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The Trouble with Trans Fats

Monday, November 11th, 2013

You are probably aware that trans fats are bad for you. Research confirms this and even shows that in postmenopausal women, higher intake of trans fat is linked to a higher risk of ischemic stroke. In the study, no other types of fats showed the same relationship to ischemic stroke incidence. Interestingly, research also shows that taking aspirin regularly attenuates the risk of stroke even when trans fat intake is high, so you may want to ask your doctor about the wisdom of beginning an aspirin regimen.

The study involved over 87,000 healthy postmenopausal women between 50 and 79 years old and found that, independent of all other factors, including many lifestyle choices, higher intake of trans fats is directly related to higher risk of ischemic stroke. In addition, trans fats have been known to increase a person’s risk of heart disease, high “bad” cholesterol, and diabetes.

If only it were as simple as avoiding trans fats.

Unfortunately, many well-meaning people who read labels diligently and believe they are successfully avoiding trans fats may be in for a surprise. Food labels, it turns out, are disturbingly misleading.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows food manufacturers to round trans fat amounts down on labels in increments of .5 grams. This means that if a food contains less than .5 grams of trans fats per serving, the label can legally say that it contains none. When you consider that you may consume multiple foods with these misleading labels, and that the amount of each food you eat will often exceed the recommended serving size, you could be consuming a considerable amount of dangerous trans fat – but not have any way to know it.

Because the recommended safe maximum amount of trans fat per day is 1.11 grams, it’s easy to see how you could quickly consume more than this while believing that you are consuming none.

Activists are working to convince the FDA to change its rules on food labels, making it easier for consumers to determine what they are eating and control their intake of trans fats as well as other undesirable ingredients. In the meantime, however, you can make smarter choices by avoiding foods that often contain trans fats, such as commercial baked goods, fried foods, and shortenings.

Also, try this trick for reading food labels: look for the word “hydrogenated” in the ingredient list. The process of hydrogenation (adding hydrogen to vegetable oil in order to keep it from spoiling) creates trans fats. That means that even if the label says the food contains no trans fats, you can be sure that isn’t true if “hydrogenated oil” is one of the ingredients.

You can also avoid these harmful fats by sticking to a diet that contains mostly whole, fresh foods with an emphasis on lean protein and fresh fruits and vegetables, and by avoiding, for the most part, processed, fatty, chemical-laden foods.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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Myomas – Also (Wrongly) Known as Fibroids

Thursday, November 7th, 2013

As widely used as the term “fibroids” is, it is, in fact, a misnomer. “Myoma or myomas”  is the proper name for these tumors of the uterine muscle.

Myomas can be many different sizes and are typically hard and rubbery. They grow slowly and can occur at any time in any woman. 25 percent of all women have myomas, while 50 percent of black women do. Fortunately, many of these myomas are small and require no treatment. There can be just one or dozens in one uterus, and each one can be smaller than a pea or as large as a cantaloupe – or anywhere in between.

If your doctor tells you that you have a myoma, there are some questions you should be prepared to ask. You’ll want to know how big it is, how many of them there are, and where in the uterus they are located. Furthermore, you’ll want to discuss any symptoms it may be causing. A diagnosis of myomas often leads to hysterectomy, but sometimes this is an unnecessary overreaction, so talk to your doctor about possible other treatments, or whether treatment is needed at all.

For example, at menopause, myomas often shrink. This is because they are largely dependent on estrogen, so when estrogen output dwindles, myomas shrivel. They may not disappear completely, but if they are small enough and not causing symptoms, then there is often no reason to treat them.

However, some myomas can cause troublesome symptoms such as pain, irregular heavy bleeding, frequent urination, or problems with defecation caused by pressure on the colon. Another problem with myomas is that they can be hard to distinguish from ovarian cysts and tumors. Because they are slow-growing, though, it’s usually fine to monitor their growth through repeated examinations. If they stay the same size over time, this is a good sign. However, a growing myoma is a concern that requires some type of follow-up, usually exploratory surgery.

If a myoma needs to be removed, there are still different options for women and their doctors to explore. A myomectomy isolates and removes each myoma, while a hysterectomy removes the entire uterus. A woman who wants to preserve her ability to have children may opt for a myomectomy, but she should realize that this operation is difficult and complications are likely, so if she is older or certain that she does not want to have more children, then a hysterectomy is a much safer, simpler option.

There are new alternative treatments for myomas that are not recommended for women who still want to have children, because their newness calls into question the wisdom of recommending them; you can find more information about these treatments in my book, Inside Information for Women. But the fact remains that hysterectomy is the safe, rational course of action for myomas in women who do not want any more kids. Therefore, if you are symptomatic, menopausal and/or have completed your family, your  gynecologist may offer the definitive treatment of hysterectomy.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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Sex during Pregnancy: When to Indulge, When to Abstain

Thursday, October 24th, 2013

Pregnant women and their partners often have questions about sex. Is it safe during pregnancy? Will it induce labor? How long do we have to wait after delivery to have sex? In spite of doctors’ reassurances, many pregnant women still have fears related to sexual intercourse while they are pregnant, such as whether it could cause miscarriage or otherwise harm the fetus. In addition, body image, physical discomfort, and fatigue often curtail the sex lives of pregnant women.

In fact, for women with low-risk pregnancies, sex is perfectly safe. Studies have shown a slightly increased risk of preterm labor in women who had sex and symptoms of lower genital tract infection, but in low-risk women with no symptoms of infection, sex does not in any way increase the risk of preterm labor. Fears of harming the fetus are also unfounded; the fetus is very well-protected and completely oblivious to the mother’s sexual activity.

Women at increased risk for complications, such as those who have a history of preterm labor, incompetent cervix, or multiple gestation, may be advised by their doctors to abstain from sex, but even in these women, an increased risk of complications may not exist. Studies have not shown elevated risks of preterm labor even in women with higher-risk pregnancies, despite the fact that these women are often cautioned that sex could be dangerous for them. Studies also show that women with twin pregnancies and women with cervical cerclage due to incompetent cervix have no greater risk than other pregnant women of preterm labor caused by sex. Although these women are commonly advised not to have sex, the evidence does not exist to support these concerns.

What studies have shown is that women with a higher number of sexual partners throughout their lifetimes do have an increased risk of preterm labor. This is probably because in these women there exists a higher probability of asymptomatic bacterial colonization in the genital tract, which does present a higher risk. Therefore, women with high-risk pregnancies should, at a minimum, be screened for bacterial vaginosis before engaging in sexual intercourse.

It should be said that regardless of actual risk, abstaining from sex causes no harm and is a simple intervention that can be implemented to remove any doubt about whether sex during pregnancy is safe. Therefore, in women with high risk pregnancies, this is still a reasonable recommendation, until further studies present even more solid evidence.

Besides preterm labor, other possible complications thought to arise from having sex during a high-risk pregnancy are venous air embolism, antepartum hemorrhage in placenta previa, and pelvic inflammatory disease.

As for whether sex can be used to induce labor in a full-term pregnancy, there is no evidence showing that it works. Nipple and genital stimulation have commonly been recommended as ways to induce labor by supposedly promoting the release of natural oxytocin, and prostaglandins in semen have been said to encourage cervical ripening. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that these methods have any effect. But again, there is no harm in trying them in low-risk pregnancies, either.

The bottom line is that there are very few known risks involved in sexual intercourse or other sexual activity during pregnancy, so don’t worry.  I fondly remember my grandmother saying, “Why would you want to have sex?  You’re already pregnant!”  With that said, abstinence may be a reasonable action to take to remove the risk altogether in high-risk pregnancies, but still, the evidence does not show that this makes a difference in the outcome of the pregnancy. After delivery, follow your doctor’s instructions and your own physical and emotional comfort level in deciding when to resume intercourse.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

 

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Should Your Gynecologist Be Your Primary Care Physician?

Thursday, October 17th, 2013

There is an ongoing struggle between patients, physicians, and managed care plans involving whether gynecologists should be able – or be expected – to serve as primary care physicians to women. Even among each group, there is disagreement on the best course of action. Patients may like the convenience of having only one main doctor. Gynecologists, while acknowledging that they do have adequate training to function as primary doctors, have conflicting preferences, with some believing that they should be primary doctors and others preferring to remain consultative specialists. Managed care plans allow women varying levels of access to gynecologists.

So how can a women decide what is right for her? Many women visit their gynecologists faithfully but never think about an annual physical. Others request physicals from their gynecologists. Still others visit both doctors regularly. The right choice depends on your preferences, the viewpoint of your gynecologist, and the guidelines set by your insurance company. One thing is certain: you need both exams yearly – a gynecological exam and a general physical exam – to promote good overall health and catch any potential problems early.

Why You Need a Yearly Physical Exam

During a physical, your doctor will not only perform a complete physical exam, but also discuss lifestyle habits, order appropriate screening tests, and administer age-appropriate immunizations. Lifestyle issues such as weight and tobacco use are discussed and plans formed for making positive changes.

Depending on your doctor’s style, your physical may include assessment of your vital signs, your family medical history, a heart and lung exam, a dermatological exam, an exam of your head, neck, extremities, and breasts. Blood tests may be ordered to screen for anemia, kidney disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, and other conditions. Depending on your age and history, other screening tests like colonoscopies and mammograms may be ordered.

An internist is experienced in managing high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma, and other chronic conditions; they may also refer you to a specialist or coordinate your care with specialists you may already be seeing.

Why You Need a Yearly Gynecologic Exam

Regular physical exams are important, but it is equally important to take advantage of the specialized knowledge of gynecologists. When you visit a gynecologist for a well-woman exam, he or she can address issues such as fertility, birth control, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), cancer prevention, and other issues.

Gynecologists are also highly trained in performing pelvic exams and Pap smears, as well as counseling women on various health issues and lifestyle habits. Gynecologists also function as your consultants for major health issues regularly faced by women, now and through every stage of your life. At every age, there is a reason for a woman to see a gynecologist. She may need to discuss contraception, fertility, or genetic testing; she may need a clinical breast exam, a pelvic exam, or STI screening.

You decision about whether to see a gynecologist alone or a gynecologist and an internist depends on your preference, your medical history, your existing conditions, and the willingness of your gynecologist to serve in this role. If you decide to make your gynecologist your primary care physician, make sure he or she knows about this choice and is comfortable with it and willing to function this way.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Often Have Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors, Too

Thursday, October 10th, 2013

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism highlighted the relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Researchers noted that women with PCOS were more likely to have risk factors for CVD. They carried out a study in which evidence-based reviews were provided of studies that examined the risk relationship and to develop guidelines for lessening the risk of CVD.

The study included only other studies where PCOS patients were compared with control patients, and excluded any articles that included unclear PCOS diagnoses or unclear controls. The conclusion of the study was that women with PCOS who are also obese, smoke, or have high blood pressure or impaired glucose tolerance are at risk for CVD. Women who have PCOS and type 2 diabetes are at high risk for CVD.

PCOS is common, affecting 6-10% of women of childbearing age, and is characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries. Other symptoms that women may notice to varying degrees include irregular menstrual periods, hirsutism, acne or other skin problems, weight gain (especially around the waist), thinning hair, pelvis pain, sleep apnea, and anxiety or depression. In young women with PCOS, there may be multiple risk factors for CVD, such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, abdominal obesity, and high blood pressure. For these women, taking measures to prevent future CVD is an absolute necessity.

If you feel you may have PCOS, talk to your doctor about it. Your doctor will take some steps to see if you really do have PCOS or if another condition is causing your symptoms. Expect your doctor to ask you about your medical history, including your menstrual cycle and any weight changes; perform a physical exam, including blood pressure, waist size, and areas of increased hair growth; a pelvic exam, to check your ovaries for enlargement; a vaginal ultrasound, to further examine your ovaries; and blood tests to check for androgen and glucose levels in your blood.

If you do find out you have PCOS, even though there is no known cure, there are effective treatments that can help you manage your symptoms and prevent further problems. The right treatment for you will depend on your individual symptoms and whether or not you may become pregnant. Goals of treatment include lowering your risk for CVD and relieving your symptoms. A combination of treatments is the most effective route for most women.

The first line of defense against PCOS is losing weight. Eating healthfully and exercising can help you manage your symptoms with great success. Limiting sugars and processed foods will lower your blood glucose levels, improve the way your body uses insulin, and help normalize androgen levels. Even losing 10% of your body weight can make a big difference in irregular periods. If you don’t want to become pregnant, birth control pills can regulate your menstrual cycle, reduce your levels of male hormones, and help clear up your skin.

If you have diabetes, metformin is a drug your doctor may prescribe. It affects the way insulin is processed in your body and lowers male hormone production; it can also relieve many PCOS symptoms such as excessive hair growth, lowering cholesterol levels, and assisting with weight loss. It is important to note that metformin has not been approved by the FDA for treating PCOS, but it is approved and effective at treating diabetes, and studies show that it does, indeed, help with many common symptoms of PCOS.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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Recurrent Yeast Infections: Causes, Solutions

Monday, October 7th, 2013

Unfortunately, it seems every vaginal discharge has been diagnosed as a “yeast infection” by the patient and she runs off to the drug store to get an over-the-counter antifungal medication to treat her “yeast” infection when in actuality it may be chlamydia, bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis.  The truth of the matter is that every vaginal discharge is NOT a yeast infection and needs to be diagnosed by a physician or a person who is well-versed in microscopy and wet mounts and who is able to tell the difference between a “yeast” infection and other infections that are causing the vaginal discharge.  However, for the purpose of this installment yeast infections and if the yeast infection has been properly diagnosed, the following applies:

If you suffer from recurrent yeast infections, you know how imperative it is to pinpoint an underlying cause, or at least a way to stop the infections from occurring. Yeast infections are not bacterial infections at all, and as such, antibiotics will not cure them and may actually cause them in some cases. Yeast infections are caused by a type of fungus, and therefore a medication or treatment with antifungal properties must be used.

At some point, three out of four women will suffer from a yeast infection; interestingly, between 1980 and 1990 the incidence of yeast infections doubled.  Why?  Because the patient was self-diagnosing and calling every discharge a “yeast” infection and coincidently, that is the time period when anti-fungal treatments  (creams and vaginal suppositories) were allowed to be sold over-the-counter without a prescription. The symptoms include itching, irritation, redness, and a cottage cheese-like discharge. One yeast infection is enough for most women, but many women are unlucky enough to endure them repeatedly. To get a handle on your recurrent yeast infections, first consider what may be causing them.

Douching

Despite the fact that most doctors and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommend not douching, some 20 to 40 percent of American women do it anyway. It is important to understand that douching is completely unnecessary at best, and at worst, is connected to a host of problems like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Douching upsets the balance of vaginal flora and acidity and pushes bacteria farther into the vagina, worsening existing infections rather than helping them. If you douche for any reason other than that your doctor told you to for a specific problem, stop – especially if you have recurrent yeast infections.

Antibiotics

The reason why antibiotics can cause yeast infections is not rocket science: antibiotics kill bacteria. That means not only the “bad” bacteria, but the “good” bacteria as well. When the level of good bacteria drops too low, it cannot protect you against fungal infections. Antibiotics are valuable, often life-saving drugs, but they should be reserved for times when no other treatment will work.

Other Causes

Diabetic women are more likely to get recurrent yeast infections. Yeast thrive on sugar, and the elevated blood sugar in diabetics affects the whole body. If you are diabetic and have recurrent yeast infections, getting your blood sugar under control may help. In addition, pregnancy is a condition that makes yeast infections more likely. The dramatic chemical changes in the vaginal area during pregnancy make it hard for your body to keep up. There may also be more sugar in your vaginal secretions, which, similar to diabetes, can encourage yeast overgrowth.

Further Steps You Can Take To Eliminate Yeast Infections

Bathe daily and keep your genital area clean and dry. Use condoms to help you avoid catching or spreading a sexually transmitted infection. Avoiding the use of products like feminine hygiene sprays and fragrances can help, as can using pads instead of tampons (especially scented tampons). Also, your underwear should be cotton; materials like silk or nylon are problematic because they restrict air flow to the area.

Additionally, you will probably need to take a medication prescribed by your doctor in order to cure an acute yeast infection. There are several effective options available today; ask your doctor if you aren’t sure what the best option is. Finally, if none of the above causes apply to you and none of the suggested treatments work, talk to your doctor about the possibility of a more serious underlying issue. For more information, see my book, Inside Information for Women.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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Working Through Menopause a Problem For Many Women

Thursday, September 26th, 2013

The prevalence of older women in the workplace is greater now than it has ever been before, but evidence collected through a survey of women in the United Kingdom has recently suggested that women of menopausal age feel that their workplace performance has been hindered by the changes in their body during this time. That is no surprise. Menopausal symptoms can range from irregular menstruation starting in the perimenopausal stage to hot flashes, agitation, and even joint soreness or pain.

Many women report that they feel they do not perform as well, and that changes in their body due to menopause affects their productivity and the quality of the work that they produce. However, most express an unwillingness to discuss these problems with their employers, in large part due to the fact that – for the most part – their employers are younger men. While this study took place in the UK, it is applicable to the United States as well.

While all aging employees will likely see some decrease in their workplace abilities as they grow older, the predicament of women going through menopause is a sensitive subject—however, it is one that must be touched on in order to find a solution that works for these women and that does not make them feel as if they are “rocking the boat”, so to speak.

The study in question found four areas of concern that needed to be addressed. The first was a greater awareness of menopause and menopausal symptoms among employers. Along with that was a need for a more flexible schedule and a more comfortable workplace. However, one of the more important areas that this study advised should be broadened was the amount of support that menopausal women in the workforce should be able to receive as they go through this transition.

While not every workplace will have these resources available for women, it is a good reminder of how important it is for any woman to have a good source of support on hand as she progresses through this stage of her life.

Whether her support is a sister, a close group of friends, or even anonymous strangers through an Internet forum – one of the greater benefits of living in the virtual age – these resources can not only help a woman approaching menopause know what to expect from the changes in her body, but the experience of others can be a great resource to help women uncover ways in which they can broach the subject of menopause with employers and adapt to the changes in her body. By determining what to expect as her body changes a woman will know what to ask for and the concessions that may need to be made in order to keep her active, healthy, and – most importantly – happy in the workplace.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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Women Suffering From Endometriosis Impacted On Several Levels

Monday, September 23rd, 2013

Endometriosis is an incredibly common condition among women, affecting upwards of seventeen percent of the population, but there is little awareness of this condition outside of those who suffer from it. Unlike other debilitating conditions that are cause for concern, as well as sympathy, endometriosis often goes unrecognized among the general population—however, it can have a significant impact on not only a woman’s physical health and wellbeing but her psychological health and her ability to maintain a social life and presence, according to research that has been done over the past few years to determine the impact of this disorder among sufferers.

Endometriosis is characterized by a number of symptoms, from extremely heavy menstrual bleeding to pain both during menstruation and at other times of the month. This is caused by an overgrowth of the uterine lining, which moves beyond the uterus and into other parts of the body, including the abdominal cavity. There is no cure for this disorder, and the primary methods of management include medications and, in certain cases, surgical intervention.

Women who suffer from endometriosis must work closely with their doctor to manage their symptoms, but there is still little that can be done to eliminate the symptoms that she faces entirely. This makes the disorder much more debilitating, especially during menstruation, and may lead to increased anxiety and stress as a result of either dealing with the symptoms, or even simply the anticipation of symptoms.

In this same study, which identified several areas in which women with endometriosis might be affected, it was also pointed out that there must be more research done on the significant impact of this disorder on the partners and children of women who suffer from it. Not surprisingly, it is incredibly stressful for those close to the woman with the disorder to deal with the pain that she must endure and the extra measures that they must take so that their own lives are affected as little as possible by it.

There is a great need of support for women who suffer from endometriosis—that is something that cannot be disputed. However, there is also a great need for the families of women affected by endometriosis to receive support as well. This can be especially difficult for male partners and younger children who do not understand the very real physiological effects of the illness.

The best method of coping is, as always, to raise awareness of the issue and for those affected by it to become educated as much as possible on the disorder. While it can be debilitating, there is no reason that women who suffer from endometriosis, as well as their families, cannot live happy and fulfilled lives. It is not up to the woman alone to cope, nor should it be. By working together with their families, women can ensure a more positive outcome and a higher quality of life.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

 

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Sex and Menopause

Monday, September 16th, 2013

Many women fear that aging and menopause will affect their sex lives negatively. The truth is that sexual satisfaction can and should last a lifetime. Menopause does present a few new challenges, but they can be easily overcome with the right information and a little patience.

First of all, if you are having sexual problems related to menopause, talk to your doctor about it. It may feel awkward, but your doctor can help you find effective solutions. Your doctor should take your concerns seriously. Your sexuality is an extremely important part of your life, and the basic human need for sexual contact does not diminish or go away just because we get older.

One of the problems women experience during menopause is painful intercourse. This is a symptom of atrophic vaginitis, which is characterized by dryness and painful intercourse as well as other related symptoms. If left untreated, atrophic vaginitis can lead to long-term sexual dysfunction and accompanying emotional distress. This condition is easily treatable with a 2-3 week course of estrogen cream applied to the vagina. Studies such as this one also show that continued, regular sexual activity encourages vaginal elasticity and lubrication.

Besides atrophic vaginitis, some of the other menopausal changes in a woman’s body can negatively affect her sex life if not addressed. The vaginal tissues naturally become thinner and drier, and vaginal secretions and lubrication often decrease. In addition, a menopausal woman is likely to take longer to achieve natural vaginal lubrication – several minutes, as opposed to the 30 seconds or so that younger women need.

These problems can be overcome simply by using a water-based lubricant such as Astroglide, and by being patient with yourself as well as expecting patience from your partner. Your thinner vaginal lining may also become more sensitive, so you should avoid products containing warming agents, flavors, artificial colors, or other chemicals that might cause irritation.

Waning energy is another issue menopausal women sometimes face. The sleep problems experienced during menopause can exacerbate the problem of diminished energy. Take steps to reduce stress and improve sleep, such as staying away from the computer for a couple of hours before bedtime, avoiding exercise late in the evening, and making your bedroom a relaxing (and sensual) sanctuary using soothing music, colors, or scents. Improving the amount and quality of your sleep will give you more energy all day long.

The bottom line is that sexual fulfillment can last the entire span of a woman’s life, and the more sexually active she is through the years, the fewer problems she is likely to experience in the bedroom later. In fact, nonexistent fears of pregnancy, more free time, and fewer inhibitions than younger women often have can make sex even better as you age. For more information on this topic, see my book, Inside Information for Women.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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Meditation Shown to Be Helpful in Treating Physical, Psychological Disorders

Thursday, September 12th, 2013

Meditation has become increasingly popular in the clinical setting over the past few decades. It is known to have medical benefits, and there is evidence that it may have psychiatric benefits as well. This study examined the effects of meditation on substance abuse disorders and turned up some promising results.

The idea that meditation has healing aspects is not new. Scientific interest in meditation has been growing for some time; in 2007 alone, almost 70 peer-reviewed articles devoted to the practice were published. Meditation is probably the most extensively evaluated “alternative” treatment available to patients. Mainstream health care providers now widely accept the mind-body connection and implement meditation in a number of applications. Meditation has been shown here to have a positive effect on hypertension, here to help patients mitigate the stress of having a chronic illness, and here to promote good cardiovascular health.

Similarly, meditation has been shown to be helpful in psychiatric settings. Possible benefits being studied include improvement of anxiety and depression, help with substance-abuse disorders, and reducing self-injurious behaviors in the context of personality disorders.

Meditation in Youth Intervention

Certain studies, such as this one, have also taken a close look at the effect of meditation on children and teenagers from 6 to 18 years old. This study examined the results of different types of meditation, such as mindfulness meditation, transcendental meditation, and mindfulness-based stress reduction on youth with preexisting conditions like hypertension, ADHD, and learning disabilities. The study concluded that meditation does seem to be effective in treating physical, psychosocial, and behavioral conditions in youth.

Limitations of Studying Meditation

One of the problems with scientific study of meditation is the nature of meditation itself. Literally meaning to reflect or ponder, meditation is generally described in spiritual, mystifying, or imprecise terms that make it difficult to define scientifically. In addition, meditation is generally private and subjective, which makes the activity tricky to scrutinize, test, and analyze. Another issue with studying meditation is that “meditation” is actually an umbrella term encompassing many different techniques. These techniques have differences involving control of different areas, such as concentration, breathing, and relaxation. Therefore, when considering the results of a study, one must take into account the specific type of meditation used and not generalize the results of the study to other types of meditation.

Conclusion

Given the limitations of meditation studies, it’s safe to say that further research is needed to understand the full scope of its benefits and drawbacks, as well as what specific areas meditation may affect, such as relapse prevention or enhancement of motivation. However, meditation is showing great potential in the treatment of substance abuse disorders. It appears to facilitate cue extinction, reduce cravings, lessen compulsive behaviors, and promote healthier decision making. Meditation also shows promise in many other health-related areas. We have probably just begun to tap into this natural wellspring of healing through mind-body connection.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.

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