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Cell phones and cars - a dangerous mix |
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In many states, drivers are prohibited from using hand-held cell phones while driving, and for good reason. According to a 2009 study from the Harvard Center of Risk Analysis, cell phone use while driving contributes to some 636,000 crashes, 330,000 injuries, 12,000 serious injuries and 2,600 deaths each year. |
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Five tips to build a better salad |
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While all greens are low in calories, many people sabotage what could be a light, nutritious meal with heavy toppings like fried chicken, croutons and the wrong kind of cheese. Tasty toppers don't have to be loaded with calories and fat. With a few new ideas and simple switches, a salad can be a revitalized and turned into a healthy meal. |
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Hearing loss: not just affecting seniors anymore |
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More than 10 million people in America use hearing aids, and that number is growing every day. Even more surprising is that approximately 20 percent of these people are younger than 50. Long considered a dilemma only for senior citizens, hearing loss is becoming more and more common, particularly in young adults. |
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Helping your parents and older loved ones |
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Spring and summer family gatherings such as holidays and family vacations are often the first opportunities that families get to spend time together. As a family, you have the opportunity to catch up with older loved ones and to notice possible changes in their physical or mental health that may stand out after not seeing them for a while. This is especially important if they are more than 65 years old or were previously diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD). |
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Want to know you can land a job after graduation? Try massage therapy |
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Students earning a diploma in professional massage therapy have excellent chances of landing a rewarding job in their chosen field upon graduating. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor's 2009-2010 Occupational Outlook Handbook states that employment for massage therapists is expected to increase 20 percent through 2016, faster than average for all occupations. |
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Sonography: What it is and why it's growing in the health care field |
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Sonography is a painless medical procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce visual images of organs, tissues and blood flow inside the body. It was first used in obstetrics to look at fetal development in the 1970s, but since then has moved to multiple branches of health care and is used to examine the abdomen, breasts, prostate, female reproductive organs, heart, blood vessels and other areas. Sonography is used in both a diagnostic and therapeutic capacity. |
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Why it's so important to have good auto insurance |
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When you head out the door on your way to work or school every morning, you probably don't give much thought to what could happen on the road. After all, you're a safe driver, and accidents happen to other people, not you. |
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Choosing summer footwear that looks and feels great |
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While you're skipping through summer in your saucy sandals or padding through the sand in your favorite flip-flops, what toll will your seasonal footwear take on your hardworking feet? The foot health experts at the American Podiatric Medical Association offer some advice for taking care of your feet this summer. |
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Tips for a healthier you at middle age |
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With the popularity of movies like Sex and the City and the revival of the 50-year-old fashionista, the 42.9 million baby boomer women in America are approaching aging with confidence and style. It is important for women to be direct with their doctors when talking about all health issues, even those that may embarrass them. |
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Why it's so important to keep your eyes on the road for driving safety |
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A lot can happen in three seconds. You can kiss your kid, watch a bird fly by or die in a car accident. According to a groundbreaking study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), 80 percent of all car crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes involve some form of driver inattention during the three seconds before the event. |
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Debunk myths before starting a weight loss program |
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It's one of the seasons of the year when people are thinking of losing weight. Whether it's for a family or class reunion or trips to the beach, finding your own motivation for losing weight is critical. It's also important not to jeopardize your success by believing the myths and misconceptions about weight loss. |
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Need a healthy meal idea? Just open the cupboard |
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Even on busy nights, when you may be tempted to hit the drive-through, cooking at home with simple ingredients from your pantry is a more nutritious, cost-effective and quicker solution when dinnertime rolls around. |
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Seniors: When it comes to talking with your doctor, don't be shy |
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With 25 years experience in health care, as a nurse and now certified physician assistant, Patti Emfinger admits that when she's in an examination room as a patient, she used to feel a little hesitant about talking with her doctor beyond exchanging pleasantries and basic information. For Emfinger, the best outcomes are achieved when patients and health care professionals work together. |
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Five ways women can prevent summer injuries |
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Women's bodies are built differently than men's bodies. This means that women's shoes, pants and even women's socks are constructed to fit women's unique proportions. However, when it comes to braces and supports, women have classically been forced to make do with equipment made to fit men. |
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Foot-friendly gifts can make the holidays relaxing and bright |
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Even the healthiest among us can wind up with sore, tired feet at the end of a long day leading up to the holidays. Gifts that make the feet feel good are sure to make the whole person connected to those feet feel pretty happy too. This season, consider giving a gift that soothes two of the most overlooked and underappreciated parts of the body. |
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Thinking about getting rid of or reducing your health care? Think again. |
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In light of recent economic hardship, many Americans are looking for ways they can cut costs. While some might consider reducing the amount of health care coverage they have, or eliminating it altogether, opting for this short-term savings could eventually result in financial devastation. |
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Surprising facts about staying hydrated in summer's heat |
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Record temperatures bring disturbing news reports of heat related deaths and the familiar calls to seek shade, limit outside work and drink large quantities of water. But experts caution water alone may not be sufficient and could actually increase your risk of severe heat related injuries. |
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Save money, stay safe: Keep tires properly inflated |
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Gas is pretty expensive so you certainly don't want to waste it. The U.S. Department of Energy says that properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by 3.3 percent and help you save 9 cents per gallon at the pump. Here is some advice to help ensure your tires stay in top shape. |
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Healthy fall eating for moms-to-be |
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Did you know more babies are born in August than any other month of the year? According to data from the CDC, there is a "baby boom" from July to September -- meaning most women become pregnant during the cooler nine months prior. For all moms who are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant, it's important to have a healthy diet of nutrient-rich foods. By following clear advice from health experts, moms-to-be can ensure their health and boost their baby's growth. |
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Worried about your tap water? How to fight drinking water contaminants |
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In many parts of the country, drinking water contaminants may be a real issue. Some drinking water contaminants may be harmful to your health. Others may simply be things you'd really rather not ingest or they could make your water taste bad. There are ways however, you can help to ensure that the water your family drinks is as clean and high quality as possible - without having to turn to bottled water that can be expensive. |
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Practical tips for keeping America's youth safe when behind the wheel |
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Today's teen drivers face an increasing number of risks and distractions, making safe driving habits more important than ever. At the same time, teen driving laws are evolving, and fewer public schools across the country can afford to offer drivers' education.
Many community organizations and even large businesses have stepped in to proactively help teens learn the importance of practicing safe driving skills. |
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The heavy truth behind light cigarette labeling |
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What does "light," "low," or "mild" mean to you? For many consumers, these words may suggest a healthier or safer product. But when it comes to cigarettes, there's no such thing as a safe cigarette. Health experts agree that no matter what they taste, smell or look like, all cigarettes are harmful to your health. |
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How to choose a safe, effective fish oil supplement |
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Americans now swallow fish oil more often than multivitamins, according to ConsumerLab's recent annual survey of vitamin and supplement users. And it's no wonder why - fish oil is one of the best supplements anyone can take. |
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Traveling this summer? Don't get derailed by digestive distress |
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Summer is here - and for many, long weekends and sweltering temps inspire wanderlust and a sudden urge to relax on a far-away beach with a frosty beverage. While traveling is a great way to renew and recharge, the long flights, time zone changes and disruption of typical diet and exercise schedules can be anything but relaxing, and can even cause digestive discomfort. |
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Designing with natural light: Good for your health and your wallet |
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Nowhere does the green movement and uplifting design meet and marry better than in the concept of "daylighting" - bringing natural light into a space to both brighten it and reduce dependence on electric lighting. Decorating and designing with natural light is not only energy efficient, but psychologically beneficial as well. |
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Healthy alternatives for after-school snack time |
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The new school year is just around the corner, and with childhood obesity on the rise and an increased national focus on sensible eating, it's more important than ever to offer healthy food alternatives to kids. And not just for school lunch. Afternoon snack time is often overlooked when parents are planning meals, making it easy for families to stray away from making smart food choices. |
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Tips to help you become a savvy health care shopper |
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The weather has warmed up. The flowers are blooming. The vacation plans are made. Summer is here. And even though it is almost time for you to choose health benefits for the coming year, there is still plenty of time to make the most of the plan you have now and maximize its value to you and your family. |
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Dogs need a little more love during mosquito season |
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As a parent, you would never consider sending your child to school without the proper vaccinations. But did you know that according to the American Animal Hospital Association, about 50 percent of dogs in the United States go without preventative treatment for one of the most common diseases among canines? |
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Managing your diabetes costs |
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Nearly a third of people with diabetes have not filled a prescription due to the expense in the past 12 months, according to a CVS/pharmacy survey. Here's how to manage diabetes costs. |
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Achieve better health while fighting hunger in your local community |
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Surprisingly hunger and obesity can be linked. The same communities can suffer from both epidemics. There are nearly 2 billion overweight people in the world, while 1 billion people in the world are underfed, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United States. |
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Volunteering: Helping others could actually help you |
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The health benefits of volunteering are well documented and include reduced stress and risk of disease, an increased feeling of self worth and possibly even increased life expectancy. It is no wonder that for many people with chronic conditions, volunteering can even help maintain or improve one's physical health. |
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Is your teen with diabetes hitting the road? Take these precautions |
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Any parent who's had a teen leave the house in the car alone for the first time knows that anxious feeling. But for parents of teens with diabetes, there are a few extra things they should make sure their child knows before they are handed the keys for the first time. |
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Make summer super with potluck-perfect recipes |
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From block parties to backyard barbecues, summer is when people get together and enjoy the delectable tastes of the season. The classic American potluck is always a favorite gathering, especially when friends, family and neighbors bring out their best dishes for everyone to enjoy. |
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Five superfoods for heart health |
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Some foods pack more punch than others. Here are five foods that have a lot of disease-fighting power, and it's a good idea to regularly make room for them in your meals. |
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Cook what you love, only healthier |
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With obesity rates on the rise, there is no better time than now for families to build healthier habits. While selecting the right foods is the first step, how they are prepared is equally as important. Cooking healthfully includes choosing the right ingredients as well as implementing techniques such as baking, grilling, broiling, roasting and stir frying. |
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Six apps that will assist you in healthy living |
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When fingers get pointed in debates over the obesity epidemic in the United States, technology sometimes shoulders some of the blame. Time in front of computer screens or television is often listed as part of the reason why Americans aren't as healthy as they have been in the past. But the truth is there are also technological advances that have the potential to guide you in your quest for a healthier lifestyle, whether that is eating right, exercising or keeping tabs on vital numbers that are important to your health. |
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Nicotine addiction: A women's health crisis |
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Women account for approximately 20 percent of the world's 1 billion smokers and 17.4 percent of adult women in the U.S. smoke. Cigarette smoking kills more than 173,000 women in the United States each year. In addition to the risks both men and women face from smoking, women are at risk for a unique set of complications, including certain cancers and problems with fertility and pregnancy. |
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What is involved in a medical exam for life insurance? |
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Going to the doctor is not everyone's favorite activity. But if you are interested in buying life insurance, whether it is term life insurance or whole life insurance, you will likely need to undergo a physical exam. |
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Think you might be gluten intolerant? How to know and what to do about it |
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Does the thought of a big bowl of pasta fill you with dread? Not because of the calories, but because of the digestive discomfort you might experience after eating it? If so, you may be one of the millions of Americans who unknowingly live with gluten intolerance. Following a gluten-free diet may stop the symptoms and promote healing. |
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New initiative seeks to help stem the HIV epidemic in the U.S. by improving access to care |
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For many, discussion of the HIV epidemic in this day and age conjures up images of the developing world, where even the most basic amenities can be scarce. Although HIV in developing countries is a serious issue deserving global attention and significant resources, what is less recognized is that the epidemic continues to grow here in the United States. Today, there are an estimated 640,000 people in the United States with HIV who are either undiagnosed, not in medical care or not receiving HIV treatment. Specific populations such as African Americans and women are still hit hard by the HIV/AIDS epidemic and face various barriers that prevent them from seeking or receiving the care they need. |
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How to keep your morning run healthy - for your feet |
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Physical activity like running, brisk walking and playing sports can be great for your body; exercise improves cardiovascular health, burns calories and builds muscle strength. Summer is a great time to stay - or get - active, but you still need to take precautions to ensure your exercise routine is also healthy for your feet. |
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Today's technology can help make weight loss easier |
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Many of us want to embrace a healthier lifestyle, but are looking for some assistance to keep ourselves on track. Luckily, with today's technology, there are resources online and offline that can be used to help us stay motivated and track progress. |
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Stay alert: Avoid fatigue while driving |
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There's a good chance you've gotten behind the wheel at a time when you haven't exactly felt the most alert. But did you know that each year, fatigue is reported as the principal cause of up to 100,000 police-reported accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration? |
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Revealing menopausal symptoms you may not have heard about |
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Although most postmenopausal women have heard of the traditional symptoms related to menopause - like hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings, fewer have heard of vulvar and vaginal pain and physical discomfort during sexual activity which may also occur during menopause. Women should not be embarrassed about talking to their health care professional about these symptoms. |
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Myths about the aging brain revealed |
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Who says you can't teach a mind new tricks at any age? Recent research shows that Americans have the power to positively influence their brain function throughout life. |
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Always tired? 5 tips for increasing your daily energy levels |
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It's 2 p.m. and the afternoon slump hits. Whether you're at work, in class or in the student pick-up line, fatigue can hinder your daily functions. The good news is, decreasing the likelihood of tiredness is as simple as incorporating a few easy habits into your everyday schedule. |
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Feeding your baby's potential - supporting your baby's first milestones |
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Every milestone, no matter how small, is thrilling when you become a parent. Not only are these moments memorable and exciting, but they are also important indicators of your baby's development. Parents can follow these simple tips to support their baby's cognitive and physical development during their first year. |
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Six signs a senior needs living assistance |
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By many estimates, two-thirds of older Americans will eventually become dependent on others to complete everyday tasks. But realizing that you need help or convincing someone else that they do is often more difficult than arranging long-term care. Look for these signs to help determine your elderly loved one's needs and the best ways to meet them. |
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What you can do to protect yourself from hospital errors |
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Nearly 2 million people will acquire an infection while hospitalized in 2010, and nearly 100,000 will die as a result, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Speaking up for yourself and taking ownership of your own health care can help you from becoming a statistic. |
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Wanted: a new generation of lifesavers |
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Less than 8 percent of victims who suffer cardiac arrest at home, at work or in other public places survive. And fewer than one-third of cardiac arrest victims gets CPR from a bystander. The American Heart Association wants more people to take action and help cardiac arrest victims. |
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Understanding your medical imaging exam |
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With recent media coverage focusing on imaging, many patients want to have a better understanding of how it works, when it should be used, the potential concerns and benefits, and what questions to ask when an exam is recommended. A new resource for patients provides tools to help you and your family better understand medical imaging. |
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Tips for treating a cough caught at school |
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Children catch six to 10 colds a year and coughing is the symptom that most commonly prompts a visit to the doctor. Here is some expert advice for parents treating their children's coughs. |
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What does your smile say about your health? |
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Making the change to a healthy lifestyle does not have to be difficult. Simple changes such as taking a daily vitamin, playing board games or practicing healthy oral health habits can help add years to your life. Here are a few tips to help you live a longer, healthier life. |
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Riding escalators: a summer safety reminder |
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Whether traveling on vacation or staying home, the summer means more time spent out and about. With activities ranging from swimming at the local pool to attending festivals, amusement parks and sporting events, people are visiting new places and new buildings. |
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Creating great food memories |
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Your memory of real, flavorful, fresh food is a key tool for losing weight. At least that's one of the intriguing claims in Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough's new book, "Real Food Has Curves: How to Get off Processed Food, Lose Weight, and Love What You Eat." |
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Sun is still sizzling ... warm-weather products to keep family fun going through fall |
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Kids are heading back to school, but that doesn't mean summer fun has ended: The season of burgers, back flips, roller coasters and rolling coastlines lasts well into October for most of the United States. While parents and kids across the nation enjoy the rest of the season, they should also stay prepared for sun exposure and bug bites. |
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Suffering from 'white coat syndrome?' Medical assistants can help ease the fear |
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No matter how important we know it is to see our doctor for regular checkups or when we're sick, for many of us the simple act of stepping into a doctor's office is a form of mental torture. Whether you just dread the possibility of a long wait, or have a full-blown anxiety attack with sweaty palms and a racing heart, "white coat syndrome" can be a debilitating problem. The good news is, there's probably someone already there in the doctor's office who can help ease your fears - a medical assistant. |
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The environmental benefits of soft water |
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When you think of soft water, the first thing that probably comes to mind is lustrous, easy-to-manage hair. Another benefit is washing clothes in the water leaves them softer and saves a significant amount of detergent. Best of all, when cleaning, you don't get that ugly bathtub ring. By eliminating hard water minerals, you can see health and cosmetic benefits as well as reduce the maintenance costs associated with scale buildup in home plumbing. |
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Now is the time to seek employment in the thriving health care industry |
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Due to a variety of social and economic factors, the health care field is expanding rapidly and is expected to continue growing in the future. While some production and service jobs have been outsourced overseas, the possibility for employment in the health care industry remains strong. |
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Demystifying massage: How to choose what's right for you |
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Massage is no longer a luxury reserved for the wealthy. Growing public awareness of massage's benefits for alleviating a number of health problems - from stress to arthritis pain - and greater availability of services have made massage therapy accessible and affordable to a much broader spectrum of consumers than ever before. |
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Car safety: dealing with blind spots |
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With SUVs, trucks and large cars growing in size, backing up can pose a serious problem for drivers. Even the most accomplished driver can't see blind spots, which can lead to costly repairs or serious injury. A back-up sensor is a small investment to protect your car and those around you. |
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What are cancer clinical trials? |
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Clinical trials play an important role in the development of cancer treatments. They are carried out in hopes of finding safer and more effective ways to screen for, prevent, diagnose or treat cancer. In fact, cancer medicines now approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) were first studied in clinical trials. |
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How to shop smart for your health and your wallet |
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With a dizzying array of choices in the supermarket, finding the best foods for your family can be a challenge, particularly in the dairy aisle. Every shopping trip is an opportunity to re-evaluate your family's grocery store habits and make changes for a happy wallet and a healthy body. |
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Tempting summer meals that are healthy and easy to make |
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Once the warm weather arrives, we are all searching for ways to make our meals not only healthy, but refreshing and delicious. And we all want quick meal options - so that we can spend more time outside enjoying the weather with friends and family and less time in the kitchen. |
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Stick to your good habits - even on a road trip |
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Summer is the time of year when a lot of people take time off from work to go on a road trip. But just because you are varying your routine doesn't mean you should throw all your good habits out the window. You can still eat well, exercise and get plenty of sleep while on the road. The trick is to make the commitment ahead of time and stick with your plan. |
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Tips to get a leg up on back-to-school shoe shopping |
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She lived in sandals all summer long and he barely took his cleats off, even to go to bed. Summer fun and casual style may leave your kids facing back-to-school season in serious need of some new shoes. Parents should consider these important factors before buying new shoes for their children. |
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Scent-sational ideas for aromatherapy wedding favors |
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Planning a wedding can be a high-pressure time, even for couples with a clear vision of what they want and the budget to accomplish it. One aspect of your wedding that doesn't have to cause stress is choosing wedding favors. Go with something simple, elegant and timeless that will fit the lifestyle of virtually every guest - aromatherapy. |
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How to treat your children's aches, pains and fever |
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When your child gets sick, you want to do everything you can to make them feel better. Sometimes it's difficult to know exactly what you should do, especially now that some over-the-counter children's analgesic products aren't available. |
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Don't let fugitive dust steal your health |
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No one likes dust - and it's everywhere, whether you live on a gravel road in the countryside or an urban environment. Dust accelerates wear on appliances, electronic equipment and vehicles, and it stunts the growth of your houseplants and gardens. But even more troubling is how dust may adversely affect your health, particularly if you already have breathing-related problems. |
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What's right for your sight? |
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Your eyes play a vital role in almost everything you do, and they help you see the world. So it's essential to ensure that you're taking care of your eyes and doing the most you can to keep them at their best. Specifically for contact lens wearers, there are several steps that can help keep eyes healthy, clean and comfortable. |
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Do your kids need a fresh lunch box makeover? |
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The start of a new school year is an exciting time for children. Each fall begins with a new teacher, different classmates and a fresh start, making it the perfect time for you and your kids to get back into a daily routine. A good place to start is the school lunch. To avoid falling into a rut and preparing the same lackluster foods, here are a few tips to help make over any lunch box this school year. |
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Summer concert season is here: tips to keep you rocking out |
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From local concerts in the park to multi-city touring music festivals like Lilith, the summer is full of outdoor, day-long concerts and events. But before you head out the door to begin your fun in the sun, there are a few things to consider to make sure you're prepared for a good time. |
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Seniors: How to live independently and safely |
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Retirement is a great time to enjoy life - especially in your own home. But if you - or your parents - are starting to slow down, suffering from occasional imbalance or are having difficulty living safely in your home, it could limit your independence, and potentially cause you harm. Here are some tips you can follow to help yourself or your loved one continue to live independently in their own home and age in place safely. |
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Medication safety for seniors |
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If you're older than 65 and take multiple medications, you should be aware of potential interactions between your drugs. These interactions can cause unwanted side effects, reduce the effectiveness of your medicine, or even lead to hospitalization. Studies show that up to 30 percent of hospital admissions of elderly patients are linked to harmful effects of medications and other related problems. |
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Don't let fall asthma triggers foil your child's fun |
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Fall means back-to-school, cooler weather - and an increase in asthma attacks. In fact, childhood asthma statistics show that children with asthma are nearly twice as likely to visit the emergency department when school starts as at other times of the year. That's largely because autumn allergens and viral infections can unleash childhood asthma symptoms. |
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Ways to protect yourself on the road |
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Among all your daily activities, driving can be one of the most dangerous things you do. While you shouldn't fear driving your car each day, you should still take steps to reduce your chances of getting in an accident. |
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Why exercising at home is the easier - and smarter - fitness solution |
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Not so long ago, when someone said they were going to work out, it may have been assumed that they were headed for the gym, but more and more often, people are choosing to get their exercise in the comfort of their own home. When you can get an effective workout in your living room or basement, why pay to use someone's facilities? |
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How to stay fresh while getting fit |
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Getting fit makes you feel good inside and out. When you exercise, your clothes fit better, your energy levels get a boost and it helps the stresses of your life melt away in a pure endorphin rush. Luckily, no matter where you live, it's easier than ever to get exercise all year round so that you can maintain your health and fitness. |
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Lower cholesterol naturally with food first |
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Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. The cornerstones of managing heart disease are healthy lifestyle behaviors: a heart-healthy diet, exercise, smoking cessation and stress management. However, with so much information available, it's often confusing where to begin. |
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Can you get life insurance without a medical exam? |
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So you want to buy some life insurance, but you're not really happy about the idea of enduring a medical exam to get it. You've seen ads for life insurance without an exam, but you wonder if they're for real. The answer is a qualified "maybe." |
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Managing mom's heart disease can be a family affair |
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For many women, the role of "mom" and "caregiver" are one and the same. Whether it's for her children, spouse or her own parents, mom is there. However, when heart disease strikes in women - often in the form of a heart attack or stroke - the roles often are reversed and mom is transformed from "caregiver" to "care receiver." |
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Life insurance FYI for 'Generation Y' |
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Those younger than 40 often give little thought to life insurance products early on, as they are more inclined to wait until they reach specific life stages. But buying life insurance can be easier and less costly when you're young. |
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Safety 101: 10 tips parents need to know to keep students' things safe on campus |
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While parents have enough to worry about when sending their son or daughter off to college, the safety of their child's "stuff" shouldn't be one of them. However, since theft continues to be one of the most common crimes on American college campuses, parents should - and can - reduce the chances of their students becoming victims by following these campus safety tips. |
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Get involved to help stop diabetes |
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This fall, thousands of people nationwide will join the movement to Stop Diabetes as they walk in the American Diabetes Association's Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes. Rain or shine, walkers will join together to change the future of this growing epidemic that is taking a devastating physical, emotional and financial toll on our country. |
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Don't surrender to macular degeneration |
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Aging gracefully can require you to accept certain changes in your body, from gray or thinning hair to skin that's less firm than it was in your youth. But loss of vision shouldn't be on your short list of changes that are an inevitable part of growing older. If you take steps to keep your eyes healthy, you can prevent age-related macular degeneration or slow its progress.
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Don't let asthma take over your summer |
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Spring and early summer often pose extra challenges for more than 23 million Americans - including more than 7 million children - who live with asthma. This year may be particularly difficult because plants and trees are producing more pollen and spores than in years past, according to allergy and asthma experts. |
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Your fridge can help you stay on track with healthy eating this summer |
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Summer is here, and the key to making the most of the season is to ensure you feel your best. Although there are many tempting, calorie-laden foods at your disposal during the season, it can be easy to fill your diet with foods that are tasty and healthy. A good place to start is in your refrigerator. The contents of your fridge can either sandbag or support your healthy eating habits. |
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Considering air duct cleaning? Know what lies beyond the big hose |
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With cool weather approaching, you know your family will spend more time indoors and you want the air they breathe to be as healthful as possible. Duct cleaning is a good way to remove irritants from the air inside your home and can help your HVAC system function better for longer. But if you've ever had your ducts cleaned and wondered just what you paid for, you may be hesitant to go through the process again. |
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Taking cat naps can help support breast cancer awareness |
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On average, cats sleep 13 to 16 hours a day. Many of those hours are composed of naps - 20 to 30 minutes in length - hence the term "cat nap." As a cat owner, you probably watch your feline friend curl up in a sunny spot at the edge of your bed and with a wishful sigh, contemplate joining her for a cat nap of your own. |
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Emerging careers in science and health care |
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Growth in technology is contributing to career options at an increasing rate. Ten of the 20 fastest-growing careers are health care-related, with 26 percent of all new jobs created falling into this category, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's "Career Guide to Industries, 2010-11 Edition." New career possibilities are opening for individuals with vocational training, college diplomas and advanced degrees. |
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Your guide to buying hearing aids |
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For many, accepting the fact that they may be suffering from hearing loss is a difficult process, and finding the best hearing aid for their needs can be difficult. Help is available to ensure that anyone in need of a hearing aid receives the very best information and professional service. |
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Beachy-keen tips for summer sun and fun |
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There are few better ways to celebrate the summertime than by spending the day outdoors at the beach or pool. But, as anyone who has gone home covered in sand and fruit punch stains will testify, a day at the beach is not always as carefree as it sounds. |
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Can buildings help keep you healthy? |
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We spend 90 percent of our lives indoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. A typical day can include traveling from home to work and back home again with a few periodic trips to schools, the grocery store, the bank, malls and entertainment venues. We depend on our homes, offices, retail stores and other structures to keep us safe; but can buildings also help keep us healthy? |
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Traveling smart with diabetes |
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Medications are part of a daily routine for people with diabetes. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 87 percent of adults diagnosed with diabetes take either insulin, oral medications or both. For these individuals, traveling requires a bit of extra planning. |
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Simple steps to better health |
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If you've been diagnosed with diabetes - Type 2 diabetes in particular - you may have been told you need to make some significant lifestyle changes to maintain your health. Those changes can seem challenging, even for the most disciplined people. |
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Hot temperatures and heavy activity require hydration |
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Warmer weather can make it difficult to stay cool and hydrated. Whether you are playing sports, walking, biking, gardening or enjoying water activities, it's important to drink water throughout the day, especially if you sweat. |
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Taking heartburn off the menu this barbecue season |
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While a little burning is expected when you fire up the grill, a leading gastroenterologist says that if you follow some simple, at-home guidelines, you may be able to avoid the burning sensation in your chest. |
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Have a few accidents on your driving record? |
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How many car accidents have you been involved in during the past three years? Hopefully none, but if you have a crash or two on your driving record, there's one thing to keep in mind. The amount you pay for auto insurance may be impacted. |
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Caregivers: Making the transition from hospital to home easier |
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Coming home from the hospital or other care setting after an illness or surgery can be worrisome for both patients and the friends and family members who care for them. Planning ahead can make the process much easier. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has advice that is useful to the millions of Americans who are actively involved in caregiving. Through its caregiver initiative, Ask Medicare, CMS recommends the following steps to prepare for a transition. |
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Some simple rules to follow on your next road trip |
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Summer vacation has finally arrived for millions of families, and if you're planning an out-of-town trip to visit relatives or see another part of the country, you'll likely be hitting the road instead of flying. |
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Keeping kids safe this summer |
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For most families, summertime means outdoor fun. From day camp to the swim club to the playground, summer is a time for kids to let loose. But what about kids with chronic diseases that may require extra attention? Can they enjoy the same summer activities as their peers? |
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Before buying a motorcycle, consider these safety tips |
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Tired of spending a small fortune on the commute to work or school every day? Wish getting to and from work in the summer months was less of a chore and more of a fun ride? If so, you may want to look into getting a motorcycle. |
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What to do if your child is being bullied |
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If your child is being bullied, she's not alone. About 160,000 children in the United States miss school every day due to fear of attack or intimidation by other students, according to the National Education Association. |
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Stay sun-safe each and every day |
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Everyone loves the sunshine, but too much of a good thing now could create major health problems for you later on. Because of the risk of skin cancer, you need to adopt sun-safe behaviors year-round, and avoid intentional exposure to natural sunlight and its harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. |
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How you can shape up your summer snacking |
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Summer is here, and that means barbecues, get-togethers and outdoor parties with friends and family. With so many tempting treats, it can be hard to snack smartly, but some easy substitutions here and there can keep the whole family on track all summer long. |
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Light eating for families: Experts suggest seafood |
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Health experts recommend young families, especially expecting moms, should aim to eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods -- those that, like seafood, are bursting with vitamins and minerals in every bite. Warm weather is the perfect time to learn light, delicious ways to make fish your family's new favorite. |
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Get the most out of breakfast |
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You've heard for years that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Although eating in the morning is a step in the right direction, what people eat appears to be just as important as simply eating. |
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How to stay active this fall without letting foot pain slow you down |
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Fall is our last chance to take advantage of the remaining warm days of the year, so many of us are getting outside and being as active as possible. If spending all that extra time on your feet has them aching, you need to know how to get them back to feeling better as quickly as possible. After all, you don't want to let sore feet stop you from either getting in some extra runs, or wearing your favorite summer sandals and shoes. |
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Whole grains offer a world of new taste to familiar foods |
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Sometimes a small change in your diet can lead to big results. Americans are continuing to recognize that maintaining a healthy lifestyle includes making smart food choices. A good place to start is making whole grains a staple of your diet, as they provide many nutrients that are fundamental to the health and preservation of our bodies. |
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Don't let hand pain derail fall fun |
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Autumn's approach means plenty of time outdoors prepping your landscape for winter's impending arrival, or partaking in seasonal fun like pumpkin carving or cookie baking. Hand injuries may be the last thing on your mind during this busy, happy season, but experts caution that many fall activities require repetitive motions that may lead to injury, or irritate existing conditions. You can take steps to prevent repetitive motion injuries. |
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Creatively cut the fat: substitute with apples |
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Looking to eat better? Tried low-fat and reduced-sodium products, but they just don't taste the same? If you want to modify your diet without giving up the tastes you love, substituting natural ingredients, rather than modified versions of unhealthy ingredients, could do the trick. |
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Six reasons to see an ear, nose and throat specialist |
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A range of problems - from sleep apnea to facial paralysis - can be treated with a visit to an ear, nose and throat specialist (or otolaryngologist). If you or a loved one experience any of the following symptoms, consider visiting an ENT specialist to learn if you require special attention and treatment. |
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Eye care advice for aging eyes |
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Growing older and getting reading glasses seem to go hand in hand, just like getting gray hair or wrinkles as you age. But that doesn't have to be the case if you take steps to care for your eyes as you age.
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Chill your buns: The coolest way to reduce swelling |
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Cold doesn't just reduce swelling in the bump on your noggin, it also helps soothe any kind of swelling from a baby's teething gums to a boxer's swollen eye. Cold therapy has long been recognized as an effective way to reduce swelling on all parts of the body - even in the sensitive area where hemorrhoids occur. |
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Make sure your car is safe before hitting the road |
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If you're among the millions of Americans who will be hitting the road this summer, don't wait until the day before your trip to start getting ready. Now is the time to come up with a list of things you'll need to do. |
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Ten safe driving reminders for teens |
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Getting a driver's license is a thrill for any teen, but it's a reward that comes with a lot of responsibility. It's hard to think about, but car crashes are the No. 1 killer of American teens - as many as 5,000 teenagers lose their lives in auto accidents every year. Considering that statistic, it's clear why teen driver safety is of the utmost importance. |
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Insurance is key for a recessed economy |
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In a recessed economy, your insurance coverage is even more important than in good times. You may want to make slight adjustments in coverage on a homeowner's policy to reflect any reduction in home values; this could result in small savings until values again rise. But, a recession may be the right time to add to your insurance policy coverage. |
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Five steps to ensure a health crisis doesn't mean financial ruin |
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A serious long-term illness or disability can have a devastating, often irreversible, affect on a family's financial well-being. In fact, health care expenses are among the most common cause of bankruptcies, according to findings published in the "American Journal of Medicine" last year. |
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How to eat healthy during the hectic fall season |
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School, homework, soccer practice, ballet, board meetings - the list goes on and on. The end of summer often means the beginning of a hectic fall, and now is the perfect time to ensure that healthy eating stays on top of your priority list. |
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Use your head to protect it - Why you should never ride a motorcycle without a helmet |
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The last time you hopped on a motorcycle, did you put your helmet on? Hopefully the answer is yes. A 2007 National Highway Transportation Safety Administration report on motorcycle fatalities indicated there was a direct correlation between head injuries and helmet use. Around 51 percent of motorcyclists not wearing a helmet suffered a head injury, compared to just 35 percent of helmeted motorcyclists. |
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Arthritis strikes people of all ages |
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Many people seem to think arthritis is a symptom of getting older. It's widely believed that in our older age, arthritis, to some degree, will likely hit. But children and teens can also develop various types of arthritis, and the Arthritis Foundation is trying to bring awareness to this debilitating disease. |
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Career-changers finding opportunity in booming day spa industry |
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Even though the economy appears to be climbing out of recession, unemployment rates remain alarmingly high. Yet some industries continue to prosper, offering plenty of opportunity for career-changers and qualified job seekers. The day spa industry is an example of a "luxury" industry that has continued to do well despite the recession. |
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What you need to know about safety in healthcare |
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The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a federal organization under the United States Department of Health and Human Services. This organization acts as a leader in promoting national health and safety, while also partnering with state health departments and other organizations in advocating good health practices. The CDC is based in Atlanta. |
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Make school lunches and snacks nutritious and fun |
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As kids head back to school, parents are faced with the dilemma of finding foods to pack for lunch and snacks that kids want to eat and that are good for them. Most snacks available in the grocery stores are full of fat, sugar and/or salt with little nutritional benefit, so finding healthy choices that kids are willing to eat isn't always an easy task. |
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What you should know before choosing a home fire sprinkler system |
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In response to growing concerns about fatalities caused by household fires, as well as enhanced education regarding the effectiveness of fire sprinkler systems, building codes are changing to prompt an increase in the number of homes having sprinklers. Here's what you need to know before you choose a system for your home. |
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