Hotter temperatures bring people outdoors, but they also bring insects out of hiding, says NorthShore University. From mosquitoes to ticks, the summer months are a hotbed for bites from these insects. To protect against summer bugs, NorthShore recommends: Don’t apply perfumes, and avoid scented soaps. Stay away from stagnant water and wooded areas. Avoid wearing… read on >
People are getting the message about the dangers of sugar. Nearly 70% of Americans have cut back on foods high in added sugars, according to a survey by the International Food Information Council Foundation. But there’s still a long way to go. One of the key ways to reduce your sugar intake is by drinking… read on >
More than 3 million kids are hospitalized in the United States every year. Whether it’s for a planned test or surgery or an injury or other emergency, knowing how to be involved in your child’s care can help you get through what’s often a stressful event. The single most important thing you can do is… read on >
Financial rewards for quitting smoking do help smokers — including pregnant women — kick the habit and remain smoke-free, a new study confirms. “Rewards, such as money or vouchers, have been used to encourage smokers to quit, and to reward them if they stay stopped. Such schemes have been used in workplaces, in clinics and… read on >
The heat is on. Across two-thirds of the United States, over 115 million Americans live where some level of heat alert is already in effect, and 290 million will see temperatures soar past 90 degrees at some point in the next week, USA Today reported Wednesday. As a dome of high pressure settles over much… read on >
When it comes to blood pressure readings, the “top” number seems to grab all the attention. But a large, new study confirms that both numbers are, in fact, critical in determining the risk of heart attack and stroke. Blood pressure measurements are given as a “top” and “bottom” number. The first reflects systolic blood pressure,… read on >
The herbal supplement kratom regularly causes serious side effects and doesn’t appear safe for use, a new study argues. Kratom, made from the leaves of a Southeast Asian plant, is usually used to treat pain and addiction. But poison control center data shows it has been tied to seizures, withdrawal, hallucinations, agitation and rapid heart… read on >
Tanning beds and sun lamps can cause serious long-term skin damage, says the American Cancer Society. Indoor tanning exposes the skin to ultraviolet (UV) rays — the cause of most skin cancer. A tan is the body’s response to injury from UV rays. Every time you tan, your risk of the deadly skin cancer melanoma… read on >
If you’re looking to change up that sugary bowl of cold cereal, quinoa and amaranth are nutritious alternatives. These tiny grains (they’re actually seeds) make excellent and hearty breakfasts, and are rich in iron, protein and magnesium along with many other vital nutrients. Cinnamon is the ideal spice to boost the flavor of these hearty… read on >
The rotator cuff refers to a group of four distinct muscles and tendons that connect to each shoulder and stabilize the humerus, the upper arm bone. These muscles are engaged when you move your shoulder, and work together to give you the needed range of motion to toss a ball or reach for an object… read on >
