Alliance Chiropractic and Wellness

The Health Impact of Foods and Drinks Consumed

Remember the saying ‘You are what you eat”? Most of us understand that what we consume, drink, and breathe directly impacts our overall health and how we feel. Given the holiday season is just around the corner, many of us are likely to indulge more than usual; let’s take a look at what we know about the relationship between diet, overall health, and lifespan. 

The Lifespan-Extending Power of Plant-Based Foods

In the quest for a longer, healthier life, a combination of specific food sources is recommended. A recent study by Norwegian scientists sheds light on how simple dietary adjustments can significantly improve overall life expectancy. Researchers observed that the biggest impact came from eating more plant-based foods such as legumes, whole grains, and nuts, and replacing red and processed meats with plant-based options.

Beyond Fruits and Vegetables

In North America, most of us already include fruits and vegetables in our diets. The study confirmed their importance, noting that including a variety of fruits and vegetables, along with nuts and whole grains supports a balanced diet and promotes overall good health..

Fish, Refined Grains, and Sugary Drinks: A Balancing Act

Fish was also recognized for its health benefits and recommended as part of a balanced diet. Conversely, reducing intake of sugar sweetened beverages (ie. soft drinks) and refined grains such as white bread, were also highlighted as important and simple dietary changes to consider.

The Impact of Age on Dietary Changes

The study also found that younger individuals stand to gain more life years from adopting a healthy and balanced diet compared to older adults. They concluded that sustained positive dietary changes at an early age could add 10 or more years to a person’s life expectancy. However, it’s never too late to embrace the health benefits of improving your diet, and although lifespan gains may not be as significant, they do still exist.

Practical and Gradual Steps for Dietary Transformation

At Alliance Chiropractic & Wellness Clinic, located in Ancaster and serving the Greater Hamilton Area, we are here to support our patients.. Whether it’s working towards a specific health goal or maintaining your optimal level of health, our team of experts will develop a personalized and actionable treatment plan based on your individual goals and needs. If you have any questions related to this article or any other health concern, please feel free to get in touch with our team.

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Rethinking Alcohol: New Research Challenges our Traditional Beliefs

Are you questioning the health effects of alcohol on your body? Recent research findings are challenging the traditional belief that moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial. Let’s shed some light on these evolving insights.

Rethinking the Cardiovascular Health Benefits of Alcohol

The notion that moderate alcohol consumption is heart-healthy has been a longstanding belief. However, recent research findings paint a different picture. When studies showing cardio-protective benefits of alcohol were further analyzed, the results were notable. Individuals who stopped drinking due to health reasons were excluded from studies and only alcohol drinkers and non-drinkers were compared, no cardio-protective value from alcohol consumption was found. This suggests that moderate alcohol consumption does not provide any heart health benefits as once believed. 

Alcohol and the Growing Concern of Increased Cancer Risk

There is also a known connection between alcohol and cancer but surveys indicate that people are not aware of the link. Although this appears to be changing, largely due to the recent completion and publication of findings from several major global studies. Aa detailed 2021 report published in Lancet Oncology revealed that alcohol consumption is linked to a higher risk of several cancer types. Notably, even moderate drinking was shown to elevate these risks. The American Cancer Society’s updated guidelines now recommend avoiding all alcohol to minimize cancer risk, reflecting the seriousness of these findings.

Alcohol and Brain Health: A Neurotoxic Impact

The effects of alcohol on brain health are becoming clearer. Recent research involving advanced imaging techniques has shown that even moderate alcohol intake can lead to reductions in gray matter volume and functional connectivity. These changes are associated with memory decline and dementia, highlighting the need for caution with alcohol consumption.

Alcohol's Role in Mental Health

Beyond its physical health impacts, alcohol also affects mental health. While some may use alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety, it may actually exacerbate some of these conditions over time. Understanding the psychological effects of alcohol is also an important factor in holistic health management.

The Final Word about Alcohol

The latest research on the health effects of alcohol suggests that the risks may outweigh the benefits. Whether it’s heart health, cancer risk, brain function, or mental well-being, alcohol appears to play a significant role. As research continues and we learn more, limiting our alcohol consumption may be one important way to optimize and maintain overall health and wellness.

Have More Questions?

At Alliance Chiropractic, located in the heart of Ancaster, Greater Hamilton Area, we believe good health begins with knowledge. Providing our patients with the resources and information they require to make informed decisions, is one way we support our patients as they work towards achieving their wellness goals. Have questions about the information in this article or anything else related to your health, get in touch. Our team of experts offer personalized, holistic advice, and treatment strategies to address your unique needs and health goals. 

For more information, visit the source:https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/965387