Category: harvardhealth_news_UNDEFINED

There are many ways to learn something new while at home. Tools include smartphone apps, books, online classes, project kits, podcasts, and even YouTube videos. Learning something new brings invaluable health benefits, such as sharper thinking and maybe even better brain health. The reason behind better thinking skills that result from learning could be new brain cell connections, which may lead to more paths for information to get where it needs to go.

There are many ways to exercise when stuck indoors. Just stepping in place is a simple and effective aerobic workout: one should lift the knees high and raise and lower the arms to get to get the heart and lungs pumping harder. For a home strength training workout, one can lift household objects such as soup cans, or do body weight exercises such as standing planks and bridges. To stretch while at home, one can practice yoga or tai chi, or follow a list of stretches.

A study published online April 22, 2020, by the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that drinking filtered coffee was better for health than drinking unfiltered coffee, particularly for older people.

People who use apps to support them in taking medications say they are twice as likely to stick to a medication regimen as people who don’t use apps in this way.

A significant proportion of motor vehicle deaths involve people who’ve consumed alcohol but whose blood alcohol levels do not exceed legal limits, according to a study published online March 3, 2020, by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

Some research says taking a daily fish oil supplement can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, while other studies say the evidence remains thin. While fish oil is the best source of omega-3 fatty acids (essential nutrients that the body cannot make on its own),  taking an over-the-counter fish oil supplement probably provides no extra heart benefit beyond a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of omega-3-rich fatty fish, nuts, and seeds.

Although nocturnal leg cramps can strike people at any time of life, they become more frequent with age. Performing foot stretches and applying ice and heat can treat flare-ups. Leg stretches, staying hydrated, and wearing proper footwear can reduce their frequency.

Struggling with making decisions is more likely as people age and experience natural cognitive decline. This can make it harder to choose the right course of action, especially if there are multiple options. There are steps people can take to improve decision making, such as narrowing down choices, gathering only basic information, and consulting with friends and family.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the more common health issues older men face. ED drugs often are a standard solution, but they have their downsides, like possible side effects and over-dependency. In many cases, lifestyle changes like exercise, diet, and weight loss may slow the progress of ED and help manage it.

About one in four men older than 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis during their lifetime. Proper bone health not only can help protect men from osteoporosis, but can also reduce their risk of serious breaks or fractures from falls or other injuries. Adopting certain exercises and getting adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D are the best strategies for keeping bones strong and safe.