#Preventivehealth

A modest change in daily walking pace can significantly boost mobility and independence for Thailand’s aging population. Research shows that increasing walking cadence by about 14 steps per minute during regular walks can reduce frailty risk and improve quality of life, helping with everyday tasks like shopping or temple visits. Led by researchers from a major medical center and published across reputable outlets, the study demonstrates meaningful gains for seniors at risk of frailty.

A new wave of research is offering Thai older adults and their families a simple yet transformative tip for lifelong mobility: just 14 extra steps per minute during regular walks could hold the key to fighting frailty, remaining independent, and enjoying a higher quality of life well into advanced age. A recent clinical trial led by University of Chicago Medicine, published in multiple outlets including Medical News Today, has found that small increases in walking pace—without requiring any fancy equipment or drastic routines—brought meaningful benefits to seniors at risk of frailty. This finding is especially significant for Thailand’s fast-aging population, where frailty, falls, and loss of independence are growing national concerns.

A global study shows that starting or increasing physical activity in adulthood can reduce the risk of death from multiple causes by up to 22 percent. The finding offers practical motivation for Thais of all ages to embrace regular exercise. The research, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, pooled data from 85 studies, encompassing hundreds of thousands to millions of participants to gauge the impact of adult activity on longevity.

A sweeping global study has revealed that transitioning from an inactive to an active lifestyle in adulthood can cut one’s risk of death from various health issues by up to 22%, offering new hope and clear motivation for Thais of any age to embrace regular exercise. The research, published in the prestigious British Journal of Sports Medicine, analyzed data from 85 separate studies involving hundreds to millions of participants—a comprehensive effort to unpick the exact impact of adult physical activity on mortality.

A growing number of Thais are seeking dietary supplements and over-the-counter remedies for gut health—a trend that mirrors shifts in global wellness culture. But leading nutrition experts caution that certain popular supplements may deliver more hype than actual benefit, and in some cases, could even be harmful. Based on a new review published by EatingWell and recent research from dietitians, Thai consumers are urged to think critically and prioritize proven dietary approaches over costly, often-unregulated products.

A growing focus on gut health is reshaping wellness conversations in Thailand. Leading dietitians caution that many popular supplements offer limited benefit and can pose risks. They urge Thai readers to prioritize proven dietary strategies over costly, lightly regulated products.

Interest in gut health has spurred a wave of supplements and detox products in Thai pharmacies and online marketplaces. The concept of the gut microbiome—the trillions of bacteria in the intestines—and its links to heart health, immunity, and brain function has driven demand. While lifestyle choices influence gut health, relying on supplements alone can be risky and often ineffective.

A leading pelvic floor specialist has revealed that around 70% of her patients perform Kegel exercises—commonly promoted for strengthening pelvic muscles—incorrectly, raising concerns about widespread misunderstanding of these crucial health routines. Recent research and expert guidance contribute to a clearer understanding of optimal pelvic floor training and its significance, particularly for Thai readers navigating issues of urinary incontinence, postpartum recovery, and overall quality of life.

Kegel exercises, or pelvic floor muscle training, involve the repeated contraction and relaxation of the muscles supporting the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These exercises are widely recommended for both women and men to prevent or manage urinary incontinence, enhance sexual function, and support pelvic organ stability. However, the latest observations from clinical practice, such as those outlined by a prominent pelvic health expert featured in a recent Fit & Well article (fitandwell.com), suggest that the benefits of Kegel exercises are often lost due to incorrect technique.

A leading pelvic floor specialist notes that about 70% of her patients perform Kegel exercises incorrectly. This gap in technique can undermine benefits and leave many without relief from incontinence or postnatal discomfort. New research and expert guidance offer clearer pathways for safe, effective pelvic floor training, with relevance for Thai readers navigating urinary health, recovery after childbirth, and long-term well-being.

Kegel exercises target the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. They are commonly recommended for both women and men to manage urinary leakage, improve sexual health, and stabilize pelvic organs. Yet clinical observations indicate that many people activate the wrong muscles or tense surrounding areas like the buttocks, thighs, or abdomen. Correct technique matters: poor performance can reduce results or even worsen symptoms.

A quirky wellness trend has taken over social media platforms worldwide, with the so-called “fart walk” gaining traction for its digestive and metabolic benefits. The idea, which shot to fame on TikTok, involves taking a gentle stroll after a meal to stimulate digestion, help pass intestinal gas, and moderate blood sugar spikes. The trend—which might induce a giggle with its name—has been met with both public amusement and encouragement from medical professionals, who note it is a surprisingly sound health practice with scientific backing (Healthline, NPR, Economic Times).

A light, post-meal stroll has captured global attention as the “fart walk.” Proponents say a gentle walk after eating can aid digestion, help release gas, and moderate blood sugar spikes. The trend gained traction on TikTok and has drawn interest from health professionals who describe it as a sensible, accessible practice with real, practical benefits.

For Thai readers, this trend arrives at a time when practical health tips are valued. In Thai culture, conversations about digestion can be delicate, but the idea of a simple walk after meals offers a friendly entry point to gut health that is easy to discuss and adopt.

A groundbreaking new study has revealed that women gain more substantial mortality and cardiovascular benefits from exercise compared to men—and can do so with less time spent working out. This research, published in 2024 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, sheds new light on how physical activity impacts health differently based on sex, prompting calls for women in Thailand and worldwide to make exercise a non-negotiable part of daily life.

New research shows women gain greater mortality and cardiovascular benefits from exercise than men, and they can achieve these gains with less time. The study, published in 2024 by a leading cardiovascular journal, highlights sex-specific responses to physical activity and underscores exercise as a daily health priority for women in Thailand and around the world.

The study analyzed health data from over 412,000 American adults aged 27 to 61, collected between 1997 and 2017. Researchers linked activity patterns to mortality outcomes through national records up to 2019. Findings reveal that women who reach at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity weekly cut their all-cause death risk by up to 24 percent, compared with inactive women. In men, the reduction was about 15 percent at the same activity level. Notably, women achieved equivalent benefits with roughly 140 minutes, compared with men needing about 300 minutes, indicating higher efficiency of activity for female physiology.

New neurological insights confirm that protecting brain health goes beyond cardio. Five targeted activities can reshape brain networks, lift key chemicals, and help guard against aging-related decline. This matters for Thai readers who value long-term mental sharpness and prevention of conditions like dementia.

The brain is about 2% of body weight but consumes nearly 20% of energy. Regular movement is essential to nurture cognition. As one neurologist notes, “Movement isn’t just about the body; specific routines tune memory, focus, stress coping, and emotional balance.” With Thailand’s rapidly aging population, the relevance grows as risks of Alzheimer’s and related disorders rise. Research from Thai health authorities and regional experts underscores the importance of staying active to preserve cognitive health.

A new wave of neuroscience-backed research highlights that the path to optimal brain health winds through specific, targeted physical activities. According to leading neurologists, five distinct exercises go beyond merely increasing blood flow—they actually reshape neural networks, boost key brain chemicals, and fortify the mind against aging and cognitive decline. This directly impacts Thai readers concerned with both lifelong mental sharpness and the prevention of serious conditions like dementia.

Research has established that the human brain, though only 2% of body weight, consumes almost 20% of the body’s energy. Thus, regular physical activity is vital to nourish and protect cognitive function (RollingOut). “Movement isn’t just about keeping the body fit,” explains a neurologist interviewed in the report. “Specific physical routines shape the very circuits that govern memory, focus, stress adaptation, and even emotional regulation.” This insight is particularly crucial for Thailand, where the population is rapidly aging and rates of Alzheimer’s and age-related cognitive disorders are projected to climb (Thai Gerontology Society).

As the annual tick season approaches in North America, a rare but dangerous virus is attracting mounting attention: Powassan virus. While this tick-borne illness remains uncommon, recent research and rising case reports point to growing concerns that reverberate beyond Western borders—and carry valuable warnings for Thailand as well.

Powassan virus, primarily transmitted by blacklegged ticks, has been recognized as one of the most serious tick-borne diseases in the United States, despite its rarity. Last year, Minnesota reported a record 14 cases, the highest count since 2008 when official recordkeeping began. According to Minnesota Department of Health data, while most years saw fewer than five cases, a slow but concerning uptick has prompted both local and national action. “The risks are relatively low, however, all the tick prevention that you would do to keep yourself from getting one of those more common diseases will also help keep you safe from getting Powassan,” Elizabeth Schiffman, an epidemiologist supervisor at the Minnesota Department of Health, emphasized in a recent interview (Star Tribune).

A rare but serious tick-borne virus is drawing global attention as tick season begins in North America. Powassan virus, while uncommon, has sparked concern among researchers and public health officials for its potential impact beyond its initial hotspots—and for what it could teach Thailand about preparedness and surveillance.

Powassan virus is mainly carried by blacklegged ticks. It is considered one of the most dangerous tick-borne diseases in the United States, even though cases remain relatively few. Last year, Minnesota reported a record 14 cases, the highest since nationwide recordkeeping began in 2008. Data from Minnesota’s health authorities shows a gradual uptick, prompting both local and national responses. An epidemiologist from the Minnesota Department of Health notes that standard tick prevention measures also reduce Powassan risk, underscoring the universal value of protective practices.

A health feature showcases delicious, easy-to-make dishes designed to help reduce inflammation, a factor linked to chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Anti-inflammatory foods emphasize fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fats—nutrients that support wellness and may ease long-term health risks.

The collection blends flavorful ingredients with inflammation-fighting power. One standout is the Green Goddess Smoothie, inspired by a renowned chef. The blend of yogurt, avocado, strawberries, oranges, and spinach creates a creamy, antioxidant-rich drink that fits neatly into a busy Thai lifestyle.

A team of researchers is advancing brain health insights by linking brain stiffness to aging and neurodegenerative risk. Led by a biomedical engineering associate professor and an electrical engineering assistant professor, the group uses magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) together with artificial intelligence to estimate the brain’s biological age. This approach could improve early detection and intervention for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other neurodegenerative disorders, with potential relevance for Thailand’s aging population.