Interval training for a stronger heart

Interval training means alternating between short bursts of intense exercise and brief periods of rest or less-intense activity. Interval training builds cardiovascular fitness, although it does require exercisers to push their personal limit. Another benefit is being able to get the same amount of aerobic (oxygen-burning) exercise in a shorter (but more intense) workout. Whatever a man’s current exercise regimen, he can often adapt it for interval training. To avoid injury or fatigue, it’s wise to work up slowly to intense exercise.  More »

Melatonin for jet lag

Some research suggests that taking a melatonin supplement can help to restore a normal sleep rhythm after traveling across multiple time zones. It may be more helpful for eastward travel. More »

Water and health: Follow your thirst

It is a myth that everyone needs to drink at least eight glasses of water a day for health. Individual water needs vary, but people get most of what they need from food and beverages. The Institute of Medicine determined that about 16 cups (4 quarts) of water from all sources—food, beverages, and drinking water—should meet the average American man’s needs. Contrary to popular belief, caffeinated and alcohol-containing beverages are not dehydrating and do count toward the daily total intake of fluids. To meet their needs, most people just need to drink additional water or beverages when thirsty.  (Locked) More »

Lifestyle changes for healthy blood pressure

When blood pressure rises above healthy limits, men are faced with a decision: take a medication now, or try to lower it with nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Four steps that can have a measurable impact on blood pressure are eating healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight if you are overweight, and moderating alcohol consumption. Lifestyle change can be challenging, but some simple strategies can help. They include setting obtainable goals, tracking progress on weight loss and exercise, making healthy behaviors into habits, and working with peers toward the same goals. (Locked) More »

Physical therapy as good as surgery for common spine-related back pain

Surgery and intensive physical therapy each produce similar relief for spinal stenosis, or back pain caused by narrowing of the space around the spinal nerves. Surgery has risks, but physical therapy requires more effort. The choice comes down to personal preference. Some men may find surgical risks acceptable in exchange for the chance of immediate relief; other men may prefer to give physical therapy a try first. Research suggests that the physical therapy must be relatively rigorous to be effective. (Locked) More »

Flu vaccination: Win some, lose some

Annual vaccination lowers the risk of flu infection but is more effective in some years than others because it is not always possible to predict exactly which strains of the virus are most prevalent. Despite varying results, vaccination is strongly recommended for people with health problems that put them at higher risk of severe flu complications like pneumonia. People at high risk are also urged to take an antiviral medication as soon as they start to feel flu symptoms. Starting on drugs early suppresses the virus before it has a chance to trigger more serious health problems. (Locked) More »