1. Loneliness may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease

Research shows that feelings of loneliness can increase a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease two fold, as well as anxiety and depression.”“Loneliness is a strong predictor of premature death, worse mental health, and lower quality of life in patients with cardiovascular disease, and a much stronger predictor than living alone, in both men and women.” (Newsweek)

2. If your waist circumference is more than this, you may be at risk for heart disease, cancer and dementia

Visceral fat, which exists deep in the belly and around the internal organs is extremely dangerous and has been linked to serious diseases, such as heart disease, cancer and dementia. Experts say that if your waist measures 35 inches or more for women or 40 inches or more for men, there is reason for concern. (NYT)

3. Weight training (not just aerobic exercise) may help to prevent depression

Previous research has shown the benefits of aerobic exercise on depression, but a new study published in May in JAMA Psychiatry found that resistance training “consistently reduced the symptoms of depression, whether someone was formally depressed at the start of the study or not.”  (NYT)

4. Is that muscle pain or rhabdomyolysis?

Sore muscles the day or two after an intense workout, also known as DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is fairly common, however, if the pain continues to get worse and is met with stiffness and swelling, it may be time to see a doctor. (Popular Science)

5. Can you really achieve ketosis and is it safe?

The Ketogenic diet was created to treat epilepsy in children, not as a weight loss strategy, and was always supposed to be monitored by a physician or nutritionist.  It’s far easier to get a child into ketosis than an adult and many people aren’t aware of the consequences of eating high fat, low carb/protein diets that can make your blood more acidic and increase your cholesterol levels. (Popular Science)

6. Resistance training can ease fibromyalgia symptoms

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread muscle pain, increased pain sensitivity, fatigue and reduced physical capacity. Typically resistance training and fibromyalgia aren’t seen as a good fit due to these symptoms However, recent research out of the Sahlgrenska Academy in Sweden has shown that a specific progression of resistance training resulted in reduced pain, increased muscle strength, better pain tolerance, better health-related quality of life and less limitation of activities.  (Science Daily)

7. Which is more important for better health – exercise or standing?

A new study published in Scientific Reports analyzed the physical activity of 61 adults and found that both exercise and standing/walking had different effects on the body’s metabolism, insulin response and endothelial activity. Although a small study, the findings show that exercise alone may not provide the optimal health benefits most people are looking for.  (NYT)