Natural News Update: Kidney Stone & Exercise, Pacifier-Sucking Parents, Hungry Shoppers Buy Calories

Here's a roundup of recent natural news stories on kidney stones, pacifiers & allergies, and hungry shoppers:

Exercise Cuts Kidney Stone Risk

A recent study found physically active women had about a 30% lower risk of kidney stones compared with women who reported no exercise. While more exercise activity during the week decreased the risk further, the intensity of the exercise did not matter much. Even those who performed light exercise had a significant reduction in the risk of kidney stones.

The study also found a higher BMI (body mass index) or increased energy intake (eating more) increased the risk of developing kidney stones. This study confirms previous research that found healthy habits significantly lower the risk of developing kidney stones. Regular exercise (even gentle low intensity exercise) and a healthy diet help reduce systemic inflammation and associated problems like kidney stones.

Pacifier-Sucking Parents Reduce Child Asthma & Allergies

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A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics compared the health of children whose parents clean their pacifier by sucking on it vs those who use other methods. The children of pacifier-sucking parents were significantly less likely to have asthma, eczema, and other allergies.

The researchers also noted that vaginal birth was associated with reduced risk of eczema in children.

Not sure you want to suck that binky clean? You may want to at least spit on it. It's likely the sharing of microbes between parents and children that helps kids develop a healthy immune system. It's additional confirmation that we don't want to turn our house into an overly clean sterile environment.

Hungry Shopper Buy Calories

Another study confirmed that it's not the best idea to head to the grocery store while hungry. The researchers compared the carts of hungry shoppers and those who ate before shopping. While the hungry shoppers did not buy more items, they loaded up on higher calorie items. It's not just a myth. You are more likely to shop healthy when you don't shop hungry. Try to at least eat a good snack before you go.

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