My pregnant daughter still works out at the gym. Isn’t that risky?
As long as her doctor approves, exercise is a good thing for your daughter. Years ago, expectant mothers were advised to go easy on physical activity out of concern that it might cause miscarriage or harm the developing baby. We know now that moderate exercise often causes no problems in a normal pregnancy and, in fact, can help a woman better handle labor during childbirth. A new study also shows that exercise may cut in half a woman’s risk for gestational diabetes, a serious pregnancy complication. Healthy, active women with uncomplicated pregnancies are now advised to exercise moderately for at least 30 minutes several times a week.

Should I take an echinacea supplement to help fight off colds?
Save your money. New research is casting doubt on claims that this herbal supplement works to treat or prevent colds. In a recent study, people who took echinacea within 24 hours of their first cold symptoms were just as sick and took just as long to recover as did people who took a placebo. Echinacea is often sold as an “immune-system-strengthening” supplement, but scientists say its effectiveness, so far, is not convincing. Before taking any supplement, check with your doctor. Herbs may have serious side effects, including interactions with prescription medicines.

Is it true that eating fruit can improve your eyesight?
Not exactly, although eating seven servings a day of fruits and vegetables is recommended for overall good health. There is, however, an interesting new link between eating fruit and preventing an eye disease called age-related maculopathy (ARM), the leading cause of vision loss in people ages 65 and older. In a new study, people who ate at least three servings of fruit per day had a 36 percent lower risk for ARM, compared to those who ate less than 1.5 servings of fruit daily. Eating vegetables did not have this preventive effect. Because there is no cure for ARM, scientists are eager to learn more about this discovery. If you experience any changes or problems in your vision, call your doctor right away.

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