Cold related respiratory symptoms in the general population

One common question that people often ask themselves is how cold weather affects their ability to breath well particularly for those with respiratory diseases.

A recent study published in the medical journal, The Clinical Respiratory Journal [1], determined the prevalence and threshold temperature of respiratory symptoms particularly in those with respiratory diseases.

The study itself included a total of 6591 participants of each gender who ranged in age from 25 to 74 years of age.

Here's what the study authors found:

• Asthma - patients with asthma were more likely to report cold-related respiratory symptoms
• Chronic bronchitis - as above.
• Temperature - the threshold temperature was -15C for males and -14C for females.
• Effects of smoking and education were marginal

In short, the authors noted that cold weather can have an impact on the quality of life for those with respiratory illnesses.

Speaking of cold, if you're looking for the best cold remedy or simply a natural cold remedy, follow the links.

Reference:

1. Harju T, Mäkinen T, Näyhä S, Laatikainen T, Jousilahti P, Hassi J. Cold-related respiratory symptoms in the general population.  Clin Respir J. 2010 Jul;4(3):176-85.

Resistance training in treatment of metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is comprised of risk factors associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease including insulin resistance, hypertension, cholesterol abnormalities, and an increased risk for clotting.  Patients with metabolic syndrome are often over weight or obese.

A recent meta-analysis on the effects of resistance training on components of metabolic syndrome concluded the following:

Based on our meta-analysis, RT (resistance training) has a clinically and statistically significant effect on metabolic syndrome risk factors such as obesity, HbA(1c)* levels and systolic blood pressure, and therefore should be recommended in the management of type 2 diabetes and metabolic disorders.

*hemoglobin A(1C) is a blood test which monitors long-term blood sugar control.

Reference:
Strasser B, Siebert U, Schobersberger W. Resistance training in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of resistance training on metabolic clustering in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism.  Sports Med. 2010 May 1;40(5):397-415.

Game Time from Corr-Jensen Laboratories Inc.?

First, to clarify, I do not have any relationship whatsoever with Corr-Jensen Laboratories Inc. I found this recent clinical trial about their product, Game Time(R), while searching for Cordyceps on PubMed. If you would like to find out more information on the line of products available from Corr-Jensen Laboratories Inc., their products are marketed under the brand, Training Day(R). If you’re already thinking about Denzel Washington, yes, he was in the movie, Training Day, but that’s completely unrelated.
Game Time(R) contains a proprietary blend of the following ingredients:  whey protein, cordyceps sinensis, creatine, citrulline, ginseng, and caffeine.
read more: Game Time...