Health
Through new pilot project, medical marijuana could become more accessible to senior citizens
![Through new pilot project, medical marijuana could become more accessible to senior citizens Through new pilot project, medical marijuana could become more accessible to senior citizens](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/01/senior-in-therapy.jpg)
A new initiative dubbed The Commonwealth Project, based in Massachusetts, aims to integrate medical cannabis into traditional health care for seniors.
“People 65 and over are the fastest-growing segment using cannabis, but they’re using it for ailments of aging, [for] relief,” Howard Kessler, the group’s founder, told Fox News.
Medical marijuana is legal in 37 states, four U.S. territories and Washington, D.C.
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It is not legal at the federal level, however, which means doctors cannot prescribe cannabis.
“I’ve talked to many physicians who say they get asked five times a day by their patients, ‘I’d like to try [it].’ And the physician says, ‘I think you should. But I’m of no help,’” William Van-Faasen, former CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, told Fox News.
Most states do require documentation for medical marijuana.
Medical marijuana is not legal at the federal level, meaning doctors cannot prescribe cannabis. (iStock)
The Compassionate Use Act allows health care providers to write recommendations for the substance instead of traditional prescriptions.
“Doctors need to know the benefits that cannabis has on seniors’ lives,” Keith Myers, CEO of MorseLife Health System, a senior living community based in Palm Beach, Florida, told Fox News.
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“They need to understand that it should be part of the drug regimen that they make recommendations for.”
“It’s the wild west. Consumers are left on their own.”
Even with informed doctors, senior citizens can face hurdles when trying to access cannabis treatment.
“It’s the wild west. Consumers are left on their own,” former Massachusetts HHS Secretary Marylou Sudders told Fox News.
Dispensaries often do not have on-site doctors or pharmacists, and the quality of cannabis can vary from place to place.
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“Think about what it’s like when they want to try it,” Kessler said. “When you go into the dispensary, they aren’t doctors or health people. They aren’t experts … So you’re not getting the guidance. There’s no follow-up.”
Some groups say that increased regulation is needed before access to medical marijuana is expanded.
![weed pen](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2022/08/1200/675/iStock-1201521017.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
It is important to be aware of the different formulations, dosages and delivery systems, experts cautioned. (iStock)
“There are … literally hundreds of thousands of different formulations you could be thinking about,” Kevin Sabet, president and CEO of the nonprofit Smart Approaches to Marijuana in New York City, told Fox News.
“You really have to be careful about the dosage, the delivery system.”
Kessler’s pilot project in Massachusetts would allow for medical cannabis through a payer-provider system like Medicare Advantage.
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“They have your health records. They keep tremendous data,” he said. “They keep actuarial data … You could use the data to improve the efficacy. You could create a safer product. You could train the caregiver.”
Kessler’s group has already conducted smaller studies, which he said have shown promise for cannabis use among seniors.
“You don’t feel so dopey like you do with Xanax,” said one patient.
![Cannabis flowers](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/04/1200/675/NYC-Cannabis.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Dispensaries often do not have doctors or pharmacists onsite, and the quality of cannabis can vary from place to place, experts say. (REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz/File Photo)
In one study conducted at a senior living facility in Florida, more than 80% of participants reported a positive impact.
“[Even if] something can be prescribed and it is approved [for] medical use, we still have to work to convince prescribers to offer the product as an alternative,” Robert Kent, former White House general counsel of National Drug Control Policy in Washington, D.C., told Fox News.
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“I think that using the payers, the insurance companies, to help with that is an enormously smart idea.”
“If you really want equitable access, insurance coverage at some point is the way to go.”
Seventy-four percent of participants also said that marijuana was more cost-effective than prescription drugs — while 56% stopped taking other pharmaceuticals altogether.
“Doing it within that health care system, you can scale it up in a massive way — and very quickly,” said Kent. “It could exponentially save a bunch of money, which could be used to secure the program and … for other purposes.”
![Doc prescribing marijuana](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/06/1200/675/doc-prescribing-marijuana.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Thirty percent of people over age 65 take five or more pharmaceuticals daily, according to the National Institutes of Health. (iStock)
Thirty percent of people over the age of 65 take five or more pharmaceuticals daily, according to the National Institutes of Health.
One study for Health Affairs found that doctors prescribed an average of around 1,800 fewer doses of painkillers each year to Medicare members in states where marijuana was legal.
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If marijuana is legalized nationwide, Health Affairs projects savings of up to $500 million per year.
![Woman marijuana doctor](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/06/1200/675/senior-woman-cbd.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Even for those with informed doctors, senior citizens can face hurdles when trying to access cannabis treatment. (iStock)
“For some people, the cost is a deterrent,” Sudders said. “And so, if you really want equitable access, then insurance coverage at some point is the way to go.”
Medicare Advantage programs can reimburse for products and services that are outside traditional medical care, he noted.
“You’re working within the system, not asking for a new system to be created.”
But some groups aren’t convinced — and say more research is needed.
“I think it’s been oversold,” Sabet said.
“I think in a lot of other studies, [it] shows that people have those same outcomes when they’re taking a placebo … and they think they’re taking this. And so I think we really need to look at this very closely.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/healt.
Kessler said he hopes his team will study it more closely and find benefits that could change the health care landscape.
Those involved believe the pilot could launch within the next year.
“If CMS, the Medicaid and Medicare folks, approve this proposal, I think within six months to a year, we’ll start to have solid information,” Kent predicted.
“Then it could be expanded across all age groups for the same conditions.”
![](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/np-logo.png)
Health
Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks
![Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks Saunas have health benefits, but overuse is linked to dangerous health risks](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/sauna-friends.jpg)
Taking time to sit in a sauna can be a great way to decompress after a grueling workout or even a stressful day.
While in a sauna, you can add to the relaxation by reading your favorite book, listening to a motivational podcast or just by closing your eyes, taking deep breaths and sweating the stress away.
Saunas are commonly found at gyms and spas, but you can buy one for your home.
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A sauna offers health benefits, but it’s also important to be mindful of risks.
- What are the different types of saunas?
- What are the health benefits that come from sauna use?
- How long is it safe to go in the sauna?
- Are there any risks of sauna use I should be aware of?
A sauna is full of health benefits, but it also poses risk if not used properly or if used with certain underlying health conditions. (iStock)
1. What are the different types of saunas?
A sauna is “a specific room heated to about 150 to 195 (F) degrees, and where the temperature and humidity of the room can be controlled with sprinkling water on the rocks in the heater/stove,” according to the North American Sauna Society’s website.
Some of the most commonly found saunas are wood-burning saunas, electrically heated saunas, manufactured sauna rooms, smoke saunas, steam rooms and infrared rooms.
For the most part, many of the health benefits are consistent no matter what type of sauna you use.
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“While many benefits overlap, steam may be better for respiratory issues, far infrared for weight loss and recovery,” Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist from Scottsdale, Arizona, and founder of youth skin care brand BTWN, told Fox News Digital via email.
2. What are the health benefits that come from sauna use?
There are several different health benefits that come along with sauna use.
“Both steam and dry saunas can have beneficial effects on respiratory conditions, cardiovascular disease and dementia,” Jeffy said.
“They also help stiff muscles and joints and increase circulation to the skin. Both steam and infrared saunas have beneficial effects on blood pressure. Infrared saunas may improve weight loss when combined with exercise and improve muscle recovery.”
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The time at which you use a sauna doesn’t matter, according to Jeffy. Either a morning sweat or a relaxing sit in the sauna before bed can boast health benefits.
Many people also choose to hop in a sauna after a workout.
“Post-workout sessions help improve weight control and muscle recovery,” Jeffy said.
![A woman sitting in the sauna](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/woman-sitting-sauna.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
It’s common to sit in a sauna after completing a workout. (iStock)
3. How long is it safe to go in the sauna?
When in a sauna, make sure you keep track of how long you’ve been inside.
Many gym saunas have a clock, so you don’t have to take your phone inside, potentially causing it to overheat.
If there isn’t a timer or clock available, make sure to bring one with you or set an alarm to sound so you know when it’s time to exit.
For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle
“The maximum time to spend in the dry sauna or steam room is about 15-20 minutes,” Jeffy said. “Infrared sauna can be used longer, anywhere from 20-40 minutes.”
4. Are there any risks of sauna use I should be aware of?
While sauna use does include benefits, there are also risks you should be aware of if you decide to add it to your routine.
The risks include dehydration, heat exhaustion and stroke, according to Jeffy.
![Woman drinking water](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/woman-drinking-water.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Make sure to drink water to keep yourself hydrated while in a sauna. (iStock)
To avoid potential dehydration, bring a bottle of water into the sauna with you.
If you aren’t a regular sauna user already, consider a slow progression to allow your body to adjust and slowly begin increasing the time you sit inside.
Lastly, if you are pregnant, sick, intoxicated or prone to dizziness, you should not use a sauna, according to Jeffy.
“Saunas should not be used if you have had a recent heart attack, or history of angina, aortic stenosis or congestive heart failure,” Jeffy added.
Health
‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor
![‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor ‘Is it bad to skip breakfast if I’m not hungry?’: Ask a doctor](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/woman-not-hungry-breakfast.jpg)
You’ve likely heard the old adage that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but what if you’re just not hungry in the morning?
Is it OK to consistently skip the morning meal and hold off until lunch?
Fox News Digital asked some nutritionists about the potential ramifications of bypassing breakfast on a regular basis and their recommendations for optimizing metabolism with a healthy morning routine.
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While most experts agree it’s OK to skip breakfast once in a while, it’s generally beneficial to eat something within an hour or two of waking up.
While most experts agree it’s OK to skip breakfast once in a while, it’s generally beneficial to eat something within an hour or two of waking up. (iStock)
“Skipping breakfast regularly could lead to some unwanted side effects,” Shelley Balls, registered dietitian and owner at Fueling Your Lifestyle in Smoot, Wyoming, told Fox News Digital.
“It can lead to an overconsumption of foods in the following meals throughout the day. You may think you’re eating fewer calories, but you might actually be binging at lunch or dinner,” she said.
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Never eating breakfast can also affect energy levels, she warned, as the body isn’t getting the carbohydrates and nutrients it needs to perform optimally.
There could also be a long-term effect of slowing down the metabolism, the expert said.
“Breakfast is meant to break the overnight fast, and can help jump-start your metabolism. So, over time, not eating breakfast could decrease your metabolism, as your body becomes more efficient with fewer calories,” Balls said.
![Bacon eggs toast](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/bacon-eggs-toast.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Protein in the morning usually leads to a higher calorie burn and helps to reduce hunger later in the day, experts say. (iStock)
Breakfast has been associated with a bevy of benefits, including better weight management, better cognitive function, increased metabolism, improved energy and reduced hunger, according to Vanessa King, registered dietitian nutritionist and media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Oahu, Hawaii.
“Breakfast gives you an energy boost to power-start your day,” King told Fox News Digital.
“Not eating breakfast could decrease your metabolism, as your body becomes more efficient on fewer calories.”
“Breaking an overnight fast with a balanced breakfast significantly impacts well-being and overall health,” she added. “It’s important for everyone. And for children and teens, eating breakfast has been associated with better behavior and academic performance.”
If you’re not hungry within an hour or two of waking up, King suggests looking at your eating pattern.
“Are you snacking at night and it’s leaving you full in the morning? Try lighter snacks and allow more time between your last meal and sleep,” she advised.
The fasting factor
For people who are following a plan of intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding, eliminating breakfast is a common way to maintain a shorter eating window and a longer fasting stretch, according to Dr. Jennie Stanford, an obesity medicine physician in Pennsylvania and medical contributor for Drugwatch.
“One main determinant here is how someone feels later in the day,” she told Fox News Digital.
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If skipping breakfast makes you feel ravenous later in the day, ultimately causing you to overconsume at other meals, this is not recommended, the doctor said.
“However, if not eating breakfast doesn’t impact the calories and other macronutrients they consume as the day progresses, it may represent an opportunity to decrease overall calorie intake,” Stanford added.
Lighter options for when you’re not hungry
“If you’re not ready for a full meal, begin with something small within 30 to 60 minutes of waking,” recommends Chloë Ward, a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and certified integrative nutrition health coach in Santa Barbara, California.
“Even a light snack can help signal to your body that it’s time to start burning energy.”
![Woman eating breakfast](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/08/1200/675/woman-eating-breakfast-on-couch.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
“Breakfast gives you an energy boost to power-start your day,” an expert told Fox News Digital. (iStock)
Ward offers the following breakfast suggestions for someone who’s not generally hungry in the morning but wants to kick-start metabolism.
- Smoothies: A nutrient-dense smoothie with ingredients like spinach, a small amount of fruit, protein powder and healthy fats (like avocado or nut butter) can be a light yet satisfying option.
- Greek yogurt with berries: Greek yogurt is rich in protein and can be paired with a handful of berries and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added fiber and healthy fats.
- Overnight Oats: Preparing oats the night before with milk, chia seeds and a dash of cinnamon can create a light and easy-to-digest breakfast that’s ready when you wake up.
- Protein-rich snack: A hard-boiled egg, a piece of turkey or chicken, or a small serving of cottage cheese can be a quick and light protein boost.
- A piece of fruit with nut butter: Slices of apple or banana with a spoonful of almond or peanut butter offer a balance of carbs, protein and healthy fats without being too heavy.
![Strawberries and blueberries](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/11/1200/675/strawberries-blueberries-yogurt.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Greek yogurt is rich in protein and can be paired with a handful of berries and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for added fiber and healthy fats, a nutritionist said. (iStock)
Overall, experts agree that healthy options like fruits, whole grains, dairy, protein and vegetables provide the biggest benefit.
“Protein has a higher thermogenic effect than other macronutrients, meaning it requires more energy (heat) to break it down than either fats or carbohydrates,” Stanford told Fox News Digital.
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“As such, having protein in the morning usually leads to a higher calorie burn, at least temporarily.”
Protein also helps to reduce hunger later in the day, Stanford said.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health
“Protein doesn’t have to mean meat, if it sounds too heavy in the morning,” she noted.
“Other good protein sources include low-sugar Greek yogurt, eggs, low-carb breakfast wraps, cheese, protein oats, protein shakes or clean protein bars.”
“Even a light snack can help signal to your body that it’s time to start burning energy.”
If you really can’t tolerate food in the morning, Ward suggests starting the day with a glass of warm water, possibly with lemon.
“Warm water helps wake up your digestive system, aids in hydration and can boost your metabolism after a night of fasting,” she said.
Health
Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It
![Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It Hit a Weight Loss Plateau? A Dietitian Reveals 3 Ways To Break It](https://www.womansworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/weight-loss-plateau-woman-on-scale-1.jpg?quality=86&strip=all)
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