You know that poor lifestyle choices today can affect your health tomorrow. But according to research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, there’s another surprising predictor of future illness: your financial health. Scientists looked at the health records of 1,000 people from birth to midlife and found a strong connection between… read on >
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 >
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 >
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 >
With the flu season in full swing, a new poll shows that almost three-quarters of Americans over the age of 50 think all nursing home employees should get a flu vaccine every year. “We’ve finally gotten to the point in the last few years where most inpatient hospitals require their staff to get vaccinated against… read on >
Getting into shape or losing a few pounds is a worthy New Year’s resolution, but one that comes with a warning: Take it slow. Jumping whole-hog into an exercise regime is a good way to get yourself hurt if you haven’t worked out for a while, experts say. “People get into trouble when they want… read on >
As one year ends and another begins, people often assess their habits and lifestyle, and consider changes that could improve their health. But what, exactly, should you do? Here are six steps you can take to enhance your well-being, according to doctors from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): 1. Keep a personal health… read on >
Your home is chock full of things that could harm your pet. The U.S. Food and Drug Association urges pet owners to avoid exposing Fluffy or Fido to: Unprotected treats — If pets eat too many treats at once, they may become difficult to digest. Moreover, unchewed treats can get stuck in the windpipe, stomach… read on >
What would New Year’s be without resolutions? But the way you approach change can make the difference between reaching successful milestones and abandoning your resolutions faster than you can say Valentine’s Day chocolates. It helps to do some advance planning. First, decide on the goals you’d like to achieve. Grab a calendar and spread them… read on >
Excess drinking on New Year’s Eve can lead to a painful morning after, with no sure-fire cure available. But helpful strategies for treating a hangover do exist. Hangover symptoms — headache, nausea and dizziness — occur when the body withdraws from alcohol and a chemical called acetaldehyde is produced, Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency physician… read on >
