It’s always been a little dream of mine to stay healthy enough to run well into my later years. I’d love to celebrate my 70′s by running a marathon. New research suggests that by keeping up my running routine I’m promoting this very opportunity. New research from the Copenhagen City Heart study presented at the EuroPRevent2012 meeting reports that jogging can extend life by as much as 6.2 years in men and 5.6 years in women. I’d say that makes a daily jog more than worth it.

Believe it or not, this study began in 1976 with a follow up minimum of 35 years. The difference between joggers and non-joggers is more than noticeable. There were 10,158 deaths registered among the non-joggers group and 122 deaths among the joggers. They reported that the risk of death was reduced by 44% for male joggers and 44% for female joggers.

It’s not uncommon for non-runners to fear getting started out of embarrassment of what others may think or how slow they run. The truth is, whether you run a fast mile or slow mile, the health benefits make every step so worth it! Anyone who would even dream of judging others for working at improved longevity and health wouldn’t be worth associating with anyway.

Lace up those running shoes and go for a jog. If you don’t think you have the time, just remember that you may very well be adding time to your life by doing so!

Can’t run? That’s OK – Start with any form of physical activity. Dr. Schnohr, chief cardiologist of the Copenhagen City Heart Study, suggests to, “aim to feel a little breathless, but not very breathless.”

You can learn more about the study by visiting the European Society of Cardiology.

The truth be told, I think the “don’t eat potatoes” claim could use an overhaul. Potatoes are an important staple food for many countries. They offer as a low fat source of much needed glycogen stocking carbohydrates for a training athlete. They are also a source of potassium which supports muscle contraction; vitamin C to support a healthy immune system, vitamin B6 which is required for the breakdown of glycogen; and beneficial, filling fiber. There is a lot of good that can come with eating a potato.

New research lead by Adam Drewnowski, PhD, Professor of Epidemiology and Director of the Nutritional Sciences Program at the University of Washington found no link between white potatoes and obesity, diabetes, or systemic inflammation. Taking such information a step further; keep in mind, a diet sufficient in carbohydrates for a training athlete supports keeping inflammation at bay. It’s important to note that eating deep fried or butter and sour cream saturated potatoes will put a negative spin on the otherwise low-fat source of carbohydrates.

Here are a few recipes I posted in the past that can offer as more healthful ways to incorporate potatoes in the diet. Those with conditions such as diabetes would benefit from appropriate portion control with potatoes, but it’s not necessary to eliminate them completely from the diet.

Southwest Baked Potato

Sweet Potato Teff Pancakes

Sweet Potato French Fries