Potty training can be a difficult experience for parents and children, but with the right plan in place, it doesn’t have to be. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these suggestions for implementing a successful potty-training plan: Give plenty of praise, affection and treats to encourage your child when he or she uses the potty.… read on >
A healthy brain is necessary for a longer and fuller life. But increasing rates of high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity are threats to maintaining a healthy brain, the American Heart Association warns. In the United States, one of every three adults, or 75 million people, has high blood pressure, the heart association says. Of… read on >
Though healthy eating is good for everyone, those who have genes that put them at high risk for obesity might benefit the most. A new study suggests that even those who carry an inherited predisposition to pack on excess pounds are not destined to become obese. In fact, researchers say it can be avoided over… read on >
Chemotherapy and radiation are the standard of care for small-cell lung cancer that hasn’t spread to other parts of the body. But many patients don’t receive these treatments, a new study indicates. This less-than-optimal care is reducing survival rates, according to researchers from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. “In order to improve… read on >
Wine and spirits are tallied in the “empty calories” column because they lack any nutritional benefits. Add cream or soda to make a mixed drink and you can more than double the caloric damage. So how can you enjoy a cocktail without wrecking your diet? Here are some options. Choose your alcoholic drinks wisely. A… read on >
Black children are more than twice as likely as white kids to die from surgery complications in the United States, a new study suggests. Researchers found that black kids more often had risk factors that raised their odds of dying within 30 days of surgery. They were more likely, for example, to need blood transfusions… read on >
Working smoke alarms lower a person’s chances of dying in a home fire by half, according to the National Safety Council. These alarms should be tested monthly. In addition, you should have a fire safety plan for your family, the organization stresses, offering these additional suggestions: Practice home fire drills at least twice a year.… read on >
High winds can occur during a thunderstorm, hurricane or other strong weather system. The National Weather Service suggests how to prepare for high winds: Trim tree branches away from your home and powerlines. Secure loose gutters and shutters. Identify an interior room, such as a basement or bathroom, that you can go to. If you… read on >
High doses of vitamin D seem to keep arteries more flexible and pliable, potentially warding off future heart disease, heart attacks and strokes, preliminary research suggests. In just four months, vitamin D supplements reduced arterial stiffness in a group of 70 young black men and women, according to results from a small-scale clinical trial. The… read on >
When is it appropriate to give kids a cellphone? That depends on factors like their maturity level, their ability to follow rules at home and school, and your family’s circumstances, including health and safety issues. For instance, if both parents work outside the home, it’s easier to check in with a child during the day… read on >
