Northwest LifeBeat

Northwest Newsradio
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Semiweekly

Lifebeat is a sixty-second look at health and wellness related topics. It’s a daily feature on Northwest Newsradio in Seattle, hosted by Marina Rockinger.

  1. 1d ago

    Sleep Habits, Nightmares and a Surprising Sleep Apnea Remedy

    Getting enough quality sleep is essential for overall health, and new research suggests it may also play a key role in protecting the brain as we age. A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that common sleep behaviors may be linked to signs of brain aging. Researchers reported that both too much and too little sleep could potentially harm brain health. One encouraging finding involved daytime napping: short naps were associated with improved alertness and cognitive performance. Nightmares are another common part of sleep. While most people experience frightening dreams from time to time, sleep psychologists say they can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, job loss, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), certain medications, and alcohol use. Experts note that occasional nightmares are normal, but persistent or frequent nightmares may warrant professional evaluation. Meanwhile, researchers are exploring an unusual approach to treating sleep apnea. A study published in the European Respiratory Society Journal found that regularly blowing into a large conch shell may help reduce symptoms of the condition. Participants who practiced the technique daily experienced fewer nighttime breathing interruptions, better sleep quality, and increased daytime alertness. While more research is needed, the findings suggest that an ocean-inspired remedy could offer another tool for managing sleep apnea.

    1 min

  2. 4d ago

    New Research Highlights Risks and Treatment Opportunities for Brain and Mental Health

    A series of new studies is shedding light on factors that affect brain health, childhood development, and recovery from serious illness. Researchers at the University of California, Davis found that long-term exposure to tiny air pollution particles can impair the brain's ability to access facts, words, and general knowledge. The study, which tracked exposure over nearly two decades, suggests that reducing air pollution could help lower the burden of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. In another study, scientists reported that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Brain imaging revealed distinct ADHD subtypes in children, with one group primarily experiencing attention difficulties and another showing broader challenges involving emotional regulation, memory, and motivation. The findings could lead to more personalized treatment approaches tailored to each child's needs. Meanwhile, a report from the American College of Surgeons found that depression—whether treated or untreated-can negatively affect surgical outcomes in cancer patients. Researchers also identified a hopeful trend: the use of antidepressants may support better recovery following surgery. Together, these studies underscore the importance of addressing environmental, neurological, and mental health factors to improve long-term health outcomes.

    1 min

  3. 6d ago

    Health Studies Highlight Eating Disorders, Better Obesity Measures, and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Tomato-Soy Juice

    Nearly 30 million Americans are affected by disordered eating, regardless of age, race, gender, or sexual orientation. New research from University College London found that calorie labels on restaurant menus may help people with binge-eating disorder make healthier choices and even support recovery. The study, published in BMJ Public Health, showed positive effects for those with binge-eating disorders, though people with anorexia nervosa were more likely to view calorie labels negatively. A separate study published in the Journal of Nutrition suggests that Body Mass Index (BMI) may not be the best tool for predicting hypertension risk. Researchers found that a waist-to-height ratio was a more accurate indicator of hypertension risk than BMI, which relies solely on a person's height and weight. Meanwhile, researchers at Ohio State University report that a specially formulated tomato-soy juice may help reduce obesity-related inflammation. In a clinical study, adults with obesity who drank the juice daily for four weeks experienced reductions in several key inflammatory proteins, pointing to a potential dietary approach for improving metabolic health.

    1 min

  4. Jun 2

    Three Everyday Health and Safety Tips You Shouldn't Ignore

    From houseplants to sports drinks to sunglasses, some common items may not be as harmless as they seem. Experts say a little awareness can go a long way in protecting both your family and your pets. If you love decorating your home with plants, make sure they're safe for your furry companions. Many popular plants can be highly toxic to cats and dogs, including amaryllis, lilies, tulips, begonias, and holly. Pet owners should research plants before bringing them home and contact a veterinarian immediately if they suspect their pet has been exposed to a toxic variety. When it comes to staying hydrated during exercise, sports drinks aren't always necessary. These beverages contain electrolytes such as sodium, calcium, and potassium, which help replace minerals lost through sweat. Dietitians say elite athletes and people engaged in intense or prolonged physical activity may benefit from sports drinks, but for most people, water is sufficient for rehydration. And don't overlook eye protection when spending time outdoors. While inexpensive sunglasses may be appealing, eye doctors warn that not all provide the recommended 100% UV protection. In areas with significant sunlight and glare, polarized lenses can offer additional comfort and protection, helping reduce strain and improve visibility. Whether you're choosing houseplants, reaching for a drink after a workout, or shopping for sunglasses, making informed choices can help keep you, your pets, and your eyes healthier and safer.

    1 min

  5. Jun 1

    New Research Raises Questions About Cannabis and Chronic Pain Relief

    Can cannabis really help relieve chronic nerve pain? New research suggests the answer may not be clear-cut. A study published in the Cochrane journal found no strong evidence that cannabis-based medicines provide meaningful relief for chronic neuropathic pain. While some patients using products containing both THC and CBD reported slight improvements, researchers concluded the benefits were not significant enough to be considered clinically meaningful. Meanwhile, scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder say they have identified a previously hidden neural circuit in the brain that may be responsible for turning short-term pain into chronic pain lasting months or even years. Researchers believe this discovery could pave the way for new treatments, including targeted injections or infusions designed to interrupt the process. Looking for another way to ease chronic pain? Kindness may help. Research published by the National Library of Medicine found that pro-social activities such as volunteering or helping others can reduce physical pain. Scientists say acts of kindness trigger the release of “happy hormones” and activate brain pathways linked to emotion, which may help lessen the experience of chronic pain. This version is streamlined for a news brief, newsletter, or radio/web article.

    1 min

  6. May 29

    New Research Highlights Early Detection, Risk Factors, and Prevention Strategies for Dementia

    About 7 million Americans over age 65 are currently living with dementia, and women are disproportionately affected, making up nearly two-thirds of all Alzheimer’s cases in the United States, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. In new research from the University of California, San Diego, scientists have identified a blood-based biomarker in women that may be able to predict the risk of developing dementia up to 25 years before symptoms appear. The finding could open the door to earlier intervention strategies long before cognitive decline begins. Other studies are also reshaping understanding of dementia risk. Long-recognized links between smoking and dementia are being reexamined in light of research published in Science Advances, which suggests nicotine may disrupt communication between the lungs and brain, potentially contributing to cognitive decline beyond the effects of reduced oxygen flow through the vascular system. Meanwhile, promising findings in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health suggest that cooking at home at least once a week may reduce the risk of dementia in older adults by about 30 percent. Researchers note that meal preparation engages both physical and cognitive skills, highlighting everyday activities like cooking as potential tools for supporting brain health in aging populations.

    1 min

  7. May 28

    Simple Wellness Habits That May Improve Your Health

    Staying healthy can sometimes come down to simple daily habits. In the Pacific Northwest and other cloudy regions of the U.S., getting enough Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin”, can be a challenge. Vitamin D plays an important role in bone health and mood regulation, and low levels have been linked to fractures and other health concerns, according to the Cleveland Clinic. When sunlight is limited, experts recommend adding more Vitamin D-rich foods to your diet, including fatty fish, eggs, mushrooms, and fortified dairy products. Another healthy staple that continues to earn praise is oatmeal. Many people remember commercials promoting oats as a way to lower cholesterol, and research published in Nature Communications suggests those claims still hold true. The study found that cholesterol levels dropped in people who regularly consumed oats, and even six weeks later, the positive effects remained noticeable. For those dealing with sore muscles after a workout or a long day of heavy lifting, Epsom salts remain a popular home remedy. While researchers say there is limited scientific evidence proving their effectiveness, many people report relief after soaking in an Epsom salt bath. Supporters claim the baths may help reduce inflammation, soothe sore muscles, and even ease symptoms associated with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

    1 min

  8. May 27

    New Studies Highlight Cancer Risks, Treatment Advances, and Survivorship Differences

    New research is shedding light on several important developments in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. A study published in the journal Cancer found that heavy alcohol consumption may significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer, which is typically diagnosed around age 66. Researchers reported that people who averaged more than 14 alcoholic drinks per week over their lifetime faced a 25% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer and a 95% higher risk of rectal cancer compared to light drinkers. Meanwhile, scientists have identified a potential new use for a common asthma medication. Research published in Nature Cancer suggests that drugs such as montelukast may help treat difficult cancers like triple-negative breast cancer by reversing resistance to certain immunotherapies. Another recent study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, examined cancer survivorship outcomes between men and women. While women were found to have a lower overall risk of death after cancer treatment, they also experienced higher rates of serious side effects from therapies including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Researchers say additional studies are needed to better understand the reasons behind these differences.

    1 min
See All (192)

About

Lifebeat is a sixty-second look at health and wellness related topics. It’s a daily feature on Northwest Newsradio in Seattle, hosted by Marina Rockinger.

Information

  • Creator
    Northwest Newsradio
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    192
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Northwest LifeBeat