Healthwise    May 2010  

Healthwise is a regular column written especially for laterlife.com members and visitors. Welcome to healthwise 122.

For previous articles in the healthwise series visit 'More Healthwise'

NEWS AND VIEWS

We should all be delighted at the advances now being made by scientists, researchers and the medical profession. For 2010 we will continue to highlight some of the latest developments in health and medicine. 

Healthwise 122

PROTECT AGAINST DEMENTIA

We all know that a good diet and some exercise is vital in maintaining our health as we age; but this has been conclusively confirmed by a study at Columbia University in New York.

A recent study found that older people who were very physically active, perhaps swimming or cycling for 20 minutes a day, were 33 per cent less likely to develop the disease.

The study also showed that people who followed a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, cereal and fish, and low in red meat, dairy and poultry, were 40 per cent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s.

Combining the two, the report said people could reduce the chances of developing the condition by up to 60 per cent.

LESS SLEEP

Researchers at the University of California have identified a gene mutation that appears to be at least partly responsible for the fact that some people can operate on far less sleep than others.

The team said they had discovered a special “awake gene” that meant that some carriers were genetically programmed to survive on a reduced level of sleep.

The mutation is quite rare, but could explain why Lady Thatcher, for instance, managed to get by on an average of just four hours’ sleep a night.

ROBOTS HELP STROKE SUFFERERS

A major clinical study has shown that stroke victims can regain limb movements through intensive therapy with newly created robotic aids.

The three year study, at joint universities in America, showed patients who had 12 weeks of robot-assisted therapy showed a significant improvement in a range of activities.

The study used a robot called MIT-Manus which sensed movements by the patients and gave help as needed. The therapy is based on neuroplasticity, the ability of the adult brain to rewire itself.

WARNING ON METAL HIPS

A warning has been given out by the Medicines and Health Care Products Regulatory Agency over fears that debris from metal in hip replacements could cause an increased risk of tissue damage and even tumours.

The damage is caused by metal debris produced by friction between the two plates at the hip joint.

Certain implants are now being reviewed and it is thought a number of patients will be advised to have their metal hips replaced.

MISCONCEPTIONS ON FOOD ALLERGIES

Many people wrongly think they have a food allergy.

A report from the University of Portsmouth says that while one in five adults thinks they are allergic to certain foods, in fact it seems only two per cent have a genuine allergy or food intolerance.

The most common problems are associated with wheat and dairy allergies. Symptoms of wheat allergy can include hives, itching, stomach upsets and wheezing.

The report indicates that a vast number of people were avoiding foods that they could safely eat.

If in any doubt about any of the information covered in healthwise articles and it's relevance for you, consult your GP.

IN THE PREVIOUS EDITION

Easier for diabetics
Details have been released of a fast acting insulin that can be inhaled orally.

Two strong benefits from Agave
The plant may have more benefits.

Help from aspirin
Should a regular intake of aspirin be recommended for older people?

Virtual examination
The possibility of avoiding a colonoscopy

Currying favour
An element of Turmeric might slow the progress of liver disease

Good news for non-aspirin anti-inflammatory drugs
These can reduce a person's risk of Parkinson's disease