Body News.(stress and influenza, skin aging, and sensitive skin cures)

Byline: Kristin Sainani

Stress and Flu Fighter

Twenty percent of people say that they came down with the flu last winter, according to a Harris Interactive survey. Now researchers have found that a particular antioxidant could help prevent it, especially in those under stress. Daily supplements of the compound quercetin (which is found in red apples, red onions, red wine, and various berries) reduced flu rates from 91 percent to 67 percent in mice that were physically stressed (by intensive treadmill-running) and exposed to the influenza virus. It also decreased illness rates from 63 percent to 47 percent in rested mice subjected to the virus. The antioxidant looks promising for bolstering health in people as well, says J. Mark Davis, professor of exercise physiology and immunology at the University of South Carolina. In one study, athletes who took 1,000 milligrams daily reported fewer cold and flu symptoms after enduring intense physical training compared with those who took a placebo. It would be difficult to get this dose from diet alone, so a supplement is probably needed, Davis says. Unlike exhausting exercise, low- to moderate-intensity exercise can actually boost immunity, he adds.

Wrinkle Triggers

Women who want to prevent wrinkles should avoid cigarettes and protect themselves from the sun, but they don't need to give up coffee or alcohol, a study of 301 people in Brazil suggests. Smoking, chronic sun exposure, fair skin, and age each increased the risk of facial wrinkles, but consumption of coffee (at least one cup daily) or alcohol (at least three times weekly) had no effect. These beverages tend to be ...