Nature cures for what ails you

More doctors are giving patients ‘nature prescriptions’—recommending they spend time surrounded by plants, water and sunshine. Here’s how following their wise advice can improve your life.

- — By GABRIELLE LICHTERMAN

Gardening protects your heart

Growing flowers, vegetables or other plants lowers your risk of serious heart trouble by 40% and stroke by 45%, reveals a Penn State study. Experts say that digging, raking, weeding and pruning count as moderate-intensity exercise, which curbs cholesterol and improves blood vessel health-key for keeping your heart strong.

Dodge diabetes with an outdoor lunch

You already know that cutting back on sugary foods reduces your risk of type 2 diabetes. Surprisingly, so can heading outside during the middle of the day or opening your curtains between 10 AM and 2 PM, suggests research from Oxford University. Bright midday sunlight increases nighttime levels of the sleep hormone melatonin. This, in turn, lowers insulin levels, helping the body process glucose more efficiently.

OR VISIT A FARMSTAND Eating plenty of blueberries, raspberries and strawberries makes you up to 28% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, shows new research from Ireland. The flavonoids in berries reduce inflammation linked to the onset of the condition.

Sleep better by potting a plant