What are the latest and greatest health-related products? How can I spice up my ho-hum workout? Are the new nutritious food products and health-focused restaurants worth my money? If you're asking any of these questions you've found the right spot!Note: While I'm a journalist with a Bachelor's degree in kinesiology and am a Certified Health Education Specialist, I don't replace the guidance/counseling that comes from a good chat with your doctor or dietitian. For more information, feel free to contact me at karlaswalsh@gmail.com!
Healthful Bites
Spring is in full swing, and with it comes a new batch of magazine issues. I sifted through my subscriptions, and am happy to share the wellness wealth today!
- A big question many people ask when it comes to fitness: How much is enough to stay healthy as we get older? Two-and-a-half hours each week, or 30 minutes every weekday, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reported in Shape. That much exercise keeps people, on average, 13 pounds lighter by the time they are in middle age. Of course, more common and more intense workouts are even better. (SHAPE, April 2011)
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Dietitians have touted the benefits of a colorful plate for years, but it turns out that many black foods are great for you as well. Here are a few my favorites among those listed in Health’s story, and their benefits:
Black beans. The skins contain cancer-fighting bioflavanoids.
Blackberries. One cup has nearly one-third of the total fiber amount you need in a day, and the polyphenols found in these berries may reduce age-related cognitive decline.
Black rice. Brown rices darker (and more nutritious!) cousin has more vitamin E, an immune booster, than other rices. It’s also packed with more anthocyanin than antioxidant M.V.P. blueberries. (Health, April 2011)
- “Treat yourself as you’d treat a friend,” says a study author who recommends ditching your self-critical mentality today. People who are more compassionate with themselves are also more likely to sweat it out for health and the mood boost than for appearance. Time to officially ban, “I’m so fat!” from your vocabulary! (Fitness, April 2011)
- Fitting exercise into a hectic schedule can be quite a challenge. But BHG presented some excellent facts to persuade you to make it happen. Check ‘em out:
There are 1,440 minutes in a day. Can you fit in the 30 minutes of sweat time?
Only 31 percent of American adults engage in physical activity on a regular basis. Doesn’t (or wouldn’t) it feel great to be in the third that moves?
Inactive folks report 20 percent less tiredness during the day after they pick up an exercise routine.
Those who work out five times or more each week are back in tip-top form following colds quicker than those who are inactive. (Better Homes & Gardens, April 2011)
(Image from Prevention)
When your motivation is flagging, do you have a mantra or fact that you remind yourself of to stay on a healthy track?
