Category Archives: Health Facts

Stress Interferes with Emotional Control

Posted on August 29, 2013 by Greg Asseff

A recent study by researchers at New York University suggests that even mild levels of everyday stress can interfere with a person’s ability to exercise emotional control. Specifically, the study found that therapies used to teach emotional control in the face of conditions such as social anxiety aren’t as effective in stressful situations. Neuroscience professor Elizabeth Phelps, one of the lead researchers behind the study, said that the strategies you learn in a clinical setting may make sense when you learn them, but be less effective in real-world situations that involve a level of stress. She described the study as the first of its kind despite long-held suspicions that the ultimate findings matched reality. More research may need to be done before many stress relief tactics prove to be highly effective in the real world.

Posted in Health, Health Facts, Mental Health, News, Studies | 542 Comments

Red Hair Gene Also Increases Melanoma Risk

Posted on August 26, 2013 by Greg Asseff

Mutations in MC1R, the same gene responsible for red hair, a reduced ability to obtain a tan and fair skin, are also responsible for an increased risk of melanoma, according to a new study conducted at Boston’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Of all skin cancer types, melanoma is the deadliest. Specifically, the genetic mutations make skin cells more susceptible to cancer development when they’re exposed to UV, or ultraviolet, radiation, the type of radiation produced by both the sun and tanning beds. However, the researchers aren’t ruling out the notion that other factors may increase melanoma risk for those with red hair as well. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, around 120,000 melanoma cases are diagnosed each year in the U.S.

Posted in Health, Health Facts, Medical, News, Skin and Beauty, Studies | 1,664 Comments

Study: No Link Between Psychedelic Drugs and Mental Illness

Posted on August 21, 2013 by Greg Asseff

Contrary to popular belief, the use of psychedelic drugs such as magic mushrooms, LSD and mescaline does not increase an individual’s risk of developing mental health issues, according to a new study by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. The study, which looked at well over 100,000 individuals, contradicts the long-standing notion among the medical community and popular culture that using hallucinogens increases mental illness risk. However, the researchers behind the study cautioned that the results may not apply to all individuals. The results contribute to a long history of varied opinions regarding LSD in particular. For example, the new study directly opposes some of the original perceptions scientists had about the drug in the 1950s. Back then, it was thought that LSD could actually replicate the symptoms of mental illness.

Posted in Health, Health Facts, Medical, Mental Health, News, Studies | 2 Comments

Phthalates and BPA Tied to Teen Obesity, Insulin Resistance

Posted on August 19, 2013 by Greg Asseff

A pair of new studies have found a potential link between teen insulin resistance and obesity and phthalates and bisphenol A, two chemicals commonly found in certain types of food packaging. However, the researchers aren’t sure whether the increased prevalence of obesity and insulin resistance is directly due to the presence of these chemicals, or whether other factors are responsible. The researchers plan to conduct additional studies to gain a better understanding of the link. BPA in particular has increasingly become a topic of contention. The chemical is widely used in plastics and can be found in the packaging of many foods and drinks. It is also present in infant bottles, medical devices, canned food and water bottles. While many of these things can be avoided, BPA might also be found in certain water supply pipes.

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Stomach Problems Worsen in Extremely Hot Weather

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Greg Asseff

Hot summer temperatures can be annoying and downright uncomfortable, but for people with gastrointestinal problems, extreme heat could spell a trip to the emergency room. According to a new study conducted at Switzerland’s University Hospital, heat waves increase the risk of IG (infectious gastroenteritis) and IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) flare-ups. Gastroenterologist Dr. Christine Manser, one of the lead researchers behind the study, said that similar studies have never been conducted previously. It’s not necessarily surprising that heat can exacerbate stomach problems, however, as extreme heat is known to cause several health issues such as exhaustion, cramps and rashes. Heat stroke is particularly dangerous, as it can be accompanied by severe headache, muscle weakness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, fainting and even seizures.