SPORTS DRINKS VS. WATER

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While heavily advertised, sport drinks are not always necessary for active adults. A moderate amount of plain water does the trick during most exercise.

You may find sports drinks useful if you engage in high-intensity endurance events lasting more than an hour.

Examples include long hikes, long-distance bike rides, marathons, or playing sports in the summer heat. In these cases, you may find that some drinks help prevent dehydration and replace needed nutrients.

DRINK YOUR TOMATO JUICE

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TOMATO DRINK



For a healthy addition to a brunch or breakfast, combine ice, 1½ cups tomato juice, one celery stalk, one tablespoon lemon juice, and perhaps a dash of pepper and hot sauce. Blend until smooth. Garnish with another crisp celery stalk.

This refreshing drink is low in calories, a great source of many vitamins and counts toward your recommended three to five servings of veggies for the day!

If your doctor recommends that you limit sodium, consider using a low-sodium tomato juice. Not as good in taste, but you'll get the benefits and get use to it, in a short amount of time.

5 Foods You Should Eat Every Day - Part II

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5Foods You Should Eat Every Day - By Lisa Iwanycki

Power foods

They’re the foods that are so good for you, they not only make you stronger and more energized, but they can actually help prevent just about any illness.

Part I of this article, lists five foods that you should be eating daily. But there are more super foods you should be including in your everyday diet that you need to know about as well. The following five foods — coupled with the ones listed in
Part I — are some of the world’s healthiest items you should be consuming every day.

1. Chili Peppers

Main vitamin or nutrient: Capsaicin

If you’re an active guy, you want your body to be in top shape so you can get the highest level of performance when you’re busy functioning in full force. Capsaicin is a nutrient found in chili peppers that is a natural anti-inflammatory and helps improve circulation. Chili peppers literally clean your blood of mucus and toxins, making it easy for oxygen to be supplied to your cells, so this spicy beast will keep you in top shape for years to come. Also, contrary to popular belief that spicy peppers cause stomach ailments, chili peppers help fight off ulcers.

So if you have a weak stomach and a high level of stress in your life, add chili peppers to your diet to avoid painful stomach problems.Even more important is that chili peppers help prevent prostate cancer, a leading killer in cancer-related
deaths among men. So get the inside of your mouth fireproofed for this spicy number and keep your body ablaze.

Alternatives: Cayenne pepper, jalapeno peppers

2. Carrots

Main vitamin or nutrient: Beta-carotene and alpha-carotene

For hundreds of years, carrots have been thought to promote good vision, and modern researchers have proven this belief to be true. Carrots are especially good at improving night vision because the body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A,
which is absorbed by the retina. There, it is transformed into a pigment that aids night vision.

Consuming beta-carotene also prevents the eyes from getting cataracts. Think about it: If you eat your carrots now, you’ll be able to check out babes when you’re 95. Not a bad deal.

Carrots keep your cells communicating as well. Beta-carotene promotes cell-to-cell communication, which is good for tissue maintenance and repair. Good cell communication also prevents your cells from going wacko and getting cancerous on you. But beta-carotene isn’t the only cancer inhibitor in carrots: Scientists are finding that alpha-carotene is even better than beta-carotene at preventing tumor growth. Carrots are also good for your skin. Having a sufficient amount of beta-carotene in the body will protect it from common skin problems and diseases.

For example, if you’re in the sun a lot, carrots help protect the skin against the damage caused by UV rays. On the other hand, if you’re a workaholic and you don’t get enough sun, adding carrots to your daily diet will give your skin a nice tanned
look. The orange color in beta-carotene gets deposited under the skin. Eat your carrots daily, and you’ll impress the ladies with a healthy "outdoorsman" glow.

Alternatives: Sweet potatoes, winter squash

3. Kiwi Fruit

Main vitamin or nutrient: Vitamin C

If you travel a lot, sleep weird hours or are stressed out, chances are your immune system is low. Vitamin C is necessary for the healthy functioning of the immune system, and kiwis are higher in vitamin C than oranges or any other commonly known fruit.Not only is vitamin C the primary antioxidant that destroys free radicals
and helps lower the rate of certain types of illnesses, but consuming it daily can protect the body against respiratory problems, such as asthma or dry coughs.

Also, eating kiwifruit once a day can lower the risk of blood clots in the body, preventing heart attacks and strokes. In fact, kiwis can replace the daily aspirin people with heart problems are required to take, because they prevent clotting in
the vessels that supply the brain and heart with blood.

Alternatives: Oranges, papayas


4. Beans

Main vitamin or nutrient: Fiber and protein

Beans are high in fiber, which is beneficial for a number of reasons. Fiber is necessary for maintaining a healthy digestive system. It moves easily and quickly through the digestive tract, cleaning it and allowing it to function properly. Regular amounts of fiber in the diet have been shown to help ward off certain digestive illnesses, including irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer.The fiber in beans also helps people maintain or lose weight. This is because high-fiber foods have a low glycemic index, which means that your blood sugar levels will not rise quickly after you eat them. Beans are a low-calorie food that will make you feel full and curb your cravings for higher-calorie foods. Blood sugar levels remain more stable when beans are included in meals, so they make an excellent choice for dieters.

Beans are also high in protein, which is the building block for skin tissue, hair, bones, nails, muscles, and blood. They are a great source of protein because, unlike meat, beans supply it without the cholesterol and fat. So eat your beans and build those lean muscles you’re after.

Alternatives: Tofu, peas, lentils

5. Dark Berries

Main vitamin or nutrient: Antioxidants

One benefit of consuming dark berries — such as blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and raspberries — is that they keep your body clean by eliminating toxins and pollutants. The dark pigments in these super foods have a more powerful
amount of antioxidants than any other produce offered at the supermarket.

Antioxidants in your food can save you from almost anything when it comes to your health, and this includes slowing down the aging process. The dye that is released
from the skin of this fruit is the most nutritious part because it is the richest in these age-defying, disease-fighting antioxidants.

Aside from keeping you looking and feeling young, antioxidants prevent illnesses and ailments that come with age. For one, dark berries lower bad cholesterol and they are more cardio-protective than wine — so eat your heart out, and your heart will thank you later. Another way they slow age-related diseases is by protecting your brain from memory-related problems, such as Alzheimer’s or loss of memory after a stroke.You can eat your way out of cancer, viruses and memory loss, and you
can seriously slow the aging process with these dark spurts of goodness, so add them to your power shakes or your cereal in the morning.

Alternatives: Plums, cherries, red wine

Eat Better, Feel Better, Look Better

The foods listed in this article — together with those I supplied you with in Part I — are power foods that you should be adding to your diet every day. If you follow my recommendations, you will feel stronger and more resilient, your doctor will be appreciative and impressed, and your girlfriend will notice a change in your energy levels. Added to all of that, your mirror will provide you with an improved look. Enjoy it and make it last.

STAY HEALTHY WITH GOOD ORAL HEALTH

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Did you know that preventing periodontitis (the advanced form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss) is not only important for your oral health, but can also be an important step in maintaining overall health?

Researchers have found that periodontitis can be associated with other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and bacterial pneumonia. In most cases, good oral health can be maintained with good daily oral hygiene-brushing and flossing-and through regular visits with your dentist.

PREVENTING FOOD POISONING

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You cannot see or smell most of the bacteria that cause food poisoning. Under the right conditions, these same bacteria can double in number every 20 to 30 minutes!

Food is safest when you avoid conditions that allow bacteria to thrive. This is why it is important to wash, cook and store food appropriately. Don't leave food at room
temperature longer than two hours, use leftovers within three days, and when in doubt, throw it out.

THINK TWICE ABOUT TACO SALADS

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Don't let the word "salad" mislead you when dining out. According to our registered dietitian, some salads, like taco salads, often contain more calories and fat (from the fried shell, cheese and meat)compared with other menu items. A typical taco salad contains about 860 calories and 46 grams of fat. Instead, try a chicken soft taco. At
180 calories and 6 grams of fat each, it's a much leaner option.

Stanford Heart Network Tip. HOW MUCH FRUIT?

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How much fruit should you eat? Depending on your calorie needs,current government recommendations suggest eating between 1 and 2.5cups of fruit per day. What counts as a cup? A cup of fruit equals 1 cup of 100 percent fruit juice, 1/2 cup of dried fruit, 1 whole piece of most fresh fruits, or 1 cup of chopped fresh fruit or fruit packed
in water or its own juices.

Training On A Treadmill For More Than One Reason

Training On A Treadmill

Running on a treadmill is generally easier than running outside because there is less wind resistance and variation in terrain.

It makes no difference if the air quality is bad, or it's blazing hot. You can have your shade right there. And, anytime you want, just reach for that water bottle.

To get the same workout as you would outside, set the grade (incline) to 1 percent. This is especially helpful if you do some of your outdoor race training on a treadmill.

FAST-FOOD CHOICES

Eating four of these a week can cut your kidney-cancer risk in half.

Hint: You need to peel it.

During these tough economic times, many of us are choosing fast-food restaurants as a dining out option in place of higher-priced venues.

Fortunately, many fast-food restaurants have expanded their menus to include more healthful selections. When dining out, think about ordering entrées such as a regular-size hamburger or veggie burger,grilled chicken sandwiches, baked potatoes with light sour cream or salads with grilled chicken and light dressings.

Skip the high saturated fat add-ons such as cheese and bacon. Instead of fries
consider side salads, fruit, reduced-fat ice cream and low-fat milk to round out your meal.

Cut your kidney-cancer risk in half by eating

Eating four of these a week can cut your kidney-cancer risk in half. Hint: You need to peel it.

Yep, we're talking bananas. They're bursting with phenolic compounds that appear to thwart renal-cancer cells. And that's not all the monkey's favorite fruit brings to your body . . .

ACAI: MIRACLE BERRY OR SCAM?

The acai (ah-sigh-EE) berry is a South American fruit that looks like a grape. This little purple berry, moderately rich in antioxidants,has been touted as capable of doing everything from speeding weight loss to bolstering your immune system. But, health experts say that there is no scientific evidence supporting any of these health claims.

In reality, consumers are losing more money than weight as a result of acai Internet scams. Don't be fooled with "free" acai trials that can turn into inescapable credit card charges. Look for the Better Business Bureau (BBB) seal and click on it to confirm the offer's legitimacy.

MAY IS NATIONAL BIKE MONTH

May is a great month to tune-up your bike (or consider investing in one) and get outside for a ride on the road or a trail. Cycling is an excellent aerobic exercise that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Have you ever considered bicycling to work? This year, Bike-to-Work Week is May 11-15. Biking reduces your carbon footprint (your impact on the environment) and traffic congestion, while also burning calories and saving money.

BOOST FITNESS WITH INTERVAL TRAINING

Interval training can be an effective way to boost your fitness level and burn more calories.

Try one-minute intervals of more intense exercise mixed into your regular aerobic exercise sessions. For example, walk at a moderate intensity for five minutes, and then do one minute at a faster pace. Repeat the cycle several times. Make sure
to include a proper warm up and cool down and check with your doctor before increasing your exercise.

HOW MUCH ALCOHOL IS TOO MUCH?

Stanford Heart Network Tip of the Day


*** Today's Tip: HOW MUCH ALCOHOL IS TOO MUCH?

April is National Alcohol Awareness Month. Did you know drinking alcohol can be beneficial or harmful, depending on your age and health status, and, of course, how much you drink? According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, men are at "low-risk" for serious problems if they consume no more than four standard-size alcoholic drinks on any day, totaling no more than 14 total drinks per
week.

For women, the limit is no more than three standard-size drinks on any day with a weekly limit of seven. Greater alcohol intake can indicate dependence on alcohol, which may benefit from medical help.

SUNSCREEN NOT FOR SUMMER ONLY

SUNSCREEN NOT FOR SUMMER ONLY

A picturesque winter wonderland is the perfect setting for a brisk outdoor walk.

Beware, however; a beautiful blanket of snow can intensify the sun's rays. Plan to use sunscreen to protect your exposed skin. Remember to cover your lips, too. And while you're at it, slip on a pair of sunglasses to ease the glare off the snow to improve vision and protect your eyes.

KNOW SUICIDE RISK FACTORS

KNOW SUICIDE RISK FACTORS

Do you know the risk factors for suicide? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, risk factors include a diagnosable mental or substance abuse disorder, family violence and very difficult life events. Studies show the best way to prevent suicide may be through early recognition and treatment of depression. If you or someone you know feels depressed and hopeless, seek help though your EAP, physician or mental health professional.

REALISTIC FITNESS GOALS LEAD TO SUCCESS

REALISTIC FITNESS GOALS LEAD TO SUCCESS

Do you expect too much when you try to start or increase your physical activity? Success often leads to more success, but very high goals often lead to frustration. Start slow and set realistic goals for yourself.

For example, unless you are already very active, don't set your new goal as 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day. Instead consider starting with activities such as brisk walking for 10-15 minutes several days a week. By conquering smaller goals first, you are more likely to continue.

WINNING ISN'T EVERYTHING

WINNING ISN'T EVERYTHING

Is your child involved in sports? If so, it is likely that you already know how much emphasis can be placed on winning at all costs.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it's important for parents to focus on the value of kids' sports for fun and exercise, not only for winning. Unrelenting pressure to win can create excessive stress for young athletes, negatively impacting their health, wellness and even their performance.

HAND GELS-A GOOD ALTERNATIVE?

HAND GELS-A GOOD ALTERNATIVE?

During cold and flu season, washing your hands with soap and water is one of the best ways to prevent infection and illness. But, when soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand gels are a good alternative. They are practical, and you can conveniently throw one in a purse, pocket or lunch bag. If you shake hands often, travel frequently or have small children, hand gels can be a simple way to help keep the whole family healthy.

EATING DISORDER AWARENESS WEEK

EATING DISORDER AWARENESS WEEK

In the United States, as many as 10 million females and 1 million males are fighting a potential life-threatening battle with an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia. Millions more are struggling with binge-eating disorder.

It's important to be aware of the dangers surrounding eating disorders and the need for early intervention and treatment. If you are affected-or know someone who is or may be-the National Eating Disorders Association provides messages of prevention,
hope and recovery. For information, visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.

OSTEOPOROSIS IN MEN

OSTEOPOROSIS IN MEN

Too many men think of osteoporosis (thinning bones) as a "woman's disease". However, 2 million men also have the condition. Another 12 million are at risk. Lifestyle choices such as not smoking, exercising and getting enough calcium and vitamin D can help.

Medications can also be used to treat men with bone loss. Ask your doctor if you need
to be tested and/or treated.

HOT PEPPERS AND SEA SALT?

ADDING SPICE WITH HOT PEPPERS

Chili peppers are a great way to add flavor to many meals. According to our registered dietitian, they are also a good source of vitamins A and C. The hottest peppers include anaheim, ancho, cayenne, casabel, habanero, jalapeno, and serano.

If you want to turn down the heat,simply remove the seeds and inner membranes before adding the peppers to your dish. But be careful to avoid burning your skin. Wear gloves or wash hands immediately after handling them, and avoid all contact with the eyes when you're touching peppers.


IS SEA SALT BETTER FOR YOU?

Sea salt or table salt,what's the difference? Ordinary table salt comes from salt mines and is usually refined until it is pure sodium chloride; whereas, sea salt is harvested from the sea and is typically less refined. But the sodium content of each is essentially the same.

One advantage of sea salt is that some people may use a little less because of its courser texture. As with any salt, use in moderation and aim for no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium in your diet daily..

LET FISH BE YOUR CUPID

LET FISH BE YOUR CUPID

Omega-3 fatty acids may not be words that evoke passion, but on this Valentine's Day, a serving of omega-3-rich fish is truly good for the heart-and can make a perfect headliner for a romantic meal.

All fish contain omega-3s, but they are more concentrated in fatty fish such as
salmon, mackerel, tuna, lake trout, herring and sardines.

The American Heart Association recommends eating fish, particularly fatty
fish, at least two times per week.

LOSE WEIGHT SAFELY

LOSE WEIGHT SAFELY

If you're working on your New Year's resolution to lose weight, be sensible. Stay away from fad diets and other plans that promise quick weight loss. While you may lose weight initially, these strategies are not effective for long-term weight maintenance, and some can be unsafe. Professionals recommend a safe rate of weight loss of 1/2 to 2
pounds per week. Be patient as you practice new behaviors that support healthy eating and active living. In time, you will achieve your healthiest weight.

BAGEL'S FIBER AND MONOUNSATURATED FATS

BENEFITS BEYOND FIBER

Did you know that whole grains provide much more nutrition than just dietary fiber? Whole grains are also an excellent source of B vitamins, iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium and antioxidants such as vitamin E. Some whole grains are not brown, and some brown breads are not whole grain.

So don't go by color alone. Instead, look for the word 'whole' before the type of grain in the ingredient list, like whole wheat or whole oats. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend we eat at least three servings of whole grains each day.


HEALTHY BAGEL SPREADS

Do enjoy a bagel for breakfast? While modest portions of whole-grain bagels can be a healthy breakfast option, be careful with your smears.

A 1-ounce portion of traditional cream cheese adds about 100 calories and 10 grams of fat with 5 grams coming from the unhealthy saturated type.

For a healthier spread, consider this alternative-a blend of silken tofu, cinnamon, vanilla extract and minced dried fruit. But, if you really love your cream cheese simply use less or try a low-fat or fat-free version. Your heart will thank you!


MONOUNSATURATED FATS

When cooking with fats, olive oil is a healthy choice. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fat, which can lower your risk of heart disease by reducing the total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol levels in your blood. It is best to substitute olive oil for saturated fats, such as butter and tropical oils, rather than just adding more olive oil to your diet. Other good sources of
monounsaturated fats include olives, canola oil, avocados, almonds,pecans, peanuts and peanut butter.

"LETTUCE" BE CLEAR ABOUT ICEBERG

Many say iceberg lettuce has no nutritional value. Not so, says the American Dietetic Association. While it's true that darker-colored greens like romaine contain more nutrients, iceberg can stand on its own merits when it comes to a healthy diet. It's low in calories, fat-free and a source of potassium, folate, beta carotene, lutein and a small amount of calcium and vitamins C and K. That said, it's still best to fill your plate with a variety of lettuces and other leafy greens, including arugula, escarole, bibb, romaine, spinach.and yes, even iceberg.

TRY TEMPEH!

Tempeh is a tender cake of cooked soybeans made of 100 percent soy or combined with grains, legumes and seeds. Fermentation helps bind the soy and grains together to form a solid cake. It can be found in the freezer, refrigerator or fresh produce section of your grocery store.

Try tempeh as a healthy replacement for meat in stews, casseroles, grille dsandwiches, kabobs or stir-fry. Marinated or barbecued tempeh makes a great main dish and is a good source of many essential nutrients as well as fiber.

PREVENTING JOINT PAIN

PREVENTING JOINT PAIN

You can help to prevent or minimize joint pain by maintaining good posture and muscle balance, exercising regularly and lifting properly.

For example, bend your knees and use your legs instead of your back when lifting objects off the ground. When lifting with your upper body, allow your arms to do the work instead of your wrists or fingers.

IS YOUR WORK ENOUGH EXERCISE ?

IS YOUR WORK ENOUGH EXERCISE

People with physically demanding jobs often think that exercise recommendations don't apply to them. However, a study reported in the Archives of Internal Medicine says otherwise.

Those who engaged in 2 hours of leisure-time activity each week had a lower risk of heart disease than those who did not exercise. Increased physical strain at work did not offer protection from heart disease.

MOTIVATION ON THE TREADMILL

MOTIVATION ON THE TREADMILL

If you live in a cold climate and have trouble staying motivated to walk or jog on a treadmill, try this tip to keep you going until warmer weather arrives. Start by creating a 25-minute playlist on your MP3 player. Walk or jog for one song and speed up for the next.

Continue to alternate for the entire workout and be sure to end with a slower interval to cool down. Add five minutes of music every two weeks to gradually increase your workout and you will be ready to hit the road in this spring!

PEANUT BUTTER RECALL

PEANUT AND PEANUT BUTTER RECALL

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled more than 400 peanut-containing products due to a recent outbreak of salmonella. The sources of the outbreak are peanut butter and peanut paste products produced by the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA). According to the FDA, major national brands of jarred peanut butter found in grocery stores are not affected by the recall. However, to stay updated on the
specific products that have been recalled, the FDA urges consumers to visit www.fda.gov.

Warning Signs of Heart Attack

HEART ATTACK WARNING SIGNS

Some heart attacks can be sudden and intense, but most heart attacks start slowly with mild pain and discomfort. Know the warning signs and how to respond quickly and properly. Most heart attacks involve an uncomfortable pressure or pain in the center of the chest.

It can also include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Heart attacks can include shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort and may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. Know the signs and save a life-it may even be your own!

CELEBRATE NATIONAL HEART MONTH

February is National Heart Month. This is a good time to take care of your "sweetheart" and yourself by taking action against heart disease!

Being heart smart starts with knowing your numbers: from cholesterol and triglycerides, to your blood pressure, waist size and body mass index. Make a daily commitment to a heart-healthy lifestyle. This means not smoking, exercising regularly, making good food choices and reducing stress.

Strength Training and Healthy Incentives To Exercise

HEALTHY INCENTIVES TO EXERCISE

Help stick with your exercise plan by rewarding yourself at special milestones. If you've had a personal best or continued exercising when you might have given up before, consider treating yourself to a reward. Try non-food rewards such as a massage, pedicure, concert, CD or some new workout clothes!


STRENGTH TRAINING & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

Strength training is crucial to weight control because individuals who have more muscle mass have a higher metabolic rate. Muscle is active tissue that consumes calories while stored fat uses very little energy.

Strength training can provide up to a 15 percent increase in metabolic rate, which is enormously helpful for weight loss and long-term weight control.

Shore Up Your Cancer Prevention

PREVENTING YOUR RISK FOR CANCER

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. February has passed but the risk of Cancer is still with us.

Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the U.S. This year alone, more than
565,000 Americans are expected to die of cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. It doesn't have to be this way.

Prevention and early detection can save lives and help those who develop cancer
to survive. Lower your cancer risk with timely screening tests, good food choices and an active lifestyle. If you're a smoker, commit to quitting today!

I hope you had a chance to catch the return of Lance Armstrong in the Amgen Tour of California. We'll keep an eye on Lance in the up coming Tours and the Big one in July.

SHOULD PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS EXERCISE?

SHOULD PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS EXERCISE?

For years, people with arthritis and related conditions were taught not to exercise.

However, studies now show that exercise can help people with arthritis by reducing joint pain and stiffness, and increasing flexibility, muscle strength, cardiac fitness and endurance. The National Arthritis Foundation recommends gentle activities such as water aerobics, dance or Tai Chi, which can help increase flexibility and endurance without putting too much pressure on the joints. People with arthritis should discuss exercise options with their health care provider.

STRETCHING FOR YOUR SORE BACK

STRETCHING FOR BACK MAINTENANCE

Many of us experience back pain from time to time due to tight back muscles. I hear this more and more with the people I know, not everyone is over weight, some are. What is lacking could be stretching.

Stretching can help to alleviate or even prevent this tightness. Lie down on your back; pull both knees to your chest; relax and hold for 15-30 seconds; release; and repeat at least twice.

Doing this exercise each day can often reduce the risk for future pain. However, if you already have diagnosed medical problems with your back or neck, consult your doctor or physical therapist before doing any new back exercises.


- by Mission Hospital! Mission Hospital is part of the Stanford Heart Network.

Better Sleep With White Noise

WHITE NOISE FOR BETTER SLEEP?

If you're looking for something to help soothe you into sleep, alittle white noise may be the answer. White noise-or white sound-can filter and mask distracting noises that may be keeping you awake.

Technically, white noise is a sound frequency that uses the entire spectrum of frequencies the human ear is able to hear. Examples of white-noise machines include electric fans, air purifiers,humidifiers, nature-sound devices and electronic white noise generators. White noise is even available on CDs or as a down loadable audio file.
I didn't see having the TV on while I sleep as an option.

EXERCISE AND OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE

EXERCISE AND OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE
As someone that has this painful Knee problem this hits home for me. The question for me is, should I give up playing Tennis? I know the answer or what a Doctor would say. Stop playing tennis. Well as long as I can stand it, I'll keep playing. It's good to know what exercises are good. Actually, I knew that already. It's interesting that there is a new study.

Low-impact exercise (i.e. walking, swimming, cycling, and elliptical trainer) along with proper strengthening and stretching exercises can be helpful for those with osteoarthritis of the knee. Managing your weight is also a key element to reduce pain and further deterioration.

A recent study shows that arthroscopic knee surgery for people suffering from osteoarthritis doesn't reduce joint symptoms or improve function compared with other nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy and medication.