Integrative Medicine Alert – August 1, 2011
August 1, 2011
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Melatonin for Menopausal Sleep Disorders and Quality of Life
Sleep disruption in menopause is common. one-fourth to one-half of all women will note some sleep complaint during menopause, as compared to approximately 15% in the general population. -
Systematic Review of Energy Healing for Cancer Provides Little Concrete Guidance
This systematic review searched for studies using any methodology that measured outcomes in cancer patients who received energy healing techniques. Some evidence of improvements in psychosocial outcomes was found, but the methodological deficiencies in the original studies undermined confidence in their findings. The reviewers call for further research studies designed according to high-quality research standards. -
Mag Me? Magnesium for Hot Flashes
In a small 5-week pilot trial examining the use of magnesium for the treatment of hot flashes, women with a history of breast cancer experienced improvements in hot flash frequency and severity, but no significant impact on overall quality of life. -
Something's Fishy DHA and Prostate Cancer
In a shocking series of findings, this well-done prospective study showed that in men older than age 55 years a higher proportion of serum omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA, actually may increase the risk for high-grade prostate cancer. -
That Cup of Joe Affects Your Prostate Cancer Risk
Regular coffee consumption is associated with a prominent decrease in fatal or metastatic prostate cancer. -
Add Prunes to Your Toolkit for Constipation
Dried plums (prunes) are safe and more effective than psyllium for treating mild-to-moderate constipation. -
Desperate Diseases Call for Drastic Diets
A very low energy diet followed by a weight maintenance program results in significant improvements in weight, obstructive sleep apnea, metabolic factors, and quality of life for at least a year.