WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE
Thursday, February 20th, 2020
Courtesy of: Michael Ellis D.C.
Health Alert: OTC Prescription-Strength Steroid Creams May Be Dangerous. Hydrocortisone cream is often used to treat a rash or allergic reaction, but it is not approved for sale over the counter (OTC) in the United States in a potency greater than 1%. Visits to retail stores across the United States revealed that prescriptionstrength hydrocortisone was readily available, especially in larger cities such as Chicago, San Francisco, Minneapolis, New York City, and Washington, D.C. The findings are concerning because long-term use of high doses of hydrocortisone cream can lead to thinning skin, bruising, changes in body fat, increased acne or facial hair, and menstrual problems. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, February 2020 Diet: Eating Out Equals Bad Nutrition. New research suggests that 70% of meals from fast-food providers and half of meals from full-service restaurants offer little nutritional value according to American Heart Association guidelines. Journal of Nutrition, January 2020 Exercise: Benefits of Daily Squats. The Life and Health Network notes that daily squats offer the following benefits: increased mobility and balance, improved circulation, stronger leg muscles, and improved metabolism. Life and Health Network, January 2020 Chiropractic: Musculoskeletal Disorders and Depression. Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of pain and disability in nurses and are often accompanied by depression. A recent survey of 397 nurses found that one in seven suffered from both musculoskeletal pain and depression and the risk was greatest among those with work-family conflicts and non-traditional work schedules. The study reveals the need for workplace programs to address nurses' working conditions to reduce their work-family conflict, thereby improving their musculoskeletal and mental health. Workplace Health & Safety, January 2020 Mental Attitude: Low Vitamin D Levels and Dementia Risk. A meta-analysis of data from five published studies suggests that vitamin D deficiency is associated with up to a 33% increased risk for dementia. Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease, January 2020 Wellness/Prevention: Reduce Foot Odor. The Cleveland Clinic recommends the following to avoid bothersome foot odor: soak your feet in a mixture of Epsom salt and water; wash your feet thoroughly when showering and scrub between the toes; keep your feet dry after bathing, soaking, or swimming; choose socks made of cotton and shoes made of natural materials, such as leather; disinfect your shoes with a general-purpose disinfectant; and use an over-the-counter foot antiperspirant. Cleveland Clinic, January 2020 Quote: “If you think it's hard to meet new people, try picking up the wrong golf ball.” ~ Jack Lemmon