Health Arsenic Parenting Most packaged baby food sold in the U.S. contains worrisome levels of at least one heavy metal, according to a consumer group. Researchers at Consumer Reports checked 50 products intended for babies and toddlers which are available countrywide for among the most harmful heavy metals: cadmium; lead; mercury; and inorganic arsenic. Exposure to such chemicals at a young age can have long-lasting and irreversible effects. All products had measurable levels of at least one of the tested heavy metals, although that does not necessarily mean they would harm a child's health. Around two thirds of products contained what researchers described as worrying levels of at least one heavy metal, and 15 products could potentially damage the health of children if more than one serving per day was eaten. Dr. James E. Rogers, director of food safety research and testing at Consumer Reports, explained: “Babies and toddlers are … [Read more...] about Heavy Metals in Baby Food: The Potential Side Effects of Lead, Arsenic, Mercury and Cadmium
3 fact about mercury
UK weather has thousands of pale Brits complaining about sunburn as heatwave scorches the nation – and there’s more to come
PALE Brits have been left red like lobsters after a record-breaking heatwave swept across the country yesterday - with more sunshine and heat to come. The mercury soared to 29.1C yesterday, making it the hottest April day in nearly 70 years, with forecasters again expecting sizzling summer-like temperatures to once again hit the UK today. But some have been left a little worse for wear after trying to make the most of yesterday's sun - with many sharing photographs of their bright red sun burn. The warmth has also seemingly tempted many people into a three day weekend, with commuters reporting their trains were unusually empty on the way into work this morning. Met Office meteorologist John West said today would not be quite as warm as yesterday, but temperatures could still reach a balmy 27C, making it all the more tempting to head outside. He said: "Temperatures are going to do quite well today - it's a warm day with plenty of sunshine. "It may even touch 28C in London and the South … [Read more...] about UK weather has thousands of pale Brits complaining about sunburn as heatwave scorches the nation – and there’s more to come
What parents should know about fevers, according to a pediatrician
Many parents panic when their child feels warm. But a fever is not a disease itself. It's just a symptom, or rather a sign that the body is trying to fight off an illness. The American Academy of Pediatrics defines a fever as a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. That number is the benchmark regardless of how you take your child's temperature, what thermometer you use or how old your child is. But it doesn't necessarily mean a trip to the pediatrician.Here are the fever facts all parents need to know.What kind of thermometer is best?Rectal thermometers are the most accurate and preferred method for taking a newborn baby's temperature. For older infants and toddlers, who probably won't hold still long enough for a rectal thermometer, a digital forehead thermometer, temporal artery thermometer or ear thermometer is fine. I have a few types in my home and at my office. My kids love the no-touch thermometer - I point it at their foreheads, click the button, and get a number with green, … [Read more...] about What parents should know about fevers, according to a pediatrician
What you need to know about running the Paris marathon
The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris takes place in the French capital on Sunday and if you are one of the 57,000 set to run/walk/hobble around Paris then you might find this info useful. 1. There'll be long queues to get your number If you haven’t managed to pick up your number - or “dossard” as they are called in France - on Thursday or Friday then be prepared to face long queues on Saturday. You could be standing for more than an hour or so, which isn’t exactly ideal preparation for a 42-kilometre run the next day. 2. The weather forecast Spring has finally arrived in Paris and the mercury is rising in time for the marathon. Some runners however might find it too warm. Make sure to keep hydrated and perhaps even a little sunscreen. Image: Météo France 3. Prepare for the slow start When The Local’s editor Ben McPartland ran the Paris Marathon a couple of years ago, he didn’t get past the start … [Read more...] about What you need to know about running the Paris marathon
Cinnamon: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
Credit: iStock.com/Derkien Cinnamon is a popular spice that has been used for its healing powers for centuries. Modern science is beginning to look more closely at potential cinnamon health benefits for oral infections, gastrointestinal issues, and skin diseases, among others. Its active compounds cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate appear to give it a leg up on most other spices, and cinnamon’s nutrition facts surely won’t disappoint. The invigorating taste of cinnamon appeals to most and adds a distinguished flavor to virtually anything. It’s a popular gum flavor and addition to cocktails, and can be rolled into sticks or sprinkled on oats, fruit, or bread in powder form to give them some extra kick. It’s also been identified as a potent source of antioxidants, featuring anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-diarrheal, and anti-cancer properties while also promoting a healthy heart. All of these cinnamon benefits can … [Read more...] about Cinnamon: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits