02/23/24 - #73

Author

Health Horizon. Herald Staff
February 23, 2024

Good morning. In today’s edition:

  • Recalled Applesauce Pouches Likely Contained Lead Due to a Single Cinnamon Processor the FDA Just Identified

  • Can You Lose Weight Without Changing What You Eat?

  • Quitting Smoking at Any Age Brings Big Health Benefits, Fast: Study

  • New Research Reveals That Coming Off Antidepressants Like Prozac Can Cause Not Only Physical Symptoms but Also Emotional, Cognitive, and Social Difficulties

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Recalled Applesauce Pouches Likely Contained Lead Due to a Single Cinnamon Processor the FDA Just Identified

Recently, applesauce pouches were taken off the shelves. This is because they might have lead in them. This problem came from a cinnamon processor in Ecuador, the FDA found out.

The person behind this, Carlos Aguilera, is being looked at because over 400 people got sick from lead poisoning in 43 different states. But, the U.S. can't do much about it because of rules about dealing with problems in other countries.

This whole thing shows how hard it can be to keep our food safe, especially when ingredients come from far away. The FDA is trying to figure out where exactly the contamination happened.

Before, some spices were mixed with things they shouldn't be, to make them seem better or to make more money. This makes everyone more careful about checking food safety.

The company WanaBana didn't check its applesauce for bad stuff, leading to dangerous levels of lead. This is really worrying, especially for parents, because lots of kids eat these applesauce pouches.

Many people are upset and worried after finding out something they gave to their kids wasn't safe. The FDA is still looking into it, trying to make sure it doesn't happen again. But now, many are questioning how safe our food really is and whether we can trust the companies that make it.

WEIGHT LOSS

Can You Lose Weight Without Changing What You Eat?

Curious if you can lose weight without totally changing your diet? Dr. Erik Richardson of FamilyMed has some easy tips that don't involve a major diet makeover. Just remember, for the best results, it's still good to watch what you eat.

1. Smaller Plates: Eating off smaller plates helps control how much you eat because it looks like more food. This simple change can help you eat less without feeling deprived.

2. Write Down What You Eat: Keeping a food diary makes you think twice before snacking. Awareness helps you make better choices and avoid eating without thinking.

3. Drink Water Before Meals: Drinking a couple of glasses of water before eating can make you feel full sooner. This means you'll likely eat less at mealtime.

4. Hide Temptations: Keep snacks you're trying to avoid out of easy reach. If it's harder to get to, you're less likely to eat it.

5. Go Small When Eating Out: Choose the smaller size when ordering food outside. Smaller servings can lead to eating less, which helps control calorie intake.

Dr. Richardson encourages these as first steps toward weight management. While changing your diet is key for long-term health, these tips can help kickstart your journey. Take care of your body—it's the only one you've got!

HEALTH

Quitting Smoking at Any Age Brings Big Health Benefits, Fast: Study

Did you know quitting smoking can make you live longer, even if you start late? A study by researchers at the University of Toronto found something really hopeful for people who smoke.

They looked at 1.5 million people for 15 years and found that if you stop smoking, you can get healthier quickly. Quit before you're 40, and you might live as long as someone who never smoked. But it's not just for younger people. Even if you quit later, you'll start to see health benefits fast. In just three years, you could feel a lot better.

The study's lead, Professor Prabhat Jha, says stopping smoking works really well to lower your chance of dying from things like heart disease and cancer. People who quit can live up to six years longer.

Some folks think they're too old to quit, but this study shows that's not true. Quitting is good for your health at any age.

Today, over a billion people worldwide smoke. But things like higher taxes on cigarettes and helping people quit can save lives.

It's never too late to stop smoking. Quitting not only makes you healthier but also gives you a chance for a longer, better life. So, if you or someone you care about is thinking about quitting, it's really worth it.

New Research Reveals That Coming Off Antidepressants Like Prozac Can Cause Not Only Physical Symptoms but Also Emotional, Cognitive, and Social Difficulties

Thinking about stopping antidepressants like Prozac? A study found it's not just about physical stuff like headaches. It also affects feelings, thinking, and friendships.

Researchers talked to 20 people who tried stopping these meds. They found out it wasn't just their bodies reacting. Their emotions and how they thought about things changed a lot. Imagine feeling all your emotions stronger than before, like turning the volume up on your feelings. That can be really hard to handle.

People also noticed changes in their friendships and family relationships. They felt more ups and downs, and sometimes it was hard to get along with others. Even fun things with friends felt like too much work.

But, there's some good news. Exercise helped some people feel better and stronger during this tough time.

The study also showed how important it is to have support. Help from doctors and understanding from family and friends can make a big difference.

If you're thinking about stopping your meds, know that it's not just about the body. It's a big change that can affect your emotions and relationships too. Getting help from your doctor and talking to your loved ones can really help.

This research teaches us that stopping antidepressants is a big deal. It's more than just physical; it touches every part of life.

✢ A Note From Hem Hero

The information in this health newsletter is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. The publishers are not responsible for any actions taken by the reader based on the information provided.