27% lower mortality in top hospitals, finds HealthGrades

Hospital quality gap persists, resulting in 171,424 preventable deaths, according to HealthGrades’ Sixth Annual Hospital Quality and Clinical Excellence study. – Patients treated at top-rated hospitals in US are nearly one-third less likely to die, on average, than those admitted to all other hospitals, according to a study released by HealthGrades (Nasdaq: HGRD), the leading independent healthcare ratings organization.

Polycarbonate plastic bottles harmful for hot liquids

When it comes to Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure from polycarbonate plastic bottles, it?s not whether the container is new or old but the liquid?s temperature that has the most impact on how much BPA is released, according to University of Cincinnati (UC) scientists. – Liquid’s temperature that has the most impact on how much Bisphenol A (BPA) is released from polycarbonate plastic bottles, and it does not matter whether the container is new or old, revealed by researchers from the University of Cincinnati (UC).

Manuka honey with natural antibacterial methylglyoxal

Manuka honey with natural antibacterial methylglyoxal

Manuka Health New Zealand Ltd announced the launch of the first manuka honey products certified to contain levels of the antibacterial ingredient. – The natural compound methylglyoxal is responsible for Manuka Health New Zealand’s manuka honey’s unique health-giving properties, revealed in a publication by a German university scientist, reported the company.

Stricter warnings for botox, myobloc botulinum injections

Botox and a similar injection Myobloc should come with stronger warnings following reports of 16 deaths after the botulinum toxin spread inside the body, a U.S. consumer group Public Citizen said.
– The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should immediately increase its warnings and directly warn patients and doctors about the use of botulinum toxin ? available as Botox and Myobloc ? because of serious adverse reactions, including deaths, linked to the drug, Public Citizen said in a petition filed with the FDA.

Reduced Salt Butter for high blood pressure patients by Amul

Amul’s Reduced Salt Butter will be a boon for high blood pressure patients for whom salt intake is restricted. – Keeping in mind the inherent need and convenience of the consumers and taking into account the changing lifestyles, Amul is all set to expand its product portfolio with Amul Reduced Salt Butter. Amul Reduced Salt Butter has almost 50% less salt than table butter.

New York chain restaurants to display calorie information

New York City health officials are reviving a plan that would force restaurant chains to post calorie counts for their foods, right on the menu. – The Board of Health of New York City voted to require restaurant chains operating in New York City to prominently display calorie information on their menus and menu boards. The new regulation, which takes effect on March_31, 2008, applies to any New York City chain restaurant that has 15 or more outlets nationwide ? about 10% of all New York City restaurants.

Probiotics in yoghurt affect metabolism

Researchers find that treatment with probiotics has range of biochemical effects. The results of this study are highly promising to address personalized nutrition. – Probiotics, such as yoghurt drinks containing live bacteria, have a tangible effect on the metabolism. The research is the first to look in detail at how probiotics change the biochemistry of bugs known as gut microbes, which live in the gut and which play an important part in a person’s metabolic makeup.

Genetically modified carrots provide more calcium for osteoporosis patients

Genetically modifying carrots to express increased levels of a gene that enables the transport of calcium across membranes of plant cells can make the vegetables a better source of calcium. – A specially developed carrot has been produced to help people absorb more calcium. Researchers studied the calcium intake of humans who ate the carrot and found a net increase in calcium absorption. Adding this carrot to the diet can help prevent such diseases as osteoporosis.

Weight loss caused by chewing gum – BMJ

Sorbitol intake should be considered in patients with bowel problems, chronic diarrhoea, and weight loss. – Severe weight loss was detected in patients due to chronic diarrhea after eating chewing gum and sweets because of excess sorbitol intake, a widely used sweetener in “sugar-free” products. Sorbitol has laxative properties and is poorly absorbed by the small intestine.

Purchasing contact lenses online is risky

Research indicates that Internet lens purchasers typically don’t follow their eye doctor?s recommendations, placing them at greater risk for harmful eye care practices and eye health complications. – Purchasing contact lenses online may save consumers time, but the process could cause more problems in the long run, according to a new study reported in the January issue of Optometry: Journal of the American Optometric Association.

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