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  • Friday, July 27, 2007

    Too Little Sleep Linked with Too Much Weight

    Being tired isn't the only downside of not getting enough sleep. Evidence continues to show a correlation between lack of sleep and body weight. A recent study showed that people who sleep five hours a night are 73% more likely to become obese than those who sleep seven to nine hours a night.

    Why?

    It's possible that sleep loss may cause the hormones that control appetite to get out of balance.
    Sleep deprivation also affects insulin and blood sugar levels - impacting metabolism and weight.
    Another factor is that people reach for food to pick them up when they're overtired.

    Other ailments linked to lack of sleep include diabetes, lowered immune system leading to a greater risk of infection, increased risk of colon and breast cancer - and driving while tired has proven to be as dangerous as driving while drunk.

    How to get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep a night?

    Here's help from WebMd.

    Thursday, July 26, 2007

    What Would You Do With Your Power If You Were Rich and Famous?

    We often hear stories of the rich and famous making exorbitant purchases, spending thousands of dollars on a piece of clothing or multi-millions for giant homes.

    Some, however, use their "power" for good.

    Look at Bill Gates. He and wife, Melinda, started the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and have donated billions of dollars toward education, health care and medical research in the U.S. and abroad.

    Actor Don Cheadle of the "Ocean's 11, 12 & 13" trilogy has become known as one of Hollywood's more socially active stars since his Oscar-nominated role in 2004's "Hotel Rwanda."

    In an interview with Reuters, Cheadle talked about using his stardom to promote social causes, and why he got involved.

    "I went on a trip with several congressmen and women, Democrat and Republican, and saw with my own eyes what had happened. Talking with people, breaking bread with them, laughing and playing with their kids. Those manufactured walls between who we are melted away really fast. One of the few worthy ancillary benefits of fame and celebrity is to take the focus, when it's put on you, and throw it onto other things."

    Cheadle's "Ocean's" co-star George Clooney raises funds to help refugees in Darfur; and Brad Pitt is active with the charitable organization One.org.