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Showing posts from April, 2025

Both Short and Long Sleep Durations are Connected to Type 2 Diabetes

  Both Short and Long Sleep Durations Are Connected to Type 2 Diabetes:  We all know that sleep is essential—but did you know that both too little and too much sleep can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes? It turns out that the sweet spot for sleep is more than just a matter of feeling rested. Research shows that sleep duration plays a significant role in how your body processes glucose and maintains insulin sensitivity. Let’s break down how both extremes short and long sleep durations are linked to diabetes, and what you can do about it. The Sleep-Diabetes Connection: What the Science Says Several large-scale studies have found a U-shaped relationship between sleep duration and diabetes risk. In other words:  Short sleep (typically less than 6 hours per night)  Long sleep (more than 9 hours per night) …both show a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes compared to people who consistently sleep 7–8 hours a night. Why Short Sleep Inc...

Life-Saving First Aid Procedures for Diabetic Emergencies

  Life-Saving First Aid Procedures for Diabetic Emergencies Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires constant management, but emergencies can still happen—sometimes without warning. Whether it’s low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), knowing how to respond quickly can save a life. Here’s what you need to know about recognizing diabetic emergencies and the first aid procedures that could make all the difference. Common Diabetic Emergencies Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) Happens when blood sugar levels fall below normal (typically under 70 mg/dL). Causes : Too much insulin, skipping meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol. Symptoms : Shakiness or trembling Sweating Confusion or irritability Rapid heartbeat Dizziness or fainting Slurred speech or blurred vision Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) Happens when blood sugar levels rise too high (above 180 mg/dL). Causes : Missed insulin doses, overeating, stress, illness. Sy...

What is the link between diabetes and limb amputation?

  The Hidden Cost of Diabetes: Understanding the Link to Limb Amputation When most people think about diabetes, they picture blood sugar tests, insulin shots, or dietary restrictions. But one of the most devastating—and often overlooked—complications of diabetes is limb amputation . It’s a stark and painful reality for thousands of people each year, and yet many don’t understand how or why it happens. Let’s take a closer look at the connection between diabetes and limb loss—and what can be done to prevent it. How Diabetes Affects the Body Diabetes is a chronic condition that impairs the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. This is where the problems begin. Two key complications of diabetes that set the stage for amputations are: Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) Peripheral artery disease (PAD) (poor blood circulation) Together, these two conditions can lead to serious conseq...

Assessing Mangoes' Nutritional Value and Their Effects on Diabetes Management

Assessing Mangoes' Nutritional Value and Their Effects on Diabetes Management Mangoes—juicy, sweet, and packed with tropical flavor—are often called the "king of fruits." But for people managing diabetes, mangoes tend to land on the “maybe not” list due to their natural sugar content. However, the truth is more nuanced. Let’s explore the nutritional value of mangoes and their impact on blood sugar and diabetes management. Nutritional Snapshot of Mangoes Mangoes are more than just sugar. A single cup of sliced mango (about 165 grams) provides: Calories : ~99 Carbohydrates : ~25g Sugar : ~23g Fiber : ~3g Vitamin C : ~67% of the Daily Value Vitamin A : ~10% of the Daily Value Folate, Vitamin E, and B6 Antioxidants : Especially beta-carotene and polyphenols The fiber and antioxidants in mangoes are beneficial for digestion, heart health, and immune support. Mangoes and Blood Sugar: The Glycemic Factor Mangoes have a moderate glycemic index ...

A Troubling Example of the Inhumanity of American Healthcare Toward Sick People

  A Troubling Example of the Inhumanity of American Healthcare Toward Sick People When we talk about healthcare in the United States, words like “advanced,” “innovative,” and “cutting-edge” often come up. But for millions of Americans, especially those struggling with illness, the reality is anything but. Behind the medical breakthroughs and glossy hospital brochures lies a system that too often treats the sick not as human beings—but as numbers, liabilities, or burdens. Let me share a story that reveals just how troublingly inhumane American healthcare can be. Meet Sarah: A Working Mother with Stage IV Cancer Sarah was a 42-year-old single mother of two. She worked full-time at a retail job, had basic health insurance through her employer, and lived paycheck to paycheck. When she was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer, her world stopped—but the bills didn’t. She did everything right: followed her doctor’s recommendations, got the necessary scans and tests, showed up for...

What Transpires in Your Brain When Someone Breaks Your Heart?

What Transpires in Your Brain When Someone Breaks Your Heart? Heartbreak. It’s a word we usually associate with love and loss—when someone you deeply care about walks away, betrays you, or simply doesn’t feel the same. It hurts. But have you ever stopped to wonder why it hurts so much? What’s actually happening in your brain when your heart feels shattered? Spoiler: It’s not just in your head. The pain of heartbreak is very real, and neuroscience backs it up. Heartbreak Activates the Pain Centers of the Brain Studies using fMRI scans show that emotional pain—like a breakup—activates the same parts of the brain that respond to physical pain. Specifically, the anterior cingulate cortex and the insula light up. These areas are involved in processing both social rejection and physical discomfort. In other words, when someone breaks your heart, your brain registers it like a burn or a punch. That’s why we say things like “heartache” or “it hurts”—because your brain literally proc...

A Large Number of People Are Unfamiliar With the Distinction Between "Feelings" and "Emotions"

A Large Number of People Are Unfamiliar With the Distinction Between "Feelings" and "Emotions" We use the words feelings and emotions all the time. “I feel sad.” “I’m overwhelmed with emotion.” “That gave me a weird feeling.” But here’s the thing—most people don’t realize that feelings and emotions are not the same thing. While they’re closely connected and often occur together, they’re not interchangeable. Understanding the difference between the two can help us become more emotionally intelligent, communicate better, and navigate our inner world with more clarity. So, What’s the Difference? Emotions are automatic, biological responses to stimuli. They arise from the subconscious parts of the brain, especially the limbic system, and are universal across cultures. They’re quick and instinctive. Think of fear when a car swerves toward you, or joy when you hear good news. Feelings , on the other hand, are the mental interpretation of those emotional respo...

6 Activities to Enjoy in the Picturesque Skagit Valley, Known as “The Tulip Valley” in Washington

 6 activities to enjoy in Skagit Valley, Washington’s “Tulip Valley,” during the 2025 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, along with tips and highlights from local insights: Wander Through Vibrant Tulip Gardens  Explore the festival’s five main gardens, each offering unique experiences:   RoozenGaarde: The largest garden with 50+ acres of tulips and daffodils, featuring meticulously designed displays and a seasonal shop for bulbs and souvenirs .   Tulip Town Family-friendly with trolley rides, a beer garden, and dog-friendly policies (leashed pets welcome) .   Tulip Valley Farms Offers a "Night Bloom" light show and U-pick tulip experiences .   Garden Rosalyn: Peaceful ponds and photogenic paths, ideal for avoiding crowds .   Skagit Acres New in 2025, featuring 3 acres of tulips, a nursery, and workshops like tulip-themed charcuterie board classes .   Tip: Check the [Bloom Map](https://tulipfestival.org/bloom-status) for re...

.The majority of workplaces are structured to optimize efficiency, not emotional truth

 The tension between efficiency and emotional truth in workplaces is a significant issue rooted in organizational design and cultural priorities. A structured analysis:             Efficiency-Driven Structures:      Historical Context: Many workplaces adopt principles like Taylorism, focusing on task optimization, measurable outputs, and hierarchical control to maximize productivity.      Economic Pressures: Profit motives and competition drive companies to prioritize cost reduction, speed, and standardization, often treating employees as replaceable resources.      Metrics Over Humanity: Performance reviews, KPIs, and rigid schedules can stifle individuality, leading to alienation or burnout.                Neglect of Emotional Truth:      Psychological Costs: Suppressing emotions (e.g., stress, dissatisfaction) to conform to workpla...

How can someone without exceptional intelligence or innate talent accomplish tasks effectively?

: 1. Consistency Beats Brilliance  Showing up every day and putting in steady effort matters more than occasional bursts of genius.Building habits around your goals creates momentum. 2. Work Smart (Not Just Hard) Learn to prioritize: focus on the 20% of tasks that get 80% of the results (Pareto Principle). Use tools, systems, and shortcuts—like checklists, apps, or templates—to save time and energy. 3. Break It Down Big tasks can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller steps and tackle one at a time. “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” 4. Learn by Doing You don’t need to know everything before starting. Action leads to experience, which leads to skill. Mistakes are valuable teachers if you reflect on them. 5. Use External Motivation Deadlines, accountability partners, or even public commitments can help push through low motivation. You don’t always need to feel inspired—you just need to get started. 6. Ask for Help & Levera...

If I give up sugar, does it imply I should not eat fruits?

Should You Give Up Fruit If You're Quitting Sugar? Giving up sugar is a goal many of us pursue in the name of better health, increased energy, or weight loss. But as soon as you commit to that no-sugar lifestyle, a question often pops up: Do I need to stop eating fruit too? The short answer: not necessarily —and here’s why. Understanding "Sugar" vs. "Added Sugar" Not all sugar is created equal. When health experts talk about giving up sugar, they’re usually referring to added sugars —those spoonfuls tossed into your coffee, the sweeteners hiding in ketchup, and the high-fructose corn syrup in sodas and snacks. Fruits, on the other hand, contain natural sugars —primarily fructose—but they come packaged with a host of other benefits: fiber, water, vitamins, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. This makes the way your body processes fruit very different from how it reacts to a cookie or a soda. What Happens When You Eat Fruit? The fiber in whole fruits slows ...

The Extraordinary Food That Helps Combat Diabetes (1 Eat It Every Day!)

  The Extraordinary Food That Helps Combat Diabetes (Eat It Every Day!) When it comes to managing or preventing diabetes, what you eat matters more than almost anything else. But did you know there's one simple, affordable, and delicious food you can eat every day to help keep your blood sugar in check? Let’s uncover the extraordinary food that health experts recommend for its powerful diabetes-fighting benefits: Oats – The Unsung Hero in Your Pantry Yes, we’re talking about oats . This humble grain has been a breakfast staple for centuries, but recent research has shown it packs a serious punch when it comes to managing blood sugar levels. Why Oats Are So Powerful Here’s what makes oats a superfood for people with diabetes: Low Glycemic Index (GI): Foods with a low GI are digested slowly, leading to a gradual rise in blood sugar instead of a spike. Rich in Soluble Fiber: Oats contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber that slows glucose absorption and improves insulin re...

Why I advocate for tech in social responsibility...and why investors should as well

 Advocating for technology's role in social responsibility is critical in today’s interconnected world, and investors who align with this vision stand to gain both ethically and financially. A structured breakdown: Why Tech Must Embrace Social Responsibility                   Societal Expectations    Stakeholders (consumers, employees, regulators) increasingly demand ethical practices. Tech companies, given their global influence, are scrutinized for their impact on privacy, misinformation, and inequality.      Example: Public backlash against unethical AI or data misuse (e.g., facial recognition controversies).               Tech’s Unique Leverage     Technology scales solutions rapidly. Innovations like renewable energy grids, telemedicine, or edtech can address systemic issues (climate change, healthcare access, education gaps).      Example...

Crucial Reasons Parents Should Be Aware of Adolescence

Crucial Reasons Parents Should Be Aware of Adolescence       Physical and Hormonal Changes    Adolescence is marked by puberty, involving rapid physical growth, hormonal fluctuations, and sexual maturation. Parents need to understand these changes to address health concerns (e.g., nutrition, sleep), body image issues, and provide accurate information about puberty. Open discussions can mitigate anxiety and foster a positive self-image. Emotional Volatility and Mental Health Risks     Hormonal shifts and brain development contribute to mood swings and emotional sensitivity. This period increases vulnerability to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or eating disorders. Parental awareness allows for early intervention, empathetic communication, and access to professional help if needed, ensuring emotional well-being.         Social Dynamics and Peer Influence      Peer relationships gain prominence, ...

Why Is There a Rise in Food Recalls Lately? Enhancing Food Safety Amid Growing Concerns

 The rise in food recalls in recent years, particularly in 2024 and early 2025, has sparked widespread concern about food safety. Below is an analysis of the contributing factors and strategies to enhance food safety systems: Key Factors Behind the Increase in Food Recalls Improved Detection and Regulatory Oversight    Advances in pathogen detection technologies, such as whole-genome sequencing, allow for earlier and more precise identification of contaminants like Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli .      Stricter regulations under the Food Safety Modernization Act (2011) have expanded FDA authority to enforce preventive controls, facility inspections, and mandatory recalls, leading to more proactive identification of risks .      Globalized and Complex Supply Chains     Ingredients sourced globally (e.g., 61% of U.S. fresh fruit is imported) increase vulnerability to contamination at multiple stages, from production to di...

Professionally Cook a Healthy Rosemary and Lemon Salmon Meal

   PROFESSIONAL RECIPE:HEALTHY ROSEMARY AND LEMON PROFESSIONAL Savor a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish featuring omega-3-packed salmon, bright citrus, and aromatic rosemary. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant entertaining. Prep Time: 10 minutes   Cook Time: 15 minutes   Total Time: 25 minutes   Servings: 4                        INGREDIENTS Salmon: 4 fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless   Fresh rosemary: 2 tbsp chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)   Lemon: 1 large (zest + 2 tbsp juice; slice remaining for garnish)   Garlic: 2 cloves, minced   Olive oil:2 tbsp (plus extra for drizzling)   Sea salt: 1 tsp   Black pepper: ½ tsp, freshly cracked                        SUGGESTED SIDES  Steamed asparagus, broccoli, or green beans   Quinoa, br...

Reduce Your Blood Pressure through This Simple yet Soothing Daily Activity

    REDUCE YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE THROUGH THIS SIMPLE YET SOOTHING  DAILY ACTIVETY : DEEP BREATHING High blood pressure affects millions, but a calming, accessible solution lies in daily deep breathing exercises. This practice taps into your body’s natural relaxation response, offering both immediate calm and long-term cardiovascular benefits. How to harness its power:          WHY DEEP BREATHING WORKS Activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System: Slow, intentional breathing signals your body to shift from "fight-or-flight" to "rest-and-digest" mode, lowering heart rate and relaxing blood vessels.    REDUCES STRESS HORMONES: Cortisol levels drop with rhythmic breathing, easing tension that contributes to hypertension.    IMPROVES OXYGEN: Deep breaths enhance circulation, supporting healthier blood pressure over time.   Simple Techniques to Try Diaphragmatic Breathing (Belly Breathing)      Sit or...

Doing Household Chores Has Positive Effects on Your Health — Here's Why

 Doing Household Chores Has Positive Effects on Your Health — Here's Why Engaging in household chores is often viewed as a mundane necessity, but it offers a multitude of health benefits that extend beyond a clean living space.  A structured breakdown of how chores contribute to physical, mental, and social well-being:                         Physical Exercise     Caloric Burn & Muscle Engagement: Activities like vacuuming, mopping, or gardening involve movement comparable to moderate exercise, burning calories and strengthening muscles.      Cardiovascular Health: Tasks that elevate heart rate, such as scrubbing floors or raking leaves, improve circulation and heart health.                       Stress Reduction    Lower Cortisol Levels: A tidy environment reduces visual clutter, which is linked to decreased s...

Have You Fallen Prey to These 6 Misleading Fitness Myths?

 Have You Fallen Prey to These 6 Misleading Fitness Myths? Let’s dissect common fitness myths that persist in 2025, backed by science and expert insights from credible sources.   Myth: Cardio is the Best Way to Lose Weight Truth: While cardio burns calories, sustainable fat loss hinges on a calorie deficit and strength training Diet accounts for 80–90% of weight loss results, and resistance training boosts metabolism by building lean muscle, which burns more calories at rest .   Example: A study showed combining strength training with a calorie-controlled diet outperforms cardio alone for fat loss .   Tip: Prioritize protein intake and progressive overload in workouts over endless treadmill sessions.   Myth: Lifting Weights Makes Women Bulky Truth: Women lack sufficient testosterone to gain excessive muscle mass. Strength training enhances  toning, bone density, and metabolic health without causing bulkiness .    Fact: Fem...

Eat What You Love + Lose Weight: How To Do a ‘Cheat Day’ the Right Way

 To enjoy your favorite foods while maintaining weight loss goals, a well-structured "cheat day" (or meal) can be effective if approached mindfully. A comprehensive guide based on expert advice and research:          Follow the 80/20 or 90/10 Rule Guideline  : Dedicate 80–90% of your meals to nutrient-dense, whole foods, and reserve 10–20% for indulgences. For example, if you eat 21 meals weekly, 2–4 can include treats .   Why It Works: This balance prevents feelings of deprivation while keeping overall calorie intake and nutrient quality in check. For weight loss, a stricter 90/10 split (e.g., 1–2 indulgent meals weekly) may be more effective .     Plan Ahead to Avoid Overindulgence Schedule Strategically: Align cheat meals with social events or weekends to make them enjoyable without derailing progress. Avoid unplanned splurges, which often lead to binge eating .   Portion Control: Instead of a full cheat day, opt for a ...

If we have adiabates and sugar, what management strategies can we employ to save my life and facilitate weight loss before it is too late?

 To address your concerns about managing what appears to be diabetes ("adiabates" likely a typo) and sugar levels for urgent weight loss and health improvement, A  structured, medically sound approach         Immediate Medical Consultation      Consult a Healthcare Provider: Urgently schedule an appointment with a doctor or endocrinologist to assess your current health status, adjust medications (e.g., metformin, GLP-1 agonists for weight loss), and rule out complications.      Blood Work: Check HbA1c, fasting glucose, lipid profile, and kidney/liver function to guide treatment.                        Dietary Strategies    Low Glycemic Index (GI) Foods: Focus on non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and berries to stabilize blood sugar.      Eliminate Refined Sugars/Carbs: Avoid sugary drinks, processed snacks, and white...

What strategies can be employed to successfully manage body weight loss through effective food management, ensuring a healthier lifestyle for oneself and one's children?

 To successfully manage body weight loss and foster a healthier lifestyle for both yourself and your children, consider the following organized, actionable strategies:       Balanced Nutrition & Whole Foods    Prioritize Whole Foods: Base meals on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Gradually introduce healthier versions of family favorites (e.g., baked instead of fried chicken, whole-grain pasta).       Incorporate Variety: Rotate colorful produce to make meals visually appealing and nutrient-dense. Involve children in selecting fruits/veggies at the store.        Structured Meal Planning & Prep    Weekly Planning: Design a meal schedule to avoid impulsive eating. Include kids in choosing recipes to boost their engagement.    Batch Cooking: Prepare healthy staples (e.g., grilled veggies, quinoa) for easy assembly. Pre-portion snacks (e.g., cut veggies, nuts) for c...

How can I successfully manage my diabetes food in my daily life?

 Managing diabetes through daily food choices is crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels and overall health. A structured, practical guide to help you navigate dietary management: 1. Carbohydrate Management    Focus on Quality: Choose complex carbs (whole grains, legumes, vegetables) over simple sugars. These digest slowly, preventing spikes.    Portion Control: Use measuring cups or the "plate method": ½ non-starchy veggies (spinach, broccoli), ¼ lean protein, ¼ whole grains/starchy veggies.    Fiber Intake: Aim for 25-30g/day. Include high-fiber foods like berries, beans, and oats to slow glucose absorption.  2. Balanced Meals    Combine Macros: Pair carbs with protein (e.g., Greek yogurt) and healthy fats (e.g., nuts) to stabilize blood sugar.    Low-Glycemic Foods: Opt for low-GI options (quinoa, lentils) but balance with portion control.  3. Avoid Sugary Traps    Skip Sugary Drinks: Choose water, h...

Have Diabetes? You Don’t Have to Give Up Carbs to Balance Your Blood Sugar

 Managing diabetes effectively doesn't require eliminating carbohydrates entirely. Instead, it involves making informed choices about the types, portions, and combinations of carbs to maintain balanced blood sugar levels.  1. Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Carbohydrates Not all carbs are created equal. Focus on complex carbohydrates like whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats), legumes (beans, lentils), and non-starchy vegetables (broccoli, spinach, tomatoes). These are rich in fiber, which slows glucose absorption and stabilizes blood sugar.   Avoid refined carbs such as white bread, sugary snacks, and processed foods, which cause rapid blood sugar spikes.   Fiber-rich fruits like berries and apples (eaten whole, not juiced) are excellent choices due to their lower glycemic impact. 2. Balance Carbs with Protein, Fat, and Fiber Pairing carbs with protein (e.g., chicken, tofu, nuts) and healthy fats (e.g., avocado, olive oil) slows digestion, preventing sharp glu...

Dairy Queen Celebrates Free Cone Day Today, Introducing New Flavors and Offering Tempting Prizes!

 Dairy Queen celebrated its annual Free Cone Day on March 20, 2025 marking the first day of spring with free treats, new flavors, and exciting promotions.                1. Free Cone Day Details Date & Offer: On March 20, participating Dairy Queen locations nationwide offered a free small vanilla soft-serve cone with the iconic DQ curl on top. This applied to non-mall locations without purchase, while mall-based locations sometimes required a purchase to qualify . Restrictions: The offer was limited to one cone per person, available in-store only (no delivery or mobile orders), and while supplies lasted .             2. Charitable Dip Upgrade For a $1 donation to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, customers could upgrade their free cone to a dipped version (e.g., chocolate coating). This option varied by location, as franchises are independently operated .  3. Sweepstakes: Win Free Cones for a Year Fr...

Incorporating physical activity into daily life. New developments and research Updates on the latest research, treatments, and technologies for diabetes.

 Incorporating Physical Activity into Daily Life Regular physical activity is crucial for managing diabetes, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing cardiovascular risks. Here are practical ways to incorporate movement into daily routines:   1. Walking Breaks Take short walks after meals to lower postprandial blood glucose.   2. Active Commuting Bike or walk instead of driving when possible.   3. Desk Exercises Use a standing desk, stretch, or do seated leg lifts while working.   4. Household Chores Gardening, vacuuming, and stair climbing count as moderate activity.   5. Exercise Snacking Short bursts (e.g., 2-3 minutes of squats or marching in place) can improve glycemic control.   6. Technology Aids Fitness trackers or smartphone apps (e.g., Fitbit, MyFitnessPal) can motivate and monitor activity.   Latest Research, Treatments, and Technologies for Diabetes (2025 Updates)          ...

1. The importance of cultural diversity and exchange

  The Importance of Cultural Diversity and Exchange   Cultural diversity and exchange are essential for fostering mutual understanding, innovation, and global harmony. In an increasingly interconnected world, embracing different cultures enriches societies and promotes peace.    1. Promotes Understanding and Reduces Prejudice Exposure to diverse cultures helps break down stereotypes and fosters empathy. When people engage with different traditions, languages, and perspectives, they develop a deeper appreciation for others, reducing discrimination and conflict.           2. Drives Creativity and Innovation Cultural exchange encourages the blending of ideas, leading to new artistic, scientific, and technological advancements. Many breakthroughs in music, literature, and business arise from cross-cultural collaboration.          3. Strengthens Global Cooperation   By valuing cultural diversi...

Why is diabetes spreading rapidly these days?

 Diabetes is spreading rapidly worldwide due to a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors.  the key reasons behind the surge:                    1. Unhealthy Diets    Processed & Sugary Foods: Increased consumption of refined sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, and processed foods leads to obesity and insulin resistance.    Fast Food Culture: More people rely on convenient, calorie-dense, nutrient-poor meals.    Low Fiber Intake: Diets low in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables worsen metabolic health.  2. Sedentary Lifestyle    Physical Inactivity: Desk jobs, excessive screen time, and reduced physical activity contribute to weight gain and poor insulin sensitivity.    Urbanization: Cities are designed for cars, not walking or cycling, reducing daily movement.  3. Obesity Epidemic     Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, is...