Workout

I just read this interesting fact in "You: The Owner's Manual": For optimum health, you need to burn between 3,500 and 6,500 calories a week which is equivalent to 3 twenty minute vigorous workouts that elevate your heart rate to 80 percent or more of the age-adjusted maximum. "If you burn more than 6,500 calories a week (marathon runners beware), you actually DECREASE your longevity because of the wear and tear your body endures going through the rigors of additional exercise."

I'm not sure how accurate this book is, but it was one of the bestsellers of 2005 and endorsed by Discovery Channel Health. I had absolutely no idea that you could shorten your lifespan by vigorously exercising too much! I thought you'd just get aches and pains when you get old.... According to the book, marathoners are shortening their lifespan. Wow, you learn something new everyday huh?

Some more interesting facts:
1. Did you know that a blooming onion (Outback Steakhouse's specialty) has 90+ grams of saturated and trans fat, which is 4 days' worth?
2. Having a drink of alcohol every night increases your good cholesterol, but over 2.5 drinks a day for men (and 1.5 for women) can cause aging of the immune system.
3. Any significant inflammation in your body (sinus, gum disease etc) increases inflammation in the blood vessels, which increases your risk of heart disease.
4. Balance is a sign of brain strength. To develop better balance, use free weights rather than weight machines.
5. Taking St John's Wort (some tea that makes you happy) renders birth control pills useless for 25% of people.