Sunday

Health guide for 2011


If you want to pass resolutions in 2011 concerning your health, you should do so knowingly. You think among other things to eat better and exercise more? Here's some info published in 2010 to support your efforts and your guide.

Eat: Tips

Do not follow the diet to lose weight

Because most are ineffective and harmful to health, according to a report published in France which reviews the 15 most popular diets, including those of Dr. Atkins, Weight Watchers, Montignac and the Mayo Clinic.

But, yes to the Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet would allow people who are overweight to reduce levels of bad cholesterol and their risk of developing type 2 diabetes, regardless of whether they lose weight. And a study has demonstrated once again the benefits of the Mediterranean diet on heart health. It would also have a protective effect against cancer of the stomach.

Eat less meat

The movement of "meatless Mondays" was officially launched in Quebec in 2010. Encouraging people to replace, on Monday, meat by products based on legumes, nuts and seeds for their health and the environment.

Take the time to read nutrition labels

People who read nutrition information on foods eaten better, they consume products containing fewer calories, fat and sugar and more fiber.

Physical activity: good reasons to get started

Walking is good, but aerobics is better!

The two exercises, performed regularly, help to lose weight, but the aerobic further lowering blood pressure and promote better fitness.

Cycling and brisk walking for weight maintenance

Postmenopausal women who cycled or a brisk walk before menopausal gain less weight as they age than those who did not exercise.

One hour of physical activity per day to lose weight

150 minutes of physical activity per week as recommended, it is sufficient to prevent chronic diseases, but not enough to lose weight. This is at least one hour of exercise per day that women should do to maintain their weight long term.

Exercise improves bone health

Exercise helps strengthen bones and prevent fractures. For bone health, you must choose exercises that focus on strength rather than endurance. Furthermore, a study found that women who play soccer have improved their bone mineral density, which was not the case among women who were jogging. Soccer players have also further increased the power of their muscular legs.

Strength training to preserve the memory

Strength training would improve the attention span and short-term memory. Contrary to popular belief, aerobics would have only modest benefits on cognitive function.

Physical exercise reduces anxiety-related chronic diseases

People with chronic illness (cancer, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, arthritis, back pain ...) would feel less anxious and nervous when practicing regular physical activity (3 sessions over 30 minutes per week).
And you, will you take resolutions in 2011? Health is gone?