Be a good sport in your kids’ pursuits
Around 60 million kids and teens play “organized” sports. That’s terrific — and we wish it were more. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even a single day of play can help kids manage stress and anxiety. And when they play regularly, it improves cardiorespiratory fitness, builds strong bones and muscles, and helps them control their weight. Physically active kids also do better in school and have improved concentration and memory. Unfortunately, a report from the American Academy of Pediatrics says that 70 percent of kids who play organized sports drop out by age 13.
What’s fueling this? Injuries, overtraining and burnout. Overuse injuries may lead to accumulated damage to muscles and bones.
Overtraining syndrome disrupts the endocrine and neurological systems and leads to heart and emotional problems. And burnout can turn a child off to physical
DR. OZ AND DR. ROIZEN
activity and all its health benefits permanently.
So no matter how enthusiastic you are about having your kids play on the football, baseball or soccer team, don’t push. Let them enjoy multiple sports (better physical and emotional results) and decide how much they want to do. Explore alternative physical activities like recreational swimming and tennis.
Encouraging physical activity is important — but overdoing it can backfire. Make it enjoyable and keep their friends involved. You’ll help ’em build a passion for fitness and a posse — two keys to a happy, healthy life.
Word on an herb
Ashwagandha, also called Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a Sanskrit word used to describe the smell of its root — “like a horse.” Used in traditional medicine systems of India, the National Institute for Complementary and Integrative Health says there is research showing that some preparations of the herb may be useful in relieving insomnia and stress. Limited evidence shows it might increase the release of testosterone.
So is it safe to try? The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements says in studies that “ashwagandha has been well tolerated by participants for up to about three months. Common side effects are mild and include stomach upset, loose stools, nausea, and drowsiness.”
It’s also been found that overly large doses can cause vomiting and gastro-upset. Since it can increase testosterone levels, men with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer should avoid it.