Exercising in Cold Weather

Exercising in Cold Weather

Heart attacks and strokes are associated with high blood pressure and increased clotting, and systolic blood pressure increases up to 1.7 mm Hg in the winter months compared to the summer months (Am Heart Assoc Hypertension Scientific Sessions, Abstract 493. Sept 9,...
Exercising in Cold Weather

How to Start an Exercise Program

If you want to become fit and use exercise to help prevent a heart attack, first check with your doctor to make sure that you do not have anything wrong with your heart or blood vessels. Intense exercise can increase your risk for a heart attack if you already have a...
Exercising in Cold Weather

Low Vitamin D Increases Risk for Sports Injuries

If you suffer muscle or tendon injuries, particularly during the winter or early spring, ask your doctor to order a blood test for hydroxy vitamin D. If it is below 30 ng/mL, you probably need more exposure to sunlight or you need to take vitamin D pills.   A review...
Exercising in Cold Weather

How Exercise May Help to Prevent Cancer

A new study from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found a potential mechanism through which intense exercise can help to prevent cancer (Clin Cancer Research, Sept 27, 2023;29(20)). Lynch Syndrome is a hereditary condition that affects more than a...
Exercising in Cold Weather

Running is an Effective Treatment for Depression

A new study supports several previous studies showing that running is as effective as anti-depressant drugs in treating depression and anxiety, and offers far more health benefits than drugs do (J Affective Disorders, May, 2023;329(15):19-29). The study included 141...