Your Health

Fidget to Lose Some Weight
Folks who are lean are more likely to fidget, stand up or pace about than their moderately obese counterparts, according to a study of 20 self-identified couch potatoes conducted by researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. For 10 days scientists measured their subjects' every movement, using sensors embedded in specially designed underwear. The 10 lean participants were more active even after they were required to gain weight. Sorry, Mom, fidgeting is good for you.

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Broil (Don't Fry) the Tuna, Feed the Brain
Is eating fish good for your brain? That may depend on how the fish is prepared. According to a 12-year study in the U.S. of nearly 5,000 men and women over 65, eating five or more servings each month of tuna or other baked or broiled fish decreases the risk of stroke 28%. But those protective benefits disappeared when the fish was fried. Eating at least one serving of fried fish or a fish burger each week led to a 37% increase in stroke risk, which grew with each additional serving. Frying seems to alter the ratio of good to bad fats, including trans fats, in the fish—which, scientists speculate, may encourage the formation of blood clots.

The Next Step in the Science of Skin Care
The mass customization trend—in which consumers can get anything tailor-made to their needs—has hit the skin-care market. A company called Lab21, headquartered in Stony Brook, New York, creates individually formulated products based on a quantitative genetic test. Customers take an at-home DNA test (by swabbing the inside of their cheek) and answer a questionnaire about the health of their skin. Lab21's SkinProfiler System then creates a custom formula to treat specific conditions—for example, acne, redness or aging. Prices range from $80 for 75 mL of antioxidant fluid with SPF to $600 for a complete custom skin-care line including face cream, eye cream and cleanser. For more information, visit lab21.com.