Weekly Health Update: Tai Chi and Salt Substitutes for Blood Pressure, Exercise and COVID-19 Risk, and More
In this week’s health news roundup, we bring you the latest findings on various topics, from the benefits of tai chi for blood pressure to the impact of exercise on COVID-19 risk. Stay informed and discover new ways to improve your health and well-being.
Tai Chi Can Reduce Blood Pressure
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that practicing tai chi may be more effective in improving blood pressure than aerobic exercise. The study involved 342 adults with prehypertension who either did aerobic exercise or tai chi for an hour, four times a week for 12 months. The results showed that the tai chi group experienced greater reductions in blood pressure, with almost 22% of them reaching a normal blood pressure range compared to nearly 16% in the aerobic exercise group. Additionally, fewer people in the tai chi group developed hypertension compared to the aerobic exercise group.
Salt Substitutes Ward Off Hypertension
Concerned about your salt intake? A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that using salt substitutes to flavor your food can help ward off high blood pressure. The study analyzed data from the DECIDE-Salt study and found that reducing salt intake by more than a third and substituting it with potassium chloride and other flavorings like mushroom, seaweed, and lemon significantly decreased the risk of developing high blood pressure. High blood pressure, if left untreated, can lead to serious health risks such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, vision loss, sexual dysfunction, and peripheral artery disease.
Exercise Reduces COVID-19 Risk
Staying physically active may help lower your risk of contracting COVID-19, according to a study conducted by Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. The study found that older adults who followed recommended exercise guidelines before the pandemic had a lower risk of both contracting COVID-19 and being hospitalized due to the virus. Those who adhered to U.S. and World Health Organization (WHO) physical activity guidelines had a 10% lower likelihood of infection and a 27% lower likelihood of hospitalization compared to inactive individuals. The study did not differentiate between types of exercise, suggesting that any form of movement can contribute to better COVID-19 outcomes.
Exercise as a Treatment for Depression
A new study published in the BMJ highlights the powerful impact of exercise on treating depression. Researchers analyzed data from 218 studies and found that exercise interventions can effectively reduce depressive symptoms. Yoga, strength training, and walking or jogging were identified as the most beneficial forms of exercise for alleviating depression. Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can be a valuable tool in managing and improving mental health.
Living Alone and Depression Rates
A survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that individuals living alone have higher rates of depression compared to those who live with others. The survey found that 6.4% of adults living alone reported depression, compared to 4.1% of those living with others. Lack of social and emotional support while living alone increased the likelihood of experiencing depression, with 19.6% reporting feelings of depression compared to 11.6% in similar support situations but living with others. To combat loneliness and foster social connections, experts recommend reaching out to loved ones, establishing tech-free zones, engaging in social activities like volunteering, and building a support network.
Conclusion
Staying up to date with the latest health news is essential for maintaining your well-being. This week’s findings highlight the benefits of tai chi and salt substitutes for blood pressure management, the role of exercise in reducing COVID-19 risk and treating depression, and the impact of living alone on mental health. Incorporating these insights into your lifestyle can contribute to a healthier and happier you. Remember to prioritize your health and seek support when needed.
