Did you know that a store can sell food past the expiration date printed on the label? Or that manufacturers only voluntarily stamp dates on foods? While the law states that foods must be wholesome and safe to eat, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration can take action to remove a product that poses… read on >
If you’re trying to control your weight, don’t look to caffeine for help. Caffeine is not an effective appetite suppressant or weight-loss aid, researchers report in a small, new study. The study involved 50 healthy adults, aged 18 to 50. The researchers found that after the volunteers drank some juice with a small amount of… read on >
A new survey suggests health care professionals are giving short shrift to their older patients when it comes to explaining the risks of opioid painkillers. Researchers found that most older Americans who are prescribed opioids aren’t advised about the dangers of the drugs, how to use fewer of them, when to use non-opioid alternatives, or… read on >
People with severe depression may have particularly low blood levels of an amino acid involved in brain function, a new study suggests. The substance, called acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC), is naturally produced in the body. It aids in metabolism, and animal research suggests it prevents “excessive firing” of cells in certain parts of the brain. LAC is… read on >
Deer ticks are scary enough. Now, scientists have linked bites from the lone star tick to about one-third of all potentially life-threatening allergic reactions around Tennessee. A lone star tick bite can cause a severe immune system response to red meat — such as beef, pork and lamb — said study lead author Dr. Debendra… read on >
Stretch marks aren’t confined to pregnant women. Youngsters in puberty also may develop these lines on the body due to rapid growth. Skin is typically quite elastic, the Nemours Foundation points out, but when it overstretched, small scars known as stretch marks may develop. Nemours suggests how to make stretch marks less noticeable: Use a… read on >
While blisters can occur most anywhere there’s friction against the skin, they are commonly associated with the feet. To help prevent foot blisters, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests: Wear socks that absorb moisture. Make sure your shoes fit properly. Wear moisture-absorbing, loose- fitting clothing. Avoid clothing made from cotton, which can lead to friction… read on >
An experimental drug reversed hair loss, hair whitening and skin inflammation in mice that were first fed a diet high in fat and cholesterol. Previous research has suggested a link between fatty diets and hair/skin issues in people. The researchers emphasized that it’s not known if the drug is safe and that the results in… read on >
Dark chocolate is soothing and satisfying, and it may have health benefits, including some for heart health. But can it fit into a weight-loss diet? Yes … if you control portions. Unsweetened cocoa — the cacao bean product with tons of healthy flavonoids — has only about 12 calories per tablespoon. It makes for a… read on >
Sorry, new moms, although you’ve already waited at least nine months, it’s not time for a glass of wine just yet: New research suggests it might be best for baby’s brain to wait until you’ve stopped breast-feeding. That’s because exposure to alcohol in breast milk was linked to a reduction in thinking and reasoning skills… read on >
