IN Sewickley Summer 2025 | Page 26

2025 HEALTH & WELLNESS

WEARABLE GADGETS THAT PROMISE HIGH‐TECH HEALTH
Wearable devices in the health sector have been revolutionizing how we manage and monitor our health. Here are some examples of what’ s available today.
Wearable Fitness Trackers Such as Fitbit and Apple Watch
These devices track your daily activities, including steps, heart rate, sleep patterns, and even blood oxygen levels. Some models also track stress levels and body temperature.
Smart Glucose Monitors
Continuously monitor blood glucose levels for those with diabetes. These systems provide real-time data, often with alarms when blood sugar levels are too high or low.
Portable ECG Monitors These allow you to take an ECG( electrocardiogram) reading anytime, anywhere. The small, handheld devices also help detect atrial fibrillation( AFib), heart disease, or other conditions that affect heart rhythm.
Smart Scales
Not only measure weight but also track body fat percentage, muscle mass, and bone density. The scales sync data with a smartphone, helping to monitor overall health progress.
Smart Inhalers
These devices sync with a smartphone app to track the usage of inhalers for asthma or COPD patients. They can send reminders and help manage treatment plans as well.
AI-Powered Health Apps Apps use AI to analyze symptoms and offer personalized health insights. They can help diagnose conditions or give medical advice based on symptoms, helping users understand when they should seek medical attention.
Smart Glasses for Health Designed for those with low vision, these high-tech glasses have a camera that captures the environment and displays an enhanced image directly in front of users’ eyes, improving their ability to see.
Sleep Monitoring Devices Tracking sleep patterns is becoming more advanced, offering insights on how to improve sleep quality. Techniques like setting a consistent sleep routine, reducing blue light exposure before bed, and optimizing your sleep environment are key.
Smart Blood Pressure Monitors
These offer at-home blood pressure monitoring with accurate readings that sync to a phone for tracking. The devices are helpful for those with hypertension, or just keeping an eye on their cardiovascular health.
10 HEALTH TIPS TO HELP YOU THRIVE IN 2025!
1. Try a Digital Detox
• Take time away from screens, especially before bed, to recharge your mind and avoid burnout.
2. Move Your Body Daily
• Mix Up Your Exercise Routine: Balance cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. A variety of workouts will prevent boredom and keep your body in shape.
• Walk More: Aim for at least 10,000 steps a day, even if it’ s just around the block or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Active Recovery: Incorporate rest days and active recovery practices like yoga or light stretching to prevent injuries.
3. Eat Whole, Nutrient-Dense Foods
• Plant-Based Focus: Consider increasing your intake of plant-based foods. Vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and seeds are full of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants.
• Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for eight glasses or more if you’ re active. Herbal teas and water with lemon can keep things interesting.
• Balanced Plate: Include a variety of colors and textures on your plate, ensuring a mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbs.
4. Rest and Recover
• Sleep Hygiene: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine( like reading or meditating) and minimize screen time before bed.
• Power Naps: If you’ re feeling tired during the day, a 20-minute power nap can help you feel refreshed without affecting nighttime sleep.
• Mindful Rest: Pay attention to how your body feels. If you’ re sore, fatigued or stressed, give yourself time to rest and recover fully.
5. Boost Your Gut Health
• Probiotics and Prebiotics: Eat fermented foods( yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut) for probiotics, and fiberrich foods like garlic, onions, and bananas for prebiotics to support a healthy gut microbiome.
• Reduce Processed Foods: Minimize processed sugars and foods that might negatively impact your gut, like overly fatty or greasy options.
• Mindful Eating: Slow down while eating to promote better digestion and help your body absorb nutrients effectively.
6. Protect Your Skin
• Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen every day, even in winter or when it’ s cloudy. UV rays can cause long-term skin damage.
• Moisturize: Hydrate your skin with a good moisturizer to keep it soft, supple, and glowing.
• Hydrate From Within: Drink plenty of water, and consume foods with high water content, like cucumbers and watermelon, to keep skin hydrated.
7. Strengthen Your Immune System
• Nutrient-Rich Diet: Focus on immune-boosting foods like citrus fruits( vitamin C), leafy greens, garlic and ginger.
• Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise boosts your immune system, but too much can suppress it, so find that sweet spot.
• Stay Hydrated and Rested: Proper hydration and sleep are essential for a strong immune system.
8. Be Proactive About Preventive Health
• Regular Checkups: Schedule yearly physical exams, dental cleanings, and eye checkups to catch potential issues early.
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