Obese teenagers can have certain brain differences from their thinner peers — changes that might signal damage from inflammation, a new, preliminary study suggests. Using advanced MRI techniques, researchers found that obese teenagers tended to have signs of decreased “integrity” in the brain’s white matter. White matter contains the fibers that connect different areas of…  read on >

Popularized in movies, the phrase, “You’ll shoot your eye out,” is often repeated jokingly whenever someone talks about BB or paintball guns. But it’s no laughing matter. These “non-powder” guns can cause serious, life-altering injuries, and these injuries are now happening far more often. In fact, a new study found that while the overall rate…  read on >

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was discharged from the hospital on Sunday after being admitted on Friday with chills and a fever. The news of her recovery and return home was issued by a court spokeswoman, ABC News reported. The 86-year-old was first evaluated on Friday at a hospital in Washington, D.C., after feeling…  read on >

MONDAY, Nov. 25, 2019 Exposure to opioids in the womb may affect an area of the newborn brain that regulates emotions, a new study shows. Researchers used MRIs to assess brain activity in 16 full-term infants while they slept, specifically focusing on connectivity in a region called the amygdala, which is responsible for emotions such…  read on >

Stress abounds during the holiday season, but you can ease it, an expert says. The way to manage stress is to recognize it and take steps to minimize it so it doesn’t overwhelm you, according to Cinnamon Stetler, an associate professor of psychology at Furman University, in Greenville, S.C. One way to ease holiday stress…  read on >

Most American parents say they might have trouble distinguishing between a teen’s typical mood swings and possible signs of depression, a new survey finds. The nationwide poll of 819 parents with at least one child in middle school, junior high or high school found that while one-third were confident they could detect depression in their…  read on >

Changing your baby’s diaper may seem scary, but don’t worry. Within a few weeks, you can be an expert. Gather a clean diaper, wet wipes, a burp cloth and a safe place to change your baby before starting. The American Pregnancy Association offers these step-by-step directions: Lay the baby down. Use safety straps to prevent…  read on >

In light of the more than 250 mass shootings in the United States in 2019, the American Psychological Association encourages parents to help their kids feel safe. The association offers this advice: Talk with your children about their worries and concerns. Keep home a safe and comfortable place. Watch for any signs of stress, fear…  read on >