It was a busy week on The Travel Pharmacist’s Facebook Page! Our Health Tips included everything from how to get a better nights’ sleep to the importance of keeping the head warm to avoid sinus headaches. I think my favorite was learning it’s really my smartphone that’s to blame for those extra pounds from late night snacking!
Here is the weekly roundup for your #365Health…
Saturday –
Did you know that using your computer, tablet or smartphone at night can make you hungry? A recent study has shown that the blue light stimulates appetite. Ivy Cheung, of Northwestern University, in Chicago, said: ‘A single three-hour exposure to blue-enriched light in the evening acutely impacted hunger and glucose metabolism.” Now you can use the excuse “My phone is making me fat!”
Sunday –
Don’t forget your warm hat if you’re going outside in the cold! Sinus headaches are worse in the winter when icy air causes nasal passages to shut tight, creating painful pressure. Keeping your head warm – and hair dry – when spending time outdoors will make those winter headaches less of a stress.
Monday –
Do the dark days of winter play havoc with your sleeping habits? Oregon Health and Science University recommends using melatonin to re-sync your sleep and wake cycles. If you’re an early riser, take 0.5mg-1mg in the morning. If you’re a night owl, take the same dose 8 hours after waking up. Within a few weeks, your body should readjust completely. Sweet dreams!
Tuesday –
Puzzle over this! The left brain thinks logically to follow sequences, while right brain is in charge of creativity and emotions. Doing jigsaw puzzles brings both sides together to boost brainpower. It may even be possible to slow the chances of Alzheimer’s and dementia by doing crossword and jigsaw puzzles regularly.
Wednesday –
Do you know one of the best ways to avoid medication mix-ups at the pharmacy? Have your doctor write the prescription electronically. Doctors who use electronic prescriptions – rather than hand-written ones – are 7 times less likely to make an error!
Thursday –
Hitting a late afternoon energy slump? Avoid the sugary candy bars and your brain will thank you. It may sound strange, but by decreasing sugar intake, you’ll increase your overall energy levels. That yummy candy bar triggers an extreme high in the body, followed by an equally drastic low, making you even more tired than before. Try sipping a cup of tea or munching on a handful of almonds instead.
Friday –
Having asthma doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. In fact, swimming is the most asthma-friendly way to stay active for those with the condition. The warm, moist environment of a swimming pool can make breathing easier for many asthmatics. Always check with your doctor first and be sure to bring along your inhaler before you head to the pool. Happy swimming!
We hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s Health Tips Roundup! I’m on my way out to buy a few jigsaw puzzles to keep my srain bharp…
What was YOUR favorite tip this week?