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Physical activity and exercise Archive

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Physical therapy as good as surgery for healing knee meniscal tears

A 2022 study found that physical therapy works as well as surgery for degenerative meniscal tears in the knee, an injury related to tissue aging that can lead to osteoarthritis. This approach offers an alternative for people concerned about surgery's costs and possible complications.

Doing any aerobic activity regularly may help you live longer

A 2022 study found that doing any type of aerobic activity for the recommended amount of time each week was tied to a 13% lower risk for premature death from any cause, compared with not exercising.

Is the COVID-19 pandemic over, or not?

Infections and deaths from COVID-19 are still occurring every day in the US, although many people are acting like the pandemic is over. So is it over, or not?

How well do colonoscopies prevent colorectal cancer? What you need to know

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death among Americans. A recent study raised questions about the value of screening colonoscopy, which can identify and remove precancerous growths, and our experts weigh in with answers.

Vaccines against the flu and COVID-19: What you need to know

Autumn is when infectious respiratory diseases start to spread more readily. That's why October is the ideal time to boost your immunity against the viruses that cause flu and COVID-19.

When is the "right" time for weight loss surgery?

Weight-loss surgery is now viewed as a way to both prevent and treat health problems linked to extreme obesity, such as diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea. Annually, more than 250,000 Americans undergo bariatric procedures, which can help extend their lives. Weight-loss procedures include sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and gastric banding, which reduce stomach size and change the way the body absorbs food. The surgery adds to other weight-loss measures such as diet, exercise, and medications.

What do food freshness labels really mean?

Food freshness dates rarely mean products are unsafe after the date listed. Refrigerated items usually keep for days to weeks, while canned and boxed goods often keep longer.

Heart health guidelines get updated

The American Heart Association recently revised its checklist for achieving optimal heart health. Adequate sleep was added, and updates were made to previous recommendations for diet, cholesterol and blood sugar measurements, and nicotine exposure.

Meeting your exercise goals online

The COVID-19 pandemic shut down many gyms, spawning new online fitness class options that included Spin, Pilates, dance, and yoga. Maintaining an exercise routine during the pandemic offered multiple physical and mental health benefits by boosting mood-related brain chemicals and enhancing sleep. People exercising virtually could stay fit and maintain contact with others without risk of COVID infection. Even beyond pandemic-related concerns, virtual workouts can offer convenience, variety, privacy, and a sense of shared experience.

Natural ways to boost energy

As men age, many factors affect their energy levels, such as declining muscle mass, unhealthy diet, poor sleep, and increased stress. Addressing these areas are some of the best ways to increase energy levels. Exercise, healthy eating, good sleep, and stress reduction can increase mood-boosting hormones, help the body produce more adenosine triphosphate (the energy-carrying molecules found in cells), and balance blood sugar levels to prevent sudden fatigue, among other benefits.

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