From darkness to light

It's a classic chicken-or-the-egg scenario. We've known for a while that obesity is linked to low vitamin D--and that boosting intake of this vital nutrient can help to cut excess body fat. But does low D cause obesity... or does obesity cause low D? Researchers have never been sure. But a new study seems to offer some answers. A group of Spanish scientists looked at data from 1,226 people, collected from three different health visits over the course of a decade. About 35 percent of these subjects were D deficient. There was no link between excess weight and vitamin D levels at the start of this study period. But the numbers told a very different story over time. In the next ten years, obesity prevalence rose from roughly 28 percent to 35 percent. And non-obese subjects who were vitamin D deficient after the first half of the study had a significant spike in obesity risk over the second half of the study. This is by no means the final word on the subject. But it certainly looks as if getting more sunshine today could help you stay slim tomorrow. So turn off your computer and get outside already! Until next time, Dr. Fred

The simple substance that can spiral into Brain Enemy no. 1

There's something deep inside your brain that has neuro-researchers sitting on the edge of their lab seats. We ALL have it. You, me, our friends and family. And while there is still a lot to discover about this mystery substance--breakthrough research suggests it can impact your brain in very powerful ways. Mucking-up your memory... Clusters gunking up your neurons and... And maybe even zapping the energy from your brain cells! Discover all the dirty ins and out of this substance--including what Washington University researchers revealed--and how you can help make your golden years--your SMARTEST years. Read the video transcript: Brain Enemy no. 1

T for type 2

Dear Reader, I've been testing testosterone levels in all of my patients--both male and female--for years. Believe it or not, until recently, most testosterone prescriptions were written for women, in order to help with sex drive. The "low T" conversation that dominates wellness circles today was practically nonexistent. And of all the hormones that can influence health, for some reason, testosterone always triggered the least amount of discussion. Times have certainly changed, haven't they? Research continues to show just how big a problem low testosterone is, while the incredible benefits of replacement are touted far and wide. So allow me to share the latest set of findings with you... A new randomized trial of 81 men showed that testosterone replacement was able to reverse insulin resistance in subjects with low T and type 2 diabetes. In fact, after six months of testosterone supplementation, insulin sensitivity increased by 25 percent--with no significant change among the placebo group. This is a major finding. Increased insulin sensitivity can help control blood sugar more efficiently in the short term. And ultimately, it can delay dependence on insulin replacement--and even prevent it altogether. Researchers also performed body composition assessments on both groups of men participating in this study--those with low testosterone and those with normal levels. And even at baseline, there was a big difference between the two. The men with low T had significantly higher body fat and significantly lower lean muscle mass. They also had fattier arms, legs, and torsos--along with less lean mass in their legs. After testosterone replacement, BMI didn't change--but that doesn't really mean much. Why? Because subjects traded in five pounds of fat for the same amount of lean muscle. And as we know, this tips your body's scales toward greater insulin sensitivity...not to mention better health in general. So I have to ask: Why didn't anyone bother to look at this link before? In fact, most doctors don't even screen for testosterone levels. It's a shame, really. These benefits are the very reason I advocate for testosterone replacement therapy among my male and female patients alike. There's absolutely nothing to fear if your protocol is managed appropriately. And a whole lot to gain. That brings me to the most interesting takeaway from this study: Testosterone replacement also decreased inflammatory markers. Specifically, C-reactive protein--which we know has direct links to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. This is quite an about face, when you consider that testosterone was once considered to be a leading cause of both conditions. Could a day be coming when this hormone is actually known for reducing heart disease risk? Only time will tell. Until then, I'm going to continue to test my patients for a deficiency. I can only hope that soon, more doctors start doing the same.

Millionaire's Amazing Secret Can Radically Transform Your Health

For most people, wrinkles... forgetfulness... low energy... sleep trouble... and an onslaught of health problems are the normal part of aging. But one Beverly Hills millionaire proved they don't have to be! At 65 years of age, "Mister B" is at the peak of health. He's bursting with energy... never gets sick... Has normal blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels... boasts a laser-sharp memory... and looks decades younger than his chronological age. What's his secret? He does ONE thing differently than most everyone else. Visit here to discover his age-defying, fountain-of-youth recipe—and dramatically improve your health.

Don't Skip the Cheese - It's Healthier Than You Think
Have you stopped eating cheese because you thought it was too high in salt or fat, and not a healthy source of calories? If you're a cheese lover, you're in for some great news. Find out the healthiest ones to choose today...

Unique Health Benefits of the Ancient "Spanish Vegetable"
Once referred to as "the Spanish Vegetable" and still known in China as "Persian Greens," this tasty, simple-to-prepare veggie should make a regular appearance on your dinner plate for more reasons than one.

The Best and Worst Date Foods

Congratulations. You scored a hot date. Now here's where things get tricky: if you choose the wrong food, you might haphazardly gulp down 2,000 calories and end your night before it ever really begins. But if you indulge smartly and tap into Mother Nature's most potent passion-stoking treats, you might be going home with a big smile on your face—not to mention the promise of a follow-up.

Click here for the best and worst date foods »

Your Grill Is Dirtier Than a Toilet Seat!Clean it to avoid cookout catastrophe. Read more here » The Most Effective Morning RoutineFollow this regimen for a better mood and mind.Read more here » Outsmart Your Appetite!Here's the simple breakfast trick to do it. Read more here »

Do You Still Believe This Persistent Myth about Dogs and Exercise?
It's a myth that refuses to die... though it's been thoroughly debunked in studies. And looks can be deceiving, as at first she appears to get plenty even if that's only 20% true. What you need to know today, for her health...