It's not how long you walk, but how fast that matters
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, led by Dr. Wei Zheng from Vanderbilt University, analyzed data from 86,000 people over 17 years.
Walking pace and health
People who walked briskly for at least 15 minutes a day had a significantly lower risk of death than those who walked slowly.
Brisk walking reduces death risk
Both slow and fast walkers saw health gains—but the benefits were greater for those who walked at a faster pace.
Fast pace adds more benefits
This method—also known as Japanese walking—involves switching between slow and fast walking, and is showing promising results.
Interval walking is gaining popularity
Half the participants earned less than $15,000 a year, and two-thirds were Black—groups often underrepresented in health studies.
Study focused on underserved groups
Dr. Zheng highlights that brisk walking offers a simple, affordable way to improve health in at-risk communities.
Low-cost health boost
Certain guidelines recommend 30 minutes of moderate activity, but this study shows even 15 minutes daily makes a difference.
Even 15 minutes can help
For people who are sedentary, starting with short brisk walks can still lower their health risks.
Good news for beginners
Even slow walkers gained health benefits, and adding a few minutes of brisk walking could enhance those effects.
Credit: Credit Name
Add pace gradually
Treat walking like exercise—by adding intervals and pace changes—to boost heart health and overall fitness.
Walking like a workout
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Time of India
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- Time of India
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Source: ABC News Japan, a country known for its incredible life expectancy and vibrant elderly community, has celebrated yet another milestone in longevity. Shigeko Kagawa, a 114-year-old retired physician from Nara Prefecture, has officially been recognised as Japan's oldest living person, according to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. This honour comes after the passing of Miyoko Hiroyasu, also aged 114, who previously held the title. Kagawa's life, spanning more than a century, reflects Japan's rich cultural heritage, advancements in healthcare, and the unique lifestyle choices often linked with exceptional longevity. Japan's oldest living person early life and medical career Born in the early 20th century, Shigeko Kagawa's life began in a very different Japan. She pursued higher education at a time when opportunities for women, particularly in medicine, were rare and challenging. Kagawa graduated from medical school before World War II, making her part of an early wave of women who broke gender barriers in healthcare. Her initial medical work was conducted in Osaka during wartime, a period marked by limited resources, societal upheaval, and urgent medical needs. She later returned to her hometown, where she took over her family's clinic, serving as an obstetrician and gynecologist. Her work focused on women's health, maternal care, and childbirth, areas that were vital for post-war recovery in Japanese society. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cardiologists Recommend: Eat 1 Teaspoon Tonight – Wake Up With a Flatter Stomach Get Fit Today Click Here Undo Kagawa continued practicing medicine until the age of 86, demonstrating not only her professional dedication but also her remarkable physical and mental resilience. Shigeko Kagawa at 109: Olympic torchbearer and longevity icon Even after retirement, Shigeko Kagawa's life continued to inspire. In 2021, when the world was still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, she became one of the oldest Olympic torchbearers in history. Participating in the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Torch Relay at the age of 109 made headlines worldwide, symbolizing hope, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of the elderly community. Her appearance wasn't just ceremonial—it carried a powerful message: age does not define one's ability to contribute, inspire, and celebrate life. For many, Kagawa became a living example of Japan's 'ikigai' philosophy, which emphasizes having a purpose and joy in everyday life as a secret to longevity. Japan's oldest living person secret to longevity: 'I Just Play Every Day' When asked about her secret to longevity in a 2023 interview with TOS News, Shigeko Kagawa's response was simple yet profound: 'I don't have any. I just play every day. My energy is my greatest asset. I go where I want, eat what I want, and do what I want. I'm free and independent.' Her lifestyle emphasises freedom, independence, and a playful approach to daily living. Unlike rigid dietary regimens or structured fitness programs often associated with longevity, Kagawa attributes her long life to mental well-being, active living, and personal happiness. These traits are common among centenarians, particularly in Japan, where psychological wellness and social connections often play as big a role as physical health in extending life expectancy. Miyoko Hiroyasu: Art teacher, centenarian, and longevity icon of Japan Shigeko Kagawa's recognition as Japan's oldest living person follows the death of Miyoko Hiroyasu, who had also lived to the remarkable age of 114. Hiroyasu, born in 1911, lived a life filled with creativity and education. She studied art in Tokyo, worked as a teacher in Hiroshima Prefecture, and raised three children. 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Time of India
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Colon cancer sees rapid surge in young adults; US Gastroenterologist recommends 4 fruits to slash colon cancer risk
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It's also loaded with vitamin C, which plays a role in immune function, heart health, and skin repair. Best time to eat: With breakfast or as part of fruit bowls to kickstart digestion. Spruce it up: While kiwi adds brightness to fruit salads and yogurt bowls, it also pairs beautifully with savory fare, like in Easy Fish Tacos with Kiwi Salsa. Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes) Including more citrus fruits in your diet, such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, and tangerines, may also contribute to lower colon cancer risk, with studies showing a 9% decrease linked to higher citrus intake. These fruits are loaded with vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant to help neutralize free radicals and possibly minimize DNA damage. Best time to eat: Fresh citrus juice or whole fruit in the morning or midday. Spruce it up: Citrus also provides flavonoids, a type of polyphenol that may slow aging, reduce inflammation, and support cancer prevention. Celebrate warm weather and gut health with a Citrus Salad with Pomegranate & Mint, or repurpose scraps into a zero-waste Orange Peel Smoothie. Why fruits are a great ally in cancer prevention While dietary fiber and plant-based foods are known to reduce colorectal cancer risk, not all fruits are equal. A 2023 meta-analysis found protective associations specifically for citrus, apples, watermelon, and kiwi. Compared to a low intake: Watermelon reduced risk by 26% Apples by 25% Kiwi by 13% Citrus by 9%, with an optimal intake of around 120 g/day However, it is important to note that while fruit can play a supportive role, no single food can prevent or cure cancer. An amalgamation of protective habits, like consuming a high-fiber, plant-rich diet, combined with exercise, well-managed weight, and minimal alcohol, is essential. High-fiber, plant-rich diets are associated with significantly lower colorectal cancer risk; every extra 10 grams of fiber daily may reduce risk by about 7%. Cutting processed and red meats, sugary drinks, ultraprocessed foods, and limiting alcohol is essential, increasing risk by up to 40% in some studies. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly helps reduce inflammation and the risk of digestive cancer. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !
