It’s easy to push exercise to the bottom of your to-do list. You might catch yourself saying, “I’m too tired,” or “I’ll do it tomorrow” time and again. But have you ever stopped to think about the real benefits of incorporating regular physical activity into your life? 

You’ve probably heard a lot from those around you: “You’ll sleep better,” “I lost 20 pounds,” or “You’ll feel amazing!” But what do those things truly mean? How does exercise affect your body?  

The reality is that you don’t need to stick to just one type of workout to experience the benefits. From cardio to strength training, all forms of physical activity have both short- and long-term benefits. Who knows? Learning how your body responds to exercise might be just the motivation you need to say, “Today’s the day.” 

Cardiovascular System 

Your cardiovascular system is responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and organs while removing waste products like carbon dioxide. Without putting it under some much-deserved exercise-related stress, it’s more likely to weaken over time, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Even a 15-minute walk is enough to get your blood pumping and kick your cardiovascular system into high gear, keeping it strong and efficient. 

• Short-term effects
  Whether you go for a brisk walk or swim laps at the community pool, any exercise will cause an immediate rise in your heart rate. This happens because your muscles need more oxygen to produce energy. In response, your heart works harder, pumping oxygen-rich blood to fuel your muscles. (This is why your muscles may appear and feel fuller during and right after exercise: they’re temporarily filled with extra blood.) 

• Long-term effects
  Making exercise a regular part of your routine — whether through cardio or strength training — can lead to improved blood pressure regulation over time. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are prone to high blood pressure, as consistent physical activity can help lower and maintain healthy blood pressure levels. 

Musculoskeletal System 

When you engage in exercise, your bones, joints and connective tissues undergo several important changes: 

• Short-term effects
  After a few sets of dumbbells, you may experience a temporary boost in strength and power. This is due to the activation of your muscle fibers, which respond to the demands placed on them. A day or two post-exercise, you might notice soreness in the muscle groups you targeted. This sensation arises from microscopic tears in your muscle fibers — a natural part of the process. If your goal is to tone your muscles or build mass, this soreness is a positive sign, as it indicates that your muscles are on the path to growth through continued tearing and healing. 

• Long-term effects
  Muscle hypertrophy, or growth, doesn’t occur overnight. It requires consistent strength training, gradually increasing both your repetitions and weights over time. Alongside muscle growth, you can also expect improvements in coordination and flexibility. These benefits are partly due to the increased bone density that comes with regular exercise, contributing to a healthier and stronger musculoskeletal system. 

Respiratory System 

Whether you’re perfecting a new yoga pose or training for your first half marathon, breathing is a fundamental component of exercise. It enables your body to receive the oxygen it needs to perform at its best. Here’s what happens to your respiratory system when you engage in exercise: 

• Short-term effects
  During your workout, you’ll notice an increased breathing rate, which means you’ll begin to breathe more quickly. This boost enhances your oxygen uptake because your body requires more oxygen to fuel your muscles. 

• Long-term effects
  After a few repeat workouts, you’ll experience improved lung capacity, strengthening not just your muscles but also your lungs. One of the most significant benefits of consistent exercise on your respiratory system is improved endurance. For instance, when you begin your exercise journey, you might only be able to jog comfortably for five minutes before feeling out of breath. However, with weeks of consistent effort, you’ll find that your endurance has improved, allowing you to jog for twice as long without feeling winded. 

Metabolic Changes 

What about weight loss? In both the short and long term, exercise offers several metabolic benefits that impact calorie burn and weight management: 

• Short-term effects
  During exercise, your body burns significantly more calories compared to when you’re at rest. This is due to the increased energy demand placed on your muscles. If one of your goals is to lose weight, you’ll need to create a calorie deficit, meaning you burn more calories than you consume. By exercising regularly, while maintaining a balanced diet, you’re more likely to shed excess weight as a natural outcome of this energy expenditure. 

• Long-term effects
  Over time, exercise helps build muscle mass, which elevates your resting metabolic rate. This means you’ll continue burning more calories even when you’re not actively working out, creating a cycle that supports both muscle maintenance and weight management. It’s a win-win for your metabolism and overall health! 

Find Your Niche in Healthcare at the University of Florida 

Understanding how exercise affects your body at the physiological level not only helps you achieve personal fitness goals but also opens doors to broader applications in healthcare. If you’re passionate about these topics and want to deepen your knowledge, the University of Florida offers online graduate programs in the medical sciences. Whether you’re interested in clinical research, personal training or physical therapy, UF’s programs equip you with the skills to make a meaningful impact in the health industry.  

From an online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology to an online Graduate Certificate in Medical Human Anatomy (and so many more), there are numerous paths to choose from, depending on your interests and what roles you picture yourself in. 

Explore all of our entirely online program options to choose the program that best aligns with your professional goals. 

Sources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-many-ways-exercise-helps-your-heart
https://www.nsca.com/contentassets/d27e2ba7e56949229d3eb1aaef7ddcfa/trainertips_hypertrophy_201601.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOorWvSuKwwXKmF_KE55YGh0bF3La2gE08_3i82_QieoVxOtwZOOR
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/staying-healthy/exercise-and-bone-health/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27348753/ 

It’s late afternoon, and you have an hour’s worth of work piled on your desk with a tight deadline looming. Yet, you have to leave in 30 minutes to pick up your children from school. The clock is ticking, and the stress is mounting.  

Our stress response, commonly referred to as the “fight-or-flight” reaction, can be triggered by everyday challenges such as work pressures, financial worries, traffic congestion and family obligations. But how do these stressors affect our bodies and mental health?  

In this article, we will explore three types of stress and examine how prolonged exposure to stress can impact you mentally and physically. 

Types of Stress 

There are three main types of stress that a person experiences:  

• Acute stress
  This is short-term stress that everyone faces from time to time. It typically arises from temporary challenges, like meeting a deadline or having an argument. Acute stress can cause physical reactions, such as a racing heart or sweaty palms. 

• Episodic stress
  When acute stress becomes frequent, it can make it harder to return to a relaxed state. People who tend to overcommit or worry constantly often experience episodic acute stress. The effects are similar to acute stress but can also include irritability, anxiety and digestive issues. 

• Chronic stress
  Chronic stress occurs when someone feels stressed for weeks — or even longer. It is often triggered by ongoing challenges like financial problems, work issues or relationship struggles. This type of stress is the most harmful because it causes prolonged elevation of the stress hormone cortisol, which can increase the risk of serious health problems over time. 

Physical Impacts of Stress 

The physiological impacts of stress are extensive and affect several areas of your body. Below, we discuss some of the common impacts that stress causes in each bodily system:  

Cardiovascular and Respiratory System 

• Increased blood pressure
  The release of cortisol can cause your heart to beat faster and narrow your blood vessels, leading to a temporary increase in blood pressure. 

• Increased breathing rate
  In stressful situations, your breathing often quickens to supply more oxygen to your muscles. For individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or emphysema, this can exacerbate breathing difficulties as stress causes airway constriction. 

• Increased risk of heart disease
  Chronic stress can keep blood pressure elevated for long periods, significantly raising the risk of developing cardiovascular issues such as heart disease, heart attacks or strokes.

Immune System 

When stress persists, the prolonged release of cortisol and other stress hormones can suppress the immune response, leaving you more vulnerable to infections and slowing down your recovery time. Over time, this weakened immune state increases the risk of both acute illnesses and chronic conditions. 

Digestive System 

Have you ever felt a sudden case of nerves before a big work meeting or job interview? Maybe you experienced butterflies that turned into an impromptu trip to the bathroom. Whatever the trigger, stress can wreak temporary havoc on your digestive system in several ways. 

Sometimes stress causes gastrointestinal issues, like irritable bowel syndrome or acid reflux. It may also impact your appetite, causing you overeat or lose your appetite altogether. These effects may stem from the brain-gut connection, a network of nerves that allows the brain and gut to communicate. During periods of stress, the gut may become hypersensitive, leading to discomfort, bloating or other digestive disturbances.  

Musculoskeletal System 

When you’re stressed, your muscles become tense. During short-term (acute) stress, this tension usually dissipates once the stressor is gone. However, chronic stress can leave your muscles in a constant state of tightness, which may lead to: 

• Headaches 
• Back pain 
• Worsening of musculoskeletal conditions such as fibromyalgia 

Impact of Stress on Mental Health 

Your mind isn’t the only part of your body affected by short- or long-term stress. Chronic stress can also take a toll on your mental health, causing numerous issues, like:  

• Anxiety disorders 
• Depression 
• General burnout 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Low sex drive 

Stress Management Techniques 

While stress can sometimes feel unavoidable, there are proactive steps you can take to minimize its impact: 

• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
  According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, regular meditation practice can help reduce cortisol levels in the body, promoting both mental and physical relaxation​. Additionally, deep breathing exercises and yoga are effective methods for counteracting the physiological effects of stress​. These practices can enhance emotional well-being and provide tools for managing stress in everyday life. 

• Therapy
  Counselors and therapists offer various techniques to help patients manage stress, ranging from traditional approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to more contemporary methods such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). 

• Lifestyle changes
  Exercise releases endorphins, which can naturally give you a boost in the mood department. It can also improve your sleep quality, which is essential for reducing stress. 

Explore UF’s Graduate Programs in Medical Sciences 

Recognizing the impacts of stress on both the body and mind is crucial, especially for those considering a career in the medical field. If you’re interested in deepening your understanding of the physiological responses to stress and how they relate to health outcomes, the University of Florida offers several online graduate credentials in medical sciences to choose from:  

• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 
• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging 
• Master’s Degree in Medical Anatomy and Physiology 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Anatomy and Physiology 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Human Anatomy 

Explore our course offerings to find the path that aligns with your professional aspirations. When you’re ready, the application — and your future — are just a click away. 

Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11874-stress
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037
https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/the-gut-brain-connection
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22377965/ 

Many of the foods we eat naturally contain vitamins and other nutrients, while others are fortified, such as milk with added vitamin D. Still, some people lack certain essential vitamins due to their diet, age, gender, genetics or other factors. To compensate, many take supplements, such as multivitamins, that deliver a variety of vitamins and minerals in every dose. 

How do vitamins work in the body? Let’s explore this topic and examine the ongoing controversy surrounding supplement efficacy within medical and scientific communities. 

How Do Vitamin Supplements Travel Through Your Body?

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how vitamins travel through the human body: 

1. You swallow the vitamin supplement, and it moves down the esophagus to the stomach. 
2. In the stomach, digestion begins. Digestive acids and enzymes begin to dissolve the supplement, but it’s not fully digested here.
3. The remaining portion travels to the small intestine, where it’s further broken down by digestive enzymes and fluids from the liver and pancreas.
4. In the second and third parts of the small intestine, nutrients from the digested supplement are absorbed into the intestinal lining. From here, the method of entry into the bloodstream depends on the type of vitamin:
   • Water-soluble vitamins (B and C) are absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
   • Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) must be broken down by bile acids before being absorbed. These are then absorbed by the lymphatic system and transported into the bloodstream.
5. The bloodstream carries the beneficial portions of the vitamin to various cells and tissues in the body.
6. Excess water-soluble vitamins and their byproducts exit the body through urine, while remaining fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissues for later use.

What Is the Role of Vitamins in Our Bodies?

Vitamins play crucial roles throughout the body, aiding each organ, tissue and cell in different ways. They help: 

• Fight infections 
• Improve vision 
• Build strong bones and muscles 
• Regulate hormones  

Many cells in our bodies, from skin to bone, regenerate regularly to replace old and damaged ones. For example, the outer layer of our skin cells renews about once a month. This regeneration process requires vitamins, whether obtained from food or supplements, making them essential to the normal, healthy functioning of the body. 

What’s the Controversy Behind Vitamin Supplements?

While taking vitamin supplements may seem beneficial, many experts argue that vitamins in supplement form provide little to no health value compared to those obtained through food. Some point to scant evidence that supplements prevent or cure any major diseases. 

Others contend that the body does absorb beneficial vitamins from supplements but eliminates excess amounts through urination — a potentially favorable scenario. Most experts agree that the best way to obtain vitamins is through a nutrient-rich diet rather than supplements.  

Fortify Your Career with a Master of Science from UF 

Vitamins, drugs and other compounds can profoundly impact the major human body systems. We examine their beneficial and detrimental effects in the University of Florida’s online Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology, offered through our College of Medicine.  

Built around an MCAT-aligned curriculum, our 30-credit MS program prepares you for medical school or nursing school admission and a variety of rewarding careers in medicine, science, pharmacy and research. 

• Earn your master’s degree entirely online — no campus or lab visits required. 
• Get started with no GRE requirement. 
• Complete coursework at your own pace from practically any location. 
• Maintain your professional commitments. 
• Transfer up to 15 credits from a qualifying UF graduate certificate program.  
• Finish your degree in as little as two semesters.

Add a respected master’s degree to your career credentials. Apply today!  

Sources:
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WYNTK-Consumer/
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/is-there-really-any-benefit-to-multivitamins
https://www.prevention.com/life/a20474960/how-to-make-sure-youre-benefiting-from-your-vitamins/
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/which-vitamins-should-you-take
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/7041-digestive-system
https://time.com/6171584/are-vitamins-supplements-healthy/  

Throughout the pharmaceutical world, there are numerous drugs that help people manage multiple conditions. Topiramate, developed to treat seizures, doubles as a migraine treatment. Bupropion, typically prescribed as an antidepressant, also aids in smoking cessation. Minoxidil, developed to treat high blood pressure, is perhaps better known for reversing hair loss.  

Clinical trials determine the effectiveness and safety of drugs before they’re approved for public use, but sometimes these trials reveal unforeseen benefits. Hydroxyzine is a prominent example of this type of versatile medication, and one we’ll explore its multiple uses in this article. 

Hydroxyzine: A Versatile Medication 

Hydroxyzine, a prescription antihistamine typically administered orally, has applications beyond stopping runny noses. As an antihistamine, hydroxyzine is commonly used as a treatment for allergies and allergic reactions, such as certain types of eczema, dermatitis, hay fever, asthma and conjunctivitis. Its additional uses include: 

• Anxiety treatment  
• Sedation before medical procedures 
• Nausea and vomiting relief 
• Motion sickness symptom alleviation  

Some studies, including those conducted by UF Health, also suggest that the anti-inflammatory response of hydroxyzine lowers the risk of death among hospitalized COVID-19 patients.  

How Hydroxyzine Works 

Hydroxyzine, an H1-blocker, impedes the effects of histamine, a chemical produced within the human immune system. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and interacts with serotonin and dopamine receptors, producing sedative and anxiety-reducing effects. 

H1-blockers such as hydroxyzine stop histamines from binding to histamine receptors, which can be found throughout the body, including on glandular and mast cells, smooth muscle, and nerves. Histamines widen blood vessels and make them more permeable, leading to fluid leakage from capillaries into adjacent tissues. H1-blockers prevent these actions, effectively reducing inflammation and alleviating allergy symptoms. 

If an inflammatory condition leads to chronic inflammation, treatment is essential for the prevention of damage to organs and DNA and the development of several serious diseases, including cancer and heart disease. 

Master Drug Mechanisms and Advance Your Medical Sciences Career 

The University of Florida’s online Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology explores how various drugs and substances affect body systems and overall human health. Our 30-credit program enables you to gain crucial knowledge and a valued credential that can lead to a rewarding career as a: 

• Physician 
• Physician assistant 
• Nurse 
• Clinical scientist 
• Professor 
• Researcher

Our program’s MCAT-aligned curriculum helps prepare you for admission to medical school or nursing school and can distinguish you among a wide field of candidates in a highly competitive admissions environment where about 60% of medical school applicants are rejected annually. 

Benefits of Online Learning 

As an online student, you’ll complete your degree entirely online. No campus or lab visits are required. This empowers you to:  

• Access coursework from practically anywhere. 
• Work at your own pace.  
• Connect with classmates and faculty anytime through email, discussion groups and other online tools.  
• Network with students from the U.S. and around the world for broader career prospects.  
• Earn a graduate credential while meeting your professional and personal obligations. 

Start Sooner and Finish Faster 

Our online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology program does not require GRE scores, enabling you to bypass that common admission step. And you can collect your online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology sooner — in as little as two semesters — if you’ve already completed a qualifying UF graduate certificate program. We allow you to transfer up to 15 credits to this MS program from your: 

• Online Graduate Certificate in Medical Pharmacology and Therapeutics 

• Online Graduate Certificate in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 

• Online Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology 

Choose an Institution Acclaimed for Quality

This master’s degree program is bolstered by UF’s exceptional reputation and accolades:

• Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)-accredited College of Medicine
• Renowned faculty comprised of the same accomplished researchers and physicians who teach UF’s medical students
• Acknowledgements including:
  • “Best National Universities” (U.S. News & World Report)
  • “Top Public Schools” (U.S. News & World Report)
  • “Best Value Schools” (U.S. News & World Report)
  • “Most Innovative Schools” (U.S. News & World Report)
  • “America’s Top Online Colleges” (Newsweek)
  • “Best Colleges in America” (Money)

Prime yourself for greater opportunities ahead. Apply now! 

Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/hydroxyzine-oral-route/description/drg-20311434
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20775-hydroxyzine-solution
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24854-histamine 
https://health.usnews.com/wellness/slideshows/8-medications-that-treat-multiple-conditions?slide=9 
https://www.aocd.org/page/antihistamines?

”From a scientific standpoint, nicotine is just as hard, or harder, to quit than heroin.” This jarring statement from nicotine researcher Dr. Neil Benowitz may explain why so many people struggle with giving up nicotine for years, or even a lifetime. 

When individuals use conventional cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco or e-cigarettes, the bloodstream quickly absorbs the chemical nicotine and transports it to the brain. The brain responds by releasing dopamine, the “happy hormone,” producing a pleasurable sensation. The body eventually grows accustomed to that sensation and becomes dependent on nicotine to produce it. When a smoker quits cigarettes, they may begin to feel angrier, sadder and hungrier due to the lack of stimulation from nicotine. They start to crave that happy hormone feeling. This is nicotine addiction. 

Viable Alternatives to Nicotine 

Overcoming nicotine addiction is no easy task for many. But there are substitutes for nicotine that are designed to wean addicts off of this harmful substance. In 1984, nicotine addicts found a new hope as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). NRT products were first introduced in the form of gum, then later patches, lozenges, inhalers and other methods. Many of these were originally offered by prescription only but subsequently became available over the counter.  

NRTs act upon the receptors in the brain that are affected by nicotine, easing the cravings and withdrawal symptoms that most people who give up nicotine experience. Quite often, using multiple NRT methods at the same time yields better results. According to researchers, NRTs boost tobacco quit rates by up to 70%. In most cases, therapy involves gradually reducing the amount of nicotine and/or frequency of the use of NRT until the user is weaned off the addictive chemical altogether. 

It should be noted that while many nicotine users are able to overcome their physiological dependence on nicotine through NRT, such products do not alleviate any behavioral associations that tobacco users develop. For example, some smokers associate pleasure with the act of picking up a cigarette and placing it in their mouth or just feeling the sensation of having a cigarette between the lips. For this reason, behavioral therapy is often recommended alongside or following NRT. 

Master Physiology and Pharmacology Online 

The University of Florida’s renowned College of Medicine provides degree and certificate programs that will help you understand how nicotine and other substances can impact human physiology and broaden your knowledge of body systems overall. Each of these programs is presented entirely online, which allows you to complete a respected education credential on your own schedule, around any professional and personal responsibilities you may have. All programs are available 24/7 from just about any location. 

Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 

Our online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology program explores the major human body systems and how different drugs impact and are impacted by them. In addition, our program helps you prepare for National Board, MCAT and other key exams that can enable you to advance into a new role in your medical career. You may be able to finish this program in as little as one year. 

What’s more, if you have completed a Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology or a Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology (more information below), you’re already halfway to earning a master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology. Our 30-credit degree program accepts up to 15 credits from these UF graduate certificate programs. Consider the advantages of our master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology program: 

• Earn your master’s degree in as little as one year. 
• Complete coursework at your own pace. 
• Build clinical knowledge that can help you excel in medical school. 
• Get started without taking the GRE. 
• Use financial aid options, if needed. 
• Add a career-defining education credential to your resume. 

Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology  

Our Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology investigates the fundamentals of the field and explores individual systems of the human body. You can take as many as six courses in this 9- to 14-credit program, though you are only required to complete 9 credits. That means you may be able to complete the program in a single semester. 

Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 

We also offer a Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology, an advanced-level look at cardiovascular and renal physiology and pathophysiology that you’ll find invaluable in a clinical setting. You can complete this 12-credit program in as little as two semesters. 

Find out how the human body functions and interacts with different drugs and other substances in an entirely online master’s degree or graduate certificate program from the University of Florida. 

Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/dopamine 
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/tobacco-nicotine-e-cigarettes/nicotine-addictive
https://www.cancer.org/healthy/stay-away-from-tobacco/guide-quitting-smoking/nicotine-replacement-therapy.html
https://www.verywellmind.com/nicotine-replacement-therapy-4013217
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/08/160831085320.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5003586/ 
https://www.healthline.com/health/oral-fixation#examples-in-adults  

We spend about one-third of our lives asleep, making it no surprise that sleep is a favorite activity for many. Yet, few of us consider the internal processes at work as we settle into bed and drift into dreamland.  

This is where sleep physiology comes into play. It delves into the biological processes behind sleep, exploring how our bodies regulate it, its effects on bodily functions and the different stages of sleep. 

So, grab your favorite pillow and join us as we uncover the essentials of sleep physiology and discover how to enhance your sleep habits for optimal rest and renewal. 

The Sleep Cycle 

Each night, we cycle through two primary phases of sleep:  

• Nonrapid Eye Movement (NREM) 
  NREM sleep accounts for approximately 75% of your sleep time and consists of three stages:
  • Stage one: This brief phase occurs as you start to fall asleep and lasts about five minutes.
  • Stage two: After we nod off, we enter a light sleep for around 25 minutes.
  • Stage three: This is the deepest phase of NREM and often the hardest to wake from. Waking up during this phase can lead to mental fogginess and reduced performance for up to an hour. It is also the most restorative phase, where the body repairs tissues and boosts the immune system. 

• Rapid Eye Movement (REM) 
  Following NREM, REM sleep begins with rapid eye movements and accounts for about 25% of your total sleep time. This phase is famous for creating vivid dreams — like that one where your cat juggled baby mice before a crowd of elderly lions in 1980s punk rock gear. Despite its rich dream content, REM sleep is the least restorative phase. 

Throughout the night, we cycle through these two phases, with the first NREM cycle lasting about 70 minutes and lengthening with each subsequent cycle. The initial REM cycle lasts around 10 minutes, with later cycles extending up to an hour. In total, we experience approximately four to six sleep cycles a night. 

Effects of Impaired Sleep 

Have you ever struggled through a few rough nights of sleep? Whether it’s due to caring for a new baby or giving in to that third cup of coffee, various factors can lead to restless nights. 

You might have noticed the effects of impaired sleep, like difficulty retaining new information, decreased coordination or mood swings. If so, you’re not alone. According to the National Council on Aging, 30% of Americans suffer from insomnia, and 10% say it affects their daily lives. 

Psychological risks of continued poor sleep may include: 

• Hallucinations 

• Mania 

• Impulsive behavior 

• Anxiety 

• Depression 

• Paranoia 

• Suicidal thoughts 

The Benefits of Restorative Rest 

We’ve all experienced waking up from a blissful eight (or even ten) hours of solid sleep. On those mornings, we often feel well-rested, with increased mental clarity, heightened energy and a renewed drive to tackle the day. Oh, the power of a good night’s sleep. 

While sleep needs vary based on genetics, adults aged 18 to 60 generally require seven or more hours each night to experience the following benefits: 

• Improved immune response 

• Reduced stress levels 

• Enhanced metabolism 

• Better heart health 

• Lower risk of chronic conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke 

• Improved attention span 

• Greater ability to remember information

Tips for Optimizing Sleep 

Even under the best circumstances, not every night will provide the perfect amount of zzz’s — but you can still significantly increase the number of nights you enjoy rejuvenating rest. Here are some tips to improve the quality of your sleep:  

• Establish a bedtime routine 
  Go to bed at the same time each night. Develop a consistent pre-sleep routine, such as showering, brushing your teeth and reading a book in bed, to help you wind down and prepare for rest. 

• Maintain a sleep-positive environment 
  Minimize auditory distractions by closing the door or using a sound machine. Maintain a cool room temperature to enhance thermoregulation, which may help you remain in REM sleep for longer periods. 

• Turn off electronic devices before bed 
  While scrolling through social media or catching up on news might seem like a relaxing end to your day, the blue light emitted by phones can interfere with sleep. Instead, replace screen time with relaxing activities like journaling, meditating, stretching or reading. 

Turn Your Passion Into a Rewarding Career 

If you’re intrigued by what your brain and body are up to while you sleep, or if you’re considering a career dedicated to improving the sleep health of others, there are several paths to explore within this segment of the healthcare industry. 

The University of Florida offers a variety of online graduate programs in the medical sciences designed to help you achieve your professional goals. These programs provide an excellent foundation, whether you’re ready to enter the workforce or plan to apply to professional school for further education.

Explore the online graduate certificates and master’s degrees below to find the program that best suits your interests and career aspirations. 

• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 

• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging 

• Master’s Degree in Medical Anatomy and Physiology 

• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology 

• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 

• Graduate Certificate in Medical Human Anatomy 

• Graduate Certificate in Medical Anatomy and Physiology

Benefits of earning a graduate credential with UF include: 

• Earning many of these credentials in as little as one year. 

• Completing the program at your own pace. 

• Working on assignments from anywhere, anytime. 

• Applying without GRE scores required. 

• Enrolling in programs with year-round admission. 

• Receiving an education from one of U.S. News’ top 50 national universities. 

With so many online graduate credentials to choose from, the choice is yours. Which program aligns with the future of your dreams? Apply today! 

Sources: 
https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-deprivation/effects-on-body#effects
https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/sleep/sleep-statistics/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526132/
https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/index.html
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-the-ideal-sleeping-temperature-for-my-bedroom
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-electronics-affect-sleep 

This very second, you have trillions of microorganisms living inside your body — so many that they make up one to three percent of your entire body weight! While you have a sizable combination of bacteria, fungi and viruses swarming around inside you, most microbial cells in your body consist of different types of bacteria, many of them residing in your gut. 

All those gut bacteria have a handful of important jobs to do, including protecting you against pathogens and helping you digest food, which can be especially helpful if you got a little too excited at the all-you-can-eat pizzeria last weekend. Prepare to thank all those tiny bacteria for their hard work as we discuss the important functions that gut bacteria play in our everyday lives and review some tips to help you improve your gut flora.  

What Is Gut Bacteria? 

While you have microbes living on your skin and throughout your body, most of them are bacteria that live in your large intestine, small intestine and stomach. Also known as gut bacteria, this gargantuan number of tiny organisms goes by several other names as well, including: 

• Microflora 
• Microbiome 
• Microbiota 
• Intestinal flora 
• Gut flora 

Regardless of which moniker you use, they all refer to approximately 1,000 species of bacteria that populate your gut, each responsible for various roles in your body. But you’re not born with all these microbes in your body. A baby in utero has an almost entirely sterile gut. It’s not until they make their way through the birth canal that they receive the mother’s vaginal bacteria. While this might not sound glamorous, it’s exactly what a baby needs to begin forming a healthy gut microbiome. 

What Are the Functions of Gut Bacteria? 

In recent years, microbiologists have spent an increasing amount of time determining the role that intestinal flora play in our health. With so many bacteria inside our intestines, it only makes sense that they are somehow significant, right?  

Scientific research shows that gut bacteria may be responsible for multiple roles in our bodies, including the ones listed below. 

Digesting Food 

Some of the first bacteria that babies grow in their gut are called Bifidobacteria. This type of microbe helps us digest the healthy sugars found in breast milk and promotes growth. As our gut flora become more advanced, they help us digest other forms of nutrients too, including:  

• Fiber 
• Complex carbohydrates (like whole grains and vegetables) 
• Proteins 
• Vitamin K

Supporting Your Immune System 

Some of the bacteria in your gut help line your large intestines to keep harmful substances — and leaky gut syndrome — at bay. Helpful bacteria may also work in tandem with your immune system to help fight against pathogen-causing bacteria and communicate with immune cells to control how your body reacts to infection. 

Influencing Brain Function 

Have you ever experienced a case of “the butterflies” in your stomach before a big test or a nerve-wracking first date? According to the American Psychological Association, your gut is tied to your mood, ability to learn, memory and emotions. So, when you find yourself “going with your gut,” it might be because you’re using your second brain — a.k.a. your gut bacteria’s independent nervous system — to help you make some of your decisions.  

In addition, your brain and gut are connected through neurotransmitters. Often produced in your brain, these chemicals are responsible for controlling your feelings and emotions. For example, serotonin is a neurotransmitter that provides feelings of happiness. Not to be outdone, your gut also produces serotonin as well as gamma-aminobutyric acids (GABA), which help regulate negative emotions like anxiety or fear.   

Does Gut Bacteria Also Cause Health Issues?

Yes, maintaining an unhealthy diet and not getting adequate sleep increases your risk of altering your gut flora’s composition. If you find yourself with an imbalance of the healthy microbes in the gut, it may contribute to certain health problems, such as: 

• Obesity 
• Diabetes 
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) 
• Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS) 
• Metabolic syndrome

How to Improve Gut Flora: Quick Tips 

If you find yourself with more harmful than healthy bacteria, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. With a few changes to your diet, you can begin rebuilding the healthy bacteria in your microbiome. Below are a few tips to implement to get your gut health back on track: 

• Eat a healthy combination of macronutrients such as complex carbs, healthy fats and lean protein. 

• Opt for fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi. They all contain the healthy bacteria Lactobacilli, which may lessen disease-causing bacteria in the gut. 

• Incorporate prebiotic foods like artichokes, asparagus, oats and bananas. They stimulate the growth of healthy gut bacteria. 

• Only take antibiotics when necessary. While they work to kill bacteria-causing infections in your body, they also kill good bacteria. 

You’re not the only one who takes gut health seriously — so does the University of Florida. Our online graduate certificate programs allow you to develop an in-depth comprehension and mastery of the fundamental concepts in several areas of medical sciences, preparing you for numerous careers in healthcare, education, public health and more. 

In addition to acquiring the skills that will provide a leg up against the competition, our 12-credit certificate offers multiple benefits for working professionals, including: 

• Entirely online courses 
• Classes available year-round 
• No GRE requirement 
• Affordable tuition 

Apply to the program that aligns with your future plans today.  

Sources:
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-human-microbiome-project-defines-normal-bacterial-makeup-body
https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/the-secret-world-inside-you/microbiome-at-birth
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-microbiome-and-health#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-019-0704-8
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2012/09/gut-feeling
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-brain-connection
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-your-gut-flora-1944914  

In the United States, approximately 38 million people have diabetes. Within that population, about 95% have type 2 diabetes, a condition that affects your body’s ability to metabolize sugar, otherwise known as glucose. 

One such medication is Ozempic, an injectable drug approved by the FDA in 2017 to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Since its introduction, Ozempic has become widely used—not only for its ability to lower blood sugar but also for a notable side effect: weight loss. While Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight management, its impact on appetite and metabolism has drawn attention beyond the diabetes community.

In this article, we’ll explore how Ozempic works, its role in diabetes management, and why it has gained so much popularity.

What Is Ozempic — and What Does It Treat? 

Ozempic is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by improving blood sugar levels over the long term, which is measured by reducing a person’s HbA1c (hemoglobin A1c) levels. Additionally, regular use of Ozempic may help lower the risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes in individuals with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. 

How Does Ozempic Work? 

The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). When it activates the GLP-1 receptors, Ozempic enhances your body’s ability to control blood sugar by:  

• Telling your pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar is high

• Blocking the release of a hormone called glucagon, which can make your liver release extra sugar into your blood

• Slowing down the rate at which food moves through your intestines, lowering the amount of sugar that enters your bloodstream after you eat

• Making you feel full, leading to less food consumption

Is Ozempic a Weight Loss Aid? 

In short, no — although one of the common side effects of Ozempic is its ability to help some users lose weight. In a recent Forbes article, Dr. Christopher McGowan explained that in addition to Ozempic’s effects on blood glucose, the active ingredient, semaglutide, also impacts the hunger centers in the brain, reducing feelings of hunger and food cravings. 

While not approved by the FDA as a weight-loss medication, its sister drug, Wegovy, received approval for use by overweight individuals or those with cardiovascular disease in 2021. The key difference between Ozempic and Wegovy is the dosage, with Wegovy offering a higher dose of semaglutide to aid weight loss (alongside a healthy diet and exercise). 

So, although the main function of Ozempic isn’t to help people lose weight, its inclusion of semaglutide often results in weight loss as a side effect experienced by many users. Because type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity, its potential to assist in weight loss may also help individuals manage their condition more effectively and improve their overall health.  

Amp Up Your Career in Medicine with a Graduate Credential from UF 

Whether you’re interested in a career in drug development or sales and marketing, the University of Florida offers an online master’s degree in medical physiology and pharmacology tailored to helping you achieve your goals in the medical industry.  

This entirely online program, developed by two renowned departments at UF, consists of 30 credits divided into two core areas, each comprising 15 credits. The program aims to provide you with an advanced scientific understanding of medical physiology, which focuses on the major human body systems, and medical pharmacology, which examines the impact of drugs on living organisms at the cellular and molecular levels.  

With asynchronous courses, you can complete coursework on a timeline that coordinates with your busy schedule, finishing the program in as little as two semesters. 

If you’re curious about some of our other medical physiology programs, we have several other specialized programs, depending on your interests and career aspirations, including: 

• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology 
• Graduate Certificate in Medical Physiology with a specialization in Cardiovascular/Renal Physiology 

If you have questions about any of our programs, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information. And when you’re ready to make the first move toward making your career dreams a reality, the application is only a click away. 

Sources: 
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss
https://www.ozempic.com/why-ozempic/how-ozempic-works.html
https://www.forbes.com/health/weight-loss/ozempic-for-weight-loss/
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-reduce-risk-serious-heart-problems-specifically-adults-obesity-or 

In 1976, researchers first identified a frightening virus that had emerged in the African nation then known as Zaire. While the source of this fast-moving, destructive disease remains unknown, Ebola is believed to have spread to humans from apes, monkeys and bats. There have been several Ebola outbreaks since 1976, primarily in African countries, though the disease has been found in animals originating from Asia as well.  

More recently, the most consequential outbreak became a worldwide epidemic: Beginning in Guinea in 2013, the disease spread to other West African countries and later Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States. In the period of two and a half years, Ebola was responsible for killing more than 11,000 people.  

In this article, we explore the devastating effects of the Ebola virus on the human body, tracing its progression from initial symptoms to immune system disruption and organ failure. 

What Is Ebola? 

Ebola is a severe and often fatal disease caused by the Ebola virus. Viewed through a microscope, Ebola looks somewhat like a worm that’s knotted and looped at one end. Like many diseases, it may not be easily recognized by its symptoms, since it shares early symptoms common in many other diseases, including those that indicate a far less serious condition. These symptoms may appear up to three weeks after exposure to the virus and include: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Aches 
• Fatigue 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Unusual bruising 
• Bleeding from multiple orifices

How Is Ebola Transmitted?

Humans can contract the virus through contact with infected animal blood and tissue, often via hunting and eating carriers of the disease or being bitten by one of them. The infected individual may then expose others to the disease through their bodily fluids, which can enter the body through a wound, the mucous membranes of the face, or intimate contact. Even a person who has died from Ebola can remain contagious, so their bodies must be handled with care.  

What Does Ebola Do Once Inside the Body?

Ebola immediately attacks the immune system that was designed to fight it, leaving immune cells unresponsive, then rapidly replicates itself and spreads through the bloodstream. Other infected immune cells throughout the body cause clots that rob organs of essential blood. The virus does some of its most catastrophic damage by inhibiting plasma production, though other organs and systems are also impacted as the disease makes its way through the body.  

Many patients die from Ebola: up to 90%, with an average of 50%. Having quality medical care and a strong immune system can increase one’s odds of recovery. End-stage symptoms may include brain inflammation and organ failure. Medical experts believe that Ebola survivors may develop some immunity, as antibodies stay in their blood for up to a decade.  

Discover How Disease and Other Factors Affect Our Body Systems 

As you’ve seen, Ebola can wreak havoc throughout the body, impacting many organs and often resulting in death. The University of Florida is proud to offer several entirely online Master of Science programs that provide different perspectives on the body systems, their organs and factors that can affect them. Some of them include: 

Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Pharmacology 

Acquire a comprehensive scientific understanding of key human body systems, delve into the effects of drugs on living organisms at cellular and molecular tiers, and explore both normal and abnormal conditions in human body systems. Finish this 30-credit degree program in as little as two semesters. 

Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Medical Physiology and Aging 

Develop a more expansive and profound understanding of the biological processes associated with aging. Finish this 30-credit degree program in as little as one year. 

Bring the benefits of a master’s degree in medical physiology to your career! 

Sources:
https://time.com/3502740/ebola-virus-1976/
https://www.itg.be/en/health-stories/impact-stories/the-discovery-of-and-research-on-the-ebola-virus