Serotonin is often referred to as the happy chemical because it is believed to play a key role in maintaining mood balance. Mainly found in the brain, bowels and blood platelets, serotonin is used to transmit messages between nerve cells but its crowning glory is that it is believed to contribute to wellbeing and happiness.

Its also believed that people with depression may have low levels of the neurotransmitter. Im beginning to wonder if Im getting too much. Increasing levels of the wonder chemical include diet, exercise, exposure to light, and mood induction. Well, lets see; I exercise often outside and at the same time my now-overabundance of serotonin levels increase, making me want food. So I may have to cut back on the first three.

Apparently playing in the dirt can boost your mood. A study has claimed soil microbes have been found to have similar effects on the brain as prozac, without the negative side effects. The study showed injections of soil bacteria produce serotonin (and happiness) in mice. In humans with lung cancer where the killed bacterium was injected, the patients reported better quality of life and less nausea and pain. The treatment has also been shown ease skin allergies. The results of the study also suggest merely walking a outside and inhaling the bacteria can give you a dose of happiness. I think I might spend more time in the garden this year.

You know what could even be better than chemicals, dirt, exercise, diet or any other fandangle method? Its when someone takes a minute out of his or her busy life to say hello, or good job, or just simply thanks. In the workplace, a 2016 Gallup poll revealed that only one in three workers in the U.S. strongly agree that they received recognition or praise for doing good work in the past seven days, a factor, the poll says, that directly impacts productivity, turnover rate and employee engagement.On a broader scale we can look to the annual HomeTown Chamber Banquet. Each year in March the board recognizes the doers and dreamers of the county. Its a huge affair that sells out in days.

Our county is brimming with fine people who deserve to be recognized. They may not always like it or may even feel embarrassed over the hoopla, but thats ok. Its a small token of appreciation, a show of gratitude, can it can make a huge difference in a persons life. Thanks to all who were recognized during the annual HomeTown Chamber Award Banquet. Well, deserved winners in their own right!

Your feedback is always welcome. Readers are encouraged to email us at news@kingstreenews.com or write with your feedback, ideas, or questions.

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Dirt and happy microbes | Opinion - Kingstree News

Lisa Riley, is best known for playing Mandy Dingle in Emmerdale as a guest appearance on the show in 1995 and joined the regular cast permanently in 1996. She left in 2001, however later returned in 2019. She has recently opened up about her battle with her weight and confidence. Lisa - who has gone from a dress size 28 to a size 14 - has been showing off her weight loss on social media and it hasnt gone unnoticed by fans, with many flooding her Instagram photos with comments.

The Emmerdale star said she now looks at old photos of herself and asks whos that girl as she no longer recognises her old self.

Lisa slimmed down after giving up alcohol and junk food in 2012, but was left with a huge amount of excess skin.

The actress relied on a simple trick to slim down. At the beginning of her weight loss journey, Lisa watched her portion sizes and has now added a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day to her lifestyle.

Opening up about her decision to lose weight, Lisa told the Mirror: I started thinking about my own health.

READ MORE:Catherine Tyldesley weight loss: How the Coronation Street star lost huge amount of weight

People forget how gigantic I was. With the skin removal I lost 12 stone, one pound.

The surgeon chopped off one stone, four pounds. Since then my weight has more or less stayed the same.

Commenting on her new diet, Lisa added: Now, for lunch I eat either a bowl of soup or a plain jacket potato. Im never going to be a size 28 again.

The actress is known for playing Mandy Dingle in Emmerdale, but the soap has been suspended temporarily because of the coronavirus outbreak and Lisa is currently self-isolating at home.

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Over the weekend, Lisa shared a selfie, encouraging her followers to stay at home.

The sun is shining but I beg you PLEASE stay inside and respect the lives of EVERYONE.

Last year she shared a clip of her workout routine on a cruise with Strictly Come Dancing.

She captioned the video, which showed her sweating as she worked out on a machine: So here I am doing what I do best working out HARD.

Fans soon commented on the Instagram video as they encouraged her on her fitness journey.

You really are enjoying exercise, one comment read.

Wow you are so beautiful. A second added.

In 2012, the soap star shared her secret to maintaining her new weight loss.

I was the classic over-eater but I have completely changed my attitude towards food, said Lisa, whose favourite foods were crisps, crumpets, white bread and pasta.

I used to go out for a meal and have a starter, main and pudding. No wonder I was gaining weight.

Lisa Rileys Honesty Diet book was released last year and retails at 16.99. The diet plan came out on top five weeks running as the cheapest way to lose weight on ITVs Save Money: Lose Weight - costing just 11.79 for every pound lost.

Lisas Honesty Diet focuses on eating lots of fresh food and working out, with the focus on enjoying what youre eating and being as inexpensive as possible.

In 2017 she filmed a documentary detailing her weight loss titled Lisas Baggy Body Club.

Speaking in the film, she said: I feel like a balloon thats had all its helium taken out.

This encouraged her to open up about the battle on her ITV documentary. The actress underwent a tummy tuck, surgery to remove the loose skin from her thighs and the removal of excess skin on her arms.

Despite the tummy luck leaving scars behind, Lisa shared that it was worth it to get rid of the saggy skin.

Read more:
Lisa Riley weight loss: Emmerdale stars strict diet that led to losing 12 stone - Express.co.uk

A favourite among people trying to lose weight is the ketogenic diet which limits the intake of carbohydrates and concentrates on increasing intake of fats (mostly) and proteins. Like with all kinds of diet, the results begin to show only after a few months of diligent practice of the diet. It is mostly during this time that people often lose steam and begin cheating their diet. It is the same with the keto diet. Even though it might seem difficult and frustrating in the beginning, these five hacks might help you get through the initial phases of the diet and see more satisfactory results faster. These tips will also help you maintain your weight loss journey as you go ahead with your diet. Create a keto environment Preparation is the key to success in everything you do. The same is with your diet. Creating a suitable environment for your diet will help you stick to it for longer. There is always a war between your emotional brain and your rational brain, especially when you are following a strict diet. It helps at this time to not give your mind any kind of stimulus that may trigger a wrong eating choice. Make your environment force you to make healthier food choices. Here are a few things you can do to change the food environment at home Stop storing carb-heavy and unhealthy food. If you have to keep such food at home, keep it at a place that is out of your reach and sight Keep all keto-friendly foods close at hand Reduce your portion size to make sure you eat only the amount that is essential Also, prepare for your sweet cravings. They are bound to happen and being prepared in advance will help you keep up your diet and fulfill your cravings. You can keep keto-friendly sweeteners and desserts ready for whenever you have those uncontrollable cravings.

Add friendly fat to your diet It is proven that adding friendly fats or medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) is actually beneficial for people on a keto diet. These kinds of fats are easier to digest as compared to other forms of fat. Also, they go straight to the liver where they are converted to ketones. This helps you reach ketosis faster which is responsible for increased energy and feeling less hungry.

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5 tips to actually make your keto diet work - Times of India

If I've learned anything about the coronavirus these past few weeks it's that it's remarkably easy to sink in the couch and waste away when you can't leave the house.

Experts have pretty much all hailed the importance of exercise during this time of self-isolation. It will help you feel better about your situation, regulate your mood, and so on.

I consider myself a relatively active guy who could lose 10 poundspossibly a bit more now because of a quarantine diet. In The Before Time, most of my exercise came from a mixture of rock climbing and gym workouts (each 2 to 3 times a week).

Without a wall to climb or a bench press to chuck weight to the sky I decided to workout at home and booted up the ol' internet to see what was on offer.

I found an almost intimidating number of home workouts online. So many, in fact, that people may need a hero to rise up and sort the good from the bad. And who better to be that hero than a mildly out of shape guy who has way too much time on his hands? So, utilizing my time stuck inside for the good of humanity, I tried out seven workoutssome pretty useful, some involving dancing or a catand did my best to give them a rating for my kind, sweet readers.

Duration: 20 minutes

What a better place to start than with a workout specifically aimed at people stuck at home because of the coronavirus? This one, taught by Jeff Nippard, has been viewed over a million and a half times on YouTube.

"First of all, there is no need to panic about losing your gains," Nippard reassures me at the start.

Thanks, Jeff! Nippard's exercises are pretty basic, and include a lot of furniture: your couch or coffee table to do inverted push-ups, elevated sit ups, and a variety of lunges. He instructs us to pick four and do a full-body workout.

This was a fine workout. Because it was the first leg workout in a while it left me rather sore the next day. Very middle of the road and shows you what you can do in your living space if you have enough room.

Rating: 6/10

Duration: 40 minutes

I am the typical white man who cant dance worth shit.

I only really dance when Im a very particular drunk (a certain mix of the right setting, booze, and people). The last time I went out dancing with da boys, in 2016, I hurt myself cutting a rug to Talking Heads.

Despite my ineptitude, my editors wanted me to do some dance workouts for this story, I think mainly to watch me dance. They are bad people, but they are my bosses. So I danced.

One of my editors sent me a link to a live class by Debbie Allen, a choreographer whom Ive never heard of but is well-respected in the musical theatre community (she won an Emmy for Fame in the 80s.) I wasnt able to film this one because it was shown on Instagram Live and I had to watch it on my phone (my primary quarantine camera).

It was pretty fun, actually, even though I sucked mightily at it. On one hand, Im sure I looked like a complete ass to the person whom I caught watching me from the sidewalk, and on the other, Allen is pretty killer at keeping you pumped up and going.

But while I did enjoy her telling me to "hug the world" (a particular dance move where you extend your arms and, uh, hug the world) I didn't get that much of a sweat on.

Overall if youre bored, and enjoy moving about and dancing to 80s music, you might as well try this. But if youre looking for a good workout I dunno if this is for you.

Rating: 6/10

Duration: as long as your cat will put up with your shit (AND NOT A SECOND LONGER)

I have a remarkably chill cat, Poe, who is super stoked Im home so much, so I thought I would find a workout we could do together.

Unfortunately, the video that promised me how to do it was just an annoyingly handsome man lifting his cat in the air while doing different exercises. It was a joke but I did not care.

So I got Poe and started with the squats.

Then some curls.

Finally, a modified bench to work on my lats.

Then Poe got fed up, wanted to be put down and I, as I always do, did as he wanted. Not only did I feel like I was being a jerk to my cat I also didnt get that sick pump Ive been seeking.

Would not recommend it.

Rating: 2/10

Duration: 40 minutes

After not getting footage of myself dancing, my editors sent me another dancing video. This one was a hip hop routine taught by So You Think You Can Dances tWitch, and set to Good Kid, M.A.A.D City by Kendrick Lamar. I like the song so I thought I would enjoy this and that it would be like the other dance where I would feel goofy but would have fun.

This was so much of a confidence destroyer that I didnt even have fun.

The routine was so far above my skill level it wasnt even close. It was like my editors gave me one taekwondo class and made me go fight 1980s Jean-Claude Van Damme. I could barely follow along for the most basic steps and when they were strung together, I got lost and my body kinda just gave up.

In terms of a workout, it would be OK if you could keep up but if you can't you just feel bad about yourself.

Rating: 7/10 if you can dance, 0/10 if youre me.

Duration: 9 minutes to 20 minutes

I'm a good farm boy who misses the NHL season something fierce, so I decided to see if I could use a hockey stick to work off my sorrow.

First I found a video that mixes stickhandling with a core workout a minute of stickhandling followed by a minute of crunches or sit ups. Pretty straightforward stuff.

It wasnt too bad but I didnt get the full-body burn I was hoping for. It was short, very specific and just kinda felt like you should just use it to supplement a full workout.

So I busted out my duct tape, hockey stick, and a couple of free weights. I taped some weights to the bottom of the hockey stick, grabbed a tennis ball, and did some stickhandling. It worked out my triceps but not much else, so I decided to try and turn my hockey stick, chair, couch, and two more weights into a modified bench press.

That was stupid, wasnt it? Dont do this.

Rating of my official video: 4/10

Rating of my modified workout: 1/10

Duration: 20 minutes

If you've compared your self-isolation to prison, you're in luck: There are quite a few prison-style workouts online. After going through the options, almost all taught by massive tattooed men who could turn me into mush with a single glance, I decided to go with Mike Gunzs video because Id love to be a shredded boy.

Now, Gunz is an intimidating fellow. He runs the channel Felony Muscles, and is a bodybuilder and apparently an ex-con.

Gunz explains he used to do this workout in his cell. It starts with four sets of 20 push-ups, 15 squats, and 15 burpees. Then you do three sets of lunges (10 each leg) and sprints. Following that are three sets of pushups. Then some chin-ups (I dont have a bunk to rip chinnies on so I did some crunches, tricep dips, and pushups instead.

I was murdered at the end of this one.

This was a hell of a workout especially after the hockey and the dancing. It feels like it wont be a lot when you start it but at the end of the fourth of exercises, set you feel destroyed and then you have to just keep going cause you dont want Mr. Gunz to get mad at you.

Gunz is also actually pretty entertaining. He does a voiceover over footage of himself working out. He shit talks himself for getting tired early, complains about how some people don't believe he does the full sets, and ruminates on how defined his back looks during chin-ups. I wasnt able to find out why Gunz went to prison but I hope its nothing too bad cause I kinda like the guy.

Rating: 8/10

Duration: 30 minutes

Lets switch gears in grand style, from a prison workout to an at-home phys-ed workout for kids. Joe Wicks runs a YouTube channel called Body Coach TV and has 3.2 million followers on Instagram. He was due to start a tour of U.K. schools to promote fitness, but it got cancelled because of the coronavirus. So he decided to livestream PE classes every weekday at 9 a.m. local time for kids whose schools have closed.

I decided to use a video from his first livestream on March 23.

Oddly, the workout is not all that far off from Gunzs prison workoutbut less intense and with a far less terrifying backstory. We do some high-intensity interval training involving jumping jacks, shadow boxing, squats, and running on the spot.

I know this is for kids but I was sweating pretty good at the end of this one.

Honestly, this would be boring but Wicks is so goddamn likeable and upbeat. At the start of the class he said he always wanted to be a PE teacher and now he kinda feels like he is. He talks to you so much that the half-hour workout moves quickly and his conversational style kinda kills the loneliness of workouts at home.

Probably going to continue doing this one as quarantine drags out.

Rating: 8/10

Just do whatever workout you want. This is a stressful time and you shouldnt add to your stress with the burden of forcing yourself to exercise.

That said if you are looking for something, a mix of Joe Wicks and Mike Gunz might do ya right.

Follow Mack Lamoureux on Twitter .

Originally posted here:
Which Home Workout Is the Best? Not the One Involving Your Cat - VICE

Provided by Daily Mail Staying healthy: Kelly Ripa's nutritionist has revealed the seven immunity-boosting steps he's recommended to her Even in the best of times, most people could use an immunity boost to help them fight off disease. But now, more than ever, most of us are looking for ways to be healthier, be stronger, and should we get sick convalesce faster.

Celebrity nutritionist Dr. Daryl Gioffre is an anti-inflammation expert who has advised stars like Kelly Ripa for years and now he's lifting the lid on the seven-stepImmunity Booster Protocol he's recommended to the TV host to help her stay in good health.

'Like anything in life, the best thing you can do is be prepared,' Dr. Gioffre told DailyMail.com. 'Keeping your immune system strong and healthy is where all your energy needs to be focused on right now.'

Dr. Gioffre, who is also the author of Get Off Your Acid,has worked with a fair few stars.In addition to Kelly, 49, his clients includeDorinda Medley, Kelly Dodd,Ramona Singer,Ryan Seacrest, Mario Lopez, and Petra Nemcova.

But even celebrities get sick, which is why he recommends a daily routine to help fight off illness.

'This three-part approach diet, exercise, and supplements is my most powerful protocol to build a strong immune system,' Dr. Gioffre said.

'Broken down into seven steps, this is the best way to keep you healthy.'

Help researchers at the Regenstrief Institute track the outbreak

1. Dehydrated Green Juice Powder

Provided by Daily Mail Green juice: He said that she starts each morning with a scoop ofAlkamind Daily Greens, a concentrated organic green juice powder 'The very first thing Kelly Ripa does to start her day and kickstart her immune system all year round is to add one scoop of our Alkamind Daily Greens ($39.99), a concentrated organic green juice powder, to a glass of water and drink,' Dr. Gioffre said.

This deliversfive servings of greens, which Dr. Gioffre says 'drives down inflammation, builds healthier blood, detoxifies your body, and gives you a powerful blend of antioxidants that boost energy and immunity.'

Green juice also has plenty of chlorophyll, a green pigment found in plants that has major health benefits.

'It's been shown to slow the rate at which harmful bacteria and viruses reproduce, making it beneficial for preventing infections and protecting immune function moving forward,' the doctor said.

'In fact, theres some evidence that chlorophyll benefits your skin, the first line of defense, due to its antiviral effects.'

2. Liposomal Vitamin C

He suggests taking 1,500 mg of Vitamin C every day.

'Liposomal Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which not only supports your immune system, but activates it when threatened by germs or a virus,' he explained. 'It is also an essential part of the skins defense system, strengthening the skins barriers.'

3. Black Seed Oil

'As much as I love Vitamin C, there is another antioxidant that Kelly Ripa is regularly taking that is even more powerful for immunity: Alkamind Black Seed Oil ($39.99),'Dr. Gioffre went on.

'The active ingredient in Black Seed Oil is Thymoquinone, the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory.

'Research shows that taking one capsule daily is three times more anti-inflammatory than turmeric, and 1,000 times more active an antioxidant than Vitamin E and Elderberry combined.'

4. Bioactive Silver Hydrosol (Sovereign Silver)

Bioactive Silver Hyrodol is 'a nano version' of colloidal silver, which consists of tiny silver particles in liquid, according to Dr. Gioffre.

He calls it a 'natural antibiotic,' claiming it has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

He recommends taking 15 sprays in the mouth and five up the nasal area, asserting that it 'kills pathogens on demand' and 'is a great way to protect your first line of defense' since virus liked to 'hang out' in that area before entering the body.

Though colloidal silver is sometimes promoted as ahomeopathic remedy, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health(NCCIH) notes that there is little evidence supporting health claims and that it an also have serious side effects.

In 1999, the FDA also warned that colloidal silver isn't safe or effective for treating any disease or condition.

Provided by Daily Mail Dr. Gioffre's clients include Dorinda Medley (pictured), Kelly Dodd, and Ramona Singer Provided by Daily Mail Other clients include Ryan Seacrest, Mario Lopez, and Petra Nemcova (pictured)

5. Vitamin D3

People generally like to get Vitamin D from the sun but with everyone stuck inside during quarantine, supplements are the way to go.

Dr. Gioffre suggests adults take a 5,000 IUcapsule daily to get what they need.

'[Vitamin D] plays a critical role in regulating the adaptive immune system particularly T cells, which fight infection,' he said. 'In fact, it's been shown in the research that one of the primary reasons why most of us get the flu is vitamin D deficiency.'

6. Eat a High-Alkaline Diet

'Heres the problem: Most of us are pumping up our bodies with acidic foods such as sugar, grains, dairy, processed foods, coffee,' the doctor explained.

'Add on the emotional stress of this current pandemic, and thats making your body have to work so much harder to keep your pH balanced, which becomes a recipe for immune disaster.'

Though you cant change your blood pH, you can take some of the burden off your body by eating healthy alkaline foods and managing your stress.

'This will increase our energy and our bodies ability to mobilize a healthy immune defense,' he said.

To that end, Kelly eats aplant-based alkaline diet, which reduces inflammation and acidity which 'can drain us of the minerals we need to boost immunity and fight off infections,' the doctor explained.

'So after Live with Kelly and Ryan airs, Kelly will eat healthy plant-based fats such as raw almond butter mixed with cinnamon and some green apple slices.

'At lunch, she will have a big salad loaded with microgreens, avocados, nuts such as almonds or walnuts, or some pumpkin seeds,' he went on, while dinner will be a smaller salad with grilled vegetables, plant-based protein such as tofu, and tahini.

'Its all about balance, which is what makes Kelly so healthy. She listens to her body, and if she wants to enjoy a snack, she will do so, but always does her best to make it as healthy as possible.'

Provided by Daily Mail Dr. Gioffre strongly encourages people to stay active any way they can during quarantine Provided by Daily Mail Kelly has been working out at home, sharing one video workout she did on Instagram

7. Daily Exercise

This is the toughest one to keep up during quarantine, but Dr. Gioffre strongly encourages people to stay active any way they can whether it be going for a walk with a face mask or getting sweaty inside.

Kelly, of course, has professional guidance but even she can't seecelebrity trainer Anna Kaiser right now, and has been resorting to virtual workouts.

'Exercise and movement is critical for supporting a healthy immune system and lymphatic system,' Dr. Gioffre said.

'Regular exercise boosts your body's natural defense mechanisms, helping you to fight disease and prevent harmful germs from taking a hold in your body.

'It will also help your lungs flush out any potential harmful bacteria, and will mobilize your army of white blood cells faster, necessary for a proper immune defense.'

Read more

Gallery: The best foods for women over 40 (Prevention)

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EXCLUSIVE: Kelly Ripa's nutritionist details the seven-step immunity-boosting routine he created for the TV host, which includes vitamins, green...

On Sunday, 5 April, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he wouldnt rule out a potential ban on exercise outside the home if people didnt comply with social-distancing rules. In a press conference later that day, he added that the government had no imminent plans to do so, but further steps could not be ruled out. For now, rules allow us to go outside to the shops for essentials and for one form of exercise per day. The idea that exercise might be stopped completely rang alarm bells for many, and several health experts have reacted to the news.

Professor John Edmunds, Professor in the Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, explained how the risk of transmission was greatly reduced outdoors. There are three potential routes of transmission: via fomites (contact with an infected surface, such as a door handle); via aerosols (tiny particles that can stay suspended in the air); and droplets (larger particles that rapidly fall to the ground). The first two of these routes would be reduced to virtually zero out of doors, as you are much less likely to touch an infected surface, and suspended particles will be massively diluted by the fresh air and the viral particles that they contain rapidly destroyed by desiccation and UV light.

This leaves droplets. As long as you keep a reasonable distance away from others, your risk will also be reduced to extremely low levels.

According to Edmunds, banning people from going outdoors to exercise would have a negligible impact on the epidemiology of this disease but a marked impact on peoples mental health and wellbeing.

Professor Linda Bauld, Bruce and John Usher Professor of Public Health and CPHS Co-Director at the Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, also touched on the detrimental impact a ban on exercise could have to the nations mental health. The health implications of the lockdown that we anticipate increased alcohol consumption, domestic violence, anxiety and depression, poor diet and decreased physical activity will get worse if we confine more of us to our homes without the hugely important respite that outdoor exercise provides, said Bauld. She believes stronger scientific evidence about viral transmission would be needed to justify the ban, and that enforcement measures were key to ensuring people followed the rules.

Bauld also questioned whether those making the decisions, who were still going outside to travel to meetings, simply dont understand the impact that further restrictions will have on millions of people in the UK.

And Keith Neal, Emeritus Professor of the Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases at the University of Nottingham, touched on the importance of exercise in the bodys response to COVID-19. Exercise reduces blood pressure and obesity, and can improve diabetes control in people with type 2 diabetes. These are all very common conditions and also, importantly, risk factors for severity in COVID-19 infections. Small increases in very common risk factors can have large effects. This could potentially lead to an increase in people needing hospitalisation and critical care, he said.

He added that it is perfectly possible to exercise once a day and pose no risk to others or yourself, and that there needs to be better enforcement of the rules, rather than further restrictions.

How to plan your route to avoid busy places

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Experts react to the idea of banning exercise outside the home - Runner's World (UK)

As COVID-19 run rampant through the United States, many Americans may be wondering what they can do to improve or boost their immune systems, as a healthy immune system is one of the best defenses against the devastating effects of the virus.

Dr. Patrick Proctor, a cardiologist with HeartSouth in Alabaster, said residents dont need to take an array of multivitamins and supplements to have a healthy and strong immune system. He said the best way to do that is through eating a balanced diet.

Our bodies dont tolerate deficiencies in micronutrients very well, he said.

Micronutrients refer to the vitamins and minerals that humans need for energy production, immune function, blood clotting, growth, bone health, fluid balance and several other processes. Zinc, folic acid, vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K, iron and copper are examples of micronutrients.

I commonly see people identify one substance and they find and consume foods that are high in that one thing, thinking that theyre helping their immune system, Proctor said. In reality, they havent done themselves a favor at all because theyre forgetting about balance.

Proctor said the over consumption of some micronutrients, like vitamin A, can actually cause other problems. This is most seen when people take high doses of micronutrients in pill-form. Proctor urged residents not to rely on herbs and supplements to boost their immune systems.

When consumed properly through food, vitamin A helps to build up the surface of the eye,mucous membranesand the skin be effectivebarriersto bacteria and viruses, reducing the risk of eye infections, respiratory problems and other infectious diseases. Foods rich in vitamin A are typically bright in color, like sweet potatoes, carrots, red bell peppers, mangoes and eggs. Dark, leafy greens, such as spinach, are also good sources of vitamin A.

Proctor said many peoples diets are lacking the right mix of fruits and vegetables. Peoples diets tend to include a lot of fast food and high-starch foods, he said.

Another way to ensure that the body is primed to fight off viruses is by eating protein-rich foods like eggs, lean meat, nuts and seeds.

A common myth is that exercise will weaken your immune system, Proctor said. This has been studied extensively and exercise has been found to improve circulation, which is also important to the immune system.

Another thing thats important to note is that smoking will lower the bodys defenses against respiratory infections like COVID-19. Excessive consumption of alcohol will do that same thing.

Proctor said one of the most common mistakes made when it comes to immune system health is inadequate sleep.

Poor sleep will impact your immune system, Proctor said. There are a lot of people experiencing chronic sleep deprivation. The benefits of proper sleep go well beyond immune system function.

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Doctor shares advice on how to boost your immune system - Shelby County Reporter - Shelby County Reporter

The key to living longer could be to eat a healthy, balanced diet - including at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day - as well as regular exercise. But you could boost your life expectancy by regularly eating berries, it's been claimed.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a well-rounded diet is crucial to prolonging your lifespan.

You could also boost your lifespan by doing regular exercise. Its the miracle cure weve all been waiting for, according to the NHS.

Making some small diet or lifestyle changes could help to increase your life expectancy and avoid an early death.

Regularly eating a handful of berries could improve the health of your heart, its been claimed.

READ MORE: How to live longer: Diet to increase life expectancy

Berries are a nutritious, heart-healthy snack for everyone, according to dietitian Juliette Kellow and nutritionist Dr Sarah Brewer.

Theyre rich in antioxidants and fibre, which contribute to cardiovascular improvements, they said.

Eating just three or more servings of berries every week could lower your risk of a heart attack by as much as 34 per cent, they revealed.

All berries are good for you - the vibrant blues, purples, and reds of this supergroup are an indication that they are packed with damage-fighting antioxidants, they wrote in their book Eat Better Live Longer - Understand What Your Body Needs To Stay Healthy.

DON'T MISSHow to live longer: Study suggests way to boost life expectancy [RESEARCH]How to live longer: Best exercise to boost your life expectancy [LATEST]How to live longer: A food to increase life [DIET]

But not all berries are created equal - some are better than others when it comes to longevity.

All berries have been linked to cardiovascular improvements [its the winning combination of antioxidants and fibre].

Research shows that eating at least three servings of blueberries or strawberries a week can reduce the risk of a heart attack.

The high levels of polyphenols in berries have also been shown to lower high blood pressure.

You could also lower risk of some cancers by regularly eating berries, they added.

Theyre rich in phytochemicals; many of which have cancer-fighting properties. They may be particularly useful in protecting against oesophageal, breast and colon cancers.

For the most nutritious effects, you should keep them in the fridge for optimum levels of vitamin C.

Eating five portions of fruit and vegetables every week is the best way to make sure you lead a long and healthy life.

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How to live longer - the 30p a day snack to avoid heart attack and early death - Express

What does your trainer always tell you at the end of the workout?

In your exercise routine, do that last squat if you want to achieve your goals. But you skip the final reps because youre afraid youll later feel pain. Well, inflammation is part of muscle training because as you exercise you generate small tears and cause muscle damage. The consequence is that the tissues grow back stronger and with higher intensity, but the repair process is quite painful, especially when you hit the gym hard. Gym enthusiasts often state that no pain, no gain. But should you suffer to get that 6-pack ab? You should no longer skip the last exercise because finishing a good workout brings you a sense of empowerment and triumph.

Pain is a part of building muscle mass. And where do you count that nowadays you can use many methods to relieve side-effects? CBD is one of them. Lets find more about it.

Why are you sore after working out?

No matter how long youre working out, it can be a month or 10 years, you still feel sore after workouts. Some sessions leave you sore for days. The NHS states that according to how extensive the damage to muscle fibres is, the intensity and longevity of pain can vary. After exercising the muscles, they become inflamed and trigger your body to respond and repair. The entire process generates stiffness and soreness.

How CBD promotes muscle recovery after exercise

CBD has many documented health benefits, and one of the most known ones is that it helps to alleviate post-exercise inflammation. In 2018, specialists published Frontiers in Neurology, and they revealed that CBD is effective in improving overall health and reducing inflammation related to exercising.

Specialists still explore the benefit of CBD oil for exercise-induced inflammation, but research shows promising results, so it makes sense to use products containing CBD to lower inflammation and speed muscle recovery.

Does it influence pain perception?

Sports enthusiasts have many reasons to think CBD can speed muscle recovery in people who train regularly. CBD Oil is effective in reducing exercise-induced inflammation and supporting muscle recovery.

CBD oil also can help promote a sense of calm which can help with sleep patterns. And everyone knows that sleep helps support overall wellness in athletes who are looking to promote muscle recovery.

CBD encourages restorative sleep

If you work out regularly, you know its important to rest after a strenuous session. Your body integrates the aspects of the exercises you perform while you catch a wink, and a lack of sleep can undermine all your efforts. When you sleep properly, you offer your body and mind time to recover, boost energy levels, and restore muscle fibers. But sometimes, a herculean workout stops you from falling asleep. CBD can help you when sleep is a challenge.

Incorporating CBD oil in your post-workout recovery routine can help your body relax and will even support your healthy sleep cycles. You can also use it an hour before bedtime or try a gummy with CBD and melatonin if youre looking for additional support. Sports enthusiasts often drink a sleep cocktail that contains tart cherry juice, grape juice, and CBD oil.

You can also combine CBD with any tea you like to drink. Its recommended to try mint tea because its a natural relaxer, and a warm drink helps your body unwind.

Sleep is crucial for muscle recovery because during workouts you use them extensively and only sleep can help them heal.

Can athletes use CBD?

Athletes should always check with their doctor if they can include CBD products in their diet. They need to consider their tolerance and body size because CBD comes in many forms, from oil to balms, tinctures and creams.

Athletes often drink a post-workout smoothie to improve their energy levels after exercising. But they should know that a healthy diet balanced in carbs and protein is the key to building strength and restoring muscles. Adding the recommended serving size of CBD oil in their smoothie can give their body a boost after an exhausting workout.

A great post-workout smoothie recipe includes 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder, a cup of Greek yoghurt, 1 T of natural peanut butter, 1 oz milk, 5 ice cubes and CBD oil.

How should you use CBD for recovery?

Most fitness enthusiasts use CBD oil because they can easily add it to their smoothies and take it after a workout. But beyond this form, its also sold in capsules, creams, hemp infused balms and edibles. So you need to determine what form is the most helpful for you. But before using any CBD product determine how much CBD you can take according to your weight and age. Check the providers suggested serving size guidelines and get in touch with your doctor to find out if you can use it. It reacts differently in different bodies, so take a small amount first and then gradually build up to the recommended daily serving size.

CBD is crafted in nature and perfected by science and every fitness passionate recommends choosing the path with the fewest risks when training. You need something to speed muscle recovery and reduce inflammation post-exercise, so try something natural first. Even if theres still much to be discovered about CBD products, they have beneficial effects for the body.

CBD for exercise-induced inflammation is an interesting subject, and more and more scientists have focused on it lately because they want to find out how it influences inflammatory biomarkers.

Continued here:
Do that last squat CBD can help reduce exercise-induced inflammation - SF Weekly

Eating with hands has its good old history in India. It was not only a part and parcel of our traditions but was also the simplest way of eating food. In todays time there are not many people who still eat with their hands. With glittery and fancy cutlery taking over our traditions, most people find eating with spoons more convenient. But do you know that eating with hands has its own list of health benefits? Here are some good enough reasons to toss your cutlery away and start eating with your hands: Increases blood circulation Eating with your hands is a wonderful exercise which further helps in blood circulation. Be it mixing your food together or forming bites of dal and roti, using your hands makes your joints and fingers move, which is equivalent to any hand exercise.

Helps you maintain food proportion Eating with hands is a comparatively slow process than eating with a spoon. Thus, you not only spend more time chewing the food but also eat lesser than how much you usually eat with a spoon.

Forms a connection with food

Eating using hands has been an old tradition of our Indian culture. In those times, people not only used their hands to eat but also used to sit on the ground during meals. Though it has been advanced to fancy cutlery and dining tables, eating with hands still hold a special connection with each one of us. Eating with hands not only makes us feel nostalgic but also makes us form a connection with what we are eating.

Originally posted here:
Eating with spoon or with hands? Find what's better for your health - Times of India