Outdoor Workouts Trump the Gym W
hen deciding whether to run on a treadmill in the gym of jog in a nearby park, opt for the park, sug-
gests a recent study published in the research journal, Environmental Science & Technology. The study authors—a team at the Peninsula Col- lege of Medicine and Dentistry—say exercising out- doors not only appears to promote physical health, but boosts mental well-being, as well. The team analyzed data from a number of sources, including 11 randomized and non-randomized control trials incorporating information from 833 adults. The study found that exercising in natural environments decreased feelings of tension, confusion, anger and depression, while increasing feelings of revitaliza- tion, increased energy and positive engagement. Study participants that exercised outdoors also reported greater enjoyment and satisfaction and stated that they were more likely to repeat their exercise activity.
CRUCIFEROUS CANCER FIGHTERS A
ccording to a new report in the American Chemical Society’s Jour- nal of Medicinal Chemistry, scientists have discovered how broccoli, cauli- flower, watercress and other cruciferous vegetables help stunt cancer growth. The vegetables contain substances called iso- thiocyanates (ITCs) that appear to target and block a defective p53 gene associat- ed with cancer. Healthy p53 genes act as tumor suppressors and prevent cells from starting the abnormal growth that is a hallmark of cancer. The mutated genes—
which occur in half of all human cancers—do not offer that protection. ITCs appear to work by removing defective p53 genes while preserving normal, protective ones. Researchers believe the substances support the advice of moms throughout the ages: Eat your vegetables.
NO JUNK FOOD BABIES N
ew research published online in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
Journal suggests that pregnant mothers whose diets are high in sugar and fat deliver babies that are more likely to become junk food junkies them- selves. According to the report, which used rats, such diets lead to changes in the fetal brain’s reward pathway, altering food preferences. The results may offer insight into the ever-increasing rate of human obesity and help explain why some people eas- ily resist fatty and sugary foods, while others seem hopelessly addicted.
natural awakenings August 2011 13
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