Using a TV, computer or smartphone just before bed is a bad idea. These and similar gadgets emit blue light, which can harm sleep quality, the National Sleep Foundation says. Studies show blue light delays release of sleep-inducingmelatonin and resets the body’s internal clock to a later time. This can leave parents with children who… read on >
The millions of Americans caught in the grip of an addiction to opioids — prescription painkillers or heroin — remained the leading health news story of the past year. The scourge is now so widespread that, just last week, research suggested that deaths from opioid overdoses may be the biggest factor driving a decline in… read on >
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 >
Holiday parties and gatherings mean more trips to nail and hair salons for some. But if you’re not careful, you might end up picking up more than you bargained for. In a recent small survey of nail and hair salon clients, more than two-thirds said they’d had one or more health issues after visiting a… 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 >
Family harmony and talk of politics can be combustible holiday companions, a therapist contends. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 62 percent of respondents said politics was the topic they dread most when relatives get together at the holidays. And nearly one-third said they planned to avoid the subject. No matter how you vote, it’s… read on >
A hectic holiday pace not only tires you out, it makes it easier to pick up an infection. Reducing stress, getting enough sleep and healthy eating are among the things you can do to stay healthy if you’re traveling over the holidays, one expert suggests. Stress levels can rise at this time of year, so… read on >
When trying to choose the perfect toys for kids this holiday, consider the age of the child first, a leading pediatricians’ group says. Buying toys that are too advanced can be not only frustrating for kids, but also dangerous, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). When children receive age-appropriate toys they are more… read on >
Holidays, and all of the chocolate goodies that come with the celebrations, can be particularly dangerous for dogs, researchers warn. Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine, which is similar to caffeine. In dogs, it can cause vomiting, increased heart rate, agitation and seizures. In their study, British researchers discovered that dogs were over four times… read on >
Your pet will depend on you even more during an emergency, so you should always have an emergency kit to prepare for the unexpected. The American Red Cross says the kit should include: A sturdy leash, harness or carrier to transport a pet safely and prevent escape. Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter and a… read on >
