Processed Meats & Cancer Scare: According to the World Health Organization bacon, deli meats and other processed meats in tube form are now categorized as cancer-causing. Should you panic and stick to chicken and tofu from now on? My answer is no. For starters, their recommendations do not take into account the source of the animals, how the meat is processed or even how it is being cooked. Beyond that, the actual increase in cancer risk from enjoying some charcuterie, humanely raised bacon or a hot dog a few times per week is miniscule. This responseo the WHO's slaphappy warnings about processed meat was the best that I've come across. Bottom line is you can relax and enjoy your Sunday bacon (just don't cook to a burnt crisp).
Sweet Potatoes vs. Potatoes: Sweet potatoes get all the glory and regular potatoes are like the ugly stepchild these days but why? Brian St. Pierref Precision Nutritionets to the bottom of this spud debate once and for all in this spot-on infographic.
Counting Calories & Reps = Missing The Boat: Your quest for more fitness, better health and higher performance will be filled with ebbs and flows. As Patrick Frost pointed out in this recent piece on askmen.com, one way to ensure longterm success is to appreciate that there's more to it than counting reps and calories.
An Exercise You Should Be Doing: Shoulders can get cranky after overhead pressing. Rather than avoiding overhead work altogether, try the landmine press in your training. It's a great way to work your shoulders and target your core at the same time. No need to scour the web for a stellar how-to guide on the landmine press - my guy Mike Robertson has it for you right here.
Tim DiFrancesco, PT, DPT, ATC, CSCS is the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and founder of TD Athletes Edge. He is nationally renowned for his evidence-based and scientific approach to fitness, training, nutrition, and recovery for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
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