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Binge Eating Gene

Scientists at Boston University have identified a gene linked to binge eating - and it could lead to new drugs to combat obesity and disorders, such as bulimia.

The gene, known as CYF1P2, suggests that some people really cannot help overindulging on food, drink and drugs.  They also found a network of genes associated with gorging, where a sheath is formed around a nerve fibre allowing impulses to move quickly.

I can personally vouch for food addiction and food problems, centering around mental health and confidence issues. I have fought this for a while. I am aware that if I start getting worried about an issue I tend to head to the kitchen - food gives me comfort. It is something I am battling, but am aware that I need to confront. So I find this news interesting.

Diabetes threat ahead

Health Experts have warned that an incredible ONE IN TEN UK adults could have diabetes by the year 2035.

Statisticians at Public Health England fear the number of sufferers could top five million if obesity rates continue to soar.

Last year, around 3,8 million had the condition, which can damage vital organs.  The cost of treating the diabetes epidemic could soar to 17 per cent of the overall NHS budget.

Diabetes UK chief, Chris Askew, said: "diabetes threatens to bankrupt the NHS if we continue with these trends".

It should be noted that there are different types of diabetes. Some people are born with the issue, and only medical intervention can keep them alive.  But type 2 diabetes can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle, better nutrition, and keeping control of weight. Exercising more can also help.  We have a responsibility to look after our bodies and health.

Stretching - Why is it important?

We are going to add a few entries on why it is important to stretch.

END THE PAIN

Muscles are made up of myocytes, cells more commonly known as muscle fibres.

When we stretch a muscle, the fibre is pulled out to its full length, which helps to realign any disorganised fibres by straightening them out. The realignment is what helps to rehabilitate scarred tissue, so reducing muscle pain.

GOOD FOR JOINTS

Stretching lengthens the muscles, improving flexibility and range of motion in the joints.

HELPS THE HEART

Extending muscles can be as good for heart health as physical exercise, according to scientists.  A 2014 Dutch/American study found that yoga poses - asanas - may be as useful as biking or walking in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

MAKES YOU HAPPY

Stretching releases dopamine, a brain chemical that affects emotional response and increases feelings of happiness.  Just taking moments to stop and stretch out the shoulders, for example, helps to relax body and mind.

INJURY PROTECTION

Studies into tendon injuries indicate that regular stretching - both static, when you hold a position, and dynamic, such as a torso twist - can prevent injury.

FIX YOUR HUNCH

The reason that many people who spend a large part of the day working in front of a computer get a hunched posture is often not because of weak back and shoulders, but due to tight chest muscles.  One of the best ways to reduce upper-back pain is to stretch the pectoral muscles - the pecs.

DIABETES BUSTER

Stretching has been found to lower blood sugar levels, a key factor in managing diabetes. A 2011 Hawaiian study of people either at risk or already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes found that 20 minutes of stretching lowered glucose levels in the blood by 28ml per decilitre. It is believed stretching opens blood vessels in joints and muscles, enabling glucose to be better absorbed by cells.

LOWER CHOLESTEROL

Prolonged stretching, combined with healthy eating, has been found to reduce cholesterol.  An Indian study of adults with coronary atherosclerotic disease - hardening of the arteries - found that after a year of yoga stretches and diet, the condition was reversed by 20 per cent and the cholesterol levels of the participants improved.

IMPROVED STRENGTH

A study carried out in 2012 found that after ten weeks of stretching one calf, the strength of the calf had increased by an amazing 29 per cent.

There is a binge eating gene!!!!

A team from Boston University, Massachusetts, found a network of genes associated with gorging. where a sheaf is formed around a nerve fibre, allowing impulses to move quickly.

This gene, linked to binge eating, could lead to new drugs to combat obesity, and other eating disorders such as bulimia.

The gene, known as CYFIP2, suggests that some people can honestly not help over-indulging on food, drinks or drugs!!

Interesting!!

Are gyms a waste of cash?

City University of New York experts studied 300 gym-goers for a week.  Professor Herman Pontzer said: "The most physically active of them expended the same calories as the moderately active".

Moderate activity, such as a brisk walk or taking the stairs, is as effective as a strenuous work-out, say the experts.  "Exercise for health, not for weight-loss" they continue. "The key to shifting excess pounds is cutting out the bad and unnecessary calories in your diet."

HMHB is not sure if they can totally back up these statements.  We certainly know a healthier lifestyle includes better nutrition and more exercise.

I, myself, am a gym member.  To our service users we say it is all a choice - but that they can exercise and do fitness at home or a park. A gym is not essential.  However, I find it focuses me on exercise, I will physically do things for a longer time, and they do have useful equipment around to enhance the experience. It can be a personal thing.

Whether in a gym or not, anything that helps you push further with exercise can only be a good thing. Therefore, in my own personal view, a gym is not a waste of cash if used often enough, and to his fullest capabilities.

Exercise could prevent Alzheimer's

Scientists from Rush University in Chicago tested 535 people in their seventies and eighties and concluded that some exercise can help prevent Alzheimer's disease by triggering changes in the brain.

People with a high level of a protein called brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are at less risk of the incurable illness.

One of the best ways to boost it is by physical activities such as jogging and running.  Brain function declined 50% slower in patients with the highest levels of BDNF, compared to those with the least.