Five health rules to break

Published 9:28 pm Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Recently on the NBC Today Show, Dr. Nieca Goldberg, a cardiologist and the author of the book, “Complete Guide to Women’s Health,” and Stacy Morrison, editor-in-chief of Redbook, gave five health rules that we can break.

Both women have contributed much to women in general. Goldberg has a practice in New York, and her total heart care focuses primarily on caring for women.

Under Morrison’s direction, Redbook has found new purpose as a vibrant modern guide to a young woman’s life.

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Number 1 — It is not important that you eat breakfast every day. Goldberg said research shows that if you skip calories in the morning, you will make up for it later in the day. Morrison said that what is really important is your what your first meal of the day includes, not when you eat it.

Number 2 — You don’t have to do a monthly self-breast exam. Morrison said doctors have just found out that you discover tumors late when they are larger. The thing that is most important to do is to get your yearly mammogram. Goldberg said it’s really important to know what your body feels like when it is normal so you will know when it’s not normal. If you feel comfortable doing it, then do it. But continue to get your annual mammogram, starting at the age of 40 and at an earlier age if your risks are higher.

Number 3 — You don’t have to take a multi-vitamin every day. Morrison said that the best way to get nutrients is through regular food. Research has shown that it’s the healthy diet that matters, and vitamins cannot replace a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Number 4 — You don’t have to stay indoors when it’s cold outside to avoid catching a cold. Morrison said that germs are inside; we close our windows, we turn on the heat and the air is recirculating. So going outside doesn’t subject us to germs, and cold doesn’t make us have colds. Goldberg said to further help avoid a cold, wash your hands, get plenty of rest and stay away from people who have colds.

Number 5 — You can eat after 7 p.m. Morrison said just don’t eat unhealthy foods. You can eat small snacks that contain less than 150 calories and that fuel the body. Goldberg said you should wait about three to four hours after you eat before going to bed to avoid staying up all night with possible acid reflux.