This week’s health headlines cover a range of topics, from the benefits of strawberries to the importance of social connections and the impact of positive thinking on longevity. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
1. EAT strawberries for breakfast:
– A study from the University of Cincinnati suggests that consuming two servings of freeze-dried, whole-fruit strawberry powder every morning can help fight off signs of depression and dementia.
– Participants who followed this regimen for 12 weeks experienced improved emotional control, problem-solving abilities, and memory performance.
– Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and have additional health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, guarding against heart disease and stroke, and managing blood sugar.
2. VISIT friends and family:
– A study conducted in the United Kingdom found that never being visited by friends or family is associated with an increased risk of dying.
– Loneliness is a global problem and has been linked to various health issues, including dementia and heart disease.
– The World Health Organization has recently launched an initiative to tackle the epidemic of loneliness, emphasizing the importance of social connections for overall well-being.
3. BUY an electric toothbrush for your kid:
– Research from the Hebrew University-Hadassah Faculty of Dental Medicine suggests that oscillating-rotating electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes at reducing plaque and gingivitis in children aged 3 to 10.
– After a four-week trial, significant improvements in plaque reduction were observed, particularly in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
4. STOP eating so much salt:
– Lowering sodium intake by just one teaspoon per day can effectively lower blood pressure, equivalent to the effects of some common blood pressure medications.
– Most of the sodium in our diets comes from processed foods, but natural foods like cheese and poultry can also contribute to high sodium levels.
– The American Heart Association recommends a maximum of 2,300 mg of sodium per day, with an ideal limit of 1,500 mg for most adults.
5. THINK positively about aging:
– Researchers at the New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging found that having a positive outlook on aging is associated with a longer lifespan.
– A study analyzing data from New Jersey residents aged 50 to 74 found that those with a high score for subjective successful aging had a significantly lower risk of dying within nine years.
– This emphasizes the importance of mindset and attitude in shaping our health outcomes.
In conclusion, incorporating strawberries into your breakfast, maintaining social connections, using electric toothbrushes for kids, reducing salt intake, and adopting a positive attitude towards aging can all contribute to better health and well-being.
