15 seconds to better health....

Given the huge rise worldwide in heart disease and type 2 diabetes, any form of exercise deemed helpful to combat these issues is critical. In today's fast paced working world, very few people have the luxury and/or time to to engage in long workouts multiple times a week. It's not practical or feasible for the average working mom or dad anymore. But, this may not be the only answer to a healthier life, free of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

According to new research published in the journal BMC Endocrine Disorders, brief, intense workouts can dramatically lower your risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Scientists from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, conducted experiments with 16 young adults and tested insulin sensitivity and metabolism rates.

The 16 young adults(in fair health) used exercise bikes to perform quick, rigorous sprints for 30 seconds totaling 15 minutes over a two-week period. None of the test subjects were previously involved in a structured exercise program, and claimed to be moderate exercisers.

During this two week time period, the young adults insulin sensitivity and metabolism rates improved significantly.

James Timmons, a professor in the school of engineering and physical sciences at the University, carried out the expirement along with his colleagues. They claim that the data collected shows that low-volume, high-intensity workouts can have a dramatic affect on an individulals blood sugar levels, metabolism rate and risk for heart disease.

So, even if you only have a few minutes of free time...engage in a quick, high intensity workout. Do this multiple times a week, or even a day, and you will be on your way to a healthier and happier life.

Long Term Care (LTC)...

Prior to taking this course (HSA 3222), I didn't fully understand the size and scope of Long Term Care. Since this course has started, I have begun to wrap my head around exactly what Long Term Care is, and how it is a vital component in the overall Health Care Spectrum of care.

I always assumed that Long Term Care simply meant the care for elderly, but come to find out...it reaches beyond that. Long Term Care Care provides personal and medical care to all people who are unable to assist themselves in daily routine activities. This includes and is not limited to; elderly, disabled, chronically ill and retarded.

The size and scope of care delivered to these patients can be done through in-patient or out-patient care. Types of facilities for in-patient care can include; rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes and mental homes. Out-patient care is typically done on a at home basis.

This just scratches the surface of LTC, and gives you an idea of what LTC is. As this course progresses, I will be revisiting this subject and diving further into it's complexity.