HaveHealthNow Blog by Wellness Mike

     Normal functions of the immune system include defense against infections and detection and destruction of malignant or autoreactive cells. As the immune system ages and these capabilities decline, there is increased susceptibility to infections and cancer and an increased incidence of autoimmune disorders.       Your immune system helps protect your body from foreign or harmful substances. Examples are bacteria, viruses, toxins, cancer cells, and blood or tissues from another person. The immune system makes cells and   antibodies   that destroy these harmful substances. AGING CHANGES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON THE IMMUNE SYSTEM As you grow older, your immune system does not work as well. The following immune system changes may occur: The immune system becomes slower to respond. This increases your risk of getting sick. Flu shots or other vaccines may not work as well or protect you for as long as expected. An  autoimmune disorder  may develop. This is a disease in which the i

Benefits of Beet Supplements Beetroot has been gaining in popularity as a new super food. Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Many studies indicate that eating more plant foods, like beetroot, decreases the risk of obesity, overall mortality, diabetes, and heart disease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, and overall lower weight. Heart health and blood pressure : A 2008  study  published in  Hypertension  examined the effects of ingesting beetroot in healthy volunteers and found that  blood pressure  was significantly lowered after ingestion. Researchers hypothesized this was likely due to the high nitrate levels contained in beets and that the high nitrate vegetables could prove to be a low-cost and effective way to treat cardiovascular conditions and blood pressure. Another study conducted in 2010 found similar results, concluding th

DASH stands for Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension. DASH diet has been clinically proven to reduce blood pressure within 2 weeks in individuals following the diet. It is not only known to help manage the blood pressure but is also designed for weight loss programs, helps to prevent heart diseases, stroke, diabetes and some forms of cancer. Who should follow a DASH eating plan? In fact, a DASH eating plan can be a part of any healthy eating plan. Not only, will it help lower blood pressure but it will offer additional heart health benefits including lowering LDL cholesterol and inflammation. How does the DASH eating plan work? The diet consists of foods that are low in sodium and consists of a variety of foods that are rich in nutrients like potassium, calcium and magnesium are known to help lower blood pressure. The diet is rich in fiber that again helps to lower blood pressure and knock off the extra pounds which will in-turn assist in lowering blood pressure. What shoul

Did you know: Twice as many adults in the U.S. are physically inactive than smoke cigarettes. Approximately 35% of coronary artery disease deaths are due to physical inactivity. $117 billion in health care costs are associated with inadequate physical activity. So how much exercise am I supposed to do ??? 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week PLUS 2 days of strength training are needed to maintain health and reduce the risk of chronic disease.  150-200 minutes per week of moderated physical activity is needed to prevent weight gain. 225-420 minutes per week are needed for long term weight control. Health Benefits of physical activity on Obesity: Weight loss / maintenance  Improves body composition and prevents muscle loss during weight loss Health Benefits of Regular Exercise: Arthritis: increases strength, range of motion, physical function, decreases disability, pain and stiffness Decreases blood pressure Exercise may be as effective