Integrative Medicine Alert – December 1, 2009
December 1, 2009
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Meta-analysis Finds Little Evidence of Increased Side Effects in Women Using Phytoestrogens
A meta-analysis was conducted of the incidence of side effects reported in randomized controlled trials of women taking phytoestrogens for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Except for gastrointestinal side effects, women taking phytoestrogens were not at higher risk of side effects. -
Can Mindfulness Save Primary Care?
This single-group cohort before-and-after study of an intensive educational program for primary care physicians focusing on mindful communication and self-awareness demonstrated improvements in physician well-being and attitudes toward patient- centered care. -
Give RA Patients the 'Hook' - TwHF
A standardized extract of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F root was compared with sulfasalazine therapy in subjects with active rheumatoid arthritis. After a 24-week intervention, those taking the botanical remedy experienced significantly greater progress both clinically and in laboratory assessments when compared with the sulfasalazine group, with improvements occurring rapidly. The findings are hampered somewhat by a significant dropout rate in both study groups. -
Vitamins to Mitigate Diabetes Risk: Message in a Bottle?
Middle-age female health professionals at risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes derived no benefit from more than 7 years of daily supplementation with a combination pill composed of folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 designed to decrease serum levels of homocysteine. -
Will DisSolving Fiber Solve the IBS Problem?
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms can be treated effectively with soluble fiber such as Metamucil. -
Busy Signals: Cell Phone Use and Cancer
Concerns over cell phones use and subsequent development of cancer, especially brain tumors, have occasionally dominated the news and helped create an entire business sector devoted to hands-free devices.