Your health is the number one thing to take seriously and take care of, which is why I think this list of surprising health facts is so important. I came across so many interesting tidbits of information that shocked me as well, so for you, dear faithful readers, I decided to keep you in the know. Whether it's what you're eating or how you are living, there are several factors that may need a tune-up in your life. Take a look at these surprising health facts and get a head-start on having better health.
Snapshot Survey
Snapshot Survey
1. Bananas Can Help Relieve Belly Bloat
One of the first surprising health facts is that bananas can help beat a bloated belly. We all know that bloating is the worst, and sometimes it can be really hard to combat. While sometimes boating can be attributed to gas, it can also sometimes be caused by eating too much sodium. To help this, the potassium in bananas goes to work to counteract the excess sodium's effects. The moral of the story, however, is to lay off too much salt in the first place.
2. Your Weight Fluctuates about 2-5 Lbs per Day Due to Water Weight
Have you ever stepped on the scale in the morning, then again at night and wondered how you possibly could have gained a few pounds in one day? No worries, this is water weight. Salty foods (see what I meant before?) and being on your period can especially contribute to this weight. If you have an event coming up and want to beat that pesky water bloat, ask your doctor of it would be safe to take a diuretic.
3. Sitting for 11 or More Hours a Day Could Lead to a Shorter Lifespan
This frightening statistic has gained a lot of attention lately, and rightfully so. If you work an office job where sitting is a huge part of your day, remember to get up every now and then and take a short walk, even if it's just to the bathroom. Also do some exercises while you're at your desk like leg lifts or squats. Your co-workers might stare, but at least you'll be be healthier than them!
4. Green Tea Helps Improve Working Memory
Green tea is wonderful for a slew of reasons, especially its antioxidants. But a study found that people who drank green tea extract had a better working memory than those who didn't, so maybe it's time to start taking tea time more seriously.
5. Sugar Can Actually Exacerbate PMS
Before you go reaching for the Ben and Jerry's the next time the PMS starts setting in, think again. Too much sugar leads to a decrease in magnesium, which leads to bloat. Bloating is just about the last thing you want to increase on your period, so aim for healthier snacks instead to decrease that risk.
6. Oatmeal is a Mood-Booster
If you want to get a great start to your day in the morning, try having a bowl of oatmeal. Oatmeal boosts your serotonin levels, which gives your brain that "feel-good" feeling.
7. Individuals Who Work out at a Young Age Have Better Memory when They're Older
Getting a good amount of exercise when you're young is good for a variety of reasons, but a study showed that individuals who worked out in their twenties actually had better memory in their 40s and 50s. Regardless of the benefits, it's good to get movin'!
What you put into your body and how you take care of it is very important. It's good to have facts like these in your back pocket so that you can live a healthier lifestyle. Were you surprised by any of these facts? Sound off in the comments, and let us know some cool facts that weren't listed here!