By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. Two recent breakthrough studies give the best explanation yet of how exercise helps to prevent heart attacks. Competitive older endurance athletes may have more plaques in their arteries than non-exercisers, but they have the type of plaques that are far less likely to break off and cause heart attacks (Circulation, April 27, 2017;136:138-148; May 2, … [Read more...] about How Exercise Helps Prevent Heart Attacks
Medical
More Good News About Tree Nuts and Peanuts
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. Several recent articles show that eating tree nuts or peanuts with a high-fat or high-sugar meal prevents the expected high rise in blood factors that increase risk for the inflammation that can lead to diabetes, heart attacks or strokes. Three ounces of ground peanuts that contain 198 kcal taken with a high-fat meal prevented the expected constriction … [Read more...] about More Good News About Tree Nuts and Peanuts
Energy Drinks Can Have Negative Side Effects
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. Energy drinks can raise blood pressure and may cause irregular heartbeats, according to a recent study conducted at Travis Air Force Base in California (Journal of the American Heart Association, April 26, 2017;6(5)). This extremely well-planned, -performed and -controlled study shows that two hours after drinking 32 ounces (four cups) of a popular energy … [Read more...] about Energy Drinks Can Have Negative Side Effects
What Causes Belly Cramps in Cyclists vs. Runners
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. When it comes to belly cramps, cyclists are different from runners. The most common cause of belly camps in a cyclist is stool in the colon. In runners, it is a stretching of the ligaments from the diaphragm that holds up the liver. Fit athletes rarely suffer discomfort from small amounts of food in the stomach. Belly Pain in Cyclists Did you know that … [Read more...] about What Causes Belly Cramps in Cyclists vs. Runners
Power Napping Delivers Myriad Benefits
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. Power napping for an hour can help you to learn, remember and interpret more efficiently. When I was in high school, I found that I could study best immediately after awakening from at least a 45-minute nap. Only then could I read, study and memorize efficiently. I think this technique will work for almost everybody. Try to nap before having an important … [Read more...] about Power Napping Delivers Myriad Benefits