10 Scientific Discoveries That Are Important To Know About If You Care About Your Health
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A healthy lifestyle not only changes our body, it changes our mind and attitude as well. Taking care of our health should be our topmost priority. In order to do that, we should be updated on the latest scientific discoveries that are related to health. We have listed 10 such scientific discoveries that can affect the way we take care of ourselves and our health.
1. Brain Aging Starts When You Are In Your 20s
As we age, our organs start aging too, the brain is no exception. It was earlier believed that the aging of the brain starts in the later stages of life when an individual reaches the age of 40. But according to research done by the Department of Psychology at the University of Virginia, the age-related cognitive decline begins as early as the 20s (1).
2. Adequate Sleep Helps In Making Healthy Food Choices
Sleep plays a big role in our overall lifestyle, especially our weight. According to a study done by the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, adequate sleep is associated with more healthy food choices (2). Less sugary food and drinks and more vegetables and fruits are the way to go.
3. There Are More Bacteria In Gyms Than On Toilet Seats
Going to a gym can help you in burning those extra calories, but it can have a side effect on your health as well. The amount of bacteria found on the gym equipment is more than that on a toilet seat. The treadmills and cycle handles are a hub for germs to thrive. According to a study conducted by Department of Medicine at Brooke Army Medical Center, Texas, such equipment may commonly carry infections (3).
Although not all bacteria are bad for health, using an antibacterial wipe as a precaution is advisable. Also, use bathroom slippers when using the locker room or the gym shower.
4. Dim Light Makes Us Dimwitted
Some people spend too much time in dimly-lit rooms thinking that it creates a soothing environment. But the dim lighting actually affects our brain. According to a research done at Michigan State University, dimly-lit rooms and offices hurt one’s ability to remember and learn (4). Human beings show similar signs of forgetfulness when they come out of movie theaters when people forget their keys or other belongings.
5. Drinking Hot Tea Increases The Risk Of Developing Cancer
Who doesn’t like a hot cup of tea! But drinking very hot tea increases the risk of cancer. According to the National Natural Science Foundation of China, drinking very hot tea is associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer when combined with regular intake of alcohol and tobacco (5).
6. Mutation In Stem Cells Causes Muscles To Get Old
Our muscles and their functions gradually decrease with age, which affects the quality of life. The muscle cells get old due to the changes in the stem cells. According to a study at Stanford University School of Medicine, these cells undergo many alterations that affect the cell regeneration with age (6).
7. Imagination Can Be A Good Tool To Help Reduce Pain
Doctors, while giving injections to small children, often tell them that it would feel like a small ant’s bite. Interestingly, this kind of imagination is believed to reduce pain. According to a Norwegian study that investigated guided imagery effects on women who were suffering from fibromyalgia, it was found that pleasant imagery was effective in reducing fibromyalgia pain (7).
8. Confidence And Pride Saves Elderly People From Falling
Old people tend to fall more often than young people. There are a number of reasons why elder people fall: sedimentary lifestyle and poor eyesight, to name a few. That being said, UK researchers have found that old people who have more pride and confidence actually are less likely to fall (8).
9. Going Bald Early Can Be A Sign Of A Heart Condition
A study conducted by the Department of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases at the University of Tokyo shows that male pattern baldness is associated with coronary heart diseases (9). Hence, men who go bald early should not take it lightly and get a consultation as a preventive measure.
10. A Positive Approach To Life Can Protect Us From Dementia
A positive approach to life solves many a problem. It makes us stronger in terms of facing difficult situations. Where a good diet and exercise take care of our physical health, a positive approach to life takes care of our mental health. According to a study conducted by the Florida State University College of Medicine, a meaningful and purpose-driven life reduces the risk of dementia (10).
We hope that these new discoveries and studies have shed some light on how our lifestyle affects our health. These, we are sure, would help you change the way you look at life and follow some hygienic rules as well. After all, health is wealth!
