I’ve always found it difficult to keep up my exercise regimen when on vacation. Not that I don’t mind taking a few days off here and there, but I find that sometimes resuming my protocol can be difficult (yes, even me) when I return home. So, I’ve come up with a plan for myself when vacationing which requires no special equipment and can be done in a few minutes. It follows: 30 seconds of jump rope or brisk walking, 30 seconds of push ups, 30 seconds of body weight squats, 30 seconds of side planks (each side), 30 seconds of jumping jacks, 30 seconds of lateral lunges. I rest for 30 seconds between each exercise. This routine is done in less than 8 minutes, and it keeps me in the fitness routine.
Coffee keeps appearing on the list of healthy beverages. The latest is a small study on 245 cases of brain tumors. In this study, in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2010; 92(5): 1145-50, the risk of brain malignancy dropped significantly in those consuming at least 100 ml/day of coffee or tea. 100 ml is equal to 1-2 cups daily. In a larger study reported in Consumer Reports On Health, September 2012, found that older adults who drank at least a cup a day of regular or decaf had a lower risk of dying over 14 years than non-drinkers. That doesn’t mean coffee is the reason the people live longer; they might have shared other traits that enhanced their longevity. Again, coffee seems to be really good for you.
Don’t throw away the leaves to root vegetables such as beets and turnips. I cut them up and saute them with kale, onion, spinach , and garlic-it makes a good vege side-dish. Or, I cut them up and put them in a salad. They are high in potassium, vitamin K, folate, beta carotene, and calcium. With carrot tops, I boil water and steep them in it for 5-10 minutes. It makes a good tea.
I’ve been off the radar lately, dealing with some health and business issues. But I’m back now, raring to go.
Stay well, John R Blilie, M.S.