Here’s good news if you are old enough to drive and still love playing videogames. A new study shows videogaming has health benefits for adults.
American researchers say it can help adults improve their contrast sensitivity, one of the first visual functions affected by ageing. Contrast sensitivity is important in situations such as driving at night and in poor visibility. The next time someone says you’re too old to be playing videogames have these facts ready.
MEGA SNACKS
Snacks containing high levels of omega-3 fatty acids have many health benefits including a lower risk of inflammation, blood clots, high cholesterol and joint pain. They can also ease symptoms of depression. So stock up on walnuts and flax seeds.
UNHAPPY MARRIAGE = HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Women who are unhappily married have an increased risk of developing heart disease, US researchers say. They found women in marriages with high levels of conflict are more prone to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar levels - all of which significantly raise the risk of heart disease.
BOOK REVIEW: Ultimate Guide to Women’s Health by Dr Linda Friedland
Rating: 4/5
Reviewer: Lara Atson
Cost: R250 (Tafelberg)
With all the medical information flying around it’s often hard to sort fact from fiction. This guide is a handy starting point. It covers health issues at each phase of a woman’s life, with subjects such as hormonal health, sexual wellbeing, major health threats, common medical conditions, pregnancy, Pap smears and menopause - there’s also a short section on cosmetic surgery.
This book, Dr Friedland’s third, draws on the latest research and supplies the information women need to manage their health. The author’s accessible writing style makes it easy to understand. She’s well known in South African medical circles and is also a media personality and motivational speaker.
Keep this guide on your bookshelf and consult it when you need a medical issue explained or you want to make a radical lifestyle change and need help getting started.
