<p>If you wish to be happier in life, go travelling. As per the findings of a new study, frequent travellers are happier with their lives than people who don`t travel at all. The new study was published in the journal of Tourism Analysis.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chun-Chu (Bamboo) Chen, an assistant professor in the School of Hospitality Business Management at Washington State University, conducted a survey to find out why some individuals travel more frequently than others and whether or not travel and tourism experiences have a prolonged effect on happiness and wellness.<br />
The results of his analysis show individuals who pay more attention to tourism-related information and frequently discuss their travel plans with friends are more likely to go on regular vacations than those who aren`t constantly thinking about their next trip.<br />
<br />
Additionally, participants in the survey who reported regularly travelling at least 75 miles away from home also reported being about 7 per cent happier when asked about their overall well-being than those who reported travelling very rarely or not at all."While things like work, family life and friends play a bigger role in overall reports of well-being, the accumulation of travel experiences does appear to have a small yet noticeable effect on self-reported life satisfaction," Chen said. "It really illustrates the importance of being able to get out of your routine and experience new things."Previous studies have examined the stress relief, health and wellness benefits of tourism experiences, but they have tended to examine the effect of a single trip or vacation. Chen`s research takes these previous studies one step further by looking at the sustained benefits of travel over the course of a year.<br />
<br />
Participants in the study were asked about the importance of travel in their lives, how much time they spent looking into and planning future vacations, and how many trips they went on over a year. They were also asked about their perceived life satisfaction. Out of the 500 survey participants, a little over half reported going on more than four pleasure trips a year. Only 7 per cent of respondents did not take any vacations.<br />
<br />
As travel restrictions due to COVID-19 begin to relax in the future, the research could have important implication for both tourists and the tourism industry. Based on the results of the study, Chen said travel companies, resorts and even airlines could launch social media campaigns, such as creating hashtags about the scientific benefits of vacation, to spark people`s interest in discussing their opinions about travel."<br />
<br />
This research shows the more people talk about and plan vacations the more likely they are to take them," he said. "If you are like me and chomping at the bit to get out of dodge and see someplace new, this research will hopefully be some additional good motivation to start planning your next vacation."&nbsp;</p>


If you wish to be happier in life, go travelling. As per the findings of a new study, frequent travellers are happier with their lives than people who don`t travel at all.

If you wish to be happier in life, go travelling. As per the findings of a new study, frequent travellers are happier with their lives than people who don`t travel at all. The new study was published in the journal of Tourism Analysis. Chun-Chu (Bamboo) Chen, an assistant professor in the School of Hospitality Business Management at Washington State University, conducted a survey to find out why some individuals travel more frequently than others and whether or not travel and tourism experiences have a prolonged effect on happiness and wellness. The results of his analysis show individuals who pay more attention to tourism-related information and frequently discuss their travel plans with friends are more likely to go on regular vacations than those who aren`t constantly thinking about their next trip. Additionally, participants in the survey who reported regularly travelling at least 75 miles away from home also reported being about 7 per cent happier when asked about their overall well-being than those who reported travelling very rarely or not at all."While things like work, family life and friends play a bigger role in overall reports of well-being, the accumulation of travel experiences does appear to have a small yet noticeable effect on self-reported life satisfaction," Chen said. "It really illustrates the importance of being able to get out of your routine and experience new things."Previous studies have examined the stress relief, health and wellness benefits of tourism experiences, but they have tended to examine the effect of a single trip or vacation. Chen`s research takes these previous studies one step further by looking at the sustained benefits of travel over the course of a year. Participants in the study were asked about the importance of travel in their lives, how much time they spent looking into and planning future vacations, and how many trips they went on over a year. They were also asked about their perceived life satisfaction. Out of the 500 survey participants, a little over half reported going on more than four pleasure trips a year. Only 7 per cent of respondents did not take any vacations. As travel restrictions due to COVID-19 begin to relax in the future, the research could have important implication for both tourists and the tourism industry. Based on the results of the study, Chen said travel companies, resorts and even airlines could launch social media campaigns, such as creating hashtags about the scientific benefits of vacation, to spark people`s interest in discussing their opinions about travel." This research shows the more people talk about and plan vacations the more likely they are to take them," he said. "If you are like me and chomping at the bit to get out of dodge and see someplace new, this research will hopefully be some additional good motivation to start planning your next vacation."

Study suggests frequent travellers 7 percent happier than those who don't travel

<p>Winter is often pleasing but it can also be bothersome when it comes to your heart. Winter is the time when high-risk people or those with heart issues, may get a heart attack. To top it all, people with heart problems are in the high-risk category and may get sick due to Coronavirus.<br />
<br />
The sudden drop in the temperature causes narrowing of peripheral vessels thus putting extra pressure on your heart. This will result in the low supply of oxygen to the heart because of the increased demand of the heart. As a result, your heart will have to make extra efforts to pump oxygen and blood. Hence, those suffering from heart failure can have symptoms which may also lead to loss of life.<br />
<br />
According to a study, there is about a 2 per cent increase in the risk of getting heart attacks for every 1.8-degree Fahrenheit decrease in temperature. In 2015, another study revealed that if you compare the coldest month of the year to the warmest month of the year there is a 31 per cent increase in heart attacks in the coldest months. It is the time when one`s blood vessels may contract and this can shoot up your blood pressure putting you at the risk of a heart attack or even a stroke. Even the ones who are unaware of their pre-existing heart conditions are prone to heart diseases in this season.<br />
<br />
If one`s body temperature goes below 95 degrees then they will suffer from hypothermia that can take a toll on the heart muscle. Thus, people who spend maximum time in cold weather, especially sports enthusiasts can suffer from accidental hypothermia. This is the stage when the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat causing a dangerously low body temperature; it can prove fatal. People who are more than 60 years with hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smokers, or tobacco chewers can get chest pain. Another important factor is that emotional stress which will invite a heart attack.<br />
<br />
Here`s a plan to keep your heart in top shape during those chilly days.<br />
<br />
Stay warm during those colder days: you should exertion in cold weather if you have any existing heart problems. Try to take frequent breaks and stay warm. Wear woollen clothes, caps, and gloves. Or wear layers and even full socks. Keep your house well-heated. Beware of heart attack symptoms like chest pain, nausea, and even drowsiness. Avoid exercising in cold weather. Instead opt for indoor exercises. Do not do any exercises that pressurize your heart.<br />
<br />
Monitor your blood pressure on a daily basis: If you are one of them who has a high blood pressure problem, then it is imperative for you to keep an eye on your numbers, as doing so can minimize your risk of a heart attack. Hence, you must take the medications prescribed by the doctor on time.<br />
<br />
Restrict alcohol and completely avoid smoking: alcohol may expand the blood vessels in the skin and make you feel warmer by taking out heat from your body`s vital organs. Similarly, smoking leads to atherosclerosis. Not only this, those who smoke can also encounter a heart attack. Smoking reduces the oxygen flow towards the heart, raises your heart rate and blood pressure.<br />
<br />
Eat well: Opt for fresh fruit and vegetables, seeds, nuts, legumes, and pulses. Drink a warm soup or eat hot meals. Avoid eating food jam-packed with salt or sugar. Say NO to processed, junk, and oily foods. Cut down on saturated fats and maintain an optimum weight.<br />
<br />
Try relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation as it will reduce your stress and help you cool down.<br />
<br />
(The author, Bipeenchandra Bhamre, is Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai)<br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Winter is often pleasing but it can also be bothersome when it comes to your heart. Winter is the time when high-risk people or those with heart issues, may get a heart attack.

Winter is often pleasing but it can also be bothersome when it comes to your heart. Winter is the time when high-risk people or those with heart issues, may get a heart attack. To top it all, people with heart problems are in the high-risk category and may get sick due to Coronavirus. The sudden drop in the temperature causes narrowing of peripheral vessels thus putting extra pressure on your heart. This will result in the low supply of oxygen to the heart because of the increased demand of the heart. As a result, your heart will have to make extra efforts to pump oxygen and blood. Hence, those suffering from heart failure can have symptoms which may also lead to loss of life. According to a study, there is about a 2 per cent increase in the risk of getting heart attacks for every 1.8-degree Fahrenheit decrease in temperature. In 2015, another study revealed that if you compare the coldest month of the year to the warmest month of the year there is a 31 per cent increase in heart attacks in the coldest months. It is the time when one`s blood vessels may contract and this can shoot up your blood pressure putting you at the risk of a heart attack or even a stroke. Even the ones who are unaware of their pre-existing heart conditions are prone to heart diseases in this season. If one`s body temperature goes below 95 degrees then they will suffer from hypothermia that can take a toll on the heart muscle. Thus, people who spend maximum time in cold weather, especially sports enthusiasts can suffer from accidental hypothermia. This is the stage when the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat causing a dangerously low body temperature; it can prove fatal. People who are more than 60 years with hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smokers, or tobacco chewers can get chest pain. Another important factor is that emotional stress which will invite a heart attack. Here`s a plan to keep your heart in top shape during those chilly days. Stay warm during those colder days: you should exertion in cold weather if you have any existing heart problems. Try to take frequent breaks and stay warm. Wear woollen clothes, caps, and gloves. Or wear layers and even full socks. Keep your house well-heated. Beware of heart attack symptoms like chest pain, nausea, and even drowsiness. Avoid exercising in cold weather. Instead opt for indoor exercises. Do not do any exercises that pressurize your heart. Monitor your blood pressure on a daily basis: If you are one of them who has a high blood pressure problem, then it is imperative for you to keep an eye on your numbers, as doing so can minimize your risk of a heart attack. Hence, you must take the medications prescribed by the doctor on time. Restrict alcohol and completely avoid smoking: alcohol may expand the blood vessels in the skin and make you feel warmer by taking out heat from your body`s vital organs. Similarly, smoking leads to atherosclerosis. Not only this, those who smoke can also encounter a heart attack. Smoking reduces the oxygen flow towards the heart, raises your heart rate and blood pressure. Eat well: Opt for fresh fruit and vegetables, seeds, nuts, legumes, and pulses. Drink a warm soup or eat hot meals. Avoid eating food jam-packed with salt or sugar. Say NO to processed, junk, and oily foods. Cut down on saturated fats and maintain an optimum weight. Try relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation as it will reduce your stress and help you cool down. (The author, Bipeenchandra Bhamre, is Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai)

How winter impacts heart patients

<p>The Christmas and New Year vacation period is over, and actress Shilpa Shetty on Monday suggested a few yoga moves that can help one get back to the daily grind after the festive season.<br />
<br />
Shilpa, also a yoga expert, suggested a deep breathing meditation that can help people fight stress and maintain the balance between calm and chaos.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The actress spent Christmas vacation in Goa with husband Raj Kundra, sister Shamita Shetty, mother Sunanda Shetty, and her children Viaan and Samisha.<br />
<br />
"Changing gears and shifting back to a daily routine after the holiday season is never going to be easy. But, maintaining a healthy balance between calm &amp; chaos is inexplicably crucial.&nbsp;This is an excercise I do religiously when I want to center myself," Shilpa tweeted.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">(1/4)<br />
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Changing gears and shifting back to a daily routine after the holiday season is never going to be easy. But, maintaining a healthy balance between calm &amp; chaos is inexplicably crucial.<br />
This is an excercise I do religiously when I want to center myself.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MondayMotivation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MondayMotivation</a> <a href="https://t.co/sKhtymDonz">pic.twitter.com/sKhtymDonz</a></p>
— SHILPA SHETTY KUNDRA (@TheShilpaShetty) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheShilpaShetty/status/1345976206991085568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><br />
<br />
"Inhale and take a deep breath in, filled with positive thoughts and exhale all the negative thoughts/emotions into the universe as love and light. This meditation helps you focus on the things that need attention, centers and gives you the ammunition to tackle with the stress in your daily grind," she added.<br />
<br />
"Do this for a few minutes but unhindered, connect with the universe; and align your mind, body, and soul to prepare yourself for the day ahead. Start with just five minutes of deep breathing today. Tag a friend who needs to keep calm today," Shilpa further suggested.<br />
<br />
In 2021, the 45-year-old actress is all set to return to films after 13 years with two releases, "Hungama 2" and "Nikamma".<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Christmas and New Year vacation period is over, and actress Shilpa Shetty on Monday suggested a few yoga moves that can help one get back to the daily grind after the festive season.

The Christmas and New Year vacation period is over, and actress Shilpa Shetty on Monday suggested a few yoga moves that can help one get back to the daily grind after the festive season. Shilpa, also a yoga expert, suggested a deep breathing meditation that can help people fight stress and maintain the balance between calm and chaos. The actress spent Christmas vacation in Goa with husband Raj Kundra, sister Shamita Shetty, mother Sunanda Shetty, and her children Viaan and Samisha. "Changing gears and shifting back to a daily routine after the holiday season is never going to be easy. But, maintaining a healthy balance between calm & chaos is inexplicably crucial. This is an excercise I do religiously when I want to center myself," Shilpa tweeted. (1/4) Changing gears and shifting back to a daily routine after the holiday season is never going to be easy. But, maintaining a healthy balance between calm & chaos is inexplicably crucial. This is an excercise I do religiously when I want to center myself.#MondayMotivation pic.twitter.com/sKhtymDonz — SHILPA SHETTY KUNDRA (@TheShilpaShetty) January 4, 2021 × "Inhale and take a deep breath in, filled with positive thoughts and exhale all the negative thoughts/emotions into the universe as love and light. This meditation helps you focus on the things that need attention, centers and gives you the ammunition to tackle with the stress in your daily grind," she added. "Do this for a few minutes but unhindered, connect with the universe; and align your mind, body, and soul to prepare yourself for the day ahead. Start with just five minutes of deep breathing today. Tag a friend who needs to keep calm today," Shilpa further suggested. In 2021, the 45-year-old actress is all set to return to films after 13 years with two releases, "Hungama 2" and "Nikamma".

Shilpa Shetty shares yoga tips to get back to grind after festive season

<p>Jennifer Lopez has revealed the secret behind her flawless skin. The singer-actor now has a&nbsp;new skincare line called JLo Beauty and demonstrated the entire line in form of a routine-to-follow.</p>

<p>In the post-New Year's video, Lopez is&nbsp;seen wearing her stage makeup from a recent performance, which she notes is “a lot of makeup.” The pop star starts her 3-step nighttime skincare routine by going in with her new&nbsp;cleanser. She only puts a quarter-size of the product on her face before scrubbing off her makeup by hand. “Wash away 2020,” she joked.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><br />
In the remainder of her 8-minute video, Lopez demonstrates the rest of her routine by moving on to her serum, which she says gives her “more glow than when I had the makeup on.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lopez then closed out her video by using her 'wonder-cream'.</p>

<p>In an interview with Glamour magazine, Lopez revealed that she has never tried Botox. “I’m not that person. I don’t have anything against people doing that; it’s just not my thing,” she said during a Zoom call with beauty editors. “I’m more about a natural approach to skincare. I think it starts first, honestly, with who you are on the inside and that shows on your face on the outside. That’s number one.”</p>

<p>Lopez is stressing how much care and effort she's put into her line. “We’ve spent hundreds of rounds of testing products and formulations...all to make sure we created the perfect products for YOU to get THAT GLOW," she wrote alongside the Instagram video of her makeup removal process. “I am so proud of what we came up with and I know you’re going to love it. We’re JUST GETTING STARTED!!!!"<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Jennifer Lopez has revealed the secret behind her flawless skin. The singer-actor now has a new skincare line called JLo Beauty and demonstrated the entire line in form of a routine-to-follow.

Jennifer Lopez has revealed the secret behind her flawless skin. The singer-actor now has a new skincare line called JLo Beauty and demonstrated the entire line in form of a routine-to-follow. In the post-New Year's video, Lopez is seen wearing her stage makeup from a recent performance, which she notes is “a lot of makeup.” The pop star starts her 3-step nighttime skincare routine by going in with her new cleanser. She only puts a quarter-size of the product on her face before scrubbing off her makeup by hand. “Wash away 2020,” she joked. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jennifer Lopez (@jlo) × In the remainder of her 8-minute video, Lopez demonstrates the rest of her routine by moving on to her serum, which she says gives her “more glow than when I had the makeup on.” Lopez then closed out her video by using her 'wonder-cream'. In an interview with Glamour magazine, Lopez revealed that she has never tried Botox. “I’m not that person. I don’t have anything against people doing that; it’s just not my thing,” she said during a Zoom call with beauty editors. “I’m more about a natural approach to skincare. I think it starts first, honestly, with who you are on the inside and that shows on your face on the outside. That’s number one.” Lopez is stressing how much care and effort she's put into her line. “We’ve spent hundreds of rounds of testing products and formulations...all to make sure we created the perfect products for YOU to get THAT GLOW," she wrote alongside the Instagram video of her makeup removal process. “I am so proud of what we came up with and I know you’re going to love it. We’re JUST GETTING STARTED!!!!"

Jennifer Lopez reveals the secret behind her flawless skin

<p>With a resolve to overcome personal health struggles that came their way in 2020, almost four in five people (80.5 per cent) of respondents in a new survey say they feel more inspired to make a health goal in 2021, such as weight loss (34.2 per cent), building muscle (22 per cent), emphasizing mental health (12.5 per cent).<br />
<br />
According to the Life Time survey, a majority of people have reported gaining weight, losing muscle and struggling with their mental health during the past year. Nearly 86 per cent said they missed their in-person workout communities.<br />
<br />
Six in ten people say they`re sitting more than they did pre-pandemic with 30.8 per cent saying they sit more than eight hours a day. For those who previously commuted to work, they`re "redeeming" their commute time in a variety of ways: catching up on sleep, spending more time with family, finding more time for exercise, and eating more thoughtful meals they`ve planned.<br />
<br />
Overall results point to the pandemic having a substantial negative impact on the health and fitness habits for most. Nearly 70 per cent of respondents said their personal health has been negatively impacted this year. Top reasons cited for the negative impact include overall stress from pandemic, the closure of gyms, and working from home leading to less motivation to exercise.<br />
<br />
Additionally, three-fourths believe that health clubs are essential businesses and should remain open during the pandemic.<br />
<br />
With the `new year, new me` attitude kicking in most people, it seems they are motivated to regain their health and fitness in the New Year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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&nbsp;</p>


With a resolve to overcome personal health struggles that came their way in 2020, almost four in five people (80.5 per cent) of respondents in a new survey say they feel more inspired to make a health goal in 2021, such as weight loss (34.

With a resolve to overcome personal health struggles that came their way in 2020, almost four in five people (80.5 per cent) of respondents in a new survey say they feel more inspired to make a health goal in 2021, such as weight loss (34.2 per cent), building muscle (22 per cent), emphasizing mental health (12.5 per cent). According to the Life Time survey, a majority of people have reported gaining weight, losing muscle and struggling with their mental health during the past year. Nearly 86 per cent said they missed their in-person workout communities. Six in ten people say they`re sitting more than they did pre-pandemic with 30.8 per cent saying they sit more than eight hours a day. For those who previously commuted to work, they`re "redeeming" their commute time in a variety of ways: catching up on sleep, spending more time with family, finding more time for exercise, and eating more thoughtful meals they`ve planned. Overall results point to the pandemic having a substantial negative impact on the health and fitness habits for most. Nearly 70 per cent of respondents said their personal health has been negatively impacted this year. Top reasons cited for the negative impact include overall stress from pandemic, the closure of gyms, and working from home leading to less motivation to exercise. Additionally, three-fourths believe that health clubs are essential businesses and should remain open during the pandemic. With the `new year, new me` attitude kicking in most people, it seems they are motivated to regain their health and fitness in the New Year.

New Year motivates majority of people to 'make a health goal'

<p>When using social media to nudge people toward safe and healthy behaviour, it`s critical to make sure the words match the pictures, according to a new study.After looking at social media posts, parents of young children were better able to recall safety messages such as how to put a baby safely to sleep when the images in the posts aligned with the messages in the text, the researchers found.<br />
<br />
The study appears in the Journal of Health Communication."Many times, scientists and safety experts aren`t involved in decisions about social media for health agencies and other organizations, and we end up seeing images that have nothing to do with the safety message or, worse, images that contradict the guidance," said lead author Liz Klein, an associate professor of public health at The Ohio State University.</p>

<p>Take the safe sleep example, for instance. The researchers found posts that advocated a bumper-free crib for baby but used an image of an infant in a crib with bumpers. They saw posts about preventing head injury with bike helmets illustrated by pictures of kids without bike helmets."In this study, we were trying to understand how much those mismatches matter -- do people understand the message even if the picture isn`t right?</p>

<p>Does the picture really matter?" Klein said. Their answers came from research using eye-tracking technology to gauge the attention young parents paid to various posts, and subsequent tests to see what they recalled about the safety messages. When the 150 parents in the study were shown a trio of posts with matched imagery and text and three other posts with mismatched visual and written messages, they spent far longer on the matched posts -- 5.3 seconds, compared to the 3.3 seconds their eyes lingered on the mismatched posts. Further, the matched messages appeared to make a difference in understanding and recall of safety messages.</p>

<p>After accounting for differences in health literacy and social media use among participants, the researchers found that each second of viewing time on matched posts was associated with a 2.8 percent increase in a safety knowledge score."With nearly 70 percent of adults reporting use of social media, and many parents using social media and other internet sources to keep current on injury prevention strategies, social media is a great opportunity to broadcast safety and injury prevention messages," said study co-author Lara McKenzie, a principal investigator in the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children`s Hospital in Columbus.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As more health organizations and public health agencies use social media to share health information with the public, the findings of our study underscore the need to ensure that the imagery and text in social media posts are aligned," added McKenzie.Klein said she understands that those managing social media accounts may be drawn to images that are the most attention-grabbing. But when it comes to health and safety, this study suggests that making sure the image and the text are sending the same message is more important.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you want people to put their medicine up and out of reach of children, kids to wear their bike helmets or new parents to remember that babies should always go to sleep on their backs, alone and in a crib -- that`s where matching matters. Maybe save the eye-grabbing stuff and the humorous posts for different purposes," Klein said.Klein said the findings in this study likely extend beyond child safety messaging to any number of health and safety campaigns, but that there`s more work to be done to understand how best to harness the power of social media for different types of public health communication."We need to pay more attention to how we communicate with the people we`re trying to influence with health and safety guidance. All of us can do a better job of thinking about how we use our social media accounts to contribute to better public health," she said.&nbsp;</p>


When using social media to nudge people toward safe and healthy behaviour, it`s critical to make sure the words match the pictures, according to a new study.After looking at social media posts, parents of young children were better able to recall safety messages such as how to put a baby safely to sleep when the images in the posts aligned with the messages in the text, the researchers found.

When using social media to nudge people toward safe and healthy behaviour, it`s critical to make sure the words match the pictures, according to a new study.After looking at social media posts, parents of young children were better able to recall safety messages such as how to put a baby safely to sleep when the images in the posts aligned with the messages in the text, the researchers found. The study appears in the Journal of Health Communication."Many times, scientists and safety experts aren`t involved in decisions about social media for health agencies and other organizations, and we end up seeing images that have nothing to do with the safety message or, worse, images that contradict the guidance," said lead author Liz Klein, an associate professor of public health at The Ohio State University. Take the safe sleep example, for instance. The researchers found posts that advocated a bumper-free crib for baby but used an image of an infant in a crib with bumpers. They saw posts about preventing head injury with bike helmets illustrated by pictures of kids without bike helmets."In this study, we were trying to understand how much those mismatches matter -- do people understand the message even if the picture isn`t right? Does the picture really matter?" Klein said. Their answers came from research using eye-tracking technology to gauge the attention young parents paid to various posts, and subsequent tests to see what they recalled about the safety messages. When the 150 parents in the study were shown a trio of posts with matched imagery and text and three other posts with mismatched visual and written messages, they spent far longer on the matched posts -- 5.3 seconds, compared to the 3.3 seconds their eyes lingered on the mismatched posts. Further, the matched messages appeared to make a difference in understanding and recall of safety messages. After accounting for differences in health literacy and social media use among participants, the researchers found that each second of viewing time on matched posts was associated with a 2.8 percent increase in a safety knowledge score."With nearly 70 percent of adults reporting use of social media, and many parents using social media and other internet sources to keep current on injury prevention strategies, social media is a great opportunity to broadcast safety and injury prevention messages," said study co-author Lara McKenzie, a principal investigator in the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children`s Hospital in Columbus. "As more health organizations and public health agencies use social media to share health information with the public, the findings of our study underscore the need to ensure that the imagery and text in social media posts are aligned," added McKenzie.Klein said she understands that those managing social media accounts may be drawn to images that are the most attention-grabbing. But when it comes to health and safety, this study suggests that making sure the image and the text are sending the same message is more important. "If you want people to put their medicine up and out of reach of children, kids to wear their bike helmets or new parents to remember that babies should always go to sleep on their backs, alone and in a crib -- that`s where matching matters. Maybe save the eye-grabbing stuff and the humorous posts for different purposes," Klein said.Klein said the findings in this study likely extend beyond child safety messaging to any number of health and safety campaigns, but that there`s more work to be done to understand how best to harness the power of social media for different types of public health communication."We need to pay more attention to how we communicate with the people we`re trying to influence with health and safety guidance. All of us can do a better job of thinking about how we use our social media accounts to contribute to better public health," she said.

In social media safety messages, the pictures should match the words, finds study

<p>A research has revealed that mussels, oysters and scallops possess the highest levels of contamination due to microplastic among all seafood.This research was conducted by researchers from the Hull York Medical School and the University of Hull.</p>

<p>In order to investigate the levels of microplastic contamination globally in fish and shellfish, the researchers observed more than fifty studies between the years 2014 and 2020.Scientists are still trying to understand the health implications for humans consuming fish and shellfish contaminated with these tiny particles of waste plastic, which finds its ways into waterways and oceans through waste mismanagement.</p>

<p>Study author, Evangelos Danopoulos, a postgraduate student at Hull York Medical School said: "No-one yet fully understands the full impact of microplastics on the human body, but early evidence from other studies suggest they do cause harm."A critical step in understanding the full impact on human consumption is in first fully establishing what levels of microplastics humans are ingesting. We can start to do this by looking at how much seafood and fish is eaten and measuring the amount of MPs in these creatures."</p>

<p>The study shows microplastic content was 0-10.5 microplastics per gram (MPs/g) in molluscs, 0.1-8.6 MPs/g in crustaceans, 0-2.9 MPs/g in fish.The latest consumption data in the research shows China, Australia, Canada, Japan and the US are amongst the largest consumers of molluscs, followed by Europe and the UK.</p>

<p>Molluscs collected off the coasts of Asia were the most heavily contaminated with researchers suggesting that these areas are more heavily polluted by plastic.Evangelos Danopoulos added: "Microplastics have been found in various parts of organisms such as the intestines and the liver. Seafood species like oysters, mussels and scallops are consumed whole whereas in larger fish and mammals only parts are consumed.</p>

<p>Therefore, understanding the microplastic contamination of specific body parts, and their consumption by humans, is key."Plastic waste generated worldwide is expected to triple to 155-265 million metric tonnes per year by 2060. Once the plastic finds its way into oceans, lakes and rivers it has the potential to end up as microplastic inside shellfish, fish and marine mammals.</p>

<p>The research points to the need to standardise methods of measuring microplastic contamination so that different measurements can be more readily compared. Researchers said more data is needed from different parts of the world to understand how the issue varies between different oceans, seas and waterways.&nbsp;</p>


A research has revealed that mussels, oysters and scallops possess the highest levels of contamination due to microplastic among all seafood.This research was conducted by researchers from the Hull York Medical School and the University of Hull.

A research has revealed that mussels, oysters and scallops possess the highest levels of contamination due to microplastic among all seafood.This research was conducted by researchers from the Hull York Medical School and the University of Hull. In order to investigate the levels of microplastic contamination globally in fish and shellfish, the researchers observed more than fifty studies between the years 2014 and 2020.Scientists are still trying to understand the health implications for humans consuming fish and shellfish contaminated with these tiny particles of waste plastic, which finds its ways into waterways and oceans through waste mismanagement. Study author, Evangelos Danopoulos, a postgraduate student at Hull York Medical School said: "No-one yet fully understands the full impact of microplastics on the human body, but early evidence from other studies suggest they do cause harm."A critical step in understanding the full impact on human consumption is in first fully establishing what levels of microplastics humans are ingesting. We can start to do this by looking at how much seafood and fish is eaten and measuring the amount of MPs in these creatures." The study shows microplastic content was 0-10.5 microplastics per gram (MPs/g) in molluscs, 0.1-8.6 MPs/g in crustaceans, 0-2.9 MPs/g in fish.The latest consumption data in the research shows China, Australia, Canada, Japan and the US are amongst the largest consumers of molluscs, followed by Europe and the UK. Molluscs collected off the coasts of Asia were the most heavily contaminated with researchers suggesting that these areas are more heavily polluted by plastic.Evangelos Danopoulos added: "Microplastics have been found in various parts of organisms such as the intestines and the liver. Seafood species like oysters, mussels and scallops are consumed whole whereas in larger fish and mammals only parts are consumed. Therefore, understanding the microplastic contamination of specific body parts, and their consumption by humans, is key."Plastic waste generated worldwide is expected to triple to 155-265 million metric tonnes per year by 2060. Once the plastic finds its way into oceans, lakes and rivers it has the potential to end up as microplastic inside shellfish, fish and marine mammals. The research points to the need to standardise methods of measuring microplastic contamination so that different measurements can be more readily compared. Researchers said more data is needed from different parts of the world to understand how the issue varies between different oceans, seas and waterways.

Among seafood highest levels of microplastics found in molluscs: Study

<p>New research suggests that older adults about to undergo elective surgery should undertake a sustained program of targeted exercise beforehand to counteract the muscle-wasting effects of bed rest.</p>

<p>A study published by researchers in the University of Birmingham`s School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences showed that short term `prehabilitation` strength exercises, undertaken pre-surgery, are insufficient to prevent muscle loss.<br />
<br />
In the study, the researchers asked a group of older adults to perform four sessions of weight lifting exercise over one week. The participants did the exercises using only one leg, while the other leg did no exercise at all.<br />
<br />
After completing the prehabilitation, the participants underwent five days of bed-rest - a typical length of stay in hospital for an older patient.<br />
<br />
Although the researchers expected to find that the leg which had undergone the exercise would experience less muscle loss than the other leg, in fact they found muscle loss was about the same in both legs.<br />
<br />
The team`s detailed analysis showed that, while short-term exercise prehabilitation does enhance the body`s muscle-building processes, thigh muscle-wasting was about 3-4 per cent in both legs - roughly equivalent to what older adults would typically lose over 3-5 years of ageing.<br />
<br />
The researchers recommend that one approach to protect older muscle from wasting during hospitalisation is to perform longer-term strength exercise prehabilitation beforehand."Although short-term prehabilitation offers a cost-effective and easy-to-implement strategy, it does not prevent muscle wasting among older adults undergoing bed-rest," Dr Leigh Breen, the study`s corresponding author, said."This muscle loss may be extremely hard to recover from and can lead to long-term health and disease complications," added Breen.<br />
<br />
The team recommend that prehabilitation exercise programmes should also incorporate aerobic exercise alongside strength training to protect cardiovascular health, and a protein-rich diet to increase muscle mass levels in a way that will effectively cancel out the muscle loss that is experienced during bed-rest. They also recommend that where appropriate and safe, hospitalised older patients should aim to get back on their feet and mobile again as quickly as possible.<br />
<br />
Post-surgery exercise and dietary strategies will also be important to ensure a return to full health and lower the risk of future health complications.<br />
<br />
Dr Benoit Smeuninx, now at Monash University in Australia, is lead author on the paper."Our study reinforces the need for more research into the benefits of long term training programmes prior to surgery. In the same was as an athlete would train before a race or a competition, exercise training before hospitalisation is likely to be highly beneficial to older adults undergoing elective surgeries," He said.<br />
<br />
The work was completed in collaboration with colleagues within the Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, which is a partnership between the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham.The work was funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.&nbsp;</p>


New research suggests that older adults about to undergo elective surgery should undertake a sustained program of targeted exercise beforehand to counteract the muscle-wasting effects of bed rest.

New research suggests that older adults about to undergo elective surgery should undertake a sustained program of targeted exercise beforehand to counteract the muscle-wasting effects of bed rest. A study published by researchers in the University of Birmingham`s School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences showed that short term `prehabilitation` strength exercises, undertaken pre-surgery, are insufficient to prevent muscle loss. In the study, the researchers asked a group of older adults to perform four sessions of weight lifting exercise over one week. The participants did the exercises using only one leg, while the other leg did no exercise at all. After completing the prehabilitation, the participants underwent five days of bed-rest - a typical length of stay in hospital for an older patient. Although the researchers expected to find that the leg which had undergone the exercise would experience less muscle loss than the other leg, in fact they found muscle loss was about the same in both legs. The team`s detailed analysis showed that, while short-term exercise prehabilitation does enhance the body`s muscle-building processes, thigh muscle-wasting was about 3-4 per cent in both legs - roughly equivalent to what older adults would typically lose over 3-5 years of ageing. The researchers recommend that one approach to protect older muscle from wasting during hospitalisation is to perform longer-term strength exercise prehabilitation beforehand."Although short-term prehabilitation offers a cost-effective and easy-to-implement strategy, it does not prevent muscle wasting among older adults undergoing bed-rest," Dr Leigh Breen, the study`s corresponding author, said."This muscle loss may be extremely hard to recover from and can lead to long-term health and disease complications," added Breen. The team recommend that prehabilitation exercise programmes should also incorporate aerobic exercise alongside strength training to protect cardiovascular health, and a protein-rich diet to increase muscle mass levels in a way that will effectively cancel out the muscle loss that is experienced during bed-rest. They also recommend that where appropriate and safe, hospitalised older patients should aim to get back on their feet and mobile again as quickly as possible. Post-surgery exercise and dietary strategies will also be important to ensure a return to full health and lower the risk of future health complications. Dr Benoit Smeuninx, now at Monash University in Australia, is lead author on the paper."Our study reinforces the need for more research into the benefits of long term training programmes prior to surgery. In the same was as an athlete would train before a race or a competition, exercise training before hospitalisation is likely to be highly beneficial to older adults undergoing elective surgeries," He said. The work was completed in collaboration with colleagues within the Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, which is a partnership between the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham.The work was funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.

Older adults should undertake exercise ahead of elective surgery

<p>A review and a pooled data analysis has found that smartphone fitness apps and wearable activity trackers do help boost physical activity levels.<br />
<br />
The review published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.The size of the effect is small to moderate, but it may be worth offering them on prescription to motivated patients, given the importance for the health of increasing daily physical activity by any amount, say the researchers.<br />
<br />
Globally, more than a quarter of adults don`t meet recommended physical activity levels. Physical inactivity represents a leading cause of death worldwide and is thought to cost billions of dollars every year.<br />
<br />
Some of the most effective strategies to increase physical activity include behaviour change techniques, such as self-monitoring and feedback, which smartphone apps and wearable activity trackers can provide.<br />
<br />
Smartphone ownership is widespread, with activity trackers and fitness apps used by around a third of US and UK adults. But the reviews to date of theses apps and trackers haven`t produced consistent findings. Nor have they focused on healthy adults and on state-of-the-art technology.<br />
<br />
To plug these knowledge gaps, the researchers trawled research databases looking for relevant studies published between January 2007 and January 2020, involving healthy 18-to-65-year-olds with no long term conditions.<br />
<br />
They found 35 suitable comparative studies, involving a total of 7454 people, 2107 (28 percent) of whom were women. The intervention period lasted between 2 and 40 weeks, averaging 13 weeks.<br />
<br />
Pooling the data from 28 of these studies showed that compared with other approaches, smartphone apps or activity trackers increased physical activity by an average of 1850 steps a day. Seven further additional analyses of the data also showed that smartphone apps and activity trackers significantly increased physical activity levels.<br />
<br />
The apps and tracker programmes that also included text-messaging involving prompts and cues, and tailored features, were more effective. And certain components, such as goal setting, planning, and tasks graded by degree of difficulty, were significantly associated with greater levels of effectiveness.<br />
<br />
The researchers acknowledge that the included studies varied in design and methods, while the quality ranged from low to moderate. And given the relatively small number of women involved, the results may not be widely applicable to both sexes.<br />
<br />
Nevertheless, "Interventions using smartphone apps or activity trackers seem promising from a clinical and public health perspective, promoting a significant step count increase of 1850 steps/day," they write."These results are of public health importance according to recent evidence showing that any physical activity, regardless of intensity, is associated with lower mortality risk in a dose-response manner and that an increase of 1700 steps/day is significantly associated with lower mortality rates."Enabling users to move beyond the initial `novelty phase` will depend on the quality of the experience, overall utility, and the ability to integrate with other devices and services, they add.<br />
<br />
But they emphasise: "Given the wide and increasing reach of smartphones, even modest improvements in physical activity can produce large effects at the population level."And they conclude that their findings are likely to be helpful to clinicians, "who may prescribe apps and trackers as part of a shared decision-making process to individuals who seem ready to make behavioural changes."&nbsp;</p>


A review and a pooled data analysis has found that smartphone fitness apps and wearable activity trackers do help boost physical activity levels. The review published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

A review and a pooled data analysis has found that smartphone fitness apps and wearable activity trackers do help boost physical activity levels. The review published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.The size of the effect is small to moderate, but it may be worth offering them on prescription to motivated patients, given the importance for the health of increasing daily physical activity by any amount, say the researchers. Globally, more than a quarter of adults don`t meet recommended physical activity levels. Physical inactivity represents a leading cause of death worldwide and is thought to cost billions of dollars every year. Some of the most effective strategies to increase physical activity include behaviour change techniques, such as self-monitoring and feedback, which smartphone apps and wearable activity trackers can provide. Smartphone ownership is widespread, with activity trackers and fitness apps used by around a third of US and UK adults. But the reviews to date of theses apps and trackers haven`t produced consistent findings. Nor have they focused on healthy adults and on state-of-the-art technology. To plug these knowledge gaps, the researchers trawled research databases looking for relevant studies published between January 2007 and January 2020, involving healthy 18-to-65-year-olds with no long term conditions. They found 35 suitable comparative studies, involving a total of 7454 people, 2107 (28 percent) of whom were women. The intervention period lasted between 2 and 40 weeks, averaging 13 weeks. Pooling the data from 28 of these studies showed that compared with other approaches, smartphone apps or activity trackers increased physical activity by an average of 1850 steps a day. Seven further additional analyses of the data also showed that smartphone apps and activity trackers significantly increased physical activity levels. The apps and tracker programmes that also included text-messaging involving prompts and cues, and tailored features, were more effective. And certain components, such as goal setting, planning, and tasks graded by degree of difficulty, were significantly associated with greater levels of effectiveness. The researchers acknowledge that the included studies varied in design and methods, while the quality ranged from low to moderate. And given the relatively small number of women involved, the results may not be widely applicable to both sexes. Nevertheless, "Interventions using smartphone apps or activity trackers seem promising from a clinical and public health perspective, promoting a significant step count increase of 1850 steps/day," they write."These results are of public health importance according to recent evidence showing that any physical activity, regardless of intensity, is associated with lower mortality risk in a dose-response manner and that an increase of 1700 steps/day is significantly associated with lower mortality rates."Enabling users to move beyond the initial `novelty phase` will depend on the quality of the experience, overall utility, and the ability to integrate with other devices and services, they add. But they emphasise: "Given the wide and increasing reach of smartphones, even modest improvements in physical activity can produce large effects at the population level."And they conclude that their findings are likely to be helpful to clinicians, "who may prescribe apps and trackers as part of a shared decision-making process to individuals who seem ready to make behavioural changes."

Fitness apps, wearable activity trackers boost physical activity levels: Study

<p>During winters, the resultant heat loss demands compensatory strategies resulting in increased food intake for its thermic effect. Cold weather leads to a drop in our body temperature, stimulating our appetites. This is because intake of food helps to generate internal heat, subsequently leading to a rise in body temperature.<br />
<br />
Shweta Mahadik, Clinical Dietician, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan shares a list of some nutritious and easily available ingredients which are a must in winters:<br />
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TIL SEEDS (SESAME): Til seeds are super foods that should be part of your diet during winter. They are full of good fats mainly Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA) that reduces blood cholesterol, high blood pressure and plays an important role in preventing cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Regular intake of Til seeds makes the body warm and it is a winter super food. It also contains active, and health promoting phytochemicals such as Sesamin, Sesamolin, Tocopherols, Phytosterols, Phytates and other Phenolics which lowers the risk of diseases by strengthening the immune system.<br />
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Til is also rich in Calcium and keeps the bones strong. The Zinc helps to strengthen the bones and increase bone density. It also contains Magnesium which helps to maintain normal blood pressure levels. Til can be consumed in the form of: Til ladoo, Til chikki, Til poli also in the form of chutney, and roasted til seeds can be sprinkled in salads<br />
<br />
<br />
During winters, some people are more susceptible to catching common diseases cold and flu, coughs, respiratory ailments, sinusitis etc. Having Jaggery in your diet is a very good option during winter - as a cleansing agent. It cleanses the lungs, stomach, intestines, respiratory tract, and esophagus. Jaggery is far complex than sugar, as it is made up of Sucrose. It is rich in minerals like Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron etc. Some studies found that Jaggery digests slower than sugar, and releases energy slowly - not spontaneously. This provides energy for a longer time which makes the body warm. the minerals and antioxidants in Jaggery can support the immune system and help people recover from illnesses like the common cold and the flu. Have Groundnut chikki, dryfruits ladoo, Gulpapadi, Groundnut ladoo, Halim ladoo, Gulpoli, Jaggery and dates chutney, etc.<br />
<br />
GINGER TEA: On a cold morning, most of us enjoy Ginger tea. However, Ginger does a lot than just adding a hint of flavour to your favourite beverage or dishes. In traditional Chinese medicine, Ginger is used for its warming effect. Ginger increases body temperature, which is ideal if you are suffering from a cold. It can be used for throat infections and to relieve congestion in Sinusitis. Consumption of Ginger reduces cold and conquers a dry, irritating cough by increasing human Bronchial Smooth Muscle Cell (BSMC) migration and proliferation and reversing phthalate ester-mediated airway remodelling. Gingerol, which is a major bioactive compound found in Ginger is capable of preventing Asthma. Some studies reveal that Ginger has many therapeutic properties, including antibiotic, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Have Ginger tea, Ginger kadha, Ginger wadi, add Ginger in soups &amp; veggies, and in chilli pickles, etc.<br />
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<br />
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&nbsp;</p>


During winters, the resultant heat loss demands compensatory strategies resulting in increased food intake for its thermic effect. Cold weather leads to a drop in our body temperature, stimulating our appetites.

During winters, the resultant heat loss demands compensatory strategies resulting in increased food intake for its thermic effect. Cold weather leads to a drop in our body temperature, stimulating our appetites. This is because intake of food helps to generate internal heat, subsequently leading to a rise in body temperature. Shweta Mahadik, Clinical Dietician, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan shares a list of some nutritious and easily available ingredients which are a must in winters: TIL SEEDS (SESAME): Til seeds are super foods that should be part of your diet during winter. They are full of good fats mainly Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA) that reduces blood cholesterol, high blood pressure and plays an important role in preventing cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Regular intake of Til seeds makes the body warm and it is a winter super food. It also contains active, and health promoting phytochemicals such as Sesamin, Sesamolin, Tocopherols, Phytosterols, Phytates and other Phenolics which lowers the risk of diseases by strengthening the immune system. Til is also rich in Calcium and keeps the bones strong. The Zinc helps to strengthen the bones and increase bone density. It also contains Magnesium which helps to maintain normal blood pressure levels. Til can be consumed in the form of: Til ladoo, Til chikki, Til poli also in the form of chutney, and roasted til seeds can be sprinkled in salads During winters, some people are more susceptible to catching common diseases cold and flu, coughs, respiratory ailments, sinusitis etc. Having Jaggery in your diet is a very good option during winter - as a cleansing agent. It cleanses the lungs, stomach, intestines, respiratory tract, and esophagus. Jaggery is far complex than sugar, as it is made up of Sucrose. It is rich in minerals like Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron etc. Some studies found that Jaggery digests slower than sugar, and releases energy slowly - not spontaneously. This provides energy for a longer time which makes the body warm. the minerals and antioxidants in Jaggery can support the immune system and help people recover from illnesses like the common cold and the flu. Have Groundnut chikki, dryfruits ladoo, Gulpapadi, Groundnut ladoo, Halim ladoo, Gulpoli, Jaggery and dates chutney, etc. GINGER TEA: On a cold morning, most of us enjoy Ginger tea. However, Ginger does a lot than just adding a hint of flavour to your favourite beverage or dishes. In traditional Chinese medicine, Ginger is used for its warming effect. Ginger increases body temperature, which is ideal if you are suffering from a cold. It can be used for throat infections and to relieve congestion in Sinusitis. Consumption of Ginger reduces cold and conquers a dry, irritating cough by increasing human Bronchial Smooth Muscle Cell (BSMC) migration and proliferation and reversing phthalate ester-mediated airway remodelling. Gingerol, which is a major bioactive compound found in Ginger is capable of preventing Asthma. Some studies reveal that Ginger has many therapeutic properties, including antibiotic, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Have Ginger tea, Ginger kadha, Ginger wadi, add Ginger in soups & veggies, and in chilli pickles, etc.

Best superfoods to consume during winter  season

<p>Known for inspiring many with his acting prowess, Bollywood star Rajkummar Rao is now giving his fans fitness goals. The National -award winning actor showed off his toned physique in a new Instagram post.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Rao is seen sporting a shirtless look. The snap, which is captured in the gym showcased his perfectly shaped upper body and superbly toned shoulders.<br />
<br />
Showcasing his chiselled physique, the `Stree` star yet again penned a creative caption which reads, "#WorkInProgress #NEWTAN (new body) To get a new look for a new character, need to get a new body and a new mindset. #BadhaiDo #Bemehnati (be hard-working)." Rao has been building up muscles for his new film 'Badhai Do' which is soon going to go under production.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Rao's post accumulated more than two lakh likes and saw fans gushing over Rao and flooding his comments section with red heart emoticons to appreciate his look.<br />
<br />
The actor has been quite active on social media. Last month, Rajkummar announced that he is preparing a chiselled physique for a new role.<br />
<br />
On the work front, the actor was last seen in a sports comedy-drama `Chhalaang` co-starring Nushrat Bharucha.&nbsp;</p>


Known for inspiring many with his acting prowess, Bollywood star Rajkummar Rao is now giving his fans fitness goals. The National -award winning actor showed off his toned physique in a new Instagram post.

Known for inspiring many with his acting prowess, Bollywood star Rajkummar Rao is now giving his fans fitness goals. The National -award winning actor showed off his toned physique in a new Instagram post. Rao is seen sporting a shirtless look. The snap, which is captured in the gym showcased his perfectly shaped upper body and superbly toned shoulders. Showcasing his chiselled physique, the `Stree` star yet again penned a creative caption which reads, "#WorkInProgress #NEWTAN (new body) To get a new look for a new character, need to get a new body and a new mindset. #BadhaiDo #Bemehnati (be hard-working)." Rao has been building up muscles for his new film 'Badhai Do' which is soon going to go under production. View this post on Instagram A post shared by RajKummar Rao (@rajkummar_rao) × Rao's post accumulated more than two lakh likes and saw fans gushing over Rao and flooding his comments section with red heart emoticons to appreciate his look. The actor has been quite active on social media. Last month, Rajkummar announced that he is preparing a chiselled physique for a new role. On the work front, the actor was last seen in a sports comedy-drama `Chhalaang` co-starring Nushrat Bharucha.

Rajkummar Rao sets fitness goals with his latest Instagram post, says 'work in progress'

<p>From safety and effectiveness to who should use sunscreen and how to apply it, Canadian dermatologists review the latest evidence and guidelines on the use of sunscreen.<br />
<br />
The review, published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal), recommends that everyone older than six months of age should use sunscreen to protect against skin cancer. Most skin cancers develop because of long-term sun exposure. Sunscreen reduces the risk of developing skin cancer by blocking solar radiation through chemical or physical sunscreen filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.<br />
<br />
"Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is directly harmful and has been associated with the development of skin cancers, which are common in Canada. High-quality evidence has shown that sunscreen reduces the risk of developing both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer," writes Dr Megan Sander, a dermatologist and clinical lecturer at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, with coauthors.<br />
<br />
Some key points:-<br />
<br />
<strong>Prevention&nbsp;</strong><br />
<br />
Evidence from randomized controlled trials indicates that sunscreen is effective at protecting against skin cancer as well as premature ageing of the skin.<br />
<br />
<strong>Non-White populations </strong><br />
<br />
There is a lack of evidence for the effectiveness of sunscreen in people with darker skin. Current evidence is mostly limited to White people, who have a higher rate of skin cancers.<br />
<br />
<strong>Babies</strong><br />
<br />
Sun avoidance and protective clothing are recommended for babies. Sunscreen is not recommended for use before age 6 months because of the potential for systemic absorption of sunscreen ingredients.<br />
<br />
<strong>SPF</strong><br />
<br />
Sunscreens with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher are recommended in cream or lotion format. Spray-on sunscreens are not recommended as they can be dispersed, are flammable and their effects if inhaled are unknown.<br />
<br />
<strong>Harms</strong><br />
<br />
Some people can have skin reactions such as contact dermatitis, especially to chemical sunscreens, and there is evidence these sunscreens can be systemically absorbed, although the clinical importance of the absorption is not known.<br />
<br />
<strong>Environmental impact</strong><br />
<br />
Recent evidence indicates that chemical sunscreens can be detected in water and fish and may contribute to the bleaching of coral reefs. "Sunscreen is only one part of a comprehensive photoprotection strategy. It is important to counsel patients regarding behaviours for avoiding ultraviolet radiation, including the use of wide-brimmed hats, eye protection (e.g., "wrap-around" sunglasses with ultraviolet radiation protection) and seeking shade when the ultraviolet index is above 3 (usually 11 am-3 pm, April to September in Canada)," write the authors.<br />
<br />
Research into the safety of sunscreens and of new technologies continues.</p>


From safety and effectiveness to who should use sunscreen and how to apply it, Canadian dermatologists review the latest evidence and guidelines on the use of sunscreen.

From safety and effectiveness to who should use sunscreen and how to apply it, Canadian dermatologists review the latest evidence and guidelines on the use of sunscreen. The review, published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal), recommends that everyone older than six months of age should use sunscreen to protect against skin cancer. Most skin cancers develop because of long-term sun exposure. Sunscreen reduces the risk of developing skin cancer by blocking solar radiation through chemical or physical sunscreen filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. "Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is directly harmful and has been associated with the development of skin cancers, which are common in Canada. High-quality evidence has shown that sunscreen reduces the risk of developing both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer," writes Dr Megan Sander, a dermatologist and clinical lecturer at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, with coauthors. Some key points:- Prevention Evidence from randomized controlled trials indicates that sunscreen is effective at protecting against skin cancer as well as premature ageing of the skin. Non-White populations There is a lack of evidence for the effectiveness of sunscreen in people with darker skin. Current evidence is mostly limited to White people, who have a higher rate of skin cancers. Babies Sun avoidance and protective clothing are recommended for babies. Sunscreen is not recommended for use before age 6 months because of the potential for systemic absorption of sunscreen ingredients. SPF Sunscreens with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher are recommended in cream or lotion format. Spray-on sunscreens are not recommended as they can be dispersed, are flammable and their effects if inhaled are unknown. Harms Some people can have skin reactions such as contact dermatitis, especially to chemical sunscreens, and there is evidence these sunscreens can be systemically absorbed, although the clinical importance of the absorption is not known. Environmental impact Recent evidence indicates that chemical sunscreens can be detected in water and fish and may contribute to the bleaching of coral reefs. "Sunscreen is only one part of a comprehensive photoprotection strategy. It is important to counsel patients regarding behaviours for avoiding ultraviolet radiation, including the use of wide-brimmed hats, eye protection (e.g., "wrap-around" sunglasses with ultraviolet radiation protection) and seeking shade when the ultraviolet index is above 3 (usually 11 am-3 pm, April to September in Canada)," write the authors. Research into the safety of sunscreens and of new technologies continues.

Here's everything you need to know about sunscreens

<p>Significantly increased use of social media in youth may lead to developing of depression within six months, suggest the findings of a new study.Young adults who increased their use of social media were significantly more likely to develop depression within six months, according to a new national study.<br />
<br />
The study was authored by Dr Brian Primack, dean of the College of Education and Health Professions and professor of public health at the University of Arkansas.Compared with participants who used less than 120 minutes per day of social media, for example, young adults who used more than 300 minutes per day were 2.8 times as likely to become depressed within six months.<br />
<br />
The study, which will be published online December 10 and is scheduled for the February 2021 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, is the first large, national study to show a link between social media use and depression over time." Most prior work in this area has left us with the chicken-and-egg question," said Primack.<br />
<br />
"We know from other large studies that depression and social media users tend to go together, but it`s been hard to figure out which came first. This new study sheds light on these questions because high initial social media use led to increased rates of depression. However, initial depression did not lead to any change in social media use," added Primack.In 2018, Primack and his colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh sampled more than 1,000 U.S. adults between 18 to 30.<br />
<br />
They measured depression using the validated nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire and asked participants about the amount of time they used social media on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Instagram, and SnapChat.Their analyses controlled for demographic factors like age, sex, race, education, income and employment, and they included survey weights so the results would reflect the greater U.S. population.<br />
<br />
"One reason for these findings may be that social media takes up a lot of time," said Dr. Cesar Escobar-Viera, assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh and co-author on the study."Excess time on social media may displace forming more important in-person relationships, achieving personal or professional goals, or even simply having moments of valuable reflection," added Escobar-Viera.<br />
<br />
The authors suggest that social comparison may also underlie these findings." Social media is often curated to emphasise positive portrayals," said Jaime Sidani, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh and co-author of the study."This can be especially difficult for young adults who are at critical junctures in life-related to identity development and feel that they can`t measure up to the impossible ideals they are exposed to," Sidani added.The findings are of particular importance given that depression was recently declared to be the leading global cause of disability by the World Health Organization and accounts for more disability-adjusted life-years than all other mental disorders."These findings are also particularly important to consider in the age of COVID-19," Primack said."Now that it`s harder to connect socially in person, we`re all using more technology like social media.<br />
<br />
While I think those technologies certainly can be valuable, I`d also encourage people to reflect on which tech experiences are truly useful for them and which ones leave them feeling empty," added Primack.&nbsp;</p>


Significantly increased use of social media in youth may lead to developing of depression within six months, suggest the findings of a new study.Young adults who increased their use of social media were significantly more likely to develop depression within six months, according to a new national study.

Significantly increased use of social media in youth may lead to developing of depression within six months, suggest the findings of a new study.Young adults who increased their use of social media were significantly more likely to develop depression within six months, according to a new national study. The study was authored by Dr Brian Primack, dean of the College of Education and Health Professions and professor of public health at the University of Arkansas.Compared with participants who used less than 120 minutes per day of social media, for example, young adults who used more than 300 minutes per day were 2.8 times as likely to become depressed within six months. The study, which will be published online December 10 and is scheduled for the February 2021 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, is the first large, national study to show a link between social media use and depression over time." Most prior work in this area has left us with the chicken-and-egg question," said Primack. "We know from other large studies that depression and social media users tend to go together, but it`s been hard to figure out which came first. This new study sheds light on these questions because high initial social media use led to increased rates of depression. However, initial depression did not lead to any change in social media use," added Primack.In 2018, Primack and his colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh sampled more than 1,000 U.S. adults between 18 to 30. They measured depression using the validated nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire and asked participants about the amount of time they used social media on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Instagram, and SnapChat.Their analyses controlled for demographic factors like age, sex, race, education, income and employment, and they included survey weights so the results would reflect the greater U.S. population. "One reason for these findings may be that social media takes up a lot of time," said Dr. Cesar Escobar-Viera, assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh and co-author on the study."Excess time on social media may displace forming more important in-person relationships, achieving personal or professional goals, or even simply having moments of valuable reflection," added Escobar-Viera. The authors suggest that social comparison may also underlie these findings." Social media is often curated to emphasise positive portrayals," said Jaime Sidani, assistant professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh and co-author of the study."This can be especially difficult for young adults who are at critical junctures in life-related to identity development and feel that they can`t measure up to the impossible ideals they are exposed to," Sidani added.The findings are of particular importance given that depression was recently declared to be the leading global cause of disability by the World Health Organization and accounts for more disability-adjusted life-years than all other mental disorders."These findings are also particularly important to consider in the age of COVID-19," Primack said."Now that it`s harder to connect socially in person, we`re all using more technology like social media. While I think those technologies certainly can be valuable, I`d also encourage people to reflect on which tech experiences are truly useful for them and which ones leave them feeling empty," added Primack.

Excessive use of social media maybe linked to developing depression, suggests study

<p>In an analysis of women with early breast cancer, black women had higher rates of obesity and other health conditions that can affect survival, compared with white women. The findings are published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society (ACS). Obesity is a known risk factor for various cancers, and its rise over the past few decades has contributed to a rise in breast cancer rates that is greater in Black women than white women.<br />
<br />
At the same time, as breast cancer mortality rates have declined, the decline has been less pronounced in black women, producing a 40 per cent mortality gap.To investigate further, Kirsten Nyrop, PhD, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and her colleagues analysed information concerning 548 patients treated at their hospital for early breast cancer.<br />
<br />
The team found that 62 per cent of black patients and 33 per cent of white patients fell within the obese weight range, and higher percentages of black women had obesity-related comorbidities, such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol than white women.<br />
<br />
Yet, despite significant differences in the prevalence of obesity and comorbidities, there were no differences between black and white patients in treatment decisions with regard to the type of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or endocrine therapy."Early breast cancer is highly treatable, and survival rates have improved steadily due to treatment advances and early detection through mammograms; however, the high rates of obesity, overall comorbidities, and obesity-related comorbidities observed among women with early breast cancer--especially among black women--can contribute to disparities in overall survival of these patients," said Dr Nyrop.<br />
<br />
"Findings from this study need to be considered within the larger context of the cancer-obesity link and the disparate impact of the obesity epidemic on communities of colour in the United States," added Dr Nyrop. Dr Nyrop noted that rates of many cancers that are impacted by obesity are higher in Black women as are rates of numerous obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and hypertension."As the COVID-19 pandemic has glaringly underscored, there is an urgent need to address the systemic and socioeconomic aspects of obesity that disproportionately affect minority communities in the US if we are to reverse health disparities," added Dr Nyrop.<br />
<br />
An accompanying editorial stresses that clinicians should "take advantage of the breast cancer diagnosis as an opportunity for interventions that can be far-reaching."The authors note that several lifestyle interventions can not only address obesity but also potentially prolong survival in patients with cancer.&nbsp;</p>


In an analysis of women with early breast cancer, black women had higher rates of obesity and other health conditions that can affect survival, compared with white women.

In an analysis of women with early breast cancer, black women had higher rates of obesity and other health conditions that can affect survival, compared with white women. The findings are published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society (ACS). Obesity is a known risk factor for various cancers, and its rise over the past few decades has contributed to a rise in breast cancer rates that is greater in Black women than white women. At the same time, as breast cancer mortality rates have declined, the decline has been less pronounced in black women, producing a 40 per cent mortality gap.To investigate further, Kirsten Nyrop, PhD, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and her colleagues analysed information concerning 548 patients treated at their hospital for early breast cancer. The team found that 62 per cent of black patients and 33 per cent of white patients fell within the obese weight range, and higher percentages of black women had obesity-related comorbidities, such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol than white women. Yet, despite significant differences in the prevalence of obesity and comorbidities, there were no differences between black and white patients in treatment decisions with regard to the type of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or endocrine therapy."Early breast cancer is highly treatable, and survival rates have improved steadily due to treatment advances and early detection through mammograms; however, the high rates of obesity, overall comorbidities, and obesity-related comorbidities observed among women with early breast cancer--especially among black women--can contribute to disparities in overall survival of these patients," said Dr Nyrop. "Findings from this study need to be considered within the larger context of the cancer-obesity link and the disparate impact of the obesity epidemic on communities of colour in the United States," added Dr Nyrop. Dr Nyrop noted that rates of many cancers that are impacted by obesity are higher in Black women as are rates of numerous obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and hypertension."As the COVID-19 pandemic has glaringly underscored, there is an urgent need to address the systemic and socioeconomic aspects of obesity that disproportionately affect minority communities in the US if we are to reverse health disparities," added Dr Nyrop. An accompanying editorial stresses that clinicians should "take advantage of the breast cancer diagnosis as an opportunity for interventions that can be far-reaching."The authors note that several lifestyle interventions can not only address obesity but also potentially prolong survival in patients with cancer.

Obesity contributes to mortality gap between black and white women with early breast cancer

<p>Washington [US], December 6 (ANI): A study published online on Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) found that earlier development of menopause symptoms can be alleviated with sufficient volume and intensity of physical activity. Menopause is the natural suspension, of a woman`s menstrual cycle, which marks the end of fertility. In most cases, women experience menopause by the age of 52, but pelvic or ovarian damage may cause sudden menopause earlier in life.<br />
<br />
Genetics or underlying conditions may also be a reason for an early onset of menopause. The symptoms of Menopause may also arise as a result of radiotherapy to the pelvic field, surgical removal of the ovaries, or systemic chemotherapy. When such procedures occur in pre-menopausal or peri-menopausal women, they often result in sudden and sometimes irreversible menopause that is accompanied by more frequent and severe menopause symptoms. Various cancer-treating endocrine therapies, such as the use of tamoxifen, can also amplify symptoms, especially hot flashes.<br />
<br />
The study involved nearly 300 women to investigate the association between self-reported physical activity and menopause symptoms. In addition, the researchers evaluated whether intervention targeting lifestyle behaviour could improve changes in physical activity levels and menopause symptoms.<br />
<br />
Results suggest that menopause symptoms are less severe in women with medium to high levels of physical activity than in women with low levels of such activity. The intervention, however, was not determined to play a role in increasing physical activity in women being treated for breast, reproductive, or blood cancers.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although this was not the first study to examine the association of physical activity with menopause symptoms, it was the first to look specifically at the volume and intensity of physical activity.Severe menopause symptoms, including poor mental well-being, are associated with a sedentary lifestyle and low physical activity, even in women experiencing natural menopause.<br />
<br />
Researchers of the current study additionally found that women being treated for breast cancer, for example, who experience worse menopause symptoms are less likely to engage in health-promoting behaviours. On the basis of study results, researchers suggest that an increased focus on exercise training should be part of the long-term maintenance program for women after cancer treatment.<br />
<br />
The results were published in the article `Physical activity and menopausal symptoms in women who have received menopause-inducing cancer treatments: results from the Women`s Wellness After Cancer Program.`Dr Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director said, "This study highlights some of the many known benefits of exercise in women with or without cancer. Although the exercise was not associated with less bothersome hot flashes, findings consistent with prior studies, it may help with other menopause symptoms, including mood and sleep disturbances."&nbsp;</p>


Washington [US], December 6 (ANI): A study published online on Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) found that earlier development of menopause symptoms can be alleviated with sufficient volume and intensity of physical activity.

Washington [US], December 6 (ANI): A study published online on Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) found that earlier development of menopause symptoms can be alleviated with sufficient volume and intensity of physical activity. Menopause is the natural suspension, of a woman`s menstrual cycle, which marks the end of fertility. In most cases, women experience menopause by the age of 52, but pelvic or ovarian damage may cause sudden menopause earlier in life. Genetics or underlying conditions may also be a reason for an early onset of menopause. The symptoms of Menopause may also arise as a result of radiotherapy to the pelvic field, surgical removal of the ovaries, or systemic chemotherapy. When such procedures occur in pre-menopausal or peri-menopausal women, they often result in sudden and sometimes irreversible menopause that is accompanied by more frequent and severe menopause symptoms. Various cancer-treating endocrine therapies, such as the use of tamoxifen, can also amplify symptoms, especially hot flashes. The study involved nearly 300 women to investigate the association between self-reported physical activity and menopause symptoms. In addition, the researchers evaluated whether intervention targeting lifestyle behaviour could improve changes in physical activity levels and menopause symptoms. Results suggest that menopause symptoms are less severe in women with medium to high levels of physical activity than in women with low levels of such activity. The intervention, however, was not determined to play a role in increasing physical activity in women being treated for breast, reproductive, or blood cancers. Although this was not the first study to examine the association of physical activity with menopause symptoms, it was the first to look specifically at the volume and intensity of physical activity.Severe menopause symptoms, including poor mental well-being, are associated with a sedentary lifestyle and low physical activity, even in women experiencing natural menopause. Researchers of the current study additionally found that women being treated for breast cancer, for example, who experience worse menopause symptoms are less likely to engage in health-promoting behaviours. On the basis of study results, researchers suggest that an increased focus on exercise training should be part of the long-term maintenance program for women after cancer treatment. The results were published in the article `Physical activity and menopausal symptoms in women who have received menopause-inducing cancer treatments: results from the Women`s Wellness After Cancer Program.`Dr Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director said, "This study highlights some of the many known benefits of exercise in women with or without cancer. Although the exercise was not associated with less bothersome hot flashes, findings consistent with prior studies, it may help with other menopause symptoms, including mood and sleep disturbances."

Women with low levels of physical activity can experience severe menopause:Study

<article>
<p>For the last 20 years, whenever patients asked me about exercising while recovering from a viral illness like the flu, I gave the same advice: Listen to your body. If exercise usually makes you feel better, go for it.</p>

<p>COVID-19 has changed my advice.</p>

<p>Early in the pandemic, as the initial wave of patients with COVID-19 began to recover and clinically improve, my colleagues and I noticed that some of our patients were struggling to return to their previous activity levels. Some cited extreme fatigue and breathing difficulties, while others felt as if they just could not get back to their normal fitness output. We also began to hear of a higher than normal incidence of cardiac arrhythmias from myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle that can weaken the heart and, in rare cases, cause sudden cardiac arrest. Other complications like blood clots were also cropping up.</p>

<p>What was surprising is that we saw these problems in previously healthy and fit patients who had only mild illness and never required hospitalization for COVID-19.</p>

<p>In my sports medicine practice, a cyclist in her 40s with recent COVID-19 symptoms had leg pain that was abnormal enough to warrant an ultrasound, which showed near complete cessation of blood flow because of arterial and venous blood clots in both legs. Thankfully, our team caught these early enough that they did not spread to her lungs, which ultimately could have killed her. Recently, a college student in Indiana with COVID-19 died from a blood clot that traveled to her lungs. As the pandemic has evolved, we have learned of a much higher risk of blood clots from people who contract the virus.</p>

<p>In those early months of the pandemic, my colleagues and I learned of a New York City mental health worker in her early 30s, a dedicated athlete with no underlying health problems, who developed symptoms of COVID-19. Her low-grade fever and congestion went away, but she continued to feel “sluggish.” As she had done many other times after getting over an illness, she went for a run to feel better. She died on the run, of cardiac arrest; it appears she had undiagnosed myocarditis caused by COVID-19.</p>

<p>We now know the heart is a particular cause for concern after coronavirus infection. A study in JAMA Cardiology looked at 100 men and women in Germany, average age 49, who had recovered from COVID-19 and found signs of myocarditis in 78%. Most had been healthy, with no preexisting medical conditions. A smaller study of college athletes who had recovered from COVID-19 found that 15% had signs of heart inflammation.</p>

<p>As the pandemic continues, we have heard countless stories of elite athletes in top physical condition struggling to regain their form after COVID-19. More than a dozen women on the U.S. Olympic rowing team who contracted the virus in March described persistent fatigue for weeks after the initial illness. Recreational athletes, including runners and triathletes, have complained of prolonged respiratory symptoms during exercise. Pulmonary issues from COVID-19, including pneumonia, have caused breathing difficulty during exercise for weeks or months following infection.</p>

<p>To help patients safely return to activity after mild to moderate COVID-19 infection, my colleagues at Hospital for Special Surgery and I published an evidence-based set of guidelines based on the existing medical literature and our evolving understanding of the disease. Our “return to activity” guidelines urge far more caution than in the past, based on the unpredictable nature of how the virus affects each person.</p>

<p>Anyone who had severe illness or was hospitalized with COVID-19 needs to consult a physician about whether it is safe to exercise. But even people who experienced mild illness or no symptoms need to take precautions before exercising again. Among our new recommendations:</p>

<p><b>Do not exercise if you are still sick.&nbsp;</b>Do not exercise if you have active symptoms, including a fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath at rest or palpitations.</p>

<p><b>Slowly return to exercise.</b>&nbsp;Even if you had only mild symptoms, with no chest pain or shortness of breath, you should still wait until you have at least seven days with no symptoms before returning to exercise. Start at just 50% of normal intensity. A gradual, step-by-step and slow return to full activity is recommended.</p>

<p><b>Stop exercise if symptoms return.</b>&nbsp;If you develop symptoms after exercising, including chest pain, fever, palpitations or shortness of breath, see a doctor.</p>

<p><b>See a cardiologist before exercising.</b>&nbsp;If you experienced chest pain, shortness of breath or fatigue during your illness, you should see a cardiologist before restarting sports activity. Depending on how you feel, your doctor may conduct a test for myocardial inflammation.</p>

<p><b>Get tested.</b>&nbsp;If you have cold or flu symptoms, get tested for COVID-19 before you return to exercise. If you think you might have had COVID-19, a test might help you and your doctor make decisions about safely returning to exercise.</p>

<p>And remember, as doctors we can run tests, but&nbsp;<em>you</em>&nbsp;know your own body better than anyone else. You know how you normally feel when you walk up the stairs, when you run, when you bike. If you have had COVID-19, are those things harder for you? Are you noticing a change in your body? If the answer is “yes,” it is important to speak with your doctor.</p>

<p>Even if you have never been diagnosed with COVID-19, be mindful of how you are feeling. Many people with COVID-19 do not know they have it, or have general symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, fatigue or muscle aches. So if you have been feeling “off” during exercise, listen to your body, ease up and check with your doctor.</p>

<p>COVID-19, an aggressive virus, spreads easily and carries significant morbidity and mortality. Cardiac risk in particular is greater with COVID-19 than with other viral diseases, so it makes sense to use caution.</p>
</article>


For the last 20 years, whenever patients asked me about exercising while recovering from a viral illness like the flu, I gave the same advice: Listen to your body.

For the last 20 years, whenever patients asked me about exercising while recovering from a viral illness like the flu, I gave the same advice: Listen to your body. If exercise usually makes you feel better, go for it. COVID-19 has changed my advice. Early in the pandemic, as the initial wave of patients with COVID-19 began to recover and clinically improve, my colleagues and I noticed that some of our patients were struggling to return to their previous activity levels. Some cited extreme fatigue and breathing difficulties, while others felt as if they just could not get back to their normal fitness output. We also began to hear of a higher than normal incidence of cardiac arrhythmias from myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle that can weaken the heart and, in rare cases, cause sudden cardiac arrest. Other complications like blood clots were also cropping up. What was surprising is that we saw these problems in previously healthy and fit patients who had only mild illness and never required hospitalization for COVID-19. In my sports medicine practice, a cyclist in her 40s with recent COVID-19 symptoms had leg pain that was abnormal enough to warrant an ultrasound, which showed near complete cessation of blood flow because of arterial and venous blood clots in both legs. Thankfully, our team caught these early enough that they did not spread to her lungs, which ultimately could have killed her. Recently, a college student in Indiana with COVID-19 died from a blood clot that traveled to her lungs. As the pandemic has evolved, we have learned of a much higher risk of blood clots from people who contract the virus. In those early months of the pandemic, my colleagues and I learned of a New York City mental health worker in her early 30s, a dedicated athlete with no underlying health problems, who developed symptoms of COVID-19. Her low-grade fever and congestion went away, but she continued to feel “sluggish.” As she had done many other times after getting over an illness, she went for a run to feel better. She died on the run, of cardiac arrest; it appears she had undiagnosed myocarditis caused by COVID-19. We now know the heart is a particular cause for concern after coronavirus infection. A study in JAMA Cardiology looked at 100 men and women in Germany, average age 49, who had recovered from COVID-19 and found signs of myocarditis in 78%. Most had been healthy, with no preexisting medical conditions. A smaller study of college athletes who had recovered from COVID-19 found that 15% had signs of heart inflammation. As the pandemic continues, we have heard countless stories of elite athletes in top physical condition struggling to regain their form after COVID-19. More than a dozen women on the U.S. Olympic rowing team who contracted the virus in March described persistent fatigue for weeks after the initial illness. Recreational athletes, including runners and triathletes, have complained of prolonged respiratory symptoms during exercise. Pulmonary issues from COVID-19, including pneumonia, have caused breathing difficulty during exercise for weeks or months following infection. To help patients safely return to activity after mild to moderate COVID-19 infection, my colleagues at Hospital for Special Surgery and I published an evidence-based set of guidelines based on the existing medical literature and our evolving understanding of the disease. Our “return to activity” guidelines urge far more caution than in the past, based on the unpredictable nature of how the virus affects each person. Anyone who had severe illness or was hospitalized with COVID-19 needs to consult a physician about whether it is safe to exercise. But even people who experienced mild illness or no symptoms need to take precautions before exercising again. Among our new recommendations: Do not exercise if you are still sick. Do not exercise if you have active symptoms, including a fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath at rest or palpitations. Slowly return to exercise. Even if you had only mild symptoms, with no chest pain or shortness of breath, you should still wait until you have at least seven days with no symptoms before returning to exercise. Start at just 50% of normal intensity. A gradual, step-by-step and slow return to full activity is recommended. Stop exercise if symptoms return. If you develop symptoms after exercising, including chest pain, fever, palpitations or shortness of breath, see a doctor. See a cardiologist before exercising. If you experienced chest pain, shortness of breath or fatigue during your illness, you should see a cardiologist before restarting sports activity. Depending on how you feel, your doctor may conduct a test for myocardial inflammation. Get tested. If you have cold or flu symptoms, get tested for COVID-19 before you return to exercise. If you think you might have had COVID-19, a test might help you and your doctor make decisions about safely returning to exercise. And remember, as doctors we can run tests, but you know your own body better than anyone else. You know how you normally feel when you walk up the stairs, when you run, when you bike. If you have had COVID-19, are those things harder for you? Are you noticing a change in your body? If the answer is “yes,” it is important to speak with your doctor. Even if you have never been diagnosed with COVID-19, be mindful of how you are feeling. Many people with COVID-19 do not know they have it, or have general symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, fatigue or muscle aches. So if you have been feeling “off” during exercise, listen to your body, ease up and check with your doctor. COVID-19, an aggressive virus, spreads easily and carries significant morbidity and mortality. Cardiac risk in particular is greater with COVID-19 than with other viral diseases, so it makes sense to use caution.

Exercise after COVID-19? Take it slow.

<p>Roiled by concerns about the pandemic and politics? Lifting weights might help, according to a timely new study of anxiety and resistance training. The study, which involved healthy young adults, barbells and lunges, indicates that regular weight training substantially reduces anxiety, a finding with particular relevance during these unsettling, bumpy days.</p>

<p>We already have plenty of evidence that exercise helps stave off depression and other mental ills, and that exercise can elevate feelings of happiness and contentment. But most past studies of exercise and moods have looked at the effects of aerobic exercise, like running on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike.</p>

<p>Scientists only recently have begun to investigate whether and how weight training might also affect mental health. A 2018 review of studies, for instance, concluded that adults who lift weights are less likely to develop depression than those who never lift. In another study, women with clinical anxiety disorders reported fewer symptoms after taking up either aerobic or weight training.</p>

<p>But many of these studies involved frequent and complicated sessions of resistance exercise performed under the eyes of researchers, which is not how most of us are likely to work out. They also often focused on somewhat narrow groups, such as men or women with a diagnosed mental health condition like depression or an anxiety disorder, limiting their applicability.</p>

<p>So for the new study, which was published in October in Scientific Reports, researchers at the University of Limerick in Ireland and other institutions decided to see if a simple version of weight training could have benefits for mood in people who already were in generally good mental health.</p>

<p>To find out, they recruited 28 physically healthy young men and women and tested their current moods, with a particular emphasis on whether the volunteers felt anxious. All the participants scored in a healthy range on detailed anxiety questionnaires.</p>

<p>The scientists then divided these well-adjusted volunteers into two groups. Half were asked to continue with their normal lives as a control group. The others began to weight train, a practice with which few were familiar.</p>

<p>The scientists had devised a helpfully simple resistance training routine for them, based around health guidelines from the World Health Organization and the American College of Sports Medicine. Both those organizations recommend muscle strengthening at least twice a week, and that’s what the volunteers began doing. After initial instruction from the researchers, the volunteers took up a basic program of lunges, lifts, squats and crunches, sometimes using dumbbells and other equipment.</p>

<p>Their training continued for eight weeks. Throughout, both groups periodically repeated the tests of their anxiety levels, including at the end of the full program. (After the study ended, the control group was given the option of starting the weight training routine.)</p>

<p>As expected, the control group, for the most part, retained their original low levels of anxiety. They still felt about as tranquil as eight weeks before.</p>

<p>But the weight trainers scored about 20% better on the tests of anxiety. They had started with low levels of anxiety to begin with, but felt even less anxious afterward.</p>

<p>This effect was “larger than anticipated,” said Brett Gordon, currently a postdoctoral scholar at the Penn State Cancer Institute at Penn State College of Medicine, who was an author of the study with Matthew Herring, Cillian McDowell and Mark Lyons. The benefits for mental health were greater, in fact, than those often seen in studies of aerobic exercise and anxiety. But Gordon cautions that such comparisons are limited, since the various experiments use different amounts of exercise and measures of moods.</p>

<p>The new study also did not delve into how weight training can affect anxiety. But Gordon and his colleagues suspect increased physical and psychological potency figure in. The lifters became stronger over time and able to lift heavier weights. “Feelings of mastery may have occurred” then, he said, leaving people feeling generally more capable of coping. Molecular changes in the lifters’ muscles and brains probably also occurred and contributed to improvements in their moods, he said, noting that future studies may help to detail some of those changes.</p>

<p>Or course, this experiment featured only healthy young people performing one version of training, so the findings cannot tell us if lifting likewise eases anxiety in older people. Nor can it tell us which regimen might be enough, too much or just the right amount to bolster mental health. Finally, it also does not prove that heading to the gym today can acutely soothe any mental turmoil we may be feeling, since the improvements in the study showed up after weeks of training.</p>

<p>But if you are feeling tense and uptight, as so many of us are these days, becoming stronger is probably a worthwhile goal and need not be intimidating, Gordon said. “There are numerous ways to strength train with little to no equipment,” he said. “Try common body weight exercises, such as pushups, situps or squats, or use household items as weights.”</p>


Roiled by concerns about the pandemic and politics? Lifting weights might help, according to a timely new study of anxiety and resistance training. The study, which involved healthy young adults, barbells and lunges, indicates that regular weight training substantially reduces anxiety, a finding with particular relevance during these unsettling, bumpy days.

Roiled by concerns about the pandemic and politics? Lifting weights might help, according to a timely new study of anxiety and resistance training. The study, which involved healthy young adults, barbells and lunges, indicates that regular weight training substantially reduces anxiety, a finding with particular relevance during these unsettling, bumpy days. We already have plenty of evidence that exercise helps stave off depression and other mental ills, and that exercise can elevate feelings of happiness and contentment. But most past studies of exercise and moods have looked at the effects of aerobic exercise, like running on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike. Scientists only recently have begun to investigate whether and how weight training might also affect mental health. A 2018 review of studies, for instance, concluded that adults who lift weights are less likely to develop depression than those who never lift. In another study, women with clinical anxiety disorders reported fewer symptoms after taking up either aerobic or weight training. But many of these studies involved frequent and complicated sessions of resistance exercise performed under the eyes of researchers, which is not how most of us are likely to work out. They also often focused on somewhat narrow groups, such as men or women with a diagnosed mental health condition like depression or an anxiety disorder, limiting their applicability. So for the new study, which was published in October in Scientific Reports, researchers at the University of Limerick in Ireland and other institutions decided to see if a simple version of weight training could have benefits for mood in people who already were in generally good mental health. To find out, they recruited 28 physically healthy young men and women and tested their current moods, with a particular emphasis on whether the volunteers felt anxious. All the participants scored in a healthy range on detailed anxiety questionnaires. The scientists then divided these well-adjusted volunteers into two groups. Half were asked to continue with their normal lives as a control group. The others began to weight train, a practice with which few were familiar. The scientists had devised a helpfully simple resistance training routine for them, based around health guidelines from the World Health Organization and the American College of Sports Medicine. Both those organizations recommend muscle strengthening at least twice a week, and that’s what the volunteers began doing. After initial instruction from the researchers, the volunteers took up a basic program of lunges, lifts, squats and crunches, sometimes using dumbbells and other equipment. Their training continued for eight weeks. Throughout, both groups periodically repeated the tests of their anxiety levels, including at the end of the full program. (After the study ended, the control group was given the option of starting the weight training routine.) As expected, the control group, for the most part, retained their original low levels of anxiety. They still felt about as tranquil as eight weeks before. But the weight trainers scored about 20% better on the tests of anxiety. They had started with low levels of anxiety to begin with, but felt even less anxious afterward. This effect was “larger than anticipated,” said Brett Gordon, currently a postdoctoral scholar at the Penn State Cancer Institute at Penn State College of Medicine, who was an author of the study with Matthew Herring, Cillian McDowell and Mark Lyons. The benefits for mental health were greater, in fact, than those often seen in studies of aerobic exercise and anxiety. But Gordon cautions that such comparisons are limited, since the various experiments use different amounts of exercise and measures of moods. The new study also did not delve into how weight training can affect anxiety. But Gordon and his colleagues suspect increased physical and psychological potency figure in. The lifters became stronger over time and able to lift heavier weights. “Feelings of mastery may have occurred” then, he said, leaving people feeling generally more capable of coping. Molecular changes in the lifters’ muscles and brains probably also occurred and contributed to improvements in their moods, he said, noting that future studies may help to detail some of those changes. Or course, this experiment featured only healthy young people performing one version of training, so the findings cannot tell us if lifting likewise eases anxiety in older people. Nor can it tell us which regimen might be enough, too much or just the right amount to bolster mental health. Finally, it also does not prove that heading to the gym today can acutely soothe any mental turmoil we may be feeling, since the improvements in the study showed up after weeks of training. But if you are feeling tense and uptight, as so many of us are these days, becoming stronger is probably a worthwhile goal and need not be intimidating, Gordon said. “There are numerous ways to strength train with little to no equipment,” he said. “Try common body weight exercises, such as pushups, situps or squats, or use household items as weights.”

Weight training may help ease anxiety

According to a US study published in the Innovation Journal, a dip in the air quality to a dangerous low can make the coronavirus more deadly for COVID-19 patients with underlying asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These patients are also more prone to COVID-19.

Know how urban air pollution can make COVID-19 more deadly

<p>Intermittent fasting is quite a fad these days. From celebrities to silicon valley CEOs -&nbsp; everyone is trying their luck with intermittent fasting.</p>

<p><strong>What does it mean?</strong></p>

<p>You fast for anything between 12 to 18 hours a day, and eat only in the remaining window. Intermittent fasting is being pitted as the elixir for a long lifespan.</p>

<p>A new study has found that intermittent fasting does not even help you lose weight to begin with.</p>

<p>From Instagram influencers to actors Hugh Jackman and Jennifer Aniston, everyone is a fan. As the name suggests intermittent fasting is about eating in intervals. For example, you eat for 8 hours a day and fast for the remaining 16.</p>

<p>In return, you are promised weight loss, a healthy heart, lower insulin resistance, reduction of inflammation, and a longer lifespan.</p>

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<p>What makes intermittent fasting a hit is the fact that in the 8 hours of eating, you are allowed to eat anything.</p>

<p>A lot of people are taking up this challenge.&nbsp;There are apps helping people monitor their fast. In 2019, intermittent fasting was the top-trending diet search on Google.</p>

<p>However, <a href="https://jamanetwork.Com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2771095?Guestaccesskey=444bbcb2-7e13-4dc6-998f-5de5e27aa19e&amp;amp;utm_source=for_the_media&amp;amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;amp;utm_campaign=ftm_links&amp;amp;utm_content=tfl&amp;amp;utm_term=092820)">a study</a> has found that intermittent fasting does not help you lose weight. Led by a cardiologist from the University of California, San Francisco, he and his team recruited 116 people who were either overweight or obese, and divided them into 2 groups.</p>

<p>One ate at random times within a strict 8-hour window, and the other group ate at normal meal times. The group that was intermittent fasting lost an average of 2 pounds over 12 weeks. The group that was not intermittent fasting lost 1.5 pounds.</p>

<p>Researchers said this difference was not statistically significant.</p>

<p>To top that, some of the people who were fasting lost more muscle mass. A <a href="https://academic.Oup.Com/ajcn/article/108/5/933/5201451">2018 study</a> found no significant difference between intermittent fasting for 50 weeks and following traditional diet with restricted calories.</p>

<p>A cardiologist who studied intermittent fasting experimented with it for 7 years.</p>

<p>But there are others who have lost weight. The list includes Chris Pratt, Kourtney Kardashian, Vanessa Hudgens and Scarlett Johansson.</p>

<p>People began adapting intermittent fasting after several studies showed results on mice. If mice lost weight, could humans be far behind?&nbsp;</p>


Intermittent fasting is quite a fad these days. From celebrities to silicon valley CEOs - everyone is trying their luck with intermittent fasting. What does it mean?

Intermittent fasting is quite a fad these days. From celebrities to silicon valley CEOs - everyone is trying their luck with intermittent fasting. What does it mean? You fast for anything between 12 to 18 hours a day, and eat only in the remaining window. Intermittent fasting is being pitted as the elixir for a long lifespan. A new study has found that intermittent fasting does not even help you lose weight to begin with. From Instagram influencers to actors Hugh Jackman and Jennifer Aniston, everyone is a fan. As the name suggests intermittent fasting is about eating in intervals. For example, you eat for 8 hours a day and fast for the remaining 16. In return, you are promised weight loss, a healthy heart, lower insulin resistance, reduction of inflammation, and a longer lifespan. × What makes intermittent fasting a hit is the fact that in the 8 hours of eating, you are allowed to eat anything. A lot of people are taking up this challenge. There are apps helping people monitor their fast. In 2019, intermittent fasting was the top-trending diet search on Google. However, a study has found that intermittent fasting does not help you lose weight. Led by a cardiologist from the University of California, San Francisco, he and his team recruited 116 people who were either overweight or obese, and divided them into 2 groups. One ate at random times within a strict 8-hour window, and the other group ate at normal meal times. The group that was intermittent fasting lost an average of 2 pounds over 12 weeks. The group that was not intermittent fasting lost 1.5 pounds. Researchers said this difference was not statistically significant. To top that, some of the people who were fasting lost more muscle mass. A 2018 study found no significant difference between intermittent fasting for 50 weeks and following traditional diet with restricted calories. A cardiologist who studied intermittent fasting experimented with it for 7 years. But there are others who have lost weight. The list includes Chris Pratt, Kourtney Kardashian, Vanessa Hudgens and Scarlett Johansson. People began adapting intermittent fasting after several studies showed results on mice. If mice lost weight, could humans be far behind?

Does intermittent fasting really work?

<p>Obese Americans are more likely to become dangerously ill if they are infected with the new coronavirus. Now public health officials are warning that a much broader segment of the population also may be at risk: Even moderately excess weight may increase the odds of severe disease.</p>

<p>The warning, reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention this past week, may have serious implications for Americans. While about 40% of U.S. adults are obese, another 32% are simply overweight, among the highest rates of obesity and overweight in the world.</p>

<p>By the new calculus, nearly three-quarters of Americans may be at increased risk of severe COVID-19 if infected with the coronavirus.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/long-lived-antibodies-detected-in-saliva-blood-of-coronavirus-patients-333967"><strong>Also read|&nbsp;Long-lived antibodies detected in saliva, blood of coronavirus patients</strong></a></p>

<p>“It’s important to make sure the public and individuals are aware of this potential risk,” said Dr. Brook Belay, a medical officer at the CDC.</p>

<p>“The message is to strive to make healthy changes on a daily basis, through healthy food choices, choices about physical activity, and getting sufficient sleep.”</p>

<p>Other medical conditions for which there is limited or mixed evidence of increased COVID-19 severity include asthma, cerebrovascular disease and cystic fibrosis, the CDC said. Medical conditions clearly shown to increase the risk of COVID-19 include cancer, chronic kidney disease, heart disease and sickle cell disease, among others.</p>

<p>Overweight and obesity are defined by a person’s body mass index, a ratio of an individual’s weight and height. People with a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 are considered to be of healthy weight; the overweight zone ranges from a BMI of 25 through 29, and obesity starts at a BMI of 30.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-urge-scientists-to-find-more-about-bat-viruses-334042"><strong>Also read|&nbsp;Researchers urge scientists to find more about bat viruses</strong></a></p>

<p>Someone who is 5 feet, 9 inches and weighs 125 to 168 pounds is in the healthy range, for example; above that, the individual is overweight, and at 203 pounds or higher, is obese.</p>

<p>“This greatly expands the risk to a pretty big chunk of the U.S. population,” Barry M. Popkin, a professor of nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, said of the CDC’s new advice.</p>

<p>In a recent review of 75 studies published in August, Popkin found that obese people were twice as likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19, compared with those who were overweight or of healthy weight, and nearly twice as likely to wind up in intensive care.</p>

<p>Popkin and his colleagues were unable to pinpoint the risk of being merely overweight, because so few studies have examined that variable.</p>

<p>Doctors observed early on in the pandemic that excess weight appeared to pose an extra risk to patients. But since obesity is often accompanied by other medical problems, it took some time for researchers to learn whether excess fat, in and of itself, was the culprit. Many studies now indicate that it may be, at least in some patients.</p>

<p>Adipose tissue — the fat accumulated by the body — is itself biologically active, causing metabolic changes and abnormalities. Adipose promotes a state of chronic low-grade inflammation in the body, even without an infection.</p>

<p>In addition, abdominal obesity — which is more common in men — may cause compression of the diaphragm, lungs and chest cavity, restricting breathing and making it more difficult to clear pneumonia and other respiratory infections.</p>

<p>The CDC based its warning on a small number of studies that successfully differentiated between overweight and obesity, including a paper on risk factors for severe COVID-19 among patients in the United Kingdom and a report analyzing the outcomes of more than 500 patients hospitalized in March and April at Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn.</p>

<p>Among those patients, 43% were obese, 30% overweight and 27% of healthy weight. After adjusting for age, diabetes and other such factors, the researchers found that patients who were overweight or obese were at increased risk for requiring mechanical assistance with breathing and were more likely to die. The paper was published in July in the International Journal of Obesity.</p>

<p>Surprisingly, the risk of being overweight was even greater than that linked to obesity. Overweight patients were 40% more likely to die than healthy-weight patients, while obese patients were at 30% greater risk, compared with the healthy-weight patients.</p>

<p>The findings clearly demonstrated an increased risk of severe COVID-19 in anyone with a BMI of 25 or above, according to the authors of the study, Dr. Mohamed Rami Nakeshbandi, an assistant professor of infectious diseases at SUNY Downstate Health Science University, and Rohan Maini, a medical student.</p>

<p>But while obesity increased the risk of death for men, it did not do so for women, they noted. (Other studies have also reported this disparity.)</p>

<p>The British study examined lifestyle risk factors among 387,109 men and women, 760 of whom had COVID-19. People with the virus who were overweight were roughly 30% more likely to be hospitalized than those of healthy weight; those who were obese were about twice as likely, compared with healthy-weight individuals.</p>

<p>The study, published in July in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity, also looked at factors like smoking, alcohol consumption and levels of physical activity, and concluded that moderate exercise reduced the odds that an infected person would be hospitalized.</p>

<p>“Socially distanced physical activity may be a good intervention,” Mark Hamer, a professor of sports and exercise medicine at University College London and an author of the paper, said in an email. “It gives immune protection, and also helps with weight loss.”</p>

<p>Physical activity, which has been extensively studied, can reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions linked to excess weight, like diabetes and high blood pressure. But it won’t entirely eliminate the risk of impaired immune function and heightened inflammation, Popkin cautioned.</p>

<p>“Overweight is quite different than other diseases in terms of inflammation,” he said. “The fat tissue are inflamed for a long period of time, and it affects immune function more over time. It is a continuous insult.”</p>


Obese Americans are more likely to become dangerously ill if they are infected with the new coronavirus. Now public health officials are warning that a much broader segment of the population also may be at risk: Even moderately excess weight may increase the odds of severe disease.

Obese Americans are more likely to become dangerously ill if they are infected with the new coronavirus. Now public health officials are warning that a much broader segment of the population also may be at risk: Even moderately excess weight may increase the odds of severe disease. The warning, reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention this past week, may have serious implications for Americans. While about 40% of U.S. adults are obese, another 32% are simply overweight, among the highest rates of obesity and overweight in the world. By the new calculus, nearly three-quarters of Americans may be at increased risk of severe COVID-19 if infected with the coronavirus. Also read| Long-lived antibodies detected in saliva, blood of coronavirus patients “It’s important to make sure the public and individuals are aware of this potential risk,” said Dr. Brook Belay, a medical officer at the CDC. “The message is to strive to make healthy changes on a daily basis, through healthy food choices, choices about physical activity, and getting sufficient sleep.” Other medical conditions for which there is limited or mixed evidence of increased COVID-19 severity include asthma, cerebrovascular disease and cystic fibrosis, the CDC said. Medical conditions clearly shown to increase the risk of COVID-19 include cancer, chronic kidney disease, heart disease and sickle cell disease, among others. Overweight and obesity are defined by a person’s body mass index, a ratio of an individual’s weight and height. People with a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 are considered to be of healthy weight; the overweight zone ranges from a BMI of 25 through 29, and obesity starts at a BMI of 30. Also read| Researchers urge scientists to find more about bat viruses Someone who is 5 feet, 9 inches and weighs 125 to 168 pounds is in the healthy range, for example; above that, the individual is overweight, and at 203 pounds or higher, is obese. “This greatly expands the risk to a pretty big chunk of the U.S. population,” Barry M. Popkin, a professor of nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, said of the CDC’s new advice. In a recent review of 75 studies published in August, Popkin found that obese people were twice as likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19, compared with those who were overweight or of healthy weight, and nearly twice as likely to wind up in intensive care. Popkin and his colleagues were unable to pinpoint the risk of being merely overweight, because so few studies have examined that variable. Doctors observed early on in the pandemic that excess weight appeared to pose an extra risk to patients. But since obesity is often accompanied by other medical problems, it took some time for researchers to learn whether excess fat, in and of itself, was the culprit. Many studies now indicate that it may be, at least in some patients. Adipose tissue — the fat accumulated by the body — is itself biologically active, causing metabolic changes and abnormalities. Adipose promotes a state of chronic low-grade inflammation in the body, even without an infection. In addition, abdominal obesity — which is more common in men — may cause compression of the diaphragm, lungs and chest cavity, restricting breathing and making it more difficult to clear pneumonia and other respiratory infections. The CDC based its warning on a small number of studies that successfully differentiated between overweight and obesity, including a paper on risk factors for severe COVID-19 among patients in the United Kingdom and a report analyzing the outcomes of more than 500 patients hospitalized in March and April at Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn. Among those patients, 43% were obese, 30% overweight and 27% of healthy weight. After adjusting for age, diabetes and other such factors, the researchers found that patients who were overweight or obese were at increased risk for requiring mechanical assistance with breathing and were more likely to die. The paper was published in July in the International Journal of Obesity. Surprisingly, the risk of being overweight was even greater than that linked to obesity. Overweight patients were 40% more likely to die than healthy-weight patients, while obese patients were at 30% greater risk, compared with the healthy-weight patients. The findings clearly demonstrated an increased risk of severe COVID-19 in anyone with a BMI of 25 or above, according to the authors of the study, Dr. Mohamed Rami Nakeshbandi, an assistant professor of infectious diseases at SUNY Downstate Health Science University, and Rohan Maini, a medical student. But while obesity increased the risk of death for men, it did not do so for women, they noted. (Other studies have also reported this disparity.) The British study examined lifestyle risk factors among 387,109 men and women, 760 of whom had COVID-19. People with the virus who were overweight were roughly 30% more likely to be hospitalized than those of healthy weight; those who were obese were about twice as likely, compared with healthy-weight individuals. The study, published in July in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity, also looked at factors like smoking, alcohol consumption and levels of physical activity, and concluded that moderate exercise reduced the odds that an infected person would be hospitalized. “Socially distanced physical activity may be a good intervention,” Mark Hamer, a professor of sports and exercise medicine at University College London and an author of the paper, said in an email. “It gives immune protection, and also helps with weight loss.” Physical activity, which has been extensively studied, can reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions linked to excess weight, like diabetes and high blood pressure. But it won’t entirely eliminate the risk of impaired immune function and heightened inflammation, Popkin cautioned. “Overweight is quite different than other diseases in terms of inflammation,” he said. “The fat tissue are inflamed for a long period of time, and it affects immune function more over time. It is a continuous insult.”

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