An analysis of urine samples from roughly 300,000 California women finds that more than 7 percent used marijuana while pregnant. What’s more, rates of pot use in pregnancy have steadily risen over the years — from 4.2 percent of women in 2009 to 7.1 percent just seven years later. That’s according to the new report… read on >
If you live in a cold climate, you should keep a complete emergency kit in your car. The National Weather Service suggests including: A mobile phone, charger and batteries. Blankets. A flashlight with extra batteries. A first-aid kit. A knife. High-calorie, non-perishable foods. Extra clothing to keep dry. A large empty can to use as… read on >
All women go through menopause, when the menstrual periods stop and the child-bearing years end. Symptoms may emerge all at once, or may be mild at first and progress over time. The U.S. Office on Women’s Health says symptoms of menopause include: No menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Hot flashes. Trouble sleeping. Mood swings… read on >
Cutting down on fat is a big part of any weight-loss diet. Fat has twice the calories of protein and carbs — so ounce for ounce, you can replace fat with twice the amount of those foods for the same calories. You do need some fat in your diet, but you want to lower the… read on >
A girl who gets her first menstrual period early in life — possibly as young as 7 — has a greater risk for developing depression and antisocial behaviors that last at least into her 20s, a new study suggests. “Girls who go through puberty earlier than peers tend to be more psychologically vulnerable during adolescence,”… read on >
Your posture has a direct effect on your long-term health, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says. Good posture means your spine is correctly positioned at three natural curves: your neck, middle back and lower back. The agency says poor posture can lead to: Undue wear on the spine, making it more fragile and prone… read on >
Boys and girls of all ages have a fascination with laser toys. But it’s important to use these devices safely to avoid injury. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says the concentrated light from lasers can cause serious eye injuries, even blindness. The agency suggests how to use these toys safely: Never aim a laser… read on >
A stomach bug can quickly put a damper on your Christmas Day festivities. If you’re teaching children how to prepare favorite family recipes, include important lessons about food safety, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. The last thing you want to give your family is a foodborne illness. Here are some suggestions from the pediatricians’… read on >
The holiday season can be stressful, especially for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The U.S. National Institute on Aging offers holiday suggestions for Alzheimer’s caregivers: Show a photo of a holiday guest to the person a week before the guest’s arrival. Each day, explain who the visitor is while showing the photo. Before the… read on >
When the weather gets colder and the winds gustier, it’s time to winterize your home. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests: Install weather stripping, insulation and storm windows. Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls. Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks. Have heating systems inspected by a professional. Inspect and… read on >
