Researches Say Weight Loss from Atkins Doesn’t Last
Doctors in Denmark reviewed several studies on low-carb diets and found that, while they do help people lose weight by 6 months, many people regain the weight by 12 months, and the end result is no different than low-fat diets. They also report many people experience physical complaints from the lack of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, such as headache, weakness, cramps and diarrhea.

Dr. Sears comments: The key to permanent weight loss is a whole lifestyle change, including exercise and good nutrition. Click here to read more about our LEAN program.

Cord Blood Stem Cells Cure Italian Boy of Life-Threatening Blood Disease
A five-year-old boy with Thalassemia (a severe form of anemia usually treated with repeated blood transfusions and sometimes cured by a bone marrow transplant) was cured by an umbilical cord blood stem cell transplant from his newly born twin baby brothers.

Dr. Sears comments: While fetal stem cell research has seen some controversy, umbilical cord blood stem cells taken from the placenta at the time of birth has many potential medical benefits, as seen in this case and many similar cases around the world. Click here to read more about banking your newborn’s cord blood at birth.

Not Breastfeeding Raises Risk of Allergy and Asthma
A study of 2200 Australian kids showed that every month of exclusive breastfeeding (no formula given) decreases a child’s risk of developing childhood asthma and other allergic diseases.

Dr. Sears comments: This isn’t a new finding, it’s just another confirmation of the benefits of breastfeeding. One key feature, however, is that in order to get the full benefits of breastfeeding, a baby should be exclusively breastfed (no formula and no food) for the first six months of life. This is actually what the official recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics is now. Click here to read more about the benefits of breastfeeding.

Meningitis Vaccine Back in Full Supply
There had been a shortage of this vaccine, which protects against meningitis in infants and young children, throughout this year, and doctors had been withholding the third or fourth dose in order to make sure all infants get at least 2 doses. Now, there is enough vaccine to go around so infants can catch up on any missed doses.

Dr. Sears comments: Ask your doctor’s office to check your shot record at your next appointment. There’s no reason to go in for a special “shot only” visit if your infant missed one of these.

Obese Kids Show Hardening of Arteries
A study of obese seven-year-olds found that hardening of the arteries already begins at this age.

Dr. Sears comments: This was already known, but it’s a good reminder. Click here to read more about how to correct and prevent obesity.