People suffering from MS, or those at risk, should increase and monitor their Vitamin D levels. Actually, we should all monitor our Vitamin D levels and get 10-15 minutes of direct sun exposure (without sunscreen) each day. Higher Vitamin D levels lower the risk of developing MS, reduces relapses, and can even put symptoms into remission. There are many other benefits. Here is the science. Yale research in 2015 found that high levels of Vitamin D act as a neuroprotector. A University of Cambridge study found a positive relationship between Vitamin D and a molecule that assists in the repair of Myelin. Please share this Vitamin D information with anyone showing MS type symptoms. Food for Thought : If you are concerned about Lectins, a type of carbohydrate binding protein found in beans, peas, and lentils; I have a solution for you. Soaking your Legumes in water for about 12 hours, followed by cooking at high heat, will deactivate most of the Lectins. Bottom line: Don't listen to all the Lectin hype. You probably soak your beans and cook them anyway. There are 5 main components to Physical Fitness. Most men just focus on the first one or two, which is the cause for most exercise related Pain and Discomfort as one ages. I suggest you treat each component equally. 1) Muscular Strength. This is typically achieved utilizing body weight, machines, or free weights. Think heavy! As we age the difficulty in maintaining muscle mass intensifies. Heavy won't work like it used to. Start incorporating 10 second repetitions with 50% maximum weight in order to induce muscular hypertrophy. Eat your protein and make sure you ingest enough Plant Enzymes to actually digest and metabolize that protein. 2) Cardiovascular Fitness. Cardiovascular fitness essentially strengthens the heart. I'm sure you are all familiar with the concept of walking, running, swimming, biking, etc. on a regular basis. Most people equate Cardiovascular Fitness with 'Being in Shape.' 3) Flexibility. This vital component can be achieved through long and controlled stretching movements. Most people either do not stretch at all, or stretch incorrectly. Try holding your stretches for 60-90 seconds, at which point your ligaments and tendons will actually benefit and elongate. There are hundreds of stretches and physical therapy movements designed to heal any physical limitation you may have. 4) Balance. Most, but not all, balance movements require some form of standing on one leg. Some balance movements also increase your flexibility at the same time. A good place to start is yoga. 5) Coordination. The ability of the body to perform multiple tasks or skills at the same time. Think of jumping rope, dribbling a basketball or soccer ball, or football agility drills. These movements also build Cardiovascular Fitness at the same time. Please keep these 5 components in mind during your Physical Fitness regimen. Perhaps you should pass this information along to someone you know who just focuses on one or two of them. Does greeting the sun on your morning run just feel good, or is there more to this story? I'm often asked about the difference between working out in the morning versus later in the day. A British research study showed that exercising early in the morning before breakfast increases fat loss. This is due to your blood having increased fatty acids after an overnight fast, i.e. sleeping. These fatty acids can be used as additional fuel for your workout, which is a definite benefit. Conversely, our bodies tend to utilize mainly carbohydrates for fuel after a typical meal. This is slightly less efficient than burning fat.
August 8, 2022
Multiple Sclerosis and Vitamin D
Sunlight helps boost a chemical in your brain called serotonin, and that can give you more energy and help keep you calm, positive, and focused. Doctors sometimes treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other types of depression linked to low levels of serotonin with natural or artificial light.
WebMD
Friendly Reminder: As with any health / exercise regimen, consult with a physician before you begin.
The good news is that with Unity Telehealth, a health professional is just a chat, video or phone call away! Be sure and tell a friend. Here is a link to our website for more info:
What's with Lectins?
If you have any symptoms of food sensitivities such as chronic bloating and gas, or abdominal cramps, painful or swollen joints, long term fatigue or tiredness; these could be symptoms of concern for various more serious conditions.
The good news is that with Unity Telehealth, a consultation with a health professional is just a chat, video or phone call away! Be sure and tell a friend. Here is a link to our website for more info:
5 Main Components to Physical Exercise
What is the Best Time to Exercise?
Consider one other benefit. Of course we should always be cautious with sun exposure, but the safest times to absorb some sunlight for benefit are early morning and late evening when the earth's atmosphere screens out the most dangerous wavelengths. So, happy running! Or whatever bliss you're following.
