WEDNESDAY, Aug. 21, 2019 (HealthDay News) — It would be welcome news to millions if fish oil supplements were proven to help prevent diabetes. But new research delivers very disappointing data on the prospect. Previous research has hinted that fish oil supplements — which contain omega-3 fatty acids — might improve blood sugar metabolism and…  read on >

Secondhand smoke (SHS) has the same harmful chemicals that smokers inhale, says the American Cancer Society. Non-smokers who breathe SHS take in nicotine and toxins, and are at risk for cancer. Cancer is not the only illness that SHS can cause. It affects the heart and blood vessels, also increasing the risk of heart attack…  read on >

Asian heart failure patients who also have type 2 diabetes can develop changes in the structure of their heart and are at increased risk for hospitalizations and premature death, a new study finds. Diabetes is on the rise worldwide, and it’s common for patients to have both diabetes and heart failure. There has been extensive…  read on >

There’s no shortage of self-help apps, videos and podcasts on topics from having better mental health to having a better six-pack. Though the programs they offer bring the convenience of working at your own pace and in your own space, it’s important that you evaluate any program on its merits before committing your time and…  read on >

You suffered an injury that has sidelined you from exercise, but you dodged a bullet — your doctor has said that you don’t need surgery. Instead, he or she prescribes physical therapy, most likely to start after a rest period to give any inflammation time to subside. At that point, you’re probably feeling better and…  read on >

Lifting heavy things is a leading cause of workplace injury, says the University of North Carolina. People who practice smart lifting techniques are less likely to suffer muscle sprains, pulls and injuries caused by heavy lifting. To properly lift a heavy item, the school recommends: Prepare for the load. Think about if you are suited…  read on >

Living in the city can be hard on the senses and the spirit, but spending some time in a tree-lined park could counteract that stress, new research suggests. “Over a three-month period, we collected tweets from 4,688 Twitter users before, during and after they posted from the park,” explained study author Aaron Schwartz. He’s a…  read on >

Driving is a source of independence for many seniors, so determining when they should hang up the keys requires careful consideration, an expert says. “Driving retirement is a normal part of aging, and should be carefully considered and discussed openly,” said Dr. Ericka Tung, an internist and geriatrician at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.…  read on >

Everyone feels lack of motivation at some point, and it doesn’t necessarily represent a mental health issue, says the Mental Health Foundation. From meeting up with friends to participating in a hobby, sometimes it can be difficult to find the motivation to get involved. To help overcome lack of motivation, the Mental Health Foundation suggests:…  read on >

Back pain is one of the most common medical issues in the United States, says the National Institutes of Health. Short-term back pain lasts no longer than six weeks, and can be uncomfortable if untreated. To treat short-term back pain, the NIH suggests: Use hot or cold packs to soothe a sore, stiff back. Try…  read on >