Paging Anne Hathaway: This Is Your Body On A Fast [Discovery News] She trimmed her thin frame by a whopping 25 pounds to play Fantine in Les Misérables, so we’re sure Anne Hathaway is already well-aware that starvation diets are, well, pretty miserable. Now experts are chiming in on how extreme fasts can impact the body, warning that even 48 hours of calorie deprivation can slow the metabolism and catalyze the destruction of vital muscle tissue. Curbing water intake is even more severe, significantly raising the risk of cardiac arrest. (On a eating plan? Learn more about The Problems With Diet Perfectionism.) Why We Walk In Synch With Loved Ones [Futurity] Ever look down and notice that you and your best friend are walking in complete synchronicity? It isn’t a fluke, says new research from the California Institute of Technology. Instead, experts say, our ability to unconsciously synchronize movements is determined by the extent of our bond with another person. They suspect that the finding might one day be beneficial in hiring situations and even in dating: If you and a potential romantic partner mimic one another quickly, you might one day walk (in complete synchronicity, of course) down the aisle. (Not feeling so close lately? Check out 12 Relationship Problems, Solved.) A New Downside To Distress [WebMD] Another good reason to stay positive, or at least cope with any stress or sadness that’s been weighing on you: New research is suggesting a link between distress (a combination of depression, stress, and dissatisfaction with life) and elevated risk of stroke among those over the age of 65. Study participants with the highest levels of distress were twice as likely to suffer a stroke than those with the lowest levels of distress, researchers found. Fortunately, there’s plenty you can do to relieve stress and boost your mood, from a yoga class to dinner with a friend. Check out these 10 Simple Ways To Relieve Stress for more ideas. Follow her on Twitter: @katiedrumm Send news tips and positive vibes to: Katie.Drummond@rodale.com
