YOUR HEALTH: Science-backed ways to improve your health
So, how can you beat the odds and improve your overall health? The United States has the lowest life expectancy at birth and the highest death rates for avoidable or treatable conditions, according to the Commonwealth Fund. However, science-backed ways can improve your health include bike commuting, climbing 50 stairs a day, and spending more time in nature. A study found that living near a park or a lake can reduce a person's risk of developing a mental health condition. Exposure to sunlight can also lessen your risk of diabetes, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, and cancer. A Dutch study found those who took a cold shower every morning for a month were 30 percent less likely to take time off for sickness.
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BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) - According to the Commonwealth Fund, the United States has the lowest life expectancy at birth and the highest death rates for avoidable or treatable conditions. The U.S. also has the highest rate of people with multiple chronic conditions. So, how can you beat the odds and improve your overall health? Ivanhoe tells us about some science-backed ways.
First: Hop on a bike. One study found people who commuted to work by bike had a lower risk for certain cancers and heart disease. And don’t skip the stairs! A UK-based study found people who climbed 50 stairs a day reduced their risk of cardiovascular disease by 20 percent!
“If you work in a building that has multiple flights of stairs, maybe you could just go walk up and down the stairs a few times while you’re at work,” said Stephanie Nickitas, owner of CrossFit Winter Park.
Also, spend more time in nature. A 10-year study found that more exposure to green and blue spaces – such as living near a park or a lake – lowers a person’s chances of developing a mental health condition.
“Mental health is about being able to find a joy or a contentment in something simple,” explained David Baker, PhD, a psychotherapist for Performance Management Consultant.
Also, research shows exposure to sunlight can lessen your risk for type one diabetes, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, and some forms of cancer. In general, experts recommend 10 to 30 minutes of midday sunlight, several times a week. And try ways to de-stress. Another study found those who meditated had lower bad cholesterol and less inflammation compared to those who did not. Lastly, try taking cold showers! A Dutch study found those who took a cold shower every morning for a month were 30 percent less likely to take time off from work for sickness.
Here’s another tip: Don’t just climb stairs. Walk down them too! Studies show the downward movement activates muscles while they are stretched and elongated – something called an eccentric exercise.