Research shows that antidepressants can increase suicide risk in people. When depressed people become somewhat less depressed, they feel less hopeless and more able to attempt suicide. But there is evidence that antidepressants may also increase the risk of suicide for other reasons, such as akathisia. Other risks from antidepressants include blood clots and birth defects. Antidepressants also have a “placebo effect” that makes the drugs seem more effective than they really are. Safe and effective alternatives include cognitive behavioral therapy and physical activity.
Read More »Child & Teen Health
Should your children take medication for a cold? Are some popular children’s sports more dangerous than you think? Are children reaching puberty earlier than ever before, and if so, why? Why is breastfeeding important? If my children have no health insurance, might I be able to get low-cost insurance for them? The National Center for Health Research makes this information available and understandable.
Keeping your child safe and healthy partly depends on keeping them away from harmful habits and behaviors, including smoking, alcohol, violence, and sexual activities that can harm them.
We scrutinize the latest research and cut through the hype. We keep information from studies and reports up on our website as long as they are accurate and useful. Sometimes the best studies are a few years old.
To find the information you need, please use our search box to search for exactly what you are looking for or browse through our various topics on the right. →
For information about how to help your children so that they won’t get cancer as adults, visit our Cancer Prevention & Treatment site.
If you don’t see what you are looking for on any health topic, please contact us and we will try to get the information you need within a few days.
Everything You Need To Know to Choose Safe Cosmetic Products
Cosmetics, including shampoo and other products we all use, will cost U.S. consumers $92 billion this year. They contain various chemicals, often including harmful substances like parabens and phthalates. These products can also harm the environment and pose greater risks to salon workers. His article helps consumers read labels, reduce exposures to unsafe ingredients, and choose eco-friendly cosmetics for safety.
Read More »Artificial Sweeteners: Do They Help You Lose Weight or Gain it? Are they Safe?
When people want to treat themselves to something sweet without having to treat themselves to a larger pants size too, they often reach for low-calorie, artificial sweeteners. But do artificial sweeteners actually help you lose weight? The answer is apparently not — and there are concerns about their safety if consumed in large quantities.
Read More »Testimony of Dr. Diana Zuckerman On Bill H.3948
July 26, 2023: We provided written testimony in support of Massachusetts bill H 3948, which would prohibit state and municipal contracts to install artificial turf fields. In October, the bill was reported favorably.
Read More »Fast Food Calorie Count Cheat Sheet
NCHR gives you the skinny on the calorie counts for many menu choices offered by some of the most popular fast food chains. Take a look — you may be surprised!
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