The spring pollen has flown in and already swirling around the air like a hurricane. As victims, we are plagued with an itchy nose, sneezing, rhinitis, sinusitis, watery eyes, coughing and a general feeling of misery. Nasal irrigation offers a simple opportunity for relief of this. Routine use can improve symptoms, decrease the need for additional treatment and more. Will you try a nasal spray?
Scientists have shown in a study that giving mice a natural compound called NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) compensated for the loss of efficiency in the energy supply chain, which is a key driver in the aging process. This is found naturally in some foods including broccoli, cabbage, avocado, cucumber, and edamame beans. While it compensates for loss of energy production, it can also reduce typical aging signs, loss of insulin sensitivity, weight gain and decline in physical activity.
We’ve got very good news for guacamole lovers everywhere. A new review suggests that eating avocado is a simple (and delicious) way to prevent metabolic syndrome. Named “the new silent killer,” metabolic syndrome is the term used to describe a combination of three or more risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. The research has shown that avocados have the most beneficial effects on cholesterol levels, and can help fight pretty much every aspect of metabolic syndrome. All the more reason they deserve superfood status!
Eating the first meal of the day has long-term health benefits. A breakfast with many proteins significantly improves appetite control and reduces unhealthy snacking. It’s important to keep in mind that the choice of your breakfast foods can make or break your weight-loss results. Check out these recipes that are high in protein, fiber and other essential nutrients that will keep you satisfied and on the course.
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Typically, as we age we experience declines in the quality of our sleep. Mindfulness meditation is a self-administered approach that intentionally focuses one’s attention on emotions, thoughts and sensations occurring in the present moment. A study between two groups, those who practiced meditation and those who didn’t showed a higher sleep score, as well as improved symptoms of insomnia, fatigue and depression. Will you try meditation?
While your metabolism is partly ruled by genetics, you can boost it up naturally by eating the right foods. Keep in mind that egg whites, lean meats, chili peppers, coffee, green tea, water, milk, whole grains and lentils can all increase your body’s fat-burning power. Something to think about next time you go for that spicy food!
A new study has shown that intense aerobic exercise has the potential to reverse the aging process in adults. While we know exercise is beneficial, many questions have been raised on which types of exercises are best and what age groups benefit the most from them. The Mayo clinic tested high-intensity interval training (HIIT) against combined training and resistance training and found it heightened aerobic capacity as well as mitochondrial functionality for skeletal muscle. Time to step up your workout routine!
While it seems there are smoothie shops everywhere we turn, a lot of these can also be loaded with added sugar. That being said, the right smoothie can help you achieve your weight loss goals. It’s important to read your mix-in levels carefully. Plus, there’s a secret ingredient you can use that turns up your smoothie’s fat-burning power: spices. They can add calorie-free flavor to any dish, and ‘sweet spices’ like cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger have been shown to boost satiety and mimic sweetness, allowing you to cut back on sugar but not taste. It’s a win-win.
A misuse of antibiotics is causing an influx of superbugs worldwide. This is common from patients who pressure their doctors for antibiotics when they are sick. In many cases, people who are sick are infected with a virus to which antibiotics have no effect. So, it’s important to keep that in mind next time you want to take antibiotics.
A traditional Mediterranean diet with added olive oil may be tied to a lower risk of heart disease, in part because it helps maintain healthy blood flow and clear debris from arteries. “For people who are interested in reducing their risk of heart disease, the Mediterranean diet is probably the best proven diet to reduce risk,” said Dr. Daniel Rader of the University of Pennsylvania. “I think the majority of people who don’t have other major dietary concerns should look toward the Mediterranean diet as a heart healthy diet.” Will you jump on this trend?
