Health Issues: Nutrition and Obesity

An article published in the New York Times entitled “Child Obesity Risks Death at Early Age” described a study that tracked children through their lifetimes into adulthood. Results from the study indicated that those children who were most overweight were more than twice as likely to die before the age of 55 as their counterparts of a normal weight due to illness or by their own hand. In the study, obesity was reported to be the primary factor in premature death.

Those in the study who were diagnosed with a condition known as pre-diabetes as well as high blood pressure also elevated the likelihood of premature death. It should be noted that obesity also elevates the occurrence of diabetes and diabetes related diseases as well as high blood pressure.  Of the 4,857 children in the study who were born between the years 1945-1984- 559 were dead by 2003. Of this number 166 died from other causes not related to weight.

Adults with the highest BMI (Body Mass Index) as children were 2.3 times more likely to die prematurely than those with BMI’s in the normal range. Those in the study with the highest glucose levels were 73% more likely to die at an earlier age than their counterparts with lower glucose levels.  Helen Locker; senior author of the research paper states: “This suggests that obesity in children…may have very serious long term health effects through midlife- that there is something very serious being set in motion by obesity at early ages.”

As studies have continuously shown us, overweight and obesity cause detrimental effects on health and quality of life. As this study indicates not only is the quality of life compromised by an unhealthy body weight, but the life span its self is shortened. Obese and overweight children run the risk of a life marred by medical problems with the increased possibility of dying from excess weight before they reach retirement age.  This is an issue that is entirely preventable with a healthy balanced diet and regular physical activity.  A lifestyle that encompasses these types of health habits not only increases longevity, it also provides an improved quality of life. Incorporating foods like Popcake that are low fat diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains coupled with regular exercise promotes a long, healthy life.

Nutrition: Diabetes

by: Leah Rampolla

The following data was obtained from the CDC’s 2007 National Diabetes Fact Sheet.  According to 2007 statistics, 23.6 million or 7.8% of people of all ages were diagnosed with diabetes.  Diagnosed cases accounted for 17.9 million while undiagnosed cases of diabetes totaled 5.7 million.   23.5 million of 10.7% of adults age twenty and older were diagnosed with diabetes while 12.2 million of 23.1% of adults age 60 and older were diagnosed.  Men and women age twenty and older had a comparative diagnoses rate of 12 million or 11.2% and 11.5 million or 10.2% respectively.  In this age group 1.6 million cases are diagnosed annually.

Approximately 186,300 people younger than twenty are diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes annually.  New cases in this demographic are 19 per 100,000 for type 1 diabetes and 5.3 per 100,000 are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

In 2006, diabetes was ranked as the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.  Diabetes was attributed to 72,507 deaths in 2006. In 2005 diabetes claimed 233,619 lives.  Death is twice as likely to occur with a diabetic then a non diabetic of approximately the same age.  A more exact estimate of deaths linked to diabetes is difficult to obtain because diabetes is often underreported as a cause of death.  Diabetes is listed as the primary cause of death on a death certificate only 35-40% of the time and is listed as an underlying cause of death 10-15% of the time.

Many other medical complications are common in diabetics. In 2004 heart disease was noted on 68% of death certificates of diabetics age 65 and older.  Stroke was recorded on 16% of death certificates of diabetics age 65 and older in 2004. Adult diabetics are two to four times more likely to have heart disease and strokes.  In 2003-2004 75% of adults with self reported diabetes also had high blood pressure levels, also known as hypertension, or were currently taking blood pressure medications.

Numerous studies have shown that diet has a significant impact on the likelihood of being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The increase of children being diagnosed with a disease that was historically found in adults demonstrates the need for children to be educated about healthy food choices. Foods like Popcake pancakes are low calorie and 97% fat free. Foods like Popcake pancakes can be incorporated into a diet that promotes good health and well being and may aid in the prevention of the development of some diseases like type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Acupuncture Treatments at Health Source in Linwood New Jersey

The following information was obtained from the website NaturalNews.com. According to a study conducted by the Henry Ford Hospital in Michigan acupuncture treatments have been reported to effectively alleviate symptoms and side effects in breast cancer patients. Acupuncture was reported to be more effective at reducing hot flashes than pharmaceuticals, increases sex drive, and facilitates an overall sense of well being for the women who are currently receiving intensive treatments for breast cancer.

The American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology contained a report that outlines the effectiveness of clinical trials in that studied the relationship between ear acupuncture and its link to alleviating lower back and pelvic pain in pregnant women. The study involved 159 women. Of this test group 100% reported a decrease in pain and easier mobility after the acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture treatments can be considered as a natural and drug free alternative to alleviate lower back pain caused by pregnancy.

Another study used three groups of women as different test groups. One group received a real acupuncture treatment, the second received a placebo like acupuncture treatment, while the third group received no kind of acupuncture treatments. 81% of those in the test group who received a real acupuncture treatment reported a pain reduction of 30% or more. 59% of the placebo test group reported pain relief while 47% of the group who received no acupuncture treatments reported pain relief from alternative methods. After one week 37% who received an acupuncture treatment was reportedly still pain free. 22% of the placebo group and 9% of the non acupuncture groups reported no pain after one weeks’ time.

Acupuncture is an ideal alternative pain management method for some pregnant women. There is no use of potentially dangerous drugs involved in the treatment and the percentages of those who experience pain relief are high in many reported studies. Acupuncture can be considered as a means of providing pain relief to expectant mothers without endangering the lives of themselves or their unborn children.

Acupuncture: Pain Management Treatment

by. Leah Rampolla

The medical explanation of acupuncture describes acupuncture as a pain management technique that involves the insertion of needles in specific areas of the body also known as meridians. The insertion of needles in these key places in the body stimulates the release of specific chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. The release of these chemicals in the body may change the patients’ perception of pain- which may produce a feeling of pain relief.  Another theory is that acupuncture stimulates the release of chemicals and hormones in the body which may assist in the body’s inner pain regulations systems.The following information was obtained from the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. According to reports from this academy medical acupuncture is a treatment method that facilitates natural healing and improved functioning of the body.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes acupuncture as an effective treatment method for digestive orders such as: gastritis and hyper acidity, spastic colon, constipation, and diarrhea. Acupuncture has also been recognized by the WHO to treat respiratory disorders such as: sinusitis, sore throat, bronchitis, asthma, and chronic chest infections. Acupuncture has also used to treat neurological and muscular disorders such as headaches, facial tics, neck pain, rib neuritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, tendonitis of various forms, lower back pain, sciatica, and osteoarthritis. Acupuncture is also reported to be an effective treatment for urinary, menstrual, and reproductive problems and is reported to be particularly effective in alleviating the physical manifestations of stress, tension, and emotional conditions.

Humans aren’t the only patients that can benefit from acupuncture. Successful treatments have been reported using cats, dogs, horses, and other animals. The reports of successful acupuncture treatments on animals successfully negate the belief that acupuncture produces pain relief through the placebo effect principle.

Medical acupuncture is reported to produce effective results in a broad spectrum of conditions. Some of those conditions include: acute and chronic pain control, post traumatic and post operative ileus, muscles spasms, tremors, tics, contractures, paresthesia, anxiety, fright, panic, drug detoxification, neuralgias, some gastrointestinal disorders, headaches, vertigo, tinnitus, phantom pain, cervical and lumbar spine syndromes, plantar faucitis, arthritis/arthrosis, bursitis, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains, contusions, dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, insomnia, anorexia, atypical chest pain, idiopathic palpitations, sinus tachycardia, allergic sinusitis, persistent hiccups, certain dermatoses, urinary incontinence and retention, abdominal distention and flatulence, severe hyperthermia, and cough with contraindications for narcotics. Acupuncture anesthesia can be used for high risk patients or patients who have had adverse reactions to anesthesia previously.

Medical acupuncture can provide drug free and effective pain relief for a broad scope of illnesses and diseases. Medical acupuncture can be used as a complement to traditional medical practices or can be used as an alternative, natural option if tradition treatment methods prove to be ineffective.

Nutrition: Will Reduced Calorie Diets help the Obesity Issue in the U.S?

by. Leah Rampolla

Reduced calorie diets reap the obvious benefits of a healthy weight and overall good health.  An article on nutrition.gov reports on a recent study conducted by the ARS (Agricultural Research Service). This study has found that low and very low calorie diets significantly enhance the immunity responses of the body as well.  ARS studied the effects of caloric restrictions on the function of T cells (a major type of white blood cell) and other immune system factors. The study found that T cell responses were significantly increased with low calorie diets. This study has provided the initial indication that short term calorie restriction ( a 6 month time frame)  improves T cell functioning thus boosting immunity.

The CDC had coined the term “obesogenic” to describe American society.  This term is characterized by environments that promote increased food intake, non healthful foods, and physical inactivity. Current statistics would certainly support this term and its meaning. The CDC reports that 1/3 of U.S. adults are obese which equates to 72 million people. 16% of U.S children are obese. This is of concern as obese children are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and abnormal glucose tolerance. A study of 5-17 year olds has found that 70% of obese children have at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease and 39% have at least two risk factors. From 1979-81 to 1997-99 annual hospital costs related to obesity among children and adolescents increased from $35 million to $127 million.

Obesity rates have increased among all U.S. societal groups regardless of age, sex, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education, and geographic region. It should be noted however, that obesity rates tend to be higher in Southern states. While obesity is an obvious detriment to individual health, it also strains the already embattled U.S health care system. A 2000 CDC study reported that obesity rated health care totaled $117 billion. This figure is undoubtedly higher as obesity rates continue to climb. In addition to astronomical health care costs, overall productivity has decreased due to obesity related health issues. Medical expenditures for obese workers depending on the severity of obesity and sex are between 29%-117% greater than expenditures for normal weight workers.

Despite these alarming statistics some discernable progress has been made. A CDC survey found that from 2003-2004 and 2005-2006 there were no significant obesity prevalence increases observed in children, adolescents, women, and men.  Obesity rates also appear to be leveling in children in high obesity rate states such as Arkansas.  This progress may be attributed to CDC’s efforts to promote obesity awareness as a national public health problem.  From 2000-2007 media coverage on obesity in prints and newswires increased from 8,000 to more than 28,000 articles.

Awareness and knowledge are certainly critical first steps in the national effort to address this health problem. However, more people are of an unhealthy weight than not which is indicative of much more effort and progress needed. Obesity and overweight has reached epidemic proportions in this country and a sustained educational effort is needed to address this problem.

Nutrition: Diseases Caused by Obesity

by. Leah Rampolla


According to obesityinamerica.org more than 80% of people with type 2 diabetes are obese or overweight.  CDC data indicates that 2/3 of U.S. adults with type 2 diabetes have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater which is classified as overweight and unhealthy. Overweight and obese people have an increased instance of heart failure, heart attack, sudden cardiac death, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Excessive body fat is also linked to higher levels of triglycerides and LDLs and lower levels of HDL cholesterol which fosters the development of heart disease. Hypertension (high blood pressure) greatly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure. Blood pressure rises as body weight increases. Losing only ten pounds can lower blood pressure.  Losing weight has the biggest effect on those who are overweight and already have hypertension.

1 in 5 overweight people are affected by metabolic syndrome or syndrome X26. Metabolic syndrome can cause diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Metabolic syndrome is one of the fastest growing obesity related health concerns in the U.S.  This syndrome is characterized by obesity, hypertension, abnormal lipid levels, and high blood sugar. The CDC states that metabolic syndrome affects nearly one quarter- 22% or 47 million members of the U.S. population.

Another medical condition perpetuated by obesity is dyslipidemia. This condition occurs when LDL and triglyceride levels are high and HDL is low. Doctors attribute this shift in lipid levels to weight gain. To counter this condition weight loss is recommended. Losing twenty pounds can reduce LDL by 15%, reduce triglyceride levels by 30%, increase HDL by 8%, and reduce total cholesterol levels by 10%.


There is also a potential link between thyroid conditions and obesity. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and there is currently an assumed link between obesity and thyroid glands but further study is needed to confirm this relationship.

Numerous data illustrates the numerous and potential fatal medical conditions and diseases that are caused by overweight and obesity. Proper nutrition and regular exercise are imperative for not only a good quality of life but a long and healthy life as well.

Nutrition: Demographic Obesity

By. Leah Rampolla



It is interesting to note that specific racial and ethnic groups show significant disparities in obesity prevalence as. One common observable trend is that increased obesity rates occur in demographics that are generally below the poverty level. Those who live below or at poverty level generally lack access to wholesome and nutritious foods. Fast food and convenience foods, which are often times much cheaper than healthier foods, are consumed in larger quantities in low income areas due to affordability. Another large factor in the consumption of high fat, low nutrition foods is the lack of education regarding a healthy diet. In addition to a lack of availability, lack of education regarding the food groups and the components of a healthy diet, and how to proper read and understand food labels all perpetuate this disparity.


Without access to proper nutrition education, parents are unable to school their children about proper eating habits and foods. According to a CDC article entitled: “Obesity Prevalence Among Low Income Preschool Children 1998-2008” 1 in 7 low income preschool aged children is obese.  In low income two to four year olds the prevalence of obesity increased from 12.4% in 1998 to 14.5% in 2003. This increase is of concern considering it occurred in a span of a mere five years.

In 2008, the demographics with the highest levels of obesity prevalence were American Indians or Alaskan Natives at 21.2% and Hispanics at 18.5%.  In American society, Native Americans and Native Alaskans are generally classified as members of the poorest socioeconomic tier.  In addition to high poverty levels, inadequate education and drug and alcohol abuse are rampant among this demographic. The statistics from the CDC survey indicate that Indian Tribal Organizations reported the highest percentage; over 20% of preschoolers are obese. Again, poverty levels and lack of educational resources generally foster higher obesity rates.


While the percentages of certain demographics may be higher than others, it is indisputable that obesity is a country wide epidemic that spans all demographics. In 2008 only two states in America, Colorado and Hawaii, reported an obesity rate of less than 10% in preschool aged children. Information about healthy foods and proper nutrition must be made readily available for all demographics regardless of socioeconomic standing. In addition to the education, resources must be made available for those that fall in the low income bracket. Public school systems could be a means in which low income children could receive education about healthy foods in addition to providing access to nutritious foods through school breakfast and lunch programs. Federal funding should be allocated to lower income schools to provide children with the education and means to integrate healthy foods into their diet.

The Decline of Thought

by. Leah Rampolla

People don't want to think anymore and the mass media is eager to accommodate. How many channels of mindless garbage do people willingly pay money for?  People are so eager to enjoy the humiliation and misfortune of other people in the name of trashy entertainment. What's even more perverse is the fact that the these people on "reality" TV shows willingly put themselves in the position to be humiliated. Degradation is now the most sought after form of American entertainment. Jerry Springer may very well become the next U.S. president. 

How about all of those commercials - the insidious manipulation of human insecurities for commercial gains.Are you fat? Ugly? Bald? Bad teeth? Stinky feet? Buy this product and all of the insecurities that have been pounded into to your head by your television set will be gone forever for only three payments of $99.99. Your self worth can only be measured by your physical appearance- just ask any of the soap opera gods and goddesses. People are willing to obey their media gods without question so long as they keep shoveling out the idiotic drivel to keep them passively entertained. It's so much easier to laugh at that guy on American Idol who sounds like a chipmunk in a blender then to think about issues that affect you on a grass roots level. 

Paying attention to the things that actually affect you would make you start thinking that maybe you should do something to change these things and that would require thought and effort. Me? Be proactive and make an effort to add something meaningful and positive to the macrocosm? That sounds scary- quick change the channel! That's right just keeping worshipping your media god- they'll take good care of you as long as you remain a good little placid, mindless sheep that continues to make them obscene profits through TV ratings and the purchases of products that are utterly useless. Let them keep control of you through fear and let them keep thinking for you. You want to fit in don't you? You want to be up on all of those shows that everyone else watches- you don't want to be different do you?

Different is, well different and that can be scary. What even scarier is the fact that so many people choose to let the media dictate their life. Scariest of all is the soulless money grabbing, rampant corporate greed that has come to define the media and that people live their lives by what the media says. Do yourself a favor- kill your television.

Acupuncture as a Pain Management Technique

By Leah Rampolla

Because acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of needles into the skin, many believe this to be a strange and ineffective pain management technique. In actuality, acupuncture can be utilized as an extremely effective pain relief treatment for a variety of ailments. While acupuncture does involve the insertion of needles into the skin at multiple sites on the body, the needles are very small and doweled. Many patients receiving treatment are surprised to learn that the needle has already been inserted into their skin and did not feel any pain during the insertion.

In China, practitioners use acupuncture as a pain management technique for a variety of ailments and Western medicine has begun to embrace this alternative kind of pain management as valid and effective. While there is not a significant amount of concrete data to substantiate these claims, the “clinical impressions” of the acupuncturist as well as testimonials of the patients treated suggest that acupuncture is indeed an effective and valid form of pain management.

Acupuncture can be used to alleviate pain caused by ailments such as rheumatism, arthritis, sprains, headaches; particularly migraine headaches, strokes, neuralgias, nervous disorders, diseases of the digestive system, diseases of the respiratory system, diseases of the heart and blood vessels, obstetrics, and can also assist in addiction treatment. Acupuncture is commonplace in the East and is increasing in popularity in the West. Many patients seek acupuncture as an alternative form of pain management that is natural and side effect free.


Not all diseases respond to acupuncture treatment, but many patients who receive the treatment claim that the pain relief can be felt almost immediately and is long lasting. For more information or a free Acupuncture first visit, feel free to call (732)226-2153 or visit www.advancedwellnessacupuncture.com

Alternative Pain Management Methods

By Leah Rampolla

Those who participate in full contact sports such as roller derby often suffer from sprained and strained muscles, internal and external bruising, abrasions, and the occasional fractured bone. The obvious pain management solution for these types of sports related injuries is traditional Western medicine and methods. A trip to the doctor for a prescription for pain relief in pill form or a trip to the drug store for some encapsulated over the counter pain relief is the general pain remedy for most Westerners.


Alternative pain management methods such as acupuncture are becoming more recognized in the West and the acceptance is becoming more wide spread.

Acupuncture, the Chinese practice of the insertion of needles into specific areas of the body to facilitate pain relief, is becoming recognized and accepted as an effective pain management technique. The Chinese believe that acupuncture is an effective means of pain management for a numbers of diseases and maladies and is practiced widely in the East. Western medicine is becoming more accepting of acupuncture as a pain management technique. Many acupuncture patients claim almost immediate pain relief and no side effects from acupuncture treatments.

Many Westerners are beginning to embrace alternative pain management methods instead of or in conjunction with tradition pain management methods more than ever before. Yoga, crystal healing, and herbal remedies are all increasing in popularity and gaining validity as effective pain management techniques. Alternative pain management techniques such as yoga offer the patient additional benefits such as increased strength and cardiovascular fitness, improved breathing techniques, and calmness of mind. Many little known alternative pain management techniques are often just as or more effective than traditional pain relief methods and are worth exploring.

If your living with pain in New Jersey and want more information feel free to call (732)226-2153.