Kids Research Express

We all know that oxygen is essential for our bodies to function. But scientific studies have shown that oxygen can produce toxic substances as well. Some examples of these toxins are peroxide, superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, and something called “excited stage oxygen.” When these substances combine with other molecules in the body, “free-radicals” are formed. These are high-energy chemical substances that can damage our healthy cells and cause diseases like inflammation and infections, degenerative arthritis, diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. This free-radical damage is also known as oxidization. Antioxidants work by preventing excessive oxidization and repairing the damage to the cells. Normally, our bodies can supply its own antioxidants. But when there is rapid production of free-radicals (from exercise, smoking, exposure to radiation or other metabolic processes like the breaking down of food), our bodies will need an additional supply of antioxidants from extern

MANILA, Philippines - A slowing down of the physical or mental functions is usually accepted as the normal course of old age, rather than being diagnosed as an illness or condition that may be treated with proper nutrition, hormones, exercise, or a change of lifestyle. Perhaps one of the under-diagnosed health problems in old age is hypothyroidism, an insufficient production or absorption of the thyroid hormone that won't allow our metabolism to function at its peak efficiency. What is the thyroid? The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, over the trachea, or windpipe, just below the larynx. The thyroid has tremendous responsibilities, as it is the gland that affects virtually all metabolic processes and is vital for the normal function of every cell in the body. It does this by releasing certain hormones known as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which in turn regulate the body's metabolism, temperature, and heart rate. Should it produce to

Heart disease, any of several abnormalities of the heart and its function in maintaining blood circulation. Among the most common causes of heart disease are degenerative changes in the coronary blood vessels, infectious diseases, and congenital heart disease. Congenital defects result from abnormal development of the fetal heart, commonly in the valves or septa. Such defects can be precipitated by environmental conditions in the uterus, such as the presence of the rubella virus, or they can be inherited. Infectious diseases acquired after birth, such as rheumatic fever, syphilis, and endocarditis, can also damage the valves of the heart. In addition, the heart muscle itself can be affected: hypertensive heart disease (see hypertension) can cause it to enlarge, and it can become inflamed by rheumatic fever. Arteriosclerotic depositions in the coronary arteries result in the narrowing of these vessels, causing insufficient blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle, a condition known as

Staying healthy by working out is good. But doing that while taking care of Mother Earth is another matter altogether. Some people's workout routines use up a lot of energy: driving to the gym, the aircon at the venue, plugged equipment like the treadmill, etcetera. So if you are conscious about keeping your carbon footprint small, consider these workout tips. 1. Consider walking or jogging around the neighborhood. Instead of using fitness equipment that consume energy, you may opt to do some jogging or brisk walking via routes that are scenic and safe. 2. Buy less. Less active wear, expensive running shoes, workout gizmos, and other fitness paraphernalia you can do without. Buy only what you really need and your carbon footprint will be significantly smaller. This means that you will be using less energy, throwing out less junk, and generally be kinder to our planet. 3. Here are light exercise activities you can try: Walk or bike to work; Work in your garden; Do sit-ups, weigh

This rainy season, boost your immune system by adding these basic nutrients to your daily diet. In this season, where pouring rains force people to come in closer contact with ailing individuals in enclosed spaces such as malls or public vehicles, and airborne viruses and bacteria are having a heyday floating from one victim to another, the key to good health is a good defense. This will come in a healthy body nourished by these 5 important immunity-building nutrients: Vitamin C. This readily-available nutrient has been found to increase the production of white blood cells and antibodies, the primary function of which is to fight off infections. Foods rich in this important vitamin include citrus fruits, papayas, guavas, and tomatoes. Vitamin E. This vitamin has been receiving a lot of attention lately for its antioxidant properties. It stimulates the production of immune cells that produce antibodies which target and destroy bacteria. Vitamin E is present in nuts, seeds, and vegeta

Do you find yourself fighting off the little bulges? And much as you want to go to the gym to shed off a few pounds, your hectic schedule simply does not permit? Sadly, for some, taking care of one’s body through exercise is always at the bottom of the priority list. Good thing staying fit is not limited to the exercise routines performed inside the gym. Your day-to-day activities can actually count for a true-blue workout! Research suggests that maintaining an active lifestyle is the key to good health and weight management. Here are some simple little workouts that you can do to help keep you fit, trim and healthy! WALKING Walking, according to experts, is an excellent way to burn calories. It also helps improve mood and reduce stress. Take time to have a 30-minute walk. If you think that the place you’re heading to is not that far, instead of riding the car, just walk. All you need to do is to have a comfortable pair of footwear with you always and you’re ready to go! CLIMBING T

Taking care of our brain’s health is equally important as taking care of our body’s wellbeing. After all, the brain is one powerful organ--- the maximum potential of which is yet to be unlocked by science. Keeping our brains in shape will lead to an invigorated body and a healthy emotional state. Constantly challenging our brain and feeding it a well-balanced diet will help increase its memory capabilities, boost creativity levels, and improve cognitive levels. Start getting this organ in tip-top shape! Below is a list of activities that can help boost brain power! Physical Exercise A healthy body also leads to a healthy mind. Studies have shown that regular exercise affects how the brain functions. It boosts brain power by stimulating the formation of new brain cells, called neurons. Also, researchers found that the areas of the brain that are stimulated through exercise are usually associated with memory and learning. So take time to have a regular exercise routine. It need not be