Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Certain fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds have been labeled "superfoods" because, compared with other foods, they have higher amounts of certain vitamins and minerals and powerful antioxidants. They often are associated with combating high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers. But instead of focusing on eating more of individual foods, experts suggest building "superplates" that include a variety of superfoods.

A recent review found not only that coffee won't harm cardiovascular health or raise the risk of cancer, but it may actually have some health benefits. These include a lower risk of diabetes, and certain cancers, such as liver, and endometrial cancer. Many of these benefits may come from plant chemicals found in coffee.

Eating an unhealthy meal every now and then may not cause problems for generally healthy people. This may mean eating a healthy diet 90% of the time and splurging 10% of the time. It's called the 90-10 rule. But the rule shouldn't be abused. Cheating regularly on a healthy diet can lead to weight gain and other consequences of poor eating habits. Instead, one should follow a healthy diet on most days, and indulge only occasionally.

Celebrities and influencers claim that consuming collagen could have miraculous benefits for skin, hair, and nails. But what does the science say?

Ragweed pollen and mold spores are common causes of allergies during the fall months. Breathing them into the lungs may cause the body to overreact, leading to classic allergy symptoms of a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing.

Age-related muscle loss is a natural part of getting older. But muscle loss can occur faster after an injury, illness, or any prolonged period of inactivity, leading to muscle atrophy. The consequences can mean overall weakness, poor balance, and even frailty. The good news is that it's possible to rebuild lost muscle through a comprehensive program that includes physical therapy, strength training, cardio, flexibility, and a nutrition plan that includes more protein and calories.

Eating healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge for some. But using simple strategies, such as building meals from three categories (a protein, a vegetable, and a carbohydrate) and aiming to ensure that at least half of your plate includes healthy options. It’s also a good idea to keep food out of sight to avoid mindless eating if you are spending more time at home.

A variety of coaches can help people reach their particular health goals. Health and wellness coaches inspire and guide clients to shift their mindset and develop new, healthy behaviors. Fitness professionals—such as personal trainers or exercise physiologists—develop and prescribe exercise regimens to help clients. Dietitians develop eating plans tailored to clients’ needs, such as weight loss or gain, or preventing or treating chronic disease. And culinary coaches use coaching principles and cooking expertise to teach people how to shop for and prepare healthy meals.