Thursday, December 8, 2011

The barefoot running epidemic - good or evil?

If you're a runner you've probably heard heated arguments for and against barefoot running by now. The following article gives a nice overview, and some exercises to improve your running, whether you intend to switch to less shoe or not. If you are contemplating switching to barefoot, make sure you stop by the office so that we can make sure it's right for you, and to put together a plan to make your transition a success!

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/06/magazine/running-christopher-mcdougall.html?pagewanted=all

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Yes, eating your veggies will help you lose weight!

So will yogurt and nuts, including peanut butter! Potato products, especially french fries and chips, as well as sugar-sweetened drinks and red meats on the other hand have once again been shown to contribute to weight gain.  Check out this article from the New York Times for more details on the latest research on what does and does not affect body weight: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/19/health/19brody.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Ibuprofen shown to decrease the risk of developing Parkinson's

A new study funded by the Michael J. Fox foundation shows that people who take Ibuprofen 1-2x per week decrease their risk of developing Parkinson's disease by 38%.  That's very impressive, especially since there is no cure for Parkinson's today, and one in 500 will develop the disease.

Does this mean that you should start taking Ibuprofen regularly? The answer at this time is NO!

While Ibuprofen may decrease your risk of developing Parkinson's, it will definitely increase your risk of gastrointestinal problems. And najor adverse gastrointestinal events attributed to NSAIDs are responsible for over 100,000 hospitalizations, $2 billion in healthcare costs, and 17,000 deaths in the US each year.

In addition, this study examined only data of six years, so it may not have captured Parkinson's cases that develop later on.

What's interesting, though, is WHY Ibuprofen works. It's because it decreases apoptosis (planned cell death), oxidative damage and inflammation of the nervous system. So next time you see your naturopath, ask them what other options there are to achieve these effects!

Monday, January 24, 2011

In Memoriam: Jack LaLanne

Jack LaLanne died today at 96. But he woudn't want us to sit here and cry, oh no. The best way to honor this fitness pioneer's legacy is to get up and exercise! So in his memory, let's start with his face workout. And then take your newly toned face for a walk, run, bike ride, to the gym...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isLJ024EdMA