Google’s Body Browser

Today I learned about Google’s Body Browser. It’s like a digital BodyWorlds exhibit. Or, you know, an interactive Anatomy book. Either way, pretty cool. If you’re curious what’s where or just want to explore, it’s definitely worth a look.

Let’s Move

Michelle Obama on Let’s Move!

“In the end, as First Lady, this isn’t just a policy issue for me. This is a passion. This is my mission. I am determined to work with folks across this country to change the way a generation of kids thinks about food nutrition and phsyical activity.”

Let’s Move! is a comprehensive initiative, launched by the First Lady, dedicated to solving the problem of obesity within a generation, so that children born today will grow up healthier and able to pursue their dreams. Sure, this is an ambitious goal. But with your help, we can do it.

Head over to Letsmove.gov or the Let’s Move! Youtube Channel for more information. Even Elmo’s raising awareness:

Be Careful With Those Meds

Suzy Cohen R.Ph. wrote an interesting piece for Huffington Post the other day on how medicine(s) can rob your body of nutrients it needs. Among the culprits:

• Antibiotics “are drug muggers for your normal intestinal flora and when they rob your gut of these ‘friendly bacteria’ you develop side effects such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, indigestion and nausea” which can lead to yeast infections and jock itch.
• Statins rob your body of Coenzyme Q10 – “When your body is robbed of CoQ10, your muscles pay the price. You may experience side effects such as muscle aches, spasms and muscle cramps. This is because CoQ10 is an antioxidant that is needed to feed your muscles.”
• “Blood pressure medications and steroids like prednisone are drug muggers of magnesium. It’s needed for a healthy, stable mood and for attention span.” (There’s quite a bit more on this one, I suggest you head over and read it!)
• Birth control pills can rob you of B vitamins, iron, selenium, magnesium, zinc and probiotics.
• “The number one diabetes drug in the world (metformin) just so happens to be drug mugger of a few nutrients such as CoQ10 and vitamin B12.  Low levels of these nutrients can affect the brain causing memory impairment, confusion and depression.”

Bottom line: if you’re on medication(s), ask your Doc for specifics about what you might need supplement to maximize your health.

Quote of the Day

Hand Strength: Get Some

Please excuse the terrible music at the beginning of this video. It’s about as bro-tastic as it gets, but his tips on the oft-overlooked values of hand strength are worth it.

Monday Motivation

Poll:

Food: Six Things to Feel Good About

Mark Bittman’s latest column is a reminder to occasionally look at the bright side of things. It’s not all bad all the time. As he discusses, with Farmers Markets sprouting up across the country, the First Lady tackling childhood obesity (despite wacky resistance), and more local restaurants committing to sustainable products and services, some folks are out there fighting for our health.

That said, expect to be seeing more from Mark Bittman on CMPT.

No weights? No problem!

Do Not Let the Gym Intimidate You