Is it possible to to fend off colds and flu by partaking in yoga? New research confirms that yoga, in addition to making you feel good, c
an actually help prevent winter illness. Healthy people who practiced a minimum of 4 times a week for 12 weeks improved their immune function and increased their antioxidant levels. And, says sports medicine physician Jordan Metzl, “any gentle movement promotes anti-inflammatory responses in the body.” Yoga studios have a lot of germs, so you still need to wipe down your mat and avoid nearby sneezers. But, says Metzl, “hopefully you’ve made yourself healthy enough that you’re teflon coated.”
“GO. TO. BED.”
In other research news, night owls weigh more – by a lot. When researchers tracked the sleeping habits of 3,000 people from adolescence to adulthood, every additional hour they stayed up during the workweek was associated with a 2.1-point increase in BMI, no matter total hours slept, whether they exercised regularly, or even if they caught up on rest on the weekends.
The #1 Veggie to Always Buy Organic
Green beans are among the most popular veggies in America – and the riskiest. According to new data from the Consumer Reports Food Safety and Sustainability Center, the beans fall into the “very high risk”category because they’re often contaminated with toxic pesticides like acephate, and its by-products, which at high exposures are associated with nausea, dizziness and damage to the nervous system. Other risky produce topping the list: apples, bell and hot peppers, peaches, sweet potatoes, and tangerines. Your best bet: Go for organic versions. Buy them frozen this time of year – you’ll save cash without skimping on nutrition.
January 2016