by Michele Krauss

Midlife Boost From Yoga
Downward Dog may be just the answer when it comes to women’s midlife health challenges. A study done in India looked at a group of women who practiced an hour of yoga five days a week, along with meditation and breathing exercises. The women reported 50 percent fewer hot flashes and night sweats, as well as improved memory. Yoga has been hailed for its de-stressing qualities and that may help the body and mind function better.

More Seniors Using Dangerous Drug Combos
The National Institutes of Health, along with the University of Chicago, recently unveiled research showing at least 2 million older Americans are taking a combination of drugs or supplements that can lead to dangerous outcomes. From mixing gingko supplements with aspirin – which can cause excess bleeding, to combining blood pressure meds with potassium – which may cause irregular heartbeats, many seniors are putting themselves at risk for adverse reactions. Doctors in the study recommend being honest with your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Hydrate With Food to Lose Pounds
A University of Tokyo study found that women who ate foods with high water content were slimmer and had lower BMI’s than women who didn’t. It’s thought that food containing high water content makes you feel fuller faster, making you eat less as a result. Snack on these high-water-content foods to add power to your diet: grapefruit, broccoli, lettuce, spinach and cabbage.

Double Duty Workouts Help You Eat Less
A recent study found that combining strength training with your daily cardio workout can help you eat less. Study participants mixed cardio with weight training for 16 weeks and reported consuming less carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and calories in general. Cardio is a must, but don’t forget to pack that extra punch with a bit of resistance training too.