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Diet, Exercise Tied to Lower Mortality Risk in Parkinson’s Disease – Medscape

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Healthy eating and exercise habits before or after diagnosis with Parkinson's disease (PD) could cut mortality risk significantly, new research suggests.

In a population-based prospective cohort study, participants with the healthiest eating and exercise regimen prior to diagnosis reduced their all-cause mortality risk by 49%, while those who adopted healthy habits after diagnosis were 65% less likely to die, compared with those who had the worst pre- and post-diagnosis habits.

The study is the largest to date to examine the association of overall diet quality and physical activity with survival in patients with PD.

Xinyuan Zhang PhD

"We found that diet and physical activity levels before Parkinson disease clinical onset were associated with the risk of mortality afterwards, which means lifestyle habits could have a long-term effect on human health," lead investigator Xinyuan Zhang, PhD, a postdoctoral fellow at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, told Medscape Medical News.

The findings were published online August 19 in JAMA Network Open.

While earlier studies have also demonstrated a link between a healthy diet and decreases in early PD symptoms, the new research tracked the long-term benefits of both diet and exercise.

For the study, researchers analyzed data from 1251 participants (52.1% men; mean age at diagnosis, 73.4 years) in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study and the Nurses' Health Study who developed PD.

The Alternative Healthy Eating Index was used to assess overall diet quality. Physical activity was measured from questionnaires and metabolic equivalent task hours per week.

Information on mortality, the primary outcome, was gathered from the National Death Index. During the 32- to 34-year follow up, 942 patients died.

In the pooled analysis, mortality risk was 31% lower among those with the highest diet scores before diagnosis compared with those who had the lowest scores (adjusted hazard ration [aHR], 0.69; P = .002). Healthy diet after diagnosis was associated with 43% lower mortality (aHR, 0.57; P < .001).

In addition, mortality risk was 29% lower for participants with the highest scores for regular physical activity before diagnosis than for those with the lowest scores (aHR, 0.71; P = .004). Similar benefits were found for those with the highest exercise score post-diagnosis (aHR, 0.47; P < .001).

A joint analysis revealed that patients with the highest scores for healthy diet and physical activity had the lowest mortality risk pre-diagnosis (aHR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.36-0.73) and after diagnosis (aHR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.23-0.52).

There were no significant differences in outcomes between men and women.

The findings suggest that healthy habits, whether they come before or after diagnosis, have protective survival benefits in patients with PD, the investigators noted.

"It is never too late to start," Zhang said.

In an accompanying editorial, Beate R. Ritz, MD, PhD and Kimberly C. Paul, PhD, both from the University of California, Los Angeles, write that the study findings "not only reinforce the public health recommendations to engage in these behaviors for staying healthy in general but also add to a growing body of evidence of such behaviors providing protection against PD-related neurodegeneration specifically."

The implications of these findings for clinicians and patients are significant, and suggest that "health professionals need to encourage patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle to, at a minimum, reduce mortality risk, which is higher in individuals with PD than those without PD in the same age range," they write.

One question not answered, however, is whether the decreased mortality and other health benefits from a healthy diet and exercise among patients with PD are greater than those found among age-matched individuals without PD, the editorialists note.

They add that researchers also didn't address the mechanisms that lead to the protective effects of diet and exercise in these patients.

Still, there's no reason clinicians should not offer recommendations on diet and lifestyle to patients on the basis of this new research, Ritz and Paul write.

"Such professional guidance has the added advantage of giving many patients with PD a measure of control over their lives by engaging in activities that improve not only their disease outcome but also their quality of life and life expectancy," they add.

The study was funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Zhang, Ritz, and Paul report no relevant financial relationships.

JAMA Netw Open. Published online August 19, 2022. Full text. Editorial.

Kelli Whitlock Burton is a reporter for Medscape Medical News who covers psychiatry and neurology.

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Diet, Exercise Tied to Lower Mortality Risk in Parkinson's Disease - Medscape

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August 31st, 2022 at 2:01 am

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Little-Known Habits That Shrink Your "Belly Fat" Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

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An expanding waistline might not seem like a big deal, but it is because it could indicate you have a deadly fat inside you called visceral fat that's been linked to stroke, heart disease, diabetes, some cancers and more. Visceral fat is hidden deep in your abdomen and it wraps around your vital organs. You can't see or feel it, but one indication you have it is by excess belly fat. So by getting rid of belly fat, you can lose visceral fat. A balanced diet and exercising at least 150 minutes a week per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidelines is the most effective way. But according to Dr. Tomi Mitchell, a Board-Certified Family Physician with Holistic Wellness Strategies there are other unconventional ways to consider. "Belly fat can be a stubborn and pesky problem. Although many methods are advertised for getting rid of it, not all are effective. It is important to note that none of these methods substitute for healthy living with proper diet and exercise. Here are four uncommon methods for banishing belly fat." Read onand to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.

Dr. Mitchell says, "Belly fat can be troublesome for several reasons. First and foremost, it can indicate poor health. Excess fat around the waistline is linked to higher heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, carrying extra weight in the belly can make it difficult to wear certain types of clothing. For example, tight-fitting jeans or a form-fitting dress can be uncomfortable and even painful when there's too much belly bulge. And let's be honest: having a little extra weight around the middle doesn't do much for one's self-esteem. Fortunately, there are several ways to lose belly fat and improve one's health. A combination of diet and exercise is usually the best approach, but certain supplements can help. People can improve their health and feel better about themselves by taking action to lose belly fat."6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Dr. Mitchell tells us, "Sustained cold therapy (cryotherapy) over prolonged periods might be an effective method to eliminate body fat. Applying ice to the area can help to decrease inflammation and reduce the size of fat cells. However, one must be aware of some risks, such as tingling, numbness, and skin irritation. This cold therapy, or cryolipolysis, is the idea behind the popular fat trimming, non-surgical procedure, CoolSculpting."

Dr. Mitchell states, "Cellulite is a common cosmetic concern, especially for women. Fat deposits push against the connective tissue under the skin, causing the skin to dimple. While there is no sure-fire way to get rid of cellulite, some treatments can help reduce its appearance. Dry brushing is one such treatment. The act of dry brushing involves using a soft-bristled brush to massage the skin in a circular motion. This helps to break down cellulite and promote circulation. As a result, dry brushing can help to reduce the appearance of cellulite temporarily. However, it should be noted that dry brushing will not permanently remove cellulite or lead to weight loss. Instead, it should be considered part of a comprehensive cellulite-reduction plan that includes diet and exercise."

Dr. Mitchell explains, "Body rolling is a type of self-massage that uses a foam roller or tennis ball to alleviate muscle pain and tension. Athletes often use it to prevent injuries and improve flexibility. However, body rolling can also benefit those who suffer from bloating and stomach pain. The roller's pressure can help break up adhesions and knots in the muscles, which can lead to reduced pain and discomfort. In addition, body rolling can help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. As a result, it can be an effective way to reduce bloating and stomach pain. Although body rolling will not directly remove fat, it can help slim the stomach area's appearance by lowering bloatedness and improving muscle tone."

"Cupping is an ancient Chinese therapy that uses suction cups to promote blood flow and break up stagnation," Dr. Mitchell says. "The suction cups are placed on the skin, and the therapist may use massage or acupuncture needles to stimulate the area. Cupping is said to help with various ailments, including pain, inflammation, and digestive issues. In recent years, cupping has gained popularity in reducing belly fat. The suction cups are placed on the stomach, and the therapist may use massage or acupuncture needles to stimulate the area. Cupping is said to help break up stagnation and promote blood flow, which can help to reduce belly fat. Cupping is a safe and effective therapy that can be used to help improve overall health and well-being."

Dr. Mitchell says this "doesn't constitute medical advice and by no means are these answers meant to be comprehensive. Rather, it's to encourage discussions about health choices."

Heather Newgen

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Little-Known Habits That Shrink Your "Belly Fat" Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

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August 31st, 2022 at 2:01 am

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11 Best Weight Loss Apps of 2022, According to Registered Dietitians – Good Housekeeping

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Overall health has always been a hot topic of conversation, and inevitably talk of weight issues takes center stage. But even if your goal is not to lose weight, weight loss apps can be a great way for you to maintain your current weight, gain weight, track workouts, log hydration levels, introduce healthier foods into your diet or just monitor your overall health. With so many downloadable weight loss apps available, it can be exasperating to figure out which one is the best one for you.

The best weight loss apps will teach you sustainable healthy eating habits, educate you on portion control and promote balanced meals, says Stefani Sassos, MS, RDN, CSO, CDN, NASM-CPT, Deputy Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab. Hydration, sleep, activity, mental health and so much more play into the holistic health equation, arguably far more so than weight. Apps that provide support in those areas in addition to encouraging healthy food choices are ideal.

The registered dietitians at the Good Housekeeping Institute are here to help you navigate this crowded field and find the app that will help you achieve your goals. Please note that weight loss, health and body image are complex subjects before deciding to go on a diet, consider visiting our article that investigates the hazards of diet culture.

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Our registered dietitians took the following factors into consideration when reviewing and choosing these apps: Range of features, ease of use, cost, community and social networking opportunities, dietary preferences, and ability to log fitness, sleep and hydration. We also looked for apps that encouraged mindfulness and relaxation techniques and ones that were rated the highest among users on both Android and iOS.

When selecting the ideal weight loss app, you'll want to consider the following:

Meeting your wellness targets: Not all apps are created equal, so its important to find one that is tailored to your needs and lifestyle. If you travel a lot maybe you may want choose an app that has a large database and contains both local and international brands. If you cook at home, look for an app that welcomes a variety of ways to track such as with photographs or by entering recipes. Apps that provides healthy recipe ideas and substitutions may also be a great choice if you need guidance with meal prep.

Affordability: Most apps offer some sort of free trial, so you can give it a road test before committing to the full month or year subscription. Our experts say its important to carefully compare advantages of both short term and longer term commitments. The great thing about apps is that you can figure out if it's going to work for you after a few tries, so feel free to experiment and test it out for a month or two before you make a major commitment.

Community: If you are motivated by the shared experiences of others, look for an app with larger membership numbers and greater social opportunities, such as Facebook groups. Check out the activity and quality of interactions on the apps social media platforms before committing.

The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab stress that these apps are not regulated and many are not formulated with dietary or medical experts. In addition, these apps require some work on your part, so it depends on how much time and effort you can commit to logging your daily foods. For many people, these systems work well because they hold them accountable for the foods they eat, although research is mixed on the effectiveness of apps. The concept is akin to a financial budget, which works only if you accurately track of your spending. When you are logging everything that you consume, you might be surprised at how many calories you are taking in, and that could encourage you to make different choices. As a bonus, these apps can help to keep you on track with staying properly hydrated and maintaining physical activity. Basically, its up to you to get the most benefit out of these apps.

Take note: For individuals with a history of disordered eating, logging calories could be associated with unhealthy dieting practices. In this instance, the use of weight loss apps should be avoided or monitored closely by a healthcare provider.

Weight loss apps arent for everyone, but they can be a useful tool to help to educate you about your diet and to teach you how to make healthier choices. It is always important to remember that there are many factors that go into successful weight loss including setting a realistic weight range that works for you and that you can maintain without feeling restricted. Genetics, life stage and overall health can also play a role.

Remember that there is no magic pill for weight loss; the goal should always be to improve your overall health and to learn how to make better choices when it comes to food and nutrition.

A well-balanced diet should consist of plenty of nonstarchy vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, nuts, seeds and fruit. If you can use these apps to help you add more vegetables to your meals and to eliminate sugary foods and beverages while becoming more aware of what you consume, then it's a win.

As a registered dietitian, Amy Fischer has worked with thousands of patients to improve their overall health through a whole foods and nutritious diet. Amy believes that food is to be enjoyed even on a weight loss journey and that while calories count, the focus should be on health, eating and living better and not just losing weight.

Having been through her own weight loss journey and providing nutrition counseling to patients and clients for the past eight years, Stefani Sassos, registered dietitian and Deputy Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, is passionate about sustainable weight management and healthy eating practices. Shes extremely well versed in the current health and wellness app space and leads category testing efforts for Good Housekeeping.

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11 Best Weight Loss Apps of 2022, According to Registered Dietitians - Good Housekeeping

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Susanna Reid’s diet that caused 1.5 stone weight loss without exercise – Daily Record

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GMB's Susanna Reid has always been open about her weight loss journey and has shared her successes and struggles.

The presenter has previously disclosed her secret to losing a stone and a half, which Susanna pulled off without stepping foot in the gym.

In a struggle familiar to so many of us, the TV presenter recently admitted to gaining a few pounds over lockdown.

When Joe Wicks appeared on the morning show in June, Susanna shared that she'd found it difficult to shift the weight, telling the fitness coach: "I found it really hard to shift those pounds. What is the problem when there are so many workout plans, so many nutrition plans, what is the reason for that?

Susanna had previously revealed she doesn't exercise in the gym whilst on-air on Good Morning Britain in December 2018.

Whilst chatting to Piers Morgan, she said: "I stopped going to the gym, I found it made me too hungry. I've levelled out, I lost a stone-and-a-half and that's enough, and I don't go to the gym."

Back in 2019, Susanna told the magazine Prima how her weight loss journey started when she'd seen the GP about skin problems. Her doctor said the star was at the top end of her height's BMI and recommended she lose weight.

Susanna set out to eat healthier and cut out snacks amid her busy work schedule, noting that she feels 'fantastic'. She told the outlet: "This time last year, I went to the doctor with a skin problem and he told me I could do with losing some weight.

"It turned out I was at the upper end of my BMI and, I have to admit, I'd been feeling a little heavy for a while. I've lost a stone and a half since then and I feel fantastic."

The 51-year-old mum of three cut out cravings after identifying the source as her very early 4am wake up time.

"It can creep up without you noticing, and what I did was cut out snacking. I found waking up so early in the morning you're in a sort of energy deficit," she said during a 2019 appearance on Lorraine Kelly's breakfast show.

"All your body can think is have toast, have biscuits, have calories, and you can pile [weight] on really quickly."

Susanna is a pescatarian - meaning that she eats fish but no other meat - and she stopped drinking alcohol in 2019 as it left her literally scarred. She said drinking aggravated her skin, causing the blood vessels on her face to burst, which led to permanent scarring.

"I'm rather glad I've given up drink because lockdown drinking, the pandemic prosecco, has been a serious issue," she told The Times.

"I gave up because a doctor told me to. I was concerned because my skin was flushed, I kept getting flare-ups and blemishes, and they were leaving red scars. My skin was probably a manifestation of what I was putting into my body."

Susanna has been dedicated to going teetotal and passed on drinks during her 50th birthday celebrations. However, she said one consequence of going teetotal was Piers Morgan dubbing her 'the world's biggest bore'.

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The #1 Root Cause of Diabetes, Say Physicians Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

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Diabetesis a common condition that affects one in 10 people, that's over 37 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention While that's an alarming number, there are ways to help lower the risk. Dr. Tomi Mitchell, a Board-Certified Family Physician with Holistic Wellness Strategies tells us, "Diabetes is a serious medical condition that can lead to several health complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, and blindness. Fortunately, there are several things that people can do to reduce their chance of developing diabetes. Here are five lifestyle changes that can help to prevent diabetes. Read onand to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.

Dr. Mitchell says, "Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar. When blood sugar levels are too high, it can strain the organs and lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision problems. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood or adolescence and is caused by an autoimmune reaction that destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes usually develops in adulthood and is characterized by insulin resistance, when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Diabetes can be managed through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and medication.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 30 million people in the United States have diabetes. However, it is estimated that one in four is undiagnosed and unaware of the condition. This is particularly concerning because diabetes can lead to several serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and blindness. That is why it is so important to get screened for diabetes if you think you may be at risk. If you have a family history of diabetes, your doctor might recommend getting screened at an earlier age. There are several ways to test for diabetes, but the most common is the A1C test. This test measures your average blood sugar levels over two to three months and can be done at your doctor's office or a local clinic. If you have diabetes, it is essential to work with your healthcare team to manage your condition and prevent complications. People with diabetes can live long and healthy lives with proper treatment and care."

Dr. Mitchell explains, "Being overweight or obese is the number one risk factor for type 2 diabetes. About 80 percent of people with this form of diabetes are overweight or obese. There are several reasons why carrying extra weight increases your risk of developing diabetes. First, excess body fat makes it difficult for the body to use insulin effectively. When the body can't use insulin properly, blood sugar levels rise. This is known as insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a major cause of type 2 diabetes. In addition, carrying extra weight puts extra strain on the body's organs and systems, including the pancreas, which produces insulin. Over time, this can lead to damage and dysfunction. Finally, fat tissue produces hormones contributing to insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels. For all these reasons, people who carry extra weight are at a much higher risk of developing diabetes than those of a healthy weight."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Not getting enough physical activity can raise a person's risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Physical activity helps control blood sugar (glucose), weight, and blood pressure and helps raise "good" cholesterol and lower "bad" cholesterol. Adequate physical activity can also help reduce the risk of heart disease and nerve damage, which are often problems for people with diabetes."6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Dr. Mitchell reminds us, "Eating a healthy diet is essential for many reasons. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, have more energy, and avoid heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body uses blood sugar. If you have diabetes, your body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't use it as well as it should. This causes blood sugar levels to rise. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and eye problems. Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. A healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting sugar, saturated fat, and trans fat is also essential. If you already have diabetes, eating a healthy diet can help you control your blood sugar levels. It can also help you prevent or delay complications of the disease."

Dr. Mitchell says, "Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States and a significant risk factor for developing diabetes. Smokers are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than non-smokers, and the risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked daily. Quitting smoking not only lowers your risk of developing diabetes but also helps to improve blood sugar control if you already have the disease. In addition, quitting smoking decreases your chances of developing other serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. Talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit smoking for good."

Dr. Mitchell shares, "Monitoring blood sugar is essential in preventing diabetes because it allows people to see how their diet and lifestyle choices affect their blood sugar levels. For example, if someone eats many sugary foods, they might see a spike in their blood sugar levels. By monitoring their blood sugar, they can change their diet or lifestyle to help prevent their blood sugar from reaching diabetic levels. In addition, monitoring blood sugar can also help people with diabetes to keep their condition under control. They can adjust their insulin doses accordingly by knowing their blood sugar levels. Thus, monitoring blood sugar is an essential tool in both preventing and managing diabetes."

Heather Newgen

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August 31st, 2022 at 2:00 am

How Diabetes and High Blood Pressure Are Linked – TIME

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High blood pressurealso known as hypertensionand Type 2 diabetes are two of the most common medical conditions in the U.S. Unfortunately, they often occur together. Some research has found that 85% of middle-aged or older adults who have Type 2 diabetes also have hypertension, and both conditions elevate a persons risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

These increased risks are significant, and in some cases grave. Researchers have found that people with Type 2 diabetes are up to four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those who dont have the condition. People with diabetes are also twice as likely to die of cardiovascular problems. The leaps in rates of stroke, kidney failure, and other deadly complications are also substantial for people who have both high blood pressure and diabetes.

Why do these conditions so often show up in tandem? Experts are still trying to nail down the precise connections, but they say excess weight may play a part. Many people who have hypertension and Type 2 diabetes also have obesity, and this triumvirate, as some researchers have termed it, is associated with metabolic and endocrine problems that overlap and promote disease. Obesity seems to be fertile soil for both, says Dr. Srinivasan Beddhu, a professor of internal medicine at the University of Utah School of Medicine.

Also, the sheer commonness of hypertension all but ensures that most people with Type 2 diabetes will end up with both diseases. Roughly half of all U.S. adults have hypertension, and that percentage goes up with age. It can develop as early as [ages] 30 to 42, but in most cases, by the time youre in your 50s, its there, says Dr. George Bakris, a professor of medicine at the University of Chicago. Although hypertension often precedes Type 2 diabetes, Bakris says, diabetes is increasingly common in young adults and even children. Its more important than ever to keep an eye out for both conditions, perhaps especially if youre overweight or obese.

Here, experts explain how high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes cause trouble in combination, as well as how to manage the conditions and reduce their associated risks.

Read More: These New Developments Could Make Living With Type 2 Diabetes More Manageable

Every time a heart beats, it sends blood out into the body via the circulatory system. In between beats, the heart fills with blood. A persons blood pressure refers to two different but related measurements of this cycle. The first, known as systolic blood pressure, is the pressure inside the arteries when the heart beats and pumps out blood. The second measurement, known as diastolic blood pressure, is the pressure inside the arteries when the heart is resting and filling with blood. These two numbers are usually presented together, and they almost always rise and fall in unison. In the U.S., blood-pressure scores higher than 130/80 mm Hg are considered hypertensive.

Bakris says hypertension is often called a silent killer because it may cause no symptoms. Even when a persons blood pressure is dangerously high, the symptoms that develop are so common and nonspecificmeaning they turn up for all sorts of reasonsthat you may not connect them with high blood pressure. Dizziness, headaches, and blurry vision are among these nonspecific symptoms. By the time they set in, a persons blood pressure may have been elevatedand doing damagefor several years. What sort of damage? High blood pressure can stretch or injure your arteries in ways that raise your risk for heart disease, arterial disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications. High blood pressure also increases stress on the kidneys and some other organs.

Type 2 diabetes is a medical condition defined by high blood-sugar levels. These high levels are caused by problems related to insulin, which is a hormone that signals to the bodys cells that they need to absorb blood sugar. In people with Type 2 diabetes, the cells become resistant to insulin, meaning they do not properly absorb blood sugar. As with hypertension, the early symptoms of Type 2 diabetesfrequent urination, blurry vision, dramatic hunger spikesmay not raise immediate red flags. If someone isnt staying on top of their doctors appointments, they may not be aware that one or both of these conditions is present.

How do these conditions combine in ways that contribute to health problems? Both affect the small blood vessels, says Dr. Mattias Brunstrom, a hypertension specialist and physician researcher at Umea University in Sweden. Diabetes affects the vessels in ways that make them stiffer, and high blood pressure impairs their function. This stacking of arterial damage helps explain why the combination of the two conditions is associated with cardiovascular problems, including higher rates of heart disease and stroke.

At the same time, both hypertension and Type 2 diabetes may also promote higher-than-normal levels of blood sugar. Elevated blood sugar can damage the cells of the kidneys (as well as the heart and blood vessels). Kidney diseaseand ultimately kidney failureis a common complication among people with both of these conditions. If you have [systolic] blood pressure consistently above 180, within 12 to 15 years, you will be on dialysis, Bakris says, referring to a medical procedure that removes, filters, and returns the blood to someone whose kidneys are no longer up to it. Elevated blood sugar caused by Type 2 diabetes further damages kidney cells, and increases the odds that the kidneys will struggle or fail to perform their job.

Although cardiovascular and renal problems are two of the most common complications, hypertension and Type 2 diabetes can cause or contribute to a wide range of health problemsfrom dementia to blindness. Both affect the vasculature, which can impair the health of any organ system, Brunstrom says.

Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage both conditions and therefore reduce all of these health risks.

Read More: The Truth About Fasting and Type 2 Diabetes

As is the case with most common health conditions, experts say that a combination of lifestyle changes and prescription drugs are often an effective one-two punch for people with both hypertension and Type 2 diabetes.

First, I would say that lifestyle changes are the basics of all disease management, Brunstrom says. He re-emphasizes the strong associations linking hypertension and Type 2 diabetes to obesity, and the role excess weight plays in exacerbating many health complications. Obesity or overweight is a huge driver of both these conditions, so weight management would be very crucial, he says. Diet, exerciseany way you can get your weight down is good.

Even if youre not losing weight, exercise is still beneficial. It increases circulation around the body and improves function of the small vessels, which might get [blood] pressure down, he says. It might also improve the sensitivity to insulin and reduce glucose. Thats all good stuff. Even short of sweaty exercise sessions, spending less time sitting or in a sedentary positionwalking, for example, or doing chores around the house on your feetmay be helpful.

When it comes to eating, Brunstrom highlights the DASH diet, which is endorsed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute for the management of hypertension. (DASH stands for dietary approaches to stop hypertension.) The DASH diet involves limiting your intake of saturated fats, which are common in red meat and fatty dairy products, and also cutting down on your intake of salt and sugary foods and drinks. Meanwhile, the DASH diet recommends eating lots of fruits and vegetables. Other experts endorse these eating habits. I always tell my patients to eat healthy, which means more fruits and vegetables, less red meat, fewer high-carbohydrate foods, says the University of Utahs Beddhu.

Recently, some researchers have examined the benefits of intermittent fasting plans for the management of Type 2 diabetes. These approaches involve limiting or eliminating all caloric intake for an extended period of timeusually 16 hours or longer. Theres evidence that they may be beneficial. They also appear to be safe for people with early or mild disease. But if you have diabetes and are on medications, these diets can wreak havoc, Bakris says. If you want to try that, you need the help of a physician or accredited diabetes dietitian.

Weight-loss surgery may be a treatment option worth considering. Recent research shows that bariatric surgery has helped both young people and adults get better control of their diabetes and hypertension. In some cases, especially those involving teenagers, weight-loss surgery has removed the need for medications or even eliminated the diseases entirely.

Apart from surgery and lifestyle interventions, experts agree that prescription medications are almost always necessary to manage these diseases. You can reduce your pill burden if youre really good on the lifestyle sideso eating right, reducing sodium intake, exercising regularly, Bakris says. But even on the low end, most people with diabetes and hypertension are going to require four to six medications.

Others agree that pills are pretty much unavoidable. I always compare [taking] them to doing your taxes or brushing your teeth, says Dr. Tom Brouwer, a cardiology resident and researcher at Amsterdam University Medical Centres in the Netherlands. Its not fun, but you need to do it.

In the U.S., medical guidelines recommend that doctors aim to get people with both hypertension and diabetes down to blood-pressure scores below 130/80 mm Hg. Theres some ongoing debate about whether targeting even lower numbers would be beneficial. Brouwer has conducted research in this area, and he says that in many cases hes a proponent of aiming for a systolic BP of 120. If a patient tolerates it, I tend to try to lower their blood pressure all the way to 120, he says.

There are many different drugs used to treat people with both hypertension and Type 2 diabetes. But two of the most popular options are angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers, both of which help relax the arteries and so assist blood flow. Apart from being effective for hypertension, these drugs also help protect the kidneys. Diuretics (drugs that increase urination), as well as beta blockers and calcium channel blockers, are all common treatments.

Read More: People With Diabetes Are More Vulnerable to Heart Disease. How to Reduce the Risk

With these three drugs, an overwhelming majority of patients get to the target blood pressure, Brouwer says.

For those at risk for hypertension, diabetes, or both, experts say that all the lifestyle measures abovea good diet, exercise, and maintaining a healthy weightare among the best ways to lower your risks. By following your doctors drug recommendations and trying to live a healthier life, you can protect yourself from serious complications. I tell patients: you can help yourself, Bakris says. But you have to put in the effort.

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August 31st, 2022 at 2:00 am

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Hypercholesterolemia Treatment: Diet, Medications, and More – Healthline

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Hypercholesterolemia occurs when you have high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Another name for this condition is dyslipidemia.

If youve been diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia, a doctor or healthcare professional will likely recommend lifestyle changes and possibly medications to lower your cholesterol. Making these changes can help lower your risks of health conditions related to hypercholesterolemia such as coronary heart disease or peripheral artery disease.

Lifestyle factors are the most common cause of hypercholesterolemia. However, there are other hypercholesterolemia causes, usually because of genetic changes that can cause your body to develop high cholesterol levels. An example is familial hypercholesterolemia (FH).

FH can cause severely high cholesterol levels, often at a much younger age than what is typical. Doctors will treat most people with FH with the same cholesterol-lowering medications as those with lifestyle-related hypercholesterolemia.

However, if you have severely high cholesterol levels because of a genetic condition (sometimes even greater than 500 milligrams per deciliter), a doctor may recommend a treatment called lipoprotein apheresis. This treatment involves starting an IV and connecting it to a machine that cleanses your blood of excess cholesterol.

Hypercholesterolemia treatments typically involve a combination of lifestyle changes and medications to lower cholesterol. Your healthcare professionals recommendations will probably depend upon how high your cholesterol levels are and if you have other risk factors for heart disease such as obesity or diabetes.

If youre at high risk, a doctor will likely recommend taking medications to lower your cholesterol.

Its important to keep in mind that these are just general guidelines. A doctor will always have the most reasoned information on your condition and the best way to treat it.

Lifestyle changes, such as exercise and quitting smoking, can help lower high cholesterol levels. So can making dietary changes. These lifestyle changes can be especially important in treating high cholesterol in children.

Choosing fresh foods in favor of preprepared foods can help lower your LDL cholesterol levels.

Diet approaches to try include:

Diet approaches to avoid include:

If you have hypercholesterolemia, aim to keep your dietary cholesterol intake to fewer than 200 mg per day. The average daily cholesterol intake for adults is 293 mg per day.

Many medications commonly used to treat high cholesterol arent safe for use in pregnancy. The medications that have potentially harmful effects on a baby include:

You can, however, take bile acid sequestrants to lower cholesterol when youre pregnant. These medications keep your stomach from absorbing the bile acid that your liver needs to make cholesterol. Because they block a body process and arent absorbed into the bloodstream, bile acid sequestrants are safe for pregnancy.

If youre expecting and have high cholesterol or your cholesterol increases while pregnant, talk with a doctor about safe treatment approaches.

Whether or not hypercholesterolemia is curable depends on why you have the condition in the first place. Genetic conditions that result in hypercholesterolemia are generally treatable but not curable.

If your hypercholesterolemia is lifestyle-related, its possible that the lifestyle changes you continue to implement could cure your high cholesterol. However, some people require medication therapies that will continue to treat high cholesterol.

Hypercholesterolemia treatments primarily include lifestyle changes and medications. Each of these treatments helps to improve your heart health and lowers the risks of experiencing a heart attack or stroke.

Ask a doctor how often you should have your cholesterol checked and how you can treat high cholesterol if you have it. Make sure to let a doctor know if you have any family history of hypercholesterolemia or high cholesterol.

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Hypercholesterolemia Treatment: Diet, Medications, and More - Healthline

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August 31st, 2022 at 2:00 am

Posted in Diet and Exercise

Helen Mirren, 77, ‘big believer’ of Canadian Air Force womens exercise regime to stay fit – Express

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Not only is Helen Mirren performing in White Bird, other current projects include: Golda, based on the "Iron Lady of Israel", Golda Meir, set to be released in 2023; Shazam: Fury Of The Gods (December 21, 2022); and Fast X, and 1923 both productions are coming out next year. Showing no signs of slowing down, even a decade on from the UK's legal retirement age (66), what's Mirren's advice on remaining agile in older life? "My advice is to work from the inside out," said Mirren. "First of all, take control of your diet and find one that makes you feel good."

While she wouldn't turn down a trip to the fish and chip shop, Mirren is aware that "what youre putting inside your body does influence how you feel about yourself".

"The next thing is exercise," added Mirren, "which doesnt mean joining expensive gyms."

The Oscar award-winning actress continued: "Im a big believer in the Canadian Air Force womens exercise regime, which is 12 minutes.

"It is an exercise regime that starts from very low and easy, then if you follow it through, it can become quite difficult.

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"I've never gotten past the second level, but its a nice little exercise programme. Nothing extreme, but you need to do it every day."

In the candid interview with Vogue, Mirren stated: "Its all to do with taking control of yourself."

Canadian Air Force womens exercise regime

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How to have a better diet

The NHS advises women to eat around 2,000 calories per day; men can eat 2,500 calories.

Up to a third of the dinner plate, for example, should include a form of starchy carbohydrate; preferably one that is wholegrain.

Starchy carbohydrates:

Potatoes with the skins on

Brown rice

Wholewheat pasta

Cereals

Bread.

Aim for five portions of fruit and vegetables daily; to make this easier, you could add three different varieties of fruit to muesli in the morning.

An example could be muesli topped with blueberries, strawberries, and bananas.

The NHS advises women to eat around 2,000 calories per day; men can eat 2,500 calories.

Up to a third of the dinner plate, for example, should include a form of starchy carbohydrate; preferably one that is wholegrain.

Starchy carbohydrates:

Aim for five portions of fruit and vegetables daily; to make this easier, you could add three different varieties of fruit to muesli in the morning.

An example could be muesli topped with blueberries, strawberries, and bananas.

"A 150ml glass of fruit juice, vegetable juice or smoothie also counts as one portion," the NHS certifies.

However, you are recommended to only enjoy one glass, as any more will not count towards your five-a-day; furthermore, it could be sugary and damage your teeth.

In addition to eating more high-fibre carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, you also need to cut down on saturated fats.

Eat less:

Sugary foods should also be minimised, which include:

Hailed as the "miracle cure" for numerous ailments, committing to daily movement can decrease the risk of disease.

Examples include: coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, strokes, heart attack, and high cholesterol.

As for Mirren, by taking part in numerous productions and having to move around the set she will be on her feet.

Just by standing more, walking around, and doing daily chores could contribute to daily exercise.

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Helen Mirren, 77, 'big believer' of Canadian Air Force womens exercise regime to stay fit - Express

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August 31st, 2022 at 2:00 am

Fitness: Why theres no such thing as a bad workout – will do wonders – Express

Posted: July 6, 2022 at 1:47 am


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The fitness industry can be a challenge for anyone, whether it's gym-barrasment or not quite hitting a personal best, its easy to look negatively upon a workout from time to time. But experts have reassured that there is no such thing as a "bad workout".

Sweatband personal trainer Ruth Stone, explained: "Simply showing up and getting any safe workout done whatever the effort level, duration, or variety has incredible benefits for both personal fitness and mental wellness.

"From the perspective of mental health, completing a workout can alleviate stress, increase the brains sensitivity to serotonin and produce endorphins which are well established as positive mood enhancers."

She continued: "Physically speaking, completing your allotted training session will do wonders for long-term goals ranging from weight loss, muscle gain, bone health, and overall energy levels.

"There is no such thing as a bad workout just bad practices and bad perceptions."

Sweatband's fitness experts listed the unsung benefactors of exercise, no matter a person's experience level.

READ MORE:Diet: Expert warns against common mistake

Exercise of virtually any kind will do wonders for stress management and elimination.

The experts explained: "Endorphins are the brains "feel good" neurotransmitters and are boosted into overdrive during exercise helping to improve mood and turn your frown upside down after a heavy day at work.

"Aside from the endorphin high, you also benefit greatly from stress management specifically."

It does this by using physical exercise to imitate the bodys fight or flight response, helping the body perfect its unified response to external stress factors.

This leads to amazing benefits for the digestive, cardiovascular and immune system against adverse stress responses.

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The experts identified a "common theme" with the unseen benefits of exercise is the intrinsic value to mental faculties across the board, both long term and short term.

Numerous studies cite that regular exercise can even protect against adverse neurological conditions in later life, namely dementia.

This is due to exercise acting as a catalyst for brain cell growth and survival aerobic exercise in particular.

Even three moderate sessions of 20 minutes a week can do wonders for brain cell cultivation.

"From a less medical position, there is little better at improving mental resilience than adhering to a training schedule and pushing your limits," the experts added.

"The physical stress of exercise and the bodys mental response to handling this enables transferable resilience to be built up and applied to other aspects of our lives.

"Stressful day? You can get through it. A hard deadline fast approaching? Youve got this."

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Exercise forces the body to work harder than usual, which in turn increases the demand on the heart to pump the oxygenated blood throughout our body at higher frequencies (an increased heart rate).

The experts said: "Our heart, after all, is a muscle like any other in our body, and with any muscle in the human body, the more you train it, the more efficient it becomes.

"Therefore, the fitter you become the lower your heart rate will become under exercise conditions, and the heart becomes sufficiently trained and primed for any future stressors."

They explained: "The cardiovascular benefits from just showing up and training are immense".

"From lowering blood pressure to improving blood flow and lowering cholesterol to improving your workout efficiency overall."

Ruth also encouraged people to "forget the negative nay-saying and focus on the fact that exercise of any kind will produce net benefits to you on levels beyond what you see listed on Instagram and TikTok".

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Fitness: Why theres no such thing as a bad workout - will do wonders - Express

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July 6th, 2022 at 1:47 am

Posted in Diet and Exercise

Healthy lifestyle: nutrition, exercise and… rest! – Surinenglish.com

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Tuesday, 5 July 2022, 17:56

Spain is one of the countries in the world with the longest life expectancy. And the trend continues: according to data from the INE (National Statistics Institute), life expectancy in the elderly has increased over the last few decades. The INE's projection is that in 2035 life expectancy will reach 90 years for women, and 85 years for men.

And why should we take care of our habits? The main reason is health, in all its aspects, to feel good physically, but also emotionally and mentally. A healthy lifestyle reduces the chances of suffering from many ailments and illnesses. Undoubtedly, if we improve our wellbeing, we will be much closer to our best version of ourselves, to our happiness and, therefore, to sharing it with the people around us. There are many benefits!

Aspects of enjoying a healthy lifestyle

1.The first key is nutrition. And in Andalusia we have the privilege of enjoying the Mediterranean diet. The aim should be to eat quality food to cover our vital needs, avoiding those that may be harmful to our organism.

2.Physical exercise is another of the fundamental keys. With just 30 minutes per day of physical activity we can reduce the risk of suffering cardiovascular problems, according to the Spanish Heart Foundation. As well as burning calories, strengthening muscles, keeping blood pressure under control and cholesterol levels in check, it reduces stress levels, improves our mood and helps us sleep better.

3.And so we come to one of the most overlooked but equally important and fundamental keys: rest.

To improve your rest is to improve your quality of life

We spend a third of our lives sleeping. While clichd, its still true, so we must ask ourselves: do we give our rest the importance it deserves? We must bear in mind that physical and mental rest is essential for us to really feel well.

Getting regular sleep for 6 to 8 hours a day, even up to 10 hours depending on our age, allows our body to recover, which is why the Mattressologists at leading sleep chain MiColchn recommend enjoying a "restorative" rest. A quality rest has many benefits for our body, as highlighted by the experts and the conclusions of the first study on Health and Rest developed by ASOCAMA (Spanish Bed Association) and the Foundation for Health Education (FUNDADEPS).

Healthy rest allows us to restore our nervous system and our physical and psychological functions, that's why MiColchn stresses the importance of rest, not only for our health, but also for our daily performance or our mood, and furthermore, according to the Mlaga firm's Mattressologists, "rest is the best beauty treatment there is"

Mattressologists tips to enjoy quality sleep

The MiColchn group, with 9 centres across the province of Mlaga, has more than 40 years of experience advising on the most suitable rest for each individual. Moreover, their staff have specific training, not only on the latest advances in materials and products, but also with courses given by renowned physiotherapists such as Romualdo Castillo. The main objective at MiColchn is to achieve the most comfortable and restorative rest:

1.Trust specialists to choose the mattress that best suits your lifestyle, build, age, sleeping posture and, above all, a mattress suitable for any back problems. At MiColchn, thanks to the mattress company Nessen, you will find an ideal mattress for every diagnosed ailment: spondylitis, scoliosis, fibromyalgia, low back pain, osteoporosis. There is a suitable mattress in terms of firmness and ideal support to alleviate our rest.

2.Take care of your bedding. Both your mattress and your pillow should be fitted with good quality protectors and covers that absorb moisture and regulate the temperature. Your MiColchn mattressologists will be able to advise you according to your needs, for example if you feel particularly hot or if you suffer from allergies.

3.Look after your nutrition with a balanced diet.

4.Exercise regularly.

5.Keep your bedroom dark and at a stable and comfortable temperature, not too hot or cold.

6.Before going to sleep:

a.Have a set, regular bedtime and wake-up time. Keeping a routine helps us to relax quicker.

b.Avoid heavy dinners, drinking coffee in the evening, and alcoholic beverages. Avoid activities that can cause stress or excessive stimulation.

7.And finally, if you often have difficulty getting to sleep and youve followed all this advice, be sure to talk to your doctor. Enjoying good quality rest is a need, not a luxury!

Would you like to see more tips and advice on how to improve your rest and your quality of life? See https://www.micolchon.com/blog/ or visit your MiColchn stores: in Mlaga, Benalmdena, Fuengirola, Marbella, Vlez Mlaga and Torre del Mar, and opening in Motril in July!!!

Sleep hotline: 951 555 155. Info@micolchon.com

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Healthy lifestyle: nutrition, exercise and... rest! - Surinenglish.com

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July 6th, 2022 at 1:47 am

Posted in Diet and Exercise


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