Morning News Fix

What God hath brought together…
He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not…Whatevs
Researchers report that break-ups are not, in fact, that hard to do. In a study of 69 (heh) teenagers at Northwestern University, social psychologists found that even though most of the students who got kicked to the curb after passionate two-month relationships were totally convinced that they would pretty much die, this deeply-felt conviction was erroneous.
Stem Cells Heal Rats’ Hearts (and yours next)
When stem cells were fed the microscopic equivalent of a protein smoothie, they became powerful healers for lab rats’ damaged heart tissue. Though stem cell research and therapy is controversial, researchers hope that this cardiomyocyte product will be a ground-breaking treatment for humans suffering from heart disease and heart attacks.
Statins Are Super (tough to study)
A study of 110 human brains finds a surprising result: it appears that taking cholesterol-lowering statins may prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The potential is exciting, but getting statins approved for an alternative use would be difficult in this case. To complete a randomized, placebo-controlled study would mean some study participants would have to take statins while others would not - and then scientists would have to wait a looooong time for the results. Still, it’s promising.
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POSTED IN: Boys & Girls, Health, Morning News Fix, Relationships, Science, Treatment
3 opinions for Morning News Fix
Ross James
Aug 28, 2007 at 1:19 pm
So what kind of supplements have statins in them or how can I get some? Are they in a good multi or do you get them as their own product?
Sara
Aug 28, 2007 at 4:32 pm
Statins are a drug, and they aren’t without their side effects. In fact, for their intended purpose (lowering cholesterol) there are some valid criticisms (the main one being that lifestyle changes can accomplish the same goals in most people). That said they are hugely popular and one of the more successful drugs to be developed. If you’re concerned about your heart health, you can reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol naturally by eliminating sugar and refined grains and introducing beneficial fatty acids into your diet (such as found in DHA-enhanced eggs, wild fatty fish, avocados, nuts, olive oil and flaxseeds). I personally recommend making lifestyle changes before going to drugs. Beyond that, ask your doc! ;)
steve
Aug 28, 2007 at 6:31 pm
Aw, the red background is back…use the grey! :)
The stem cell news is fascinating…I wonder if there are any problems with cell rejection. For example, if the majority of someone’s liver was to be re-grown with the use of stem cells, would the immune system perceive it as a hostile organism? An even worse scenario involves the heart, and the hypothetical “tooth” they mention in the article. Wild stuff.
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