Bodies & Brains: Shake the Salt

The “Age” of Divorce
A study from the Childhood Wellbeing Research Center found that if a child’s parents divorce after he turns 7, he is more likely to experience a decline in school performance and behavior than if the divorce occurs at an earlier age. Researchers believe younger children do not fully comprehend the implications of divorce.

Shake the Salt
Reducing children’s salt intake could lower their risk of obesity, say researchers in Australia, who found that kids with a salty diet were more likely to drink sugary beverages like soda, fruit juice, and sports drinks. Those who consumed at least one daily serving of sugar-sweetened drinks were 26 percent more likely to be overweight.

Watchful Waiting
Adenoid surgery in kids may prove more expensive and less effective than previously thought, says a new study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. Treatment costs are generally 1.5 times higher for children undergoing immediate adenoid removal as compared to those who were treated medically and closely followed.

Learning, From A to Zzzzz
Another benefit of a good night’s sleep? Improved vocabulary skills. Researchers say children who learn new material thoroughly and then get quality sleep are more likely to store the information in their long-term memory than those with disturbed or inadequate sleep.

Outsmart Pollen
Trees are the biggest source of pollen in northern New Jersey, say allergy experts. Tree pollination in the state occurs from March to June, typically peaking in May. To lessen the effects of outdoor spring allergens:
• Encourage indoor play during midday hours when pollen levels are typically the highest
• Use air conditioning and keep windows closed
• Insist children shower and change clothing after outdoor play

Read more about bodies & brains on NJ Family:

• Bodies & Brains: Childhood Immunizations
• Bodies and Brains: Body Mass Index