Viral 'hacks' for good health

Some of the most surprising health tips on social media are backed by real science! Here, popular advice that you can try yourself

- GABRIELLE LICHTERMAN

Lower your BP with 'Japanese walking'

When Harvard-trained Saurabh Sethi, M.D., shares a tip on social media, his 3 million followers pay attention. So it's no surprise his video on Japanese interval walking to lower blood pressure went viral. To do it, stroll at a leisurely pace for 3 minutes, then speed up for 3 minutes. Repeat for a total of 30 minutes. In a study from Japan, women who did this at least four days a week saw their systolic blood pressure (top number) drop by eight points in five months. That's five points more than those who walked at a moderate pace for twice as long.

OR COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

Jotting down a few reasons to feel grateful every day can lower systolic blood pressure by seven points in 12 weeks, finds a Brazilian study. Reminding yourself of positives in your life boosts optimism and resilience, which improves the elasticity of blood vessels.

Shed excess pounds with oatmeal