Radical Health Tips

Courtesy of Ann Louise Gittleman

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More Health Tips
The simple move that EASES MUSCLE ACHES

The simple move that EASES MUSCLE ACHES

To keep sore, stiff muscles at bay, take a cue from your cat and enjoy a good stretch. Our muscles are surrounded by a thin sheath of connective tissue called fascia, and when that tissue becomes tight or inflamed, it can lead to aches. Luckily, spending just 10 minutes reaching for the sky and bending toward your toes five times a week thwarts discomfort. The key: Hold each stretch for at least 15 seconds. It takes time for tissues to release, and holding a stretch a little longer releases more fascia, so you feel even better!

The fun to-do that SHARPENS THINKING

The fun to-do that SHARPENS THINKING

Next time your mind feels a little sluggish, hum your favorite tune. The vocal cords are connected to the vagus nerve, a key communication pathway linking the brain and other parts of the body (like the heart, lungs and stomach). Humming creates vibrations that stimulate the nerve, which spurs the release of acetylcholine, a compound that quickly clears away brain fog to sharpen thinking. For an even stronger vibration (and bigger mental boost), open and close your mouth while humming your favorite Motown song.

The quick spritz that THICKENS HAIR

The quick spritz that THICKENS HAIR

For the more than 50% of women over age 50 who have thinning hair, help is here! One of my favorite ways to combat sparse strands is with rosemary. The herb contains rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to boost circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth as effectively as minoxidil. To get the benefits: Add 4 Tbs. of dried rosemary to 4 cups of boiled water. Steep for 40 minutes, then strain the brew into a large spray bottle and add 4 Tbs. apple cider vinegar; refrigerate. Spritz onto the scalp once or twice a week after shampooing.

The simple secret that STOPS AGING

The simple secret that STOPS AGING

We love cookouts with friends and family on beautiful summer days. The hitch? This high-heat way of cooking creates sneaky compounds called advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that accelerate aging by contributing to diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease. Luckily, you can curb the formation of AGEs just by marinating before grilling. For 2 pounds of meat, combine 2/3 cups of avocado oil, 2 Tbs. of fresh lemon juice, and your favorite seasonings. Pour over your food, cover, then refrigerate at least 4 hours before cooking.

Simple Trick for a STRONGER HEART

Simple Trick for a STRONGER HEART

Enjoying a cool glass of water on a hot day is more than just refreshing: It can safeguard your ticker with every sip! Turns out chronic, low-level dehydration is common in women over 50 since the body’s thirst mechanism weakens with age. And even mild dehydration can cause muscles like your heart to temporarily shrink while thickening your blood, making your ticker work harder. The easy fix: drinking at least 8 glasses of water or herbal tea daily, ideally spread throughout the day, as your body can only absorb so much fluid at a time.