I was listening to Karen Larsen's Healthcast Monday night and a story got
my attention. Here is the script:
"IN TONIGHT'S 2NEWS HEALTHCAST..WHEN THE TEMPERATURE
DROPS -- YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE COULD GO UP.
THAT'S ACCORDING TO A NEW STUDY FROM FRANCE. RESEARCHERS
LOOKED AT THE LINK BETWEEN BLOOD PRESSURE AND OUTDOOR TEMPERATURES IN EIGHT-THOUSAND ADULTS OVER 65.
33-PERCENT OF THEM HAD HIGHER BLOOD PRESSURE IN THE WINTER..
COMPARED TO 24-PERCENT IN THE SUMMER.
RESEARCHERS SAY THERE IS NO EVIDENCE COLD WEATHER CAUSES HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE. BUT THERE IS A DEFINITE ASSOCIATION THAT DOCTORS SHOULD BE AWARE OF -- ESPECIALLY WHEN TREATING ELDERLY PATIENTS.
I find this research very interesting. There is so much we do not fully understand
about how weather affects the body. A months ago I did a Weather Myths story on
how changes in the weather affects folks with arthritis. Many senior citizens told me
thier joints and tendons hurt when there are rapid changes in the barometric pressure.
Some joked they could out forecast me because they knew when storms were
coming long before they showed up in my forecasts.
I know this, when it is cold it keeps a lot of folks from getting outside and
exercising. I used to dress in many layers and get out there. I still do that some,
but now I prefer to work out on my treadmill or spin on my bike while watching
a t.v. show or movie. Maybe I am just getting soft, but don't let cold weather keep
you from working out.
You can walk in the mall, join a gym, jump rope, set up a home gym, take the
stairs at work, and do exercises on the living room floor. My wife has been
taking her "smoking breaks" at work and walking. She doesn't smoke, but uses
the 10 minute breaks to walk. She has also been walking during her lunch break.
You don't have to run 100 mile races to inspire others. She inspires me and
I am very proud of her.
Keep an eye on your blood pressure too. It can creep up on you and sadly
some find out too late. Take time out to take care of yourself. No matter what
your age or what the weather, if your doctor gives you the "okay" get out there
and get moving!
Dan