tag:www.naturalawakenings.com,2005:/?page=3Natural Awakenings Magazine | Healthy Living Healthy PlanetHealthy Living Healthy Planet2024-03-03T23:27:48-05:00urn:uuid:61494485-53c3-45cc-8ad7-7b5e0b4b40f92024-01-24T15:33:20-05:002024-03-03T23:27:48-05:00Oral Health Tips to Prevent Heart Disease: How Regular Trips to the Dentist Can Save a Life2024-01-31 09:30:00 -0500Steven Masley, M.D., FAHA, FACN, CNS<p>Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and, despite public opinion, it is just as deadly for women as it is for men. The illness was responsible for a staggering <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/men.htm#:~:text=disease%20affect%20men%3F-,Heart%20disease%20is%20the%20leading%20cause%20of%20death%20for%20men,in%20every%204%20male%20deaths.">one in every four male deaths</a> and <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/women.htm">one in every five female deaths</a> in 2021, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And yet, it is preventable <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15364185/">90 percent</a> of the time with the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/men.htm#:~:text=disease%20affect%20men%3F-,Heart%20disease%20is%20the%20leading%20cause%20of%20death%20for%20men,in%20every%204%20male%20deaths.">right lifestyle choices</a>, such as saying goodbye to cigarettes, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing alcohol intake and keeping stress at bay.</p><p>Other powerful precautions relate to oral health. Left untreated, gum disease and sleep apnea have the potential to cause dire cardiovascular consequences. The good news is that treatments are available to decrease and often eradicate their threat. </p><p><br></p><p><b>Gum Disease and the Heart</b></p><p>Although blood pressure and cholesterol are considered major risk factors for heart disease, there is another culprit that should not be ignored: <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/fight-inflammation-to-help-prevent-heart-disease#:~:text=Inflammation%20may%20promote%20the%20growth,the%20result%20is%20a%20stroke">inflammation</a>. While arterial inflammation may be the vascular response to harmful assaults such as infections or injuries, it can also arise when there is an imbalance in the gut microbiome or inflammation of the gums—also known as periodontal disease. </p><p>According to the <a href="https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/gum-disease-by-the-numbers">National Institutes of Health</a>, gum disease affects 47 percent of adults aged 30 or older and 70 percent of adults by age 65. Bleeding gums are telltale signs of gingivitis, which can promote the growth of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30761568/">disease-causing bacteria and produce substantial, body-wide inflammation</a>.</p><p>A 2021 <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8361186/">study</a><span> published in <i>Scientific Reports</i> evaluated the effect that oral health problems had on all-cause, cardiovascular disease and respiratory mortality. Scientists followed almost 3,000 white and African American men and women aged 70 to 79, as well as just over 7,700 British men aged 40 to 59 for nine and 15 years, respectively. Researchers reported that periodontal disease was associated with increased cardiovascular mortality in the American group, a finding that was consistent with a similar </span><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25747403/">study</a> of older people in Taiwan. The scientists also noted that tooth loss and cumulative oral health problems correlated with higher all-cause mortality and higher respiratory mortality, while dry mouth appeared to be related to only all-cause mortality.</p><p>A 2012 <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22267416/">study</a><span> published in <i>Kardiologia Polska </i>of people with diabetes and periodontal disease showed that gum inflammation was highly correlated with increasing arterial plaque, as well as increases in markers of inflammation and blood pressure levels, suggesting a significant connection between periodontal disease and an increased risk of atherosclerosis. </span></p><p>Another study published in 2013 in the <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/JAHA.113.000254"><i>Journal of the American Heart Association</i></a><i> </i>followed more than 400 subjects over three years and found that greater gum inflammation and higher growth of pathological bacterial species in the gums were strongly associated with increased growth of arterial plaque. The researchers concluded that an improvement in periodontal status was associated with less progression in carotid atherosclerosis, thereby emphasizing the importance of gum care as a possible preventive health measure. </p><p><br></p><p><b>Preventing Gum Inflammation</b></p><p>In addition to a healthy diet, exercise and stress management, taking measures to improve dental hygiene will go a long way toward reducing the risk of heart disease. A dental hygienist can easily identify gingivitis and probe for deep gum pockets—an indication of periodontal disease—while a simple saliva test can determine the presence of disease-causing gum species. The following measures are recommended: </p><ul><li>Brush teeth for two minutes twice daily, ideally with an electric toothbrush. </li><li>Floss and use a Waterpik every day.</li><li>Visit the dental hygienist two to four times per year for a thorough cleaning. </li><li>Have the dentist measure gum-pocket depth to check for inflammation.</li><li>Especially for those with gum disease, have saliva tested for bad bacteria at least annually.</li></ul><p><b><br></b></p><p><b>Sleep Apnea</b></p><p>Considered and treated as an oral health issue, sleep apnea increases the risk for heart disease. According to the <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/what-doctors-wish-patients-knew-about-sleep-apnea">American Medical Association</a>, approximately 30 million Americans experience sleep apnea, but only 6 million are diagnosed with the condition where breathing and air flow repeatedly stops and starts. People that suffer from this ailment are more likely to experience abnormal heart rhythms, hypertension, heart attacks, strokes and diabetes, the Mayo Clinic cautions.</p><p>Sleep apnea gradually worsens over time. As the airway increasingly fails to deliver air to the lungs, oxygen levels drop, causing adverse impacts on the heart and brain. Three factors decrease airflow: weight gain, aging and, for some people, genetics. When a person puts on extra weight, their neck thickens, diminishing the airway, and as we age, tissues in the neck become softer and sag. </p><p>The symptoms for sleep apnea include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, noticeable stops in breathing at night, awakening with a dry mouth and morning headaches. These symptoms should prompt a discussion with a physician or dentist to schedule an overnight sleep test to confirm a diagnosis—either in a sleep laboratory or at home, depending on the degree of symptoms.</p><p>The mainstay of treatment for those with sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device worn over the nose or mouth to maintain pressure in the airway, keeping it open during sleep. Alternatively, a dentist can fit a patient with a mandibular device to help open the airway. The implement looks like a mouthguard that pushes the jaw forward to make the airway larger and improve airflow at night.</p><p>Another technique is to tape a patient’s mouth shut while sleeping to force breathing through the nose. Continuous nose breathing helps promote <a href="https://askthedentist.com/mouth-tape-better-sleep/#:~:text=Using%20a%20tape%20that%20is,increase%20your%20nitric%20oxide%20levels">nitric oxide in the blood</a>stream, which induces the relaxation and dilation of <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-to-increase-nitric-oxide#:~:text=Nitric%20oxide%20is%20an%20essential,every%20part%20of%20your%20body">blood vessels</a> and <a href="https://thorax.bmj.com/content/58/2/175">airways</a>. Duct tape or another household tape should not be used for this, as there are specially designed, hypoallergenic strips that are shaped to sit directly on the lips. Some have a small vent that allows for a little mouth breathing. In a small study published in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25450408/"><i>JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery</i></a><i>,</i> mouth taping led to significantly less snoring and fewer instances of lapsed breathing in 30 patients with mild sleep apnea.</p><p>After starting a chosen therapy, the overnight sleep test should be repeated to confirm that the airway is open and adequate oxygenation levels are being maintained. Additional tips to reduce sleep apnea include:</p><ul><li>Lose weight. According to the <a href="https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-apnea/weight-loss-and-sleep-apnea">Sleep Foundation</a>, a loss of 5 to 10 percent of total weight improves obstructive sleep apnea by 38 percent, and weight loss of more than 10 percent results in a nearly 49 percent improvement. </li><li>Avoid alcohol and sleeping medications before bedtime, which suppress breathing and cause the airway to sag.</li><li>Change from back-sleeping to side-sleeping. More than <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28852945/">50 percent</a> of people with sleep apnea find that their symptoms worsen when they sleep on their backs.</li></ul><p><i>Steven Masley is a physician, nutritionist, trained chef, clinical professor at the University of South Florida, chief medical director of KnoWEwell and creator of health programs for public television. He is the author of </i>The 30-Day Heart Tune-Up<i>. Connect at </i><a href="http://www.drmasley.com" target="_blank">drmasley.com</a><i>. </i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:dcbbb10f-4abf-402e-9f6b-227ee0cb43ce2024-01-25T11:17:50-05:002024-03-02T09:25:51-05:00Mimi Guarneri on Treating the Heart With Love2024-01-31 09:29:00 -0500Sandra Yeyati<p>After graduating first in her class at The State University of New York Medical Center, Dr. Mimi Guarneri began her career at Scripps Clinic, in San Diego, as an attending physician in interventional cardiology, where she placed thousands of coronary stents. Recognizing the need for more comprehensive and holistic approaches, she founded the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine and served as medical director for 15 years, combining state-of-the-art cardiac imaging technology with lifestyle programs and alternative therapies like acupuncture, healing touch, meditation and yoga to diagnose, prevent and treat cardiovascular disease. </p><p>Guarneri is board certified in cardiovascular disease, internal medicine, nuclear cardiology and integrative holistic medicine. She is a founder and president of The Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine; co-founder and medical director of Guarneri Integrative Health, in La Jolla, California; and a clinical associate professor at University of California, San Diego. In 2012, The Institute for Functional Medicine honored her with the Linus Pauling Functional Medicine Lifetime Achievement Award. Guarneri is the author of <i>The Heart Speaks: A Cardiologist Reveals the Secret Language of Healing</i> and <i>108 Pearls to Awaken Your Healing Potential</i>.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>What is holistic cardiology?</i></b></p><p>It’s about treating the whole person—body, mind, emotions and spirit. If you have a tree with sick fruit on it, you can keep cutting off the branches, or you can ask, what does the tree need? Does it need more sunlight or water? How is the soil? Does it have minerals? </p><p>With patients, the question we should be asking is why does someone have diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease? And then you ask, what is the soil of a human life made of? That soil is made of micro and macro nutrients, physical activity, having a purpose in life, joy and a good night’s sleep. At our center we call these the pearls of health.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>How do you diagnose people by listening to their stories?</i></b></p><p>We know through research that relationships between patients and physicians affect outcome. People who bond with their physicians have lower cholesterol or blood sugar levels because they’re more likely to be compliant with medications. We also know that events don’t happen in isolation. When people have major, life-changing events—death of a spouse or child, divorce—all of a sudden, they start having cancer, sudden death and heart attacks. </p><p>So, when I look at someone that had a heart attack, I don’t just want to know about their symptoms the day of the attack. I also want to know what was going on six months before, because that’s where you find the story. “I’ve been under stress. I lost my job. I lost my house. My wife told me they wanted a divorce.” This is where you start to get the stories that add up to the ultimate cardiovascular event. </p><p> </p><p><b><i>How do you translate that inquiry into the healing journey?</i></b></p><p>Everyone needs something different at a different point in their life. Some people need to change what they’re eating or start walking, but then you have to look at why they’re not taking care of their physical body. Depressed people say, “I have 20 friends in this pack of cigarettes.” They don’t say, “Let me eat Brussels sprouts and take a walk.” I have to deal with the underlying issue, which could be things like depression, stress or loneliness. I also want to know my patient’s spirituality, because if they believe in a higher power, we can tap into that to give them strength and help transform what’s going on. </p><p> </p><p><b><i>What tools do you have in your integrative medical arsenal?</i></b></p><p>The whole framework of integrative medicine is to understand and use the wisdom of other global healing traditions. For a patient with back pain, I may use healing touch, acupuncture, massage and medication. I may send somebody who is stressed to transcendental meditation training. I may pull from Ayurveda to help people with digestive issues.</p><p>The most important thing is looking at your life and finding joy, meaning, purpose, looking at where you can serve, where you can connect. This is the piece that is missing in many people’s lives. Also, look at where you are holding onto anger. Have you done your forgiveness work? How can you begin to practice gratitude?</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Why do you say that patients are motivated not by fear but by caring?</i></b></p><p>They’re motivated by love. Love is the secret ingredient. People will do everything for three months after a heart attack, because they’re terrified, and then they go back to their old ways. They start to gain weight, because they never did the deep work to look at what got them there in the first place.</p><p>A perfect example is one of my heart patients who came in with a walker. She said she had sciatica, and immediately we gave her a shot for her pain. We also did some acupuncture. I got a beautiful message from her the next day, which made no mention of the shot or the acupuncture. Instead, she said, “I felt so much better from the second you gave me a hug.” It’s that kind of connection that makes all the difference.</p><p><i>Sandra Yeyati is national editor of </i>Natural Awakenings<i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:306a81cc-a997-4516-88e6-d2eae58c95ca2024-01-24T15:10:51-05:002024-03-03T09:54:01-05:00Plant-Based Milk Alternatives: Benefits for People and the Planet2024-01-31 09:29:00 -0500Carrie Jackson<p>While plant-based milks have been around for <a href="https://vinepair.com/articles/history-of-plant-milk/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20the%20first%20documentation,drank%20it%20hot%20for%20breakfast.">centuries</a>, they have historically played second fiddle to other dairy alternatives, but not anymore. As people are becoming more conscious of the impact their food choices have on their health and the planet, plant-based milk has turned into a mainstay in most grocery stores. Touting sustainability benefits, a creamy texture and pleasing flavors, soy, oat, almond, cashew and even macadamia nut milks are having their moment. </p><p>According to the <a href="https://gfi.org/marketresearch/#purchase-dynamics">Good Food Institute</a>, 41 percent of American households purchased plant-based milk in 2022. Most major milk brands, such as Nestlé, are offering plant-based alternatives, while specialty companies like <a href="https://elmhurst1925.com/">Elmhurst 1925</a>and <a href="https://store.edenfoods.com/unsweetened-edensoy-organic/">Eden Foods</a> are continually expanding their <a href="https://gfi.org/marketresearch/#purchase-dynamics">selection</a>.</p><p>“Plant-based dairy is now more than 15 percent of the milk industry,” says Elysabeth Alfano, co-founder and CEO of <a href="https://eatv.vegtechinvest.com/">VegTech Invest</a>, a firm that manages the first exchange-traded fund dedicated to plant-based companies. “This is driven by the quality of the products, including oat, almond, soy, pea and hemp milks as proven options. With <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532285/">65 percent</a> of people worldwide and more than <a href="https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/lactose-intolerance#:~:text=A%20lack%20of%20lactase%20can,Native%20Americans%20are%20lactose%20intolerant.">80 percent of African Americans and more than 90 percent of Asian Americans</a> being lactose intolerant, plant-based milk is a great alternative.”</p><p>When selecting beverage options, many consumers also weigh a company’s ethical choices. Alfano predicts the beginning of the end of traditional factory farming, saying, “People are seeing how inefficient and harmful meat production is and are making the connection between saving the environment and their lifestyle choices.” </p><p>Leah Hoxie, senior vice president of innovation at Oatly North America, observes, “People opt for nondairy milk for a variety of reasons that are usually personal and nuanced. These can include allergies, nutrition, ethical and environmental concerns, and, of course, taste. Oatly makes nondairy milk alternatives that have the same creamy taste, frothy feel and functionality as cow’s milk while also generally having a <a href="https://josephpoore.com/Science%20360%206392%20987%20-%20Accepted%20Manuscript.pdf">lower climate impact</a>. We’re also seeing generational differences in milk preferences, with a recent Oatly flash poll finding that 54 percent of Gen Z and 49 percent of Millennials prefer plant-based milk to cow’s milk.”</p><p>Like many other plant-based companies, Oatly has expressed a commitment to creating lasting environmental change. “With roughly one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions coming from the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-021-00225-9">food system</a>, and about half of those emissions coming from the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-021-00358-x">livestock</a> or the animal-based sector, the greatest impact we at Oatly can have as a company is to convert people from dairy milk to oat milk. Our research shows that Oatly Barista sold in the U.S. has a <a href="https://blonksustainability.nl/news/footprint-of-oatly">46 percent</a>lower climate impact than comparable cow’s milk, supporting our larger mission to make it easy for people to eat better and live healthier lives without recklessly taxing the planet’s resources in the process,” explains Hoxie. </p><p>While plant-based milk alternatives may tout health benefits, the specific ingredients and processing methods play a role in their nutritional value. Just because something is plant-based doesn’t automatically make it healthier. “There are misconceptions that either nondairy milks are automatically less healthy than cow milk or that they are inherently more nutritious, but the truth is it depends on what’s in the milk,” says <a href="https://www.taylorwolfram.com/">Taylor Wolfram</a>, a registered dietitian who specializes in vegan nutrition. </p><p>Plant-based dairy alternatives have differing nutritional advantages, and it is best for consumers to make their own comparison. “Soy and pea milk—the protein superstars of plant milks—contain some fat and, when fortified, are an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D,” Wolfram explains. “Hemp has a little less protein, and oat and almond milks are very low in protein. Hemp milk is rich in ALA [alpha-linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in plants]. Nondairy milks may or may not contain added sugars and fats or be fortified, so it is best to check the nutrition facts panel to see what levels of nutrients each specific product contains.”</p><p>Ultimately, the best plant-based dairy may be the one we love to consume. “Enjoyment and taste are highly subjective experiences,” Wolfram says. “I encourage folks to try different options and find what they like.” </p><p><i>Carrie Jackson is an Illinois-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to </i>Natural Awakenings<i>. Connect at</i><a href="http://www.CarrieJacksonWrites.com" target="_blank"> CarrieJacksonWrites.com</a><i>. </i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e9b621bb-8783-4b71-955c-f563b45f74b92024-01-25T08:17:31-05:002024-03-02T09:25:27-05:00The Magic of Hugs2024-01-31 09:27:00 -0500Marlaina Donato<p>Through the ages, various substances and lifestyle changes have been touted as panaceas, but even in our modern world there is one unexpected soul-elixir that might rival the others—the human hug. <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/progress-notes/201908/remembering-family-therapist-guru-virginia-satir">Virginia Satir</a>, a pioneer in family therapy, is famous for <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/christinecomaford/2020/08/22/are-you-getting-enough-hugs/?sh=78ee58e468da">saying</a>, “We need four hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.” Even hugging a pet or stuffed animal can <a href="https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/health/hug-it-out-why-experts-say-physical-touch-is-good-for-health/95-881ffa08-1762-41e5-bf2d-bc2d3f67228d">lower blood pressure, take the edge off pain and curb the effects of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines</a>.</p><p>During a hug, preferably the 20-second variety, we can experience a drop in anxiety, thanks to a decrease in the stress hormone cortisol and a friendly burst of the bonding hormone oxytocin. Hugging our spouse, a friend or someone after church can ward off the common cold while helping us feel less alone in a big world. </p><p>Hugging is a language unto itself, showing others that they matter. Too often, we postpone physical contact, rushing out the door on the way to work. Couples sometimes reserve embraces only as a prelude to intimacy. Children can be deprived of hugs because of generational and cultural reservation. In the end, most of us don’t have enough healthy, non-sexual touch, which can contribute to loneliness, depression and feelings of separateness. Whether we are born huggers or hug-phobic and warming up to the practice, lifting our arms to express affection or support another person can prove that there are safe places indeed.</p><p>Here are a few suggestions to add hugs to the day. </p><ul><li>Compose “hug certificates” and put them in someone’s birthday card to use throughout the year.</li><li>Hug a pillow when alone and surrender to the safe-place feeling.</li><li>Give a child a hug before and after school, after a job well done or just because.</li><li>Schedule two hugs a day with a partner and make sure they each are at least 20 seconds in duration.</li><li>To respect possible past trauma around touch, ask someone if it’s okay to give them a hug. </li></ul><p><i>Marlaina Donato is</i><i> a visionary artist, </i><i>composer</i><i> and author of several books. Connect at </i><a href="http://www.BluefireStudio.art" target="_blank"><i>BluefireStudio.art.</i></a><i> </i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:60adf259-36d4-4fda-ab33-56eb36c2d91d2024-01-24T15:41:54-05:002024-03-01T15:31:53-05:00Lowering Our Battery Footprint: A Look at Personal Strategies and Emerging Technologies2024-01-31 09:26:00 -0500Kelcie Ottoes<p>Americans love their disposable batteries. Every year, they buy and <a href="https://healtheplanet.com/100-ways-to-heal-the-planet/batteries#:~:text=Each%20year%2C%20Americans%20throw%20away,from%20single%20use%20alkaline%20batteries.">discard</a> about <a href="https://nationaltoday.com/national-battery-day/">3 billion</a> of these small-sized power sources that keep cellphones, flashlights, toys and computer accessories running. Lithium-ion and alkaline batteries dominate the market due to their efficiency and versatility. While single-use batteries significantly tax the environment, advancements in production, lifespan and recycling can lead to a greener future. </p><p><a></a>It isn’t easy to create batteries. For one thing, minerals must be extracted from the Earth. Lithium-rich brine is pumped into evaporation ponds, and after the water evaporates, the concentrated brine is processed to harvest the metal. <a href="https://www.cenex-lcv.co.uk/news-media/exhibitor/what-is-the-environmental-impact-of-lithium-batteries#:~:text=Lithium%20mining%20leads%20to%20the,animals%20in%20those%20localities%20harmful.">This practice</a> can lead to the contamination of local ecosystems and water basins, toxic emissions and respiratory issues for people living nearby. </p><p>While sending any item to a landfill is problematic, batteries are especially complicated because they are made with toxic elements such as cadmium, lead, nickel and electrolytes, as well as other chemicals, all of which can leach into the soil and water system. In addition, lithium can ignite and release chemicals into the air. According to <a href="https://healtheplanet.com/100-ways-to-heal-the-planet/batteries#:~:text=Each%20year%2C%20Americans%20throw%20away,from%20single%20use%20alkaline%20batteries.">Heal The Planet,</a> Americans create 180,000 tons of hazardous waste from batteries annually, including <a href="https://healtheplanet.com/100-ways-to-heal-the-planet/batteries#:~:text=Each%20year%2C%20Americans%20throw%20away,from%20single%20use%20alkaline%20batteries.">86,000 tons</a> from alkaline batteries and 160 million cellphone batteries.</p><p>Although alkaline batteries may legally be thrown out in the regular trash because they fall below federal hazardous waste standards, conscientious citizens recycle them when that option is available, as they contain dangerous elements, including lead. Button cell batteries used in watches and garage door openers contain tiny amounts of mercury and should be recycled. Rechargeable batteries should be taken to a local recycling facility that specializes in batteries.</p><p>“Sustainability is everything for battery manufacturers, despite what a lot of people think,” says Chris Groves, manager at <a href="https://grovesbatteries.co.uk/">Groves Batteries</a> and the proprietor of <a href="https://www.titanlithium.co.uk/">TITAN Lithium</a>. “Recycling is imperative to a sustainable market, as recycled materials can be put back into production chains at a lower cost.” A broad-ranging solution is a circular battery economy: a model of production and consumption that extends the life of a battery and its components as long as possible by sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling its materials.<a></a></p><div> <br><b>Electronic Vehicle Revolution</b><br><a href="https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2023/executive-summary">Fourteen percent</a> of new cars sold in 2022 were electric, up from less than 5 percent in 2020. By 2030 there will be between <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/batteries-cant-power-car-light-city/">145 and 230 million</a> electric vehicles (EV) on the road. The federal government requires manufacturers to <a href="https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/hybrid-ev-battery-warranty/#warranty-coverage">warranty</a> that EV batteries will maintain at least 70 percent capacity for a minimum of eight years or 100,000 miles. Because EVs are relatively new, the average life expectancy of their batteries is not yet known. However, each time an EV battery is charged and discharged, it loses some capacity and eventually will need to be replaced.</div><p>Recycling old EV batteries will help keep up with demand and reduce their environmental impact. A <a href="https://www.iea.org/reports/the-role-of-critical-minerals-in-clean-energy-transitions/executive-summary">report</a> from the <a href="https://www.iea.org/">International Energy Agency</a> estimates that by 2040, recycled quantities of copper, lithium, nickel and cobalt from spent EV batteries could reduce supply requirements for these minerals by about 10 percent. </p><p>Most retired EV batteries still have some storage and energy capabilities, even if they are not at their original power levels. Alternative uses for old batteries are being explored, including <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/batteries-cant-power-car-light-city/">solar power storage</a>, energy for streetlights or as backup generators in homes. One study in <a href="http://tps/www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-35393-0"><i>Nature Communications</i></a><i> </i>predicts that short-term power grid storage demand could be met by <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-35393-0">2030</a> across most regions using old EV batteries.</p><p> </p><div><b>Advances in Battery Technology<br></b>Solutions for more sustainable batteries are being explored. “New chemistries are focused on using non-rare earth materials like sodium or sulfur, which we have in abundance and are a lot less damaging than lithium mines to extract,” says Groves. </div><p><a href="https://balkangreenenergynews.com/iron-air-batteries-are-10-times-as-cheap-as-lithium-and-will-be-produced-from-2024/">Iron air batteries</a> are currently being developed as energy storage. They are ten times cheaper than lithium batteries and use iron, one of Earth's most abundant resources. <a href="https://www.theenergymix.com/battery-breakthrough-poised-to-double-ev-range-in-2024/">Lithium manganese iron phosphate batteries</a> could be the only battery a car will ever need. They have a range of more than 600 miles on a single charge and a potential 2.4-million-mile lifetime. Solid-state batteries use lithium, but they generate more power and can take <a href="https://builtin.com/hardware/new-battery-technologies">up to seven times more charges</a> in their lifetime without the risk of explosion. </p><div><b><br>Tips for Battery Care and Recycling<br></b>Everyone can help make the most of their batteries with a few simple practices. <br><br></div><p><b>Disposable Batteries</b><span>:<b> </b>Turn off devices and remove the batteries when they are not in use. </span>Store batteries<span> so they are not in contact with each other in a place that is below 72°F, but above freezing. Do not toss them out at the expiration date; this is when power starts to decline, but the battery is still usable. To recycle, batteries may be taken to a participating home-improvement store. Find nearby drop-off locations at <i>Call2R</i></span><i>ecycl.org/locator</i><span> or <i>Earth911.com</i>.</span></p><p><b>Rechargeable B</b><b>atteries</b><span>:<b> </b>Do not leave rechargeable batteries plugged in all the time and do not allow them to drain their power to zero. Power down devices to avoid extra use. On cellphones, turn off the location mode and use the lower-power mode and dim-light settings.</span> </p><i>Kelcie Ottoes is a writer for sustainable businesses and frequent contributor to </i>Natural <hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:74e4a189-b7fb-4fcd-94a7-b096878836d22024-01-24T15:19:37-05:002024-03-01T15:31:54-05:00Homeopathy for Athletes: Remedies to Address Common Sports Challenges2024-01-31 09:25:00 -0500Lauri Grossman, DC, CCH, RSHom(NA)<p>Being physically active is vital to good health, but accidents and injuries are bound to happen. This is where homeopathy can shine. The soccer star <a href="https://www.homeopathyschool.com/news/2019/04/celebrities-that-use-homeopathy/">David Beckham</a> used homeopathy for his broken foot before competing in the World Cup. <a href="https://www.imi.com.hk/homeopathy-for-athletes-and-sports-enthusiasts.html">James Ellington</a>, the British Olympic sprinter, used homeopathy for muscle and joint pain before his competitions. Champion figure skaters Jayne Torvill and Elvis Stojko <a href="https://drnancymalik.wordpress.com/2012/06/30/sports-medicine/">used</a> homeopathy for their bruises. These world-class athletes recognize that homeopathic medicines speed healing and get them back in training quickly, and without troublesome side effects. </p><p>Arnica, bryonia, hypericum and ruta are go-to remedies for sports injuries. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than <a href="https://www.hri-research.org/resources/essentialevidence/use-of-homeopathy-across-the-world/">6 million Americans</a> and <a href="https://www.hri-research.org/resources/essentialevidence/use-of-homeopathy-across-the-world/">200 million people worldwide</a> use homeopathy on a regular basis.</p><p>Evaluating sports and activity injuries has changed. The most helpful remedies may turn out to be those that are not typically thought of for sports injuries. A person’s underlying sensitivities may necessitate a different remedy, one that addresses the whole person, even when their chief complaint is a sprain, bump or bruise. </p><p>At other times, athletes are looking for ways to get their mind in gear for fierce competitions and extreme training. The following remedies often prove helpful in such situations. These remedies are based on traditional homeopathic practices and have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For dosages, consult with a local homeopath.</p><p><b><i>Gelsemium sempervirens</i></b> can bolster the timid athlete that reports a weak stomach, a jittery feeling and weak knees before the starting gun goes off. It can restore their calm and equilibrium. This remedy can ease performance anxiety in other settings as well; it’s a favorite of actors and musicians to relieve stage fright, and executives choose it to calm nerves before major business deals.</p><p><b><i>Nux vomica</i></b> can help the athlete that is irritable, on edge and needs to chill out before climbing onto the racing block. It can also help the super-competitive kid that loses a game and lambasts fellow team members about how their actions led to the loss. Nux vomica helps them become more amenable to the idea that it is not okay to yell at teammates and shift their focus away from the loss and toward enjoyment of their sport.</p><p><b><i>Aurum metallicum</i></b> is suited to the intense, idealistic competitor that sets impossibly high goals. From their perspective, it is their duty to win and become depressed if their team does not win. These people, young and old, are hard on themselves. Aurum metallicum can help soften the perspective on winning or losing and shift the mood away from depression. This remedy is also known for its ability to heal headaches that come on after experiencing loss or failure.</p><p><b><i>Natrum sulphuricum</i></b> can help the athlete that becomes seriously depressed after sustaining a head injury in football, field hockey or other contact sport. It can also help with other types of mood changes after head injuries, as well as troubling physical symptoms.</p><p><b><i>Magnesia phosphorica</i></b>, which is made from magnesium and phosphorus, can help alleviate cramps and muscle spasms that would be improved by heat, such as those earned after a hard workout or challenging day on the golf course. It also offers temporary relief of menstrual cramps.</p><p><b><i>Cuprum metallicum </i></b>is another approach to managing sudden cramps, especially those in the limbs, hands and feet.</p><p><b><i>Arnica</i></b>, which is made from a type of mountain daisy, assists the athlete and weekend warrior to relieve muscle aches and stiffness, swelling and discoloration from bruises. It is also available in topical gel, cream and ointment forms that may be applied to the affected area.</p><p><i>Lauri Grossman is a chiropractor and certified homeopath in New York City. She has been practicing, teaching and presenting on homeopathy for more than 40 years, and she serves as president of the board of directors for the National Center for Homeopathy, a leader in homeopathic education for 50 years.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:c40abf1e-a5f5-46e4-8d1c-20712d4785b12024-01-24T15:52:43-05:002024-03-01T15:31:55-05:00Mindful Breathwork: Managing Stress and Heart Health 2024-01-31 09:24:00 -0500Sheila Julson<p>The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are key partners in regulating heart rate, stress levels and breathing. Stressors such as traffic jams, work deadlines, financial limitations and family conflicts can disrupt this synchronized partnership and lead not just to emotional anguish, but also to high blood pressure, inflammation and increased <a href="http://heart.org/en/news/2020/02/04/chronic-stress-can-cause-heart-trouble">cardiovascular events</a>.</p><p>An inquiry into how breathing relates to the nervous system begins with the vagus nerve, the largest highway within the parasympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve runs from the brain and through the body, down to the gastrointestinal system. “It is the most complex of the cranial nerves and regulates heart rate and the body’s stress response,” says Poonacha Machaiah, CEO of The Chopra Foundation.</p><p>Machaiah suggests breathwork as an effective mind-body practice to balance the nervous system and instill calm. It can serve as a pillar, along with nourishment, movement, restful sleep and connection with community and nature, toward maintaining homeostasis in the body. “Breathing is free medicine,” he asserts. “It is your anchor, and every breathwork technique starts with observing your breath and connecting with yourself and your body.”</p><p>Stress or anxiousness sends the sympathetic nervous system into overdrive, affirms Meena Malhotra, M.D., a functional medicine practitioner and founder of Chicago-based Heal n Cure integrative clinic. The goal of breathwork, a catchall term for a variety of breathing practices, is to balance the autonomic nervous system. Many breathing techniques involve holding the breath, which stimulates the vagus nerve.</p><p>“Deep breathing is the best way to stretch and stimulate the vagus nerve,” Malhotra explains. “When the vagus nerve is stimulated, the parasympathetic nervous system is activated. Stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system is calming, which helps bring the body into balance.”<b></b></p><p>Just like how there are various types of yoga to achieve different goals, the same holds true for breathwork. “There’s something for everyone,” notes Sandy Abrams, the Los-Angeles-based founder of <a href="http://theceom.com/">The C.E.Om</a><i> </i>and<i> </i>author of <i>Breathe to Succeed: Increase Workplace Productivity, Creativity, and Clarity Through the Power of Mindfulness</i>. “Breathwork is the love language of the nervous system. Being in a state of frequent, chronic stress—even low-grade—makes it difficult to enjoy any experience. Breathwork can calm, balance or boost the nervous system. Simply by breathing in ways that calm the nervous system, you can immediately shift from stressed to calm.”</p><p>Abrams recommends simple breathing practices that don’t take a lot of time. “The nervous system can become more balanced and relaxed with even just one slow, light, nourishing breath,” she remarks. For beginners, she suggests shifting from shallow, rapid chest breaths, which can induce stress, to deeper ones that activate the diaphragm. “It helps to place one hand on the belly and feel the expansion outward as you inhale for about six seconds, tracing the breath up to the chest and then slowly exhaling for six seconds.”</p><p>The popular “four-seven-eight” method involves inhaling for a count of four, holding the breath for a count of seven and exhaling for a count of eight. “Four-seven-eight is a very effective stress reduction tool,” Malhotra says. “I suggest that everyone do it while stuck in traffic or while that hourglass cursor on the laptop is spinning. Instead of checking your email or fidgeting with your phone, do a breathing exercise.” </p><p>Other techniques may employ longer or shorter counts, but Abrams notes that there is no need to obsess over counting—just go by feeling. “Relaxation comes with extended exhales that are about twice as long as the inhale,” she asserts.</p><p>Abrams also uses the “bumblebee” technique, which increases nitric oxide to the nasal cavity. Simply inhale lightly and deeply through the nose and during the entire exhale, make a humming sound. The hum can be amplified by gently closing the ears.</p><p>The kid-friendly “lion’s breath” helps release stagnant energy. “Close your eyes and inhale through your nose. During the exhale, open your eyes wide, stick out your tongue and shake your hands. Hiss like a fierce lion,” Abrams advises. “Adding movement feels good and makes everybody laugh; laughter is breath, too.” Parents can use the lion’s breath to calm rowdy children in the car or while shopping. It can also help children learn to control their emotions.</p><p>Abrams notes that her breathwork techniques are for relaxation and balancing the nervous system; those with contraindications should consult a physician. Malhotra adds that there are other ways besides breathwork to stimulate the vagus nerve, but some are not safe to do at home and should be done only under the guidance of a medical doctor.</p><p>“These breath tools are free and accessible to anyone,” Abrams says. “They can be used in so many different ways, at different times. I encourage everyone to play around with their curiosity about these different breath tools.”</p><p><i>Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to </i><span>Natural Awakenings<i>.</i></span></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:7185d4ae-f8ba-4fb7-bbf2-1bb791ef52bc2024-01-24T15:47:16-05:002024-03-01T15:30:25-05:00Helping America’s Kids Eat Better: How Three Women are Leading the Movement2024-01-31 09:23:00 -0500Megy Karydes<p>According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much">half of children</a> aged 1 to 5 have not eaten a vegetable today. Each week, nearly one in three won’t eat a piece of fruit, and more than half will have had at least one sugar-sweetened beverage. Kids consume 66 grams of sugar per day—that is a whopping <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much">53 pounds of added sugar</a> a year, according to the <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much">American Heart Association</a>.</p><p>The foods and drinks kids consume have tremendous impact on their overall health, and these statistics suggest that many parents and guardians need to do a better job of steering their offspring toward more nutritious options. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11795/">Mounting</a><a href="https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-022-02524-9">scientific</a> <a href="https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-022-02524-9">evidence</a> reveals that a healthy lifestyle from infancy to adulthood helps people maintain good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Many youngsters today don’t eat enough nutritious meals, playing a major role in how they <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916523659593">perform in school</a>, according to a study published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1746-1561.2005.tb06674.x"><i>Journal of School Health</i></a>. </p><p>Prompted by perceived needed changes in childhood nutrition, the private sector is stepping up to improve the ways we teach and feed our youngest, hoping to raise healthier future generations. Here are three examples. <br></p><p><br></p><p><b>Putting Nutrition First</b></p><p>Former First Lady Michelle Obama launched the “Let’s Move!” national campaign in 2010 to reduce childhood obesity and teach children and their caregivers how to create healthier eating habits and lifestyles, and her work didn’t end when she left the White House. In May 2023, she helped launch <a href="https://plezi.com/pages/about">PLEZi Nutrition</a>, a food and beverage company for children with a stated mission “to be a driver of change, creating higher standards for how we make and market food and beverages for our kids, leading with nutrition, taste and truth.” </p><p>“<span>I've learned that on this issue, if you want to change the game, you can't just work from the outside. You've got to get inside—you've got to find ways to change the food and beverage industry itself,” Obama said at <i>The Wall Street</i></span><i>Journal’s</i> Future of Everything Festival. “I'm proud to announce the national launch of a company designed not just to provide better products, but to jumpstart a race to the top that will transform the entire food industry.”</p><p> </p><p><b>Teaching Healthy Eating in Schools</b></p><p>In 2009, Jyl Steinback created the national nonprofit <a href="https://shapeupus.org/about-us/">Shape Up US</a> to provide teachers, children, parents and communities with the tools they need to adopt healthy, lifelong habits. Rather than trying to impact school lunch programs that are notoriously difficult to change, the co-author of multiple books, including <i>Think Outside the Lunchbox Cookbook,</i> brings her nutritional curriculum into classrooms. She created five booklets with hands-on activities that support sustainable living and plant-based nutrition, as well as the Hip Hop Healthy Heart Program for Children that focuses on cardiovascular health. Since 2009, her programs have been used in 34 states, reaching more than 100,000 children.</p><p>Steinback believes in the power of early education. “If you start with K [kindergarten] through sixth grade, you're planting that seed,” she explains, adding that children are naturally curious and willing to try new things as long as they’re involved in the decision-making process. One way she coaxes kids to make better choices is by prompting them to go grocery shopping with their parents and pick a food they’ve never eaten before.</p><p> </p><p><b>Modeling Healthy Behavior</b></p><p>“We have this belief that we can feed children anything,” says public health nurse Meryl Fury, the president and CEO of <a href="https://pbnm.org/">Plant Based Nutrition Movement</a>. “People will say, ‘Let them be kids; let them eat donuts; let them eat Pop Tarts.’ We feed them mac and cheese and chicken nuggets, and we think it’s fine, but our data shows that children have increasing rates of obesity, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. These are things that never occurred in children before, and it’s very much connected to our lifestyle.”</p><p>Fury recommends that parents and teachers model better behavior and improve the school food culture in general. Instead of using candy as rewards in the classroom, other incentives can be offered such as stickers, pencils or other non-food treats. She reminds parents and teachers that some children might have attention deficit disorder or other challenges that relate to impulse control or self-regulation, and high-sugar or highly processed foods and dyes are not good for them, or anyone.</p><p>If children initially resist trying new foods, Fury encourages adults not to give up. “Boil it, mash it, sauté it, simmer it, roast it, serve it raw, serve it with sauce or serve it as a dip,” she suggests. It can take one to two dozen times of exposing a child to a new food before they’re even willing to try it, but the healthy benefits could be lifelong.</p><p><i>Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of </i>50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress: Scientifically Proven Ways to Relieve Anxiety and Boost Your Mental Health Using Your Five Senses.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:e755e380-270f-4163-b83a-da8f76ad8f4f2024-01-25T08:28:53-05:002024-03-02T09:24:22-05:00Love on a Leash: Mutual Benefits of Walking the Dog2024-01-31 09:22:00 -0500Dr. Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN<p>The emotional bond between dogs and humans is a powerful force that extends beyond mere companionship. Known for their unwavering loyalty and intuitive understanding, dogs offer a source of comfort and emotional support. In return, the companionship and care provided by humans create a sense of security and happiness for their canine friends. The seemingly ordinary act of dog walking can bring vitality and other benefits to those on both ends of the leash.</p><p> </p><p><b>Emotional Health Benefits</b></p><p><b>Strengthening Bonds</b><span>:<b> </b>In a </span><a href="https://www.mmu.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/story/?id=5007">study</a> conducted at Manchester Metropolitan University, in England, researchers aimed to understand how humans and their animal companions actively share spaces, specifically through the lens of walking experiences. The study called into question a common perception that humans always dominate, showing that during walks, power is negotiated through mutual interaction, disproving the idea that authority goes only one way. This understanding reveals the complex bond formed during walks, emphasizing that power is shared, adding to the special and mutually helpful connection between humans and their dogs.</p><p><b>Spending Time Together</b><span>:<b> </b>Walking creates shared moments. Whether exploring familiar places or trying new routes, these shared experiences become lasting memories that make the connection between dogs and owners even stronger.</span></p><p><b>Communicating Nonverbally</b><span>:<b> </b>While walking, owners and dogs interact without words. The leash becomes a kind of language, where owners express feelings and intentions through body language and energy, helping them understand each other better.</span></p><p><b>Fostering Trust</b><span>:<b> </b>Walking builds trust and reliance. Dogs trust their owners to guide and protect them during walks, creating a sense of safety and mutual dependence, which deepens their bond.</span> </p><p><b>Enjoying Quality Time and Affection</b><span>:<b> </b>Walking is a time for closeness and affection. A simple pat, a gentle scratch or just being near each other during walks creates moments of connection that strengthen the emotional tie between dogs and their owners.</span></p><p> </p><p><b>Physical Health Benefits</b> </p><p><b>Physical Well-Being</b><span>:<b> </b>The relationship between dogs and humans contributes significantly to the physical health of both parties. For </span><a href="https://calmingcreek.com/">Melissa Sherman</a>, an animal communicator, energy healer and holistic pet health coach, a walk is more than just a routine. It is a holistic strategy to improve her pets’ well-being. Leading her pack of seven dogs through daily forest walks becomes a channel for physical vitality, mental engagement and emotional catharsis. Sherman’s insight reinforces the idea that regular nature walks contribute not only to the physical health but also to the overall happiness of both dogs and their human companions.</p><p><b>Exercise Opportunity</b>: Regular activities like dog walks also provide valuable exercise for their human counterparts. Research published in <a href="https://academic.oup.com/gerontologist/article/57/5/930/2632039"><i>The Gerontologis</i><i>t</i></a> indicates that older adults that regularly walk their dogs are more likely to meet physical activity recommendations and exhibit greater functional ability compared to non-dog owners.</p><p><b>Cardiovascular Health</b><span>:<b> </b>An assessment of studies and data by the </span><a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0b013e31829201e1">American Heart Association</a> concluded that dog ownership is likely linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. This positive association is primarily attributed to the active practice of dog walking.</p><p> </p><p><b>Quality-of-Life Benefits</b></p><p><b>Stress Reduction</b><span>:<b> </b></span><a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-friend-who-keeps-you-young#:~:text=Reduce%20stress.,that%20bonds%20mothers%20to%20babies).">Studies</a> have shown that the presence of a dog can have a calming effect on humans, reducing stress levels and promoting overall mental well-being. The simple act of petting a dog releases feel-good hormones, creating a harmonious cycle of emotional support.</p><p><b>Increased Happiness</b>: Dogs bring joy and a sense of purpose to human lives, particularly for those living alone or facing health challenges. The responsibilities of caring for a pet instill a routine and structure that contribute to an enhanced quality of life.</p><p><b>Unconditional Love and Companionship: </b>Perhaps the most profound aspect of this bond is the unconditional love and companionship exchanged between dogs and humans. Dogs are non-judgmental, offering a constant source of emotional support and companionship. In return, humans provide the care, attention and love that form the bedrock of this unique relationship </p><p><i>Ruth </i><i>Roberts</i><i> is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of </i><i>The Original CrockPet Diet</i><i>. Learn more at </i><a href="http://www.DrRuthRoberts.com" target="_blank"><i>DrRuthRoberts.com</i></a><i>.</i></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a962f1bc-15c0-4388-b9c9-0eac05cc8b142024-01-25T09:23:49-05:002024-03-01T15:31:59-05:00Drug May Improve Heart Health in the Obese2024-01-31 09:15:00 -0500Kris Urquhart<p>According to a study published in <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2306963?logout=true"><i>The New England Journal of Medicine</i></a><i> </i>(NEJM) semaglutide, a medication sold as <a href="https://www.ozempic.com/">Ozempic</a> by Novo Nordisk, may be associated with heart health improvement. For one year, the researchers followed 529 obese participants that had heart failure with ejection fraction, a condition where the heart pumps normally but is too stiff to fill properly. Half of the participants received semaglutide, and the other half received a placebo. Participants on semaglutide had almost double the heart improvement as measured by a standard heart failure questionnaire. They also experienced an average reduction of body weight of 13.3 percent compared to a 2.5 percent reduction in the placebo group and could walk an extra 66 feet in six minutes.</p><p>In another study of semaglutide also published in <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2307563"><i>NEJM</i></a>, participants on the drug had a 20 percent lower risk of fatal and nonfatal heart attacks and strokes than those taking a placebo. The multi-center, double-blind, randomized trial included more than 17,600 obese participants aged 45 or older that had cardiovascular disease, but no history of diabetes. Half of the participants received the drug, while the other half were given a placebo and were followed for approximately 40 months. </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.naturalawakenings.com">Natural Awakenings National</a></small></p>