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Healthy aging and longevity Archive

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Do BMI numbers add up?

For decades, researchers have used body mass index (BMI) to estimate a person’s body fat mass and predict possible health risks. While BMI is helpful, it can’t accurately measure the type of fat people accumulate, especially among older adults. Monitoring one’s waist size with a simple measuring tape may be a better option.

Looking past blood pressure numbers

For decades, blood pressure treatment was dictated by a person’s numbers, with a blood pressure less than 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) considered normal. But evidence has proved this to be an inadequate goal. Research now suggests an individualized approach to managing blood pressure that considers other heart health risks, lifestyle habits, and family history may be a better way to ward off heart attacks and strokes.

Can whole grains help whittle your waist?

It appears that people who eat at least three servings of whole grains per day gain fewer inches around their waist than people who eat less than half a serving per day, according to a study published online July 13, 2021, by The Journal of Nutrition.

Embrace healthy habits for a robust memory

Healthy lifestyle habits may contribute to better brain health and sharper thinking skills. For example, getting at least seven hours of sleep each night gives the brain time to consolidate and store information and also flush out waste—including Alzheimer’s disease–related toxins. Eating a healthy diet helps ward off "mini" strokes that kill brain cells and lead to cognitive decline. Other healthy lifestyle habits that may help cognition include exercising, managing stress, and practicing mindfulness.

Can I skip vaccination if I had COVID?

Evidence suggests that people who've had COVID-19 may have some natural protection against the virus, but will have a much stronger immune response if they also get the vaccine.

Confused about eating soy?

The FDA wants to pull its support of the health claim that eating soy protein may help reduce the risk of heart disease. The agency proposed the change last fall, citing evidence that questions whether there's any real benefit to heart health. If the FDA goes through with the move, then food makers will no longer be allowed to market soy products with the claim that they can help your heart. But soy won't hurt your heart, and soy does have other benefits.

Rising alcohol use among older adults

In recent years alcohol use by older adults has been trending upward, particularly among women. Drinking too much alcohol can have negative consequences on physical and mental health, and age-related changes in the body can place older adults who drink at additional risk.

Harvard Health Ad Watch: Can a wearable device reduce stress?

Stress can affect sleep, mood, and appetite, and the long-term effects of chronic stress have been linked to health issues like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and Alzheimer's disease. A wearable device claims that it can reduce stress and build the wearer's resistance to stressful situations — but how does it work, and can any of its claims be proven?

Supplements: A scorecard

A detailed look at supplements and their medical use.

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