Why do we close our eyes when sneezing?
This is simply a reflex, an involuntary response to a stimulus. Sneezing is triggered by irritation to the nose and as a result, electrical impulses are relayed to the “sneeze centre” in the brain.
This stimulates muscles in the lungs, mouth and nose to contract in order to expel the irritant. At the same time, the eyes shut involuntarily as part of the response of the facial muscles.
What’s the difference? – Salt and sodium:
Sodium is one of the main components of salt (sodium chloride). It’s the sodium in salt that’s linked to high blood pressure.
If nutrition labels give only values for sodium, multiply this value by 2.5 to get the salt content. Health experts recommend having no more than 6g of salt a day, which is equivalent to 2.4g of sodium (currently, the average intake is around 8.5g salt or 3.4g sodium).
Sodium occurs naturally in many foods, but most of our intake comes in the form of added salt from ready meals, pasta sauces, soups, sausages, ham, cheese, breads and cereals. These account for three-quarters of the salt we eat.
TINY TWEAKS
Try it: Taking the stairs. A Canadian study found that walking instead of taking the lift saves up to 15 minutes a day. It takes an average of 13 seconds to walk up one floor, whereas a lift takes 37 seconds (including waiting time). And, of course, walking helps you lose weight.
Switch it: Swap that coffee for a stick of gum. Scientists have revealed that chewing gum boosts concentration – but only if chewed before a test or stressful episode and not during one. It seems gum may increase alertness and brain-cell activity.
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