soft tissues (for example, discs or ligaments) in the neck are injured, more advanced imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be ordered.

How is whiplash treated?

Staying active – One of the most important aspects of whiplash management is for the patient to stay active, unless there is some serious injury that requires immobilization. Patients should not be afraid to move and be active, within reason. In addition, your doctor will often prescribe an exercise or stretching program. It is particularly important to follow this program as prescribed, so that you can achieve the best long-term benefits.

Soft-cervical collar – The use of a soft-cervical collar remains controversial. Some suggest that such devices are inappropriate, as they act as a "crutch" and encourage a patient to avoid activity. Others suggest that, with proper counseling, a collar can help a patient slowly return to normal activities. There is no controversy, however, when discussing the length of time that a soft collar should be worn—no more than one week.

Chiropractic manipulation and physical therapy – Ice and/or heat are often used to help control pain and reduce the muscle spasm that results from whiplash injuries. Other physical therapy modalities, such as electrical stimulation and/or ultrasound, may provide some short-term relief. They should not, however, replace an active-care program of exercise and stretching. Spinal manipulation and/or mobilization provided by a chiropractor can also give relief in many cases of neck pain.

Surgery and injections – Surgery, injections, and other invasive options are rarely necessary but are available, when appropriate. They are generally reserved for patients with more severe injuries to the discs, vertebrae, and nerves in the neck region.

Can whiplash be prevented?

Generally speaking, whiplash cannot be "prevented," but there are some things that you can do while in a motor vehicle that may reduce the chances of a more severe injury. Always wear restraints (lap or shoulder belt), and ensure that the headrest in your vehicle is adjusted to the appropriate height.

by American Chiropractic Association