Your Health: Soda study finds greater pancreatic cancer risk

Pop and cancer riskPeople who drink two or more sweetened soft drinks a week have nearly twice the risk of pancreatic cancer, researchers say.Fruit juice didn't pose the same risk, the University of Minnesota and National University of Singapore reported.High levels of sugar in pop may increase insulin, which is made in the pancreas and contributes to cancer cell growth.The beverage industry protested that previous similar studies have had mixed results and that other habits might contribute to the problem.Best workout buysConsumer Reports recently suggested a few cost-effective ways to treat yourself to a healthier life this year:bull; A membership to the YMCA or community fitness center, or studios for yoga, dance and Pilates, which got the highest customer satisfaction marks.bull; A treadmill - IF you're going to use it - like the Pacemaster Platinum Pro VR ($2,000) or Sole S63 ($1,000) (but not the Nordic Track T9ci, which failed its endurance test). bull; A pair of Asics Gel athletic shoes for $64.bull; A home gym with a stability ball to work your core, a set of dumbbells or resistance bands, an exercise mat and some fun workout DVDs, all for less than $100.Gluten-free campsGluten-free camps can help kids overcome feelings of being different. Kids with celiac disease have a problem digesting gluten, a common component of grains found in bread, pizza and other common foods. A study in Pediatrics found that children with celiac disease who attended a weeklong gluten-free camp showed improvement in well-being, emotional outlook and self-perception.Weight loss contestBody Empowered Fitness is offering to help train a dozen people for free to meet their weight loss goals.The Move It and Lose It program starts March 1 and runs for six months. Whoever sheds the highest percentage of body weight will get free personal training for the rest of his or her life.Those interested must go to the club at either 1562 Lake-Cook Road in Buffalo Grove, or 332 Skokie Valley Road in Highland Park from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 21, to complete an entry form, meet the trainers, and find out more.False18691870Consumer Reports recently suggested a few cost-effective ways to treat yourself to a healthier life this year, such as buying a membership to the YMCA or community fitness center, or studios for yoga, dance and Pilates. False