Friday Health Update
Health Alert: Greenery Makes for a Healthier Neighborhood. According to a new study that included 13 years of data concerning 5 million people, individuals residing in areas with few, if any, trees may spend nearly $400 more per year in healthcare costs than those living in neighborhoods with plenty of trees and other greenery. Study author Dr. Matthew Browning notes, “The mechanisms linking nature and health are very diverse, but the benefits are believed to be in part because being in green space can decrease stress, promote healthy behaviors, and improve air quality.” Environmental International, May 2022
Diet: Protein Helps Boost Female Height. In a recent experiment, researchers found that while protein intake did not have an effect on the height of boys and young men, exceeding current recommendations by seven grams of protein per day may lead to a one-centimeter height increase in girls and young women.
Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, March 2022
Exercise: Golfing Can Promote Longevity. An analysis of data from the Cardiovascular Health Study found that older adults who regularly golf have a reduced risk for early death. The American Heart Association’s Dr. Donald M. Lloyd-Jones adds, “The regular exercise, time spent outside enjoying nature, social interaction, and even the friendly competition of a round of golf are all elements that can foster mental and physical wellbeing... The American Heart Association recommends most people get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week. Golfing qualifies as a moderate-intensity exercise, specifically if you are walking an 18-hole course, carrying your golf clubs.” American Heart Association, April 2022
Chiropractic: Mobilization for Knee Osteoarthritis. A review of data from eight clinical trials concluded that mobilization—a form of treatment provided by doctors of chiropractic—is effective for improving pain and range of motion in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. World Journal of Clinical Cases, January 2022
Mental Attitude: Nearly Half of Elderly Americans Die with Dementia. Researchers report that 47% of older adults who died in 2017 had previously been diagnosed with dementia, a 36% increase from 2004. JAMA Health Forum, April 2022
Wellness/Prevention: Addressing Mold & Mildew. The Federal Emergency Management Administration offers the following suggestions for removing mold and mildew from the home: when cleaning mold, wear a mask, eye protection, and gloves; make sure to adequately ventilate the area; thoroughly clean the affected area before using a disinfectant; and if you develop a reaction while cleaning mold, hire a professional.
Federal Emergency Management Administration, April 2022 Quote: “Kindness is wisdom.” ~ Philip James Bailey