subject: What Could You Do For You Today? [print this page] You could pop popcornYou could pop popcorn. Popcorn isn't only low in calories and high in fiber. A report presented to the American Chemical Society found plain popcorn contains almost twice as many polyphenols - also known as antioxidants - as most fruits. Polyphenols are plant-based chemicals that help neutralize harmful substances known as free radicals and help protect against heart disease and other health problems. Popcorn is also a whole grain and whole grains have been linked to lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. However, pre-popped and microwaved popcorn contain ingredients that "wave" goodbye to popcorns' healthfulness.
You could look at the color green. In a study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 69 people were given 2 minutes to write down uses for a tin can. Before the test half the participants were shown a forest green rectangle for 2 seconds and half were shown a white rectangle. Those who'd seen the green rectangle produced answers that were more creative. The "green effect" continued in challenges with the colors gray, red and blue. Although it's not known if other shades of green would have the same effect, we could get creative and "see".
You could take your dog to work. According to a study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management, people who took their dogs to work had lower stress levels throughout the workday. However, the stress levels of people who didn't bring their dogs and non-pet owners increased. In fact, during the weeklong study people borrowed co-workers' dogs to walk during breaks. Previous studies have shown petting dogs lowers blood pressure and interacting with animals increases oxytocin - a neurotransmitter than increases trust and reduces fear. Of course, without employer consent taking your dog to work is the "tail wagging the dog".
You could read this standing up. A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine was based on data from 22,497 people ages 45 and older. After ruling out such factors as age, education, urban/rural residence, physical activity, body mass index, smoking and self-rated health, the study found people who sat 11 hours or more daily were 40% likelier to die - from any cause. For people who sat 8-11 hours daily the risk was 15% higher than for people who sat less than 4 hours. By sitting less we'll be healthier - and maybe less likely to "sit in judgment" of others.
