Health Headlines - September 25

Nutrition Answers Just a Mouse Click Away

Folks with an appetite for info on healthy eating can now order up answers online at the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR).

"There is a lot of confusion about the shape of a healthy diet today, and AICR is committed to dispelling misconceptions and setting out applicable guidelines for healthy meals and snacks. Many people are less reticent about asking questions online than they are on the phone. So we have added the 'online hotline' to our education offerings," Jeffrey R. Prince, AICR vice president for education, said in a prepared statement.

Answers from AICR dietitians are based on a thorough review of existing research on diet, cancer and weight management. When there is no definitive research, the dietitians provide helpful but qualified suggestions.

Questions to the hotline often focus on the appropriate diet for preventing cancer and other chronic diseases.

"Announcements about health or new research results also prompt questions. After the 2005 U.S. Dietary Guidelines appeared with their heavy emphasis on physical activity, we received a lot of inquires about intensity and duration of activity intended to reduce cancer risk. People were also curious about how to find and cook with whole-grain products," Prince said.

More information:

You can submit questions to the AICR Nutrition Hotline by calling 1-800-843-8114 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Monday through Friday and asking for the nutrition hotline. You can also go to the online hotline.

http://www.aicr.org/information/hotline/index.lasso

Health Tip: Heading Home From the Hospital

Going home after a hospital stay can be unnerving. It's a good idea to coordinate as much as possible before your return.

Here are some pointers from the Naval Hospital in Camp Pendleton, Calif.:

Make sure you have written instructions regarding your discharge and at-home medical routine.
Take all prescribed medications at the assigned time.
Ensure your home environment is conducive to your recovery.
Avoid using steps unless otherwise instructed.
If you're staying in bed, choose a bedroom that's close to a bathroom.
Keep a phone and phone numbers handy for emergencies and medical questions.

Health Tip: Why is My Mouth Dry?

Dry mouth used to be considered a normal symptom of aging.

However, it's now clear that dry mouth is often a side effect of certain medications -- such as antihistamines, heart drugs and pain killers -- according to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. A decrease in hormones in postmenopausal women can also lead to dry mouth.

A lack of saliva causes food and bacteria to remain in the mouth for longer periods, which can lead to more plaque and cavities.

While there is no cure for dry mouth, you can get relief by drinking water, using saliva substitutes, using a humidifier or nasal spray, and by avoiding caffeine, alcohol and tobacco products.