March 17, 2013 — More people than ever are using smartphones, computers, and other devices as part of a personal health tracking routine, according to a recent survey. Fully 60% of U.S. adults say they track their weight, diet, or exercise routine. “The explosion of mobile devices means that more Americans have an opportunity to start tracking health data […]
January 29, 2013 — Whether by coincidence or persuasion, the news is good that leading House Democrats are calling for some of the same changes to employer wellness regulations as leading obesity policy advocates sought in comments submitted last week. The Hill reports that the request came in a letter from top Democrats on all three House committees with […]
January 25, 2013 — As a debate rages about sugar sweetened beverages, consumer beverage tastes are changing in a seemingly healthier direction. Consumption of soda is down overall, with full sugar versions suffering the most. These trends may explain explain why the Coca-Cola Company wants a place at the table for health and obesity policy. Derek Thompson paints a […]
January 15, 2013 — New York Times aging and wellness columnist Jane Brody recently wrote about some nutrition myths and mistakes. She points out that some health concerns are exaggerated — which is not to say concern is unnecessary, only that our concern may be misdirected. Cured meats, for example, are often reviled for their nitrites, which bind with […]
January 5, 2013 — A recent study in the Journal of Consumer Behavior suggests the increased self-esteem one experiences after spending time reading the feed of one’s social network of close friends on Facebook can lead to a loss of self-control, which in turn can lead to poor food choices and obesity. But there are a few issues with […]
December 23, 2012 — Prescription medication guides required by FDA are too complex to be useful to the patients they are intended to help, according to a study of suitability, readability, and comprehension published int the December issue of the Journal of General Internal Medicine. Medication guides for patients are increasingly important, serving as a key tool to diminish potential medication […]
December 22, 2012 — Companies, organizations, and individuals looking to make a positive change in a complex and deeply entrenched disease like obesity should consider more innovative techniques and messaging solutions, says Chris Waugh, director and co-founder of design innovation consultancy IDEO. Talking about the health risks of obesity can help build awareness, but leave people feeling overwhelmed and […]
December 4, 2012 — In a recently issued report, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) published data supporting the need and practicality of posting nutrition information for prepared food sold in grocery and convenience stores under previsions of the Affordable Care Act. Restaurants, including fast food outlets, are already moving ahead with this requirement.
November 19, 2012 — November 19, 2012 — What would you do to live an extra 4 years or so? It might be easier than you think.
November 17, 2012 — November 17, 2012 — A proposal from FDA for an expansive approach to OTC drugs spurred the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) to hold a symposium on the subject and to hotly debate the topic throughout the course of its annual meeting this week.
