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Professor and paediatrician, Dimitri Christakis of the Seattle Children’s Research Institute and the University of Washington, has published a summary of research findings in Acta Paediatrica that support the claim that television viewing for infants under the age of two actually does more harm than good.

Professor Christakis maintains that infant TV viewing is associated with delayed language, with shortened attention spans and with delayed cognitive development. This may be, in part, due to the overstimulation of the brain from TV programs flashing lights, quick screen changes, auditory cuts etc. Christakis reviewed 78 studies from the past 25 years and could not find one that actually provides supporting data that television can help the developing brain.

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With all of the check-ups, pills, exercise and dieting that we do in the name of protecting our health, it might seem confusing that something as easy and enjoyable as hanging out with friends and family is also good for us. But researchers believe that for teens, adults and senior citizens, regular social interaction is crucial for preserving mental health. Here’s why:

1. Reduces stress: It sounds simple, but getting face time with friends and family reduces stress, which is good for your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you’re ranting about work, getting perspective on a personal problem you have, or just tuning out all of the things that make you stressed or worried on a regular basis, time spent with friends and peers helps relieve tension and boosts your mood.

2. It helps you feel connected: If you’re out at parties, restaurants, clubs and other social events, you’re more likely to feel connected and like you’re contributing to the greater community. This sense of self is important when evaluating risk factors for depression and even adopting a healthier lifestyle overall.

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The government of British Columbia is hoping to pass a law that forces homeless people with mental illness to take shelter during extremely cold weather. Rich Coleman, B.C.’s minister of housing and social development said “there’s no law that technically says you can make them go to a shelter, and I think we need a law to compel them to go”. However, Coleman hopes to make changes to the section of B.C.’s Mental Health Act that outlines situations in which those with mental illness can have treatment forced upon them if they risk harming themselves or others.

Police officers in B.C. have embraced the idea suggesting that “it could give police officers a solution to the “revolving door” of mentally ill people they take to shelters but who end up back on the street within hours”. Some authorities have even suggested that the ability to force people off the street will free up valuable emergency resources.

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I’m convinced that when you cook with fresh, whole foods and high quality ingredients, you need less to satisfy you.

Case in point, last night we made a healthy dinner that was absolutely delicious — lime cilantro chicken (I made a simple marinade of lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, salt and pepper) with mango salsa, a summer saute of fresh corn, zucchini and tomatoes and quinoa tabouli — but the focus was on eating small amounts of each.  In fact, the pieces of chicken we had were small, probably about 3 ounces total, so the focus was really on the other parts of the meal — fresh vegetables and fruit, and whole grains.

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