Dr. Christine Reiler will present the following articles in the ORF health magazine “Bewusst Gesundheit” on Saturday, January 4th, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. on ORF 2 and on ORF ON:
Effervescent tablets – underestimated sodium bombs
In addition to too much sugar, most people in Austria also consume too much salt. Often without knowing it. Because salt, or more precisely sodium compounds, are sometimes hidden where you would least expect them. The content of sodium compounds in dietary supplements and medications, when taken in the form of effervescent tablets, is sometimes so high that it can be a health concern. Design: Christian Kugler
How harmful is too much salt?
Sodium is an essential mineral and, when consumed in moderation, has very important functions for the body. It regulates the water balance and is important for the transmission of stimuli to muscle and nerve cells. A morning drink made of water and a pinch of salt has recently been promoted on social media as being health-promoting. But caution is advised because excessive salt consumption can promote high blood pressure, kidney damage and cardiovascular problems. A study by the MedUni Vienna has confirmed the connection between frequent salting and an increased risk of stomach cancer. The functions and risks of salt are explained by Prim. Dr. Marcus Säemann, Head of Nephrology at the Ottakring Clinic.
Root canal treatment 2.0 – laser in dentistry
The use of lasers in medicine has been around since its invention in 1960 and it is also being used more and more frequently in root canal treatments. The aim of a root canal is to eliminate the bacteria in the tooth root canal in order to avoid inflammation. The laser beam penetrates into the root tips and side canals, kills bacteria and serves as a helpful supplement to conventional root canal preparation. Modern lasers can penetrate up to 1,100 micrometers deep into the dentin, which means deeper-lying bacteria can also be reached and eliminated. Design: Larissa Putz
“Consciously healthy” tip on the topic of autism
In Austria, around 87,000 children, young people and adults suffer from an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This refers to various neurodevelopmental disorders. Although these are being researched better and better, too little is known about them today and exact figures are missing. The cause of autism is also still unclear. Genetic factors are suspected to interact with environmental influences. Those affected have difficulties in social behavior, in communicating with others and in perceiving their environment. Univ.-Prof. Dr. Siegfried Meryn explains how to recognize the first signs of the disease and what relatives can do.
Top fit – training with ski star Lizz Görgl
After her sports career, the former ski racer Lizz Görgl not only became a singer, but also continues to do a lot of sports. With her victory at “Dancing Stars” 2019, she showed that she doesn’t just cut a good figure on the snow. She is now also a trained fitness trainer and passes on her knowledge to those interested. According to the world champion, it is important to get enough exercise even in the cold season – ideally outside in nature. Design: Steffi Zupan