For black Americans striving for lower blood pressure, churches may provide the answer to their prayers. “African-Americans have a significantly greater burden of hypertension and heart disease, and our findings prove that people with uncontrolled hypertension can, indeed, better manage their blood pressure through programs administered in places of worship,” said study lead author Dr.… read on >
Dropping weight might do more than make an older woman feel good. New research suggests it could lower her odds of breast cancer. The study included over 61,000 postmenopausal women with no prior breast cancer and normal mammogram results. Their weight was checked at the start of the study and again three years later. During… read on >
The quick weight loss that occurs after bariatric surgery seems to have an unintended consequence — a greater risk of gallstones, a new study suggests. The rapid loss of pounds was linked to a 10-fold increase in the hospital admissions for pancreatitis, gallstones and other gallbladder conditions. “Gallstones are quite common in post-bariatric surgery patients.… read on >
Lack of motivation, time, energy, and the costs associated with many workout programs may limit your desire to exercise more. The National Institute on Aging suggests how to overcome these potential obstacles: Exercise first thing in the morning. If you can’t squeeze in 30 minutes for physical activity, consider three 10-minute spurts. Vary your regimen… read on >
People aren’t the only ones who are vulnerable to Lyme disease. Fido or Fluffy also could contract the illness from an infected tick. The American Kennel Club says Lyme disease occurs the most often in the Northeast, the Upper Midwest and on the Pacific Coast. As is true with a human counterpart, a pet that… read on >
Scientists report they have uncovered the first evidence that erectile dysfunction may have genetic underpinnings. In the study, the researchers analyzed data from hundreds of thousands of men. The investigators found gene variations in a specific spot in the human genome near the SIM1 gene that are significantly associated with an increased risk of impotence.… read on >
While a weekend (or longer) retreat can be very rejuvenating, day spas have made it possible for almost everyone to enjoy a short escape from life’s stresses. Take these simple steps to make the most of the experience. Identify all the day spas within a comfortable driving distance and then compare their menu of services… read on >
If you’re gluten-sensitive, watch out: One-third of the “gluten-free” foods sold in U.S. restaurants actually contain trace levels of the substance, new research suggests. The finding will be of particular concern to the 1 percent of Americans with the autoimmune disorder known as celiac disease. For them, even a minuscule amount of gluten — a… read on >
Mold can thrive in places from logs and fallen trees to bathrooms and kitchens, the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology says. It notes there are about 1,000 species of mold. Here are the group’s suggestions for limiting mold growth at home: Clean up any spills or leaks promptly. Use dehumidifiers or exhaust fans… read on >
As the world becomes more diverse, parents should teach their children how to be open and respect the differences between people, the Nemours Foundation says. It offers these suggestions: Demonstrate your own respect for others. Kids are always listening, so be conscious of the way you talk about people who are different from you. Talk… read on >
