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Showing posts with the label health benefits

10,000 Steps a Day: Marketing Over Science

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The Origin of the 10,000-Step Goal Many people consider walking 10,000 steps a day as the ultimate health target. This number has become a common benchmark for physical activity, with many individuals fixating on reaching this figure. However, the idea that 9,600 steps are insignificant and only 10,000 steps provide real benefits is not based on solid scientific evidence. The origin of the 10,000-step goal can be traced back to Japan. A Japanese watchmaker named Yamasatokey (山佐時計) introduced the first pedometer called ‘Manpokai (万歩計).’ The Japanese character ‘万’ translates to “10,000” and visually resembles a person walking with arms outstretched. This design made it an effective marketing tool, even though the number was chosen for its memorability rather than any scientific reasoning. This arbitrary choice gained global popularity after the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. It was falsely presented as a scientifically backed standard, leading to widespread adoption without critical examination...

Six Artificial Sweeteners Linked to Brain Aging and Memory Loss

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New Study Reveals Artificial Sweeteners May Accelerate Brain Aging A recent study has uncovered a concerning link between the consumption of six common artificial sweeteners and accelerated brain aging, along with early signs of dementia. The research, conducted by scientists in Brazil, found that aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame potassium, erythritol, xylitol, and sorbitol were all associated with declines in memory, language, and cognitive abilities. While the exact mechanisms behind this impact remain under investigation, previous studies have suggested that these sweeteners may contribute to inflammation and blood clotting in the brain, which could lead to long-term damage. These substances are widely used by millions globally to manage weight, control blood sugar levels, and prevent dental issues. They are commonly found in a variety of products, including sugar-free beverages, low-calorie desserts, yogurt, snacks, milk-based drinks, and candy. Many of these sweeteners are also...