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Dr Bob's Take: this was a large study and I believe does show that eating more fruits and vegetables does have some heart protection. I do not believe this should be considered that
end of controversy over effects on cancer reduction.
Omega 3 Fish Oil - New Claims
Coming in a fish counter near you. Yes, you heard me right. The FDA has issued a new label that can be added to certain fish that contain Omega 3 oil. It basically states that research has shown that these oils MAY reduce risk of coronary disease (hardening of arteries). The amount of oil will also be given on label. Dr Bob's Take: Yes, it well known that certain fish like lake trout, salmon and tuna, have significant amount of omega 3 oils and these are good for us. Olive oil is also another oil that is beneficial.
Cholesterol - How Low Shall We Go
There has been a great deal of discussion in medical circles about current published target for our cholesterol levels (see below). We are now seeing that there is more improvement noted if cholesterol total is below 200mg.
Of other significance are levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol). We are seeing more evidence that lower LDL goes better off we are. Once again it is important that you know your own levels and what current normals should be. Here are current recommendations from American Heart Association (AHA). Risk Total Cholesterol LDL (bad cholesterol) HDL (good cholesterol) desireable at or below 200mg at or below 129mg 40 - 50mg male 50 - 60mg female moderate risk 200 - 239 mg 100 - 129 mg below 40 male & female high risk 240mg and above 130 - 159mg = borderline 160 - 189mg = high 190mg or more = very high below 40
Dr Bob' Take: I am a firm believer of science that states we are what we eat and where we are from. We have both genetics and food that represent our cholesterol. It is very important for all of us to get within goals of treatment regimen set up by your physician. The final goals are not written yet but will be over next several years. Here is a "Heart Profiler" that you may find useful from AHA. http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1516
NEW NEWS Potential Warning with Bextra
On Nov 10th there was a suggestion by FDA that there may be some unwanted cardiac events with this medication. This medication is another "cox2" meds which is somewhat similar to Vioxx. There was small study where Bextra was given intra-venously and then followed with oral Bextra where death rate was higher than it should have been. Dr Bob's Take: it is too early to have a definitive call on this but I would err on side of caution.
