I have long been concerned about the proliferation of antibacterial chemicals in our hand-soaps and household cleaning products - these accumulate in the environment and give rise to ever more virulent “superbugs.”
So I was pleased to learn of atrial that indicates that making door handles, sink fixtures and light switches from copper could help to keep hospitals sterile.
A study found that copper fittings rapidly killed microbeson hospital wards, succeeding where other infection control measures failed. In the trial at Selly Oak hospital, in Birmingham, England, copper sink fixtures, toilet seats and push plates on doors all but eliminated common bacteria. Lab tests show that the metal kills off the deadly MRSA and C difficile superbugs.
During the ten-week trial on a medical ward, a set of sink fixtures, a lavatory seat and a push plate on an entrance door were replaced with copper versions. They were swabbed twice a day for infectious agents and the results compared with a traditional sink fixture, lavatory seat and pushplate elsewhere in the ward.
The copper items had up to 95 per cent fewer germs on their surfaces whenever they were tested.
This is a fascinating study, well worth replicating (this one was funded by the copper industry; I’d like to see confirmation from an independently funded laboratory). If it holds up in future tests, copper surfaces may become the norm in hospitals and even some homes, and our health will be the better for it.
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Vitamin D for the Heart
Running low on vitamin D can increase your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Vitamin D helps strengthen bones and appears to protect against some types of cancer and autoimmune diseases. We synthesize this important hormone in response to exposure to sunlight and can get it from only a few foods, including eggs, salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines as well as milk and cereal products fortified with “D.” The news that a deficiency may pose a risk to the heart comes from a recently published study suggesting that individuals with low blood levels of vitamin D (less than 15 nanograms per milliliter of blood) are twice as likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke within two years as someone with 20 nanograms of “D” per milliliter. Heart cells have receptors for vitamin D, which may explain why low levels are associated with other major risk factors for heart disease including high blood pressure, diabetes and stiffening of the left ventricle of the heart and blood vessels. Levels of inflammation (associated with heart disease) are also higher among individuals who are deficient in “D.” I recommend a daily supplement of 1,000 IU of vitamin D regardless of age.
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Another Dietary Strategy for Bone Health
We all know that we need calcium and vitamin D for bone strength, but new research suggests that eating more fruits and vegetables can also help. A study from Tufts University in Boston found that diets high in protein and cereal grains may lead to production of too much acid in the digestive tract, which increases calcium excretion and weakens bones. But we may be able to counteract that effect by increasing the alkali content of the diet by eating more fruits and vegetables. Here’s how: metabolizing fruits and vegetables adds bicarbonate, an alkaline compound thats lows bone resorption (the continuous breakdown of bone) and reduces calcium excretion. The study tested the effect of taking daily doses of bicarbonate for three months in men and women over the age of 50 and found that it reduced calcium excretion (compared to a placebo). This approach now has to be investigated further to make sure it is safe, well-tolerated, reduces bone lossand lowers the fracture rate in seniors. The study was published in the January 2009 issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
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Tart Cherry Apple Crunch
There is no better start to a dessert than with plump, tart cherries and apples. And the walnuts in here add not only a crunchy texture, they also contribute healthful omega-3 fatty acids.
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Healthy Aging Tip
Courtesy of Dr. Weil on Healthy Aging
Healthy on a Budget: Wash Your Hands Frequently. Most of our contact with germs is with our hands, and scrubbing them with soap and water can ward off colds, flu, and other infectious illnesses. Make it a point to wash your hands throughout the day - antibacterial soaps aren’t necessary, just use regular soap and water.
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