PAGE IS 100 THE NEW 80? WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT LONGEVITY 38
SEPTEMBER WEBMD.COM 2018
CANCER CARE & SUPPORT
DERMATOLOGISTS’ SONEQUA ANTI-AGING SECRETS MARTIN-GREEN PAGE 25 IS YOUR CHILD ON HER MOST TOO BUSY IMPORTANT ROLE TO SLOW DOWN? PAGE 32 PAGE 28
CRYSTALS AND SALT LAMPS: DO THEY REALLY HEAL? HEALTH AND PAGE 44 WEALTH: SUZE ORMAN’S TOP TIPS PAGE 13 WEBMD MAGAZINE Contents SEPTEMBER 2018
FEATURES
32 Greatest Role Sonequa Martin-Green talks about supporting her family through cancer—and what they learned in the process “Being a 44 caregiver takes The Facts About Facets Crystals, salt lamps, and everything energy healing are popular. Do they really work? you have. We are octopuses as women! I have by no means mastered it. There is a constant yearning within me to do more.” AMANDA FRIEDMAN / TRUNK ARCHIVE TRUNK / FRIEDMAN AMANDA
1 WEBMD.COM WEBMD MAGAZINE Contents SEPTEMBER 2018
OUR 100th ISSUE
4 Editor’s Note
7 Facts & Stats Living to 100
19 Fitness Smarts How exercise can help you live to 100
38 100: Is It the New 80? People who live to 100 and beyond are a grow- ing group. What does science reveal about the secrets to longevity? GETTY IMAGES
2 WEBMD.COM WEBMD MAGAZINE Contents SEPTEMBER 2018
NEW RESEARCH 31 ON MENOPAUSE PG 53
22 CHECKUP
53 Cutting Edge | News about 48 delaying menopause, easing symptoms, and more
15 54 Expert Q& A | What you should 28 know about taking medication while pregnant
55 Spotlight | Learn more about clinical trials
56 Health Highlights | Living with HIV
57 Quiz | How much do you know BEAUTY FAMILY about cholesterol? 58 By the Numbers | Facts and stats 21 Hair Care 26 Quality Time on health and aging Keep your hair healthy The benefits of story time with a DIY trim 27 Baby LIVING 22 Beauty Smarts Answers to common Dermatologists’ pro questions about crying In Every Issue 11 Stay Positive tips for anti-aging 28 Parenting Can a good attitude shield 24 Expert Picks What you can do if your 6 UPFRONT you from dementia? As temperatures child is too busy News about pain management, stress 12 Men’s Health start to dip, adopt 29 Teen Health 59 new products to help eating, and more The latest screening Managing adolescent protect your skin 59 TAKE 10 guidelines for prostate moods Maria Menounos on cancer 25 Derm Q&A 31 Pets her new radio show Learn the basics 13 Health & Wealth Simple ways to help your and coping with a of eczema Top tips from Suze Orman pet live longer brain tumor 15 Mind Matters Get the facts about post- FOOD traumatic stress disorder 48 Good for You 51 Squash 101 On the Cover 17 Work Wise The nutritional power Four varieties to add PHOTOGRAPHY: JONATHAN GRASSI How a noisy workplace of radishes to your plate STYLIST: HEATHER NEWBERGER can damage your hearing HAIR: DAVID CRUZ 49 3 Ways: Grilled Pizza MAKEUP: ANNE KOHLHAGEN 18 Women’s Health Top your pizza with What is endometriosis? these healthy options
3 WEBMD.COM EDITOR'SEDITOR’S NOTE
FROM THE WEBMD TEAM WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY FROM A PAST ISSUE?
Vanessa Cognard WebMD Vice President, Publisher
My favorite WebMD Magazine story is the March/April 2018 cover feature with Jim and Jeannie Gaffigan,an example Theresa Saladino of what WebMD does best: WebMD Director, Tell an inspirational story of a family facing a Policy & Governance health crisis averted by attentive detection, innovative technology, and perseverance. I’ve admired the honesty, Their family, love, and the spirit to cope frankness, and courage with potential tragedy inspired me. of each celebrity who has appeared on the cover of WebMD Magazine. Of all those whose personal stories Valarie Basheda have touched me, Viola WebMD Director, News and Davis (January/February Special Reports 2018) stands out. I was ebMD Magazine made its struck by her ability to debut in 2005 as “a waiting As a busy mom, I’m always overcome the odds reading tips on beauty products room companion,” designed she faced as a child and W and new recipes to try. My boys and I love Kevin achieve the success she to help you make the most of your Hart, and I really enjoyed his recent interview did as an adult. Ms. doctor’s visit. Now in its 100th issue, the (June 2017). It was great to hear how he’s Davis’s dedication to magazine has stayed true to that original using his fame to encourage people to get eradicating childhood mission but also has constantly grown active. I’m sure it would motivate my kids and hunger is poignantly me to do a 5K if we could run with him! and evolved just as medicine, technology, inspiring to me. and even how we interact with the health care system has changed significantly since that first issue. Voices We love all 100 installments of WebMD We are proud to announce that a Magazine, but we know the stories in WebMD short documentary, Voices each edition speak to us differently as was nominated for an award at the 2018 individuals. To mark this milestone, we Tribeca Film Festival in the Tribeca X brand asked some of our staff members who category, along with other top brands such as Apple and Square. The film tells the story have been a part of the launch and of New York artist Michelle Hammer, who evolution of the magazine to share their has schizophrenia and battles every day favorite memory from a past issue. We’d to control the war of words in her head love to hear from you, too! while using her artwork to fight the stigma attached to mental illness. With Kristy Hammam this film, WebMD hopes to change how Editor in Chief mental illness is perceived. Watch Voices: [email protected] webmd.com/voices.
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WebMD Magazine is distributed to doctors’ offices throughout the U.S., online at WebMD.com, and by download from the App Store. WebMD Magazine is not responsible for advertising claims. WebMD Magazine (ISSN 1553-9946), Vol. 14, No. 6, is published by WebMD LLC and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of WebMD LLC. All editorial content is reviewed by our board-certified physicians, is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider with any questions regarding a medical condition and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in WebMD Magazine. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. © 2018 WebMD LLC. All rights reserved. GETTY IMAGES 5 and Countingand Years... 100 THELONGVIEW Could you live 100 to the steady rise in life in rise the steady keys to longevitykeys to lie not and not smoking. smoking. not and good in also habits like possibility.a real The only good in genes, but Given beyond? or exercise, clean eating, is status centenarian expectancy, reaching TIMELY TOPICS % up from 2%in2012. older by the year 2050, who willbeage85 or Percentage ofAmericans Upfront 50% than more Percentage borninthe ofbabies U.S. since 2000 whocould live to be atleast 100years old. 72,197 72,197 from 50,281 in2000. and olderintheU.S. in2014, up Number ofAmericans age 100 NEWS YOU CAN USE older between 1999 and2014. 65among peopleages and rates from allcauses ofdeath Percentage drop indeath 20 WEBMD.COM % 6 GETTY IMAGES; PHOTOGRAPHY: SHARON SUH;STYLING: MINDY SAAD INTHENEWS Making Itto100 stone-prone, drinkingplentyofwater sothatyou urinate preventive alotisoneofthebest actions COLLEEN PARETTY COLLEEN Editorial Director you cantake. Talk to your doctor abouthelpful webmd.com Kidney stone rates amongwomen have more than quadrupledinthelast30years. Ifyou’re colleen@ changes tochanges your dietandexercise routine.
the New 80?” onpage38. into that successful trajectory? Find outinourstory, “100: IsIt different trajectory ofaging,” notes onescientist. Whatfactors go health, both inbrain andbody. “We thinkthey mightbeona reveal a profile of“super-agers” who enjoy exceptionally good worldwide andcounting). Solidresearch andongoingstudies the sheer number of centenarians alive today (more than 450,000 a goalthatreally is. Theresults may surprise you, with starting imagination. Sowe decidedto take agoodlookathow plausible life; livingto 100issomething ofagoldstandard inthepopular resonates withpeoplewhenthey thinkaboutalong,well-lived because thisisthe100theditionof We celebrate 100inseveral stories inthisissue, andnot only Stone Prone CHILDREN NOT FOR From 2000 to 2012, nearly halfofthecalls thatU.S. Poison Control Energy drinks—those highlycaffeinated elixirs—are not for children. received aboutenergy drinks involved children under6years
SOURCE: SOURCE: old. Kidsare more likely to have badreactions because they some contain more than6.5 ofcola. servings are aren’t smallerandtheirbodies asused to caffeine as as muchcaffeine as1.5 oftheaverage servings cola, but caffeine energy drinks may contain. Most contain about the average adult.TheFDA putsnolimitontheamountof Current Sports MedicineReports Current Sports Mayo Proceedings Clinic — UPFRONT WebMD Magazine WebMD . Thenumber 63 of Americans whohave visited a doctor for neckorbackpain. PERCENTAGE SOURCE: Gallup %
WEBMD.COM 7 UPFRONT
MUSIC MACHINE Healthy Way to Manage Pain Researchers trained a computer to identify the Physical therapy may be just as effective as opioid painkillers in song a person hears based on reading an MRI. the treatment of certain types of pain. In one study, people who Six volunteers listened to 40 rock, pop, jazz, received physical therapy immediately after hip-replacement surgery folk, and classical pieces during an MRI brain used fewer opioids to manage pain than those who didn’t receive scan. The MRI identified the unique patterns therapy. People who had physical therapy within three days of the of brain activity triggered by each piece, and start of low-back pain were also less likely to use opioid painkillers a computer learned to recognize the patterns. than those who didn’t. Opioid painkillers are highly addictive. The computer was eventually able to identify The CDC recommends that patients and their doctors try non- the music with 85% accuracy. The study aims to pharmaceutical treatments for pain first. EVENING SNACK advance technology that might allow machines SOURCE: Physical Therapy to communicate with people without speech. Trying to lose weight? Don’t let SOURCE: Scientific Reports the end of a stressful day derail your diet. Overweight adults are more likely to overeat in HEALTH CLASS HELPS Almost half of Americans ages 14 to 49 have herpes. Fifteen years ago, nearly 60% the evening, especially when had it. Researchers credit safer sex and young people delaying sex. they’re under stress. In a SOURCE: CDC 90 study, when overweight adults million fasted for eight hours, they NUMBER of cases of gastrointestinal, respiratory, had a bigger appetite when ear, eye, and skin-related illnesses from they broke their fast at 4 p.m. swimming, paddling, boating, and NO PRESSURE fishing in the U.S. every year. compared to 9 a.m. Likewise, Parents, if your child’s SOURCE: Environmental Health when they were put under 41,000 blood pressure is high, ask Pregnancy Puffs NUMBER your health care provider to stress, which is known to raise of root canals performed to repair 1 in 14 U.S. women smokes during pregnancy. check it again. High blood levels of the hunger hormone decayed or infected teeth in the U.S. every pressure readings Smoking during pregnancy can lead to day. Good oral hygiene that prevents tooth ghrelin, they produced more decay can reduce your risk for this procedure. in kids are wrong more premature birth, low birthweight, and a than half the time, hunger hormones under SOURCE: American Association of Endodontists number of birth defects. says a study of 186,732 late-afternoon stress than pediatric medical records. SOURCE: CDC morning stress. SOURCE: The Journal of Clinical Hypertension SOURCE: International Journal of Obesity MILK MISTAKES Judging by the label, toddler milk and formulas—marketed WONDER WOMEN for children ages 12 to 36 months—look suspiciously like infant formula, a study finds. But they are not the same. First, the FDA In almost all human study of survival differences populations, women outlive during seven historical events does not regulate toddler drinks. That means there’s no proof men. Many studies suggest of high mortality that included of the health claims on the labels. Second, toddler milk and that the survival advantage is epidemics, famines, and formulas are not necessary for growth and development. because men are more likely to slavery, females outlived males. Pediatricians recommend infant formula for babies up to smoke, drink, use drugs, eat a Most of the difference was in 12 months old who don’t receive breast milk. Toddlers 1 poor diet, and take dangerous infant mortality—baby girls year or older can get all the calcium and vitamin D they risks. But new research points survived the conditions better need in 1 to 1½ cups of cow’s milk. to biological differences. In a than baby boys. SOURCE: Preventive Medicine
GETTY IMAGES SOURCE: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
9 WEBMD.COM GETTY IMAGES SOURCE: the world’s demands. misalignment ofnightowls’ needswith say, couldbedueto constant too. problems, These theresearchers problems, andneurological disorders, higher rates ofdiabetes,psychological morning person.” Thenightowls had whocalledthemselvesones a“definite during thesix-year studythanthe in late—were 10% more likely to die owl”—they stay uplate andsleep labeled themselves a “definite night study of433,268 adults,thosewho wise,” buthealthy may betrue. Ina The jury’s stillouton“wealthy and a manhealthy, wealthy, andwise.” “Early to bed, early rise, makes WORM GETS THE EARLY BIRD When your spousetells you it’stime to get that mole onyour back checked, do it!Marriedpeoplehave earliermelanomadetection Chronobiology InternationalChronobiology rates than single people, new research shows. MARRIAGE AND MELANOMA
UPFRONT SOURCE: developed atiny, dissolvable fiber optic sensor that could fiber opticsensorthatcould fracture organ oradiseased one day beusedto monitor Researchers studied menonhormonetherapy for prostate cancer. Halfattended a lead disease to heart anddiabetes. Lifestyle could changes make abigdifference. 12-week group program thatincludedexercise andnutritioncounseling. Theother while increasing andmuscle strength. mobility Theother mengainedweight, lost blocking male hormones canblocking malehormones cause mento lose muscle andgainfat, whichcould half continued life asusual.Meninthegroup program lost about4poundsoffat Hormone therapy for prostate cancer suppresses tumor-feeding hormones. But JAMA Dermatology Researchers have inItaly the healing of a bone ofabone the healing from insidethebody. IMPROVE YOUR LIFESTYLE mobility, andsaw nochangeinmuscle strength. SOURCE: OpticsLetters INSIDE OUT SOURCE: Annals of Behavioral Medicine of new sexually transmitted infections that Americans contract each year. SOURCE: AmericanSexual Association Health million 20 NUMBER WEBMD.COM 10 HEALTHY HABITS Living MEANINGFUL CHANGE
STAY POSITIVE Rosy Future Could a good attitude about aging shield you from dementia?
FACING YOUR OLDER YEARS WITH a sunny outlook could have its advantages. In a PLOS One study, people who perceived aging in a positive light had a nearly 44% lower risk of developing dementia over the next four years compared to their more pessimistic peers. The protection extended to people who carried the APOE e4 gene variant, which increases dementia risk. The study authors say stress reduction might act as a buffer against mental decline. Though this research can’t prove that a good attitude wards off dementia, it doesn’t hurt to stay positive while you practice more established brain- protective strategies like exercise, social interaction, and good blood pressure control. —STEPHANIE WATSON GETTY IMAGES
11 WEBMD.COM GETTY IMAGES Get the latest on screening guidelines forprostate cancer onscreeningguidelines thelatest Get Conversation Starter MEN’SHEALTH DOCTOR ASK YOUR sion between a man and his doctor after they discussed the potential risks and thepotentialrisksand discussed they after amanandhisdoctor sion between took adifferent heldthat itshouldbeashareddeci- approachtoscreening.They havemight never becomelife-threatening. because positivePSA resultsfrequentlyledtorisky fortumorsthat surgery panel then declared, potentially did more harm than good, the expert test, gen (PSA) commonlyusedtooltoidentify prostate themost cancer. test, The reason: Insufficient theuseofprostate-specific supported evidence anti- tate cancerscreening.Here’s what youneedtoknow. followed healthcareguidelines,hasupdated itsrecommendations forpros- THE U.S. PREVENTIVE SERVICES TASK FORCE (USPSTF), WHICH SETS WIDELY But many health organizations, including the American Cancer Society (ACS), But many healthorganizations, (ACS), includingtheAmericanCancerSociety In 2012, theUSPSTF screeningforprostate cancer. advisedagainst The Go to WebMD.com/findadoctor. Go WebMD’s Physician Finder Looking for a doctor? Use
Q outweigh the benefits. outweigh the benefits. the risks ofscreening older men,theUSPSTF says 55patients ages to69. For screening withtheir male benefits andrisks of physicians todiscuss the The USPSTF advises talk to my doctor? When shouldI .
of prostate cancer? Q USPSTF not. does discussions. Currently, the ACS, recommend earlier medical groups, including the risk ofthedisease. Some prostate cancerhave ahigher men withafamily of history African-American men and Am I at higher risk Am Iathigherrisk LIVING
what happens next? what happensnext? with prostate cancer, Q prostate cancer. prostate cancerthanfrom many more mendiewith to take. Keep inmindthat you course decidethebest a urologist, whocan help Your doctorwillrefer you to
If I am diagnosed If Iamdiagnosed “You theissuebeforehand.” wanttounderstand yourdiagnosis,” before your doctor says Brawley. but thisisaconversation youwanttohave with tate cancer, may observation be a good option, rather thanimmediately treating it. cializes inprostate cancer tracks thedisease whospe- inwhichaurologist surveillance, a lowthreat, abetter alternative isactive incontinence. urinary and15develop dysfunction, erectile itself. For 80mentreated, 50develop every may present greater risks than the cancer that willcausenoharm.For them,treatment prostate cancer. many As ashalfhave tumors PSA-screened positivefor menwilltest to workon,” hesays. tices. “That’s we are going something to have care prac- prostate cancer into busy primary them: How toworkaconversation about however.to suchdiscussions, among Chief we wantmentohave withtheirdoctors.” there will bea rise in the types ofdiscussions andIthink will have onpractice, animpact Otis Brawley, USPSTF guidelines MD. “The together,” says Medical ACS Chief Officer decision-making. makes thesamerecommendation for shared research,theUSPSTF now ments ofexisting benefits. and reassess- evidence Based on new “For mendiagnosedwith low-riskpros- most formenwhose cancer is deemedOften, USPSTF estimates thatThe onein10 Brawley recognizessignificant obstacles bringsallthemajororganizations “This
REVIEWED BY the final word? recommendations Q should improve aswell. improves, recommendations understanding ofthedisease Probably not.Asdoctors’ Are these BY BY WebMD Medical Reviewer Matt McMillen
Sheldon Marks, MD WEBMD.COM
12 BY Stephanie Watson LIVING REVIEWED BY Brunilda Nazario, MD Search for the slideshow WebMD Lead Medical Director Top 11 Medical Expenses at WebMD.com.
HEALTH & WEALTH Top 5 SUZE ORMAN ENCOURAGES YOU TO TAKE THESE ACTIONS RIGHT NOW TO IMPROVE YOUR Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise FINANCIAL HEALTH. Personal finance guru Suze Orman marks the re-release of her bestseller, Women & Money, with savvy tips to protect your finances—and health—as you age
is going to be. If you have a stroke, you every possible profession. When times they’ve increased their premiums fall and hit your head, or you’re in a car you have machines doing the jobs and look into their rescission ratio— accident, that person can step in and of people, and you no longer have how many policies they’ve declined. take care of your money for you. people paying into our taxes and our FICA and our Medicare and Social Q What mistakes do women, in par- Q Why is an advance directive and Security, you have less money going ticular, make when it comes to their power of attorney for health care into those pots at the exact same health and money? 1. PRIORITIZE 4. GET AN ADVANCE critical for everyone to have? time that you have more people ORMAN The biggest mistake women Get as much DIRECTIVE AND pleasure in saving POWER OF ATTORNEY ORMAN An advance directive is a getting older. In just a few years, make with their money is that they as you do in FOR HEALTH CARE hand it over to someone to take directive to your doctors in advance the first baby boomers will turn 85. spending. This These let your doctor of your illness [that specifies] what So now you have more people using care of it for them, and they do not change of attitude know your wishes medical treatment you want and the system with less money in that monitor the person. They also put will make a happier, regarding medical do not want. Do you want to be put system. If you count on anything their kids’ needs in front of their own. healthier you. care if you’re unable on life support? Do you not want to other than what you yourself create, to communicate be put on life support? The durable you’re going to find yourself up a Q How much should people have them and appoints a person to make financial creek with no paddle. saved up for things like unexpected 2. ONLY SPEND power of attorney for health care is medical decisions for medical expenses, and where is the MONEY ON NEEDS, granted to the person who you have you if you can’t make best place to keep that money? NOT WANTS designated to make life decisions Q Why do you recommend purchas- them for yourself. ing long-term care insurance? You need at least an eight-month If you did that for one for you if you are not able. Everyone year, you would be emergency fund—enough to cover should have these documents. It’s ORMAN Long-term care insurance amazed at how much never too soon. covers the cost of nursing home care. eight months of mandatory expenses. money you saved. 5. DON’T RELY SOLELY One in three people older than age All of that should be in a money ON SOCIAL SECURITY market fund. AND MEDICARE Q What should you do with the 65 will spend some time in a nursing Q How is health tied to financial security? These government advance directive and power of home. But your health insurance 3. CREATE A LIVING ORMAN Health and wealth are closely related. When you don’t have the safety nets likely attorney paperwork? will not pay for a nursing home stay. Q What is your personal health REVOCABLE won’t cover your money to pay your bills, you have stress. When you have stress, you have Medicare only pays for a nursing philosophy? TRUST WITH AN ORMAN You should keep them in a safe retirement costs in inflammation in your body. When you have inflammation in your body, you ORMAN INCAPACITY CLAUSE place, but not in a safety deposit box, home stay for the first 100 days, if Your body is your temple. The future years. could become ill. When some people don’t have money, they don’t go for It allows someone because your family may not be able you’re lucky. Medicaid will pay for only way to stay healthy is to eat healthy, check-ups, they don’t go to a doctor. And when they postpone something else to take over to access them if their names aren’t on a nursing home, but only if you’re exercise, and drink lots of water. that’s little, little grows into big, and big can grow into severe. your finances if the box. Put them in a fireproof and financially destitute. you become too water-resistant case in your home, LISTEN TO THE PODCAST ill to handle them Q What’s your number-one tip—financial or otherwise—for living a long, Q What should people look for in a New episodes of “Women & Money” and saves your or just somewhere safe and sound. I are available every Thursday at healthy life? long-term care insurance plan? beneficiaries would review them once a year and PodcastOne.com and Apple Podcasts. ORMAN The number-one thing to live a healthy life is to not have debt. ORMAN A good plan is one from a thousands of dollars every time there is a change. For You can also send questions to Orman The type of debt I’m talking about is credit card debt and student loan company that’s been around for a in court costs at example, maybe you originally said on social media with #AskSuze or via debt. When you have credit card debt, that means you’ve been living above while. You should check how many email: [email protected]. your death. do not resuscitate, but now you want your means. And it stresses you out, especially if all you can do is pay the to be resuscitated. minimum payment every month. BY THE NUMBERS Q What are the risks of relying solely Q What’s the biggest mistake people make when financially planning for on Social Security and Medicare to $ their future health needs? pay for our health care needs as we 79,000 Percentage of women who discuss The approximate amount a ORMAN One is that they don’t have a living revocable trust with an incapacity grow older? health issues with their partners. 98% 78% Percentage of Social healthy 55-year-old woman clause in it that allows somebody to sign for them if they become incapacitated. ORMAN Artificial intelligence is now % Security income a 55-year- will pay more than her A living revocable trust is a document that protects you and your assets—and replacing service jobs. It is replacing Percentage who say they’re 62Percentage of women who say old woman who lives husband in retirement health saves your beneficiaries thousands of dollars in probate [the official process manufacturing jobs. It is replacing uncomfortable talking with loved Social Security will be their main to age 89 will spend on care expenses—because used to prove the validity of a will]. An incapacity clause says who your trustee the everyday worker in almost 80% ones about their finances. source of retirement income. health care expenses. she’ll live two years longer. 13 14 WEBMD.COM WEBMD.COM BY Lauren Paige Kennedy LIVING REVIEWED BY Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, MPH Search for the article How WebMD Senior Medical Director Do I Know If I Have PTSD? at WebMD.com.
MIND MATTERS SAY THE WORDS “POST-TRAUMATIC Emotional Minefield stress disorder”—PTSD—and most People with PTSD can include men, women, and people envision a male veteran returned home from combat who children who have never fought in combat but who still wages psychological warfare wage a silent, often terrifying, inner battle against frightening flashbacks and jittery nerves. However, this mental illness is not solely a battle for veterans—of either gender. According to the National Center for PTSD, nearly 8% of all Americans will have symptoms of PTSD during their lifetimes, with women more than twice as likely as men to develop the disorder. Compare that figure to the 7.3% of all living Americans who have served in the military—and then consider that even the modern active-duty military is only 15% female. Elizabeth Hoge, MD, associate professor, Department of Psychiatry, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Center for Trauma and the Community, says PTSD can affect Gender Specific any person, including children, Women’s PTSD sypmtoms who has endured the trauma of war, are different than men’s and terrorism, violent physical assault, or are more likely to include depression and anxiety. natural disaster. “It occurs in some people who’ve experienced a threat to their life or bodily integrity, with intense feelings of fear, helplessness, or horror,” Hoge explains. Both veterans and civilians with PTSD share similar symptoms.
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4 Treatments EXPOSURE THERAPY MEMORY RECASTING FEAR CONDITIONING BLOOD TEST? ELIZABETH HOGE, MD, “We slowly expose “Talking about a trau- “Sometimes those with New research out of Maastricht SAYS ARMING PEOPLE WITH someone to their fears in matic memory during PTSD can no longer dis- University, The Netherlands, PTSD WITH THE RIGHT small steps,” Hoge says. therapy allows a person tinguish between what is shows changes in the blood at PSYCHOLOGICAL TOOLS CAN “We can’t reproduce the to store the memory safe and what is danger- the genetic level among some, HELP THEM WIN THE FIGHT traumatic experience, differently in the brain,” ous,” Hoge says. “We try but not all, former combat AGAINST A DEBILITATING but we can revisit says Hoge, making it to change how the brain soldiers who were tested, MENTAL ILLNESS. specific memories and far less threatening to reacts to outside stimuli, suggesting a blood test for PTSD other triggers.” reflect upon. like loud noises.” may be possible one day.
15 WEBMD.COM Continued from page 15
“There are four symptom clusters we see,” Hoge says. “They are: re-experiencing the event through nightmares or flashbacks after a memory is triggered; avoidance of trauma- related places, people, or things; negative thoughts about themselves or the world, with no strong feelings anymore for anyone; and hyper-reactivity, such as being easily startled by loud sounds, trouble sleeping, or sitting with your back to the wall so you can see everyone. The world no longer feels like a safe place.” Gender differences do occur. The National Center for PTSD reveals that “women are more likely to be jumpy, have more trouble feeling emotions, and avoid things that remind them of the trauma. Men are more likely to feel angry and have trouble controlling their anger. Women with PTSD are more likely to feel depressed and anxious, while men with PTSD are more likely to have problems with alcohol or drugs.” “It’s normal to have symptoms immediately after trauma,” Hoge says, “but signs of PTSD can generally be diagnosed after about four weeks.” While 70% of Americans undergo some type of trauma during their lives, only 20% go on to develop PTSD. For those who do develop it, suicidal behavior is a concern, so intervention is key. “Treatment for PTSD is medication or psychotherapy,” Hoge says. “The Veterans Association says trauma-focused psychotherapy should be tried first. We see good results with it.” BY Sonya Collins LIVING Search for the slideshow REVIEWED BY Hansa Bhargava, MD Is Your Work Hurting WebMD Senior Medical Director Your Health? at WebMD.com.
WORK WISE Sound Off The constant clamor of equipment, vehicles, or machines at work could damage your hearing and heart
CONTINUOUS LOUD NOISE CAN CAUSE basis. “Loud means you have to raise your permanent hearing loss. Turns out, it voice to be understood by someone three can increase your risk factors for heart feet away. Very loud means you have to disease, too. According to a study by shout,” Masterson says. the Centers for Disease Control and More precisely, 85 decibels or more Prevention (CDC), people who are is a hazardous noise level and can do exposed to loud noise at work for at least permanent damage to your hearing. four hours a day several days a week have To give you an idea, the volume of a greater risk of high blood pressure and the average conversation is about 60 high cholesterol—both risk factors for decibels. You can check the noise level at heart disease. your workplace with a smartphone app. “Noise is thought to cause physical Several, including CDC’s NIOSH Sound and psychological stress to the body,” Level Meter, are available for free. says Elizabeth Masterson, PhD, an epidemiologist at the CDC’s National HOW CAN YOU LIMIT YOUR RISK? Institute for Occupational Safety and If all U.S. workplaces reduced noise to Health (NIOSH). “When you have safe levels, they would spare the hearing chronic stress, it produces a chronic stress of more than 5 million workers. “That’s a response, which can contribute to high lot of workers whose quality of life could blood pressure and cholesterol.” be preserved, because when you lose your hearing, it really affects your quality of HOW LOUD IS TOO LOUD? life,” Masterson says. The study surveyed workers from every If you work in a noisy environment, take industry and occupation. The din came action to reduce your exposure. “Nearly from various sources, such as heavy every worker can do something to limit machinery, sirens, or planes. Workers their risk,” says Masterson. “Whether it’s who had the highest risk for elevated moving away from the noise, reducing blood pressure and cholesterol heard the time you hear the noise, or wearing
GETTY IMAGES “loud” or “very loud” noise on a regular hearing protection.” BY Barbara Brody LIVING REVIEWED BY Neha Pathak, MD Search for the slideshow WebMD Medical Editor A Visual Guide to Endometriosis at WebMD.com.
a drug called Lupron) aren’t working, it’s possible. Individual lesions can be removed, or, if you’re ASK YOUR done having children, DOCTOR you might consider a hysterectomy. Q Will hormonal Q What if I’m birth control trying to get help? Usually, yes. Pills, pregnant? If you’re using patches, rings, or a hormonal birth hormonal IUD can control, you’ll have to keep symptoms in stop. Some women check by suppressing with endometriosis your periods. may need to see a Q Do I need fertility specialist. surgery? If hormones (like birth control or injections of
MYTH: AN ULTRASOUND OR MRI CAN SHOW YOU IF YOU HAVE IT WOMEN’S HEALTH Many things can suggest that you might have endometriosis, including the above- Endometriosis 101 noted pain, trouble getting pregnant, and Could you have this condition and not know it? Possibly. a family history of the condition. But the Our expert debunks some myths and misconceptions. only way to confirm it is to have surgery. You wouldn’t do that for the sake of getting ENDOMETRIOSIS IS ONE OF THOSE CONDITIONS THAT, DESPITE BEING FAIRLY an official diagnosis, but you might need common, is surrounded by some mystery: No one knows exactly what causes surgery if you have symptoms that haven’t it, and experts aren’t sure how many women have it. Some estimates suggest improved with non-invasive treatments like that endometriosis affects more than 11% of women, but it’s hard to say for hormonal birth control. sure because the condition is tricky to diagnose. “Endometriosis is a condition in which the glands that normally live in the MYTH: IT DOESN’T HAPPEN IN TEENS lining of the uterus implant in other locations,” says Lauren Streicher, MD, If you’re menstruating, you can have associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University endometriosis, says Streicher. She notes Feinberg School of Medicine. That migrating tissue often lands elsewhere in that endometriosis symptoms tend to get the pelvis, but it can also take root in the bowel, bladder, or even the lungs. worse over time but sometimes start early. Despite some uncertainties, experts do know many things about “You can have a teenager with very severe endometriosis. Here, we replace some common misconceptions with the facts. endometriosis,” says Streicher.
MYTH: IT ALWAYS HURTS MYTH: YOU CAN’T GET PREGNANT The most well-known symptoms include severe pelvic pain, especially during your While some women with endometriosis have period. Many women also have pain during sex, says Streicher, who’s the author of trouble conceiving, others get pregnant easily. Sex Rx. That said, many women who have endometriosis don’t realize it because Streicher says that this myth sometimes leads they never have discomfort. That’s OK; if it’s not bothering you, you don’t need women to forgo birth control. Unless you to treat it. want a baby, always use protection.
18 WEBMD.COM 19 WEBMD.COM now span. your know—and life boost do you to what can People who outlive exercise peopletend to who don’t. Here’s researchers what the RightOn Track FITNESSSMARTS at WebMD.com. at 50 Over You’re When Out Working slideshow the for Search health, even before the studies explained why thiswassuchagood explained thestudies idea,” before health, even hesays. Medicine ofTexas. have “Doctors long been telling patientsforbetter toexercise 40%—which issimilartobreaking asmokinghabit. worked out 30minutesaday, riskby theirmortality sixdays aweek,cut asquitting tobeaspowerful exercise smoking.In thisstudy, oldermenwho hadahigherriskofearlydeath thanpeoplewhodid. exercise plays roleinlongevity. beingactive akey of researchsuggests THE JURY IS IN: EXERCISE HELPS YOU LIVE LONGER. A MOUNTING BODY This comesasno surprisetoWalterThis Gaman,MD, aphysician at Executive Another study, publishedintheBritish Journal ofSportsMedicine inJAMAInternalMedicineA recentstudy foundthat peoplewho didn’t
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Michael W. Smith,MD, CPT
WEBMD.COM
20 BEHIND THE SCIENCE Beauty INSIDE OUT
HAIR CARE Make the Cut Regular trims are a healthy hair measure. But what do you do if you can’t make it to the salon for a pro cut? Pull out your shears—you can snip your ends at home! IF YOU’RE NERVOUS ABOUT SELF-SNIPPING YOUR HAIR, don’t be, says Christopher Byrne, senior stylist at Complexions Spa for Beauty and Wellness in Albany, New York. Start by sectioning and clipping up the top half of freshly washed and blow-dried hair. Next, divide the remaining hair in half and pull half over your left shoulder and right shoulder. “Make sure to pull it forward and comb out all slack in the hair,” says Byrne. Using a mirror, trim off a quarter to half an inch of the hair. Repeat the same on the opposing side. Divide the top section in half again and then pull over your right and left shoulders. Repeat the combing and trimming until all hair has been pulled forward and incorporated. A DIY trim not your thing? Use a salon-quality smoothing shampoo and conditioner to seal the cuticle at the end of your hair until you can make it to a stylist. —AYREN JACKSON-CANNADY
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21 WEBMD.COM BY L iesa Goins BEAUTY Search for the slideshow REVIEWED BY Mohiba K. Tareen, MD Your Guide to Anti-Aging WebMD Medical Reviewer Skin Care Essentials at WebMD.com.
Rub It In Apply sunscreen whenever you are out in the sun, not just on the beach.
THE SCOOP Drop Droopy Lids BEAUTY SMARTS EYELIDS HEADING SOUTH? HELP PREVENT DROOPY/SAGGY UPPER LIDS AND WATCH THINGS START TO LOOK UP WITH THESE TIPS Beyond the Basics FROM ANNA GUANCHE, MD, A DERMATOL- You’re probably schooled on the key skin-care rules, but you may not be OGIST IN CALABASAS, CALIFORNIA. familiar with some advanced tips. Here are the next-level tactics your dermatologist uses on her own skin.
WHEN IT COMES TO SKIN CARE, DERMATOLOGISTS PREACH THE SAME LAYER ON THE SUN PROTECTION sunscreen that uses chemical ingredients AVOID INFLAMMATION fundamentals: Keep skin clean, wear sunscreen, and use a retinoid. “When it comes to UV protection, layers like avobenzone and ecamsule and a drop “Whey-based protein supplements have And the reason you’ve heard this every time you sit on an exam table and reapplication are key. Even heat, of foundation. This offers better protection been linked to inflammation in the skin, in a paper gown is because this advice really works. indoor lighting, and infrared light may and gives better coverage.” which contributes to conditions such as But beyond these tactics, experts tuck equally effective strategies contribute to hyperpigmentation, so I —Rebecca Tung, MD, chair of division of dermatology, rosacea, psoriasis, and acne. I suggest using into their skin-care arsenal that go above and beyond cleanser, wear a mineral-based sunscreen lotion Loyola University of Chicago, Illinois plant-based supplements instead. There sunscreen, and retinoid. containing titanium dioxide and zinc are good vegan formulas available, such as “The neck loses high levels of elastic tissues “Taking care of your skin is not just about skin care,” says Whitney oxide (such as ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica) Genuine Health Vegan Protein Plus Vanilla.” and needs lots of help to prevent sagging. Bowe, MD, a dermatologist in Briarcliff Manor, New York, and and add a dusting of mineral powder —Whitney Bowe, dermatologist, Briarcliff Manor, I am a big fan of creams containing author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin. “You have to take a 360-approach sunscreen over that (try Colorescience New York City, author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin enzymes that allow peptides to promote SEEK SHADE PICK A PERFECT with diet, stress, and sleep—it all counts. Your skin is a window into Sunforgettable Total Protection newer, fresher collagen for firmer skin, LOAD UP ON ANTIOXIDANTS Sun damage PRODUCT your overall health.” Brush-On Shield SPF 50). Not to mention such as Alastin Skincare Restorative Neck “I get antioxidants as many ways as I speeds up the Upper eyelids are So, keep your sunscreen and retinoids handy, but try some of these I start with a daily antioxidant serum to loss of elasticity sensitive due to Complex. And most important, you need can—in my diet with green tea, coffee, not-so-common ways dermatologists keep their skin healthy. give my skin an extra coat of defense. I like in eyelids. Always the anatomy and sunscreen on the neck every day, too.” polypodium supplements, fruits, and SkinBetter Alto Defense Serum.” wear sunscreen tracking of the —Carolyn Jacob, MD, dermatologist, director of Chicago vegetables and topically in products that WATCH THE SUGAR —Dendy Engelman, MD, or sunglasses to eye because of dermatologic surgeon, Surgery and Dermatology, Chicago, Illinois “Lowering your blood sugar and keeping it stable can act as an anti- New York City contain vitamin C, green tea extracts, and protect eyes from the opening and skin-damaging closing of the lid ager. Sugar causes glycation, which damages collagen and other MAKE THE MOST OF RETINOIDS resveratrol. You need the protection from “If I’m going to be in the sun, I like to damage that can lead to signs of aging.” UV rays. (the lower lid is structures in the skin. Getting enough sleep and avoiding stress can “For a retinoid to be the most effective, largely stationary). double down on sun protection and —Leslie Baumann, MD, founder and CEO of Baumann help keep blood sugar even.” you have to find the highest potency you You can apply Cosmetic and Research Institute, Miami, Florida —Leslie Baumann, MD, founder and CEO of Baumann Cosmetic and Research mix a physical sunscreen containing can tolerate and then stick with it. I find SLEEP RIGHT emollients, such as Institute, Miami, Florida titanium dioxide SPF 50 with an SPF 70 that most people give up due to side effects Reducing salt Aquaphor, which intake helps like redness, peeling, or irritation, so they “Antioxidant supplements are just as keep lids hydrated with overnight never reap the benefits. To make a retinoid important as serums. My favorite is while you sleep. Heliocare, which is derived from a fern puffiness. And easier to tolerate, I mix it directly into a wiping off makeup plant extract from South America. Take small amount of unscented moisturizer before you hit GO PRO and then apply a moisturizer on top of one every morning or two if you’re headed the hay keeps Injections of that. It can take a month or more for the to the beach for a supplemental dose of small particles neuromodulators Aisle Do (such as Botox) skin to adapt to a retinoid—then the side antioxidant protection.” of eyeshadow or ADD THESE SOOTHING other cosmetics can help lift the effects go away but the benefits continue.” —Whitney Bowe, MD, dermatologist in Briarcliff Manor, SOAKS TO YOUR SHOWER PRODUCT PICK PRODUCT PICK PRODUCT PICK New York City, author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin from slipping into tail of the eyebrow CADDY TO SOOTHE DR. TEAL’S EPSOM SALT SOAKING AURA CACIA LAVENDER ME! BATH LAVENDER LULLABY —Laurel Naversen Geraghty, MD, dermatologist, your eye, which and therefore MUSCLES, RELAX THE SOLUTION DETOXIFY & ENERGIZE ESSENTIAL OIL ($12) ($10) Medford, Oregon reduce the KEEP PERSPECTIVE leads to irritation BODY, AND STIMULATE ($5) “This provides natural-looking color “After a long day, these bath bombs— and puffiness. hooding from the CIRCULATION. “I use this soak once or twice a week without the horrible smell that some made with botanical oils and purify- “I use prescription tretinoin that I mix “I believe in everything in moderation. lateral eyelid— to help relieve stress and aching self-tanners come with. Tip: Shave ing minerals—are always comforting with moisturizer. (I like Aveeno Daily You don’t have to be perfect all the this is called a muscles. What I like most about the and exfoliate before using self-tanner. and soothing. They relax the mind Moisturizing Lotion.) I make sure to apply time—parcel it out! Just be good 80% chemical brow lift. soak is how rejuvenated I feel This helps give the active tanning and release muscle tension.” of the time.” THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS SECTION ARE days after.” ingredient dihydroxyacetone an even Fran Cook-Bolden, MD it to my neck and use a little around my eyes.” OF THE EXPERTS AND ARE NOT THE OPINIONS OF JoElle Lyons-Lee surface to adhere to.” dermatologist, New York City —Rebecca Tung, MD, chair of division of dermatology, —Rebecca Tung, MD, chair of division of dermatology, WEBMD. WEBMD DOES NOT ENDORSE ANY SPECIFIC PRODUCT, SERVICE, OR TREATMENT. esthetician, Rockville, Maryland Tanya Kormeili, MD Loyola University of Chicago, Illinois Loyola University of Chicago, Illinois dermatologist, Santa Monica, California 22 23 GETTY IMAGES WEBMD.COM WEBMD.COM BY Ayren Jackson-Cannady BEAUTY REVIEWED BY Karyn Grossman, MD WebMD Medical Reviewer
EXPERT PICKS. Seasonal Swaps
2 Your wardrobe isn’t the only thing that needs 1 adjustment as seasons 3 change. When temps dip, show your skin some love by swapping in these products that protect—recommended by Maral Skelsey, MD, a dermatologist in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
4
1. SPRAY AND GO 2. TRIPLE THREAT 3. DREAM CLEAN 4. SLEEP TIGHT Aquaphor Advanced Therapy CeraVe Skin Renewing Neutrogena L’Oreal Age Perfect Cell Ointment Body Spray ($10) Day Cream ($23) Hydro Boost Gentle Renewal Night Cream ($25) “Ointments are great to relieve “In the summer, lotions with Cleansing Lotion ($9) “I like this at night as it is more dry, cracked skin and are a good sunscreen protect from the “Winter saps the moisture from moisturizing than a lotion, and it both replacement for less moisturizing sun without leaving your face skin, and many cleansers can hydrates and accelerates cell turnover.” lotions and creams. But applying greasy. Most of us need more leave the skin dry and susceptible ointment all over can be a chore. moisturizing in the winter, and to redness and flaking. This one Aquaphor spray delivers the benefits switching to a cream from lotion THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS SECTION ARE removes dirt while keeping skin OF THE EXPERTS AND ARE NOT THE OPINIONS OF of an ointment for the body, but the gives the necessary boost. This hydrated. It’s a gentle lotion that WEBMD. WEBMD DOES NOT ENDORSE ANY SPECIFIC application is a breeze.” day cream does triple duty with can be used on dry or wet skin and PRODUCT, SERVICE, OR TREATMENT. ceramides, sunscreen, and an contains hyaluronic acid, which
PHOTOGRAPHY: RICK LOZIER RICK PHOTOGRAPHY: anti-aging retinol.” helps return moisture to the skin.”
24 WEBMD.COM BY Kara Mayer Robinson BEAUTY REVIEWED BY Mohiba K. Tareen, MD Looking for a doctor? Use WebMD Medical Reviewer WebMD’s Physician Finder. Go to.WebMD.com/findadoctor.
DERM Q&A Dry Spells If your skin flares up with red, itchy patches, eczema may be the culprit. We have the 411 on this common skin condition.
“Many people don’t realize Q When should I see eczema isn’t just dry skin,” a doctor? says Colby Evans, MD, a EVANS See a board-certified dermatologist in Austin, dermatologist if it’s Texas. Many factors trigger interfering with your life, flare-ups, but eczema is relationships, or work, or if it’s manageable. Evans explains severe or worsening. Itching some details about this can interfere with sleep, skin condition. which can cause drowsiness at school and work. Q What causes eczema? EVANS It’s not completely Q How do you treat eczema? understood. It tends to run EVANS The first thing is in families, along with hay proper daily skin care and fever allergies and asthma. moisturizing. Mild, Many things can trigger fragrance-free cleansers flare-ups, like food, fra- and short, warm—but not grances, skin care products, hot—showers are best. dry weather, irritants or Moisturize at least chemicals at work, and irrita- once a day with a thick, tion from clothing, like wool fragrance-free moisturizer. or shirt tags. Mild eczema can also be treated with topical pre- Q How do I know it’s eczema? scription creams like EVANS Eczema likes to occur hydrocortisone, desonide, on certain parts of the body, and triamcinolone. Other particularly the crooks of the topical prescription medi- elbows or knees, hands or cations with steroids can feet, and cheeks. It’s often dry calm inflammation; newer and rough and tends to flare non-steroid formulations during dry times of the year, may also be an option. DO YOU GET RED, ITCHY, INFLAMED SKIN WHEN THE WEATHER IS like winter, or in dry climates. More severe eczema may dry? Does it flare up on your elbows and knees? You may have Your dermatologist can help require pills, artificial UV eczema, a skin condition that affects 30 million Americans. you know for sure. light, or injections.
4 Tips MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE BATHE PROPERLY DON’T OVER-BATHE ACT FAST PREVENT FLARE-UPS WITH THESE AT-HOME Thick, greasy moisturizers Warm—not hot— Washing your skin too It’s easier to stop TIPS FROM COLBY are best. You can also try water is best. Ask often can make eczema flares in early stages EVANS, MD. petrolatum or coconut oil. your dermatologist worse. Take a short than when they’re about bath oils or shower or bath every full-blown. Talk to your bleach baths, which other day if possible. dermatologist and may help. have treatments ready. GETTY IMAGES
25 WEBMD.COM GETTY IMAGES HEALTHY TOGETHER lasting benefits beyond benefits lasting language brings aloud your children to Reading Tell Me aStory QUALITYTIME
Family routinely. after. alllivedhappilyever Onecanassume they parentsnolonger readaloudtotheirchildren to ayearandhalfafter ofproperty.disobedience, anddestruction forup lasted benefits These aggression, anger out ontheworldaroundthemthrough,forexample, weren’taspronetotake their is,they out.That be hyperactiveandtoact werealsolesslikely to time.They spans thankidswhodidn’thave story to5yearsold hadbetter attentionaloud tothemregularlyfrombirth end ofthestory. In of450families,childrenwhoseparentsread astudy give themajumponlanguage andreadingskills.Turns out,that’s notthe —SONYA COLLINS YOU’VE HEARD THE ADVICE BEFORE: READ TO YOUR YOUNG CHILDREN TO
SMARTER LIVING
WEBMD.COM 26 BY Erin O’Donnell FAMILY REVIEWED BY Hansa Bhargava, MD Search for the article Colic WebMD Senior Medical Director Symptoms Explained at WebMD.com.
BABY The Crying Game Is it fussiness or colic? Sometimes an infant just won’t settle. Take a closer look at why babies cry, and check out our tips for weary parents. Q When is fussiness “colic?” SLACK Colic occurs when there is significant fussiness with no identifiable Make a Call cause, usually in bursts of one to two If you can’t figure out hours, up to three to five hours a day. why your baby is crying and you’re worried, call The fussiness happens despite the baby your pediatrician. being soothed or rocked. It occurs at least three days a week, usually begins about 2 weeks of age, and can last up to three months. It usually peaks at about six weeks.
Q What causes colic? Is it a digestive issue? SLACK Unfortunately, we still haven’t identified the true cause of colic. It’s not necessarily tied to feeding or digestion. Often babies are not soothed by stooling or passing gas. That said, we should watch for symptoms that it’s something other than colic. Milk protein allergy or allergies to foods FUSSINESS IS ONE OF THE TOP CHALLENGES FOR PARENTS OF YOUNG such as soy will cause a change in poops, infants. Kristen Slack, MD, FAAP, pediatrician at Children’s Hospital like really watery stools or the presence of Philadelphia, answers common questions about crying in new babies. of blood or mucus. Moms who breast feed may notice patterns—they’ll eat Q How much fussiness is normal? certain foods and their babies are gassy or SLACK Normal fussiness occurs sporadically throughout the day. It may be uncomfortable about 24 hours later. soothed by bouncing, patting, or talking to the baby. Think through her basic needs, too. Has she had adequate sleep? Does she need a clean diaper? Q When should I call the doctor? Is the room an appropriate temperature? Is she well fed? (You may need SLACK Parents have great instincts. If you’re to feed again sooner than you think—babies can go through growth spurts feeling worried, give the office a call. Or if in which they cluster feed.) Look for signs of hunger, like lip-smacking the baby is suddenly extremely fussy, and and rooting, and a ready interest in the breast and bottle when it’s offered. it’s atypical, we’d want you to call.
3 Steps REACH OUT WALK AWAY LET GO OF GUILT FUSSINESS AND COLIC CAN “This is definitely a time to cash “If you’ve attended to baby’s needs and “Managing colic can be BE TOUGH ON PARENTS, in on favors that friends or family she’s still crying, it’s okay to put her in extremely exhausting,” Slack PARTICULARLY WHEN THEY may owe you,” Slack says. Ask a safe, flat, firm bassinette or crib and acknowledges. Be kind to ARE SHORT ON SLEEP. someone you trust to watch the walk away briefly, say for 15 minutes,“ yourself and hold on to the fact PEDIATRICIAN KRISTEN baby for a few hours so you can Slack says. It’s a reasonable way to that colic is not permanent and SLACK, MD, FAAP, OFFERS get a nap, take a walk or shower, reset and recharge before you resume will pass in the weeks ahead. THREE STEPS TO PRESERVE or eat a healthy meal. your soothing efforts. YOUR SANITY. GETTY IMAGES
27 WEBMD.COM BY Lisa Marshall FAMILY REVIEWED BY Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, MPH WebMD Senior Medical Director Check out Parenting Message Board at WebMD.com.
PARENTING Is Your Child Too Busy? How a frenzied schedule of extracurricular activities can backfire—and what you can do about it
Psychology, found that the more time children spent on structured activities, the worse they did on measures of self-directed executive function. Other research suggests a frenzied grade-school schedule may lead to burnout, with 70% of youth sports participants dropping out by age 13, according to a recent survey of 1,000 Americans. Today’s pressure-cooker schedule likely contributes to soaring rates of drug and alcohol use and depression among teens, says Thompson. It changes the family dynamic, too. “Parenting can be reduced to time management, where you spend all your time talking about the next activity and no time making dinner together and talking about life,” he says. MORE THAN A DECADE AFTER THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS ISSUED A How much is too much? warning about the decline of unstructured playtime and the impact overscheduling It depends on the kid, says Thompson, can have on development, U.S. kids are busier than ever. noting that some have a huge appetite Sixty percent of children ages six to 17 participate in at least one sport, lesson, for extracurricular activities while others or club, and among higher-income families about 11% do all three, according to hunger for downtime. the U.S. Census Bureau. Add that to tutoring or standardized test preparation, The key, Thompson says, is to listen: increasing homework loads, and more hours spent in the car rushing between “Parents get so convinced of the value activities; kids now have about nine to 12 hours less free time weekly than they did these activities may offer some day that a few decades ago, says Boston-based clinical psychologist Michael Thompson, they don’t hear what their kids are saying.” PhD, author of The Pressured Child. If they’re struggling to get homework While extracurricular activities can offer enrichment and a healthy alternative done, look tired, or consistently complain to excess screen time, overdoing it—a trend Thompson sees most often among about going to practice, consider it a red more affluent families—can leave kids stressed, sleep-deprived, and lacking flag. And take a hard look at your own life. critical life lessons. Polls show about 40% of parents now “When your mom and dad are always arranging things for you, you never learn spend more than five hours weekly driving how to arrange things for yourselves,” says Thompson, who tells of highly skilled high their kids from activity to activity; a third school athletes who have never organized a neighborhood pick-up game. of those spend more than 10 hours. One recent study of 70 6-year-olds, published in the journal Frontiers in “It’s your life, too,” says Thompson.
BE REALISTIC LIMIT SCREEN TIME SCHEDULE IDLE TIME EAT DINNER TOGETHER 4 Tips “Don’t raise your child with the If kids replace extracur- Actively plan time for Sitting down to eat together MICHAEL THOMPSON, college admissions committee in ricular activities with screen-free reading, provides a time to de-stress PhD, HAS A FEW IDEAS mind,” says Thompson. In reality, electronic devices, that hiking, outside play, and catch up. Studies show ABOUT HOW TO AVOID THE only 1% of athletes get sports creates other problems. art projects, time kids who eat meals with OVERSCHEDULING TRAP. scholarships, and many colleges Thompson recom- with family, or just their family routinely have value having one gift or passion mends one to two hours daydreaming. higher academic achieve- rather than a long list of hobbies. maximum per day for ment scores and fewer
GETTY IMAGES elementary schoolers. behavioral problems.
28 WEBMD.COM 29 WEBMD.COM steady hand—plus for preserver when alife you reach steady to need knowing a and head acalm of requires adolescent moods seas Navigating the stormy Drama Defense TEENHEALTH for Parents Tips and Symptoms Depression: Teen article the for Search floor furiously to her room. “Everybody hates and stomping me!” school,throwing herbackpackonthe intothehouseafter storms THE DOOR NEARLY FALLS OFF ITS HINGES AS YOUR 14-YEAR-OLD
at WebMD.com. at
FAMILY
changing what you’re asking.“Instead them. Easier said than done, right? Try themtalking Get peace inthefamilymeantime? you helphimorhercopeandkeep (relative) dissipate later inhighschool,buthow do arelikely toyour 14-year-old everywhere become muchgreater.” responsibilities placedonyoungpeople isaperiodwhensays “This Cheung. qualified tobabysityounger children,” or stay homealone.Sixyearslater, they’re or can’tmake cross the street a simple meal separate fromtheirfamilies.“A first-grader need todefine themselves asindividuals to drive,first lovesand breakups,andthe ofhighschool,learning including thestart changes arebuffeting youngteensaswell, good decisions,andusegood judgment.” control,howtomakethings like executive maturing, andadolescentsarelearning brain isstill in adolescentsandteens.“The Toronto whospecializesinmooddisorders peak during this time,” says Amy Cheung, found. “Hormonal changes areat their older, askidsget to stabilize have experts intheearlyteenyearsandtend their worst notorious adolescentmoodswingsareat especially in a younger teenager. The slam foremphasis. she declareswithanothergood harddoor is botheringthem. other thanwhatyou think by askingaboutsomething yourGet teen to openup Change theSubject The darkcloudsthat seemtofollowThe Big-time emotionalandpsychological Typical teenmoodiness?Probably— about what’s bothering
University of Institute at the Research Sunnybrook atscientist MD, MSc,a
GETTY IMAGES swings, Cheung says.swings, Cheung She advises through trulyearth-shattering mood go don’t age, teensactually most While moodiness is common at this person.” fromthat perspective older andget who haskidsthat alittle arejust too muchaboutit.Findafriend shutting outthefamily, don’t worry andaren’t totally extracurriculars, well inparticipating school and have agood groupoffriends,are stillmuch emphasisonit.Ifthey says. “It’s a phase—don’t put too yourself. forRelax and get support friend’s mom,” says Cheung. aunt oruncle,oldercousin,a willing toopenupagrandparent, noncommunicative teenmay bemore giveyouthebrush-off.if they “A to hangoutwithotheradults forthem upopportunities Set yourchild’ssnoop! Respect privacy. bothering theminajournal.Donot Suggest that write down what’s they shouldcareabout.”you thinkthey matters toyourteen,notwhat most with their friends. Focus on what about isnotbeingabletohangout but what concerned they’re most that’s what youwanttotalkabout, having problems with grades and says.Cheung “Maybe yourchildis like tochange abouttheirlife,” askwhat itisthatexample, they’d of pushingabouttheirgrades, for “Kids domature,” she
undiagnosed learningdisability.” disorder, bullyingat school,oran else,too—aneatingbe something depression oranxiety, butitcould “Your childcould have clinical else isgoing on,” says. Cheung to digdeeperandfind outwhat are signs that you need“These mood swingsalsoinclude: going normal throughmorethanjust that’s awarningsign.” withdraw fromallextracurriculars, grades orthey dropforthesemester sadness,” says “butiftheir Cheung, toseeaperiodof you mightexpect up withaboyfriendorgirlfriend, to beaware of. “Ifateenbreaks and disruption are two key factors more seriousproblems.Duration between moodiness and signs of parents be aware of the differences • Talking about suicide or self-harm • Use ofalcoholordrugs • Socialisolation—withdrawing • Declining grades ormissing • Frequent complaintsof • Significant changes in eating • Major disruptions in sleep Red flags that yourteenmightbe they enjoy they from friendsoractivities school physical symptoms and otherstomachaches, pains—headaches,unexplained and weightloss weight gainordecreasedappetite habits—either overeating and having troublesleeping patterns—sleeping too much or
happiness. greater with relate to cor appears the other hand, on activity, screen Non- lives. their withand satisfied happy less are dia me social on ing post and web, the surfing texting, spend more time adolescents who that find Studies bed. the of side right the on to up wake likely more is she or he that shows search re range, that in ting somewhere get is teen your if but differ, needs sleep individual night. Everybody’s a hours 10 and eight between is spot sweet sleep the teens, For ed. relat closely are sleep and Mood Mood Modulators SCREEN TIME LIMIT Z WATCH THEIR TEEN’S MOODS IN CHECK. YOUR KEEPING FOR STRATEGIES THESE TRY
- s - - - - - REVIEWED BY Cheung. says parents,” their from learn they “Kids model what wine? of a glass for reach you do to meditate—or time take or friend, a with coffee of cup a grab arun, for out go you do stressed, you’re When YOURSELF YOURSELF COPING STRATEGIES HEALTHY USE disposition. sunny that to catch likely more is she or he outlook, positive a have who friends spends time with teen your If show. studies teens, in are contagious Positive moods PUSH PALS PUSH WebMD Medical Reviewer BY BY
Roy Benaroch, MD Gina Shaw Gina WEBMD.COM 30 GETTY IMAGES LONGEVITY BY THE NUMBERS Having spayed orneuterednotonlyeliminates yourpet unwanted litters ofpuppies Preventive care helps pets livelonger,Preventive carehelpspets healthierlives.Veterinarians screenforhealth average of9.4 years. of Veterinary Medicine, annual “wellness” visits suggests for all dogs and cats—and or kittens, itcanhelpthemlivelonger. ResearchpublishedinthejournalPLOS One more frequentappointmentsforolderpets. found that intact dogslivedanaveragefound that intact of7.9 dogslivedan yearswhilesterilized is a constant companion,alwaysis aconstant at liveforever, yourside.Whileyouknow shecan’t these issues such as heart disease and diabetes and vaccinate against preventable diseases diseases andvaccinate preventable diseaseanddiabetes against issues suchasheart six healthandwellnesstipscanincreasetheoddsthat she’s aroundforaslongpossible. SCHEDULE A VET APPOINTMENT like rabies. Sandra Sawchuk, at theUniversity DVM,veterinarian ofWisconsinSchool BE QUITTER A LITTER ROAD TRIPS, LONG WALKS IN THE WOODS, BINGE-WATCHING CRIME DRAMAS—YOUR PET Long Live the Dog (and Cat) Six simple ways to help your best friend live alonger, simple live help friend Six to ways your best life healthier 15 15 to 13years. Smallerdogstend to live longer. medium-size doghasanaverage lifespan of10 Number ofyears theaverage cat lives. A Health Issues Their and Breeds Popular Most 25 slideshow the for Search to 20 at WebMD.com. at PETS 10
FAMILY % health insurance. owners, 5% have catpolicies. Of pet insurance owners whohave Percentage ofdog
A whopping60%ofcats and56%of APPLY PARASITE CONTROL The ideal amount of exercise depends depends idealamountofexercise The Puppies andkittens needmore pro- Pets have different nutritional Periodontal diseasecausespainand with afingertip toothbrushandpet GET MOVING and yourenvironment. foryourpet products about thebest Google’ todecide whichfoodisright Giving your pet flea andtick med- Giving yourpet years longer than obese dogs. “Exercise years longer thanobesedogs.“Exercise vent,” Sawchuk says. Talk toyourvet exercise every day. every exercise dogs areobese; one landmark study on the age and health of your pet, but but on theage andhealthofyourpet, can keep parasites fromwreaking cause when they are so easyto pre- cause when they diseases that someoftheseparasites discomfort andincreasestheriskof discomfort ories and easier to digest. “There are are ories andeasiertodigest. “There needkibblethat islowerincal- often no reasontodealwiththechronic requirements at different lifestages. both dogs and cats should get someboth dogsandcats shouldget for yourpet.” found that lean dogs lived almost two found that two leandogslivedalmost brushing yourpet’s at home teeth ication treatments andheartworm says. “Work and not ‘Dr. with your vet serious healthconditions,including helps pets livelonger,”helps pets Sawchuk says. helps withweightcontrol,andthat havoc onyourpet’s health.“There’s tein tofuelgrowth,andseniorpets toothpaste daily.toothpaste abouta yourvet Ask disease.Sawchukheart advises START BRUSHING lots ofdifferent faddiets,” Sawchuk professional dentalcleaning. RETHINK MEALTIME 29 of 29 years andfive months. oldest dog.Hediedin1939 attheage that holdstherecord asthe world’s Age ofBluey, anAustralian cattle dog REVIEWED BY WebMD Medical Reviewer BY
Jodi Helmer Will Draper, DVM WEBMD.COM 31
32 WEBMD.COM Greatest HELPING HERMOTHER THROUGH BY GINABY SHAW LEARNS MOST IMPORTANT ROLEYET— SONEQUA | REVIEWEDBY BRUNILDA NAZARIO, MD, WEBMD LEADMEDICAL DIRECTOR VALUABLE LESSONSFROMHER MARTIN-GREEN CANCER
PHOTOGRAPHY:GETTY IMAGES JONATHAN GRASSI; STYLIST: HEATHER NEWBERGER; HAIR: DAVID CRUZ; MAKEUP: ANNE KOHLHAGEN
GETTY IMAGES WEBMD.COM 33 onequa Martin-Green says that her no sooner had she beaten that form of the disease, it After being shielded from the worst of her mother’s mother has always been the strongest returned in the form of a slow-growing stomach cancer, first cancer battle, Martin-Green says the second diag- woman she knows. diagnosed in 2013. nosis came with much more doubt and fear: “It was “She’s really a force of nature,” says “Cancer is everywhere in my family,” says Martin- devastating, and only by God and sheer force of strength the “Star Trek: Discovery” actor. “She Green, 33. Her older half-sister was treated for breast and will did she get through it.” used to be an athlete, and when cancer in 2014, and several other uncles, aunts, and my older sister and I would cousins have been affected by the disease as well. “I know CHAMPION, CHEERLEADER, come home from softball or that a lot of people have similar stories, and that’s why I CAREGIVER volleyball practices, we used chose to get involved with Stand Up To Cancer.” Martin-Green has her own regrets about that time. “I had to have our fun wrestling with The nonprofit Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) funds cancer moved from Alabama to New York, I was launching my her. You could not beat her wrestling! research across institutions and disciplines, encouraging career, in the middle of shooting a movie and about to get We would always laugh about that. We watched her collaboration rather than competition to help accelerate married,” she says. “I did as much as I could, but I couldn’t work all day and then come home and cook and clean the pace of scientific breakthroughs. Martin-Green first just pick up and leave. For family members of people who and do all of that for us. She’s just a powerhouse.” joined forces with the organization in 2016 at a New are fighting this, there is such a care/life balance that you So when Vera Martin was diagnosed with Orleans event for its Innovative Research Grants, which have to find. You have to be that caring ear, that shoulder colon cancer in 1997, her daughters couldn’t fund cancer research that might not receive support they can lean on, that support system—and you have to imagine anything but a positive outcome. through more traditional avenues. Since then, she has find a way to factor that in with everything else that your “She was in so much pain, but I always participated in SU2C’s biennial TV fundraisers, and in life requires of you. I did my best to do that. My family believed she was going to be fine,” says early 2018, she taped “Stand Up for Us All,” a public service understood that there were things I couldn’t do, but I look Martin-Green, who was only 12 at the announcement designed to raise people’s awareness about back at everything my sister had to take on because she time. “I couldn’t imagine something like the importance of participation in clinical trials. was still in Alabama, and to this day I think about it and that taking her down. Now, in retrospect, “What appealed to me about Stand Up to Cancer want to break down and cry.” I have such a profound sense of gratitude was the unity. There is something so powerful about By the time the third cancer diagnosis came, in 2013, and respect for my mother and sister community, to know there are so many people from so Martin-Green was determined that she would be as Sbecause they did a lot of work and made a many different disciplines in science coming together, involved with her mother’s care as possible. “I was crowd- lot of sacrifice to shield me at the time. I shedding their egos, and combining their research,” she ing!” she laughs. At that point she had been cast in her didn’t know that’s what they were says. “They’re world-changers and they’re doing it all as breakout role as Sasha Williams in “The Walking Dead” doing—but I guess that’s why one, and I’m so honored to support this work.” and was filming nearby in Atlanta. you shield. I just knew that this horrible thing had
happened, but that my HOLZBERG/ MARK BEN RIGHT: BOTTOM 3/AMC; OCKENFELS FRANK TOP: PAGE/AMC; GENE LEFT: RESERVED. RIGHTS ALL INTERACTIVE. CBS 2017 © CBS mother was going to be okay. A lot of it had to WHEN CANCER STALKS YOUR FAMILY, do with our faith in SHOULD YOU GET TESTED? TRUE OR FALSE: God, and a lot of it had to do with our faith in our mother.” Most cancer is inherited. If cancer runs in my family, If no one else in my family has TAKING A I will get it, too. had cancer, I won’t get it, either. STAND FALSE FALSE FALSE Martin success- fully overcame Although a strong family history of cancer can raise alarms about your own Some people with a strong family history may choose to avoid genetic colon can- possible risk of developing cancer, only about 5% to 10% of cancers are linked testing because they are anxious about what they might find out and would cer—but more to inherited mutations, and most people diagnosed with cancer don’t have rather not know. But not knowing carries its own emotional burdens. “When cancer was in a family history of the disease. That said, there are definitely some inherited you have genetic testing and the results are positive for a cancer-causing the family’s factors that can increase your risk of developing cancer, such as the BRCA1 mutation, yes, there is increased stress. But eventually that stress level goes and BRCA2 mutations linked to breast and ovarian cancer. If you have a strong back down because you’re able to work with your medical team to take action future. In family history, what can you do to better understand and face any additional to manage your risk,” Arun says. “On the other hand, if you don’t undergo 2010, she risk you may have? testing, you can never rule it out, so there’s always a subconscious worry, and was diag- “If you think you may be at increased risk of certain types of cancer, the stress level over time is much higher than the person who tested positive. nosed knowledge is power,” says Banu Arun, MD, co-medical director of the clinical And the more knowledge we have, the more we can help you.” with cancer genetics program and a professor of breast medical oncology and If you think you have an increased risk of developing cancer based on your breast can- LEFT: Martin-Green in her role as Sasha clinical cancer prevention at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas. “There are family history, ask your health care provider for advice on finding a genetic cer, and it on “The Walking Dead.” options for aggressive screening, early detection, and interventions that can counselor, or get more information from the National Society of Genetic TOP: Lauren Cohen with Martin-Green reduce your risk of developing cancer or catch and treat it early.” Counselors at aboutgeneticcounselors.com. seemed on “The Walking Dead.” that BOTTOM: Martin-Green appearing as Michael Burnham with Michelle Yeoh on “Star Trek: Discovery.”
34 35 WEBMD.COM WEBMD.COM 36 WEBMD.COM what ‘Walking wasgoing my step tobeafter next Dead,’ shesays. experience, “Ididnot knowencompassing” in “Star Trek:character has been an “all- Discovery” in “Walking different female toavery powerful Dead” boy. We’re quiteobsessedwith him!” Justin turned 3,andhe’s II]just suchasensational little husband and my feeds son just my soul. Our son [Kenric to do to relax,” she says. “Of course, any free time with my with my familygrowingup,sothat’s what Ialways want cast.)Dead” waswhat Idid “Ilovemoviessomuch!That for aplay inNew Jersey. (He later joined the“Walking Green, whomshefirst whenbothwereauditioning met marathons andwriterKenric withherhusband,actor byenjoyingmovie de-stresses often Martin-Green POWERFUL WOMEN present andmoremindful.” to be more engaged. And to be more available and more yearningwithinmetodomore.Toconstant bemoreand isa as women!Ihave it.There bynomeansmastered youhave,”takes everything shesays. “We areoctopuses youhave. Andbeing acaregiver career takes everything youhave.have. Your Beingamothertakes everything daughter, andcaregiver. “Marriage you takes everything demands ofbeinganactor/producer, wife,mother, can dotokeep yourselfwell.” ing, andidentifying what youandyourfamilymembers screen- totakestrength onearlydetection, andsupport empowering. Youhas done, is very can give each other the attitude of‘we’re allinthistogether,’ like Sonequa’s family Dana-Farber CancerInstitute “Buttakingan inBoston: are not, says Sharon Bober, PhD, a senior psychologist at both familymemberswhoareaffected andthosewho yearsnow,for several andwe’re improving incrementally.” been makinglotsofchanges whereourhealthisconcerned diligent abouteating clean,wholefoods.Weboth very have andmynow eating husbandandIare aplant-baseddiet, I have onmakinglifestyle choices.I’m chosentodoisfocus themselves. “We knowhowcloseitistous,” shesays. “What that,need toknowthat too.” thepeoplearoundthembelieve arecapableofthatdo needtoknowthat fight, they andthey thatunderstand it’s thegreatest fight oftheirlives,butthey to feelnormal.It’s needtobedelusionalornot notthat they need andthey needtofeeluplifted, to feelchampioned,they to happen,” shesays. “People diagnosedwithadiseaseneed diagnosis. “Ithinkthere’s abitofnormalization that needs loved ones who are facingabout a howcancer to support now my motheris69andathree-timesurvivor.” early. itvery wereabletoget make aswell.They And visitsIcould decisions andstrategies andthedoctors’ The movefromplayingThe onefierce, woman strong tobalancethe says struggles shestill Martin-Green for ofcancercanbestressful familyhistory A strong aware face oftherisksthey arevery She andhersister saysOver time, she’sMartin-Green learned her fair share “We wereinittowinit,” shesays. ofallthe “Iwaspart
she blessedme to blesssomeoneelse.” andallowhow wanttokeepjust passingthat forward tomy andme.I sister day giveeverything out,andstill loosely—warrior—but Isaw hergo towar day inand looks like inreallife,” shesays. “We use that termquite have tolookfar. “My mother showedmewhat a warrior leader—in herTVroleor dailylife—shedoesn’t in my ownlife.” tobereflected inourstory andnurture that weexplore people canbeinspiredby. AndIalsowantthethings andbesomething justice to continuedothisstory says. “Iwantmorethananything forus Martin-Green is possibleforhumanity, andwhat wearecapableof,” people together, enlightensthem,showsthemwhat beginning. It bringsbarrier-breaking fromthevery hasbeen story forareason.The a tremendouslegacy such asracism, discrimination, andwar. serieshas “This Captain James T. Kirk)andtookonmajorsocialissues, Lt.Uhura (between andWilliamShatner’son television officersrespected Enterprise. ofthestarship TakeiGeorge asHikaru Sulu—in leading roles as Nichols as Nyota American Uhuraactor and Asian Nichelle ofcolor—AfricanAmericanactor two actors raciallyof themost integrated seriesofitstime,with which airedforthreeseasonsinthe1960s,wasone in sci-fi/fantasy original“Trek,” todate. The television series, andoneofonlyahandfulblackfemaleleads Burnham, sheisthefirst womanofcolortoleada“Trek” with her“StarTrek” officer Starfleet role.As Michael toairin2019.)season, expected September 2017 onitssecond andisnowinproduction another opened.” (“Star Trek: debuted in Discovery” came along,” says. “Onedoorclosedand Martin-Green I wasshootingmy episodesasSashathat last ‘Discovery’ show, andIwasinsuchaplaceofpeace.It wasrightas but Ifeltlike itwasmeanttobethat Iwasleaving the And ifsheneedsany insightsonbeingastrong showfeatured oneofthefirstThe interracial kisses shecarries mindfulofthelegacy isvery Martin-Green nurture WE reflected in my THINGS THAT STORY TOBE I WANTI THE own life. own explore and INOUR
AMANDA FRIEDMAN / TRUNK ARCHIVE WEBMD.COM 37 RESEARCHERS REVEAL THE LATEST INSIGHTS ON WHAT IT TAKES TO LIVE TO 100— AND WHETHER MORE OF US CAN GET THERE
BY SONYA COLLINS REVIEWED BY MICHAEL W. SMITH, MD WEBMD CHIEF MEDICAL DIRECTOR IS IT THE NEW 80?
39 WEBMD.COM 40 WEBMD.COM THIS MONTH. CELEBRATED HER 100 LAURA BRIDGES simply because hergrandmother did.Longevity ginia livedto99aswell.Another sister, Dot,is90. grandmother, wholivedtobe99.Her Vir- sister says, tolive100years,Bridges Asked ifsheexpected wealth? spreading thegenetic to Orcanscienceunlockthesecret toliveanentirecentury? lottery genetic showgenesBut studies arepretty too. So,doyouhave important, towinthe andotherhealthy choices. agood underestimate thevalue diet, ofexercise, 80 years. Of course, you can’tthem from those who live the expected 43% increasefrom50,000in2000. rise. In 2015, some72,000 Americanswerecentenarians.That’s awhopping In centenarians—peoplewhoare100yearsoldormore—areonthe even fact, living wellintoone’s formany. expectation realistic 80sor90sisaperfectly diseases that areamongtheleadingcausesofdeath today. cancer,live longenoughtoget disease,Alzheimer’s, heart orotherage-related didn’t often andtheflu.gious illnesseslike They pneumonia,tuberculosis, tothemoretypical 55.Backthen,peoplediedofconta- returned expectancy followingyear, 36yearsforamanand42woman.The year wasjust life aresult,U.S.estimated 50millionpeopleworldwide.As that lifeexpectancy County, yearshewasborninrural Oglethorpe The theflu killedan Georgia, THE CASE FOR GENES MOTHER.” Bridges wasn’t wrong to expect to live so long Bridges wasn’t wrong to expect As centenarians’ numbersAs grow, researchers want to know what separates inthe U.S. days, lifeexpectancy whilestatistical These isabout80years, “SURE! I TAKE MY GRAND AFTER
TH Bridges has in fact outlived her outlivedher Bridges hasinfact BIRTHDAY -
JOSEPH, WITH HER HUSBAND LAURA BRIDGES
CIRCA 1941
brains of80-year-old average-agers. the brains of50-year-oldsthanlike the brains, hasfound,lookmorelike thestudy alignwiththeirage. Super-agers’ memory that is,peoplewhoseoverall healthand brains tothebrains ofaverage-agers— Study. trial compares super-agers’ The Rogalski, PhD, wholeadstheSuperAging a different ofaging,” trajectory says Emily hand inhand.“We mightbeon thinkthey that age, bothinbodyandbrain, seemtogo old age good andexceptionally healthfor 50s. It’s notsuchatallorder. Exceptionally ofsomeoneintheir havestill thememory includes peoplewhoareolderthan80but clinical trialat Northwestern University, sharp mindandgood physical health. You yearswitha want toenjoythoseextra years. extra inmorethanjust interested oldage,to anexceptionally you’re probably all, ifyouwanttolive who age well.After arealsolookingat oldage; people they very peoplewholivetoa studying just aren’t many moregenes wecandiscover.” not allofthem.Andthereareprobably research] have ofthesegenes, but afew New York. “Most [long-livedpeopleinour CollegeEinstein ofMedicine inBronx, Human Studiesat Longevity Albert says Sofiya Milman, MD, of director families achronologicaledge. search forthegenes that mightgivesome to runs infamilies,which has led scientists The SuperAging Study,The an ongoing researchers likeLongevity Milman genes“Several have been identified,”
GETTY IMAGES levels ofgood (HDL)and cholesterol levels tohigher long-lived peopleisconnected gene variant common in exceptionally why life. For it might extend one example, some cases, the gene’s explains function that Bridges and otherslike herenjoy. In that mightcontributetothesloweraging facility.her toanassisted-living it,hersonmoved inthose who get develops theaverage98, some20yearsafter age it she begantoshowsignsofdementiaat Doraville in1962untilshewas98.When Joseph Bridges, intheAtlantasuburb home she purchased with her husband, herself. She livedindependentlyinthe related diseases,too. people tendtohave lowerrates ofage- foundthatstudy childrenoflong-lived longer,” says Milman. Afollow-uptothis healthier, andmaybe that’s live why they theseconditions. get most stroke, upto24 theaverage yearsafter age and osteoporosis, disease,diabetes, heart age-related illnesses, such as cancer, exceptionally long-lived people developed to much-younger older adults, many of the that comparedolderadultsages 95to112 slower biologicalclockaswell.In astudy more slowlythantheaverage person. says, whichthat suggests super-agers age thanthatfaster ofthesuper-agers,” Rogalski brains arethinningtwo andahalftimes Researchers have begun to identify genes Researchers have begunto identify genes Bridges hasenjoyedadisease-freelife live longer, don’t just “They live they the idea of a support Other studies outerlayer oftheaverage-agers’“The
SUPER-AGERS’ SECRETS PEOPLE WHO LIVE LONG LIVES WITH SHARP MINDS AND HEALTHY BODIES. LIVE. GENES MAY PLAY A RELATIVELY SMALL PART—25% TO 33%—IN HOW LONG YOU TO TO A LONG AND A HEALTHY LIFE the world. in many cultures around associated withlongevity and full-fat hasbeen dairy carbohydrates, sweets, saturated fat, meat, simple vegetables andlow in A diet and highinfruits THE REST IS UP TO YOU and independence. and take away mobility old agecan break bones falling inyour 90s. Falls in could reduce theriskof a day inyour 60s and70s minutesof exerciseThirty They don’t why tell scientists lifespan,They everything. Of course,genes explain don’t and othersdidnot.” somelivedtobecentenarians intake, yet or alcohol smoking, diet, in exercise, she says, “therereallywerenodifferences in thesameera butdiedmuchyounger, centenarians toagroupoftheirpeersborn Milman andhercolleaguescompared healthier thanaverage-agers either. When don’t havethey them,” says Milman. diseases—Alzheimer’s, cancers, hereditary got these never are 100 years old, and they diseases that average-agers do.“Yet, they same genes knowntoraise riskforcertain show,too. Centenarians,studies the carry genes anddisease-promotingbehaviors, theeffectsagainst ofdisease-causing long, healthy lives,itappearstoprotect what thosegenes do. livedknow people, don’t though yet they common in centenarians or other long- have foundothergenes that seemtobe age-related chronicdiseases.Researchers tomanythe cells.Bothareprecursors atypedamagestress, to ofcumulative to regulate inflammation andoxidative genes associated withlongevity appear Acoupleofother health ofthearteries. seemstocomewithbetter overallHDL, withhigher Another gene, alsoconnected lower riskfordementiaandAlzheimer’s. THE CASE FOR LIFESTYLE . THESE ARE A FEW LESSONS FROM RESEARCH ON Their lifestyles seem don’t to be anyTheir causeofthese thegenetic Whatever dementia. help stave off into oldage, may when continued and socializing, Both reading
non-coffee drinkers. coffee drinkers and longer thanexcessive aday—maycups live drink aboutoneto four drinkers—those who Moderate coffee- have or a have-not. to be agenetic or doomed destined as ifyou’re either lifespan. So,it’s not to athirdofhuman account foraquarter say. may Genes only 103 yearsold,projections in 2000couldlivetobe the childrenborninU.S. to increase. Half only expected advancements that lifespan is medical, andpublichealth century. It’s duetoongoing scientific, lifespan has increased in the U.S. in the last advancements with25ofthe30yearsthat oftheCDC,creditspublichealth director helped, too. havepressure andhighcholesterol treatmentaggressive of high blood to life expectancy. In 20years, thelast and lifestyle changes have all added of vaccines, improvementineducation, ofantibiotics,development discovery public health,suchasreducedpollution, dementia inpeople90yearsoldandup.) agingwelland explores study (The Irvine. 90+ Studyat University ofCalifornia Kawas,Claudia MD, whoco-leadsThe that’s from environment,” mostly says [inthat time],and a thirdofcentury 100years. increased somuchinthelast and thenumberofcentenarians,has Thomas Frieden,Thomas MD, MPH,former Kawas notesthat improvementsin “We’ve almost lifeexpectancy extended teetotalers. may live longerthan beverages aday— about two alcoholic Moderate drinkers— WEBMD.COM 41 When you choose a lifestyle that promotes BY THE NUMBERS longevity, you could reap many of the same benefits as those who hit the genetic jackpot at birth. Milman and her colleagues compared disease risk in adult children of centenarians, who tend to have a lower risk for age-related chronic diseases by nature, to the adult children of average- agers, who tend to have average risk. Centenarian offspring who didn’t lead RESEARCHERS healthy lives had lower overall risk than lifestyle, rewarding relationships— the right approach for heartREVEAL disease, 117 average-agers who didn’t live healthily. make a person happy. Or maybe happy diabetes, and other chronic conditions, AGE OF THE OLDEST KNOWN LIVING But the disease risk of healthy-living people seek out these things. Either way, Olshansky says. “When THEyou LATESTreduce PERSON TODAY, A WOMAN IN JAPAN average-agers, on the other hand, wasn’t happiness seems to be a predictor of infectious diseases, you getINSIGHTS decades of NAMED CHIYO MIYAKO. very different from that of healthy-living longevity. In a study that followed more life in return, but we only get marginal 451,000 centenarian offspring. “A healthy lifestyle than 31,000 adults for 24 years, those improvements in longevityON when WHAT we IT NUMBER OF CENTENARIANS IN could help close the gap,” says Milman. who rated themselves “very happy” were make [improvements in] the major THE WORLD IN Keeping up with your friends seems less likely to die during the study than diseases that kill us today.” TAKES TO 2015. to contribute to aging well, too. Bridges those who called themselves “pretty That’s because when you reduce the has held on to the same two gal-pals happy” or “not happy.” risk of death from one age-relatedLIVE disease, TO 100 — since 1962. “I’VE GOT ELEANOR, Asked for her secrets to a long, healthy something else takes its place.AND “If you WHETHER cure AND I’VE GOT BETTY,” she says. life, Bridges says with a shrug that maybe cancer or heart disease,” Olshansky says, The three moved to the same street in it’s all the vegetables she’s eaten. She’s “you’re going to get more MOREpeople OFwith Doraville within a month of each other exercised from time to time, she adds, Alzheimer’s disease.” in 1962, saw each other through the never smoked or drank, and she’s worked The solution? Slow the agingUS process CAN GET to 3,700,000 deaths of their husbands, all within the hard. “AND I’M HAPPY,” SHE ADDS. reduce the risk of all age-relatedTHERE diseases NUMBER OF CENTENARIANS same six months, and continued to see “I’VE ALWAYS BEEN HAPPY.” rather than just one. In much the same EXPECTED IN THE YEAR 2050. each other as often as they could until way that many new cancer therapies THAT’S AN EIGHT-FOLD target the gene that causes cancer, new Betty passed away last year. INCREASE. The super-agers in the Northwestern LEVELING THE GENETIC drugs could one day switch certain genes University study say that they have more PLAYING FIELD on or off to help average-agers live longer, satisfying, high-quality relationships than Bridges, like many others her age, may disease-free lives. their average-ager peers. They are more simply have a genetic edge over others in Current research explores the likely to say they have friends they can the race to live the longest—and the best. possibility for targeted therapies, as well trust and who share their interests. “I DON’T KNOW WHY I’M LIVING SO as other drugs, to slow the aging process. “When you’re staying in touch with One good candidate is metformin—a LONG,” she says with a laugh. “I CAN’T 178 your friends, deciding to go out to lunch safe, cheap medication for type 2 1 IN 2,083 ESTIMATED NUMBER OF rather than staying home, maybe in FIGURE THAT ONE OUT.” Those who diabetes that’s been in use for more than NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN JAPAN WHO ARE CENTENARIANS— SUPERCENTENARIANS— addition to making you feel good, it’s 50 years. Studies suggest that it delays aren’t so lucky will have to pick up the THE HIGHEST RATE IN THE WORLD. NEXT IS doing something good for your brain,” slack with plenty of leafy greens, exercise, aging in animals. The TAME (Targeting SOMEONE AGE 110 OR OLDER— says Rogalski. and a life that’s heavy on friends and free Aging with Metformin) trial, expected to 1 IN 2,439 IN ITALY AND 1 IN 4,545 IN THE U.S. IN THE WORLD TODAY. Numerous other studies have attributed of tobacco. launch late this year or early next year, loneliness to poorer mental and physical But one day, what scientists learn now will be the first clinical trial to test the health, cognitive decline, and a shorter from the genetically lucky could give hypothesis in people. life expectancy. “It’s important to keep everyone a boost. If aging at a slower pace “A minor intervention that slows your friends close as you get older,” says protects the exceptionally old from many aging would be bigger than a cure for Jay Olshansky, PhD, a professor of public diseases at once, how can science slow the cancer,” says Olshansky, “because it health at the University of Illinois at ticking of average-agers’ clocks, too? would influence more than just cancer. Chicago, where he studies centenarians. Currently, scientists attack age- It would influence heart disease, stroke, “If you can have a partner—married or related, chronic diseases in the same Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis—everything 620,000 not—that’s really important to healthy way they attacked contagious illnesses that goes wrong with us. If we could slow NUMBER OF CENTENARIANS EXPECTED IN survival at older ages.” 100 years ago—one by one. That worked aging, our world would change in very CHINA BY 2050, WHEN THE COUNTRY WILL Maybe all of these things—a healthy for contagious conditions, but that’s not positive ways.” HAVE THE HIGHEST RATE IN THE WORLD.
42 WEBMD.COM The Facts about
BY Lisa Marshall REVIEWED BY Neha Pathak, MD WebMD Medical Editor
CRYSTALS, SALT LAMPS, AND ENERGY HEALING MAY ACTUALLY WORK— BUT NOT THE WAY YOU MIGHT THINK
hen Sadie Kadlec approached Initially, her boss resisted her request. But her boss at a high-end fashion Kadlec, fueled by a calm confidence that firm in New York City to ask seemed to come out of nowhere, bargained for a raise a few years ago, she secretly hard and got what she asked for. “I was clutched two small pebbles in her right blown away by what those two stones did hand. One was an orange crystal called for me,” says Kadlec, 30, who now meditates carnelian, said to promote courage; the on crystals daily, carries them with her, and other, a pale bluish-green gemstone teaches classes on how to use them to pro- called kyanite, is said to correspond to mote emotional and physical health. “These the throat, or voice, “chakra” (one of sev- are pieces of the Earth with their own grav- en spiritual energy centers in the body itational force or energy, and you can feel it.” described in some of the healing tradi- A decade ago, Kadlec’s story might have tions of ancient India, including yoga). been written off as New Age psychobabble,
ILLUSTRATIONS BY: JAMES O’BRIEN JAMES BY: ILLUSTRATIONS 45 WEBMD.COM but today—in what some are calling the “new New Some—like meditation and yoga—are backed by the expectation it can help you can evoke Age”—such alternative healing therapies are every- scientific evidence. But for many others, there’s little measurable changes in the brain and where. Google searches for “crystal healing” have supporting research. body—aka the placebo effect. more than doubled in the past five years, fueled by One of the only studies ever to explore crystal In other words, if you believe it helps, it endorsements from celebrities such as Katy Perry, healing was done in 2001 by University of London just might. Kate Hudson, and Adele, who clutches one during psychologist Christopher French. He gave 80 volun- performances to fend off stage fright. You can easily teers booklets explaining the sensations they might The Real Placebo Effect find Himalayan salt lamps marketed as mood boost- have while holding crystals, including tingling limbs, Ted Kaptchuk, PhD, director of the ers and magnetic bracelets billed as pain relievers increased concentration, and heightened energy. Program in Placebo Studies at Harvard on Amazon and at Walmart. A Himalayan pink Then he gave half of the participants genuine gem- Medical School, says the placebo effect is salt lamp was one of Amazon’s best-selling home- stones and the other half fakes made of cheap plastic. often wrongly assumed to be “all in your improvement products over last year’s holiday season Those holding a fake were just as likely to respond who got placebo acupuncture along Fortunately, most of these alternative head”—a “fake” response to an inert sub- among the company’s Prime subscribers. physically as those holding the real thing. French’s with a patient-practitioner relationship therapies lack dangerous side effects, stance. But brain imaging studies show Alternative healing centers from San Francisco conclusion: The power of suggestion—not flowing “augmented by warmth, attention, and aside from damage to the pocketbook. that when a patient performs an action, to New York City are bursting with well-educated energy—got the credit. confidence” for six weeks had significant But people should keep in mind that the such as taking a sugar pill or getting a millennials from the real estate, finance, and A 2013 study examined magnetic bracelets, often symptom relief. “The magnitude of effect placebo effect, while it may lessen symp- sham acupuncture session, it activates tech industries. They pay big bucks used as remedies for pain. Researchers was better than the best drug on the mar- toms, can’t cure disease, says Giordano: very specific regions in the brain and can per hour for a session of crystal or assigned 70 people with rheumatoid ket, and it wasn’t even real acupuncture,” “I view the greatest potential harm with trigger the release of feel-good hormones “flower essence” therapy, which arthritis to consecutively wear one says Kaptchuk, author of the study. these modalities as one of omission. If peo- like endorphins, dopamine, and natural uses tinctures dropped under of four different devices (two ple put too much stock in these and don’t painkillers. “We are talking about a real the tongue, or Reiki, an kinds of magnetic wrist straps, utilize medical resources needed for their biological process, not something you are Believe in Healing alternative therapy that a copper bracelet, and an conditions, that can be a real problem.” just making up,” says Kaptchuk. Americans—particularly those struggling uses no-touch massage to ordinary bracelet) for five Kadlec gets this. “I would never say Numerous studies show that when with chronic disease—are very open to transmit healing energy weeks each. They found Western medicine is not necessary,” patients are told they are receiving a drug experimenting with the unproven. One- through the hands. no difference between she stresses. that will ease pain, they respond twice quarter of the people surveyed in a Pew “We get a lot of people the bracelets in easing pain Melissa Abe, an event producer and brand as well as when they are given that drug Research survey said they believed in spir- who come to New York or inflammation. strategist from Brooklyn, agrees. If she has a secretly (through an IV or otherwise)—a itual energy in physical things like crystals to work, realize they need While Himalayan salt bad infection, she doesn’t hesitate to turn to fact that suggests a large portion of pre- and trees. Another study of dietary supple- some tools to stay healthy lamp sellers say their lamps antibiotics. If she has a crushing headache, scription drugs’ effectiveness comes from ment users found that 80% would continue because life is really intense, give off negative ions that she’ll take an over-the-counter pain reliever. the power of suggestion. taking their supplement of choice even if and say traditional medicine can boost feel-good brain But she also visits Maha Rose regularly for The placebo effect works even better government studies said it was ineffective. Reiki and flower therapy and she meditates is not meeting their needs,” says chemicals, they can cite no quality when patients interact with a health care “In many cases, people do not like the with carefully selected crystals daily. Lisa Levine, a licensed acupuncturist studies. “Is there something about professional who is attentive and com- answer—or the odds—given to them by their What does she make of the lack of sci- and the founder of the popular Maha Rose Himalayan salt that releases positive ions passionate—qualities that alternative physicians . . . and they are motivated to try entific evidence? “Honestly, I don’t give a Center for Healing in Brooklyn. A one-hour Reiki in the air and has a therapeutic effect on the human medicine practitioners are well-known unproven or untested therapies,” says Vyse. crap,” she says, matter-of-factly. “All that session there runs $100 to $175, and a palm-size body at a distance? From everything I have read, I for. One study of 262 people with irritable matters is how I feel, and these things labradorite crystal will cost you $30. would have to say, ‘No,’” says James Giordano, PhD, bowel syndrome found that 61% of those make me feel better.” Could these treatments really work? a professor in the departments of neurology and Actually, yes, say neuroscientists and psychologists. biochemistry at Georgetown University. But not necessarily for the reasons people are told But that’s not to say they don’t help some people, he they do. The placebo effect is almost certainly at play. says. Numerous studies show that short-wavelength The mere act of doing something to take control of blue light can suppress sleep-inducing melatonin, your destiny can often boost hope, brighten mood, while longer-wavelength reddish-orange lights can and improve your ability to cope with a chronic stimulate calming brain chemicals, Giordano says. condition, says psychologist Stuart Vyse, author of “Himalayan salt lamps put out a really nice, pinkish PERCENTAGE of Americans Believing in Magic: The Psychology of Superstition. light, and it’s certainly possible that could induce a 15% who have consulted a psychic. “There is no scientific evidence to support the med- feeling of emotional well-being in some people.” $28.3 billion ical effectiveness of any of these remedies,” he says. And other things may be at play that scientists AMOUNT U.S. adults spend annually on “But there is the possibility that they might have an complementary and alternative health care don’t have the tools to study yet, he says: “Sometimes approaches for themselves. indirect psychological benefit.” scientists think we know how things work, or don’t work, and we really don’t.” 26% 68% What the Science Says Another explanation, Giordano says, is that the PERCENTAGE PERCENT by which In all, U.S. consumers spend about $30 billion a mere ritual of flipping on a salt lamp, holding a of people who the effectiveness $1.9 believe physical of anti-depressant year on complementary and alternative medicine. crystal, or paying a visit to a Reiki practitioner with O’BRIEN JAMES BY: ILLUSTRATIONS billion AMOUNT U.S. adults spend annually on objects, like drugs has been PERCENTAGE of people who complementary and alternative health care trees and rocks, attributed to the believe in astrology. approaches for their kids. radiate energy. placebo effect.
46 47 WEBMD.COM WEBMD.COM DELICIOUS BITES Food MEALS MADE EASY
GOOD FOR YOU REACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH RADISHES. A HALF-CUP OF THESE peppery roots offers 14% of an adult’s daily value of vitamin C. And like their cousins—cabbage and broccoli—radishes are Ravishing Roots cruciferous vegetables, containing the cancer-fighting phyto- You may think of it as a chemical known as sulforaphane. Radishes come in a fantastic forgettable salad garnish, but the array of colors, so be on the lookout for the stunning water- melon radish, which adds flash to salads. Slice raw radishes radish is really a crisp, colorful to serve like chips, with dip, or layer them with a thin spread gem brimming with antioxidants of butter and a sprinkle of sea salt on toast. You can also toss and zingy flavor them with olive oil and roast for 10 minutes until their flesh is slightly brown but still firm, a method that mellows their bite. Indeed, these roots are totally rad. —ERIN O’DONNELL PHOTOGRAPHY: RICK LOZIER; FOOD STYLING: CHARLIE WORTHINGTON CHARLIE STYLING: FOOD LOZIER; RICK PHOTOGRAPHY:
48 WEBMD.COM BY Erin O’Donnell FOOD RECIPES BY Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD, LD PORTOBELLO Search for the slideshow MUSHROOMS Say Cheese at WebMD.com. WHOLE-GRAIN PIZZA SHELL
BLUE CHEESE CRUMBLES
3 WAYS
Grilled Pizza ARUGULA Top a premade whole-grain crust with wholesome ingredients, throw it on the grill, and you’ll have an impressive, healthy meal on the table in mere minutes
3THE SWEET-AND-SALTY CLASSIC OLIVE OIL Fig and Prosciutto Pizza This gorgeous pizza combines sweet fresh figs with thinly sliced prosciutto (available GOAT CHEESE PROSCIUTTO CRUMBLES at the deli counter) and tangy blue cheese. BALSAMIC We like it topped with a quick drizzle of GLAZE balsamic glaze, stocked in the vinegar section of large supermarkets. FRESH FIGS MARINARA PER SERVING (2 SLICES) | 330 WHOLE-GRAIN SAUCE calories, 14 g protein, 46 g carbohydrate, MAKE IT Oil grill rack and heat grill to high. PIZZA SHELL 15 g fat (5 g saturated fat), 15 mg Drizzle pizza crust with olive oil followed cholesterol, 9 g fiber, 11 g sugar, 470 mg by clean, sliced portobello mushrooms, EGG SQUARED 1 sodium. Calories from fat: 32% thinly sliced prosciutto, sliced figs, and Grilled Eggplant and blue cheese crumbles. Gently slide pizza on grill. Grill, covered, 5 to 7 minutes or until Egg Pizza crust is light brown and cheese is melted. In this recipe, we use Japanese egg- Top with arugula and drizzle with olive oil plant—a narrower, slightly sweet ver- and balsamic glaze. Cool pizza for 5 minutes sion of the hearty purple nightshade— then slice. SERVES 6 but regular eggplant will also work.
MAKE IT Oil grill rack and heat grill to BABY medium-high. Lightly coat eggplant SPINACH slices with olive oil. Grill eggplant 8 THE MEDITERRANEAN DELIGHT JAPANESE SUNDRIED to 12 minutes or until tender and grill 2 EGGPLANT RED AND YELLOW TOMATOES marks appear, turning once halfway Pesto Chicken and Tomato Pizza CHERRY TOMATOES through grilling. Set aside. Increase grill Use premade pesto for this pizza, which features shredded COOKED SWEET ONION to high heat. Assemble the pizza: Top chicken breast and a variety of flavorful tomatoes, including red CHICKEN BREAST WHOLE-GRAIN the crust with marinara sauce, grilled and yellow cherry tomatoes. Serve with a crisp side salad. PIZZA SHELL eggplant, sweet onion slices, baby spinach, and a sprinkle of goat cheese crumbles. Drizzle pizza with olive oil. Crack egg in the center and gently MAKE IT Oil grill rack and heat grill slide pizza onto grill. Grill, covered, to medium-high. On the pizza crust, 5 to 7 minutes or until crust is light layer pesto, shredded cooked chick- FRESH BASIL en breast, red and yellow halved FRESH ROSEMARY brown, spinach wilts, and egg is firm. Transfer to a cutting board. Top with cherry tomatoes, chopped sun- snipped fresh rosemary. Cool pizza for dried tomatoes, and 1 cup shredded 5 minutes, then slice. SERVES 6 mozzarella cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and gently slide pizza onto grill. SHREDDED Grill, covered, 5 to 7 minutes or until MOZZARELLA EGG PER SERVING (2 SLICES) | 248 calories, 11 g crust is light brown and cheese is CHEESE The Foundation protein, 28 g carbohydrate, 12 g fat (4 g saturated melted. Transfer to a cutting board, Use a premade whole-grain fat), 42 mg cholesterol, 7 g fiber, 4 g sugar, 329 mg and top with fresh basil and another drizzle of olive oil. Cool pizza for 5 pizza crust or flatbread (available sodium. Calories from fat: 38% minutes then slice. SERVES 6 at most supermarkets), which will
stand up well to the grill’s heat. PESTO PER SERVING (2 SLICES) | 368 calories, 20 g protein, 24 g carbohydrate, 23 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 32 mg cholesterol, 4 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 467 mg sodium. Calories from fat: 50% PHOTOGRAPHY: RICK LOZIER; FOOD STYLING: CHARLIE WORTHINGTON CHARLIE STYLING: FOOD LOZIER; RICK PHOTOGRAPHY: OLIVE OIL 49 50 WEBMD.COM WEBMD.COM BY Matt McMillen FOOD REVIEWED BY Hansa Bhargava, MD Search for the slideshow Veggies WebMD Senior Medical Director That Are Healthy Sources of Carbs at WebMD.com. YELLOW CROOKNECK Named for its curved neck and curvy base, slice this FOOD 101 squash into coins, toss with fresh herbs, olive oil, PATT YPAN and lemon zest, then Its distinctive UFO-like shape and Savor Squash roast briefly in a a creamy texture benefits most hot oven. Enter the wide world of squash, with their from simple preparations—slice colorful skin, oddball shapes, and range of flavors into rounds, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Grill and top SQUASH BOAST NUMEROUS VITAMINS AND MINERALS—WHICH ONES with fresh herbed ricotta. depend on the type of squash—in a low-calorie, cholesterol- free package. But the joy of squash, says Alana Chernila, author of Eating from the Ground Up, is their immense variety and versatility: “I could eat squash every day.” Here are four of her favorites.
ZUCCHINI Its mild flavor makes KABOCHA it a perfect blank slate Green or orange, with creamy, for so many culinary starchy flesh, you’ll find this squash creations. Grate it year-round. Cut into wedges and into chocolate chip roast with chile and oil, or braise in zucchini bread, sauté soups and stews. with rosemary and basil for pasta, or
PHOTOGRAPHY: RICK LOZIER; LOZIER; RICK PHOTOGRAPHY: WORTHINGTON CHARLIE STYLING: FOOD marinate and grill. GETTY IMAGES new ways to relieve someofthesymptoms. delaying it,possiblestrategies to doso, and current research examines thebenefitsof While medicinecan’t prevent menopause, end ofmenstrualcycles. triggersthe hormones in reproductive when anatural decline phase inawoman’s life Menopause isthe EDGE CUTTING EXPLORE HEALTH In astudyofmore than14,150 women simple carbohydrates, includingrice started menopause menopause started and whitepasta, in theU.K., women whoate alotof later scored better on their later scoredbetter ontheir natural menopause who started early 40s,50s,and60s.Those intheir word-recalltest brief memory. womentooka The to menopausemeantbetter in 1946foundthat alater start womensincetheirbirth 1,315 study that A followed benefits. a coupleyearscouldhave PUSHING MENOPAUSE (by about 18 months). (byearlier about18months).
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GETTY IMAGES Stand UpStand To Cancer. WebMD’s editorialandbrought staff to you by This content iscreated andcontrolled by Clinical Trials of 4 Phases For clinicaltrialscanofferhope—butknowtherisks peoplewithcancerandotherillnesses, TrialsClinical You and SPOTLIGHT “For oneofourbigareasisimmunotherapy, example, upyour whichrevs Alzheimer’s Besureyouknow theprosandconsbe- disease,anddiabetes. are at thecutting edge oftheresearch,” says- Gilman,CEOoftheClini advance ofmedicalknowledge, says James Gilman,MD:“We’re K. - notlet cal Center, theNational Institutes ofHealth’s flagshipresearchhospital. youhave more.“Byparticipating, clinical trialsprovidesomething access fore you participate. fore youparticipate. ill—an opportunity to join the fight against diseaseand contributetothe tojointhefightagainst ill—an opportunity to a treatment that shows promise, most often inthehandsofpeoplewhoto atreatment that often showspromise,most ting thediseasewin.” new,to test potentiallylife-saving meansofcounteringdiseaseslike cancer, EVERY YEAR, THOUSANDS OF AMERICANS TAKE PART IN CLINICAL TRIALS DESIGNED To canceroranotherterminalailment, patients, somewithincurable Clinical trialsofferallvolunteers—thosewhoarehealthy andthoseare Clinical 80 healthy volunteers. It determinesanexper Usually involves 20 to tion aboutdosages. imental drug’simental safety and sideeffects and provides initialinforma- PHASE 1 PHASE
- CHECKUP This phasealsofocuses on thedrug’s safety. It people with the disease people withthedisease measure itseffectiveness. that thedrugaimsto treat. Involves afew hundred includes tooincludes few peopleto PHASE 2 PHASE
with standard orexisting treatments, andmonitors tients. Ittests theexperi- Involves upto 3,000 pa- mental medication’smental safety, side effects. hereSuccess PHASE 3 PHASE often leads tooften leads FDA approval. compares itseffectiveness
with them. The side effects oftreatment sideeffects with them.The are revealed - in the early stages of test are revealed Only about14% drugs ofexperimental Gilman advises. “Think throughitall.”Gilman advises.“Think you stand togainorlose.Andthen you stand could make yourfinalweeksormonths during the clinical trial, Gilman says, cancer, that limitsyourremainingtime discuss these factors with your family, these factors discuss ever, unsuccessfultreatments usually receiveFDAeventually approval. How- ciate the potentialdownsidesaswell,” cal trialpatients thepo- tounderstand sayseffectiveness, Gilman. For patients, confidence inthetreatment’s and safety doesn’t respondtochemotherapy oris could make yousicker. relatives, and friends close to you. This relatives, andfriendsclosetoyou.This researchers have areasonabledegreeof rolls the greatest number of patients, not surgicallyremovable.” not cure orslowyourdisease,andit not cure much harderandlessfulfilling. is especially important ifyouhaveis especiallyimportant a its finalpre-approval phase,whichen- ing. Bythetimeaclinicaltrialreaches immune system tofightacancerthatimmune system terminal illness, such as an incurable terminal illness,suchasanincurable tential downsides: The treatment maytential downsides:The that meanshope. to get anunbiasedopinionaboutwhatto get who’strust notinvolved intheresearch upsides, but understand andappre- upsides, butunderstand phases and often take years to complete. takephases andoften yearstocomplete. “Don’t focus simplyonthepossible “Don’t focus Before you enroll, talk to a doctor you youenroll,talktoadoctor Before Clinical trials go through multiple Clinical Still, Gilman urges prospective clini- Still, Gilman urges prospective REVIEWED BY Tracks thenew complications. treatment afterFDA any rare orlong-term approval to identify side effects orother PHASE 4 PHASE BY WebMD Medical Editor Matt McMillen
Neha Pathak, MD
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GETTY IMAGES Don’t let HIVcontrolyour life.FollowDon’t let tips. expert these HIV with Living HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS EXPERT TIPS Partners, Great Neck, New York New Neck, Great Partners, Physician Health Northwell HIV, Pediatric and Adolescent Adult, Young for Center director, medical system tobehealthy.” suppressed andallows yourimmune healthy. Thisiswhatkeeps yourvirus lenge, butdoing it iswhatkeepsyou Taking daycanbeachal- pillsevery meds orbreakfast. byyourtoothbrush Set reminders onyourphone.Put “Take prescribed. as yourmedications DAVID W. ROSENTHAL, DO, P DO, W.DAVID ROSENTHAL, to WebMD.com/findadoctor. Go WebMD’s Physician Finder Looking for a doctor? Use
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY: SAKIS LALAS go alittle blurry, Iwould getlightheaded Conversations to know. My goalevery day isfor people would take metwo orthree attempts to every show TV outthere. That’s why the to beableto tuneinandhave a little bit I would joke aboutmy brain tumorthat I would beonset,andmy visionwould and my speechwouldto slur, start and website refers toitasthe“ESPN of discussion. We dothesamething,but 99%. Ihave a6% to 7%chanceofever important and that other people need andthatotherpeopleneed important After surgery toremove thetumor, I didn’t even know it Ihad.Sometimes for TV. We’ve definitely builtamassive signs thatsomethingwasn’t right? “ESPN of TV talk” labelissoaccurate. talk” “ESPN ofTV What appealed toyouWhat appealed about doing a brain tumor. What were thefirst of fun—andalsogetsometakeaway Keven Undergaro, alsohave your In 2017, you were diagnosedwith own network—AfterBuzz TV. The He saidthey gotmostofitout—like destination fordestination fans TV to goto and We produce after-shows for almost I love having avoice andgetting to the SiriusXMshow andpodcast have thatwater coolerdiscussion. talk aboutthingsthatIthinkare talk You watch ESPN for after-game having towiththis again. deal TV Talk.”TV What’s itabout? what didyour doctorsay You andyour husband, say whatIwanted to say. about your prognosis? TEN QUESTIONS for theirlife. with Maria Menounos? 4 3 2 1
Maria Menounos Take 10 I neededto changemy life. Iwas runningtoo and Iwas overworked. Ineededto attack life differently andenjoy itmore and really focus focus. It’s very hard for doctors nowadays to Journalist, Actor, Producer, 40 everything andto everyone. Iwas unhappy To me, it’s patience, time, compassion,and on my andmy health I’ve happiness. been and didn’t even realize it. Iwas exhausted, hard, andIwas placingsomuchpressure condition, what qualities doyoucondition, whatqualities value Having lived through aserioushealth on myself asawoman to beperfect at You’ve saidyour brain tumorwas a have qualitytimewiththeir patients. most in a health caremost inahealth provider? doing that,andI’ve stuckwithit. blessing. Whatdoyoublessing. mean? 6 5
on—whatever symptoms I’m having. And My friendVicky Vlachonis—anosteopath we’re notsupposedto work hard, butwe Body Doesn’t Lie—told meto keep apain After surgery, becauseofthenerves that journal. Alotofusdon’t remember what nal inmy phoneofanything that’s going I work withwhowrote abookcalledThe There’s areason we’re allgetting assick we didyesterday. So, Ikeep apainjour the worse eye, andthey said,“We don’t know how longyou’re goingto have to I follow the80/20 80% rule:Ieat clean; wear this.Itmightbea day. Itmightbe as we are. We’re notsupposedto work were rocking back andforth like crazy. fun—20%. AndIbelieve inmeditation. a month.Itmightbetwo months.” So, this way whenIsitwithmy doctor, I’m My doctors gave meaneye patch for my vision would probably benumber the tumorwas pressing on,my vision one afterhaving hadthatexperience this hard andthismuchnottake care of ourselves. I’m notsaying that went doubleandtriplemy eyes What isyour philosophy? health and Iletmyself have alittle bitof What’s advice health thebest anyone hasever given you? have to take care ofourselves because Ilove seeingnature. Which ofyour five senses do you value most?Why? regimen doyou follow? not relying onmemory. What kind of health What kindofhealth —STEPHANIE WATSON at thesametime. REAL LIFE 10 7 9 8
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PREVENT JOINT DAMAGE · 1 | KNOW YOUR RA NUMBERS · 3 4 THINGS TO ASK WHEN YOU VISIT YOUR DOCTOR · 4
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THIS CONTENT IS CREATED AND CONTROLLED BY WEBMD’S EDITORIAL STAFF FOCUS ON Joint Damage 101 A LEADING RESEARCHER EXPLAINS HOW RA HURTS JOINTS AND WHY YOU SHOULD ACT TO PREVENT FURTHER DAMAGE By Stephanie Watson The signs of rheumatoid arthritis (RA)—swollen, stiff, and tive tissue that cushions and inflammatory factors like sore joints—are pretty obvious to anyone who lives with this protects bones at the joint. IL-6 and TNF-alpha, disease. Much less obvious are the processes going on under Inflammatory factors in the people with RA no longer the surface that make joints swell and ache. joint lining—like interleu- have to settle for a lifetime Unlike osteoarthritis (OA), in which joint cartilage gradu- kin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 of pain and disability. ally wears away over years of use, RA is a disease of inflam- (IL-6), and tumor necrosis “These drugs are very mation. “That inflammation leads to the production of factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)— effective at controlling factors that drive joint destruction,” says Ellen Gravallese, trigger the production of inflammation in rheuma- MD, Myles J. McDonough Chair in Rheumatology at the destructive enzymes that toid arthritis,” says Gra- University of Massachusetts Medical School. break down cartilage. In- vallese. “If inflammation Gravallese and her colleagues have been studying how flammation also destroys the is under good control, you inflammation destroys cartilage and bone in RA for the scaffolding of bone that sup- can prevent the progres- better part of two decades. What they’ve discovered is ports the cartilage. “It’s like sion of bone destruction that a few separate processes are behind joint damage, you’re building a house and in the disease.” Preventing pain, and deformity. you lose the scaffold you’re inflammation also does a One process damages bones in the affected joints. Cells trying to build upon. There- pretty good job of control- within the inflamed joints produce a substance called RANK fore, the cartilage attached ling RA pain, she adds. ligand (RANKL), which increases the production of osteo- to that scaffold is going to be As a result, far fewer clasts. Normally, osteoclasts break down bone as part of the destroyed,” Gravallese says. people with RA have to natural repair process. Then, other cells called osteoblasts re- Pain is often a sign that undergo joint replacement build bone. When inflammation produces massive numbers the inflammation isn’t well surgery today than in years of osteoclasts, they break down bone too rapidly to rebuild. controlled, she adds. The past. “That’s because we’re “It’s like putting fuel on a fire,” Gravallese says. better you control inflam- so good now at controlling A separate process damages cartilage, the rubbery connec- mation, the less likely inflammation, and we can you’ll be to progress to joint prevent the joint damage damage. That’s why it’s im- that previously required portant to let your doctor surgery,” Gravallese says. know right away if you have
ongoing joint pain. Reviewed by Thanks to a new genera- Michael W. Smith, MD tion of drugs that block WebMD Chief Medical Director
? ASK YOUR DOCTOR 1. Will my RA get worse if I don’t treat my pain? Joint pain in RA is often a sign of persistent inflammation. If you’re in pain, see your rheumatologist, who can adjust your medication to better control inflammation. 2. What else can I do to protect my joints? Exercise is very important to keep your joints flexible. Swimming, walking, and tai chi are some of the best—and safest—exercises for people with RA.
WebMD Stronger is not responsible for advertising claims. WebMD Stronger (ISSN 1553-9946) is published by WebMD LLC and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of WebMD LLC. All rights reserved. All editorial content is reviewed by our board-certified physicians, is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider with any questions regarding a medical condition and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in WebMD Stronger. If you think you have GETTY IMAGES a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. 2018 WebMD LLC. All rights reserved.
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THIS CONTENT IS CREATED AND CONTROLLED BY WEBMD’S EDITORIAL STAFF HEALTH SMARTS Loving Care CAREGIVERS ARE AN ESSENTIAL SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR PEOPLE WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS By Stephanie Watson When Andre Marcial mar- person deal with a painful ried Chantelle, his childhood and debilitating disease can sweetheart, four years ago, also be frustrating. “I wish he immediately assumed I could help ease the pain two new roles: husband and more,” Andre says. caregiver. Since Chantelle One way he tries to help was diagnosed with rheuma- is by making sure Chantelle toid arthritis (RA) nearly 20 gets to all of her appoint- years ago, her day-to-day life ments so her doctor can ad- has been marked by pain, dress any issues she’s having. fatigue, and other disabling Because she stays on top of symptoms that often pop up her treatment, “my rheuma- unexpectedly. toid arthritis is pretty well “One thing about rheu- controlled. I work with an matoid arthritis is that it’s amazing team of doctors, unpredictable,” says and my rheumatologist is Chantelle. “Some days my wonderful,” she says. hands hurt. Some days my Andre’s support is hips or knees hurt. It can be from his overnight security drugs that more effectively invaluable. “I would not be fatigue, which is sometimes job to an appointment. “It’s relieve symptoms like joint functioning if it weren’t for extreme. My medication tiring because by the time pain and stiffness. Yet even him,” she says. “To have can also cause side effects. we get back it’s usually late. people with well-controlled somebody who’s not only Waking up and just being I’m trying to head off to bed RA need help—and emo- supportive but who an- able to go doesn’t happen to get ready for the next tional support. ticipates what the next step much anymore.” day,” he says. “I guess the most im- will be is crucial.” Once they wed, Andre More than 43 million portant thing I do is try to If you’re an RA caregiver took over, anticipating what people in the U.S. are stay positive and encourage and need support, you can Chantelle’s needs and doing caregivers to a spouse, her,” Andre says. “I always find it from arthritis advo- the things she can’t manage, parent, child, or other loved ask, ‘What’s going on to- cacy groups like Creaky- like running to the grocery one with a chronic illness. day?’ I just try to be helpful Joints (creakyjoints.org) store after work, reminding The burden of caring for and realize that she doesn’t and the Arthritis Founda- her to take her medicines, someone with RA has lifted even know sometimes.” tion (arthritis.org). or driving her to doctor’s somewhat in recent years, Though caregiving is Reviewed by appointments. Sometimes, thanks to a new genera- a rewarding endeavor for Neha Pathek, MD WebMD Medical Editor that means going straight tion of disease-modifying those who do it, watching a
4 TIPS Be Understanding Go to Appointments Ask for More Options Get Vaccinated A good caregiver can make a RA flares are unpre- Doctors’ appoint- It can take up to three months Doctors recommend big difference for someone with dictable. Understand ments can sometimes to get relief from a new RA that people with RA RA. Here are some ways to help, that a person can be overwhelming, so drug. If a person’s current treat- stay up to date on their from Veena Ranganath, MD, have good days—and go along to listen, ment isn’t helping, ask his or vaccinations to prevent UCLA Health rheumatologist bad days—and adapt note, and remember her doctor about adding faster- infections. Get vac- and associate clinical professor as needed. all of the doctor’s acting drugs like corticosteroids cinated, too, and you’ll of rheumatology at the David recommendations. or NSAIDs as a bridge until the protect your loved one
GETTY IMAGES Geffen School of Medicine. drug starts working. even more.
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THIS CONTENT IS CREATED AND CONTROLLED BY WEBMD’S EDITORIAL STAFF
BY THE NUMBERS Rheumatoid Arthritis By Heather Hatfield MILLION 1.5 U.S. adults with rheumatoid arthritis
Portion of 2x to 4x the global Estimated increased likelihood population of depression if you have with rheumatoid arthritis rheumatoid arthritis Number of % women vs. men 1 with rheumatoid arthritis 26% Global percentage of rheumatoid Projected arthritis patients younger than 65 percentage eventually unable to work of American adults with 37% arthritis by 2040 20% 14.6 to MILLION U.S. adults with any type of arthritis who have $ billion severe joint pain 39.2 % Annual U.S. cost of 40Percentage of patients rheumatoid arthritis whose drug treatment leads to lasting remission 33% Increased risk of Reviewed by % Michael W. Smith, MD rheumatoid arthritis Increased40 chance of early death among WebMD Chief Medical Director if you are obese women with rheumatoid arthritis
Sources: Arthritis Foundation, CDC, American Journal of Managed Care, Arthritis Research & Therapy GETTY IMAGES
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CHECKUP Your RA Visit THESE SMART QUESTIONS WILL HELP KEEP YOUR HEALTH ON TRACK By Barbara Brody
have less stiffness,” says Russell. It’s especially important to keep the muscles around both- ersome joints strong. “If you have bad knees but really strong thigh muscles, that will make it easier to get around,” she says. Losing weight if you’re overweight is also a good idea.
Q I’m worried about catching an infection. What can I do? You can take steps to keep Trust. Honesty. Openness. These qualities are key in any good relationship, and from getting sick. Most when you have moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), that includes your people with moderate to relationship with your doctor. severe RA take methotrex- ate along with a biologic To start, you should Q Does pain mean I’m your dosage of medica- drug that targets specific see a physician, usually having a flare? tion, try changing medica- parts of the immune a rheumatologist, every Possibly. “If you’ve already tion, or give you a short system. Biologics work three months. “You want had significant damage to a course of oral prednisone really well to prevent joint to continually assess joint, then it might still hurt [a steroid that fights damage, says Russell, but disease activity and side even if you’re in remission,” inflammation],” says Rus- because they suppress effects of medication. says Russell. This problem is sell. If only one joint is the immune system, they We also do blood work more likely if you developed involved, then you might also leave you vulnerable to check inflammation RA before the introduction be able to get an injection to infection. Your doctor markers and make sure of biologic drugs (the first of cortisone instead of can explain which vac- taking oral steroids. that your kidney and liver one hit the market in 1998). cines to get and when. That said, you should always function is OK,” says Avoiding sick people and tell your doctor about any Q What can I do, Linda A. Russell, MD, practicing good hygiene is pain so he or she can check besides take medica- a rheumatologist at the also important. If you’re it out. Joints that are warm, tion, to improve my Hospital for Special currently sick, your doctor tender, or swollen with fluid pain and mobility? Surgery in New York. might advise stopping are tip-offs of inflammation Being active is really your biologic drug for a While testing is impor- important, though you that needs to be treated. few weeks. tant, you also want to have may need to ease up a an in-depth conversation Q I think I’m having a little during a flare. “Most with your doctor. These flare. What should I do? people who participate Reviewed by four questions will help Speak up and alert your in a regular exercise Michael W. Smith, MD WebMD Chief Medical Director
GETTY IMAGES guide you. doctor. “We can increase program feel better and
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