Healthy Link Roundup: Jan. 29

photo by migraine chick

Happy Friday!

You know those weeks when time seems to accelerate into warp speed? The ones where you wake up Friday morning and wonder how it can be the weekend so soon? Yeah, this was not one of those weeks for me. Thanks to the yo-yoing weather here, I’ve had some kind of a headache for more than three days. It took all my might not to shut my eyes at my desk this morning. I restrained myself (because that’s how you get fired, folks) but I really, really, really wanted to silence the pounding behind my eyes.

As much as I’d like to say I have wild and crazy plans for the weekend, right about now my mind is daydreaming about taking a nap. Before I pass out take a nap, I thought I’d leave you with some good reads.

Next time you’re trying to remember something really important—say, a speech or a wedding toast—take a break. Researchers found that letting the mind rest (but not sleep) after memorization helped people retain information.

If you’re a runner, check out this article on the Nike iPod sensor and Adidas’ new addition to the running gadget market.

What you eat post-workout makes a difference. A study found that snacking on a low-carb meal after an aerobic workout increased the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Insulin sensitivity is important because insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes.

Maybe it’s just a quirk The Man and I share, but our household is borderline obsessed with expiration dates. (I think we both grew up with great fear of drinking sour milk. Thanks a lot Michael J. Fox in Life With Mikey.) This article explains the difference between “sell by” and “use by” dates plus when you should trash expired food.

It may look a little goofy, but I will definitely be trying this stretch ASAP.

Anyone else a stuffed-up mess thanks to indoor allergens like dust and pet dander? Check out this article for tips on controlling allergens in your home.

Before I drown my headache in a bottle of Excedrin sweat my headache off at the gym, tell me: What are your weekend plans?