Researchers said expectant mothers are exposed to the higher risk by drinking the water, taking a bath or shower, or even by standing close to a boiling kettle.

The danger comes from chemical by-products in chlorinated water known as trihalomethanes, or THMs, which can be absorbed through the skin. They can then pass into the womb. THMs form because of a chemical reaction between chlorine and natural substances in the water.

The researchers from University of Birmingham said the findings are further evidence that water chlorination may cause birth defects but also suggest that exposure to chlorination by-products may be responsible for some specific and common defects.

Genetic role in quitting smoking

A SMOKER'S ability to kick his habit may have a lot to do with his genetic makeup. Researchers identified several genetic variations that appear to indicate the likelihood of success or failure with nicotine replacement therapy and the smoking-cessation drug, bupropion (Zyban).

In their study, the researchers found 41 gene variants linked to smokers who successfully quit using nicotine replacement therapy, and 26 genes that were specific to successful quitting with Zyban.

They said there is evidence that the ability to quit smoking has inheritable components. Although the specific role these genes play is still unclear, the researchers said the findings explain why people respond differently to various smoking-cessation treatments.

In the future, knowing which smokers are more likely to respond to specific treatments would help tailor treatment to individual needs.

Children with vitamin D deficiency prone to disease

CHILDREN who do not get enough vitamin D may face health issues including broken bones or a weakened immune system prone to disease. The main risk factors were not drinking enough fortified milk, not taking vitamins and being overweight.

Children with vitamin D deficiency sometimes have bowed legs or easily fractured bones. They can also appear tired, or shaky, or suffer seizures in severe cases. Overweight children were found to be prone to vitamin D deficiency, because the vitamin dissolves into fat. Diabetes is one disease linked to vitamin D deficiency.

Also at risk for a vitamin D deficiency were breast-fed infants, because breast milk lacks vitamin D, even if it is the best food for babies, said the researchers.

The study adds to a growing body of evidence that vitamin D, made when sunlight hits the skin and used to fortify many foods, is important for preventing chronic diseases. It is key to maintaining strong bones but has also been linked with a lower risk of cancer, artery disease and even kidney disease.

Eat less to avoid jet lag

STARVING yourself before a long flight may help prevent jet lag. Researchers at Harvard Medical School said the body's natural circadian clock in the brain dictates when to wake, eat and sleep, all in response to light.

The researchers said as the body's clock can only shift a small amount each day, it takes the average person about a week to adjust to the new time zone. By then, it is time to come home.

But it seems there is a second clock in the body that will take over when food is scarce and going without food for about 16 hours is enough to manipulate this clock to help travellers adjust to new time zones.

Leafy greens make for strong bones

EATING foods rich in vitamin K - green leafy vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, as well as cereals and vegetable oils - is linked to greater bone density and reduced bone loss in early post-menopausal women.

Studies found that women who had vitamin K, vitamin D plus calcium showed a significant and sustained increase in bone density. The benefits are potentially achievable by increased dietary intakes of vitamin K rather than by supplements.

New Straits Times/Asia News Network

This story was first published in the New Straits Times on June 9, 2008.