Sunday, February 12, 2012
Steal Some Time for Yourself
Exercise is one of the top ingredients in a healthy lifestyle. Adults should exercise at least 30 minutes - kids and teens at least 60 - 5 days a week or more. And that's on top of your usual activities, like taking out the trash and digging for the remote control.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Know What You're Taking
When you pick up a new prescription or refill, make sure the drug name and strength match what your doctor prescribed. If you don't understand the label directions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take your medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Online Answers
The Internet can be a great source of health news - but it's also cluttered with misinformation. Makers of quick-fix solutions or miracle cures prey on people with difficult health issues. So check, check and double-check sources before you commit to any treatment plan or spend *any* money.
Thursday, February 09, 2012
The Key to a Healty Diet
Ever wonder what a "healthy diet" really is? It should emphasize plant foods - at least five servings of vegetables and fruit every day. Eat fish and whole grains, limit red meat and processed meat, and, of course, pay attention to calorie intake.
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
Mixing Meds Doesn't Always Match
Over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbal remedies, and even some foods can interact with medications. That's why you need to tell your doctor about everything you take. If you have any problems or side effects, talk with your doctor, who may decide to change the dosage or try a different medicine.
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
Something to Make You Smile
Since chocolate comes from cocoa beans, it's a plant-based food containing antioxidants. So a small amount is a healthy indulgence, especially if it's dark chocolate - but eating too much has more drawbacks than benefits. As always, moderation is the key.
Monday, February 06, 2012
Not a Corner You Want to Cut
Not refilling your prescriptions might seem like a good way to save money - but it could actually cost you much more in the long run. Make sure everyone in your family follows doctor's orders. If your doctor says to renew the prescription, do it.
Sunday, February 05, 2012
Don't Just Take Their Word for It
If you're not sure why you're taking a medication, ask your doctor. You should know the name and strength of the medication, why you're taking it, and how long you'll take it. Put this information in a written list. Make note of any special instructions, such as taking it with food or on an empty stomach.
Saturday, February 04, 2012
A Good Idea for Everyone
If you need to lose weight, start walking. And you have a dog, even better - exercise is good for every body, human and canine. When you think about it, walking with your pooch could help you get rid of that pesky pooch in your middle! And that's a win-win - or a woof-woof - for both of you.
Friday, February 03, 2012
There's a Right Way to Do It
To get rid of old medicines safely, cross out all the information on the original bottle - except for the name of the medication. For solid medications, add water to dissolve them; for liquids, add a strong spice to discourage anyone from taking a drink. Then seal 'em with duct tape and throw 'em away.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
How to Relieve Back Pain
If you have back pain that doesn't go away within a few days, see your doctor. He or she may recommend treatment such as physical therapy, spinal manipulation, acupuncture, prescription or over-the-counter medications - or a combination of these therapies.
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
Shake a Leg!
Most people over age 30 can help prevent bone loss with regular weight-bearing exercise like stair-climbing, skiing, skipping rope, playing tennis - even dancing! This kind of exercise has a positive effect on the bones in your legs, hips, and lower spine.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Strengthen Your Heart
Heart disease tops the list of health problems that lead to early death for men *and* women. Reduce your risk with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods - and at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Healthy habits and a healthy weight can lead to a healthy heart.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Gesundheit!
The leading causes of indoor allergies are dust mites, pet dander, and mold. To reduce your family's exposure: Dust and vacuum often, wash bedding in hot water, get rid of "dust magnets" like artificial flowers, clean bathroom surfaces with bleach, and try to reduce humidity in your home.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Good Breakfast, Bad Breakfast
Sure, eating breakfast is important. But eating a high-fat, high-carbohydrate breakfast day after day can overwhelm the blood vessels with chronic inflammation, which contributes to diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions. How 'bout some fruit or oatmeal instead?
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Double Checking Never Hurt Anyone
To avoid mistakes with your medications, make a list of the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and anything else you take. Note any drug allergies. Update this information regularly, keep it handy, and make sure someone else knows where to find it.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Stay Ahead of the Game
Want to stay ahead of diseases like cancer and diabetes? Ask your doctor about the regular screenings you need for your age and gender. All adults not at high risk should have a blood pressure check, colorectal cancer screening, cholesterol check, and diabetes test at certain times and ages.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Seek Out Vitamin D
Your body needs calcium - and it needs Vitamin D, too. Without Vitamin D, your body can't process the calcium. You can get Vitamin D from sunlight, from supplements, and from your diet, especially fortified dairy products, egg yolks, saltwater fish, and liver.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
No Need to Break Records
Getting in shape doesn't have to mean training for the Olympics! Even a little bit of exercise can help you live a longer, healthier life. So, take the first step - even if you have to walk downhill! Talk to your doctor about exercise, because a little bit can do a lot of good.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Visit Your Doctor Regularly
It's common knowledge that men *hate* going to the doctor. But it's just plain smart to see a doctor at least once a year, whether you're sick or not. Preventive care can help detect warning signals of heart disease, cancer, and stroke - three of the biggest threats to men's health.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Just for Women!
You've probably heard that folic acid reduces the risk of certain birth defects. But these conditions usually develop early. By the time you realize you're pregnant, you've missed a great chance to protect your baby. For that reason, all women of childbearing age should take a folic acid supplement - even if they're not trying to have a baby.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Grandma Was Right
Americans spend billions of dollars a year trying to relieve cold symptoms through doctor visits and medications - including antibiotics, which have *no effect* on a cold. It's usually best to stick with the tried-and-true: Rest, drink lots of fluids, take Vitamin C or zinc, and eat healthy foods.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
There's Help Out There
When you're feeling depressed, it can affect your family, your job, your enjoyment of life, even your physical health. Don't go it alone. If you think you're experiencing signs of depression, talk to your doctor and get help.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Power in Numbers
If you're having surgery or going to the doctor about a serious health issue, bring an advocate with you. Your advocate doesn't need any special medical training. What's most important is knowledge about your condition, attention to detail, and a willingness to ask questions.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Just Because It's Online Doesn't Make It True
Do you go to the Internet to find medical information? To ensure the information is reliable, find out: Who runs the Web site? What companies pay for ads on the site? Do they cite sources for their information? And, when was the site last updated? Some healthy skepticism could save you time and money.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Throw 'Em Away the Proper Way
Don't flush old medications down the toilet - they pollute the wastewater, which can harm fish and other aquatic life. Ask your pharmacist to dispose of your old pills, or take them to a hazardous waste disposal facility. Or, wrap the drugs securely and put them in the trash - safely away from children and animals.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Strong Diet = Strong Bones
A lifetime diet that's rich in calcium and Vitamin D makes your bones stronger. Milk, yogurt, cheese, broccoli, canned salmon with the bones, and orange juice are all excellent sources of calcium. What a great excuse to treat yourself with some frozen yogurt!
Monday, January 16, 2012
Stay Immune to Disease
Immunizations are your best shot at staying healthy, right from birth. Ask your doctor about specific recommendations for you and your child. And don't forget teenagers. They may need special shots, like the one for meningitis, especially if they're going off to college.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
H 2 Ohh Yeah!
It's amazing what a simple thing like water can do for your health. But it's also important to avoid heavy caffeine and alcohol - they contain diuretics that cause the body to *lose* water. And show some restraint with alcohol, too. Your body needs something cool, refreshing, and clearly good for you - water!
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Another Reason to Eat Healthy
Have you heard about inflammation *inside* your body? While researchers are just beginning to understand how it may contribute to disease, why wait 'til all the evidence is in? To reduce inflammation, try eating more fruits, vegetables, and cold-water, oily fish like salmon and herring.
Friday, January 13, 2012
The Importance of a Few Zzz's
Tossing and turning at night can keep you from functioning at your best during the day. To get a better night's sleep, stick to your regular bedtime, even on weekends, keep your sleeping area dark, quiet, and cool, and avoid eating or drinking alcohol close to bedtime. Nighty night!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Don't Mess Around!
Taking outdated medications can be a waste of your money. Their chemical makeup and strength can change over time, causing them to be less effective - and sometimes even harmful to you. So check expiration dates, throw away loose pills, and leave pills in their original containers.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Be Prepared
Before your next doctor's visit write down any all the medications you take, from all the doctors you go to. Be sure to include over-the-counter drugs and supplements, too. Your list can help you fill out the paperwork before your visit, and your doctor can be on the lookout for potential drug interactions.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Little Steps Make a Big Difference
You *can* keep diabetes away, even if you're at high risk. Healthy lifestyle changes - like eating better and exercising - can help with controlling glucose levels, even in people who already have diabetes. Of course, some need regular insulin injections. Ask your doctor about what's best for you.
Monday, January 09, 2012
Take a Deep Breath
If you have asthma, watch out for drugs that can trigger an attack - especially drugs that lower blood pressure, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, and contrast dyes used in X-rays. If your asthma gets worse after taking a certain drug, tell your doctor right away.
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Not Just a Threat to Men
Heart disease is the number-one killer of men and women. But research shows some risk factors affect women more - including type 2 diabetes, low HDL cholesterol levels, and high triglyceride levels. Your doctor can help you monitor your levels and minimize your risks.
Saturday, January 07, 2012
The Key to Losing Weight
Experts agree that the key to losing weight is burning more calories than you take in. Yep, that means you gotta eat less and exercise more. So don't fall for fads or pills that only waste your money and time. Keep it simple, eat healthy foods, and stay active.
Friday, January 06, 2012
Feeling Stressed Out?
If everyday stress causes excessive anxiety, you may have generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD - and you're not alone. GAD affects four million people in the U.S. If anxiety is interfering with your life, talk with your doctor - because help is available.
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Time Is Money
Before your next doctor's visit, write down any symptoms you're having and any questions you want to ask. Time with the doctor can go by fast. Having everything in writing can help you make the most of your time.
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Sweet Relief!
Low back pain is one of the most common work-related health problems. If you suffer from low-back pain, ask your doctor for guidelines on exercise, posture, proper lifting, wearing the right shoes, and reducing your stress. Relief may be within your reach.
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
Not All Lip Balms Are Created Equal
With the low temperatures, you'll probably be turning to lip balm to protect your lips. Before you apply any of it, check the ingredient list. If your lip balm has phenols, don't use it. These compounds will actually strip off the top layer of your lips. Instead, opt for a moisturizing lip balm instead. It will keep your lips' natural protective layer safe and sound.
Monday, January 02, 2012
Milk Does a Body Good
Most Americans are calcium-deprived. If you're one of them, think about changing your ways. Getting enough calcium, Vitamin D, and other minerals can help you build strong bones and stay strong throughout your lifetime.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
Internet Information
The Internet can be a great source of health news – but it's also cluttered with misinformation. Makers of quick-fix solutions or miracle cures prey on people with difficult health issues. So check, check and double-check sources before you commit to any treatment plan or spend any money.
