ADHD DRUGS AND HALLUCINATIONS: A new study released by the journal Pediatrics showed that children who are taking drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and others may experience hallucinations. The side effects of these drugs included hallucinations of worms or snakes crawling on the children and also included other side effects such as psychosis and mania.

Dr. Scott’s Comments: The rate of these side-effects were fairly low (around 2 percent), but represent yet another serious complication of these medications. Why we turn to drug therapy to help these children is beyond my understanding, when diet and nutritional therapy can do so much to change the thought patterns and actions of our children.

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MERCURY IN HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP: Mercury was found in almost one-half of all samples of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) tested in two recent studies. The mercury in the high fructose corn syrups appears to be a product of the manufacturing of the sweetener and not because of some other contamination. Caustic soda, used in the processing of the HFCS seems to be the source of the mercury.

Dr. Scott’s Comments: Did you really need another reason to stay away from HFCS? Eating high amounts of HFCS is associated with weight gain and insulin insensitivity and diabetes. Mercury in any amount in our diets, and especially in the diets of our children is very dangerous.

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STROKE HIGH IN PEOPLE WITH METABOLIC SYNDROME: Metabolic syndrome, which is characterized by abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, low HDL cholesterol and high triglycerides has been associated with an increased risk of stroke.

Dr. Scott’s Comments: While it has long been known that people with diabetes have a greater risk for cardiovascular diseases (including stroke), there has been a question about people who are not yet diabetic, but have impaired blood sugar control. This study, along with others, shows that being pre-diabetic carries many of the same risk that being diabetic does. Eating foods that are low and below the glycemic index is the only way to control your blood sugar and stave off these devastating diseases.

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WINTER WEATHER WORKOUTS: The American Cancer Society has posted winter weather workouts:

It’s easier to exercise regularly during the winter months than you realize – you just need to think creatively.

If it’s not too cold:

• Take the dog for a walk.
• Try a winter sport, like skiing, snow-shoeing, or ice-skating.
• Shovel snow. (Shoveling snow can be really strenuous. If it’s been a while since you’ve exercised regularly, discuss your plan and your health with your doctor.)

If it’s unbearably cold outside, try these indoor activities to get your heart pumping:

• Meet a friend at the mall and walk some laps.
• Do leg lifts or sit ups while you watch your favorite TV show.
• Put on your favorite music and dance.
• Clean your house. Scrubbing, mopping, and vacuuming all burn calories.

Dr. Scott’s Comments: Great recommendations! My favorite suggestion for exercising during winter months is to “pay” for the television you watch. Put a stationary bike or other exercise equipment in front of the TV and ride it for a half-hour or hour of the shows you watch.

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