A new documentary sheds light on the risks associated with health supplements and the influence of social media.
"Generation Flex" is now available for free streaming on Very Local! A recent documentary sheds light on the risks associated with health supplements and the influence of social media. "Generation Flex" is now available for free streaming on Very Local! Revised: 12:03 PM EST January 9, 2025 (suspenseful music) - [Narrator 1] As a young boy, you often find yourself showing off your strength. But as you mature, you start to admire those with muscular physiques. (upbeat music) - [Narrator 2] I've always been the thin kid. - [Narrator 3] I began to really pay attention to my appearance. - It turned into a battle. - I searched online, "How can I bulk up fast?" - [Narrator 3] Scrolling through social media, like Instagram. - Being bombarded with images of people with ideal bodies. - [Narrator 3] Chiseled abs. - [Narrator 4] Strong shoulders. - [Narrator 3] Bulging biceps, that's the look I wanted. - The more boys share fitness posts, the more likes they tend to receive. - You notice everyone in the comments wishing for a body like that, and then you compare it to your own. - This increasing pressure to be muscular has caused many boys and men to become fixated on hitting the gym. - There was a time when I’d spend over two hours at the gym. - An hour just didn’t cut it. - No way. (upbeat music) - [Narrator 1] The creators of social media know exactly how to capture our attention. - On every platform, influencers flaunting their muscles endorse various brands. - There are significant dangers. Most of these products lack regulation from the food and drug administration. - There were nights when I couldn't get any sleep. - [Narrator 3] It was a tough time. - [Narrator 1] It became overwhelming. (upbeat music) (Ambulance siren) - [Narrator 2] The next thing I remember, there were paramedics all around me. (dramatic music) - [Narrator 1] His muscles were developing faster than his skeletal structure could handle. The algorithms ensnared you, bombarding you with more and more similar images. - [Narrator 3] I was only trying to improve my appearance. - [Narrator 2] I never imagined there would be repercussions. (dramatic bang) A recent documentary sheds light on the risks associated with health supplements and the influence of social media. "Generation Flex" is now available for free streaming on Very Local! Revised: 12:03 PM EST January 9, 2025 The latest documentary from Very Local, titled Generation Flex, offers a revealing look into the societal challenges faced by young men today, influenced by the overwhelming appeal of idealized muscular bodies. READ MORE: Should adolescents use supplements? Here’s what parents need to consider. The narrative unfolds through the experiences of four young men who share their personal stories, highlighting how social media and societal norms shape their self-perception. Featuring honest discussions with experts in pediatric health and social sciences, the film examines the mental health implications of pursuing unrealistic body ideals. You can stream “Generation Flex” for free on Very Local starting January 9. What exactly is Very Local? Very Local is a streaming platform that allows you to access daily news broadcasts, original series, and more. Stay connected to your community with trusted news and weather updates, and explore original content that delves into your local culture and issues. Download the app here. The latest documentary from Very Local, titled Generation Flex, offers a revealing look into the societal challenges faced by young men today, largely fueled by the overwhelming fascination with exaggerated muscular bodies. The narrative unfolds through the voices of four young men who share their personal experiences, revealing how social media and societal pressures shape their self-perception. By featuring honest discussions with specialists in pediatric health and social sciences, the film explores the mental health consequences of pursuing unrealistic body ideals. Catch "Generation Flex" streaming for free on Very Local, available starting January 9th. What does Very Local mean? Very Local is a streaming app where you can watch daily newscasts, original series and more. Keep connected to your hometown with the news and weather team you trust, and discover original series and specials that explore your community and beyond. Download the app here.
Tanner Health Encourages Involvement in the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Tanner Health is calling on residents of Carroll, Haralson, Heard, Cleburne and Randolph counties to make their voices heard by participating in the 2025 Community Health Needs Survey. This survey helps shape the future of health care by addressing the health needs of west Georgia and east Alabama. “At Tanner Health, we believe that understanding the needs of our friends and neighbors is the first step toward building a healthier future,” said Loy Howard, president and chief executive officer of Tanner Health. “This survey allows us to prioritize what matters most to our residents and identify the most pressing health needs in our communities, ensuring that our efforts make a meaningful, positive impact.” Every three years, nonprofit hospital systems like Tanner Health conduct a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) — a structured process to identify and prioritize local health challenges. Central to this effort is a survey designed to collect honest feedback from local residents. This valuable information shapes the CHNA by providing insights into the current health landscape, tracking progress since the previous assessment and highlighting areas that still need improvement. The CHNA process emphasizes the importance of understanding the needs of diverse populations and identifying resources to address these challenges. By actively engaging community members, the survey ensures local voices play a vital role in guiding Tanner’s strategies. The final findings are published to promote transparency and strengthen the hospital’s connection with the community. “The data collected in this survey will guide our efforts to enhance healthcare access, reduce disparities and promote healthy living in our community,” said Howard. “We are committed to using this information to drive positive change.” Feedback from previous surveys has led to impactful changes in local healthcare services, wellness programs and health education. Tanner Health is excited to continue this tradition of community-driven improvement through the 2025 CHNA survey. The survey can be easily completed online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNA2025.
Research reveals connection between blood pressure medications and bowel disorders.
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Image source: Unsplash+ Diverticulosis is a prevalent intestinal disorder characterized by the formation of small pouches or bulges in the intestinal lining. Although it predominantly affects older individuals and is generally benign, it has the potential to cause significant health complications in some cases. At the same time, hypertension continues to be a significant global health issue, impacting approximately one in ten adults. If not addressed, it can greatly increase the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. The typical method for controlling high blood pressure involves a mix of lifestyle modifications and pharmaceutical treatments. While these medications are commonly prescribed, the full extent of their possible side effects remains unclear. A recent study conducted by researchers at Imperial College London has revealed new insights into the unexpected effects that certain blood pressure medications may have on the body. The research team concentrated on three categories of medications frequently recommended for managing high blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. Through sophisticated genetic analysis, their goal was to explore how these drugs could potentially affect various other health issues. In their research, the scientists investigated the proteins affected by these blood pressure-lowering medications. Subsequently, they analyzed genetic information from approximately 750,000 people to uncover genetic variations associated with these proteins. In doing so, they replicated the impact of the medications at a genetic level to determine whether these variations were linked to other illnesses. The research uncovered a fascinating link between a certain category of calcium channel blockers, referred to as non-dihydropyridines, and a heightened risk of gastrointestinal issues, such as diverticulosis. These calcium channel blockers function by relaxing blood vessels, which helps to reduce blood pressure. Nonetheless, this category of medication could also impact the intestinal muscles responsible for contracting and propelling food through the digestive tract. Alterations in the functioning of these muscles may potentially lead to the emergence of gastrointestinal problems. Although this discovery is significant, the researchers stress that it should not alter the way physicians prescribe blood pressure medications or how patients use them. Dr. Dipender Gill, the lead researcher of the study, advised that patients must not discontinue their prescribed medications without first consulting their healthcare provider. Abruptly halting blood pressure treatment can pose significant risks and result in serious health complications. This research, published in the journal Circulation, represents a crucial step toward better understanding the broader effects of blood pressure medications. It highlights the need for continued investigation into how these drugs interact with different parts of the body, as well as how their side effects might be managed in the future. Currently, the results highlight the significance of weighing the advantages and potential drawbacks of any medication. They also emphasize the necessity for patients to collaborate closely with their healthcare professionals to guarantee they receive optimal care. Future research will probably investigate methods to minimize the risks associated with these medications while ensuring their efficacy in managing high blood pressure. For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about the crucial link between diet, gut health, and the immune system and results showing that Low-gluten, high-fiber diets boost gut health and weight loss. For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about Navigating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with diet and results showing that Mycoprotein in diet may reduce risk of bowel cancer and improve gut health.
Dear Doctor, what is the most effective method for tracking my average blood pressure measurements?
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Dr. Keith Roach serves as a physician at Weill Cornell Medical College and New York Presbyterian Hospital. He contributes an informative column focusing on infectious diseases, public health, and sports medicine. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. DEAR DR. ROACH: I am an 89-year-old in good health. For the past six months, my systolic blood pressure was consistently at 113 mm Hg. However, about 10 days ago, it suddenly dropped to 88 mm Hg for a week. Now, for today and the last week, it's spiked to 187/93 mm Hg. I was taking medication for blood pressure, but my doctor discontinued it when my readings were low. Currently, I am not on any medications. What could be going on? -- D.J. Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day and night, exhibiting certain typical trends. Typically, there is an increase in blood pressure shortly after waking up, while it tends to decrease during nighttime hours. In addition to those broad insights, it's important to note that blood pressure can fluctuate significantly even within a short span of time. Engaging in thoughts that evoke anxiety or discomfort can potentially elevate blood pressure by 20% or higher. For instance, if your typical systolic blood pressure is around 110 mm Hg, you might occasionally see readings that dip into the 90s or rise into the 130s. Ultimately, the average blood pressure is what matters most. To accurately determine this average, it's advisable to take multiple blood pressure measurements. It seems to me that your blood pressure was well-managed, and you may have experienced some low readings, possibly due to random fluctuations or perhaps because you weren’t consuming as much fluid or salt as you typically do. It’s likely that your doctor may have overreacted by discontinuing the medication that your body genuinely required for blood pressure regulation. Certain blood pressure medications may not provide 24-hour coverage, which means that if your blood pressure was taken during the time the medication was at its peak effectiveness, it could clarify why your readings appeared to be lower that week. To effectively manage this issue, it's advisable to take several blood pressure readings daily using a home monitor. These devices are relatively affordable, and you can locate a reliable one at ValidateBP.org. You should adjust your medication dosage according to the average of your readings. For someone who is 89 years old, having blood pressure levels that fluctuate significantly -- such as between 88-187 mmHg -- can pose risks to your heart and brain health. DEAR DR. ROACH: I have been diagnosed with diverticulosis, and I enjoy eating berries as part of a healthier diet. However, I'm concerned that consuming them might trigger pain. Are there any alternatives to supplements that I could consider? -- S.T. RESPONSE: A nutritious diet for managing diverticulosis largely aligns with the dietary recommendations for the general population. I believe that obtaining fiber from food sources is more beneficial than relying on supplements. Berries make an excellent option as they are rich in fiber, lower in simple sugars, and incredibly tasty. You might have concerns regarding the seeds present in berries. Traditionally, it's been advised to steer clear of these due to the belief that they could block the openings of diverticula. However, current understanding suggests that seeds, nuts, and corn are not responsible for causing diverticulitis flare-ups. That said, if you've experienced issues with specific foods leading to an attack, it’s wise to continue avoiding those. Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to [email protected] or send mail to 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2022 North America Syndicate Corporation. 所有权利保留 If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Have you decided to abstain from alcohol this Dry January? It could impact your productivity. | Perspective
I relied on alcohol and drugs to manage challenging emotions both at work and in my personal life. When I decided to get sober, all those suppressed feelings resurfaced. Here's my journey of coping with them. Amy Newman | Opinion contributor For a long time, I relied on alcohol and various substances to cope with the pressures of work and feelings of burnout. Insights gained from recovery programs enabled me to achieve sobriety—not just from my addictions, but also from the skewed thoughts and emotional ups and downs I had attributed to the demands of my job. If you refrain from drinking or using for a month, be prepared for emotions that you suppressed at the end of each workday to come flooding back when you're not under the influence. You don’t need to consider yourself an addict to know that your drug of choice helped, at least temporarily, quell the pain of an annoying coworker and a demanding boss. Without the alcohol, social media, eating or gambling, you might feel reactive and irritable, or as bestselling author Brené Brown said, like “a turtle without a shell in a briar patch.” You require a more effective approach – one that embraces sobriety in its fullest meaning, characterized by composure and rational thinking. The foundations of recovery programs are rooted in timeless virtues and aspects of character, and these principles can be embraced by anyone seeking harmony and tranquility in their life. A core principle is acceptance. "The Serenity Prayer" encourages us to distinguish between what we can and can’t control. When we feel threatened at work, we might try to manipulate outcomes in our favor. For example, a manager prevents an ambitious employee's success by taking credit for his work or withholding information. Yielding but not losing hope I struggled with the word “surrender” when I started recovery, but now I see it not as passively giving up but as voluntarily giving in. Surrendering is a conscious choice that requires courage, faith, and optimism. The manager recognizes that the employee may surpass her, ultimately showcasing her own effective leadership. Surrendering also involves embracing individuals for who they truly are. A client may continuously exhibit unreasonable behavior. By acknowledging her personal challenges, we then shift our focus to self-improvement: how can I adapt when she remains unchanged? Surrendering doesn't mean withdrawing, as many TikTok users do when they claim to "not care anymore" and are "out of cares to give." This is merely another form of avoidance. They don't appear to be at ease, burdened with a heavy load of grievances that could easily lead someone to seek solace in a drink. They resemble individuals in recovery from alcoholism who abstain from drinking but still engage in detrimental habits from their past. You may find yourself with an extensive list of grievances regarding your job, a list that tends to grow even longer without a little relaxation at the end of the day. In rehabilitation programs, individuals are encouraged to document their grievances and reflect on their contributions to each situation. We recognize that our own envy may have tainted a connection or that our hopes for a job advancement are overly ambitious, leading to feelings of letdown. With support, we address our personal flaws and, interestingly, find ourselves gaining more control as we discover ways to modify our behaviors and responses. It requires both bravery and a sense of humility to navigate through this. Connection stands in contrast to addiction. Humility, which involves recognizing our place and being open to learning, can be especially challenging in the competitive and hierarchical environments of many organizations. When we approach our roles with a clear mind, we realize that our job titles do not define our worth; we neither see ourselves as superior nor inferior to others. Instead, we shift our attention away from personal ambitions and prioritize creating opportunities for our colleagues and supporting their growth in the workplace. In the journey of recovery, helping others plays a crucial role in staying sober. At the workplace, we focus on how we can assist our colleagues, which helps to alleviate our personal fears and grievances. Many recovery programs present a spiritual approach that is free from specific religious beliefs or doctrines. After a few months in recovery, I came to the realization that I had relied on my job as my higher power, using it to define my purpose, self-worth, and identity. This was not a sustainable or healthy lifestyle. Alternatively, we can cultivate spiritual awareness in the workplace by fostering a sense of connection with our colleagues or by recognizing how our contributions positively impact the lives of others. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Recovery, beyond mere sobriety, is about connection, which is often termed "the opposite of addiction." Hands down, the best part of sobriety for me has been the community – having a group of people who “get me” and whom I can call and can call me in tough times. The workplace has obvious limitations on relationships, but people around the country feel lonely and isolated whether sober or not. Work offers a place to practice new ways of being that could include seeing each other as the vulnerable, fallible people we are. For certain individuals, completing Dry January means successfully staying sober for 31 days. However, for others, the experience might reveal even greater benefits: reduced feelings of resentment, stronger relationships, and perhaps a genuine sense of tranquility, alleviating the need to "unwind" with a drink each night after work.
Boost Your Health with the Power of Massage
Although some people might think of massage therapy as just a way to unwind, its positive effects on health are much more profound. A wealth of scientific studies suggest that massages are an essential component of treatment for a variety of health issues, not just a pampering indulgence. Research Validates the Benefits of Massage Research has shown that massages can help with back pain, muscle tension, nerve compression, and conditions such as fibromyalgia, sleep disorders, and mood disorders. They can also help with symptoms related to serious conditions like cancer, arthritis, and high blood pressure. How Massage Works Massages improve blood flow, which is essential for the transport of nutrients and oxygen to cells and the elimination of toxins. This is particularly beneficial for people with conditions like arthritis or edema, which is the buildup of excess fluid in the body's tissues. Massages also have a soothing effect on muscles, which can reduce pain, decrease nerve compression, and increase the range of motion in joints. This can enhance athletic performance and lower the risk of injury, making it particularly useful for those with conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or sciatica, as well as for athletes and regular exercisers. The calming effects of massage can also lead to a reduction in blood pressure and heart rate. A session lasting 45-60 minutes can result in a significant decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, highlighting the immediate benefits of massage on heart health. The American Psychology Association reports that massage therapy can help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters that combat anxiety and decreasing the levels of hormones associated with stress. This can lead to a reduction in stress and an improvement in mental health. The Importance of Sleep for Health Good quality sleep is crucial for overall health, with lack of sleep being linked to a range of issues including obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Massage therapy can help improve sleep quality, which is a significant advantage for those suffering from insomnia or other sleep-related health issues. Immunity and Inflammation A 45-minute massage can lead to a substantial increase in the number of white blood cells, which are vital for the body's defense against illness. It also reduces the levels of cytokines, which are associated with inflammation. This decrease in inflammation can be especially beneficial for those with conditions like asthma or heart disease. Safety and Integration with Traditional Healthcare Massages are generally safe when performed by a trained professional and should not be seen as a replacement for traditional healthcare. If you have a medical condition and are considering massage therapy, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that it is integrated into your overall health management plan.