Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) conjures up images of children running about as if they were driven by a jet engine, always squirming in their seats, unable to focus on their schoolwork. However, there is a growing acknowledgment in the psychiatric community that adults, too, can have ADHD. [read post]
My readings about folic acid led me to an obvious conclusion that folic acid supplementation is not only a matter of health but also a matter of business. According to Nutrition Business Journal estimates, folic acid, together with other forms of vitamin B, . In the grand scheme of things this may not be a lot of money, but it is enough to render folic acid an important part of the dietary supplement industry. [read post]
“Folic acid is good for you, period.” That’s the message we have been hearing from the media and from health care providers. Over the past two decades, studies showed the importance of folic acid in preventing some types of birth defects, premature birth, cardiovascular disease, muscular degeneration, and cancer. As a result, in 1998 a US government panel raised the Recommended Daily Allowance to 400 micrograms, doubling the level set in 1989. Related to this guideline, set requirements for cereal, bread, and pasta to be enriched with folic acid. And, issued statements urging women to take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. Clearly, the emphasis has been on “getting enough.” [read post]
Over the past few years, major TV and cable networks in the U.S. reported on the use of St. John’s wort in treating depression. They acknowledged that the herb was effective in mild to moderate cases. However, what they emphasized is that St. John’s wort was ineffective in treating severe depression and that it interfered with certain prescription drugs and herbs. The underlying message was that it was best to stick with traditional medicine and stay away from the herbs. [read post]
The Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science recently published a study reporting that OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) is linked to a low sense of control over the self and the environment. Current treatment for OCD involves working on confronting obsessions in alternate ways, or changing thought processes, rather than on the sense (or even the reality) of having little control of oneself or of one’s surroundings. The results of this study encourage us to work on the sense of control the person feels they have over themselves and their surroundings.
Source: Moulding, R., Kyrios, M., Doron, G., & Nedeljkovic, M. (2009). Mediated and direct effects of general control beliefs on obsessive compulsive symptoms. Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science/Revue Canadienne des Sciences du Comportement, 41, (2), 84-92.
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is generally considered to be an emotional disturbance. This recent study found that “despite psychological vulnerabilities that may predispose individuals to self-injure, episodes of NSSI may also be socially influenced.” The study found that a great number of individuals in their study learnt about NSSI from social sources (including media) and performed NSSI within peer groups. The results highlight the influence of social venues on NSSI.
Source: Heath, Nancy L., Ross, S., Toste, J. R., Charlebois, A., & Nedecheva, T. (2009). Retrospective analysis of social factors and nonsuicidal self-injury among young adults. Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science/Revue Canadienne des Sciences du Comportement, 41(3), 180-186.
This study validates the importance a pet can have in the well-being of some. The study interviewed 177 individuals with serious mental illenss about their recovery process. They found that pets help the recovery process with the following processes:
Source: Wisdom, Jennifer P.; Saedi, Goal Auzeen; Green, Carla A., (2009). Another breed of "service" animals: STARS study findings about pet ownership and recovery from serious mental illness. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 79(3), 430-436.
Valerian root has been reported by numerous sources to help relieve stress, anxiety, nervousness sleep problems, and headaches. This study found that it also aids in reducing Restless Leg Syndrome which has been reported to affect the quality of life of those who experience it, and hence contributes to depression and anxiety. Valerian root has been used for centuries as a “sleep aid, sedative, and antispasmodic.” This study suggests taking 800 mg of Valerian root for 8 weeks for the treatment of Restless Leg Syndrome. You can buy Valerian Root at any neighborhood pharmacy.
Source: Cuellar, N. G., & Ratcliffe, S. J. (2009). Does Valerian improve sleepiness and symptom severity in people with Restless Leg Syndrome? Alternative Therapies in Health & Medicine, 15 (2), 22-28.
When my mother told me that she was sending me good energy at night, I was intrigued and amused. I did not want to discard the idea, but I couldn’t really believe that her positive thoughts could actually make a difference in my life.
It so happens that mother was right. A study in Alternative Therapies in Health & Medicine Journal found that distance healing could improve chronic pain. [read post]
