Stopping Exercises in Winter Increases Cholesterol Storage: Doctors

Stopping physical exercise during the winter season increases the storage of cholesterol in the body, medical experts here said on Thursday. According to them, another reason that contributes to the cholesterol storage during winters is the lack of vitamin D synthesis from sunlight. “A decrease in sunlight pushes the body to store more cholesterol than usual as a protective measure. The seasonal variation in cholesterol levels could lead to more progression of fatty liver disease in the winter. Physical activities decrease during winters, and skipping exercise routine may be a…

What are states doing to fight bad air?

Raising concern over the poor air quality in Delhi and its adjoining area, the NCR Planning Board on Tuesday asked its member states Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan -to submit their action plans. It also asked the state governments to increase forest cover to 20% from the present 3.3% and to start land acquisition for building seven new inter-state roads “immediately”. The board also noted that the forest cover in the NCR had reduced to 3.30% of the entire geographical area in 2012 from 4.30% in 1999. The states…

Insulin cells under skin could save diabetics from jabs

Scientists have created artificial cells that act as sugar sensorsand insulin producers, an advance that may spell an end to painful needle jabs to monitor blood glucose levels, making the everyday life of diabetics easier. Researchers have used the simplest approach yet to produce artificial beta cells from human kidney cells. The therapy involves a capsule of genetically engineered cells implanted under the skin that automatically release insulin as required. Diabetic mice that were treated with the cells were found to have normal blood sugar levels for several weeks. Previous…

Cardio versus Weightlifting: What’s The Best Way to Get Rid of Fat?

The world of fitness is shrouded in myths and misconceptions. One of them would certainly be the association of cardio exercises with weight loss and linking weight training with alpha-human, muscular bodies. Cardio and weight training, both work in tandem to drop kilos and help you get toned. While cardio helps in burning fat, resistance training builds muscles in place of the lost fat. Some recent studies suggest that our metabolism stays high from 24 to 36 hours post a high-intensity workout. In order to lose weight, one should get…

Europe Air Pollution Causes 467,000 Early Deaths a Year: Report

Almost nine out of 10 European city dwellers breathe air that is harmful to their health, though the continent’s air quality is slowly improving, the European Environment Agency (EEA) said today. Air pollution remains the single largest environmental cause of premature death in urban Europe, and was linked to around 467,000 early deaths in 41 European countries in 2013, according to an analysis of data from more than 400 cities. “Emission reductions have led to improvements in air quality in Europe, but not enough to avoid unacceptable damage to human…

Reliance on Food Pantries Can Make Healthy Eating Difficult

One month’s food assistance for one to two people is displayed at the Blackstone Valley CAP food pantry in Pawtucket, Rhode Island December 2, 2008. Reuters/Brian Snyder People who rely on food pantries for their meals may not receive enough dairy, fruits or vegetables to get all the nutrients they need for a healthy diet, two recent studies suggest. Part of the problem is that many volunteer-supported food pantries set up to provide occasional assistance to families during temporary setbacks have instead become the main source of food for long…