The current flu season is shaping up to be a nasty one, but there’s good news for American seniors who’ve gotten their flu shot. New research shows that for older adults, faithfully getting the vaccine each year greatly reduces the odds of catching a flu so severe that it lands you in the hospital. Researchers… read on >
The younger teen years are some of the most emotional, physical and difficult years for adolescents. As hormones change and teens go through puberty, they may be self-conscious about their changing bodies and may worry frequently about what others think. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests things parents can do to help… read on >
Quitting smoking is never easy, but it’s possible with the proper mindset and, possibly, with nicotine therapy. Almost 70 percent of adult smokers want to quit, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says. Over-the-counter smoking cessation products include skin patches, lozenges and gum. There’s also prescription medication. Tobacco users are used to having nicotine in… read on >
A common respiratory virus that circulates in winter can pose a serious threat to children, an expert warns. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) “is the most important respiratory virus of infants and young children,” said Dr. Pedro Piedra, a professor of pediatrics and molecular virology and microbiology at the Baylor College of Medicine, in Houston. RSV… read on >
For those still open to adding to their list of New Year’s resolutions, the American Medical Association (AMA) is offering its top 10 healthy suggestions. First, Americans should make an effort to cut back on sugary drinks, medical experts advise. Diabetes screening is also a good proactive step as the new year unfolds. The AMA… read on >
A lack of exercise puts kids at risk for very adult problems, like obesity and diabetes. Now there’s also research that links exercise to their cognitive development and achievement in school. Turns out that physical activity gives the young brain needed boosts, according to a study published in Monographs of the Society for Research in… read on >
The health of your kidneys is directly related to the health of your heart, and vice versa. While the heart pumps blood throughout the body, the kidneys clean it. They remove wastes, assist in maintaining blood pressure and ensure that the blood has the right amount of key nutrients. Kidney disease means the kidneys are… read on >
Determining whether your food is nutritious can be challenge. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers these suggestions for deciphering product nutrition labels: Review all ingredients. Those listed first have higher percentages for that product. Compare the label’s serving size with your standard portion size, and make sure they are similar. Note the total calories… read on >
Exercising with a buddy can give you both mental and fitness boosts. In fact, under the right conditions, the intensity and duration of exercise among workout partners can be more than twice that of solo efforts, according to research led by Kansas State University’s Dr. Brandon Irwin. Here’s how to make the most of a… read on >
More than half the parents in the United States start feeding their babies solid foods before they’re 6 months old — the age now recommended by health experts, a new study indicates. Introducing solid foods or new drinks too early could deprive them nutritionally, the researchers warned. Waiting too long can also have negative effects,… read on >
