THE MH DIGEST 04/24 i.
We’ve sifted through the science journals so you don’t have to. Here’s the data we’ve clocked this month
The number of key personality traits that may play a role in longevity, according to Spanish research*. After interviewing 19 centenarians, the team identified these qualities: vitality; responsibility (to family, work, etc); sociability; curiosity; autonomy; positivity; resilience; and intelligence.
ii.FAT LOT OF GOOD
Big day at the office? You might want to lay off the pastries. In a study by the University of Birmingham, healthy 18-to-30-year-olds were given a high-fat snack (two butter croissants with cheese and whole milk) before being subjected to a maths test. Compared with those fed a low-fat meat, the former group experienced a reduction in oxygen delivery to the brain region used in problem-solving.
iii.SUNNY OUTLOOK
There’s more to sunlight than vitamin D. A new study* has found that those who spent more time in daylight displayed a lower risk of depression and other related mental health conditions. The analysis of 87,000 adults also found that increased exposure to artificial light at night is associated with a higher risk of poor mental health.
iv. vi. vii.GREEN GIANT
Some good news for vegan runners. A recent review and meta-analysis of 10 studies* determined that plant-based diets have ‘a moderate but positive effect’ on aerobic exercise performance, without compromising on strength or power. Want to top up your protein intake? Form’s vegan Performance Protein scored top marks in our MH Lab tests (£26 for 520g).
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BITE-SIZED SCIENCE
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THE FIT LIST A
WAIT FOR IT…
How long should you chill out between sets? A recent study in The Journal Of Strength & Conditioning Research discovered that when subjects testing their one-rep max rested for three minutes between attempts, rather than one minute, they
