Preventing excess gas

Preventing excess gas Too much gas typically is caused by the incomplete absorption of certain starches and sugars during digestion. Bacteria in your intestine then ferment the sugars, forming gas. To prevent excess gas: • Limit gassy foods The worst gas-formers are beans and other legumes, wheat and wheat bran, cabbage, onions, Brussels sprouts, sauerkraut, apricots, bananas and prunes. Milk and other dairy products also can cause gas if you have reduced amounts of lactase, the enzyme needed...

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Staying mentally sharp

Staying mentally sharp Boost your memory and develop habits that can help counterage-related memory loss:  • Make associationsFor example, if you’re introduced to Fred who has red hair,link his name to his hair color.   • Choose what to rememberIf you meet several people at once, focus on remembering afew key names.  • Recite, retrieve and reviewRecite key information several times to learn it and retrieve it often. Review information you’ll need, such as pagingthrough your high-school yearbook before your reunion.   •...

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Choosing a home blood

Choosing a home blood Pressure unitYou can track your blood pressure by using a home monitorbetween checkups. To choose the best monitor for you, askyour doctor for advice and balance convenience with accuracy:  • Know your optionsAneroid models are inexpensive and easy to transport. Theyinclude a stethoscope. Some have extra-large dials for easierreading, but they aren’t recommended if you have troublehearing or have poor dexterity in your hands. Electronic (digi-tal) models are the most popular and can be expensive, butthey’re easy...

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Exercising for a healthy heart

Exercising for a healthy heart If you exercise regularly, you may lower your risk of a heart attack and stroke. If you’re middle-aged or older and haven’t been exercising regularly or have a chronic health problem, work with your doctor to develop an exercise program. To condition your heart safely: • Start at a comfortable level of exertion Try walking five to 10 minutes over a short distance indoors. Increase five minutes a session, as tolerated. • Schedule regular exercise Aim for 30 to 60 minutes a day of low- to moderate-intensity physical...

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BRAIN AND HEART

BRAIN AND HEART Reducing your risk of stroke and heart attack One of the best ways to protect yourself against a stroke or heart attack is by not smoking. Here are other ways: • Maintain a healthy weight Being overweight increases your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease and diabetes — risk factors for a stroke and heart attack. So eat a nutritious diet and aim for 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity on most days. • Limit fats and cholesterol Limit meat to a total of 6 ounces daily. Choose fat-free...

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