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Latest Health News & Advice
In this section I will bring you news and information concerning health matters and also offer advice to help keep you in great shape.
03/08/10 Physical Activity Lowers Dementia Risk. Part of an ongoing research project into the health of a group of volunteers, who have been studied for over 20 years, has found that even moderate physical activity lowers the risk of dementia. While there have been a number of modifiable factors identified with the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, physical activity has consistently been shown to lower the risk. Other benefits identified in this and similar studies include lower risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke and some types of cancer
So yet again more reasons to get and stay active. This does not have to be an 'formal' exercise, even brisk walking is great! If you have not exercised before or have been very inactive it is always best to consult your GP or a qualified health professional before starting. Maintaining the function of the musculoskeletal system is important in allowing us to keep active. If you have any concerns about your joints, muscles or spine in relation to exercise, I would advise consulting a Registered Osteopath for the appropriate advice and help.
04/06/10 Burgers Link to Increased Asthma Risk. Research suggests that eating three or more burgers per week increses the risk of asthma in children. The researchers also found eating more fruit and vegetables reduced the risk. There are a number of resons why this may be the case. The children who eat more burgers may have a less healthy lifestyle, the vitamins and other anti-oxidants found in the fruit and vegetables may be protective. I think another possibility is that the red meat in the burgers may increase the 'inflammatory response' in the body which could increase the symptoms of asthma. This last hypothesis about the inflammatory response is being linked to a number of chronic diseases, I think this line of thought will become more important in coming years. Whatever the reason, the bottom line is to keep eating your fruit and veg and ease off the burgers!
10/05/10 'Green Exercise' is Good for Mental Health. Research in the UK has found that as little as 5 minutes exercise in nature has a significant effect in boosting mental health. The effect was even stronger in the young and those with mental health problems. The type of exercise did not matter as long as it was carried out in a natural environment, the effect was boosted if there was water nearby such as a lake or river. Walking, cycling, horse-riding or even gardening were all effective.So even more reason to get out there and do some exercise in the great outdoors. |
