Latest news with #studies
Globe and Mail
15 hours ago
- Health
- Globe and Mail
Even a small amount of processed meat increases health risks, study finds
There's abundant evidence that eating lots of processed meat is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and, most notably, colorectal cancer. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, there is no intake level of processed meat that does not pose a colorectal cancer risk. Now, findings from a large review of research add to the increasing body of evidence that underscores the harmful health effects of processed meat. Here's what to know about the latest research, plus why you don't have to completely abandon your summer hot dog. Processed meat refers to meat – red meat and poultry – that has been preserved by smoking, curing, salting or the addition of chemical preservatives. Ham, bacon, pastrami, salami, deli meats, beef jerky, sausages and hot dogs, for example, are processed meats. Commercially produced burgers can also fall into the processed meat category if they're preserved with chemicals. For the study, published June 30 in the journal Nature Medicine, researchers analyzed dozens of previous studies that investigated the relationship between processed meat and risk of colorectal cancer, Type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. To assess the connection between processed meat consumption and colorectal cancer, 18 studies involving 2,678,052 participants were reviewed. All studies controlled for age and sex and most adjusted for other risk factors including body mass index, smoking, alcohol intake, calorie intake and physical activity. On average, eating 50 grams of processed meat a day – versus none – was tied to a 26 per cent increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. A healthy diet helps with heart health, even without weight loss For perspective, 50 g of processed meat is equivalent to roughly four slices of cooked bacon, three slices of packaged deli ham or two-thirds of a jumbo-sized hot dog (75 g). A standard-sized hot dog typically weighs 38 g. To examine processed meat intake and Type 2 diabetes risk, 16 studies with a total of 1,115,885 participants were reviewed. The studies accounted for other influences such as age, sex, body mass index and dietary factors. The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes was, on average, 30 per cent higher for a daily intake of 50 g of processed meat compared to none. The researchers also conservatively estimated that consuming processed meat within the range of 0.6 to 57 g per day, compared to consuming none, was associated with, on average, at least a 7 per cent higher risk of colorectal cancer and an 11 per cent higher risk of Type 2 diabetes. The risk of colorectal cancer and Type 2 diabetes rose as consumption increased. Notably, health risks increased the fastest at low intake levels, suggesting there is no 'safe' amount of processed meat with respect to colorectal cancer or Type 2 diabetes risk. A regular intake of processed meat was also tied to an increased risk of coronary heart disease. This finding, however, wasn't statistically significant, meaning it could have occurred by chance. A high intake of processed meat is thought to increase visceral fat (deep abdominal fat) and inflammation. Processed meat is also typically high in sodium and saturated fat. As well, chemical compounds in cooked processed meat called heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons have been shown to induce tumours in experimental studies. Heme iron in processed red meat may promote colon tumours by stimulating the formation of carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds. Processed meat can also contain nitrate additives, which can contribute to the formation of N-nitroso compounds in the body. The new study also analyzed previous studies that examined the link between chronic disease risk and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), which include pop, iced tea, lemonade, sports drinks, energy drinks and sugary coffee drinks. Consuming 250 g (eight ounces) of SSB per day, compared to none, was associated with a 20 per cent higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and a 7 per cent greater risk of developing coronary heart disease. A high intake of added sugars, especially in liquid form, contributes to elevated inflammatory markers in the bloodstream and accumulation of harmful visceral fat. The analysis included studies that were observational and, as such, found associations between diet and chronic disease. The findings don't prove there is a causal relationship. As well, participants self-reported their dietary intake. Memory errors can occur when trying to recall long-term food intake. Despites these limitations, the new findings are very consistent with prior research. They reinforce recommendations to avoid or minimize the consumption of processed meat and sugar-sweetened drinks to improve health. If processed meat and/or sugary drinks are a regular part of your diet, it's wise to cut back. Remember, too, it's your overall dietary pattern that matters when it comes to health. A diet that's plentiful in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and pulses can, if you like, include the occasional hot dog. Leslie Beck, a Toronto-based private practice dietitian, is director of food and nutrition at Medcan. Follow her on X @LeslieBeckRD
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Strengthen your entire body and relax your mind with this 15-minute Pilates workout
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. If you're looking for a more gentle approach to building a strong, stable body that can stand the test of time, Pilates is a good way to go. It not only improves strength, balance, and flexibility, but also supports mental well-being through controlled breathing and mindful movement. This Pilates strength workout will give your lower and upper body a boost in 15 minutes, using nothing but your bodyweight. Plus, it'll leave you feeling calmer and reconnected with your body. Studies have also shown the benefits of Pilates go far beyond just physical. A recent small study revealled that middle-aged adults who did Pilates once a week for 12 weeks experienced significant improvements in mental health and stress-related behaviours – such as being able to take their mind off work during their free hours – compared to those who didn't. For this workout, work your way through the seven exercises below, flowing from one move to the next with no rest in between. Once you've completed one round, rest for 60 seconds, then go in and repeat the entire sequence two more times. Make sure you perform each exercise slowly with control, while focusing on your breathing to enhance core engagement. If you're unsure about any of the moves, just watch the short video above. Here's the workout: Squat to rise – 12 reps Squat to side lift – 12 reps each side Tricep press – 12 reps Tabletop lift – 12 reps Hover taps – 12 reps Slow climbers – 12 reps Leg pull – 12 reps If you enjoyed this workout and want more that are similar, check out this 8-move sequence with a focus on longevity and improving musculoskeletal health. Again, no equipment needed. Alternatively, if you want to give your core a little more TLC, then try this five-move workout that strengthens deep abdominal muscles, improves posture, and supports overall stability.
UAE Moments
7 days ago
- Lifestyle
- UAE Moments
10 Slow-Living Productivity Hacks for Millennials in 2025
City life moves fast—but slow living offers a counterbalance that helps with focus and mental health. Instead of juggling 50 tabs, slow living encourages us to prioritize what matters, reducing stress. Studies show simple habits like taking intentional breaks or unplugging from screens ease burnout and boost productivity. For Millennial professionals, this means redefining success: not by how much you do, but by how well you do it. Slow living nudges you to cultivate clarity, to make decisions aligned with your priorities, and to enjoy your city's energy—even amid the bustle. The result? Greater mental space and creative flow. This article sets the stage for practical hacks that aren't about doing more—they're about doing better. Hack #1: Start with a Slow Morning Routine How you start your day matters. Instead of jumping out of bed and scrolling on your phone, create a slow living morning routine city, taking 10–15 minutes for gentle habits. Think: hydrate, stretch, and set intentions —no phone allowed. Data shows even short morning rituals boost emotional resilience by 15%. Try steps like brewing coffee while breathing deeply, journaling 3 things you're grateful for, or enjoying soft music. This gentle start primes clarity and focus before the city's chaos kicks in. What's unique? Mix in urban sensory awareness —listen to street sounds, feel the sunlight through the window. This blends mindfulness with city life, rooting you in the present before work mode begins. Hack #2: Declutter Digital and Physical Spaces Clutter steals mental energy. Minimalism isn't just aesthetic—it's mind space for millennials who crave calm amidst hustle. Studies show decluttering improves productivity and attention. Start by tackling your phone: uninstall unused apps, clear your home screen, and batch‑process notifications. Then, clean your desk—go for one-minute tidy sessions after each work block. Digital and physical declutter = less friction for flow. Unique angle? Use the 'one-inch rule': if you can't hold a clear space on your desk, your mind is cluttered too. So integrate bi-weekly digital detox sessions —turn off the internet for an hour and enjoy analog reading or journaling. Hack #3: Block Scheduling for Deep Work Ditch constant multitasking. Instead, set a deep work block—60–90 minutes dedicated to a single task without interruptions. Cal Newport endorses this method for slow productivity. Use calendar slots labeled 'deep focus' and protect them. During these times, say no to meetings and mute all notifications. Top performers find this slot-based method beats to-do lists for true progress. Unique city twist? Block walking meetings —take deep work outside by monitoring ideas on a walk, then record insights later. You get two gains in one: fresh air and creative thinking. Hack #4: Micro‑efficiencies Throughout the Day Micro‑efficiencies are small habit tweaks that save seconds but add up massively. Things like boiling two kettles at once, prepping outfits, or storing essentials at key spots. Try this: prep your coffee the night before and keep a flask handy. Or place phone chargers and water bottles in routines zones—desk, nightstand, bag. These hacks free up brain power for meaningful tasks. Fresh insight: focus micro-efficiencies around your energy peaks. For example, prep your lunch during your mid‑afternoon slump. You reduce decision fatigue and reclaim cognitive bandwidth for peak work hours. Stepping away from screens isn't lazy—it's essential. Slow living calls for intentional breaks —a 5‑minute walk, deep breathing, or watching birds from a balcony. Idea: take 'park bench breaks' during lunch—no phones—just nature and air. Another? Do a breathing ritual before reading emails: inhale for 4 seconds, hold, then exhale. Unique tip? Sync the break with public transit: walk an extra stop, then use the added commute for mindful reflection. These mini-reset moments rescue you from burnout and anchor you in the city's pace. Hack #6: Prioritize Fewer Tasks for Quality In the fast-paced city grind, doing less can help you achieve more. Embrace the Pareto Principle —focus on the 20% of tasks that produce 80% of results. Keep your daily to-do list to 3–5 high-impact tasks, and allocate blocks of time focused solely on these priorities. Cutting out low-value work and distractions gives your top tasks the attention they deserve. Research supports this: slow productivity thrives when you trade quantity for quality and build in purposeful pauses. Real-tip twist: Set a timer for each big task—60 minutes max—then take a mindful break. You'll stay fresh, focused, and burnout-proof. Hack #7: Create a Home Sanctuary Zone Your apartment should feel like a recharge station, not just a crash pad. Choose a cozy corner as your home sanctuary —think soft lighting, houseplants, and no screens allowed. Experts tie this to improved mental health and productivity for urban dwellers. Urban twist: Add 30-minute buffers between meetings for walking, regrouping, or breathing. Those mini buffers keep your day fluid and your energy intact. Hack #8: Use Mindfulness Tools and Journaling Mindfulness isn't just for retreats—it's a daily anchor. Keep a bullet journal or simple notebook to track your mood, tasks, and reflections. A regular journaling habit has been shown to lower stress, boost gratitude, and improve clarity among millennials. Start with 3–5 minute 'energy check-ins' —write what drained you, what energized you, and set one daily intention. Over time, you'll notice patterns: maybe afternoon breaks work better than early morning, or music helps focus. This builds a feedback loop where you design your day around your rhythm, not someone else's. Unique insight: Try analog minimalism: one pen, one page, one prompt—no stickers or tabs. Keep it so simple that it becomes non-negotiable. That tiny frame frames your whole day with intention—something digital apps just can't match. Hack #9: Practice Saying No and Setting Boundaries Growing up in grind culture, saying no can feel risky—but it's essential. Every unchecked conference call or social invite chips away at your slow-living flow. Millennials face burnout because they struggle to set limits. Create 'do-not-disturb' zones: blocks of time in your calendar marked for focus, or steps away from work emails after 7 pm. Use prompts like 'I'd love to help, but I'm fully booked today' or set up automated email replies during off-hours. It's not rude—it's self-respect. Pro tip: Use the '30-minute rule' —delay responses or social commitments by 30 minutes. If it still feels right, say yes—but if it feels like autopilot? You're learning to tune into your real needs, not what others expect. Hack #10: Schedule Slow Seasons & Rest Days Slow living isn't just a daily practice—it's a seasonal one. Plan for quarterly slow seasons like a weekend unplugged or a mid-year staycation. Purposeful downtime isn't indulgence—it protects your creativity and sanity, especially in busy city lives. Bonus tip: Use your staycation to explore a less-familiar neighborhood or spend a day in nature right outside your city, phone-free and aimless. Quick Takeaways Slow living helps reduce burnout and improves focus. Start your day mindfully with a phone-free morning routine. Declutter both your digital and physical spaces to protect mental energy. Use deep work blocks to tackle important tasks without distraction. Add micro-efficiencies to save time and brainpower. Take intentional walking or breathing breaks to reconnect and recharge. Small routine changes add up big in urban productivity. In a city that never stops, slowing down might sound counterintuitive—but it's exactly what you need to feel more, not less. By shifting from hustle culture's speed to slow living's depth, you open space for focus, creativity, and calm—without losing momentum. Starting your day with a slow morning routine anchors you. Cleaning your desk and phone keeps your mind sharp. Scheduling deep work blocks helps you execute important tasks with intent, and tiny micro-efficiencies cut decision fatigue. Add walking or breathing breaks to stay grounded in your city, and feel refreshed—not depleted. These aren't just trendy tips—they're science-backed practices that champion quality over quantity. What's unique here: tying the practices into your urban lifestyle, whether that's mindful transit, urban breaks, or sensing the city's rhythm. Try one hack at a time. Begin tomorrow morning by turning off your phone for 10 minutes. See how it shifts your mood—and let that momentum cascade into the rest of your day. Over time, slow living becomes your new hustle: confident, purposeful, and truly productive. You're not opting out—you're paying in: in clarity, energy, and mental wellness.
Daily Mail
14-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Forget costly creams, this is the actual key to anti-ageing... including the one 'superfood' that can ward off wrinkles and protect your skin against the sun: DR EMILY LEEMING
You might think the secret to a youthful looking skin lies in applying a costly cream – but in fact studies show that what you eat can affect your chances of retaining a smooth complexion or developing wrinkles. Your skin is a very hungry – and sizeable organ – acting as a protective barrier against the outside world. Your skin cells are constantly renewing – but with age, this turnover takes longer.
Yahoo
12-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Nufer: Happy is as happy does
'Happy is as happy does' is a phrase that many of us grew up hearing. But, what does that mean? How can we achieve or maintain happiness, especially when we are going through difficult times in our lives? Scientists define happiness as the experience of positive emotions and others believe that happiness is purely a state of mind. Most people think they could finally achieve happiness if only they would get that promotion or lose that last ten pounds. More than 200 studies of 275,000 people have shown that happiness actually leads to success in nearly every area of their lives. Knowing this can be particularly helpful when seeking that promotion or finding that one special person. Studies also suggest that happiness and optimism actually increase performance and achievement in our lives. When we are happier we do better. We are more successful and positive. People want to be around us and we want to be with them. Happy people are grateful. Having gratitude for the things we have is a key to happiness. Everyone has at least one thing to be thankful for. Take the time to list all of the things for which you are thankful. Your family, friends, home, health and the beauty of nature may be some of the things that may come to mind. It can be helpful to list these things so that you can see for yourself just how many things you have to be thankful for. Happy people are optimistic. Optimism gives you hope, enthusiasm, energy, and strength to accomplish the things you need to do in your life. Negativity and fear zaps our ability to cope with the daily challenges of life. So, as the song goes, "Don't worry, be happy!" Happy people have a strong support system. During times of stress or trials, we may withdraw from our family and friends. But, this is exactly when you need people the most. Having a support network can lift your spirits and offer encouragement to keep your spirits high. Happy people believe in themselves. If we don't believe in our own talents and abilities, who will? It is important to focus on the things that we know we are good at doing. The more we believe in ourselves, the more successful and happy we will be. Remind yourself daily that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to do. Happy people take care of their bodies. It is especially important to have a healthy diet and to exercise. It's easy to want to sit around all day and eat our blues away, but that is not productive. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. A short walk is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get a change of scenery. Eating lots of fresh fruit, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can keep your body strong. Reduce or eliminate alcohol and other substances. Being happy and maintaining a positive attitude can be challenging when faced with everyday life, but the reward is well worth the time and effort. Hopefully, these few suggestions will help get us there! Betty Nufer is a community advocate and cheerleader for those who need support getting through the rough times in life. She can be reached at 72bettynufer@ This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Nufer: Happy is as happy does
