An estimated 50 million children have high levels of the "bad" cholesterol -- known as LDL -- that puts them at high risk for suffering heart attacks as adults. Most of these children have inherited disorders causing these abnormal cholesterol levels. Because...
children’s health
Sunscreens and Bug Sprays Don’t Mix: Combination may harm children and seniors
According to a recent study at the University of Winnipeg, using sunscreens and DEET-based insect repellents may increase the skin absorption of chemical ingredients and endanger health – particularly in seniors and children. People may wish to apply these products...
Folic Acid and Childhood Cancer: Study finds B-vitamin protective against leukemia
Scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research have shown that there may be a link between levels of folic acid available to the baby in the womb and leukemia in children. Women are already advised to take supplements of folic acid while trying to conceive and...
Think Zinc! Many Canadians may be low, say researchers
One out of every four Canadians eat diets that are low in the mineral zinc, according to researchers from McGill University who analyzed data from the Food Habits of Canadians Study. Zinc plays a key role in immune function where it is needed for the body to develop...
Low Iron Common: Women and children especially at risk
Women and young children are most at risk for iron deficiency, but most are unaware they are anemic until diagnosed by a physician, according to Nancy Andrews, MD, an expert in iron metabolism. Iron-deficient anemia reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood...
Exposure to second-hand smoke cuts vitamin levels
Past research has shown that smoking lowers vitamin C levels in smokers themselves. However, scientists wanted to know if children exposed to second-hand smoke would also show lower vitamin C levels. Researchers from the University of Puerto Rico gathered a study...
Healthy Kids: A weighty issue
It’s a simple formula and it can sneak up on even the most health conscious of families: more unhealthy food plus less activity often equals overweight kids. Convenience foods in the lunch bags, quick and easy snacks, fast-food dinners and large portions combine with...
Good Food; Good Grades?
Before you buy a computer, new books, or enlist a tutor to help your child do better in school, take a close look at what sort of food is fuelling (or draining) his or her body every day. Some foods are definitely better than others when it comes to being primed for a...
Calcium needs change with age
We all need calcium, but there are times in our lives when our intake of this mineral is most critical, according to scientists at the Children’s Nutrition Research Centre at Texas Children’s Hospital. Using numerous techniques to establish calcium requirements and...
EFAs boost learning: “Landmark study”
Food supplements can improve the abilities of children with learning difficulties, a study has shown. The major trial into the effects of essential fatty acids (EFAs) on concentration and learning levels has produced extremely encouraging results and has boosted the...