Life’s essential 8: How daily habits and lifestyle changes can predict and prevent heart disease and stroke

Ayurveda's holy basil, tulsi, offers significant support for diabetics. It aids blood sugar regulation and boosts insulin sensitivity, while its antioxidants combat stress and inflammation. Beyond physical benefits, tulsi enhances mental well-being, crucial for managing diabetes. Incorporating tulsi through leaves, tea, or supplements can complement conventional treatments for holistic health.

Pomegranate and beetroot juices offer natural support for heart health, complementing medical treatments for hypertension. Beetroot juice, rich in nitrates, rapidly improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. Pomegranate juice, packed with antioxidants, combats inflammation and enhances arterial flexibility. Both, when consumed regularly, contribute to better circulation and overall cardiovascular well-being.

Singer-songwriter Tom Walker revealed how songwriting served as therapy for his mental health struggles following a friend's death. His experience underscores the societal benefits of creative expression, with emerging studies highlighting its role in emotional regulation, stress reduction, and fostering well-being. Creativity is recognized as a vital life skill by the World Health Organization.

Koreans embrace a balanced mind through ancient wellness traditions. Practices like meditation, mindful walks in nature, and journaling help quiet overthinking. Abdominal breathing calms the nervous system. Focusing on sensory experiences keeps the mind present. Complementary habits like good sleep, exercise, and social connections further enhance mental well-being. These techniques foster clarity and emotional stability.

At 48, John Cena's impressive physical conditioning for his final wrestling match stems from years of consistent powerlifting and bodybuilding. His routine emphasizes functional strength with squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, complemented by a rigorous 5-day split workout, daily stretching, and a high-protein diet. This dedication showcases his commitment to long-term health and resilience.

Alcohol has a habit of leaving the body drier than it started. By interfering with hormones that regulate water balance, it increases fluid loss even as it’s being consumed, while its breakdown in the liver adds further strain. The result is thirst, headaches and fatigue that feel familiar to anyone who’s overdone it. Understanding the biology helps explain why simple measures, food, water and time, make a real difference.