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WH - A Guide to Women's Health: Spring/Summer 2007
WH - A Guide to Women's Health
Test Your Eye I.Q.
How good is your vision I.Q.? See for yourself by taking the true/false quiz below.
- Dark-tinted sunglasses are more protective than those with light tints.
- Diabetes can be detected through an eye exam.
- Reading in poorly lit rooms damages vision.
- Spinach benefits your eyesight more than carrots.
- Artificial sweeteners can increase light sensitivity.
- False. If those hip, semitransparent shades have 100 percent UVA/UVB protection (labeled on any reliable brand), they're just as protective against harmful ultraviolet rays.
- True. Due to the eye's transparency, veins are perfectly visible, allowing detection of diabetes and a host of other vascular disorders.
- False. The strain might give you a headache, but your vision won't be harmed.
- True. Spinach contains high levels of lutein, which can help offset the loss of pigment during macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness.
- True. While the exact cause remains a mystery, artificial sweeteners, antibiotics, and oral contraceptives all increase light sensitivity.
Sources: American Optometry Association; Prevention magazine
[back to top]Facts About Fungus
Toenail fungus—what doctors call onychomycosis— is more common than you may think. It affects about 15 percent of the general population and nearly half of those over 70.
How do you recognize and get rid of the fungus among us? Typically, the toenail (particularly the big toe's) discolors and thickens. When you cut the nail, you may see debris; in severe cases, the nail may detach and fall off. Various home remedies, salves and potions, available at pharmacies and health food stores, may improve nail appearance but rarely cure the condition. Prescription drugs usually eliminate the fungus, but these introduce other considerations—including lengthy treatment and higher cost.
Your best bet? Get medical advice if your toenail is really painful or if you have circulation problems or diabetes and are therefore at higher risk for foot infections. Your doctor can diagnose the problem and advise the best strategy for you. Sources: American Podiatric Medical Association, UC Berkeley Wellness Letter
A Buyer's Guide: Treadmills
Before you take that big step to purchase a treadmill, consider the following info and tips for savvy shopping:
- Match your pace. Basic treadmills ($300-$700) are fine if you'll only be walking. Typical features include a 10- mph top speed and 10 percent maximum incline. Midrange treadmills ($800 and up) have better construction than lower-priced models, so they'll serve the purpose for walking and occasional running. Added features are exercise programs and a heart-rate monitor. Expensive treadmills ($2,000 and up) are best for frequent running and have the same features as midrange machines, plus a more powerful motor and a sturdier frame.
- Size things up. A belt at least 50 inches long and 18 inches wide is best if you're running. Working out in a tight space? Look for a folding deck, which frees up roughly 6 square feet compared to a nonfolding apparatus.
- Check the warranty. Better warranties offer one-year labor coverage, at least three years on the motor and lifetime coverage on the frame. For treadmills with less coverage, consider buying an extended warranty.
Source: Consumer Reports