Ask a doc: 'How should I care for my skin during the winter?'

Winter can wreak havoc on the skin — but there are smart steps to take to protect and nourish it during the colder months.

"Most people know the impact that the summer weather and UV rays can have on the skin, but not everyone is aware that they need to take just as much care of the skin in colder winter months," Dr. Dave Reilly, a U.K.-based skin care research scientist for the Absolute Collagen company, told Fox News Digital in an email.

"With the humidity of summer gone and the dry winter air coming in, you may notice your skin feels less hydrated, leading to drier, duller and more sensitive skin that is prone to redness and cracking."

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR FACE? DERMATOLOGISTS REVEAL THE TRUTH

The key to keeping skin looking fresh is to maintain its moisture, Reilly noted. 

"Drinking plenty of water and staying on top of SPF is important all year round, but it can also be beneficial to winter-proof your skin care routine with a more intense nighttime ritual, as well as investing in home products like humidifiers," he said.

Below are five ways to ensure that your skin stays supple and "glowy" throughout the winter.

Drinking water in summer can feel like second nature, as the hot temperatures make us crave cold drinks, but our thirst response diminishes in winter because we lose less body water through sweat, Reilly said.

HEALTHY AGING AND DRINKING WATER: FASCINATING FINDINGS FROM A NEW STUDY

It is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even in cold weather, the skin care expert noted.

"If you struggle to stay on top of this, you could pick up a time-marked water bottle to keep by your desk or to bring along with you as a reminder to keep sipping to stay hydrated," he suggested.

Supplements are available that can help boost the brightness of your skin, according to the team at Absolute Collagen. 

"The body naturally produces collagen to support healthy and firmer skin, and by taking collagen supplements, you can boost your natural glow," said Reilly.

HOW TO WEAR SUNSCREEN THE RIGHT WAY: YOUR GUIDE TO SPF

It can also be beneficial to take vitamin D supplements, particularly during the winter months, he noted, as the shorter days mean we don’t get enough high-quality sunlight for our bodies to generate their own.

While sunscreen is emphasized more during the summer, when the sun is more intense, experts agree that it’s just as important to apply SPF in the winter.

"There is still a considerable amount of UV radiation during the winter that can cause damage," said Reilly.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

While sunscreen doesn’t eliminate exposure to all harmful UV rays, an SPF factor of 30 will block out 97% of them, experts say. 

It’s also important to make sure your sunscreen offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. 

Turning on the heat in your home can dry out indoor air, which can also impact the skin.

To counteract this, Reilly suggested investing in a humidifier to return some moisture to the air.

Using moisturizing face masks is another good way to keep the skin hydrated, according to skin care experts.

The best moisturizing ingredients to look for when making or purchasing face masks include honey, yogurt, avocado and banana.

Although you don’t have to do a total overhaul of your skin care routine, creating a more moisture-intensive routine at night and investing in products to lock in moisture can keep the skin feeling hydrated and fresh during the day, said Reilly.

"Products like glycerin or rose water mix are great to apply on top of moisturizers, creams and oils to ensure that the products are protected and your skin can fully absorb them," he added.

Adding a lip balm to your winter skin care routine is just as essential as a moisturizer or SPF, Reilly noted.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health. 

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/WtsqahY

Read More

Some nurses experience violent attacks at Seattle Children’s Hospital, say they want protection, support

Nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital say they feel unsafe at work and have demanded protection.

Police responded to multiple violent incidents in November at the hospital’s Psychiatric and Behavioral Medicine Unit (PBMU), according to the Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA), which represents over 2,000 registered nurses in the state.

On Nov. 7, police were called when patients "turned over carts, used a pole to swing at people, broke windows and held a nurse in a chokehold," a WSNA press release stated.

LESS THAN HALF OF NURSES ARE ‘FULLY ENGAGED’ AT WORK, WHILE MANY ARE ‘UNENGAGED,' NEW REPORT REVEALS

The Seattle Police Department detailed that incident in a blog post on its website the next day, noting that a 14-year-old boy was arrested for assaulting medical staff in the psychiatry and behavioral medicine unit of the hospital.

"The suspect … armed himself with a metal pole, began destroying property and attempted to locate and harm another teen," the police department’s blog post said. "The suspect then attacked a staff member and put them in a headlock."

Around that same time period, a nurse was "choked, struck in the head 16 times and nearly lost consciousness" after an attack by a patient, according to the WSNA.

On Nov. 17, police reportedly returned to the hospital after patients began throwing ceiling tiles at staff members.

NURSE WHO DIED BY SUICIDE INSPIRES CALLS FOR CHANGE IN HEALTH CARE SYSTEM: ‘NEED TO TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER'

Some other complaints filed by nurses within the unit were about patients biting staff members, kicking them in the head and attempting to use medical equipment as weapons, the WSNA stated.

"As staff, we know what we need, and that's security," Natasha Vederoff, one of the nurses in the unit, told Fox News Digital in a recent video interview. 

"We're asking for people to help our staff feel safe so we can do our job and get fair compensation for the work we're doing," she said. 

After Fox News Digital contacted the hospital for comment, a Seattle Children’s Hospital spokesperson sent a statement. 

"Our country is facing an escalating youth mental and behavioral health crisis and the demand for services remains alarmingly high," the Dec. 5 statement to Fox News Digital noted in part.

"The safety, security and well-being of Seattle Children’s patients and workforce is our top priority and we have intensified efforts over the past several months to address this demand."

The statement went on, "While these critical steps support the immediate safety of our workforce and patients, Seattle Children’s cannot solve this crisis alone."

"This work is ongoing, and we are actively collaborating with external partners at the local, state and federal level to identify and eliminate barriers and find rapid solutions to address the extremely high number of patients seeking care for mental and behavioral health crises across the state."

Regular staffing shortages have been a challenge for some time in psychiatric care, noted Amy Lamson, who has worked in the unit for more than six years — but the problem got much worse during the COVID pandemic, she said.

"We have not been able to catch up in any capacity since then," she told Fox News Digital in an interview. 

"It has been a vicious cycle," Lamson continued. "The less staff we have, the less expertise we have on the floor, and the less able we are to manage unsafe behaviors — and then staff want to leave because they do not feel safe in the workplace."

There are conflicting statements about the nature of the current nursing shortage.

In a 2022 letter, the American Hospital Association estimated that half a million nurses would leave the field by the end of that year, which would result in a total country-wide shortage of 1.1 million.

PSYCHIATRIST SHARES 4 WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD THROUGH LIFE’S UPS AND DOWNS ON WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

National Nurses United (NNU), however, has released statements that there is not a shortage of nurses — and that, instead, the problem is "a failure by hospital industry executives to put nurses and the patients they care for above corporate profits."

While there are plenty of nurses to fill jobs, NNU stated that there is "a shortage of nurses who want to work under current conditions."

Contributing to the crisis is the extended stay of many patients today, the nurses said.

The hospital’s Psychiatric and Behavioral Medicine Unit is intended to serve as "short-term crisis stabilization" for three to seven days, but nurses report that some children are staying on the unit for months — or even as long as a year — due to a shortage of residential care beds.

Lamson told Fox News Digital that the increase in injuries began to worsen during COVID, when many outpatient beds and residential facilities closed.

"With fewer resources in the community for these patients, there are longer inpatient stays," she said.

Over the last year, there has been an "exponential increase" in safety events and staff injuries, said Lamson.

Henry Jones, another nurse in the unit, noted that a third of the long-term residential beds in the state have closed since the pandemic, and demand has only gone up. 

"It’s simple supply and demand," Jones told Fox News Digital. "The demand far outstrips our capacity to provide care."

Jones said he doesn’t believe the staff would be seeing this level of aggression and violence if the patients’ length of stay matched the design of the unit.

"The more isolated you are, the more likely you are to use aggression," he told Fox News Digital.

Brayden Schander, another nurse on the unit, told WSNA that the nurses have been forced into this situation. 

"If the state and nation are not going to change, Seattle Children’s needs to build a residential facility to meet long-term care needs."

Jones told Fox News Digital, "This is not a temporary issue. We're asking for permanent change because the problem is not going away anytime soon."

The nurses in the PBMU emphasized that the troubled youth in the facility are not to blame for the current crisis.

"Our patients have suffered severe physical, sexual and emotional abuse," Joshua Pickett, a registered nurse at Seattle Children’s, told Fox News Digital.

COLORADO CARDIAC NURSE, AFTER THREE HEART ATTACKS, OFFERS SURVIVAL TIPS: ‘LISTEN TO YOUR GUT’

The nursing staff expects to see certain unsafe behaviors, he noted, as it’s an "expression of pain" and a way for the youth to communicate their needs. 

"We don't want to demonize these behaviors — the reason we are so invested is because we want to help these kids," he said.

But "our ability to address unsafe behaviors would be greatly increased if we just had adequate resources to do so," he also said. 

During one of her recent shifts, Vederoff said she had to help hold down a potentially violent child.

"I had to stop myself from crying … knowing that this kid would not be in the situation right now if they had the resources they needed — and knowing that we have failed them."

Pickett agreed, adding, "All too often, rather than healing the trauma that these kids have faced, we're just retraumatizing them in order to keep people safe rather than creating an environment that is therapeutic and helpful for them."

Pickett sent a call for action to the hospital’s leadership team on Nov. 17 on behalf of the 44 nurses in the unit.

In the letter, which was shared with Fox News Digital by the WSNA, the nurses described the unit as "severely unsafe" and at a "critical point of failure."

BURNT OUT AND GETTING OUT: AMERICAN HOSPITALS STRUGGLE WITH INCREASING SHORTAGE OF NURSES

"The ongoing deficient and inadequate intervention from the hospital has contributed to innumerable injuries, a diminishing workforce and deteriorating morale," the letter stated. 

"Staff work in a persistent state of fear as they come into each shift expecting violence and debilitating abuse."

The letter went on, "The level of violence that the unit is expected to tolerate has directly influenced rates of staff turnover and pushed the unit into a detrimental staffing crisis."

To ensure the safety of staff and patients, the nurses made several specific demands of Seattle Children’s Hospital, which included:

"Let us not wait for the preventable death of a patient or staff to have our voices heard," the letter from the nurses said.

On Dec. 13, the Washington State Nurses Association, plus some of the nurses from the PBMU and Seattle Children’s leadership, met to discuss the status of the actions and interventions that are in progress.

SURGEON GENERAL’S ADVISORY ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH COMES AMID 'REAL-TIME EXPERIMENT'

Pickett shared with Fox News Digital some of the outcomes of that meeting.

"Mandatory overtime and volunteering to stay over are now both double pay," he said. "Security will be a permanent fixture on the PBMU and a new role will be created and rolled out by the first week of February."

Hospital leadership also committed to hiring travel BHTs (behavioral health technicians) and RNs to fill current roles in the PBMU, but Pickett said they are "refusing to create the new nursing and PMHS (pediatric primary care mental health specialist) roles we requested, which were essential to our demands."

Seattle Children’s Hospital also provided an update to Fox News Digital regarding the Dec. 13 meeting.

"Last month, Seattle Children’s opened an Emergency Operations Center in response to extraordinarily high mental health patient volume," a spokesperson said. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"Since then, countless teams and individuals have collaborated to develop new processes and implement operational improvements."

"As a result, Seattle Children’s is better positioned to meet future surges and care for all patients who need us, but the work is ongoing," the statement continued.

"Seattle Children’s — particularly the Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Unit (PBMU), emergency department (ED) and the groups that support them — is still experiencing the impacts of the national youth mental health crisis. Leaders across the organization will continue to support our workforce, patients and families by listening, advocating and championing youth mental health." 

The nurses agree that this is a national crisis.

"Our hospital is a lens into what is happening nationally," said Pickett.

They believe, however, that steps can be taken at the same time to remedy the safety issues at Seattle Children’s.

"I could make the same amount of money [in another job] and not be hit every day, but I care about this work," said Vederoff. 

"I just want my leadership and my managers in this hospital to show that they value this work, too, and they value me."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/hzRraUe

Read More

These are the best diets of 2024, according to the annual ranking from US News

U.S. News & World Report revealed its list of the 2024 Best Diets on Jan. 3.

The list was compiled in partnership with The Harris Poll, an American market research and analytics company, as well as a panel of 43 health experts.

The experts included medical doctors, registered dietitian nutritionists, academic weight-loss researchers and nutritional epidemiologists, according to a press release.

FIGHT COLD AND FLU WITH THESE 10 IMMUNE-BOOSTING RECIPES FROM A TEXAS REGISTERED DIETITIAN

"Diets that eliminate a lot of foods, have complicated rules or require large reliance on heavily processed shakes and meal replacements don't fare well in our rankings," Gretel Schueller, health editor for U.S. News, told Fox News Digital.

"[That’s] mainly because people struggle to stick to them for the long term."

"Restrictive diets are difficult to follow and can also cause health issues and unhealthy behaviors, like binge eating," Schueller continued. "The key is lifestyle changes, not quick fixes."

To determine what qualifies as a "best diet," the panel evaluated nutritional completeness, health risks and benefits, long-term sustainability and evidence-based effectiveness, Schueller noted.

STUDY SUGGESTS MEDITERRANEAN DIET COULD BOOST MALE FERTILITY: 'CRUCIAL ROLE'

This year’s list of 30 diets spans 11 categories: Best Diets Overall, Best Weight Loss Diets, Best Fast Weight Loss Diets, Best Diabetes Diets, Best Diets for Bone and Joint Health, Best Diets for Healthy Eating, Best Diet Programs, Best Family-Friendly Diets, Best Heart-Healthy Diets, Best Plant-Based Diets and Easiest Diets to Follow, the press release stated.

Here are the 30 best diets for 2024, starting with the top-ranked diet. 

The Mediterranean diet, which focuses on healthy fats, fruits, whole grains, vegetables, nuts, seeds and beans, has topped the list for the seventh consecutive year.

Erin Palinski-Wade, a New Jersey-based registered dietitian and author of "2-Day Diabetes Diet," said this diet’s emphasis on whole foods and considerable health benefits has contributed to its popularity.

MEDITERRANEAN DIET COULD HELP REDUCE BELLY FAT AND MUSCLE LOSS CAUSED BY AGING, STUDY FINDS

"One of the biggest appeals of this meal plan is how it offers a variety of foods with a focus on balance, preventing it from feeling restrictive while also allowing individuals to enjoy the tastes and flavors they enjoy most," she told Fox News Digital. 

"It is easy to follow and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes," she said.

The DASH diet — the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet — was designed by the U.S.-based National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, to help lower blood pressure and promote overall health.

"This well-balanced diet puts an emphasis on increasing fruit and vegetable intake along with whole foods, something most of us fall short on," said Palinski-Wade. "It is a well-balanced, evidence-based eating plan that can offer a variety of health benefits."

The MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet is a hybrid of the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet. 

This diet is gaining in popularity, as it may help to benefit brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, noted Palinski-Wade.

ALZHEIMER’S RISK IS REDUCED AMONG WOMEN WHO FOLLOW THE DASH DIET IN THEIR 40S, STUDY FINDS

"As a flexible meal plan focused on maximizing overall intake of nutrient-dense foods, it may not only improve cognitive health, but could also reduce the risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers," she said.

Designed by Mayo Clinic, this 12-week diet program follows a food pyramid with an emphasis on fruits, vegetables and whole grains, most of which have low calorie density, according to U.S. News. 

Members can sign up for a monthly or yearly plan to access meal plans, trackers and other tools to help with healthy eating habits.

For those who want to add more plant-based foods to their diet without fully committing to a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, the Flexitarian diet allows for occasional meat consumption, making it more accessible and sustainable for many individuals, Palinski-Wade said. 

EXPERIMENTAL WEIGHT LOSS DRUG COULD HELP TREAT FATTY LIVER DISEASE IN PEOPLE WITH OBESITY, STUDY FINDS

"This diet has been ranked as one of the easiest diets to follow, thanks to its flexibility and the absence of strict rules or restrictions," she told Fox News Digital. 

"Research also suggests that the Flexitarian diet may be more effective than traditional vegetarian or vegan diets at maintaining heart health."

Launched in the 1960s, WeightWatchers (also known as WW) is a points-based membership meal plan designed to aid in weight loss.

"WeightWatchers is focused on lasting weight loss through behavior change, nutrition science and social support," U.S. News stated. "That involves taking a holistic approach to help members eat healthier and move more."

This diet allows for the consumption of all foods, but calls for larger quantities of low-calorie, healthy meals to curb hunger. 

"This diet focuses on satiety and offers flexibility, making it easy to stick with," said Palinski-Wade. 

"The focus on adding high-volume foods, which are often rich in fiber, may promote a variety of health benefits, from weight loss to lower cholesterol levels and improved heart health."

The dietitian noted that the Volumetrics diet is also easy to follow, as it does not involve strict rules or restrictions and can be tailored to individual needs and preferences.

Designed by Dr. Andrew Weil, an integrative medicine doctor, this diet plan is designed to reduce and prevent inflammation.

The diet emphasizes unprocessed foods, including lean proteins, healthy fats and fruits and vegetables. 

CANCER RISK COULD INCREASE WITH CONSUMPTION OF CERTAIN FOODS AND DRINKS, STUDY FINDS

"It is a way of selecting and preparing anti-inflammatory foods based on scientific knowledge of how they can help your body maintain optimum health," said Dr. Weil’s website. 

"Along with influencing inflammation, this natural anti-inflammatory diet will provide steady energy and ample vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids dietary fiber and protective phytonutrients."

Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes, also known as the TLC Diet, is a program designed to control hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol).

"The TLC diet is beneficial for heart health due to its focus on reducing saturated fats and cholesterol while emphasizing fiber-rich plant foods and whole grains, effectively managing cholesterol levels and supporting overall cardiovascular well-being," Michelle Routhenstein, a New York-based preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com, told Fox News Digital.

Those on a vegan diet eat only plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, nuts and seeds, according to WebMD. It excludes all animal foods, including dairy, eggs and honey.

VIBRATING WEIGHT LOSS PILL COULD PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE TO OZEMPIC AND WEGOVY, RESEARCHERS SAY

"It's a healthy option for many reasons, as long as you're purposeful about getting certain nutrients that can be more challenging to get from plants, such as calcium and B-12," wrote U.S. News in the rankings.

This vegetarian diet, developed in 1977 by Dean Ornish, M.D., a clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, is low in fat, refined sugar and animal protein, according to the Everyday Health website. 

There are no calorie or food restrictions, other than the elimination of meat, fish and poultry.

"Reversal of chronic disease and overall improved health are some of the benefits that the Ornish diet can provide," said U.S. News.

Created by nutritionist Nathan Pritikin, this heart-healthy meal plan consists of 70% complex carbohydrates, 15% fat and 15% lean or plant-based protein.

Intended to be followed for a lifetime, the Pritikin diet incorporates low-fat, high-fiber foods along with daily exercise.

The Zone diet recommends a certain amount of carbs (40%), protein (30%) and fat (30%) with the goal of reducing inflammation, according to the Healthline website.

Created by Barry Sears, the Zone diet is designed to keep inflammatory hormones at healthy levels.

Noom is a subscription weight loss app that promotes a healthy lifestyle through the use of food and exercise tracking tools, virtual coaching and education.

OZEMPIC, OTHER WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS MAY STRENGTHEN NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS, EXPERTS SAY: HEALTH GOAL 'BOOST'

Although members can eat any meals they choose, Noom encourages low-calorie and high-volume foods, according to U.S. News.

Comprised mainly of healthy vegan foods, this plant-based diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.

Plantstrong members have access to "hundreds of whole food, plant-based, oil-free recipes," as well as "personalized meal recommendations, interactive grocery lists, access to food coaches and personal saved menus," according to its website.

Created by cardiologist Arthur Agatson in 2003, the South Beach diet is a modified low-carb diet intended to aid in weight loss and promote a healthy lifestyle, according to Mayo Clinic.

Although it is lower in carbs, the South Beach diet isn’t as strict as other low-carb diets.

It also incorporates high levels of protein and healthy fats.

The Nutritarian diet consists of plant-based, nutrient-dense superfoods, with only limited animal protein and processed foods.

The diet was developed by family physician Dr. Joel Fuhrman in 2003. 

CALIFORNIA WOMAN WITH PAINFUL FAT DEPOSIT DISORDER GETS ‘LIFE-CHANGING’ SURGERY, HAS ‘NEWFOUND FREEDOM’

It is designed as "a powerful way to lose weight, reverse chronic disease, live better, strengthen your immune defenses and slow the aging process," according to Fuhrman.

Jenny Craig is a membership weight-loss program that delivers frozen meals every two weeks. 

The focus is on managing calorie intake while encouraging physical activity and healthy behaviors, with the expectation of losing 1 to 2 pounds per week.

The Profile Plan is a "structured program that focuses on nutrition, activity and behavior to promote health and weight loss," according to U.S. News. 

Members also have access to personalized one-on-one health coaching.

The Paleo (Paleolithic) diet, also referred to as the "caveman diet," is made up of foods that are thought to replicate those eaten during the Paleolithic era.

Those include lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, eggs, nuts and seeds, and oils from fruits and nuts, according to Mayo Clinic.

HEART DISEASE DEATHS LINKED TO OBESITY HAVE TRIPLED IN 20 YEARS, STUDY FOUND: ‘INCREASING BURDEN’

"While the original paleo diet has sprouted many variations, some of which are less strict than others, it's important to note that this high-protein diet ranked poorly among our diet experts, who assessed it as too restrictive and nutritionally inadequate to be healthy or sustainable," wrote U.S. News in its assessment.

The Health Management Resources (HMR) diet program is a weight-loss plan that consists of a daily minimum of two entrées, three shakes and five servings of fruits and vegetables.

The program offers meal deliveries, free support and virtual coaching.

Designed by Nutrisystem, this high-protein, lower-glycemic diet is designed to stabilize blood sugar, control hunger and assist with weight management.

Palinski-Wade praised the diet’s combination of well-balanced nutrition and convenient delivery options.

"Nutrisystem's meals are designed by a team of registered dietitians and chefs and provide the perfect balance of low glycemic carbs, protein and healthy fats to curb appetite and provide steady energy," she said. 

SNACKS PACK MORE CALORIES THAN A SINGLE MEAL FOR MANY US ADULTS, STUDY FINDS

"The new Nutrisystem 7 in 7 is a one-week, high-protein jumpstart that allows participants to enjoy the motivation that comes with quick success in the first week, which research shows increases the chances of future success."

Inspired by the Mediterranean diet, the Keyto diet is a low-carb diet that emphasizes healthy proteins and fats from fish and plant-based foods, U.S. News noted. 

The Keyto diet does not include refined carbohydrates or added sugar.

The Optavia diet focuses on reduced calories and low carbohydrates, offering a combination of packaged and homemade meals.

A "lifestyle program designed for weight loss," the diet is "derived from the Medifast diet. [It] relies heavily on prepackaged foods, referred to as ‘fuelings,’ in combination with home-prepared recipes," said U.S. News about this diet plan. 

"Subscribing to the plan will also give you access to an independent coach who can help guide your Optavia journey. Many commercial weight loss plans sell very similar products – bars, shakes, dry soup mixes and more. If you’re a chronic dieter, some of these will undoubtedly taste familiar to you," the publication noted.

The ketogenic (keto) diet only allows a very small amount of carbohydrates, with an emphasis on high-fat foods.

Some purported health benefits of the keto diet include weight loss and reduced risk of diseases, according to Healthline.

Created by cardiologist Robert Atkins in the 1960s, the Atkins diet is a low-carb meal plan that emphasizes proteins and fats. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

By restricting carbs, the diet forces the body to use stored fat for energy.

Introduced in 1977, SlimFast is a diet plan based on meal replacement products, including shakes, smoothies and meal bars. 

The remainder of daily calories comes from a "sensible meal" of between 500 and 600 calories.

This diet incorporates high-protein, low-carb foods with the goal of promoting fat burning and weight loss.

"Developed by French physician Dr. Pierre Dukan, the diet claims that you can lose up to 10 pounds within the first week and two to four pounds a week after that until you’ve reached your goal," wrote U.S. News in its review, also calling the diet "extremely restrictive."

Consisting of low-calorie meal replacement shakes and metabolism-boosting supplements, this diet plan "has been criticized by experts," wrote U.S. News. 

"The company’s nutrition philosophy focuses on balanced and personalized nutrition, including a combination of healthy foods and supplements. Its weight management program combines meal replacement shakes, which are consumed twice a day, and weight loss supplements with physical activity and behavior modification."

People who follow this eating plan consume mostly or entirely raw and unprocessed foods — specifically food that hasn't been "cooked, processed, microwaved, irradiated, genetically engineered or exposed to pesticides or herbicides," noted U.S. News.

It added that since its origination in the late 1800s, it's "become the focus of research to better understand the effects of raw food on human health."

"The U.S. News best diets of 2024 have a few things in common — they don’t restrict entire food groups, they emphasize whole foods, and they focus on balance and maintainability," added Schueller of U.S. News.

Anyone may learn more about the programs by checking out the full reviews. 

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/EvsGLb8

Read More

Mask mandates return to hospitals in several states amid rise in COVID and flu cases

Amid the current rise in COVID-19 cases and influenza respiratory infections, New York City public hospitals are joining a growing number of health care facilities in states across the country to reinstitute mask mandates, according to multiple reports.

The indoor mask requirement is in effect at 11 hospitals, 30 health centers and five long-term care facilities that are part of the NYC Health + Hospitals system, according to a recent news report.

"Masking remains an extremely important and effective way to reduce transmission of respiratory viral infections, including COVID and influenza," Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital on Long Island, New York, told Fox News Digital.

FAUCI ‘CONCERNED’ PEOPLE WON’T COMPLY IF MASKING RECOMMENDATIONS RETURN: 'I HOPE' THEY 'ABIDE'

The indoor masking requirement applies only to patient care areas in the facilities, Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan told a local news outlet.

Resuming the masking mandate also helps to protect medical workers amid a spike in respiratory illnesses, he noted.

None of the city hospitals are overwhelmed with patients at the moment, Vasan added.

Hospital systems in at least six other states — California, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Washington and Wisconsin — have also instituted mask mandates, according to recent news reports.

Some of those include UC Health in Cincinnati, Ohio; Sonoma (California) Valley Hospital; University of Chicago Medicine Center; City of Hope in Duarte, California; Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa Medical Center in California; and UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, Massachusetts, among others, according to Becker's Hospital Review.

Around the nation, hospital admissions due to COVID-19 increased by 16.7% to 29,059 for the week ending Dec. 23, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

That marked the seventh consecutive week that COVID-related hospitalizations have increased and the highest number on record since late January 2023.

The Omicron variant JN.1 is expected to account for approximately 39% to 50% of circulating variants in the United States, according to CDC data as of Dec. 23.

Hospital admissions linked to influenza also increased nationally to 14,732 for the week ending Dec. 23.

FACE MASKS MADE ‘LITTLE TO NO DIFFERENCE’ IN PREVENTING SPREAD OF COVID, SCIENTIFIC REVIEW FINDS

"CDC estimates that there have been at least 7.1 million illnesses, 73,000 hospitalizations and 4,500 deaths from flu so far this season," the agency noted on its website.

Flu activity remains elevated in most areas of the county, as is hospital admissions.

Some 44% of adults in the U.S. had received the flu vaccination by late December and only an estimated 19% had received updated COVID-19 vaccinations as of early December, according to CDC data.

"The decision to mandate the wearing of masks — versus just strongly recommending them — will depend in part upon the incidence of COVID and influenza, the presence of immunocompromised patients on selected units and many other variables," Glatt told Fox News Digital.

The CDC urges people and institutions to visit the agency’s website for information to help them make an informed decision on when to wear or require a mask.

'PANDEMIC SKIP,' A COVID MENTAL HEALTH PHENOMENON, COULD DELAY MAJOR MILESTONES, EXPERTS SAY

Some factors that should influence the decision include local COVID hospital admission levels and an individual’s underlying risk factors for severe disease, such as older age, pregnancy and certain medical conditions.

"Each institution needs to assess all of these parameters and come up with an appropriate policy that can be implemented and easily modified as needed," Glatt added.

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, previously said he supports mask requirements in hospitals that have vulnerable, high-risk patients.

He does not support universal mask mandates, however.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

In cases where masks are used or required, the doctor told Fox News Digital in August that they should be "KN95 or better" and that people should receive instructions on proper use.

Added Siegel, "They should only be considered for a high volume of circulating respiratory viruses."

Melissa Rudy of Fox News Digital contributed reporting. 

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/sCRxu6z

Read More

Fight cold and flu with these 10 immune-boosting recipes from a Texas registered dietitian

With flu season in full swing — and other seasonal respiratory infections also spiking across the U.S. — experts say it’s important to keep your immune system strong and healthy during this time of year. 

One way to combat seasonal illness is to regularly consume key nutrients and proteins that help improve immune health, according to Amy Goodson, a registered dietitian and sports nutrition consultant in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

"The overall importance of nutritious foods in boosting immunity cannot be overstated, as the intricate relationship between diet and the immune system profoundly influences the body's ability to defend against infections and maintain optimal health," Goodson, who is also the author of "The Sports Nutrition Playbook," told Fox News Digital.

AS COVID CASES RISE, PROBIOTICS COULD REDUCE SYMPTOMS AND INFECTION, STUDY SUGGESTS

"A well-balanced and diverse diet provides essential nutrients that play key roles in supporting various immune functions."

Goodson recommended the following seven recipes that contain key ingredients to ward off winter illness.

"Beef is a top source of zinc, which plays a key role in immune function," Goodson said. 

"Just 3 ounces of beef provides 53% of the recommended daily value of zinc."

Beef is also a high-quality protein source that can help boost immunity, she said.

The broccoli in this recipe includes beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant known to help decrease inflammation and increase immune function. 

The bell peppers, rich in vitamin C, can help stimulate white blood cell activity to strengthen immune defense. 

Ingredients: Lean beef strips, broccoli, bell peppers, soy sauce, ginger, garlic

Instructions: Stir-fry beef and vegetables in soy sauce, ginger and garlic until cooked.

Mushrooms contain selenium, a nutrient essential for the proper functioning of the immune system, Goodson noted. 

It also has antioxidant properties.

Ingredients: Bell peppers, mushrooms, quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, tomato sauce, cheese

Instructions: Cook quinoa. Sauté mushrooms, onion and garlic. Mix with cooked quinoa, black beans, cumin and paprika. 

THESE 10 NUTRITION MISTAKES COULD BE TAKING YEARS OFF YOUR LIFE

Stuff the peppers, top with tomato sauce and cheese. Bake until cheese is melted.

"Curcumin, found in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, supporting immune health," said Goodson.

Ingredients: Milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, honey

Instructions: Heat milk, add turmeric, ginger and cinnamon. Whisk until well mixed. Sweeten with honey.

A salad containing citrus fruits is high in vitamin C, which supports the production of white blood cells, essential for fighting infections and viruses, according to Goodson.

Ingredients: Oranges, grapefruits, kiwi, pomegranate seeds, mint leaves

Instructions: Mix citrus fruits, top with pomegranate seeds, garnish with mint leaves.

The probiotics in yogurt promote a healthy gut microbiome, positively impacting immune function, the dietitian told Fox News Digital.

Ingredients: Greek yogurt, mixed berries, granola, honey

Instructions: Layer yogurt, berries and granola in a glass. Drizzle with honey.

The vitamin E in spinach acts as an antioxidant, protecting immune cells from damage.

Ingredients: Chicken breast, spinach, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil

Instructions: Mix spinach, feta and garlic. Stuff into a chicken breast and bake until cooked.

"The vitamin K in broccoli plays a role in regulating the immune response and inflammatory processes," Goodson noted.

ASK A DOC: ‘DOES CHICKEN SOUP REALLY HELP CURE A COLD?’

Ingredients: Broccoli, cheddar cheese, onion, chicken broth

Instructions: Cook broccoli and onions in broth, blend and add cheese.

The riboflavin (vitamin B2) in almonds supports the production of antibodies and helps maintain a healthy immune system, according to Goodson.

Ingredients: Almonds, banana, yogurt, honey, milk

Instructions: Blend almonds, banana, yogurt, honey and milk until smooth.

Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, a nutrient that is converted into vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in immune function.

WHITE POTATOES VS. SWEET POTATOES: NUTRITION AND HEALTH EXPERTS CHIME IN ON WHICH IS BETTER 

Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, olive oil, paprika, salt

Instructions: Cut sweet potatoes into fries and toss with olive oil, paprika and salt. Bake until crispy.

"The flavonoids in berries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to immune system modulation," said Goodson.

Ingredients: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, mint, lime juice

Instructions: Mix berries, garnish with mint and drizzle with lime juice.

THESE ARE THE BEST IMMUNE-BOOSTING FOODS, ACCORDING TO NUTRITION EXPERTS

When putting together immune-boosting recipes, Goodson emphasized the importance of dietary diversity.

"Beyond individual nutrients, the synergy of various compounds in whole foods contributes to a holistic approach to immune health," she said.

"Incorporating a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats into daily meals enhances the body's resilience, helping to ward off illnesses and promote overall well-being."

On a broader scale, Goodson highlighted seven essential components of an immune-boosting diet.

1. Vitamins and minerals

Essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamin E — along with minerals like zinc and selenium — are vital for the proper functioning of the immune system, she pointed out.

"These micronutrients contribute to the production and activity of immune cells, the regulation of inflammation and the protection of cells from oxidative stress," Goodson said.

2. Antioxidants

Found in fruits, vegetables and other plant-based foods, antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and compromise the immune system, she noted.

"Berries, citrus fruits and leafy greens are rich sources of antioxidants that contribute to overall immune resilience," the expert said.

3. Protein

Adequate protein intake is essential for the synthesis of antibodies and immune system proteins, according to Goodson.

STUDY SUGGESTS MEDITERRANEAN DIET COULD BOOST MALE FERTILITY: 'CRUCIAL ROLE'

"Protein-rich foods, including lean meats, fish, dairy and plant-based sources like beans and lentils, support the body's ability to mount an effective immune response," she said.

4. Gut health

"A significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut," Goodson said. 

"Probiotics, found in fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi and sauerkraut, promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, positively influencing immune function and overall digestive health."

5. Omega-3 fatty acids

"Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds and walnuts, contribute to a balanced inflammatory response and support the immune system's ability to combat infections," the nutritionist said.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

6. Phytonutrients

Present in colorful fruits and vegetables, phytonutrients have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

"These compounds, such as quercetin in apples and resveratrol in grapes, contribute to immune system modulation and overall health," said Goodson.

7. Hydration

"Proper hydration is essential for the optimal function of all bodily systems, including the immune system," Goodson said.

"Water supports the transportation of nutrients, the elimination of waste products, and the maintenance of mucous membranes, which act as a barrier against pathogens."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/fhgwAis

Read More

New antibiotic kills deadly, drug-resistant bacteria in ‘scientific breakthrough’

Scientists in Switzerland have announced the discovery of a new class of antibiotics shown to be effective against deadly, drug-resistant bacteria.

The antibiotic, called zosurabalpin, works by blocking a bacterial molecule called lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is responsible for creating the outer membrane that protects a harmful bacteria, Acinetobacter baumannii.

Acinetobacter is a "gram-negative" bacteria, which means it is resistant to most antibiotics and other drugs. 

It can cause infections in the blood, lungs, urinary tract and other parts of the body, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In animal studies, zosurabalpin successfully killed drug-resistant strains of Acinetobacter.

ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE IS ON THE RISE, DOCTOR WARNS: ‘THIS IS AN ENORMOUS PROBLEM’

The research, conducted at Roche Pharma Research & Early Development in Switzerland, was published in the journal Nature on Jan. 3.

"This new class of antibiotics prevents bacteria from creating their outer membrane, which provide structure to the bacteria and help them survive in harsh environments and cause infection," Kenneth Bradley, the Switzerland-based global head of infectious disease discovery at Roche, told Fox News Digital via email.

Without the ability to transport LPS — the bacteria die.

"The new molecule overcomes the existing drug-resistance mechanisms that the currently available antibiotics are failing to address," Bradley said.

WHY ANTIBIOTICS MAY NOT HELP PATIENTS SURVIVE THEIR VIRAL INFECTIONS: NEW RESEARCH

This is the first time in over 50 years that a new class of antibiotic has been identified to treat infections by gram-negative bacteria, he noted.

Zosurabalpin specifically targets Acinetobacter.

"The specificity of zosurabalpin is due to the unique way in which it binds to the drug target in these bacteria," Bradley said. 

The hope is that this finding could help eventually to fight other drug-resistant bacteria.

"Discovery of the mode of action of zosurabalpin in Acinetobacter may enable the identification of other drugs that work in the same way in other antibiotic-resistant bacteria," Bradley told Fox News Digital.

Zosurabalpin is currently in a phase 1 clinical trial, which will evaluate the "safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics" of the molecule, according to the researcher.

'SILENT PANDEMIC' WARNING FROM WHO: BACTERIA KILLING TOO MANY PEOPLE DUE TO ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

"These data, as well as data from future pivotal phase 3 clinical studies, would be needed to determine the safety and efficacy profile of the molecule," he added.

The discovery of zosurabalpin, which Bradley calls a "scientific breakthrough," will help researchers learn more about the construction of bacterial membranes, knowledge that could enable new drugs to kill bacteria.

The finding is especially significant, given that resistance to antibiotics has been on the rise in various gram-negative bacteria for several decades, he said. 

"Any new antibiotic class that has the ability to treat infections caused by multi-drug-resistant bacteria such as carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) would be a significant breakthrough," he added. 

Michael Lobritz, the Switzerland-based head of infectious diseases at Roche, referred in a press release to antimicrobial resistance as a "silent pandemic."

"Over the next 30 years, it is projected to claim more lives than those taken by cancer today, according to the report of the economist Jim O’Neill," Lobritz said.

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, agreed that the growing resistance of gram-negative bacteria is a "huge problem."

"Our last line of defense for decades now in the hospital has been the carbapenem drugs, specifically Imipenem and Mirapenem," he told Fox News Digital. 

"But now there is an increase of carbapenem-resistant strains — including carbapenem-resistant Acinobacter baumannii, or CRAB — which are very difficult to treat."

Siegel also acknowledged the importance of the newly discovered zosurabalpin.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"It interferes with a lipid transport mechanism at the surface of the bacteria," he said. "This is very important, as there are now millions of deaths a year worldwide due to antibiotic resistance."

Zosurabalpin has only been tested in animals so far, Siegel noted, with human trials underway. 

Acinetobacter infections are most commonly seen in hospital patients, mainly affecting those who are on ventilators, have surgical wounds, are in intensive care units or have catheters, according to the CDC.

Those with lung disease, diabetes or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of infection.

The bacteria can spread from person to person or via contact with contaminated surfaces.

Acinetobacter baumannii, along with other gram-negative bacteria, is tracked by the CDC as part of its Emerging Infections Program.

Looking ahead, Siegel said he expects that artificial intelligence will help speed up the process of developing new antibiotics and make it "more effective and streamlined."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/71zr9x6

Read More

Child seizures caught on video may be a clue to solving unexplained crib deaths

The last bedtime of 17-month-old Hayden Fell’s life was heartbreakingly normal. Crib video shows the toddler in pajamas playing happily as his parents and sister sang "Wheels on the Bus" with his twin brother.

The next morning, Hayden’s dad couldn’t wake him. The tot had become one of several hundred seemingly healthy U.S. toddlers and preschoolers each year who suddenly die in their sleep and autopsies can’t tell why. But Hayden’s crib cam was recording all night — and offered a clue.

Seizures during sleep are a potential cause of at least some cases of sudden unexplained death in childhood, or SUDC, researchers at NYU Langone Health reported Thursday after analyzing home monitoring video that captured the deaths of seven sleeping toddlers.

BABY KILLED, ANOTHER BRAIN DAMAGED BY INFECTIOUS BACTERIA PREVIOUSLY RESPONSIBLE FOR FORMULA RECALL: REPORT

Similar to SIDS in babies, SUDC is the term when these mysterious deaths occur any time after a child’s first birthday. Little is known about SUDC but some scientists have long suspected seizures may play a role. In addition to some genetics research, scientists also have found that a history of fever-related seizures was about 10 times more likely among the children who died suddenly than among youngsters the same age.

The new study is very small but offers the first direct evidence of a seizure link. Five of the toddlers died shortly after movements deemed to be a brief seizure by a team of forensic pathologists, a seizure specialist and a sleep specialist. A sixth child probably also had one, according to findings published online by the journal Neurology.

"It’s hard to watch," said Dr. Orrin Devinsky, an NYU neurologist and the study’s senior author. "We have video which is in some ways the best evidence we may ever get of what’s happened to these kids."

The recordings can’t prove fevers triggered the seizures but researchers noted several toddlers had signs of mild infections. One, Hayden, previously had such febrile seizures when he’d catch childhood bugs.

That raises a big question: Fever-related seizures are hugely common in young children, affecting 2% to 5% of tots between ages 6 months and 5 years. While scary, they’re hardly ever harmful. So how could anyone tell if occasionally, they might be a warning of something more serious?

BABY IN ALABAMA MAULED TO DEATH BY FAMILY'S PET 'WOLF-HYBRID'

"I thought he would be fine and it was just a matter of letting this run its course," said Justin Fell, explaining how multiple doctors told the Bel Air, Maryland, family not to worry whenever Hayden had a fever-sparked seizure. Instead, "it was every parent’s nightmare."

Laura Gould, one of the NYU researchers, understands that agonizing frustration. In 1997 she lost her 15-month-old daughter Maria to what later was named SUDC — the toddler woke up one night with a fever, was her usual happy self the next morning but died during a nap. Gould later co-founded the nonprofit SUDC Foundation and helped establish NYU's registry of about 300 deaths — including the first seven videos offered by families — for research.

Gould doesn't want families to be scared by the new findings — they won't change advice about febrile seizures. Instead, researchers next will have to determine if it’s possible to tease out differences between those very rare children who die and the masses who are fine after an occasional seizure.

"If we can figure out the children at risk, maybe we can change their outcome," she said.

It’s hard for autopsies to find evidence of a seizure so using video from home monitors to reevaluate deaths "is actually very clever," said Dr. Marco Hefti, a neuropathologist at the University of Iowa who wasn’t involved with the study but has also investigated SUDC.

TERMINALLY ILL UK BABY GETS MORE TIME TO LIVE AS PARENTS FIGHT JUDGE TO BRING HER TO VATICAN HOSPITAL

"It’s not that parents need to be stressing out, panicking about every febrile seizure," he cautioned. But Hefti said it's time for additional research, including animal studies and possibly sleep studies in children, to better understand what's going on.

SUDC is estimated to claim over 400 lives a year in the U.S. Most occur during sleep. And just over half, about 250 deaths a year, are in 1- to 4-year-olds.

Sudden death in babies occurs more often and gets more public attention — along with more research funding that in turn has uncovered risk factors and prevention advice such as to put infants to sleep on their backs. But SUDC happens to youngsters long past the age of SIDS. The Fells had never even heard of it until Hayden died.

Hayden experienced his first seizure shortly before his first birthday, when a cold-like virus sparked a fever. Additional mild bugs triggered several more but Hayden always rapidly bounced back — until the night in November 2022 when he died.

Other recent studies, at NYU and by a team at Boston Children’s Hospital, have hunted genetic links to SUDC — finding that some children harbored mutations in genes associated with heart or brain disorders, including irregular heartbeats and epilepsy.

Heart problems, including those mutations, couldn't explain the deaths of the toddlers in the video study, Devinsky said. He cautioned that far more research is needed but said epilepsy patients sometimes experience difficulty breathing after a seizure that can lead to death — and raised the prospect that maybe some SIDS deaths could have seizure links, too.

Hayden's mom, Katie Czajkowski-Fell, hopes the video evidence helps finally lead to answers.

"His life, it was too precious and too important for us to not try and do something with this tragedy."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/AovcjLl

Read More