Sunday Snippets

Tidbits of information I picked up this week:

• It's not just an old wives tale - lemon juice is a powerful antioxidant and science supports its traditional use for treating colds, flus and infections that develop in the chest - when I'm under-the-weather, I like to have a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice in a mug of boiled hot water as a substitute for tea that clears my sinuses and soothes my throat :-) (Viva magazine)
• Don't tell your DH, but apparently, men have a scientific excuse for tuning out when we scowl at them. Recent research shows that male brains become less engaged during stressful situations when they see angry faces... and actually makes it harder for them to interpret others' emotions. Vent without making a face, they say, to increase the likelihood he'll listen. I wonder if this is true for sons as well (Redbook, March 2011)
• Uh-oh - be careful when you eat out: McDonald's Grilled Chicken Salad with dressing has roughly the same amount of calories but 15% more sodium and twice the trans fat as a quarter pounder; a Booster juice smoothie can have up to 22 tsp sugar (ie: more than that in 3 regular sized Snickers bars); and a Quiznos sub can contain more sodium than an entire large can of Pringles! Even a Tim Horten's choice may not be as obvious as it seems - some muffins can contain twice the calories, and triple the sugar and sodium of a donut. The lesson - read nutritional information before making your dinner choice! (Canadian Health - Winter 2011)
• If you work 11 or more hours a day, you are 60% more likely to develop heart-related issues than if you work a healthier 8-hour day. However, a happy marriage and healthy lifestyle can help to negate the increased risks. Double up & go for a walk with your mate :-) (Canadian Health .... BTW: Canadian Health is free at Sobey's and Lawton's locations.)