5 Ways to Improve Your Health – Says the Latest Research

With the fast turnover rate of an average news cycle, the latest health fads, news, and breakthroughs flash across our screens, and then are gone. Wonder what you missed while you blinked?

Here are the 5 latest ways that experts believe you can improve your health.

1. Try a compounding pharmacy
   

In the 1940s, all pharmacies were of the compounding variety. Today, may people go to Target to pick up their prescription. It’s that or they browse shelves of mass-produced medications in attractive packaging. But what have we lost in our current cultural shift away from compounding medication?

Every individual’s healthcare situation is different. The formula that works for one person, might have a lesser effect on another. By turning to a local compounding pharmacist, you get a tailored prescription that takes into account your specific needs. Studies are showing a renewed interest in the more tailored approach. As tailoring medication can make them easier to take, as well as allow for differing dosages, if needed.

2. Get happy.

Think that your emotional well-being had nothing to do with whether you catch a cold? Or how often you fall sick? Think again. Research published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being has made a case for happiness and its effect on our health. The review highlights various connections between one’s happiness and one’s health. Some notable mentions include, a more robust immune system and lowered inflammation levels. Faster healing of wounds also made the list, along with improved cardiovascular health. The authors of the study feel that at least in some cases one’s well-being can influence health and longevity.

To summarize: Doing those things that make you happy could also be keeping you healthy, too. So don’t feel guilty when turning on the comedy channel, or doing some other activity that makes you smile.

3. Skip the marathon.

For those who hate running, this might come as welcome news. For those who have been training for a marathon, you might want to reconsider.

In an article published by The Atlantic this year, we learned that 40 percent of marathoners suffer from kidney injury. Why does this happen? The structural damage to the kidneys seems to be linked to the physical stress that running more than 26 miles incurs. Other causes include dehydration, not enough blood flow to the kidneys, and the sustained and sharp rise to one’s core body temperature.

There are many reasons runners train for marathons, one of which is to have a clear goal to shoot for. But it’s worthwhile to consider the effect running a marathon can have on your body. And research other fitness goals that can keep you on track.

4. Acid reflux? Skip the pills.
   

Do you regularly have an upset stomach after an ambitious eating session? Is your automatic reaction to reach for your favorite medication of choice?

One study reported on by Time magazine, provides a fresh approach for people who battle with indigestion. What happened in the study? Those who switched to a Mediterranean diet and drinking alkaline water had a greater decline in symptoms than those who took pills.

In fact, your pills might not be helping you at all. According to the same article, drugs for treating acid reflux are ineffective for up 40 to 80 percent of people. Want less indigestion? Try a change of diet before reaching for those pills.

5. Beat Type 2 diabetes.

Yes, it is possible to reverse Type 2 diabetes. Here is how. Lose weight. Analysis of clinical trials have shown that losing up to 33 pounds have reversed Type 2 diabetes in former sufferers.

Getting on a diet that restricts calorie consumption helped sufferers to lower their blood sugar levels back to normal. Of course, losing over 30 pounds is a tall order, and not everyone can achieve it. For many, the idea that one can recover from Type 2 diabetes is a surprise. The solution and path to recovery is simple, although easier said than done. Those with Type 2 diabetes can start slowly to make life style changes that help them lose and keep the pounds off.

The benefits of weight loss extend beyond a return to normal blood-sugar levels. They include a stronger heart, a better quality of life, and mood improvements. Also, one can expect lessened inflammation and less strain on one’s joints. To get a double benefit, use your exercise time to increase your social circle. Join a fitness class, or a walking group.