Tag

Health And Wellbeing

All articles tagged with #health and wellbeing

Tiny Daily Four-Minute Routine Boosts Strength and Balance in Seniors, Penn State Finds
health-and-wellbeing18 days ago

Tiny Daily Four-Minute Routine Boosts Strength and Balance in Seniors, Penn State Finds

A Penn State College of Medicine study published in PLOS One found that doing four minutes of daily resistance-based strength training (four 30-second exercises with 30 seconds rest) significantly improved strength and balance in adults 65 and older within 12 weeks. Participants used bands and a step (or dumbbells as an alternative), and the program led to more repetitions in chair stands and quicker sit-to-stand transitions, highlighting a time-efficient, functional workout to help maintain independence with aging.

Supplements under the microscope: when pills help and when to skip
health-and-wellbeing25 days ago

Supplements under the microscope: when pills help and when to skip

Most people gain little from supplements if they eat well; multivitamins show only tiny memory benefits, and real food is the best source of nutrients. Some supplements may help in specific cases—creatine for athletes, collagen for certain skin/joint needs, vitamin D in UK winters, magnesium for those with low intake, omega-3 for non-fish eaters, and iron for deficiency—though these should be guided by a clinician. Focus on a balanced plate with protein, a variety of plants, fiber-rich carbs and healthy fats, and use supplements only where clearly indicated.

Young mum's bowel cancer alarm: don't ignore early signs
health-and-wellbeing2 months ago

Young mum's bowel cancer alarm: don't ignore early signs

A 45-year-old Melbourne mum of two ignored fatigue, low iron and blood in the stool until a colonoscopy revealed stage-3 bowel cancer, prompting surgery (with a temporary stoma) and six months of chemotherapy. Now in remission and under regular monitoring, she’s speaking out to urge Australians not to dismiss bowel changes as just pregnancy or aging, highlighting rising rates among younger people and backing the Poo Check awareness campaign to normalise conversations about bowel health.

Dermatologist urges seniors to cut back showers to protect winter skin
health-and-wellbeing4 months ago

Dermatologist urges seniors to cut back showers to protect winter skin

An Australian dermatologist warns that aging skin becomes thinner and drier, advising people over 65 to reduce shower frequency—potentially washing every other day—especially in winter. Using gentler soap-free washes can help preserve natural oils while maintaining hygiene by cleansing key areas daily. The guidance emphasizes balancing cleanliness with skin health amid common concerns about over-washing.

Cholesterol risk isn’t about weight alone—genetics and fat intake matter
health-and-wellbeing4 months ago

Cholesterol risk isn’t about weight alone—genetics and fat intake matter

High LDL cholesterol raises heart attack and stroke risk, but being lean doesn’t guarantee safety; genetics and saturated-fat intake largely drive LDL levels. Obesity mainly affects other lipids (triglycerides and remnant cholesterol) and is linked to diabetes and high blood pressure, which can make LDL more harmful. Overall cardiovascular risk isn’t determined by LDL alone, so a clinician should assess it—consider NHS checks from age 40 and family history of early heart disease.

Fiber myths debunked: why gradual increases and hydration beat chasing big daily targets
health-and-wellbeing4 months ago

Fiber myths debunked: why gradual increases and hydration beat chasing big daily targets

Fibre supports digestion, heart and bowel health, and even mood, but the average Briton consumes about 16g daily while 30g is the target. Benefits may continue beyond 30g, but increases should be gradual to avoid bloating, and plenty of fluids help fibre work. Staying under about 50g daily is sensible and sustainable. Small gains—an extra 7g daily—are linked to lower risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and bowel cancer, while an extra 5g may correlate with a roughly 5% reduced risk of depression; the key is enjoyable, practical, ongoing intake rather than extreme limits.

The $1,400 PEMF Mat Promises Calm, Delivers Vivid Dreams and Uncertain Sleep Results
health-and-wellbeing5 months ago

The $1,400 PEMF Mat Promises Calm, Delivers Vivid Dreams and Uncertain Sleep Results

Over a week, I tested HigherDose’s $1,374 Infrared PEMF Pro Mat against a standard yoga mat, hoping for better sleep and muscle recovery. The infrared heat felt calming at first, but sleep did not improve and I woke with unusually vivid dreams. HRV data showed only small, inconclusive changes, and experts say PEMF effects are highly variable and weak compared with medical devices. In short, the mat felt like an expensive heating pad rather than a transformative wellness tool; I’d rather read a book or stretch on my rubber mat.

Optimal Timing for Everyday Supplements, According to Dr. Amir Khan
health-and-wellbeing6 months ago

Optimal Timing for Everyday Supplements, According to Dr. Amir Khan

Dr. Amir Khan outlines a practical timetable to maximize supplement absorption: take iron first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with a splash of vitamin C (avoid taking it with tea, coffee, or magnesium); after breakfast, take fat‑soluble nutrients like vitamin D and omega‑3 with a meal; magnesium is best in the evening; creatine can be taken at any time; if you’re taking omega‑3 or a multivitamin, take them with food, and consult a doctor with any questions about your regimen.

Year-Round Vision: 13 Expert Tips to Safeguard Eye Health
health-and-wellbeing6 months ago

Year-Round Vision: 13 Expert Tips to Safeguard Eye Health

Ophthalmologists lay out 13 practical steps to protect eye health, from regular sight tests (every two years) and using an optician as a first port of call for vision changes, to UV protection with UV400 sunglasses, the 20-20-20 rule to reduce screen strain, outdoor play for kids to curb myopia, safe contact-lens use and hygiene, careful makeup use, and lifestyle choices such as not smoking and staying hydrated; they also stress seeking urgent care for sudden vision loss or eye injuries, and safe DIY practices and eye protection at work.

Sugar smart: timing, type, and balance to avoid energy slumps
health-and-wellbeing7 months ago

Sugar smart: timing, type, and balance to avoid energy slumps

Sugar activates the brain’s reward system and comes as glucose or fructose, which are processed differently: glucose prompts insulin release and energy storage, while fructose is sent to the liver and can be converted to fat. In excess, both raise triglycerides and may raise heart- and liver-related risks; repeated insulin spikes can fuel inflammation. The so-called 'sugar rush' is largely a myth, and when a sugar-induced dip occurs, people tend to eat more later. Timing matters: morning glucose responses are usually more favorable, and having sugar as part of a balanced meal with fiber, healthy fats, and protein helps blunt spikes. Moderation is best; avoid late-day sugar and be cautious with sugar substitutes, which may impact the gut/oral microbiome and can, in some cases, convert to fructose. Given that many people regularly eat sugary snacks (about 84% daily, with 79% up to three), reducing intake is sensible rather than demonizing it.