1. Is alkaline water really better for you?

Although there are enthusiasts that claim alkaline water can improve athletic performance and help prevent cancer, there are no conclusive studies that show there are any benefits. In fact, water with a high pH may be harmful. (NYT)

 

2. Exercise can regenerate heart tissue

Yes. Exercise is good for your heart. But why? New research is showing that exercise may help regenerate heart tissues. This could not only be helpful in preventing heart attacks, but may prove to be beneficial for those that have already suffered from them. (Popular Science)

 

3. Intermittent fasting may have more benefits than just weight loss

Losing weight doesn’t mean improved health if it’s not done in a healthful way. However, new research is showing that intermittent fasting – a dieting strategy touted for its weight loss benefits – could have many more profound health benefits beyond just fat burning. (Medical News Today)

 

4. These foods may delay the onset of menopause

A new study conducted by Leeds University in the UK suggests that a diet rich in fish and legumes, and low in refined carbohydrates may delay the onset of menopause. Early menopause may bring with it other complications including higher risk of heart disease and loss of bone density so this research may be groundbreaking. (Medical News Today)

 

5. Cycling to work can reduce your risk of serious illness and even death

A study of over 250,000 people published in the British Medical Journal, found a reduction in cardiovascular disease, cancer and mortality with people that cycled to work. (BikeBiz)

 

6. 10 minutes of exercise a day can make you happier

A new review in The Journal of Happiness Studies found that even just 10 minutes of daily exercise can boost happiness. The type of exercise doesn’t matter. It’s just about getting out there and getting moving. (NYT)

 

7. Are there heath risks associated to consuming stevia?

While there aren’t any large scale conclusive studies conducted on the effects of stevia on the body, there are some health experts that say it’s safe, while others claim there is an increased incidence of obesity correlated with the regular use of this zero-calorie sweetener. (NYT)  

8. Here’s another reason to spend some more time in a sauna

In a recent study of 1,628 men and women, a reduced incidence of stroke was observed in those people that took 4-7 saunas a week. (NYT)  

9. Time to flip the discussion on marijuana

With a lot of conversation happening around the potential benefits of medical marijuana and more states legalizing it, there has been very little discussion around the potential harms. (NYT)