June 2007 [Volume 6, Issue 6]

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In this issue of To Your Health:

• The Power of Positive Thinking
• Another Reason to Avoid Trans Fats
• Answers to Your Massage Questions

The Power of Positive Thinking

Eating disorders affect almost 5 percent of all young American women. Surprisingly, the first-ever national survey on eating disorders - conducted by Harvard researchers, with findings released earlier this year - reported that binge eating is more prevalent than anorexia and bulimia combined. Binge eating occurs when people undergo frequent, uncontrolled eating binges without purging. It reportedly affects 3.5 percent of women compared to anorexia (1 percent) and bulimia (1.5 percent). While Anorexia sufferers and bulimics both exhibit excessive preoccupation with food and weight control, anorexics focus on weight loss and avoid food, while bulimics focus on weight control, binging and then purging to eliminate the food.

With rates of all eating disorders on the rise, researchers and health experts are seeking to educate the public about the seriousness of binge eating, and the potential causes and treatments of these diseases. Experts believe eating disorders are closely associated with social issues and a negative self-image. A recent study of 242 college students found that concern over outward appearance is uniquely predictive of an eating disorder, even compared to low self-esteem, neuroticism or insecure attachment styles.

Reports indicate the best cure for a negative self-image is positive, self-affirming thoughts, reminders of your personal strengths, and close relationships with a social support network. So be kind to yourself and nurture the positive relationships in your life. You deserve it.

Another Reason to Avoid Trans Fats

Are you aware of the latest "bad word" in the dietary dictionary? Trans fat has been added to the list of ingredients to avoid, along with saturated fat and cholesterol. In addition to increasing the risk of heart disease, new research suggests trans fats may be related to increased infertility. Findings indicate that women who consume a mere 2 percent of total calories from trans fats have a doubled risk of ovulation-related infertility.

Also beware of increasingly popular trans fat alternatives like interesterified fats, which may raise blood sugar and lower good HDL cholesterol. Whether you're pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or simply care about your health and the health of your loved ones, check nutrition labels for trans fatty acids and hydrogenated oils, and look for "fully hydrogenated oil" on products that claim to be "trans-fat-free."

Of course, certain fats, when eaten in moderation, are important for proper growth and development. Here are some of the more common foods that often contain "bad" fats, along with healthier alternatives.

Answers to Your Massage Questions

Question: I just spent 1.5 hours with a wonderful massage therapist today but was told that my shoulder was locked up. I have fibromyalgia and experience a lot of pain and stiffness to the back of my head, neck and shoulders. I was told that my muscles that go from the top of my shoulder to my head were so "locked up" she was unable to relieve most of the tightness. Do you have any suggestions on massage techniques?

Answer: It is highly unlikely that any therapist will be able to loosen your neck and shoulder muscles in just one session. Tight muscles are one symptom of fibromyalgia. It may be more helpful to find a therapist who has experience working with clients who have fibromyalgia. There are certain types of strokes that are more beneficial than others when dealing with this condition.

Rajam Roose

Note: Information provided in this Q&A section is drawn from the "Ask a Massage Therapist" online forum, in which massage therapists field questions relative to the massage profession. Readers are encouraged to post their questions at www.massagetoday.com/ask/. Answers should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation and do not in any way constitute the practice of massage therapy or any other health care profession. Readers should consult their own health care providers for medical advice.

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