Sleep is a complex biological process that helps you process new information, stay healthy and feel rested, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says. Not getting enough sleep can trigger illness, poor performance in daily activities, memory loss and other health concerns, the agency adds. Here are suggestions for getting enough quality sleep: Go to… read on >
Brown-bag lunches give you control over what you eat and what your children eat, but studies show that these to-go meals need to be healthier. This is especially important for kids because their eating habits are developed during the preschool years. Recent studies have evaluated lunches for preschoolers by comparing their contents to the Healthy… read on >
A change as simple as where you do most of your food shopping could translate to a better diet. A San Diego State University study looked at the food shopping habits of college students in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and identified patterns, such as whether they were fresh food market or convenience shoppers, and whether… read on >
For many breast cancer patients, removal of lymph nodes in the armpit area is a common procedure, due to worries that the tumor has spread to these tissues. But the operation can also bring the difficult long-term side effect of lymphedema, a painful arm swelling. Now, new Dutch research suggests that for early stage breast… read on >
Heart patients taking part in cardiac rehabilitation could receive a spicy side effect from the program — a boost in their sex life. Attending cardiac rehab is associated with improved sexual function and more frequent sex, according to a new evidence review. The program likely helps by increasing the patient’s physical fitness, said lead researcher… read on >
Medical science has made tremendous advances in “personalized medicine” — drugs that fight cancer and other diseases by boosting the immune system or targeting specific genetic traits. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter benefited from one of these drugs, Keytruda (pembrolizumab), which successfully beat back his brain cancer by ramping up his immune system. But the… read on >
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms of a concussion tend to appear soon after an injury occurs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. If you or a loved one is playing a team sport and suspect a concussion, the… read on >
Different speech therapists have differing approaches for stuttering, so it’s important to evaluate your needs before choosing a therapist, the Stuttering Foundation says. Before starting treatment, the Foundation suggests asking therapist candidates these questions: How comfortable are you with treating stuttering? How many teens and adults who stutter have you worked with? What do you… read on >
With so much emphasis on fresh, farm-to-table foods, it’s easy to overlook the value of canned items. These are convenient, often cheaper alternatives to fresh and frozen. Use these tips to help you choose wisely. When shopping, look for cans in good shape. Don’t buy — or keep — cans that are dented, rusted or… read on >
Whether you track your diet efforts on paper or with an app, frequent and consistent self-monitoring contributes to success. However, one aspect of recordkeeping — how often to get on the scale — has been the subject of much debate. Daily weigh-ins used to be thought of as negative, capable of discouraging you if the… read on >
