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Too much time playing videogames seems to be the good life, but you have to think of what it's doing for your health. Remember the true sound of bliss, don't keep an eye on it and be sure to take what the doctor ordered with this list of health tips:
Don't keep an Eye on it
For all the hours you spend in front of that HDTV screen or computer, you can also spare a few minutes to look away, and give your eyes a break. It's a known fact that the brightness of some screens and the amount of time you spend on it can really cause some damage to your eyes. Researchers say risks of cataracts and macular degeneration can be reduced by antioxidants. Antioxidants such as Vitamin A can protect you against blindness, and Vitamin C may help prevent glaucoma. In general, it is recommended to eat plenty of vegetables, nuts and fruits. Also, flaxseed oil and fish oil may help relieve dry eyes and reduce the risk of other kinds of eye problems. So remember folks, don't keep an eye on it for too long.
Help yourself
This year you want to treat yourself, and treat yourself to something nice and possibly sweet. No we're not talking about sweets and foods such as chips, candy bars and sodas. Most of the time we're not as concious about what we eat while we game, but we've got some suggestions to some delicious treats. Give slices of swiss cheese around honey pretzel rods a try. And instead of soda, try some pomegranate juice mixed with some seltzer. Skip the candy and chocolate and try making some GORP (good ol' raisin and peanuts). Spruce them up with some roasted almonds, M&Ms and dried cranberries. And avoid any shakes or juice bar smoothies; these are full of added sugar and will just make you sluggish. Instead try to eat a piece of fruit or make your own smoothie by blending frozen berries with some nonfat yogurt and a squeeze of honey. www.lowfatlifestyle.com
Posture Fix
Playing games on the floor, or even on your ol' kitchen chair or couch, is so "old school". But you know as well as any that five straight hours in a kitchen chair will do a number on your back and bum. Since you spend most of your hours sitting down, how about investing (and we're talking really invest) in a chair that's ergonomically designed to help your posture and ensure you won't be aching late into the night. Sure the Aeron Basic Chair ($679) from Room & Board comes with a hefty price tag, but c'mon; you know you've spent more than that at this year's CES. But if you are really serious about comfort when gaming, move up to the Bodysound Technology chair. For more details check out the site.
Sound of Bliss
There are only so many beeps and boops you can deal with, right? If you can never get enough, then the best place for soothing videogame soundtracks is to find some chiptunes music over at 8bitcollective.com. The tunes are catchy without the distraction of your avatars. But if this doesn't float your boat, try listening to some old school Bach or Chopin to soothe your mind. Trust us: it'll clear your head and help you focus on your next moves. Don't know where to find it? Chances are your parents have some mix CDs or you can even find it on iTunes. Or listen to some ambient music from groups like Sigur Ros, An Pierle and Mono to calm your frayed nerves after some gaming frustration.
What the Doctor Ordered
They've done it again. A Japanese company came up with the genius idea to invent Game Suppli, vitamins for gamers. Intended to help us with hand-eye coordination and increase our energy, the "Blue Berry" pack refreshes you during marathon gaming sessions, while the "DHA" pack boosts your attention. While these little nuggets of wonder have yet to be tested (they seem to be only available in Asia), it begs the question, "Why haven't we thought of anything this genius, yet?" But if you believe in the power of vitamin supplements, visit your local GNC and I'm sure they can help you find the right pills to keep your head on straight. Just be prepared for some laughter after you make your request.
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