10 BAD THINGS THAT ARE GOOD FOR YOU (p1)

Because I am big on ironies, let me share with you this article I extracted from the 5^th edition of the Annual Humor Special of Reader’s Digest Asia with our very own Micheal V. on the cover.

Everyone, here are Ten bad things that are good for you!

1. LISTENING TO LOUD MUSIC

Research from the university of Manchester found that the greater the music’s intensity, the more pleasure it brings. It’s all down to the vestibular system, which is responsible for the balance but also carries a vibration; when sound waves set it off, it sends a positive message to the brain.

But watch out!

The longer you listen to loud music, the more damage you do. It’s considered safe to listen to 85 decibels for 8 hours, but if this increases to 88 decibels, you should halve the length of time.

2. TEXTING, NOT TALKING

YouGov, an international internet-based market research firm, found that 43% of those surveyed felt mobile phones improved family communications. Experts suggest it’s the discreet nature of texting that makes it appealing to young people , allowing them to keep in touch while maintaining their personal space.

But watch out!

Survey suggests millions suffers text-related injuries each year. Doctors advise against spending more than 5-10 minutes texting, to avoid repetitive strain injury. Spread the load by varying the fingers you use.

3. POUNDING THE PAVEMENTS

Research shows that running can strengthen the cartilage around the knee, preventing degeneration. Research at Monash University in Victoria, Australlia , followed 300 adults aged between 50 and 79 over a decade and found that cartilage volume increased in those who exercised the most.

But watch out!

Older people should get medical assessment first before getting into the running activity. They should also do a gradual progress and start with power walk first.

4. BEING A BIT OVERWEIGHT

A US study of the mortality rates of 2.3 million people found that those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 to 30 –technically “overweight” – were no more likely to die of cardiovascular disease and cancer than those with a “healthy” BMI of 18.5 to 25. Katherine Flegal, a senior research scientist and lead researcher of this study, said that older people who are overweight have greater nutritional reserves that help carry them through bouts of ill health – this may influence the overall figures for all age groups.

But watch out!

Health risks climb far more steeply if you’re obese (BMI 30 and above).

5. FULL FAT DAIRY

A study at the University of Wales of 2375 men over 25 years showed that those who consumed the most full-fat dairy were 63 percent less likely to develop “metabolic syndrome,” a cluster of symptoms such as high blood pleasure that can lead to heart disease and stroke. It is believed that medium-chain fatty acids, present in full-fat milk, yogurt and cheese, boost insulin sensitivity in those with metabolic syndrome, making it easier for the body to control weight.

But watch out!

Full fat dairy is only going to have these benefits as part of a balanced diet. At the end of the day, if you eat too many calories you’ll put on weight.

6^th to 10^th will be posted Tuesday next week! Stay healthy!