Cholesterol test must for all age groups

Is it ever too early to check cholesterol levels? Not according to a new study that suggests testing patients who are still in diapers. The idea is not that the children who show signs of high cholesterol would b treated for the problem right away. Because the disorder is often inherited. Writing online in the Journal BMJ, British researchers say if children test positive for high cholesterol, doctors would know to screen the parents. Drug treatment could bgin right away for the adults and years later for the children when they have grown up. The study suggested that children could be screened at about 15months of age, along with regular checkups. A blood sample could be taken when vaccinations are given.

Cut Sugar to add to your life span

Giving up sweets and avoiding vitamins could help you live longer, German researchers said in a recent study. They found that restricting glucose set off a process that extended the life span of some worms by upto 25 percent. The key was boosting the level of "free radicals"-unstable molecules that can damage the body and which people often try to get rid of by consuming food or drinks rich in anti-oxidants such as vitamin E, they said in a study published in the journal Cell Metabolism. They body needs glucose, but taking in too much was unhealthy, said the study. Scientists have long known that restricting calorie intake in worms and monkeys increases longevity, and the study narrowed hat idea further, to glucose.