Health & Wellbeing

A Recent Study Confirms What has been known For Years

Oct 2022

A study involving a total of 4305 participants aged 60 and older, published last year shows that there’s scientific validity to the ‘Flamingo trick’. Researchers conducted a trial to study the effectiveness of the “flamingo exercise” – which involves standing on one leg while doing an every day chore such as peeling veges or cleaning teeth – in preventing falls. They found that periodically standing on one leg does in fact improve balance, prevent falls, and even improve independent living.

Once again, something very simple can have a big impact.

In a meta-analysis review of 17 trials involving the 4305 participants aged 60 and older, researchers concluded that regularly engaging in balance exercises not only prevented falls, but actually prevented injury (including fractures) when falls did occur. Even in the case of severe falls, injuries were less common among those who exercised regularly.

You Can Improve Your Balance Regardless Of Age

You don’t have to be resigned to poorer balance as you age. You can take action to improve and maintain it.

Additionally, certain foods also promote balance. Foods rich in a substance called resveratrol actually prevent neural cell death and markedly improve balance and coordination. Red grapes, blueberries, and peanuts are rich in resveratrol.

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