That standing desk might not make you healthier after all
Some employees think they’re living the healthy life because they work at a standing desk, no longer sitting all day on the job — it seems they might want to think again. In recent years, standing desks have become popular, especially among those who work from home, as a way to lower the risk of health issues associated with sitting all day.
A new study shows standing while working does not compensate for being inactive for so long. In fact, it could increase the risk of varicose veins or getting having blood clot in the legs.
The study also found standing does not lower the risk of getting diseases like stroke or heart failure, even though it’s widely believed it does.
The researchers behind the study now recommend anyone who sits or stands for long periods of time should schedule regular movement throughout their day.
Heart health is key in reducing risk of dementia: AHA
A new statement from the American Heart Association (AHA) revealed that heart health plays a critical role in maintaining brain functions as people age. Research from neurology professors at the University of Illinois emphasized that adopting a healthy lifestyle early and managing heart disease risk factors can help prevent cognitive decline.
Heart disease, which affects nearly 130 million Americans, significantly increases the risks of dementia, the study found. Experts highlighted the importance of taking preventive action early in life, sometimes even before birth.
The AHA reported that plaque buildup in arteries can restrict blood flow to the brain, leading to cognitive impairment. According to the findings, having heart disease raises the risk of dementia by 27%, often without clear symptoms.
In the United States, someone suffers a heart attack every 40 seconds. Of those who survive, up to half experience some degree of cognitive decline.
Heart failure poses an even greater threat, with over 80% of patients showing signs of brain impairment. Another heart condition, atrial fibrillation, which is becoming more prevalent, can trigger small brain bleeds, further increasing dementia risk.
Experts estimated that by 2050, as many as 16 million Americans could be affected by atrial fibrillation.
Despite the statistics, experts agree that lifestyle changes can have a significant impact. Maintaining a healthy diet, prioritizing sleep, managing stress and engaging in regular exercise can help reduce heart disease and protect brain health.
Black-colored plastics found in kitchen utensils, toys linked to toxic chemical
A study published on Tuesday, Oct. 1, found that black-colored plastics may contain concerning levels of a toxic flame retardant that could be leaching in through the recycling process. The study, done by environmental advocacy group Toxic-Free Future, found the highest levels of the toxic chemical in costume jewelry kids often wear when dressing up as pirates.
The study’s lead author said these necklaces contain toxic chemicals equal to almost 3% of their weight.
Researchers found one PBDE, in particular, known as decaBDE was found in 70% of samples tested even though it was completely banned in the U.S. by the Environmental Protection Agency in 2021.
The European Union allows a level of decaBDEs up to 10 parts per million in products. The study’s authors said they found levels ranging from 5-1,200 times greater than that in the products they tested.
Take black plastic kitchen utensils for example. Researchers say based on how often they’re used, you could be exposed to nearly 38 parts per million of decaBDE per day — more than three times what the E.U. has deemed acceptable.
Most of the contamination can be traced back to flame retardants used in electronic devices like TVs, smartphones, gaming systems, and computers. This contamination occurs when these items are improperly recycled.
However, these flame retardants can also be found in the padding of things like couches, yoga mats, children’s car seats, just to name a few.
The study also only looked at black plastics, so it’s unclear if the toxic chemicals can be found in any other color of plastic.
Researchers say if you want to cut down your exposure, you can replace your kitchen utensils with stainless steel, dust, mop, and vacuum regularly to get rid of any dust that has been contaminated, and never wash and reuse the black plastic containers your food comes in or put them in the microwave.
Vacations and travel may lead to real health benefits: Study
New research reveals that your next vacation might do more than just help you unwind. It may actually help to slow down the aging process.
That’s the key takeaway from the study, which comes out of Australia’s Edith Cowan University, published in the Journal of Travel Research. The findings suggest new experiences and social connections could reduce your risk of premature aging.
Researchers applied the concept to entropy, which is basically the natural decline of our bodies as we age, to tourism. It turns out, by shaking up your routine with new activities, travel can reduce stress, stimulate your mind and improve your overall well-being.
The authors of the study say tourism isn’t just about having fun. It plays an important role in both individual and public health. The found travel promotes healthy habits like walking, eating well and socializing.
While there’s no right or most healthy way to travel to maximize their benefits, the study suggests that anything from a weekend getaway to a longer holiday vacation could be helpful. Whether it’s a local road trip or an international adventure, the study suggests it might be time to get out there and experience something new.
