With so many headlines to read, news articles to sift through, and tweets to favorite, it’s nearly impossible to read every story that affects our health. So we’re making it easier for everyone by rounding up our top story picks that could seriously change some health behaviors.
It’s Possible to Overdose on Brussels Sprouts
Do this: Definitely fit in your serving of brussels sprouts, but beware of overdoing it if you take blood thinners.
Something about roasted brussels sprouts just screams winter deliciousness (Just us?) Unfortunately, scientists found one downside to this tasty winter vegetable: It can be harmful for people on blood thinners. The Vitamin K in the sprouts can promote blood clotting, which is dangerous only for people with heart problems and on blood thinning medication, reported Grist. But rest assured, if your heart is healthy, then there’s no harm in going back for a second serving.
Apps for Health and Fitness are Exploding
Do this: Try downloading an app to help track and reach your health and fitness goals.
Check this: Around 19 percent of smart phone users have at least one health app on their phone, wrote Charlotte Observer. This is cool news, since science is finally starting to uncover how certain apps are actually making people healthier. Moreover, the ever-climbing variety of apps for your fitness and health could very well mean there’s a tool out there for anyone to use.
High-Fat Diets: Addiction That’s Hard to Break
Do this: Stay away from foods that are super high in saturated fats.
Forget drugs and alcohol — certain foods may be addictive too. A new study covered by Fox News found when mice were taken off a six-week diet rich in saturated fats, they experienced anxiety, cravings, and withdrawal. Now, humans clearly aren’t mice, but the study supports other research that continually eating unhealthy foods can train our bodies to reach for more of the bad stuff in addition to other psychological effects.
7-11 Shifts Focus to Healthier Food Options
Do this: If in a desperate need for a quick-bite, choose 7-11 over the Golden Arches for some healthy options (finally!).
Most people associate 7-11 with Slurpees and rolling hot dogs, but now it’s hopping on the healthier bandwagon, according to The New York Times. Instead of just Big Gulps, chips, and cigarettes, this convenience store’s aisles are making room for yogurt, fresh fruits and veggies, and portion-controlled meals. What’s awesome about this shift is 7-11 is looking at what customers want, which is healthier options. Hopefully other food chains will follow suit.
Neuroticism May Have A Healthy Upside
Do this: Don’t panic if you’re neurotic — as long as you’re also conscientiousness and super organized, you may be less at risk for chronic disease.
There’s always a way to look at the glass half-full. Covered in Today Health, researchers discovered neurotics who also are highly organized and plan ahead have lower levels of a specific biomarker for inflammation and chronic disease. They call it “healthy neuroticism,” but there are still many gaps to be filled before neuroticism is deemed to have tangible physical benefits. Until then, work on keeping those stress levels under control.
What were some of the most important health stories from the week? Let us know in the comments below or tweet the author @lschwech.
