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CNET
6 days ago
- Health
- CNET
Food as Medicine: Try Eating These Foods Next Time You Have a Headache
If you're looking for something other than aspirin to relieve a headache, experts say you should consider what's on your plate. Though eating certain foods isn't a miracle cure for migraines or headaches, it can help alongside hydration, exercise, sleep and stress management. "The most important thing I tell patients is that migraines are highly individualized," says Dr. Nicholas Church, a board-certified member of the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Academy of Family Physicians. "What helps one person may not help another, and what's a trigger for one might be therapeutic for someone else." To determine which foods may potentially help with migraine and headache symptoms, we sought expert advice from several doctors and dietitians. 1. Omega-3-rich foods "I recommend omega-3-rich fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines," says Church. "These fish are high in anti-inflammatory fats (EPA and DHA), which can reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the vascular system and brain." Citing a 2021 randomized controlled trial, Church explains that because migraines are believed to involve inflammatory and vascular changes in the body, omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce their frequency or intensity when eaten regularly. "The study's findings also align with earlier data showing that omega-3s help regulate prostaglandins, which play a role in headache inflammation," says Church. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that impact bodily functions like inflammation, pain and menstrual cramps. Fatty fish also contain vitamin D, coenzyme Q10 and B vitamins like riboflavin, which support healthy brain metabolism. Kiran Campbell, a registered dietitian nutritionist at MyNetDiary, also mentions a 2024 meta-analysis revealing that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the frequency, duration and severity of migraines. She adds that plant-based sources include chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed and algae oil. Example foods: salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed and algae oil Chia and flax seeds are great sources of omega-3s. mikroman6/Getty Images 2. Magnesium-rich foods Daniel Redwood, the director of Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine at the University of Western States, explains, "Attention to the potential importance of magnesium in migraine grew in prominence with the discovery (Ramadan, 1989) that people with migraines had lower levels of this mineral in their red blood cells, serum and brain tissue." Dr. Paul Daidone, medical director at True Self Recovery, seconds this, stating that food rich in magnesium -- like pumpkin seeds, spinach and avocado -- may reduce the severity and occurrence of migraines. He cites a 2022 study examining the potential connection between magnesium deficiency and migraine, which describes how magnesium deficiency is implicated in migraine attacks due to processes like cortical spreading depression, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalance and electrolyte imbalance. "Although clinical evidence of the acute dietary magnesium deficiency as a direct migraine trigger remains limited, scientists are investigating the involvement of intra- and extracellular magnesium levels in migraine pathogenesis," Daidone explains. Dr. Schonze Del Pozo, a board-certified internal medicine physician and medical director at East Sacramento Concierge, states that many of the patients she sees for headaches and migraines are deficient in magnesium. She also cites a 2012 study in the Journal of Neural Transmission entitled "Why all migraine patients should be treated with magnesium." As a result, she recommends a healthy diet of magnesium-rich dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, broccoli and Swiss chard. Example foods: pumpkin seeds, spinach and avocado, kale, broccoli and Swiss chard 3. Ginger "Many swear by ginger as a way to help with migraines," states Dr. Maria Knöbel, a general practitioner and medical director of Medical Cert UK. "Studies have proven that ginger reduces nausea and can decrease the inflammation that leads to migraine pain. Ginger has helped patients during my practice, whether they take it as ginger tea or in supplement form." She references a 2014 study that found ginger powder to be as effective as the medication sumatriptan in treating acute migraine attacks, but with fewer side effects. Ginger tea may be especially beneficial because, Knöbel states, "It's important to drink enough water, as well as eat ginger. Drinking enough water might stop your migraine from getting any worse." Church also recommends ginger because it contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerol. "I've had patients find relief from migraines or migraine-related nausea using ginger tea, powder or chews," he explains. A 2019 study also found that 400mg of ginger extract, in addition to 100mg of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen, may help treat migraine attacks. Ginger tea combines the benefits of ginger with the hydration of water.4. Nuts and seeds "Another group of foods I recommend are nuts and seeds, including almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts," Church states. "Like leafy greens, these are rich in magnesium, and some also provide vitamin E, which has been shown to help with menstrual migraines and migraines with aura." A 2015 study reflected this. Example foods: almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts 5. Cinnamon "Cinnamon contains a high amount of antioxidants that may also reduce headache frequency," Campbell explains. "Stir it into your morning oatmeal or tea, or bake it into muffins and breads." She cites a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled 2020 trial, stating, "Studies suggest that cinnamon supplementation may lower inflammation, cutting down on migraine frequency, severity and duration." The antioxidants in cinnamon may help treat headaches and migraines. FreshSplash/Getty Images 6. Foods rich in vitamin B2 "A well-known [1998] randomized controlled trial found that 400 mg of riboflavin daily significantly reduced migraine frequency and severity over a three-month period," Church says. Though this high dose usually comes from supplementation, riboflavin-rich foods support the same metabolic processes in migraine prevention. These foods can include eggs, dairy and lean meats. "Riboflavin is essential for mitochondrial energy production, and many researchers believe that migraines stem in part from dysfunction in energy metabolism within brain cells," Church adds. Redwood adds, "There exists a small but promising body of research on the effectiveness of some nutritional supplements for migraines, especially riboflavin (vitamin B2), coenzyme Q10 and magnesium. The first research-based indicator of riboflavin's potential as a migraine treatment appeared in a small 1946 article by a medical physician, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, which reported dramatic effectiveness from what would now be considered low-dose B2 supplements." A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis found that supplementation of 400mg/day of vitamin B2 for three months affected the duration, frequency and pain score of migraine attacks. Example foods: Eggs, dairy and lean meats 7. Turmeric Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric and, according to Campbell, is "high in antioxidant power and shines especially when paired with omega-3s." To add it to your diet, consider sprinkling it into smoothies, curries or teas. Campbell references a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled 2021 trial that concluded, "Present findings revealed that n-3 fatty acids and curcumin co-supplementation can be suggested as a promising new approach in migraine headache management." However, more studies are needed. When combined with omega-3s, turmeric may help with migraine headache management. Rawlstock/Getty Images 8. Whole grains Church mentions that whole grains like quinoa, brown rice and oats may also be beneficial since they "provide a steady release of glucose, preventing blood sugar crashes that can trigger headaches, and are good sources of fiber, B vitamins and trace minerals." He cites a 2023 cross-sectional study of 12,710 participants with all data collected from a 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. It found that for every 10 grams of fiber added to the diet, there was an 11% reduction in the odds of having severe headaches or migraines. "By providing magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, whole grains support brain health, oxygen delivery and a stable glucose supply, which are all relevant to migraine prevention," concludes Church. A 2023 comprehensive review also found that curcumin is a promising candidate for preventing and controlling migraines due to its anti‑inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-protein aggregate and analgesic effects. However, additional studies are needed. Example foods: quinoa, brown rice and oats 9. Water-rich foods Dr. Kimberly Idoko, a developmental neurobiologist and board-certified neurologist, reveals that dehydration can also trigger headaches, which is why staying hydrated can significantly improve migraine treatments. "Water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon and citrus fruits also help you stay hydrated," adds Church. To prevent dehydration-caused headaches or migraines, enjoy more water-rich foods like watermelon. Anucha Muphasa/500px/Getty Images Foods that may trigger headaches or migraines Chocolate, cheese and alcohol: "In one [2007] study of over 500 migraine sufferers, 44% reported at least one food as a trigger. Among the most common triggers were chocolate, cheese and alcohol, " reveals Dr. Adam Lowenstein, a board-certified plastic surgeon who runs the Migraine Surgery Specialty Center. Gluten: "Gluten can be a highly inflammatory food substance, especially among those who are prone to sensitivities or gluten allergy," explains Trista Best, a registered dietitian at The Candida Diet, environmental health specialist and adjunct nutrition professor. "This inflammation causes a host of health conditions, including migraines." When it comes to caffeine, moderation is "The most fascinating study I've seen on the role of nutrition in the treatment of headaches (Hering-Hanit and Gadoth, 2003) was published in Cephalalgia, the premier headache journal. Over a 5-year period, doctors at a neurology clinic in Israel treated 36 children and adolescents (average age 9) with severe daily or near-daily headaches who drank an average of 11 quarts of cola drinks per week," says Redwood. "At the end of a gradual withdrawal period (because too speedy a withdrawal can trigger even worse headaches), 33 of these 36 young people were headache-free, a truly stunning result. Nearly all cola drinks contain substantial amounts of caffeine (Chou and Bell, 2007)." Note: 11 quarts of cola per week is extreme, and the average person doesn't consume this much caffeine. Moderate caffeine intake is still OK, according to Amelia Ti, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator in New York City who is also part of CNET's medical review board. However, when it comes to caffeine, Church notes, "Caffeine, used strategically, can enhance the absorption of pain relievers and constrict dilated blood vessels in the brain, which may ease migraine pain. This is why many over-the-counter headache medications include it. Studies have shown that 40–100 mg of caffeine (the amount in a small cup of coffee or strong tea) can reduce migraine or tension headache pain. But, chronic overuse can lead to rebound headaches, so moderation is key." Added sugars and highly processed foods: "Research has shown that people following a 'Western' diet, which includes substantial amounts of added sugars and other highly processed foods, are at greater than average risk for developing migraines, while the risk is significantly lower than average for those following a healthier diet," states Redwood. download (1) Dr. Joseph Mercola, a board-certified family physician and author of Your Guide to Cellular Health, adds that in addition to incorporating foods rich in specific nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins, you'll want to eliminate triggers like processed foods that contain nitrates, MSG, added sugars or yeast.
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Doctors Say This Is the Best Seat on a Plane to Avoid Getting Sick
There's a reason everyone freaked out about riding on airplanes during the pandemic: it's an easy way to get sick if you don't take precautions. 'Airline carriers are impressive carriers of the common cold,' says Anthony Ognjan, D.O., FACP., a board-certified osteopathic physician specializing in infectious diseases. The good news is you can greatly reduce your risk of getting sick during a flight — and no, you don't need to travel in a bubble. Just follow the tips below from board-certified physicians. What makes it so easy to get sick during a flight? For starters, when you're on a plane, you're stuck in an enclosed space with quite a few people. 'On most commercial airplanes, there are a lot of people in close proximity for an extended period of time,' says Kathleen N. Mueller, M.D., FAAFP, the director of the American Academy of Family Physicians. 'We know that respiratory droplets that come from a cough or sneeze are one of the most common ways to contract an illness like influenza or COVID-19 and with that many people in an enclosed space, you may find yourself exposed more frequently than you would in other situations.' On top of that, airplane environments are like paradise for illness-causing bacteria and viruses. 'The air inside airplane cabins is notoriously dry with humidity levels often dropping below 20%, significantly lower than what your body is used to,' says Ognjan. 'For comparison, most homes maintain humidity levels between 30 and 60%. Low levels of humidity can affect the body's natural defense system, including mucus in the nose and your throat drying up, creating a much more tolerant environment for germs.' Simply put, flights create a perfect storm for spreading germs: lots of people contained in an area with low humidity. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to offset those risks and avoid getting sick when you're flying. What can you do to prevent contracting an illness on an airplane? Use these doctor-approved tips to stay healthy during air travel. 'Generally speaking, a middle or aisle seat will have more contact with other passengers than a window seat will,' says Dr. Mueller. Of course, picking this seat isn't a guaranteed way to avoid germs, as research shows, it all depends on how close you are to an infected person, but Dr. Ognjan agrees that a window seat — especially one in the back of the plane — is often the safest. 'The last couple rows of the cabin prevent you from being breathed or coughed on from behind,' he says. This is to lower the chances that you'll need to relieve yourself in an airplane bathroom. 'You have no control over what germs existed before you entered, and they are not cleaned mid-flight,' says Dr. Ognjan. 'Infections during flights can be transmitted not only by aerosols that remain airborne and can be inhaled, but also by large droplets that settle on surfaces or by direct contact with secretions, body fluids or contaminated surfaces,' says Dr. Ognjan. What's more, 'germs can survive for hours or days after the passenger who brought them on board has departed.' He suggests using disinfectant wipes (not baby wipes) on tray tables, armrests and seat belt buckles before use. Before you eat on a plane, it's always smart to sanitize your hands first, says Dr. Mueller. Also, if you touch any communal surfaces (like the handle on the overhead bins), apply hand sanitizer and do not touch your eyes, mouth or nose afterward. 'It is one of the most likely culprits for increased risk of getting sick while flying,' says Dr. Ognjan. 'Even though it can be tempting, I recommend passing on the caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you in already-dry air,' says Dr. Mueller. Yes, most airplanes have air filtration systems, but research shows masks are still effective at slowing the spread of airborne illnesses, especially on longer flights. They're particularly helpful if you're immunocompromised, notes Dr. Mueller. 'A mask can help protect you from airborne germs, especially if someone nearby is coughing or sneezing,' adds Dr. Ognjan. 'If you notice someone coughing or sneezing, try to move away or ask for a different seat if available.' The bottom line 'I want people to know that it is possible to travel without getting sick, especially if you take the right precautions!' says Dr. Mueller. 'If you have specific questions or concerns about upcoming travel, reach out to your family physician. We're here to help you navigate potentially stressful situations with confidence.' And if you happen to be the one who's sick while traveling, consider masking up and coughing and/or sneezing into your elbow when you're on the plane to lower the odds that you'll infect someone else. You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper
CNET
13-07-2025
- Health
- CNET
Foods That Naturally Relieve Headaches, Backed by Health Pros
What you eat could be the key to easing your headache or migraine symptoms. Though adjusting your diet is far from a miracle cure, when paired with other healthy habits, like maintaining your hydration, getting enough exercise, getting enough sleep and managing stress, it's a low-effort way to relieve your pain. "The most important thing I tell patients is that migraines are highly individualized," says Dr. Nicholas Church, a board-certified member of the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Academy of Family Physicians. "What helps one person may not help another, and what's a trigger for one might be therapeutic for someone else." Church advises patients to keep a "headache diary" to track these factors and see if they notice any triggers. To understand how what you eat can affect your headaches, we talked to dietitians and doctors to determine which foods ease symptoms and which might be contributing to your pain. 1. Omega-3-rich foods like walnuts "I recommend omega-3-rich fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines," says Church. "These fish are high in anti-inflammatory fats (EPA and DHA), which can reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the vascular system and brain." Citing a 2021 randomized controlled trial, Church explains that because migraines are believed to involve inflammatory and vascular changes in the body, omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce their frequency or intensity when eaten regularly. "The study's findings also align with earlier data showing that omega-3s help regulate prostaglandins, which play a role in headache inflammation," says Church. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that impact bodily functions like inflammation, pain and menstrual cramps. Fatty fish also contain vitamin D, coenzyme Q10 and B vitamins like riboflavin, which support healthy brain metabolism. Kiran Campbell, a registered dietitian nutritionist at MyNetDiary, also mentions a 2024 meta-analysis revealing that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the frequency, duration and severity of migraines. She adds that plant-based sources include chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed and algae oil. Example foods: salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed and algae oil Chia and flax seeds are great sources of omega-3s. mikroman6/Getty Images 2. Magnesium-rich foods like spinach Daniel Redwood, the director of Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine at the University of Western States, explains, "Attention to the potential importance of magnesium in migraine grew in prominence with the discovery (Ramadan, 1989) that people with migraines had lower levels of this mineral in their red blood cells, serum and brain tissue." Dr. Paul Daidone, medical director at True Self Recovery, seconds this, stating that food rich in magnesium -- like pumpkin seeds, spinach and avocado -- may reduce the severity and occurrence of migraines. He cites a 2022 study examining the potential connection between magnesium deficiency and migraine, which describes how magnesium deficiency is implicated in migraine attacks due to processes like cortical spreading depression, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalance and electrolyte imbalance. "Although clinical evidence of the acute dietary magnesium deficiency as a direct migraine trigger remains limited, scientists are investigating the involvement of intra- and extracellular magnesium levels in migraine pathogenesis," Daidone explains. Dr. Schonze Del Pozo, a board-certified internal medicine physician and medical director at East Sacramento Concierge, states that many of the patients she sees for headaches and migraines are deficient in magnesium. She also cites a 2012 study in the Journal of Neural Transmission entitled "Why all migraine patients should be treated with magnesium." As a result, she recommends a healthy diet of magnesium-rich dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, broccoli and Swiss chard. Example foods: pumpkin seeds, spinach and avocado, kale, broccoli and Swiss chard 3. Ginger "Many swear by ginger as a way to help with migraines," states Dr. Maria Knöbel, a general practitioner and medical director of Medical Cert UK. "Studies have proven that ginger reduces nausea and can decrease the inflammation that leads to migraine pain. Ginger has helped patients during my practice, whether they take it as ginger tea or in supplement form." She references a 2014 study that found ginger powder to be as effective as the medication sumatriptan in treating acute migraine attacks, but with fewer side effects. Ginger tea may be especially beneficial because, Knöbel states, "It's important to drink enough water, as well as eat ginger. Drinking enough water might stop your migraine from getting any worse." Church also recommends ginger because it contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerol. "I've had patients find relief from migraines or migraine-related nausea using ginger tea, powder or chews," he explains. A 2019 study also found that 400mg of ginger extract, in addition to 100mg of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen, may help treat migraine attacks. Ginger tea combines the benefits of ginger with the hydration of water.4. Nuts and seeds like pumpkin seeds "Another group of foods I recommend are nuts and seeds, including almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts," Church states. "Like leafy greens, these are rich in magnesium, and some also provide vitamin E, which has been shown to help with menstrual migraines and migraines with aura." A 2015 study reflected this. Example foods: almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts 5. Cinnamon "Cinnamon contains a high amount of antioxidants that may also reduce headache frequency," Campbell explains. "Stir it into your morning oatmeal or tea, or bake it into muffins and breads." She cites a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled 2020 trial, stating, "Studies suggest that cinnamon supplementation may lower inflammation, cutting down on migraine frequency, severity and duration." The antioxidants in cinnamon may help treat headaches and migraines. FreshSplash/Getty Images 6. Foods rich in vitamin B2, like eggs "A well-known [1998] randomized controlled trial found that 400 mg of riboflavin daily significantly reduced migraine frequency and severity over a three-month period," Church says. Though this high dose usually comes from supplementation, riboflavin-rich foods support the same metabolic processes in migraine prevention. These foods can include eggs, dairy and lean meats. "Riboflavin is essential for mitochondrial energy production, and many researchers believe that migraines stem in part from dysfunction in energy metabolism within brain cells," Church adds. Redwood adds, "There exists a small but promising body of research on the effectiveness of some nutritional supplements for migraines, especially riboflavin (vitamin B2), coenzyme Q10 and magnesium. The first research-based indicator of riboflavin's potential as a migraine treatment appeared in a small 1946 article by a medical physician, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, which reported dramatic effectiveness from what would now be considered low-dose B2 supplements." A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis found that supplementation of 400mg/day of vitamin B2 for three months affected the duration, frequency and pain score of migraine attacks. Example foods: Eggs, dairy and lean meats 7. Turmeric Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric and, according to Campbell, is "high in antioxidant power and shines especially when paired with omega-3s." To add it to your diet, consider sprinkling it into smoothies, curries or teas. Campbell references a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled 2021 trial that concluded, "Present findings revealed that n-3 fatty acids and curcumin co-supplementation can be suggested as a promising new approach in migraine headache management." However, more studies are needed. When combined with omega-3s, turmeric may help with migraine headache management. Rawlstock/Getty Images 8. Whole grains like brown rice Church mentions that whole grains like quinoa, brown rice and oats may also be beneficial since they "provide a steady release of glucose, preventing blood sugar crashes that can trigger headaches, and are good sources of fiber, B vitamins and trace minerals." He cites a 2023 cross-sectional study of 12,710 participants with all data collected from a 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. It found that for every 10 grams of fiber added to the diet, there was an 11% reduction in the odds of having severe headaches or migraines. "By providing magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, whole grains support brain health, oxygen delivery and a stable glucose supply, which are all relevant to migraine prevention," concludes Church. A 2023 comprehensive review also found that curcumin is a promising candidate for preventing and controlling migraines due to its anti‑inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-protein aggregate and analgesic effects. However, additional studies are needed. Example foods: quinoa, brown rice and oats 9. Water-rich foods like watermelon Dr. Kimberly Idoko, a developmental neurobiologist and board-certified neurologist, reveals that dehydration can also trigger headaches, which is why staying hydrated can significantly improve migraine treatments. "Water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon and citrus fruits also help you stay hydrated," adds Church. To prevent dehydration-caused headaches or migraines, enjoy more water-rich foods like watermelon. Anucha Muphasa/500px/Getty Images Foods that may trigger headaches or migraines Chocolate, cheese and alcohol: "In one [2007] study of over 500 migraine sufferers, 44% reported at least one food as a trigger. Among the most common triggers were chocolate, cheese and alcohol, " reveals Dr. Adam Lowenstein, a board-certified plastic surgeon who runs the Migraine Surgery Specialty Center. Gluten: "Gluten can be a highly inflammatory food substance, especially among those who are prone to sensitivities or gluten allergy," explains Trista Best, a registered dietitian at The Candida Diet, environmental health specialist and adjunct nutrition professor. "This inflammation causes a host of health conditions, including migraines." When it comes to caffeine, moderation is "The most fascinating study I've seen on the role of nutrition in the treatment of headaches (Hering-Hanit and Gadoth, 2003) was published in Cephalalgia, the premier headache journal. Over a 5-year period, doctors at a neurology clinic in Israel treated 36 children and adolescents (average age 9) with severe daily or near-daily headaches who drank an average of 11 quarts of cola drinks per week," says Redwood. "At the end of a gradual withdrawal period (because too speedy a withdrawal can trigger even worse headaches), 33 of these 36 young people were headache-free, a truly stunning result. Nearly all cola drinks contain substantial amounts of caffeine (Chou and Bell, 2007)." Note: 11 quarts of cola per week is extreme, and the average person doesn't consume this much caffeine. Moderate caffeine intake is still OK, according to Amelia Ti, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator in New York City who is also part of CNET's medical review board. However, when it comes to caffeine, Church notes, "Caffeine, used strategically, can enhance the absorption of pain relievers and constrict dilated blood vessels in the brain, which may ease migraine pain. This is why many over-the-counter headache medications include it. Studies have shown that 40–100 mg of caffeine (the amount in a small cup of coffee or strong tea) can reduce migraine or tension headache pain. But, chronic overuse can lead to rebound headaches, so moderation is key." Added sugars and highly processed foods: "Research has shown that people following a 'Western' diet, which includes substantial amounts of added sugars and other highly processed foods, are at greater than average risk for developing migraines, while the risk is significantly lower than average for those following a healthier diet," states Redwood. download (1) Dr. Joseph Mercola, a board-certified family physician and author of Your Guide to Cellular Health, adds that in addition to incorporating foods rich in specific nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins, you'll want to eliminate triggers like processed foods that contain nitrates, MSG, added sugars or yeast.
Boston Globe
07-07-2025
- Health
- Boston Globe
American kids have become increasingly unhealthy over nearly two decades, new study finds
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has brought children's health to the forefront of the national policy conversation, unveiling in May a much-anticipated 'Make America Healthy Again' report that described children as undernourished and overmedicated, and raised concerns about their lack of physical activity. But the Trump administration's actions — including cuts to federal health agencies, Medicaid, and scientific research — are not likely to reverse the trend, according to outside experts who reviewed Monday's study. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up 'The health of kids in America is not as good as it should be, not as good as the other countries, and the current policies of this administration are definitely going to make it worse,' said Dr. Frederick Rivara, a pediatrician and researcher at the Seattle Children's Hospital and UW Medicine in Seattle. He coauthored an editorial accompanying the new study. Advertisement Forrest and his colleagues analyzed surveys, electronic health records from 10 pediatric health systems, and international mortality statistics. Among their findings: Advertisement ♦ Obesity rates for US children 2-19 years old rose from 17 percent in 2007-2008 to about 21 percent in 2021-2023. ♦ A US child in 2023 was 15 percent to 20 percent more likely than a US child in 2011 to have a chronic condition such as anxiety, depression, or sleep apnea, according to data reported by parents and doctors. ♦ Annual prevalence rates for 97 chronic conditions recorded by doctors rose from about 40 percent in 2011 to about 46 percent in 2023. ♦ Early onset of menstruation, trouble sleeping, limitations in activity, physical symptoms, depressive symptoms, and loneliness also increased among American children during the study period. ♦ American children were around 1.8 times more likely to die than youngsters in other high-income countries from 2007-2022. Being born premature and sudden unexpected death were much higher among US infants, and firearm-related incidents and motor vehicle crashes were much more common among 1- to 19-year-old American children than among those the same age in other countries examined. The research points to bigger problems with America's health, said Forrest, who is a pediatrician at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. 'Kids are the canaries in the coal mine,' he said. 'When kids' health changes, it's because they're at increased vulnerability, and it reflects what's happening in society at large.' The timing of the study, he said, is 'completely fortuitous.' Well before the 2024 presidential election, Forrest was working on a book about thriving over the lifespan and couldn't find this sort of comprehensive data on children's health. The datasets analyzed have some limitations and may not be applicable to the full US population, noted Dr. James Perrin, a pediatrician and spokesman for the American Academy of Pediatrics, who wasn't involved in the study. Advertisement 'The basic finding is true,' he said. The editorial published alongside the study said while the administration's MAHA movement is bringing welcome attention to chronic diseases, 'it is pursuing other policies that will work against the interests of children.' Those include eliminating injury prevention and maternal health programs, canceling investments in a campaign addressing sudden infant death, and 'fueling vaccine hesitancy among parents that may lead to a resurgence of deadly vaccine-preventable diseases,' authors wrote. Officials from the US Health and Human Services Department did not respond to a request for comment. Forrest said risks highlighted by the MAHA report, such as eating too much ultra-processed food, are real but miss the complex reality driving trends in children's health. 'We have to step back and take some lessons from the ecological sustainability community and say: Let's look at the ecosystem that kids are growing up in. And let's start on a kind of neighborhood-by-neighborhood, city-by-city basis, examining it,' he said.
Vogue
16-06-2025
- Health
- Vogue
When Is the 'Right' Time to Get a Facelift?
We're seeing a shift in the way we look at facelifts. What once was a surgery you would get as a last resort to recapture your 'youthful look' has now turned into one of the most popular treatments to fine-tune your facial features. The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports that facelifts continue to be one of the top procedures, with a rise in younger patients seeking this treatment. While people are holding off on filler and Botox, it seems like many are waiting to go all in on facelifts. But how young is too young? How do you know when it's the right—and wrong—time to get a facelift? There are a couple of things to consider before you go under the knife. Is there a 'right' age to get a facelift? When it comes to getting a facelift, your age doesn't really matter. The real dealbreaker, experts say, is your overall health and your facial structure. 'The physical state of the face is more important than the biological age when assessing if someone is a suitable candidate for a facelift,' says Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of 111 Harley St. 'Many factors affect how a face looks and how it ages. These include lifestyle choices, genetics, and in some cases conditions or diseases.' 'I've operated on patients in their 70s who were better surgical candidates than some in their 50s. As long as someone is healthy, has realistic expectations, and can safely undergo anesthesia, they can be a good candidate,' agrees Alexis Parcells, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Parcells Plastic Surgery. 'A facelift at any age can be transformative when it's done for the right reasons.' Dr. Parcells goes on to say that most of her patients who opt for this treatment are in their late 40s to early 60s. This is about the age where skin laxity, jowling, and deeper folds are more pronounced. Facelifts, she explains, are about addressing structural changes and not just surface-level tweaks. So, the best time to get one is when those major face changes begin to bother you. …but you can be considered too young for one While there is no ideal age to get a facelift, experts do think that there are instances where one can be too young to undergo this surgery. Mainly, if you aren't showing any signs of aging on your face. 'Anyone under 40 is usually too young,' says Dr. Parcells. 'At that point, most concerns can be addressed with non-invasive treatments like radiofrequency, microneedling, or filler. A facelift is surgery—and with that comes downtime, risks, and cost—so we want to make sure we're correcting actual descent of tissue, not just volume loss or skin quality.' What makes you a good candidate for a facelift? There are a couple of things your doctor will look for to determine if a facelift is the right treatment for you. Dr. Alexandrides lists deep nasolabial folds (a.k.a. smile lines), jowling, laxity of the skin on the face or the neck, drooping of the brows, or extensive wrinkling of the face as some of the skin concerns that a facelift is the ideal treatment for. As mentioned before, you'll want to be healthy overall to minimize complications during and post-surgery. On a psychological level, he says patients should have realistic expectations for the results.
