Health Archives - Page 2 of 2 - John Alexander Blog

How I used world travel to deal with the anxiety of going bald, and move on from it successfully

January 25, 2021November 16, 2014 by John Alexander

I first wrote in 2013 about how I tried to beat hair loss. Then, after assessing all the various treatment options, decided the benefits (for me) did not outweigh the risks. Next, I’d like to share with you whats worked for me in moving past my hair loss. For those people still fighting the battle … Read more

Good Calories, Bad Calories Summary

October 12, 2020April 26, 2013 by John Alexander

These are the ‘inescapable conclusions’ stemming from the research completed by Gary Taubes in his book Good Calories, Bad Calories:

Don’t Run Marathons

October 12, 2020April 19, 2013 by John Alexander

Understandably for many, marathon running is more about the challenge than it is about staying fit. Often runners raise huge sums of money for their chosen charities. However for those who think it’s a healthy persuit I’d urge them to think again. Especially if interested in an attractive physique.

Hairloss: Lessons Learnt Fighting It

July 4, 2022January 2, 2013 by John Alexander

October 2020 Note: This post was authored back in 2013, and 7 years later, I’d expect the hair loss landscape to have changed a bit. So fair warning, this is an old article.

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As someone for whom hair loss is in the family tree, I was keen to find out if with all our modern technology and drugs, it could be prevented. I delved deep into the subject, and below I share what I’ve learnt.

Middle Aged Obesity

October 12, 2020December 31, 2012 by John Alexander

The Problem

Up until recently (now 25 years old) I didn’t put on weight. I could happily eat ‘crap’ and not worry about the consequences. That’s not unique by any means – lots of guys are similar. It appears to be one of the benefits of youth. However as I’ve got older I’ve put on weight that wasn’t there before. Much like most men really.

Not a huge deal – but I’ve always dreaded ending up looking like a rotund middle aged man. I assumed that ‘listening’ to my body in terms of hunger was enough to stave off obesity – however it turns out this isn’t the case (unremarkably). Perhaps in pre-industrialised world where shops aren’t filled with high sugar snacks and drinks – this would be possible. Instead it turns out I’m going to have to be conscious about the food I eat *sigh*… so off I went in search of some answers.

Sustainable Fitness

October 12, 2020August 10, 2012 by John Alexander

I believe in sustainable fitness, such that we should be able to remain healthy and active late into life. This approach requires science, moderation and discipline. It revolves around good nutrition and a variety of exercise. General ‘principles’ I subscribe to: Gary Taubes/Robert Atkins/William Banting’s approaches to diet To build muscle, lift heavy, focus on … Read more

1 Year Later – Running and Weight Lifting in Barefoot Shoes

October 12, 2020July 31, 2012 by John Alexander

It’s safe to say barefoot shoes (specifically Vibram FiveFingers) have changed my life. In particular the way I train and run. They change your cadence and posture when running – resulting in shorter, lighter strides. This is particularly beneficial when it comes to sustainable fitness, as your knees don’t take as much of a pounding. … Read more