The Slim Way to Organize Your Kitchen

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The first place to start? The refrigerator
First, ditch the soda—regular and diet (carbonation plus artificial sweetners equals bloat), and replace it with water and iced green tea. Better yet, try the CarbLovers Fat-Flushing Cocktail: Take 2 quarts brewed green tea and add the juice of 1 lemon, 1 lime, and 1 orange. Mix all ingredients together in a large pitcher. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you must keep soda and fruit juice around for your family, do yourself a favor and store them out of sight. That way, you'll be more likely to grab something diet-friendly.

Invest in fridge- and freezer-friendly stackable containers so the healthy stuff—chopped veggies, herbs, sliced fruit, and all your make-ahead beans, barley, and brown rice—is easier to grab than fattening fare. These will keep your fridge clutter-free, and encourage you to cook CarbLovers meals in large batches that you can use for the whole week. Look for the "make-ahead" icon on some of the recipes. These meals can be made in advance of serving, and many are appropriate for freezing.

Your next stop is the countertop
This is a space that can make or break your diet. Keep your blender close to where you chop fruits or veggies so it's always supereasy to prepare a healthy smoothie or soup. Set out a wooden block or hang a magnetic strip for chopping knives to make it easy to trim excess fat from meat and slice fiber-filled veggies and fruit.

Next to those slicers, use decorative hooks to dangle tools like an apple corer, a citrus zester, and a handheld squeezer (to add no-fat flavor to fish, pastas, marinades, and salad dressings).

Top your countertop with a big, beautiful basket, and use it to contain kitchen-table clutter, so you won't be tempted to multitask during meals. (Also recommended: a bouquet of fresh flowers, just because you deserve it.) Cooking and eating without distractions will help you focus! Speaking of focus, plug in your iPod and listen to music that de-stresses you. Research suggests that ab fat cells expand in response to the stress hormone cortisol, but cortisol levels decrease faster in people who listen to relaxing music than in those who don't.

De-clutter the pantry
Don't keep unhealthy snacks around to tempt you into mindless munching while you're cooking meals. Instead, keep airtight containers of dry ingredients like pasta and beans on the lowest shelves, so they're convenient for everyday use (check them periodically for freshness).

An extra tip: grow your own oregano, thyme, and rosemary along your windowsill, and you'll have an easy, no-cal way to jazz up healthy foods like grilled chicken and veggies.

Cooking tips, nutrition news, and incredible, healthy recipes anyone can make.

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Scientists Map Genetic 'Blueprint' of Heart

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THURSDAY, Sept. 13 (HealthDay News) -- Researchers have identified the genetic "blueprint" for how a heart becomes a heart -- a sort of instruction manual for building a fully functioning heart from embryonic stem cells.

The scientists reprogrammed embryonic stem cells from mice into beating heart cells. Then they removed and analyzed DNA from developing and mature heart cells to determine which aspects of heart formation they encoded, using large amounts of computing tools and gene-sequencing data to do so.

The findings provide clues into the genetic basis for some forms of congenital heart disease, say the Gladstone Institutes scientists, and could lead to new treatments for life-threatening birth defects such as arrhythmias -- irregular heart beat -- and ventricular septal defects, or "holes" in the heart.

"Congenital heart defects are the most common type of birth defects -- affecting more than 35,000 newborn babies in the United States each year," Benoit Bruneau, associate director of cardiovascular research at Gladstone, said in an institute news release. "But how these defects develop at the genetic level has been difficult to pinpoint because research has focused on a small set of genes. Here, we approach heart formation with a wide-angle lens by looking at the entirety of the genetic material that gives heart cells their unique identity."

"Our findings reveal new clues as to how complex genetic and epigenetic patterns are precisely regulated during heart formation," study collaborator Laurie Boyer, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said in the news release. "In particular, our identification of key segments of the genome that contribute to this process will hopefully allow us to identify the genetic causes of many forms of congenital heart disease -- an important first step in the fight against this devastating disease."

The researchers found that groups of genes work together in heart cells, switching on and off simultaneously at certain times during development. They also identified new genes involved in heart formation and figured out how they interact with previously known genes.

"Next, we hope to examine the DNA of patients living with congenital heart disease, in the hopes that we can pinpoint the specific genetic disruption that caused their heart defect," said Bruneau, who is also a professor of pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco. "Once we identify that disruption, we can begin exploring ways to restore normal gene function during early heart formation and reduce the number of babies born with debilitating, and sometimes fatal, congenital heart defects."

The study was published online Sept. 13 in the journal Cell.

-- Mary Elizabeth Dallas Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCE: Gladstone Institutes, news release, Sept. 2012

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Non-Alcoholic Red Wine May Boost Heart Health

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Non-Alcoholic Red Wine May Be Effective at Lowering Blood Pressure

By Denise Mann
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Sept. 6, 2012 -- Much research has touted the health benefits that come from drinking moderate amounts of red wine.

Now, a new study may extend some of these benefits to teetotalers. Non-alcoholic red wine may be even more effective at lowering blood pressure in men who are high risk for heart attack. The study findings appear in Circulation Research.

The study included 67 men who had diabetes or three or more heart disease risk factors. When the men drank red wine with alcohol, their blood pressure went down a little, and there was no change in blood pressure levels when they drank gin.

When the men drank non-alcoholic red wine, their blood pressure went down enough to lower their risk of heart disease by 14% and stroke by as much as 20%.

The real health benefits in red wine may be found in powerful antioxidants called polyphenols, not the alcohol. In fact, the alcohol in red wine may dampen its blood pressure-lowering potential. In the study, the red wine with alcohol and non-alcoholic wine contained equal amounts of polyphenols.

The researchers were able to link polyphenol levels to a boost in men's levels of nitric oxide, which helps lower blood pressure. Nitric oxide helps blood vessels relax and allows more blood to reach your heart and organs.

During the study, the men ate similar diets and drank either 10 ounces of red wine, 10 ounces of non-alcoholic red wine, or 3 ounces of gin. All of the men tried each diet/beverage combination for four weeks.

"The non-alcoholic part of the wine -- namely polyphenols -- exert a protective effect on the cardiovascular system," says researcher Ramon Estruch, MD, PhD of the University of Barcelona in Barcelona, Spain. "Polyphenols also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may be useful to prevent other disease such as diabetes."

He predicts that more people will turn to non-alcoholic wine in the future.

This is welcome news for people who can't or don't want to drink alcohol, says Suzanne Steinbaum, DO, at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Although some alcohol is thought to be good for you, too much alcohol can increase blood pressure levels.

"Certain people don't want to drink alcohol, so here we have an alternative way for them to get the heart health benefits," she says. "It's not so much the alcohol as it is the polyphenols in red wine."

Other alcoholic drinks have also been shown to have health benefits, but they may do so differently than red wine, Steinbaum says.

SOURCES: Chiva-Blanch, G. Circulation Research, study received ahead of print. Suzanne Steinbaum, DO, preventive cardiologist, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City. Ramon Estruch, MD, PhD, of the University of Barcelona in Barcelona, Spain. Connie Diekman, RD, director, university nutrition, Washington University, St. Louis.

©2012 WebMD, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Health Tip: What's a Heart-Healthy Diet?

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(HealthDay News) -- A heart-healthy diet focuses on plenty of healthy, high-fiber foods while avoiding foods that are high in fat, salt, sugar and cholesterol.

The womenshealth.gov website offers these specifics:

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods.Eat fat-free or low-fat cheese, milk and yogurt.Choose lean proteins, such as eggs, nuts, dried beans, lean meats and poultry without skin.Choose healthier unsaturated fats, such as those found in nuts, fish and vegetable oils.Avoid saturated and trans fats, found in fried and processed foods, fatty meats and baked goods.Limit foods high in cholesterol, sodium and sugar.

-- Diana Kohnle Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

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Heavy Drinkers at Greater Risk for Stroke

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Drinking 3 or More Alcoholic Drinks a Day Raises Stroke Risk

By Denise Mann
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Sept 10, 2012 -- Heavy drinkers may be at a much greater risk for a bleeding stroke, a new study suggests.

People who drank about three or more alcoholic drinks per day also had the strokes almost a decade and a half before those who didn't drink quite as much. The findings appear in Neurology.

Exactly how heavy drinking may raise risk of this type of stroke is not clear.

The study included 540 French people with an average age of 71 who had a less common type of stroke called an intracerebral hemorrhage. This type of stroke is caused by bleeding in the brain, not a blood clot.

The people in the study and/or their caregivers or relatives were asked about drinking habits. Fully 25% were heavy drinkers. This was defined as having about three or more drinks per day, or about 1.8 ounces per day of "pure" alcohol. Participants also had CT scans of their brains, and French researchers reviewed their medical records.

The heavy drinkers were about 60 when they had stroke. By contrast, the people who were not heavy drinkers were about 74 when they had a stroke. The heavy drinkers were also more likely to be smokers and did show some evidence of irregularities in their blood that would make them more likely to have a bleeding stroke.

"The study does add to our knowledge that excessive drinking is bad for our health in a variety of ways, including increased risk of bleeding into the brain," says Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH. He is a heart doctor at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School.

Still, the study is small, and larger ones will be needed before telling people not to drink past a certain level.

Heavy drinkers may be more likely to have high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for stroke. "If someone enjoys drinking, I don't discourage them, but I will caution them even more so after this study to make sure that the amount is considered moderate," Bhatt says.

Risks of falling and liver problems are also linked to heavy drinking, he says.

However, "we do know that one glass of red wine a day, on average, lowers heart attack and stroke risk, and that is still true," says Patrick Lyden, MD. He is the chair of the department of neurology at of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

His advice remains unchanged. "If you don't drink, don't start because you think it will protect your heart, and if you do drink, keep it moderate."

So what is moderate drinking, exactly? "My rule of thumb is one glass of wine a night, and that is the same as a glass of beer or one mixed drink," he says. "This doesn't mean you can save them up and have seven drinks on a Saturday."

Certain people should avoid alcohol, including those taking blood thinners and people with high blood pressure, Lyden adds.

Rafael Ortiz, MD, is the director of the Center for Stroke and Neuro-Endovascular Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. He tells WebMD that smart stroke prevention includes:

Not smokingEating a healthy dietMaintaining normal blood pressure levelsModerate drinking

"These are concrete things we can all do today to lower our risk of stroke," he says.

SOURCES: Casolla, B. Neurology, 2012, study received ahead of print. Deepak L. Bhatt, MD, MPH, cardiologist, Brigham and Women's Hospital; associate professor, Harvard Medical School, Boston. Patrick Lyden, MD, chair, department of neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles. Rafael Ortiz, MD, director, Center for Stroke and Neuro-Endovascular Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City.

©2012 WebMD, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Common Painkillers May Be Risky After Heart Attack

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By Salynn Boyles
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Sept. 10, 2012 -- Heart attack survivors who take commonly used pain relievers have a higher risk of dying or having another heart attack, new research shows.

The Danish study adds to the evidence linking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) to poorer outcomes in heart patients.

Using the painkillers after a first heart attack was linked to a higher risk for a second heart attack or death from any cause. And the risk persisted over at least five years.

Like previous studies, the new research does not prove that NSAIDs are directly responsible for these events.

But the evidence as a whole strongly suggests that the pain relievers should be used cautiously, if at all, by heart attack survivors, says Anne-Marie Schjerning Olsen, MD, who led the Danish study.

"Our results indicate that use of NSAIDs is associated with persistently increased coronary risk, regardless of the time elapsed after a [heart attack]," she says. "Thus, long-term caution is advised in all patients."

The study included data on nearly 100,000 survivors of first heart attacks, taken from Danish hospital and pharmacy registries.

Just under half of the people (44%) filled at least one prescription for an NSAID at some point after their heart attack.

Compared to those who presumably did not take NSAIDs, people who did had a 59% increased risk of death from any cause within one year of having the heart attack and a 63% increased risk over five years.

The risk of having another heart attack or dying from heart disease was 30% higher after one year in NSAID users and 41% after five years.

American Heart Association (AHA) immediate past president Gordon Tomaselli, MD, says the study is one of the first to suggest that NSAID use may be risky for many years after a first heart attack.

Tomaselli directs the division of cardiology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore.

In 2007, the AHA issued a statement on NSAID use in heart patients, urging doctors to carefully weigh the risks vs. benefits before recommending the drugs or prescribing them.

Tomaselli says this means carefully assessing a person's risk, which is influenced by conditions like heart failure or diabetes.

He says for many heart patients, non-NSAID painkillers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or even short-term prescription-narcotic use may be safer pain-relief options.

"Patients who do take NSAIDs should always use the lowest dose possible to control pain for the shortest duration," Tomaselli says. Heart attack survivors should talk to their doctor before regularly using any NSAID, even those available without prescription like ibuprofen or naproxen, he says.

Even though there have been concerns about the safety of NSAID use in heart attack survivors for many years, Schjerning Olsen says most people, and many doctors, are unaware of the potential risk.

"It is important to get the message out to clinicians taking care of patients with cardiovascular disease that NSAIDs are harmful, even several years after a heart attack," she says.

The study appears today in the journal Circulation.

SOURCES: Schjerning Olsen, A.M. Circulation, Sept. 10, 2012. Anne-Marie Schjerning Olsen, MD, research fellow, Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark. Gordon Tomaselli, MD, director, division of cardiology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; immediate past president, American Heart Association. News release, American Heart Association.

©2012 WebMD, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Many Heart Attacks May Go Unrecognized in Seniors

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By Steven Reinberg
HealthDay Reporter

TUESDAY, Sept. 4 (HealthDay News) -- Far more older people than thought may suffer heart attacks that are never diagnosed, a new study suggests.

These so-called "silent heart attacks" can increase the risk of dying as much as any confirmed heart attack does, the researchers added.

To reach their conclusion, the study authors used sophisticated MRI scans to spot heart trouble among more than 900 older Icelanders between the ages of 67 and 93.

"MRI scanners are really a spectacular tool for finding heart disease," explained lead researcher Dr. Andrew Arai, chief of the cardiovascular and pulmonary branch at the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

However, people shouldn't be running out to get scanned, he stressed: "I wouldn't recommend that. Most guidelines don't recommend having these expensive tests unless you are having symptoms."

Right now, it isn't clear when such scans are called for and who would benefit from them, Arai noted, although this latest finding is a first step toward determining that.

The report was published in the Sept. 5 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Among the more than 900 Icelanders studied, 91 had heart attacks that had been diagnosed, while 157 had heart attacks that had not been recognized before, the researchers found. Cardiac MRI detected more cases of unrecognized heart attack in people with diabetes (21 percent) than in those without diabetes (14 percent), the researchers added.

Over more than six years of follow-up, 33 percent of those who had recognized heart attacks died, as did 28 percent of those with unrecognized heart attacks, which was significantly more than the 17 percent who died among those who had never had a heart attack, the researchers noted.

Not surprisingly, significantly more people who had a recognized heart attack were taking beta blockers to lower blood pressure and statins to lower cholesterol than people who had an unrecognized heart attack.

In fact, about half of those with an unrecognized heart attack were taking aspirin, but less than half were taking beta blockers or statins. This may well have added to their risk of having a heart attack, the researchers suggested.

The greater number of unrecognized heart attacks may be due to several factors, including diabetes, which raises the risk of a heart attack, milder symptoms and a less severe attack, the study authors noted.

Although the study was done in Iceland, Arai said he believes the results would be similar in the United States.

Commenting on the study, Dr. Gregg Fonarow, a spokesman with the American Heart Association and a professor of cardiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, said: "Prior studies have demonstrated that a portion of myocardial infarctions [heart attacks] are not detected clinically, or are so-called 'silent myocardial infarctions.'"

Cardiac MRI is a very sensitive approach for detecting heart attacks, he added.

"This study found a higher prevalence of previously unrecognized heart attacks than described in prior studies," Fonarow said. "Silent heart attacks have a similar adverse long-term prognosis as clinically recognized heart attacks."

Fonarow, however, doesn't think cardiac imagining is useful yet as a screening tool to find people at risk for a heart attack or to diagnose an unrecognized heart attack.

"At this point in time, there is not sufficient evidence on which to recommend cardiac imaging as a screening test. Further studies are necessary," he said.

Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCES: Andrew Arai, M.D., chief, cardiovascular and pulmonary branch, U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Bethesda, Md.; Gregg Fonarow, M.D., spokesman, American Heart Association, and professor, cardiology, University of California, Los Angeles; Sept. 5, 2012, Journal of the American Medical Association

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Fish Oil Fizzles for Fighting Heart Attack, Stroke

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By Salynn Boyles
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Sept. 11, 2012 -- Millions of people take omega-3 supplements to improve their heart health, but new evidence questions their benefit.

Researchers looked at 20 studies involving nearly 70,000 people, many of whom were heart patients. Adding omega-3 to their diet did not appear to lower the chance of having a heart attack or stroke or lower the risk of death from these and other causes.

Many people take fish oil capsules to get omega-3. But, as in this study, not all omega-3 came from fish oil. It also came from other sources.

The study appears in the Sept. 12 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

A study published last spring failed to show a benefit for omega-3 supplements in people with existing heart disease.

The American Heart Association recommends that all adults eat at least two 3.5-ounce servings of fish a week, and that people with heart disease take about 1 gram total of two types of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) per day, preferably from fatty fish.

Capsules containing DHA and EPA are an option, but talk to your doctor before using them.

The AHA also recommends that people with high levels of blood fats known as triglycerides take 2 to 4 grams of EPA+DHA per day under a doctor's care.

Higher doses should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor, as they can cause dangerous bleeding.

In the new analysis, when people who took omega-3 were compared to people who took placebo capsules, no major difference was seen in the risk for heart attacks, strokes, sudden cardiac death, and death between the two groups.

The findings do not justify the use of omega-3 supplements regularly as a treatment or prevention, researcher Evangelos C. Rizos, MD, and colleagues from Greece's University Hospital of Ioannina write in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Heart doctor David A. Friedman, MD, calls the new analysis, pun intended, "disheartening."

He is the chief of heart failure services for North Shore-LIJ Plainview Hospital in Plainview, N.Y.

Friedman prescribes high-dose omega-3 to many of his patients, and he says the supplements clearly lower blood triglyceride levels.

But he says this may not translate into the heart benefits that had been expected.

"It may be that food sources of omega-3, rather than supplements, are a better choice," he says.

But Dariush Mozaffarian, MD, of Harvard's School of Public Health, says there may still be a role for omega-3 in the treatment and prevention of heart disease.

Mozaffarian studies fish oil and heart health but did not take part in either review.

"The good news is that the combined evidence from controlled trials confirms that fish oil reduces death from heart disease," he says. "The bad news is that effect appears smaller than we had thought -- about a 10% lowering of risk."

He says that many studies may have failed to show a benefit because participants did not take high enough doses of the supplements or because most were also taking other drugs to lower their heart attack and stroke risk.

SOURCES: Rizos, E.C. Journal of the American Medical Association, Sept. 12, 2012. Dariush Mozaffarian, MD, co-director, Program in Cardiovascular Epidemiology, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School; department of epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston. David A. Friedman, MD, chief, Heart Failure Services, North Shore-LIJ Plainview Hospital, Plainview, N.Y. News release, JAMA. AHA: "Fish and Omega 3 Fatty Acids." Kwak, S.M. Archives of Internal Medicine, 2012.

©2012 WebMD, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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More Patients With Irregular Heartbeat Recognize Stroke Risk: Survey

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FRIDAY, Sept. 7 (HealthDay News) -- Patients with atrial fibrillation -- a heart rhythm disorder -- are increasingly aware of the link between their condition and the increased risk of stroke, according to a recent survey.

Atrial fibrillation is a quivering or irregular heartbeat that affects about 2.7 million people in the United States.

A 2011 survey of more than 500 people with atrial fibrillation found that half of them were unaware they had a fivefold increased risk of suffering a stroke. But the more recent American Heart Association/American Stroke Association 2012 poll of 500 people with atrial fibrillation found that 64 percent knew about this level of increased stroke risk.

The improved awareness "is a great step in the right direction," association spokesperson Dr. Patrick Ellinor, associate professor at Harvard Medical School and a cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, said in an AHA/ASA news release.

"The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association works to provide health care providers, patients and caregivers the educational tools and resources they need on this very important topic," Ellinor added. "We hope to report a higher percentage annually until we reach 100 percent."

The 2012 survey also found that 82 percent of respondents believe having atrial fibrillation increases their stroke risk, compared with 75 percent in the 2011 survey.

Many atrial fibrillation patients rely on their health care providers for information about their condition and education about its health risks, the release noted. The recent survey found that two-thirds of patients have discussed their risk for stroke with their health care provider, but only about one-third were told they are at high risk for stroke.

-- Robert Preidt Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCE: American Heart Association, news release, Sept. 5, 2012

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Longer Resuscitation After Cardiac Arrest May Be Warranted, Study Suggests

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TUESDAY, Sept. 4 (HealthDay News) -- Longer resuscitation efforts improve the chances of survival in patients who suffer cardiac arrest in a hospital, new research contends.

The finding, published Sept. 4 in The Lancet, may be controversial, since it challenges the common belief that it's futile to extend resuscitation in patients who do not respond immediately, the study authors said.

However, study lead author Zachary Goldberger of the University of Washington said the new findings "suggest that prolonging resuscitation efforts by 10 or 15 minutes might improve outcomes."

Speaking in a Lancet news release, he added that extending resuscitation would not use up much more medical resources and have only "modest" effects on the patient's neurological health, should he or she survive.

In the study, Goldberger's team analyzed data from more than 64,000 patients at 435 U.S. hospitals who underwent resuscitation after suffering a cardiac arrest between 2000 and 2008. There was wide variation in the average duration of resuscitation attempts at the hospitals.

However, patients at hospitals where resuscitation efforts lasted the longest were more likely to be successfully revived (restoration of heart beat for at least 20 minutes) and to survive to be discharged from the hospital than patients at hospitals where resuscitation attempts were shortest.

The percentage of patients who survived to hospital discharge and had little or no brain damage was similar regardless of the length of resuscitation, the study found.

The researchers said their findings can't be used to define the ideal duration for resuscitation attempts, but do suggest that establishing minimum lengths of time for resuscitation may help improve outcomes in patients who suffer cardiac arrest in a hospital.

Currently, survival for these patients is low. Between one and five of every 1,000 hospitalized patients in developed countries suffer a cardiac arrest, and fewer than 20 percent of those patients survive to be discharged, according to journal background information.

Two specialists were cautious about the findings.

"It is difficult to draw definitive conclusions from this study," said Dr. Kenneth Ong, acting chair of the department of medicine and cardiology at The Brooklyn Hospital Center, in New York City.

"There are many variables that affect a person's survival after cardiac arrest," he said. "As the authors correctly point out, few guidelines exist to assist the resuscitation team, including the duration of the attempt. It is possible that those who survive and undergo the longest resuscitative efforts may have clinical features pointing toward success compared with those who may be judged medically futile by the caretakers and thus have a shorter period of resuscitation."

Another expert said the finding may not apply to most cardiac arrest patients.

"From clinical experience, overall survival after in-hospital cardiac arrest is quite poor when there is no clear reversible cause for the arrest," noted Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency physician at Lenox Hill Hospital, in New York City. "However, when there is a potentially reversible cause for the arrest, successful resuscitation efforts may potentially improve. This suggests that in these limited clinical situations, there may be a window of opportunity to improve care by increasing duration of resuscitation time prior to termination of efforts."

Glatter added, however, that the study "did not demonstrate that longer resuscitation efforts resulted in a higher percentage of patients who were neurologically intact upon discharge." He believes that there is no specific, ideal duration for resuscitation and decisions must be made on a case-by-case basis.

Also, Glatter noted, "this study was purely observational, and therefore cannot directly demonstrate a causal relationship between length of resuscitation and improvements in survival."

-- Robert Preidt Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCES: Kenneth Ong, M.D., acting chair, Department of Medicine and Cardiology, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, New York City; Robert Glatter, M.D., emergency physician, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City; The Lancet, news release, Sept. 4, 2012

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Some Minor Strokes Lead to Disability

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By Denise Mann
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

Sept 13, 2012 -- Minor strokes and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are red flags for full-blown strokes in the future. But new research suggests that they can lead to disability in their own right.

A TIA, sometimes called a "mini stroke," causes stroke-like symptoms, but they last for less than 24 hours.

Fully 15% of 499 people who had a minor stroke or TIA had some disability 90 days later. The type of disability seen in the study included being unable to perform previous activities, but still being capable of handling personal affairs on one's own.

Minor stroke or TIA symptoms may include:

Inability to move one side of your bodyNumbness on one side of the bodyDizzinessSevere sudden headacheDifficulty speaking

In the study, people who had blocked brain arteries and/or ongoing or worsening symptoms were more than twice as likely to have some disability at 90 days. Others who were at higher risk for disability included people with type 2 diabetes and women. More than 50% of people who had recurring strokes were disabled at 90 days, compared to 12% of those who did not have a recurrent stroke.

As a result, the study authors suggest that some high-risk people may benefit from the same clot-busting medication given to people who've had major strokes. These medications can help stave off lasting disability after a stroke, but must be given within a specific time frame.

Most people who've had a minor stroke do not get these drugs because the condition was thought to be too mild.

The new findings appear in Stroke.

"Patients with symptoms initially perceived as minor have a high risk of disability. This is especially true in patients with blocked or narrowed arteries," says researcher Shelagh Coutts, MD. She is a neurologist at Foothills Hospital in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

"Time is an issue, and even when patients [show] 'mild' deficits they need to be assessed very quickly, and ideally get urgent brain and blood vessel imaging," she says. "In many centers, these patients are not seen urgently and this needs to change."

Coutts and colleagues are now conducting a study to see if clot-busting drugs are effective in minor stroke patients with blocked blood vessels in the brain.

"There has been accumulating evidence regarding the not-so-great 90-day outcomes seen after mini or minor strokes," says Ralph Sacco, MD. He is chair of neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and a past president of the American Heart Association.

The message is clear: If you or someone you love has stroke symptoms, seek evaluation ASAP. "Even if the symptoms vanish or get better, it is still urgent to get medical attention," he says. "You may not be out of the woods. Symptoms could come back or get worse and cause lasting damage."

Andrew Slivka, MD, agrees. He is a neurologist at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in Columbus. "We have moved toward getting these people evaluated sooner so we can treat them and/or prevent a recurrent stroke," he says.

Treating with clot-busting drugs may prove challenging because of the time constraints, he says. Some people may benefit from preventive measures aimed at getting better control over risk factors for stroke, including smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Many doctors don't think about rehab for people after minor strokes, but the new findings suggest this may be an option for some people as well.

SOURCES: Shelagh Coutts, M.D, neurologist, Foothills Hospital in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Coutts, S.B. Stroke, 2012, study received ahead of print. Ralph Sacco, MD, chair of neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Florida. Andrew Slivka, MD, neurologiost, Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio.

©2012 WebMD, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Men More Prone to Depression After Stroke: Study

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THURSDAY, Sept. 13 (HealthDay News) -- Although depression affects about one-third of all stroke victims, male stroke survivors are more likely to become depressed than females, a small new study suggests.

The gap may be due to men putting extra stock into the notion that they will enjoy good health, one of the researchers explained.

Many of these male stroke survivors "may be accustomed to, and value highly, being in control of their health," said study author Michael McCarthy, of the University of Cincinnati College of Health Sciences School of Social Work. "For these individuals, loss of control due to infirmity caused by stroke could be perceived as a loss of power and prestige. These losses, in turn, may result in more distress and greater depressive syndromes."

The study, published Sept. 12 in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, involved 36 people who had a first stroke within the previous 36 months. Of these stroke survivors, 16 were women and 20 were men.

The researchers assessed the participants' symptoms of depression as well as their ability to perform routine activities, such as bathing and cutting their food. They also examined the amount of uncertainty the survivors had about their health or the outcome of their stroke. The participants were asked to agree or disagree with certain statements, such as "I don't know what's wrong with me," and "I have a lot of questions without answers."

The study revealed that uncertainty about health was strongly associated with greater depression for both men and women. The researchers noted, however, that this link was stronger for the men.

The findings suggest that talking to survivors and their family members in clear, easily understood terms about the patient's health "may be an effective approach for reducing survivor distress and, ultimately, for improving rehabilitation outcomes," McCarthy said in a news release from the journal.

The researchers noted that the study was limited in size and diversity. McCarthy said that future studies with people from various social and economic backgrounds should give more data on how gender and health-related beliefs affect survivor outcomes. More research might also illuminate how women are relatively protected from depression after a stroke, compared to men.

-- Mary Elizabeth Dallas Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCE: Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, news release, Sept. 12, 2012

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desoximetasone - topical, Topicort, Topicort LP

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Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (e.g., eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash). Desoximetasone reduces the swelling, itching and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. This medication is a strong corticosteroid.

HOW TO USE: Use this medication only on the skin. Do not use it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.Wash and dry your hands. Before applying the medication, clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area and gently rub in, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Do not cover, bandage or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. If used in the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.After applying the medication, wash your hands unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. When applying this medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes as this may worsen or cause glaucoma. Also, avoid getting this medication in the nose or mouth. If you get the medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse with plenty of water.Use this medication only for the condition prescribed. Do not use it for longer than prescribed.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Back to Medications Index

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calcipotriene - topical, Dovonex, Sorilux

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Psoriasis Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that may cause large plaques of red, raised skin, flakes of dry skin, and skin scales. There are several types of psoriasis, including psoriasis vulgaris, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and pustular psoriasis. Symptoms vary depending on the type of psoriasis the patient has. Treatment of psoriasis may include creams, lotions, oral medications, injections and infusions of biologics, and light therapy. There is no cure for psoriasis.Keratosis Pilaris Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common skin disorder in which small white or red bumps appear around hair follicles on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and cheeks. The cause of KP is unknown. There is no cure for keratosis pilaris, and the condition may resolve on its own. Gentle exfoliation, professional manual extraction, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion, along with topical products, are the best treatments for this condition.Scalp Psoriasis Scalp psoriasis causes red, raised, scaly patches that may extend from the scalp to the forehead and the back of the neck and ears. Symptoms include itching, hair loss, flaking, silvery scales, and red plaques. Treatment includes topical medicated shampoos, creams, gels, oils, ointments, and soaps, medications, and light therapy.

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Health Tip: If You Have Eczema

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(HealthDay News) -- Eczema, also called contact dermatitis, can occur when the skin touches a substance that triggers an allergic reaction. Though actual substances vary by person, common triggers include fragrances used in perfumes or chemicals used in sunscreens.

The Cleveland Clinic offers these suggestions to help avoid a flare of allergic eczema:

Avoid exposure to any substance that triggers a skin rash.If you do come into contact with an allergic substance, promptly wash affected skin.Learn how to identify and avoid triggers such as poison ivy or poison oak.

-- Diana Kohnle Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

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capsaicin - topical, Capsagel, Salonpas-Hot, Zostri

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Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat minor aches and pains of the muscles/joints (e.g., arthritis, backache, sprains). It may also be used to treat nerve pain. Capsaicin works by decreasing a certain natural substance in your body (substance P) that helps pass pain signals to the brain.

HOW TO USE: Use this medication on the skin only. Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.For the cream, gel, and lotion forms, apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area and rub in gently and thoroughly. You may want to use a cotton ball/swab or latex glove to apply the medication to avoid touching the medication with your hands.Do not apply the medication in the eyes, mouth, nostrils, or genitals. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water. Also, do not apply this medication to skin that is injured or irritated (e.g., cut, scraped, sunburned).Do not apply this medication immediately before or after activities such as bathing, swimming, sun bathing, or heavy exercise. Do not bandage or wrap the affected area or use a heating pad on that area. Doing so may increase the risk of side effects.After applying the medication, wash your hands unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. If treating the hands, wait at least 30 minutes after applying the medication to wash your hands.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.This medication may sometimes take up to 2 months to work. Tell your doctor if your condition persists for more than 7 days, if it worsens, or if it keeps returning. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Back to Medications Index

Shingles Shingles (herpes zoster) is a skin rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Under certain circumstances, such as emotional stress, immune deficiency, or with cancer, the virus re-activates causing shingles. Shingles are catching and can spread from an infected person to others who have not had chickenpox. There are a variety of treatments for shingles.Psoriasis Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that may cause large plaques of red, raised skin, flakes of dry skin, and skin scales. There are several types of psoriasis, including psoriasis vulgaris, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and pustular psoriasis. Symptoms vary depending on the type of psoriasis the patient has. Treatment of psoriasis may include creams, lotions, oral medications, injections and infusions of biologics, and light therapy. There is no cure for psoriasis.Arthritis Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints. When joints are inflamed they can develop stiffness, warmth, swelling, redness and pain. There are over 100 types of arthritis including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, gout, and pseudogout. Peripheral Neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy is a problem with the functioning of the nerves outside of the spinal cord. Symptoms may include numbness, weakness, burning pain (especially at night), and loss of reflexes. Possible causes may include carpel tunnel syndrome, meralgia paresthetica, vitamin or nutritional deficiencies, and illnesses like diabetes, syphilis, AIDS, and kidney failure. Most causes of peripheral neuropathy can be successfully treated or prevented.

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methoxsalen - oral

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Psoriasis Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that may cause large plaques of red, raised skin, flakes of dry skin, and skin scales. There are several types of psoriasis, including psoriasis vulgaris, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and pustular psoriasis. Symptoms vary depending on the type of psoriasis the patient has. Treatment of psoriasis may include creams, lotions, oral medications, injections and infusions of biologics, and light therapy. There is no cure for psoriasis.

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halobetasol - topical, Ultravate

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Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (e.g., eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash). Halobetasol reduces the swelling, itching, and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. This medication is a very strong (super-high potency) corticosteroid.

HOW TO USE: Use this medication on the skin only. Do not use it on the face, groin or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.Before applying the medication, clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area and gently rub in, one to two times daily or as directed by your doctor. Do not wrap, cover or bandage the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. If used in the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.After applying the medication, wash your hands unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. If applying this medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes as this may worsen or cause glaucoma. Also avoid getting this medication in the nose or mouth.Use this medication only for the condition prescribed. Do not use it for longer than two weeks in a row unless directed to do so by your doctor.If your condition worsens or does not improve in 2 weeks, contact your doctor.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Back to Medications Index

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clobetasol foam - topical, Olux

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Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Clobetasol is used to treat certain scalp and skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, dermatitis, rash). Clobetasol reduces the swelling, itching and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. This medication is a very strong (super-high-potency) corticosteroid.

HOW TO USE: Apply this medication to the scalp, usually twice daily in the morning and evening or as directed by your doctor.Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package, and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about any of the information.Use this medication only on the skin. However, do not use it on the face, groin or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.Wash and dry your hands before applying. Apply the prescribed amount of medication to the affected area and gently rub in. Do not bandage, wrap or cover the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.After applying the medication, wash your hands, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. If applying this medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes because this may worsen or cause glaucoma. Also, avoid getting the medication in your nose or mouth. If you get the medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse with plenty of water.Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for longer than 2 weeks in a row. Do not apply more than one 50-gram can in a given week unless directed by your doctor. Doing so could increase your risk of side effects.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 2 weeks.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Back to Medications Index

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Health Tip: Help Prevent a Poison Ivy Rash

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(HealthDay News) -- Touching or even getting close to a poison ivy plant can result in an itchy, uncomfortable rash anywhere from head to toe.

The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions to help protect children from a poison ivy rash:

Teach kids to recognize poison ivy plants, and to stay away from them.Don't allow children to play in areas where you know poison ivy lives.Accounting for the hottest summer days, dress children in long-sleeved shirts and long pants before they go into areas where the poisonous plants might grow.If your dog has played in the woods or leafy areas outdoors, bathe it to help ensure there's no urushiol -- the chemical that causes the poison ivy rash -- on its coat.

-- Diana Kohnle Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

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Could Bacteria in Skin Mites Help Cause Rosacea?

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By Amanda Gardner
HealthDay Reporter

THURSDAY, Aug. 30 (HealthDay News) -- Bacteria carried by tiny mites on the skin might be responsible for the common dermatological condition known as rosacea, researchers say.

If this theory does prove to be true, then new and better treatments for rosacea may be on the way, according to a review published online Aug. 30 in the Journal of Medical Microbiology.

One expert unconnected to the study said the findings are encouraging.

"[If] these mites exacerbate or harbor bacteria, that could change the therapies that are used to treat rosacea," reasoned Dr. Michele Green, a dermatologist with Lenox Hill Hospital, in New York City. "This could revolutionize treatment."

Green noted that some pharmaceutical companies are already exploring treatments that could combat rosacea from this vantage point.

Rosacea affects some 3 percent of the population, mostly adults between the ages of 30 and 50 and more women than men.

No one is sure exactly what causes the condition but it manifests as reddening and inflammation of the skin around the cheeks, nose and chin.

Although rosacea is often successfully treated with antibiotics, no one has yet proven that the condition is caused by bacteria.

Experts believe that immune dysfunction, vascular problems and/or environmental factors, including nutrition, could contribute to the condition.

This review article, led by Dr. Kevin Kavanagh of the National University of Ireland, outlined evidence supporting the idea that bacteria living in the Demodex folliculorum mite, which is present on the skin of between 20 percent to 80 percent of healthy humans, may be responsible for rosacea. The mite is typically harmless and lives around the facial hair follicles.

However, the authors say research has shown that there are more Demodex mites residing on the skin of rosacea patients than in people without the condition.

The bacterium known as Bacillus oleronius has also been found in the digestive tract of a Demodex mite taken from a person with rosacea. This bacterium is susceptible to some of the antibiotics used to treat rosacea, and it also produces molecules that trigger an immune reaction in people with rosacea.

Another type of bacteria, Staphylococcus epidermidis, has been found in pustules of rosacea patients but not in areas of the skin that are rosacea-free. This bacterium, as well, is sensitive to many of the antibiotics used to treat rosacea.

"This research is provocative in that it is proposing a cause for rosacea which up to this point has been unknown," said Dr. Chris Adigun, an instructor in the department of dermatology at NYU Langone Medical Center, in New York City.

But Adigun adds, it will be difficult to prove that bacteria within Demodex mites are responsible for rosacea.

"We find it on healthy people as well as on people with rosacea," she pointed out. "Furthermore, treatment options that improve rosacea symptoms do not alter the concentration or life cycle of mites," she added.

Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCES: Michele Green, M.D., dermatologist, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City; Chris G. Adigun, M.D., instructor, department of dermatology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York City; Aug. 30, 2012, Journal of Medical Microbiology online

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Health Tip: If You Have Rosacea

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(HealthDay News) -- If you have the skin condition rosacea, you should avoid harsh cleansers that may worsen symptoms, the National Rosacea Society says.

Here are the society's skin-cleansing recommendations:

Wash with a gentle cleanser that's made for your type of skin.Gently use your fingertips, never a sponge or washcloth.Use lukewarm water to rinse your face.With a thick, cotton towel, gently blot your face dry. Don't rub.Apply medication to your skin only when completely dry, usually about 30 minutes after washing.Wait another five to 10 minutes after applying medication to apply moisturizer, makeup or sunscreen.

-- Diana Kohnle Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

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11 Delicious Mini Meals

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AppId is over the quota

Sometimes we snack too much during the day or we don’t feel like cooking a huge dinner. These downsized recipes are your answer. The tasty nibbles have all the flavor of full-sized meals and desserts but half the calories.

Mini Quiches

Get the classic egg-and-cheese taste without slaving over the oven. This dish cooks in just 5 minutes, and for an added boost of veggies and a low-cal kick, serve with some salsa on the side.

Ingredients: Hard-cooked eggs, puff-pastry shells, fresh sage, fontina cheese, crumbled bacon

Calories: 320

Try this recipe: Mini Quiches

Next: Mini Shrimp Pot Pie

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benzoyl peroxide - topical, Benoxyl, Benzac AC, Benzac W,

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Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat mild to moderate acne. It may be used in combination with other acne treatments. When applied to the skin, benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria and by causing the skin to dry and peel.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this product and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.There are many benzoyl peroxide products available. Many can be purchased without a prescription. Some products (such as cleansers, foam, or lotions) may require a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the choice of the product that is best for you. Some products require shaking before use. Check your product package to see if your form of this medication needs to be shaken.Apply benzoyl peroxide to the areas of your skin affected by acne. Avoid getting this medication into your eyes, inside your nose or mouth, or on any areas of broken skin since it may cause irritation. If this occurs, flush the area with plenty of water. Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair or fabrics. Use carefully, and avoid contact with hair, clothing, and furnishings.If using cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide, wet the affected area. Gently rub the cleanser into the skin for 10-20 seconds. Work into a full lather and rinse thoroughly and then pat dry. If too much drying occurs, you may need to rinse the cleanser off sooner or use it less often. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.If you are using the liquid wash, cleansing pad, or cleanser bar, use it instead of soap once or twice a day. Wet the skin before applying, gently work up a lather for 10 to 20 seconds, and rinse thoroughly. Do not scrub the skin.If using the shaving cream, first wet the area to be shaved. Apply a small amount of the medication, gently rub into the area, and then shave.If you are using a cream, foam, lotion, or gel, apply it to the affected area usually once or twice a day, or as directed. Before applying each dose, gently wash the affected area with a mild cleanser, then pat dry. Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area and rub in gently. Some products may require rinsing off after application for a certain amount of time. Check your product package to see if your form of this medication needs to be rinsed off.If you are using the medicated pads or sponges, wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser, then pat dry. Wipe the pad or sponge gently onto the skin to apply the medication, usually once or twice a day to the skin as directed.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Improvement in acne is usually seen after 3 weeks of use, and maximum benefit after 8-12 weeks of use.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Back to Medications Index

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7 Low-Fat Pork Meals

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Pork is lean, rich in protein, and packed with more savory flavor than your typical chicken breast. Enjoy these seven healthy and delicious dinners that will have you saying, "Pork, please."

Horseradish-Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Japanese breadcrumbs, scallions, and horseradish give a kick to this simple pork-and-veggie dish.

Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, cumin seeds, olive oil, sweet potatoes, pork tenderloins, reduced-fat mayo, panko (Japanese breadcrumbs), scallions, horseradish, lime juice

Calories: 309

Try this recipe: Horseradish-Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Next: Pork and Black-Bean Tacos

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Colorful Produce For a More Nutritious You

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By Melissa Roberts
From Health magazine

If you’re looking for an easy way to optimize your diet, go for color. Fruits and veggies of all shades contain phytonutrients—plant compounds that work together to protect your health.

"These phytonutrients include antioxidants like carotenoids and anthocyanins that give produce its color and may play a role in preventing age-related diseases like cancer and heart disease," explains Elizabeth J. Johnson, PhD, associate professor at Tufts University.

Discover what eating more green, orange, and red can do for you, and recipes that make the most of these brilliant bites.

Next: Feel great with green

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7 Lucky Irish Recipes

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Known for its hearty fare, Irish cuisine also offers vitamin-packed cabbage and fiber-filled potatoes. If you make these seven recipes, you'll be lucky, because you'll get the savory flavors of Ireland without all the calories.

Potato-Cabbage Soup

Cabbage and scallions give this soup its green hue, plus a boost of vitamin C.

Ingredients: Olive oil, unsalted butter, savoy cabbage, scallions, garlic, chicken broth, potatoes

Calories: 207

Try this recipe: Potato-Cabbage Soup

Next: Cheddar-Ale Soup

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8 Festive Treats Under 80 Calories

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8 Poolside Treats Under 80 Calories

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Treats Under 80 Calories - Health.com S
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Breyers Pure Fruit Pomegranate Blends Mango fruit bar

Next: 47 calories

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Enjoy Thanksgiving While Keeping Cholesterol in Check

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It may not be a good idea to slather your turkey with gravy or go for that second piece of pie, but you can enjoy the holidays without spiking your cholesterol.

Easy Butternut Squash Risotto

The heart-healthy monounsaturated fats of olive oil give this dish a buttery quality without the cholesterol. Sage adds a somewhat sweet flavor and acts to reduce inflammatory responses in the body.

Try this recipe: Easy Butternut Squash Risotto

Next: Apple, Sage, and Chestnut Stuffing

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8 Game-Day Snacks Under 80 Calories

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10 Fresh corn recipes

Corn is a low-cal way to add the sweet taste - and a little crunch - to your summer meals. Try these 10 creative recipes with your favorite summer vegetarian.

Mexican roasted corn salad with buttermilk dressing

Blend Mexican and Mediterranean ingredients with the fresh-tasting salad. Corn, lime and chili powder, combined with grape halves and Parmesan, make flavor-packed one more than 200 calories for something.

Ingredients: Lemon juice, olive oil, Ancho chili powder, paprika, salt, corn, low-fat buttermilk, parmesan cheese, red grape, mixed green, tarragon

Calories: 218

Try this recipe: Mexican roasted corn salad with buttermilk dressing

Next: Shrimp and corn chowder

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America's healthiest Superfoods for women

By Laurie Mr
The health magazine

You love to eat, but also love, you feel me great. They can both if you choose foods that you make smarter, leaner, stronger - and then in delicious new ways.

We have made easy with the to do health top 10 of Superfoods for women. You have been chosen by our panel of experts for their mega-benefits - building and energy increase bone, fat busting and the fight against of the disease.

What is even more tasty: If you mix and match these America's healthiest choice, super combos with even more power - a breakfast, which is you get good for the heart, a sweet treat a dinner, which fights cancer, that your stomach keep calm and sharp mind. In addition we have rounded benefit-packed runners-up, also up to 15 delicious. To read more (and food) for a super you.

Next: Wild Alaskan Lachs

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10 Tasty Tomato Recipes

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Use this versatile summer fruit in pastas, pizzas, and salsas. No matter how you slice and dice them, tomatoes bring a juicy, sweet flavor to your favorite recipes.

Roasted Tomato and Artichoke Flatbread Pizza

Tomatoes and artichoke hearts add a Mediterranean flair to this simple recipe. Their savory flavor complements the bitter arugula in this veggie-packed pizza that is under 300 calories.

Ingredients: Grape tomatoes, artichoke hearts, extra-virgin olive oil, naan flatbreads, fresh Parmesan cheese, arugula, lemons, salt, black pepper

Calories: 277

Try this recipe: Roasted Tomato and Artichoke Flatbread Pizza

Next: Spinach-Tomato Pasta Shells

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You'll love No.-Cook meals

Recipes by Lori Powell

So switch to hot the stove? No need-to make our delicious throw together dinner!

Lobster Panzanella

Pick up treat boiled lobster from the seafood counter for the world's easiest day of the week.

Ingredients: Lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil extra, sea salt, ground black pepper, cooked lobster meat, cherry tomatoes, shallots, fresh chives, fresh basil, whole wheat bread

Calories: 167

Try this recipe: lobster Panzanella

Next: Tuscan Kale with almonds, plums and goat cheese

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