Playing sports may improve the brain’s ability to process sounds, a finding that could lead to new therapies for people who struggle with hearing, researchers report. “No one would argue against the fact that sports lead to better physical fitness, but we don’t always think of brain fitness and sports,” said study senior author Nina…  read on >

If you can tackle a tough workout, that may bode well for your longevity, new research suggests. A woman’s risk of dying from heart disease, cancer or other causes is much lower if she can engage in vigorous exercise, scientists report. The new study included more than 4,700 middle-aged and older women, average age 64,…  read on >

The holiday season can give you real headaches, but you can take action to prevent them, an expert says. To reduce stress, make plans well in advance and know your limits, advised Dr. Bing Liao, a neurologist at Houston Methodist. “The nature of the holiday season already increases stress levels, so finding small ways to…  read on >

Figuring out which nutrition and exercise information is trustworthy may be difficult, says the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The agency debunks these common misconceptions: Bread, pasta and rice are not necessarily fattening. Try to eat whole grains to feel fuller. You do not have to avoid all fats if you’re…  read on >

People are creatures of habit, so breaking old practices and forming new routines can be daunting. To start and maintain a new routine, NorthShore University Health System recommends: Figure out what needs to be in your routine. Set small goals. Lay out a plan. Be consistent over time. Be prepared. Make it fun. Track your…  read on >

Pre-workout supplements are the buzz around many gyms and athletic facilities. But before you chug these products and start exercising, it’s important that you know more about the supplements. Cleveland Clinic offers this advice about these products: The supplements typically come in powder or pill form. The main ingredient is usually caffeine. Most brands range…  read on >

Is your workout routine in a slump? To keep challenging your body, it’s important to tweak your regimen every three months or each season. By aligning these changes to seasonal changes, you can also start the right prep for the next season’s sports, such as training for skiing in the fall and hiking in the…  read on >

FRIDAY, Nov. 8, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Washington Heights, a historic neighborhood on Chicago’s far South Side, faces the modern-day challenge of boosting health, education and economic opportunities for its residents. At the forefront of this revitalization effort is The Endeleo Institute, and its success stories are multiplying. “Endeleo” is a Swahili term…  read on >

Just because your upper arms are temporarily hidden under sweaters and jackets doesn’t mean you should neglect them. Here’s how to tone them with weights for better definition now and when they’re fully back in view. Hammer Curls: These are an effective variation of the bicep curl. Stand straight, a dumbbell in each hand, arms…  read on >

Just 10 minutes of exercise a day appears to sharpen mental prowess, new research suggests. “Getting off the couch and walking a block can help keep you on the right track,” said study author Nicole Spartano, a research assistant professor at Boston University School of Medicine. Her team looked 2,770 participants in the Framingham Heart…  read on >