A summary of some news in the field of lifestyle and health.
Dairy product
Young children who regularly eat milk products appear less likely to develop asthma. By assessing the food consumption of almost 3,000 Dutch children researchers found that asthma was lower in young children who consumed full cream milk and butter daily than in those who did not. Similarly, wheeze was lower in children who consumed milk products (including yoghurt, chocolate milk and butter) daily than in those who did not. These results provide evidence of a beneficial association between daily consumption of products containing milk fat and the development of asthma and wheeze in young children, say the authors. They suggest that various components of the products, such as different fatty acids, antioxidants or other micronutrients, could play a role.
Herbal solutions
Two teaspoons each of honey and cider vinegar, added to a glass of water and taken with meals three times a day, will keep the acid/alkaline balance of your digestive system in order.
This is just one of the many tips in Herbal Cures, Healing Remedies from Ireland (Newleaf, 11.99) by herbalist, Christine Scallan. A useful reference book for those interested in herbal medicine.
Memory man
Ireland's first fast-track memory assessment clinic has just opened in St Patrick's Hospital, Dublin. The clinic, which is operated by a multi-
disciplinary team of psychologists, psychiatrists and neurologists, aims to detect early signs of dementia.
New research points out that early treatment delays the progression of dementia. Appointments are by GP referral.
Give it up
Smokers trying to quit are more likely to go back on cigarettes in the afternoon or evening, according to a new study. Only 7 per cent of those quitting smoked again between midnight and noon, in spite of the commonly held belief that the morning is the most vulnerable time. The study centre at St George's Hospital Medical School, University of London, tracked 200 smokers of all ages trying to quit. On average, smokers make between two and four attempts to quit before they succeed.
Lifelines is compiled by Dr Muiris Houston and Sylvia Thompson