Are you always the unlucky one in your family or group of friends who seems to get waylaid by a cold — again and again? Why me — you ask yourself. Well, here’s an interesting article that takes a look at the various factors that make you more vulnerable to getting a cold. It’s a combination of factors, really. Your genetics, your past exposure to various cold viruses and the luck of the draw — were you in the wrong place at the wrong time and grabbed a shopping cart just used by someone with not-so-good nasal hygiene?
You might also like to take a look at a slightly older article on the link between immunity and exercise. Researchers found that people who exercised five days a week for at least 20 minutes had 40 percent fewer days of illness compared to those who only exercised one day (or less) each week. Yes exercise just keeps racking up the benefits — but keep in mind that genetics and being next to one good sneeze can still send the sniffles your way.
When it comes to healthy living — think moderation. That goes for your intake of dietary supplements as well. Vitamin D has been in the headlines a lot lately — touted as a possible preventative measure against everything from cancer and autism, to diabetes, heart disease and the flu. And recommendations for increased doses of Vitamin D have filled the press. Now, recent research from the Institute of Medicine indicates that Vitamin D supplements may not be as beneficial as recently assumed. And, further, too much Vitamin D over a sustained period of time may have negative effects. The Institute of Medicine panel also notes that they found no evidence of a national epidemic of vitamin D deficiency, contrary to earlier articles by American media. This article from NPR is worth a read — Medical Panel: Don’t Go Overboard on Vitamin D.
Berries have long been credited with a variety of health benefits - but just how much of that is myth and fact? NPR shared an interesting report about the health benefits of cranberries and blueberries and the chemistry behind those benefits.
In a nutshell, some of the old lore surrounding berries does have some truth to it. While our ancestors may not have understood the “why” behind the health benefits of cranberries and blueberries, they were correct in their use of them.
- Cranberries can help prevent urinary tract infections. They have been found to keep bacteria from sticking to our cells.
- The berries are filled with beneficial vitamin C - which did prevent scurvy.
- The polyphenols in berries are great anti-oxidants, reducing the damage done to our tissues over time by oxygen.
- Anthocyanins, which make the berry blue or red, are credited with reducing inflammatory reactions. This can help in reducing your risk for cardiovascular disease or cancer.
- Blueberries may help you improve your memory. Scientists haven’t identified what makes that possible, but suspect it is the anthocyanins.
- Blueberries may help reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and help regulate blood sugars, thus lowering your risk for diabetes 2.
NPR shares some great blueberry and cranberry recipes as well. Enjoy.
Growing numbers of people suffer from lactose intolerance - experiencing nausea, cramps, bloating, gas or diarrhea when they eat dairy products. Lactose intolerance is caused when a person’s body doesn’t create enough lactase, the enzyme used to break down sugar (lactose) found in dairy products.
Most people with lactose intolerance do not need to completely eliminate dairy from their diets. Lactase enzyme replacement pills taken before a meal can help prevent or lessen symptoms brought on by eating dairy.
What else can you do to alleviate lactose intolerance symptoms?
Can you get a cold because you go hatless on a breezy winter day? Do zinc supplements work? What about Vitamin C? Here’s a great NPR article and recommended read that provides an entertaining look at the myths and facts surrounding the common cold.
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