May 2005 | Whole Health

Body Talk

by Elana Verbin

Fast-Forward Photography

New ultraviolet photo technology can now allow people to see the wrinkles and spots that await them after years of hidden sun damage. While skin cancer prevention gets a lot of publicity, it seems that a picture is worth a thousand words. According to a study of nearly 150 college students in Southern California, those who could actually see the future effects of sunbathing through photos of themselves were much more inclined to ramp up their UVA protection. Researchers speculate that perhaps it’s because those most likely to sunbathe without using sunscreen do so for the sake of boosting their body image, making the photo’s alarming prophesy all the more compelling. With skin cancer on the rise, this technology could be a cost-effective means of motivating the appearance-conscious public to stay out of the sun or at least use sunblock. Consult your dermatologist to see if this service is available.

How Are You in Bed?

When it comes to sleep, Americans vary widely in our experiences between the sheets. The National Sleep Foundation used this year’s Sleep in America Poll to divide adults into five distinct profiles based on their snoozing habits. The first category, “Healthy, Lively Larks,” which accounted for 27 percent of those surveyed, were the least likely to be affected by sleep problems while “Sleep-Savvy Seniors” (21 percent) got the most sleep of any group. Those tossing and turning were in the majority with “Dragging Duos” (20 percent) characterized as constantly fatigued and the most likely to be cohabitating with someone who has at least one symptom of insomnia. “Overworked, Overweight and Overcaffeinated” (17 percent) spent the highest number of hours in the office and relied on an average of four cups of coffee to propel them through each day. Finally, “Sleepless and Missin’ the Kissin’ ” (15 percent) was more likely than the others to report that their (or their partner’s) sleep disorders caused problems in their relationship, hence the group’s moniker. To figure out where you fit in, visit www.sleepfoundation.org for more details.

Sugar and Your Coffee

A new Canadian study finds that caffeine impairs sugar metabolism in adults, regardless of whether or not they have diabetes. While the scientific cause isn’t fully understood, caffeine was shown to reduce insulin sensitivity by 33 percent in men without diabetes, and 37 percent in men with diabetes, when compared to a placebo. To make matters worse, exercise did not appear to improve insulin resistance related to caffeine intake. But before you cut out your daily cappuccino, it’s worth noting that these findings, curiously enough, may not apply to coffee. In fact, previous research has suggested that drinking coffee may actually help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetes. Addressing this obvious discrepancy, the study’s researchers explained that coffee contains several other substances that may affect sugar metabolism, such as antioxidants, potassium and magnesium.

Elana Verbin is a holistic health counselor and journalist. Visit her blog at foodtherapy.blogspot.com

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