Prevention May 2019

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME you mailed someone a letter? For me, it was when I helped my son send out his Christmas thank-you notes, which happened almost a week after he wrote them because I couldn’t find any stamps. There were none in the desk or the junk drawer, and why is the post office line so long? My friend Patricia saved the day by bringing me an entire book of stamps when she came over one day (she’s a letter-writer and a great pal!). So we got the thank-yous out, though then the rest of the stamps sat unused for a couple of months. But after reading Peter Moore’s story “Postcards to My Mom” on page 36, I think I’m going to get through them and have to…

Making over your diet could affect more than your waistline—it might also boost your mood, according to a new research analysis in Psychosomatic Medicine. Researchers looked at data from nearly 46,000 people and found that those who adopted healthier eating habits (more fiber-rich foods; less fast food, fat, and sugar) had reduced feelings of depression. Another study, by U.K. researchers, found that among 50,000 people, those who consumed more fruits and veggies reported better mental well-being and life satisfaction than those who ate fewer portions. “Unhealthy foods can increase inflammation, which has been linked to symptoms of depression,” says Joseph Firth, Ph.D., study author of the former research review. “Plus, making healthy choices can help people feel more positive about their lives and selves.”…

Scientists at Emory University School of Medicine have made a discovery that could affect future brain surgeries. They found that electrically stimulating a certain pathway in a patient’s brain resulted in immediate laughter followed by feelings of calmness and happiness. Researchers say the findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, could help in managing anxiety for patients undergoing brain surgeries that require them to remain awake—if they panic, it can make the procedures more dangerous. But the discovery may provide benefits beyond the operating room too: Study authors say understanding how this phenomenon (called cingulum bundle stimulation) works could lead to better treatments for depression, anxiety disorders, and even chronic pain.…

The fact that a health-related video has lots of views or “likes” doesn’t mean its information is trustworthy—in truth, the more popular a video is, the more apt it is to have low-quality info, according to research by NYU Langone Health. When researchers analyzed the 150 top-ranked YouTube videos about prostate cancer screening and treatment, 77% had misleading info, errors, or bias in either the video itself or the comments section. To get reliable health information, keep these tips in mind: ▸ Consider the source. Government organizations, professional societies, and reputable health care providers offer the most accurate information. ▸ Check the date. The video shouldn’t be more than two years old. ▸ Ask your doc. Find out which online sources she recommends. 4x TEENS WHO VAPE ARE FOUR TIMES…

The favorite spring flower is blooming in skincare products, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and nourishing properties. Rich in vitamins and minerals, “rose-derived ingredients help restore and rebalance damaged skin without causing irritation,” explains aesthetician Tammy Fender, whose namesake skincare brand focuses on botanicals. “Rose oil helps protect the complexion, while rose water can be used to cleanse and soothe,” she says. Another form, rosehip oil (from the fruit of the rose plant), dates back centuries; Egyptians, Mayans, and Native Americans used it for its healing powers. “It’s packed with vitamin C and essential fatty acids, so it can improve skin tone and also give skin a refreshed look,” says dermatologist Shari Marchbein, M.D. Consider rose your complexion’s new best “bud”!…

The latest buzz: Your morning cup of joe may be good for more than just an energy jolt. Daily drinkers of caffeinated coffee were significantly less likely to develop rosacea, the skin condition that causes facial redness and flushing, a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Dermatology found. Why? Caffeine is known to decrease blood vessel dilation and have immuno-suppressant skin,” effects, which could potentially minimize rosacea risk, the authors report. If you already have rosacea symptoms, visit a dermatologist for a treatment plan and “use products made for sen says Anna Guanche, M.D., a dermatologist in Calabasas, CA. To instantly minimize flare-ups, apply a soothing cream with a red-canceling green tint, like Avène Antirougeurs Day Soothing Cream SPF 25 ($37, drugstores).…