Health News: Master the Stairs

Stairs vs. Coffee

Need an energy boost due to lack of sleep? Women who walked up and down the stairs for 10 minutes at a low to moderate intensity felt more energized than when they consumed 50 mg. of caffeine. —Physiology and Behavior

Yoga for PMS Relief

Say “om,” and kiss monthly cramps goodbye. Regular yoga helps lessen the intensity of pain and makes you more relaxed during your period. Experts aren’t sure why, but the deep breathing and meditation aspect of the discipline is thought to have a positive effect on the autonomic stress response. —The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine

The Perfect Pout

A survey of 430 men and women showed that women with a 1:2 ratio of upper to lower lips were deemed most beautiful. —JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery

Diabetes, Begone

Prediabetes can often be reversed. Losing as little as 7 percent of your weight can prevent it from becoming type 2 diabetes, according to a study of more than 3,000 adults. —New England Journal of Medicine

40

The number of minutes of aerobic exercise three to four times weekly it takes to reduce cholesterol. —American Heart Association

The Fiber-Knee Link

Folks who eat a high-fiber diet have a lower incidence of knee arthritis, according to two recent studies of more than 6,000 subjects. While there is no direct link between highfiber diets and knee health, researchers posit that the benefits are related to weight and inflammation control. —Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases

Pedal to Happiness

Workers who bike to work reported less stress than those who drive or take mass transit. In addition to being happier, cycling provides a great workout that’s easy on the joints. —International Journal of Workplace Health Management

Could You Have IBS?

Two out of five American adults suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBSC) remain undiagnosed. If you’re having stomach issues, check with your doctor. —American Gastroenterological Association

Spicy Relief for Sunburn

The main ingredient in turmeric— curcumin—does more than give the spice its color. Researchers discovered that applying curcumin gel to skin that’s been burned lessens pain, reduces inflammation and improves healing. —UCLA