Latest news with #MemorialHermann
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Eating for Longevity Just Got Easier With These 12 Nutrient-Packed Recipes
We know how important it is to eat foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and good fats, but is that truly the trick to living a longer, healthier life? According to Rebecca Scritchfield, RDN, 'a diet rich in whole plant foods, like vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and legumes, is one of the most powerful ways to improve your health and increase longevity." Many of us focus on just eating nutrient-dense foods that will help us feel good in the moment; but there's a handful of specific plant-based foods that are proven to prevent disease and help with chronic health issues in the long term. When we consider food a natural medicine, we're more inclined to fuel our bodies with these nutritious foods so we can feel better for longer. From antioxidant-packed fruits and vegetables, to heart-healthy fats and whole grains, certain foods have been linked to longer lifespans and better quality of life as we age. Here are 12 simple and delicious recipes that infuse nourishing ingredients with flavorful, spices, fresh herbs, and convenient pantry Our Expert Rebecca Scritchfield, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Washington, D.C. Kalyn True, a registered dietitian with the Memorial Hermann Health System in TexasBrothy Coconut Cod With Noodles If cooking fish at home seems complicated and overwhelming, this is the perfect recipe to try. Not only does this dish come together in less than 30 minutes, but it's as tasty as it is nutritious. Flaky white cod and ground turmeric are the stars of this recipe, as they are full of health benefits, including reducing inflammation throughout the body. GET THE RECIPE Tofu Fried Rice If you're looking for a simple dish for busy weeknights, give this protein-packed tofu fried rice a try. Plant-based dishes are known for utilizing ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, and fresh herbs for flavor, which is exactly what this fried rice has. It's savory with mild sweetness, and has a gorgeous golden hue from the turmeric oil, which is ideal for boosting immune health and combating inflammation. GET THE RECIPE Related: The 7 Healthiest Frozen Foods You Can Find at the Supermarket, According to Registered Dietitians Smashed Pea and Ricotta Toasts Whether you're hosting a brunch this spring or just want to make a dish that's beautiful and vibrant, these smashed pea and ricotta toasts are just the thing. In just a few minutes, you could have a satisfying and nutrient-dense brunch option that's packed with veggies, nuts, and gut-friendly sourdough. GET THE RECIPE Khichdi Certain foods can serve as fuel for your body, especially when they're packed with healing ingredients like lentils, mungbeans, turmeric, and leafy greens. If you've never had khichdi, it's a porridge-like dish that's similar to dal. Khichdi is so easy to make and is incredibly comforting on a cold day, or when you want something to give your immune system a boost. GET THE RECIPE Winter Lentil Soup There's a reason why your parents tried to make you eat things like lentils and peas growing up, and it's because legumes contain so many beneficial properties that help our bodies function at their best. 'Beans are nutritional powerhouses,' explains Kalyn True, a registered dietitian with Memorial Hermann Health System. 'They are generally low in fat and high in protein and fiber, making them excellent for heart health and weight management." If you want to add a vegetarian option to your weekly meal rotation, this lentil and veggie soup has everything you need to feel good in the long run. GET THE RECIPE No-Bake Breakfast Bars With Fruits and Nuts Start your day off on the right foot with a sweet and chewy breakfast bar that boasts the perfect amount of crunch. Not only are nuts filling, but they're full of vitamins, minerals, and unsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and the risk for developing heart disease. The best part about these bars is that they're no-bake and easy to customize based on what dried fruit and nuts you have on hand. GET THE RECIPE Related: Is Organic Produce Actually Healthier Than Conventional Produce? A Health Expert Weighs In Parsley-Garlic Salmon Salmon is one of the most well-known superfoods because it's rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential vitamins, and is a lean, high-quality protein. And while there are countless ways to cook, bake, or grill salmon, this simple recipe is one you'll come back to time and time again. The sauce is both savory and zesty, which complements the mild fish flavor perfectly. GET THE RECIPE Baked Cod With Tomatoes, Olives, and Capers This cod recipe is inspired by bold and briny flavors of puttanesca, which pairs well with a side of pasta, a simple green salad, or your favorite grilled veggies. With just 15 minutes of prep-time, this baked cod recipe is proof that cooking fish is easier than you may think. GET THE RECIPE Loaded Sweet Potatoes With Coconut and Kale Sweet potatoes are a superior root vegetable because they're rich in fiber and contain essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and plant compounds. And while sweet potatoes are usually considered a side dish, it's time to make them the star of the show with this sweet, savory, and mildly tart main course. GET THE RECIPE Savory Seedy Granola Most people only put granola into their yogurt or smoothie bowls, but this savory and seedy granola can be sprinkled on anything, from soups and salads to power bowls and more. Homemade granola is superior to anything you'll find in the grocery store, and this recipe calls for tons of heart-healthy nuts and seeds that you likely have in your pantry already. GET THE RECIPE Chickpea Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Here's another creative way to enjoy stuffed sweet potatoes, but this version has the perfect amount of added protein from a fan-favorite legume: chickpeas. The combination of sweet and savory, with a little kick from cumin and cinnamon, is like a party for your tastebuds. It doesn't hurt that these stuffed sweet potatoes are incredibly nourishing as well. GET THE RECIPE Chili-Lime Chicken Thighs and Black Beans This is just one of those recipes that you'll be cooking all year; it's simple, it's flavorful, and it can be made in just one pot. And if you're looking to get more fiber each day, black beans are a great legume to choose, especially when they're cooked with spicy chipotles in a savory chicken broth. GET THE RECIPE Read the original article on Real Simple
International Business Times
10-07-2025
- Politics
- International Business Times
Christina Propst: Houston Doc Fired for Vile Post Claiming Texas Flood Victims Were Trump Supporters Who 'Got What They Voted For' Issues Apology
The pediatrician who faced backlash after saying that the Texas flood victims were Trump supporters who "got what they voted for" has now issued a groveling apology after being cancelled and fired from her job. Dr. Christina B. Propst said that she is accepting "full responsibility" for her now-viral post, though she partially blamed it to being unaware that "so many precious lives were lost to the terrible tragedy," which claimed the lives of over 100 people, including several children. "I speak to you as a mother, a neighbor, a pediatrician, and a human being who is deeply sorry," the Houston-based children's doctor wrote in a statement shared by KPRC. Apologizing for Her Vile Post "I understand my comment caused immense pain to those suffering indescribable grief and for that I am truly sorry." While maintaining that she made the post before knowing anyone had died, she admitted, "The words were my own, and no matter how they're being interpreted, I truly regret writing them." "I want to apologize to each and every individual suffering through terrible loss in this difficult time." Blaming the backlash on her post "being shared with the false impression that I made it after the devastating loss of life was known," she again conceded, "The comment was mine and mine alone." Propst faced massive backlash over a now-deleted post she made using her old Facebook username, Chris Tina. "May all visitors, children, non-MAGA voters and pets be safe and dry. Kerr County MAGA voted to gut FEMA. They deny climate change. May they get what they voted for. Bless their hearts," Probst wrote. The Facebook post went viral after Libs of TikTok shared a screenshot of it. Propst's employer, Blue Fish Pediatrics, initially said that the employee had been suspended, but later confirmed that "the individual is no longer employed" with the practice. "As we previously mentioned in our original statement, we strongly condemn the comments that were made in that post. That post does not reflect the values, standards, or mission of Blue Fish Pediatrics," the company said. "We do not support or condone any statement that politicizes tragedy, diminishes human dignity, or fails to clearly uphold compassion for every child and family, regardless of background or beliefs," the doctor's office added. Too Late an Apology Her profile was also removed from both the Blue Fish Pediatrics website and the Memorial Hermann Health System site, which is affiliated with Blue Fish Pediatrics. Memorial Hermann also addressed the incident in an official statement. "We are aware of statements made by a physician on social media and strongly condemn these statements. "This provider is not employed by Memorial Hermann. We have zero tolerance for such rhetoric which does not reflect the mission, vision or values of our system," the healthcare system said. Propst said in her apology that her political views have never influenced her decisions or conduct as a healthcare professional. She added that she is "tirelessly committed to children's medical care and would never be so callous as to make such a remark about lives cut so terribly short." She explained that her harsh comments stemmed from "a place of frustration," driven by her belief that stronger systems are needed to better prepare for and respond to disasters like the recent floods. Officials have confirmed at least 118 deaths so far, with more than 160 people still missing — and the death toll is expected to rise.
Hindustan Times
08-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Who is Dr. Christina Propst? Texas doctor fired for mocking Kerr County flood victims
Dr Christina B. Propst, a Houston, Texas-based paediatrician, has been fired after a vile post she made mocking he devastating Texas floods went viral. Dr. Christina B. Propst, a pediatrician from Houston, was fired after her controversial social media post about Texas floods sparked outrage. (Blue Fish Pediatrics/Reuters) Propst, who was affiliated with Blue Fish Pediatrics in Houston, shared a controversial Facebook post under an older username, 'Chris Tina.' In it, she wrote, 'May all visitors, children, non-MAGA voters and pets be safe and dry. Kerr County MAGA voted to gut FEMA. They deny climate change. May they get what they voted for. Bless their hearts.' The floods, which claimed more than 100 lives over the weekend, have left the state mourning, but Propst's comments sparked outrage instead of sympathy. ALSO READ| Texas flooding flash flood Camp Mystic: What we know about the victims so far The post quickly began circulating after a screenshot was shared by the conservative account Libs of TikTok. Texas Pediatrician fired for posting Trump supporters got 'what they voted for' Following the massive backlash on social media, Propst initially faced suspension from her role at Blue Fish Pediatrics. But shortly after, the clinic confirmed her termination. 'As we previously mentioned in our original statement, we strongly condemn the comments that were made in that post. That post does not reflect the values, standards, or mission of Blue Fish Pediatrics,' the company said in a statement, per Click2Houston. 'We do not support or condone any statement that politicizes tragedy, diminishes human dignity, or fails to clearly uphold compassion for every child and family, regardless of background or beliefs.' 'There is no place for politicization. The entire focus needs to be on looking for survivors. Any complaints we may receive will be thoroughly investigated,' Dr. Sherif Zaafran, head of the Texas Medical Board also weighed in, per Sky News. However, the board has not confirmed whether a formal investigation will take place. Meanwhile, Propst's name and profile have been removed from the Blue Fish Pediatrics and Memorial Hermann Health System websites. ALSO READ| North Carolina flood update: Eno river reaches highest level as Chantal wreaks havoc amid evacuations, power cuts 'We are aware of statements made by a physician on social media and strongly condemn these statements. This provider is not employed by Memorial Hermann. We have zero tolerance for such rhetoric which does not reflect the mission, vision or values of our system,' Memorial Hermann group said.
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
This Common Over-the-Counter Medication May Harm Brain Health, Doctors Say—Do You Take It?
This Common Over-the-Counter Medication May Harm Brain Health, Doctors Say—Do You Take It? originally appeared on Parade. I don't know about you, but when I conceptualize over-the-counter medications, I think they're generally safe for people to take. They don't require a prescription, people take them often, and the list goes some degree, that's true. But it's important to know that over-the-counter (OTC) medication is still medication; it's still going to have side effects and interactions. On that note, doctors want to warn about a particular OTC med that may harm your brain health, the science behind the risk and safer alternatives to consider.🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊 The medication ingredients in question are doxylamine succinate, which is found in certain sleep aids (like Unisom) and allergy medications, like first-generation antihistamines (such as hydroxyzine, or Vistaril/Atarax, and diphenhydramine, or Benadryl. It can have cognitive side effects in the long term and short term, though the former are more serious—think increased dementia risk.'Doxylamine succinate, a first-generation antihistamine, can have negative impacts on brain health, especially when patients use high doses, frequently and for a long period,' confirms , an allergist at Memorial impacts, she says, include confusion, drowsiness and dizziness. Prolonged use, however, can lead to cognitive decline, memory loss, increased risk of dementia and delirium, especially in older This 3-Minute Habit Could Help You Sleep Through the Night Dr. Sanjay Kamboj, MD, an associate professor of medicine and an allergy and immunology specialist at LCMC Health, agrees. 'Cumulative use over time may lead to neurodegenerative changes or exacerbate existing risk factors for dementia,' he says. 'Short-term, occasional use of doxylamine in healthy adults is generally considered safe, with mild and temporary side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness or grogginess.'The former has been noted in research, too: A 2015 study in JAMA Internal Medicine concluded 'higher cumulative anticholinergic use is associated with an increased risk for dementia.' But how does it happen? 'These medications block acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory, attention and learning,' explains , sleep science advisor at Aeroflow Sleep, a board-certified sleep medicine physician and a pediatric neurologist. 'Over time, this interference may contribute to structural and functional changes in the brain.' , a clinical pharmacy specialist in UI Health Care's Allergy/Immunology Clinic, adds that 'acetylcholine is a key chemical involved in promoting wakefulness and arousal,' so naturally, when it's blocked, a person might feel drowsy or common risks that doctors mention include daytime drowsiness, cognitive impairment and somnolence, or severe drowsiness. Further, the latter can impair mental alertness and increase the risk of falls or accidents, Dr. McDanel says. Related: New Study Reveals Surprising Factor That May Increase Dementia Risk This is particularly true for older adults who take this medication. 'In older adults, reduced brain reserve makes them more vulnerable to these effects,' Dr. Kamboj explains. In fact, Dr. Nguyen would say it's 'very risky' for elderly patients to take a high dosage of doxylamine succinate for a prolonged period. The level of risk depends on the dose, duration and individual factors, McDanel adds, like age, other medications taken and overall brain health. Within certain parameters, it *can* be safe—and even helpful and recommended. 'Generally speaking, doxylamine can be safe when used in the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible,' Dr. McDanel says. 'It is even recommended fairly regularly for pregnant women to help with nausea as it is effective for this, along with vitamin B6, and is safe for the fetus.' Since the safety profile is so individualized, your best bet is to talk to your primary care provider, who knows your history. It's also worth noting that when it comes to sleep, medication may not be the answer we would assume it to be. 'They don't provide the deep, restorative sleep that our brains need,' Dr. Allen says. 'In fact, they can disrupt the natural sleep architecture, leading to less REM sleep, which is crucial for memory consolidation and emotional regulation.' If you need more long-term support with allergies or sleep, other options are probably safer bets. Ahead, doctors share tips and treatments to consider. Try a newer antihistamine, like loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) or fexofenadine (Allegra). Dr. Allen says they're generally safer because they don't cross the blood-brain barrier as easily and have fewer side effects. Second-generation antihistamines are also less likely to make you drowsy, a major complaint with first-generation antihistamines. 'Allergists often recommend these over first-generation antihistamines due to the lower chance of causing sedation, while maintaining the same, if not more, clinical efficacy for treating allergic conditions,' Dr. McDanel adds. She also encourages steroid nasal sprays, addressing underlying medical conditions and talking to your healthcare provider. Additionally, Dr. Nguyen mentions prescription medication, such as montelukast, and allergy shots. 'Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) is the most effective treatment for moderate to severe allergies,' she adds. Related: FDA Warns of Newly Identified 'Severe' Risk of Popular Over-the-Counter Allergy Medications If you struggle with sleep, Dr. Allen has several suggestions. His first recommendation is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). 'This is the gold standard for chronic sleep problems,' he says. Sleep hygiene is still important too. Need a refresher on what that looks like? Dr. Allen encourages the following: Establishing a consistent sleep routine Limiting screen time before bed Avoiding stimulants late in the day Creating a cool, dark sleeping environment Talking to a doctor about medication (or supplements) if necessary Dr. Nguyen agrees that CBT-I and good sleep habits are good options. 'This is considered the safest way to treat insomnia,' she explains. And again, this long-term concern about doxylamine and brain health doesn't mean the medication is totally off limits. 'Occasional use (e.g., for a bad cold or jet lag) is not known to pose major harm in healthy adults,' Dr. Kamboj says. 'The concern arises with habitual or long-term use, particularly in older individuals.' Up Next:Dr. Duyen Nguyen, DO, an allergist Dr. Sanjay Kamboj, MD, an allergy and immunology specialist Dr. Chris Allen, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician and a pediatric neurologist Dr. Deanna McDanel, PharmD, a clinical pharmacy specialist Cumulative Use of Strong Anticholinergics and Incident Dementia, JAMA Internal Medicine This Common Over-the-Counter Medication May Harm Brain Health, Doctors Say—Do You Take It? first appeared on Parade on Jun 17, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
Forbes
28-05-2025
- General
- Forbes
Bassinet Vs. Crib: Which Is Best For A Baby?
Bassinets and cribs are both safe sleep spaces for babies. They provide a firm, flat surface for the essential sleep your baby needs, which is about 16 or 17 hours per day for the average newborn, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). While bassinets are designed specifically for newborns and young infants, cribs can be used for newborns, older babies and even toddlers. As long as your baby is small enough to safely sleep in a bassinet, determining which is best is a matter of preference, budget and space. 'Bassinets are a smaller sleep space designed specifically for newborns,' says Dr. Barbara Taylor-Cox, a pediatrician at Memorial Hermann. They're often designed to be in the parent's or caregivers' bedroom, and they can also be found on travel cribs, pack and plays and strollers. Most bassinets are only safe for babies until around 6 months. Cribs are typically larger than bassinets, though you can purchase a smaller mini crib as well. Because they're bigger and the mattress can be lowered, cribs can be used for years, while most babies outgrow even the best bassinets within a few months. To help you determine which is best for you, here are some pros and cons of each. Pros Cons Pros Cons Bassinets and cribs are both safe sleep spaces for babies. However, bassinets can become an unsafe space more quickly than cribs. Many babies outgrow bassinets around four to six months, often when they reach 15 to 20 pounds or when they are able to roll over, at which point the surface becomes unsafe. When it comes to cribs, safety and use can be extended by simply lowering the mattress once your baby starts to roll or pull up. Many cribs have three mattress height settings. 'The thing to remember with both bassinets and cribs is always check the safety specifications that are on the product that you buy because there may be a little variability. Those specifications will give you the weight and length limits for mattresses,' says Taylor-Cox. It's important to make sure you use the right crib mattress size for your crib, too, since cribs and mattresses are usually sold separately. When choosing a bassinet, be sure to choose one that provides your baby with their own sleep space. 'The bassinet should be self-contained, not a co-sleeping item or bed extender,' says Culler. Although it can be tempting to sleep with your baby, it's not considered a safe practice. 'You can lay down with your baby, you can do all that wonderful stuff, but do not fall asleep with your baby in your bed or next to you. Unfortunantely, there's always the risk of a very tired parent rolling onto their baby,' says Taylor-Cox. Regardless of which you choose, use a tightly fitted sheet, and don't put anything else in their sleep space—no blankets, pillows, stuffies or bumpers. When you set your baby down, always put them on their back. These are all ways to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Ultimately, if you have the means to use a bassinet first for your newborn and then a crib when your baby outgrows it, that's often the best option. 'My recommendation is to use both—bassinet for the first several months and a crib thereafter,' says Culler. If you need to squeeze a safe sleep area into a tight space, a bassinet is probably your best bet. However, if space is not a concern, you can start with a crib and skip the bassinet altogether if you want. For newborns and very small babies, a bassinet is a good investment. 'We typically use a bassinet for newborns until about six months of age, or the rule of thumb that we use [as pediatricians] is when the baby starts to roll over, then you need to move on to a crib and get them out of the bassinet,' says Taylor-Cox. If your baby is already nearing 15 pounds or is starting to show signs of rolling, then it might be best to skip the bassinet altogether since they'll likely outgrow it soon. In the long run, choosing a crib will save you money since it reduces the amount of baby gear you need to buy. While bassinets are often more affordable than cribs, your baby will still eventually need a crib even if they start off in a bassinet. 'The main thing I want to add for parents is it's not time to bargain shop when it comes to cribs and/or bassinets,' says Taylor-Cox. She explained that a used crib may not be safe. It may have unseen damage and may not meet the most recent safety standards. If you need to save money, the best way to do that is to only buy one product and make it a good crib. 'A lot of cribs can be lowered and converted to toddler beds, which is really economically feasible,' says Taylor-Cox. If you want something small that allows you to keep your newborn in your bedroom, a bassinet is the best choice. If you're looking for a one-time purchase that your baby can sleep in well past their first birthday, opt for a crib. 'Parents should remember both bassinets and cribs are safe. If you're lucky enough to have a bassinet then we say start in the bassinet, but a bassinet isn't required like a crib is,' says Taylor-Cox. The baby and kids gear team at Forbes Vetted has combined decades of experience in both parenting our own kids and covering parenting topics. As parents ourselves, we know how important it is to make the right decisions for our babies when it comes to major purchases like bassinets, cribs and crib mattresses.
