By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. Too much sun exposure can cause skin cancers, but getting small amounts of sunlight on your skin for short periods may have some benefits beyond providing vitamin D. It appears that sunlight may help to reduce risk for heart attacks by:• reducing blood cholesterol levels• increasing tissue levels of nitric oxide to lower high blood pressure• increasing … [Read more...] about Benefits of Sunlight Beyond Vitamin D
1Training & Health
Split Hairs, Stretch at the Right Times And Be Kind to Canines
By Kevin Kolodziejski Please don’t play psychologist and diagnose me with kick-the-dog syndrome. I don’t even own a dog. Honestly, my habit of splitting hairs while writing this column is not a case of displaced aggression simply because so few of them remain atop my head — or so many of them now grow in my ears and nose. While I’m being so straightforward, let … [Read more...] about Split Hairs, Stretch at the Right Times And Be Kind to Canines
Can cycling make me slump-shouldered?
QUESTION: I’ve been cycling for more than twenty years. I’m now in my 70s, and my wife recently mentioned that I’m becoming slump-shouldered, and she thinks it’s from the position I’m in when I ride. My bike has drop handlebars. Could she be right? I thought all this cycling was good for me. —Alan S. RBR’S STAN PURDUM REPLIES: You’re both right. Cycling is good for you … [Read more...] about Can cycling make me slump-shouldered?
How Can I Cure Chronic Achy Legs?
Question: I'm an avid 47-year-old cyclist who rides 90-120 miles per week and wants to improve. My performance has stagnated. My legs ache and feel weak. Is this just age, or is it overtraining or poor nutrition? -- Craig K. RBR Replies: It sounds like you've overdone your training, either in terms of intensity or insufficient time for recovery. … [Read more...] about How Can I Cure Chronic Achy Legs?
Why Do I Have Achilles Tendon Pain?
Question: I recently developed a bad case of Achilles tendinitis. The real discomfort occurs hours after a ride while walking and climbing stairs. Bicycling is supposed to be low impact. What's going on? -- Harris C. RBR Replies: Many riders think that because cycling is relatively gentle on legs, they're immune from the injuries we associate with sports like running and … [Read more...] about Why Do I Have Achilles Tendon Pain?