A brain imaging study has found that consuming walnuts activates an area of the brain associated with regulating hunger and cravings. Using fMRI imaging, researchers showed participants images of desirable foods, neutral objects, and less desirable foods. When participants consumed a five-day walnut-rich diet, the scans showed increased activity in the right insula, a part of the brain that helps regulate hunger and cravings. First author Dr. Olivia M. Farr explains, “We know people report feeling fuller after eating walnuts, but it was pretty surprising to see evidence of activity changing in the brain related to food cues, and by extension what people were eating and how hungry they feel.”
Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, August 2017

Using data collected during the 2008 Health Survey for England, researchers report that substituting just ten minutes of sedentary time for ten minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day can reduce one’s risk for chronic musculoskeletal pain by more than 10%.
Physiotherapy, August 2017

In this study, researchers followed 219 female workers who suffered from recurrent non-specific low back pain and found those with increased work-induced lumbar exertion and work-related fear-avoidance beliefs were more likely to report higher levels of pain, impaired physical function, and a reduced ability to work. The findings suggest that interventions aimed at reducing fear-avoidance and increasing fitness capacity may be beneficial for back pain reduction and work performance.
Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, August 2017

In a new study involving nearly 300 octogenarians, researchers found that those who took part in a six-week standing-exercise program were able to walk faster and farther than those who participated in a seated-exercise program during the same time frame. The standing program was designed to improve motor skills and muscle control needed for walking by making participants perform stepping patterns, walking patterns, and strengthening exercises. Based on the findings, lead researcher Dr. Jennifer Brach concludes, “Older adults who are interested in improving their mobility should consider participating in a group-based exercise program like ‘On the Move.’”
JAMA Internal Medicine, August 2017

Past studies have yielded mixed results in regards to the effect of weather changes on musculoskeletal pain. A recent study set out to examine the relationship between local meteorological conditions and online searches for terms related to knee pain, hip pain, and arthritis. The investigators found that online searches for knee pain and hip pain increased when the temperature was between 23? and 86? Fahrenheit (-5? to 30? Celsius). Additionally, searches for arthritis decreased when temperatures rose above 86? (30? Celsius). The findings reveal that local weather conditions are significantly associated with online searches for specific musculoskeletal pain symptoms.
PLOS One, August 2017