There’s a good chance a dose of tiny plastic particles has taken up residence in your gut, a new, small study argues. Microplastics, as they are called, were found in stool samples from a handful of volunteers located across Europe and Asia, researchers report. Every single person out of the group of 8 had microplastics…  read on >

Gum disease may interfere with high blood pressure control, a new study suggests. Researchers reviewed medical and dental records of more than 3,600 people diagnosed with high blood pressure. Compared to people with good oral health, those with gum disease were less likely to respond to high blood pressure medications and 20 percent less likely…  read on >

Teens with allergies and asthma can enjoy Halloween as long as they take precautions, an allergist says. “There’s no reason a teen with allergies should have to miss anything,” said Dr. Bradley Chipps, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Teens usually know the drill when it comes to handling their food…  read on >

Protein is key to your well-being and deserves a significant place in every diet. Knowing the best sources can boost your health as well as help you feel more satisfied on fewer calories. Seafood is an excellent protein source, with dozens of types of fish and shellfish to try. Eat a 3.5-ounce serving at least…  read on >

Tuna, salmon, mackerel, cod: Whatever your preference, eating more seafood may help you stay healthy as you age, new research suggests. In a study spanning 22 years, researchers found that higher blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood were associated with a better chance of healthy aging. The study involved more than…  read on >

Tracking pounds regained after weight-loss surgery can help predict a patient’s risk for serious health problems like diabetes, a new study says. “Clinicians and patients want to know the extent of weight regain following bariatric surgery and how it may affect their health,” said study lead author Wendy King, an associate professor of epidemiology at…  read on >

The gluten-free diet craze is both reassuring and upsetting to people with celiac disease who are allergic to the nutrient, a small study suggests. People with celiac disease say they’re happy to have more food choices at stores and restaurants. But some with celiac sense a growing stigma as other people voluntarily go gluten-free. And…  read on >

A huge bowl of greens can be filling and chock full of vitamins, minerals and fiber. But what you top it with can turn it from diet delight to diet disaster. Whether you’re at home or facing a tempting all-you-can-eat salad bar at a restaurant, these tips will keep fat and calories in check. Creamy…  read on >

Lengthy power outages are often unwanted headaches left in the wake of hurricanes and other severe storms. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers the following ways to prepare for unpredictable weather by having key supplies available: Containers of ice to keep food cold, or to melt if water supply is contaminated or unavailable. Coolers,…  read on >

Because of the medications they take, losing weight can be difficult for people with diabetes. Diabetes medications are a major roadblock to weight loss, according to a paper from the American Association of Diabetes Educators. “Diabetes medications are vital in helping manage blood sugar, so you shouldn’t stop taking them. Instead, ask (your doctor) about…  read on >