The verdict: not before speed/strength training. Stretching has many benefits, but a review of studies found that after static stretching (where you hold still in stretched positions), your muscles’ power is reduced.
Here’s how to kill off unhealthy cravings whenever they hit… Problem – elevenses. Dipping blood sugar levels at 10:30-11am can leave you distracted, grumpy and reaching for the biscuit tin. Solution – choose your breakfast wisely. Think about switching to a breakfast that releases energy more slowly, like porridge or eggs, which will keep your […]
The word ‘Protein’ stamped on packaging is a sure-fire way to make a sale, as the nutrient has been marketed as the answer to getting a strong, lean physique. And protein shakes are considered the ultimate post-workout accessory. But how much should we really be eating? Protein provides the building blocks for everything from muscles […]
The verdict: eat early. A new study suggests eating before 7pm, especially if you have high blood pressure. It’s certainly best to avoid having dinner within two hours of your bedtime as your blood pressure won’t drop to a healthy level overnight, increasing the risk of a heart attack.
Here’s how to kill off unhealthy cravings whenever they hit… Problem – missed breakfast. When you leave it too long before eating in the morning, your body and brain will be desperate for fuel and you’re likely to grab something unhealthy. Solution – have a milky drink. Hold off on the pastry and drink a […]
9:00am – Coffee Why do you crave a kick-start cup of coffee in the morning? It’s because the caffeine releases adrenaline – the hormone that makes you feel more alert – into your bloodstream. It also boosts blood circulation to your brain, helping improve concentration. Just make sure you eat breakfast first, as drinking it on […]
The verdict: keep eating. New research found that when mice had the flu, feeding them up helped them to recover. Your immune system needs fuel to fight viruses, so give it some TLC and eat little and often. Think antioxidant-rich, fruit and veg packed smoothies and soups.
Diet is the first port of call in the fight to stay healthy, and prevention is better than cure. Here are my top tips to keeping your immune system strong throughout the cold season: Fill up on a rainbow of fresh fruit and veggies so you’re getting all the vitamins you need. Immune-boosting vitamin C […]
With doctors fearing the return of rickets due to low levels of the sunshine vitamin, how can we sun-starved Brits get enough this winter? How to get more sunshine Although it’s important to protect yourself in the sun, you need to build up your vitamin D levels with bursts of unprotected sun between April and […]
Portion control is key to weight control. But how much is too much? The answer is in the palm of your hand. The best way to judge how much you need of each the food groups is by measuring it in your hand. Fruit = cupped palms Small fruit such as berries and grapes can […]