Germs may thrive at the gym, creating a perfect breeding ground for skin infections. Bacteria, viruses and fungi thrive in warm and moist places, such as the locker room or sweaty gym equipment, the American Academy of Dermatology says. The academy mentions these preventive tips: Wear loose-fitting, moisture-wicking clothing. Always wear shoes around the locker… read on >
To strengthen your back — the most commonly injured part of the body — it’s important to condition both the muscles in it and the ones that support it, notably the abs. Here are four moves to boost back fitness: For the bird dog, start on your hands and knees. Tighten your abs and simultaneously… read on >
Whether it’s infiltrating a cruise ship, a restaurant or a college dorm, the norovirus is often in the news. It’s the leading cause of illness from contaminated food in the United States. While food can be tainted at its source, food workers who acquire the infection can unintentionally cause outbreaks as well, often by touching… read on >
Leaky blood vessels in the brain may be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers say. They followed 161 older adults for five years and found that those with the most severe memory declines had the greatest leakage in their brain’s blood vessels, regardless of whether the Alzheimer’s-related proteins amyloid and tau were present. The… read on >
The vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV) is highly effective in young women — and may even offer some protection to those who don’t get it, a new study suggests. Researchers said the findings add to evidence that the vaccine — which ultimately cuts the risk of several cancers — is a boon to public health.… read on >
Uncontrolled high blood pressure is dangerous and could even lead to death, the American Heart Association says. The AHA offers these suggestions for controlling high blood pressure: Know your numbers and identity your target blood pressure range. Work with your doctor to develop a plan to lower your pressure. Make lifestyle changes — such as… read on >
If a loved one has symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, he or she should visit a doctor for a formal evaluation. It may be easier to control the disease if it’s diagnosed early, the Alzheimer’s Association says. Here is the association’s list of other potential benefits of early diagnosis: Better access to treatment options. Possible participation… read on >
MONDAY, Jan. 21, 2019 There’s no doubt that an unhealthy diet and couch potato lifestyle put your health at risk, but when considering improvements, should you change one at a time or both at once? Northwestern University researchers found that it’s not only doable, but also more effective, to change unhealthy behaviors simultaneously. Different groups… read on >
You know about the value of exercise for heart health and for staying strong and independent as you age. There’s also proof that exercise keeps your body young physically as well as mentally. A British study involving cycling enthusiasts between the ages of 55 and 79 found that their physical shape and abilities rivaled those… read on >
No parent wants to see their child catch a cold, but some take prevention measures that have little basis in science, a new survey shows. For example, 51 percent of parents said they give their child an over-the-counter vitamin or supplement to prevent colds, even though there’s no evidence they work. Seventy-one percent of parents… read on >
