http://truestarhealth.com/ 5 Key areas of Health en-us © Copyright 2012, Truestar Health Inc. Thursday, February 09, 2012 8:00:41 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/ http://truestarhealth.com/images/frontdoor/dec2005/header_bk.jpg 803 116 5 Key areas of Health http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A96.html by Natasha Turner, ND We all know how important a good night’s sleep is; it affects our productivity, focus, mood, energy and performance. Sleep is also important for protection from cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Did you know that sleep is also beauty rest? We now know it enhances the hormones... 10/12/2006 3:54:11 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A95.html by Dr. Astrid Chong Do you know of any children who lack concentration, are restless, fidgety and easily distracted? Do you know a child who is inappropriately impulsive, makes careless mistakes, is physically overactive, has unsuitable social skills, experiences difficulty organizing things, talks... 10/6/2006 2:07:51 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A94.html by Dr. Jonn Matsen Some people are fortunate because they can sleep well no matter where they happen to lay their heads. But for many of us, it can be difficult to get a good night’s rest when we have to sleep in a bed other than our own, whether it be in a hotel, when we’re camping, or at a friend’s... 9/29/2006 2:41:16 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A93.html by Dr. Astrid Chong During the warmer months, there is nothing better than sitting on a patio after a long, hard day at work, enjoying the sunset in the open air and drinking a glass of red wine. As many wine drinkers would know, a bold Chianti, a fruity Merlot or a spicy plum Shiraz, can complement... 9/15/2006 2:27:51 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A92.html by Dr. Carolyn DeMarco Dara Boland is an author and illustrator who has been sleepless in California, Florida, Michigan and New York. She is now sleeping soundly in North Carolina. Based on what she learned from years of sleeplessness, she put together a delightful and helpful book entitled, Sleep... 9/8/2006 3:49:50 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A91.html By Dr. Astrid Chong Allergy season is upon us once again. Those pesky pollens are stronger than ever inducing common symptoms such as sneezing, itchy watery eyes, runny noses and congested sinuses. Another common symptom among allergy sufferers is fatigue. Experiencing allergy symptoms at night may... 6/9/2006 3:16:16 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A90.html By Carolyn DeMarco According to a Statistics Canada four-year study reported in the National Post, men working on evening, rotating or irregular shifts had higher odds of developing chronic health conditions than men working regular daytime shifts. In Montreal, a University of Laval researcher discovered... 6/2/2006 5:54:59 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A89.html Q & A with Natasha Turner Q: My husband is suffering from a severe case of RLS (restless leg syndrome) which has progressively gotten worse over the past six years. He is trying to keep his sodium intake as low as possible and he does take medications prescribed by a doctor at times when the RLS... 5/12/2006 3:07:49 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A88.html By Dr. Astrid Chong, ND Coffee is a very popular beverage today. In fact, in most major cities, it is practically impossible to walk a block without seeing a coffee shop on the corner. Coffee is enjoyed as a drink by millions of people worldwide and as a result, coffee manufacturing and commercial... 4/28/2006 2:35:33 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A87.html By Dr. Astrid Chong, NDPregnancy is an exciting time for many people. It is a time of change, growth, happiness and joy. However, for some pregnant women, it can be a time of mental/emotional difficulties and physical ailments. Common problems include muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, leg cramps, groin... 4/21/2006 4:49:59 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A86.html By Natasha Turner, ND The feeling of fatigue is so common for so many people that I think many people accept it as a normal state of being. However, we should pay attention to how we feel each day because fatigue is the first sign that something is out of balance with our health. Sleeping difficulties,... 4/7/2006 4:42:24 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A84.html By Dr. Astrid Chong, NDDo you remember the last time when you ate a large turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, yams, vegetables, gravy and dessert? How did you feel afterwards? Were you so full so that you could hardly move? Could you keep your eyes open or did you just want to fall... 3/17/2006 5:52:02 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A83.html Sleep Disruption Due to Leg Cramps Q: I'm experiencing horrible leg cramps in my calves to the point that I’m awakened at night and still experience cramping the next morning .Is this caused by a nutrient deficiency? I’m six months pregnant and I haven't been doing serious exercises. Could it be just... 3/10/2006 2:18:40 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A82.html By Natasha Turner, ND The following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. If you have trouble falling asleep, if you awaken too often, if you feel tired in the morning, if you feel sleepy in the daytime, or if you have a sleep disorder, try the following techniques... 3/3/2006 2:18:29 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A81.html By Natasha Turner, NDThe following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. Making an effort to improve your sleep habits can enhance your quality of life and give you the energy you need to be successful in your pursuits. You may even be able to sleep yourself thin! 2/24/2006 4:48:30 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A80.html The following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. By Natasha Turner, ND Getting to bed at a decent time has always been said to give you your beauty rest—but now we know it can also help you to achieve a lean body. Good sleep is key to permanent weight loss.... 2/17/2006 11:47:08 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A79.html By Natasha Turner, ND The following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. Diabetes and Heart DiseaseLower rates of diabetes and heart disease are associated with adequate rest and recuperation. Studies have found that higher levels of glucose intolerance, a pre-diabetic... 2/9/2006 3:34:19 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A78.html By Natasha Turner, ND The following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. Skip breakfast because you just don’t feel like eating? Not hungry at lunch so you grab a muffin? By the end of the day, you’ve consumed very few calories. Then at 8:00 PM, when most people... 2/3/2006 5:43:25 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A77.html By Dr. Astrid Chong Have you ever had an uncontrollable urge to move your legs just as you were about to fall asleep? Have you ever experienced a strange or intense sensation in your legs after a long period of inactivity in which the only thing you can do to temporarily help the problem is move your... 1/27/2006 3:35:04 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A76.html By Natasha Turner, ND The following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. If weight loss is one of your goals – along with exercise, nutrition, supplements and positive attitude – you must get good, restful sleep! Let’s talk about the steps that will allow you... 1/20/2006 1:16:03 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A75.html By Natasha Turner, ND The following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. Students, medical residents, executives, workaholics, shift workers, new parents and most of the remaining population create sleep debt when their personal requirements for sleep are not... 1/13/2006 2:29:56 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A74.html by Dr. Astrid Chong, ND Imagine yourself attending a long, boring seminar after a long day at work. As you strain your ears to listen attentively to the lecturer, you eyes start to wander. As you glance across the crowd of people, you notice someone yawn. A few seconds later, you also see a few other... 1/6/2006 1:46:57 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A73.html By Dr. Carolyn DeMarco According to author and health researcher, Sam Graci, most of us have accumulated massive sleep debts over time. Our sleep debt consists of the number of hours of sleep we have missed over our whole lifetime. It consists of all those times when we got less than the seven to nine... 12/23/2005 11:03:00 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A72.html By Natasha Turner, ND Are you struggling to get up each morning after sleep troubles? Or, maybe you’ve succeeded in dragging yourself to the office, but were met with comments from co-workers about looking tired and worn-out. If this is your typical scenario before 9:15 AM, it’s time to take a deep... 12/16/2005 12:41:51 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A71.html by Dr. David Musnick MD Depression and SleepSleep can be influenced by depression. Symptoms of depression include: low mood, low energy, decreased ability to experience happiness, decreased motivation and self critical thoughts. People who are depressed tend to need sleep during the day and often take... 12/9/2005 2:45:38 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A70.html By Natasha Turner, ND The following article is an excerpt from Total Health & Weight Loss, The Truestar Way. Narcolepsy is a disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and periods of muscle weakness called cataplexy. Cataplexy, the most specific symptom of narcolepsy, is a sudden loss... 11/4/2005 12:52:58 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A69.html By Dr. Astrid Chong, ND"Fatigue is one of the most common complaints of women with breast cancer and often is the reason chemotherapy is prematurely terminated. Women with breast cancer need to understand the importance of a good night's sleep.” Researcher Sonia Ancoli-Israel, PhD, from the University... 10/28/2005 2:02:33 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A68.html By Natasha Turner, ND Listen up, ladies. A good night’s sleep does much more for you than simply optimizing energy levels and rejuvenating your body. Getting enough sleep in the proper environment creates a hormonal state for protection from breast cancer onset as well as the risk of recurrence. How... 10/7/2005 1:17:59 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A67.html By Dr. Jonn Matsen Are you having trouble getting out of bed in the morning, even when you’ve had enough sleep? Do you just want to roll over and get some more shut-eye when your alarm clock goes off? Your best solution to this problem is to follow the Truestar guidelines for healthy sleeping habits,... 9/23/2005 12:00:53 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A66.html By Gregg Jacobs Sleep deprivation and its effects on health can be attributed to lifestyle factors, work schedules or sleep disorders. At least 25% of the population suffers from sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea and restless legs. The effects of sleep deprivation can include mood disturbance,... 8/12/2005 2:52:33 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A65.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Why is it that on sunny days our mood is more upbeat than on dull, gray days? Why do we experience the irresistible urge to get away to a sunny climate in the dead of winter? The answer is that light energizes us and improves health. In fact, for health problemssuch asdepression... 8/5/2005 2:48:32 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A64.html By David Musnick, MD Airplane SnoozesIf you are flying overnight, make sure that you book business class or first class seating, if you can afford it. It is important to sleep lying down when sleeping overnight. Most coach class seats do not allow much reclining and trying to sleep in them overnight... 7/15/2005 12:35:32 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A63.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Activities such as staying up late, spending endless hours watching TV, playing video games or browsing the Internet have been associated with declining sleep durations and increased sleep deprivation for more than a generation. Although it was typically believed that declining... 7/12/2005 1:13:38 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A62.html By Dr. Jonn Matsen Apnea is a Greek word meaning “want of breath,” so sleep apnea is then want of breath that occurs during sleep. Since breath is the first and foremost necessity of human life, want of breath during sleep can lead to tragic consequences. In fact, the U.S. National Commission on Sleep... 7/4/2005 3:59:54 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A61.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs The hallmark of insomnia is a preoccupation with sleeplessness and its effects on daytime functioning. Negative, stressful thoughts about sleep exacerbate insomnia by triggering negative emotions such as anxiety or frustration which in turn mobilize the stress response. The stress... 6/3/2005 2:31:01 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A60.html By Dr. Jonn Matsen I flew from Vancouver, Canada to Brisbane, Australia via Singapore in December of 2004. This was a 36 hour event—28 hours of flying and 8 hours of waiting in airports—which should have laid me low with jet lag symptoms. Jet lag symptoms are mainly attributed to passing through different... 5/27/2005 12:09:58 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A59.html By Gregg Jacobs During the night, we pass through five stages of sleep þu 1, 2, 3, 4 and REM (rapid eye movement). Collectively, the stages are known as either REM sleep or non-REM sleep. REM sleep is commonly called dream sleep, while non-REM sleep consists of stages 1, 2, 3, and 4 of sleep. When... 4/15/2005 12:52:04 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A58.html By David Musnick, MD Bedroom Air Quality BenefitsGood air quality in your bedroom, as well as in the rest of your home, is important for a number of reasons. It helps decrease allergic problems to dust mites and mold. If you are waking up with a stuffed-up nose or excessive mucous, it could be due... 4/8/2005 2:57:06 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A57.html By Dr. Jonn Matsen Numerous studies consistently show that a good night’s sleep is crucial to maintain health and vitality, and many medications—from pharmaceuticals to herbal formulae and melatonin—are touted to help one get to sleep. But what about those who fall asleep but then awaken in the night?... 4/1/2005 11:40:23 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A56.html One key to successful weight loss By Natasha Turner ND Let’s face it; if weight loss came in a bottle we all would have it. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Weight loss requires hard work, consistency, motivation and most importantly, a multifaceted approach. I think the Truestar weight loss program... 3/4/2005 1:12:13 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A55.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Insomnia is becoming increasingly prevalent in our high-stress, fast-paced world. Recent polls by the National Sleep Foundation in the United States found that 35% of adults experience insomnia every night and almost 60% of adults experience insomnia at least a few nights per... 2/18/2005 12:04:24 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A54.html By Dr. Gregg Jacobs With the release of a new sleeping pill called Lunesta in the near future, insomnia is receiving significant media attention. It will also receive increased attention through direct advertising to consumers by the companies that market Lunesta and its chief competitor, Ambien. As... 2/4/2005 11:37:04 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A53.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND You’re working at your computer and you feel so tired that you can barely keep your eyes open. You are drained, exhausted, irritable and just want some sleep. When it's finally time to get some shuteye however, you’re completely wired—you can’t sleep. This is a day in... 1/28/2005 3:12:10 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A52.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua ND You may already know that poor sleep can lead to a multitude of health concerns. Snoring and sleep apnea can increase your risk of hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and so on. Did you also know that poor sleep may cause you to gain weight? 1/21/2005 11:21:57 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A51.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND A patient once described a hot flash as a sudden rush of heat that required her to walk outside in the freezing cold of winter to seek relief. Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause. Not only are they uncomfortable, but hot flashes can also interfere with your... 1/14/2005 12:14:27 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A50.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the past two decades in both children and adults—doubling in adults and tripling in children. Almost 300,000 deaths per year are attributable to obesity, and the costs of treating obesity-related health problems constitute about 10%... 1/7/2005 11:55:22 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A49.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine can have a powerful effect on sleep, so too does the environment in which you sleep. AlcoholAs alcohol is depressant that relaxes the brain, it can make the descent into sleep much easier. Nonetheless, alcohol can make sleep lighter and more fragmented... 12/10/2004 3:27:24 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A48.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua ND The holiday season is just around the corner. Some of you are preparing your home for the incoming family and in-laws, while others are getting their bags packed and heading off on vacation. It’s time for some much needed time off. A healthy vacationGoing on vacation... 12/3/2004 3:42:54 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A47.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Exercise as a Sleep AidAlthough most of us are aware that exercise can improve physical health, it can also improve sleep. It does this by producing a significant rise in body temperature that is followed by a compensatory drop a few hours later. The drop in body temperature,... 11/25/2004 1:43:50 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A46.html A recent study has found that Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is more effective than sleeping pills for treating insomnia. By Dr. Gregg Jacobs Insomnia affects more than 70 million Americans and is one of the most common complaints brought to physician’s offices. Those with the condition experience... 11/12/2004 1:53:20 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A45.html Insomnia affects more than 70 million Americans and is one of the most common complaints brought to physician’s offices. Those with the condition have difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, often resulting in impaired daytime functioning. In the National Sleep Foundation’s 2002 Sleep in America... 10/22/2004 11:19:54 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A44.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Although sleep deprivation may have significant influence on mood, alertness and cognitive performance, the actual effects of sleep loss depend upon the person, how much sleep is compromised, motivation and the circumstances under which sleep loss take place. Some individuals... 10/1/2004 12:54:34 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A43.html By Dr. Jonn Matsen While your physical body is being regenerated during sleep, your mind has sorting and sifting to do. Your brain is inundated with thousands of bits of information duringthe day and, as this mental input decreases during sleep, your brain sorts out what has been successfully accomplished,... 9/24/2004 2:43:55 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A42.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Those who travel regularly know all too well that jet lag can significantly disturb sleep. In addition to making it harder to sleep, jet lag also results in sleepiness during the day, lack of energy, disorientation and lack of concentration, and gastrointestinal upset. Depending... 8/27/2004 1:59:12 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A41.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND What could be more satisfying than a restful sleep at the end of a long day? What could be more frustrating than lying in bed, unable to fall asleep? InsomniaInsomnia is a common sleep disorder. About 50% of the population has had insomnia at some point in time and about... 8/20/2004 3:46:50 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A40.html Discover a solution for night eating syndrome By Natasha Turner, ND You skip breakfast because you just don’t feel like eating. You’re not hungry at lunch so you grab a muffin, and by the end of the day you have consumed very few calories. Then at 8 pm, when most people are finished eating for the... 8/13/2004 1:50:38 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A39.html The Power of a Good Nap By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs Many people feel a mid-afternoon slump in mood and alertness, especially after a poor night of sleep. Many believe that this slump is caused by eating a heavy lunch. However, this usually occurs because we are meant to have a mid-afternoon nap. Several... 8/6/2004 2:12:47 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A38.html By Natasha Turner, ND If you think you’re the only one lying awake at night staring at the ceiling, think again. Millions of people have what can be described as chronic insomnia. There are several reasons for insomnia, otherwise described as an inability to fall asleep within an hour of bedtime.... 7/23/2004 11:02:51 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A37.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND The hustle and bustle of the day has ended. You try and wind down for bed, but instead of wandering off into dreamland, you’re wide awake staring at the ceiling. Insomnia sufferers know this feeling all too well. InsomniaInsomnia is the absence of sleep and abnormal... 7/16/2004 9:48:01 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A36.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Chronic back pain is the most common reason for doctor visits, next to the common cold. Back pain may be triggered through sports, heavy lifting at work, picking up a bag of soil while gardening or even by lifting your child. The low back supports most of the body’s... 7/9/2004 1:13:15 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A35.html By David Musnick, MD The average person makes many positional changes at night. We don’t remember many of these positional changes, but the position that you start out is only a starting position. Your body moves while you are asleep for a number of reasons; the most important reason is to prevent... 6/25/2004 2:23:05 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A34.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Just when you’re looking forward to a calm and restful night of sleep, insomnia hits. You toss and turn, you try different sleeping positions, you get up for a bit and the next thing you know, the alarm is ringing and its time to get up. Insomnia is one of many sleeping... 6/11/2004 2:40:50 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A33.html By Gregg Jacobs, Ph.D. If you want to feel better and increase your energy, learn techniques for minimizing the effects of stress on sleep. Sleep affects all areas of physical and mental functioning, and stress is the most potent disruptor of sleep. The Truestar Sleep Section has many tips for learning... 6/4/2004 10:29:31 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A32.html By Dr. Jonn Matsen Your grandparents likely earned their daily bread by the sweat of their brow and went to bed physically exhausted, which helped them have a deep, regenerative sleep. Today, however, most of civilized society earns its livelihood by using their brain rather than their muscle and,... 5/28/2004 10:50:52 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A31.html By Dr. Gregg Jacobs Do you want to feel better and look better? Do you want to increase your energy? Then learn to get a good night’s sleep. Sleep affects all areas of physical and mental functioning—from how we look to our energy and mood to our productivity and stress level. Sleep deprivation causes... 5/14/2004 3:45:57 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A30.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND You crawl into bed, turn out the lights, rest your head on the pillow and wait for sleep to come. For many insomnia sufferers, sleep may come late—or not at all. InsomniaA very common sleep disorder, insomnia is the inability to sleep or abnormal wakefulness. It is... 5/7/2004 4:51:45 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A29.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Many of us seek solace from our stressful day in the comfort of sleep, but for those with sleep disorders, sleep is not a time of peace and replenishment, but a time of disease. Sleep dysfunctionSleep disorders are a group of diseases involving a disturbance in sleep... 4/30/2004 1:05:04 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A28.html By Dr. Gregg Jacobs In 1991, a national poll found that one-third of adults complained of difficulty sleeping. The same poll conducted in 1995 found that half of adults were experiencing sleep difficulties. In 2002, the Sleep in America poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation found that almost... 4/23/2004 11:34:06 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A27.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND The return of spring is a time of joy for many; we leave behind the crisp, cold weather of winter and are greeted with longer days and a promise of warmth. Buds start to appear on trees and flowers are in bloom, but as pretty as they are, trees and flowers produce pollen... 4/8/2004 2:33:19 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A26.html By David Musnick, MD The triggers to sleep and to awaken are complicated biochemical signals that are very much influenced by the amount of light you are exposed to at night and in the morning. Understanding this factor can help you make your home and bedroom more conducive to falling and staying... 3/19/2004 11:53:27 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A25.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Many of usbattle our way to work every morning behind the wheel of a car. We have to watch out for the weather, traffic accidents, the cars all around us and even objects in the middle of the road. Have you considered that you should also be making sure you’ve had a... 3/12/2004 2:24:28 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A24.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND You and your partner have endured nine months of pregnancy. You’ve chosen a name. You’ve purchased bibs, bottles and baby clothes. Now, have you given careful consideration as to where your baby will sleep? Crib vs. bedThere is much controversy as to which sleeping... 3/5/2004 1:28:22 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A23.html By Dr. Carolyn DeMarco The most disabling aspect of menopause may be the sleep disturbance associated with hot flashes that awaken women suddenly from a sound sleep. The number of hot flashes per night may vary from 2 to 10, but even a few can completely disturb sleep patterns. Learn natural ways... 2/27/2004 12:41:30 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A22.html In life we all have our own rhythm—circadian rhythm, that is. By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Circadian rhythmOur body is regulated by over 100 built-in clocks known as the circadian rhythm. Each unique 24-hour cycle influences an aspect of our body's function, including sleep, body temperature, hormone... 2/20/2004 1:56:45 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A21.html “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise,” said Benjamin Franklin several hundred years ago. Now, modern research lends support to this bold statement. By Dr. Jonn Matsen The first light of dawn stimulates the retina of your eye to make serotonin, which in turn activates... 2/13/2004 10:29:09 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A20.html Believe it or not, sometimes we are just too tired to have sex. No, really. By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Long days at work, busy households, stress, managing the children’s daily activities, newborn babies and countless other worries are enough to exhaust anyone into using the bedroom for one sole... 2/6/2004 11:38:16 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A19.html Being sleep deprived can prevent you from effectively shedding extra pounds. By Natasha Turner, ND Being sleep deprived doesn’t only make you feel tired and ineffective – it may make you feel hungry even when you are full and lead to an increase in fat storage. Are you sleep deprived? Do you fall... 4/16/2004 10:20:31 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A18.html In an effort to make up for lost sleep, many people sleep in on weekends or after a poor night’s sleep. Although this strategy may be helpful in the short run by providing a few extra hours of sleep, it contributes to insomnia the next night for several reasons. By Gregg D. Jacobs, Ph.D. Waking... 1/23/2004 2:11:28 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A17.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND I can remember back when I was little how going to bed seemed like the world’s biggest injustice. It always seemed that as soon as the “Dukes of Hazard” would come on, it was bedtime for me. Now that I am older and understand the science of sleep, I have tremendous... 1/16/2004 2:31:02 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A16.html Watching the late show every night? Putting TV ahead of your sleep may be affecting more than just your energy and productivity the next day. By Natasha Turner, ND Your current sleep habits may unknowingly be causing you to age at an accelerated rate – metabolically and physically. Even worse, many... 1/9/2004 11:03:09 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A15.html By Dr. Carolyn DeMarco L-tryptophan is one of the eight essential amino acids, one of the building blocks of protein. It is precursor to serotonin, which is a brain chemical that elevates mood. It is a little known but useful prescription for insomnia, including the sleep disorders of fibromyalgia,... 12/31/2003 9:52:15 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A14.html The cold winter nights are upon us and we need to keep warm. If you think you should unpack your electric blanket, think again. By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND May disrupt sleepOverheating your body during sleep is believed to disrupt your sleep cycle. A study was conducted at the Center for Sleep... 12/19/2003 10:42:05 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A13.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Abath is a wonderful andrelaxingway to wind down after work. What could be more tempting and tranquil than a warm bath on a cold winter’s day? Winter and your sleepIn the winter, our body must adjust to the change in temperature as well as to a change in sunlight. For... 12/12/2003 12:51:41 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A12.html Achieve your weight loss goals—by sleeping? By Natasha Turner, ND A good rest has always been called beauty sleep—but how about a lean body sleep? New research shows that individuals who are not sleep deprived have an increased capacity to lose weight and keep it off. Sleep reduces stress hormones,... 12/5/2003 11:41:54 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A11.html “We are gathered here today to join this couple in holy matrimony.” Youhave fond memories of your wedding day, butwould you have said “I do” as zealously had you known your soon-to-be husband/wife was a snorer? By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Snoring is a common sleeping disorder that disrupts sleep... 11/28/2003 11:04:53 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A10.html Maybe not... By Natasha Turner, ND Have you ever been caught grabbing a bit of shut-eye at your desk—or maybe sleeping underneath it? What was your excuse?New sleep research may be your best answer. A 2002 study from Harvard University considered worker burnout over four days of training and the... 11/21/2003 3:23:55 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A9.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND As if hot flashes, fatigue and mood swings weren’t enough to worry about; studies now show menopause may also be a cause of common sleep disorders, such as snoring and sleep apnea. Menopause is a time of change in a woman’s life as she passes from her reproductive stage... 11/14/2003 11:47:10 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A8.html By Natasha Turner, ND Every fall I am consumed with the sad realization that I will soon face yet another long winter. Unlike many of my friends who are avid snowboaders or skiers, I have most of my fun in the summer sunshine. How do I cope? Every November I begin to plan my escape and then count the... 11/7/2003 1:35:08 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A7.html By Gregg D. Jacobs, Ph.D. It has been widely reported by the media that sleep deprivation can have serious effects on our daytime functioning. Exactly what are the effects of sleep deprivation? 10/31/2003 10:14:39 AM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A6.html By Gregg D. Jacobs, Ph.D. One widely disseminated recommendation made by sleep specialists is that we need at least eight hours of sleep per night to stay healthy. This recommendation is based in large part on a single study, conducted by Dr. Thomas Wehr at the National Institutes of Health, in which... 10/24/2003 3:16:41 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A5.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND We spend approximately one-third of our lives asleep. When we sleep our body recovers from the day’s work and events. Sleep is a time for regeneration, repair and healing. Unfortunately, not everyone has a perfect sleep. Sleep disorders, such as insomnia, restless leg... 10/17/2003 12:12:49 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A4.html By Dr. Carolyn DeMarco In this age of massive noise pollution and increased levels of stress, sleep disorders have become rampant. Insomnia, especially early morning awakening, can also be a symptom of serious depression. Severe sleep disorders deserve a full workup in a specialized sleep lab; however,... 10/10/2003 2:14:16 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A3.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Diabetes is a chronic disease that is becoming more and more prevalent in our society. Poor diet, refined and processed foods, a sedentary lifestyle and a worldwide epidemic of obesity are contributing to the rapidly rising numbers of the disease. According to the World... 10/3/2003 4:06:30 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A2.html By Dr. Jean-Jacques Dugoua, ND Our habits, good or bad, affect our quality of life and our health. As we age and become set in our ways, we may pick up some less-than-desirable health habits, particularly when it comes to sleep. Insomnia in older adults and the elderly is increasingly common. Insomnia... 9/19/2003 3:41:00 PM EST http://truestarhealth.com/members/cm_archives13ML3P1A1.html By Dr. Gregg D. Jacobs There is considerable evidence suggesting that for many individuals, performance on alertness, memory and problem-solving tasks can be maintained for extended periods of time with about 5.5 hours of sleep, or what is called “core sleep”: studies on transatlantic solo yacht... 7/29/2005 11:13:25 AM EST