7 Crazy Study Findings
- Matt Gable
- Aug 22, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 6, 2024
Research towards Health, Fitness, and Nutrition, is always evolving. Sometimes the findings are so weird and surprising that you even wonder if they are actually true. Here are 7 of the craziest findings that show just how unpredictable science can be.
Daylight Savings Time Both Increases & Decreases Heart Attacks
Let's start with my favourite. I love this study because it goes to show that gaining or losing an hour of sleep makes a big difference.
This study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. It found that in Spring, when we lose just 1 hour of sleep, there is a 24% increase in heart attacks the following day. It decreases over time for up to 3 weeks. When we lose an hour of sleep, our bodies experience a spike in stress, which can lead to multiple cardiovascular problems.
What’s even crazier is that when we gain an hour of sleep in Autumn, heart attack rates actually drop by 21% the following day. These findings highlight just how delicate our bodies can be, especially when it comes to sleep patterns. The disruption of our circadian rhythms, even by just an hour, can have a huge impact on our health.
The More You Run, the Less You Live?
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that while moderate running can extend your life, excessive running might do the opposite.
According to the study, people who run more than 20 miles a week at a fast pace have similar mortality rates to those who do no exercise at all. The researchers say that the stress of extreme exercise might cause wear and tear on the body, particularly the heart, leading to potential health risks that counteract the benefits. So, if you’re an frequent marathoner, it might be worth considering a more balanced approach to your running routine.
Just Believing You’re Exercising Can Make You Healthier
The mind-body connection is powerful, and the evidence is found in the placebo effect. A study at Harvard University found that simply believing you are getting exercise can actually improve your health. The study involved a group of hotel housekeepers who were informed that their daily work met the recommended levels of physical activity, even though they hadn't previously considered it to be.
After being told this, the housekeepers showed significant improvements in various health markers, including blood pressure and body fat, despite not changing their actual work habits. This study suggests that our perceptions and beliefs about our physical activity can have tangible effects on our health, highlighting the psychological component of fitness.
Obviously, I'm not saying it's okay to do no exercise...
Almonds Can Reduce Wrinkles by 16%
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that eating almonds daily could reduce wrinkles by as much as 16%.
In the study, postmenopausal women who consumed almonds as part of their daily diet showed significant reductions in wrinkle severity after 16 weeks compared to those who didn’t. The researchers believe that the vitamin E and healthy fats in almonds contribute to skin health by protecting it from oxidative stress, which can cause premature ageing. If this one's true, I'm heading to Tesco straight away.
Standing More Can Reduce Your Risk of Early Death by 37%
Research continues to support the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle. A study published in the European Heart Journal found that standing for more hours each day can reduce your risk of early death by 37%.
The study followed over 16,000 adults and found that those who spent more time standing and less time sitting had a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease and early mortality. Standing engages the muscles, improves circulation, and reduces the negative metabolic effects that are associated with sitting for long periods of time. This suggests that simply standing more throughout the day can have a substantial impact on your health. My watch vibrates on the every hour reminding me to stand and move.
Yoga Can Reduce Anxiety Symptoms by 52%
If you’re looking for a natural way to manage anxiety, yoga might be the answer. A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Practice found that doing yoga can reduce anxiety symptoms by up to 52%.
The study involved participants with generalised anxiety disorder who practiced yoga for 12 weeks. They experienced significant reductions in anxiety levels compared to those who received standard stress management education. The combination of physical postures, breath control, and meditation in yoga is thought to calm the nervous system and reduce the physiological symptoms of anxiety. Incorporating yoga into your routine could be a powerful tool for your mental health.
Poor Sleep Increases Obesity Risk by 89%
The connection between sleep and weight is big. A study published by the Sleep Research Society found that 89% of adults and 55% of children were more likely to become obese if they had less sleep that their recommended requirements .
The study suggests that poor sleep disrupts the regulation of hunger hormones like ghrelin and leptin, leading to increased appetite and cravings for high calorie foods. This significant 89% increase in obesity risk highlights the importance of ensuring that you get enough sleep each night, not only for your overall health but also for maintaining a healthy weight.
Sleep: Underactive & Overactive Thyroid
True or False?
There's always conflicting results from different studies. Whether it’s the significant reduction in anxiety through yoga or the increased risk of heart attacks when losing an hour of sleep, I'd say all of these findings are correct in some way. As we continue to learn more through research, they can at least help us work towards making healthier decisions that could have a big impact on our lives.
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