Our immune system is one of the amazing cellular networks in our body. This system has come into direct focus as we face the COVID pandemic and try to improve our immunity to this virus through vaccinations. In addition to avoiding exposure through social distancing individuals often search for ways to boost their immune response....
It is hard to walk through any health food aisle in the grocery store without coming across another food, drink, or supplement claiming to provide anti oxidants. These products’ effects claim to target free radicals or the naturally occurring unstable molecules, due to changes in electrons, which are created through our body’s cellular metabolism. If...
The CDC estimates 10% of Americans have diabetes with close to 95% being diagnosed with Type II diabetes. Type II diabetes is differentiated from Type I, in part, by the body’s reduced sensitivity to the insulin it produces leading to higher levels of blood sugar (glucose). Diabetes can have serious health consequences including vision loss,...
Stretching remains one of the more debatable areas in our profession. Although mobility and stretching can play a significant role in Physical Therapy treatments designed to help an individual recover from injury their importance in a healthy individual is questionable. Despite this, stretching’s popularity remains on display in most gyms and exercise classes, but the...
As I have gotten older I have had more success hitting my health and fitness goals by shifting my workouts to the morning. I have grown to appreciate the mornings and their lack of distractions and daily tasks which often interfere with later sessions. Exercising as the first task of the day reduces one of...
The benefits of physical activity are well documented. Regular exercise has been shown to improve both mental and physical health. But some forms of exercise impose a greater mental challenge to its participants which can lead to increased stress and anxiety levels. While rock climbing is a very safe sport, it can test peoples’ fears...
Running remains one of the most popular outdoor activities in Boulder where participants can take advantage of the acres of open space. It is difficult to beat the simplicity, low cost of entry, and workout intensity found in running. Its’ physical benefits are well established by the research including decreased body mass, improved heart and...
Researchers continue to explore the health benefits of resistance or strength training. One area which has expanded in recent years is the impact of resistance training on early deaths associated with diseases including cancer and heart disease. In comparison, aerobic exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of early death associated with these diseases,...
Healthcare in our country faces significant challenges in the future including an aging population requiring more healthcare services and a shortage of primary care physicians. These clinical personnel are an essential group within our healthcare system as they sit on the front lines for individuals seeking care. Many of these patients will be managed optimally...
The world wide events surrounding COVID 19 or the coronavirus have brought illness, hygiene, and immunity to the forefront of our minds. Immunosenescence is a term researchers use to describe the decline in our immune function as we age. These changes reduce our ability to both fight current infection and adapt or adjust to future...