Today: July 06, 2024
Today: July 06, 2024

Latest From Nahal Garakani

Economy|Health|WrittenByLAPost

Exhausted Air Traffic Controllers Raise Alarm on Safety Risks

A nationwide air traffic controller shortage has forced intensely demanding schedules and deteriorating working conditions, fueling a dangerous increase in mistakes guiding planes. Fatigued and demoralized, some controllers report nodding off during shifts while others show up drunk – alarming violations jeopardizing passenger safety. Hundreds of incident reports describe distraught employees struggling with impossible overtime burdens amid understaffing crisis levels. Controllers manage unfathomable stress directing thousands of lives daily. But current excessive strains break even the most dedicated. While recent years saw traffic rebound from the pandemic, controller numbers significantly declined over the past decade despite elevated retirements requiring replacement.

Exhausted Air Traffic Controllers Raise Alarm on Safety Risks
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Can an Open Marriage Bring Couples Closer?

When Sheila first suggested to her husband Jim that they go to an event for monogamous couples, he reluctantly agreed, hoping that she could enjoy her sense of adventure. But neither of them expected the strong desire to explore even further after becoming friends with another nice couple there. As middle-aged parents of two teenage children stuck in an affectionless rut, Jim and Sheila saw their family-oriented responsibilities were slowly suffocating the carefree pair who had met in a bar almost 20 years ago. Because they wanted to get away, they went to a polyamorous retreat that promised “sexy fun.”

Can an Open Marriage Bring Couples Closer?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Can Ice Plunges Sooth Anxiety and Depression? Watch the Video

A growing wellness trend touts icy plunges as self-treatment for anxiety, depression and other mental health woes. From TikTok’s #ColdPlunge community to Netflix documentaries on extreme athlete Wim Hof’s frigid endurance challenges, the notion of therapeutic benefits from voluntarily induced hypothermia proliferates in pop culture. And while evidence remains limited and risks plentiful, some preliminary research does suggest cold water immersion may improve certain markers of mood and resilience. Proponents claim subjecting the body to freezing temperatures counterintuitively promotes relaxation and calm after the initial shock. The hypothesis makes physiologic sense – activating the stress response stimulates release of hormones

Can Ice Plunges Sooth Anxiety and Depression? Watch the Video
Health|WrittenByLAPost

40% Suicide Spike- LA's Teen Mental Health Crisis

For the first time, the typical age of teen suicide in Los Angeles County has dropped to just 16 years old. This was the shocking news. Also, the number of girls who kill themselves has gone up to almost half of all student deaths this school year. These alarming figures from county medical examiners expose a youth mental health crisis worsening despite years of prevention efforts. Now, families who have lost a loved one say that strict school rules that are supposed to keep kids safe may be making teens even more depressed after the pandemic. When 17-year-old Jeramie Naya

40% Suicide Spike- LA's Teen Mental Health Crisis
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Necrophilia Nightmare: Electrician Violated Over 100 Corpses for 15 Years While Hospital Management Failed to Notice

A damning 300-page British inquiry report reveals that electrician David Fuller’s unfathomable 15-year spree violating over 100 corpses could have been prevented. Fuller ultimately faced conviction for 1987 double homicide cold cases, prompting discovery of his mortuary necrophiliac acts. However, the inquiry condemned systemic “failures of management, governance, regulation and processes” enabling his crimes. Authorities uncovered Fuller’s acts after tying DNA from decades-old murder scenes to the 69-year-old electrician. This launched inquiries into mortuary breaches at two Kent hospitals where Fuller worked. Investigators subsequently unearthed over 10 million disturbing media files within the killer’s residence. Among these were timestamped photos

Necrophilia Nightmare: Electrician Violated Over 100 Corpses for 15 Years While Hospital Management Failed to Notice
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Here's Why Your Cold Seems More Severe After Bedtime

If your cold or cough seems worse at night, science confirms it’s not your imagination. Physicians identify biological rhythms, hormone fluctuations and body positioning as key factors aggravating overnight symptoms. Simple home remedies like hydration, humidifying and cough drops can ease disruption, but understanding the body’s natural circadian cough cycle helps normalize the experience. Tuning into the outsized reaction at one point of the daily clock offers reassurance while combatting its severity. Specifically, our inner sleep/wake programming directs key immune cells to rev up activity after dark seeking pathogens. But their well-intended efforts also spark inflammation temporarily compounding congestion, irritation

Here's Why Your Cold Seems More Severe After Bedtime
Health|WrittenByLAPost

FDA Bans Cancer-Causing Straighteners

This week the FDA proposed banning hair straighteners containing formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, targeting products marketed mainly for Black women despite over a decade of evidence on cancer risks. The agency determined frequent chemical straightener use significantly elevates uterine cancer chances, with toxicity also linked to breast and ovarian malignancies. But though the FDA itself deemed formaldehyde carcinogenic in 2015, only mounting publicity and Congressional regulation recently prompted concrete plans to halt allowable exposure from cosmetics. Specifically, the agency now moves to outlaw hair products emitting formaldehyde directly or through release from compounds that convert to the chemical through air

FDA Bans Cancer-Causing Straighteners
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Running vs. Walking: Study Finds Picking Up The Pace Adds Health Benefits

Walking is rightfully lauded as an accessible, enjoyable activity with proven health benefits. But science shows that making even part of your regular walk a jog or run delivers advantages in less time. While both provide a path to fitness, running edges out walking for improving cardiovascular health and longevity based on key research. With a thoughtful progression, it’s possible to transition gradually from walking to running within two months or less. It’s simple why walking is so popular worldwide – it requires no equipment except shoes and can be done almost anywhere. Studies confirm walking helps lower anxiety, depression,

Running vs. Walking: Study Finds Picking Up The Pace Adds Health Benefits
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Is it Anxiety or a Panic Attack? Learn to Tell the Difference

While commonly used interchangeably, “anxiety attack” and “panic attack” refer to distinct conditions, each with significant differences. Learning to identify each can help assess when professional treatment may be needed. While both create distress, their causes, onset, severity and duration vary. Recognizing the divergence equips individuals to better manage symptoms. Unlike panic attacks, anxiety attacks have no formal clinical definition. The presence of those conditions is not explicitly recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, the DSM-5 defines anxiety as a feature of disorders like generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD and more. Anxiety often relates

Is it Anxiety or a Panic Attack? Learn to Tell the Difference
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Is self-checkout making us lonelier?

Self-checkout lanes are on the rise, and while most customers prefer the privacy of self-checkout, experts have argued that increased reliance on automated transactions chips away at critical social bonds. According to Catalina Marketing, self-checkout now accounts for nearly 40% of checkout lanes at grocery stores. Research reveals the number of lonely Americans has risen steadily since self-checkout’s emergence. With less daily interaction between customers and frontline workers, so-called “weak ties” that boost wellbeing fade. And 75% of Americans say innovations like self-checkout have decreased social skills despite their convenience. Toni Antonucci, a University of Michigan psychology professor, explains weak

Is self-checkout making us lonelier?
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Public Restroom Warning About Toilet Paper Sparks Alarm

Using public restrooms is an everyday necessity for most people. However, a recent viral TikTok video has raised alarming concerns about the potential health risks hidden in plain sight in these public spaces. The now infamous video by user Dane Jones displays an image of a toilet paper roll covered in small red flecks and thin streaks. Jones claims these stains come from intravenous drug users cleaning their needles on the toilet paper, leaving behind traces of contaminated blood. With over 7 million views, the graphic advisory has left many viewers fearful of using public restrooms. But how credible are

Public Restroom Warning About Toilet Paper Sparks Alarm
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Can't Face Another Burpee? Meet "Cozy Cardio," Exercise for the Rest of Us

Amid the sweat-drenched aura of high intensity workouts, a TikTok creator is pioneering a radically different fitness vision centered on low-impact “cozy cardio.” This feel-good approach reimagines exercise as a self-care ritual rather than a draining chore, garnering devotees and expert praise. Hope Zuckerbrow coined the “cozy cardio” concept in videos showing her exercising casually while wearing pajamas and watching TV. This unorthodox routine was born when Zuckerbrow, unable to fall back asleep one morning, started walking on her treadmill with coffee in hand. She decided to film this relaxing activity, dubbing it “cardio…but make it cozy.” The video amassed

Can't Face Another Burpee? Meet "Cozy Cardio," Exercise for the Rest of Us
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Is Low Serotonin the Missing Long COVID Clue? New Finding Points to Chemical Imbalance

A new study suggests low serotonin levels in the body could help explain some of long COVID’s most troublesome symptoms, including brain fog, headaches, and fatigue. The research proposes lasting viral traces may hamper serotonin production, depriving patients of the essential chemical. Around 30% of COVID survivors worldwide develop long COVID, suffering prolonged effects like reduced endurance, anxiety, and memory issues months or years later. Though causes remain unclear, the recent study in Cell identifies a possible biological contributor: depleted serotonin resulting from inflammation and impaired nutrient absorption. If confirmed, the serotonin deficiency theory could pave the way for more

Is Low Serotonin the Missing Long COVID Clue? New Finding Points to Chemical Imbalance
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Less Sex, More Substance: Gen Z Seeking Relatable Bonds Over Physical Relationships

A new study reveals American adolescents today want to see less sex and romance on screens. Instead, young viewers crave more depictions of platonic friendships reflecting their real-life experiences. The 2022 Teens & Screens report by UCLA’s Center for Scholars and Storytellers surveyed over 1,500 youths aged 10-24. It found a majority want more focus on non-romantic relationships and less expectation that male-female friends will inevitably fall in love. Nearly half felt sex wasn’t needed in most plots, while over a third wanted more asexual or aromantic characters. “Adolescents are seeking modeling in the art they consume,” said the center’s

Less Sex, More Substance: Gen Z Seeking Relatable Bonds Over Physical Relationships
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Artificial Sweeteners: The Bitter Truth Behind Sugar-Free Claims

Artificial sweeteners have been marketed for years as a healthy sugar replacement that will allow consumers to continue enjoying sugary tastes while reducing their exposure to obesity and diabetes dangers. New study raises worrisome issues about the possible dangers of artificial sweeteners, yet the debate over their safety continues to go on. Evidence relating non-sugar sweeteners to health issues including cardiovascular disease has led to the World Health Organization advising against their use for weight reduction or blood sugar management.  The WHO’s cancer research arm also classified the popular sweetener aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” While the food industry

Artificial Sweeteners: The Bitter Truth Behind Sugar-Free Claims
Health|WrittenByLAPost

New Studies Confirm Strength Training Boosts Longevity as Much as Cardio

A growing consensus among health experts underscores the importance of strength training, along with cardiovascular exercise, for longevity and quality of life. Research increasingly shows that regularly lifting weights provides major benefits that help extend lifespans and preserve independence into old age. Based on a recent study in The British Journal of Sports Medicine, adults who engaged in one to two sessions of strength training per week had a 40% reduced risk of mortality compared to individuals who did not exercise. This was on top of the reduced death risk gained from moderate aerobic activity. The analysis underscores the significant

New Studies Confirm Strength Training Boosts Longevity as Much as Cardio
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Still in Love But Know It's Over? How to Healthily Move Forward

Ending a meaningful relationship can be intensely painful, even when you know it’s the right decision. Turning off deep feelings of love is often easier said than done. Processing the loss, identifying your needs in a partner, and accepting the importance of what you’ve lost are key steps in the complex journey of moving on. While you can’t control who you fall for, in some cases staying in love keeps you stuck. Perhaps your affection is one-sided. Or maybe you and your partner love each other but can’t overcome irreconcilable differences. However difficult, acknowledging when a romance has run its

Still in Love But Know It's Over? How to Healthily Move Forward
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Smiling on the Outside, Struggling on the Inside: The Hidden Truth About My Anxiety

Outwardly, people with high-functioning anxiety appear fine. They go to work, raise families, and contribute to society. But inwardly, they wage a constant battle against crippling anxiety that threatens to derail their lives. Approximately 40 million persons in the United States are impacted by anxiety disorders annually.  Symptoms like excessive worry, muscle tension, panic attacks, and compulsions can interfere with daily activities. But many hide their struggles to function normally. Those with high-functioning anxiety have developed coping strategies to present a capable face to the world. However, they still endure the same relentless fears and distress as anyone with an

Smiling on the Outside, Struggling on the Inside: The Hidden Truth About My Anxiety
Health|WrittenByLAPost

New research shows that post-meal mini-walks have big impacts

An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” But could a simple post-dinner stroll offer similar perks? Exercise is undoubtedly healthy, yet guidance differs on ideal durations and timing. Emerging research now spotlights unique upsides to brief walking sessions soon after eating. Just 15 brisk minutes can energize digestion, mental clarity, blood sugar control, and diabetes prevention. “The benefits start accumulating with even minor additions of movement,” explains Dr. Kershaw Patel. “Every small step counts.” Unlike prolonged workout regimes, these mini walking breaks spur biohacks that integrate seamlessly into daily routines. And through incremental change, they summon surprising transformational impacts.

New research shows that post-meal mini-walks have big impacts
Health|WrittenByLAPost

FDA Recalls Eye Drops Over Infection Risk Fears

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advised consumers Friday to immediately stop using certain over-the-counter eye drop products due to potential bacterial contamination posing an infection risk that could lead to vision loss. The agency called for manufacturers to recall all lots of 26 different eye care products sold under brand names including CVS Health, Target’s Up&Up, Rite Aid, Leader, Rugby and Velocity Pharma. The FDA alert came after its investigators discovered unsanitary conditions at the manufacturing facility of Global Pharma Healthcare in India. Sampling identified bacterial contamination in critical production areas. There have been no confirmed illnesses linked to

FDA Recalls Eye Drops Over Infection Risk Fears
Health|WrittenByLAPost

How Lunchables Found Their Way Onto School Lunch Trays

The pre-packaged Lunchables, critiqued as promoting highly processed junk food to kids, have become a staple for many students during school lunch. Their journey onto cafeteria trays stems from savvy marketing, industry lobbying, and financial pressures facing school districts. Synonymous with pre-made convenience foods, Lunchables exploded in popularity after launching in 1988 as a way for Oscar Mayer to market sliced meat and cheese. They gained devotees for letting children assemble their own mini meals. But nutrition advocates decried Lunchables’ lack of whole ingredients. A typical lunch kit pairs cracker sandwiches, cheese slices, deli meat, and candy – adding up

How Lunchables Found Their Way Onto School Lunch Trays
Health|Local|WrittenByLAPost

Speed Dating Makes Comeback in LA with Creative New Twists

Speed dating is undergoing an unexpected resurgence in Los Angeles, transcending its 1990s origins to cater to the diverse demographics of the city. According to Eventbrite’s data, there’s an increase of 75% in speed dating events from 2021 to 2022. Furthermore, Google search interest surpassed pre-pandemic levels in February, marking the first instance of such a resurgence since the onset of COVID-19. This resurgence is drawing in not only older generations but also capturing the interest of Millennials and Gen Z, who are exploring modern approaches to courtship. While the traditional rapid-fire speed dating format remains, innovative variations such as

Speed Dating Makes Comeback in LA with Creative New Twists
Health|WrittenByLAPost

Updated COVID Boosters Come With Possible Side Effects, But Benefits Still Outweigh Risks

As COVID-19 infection rates spike heading into fall, the arrival of an updated booster vaccine targeting the latest Omicron subvariants comes at a critical time. But with any vaccine, side effects are possible. Experts say the benefits of the new COVID booster still far outweigh the risks. Immunologists concur that while the vaccine provides important protection, it should not be the sole preventative measure against the virus, especially amid surging rates of the highly contagious Omicron offshoot Eris. “The vaccine should be used in conjunction with other protective measures such as masking and ventilation for those people at higher risk

Updated COVID Boosters Come With Possible Side Effects, But Benefits Still Outweigh Risks
Health|WrittenByLAPost

COVID Cases Creeping Up as Officials Await New Boosters

As COVID-19 cases slowly rise in Los Angeles County, public health officials are anticipating the rollout of updated COVID-19 booster shots targeting the latest Omicron subvariants. The new bivalent booster shots have been tweaked with the goal of providing better protection against the currently dominant strains, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The big question is when the Omicron-specific shots will be available to the public. The CDC expects the updated vaccine rollout to begin in mid to late September, meaning pharmacies will likely start offering the new boosters in October. But who will be eligible

COVID Cases Creeping Up as Officials Await New Boosters
Health|WrittenByLAPost

The Hidden Eating Disorder Behavior Ensnaring Millions of Teens

Raising awareness serves as the initial step toward aiding more individuals, especially teenagers. Heidi McLachlan, starting in her youth and spanning over two decades, grappled with a detrimental body image. Her relentless endeavors to prevent weight gain propelled her into a realm of disordered eating behaviors, including anorexia nervosa and chewing and spitting. Chew and spit (CHSP) is a behavior involving the act of chewing food and then intentionally spitting it out, driven by the desire to derive pleasure from the taste without actually consuming the calories. For McLachlan, chewing and spitting began as a symptom of anorexia nervosa —

The Hidden Eating Disorder Behavior Ensnaring Millions of Teens

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