Both actual acupuncture and simulated (sham) acupuncture produced similar results in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), according to a recent study. PCOS is a condition affecting approximately six percent of women of reproductive age and is characterized by missed or irregular menstrual periods, an increased ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone, and insulin
A diet high in monounsaturated fatty acids may be associated with less cognitive decline in older healthy women, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. Previous research has linked cognitive decline with cardiovascular disease, and certain types of dietary fatty acids (saturated and trans) are a known risk factor
Many people using or thinking about using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments may have questions about paying for treatment. This fact sheet provides a general overview of related topics and suggests sources for additional information.CAM Spending in the United StatesAccording to the 2007 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), adults in the United States spent
Date: Tuesday, October 18, 2011 from 1–2 p.m. ET NCCAM is pleased to announce its first Twitter Chat. This is an opportunity to ask an information specialist questions about complementary and alternative medicine and general health. No registration is necessary—all you need is an active Twitter account. The NCCAM Twitter page can be found at
Date: Tuesday, October 18, 2011 from 1–2 p.m. ET NCCAM is pleased to announce its first Twitter Chat. This is an opportunity to ask an information specialist questions about complementary and alternative medicine and general health. No registration is necessary—all you need is an active Twitter account. The NCCAM Twitter page can be found at
Stress is a physical and emotional reaction that people experience as they encounter changes in life. Stress is a normal feeling. However, long-term stress may contribute to or worsen a range of health problems including digestive disorders, headaches, sleep disorders, and other symptoms. Stress may worsen asthma and has been linked to depression, anxiety, and
Stress is a physical and emotional reaction that people experience as they encounter changes in life. Stress is a normal feeling. However, long-term stress may contribute to or worsen a range of health problems including digestive disorders, headaches, sleep disorders, and other symptoms. Stress may worsen asthma and has been linked to depression, anxiety, and
Relaxation techniques include a number of practices such as progressive relaxation, guided imagery, biofeedback, self-hypnosis, and deep breathing exercises. The goal is similar in all: to consciously produce the body’s natural relaxation response, characterized by slower breathing, lower blood pressure, and a feeling of calm and well-being. Relaxation techniques (also called relaxation response techniques) may