19 Ways to Relax This Holiday Season

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:04:00 GMT

The shopping and crowds. The back-to-back diet-busting parties. The interminable chats with the in-laws. We understand how easy it is to feel not so wonderful at this most wonderful time of the year. That's why we've rounded up these 19 expert-endorsed ways to help you dodge the seasonal blues and stay happy, healthy, and energized. From quick stress-survival strategies to mood-brightening foods, here's your cheat sheet to holiday cheer.

Sleeping Pills, Holiday Habits, and Staying Rested

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:46:00 GMT

You take sleeping pills—maybe all the time, maybe just occasionally—to get a good night's rest, but you may be wondering how the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can affect your schedule and sleep habits.

My New Post-Cancer Breasts: A Photo Diary

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:46:00 GMT

After her diagnosis with breast cancer, artist Jo Beth Ravitz, 58, had lumpectomies, a double mastectomy, and breast reconstruction in short order. During the various surgeries to prepare her body for implants, she couldn't move her arms enough to work on her art. She documented her journey with a diary, excerpted here, and her husband took pictures.

7 Daily Habits That Can Halt Heartburn

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:46:00 GMT

Over-the-counter antacids and prescription medications are the most common treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In the most severe cases, surgery may even be required. But regardless of how bad your GERD symptoms are, successfully fighting heartburn and acid reflux also requires some changes in lifestyle, ranging from the food you eat to the clothes you wear.

Dark Chocolate: The New Antianxiety Drug?

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:46:00 GMT

OK, so it may not be kosher for me to report on a chocolate study that was conducted by an employee of a chocolate maker at the chocolate maker's own research lab. Get over it. The results of this new study are intriguing and shed more light on the biochemical basis behind dark chocolate's health benefits.

20 Cholesterol-Lowering Recipes

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:51:00 GMT

Eating a healthy diet doesn't mean the end of taste--just check out this collection of delicious low-cholesterol recipes. You'll forget you're eating for your health!

What's That Rash? A Visual Skin Guide

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:51:00 GMT

When cold weather ushers in dry, red, itchy skin, you probably feel like an unlucky contestant on a rash-guessing quiz show: Is it dry skin...or some exotic flesh-eating bacteria you heard about on the news? The bacteria's a long shot, but what you might mistake for simple dryness could be a skin disease that gets worse in the winter and needs targeted treatment to heal.

Can't Stop Coughing? 8 Causes of Chronic Cough

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:51:00 GMT

You've been coughing for weeks. How do you know if it's just a hard-to-shake cold or something more serious? A chronic cough, defined as lasting more than eight weeks, is not uncommon. Up to 40% of nonsmokers in the United States and Europe have reported a chronic cough at some point, and coughing is one of the five most common reasons for a doctor's visit.

10 Symptoms of Major Depression

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:07:00 GMT

When sad spells come on for no reason and don't let up, it can be a sign of depression. People with bipolar disorder sometimes experience prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells.

7 Daily Habits That Can Halt Heartburn

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:19:00 GMT

Menopause Dangers: When to Call a Doctor

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 09:15:00 GMT

During perimenopause or postmenopause, call your doctor about the following conditions.

NYC Marathon in Pictures

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 09:15:00 GMT

On Nov. 1, some 40,000 runners will sweat their way through the New York City Marathon, which winds through the city's five boroughs. The field will include elite runners from around the world, celebrities, and plenty of weekend warriors.

Halloween Candy Without the Heartburn

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 09:15:00 GMT

Halloween is tricky for anyone watching her waistline, but for chronic heartburn sufferers, all those goodies can make for a miserable night. "When it's not treated, chronic heartburn can have serious consequences. The good news is that heartburn and GERD are things you can control," says Pat Baird, RD, and board member of the National Heartburn Alliance.

Burn More Fat: Just Add Intervals to Your Run

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:42:00 GMT

Interval training--speeding up and slowing down at set times--is one of the best ways to burn more calories during your run (plus improve speed and stamina). It's also a great way to turn walking workouts into running ones. Here are two plans to try.

How Exercise Helps to Boost Your Mood

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:33:00 GMT

If Jennisse Peatick, 36, ever had to stop exercising-well, the idea leaves her almost speechless. She doesn't know what would happen. "I started exercising because I was getting fat and I realized it was helping me deal with my ongoing depression," she says.

9 Healthy Ways to Control Bipolar Mood Swings

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:33:00 GMT

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition in which episodes of mania--an abnormally elevated mood often accompanied by feelings of euphoria--are interspersed with bouts of depression.

Extreme Parkour for Newbies: How to Add Freerunning to Your Workout

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:50:00 GMT

Parkour comes from the French word parcours, or "route." It was started by a French naval officer as a training program in World War I and II that taught the most efficient way to get from point A to point B, using obstacles in your path to increase your efficiency.

How to Get to Sleep Faster (and Safer)

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:50:00 GMT

If you've ever considered sleeping pills, you may have worried about how you'd feel the next day, whether you'd get hooked, and what other effects the medication might have on you. When used correctly, prescription sleep drugs are safe and effective, and can help you get through a patch of insomnia or fitful sleeping. In fact, doctors say they're more reliable than over-the-counter meds for any extended period of time.

4 Sweet Benefits of Being a Chocolate Lover

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:50:00 GMT

This ultimate feel-good food keeps your heart healthy, mood up, and body in great shape. Find out what all this natural ingredient can do for you.

7 Healthy Habits That Can Stop Heartburn

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:27:00 GMT

How to Stop Allergies at Home

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:27:00 GMT

Your home harbors a surprising number of sneaky allergy-causing culprits. Here's where they're hiding, and how to send them packing.

7 Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 11:55:00 GMT

Everyone feels a little melancholy this time of the year. Summer's over, the days are getting shorter and colder, and the stress of the holidays is right around the corner.

Seasonal Fall Food (and Recipe) Guide

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:38:00 GMT

The weather may be cooler, but your produce choices are heating up. These amazing seasonal foods are the perfect excuse to visit your local farmers' market during the day and heat up the kitchen on cool nights.

The REAL Reasons We Eat Too Much

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:38:00 GMT

We all know we're supposed to eat healthy portions. So why is it that a rough day at the office or even just the smell of chocolate-chip cookies can cause us to throw our best intentions out the window?

The 10 Best Foods for Your Heart

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:38:00 GMT

Start your day with a steaming bowl of oats, which are full of omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and potassium. This fiber-rich superfood can lower levels of LDL (or bad) cholesterol and help keep arteries clear.

Top 10 Safe Sex and Sexual Health Myths

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:38:00 GMT

A recent study on adolescent reproductive health found the Internet is riddled with errors, omissions, and outdated advice about sexual health, leading to common myths believed by many teenagers

10 Surprising Risks for Swine Flu

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:38:00 GMT

Whether you decide to get a flu shot this year or not, it's important to take steps to prevent yourself from the seasonal illness, as well as from H1N1, commonly referred to as swine flu.

Swine Flu To-Do (and Don't Do) List

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:38:00 GMT

Swine flu vaccines are rolling out this mont--finally. Health-care workers in Indiana and Tennessee were the first to get the nose-spray version, while New Yorkers clamoring for the H1N1 vaccine finally had their chance too.

How to Call In Sick Without Jeopardizing Your Job

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:38:00 GMT

Few folks in today's workplace are calling in sick even if they have a cold, the flu, or a sinus infection. Given the economic meltdown, the highest unemployment rate in 15 years, and layoffs around every corner, workers are more likely to drag themselves into the office even when they feel like death warmed over. Find out how to call in sick, and still have an office to come into the next day.

7 Signs of Post-Summer Blues

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:35:00 GMT

Everyone feels a little melancholy this time of the year. Summer's over, the days are getting shorter and colder, and the stress of the holidays is right around the corner.

15 Surprising Ways to Improve Memory

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:25:00 GMT

Can't find your keys...again? Whether your momentary memory loss is linked to doing too many things at once or just a bad case of menopausal brain fog, you don.t have to put up with it. In fact, experts say you can instantly boost your chances of remembering where you put your keys--and everything else you keep forgetting--if you start treating your brain right (no matter your age). Our simple lifestyle changes will help you stay sharp as the years go by.

25 Diet-Busting Foods You Should Never Eat

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:27:00 GMT

It really is a shame. Some of the best-tasting foods are actually some of the worst in terms of fat and calories. But it can be hard to avoid them, especially in places--like malls—where nutrition information usually isn't available.

Chronic Pain and Fibromyalgia: What's Normal, What's Not

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:14:00 GMT

Everyone experiences pain occasionally, whether it's a headache, muscle stiffness, or an upset stomach. Some people, such as migraine sufferers or those with irritable bowel syndrome, have to deal with pain and discomfort on a more frequent basis. And then there are people with fibromyalgia--a chronic pain disorder whose often debilitating symptoms overlap with many other diseases.

5 Most Common Myths About the Common Cold

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:25:00 GMT

Can a bowl of chicken soup help fight a cold? Maybe: Some research suggests it could relieve inflammation. But will going outside with wet hair make you sick in the first place? Nope. That's just another old wives' tale about the common cold. Here are some more.

The 10 Best Foods for Your Heart

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:32:00 GMT

How to Detox Your Body, Naturally

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:32:00 GMT

Twelve ways to remove and avoid toxins in your home and in your body.

10 Ways to Fight Indoor Mold

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:32:00 GMT

Mold is among the most hazardous household substances for people with allergies and asthma. It can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions (such as hay fever or eczema), and it can even cause health problems in people without those conditions.

7 Surprising Heartburn Triggers

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:32:00 GMT

Heartburn is as American as apple pie—more than 60 million people experience it at least once a month. For some people--those with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD—heartburn can be a constant companion.

How Crash Diets, Like the Master Cleanse, Harm Your Health and Heart

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:32:00 GMT

Linda Bacon, PhD, dreads swimsuit season, but not because she has anything against the beach. Instead, the California-based nutritionist fears what the season brings: scores of otherwise health-conscious citizens who subject themselves to deprivation diets (like the Master Cleanse) or intense exercise regimens, often in blazing hot weather, to look slimmer in revealing clothes.

6 All-Natural, Eco-Friendly Food Buys

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:00:00 GMT

Green Guide to Food: Snacks and Sides

5 Online Tools That Help Fight Allergies

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:00:00 GMT

Got allergies? If you do, the Internet offers a host of helpful options, from widgets to iPhone applications to pollen-counting programs that deliver daily emails to your inbox. Used correctly, these digital tools can help fight allergies in the real word, experts say.

Study: Some Types of Candles May Pollute Indoor Air

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:00:00 GMT

A soak in a steamy tub, surrounded by candles, sure seems like a great way to unwind. But new research suggests that burning certain kinds of candles may generate indoor air pollutants.

Why Actress (and Vegan) Alicia Silverstone Gardens in the Nude

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 13:25:00 GMT

On gardening naked: "I think it evolved through my new happiness with my body--and also through cool friends. I used to spend a lot of time with Woody Harrelson, and he's not afraid to get naked."

10 Reasons You’re Not Having Sex

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:52:00 GMT

Not getting any? You're not alone: Women today have less time for sex than their 1950s counterparts. And it's estimated that 40 million Americans have what experts call a sexless marriage (having sex less than 10 times a year).

9 Health Hazards Hidden in College Dorms

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:52:00 GMT

College is giving your child an education, but your happy-go-lucky freshman might also pick up a few health problems and generate some doctor's bills to go with that $25,000 tuition tab.

How to Prevent the Freshman 15

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:52:00 GMT

So many first-year college students gain unwanted pounds that the so-called Freshman 15 is the subject of a new MTV reality show. (They're auditioning now.) But the phenomenon, say experts, is probably a misnomer. According to a 2008 study in the journal Eating Behaviors, female college students who gain weight during their first year actually gain an average of 7 pounds.

Freshman Stress: "Mental illness surfaced when I started college"

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:32:00 GMT

If someone had told me when I was in my teens that one day I'd be a spokesperson for a mental health group, I wouldn't have believed them. Chances are, I wouldn't have understood them either. When I was 18, I was drowsy on antipsychotics and hospitalized for my first manic attack. But a lot has changed since then, and over the last 36 years I've learned how to manage my health.

9 Smart Ways to Keep Your Marriage Healthy at Any Age

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:32:00 GMT

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes decades of time together strewn with a minefield of potential relationship wreckers. It's a wonder that anyone ends up walking off into the sunset, hand-in-wrinkled-hand, with a silver-haired mate. What do those geriatric lovebirds know that you don't?

How to Reduce Pet Allergens at Home

Wed, 06 Aug 2009 15:07:00 GMT

Pets can be your best friends. If you have allergies or asthma, they can also be your worst enemy. Pets shed dander, a combination of dead skin cells and hair (or feathers), which can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to the allergens. (Cold-blooded pets such as snakes and turtles do not produce dander.)

Can't Stop Coughing? 8 Causes of Chronic Cough

Wed, 06 Aug 2009 15:07:00 GMT

Supplements for Cholesterol: What Works?

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:22:00 GMT

If you're looking for a natural way to lower your cholesterol--in addition to watching what you eat and exercising--there are plenty of dietary supplements on the market that claim to do the trick.

Bad Air Day? Here's How to Survive Pollution and Smog

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:30:00 GMT

If you've ever seen a brown haze of pollution hanging over your city, most likely your response was, "Ugh. How can I avoid breathing that stuff?" But let's face it, even if you know it's a bad air day, you probably need to grab some sunshine, get in an outdoor run, or get to work.

20 Little Ways to Drop the Pounds and Keep Them Off

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 17:20:00 GMT

1. Order two appetizers. According to a study at the University of North Carolina, the average hamburger is 23 percent larger today than it was in 1977. Choose a pasta dish and salad or soup from the appetizer column, instead. 2. Visit the vending machine...

4 Things You Didn’t Know About Natural Medicine

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:42:00 GMT

If natural medicine still sounds too alternative for you, here are four things that may help mainstream the concept for you.

6 Things Teens Needs to Know About Sex

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 17:42:00 GMT

As awkward as it may be, educating your daughter about sex can keep her healthy--and even save her life. Unfortunately, most teens have different views than their parents when it comes to what constitutes a sex talk. About 90% of parents nationwide say they've spoken to their teens about sex, according to a 2006 ABC News poll.

10 Easy Ways to Eat Natural

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 17:42:00 GMT

Let's face it: The dream of having our very own personal spa chef whip up delicious, good-for-us grub probably isn't happening in this economy. So we found the next best thing--great stuff that makes eating healthy affordable and, honestly, almost effortless. Check out our top picks:

The Medical Tests Every Woman Must Have

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 17:42:00 GMT

Studies show that regular checkups and screenings can help keep you out of the doctor's office the rest of the year. Here, we lay out the essential medical tests you need in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and up, according to top women's-health experts. In most cases, these should be covered by insurance—but be sure to ask first.

5 Surprising Myths About Excess Weight

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:51:00 GMT

We get it. We're fat. Americans are fat. Europeans are fat. And the rest of the globe is quickly catching up. And, yes, excess weight is very, very bad. Gaining too much weight boosts your risk of cancer, heart disease, and, well, 17 other terrible things that we've written about before at Health.com.

The Best Foods for Your 30s, 40s, 50s, and Beyond

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:51:00 GMT

When it comes to nutrition, eating the best foods for your age is the secret to conquering the changes going on in your body--and to fueling up for the challenges in your life. That's why we created this guide to what you need most, and why, when you're in your 30s, 40s, and 50s.

How to Spot Recurrent Breast Cancer

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 17:29:00 GMT

The symptoms of metastatic and recurrent breast cancer depend on how much the cancer has spread. You may have specific physical symptoms, such as a lump in your breast or on your chest wall, bone pain, or shortness of breath. Many women do not have symptoms. Recurrent or metastatic breast cancer is often found before symptoms appear, either on a chest X-ray or as part of another test.

Hormonal Birth Control Can Mess With Your Mood (and Possibly Your Sex Drive)

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 17:29:00 GMT

Many women don't have any problems with hormonal birth control--whether it's a pill, a ring, or a shot--but some do experience side effects. "Most are what I call 'nuisance' side effects," says Anne Foster-Rosales, MD, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood Golden Gate and a professor at the University of California, San Francisco.

How to Control Cancer Pain

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:31:00 GMT

Cancer pain can be controlled in almost every case. This does not mean that you have no pain, but that it stays at a level that you can bear.

Why Makeup Sex Can Actually be Good for Your Relationship

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:43:00 GMT

Fighting as foreplay? Surprise! Makeup sex can actually be good for your relationship.

19 New Reasons to Keep Fat Off

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:43:00 GMT

We are in the midst of a fat epidemic: An astounding two-thirds of American adults, including 65 million women, are overweight or obese--a rise of 10% in just a decade. If we keep it up, according to a new study, all adults in the United States (yes, everyone) will be overweight or obese in 40 years.

7 of the Most Common Birth Control Side Effects

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:43:00 GMT

Hormone-based birth control often comes with side effects that can range from slightly annoying to bad enough to make you switch. You may not know what you can tolerate until you've given a couple of them a try. But here are some solutions for the most common problems.

How Your Family Can Help You Lose Weight

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:05:00 GMT

Dieters are more likely to change their ways if they feel they have the support of family. Here are some tips for getting your home team to get behind your desire to lose weight.

7 Surprising Heartburn Triggers

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:05:00 GMT

Sure, chili dogs and chocolate are obvious, but food isn‚Äôt the only contributor to digestive pain. Here are some sneaky--and often overlooked--causes.

How to Eat Smarter in Your 30s, 40s, and 50s

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:05:00 GMT

When it comes to nutrition, eating the best foods for your age is the secret to conquering the changes going on in your body--and to fueling up for the challenges in your life.

10 Questions to Ask a New Partner Before Having Sex

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:46:00 GMT

Before hopping into bed with a new sex partner, have an open and honest conversation about your sexual histories, and the last time you were tested for STDs.

7 Daily Habits That Can Halt Heartburn

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:46:00 GMT

Over-the-counter antacids and prescription medications are the most common treatments for GERD. In the most severe cases, surgery may even be required. But regardless of how bad your GERD symptoms are, successfully fighting heartburn and acid reflux also requires some changes in lifestyle, ranging from the food you eat to the clothes you wear.

10 Easy Food Swaps Cut Cholesterol, Not Taste

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:46:00 GMT

Want to cut cholesterol without cutting taste? Most people are afraid that "good for my cholesterol" means meals that are joyless (and tasteless). However, a low-cholesterol diet doesn't have to be all oat bran and tofu.

5 Healthy Snacks for People With (or Without!) Diabetes

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:46:00 GMT

When your stomach starts to rumble, you need a snack that can curb your hunger without blowing your blood sugar. Just like meals, snacks should be a combination of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. Aim for one that consists of 15 to 30 grams of carbohydrates and 100 to 200 calories (depending on your meal plan and medication).

How Cholesterol Affects Your Heart's Health

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:46:00 GMT

When most people hear "cholesterol" they think "evil." Like most things in life, the reality is more complex; cholesterol can be very bad and very good. On its own, cholesterol is a crucial body component. That's why you make the white, waxy substance (about 75% of the cholesterol in your blood is made by the liver and cells elsewhere in your body). Cholesterol insulates nerve cells in your brain and provides structure for cell membranes.

How to Make Your Own All-Natural Home Cleaners

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:46:00 GMT

Using toxin-free, all- or mostly natural cleaning products isn't just a good idea for protecting the environment inside (and outside) your home--it can actually save you some dough. I haven't done the math, but over a year's time, I'll bet you could piggy-bank the cost of a couple of nice massages if you swap homemade cleansers for the pricier kind that come laden with chemicals. And it's easy! Here are a few of the cleansers I make for my house:

Ice Cream Dreams: 4 Refreshing, Healthy Frozen Dessert Recipes

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:12:00 GMT

Few things are more refreshing on a 90-degree day than a melting, double-scoop ice cream cone. But after a few 300-calorie-plus servings (i.e., one-half cup of Ben and Jerry's Brownie Batter), you might see the difference on the scale. These DIY ice cream recipes are invigorating, light, and chock-full of bone-healthy calcium.

America's Healthiest Beach and Lake Getaways

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:12:00 GMT

Whether you have a week or a weekend to get away this summer, we know your vacation time is precious. You want to land where you can truly relax, breathe fresh air, get in some exercise, and eat well. And you want to do it all without breaking the bank.

How Women in the Army Lost the Baby Weight

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:12:00 GMT

Any woman who's ever had a baby can relate to the not-so-joyous side of life after pregnancy: Your body's changing, sleep is hard to get, and sometimes things between you and your man are strained. Caring for a whole new life can be overwhelming, and postpartum depression may set in.

How to Avoid Foodborne Illness at Restaurants

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:02:00 GMT

It's challenging to keep our nation's nearly one million restaurants up to code, says Chris Gordon, of the National Restaurant Association in Washington, D.C. "But there are more than 30,000 health inspectors across the country," he says, and you can add to their ranks by doing these four things.

America‚Äôs Top 10 Healthiest Diets

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:02:00 GMT

If losing weight is at the top of your resolution list, you're not alone: An estimated 80 million Americans go on diets every year, spending more than $30 billion annually on programs and products. That's a lot of money, a lot of advice, and a lot of emotional investment.

Boost Your Summer Workout With Caffeine

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:02:00 GMT

Good news for coffee, tea, and cola lovers: Caffeine may be the perfect complement to your summer workouts. Several recent studies have found that a small dose before exercising helps improve performance, and a few cups of the strong stuff after a tough workout can help your muscles recover more quickly.

The 4 Best Foods for Runners

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:02:00 GMT

1. Almonds. High in the antioxidant vitamin E, these flavorful nuts help prevent achy muscles. Their protein and fiber keep your tummy from growling on runs, too. And they're portable! Grab a handful for your morning snack up to five times per week.

Babies After 40: The Hidden Health Risks of Mid-Life Pregnancy

Mon, 18 Jun 2009 14:05:00 GMT

After years of struggling with repeated miscarriages and fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), Joanna Brody was thrilled when she finally conceived on her own at the age of 43‚Äîdespite the increased risk of health problems associated with pregnancy after age 40. Still, the former marathon runner was in good health and exercised throughout her pregnancy, which was uneventful.

How Worried Should You Be About Food Safety?

Mon, 18 Jun 2009 14:05:00 GMT

Foodborne illness is nothing to sneeze at in America: Each year there are an estimated 87 million cases, leading to 371,000 hospitalizations and 5,700 deaths. Produce-related food poisonings are on the rise, and foodborne disease is no longer on the decline, government officials said in a recent report.

You Know It's Fibromyalgia When...

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:03:00 GMT

Fibromyalgia sufferers will tell you that they hurt. Often they hurt all over. They have pain in their muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints, as well as back and neck, and tenderness when certain spots on the body are pressed.

4 Delicious Ways to Eat Fat-Burning Berries

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:03:00 GMT

Berries are a sweet addition to salads, desserts, and breakfasts. However, these fruits are more than juicy toppings--they're loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals that may help prevent certain cancers.

7 Ways to Eat Out Without Getting Fat

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:03:00 GMT

Misplace your keys? Forget your best friend's birthday? If sticky notes are fast replacing your actual memory, you might want to check out the growing list of computer- and Internet-based games and programs designed to help make you think smarter and faster.

How Nutrition Needs Change in Your 30s, 40s, and 50s

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:03:00 GMT

You don't have to act your age. And you definitely don't have to look it: After all, 50 is the new 30. (Hello, have you seen Madonna lately?)

3 Lifestyle Habits That Can Boost Your Sex Drive

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:10:00 GMT

All the usual healthy habits are good for your sex drive--even if your low libido is caused by a condition such as diabetes or hypertension. Remember, sexual health and general good health are profoundly interconnected.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia: What It Feels Like

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:10:00 GMT

How to Deal With 7 of the Most Common Birth Control Side Effects

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:10:00 GMT

5 Quick Ways to Stop Back Pain

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:57:00 GMT

You know that calcium is key for strong bones, but Japanese researchers have identified something else you need: vitamin K. It's believed that the vitamin, found in broccoli, spinach, and other dark leafy greens, helps calcium deposit in the bones, making them denser.

Drink This Tea to Lose That Belly Fat

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:57:00 GMT

Five cups of green tea every day could help you shed twice as much weight‚Äîmost of it around your middle, according to a Journal of Nutrition study. Researchers also found that people who had sports drinks with green tea for 12 weeks lowered their levels of triglycerides, a blood fat linked to heart disease.

Chronic Pain: Real-Life Strategies for Coping

Mon, 04 Jun 2009 10:50:00 GMT

The key to coping with fibromyalgia is accepting that the problem is chronic, learning how to minimize the pain, and finding the good things within a painful life. The reality is that the pain will not go away. The challenge is to learn how to lessen it and create a life beyond the pain.

The 4 Best Recovery Foods for Athletes

Mon, 04 Jun 2009 10:50:00 GMT

1. Almonds. High in the antioxidant vitamin E, these flavorful nuts help prevent achy muscles. Their protein and fiber keep your tummy from growling on runs, too.

Why Bipolar Disorder Can Trigger Suicide

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:21:00 GMT

Bipolar disorder is notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat, and has a suicide rate of up to 20%. Studies suggest that half of people living with bipolar disorder have attempted to kill themselves.

Why Fibromyalgia Has a Credibility Problem

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:21:00 GMT

On top of their daily struggle with pain, fibromyalgia patients are sometimes forced to fight another battle--convincing doctors, friends, coworkers, and others that their condition is real and that their pain is not all in their head.

The Smart Way to Splurge at Your Summer Barbecue

Thu, 28 May 2009 21:17:00 GMT

Barbecues are my favorite part of the summer; who can resist good friends, good times, and good food? But sometimes these get-togethers make it too easy to overindulge.

Don‚Äôt Have Time for Breakfast? 3 Healthy Options in 15 Minutes or Less

Thu, 28 May 2009 21:17:00 GMT

I never used to eat breakfast. Skipping breakfast seemed like a perfectly logical way to help me cut calories and lose weight. But I learned early on in my weight-loss efforts that this was one of the reasons I wasn't seeing success on the scale.

Melt Pounds Away with a Mix-and-Match approach to Cardio Routines

Tue, 26 May 2009 13:50:00 GMT

Mix and match the workouts below for a total of five to six cardio sessions a week. The mix of routines will help your body burn fat more efficiently and build endurance. Combined with our strength workout, you'll see pounds melt away!

6 Tips for Breathing Easier This Summer

Tue, 26 May 2009 13:50:00 GMT

You can control the impact asthma has on your life by following your asthma plans consistently. A management plan can reduce inflammation to decrease the severity, frequency, and duration of asthma attacks. Following your plans may be difficult due to the many different factors involved.

9 Ways to Control Bipolar Disorder

Tue, 26 May 2009 13:50:00 GMT

1. Exercise Daily. Moderate physical activity for 30 minutes a day can help control mood swings.

How to Deal With 7 of the Most Common Birth Control Side Effects

Wed, 20 May 2009 15:16:00 GMT

Chilly Winter, Speedy Warm-up Equals Spring Allergies

Wed, 20 May 2009 15:16:00 GMT

Jack Schwartz, 8, has had seasonal allergy symptoms in the past, but his parents never needed to give him medication. This year was different. On the way to his baseball league's opening celebration in Stow, Massachusetts, the second-grader started crying so hard his mother was afraid he'd have a panic attack after pollen blew into his eyes through open car windows.

"I'm Bipolar and Struggle With Addiction"

Mon, 18 May 2009 16:37:00 GMT

Jeffrey is 32 and has struggled with addiction and substance abuse since he was 13 years old. He was a successful Hollywood writer, but his alcohol, cocaine, and prescription drug use led to two convictions for driving under the influence, plus one for possession of a controlled substance.

16 Ways to Stay in Shape on Vacation

Mon, 18 May 2009 16:37:00 GMT

Summer vacation is all about taking a break from the norm. Trouble is--whether you‚Äôre relaxing on the beach, catching up with relatives, or exploring new places--dropping your workout can quickly become the routine.

"My Life as a 34-Year-Old Bipolar Mom"

Tue, 12 May 2009 15:37:00 GMT

I think the hardest job in the world is being a stay-at-home mom with bipolar disorder. I'm 34 and married, and I have two girls, ages 2 and 5. I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder on October 2, 2006, while pregnant with the second baby.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer at Any Age

Tue, 12 May 2009 15:37:00 GMT

Breast cancer research offers more and more evidence that you can influence your own breast cancer future by picking up some good habits--and your age says a lot about which habits are key.

Eat Smarter in Your 30s, 40s, and 50s

Tue, 12 May 2009 15:37:00 GMT

When it comes to nutrition, eating the best foods for your age is the secret to conquering the changes going on in your body--and to fueling up for the challenges in your life.

4 Motivational Tips for Sticking to Your Diet

Fri, 08 May 2009 14:15:00 GMT

Look at the small picture. Con¬≠centrate on just losing 5 pounds at a time. When you lose the first 5, celebrate, then decide if it's reasonable to lose another 5, and so on. Focusing on a big number can be overwhelming; in bite-size chunks, it will seem more manageable.

Can Bipolar Disorder Be Hereditary?

Fri, 08 May 2009 14:15:00 GMT

Parents usually enjoy seeing their own characteristics reflected in their children, such as a daughter's green eyes or a son's shyness. But studies show that bipolar disorder also runs in families, and experts say that most people who are living with the illness can identify at least one relative who has bipolar disorder or depression.

5 Simple Things That Could Cut Your Breast Cancer Risk

Fri, 08 May 2009 14:15:00 GMT

Alcohol, consumed even in small amounts, is believed to increase the risk of breast cancer. Most doctors recommend cutting back on wine, beer, and hard liquor.

Breast Density in Young Women Offers Clue to Later Cancer Risk

Tue, 05 May 2009 18:05:00 GMT

Young women with dense breasts--as measured by the percentage of water in their breast tissue--may be at greater risk of developing breast cancer later in life than women with less-dense breasts.

How to Care for and Cope With a Bipolar Spouse

Fri, 01 May 2009 10:50:00 GMT

If you're involved with someone with bipolar disorder, the romantic relationship may be exciting, exhausting, and stressful. But it will rarely be easy, especially if the object of your affection doesn't comply fully with treatment.

Twitter Map Tracks Swine Flu Tweets in Real Time

Fri, 01 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

What do you get when you cross swine flu with Twitter, the social networking service much loved (and hated) for its rapid-fire 140-character updates known as tweets? No, it,s not a chatty new virus called Switter.

The Top 5 Cholesterol Myths (#2: Eggs are evil)

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:10:00 GMT

Even if you think you know everything there is to know about cholesterol, there may be a few more surprises in store. Check out these common myths about high cholesterol; find out who's most likely to have it, what types of food can cause it, and why--sometimes--cholesterol isn't a bad word.

Quiz: Surprising Migraine Causes and Cures

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:10:00 GMT

Think you know what really triggers that debilitating pain in your head? This simple test reveals why you might be wrong...and how getting it right can make your migraines much more manageable.

The 4 Best Foods for Runners

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:10:00 GMT

From almonds to tuna--foods that give you that extra boost for your run.

How to Get Your Way With Body Language

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:01:00 GMT

Did you know that the way you stand can make you more persuasive? And how you hold your arms can be a tip off that you're tense? Send out the best possible message with this quick primer.

Burn More Fat: Just Add Intervals to Your Run

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:01:00 GMT

The Medical Tests Every Woman Must Have

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:01:00 GMT

Sure, your to-do list is probably longer than the Great Wall of China, so you may be tempted to let your annual mammogram or cholesterol test slip. But don't let that happen: Studies show that regular checkups and screenings can help keep you out of the doctor's office the rest of the year.

5 Celebrities Who Had (or Are at Risk of) the Lung Disease COPD

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 17:57:00 GMT

Many people have never heard of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). But it's a lung condition that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and is the fourth leading cause of death in the US. People who have it can end up with inflamed or damaged airways that make it difficult to breathe. In most cases, COPD is caused by smoking.

How to Beat Allergies and More on Your Next Run

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 17:16:00 GMT

Running is no fun when you're plagued by these common health complaints. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options (and to get the all clear to exercise), then try these do-it-yourself strategies.

Stretching: The Secret to Running Better, Faster, and Longer

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 17:16:00 GMT

Stretching can improve your stride (which may actually increase your pace) and help you avoid injuries. Do these three easy moves after your run.

Attention, Walkers: How to Ease Into Running

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 17:16:00 GMT

Ease into running--and double your calorie burn--with this streamlined plan.

20 Easy Ways to Drop Pounds and Keep Them Off

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:39:00 GMT

Bad news: The average person gains one to two pounds a year. Good news: Consuming just 100 fewer calories each day is enough to avert that weight gain.

6 Myths (and Facts) About Weight-Loss Supplements

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:39:00 GMT

The not-so-secret dream of everyone who's ever tried to shed extra weight is that they could do so just by popping a pill. "What I hear most from my clients is that they want something easy, a quick fix," says Dee Sandquist, RD, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association based in Portland, Ore.

Lose Up to 2 Pounds a Week: Start Today!

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:39:00 GMT

Remember what you weighed when you looked and felt your best? Our user-friendly weight-loss plan will get you there again. Slim down with satisfying menus and kick-butt (but very doable) workout plans. Get started today...

8 healthy eating tips about fiber, fats, serving sizes, and more

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:39:00 GMT

Feel-great eating isn't about starving yourself; it's about having plenty of delicious, healthy foods that help you burn fat and leave you feeling satisfied. But dealing with the details--like counting grams of fiber, measuring portion sizes, and weighing the differences between good and bad fats--can be confusing, even when you have a daily meal plan to follow.

America's Healthiest Gyms: The 10 best fitness chains for your buck

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:05:00 GMT

Choosing a gym can feel a bit like choosing a spouse: You want it all, you deserve it all. And once you sign on the dotted line, it had better be a rewarding, motivating, and healthy relationship!

Cut Up to 900 Calories With Simple Substitutions

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:05:00 GMT

We know you need to splurge now and then. Here's how to do it without breaking your calorie bank.

Motivation to Lose: 4 Tips for Sticking to Your Diet

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:05:00 GMT

Advice for thinking like a thin person, from Judith Beck, PhD.

5 Secrets to Get-Slim Success

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:05:00 GMT

The first few weeks of a weight-loss plan can be tough. Here's how to survive and thrive.

A Wedding Weight Loss Plan That Works

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:05:00 GMT

I recently read a friend's blog about bride-fattening farms--where young girls in Africa are tortuously forced to overeat in order to gain weight to please their future husbands.

Could Your Rug Make You Sick?

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 21:55:00 GMT

Carpet and rugs warm a room and feel great underfoot, so what's not to love? All the health problems they can potentially cause.

How to Find Your Feel Great Weight

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:34:00 GMT

In a recent New Yorker cartoon, a man says to his buddies as he chows down on a steak, "I want a woman who's not afraid to have a few extra pounds--but doesn't."

Four Things You Didn't Know About Natural Medicine

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:34:00 GMT

If natural medicine still sounds too alternative for you, here are four things that may help mainstream the concept for you.

10 Easy Ways to Eat More Naturally

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:34:00 GMT

8 Natural Ways to Beat Spring Allergies

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:34:00 GMT

Sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes--nagging allergy symptoms like these can put a damper on anyone's enjoyment of spring's tender beauty. And the treatments your traditional doctor may offer aren't much less annoying than the symptoms: weekly desensitization injections, drugs, and nasal sprays laced with steroids.

5 Tips for a Naturally Healthier Home

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:34:00 GMT

Here are some easy ways to make "green" a household word from Sara Snow's Fresh Living: The Essential Room-by-Room Guide to a Greener, Healthier Family and Home

How Do You Know if a Head Injury Is Serious?

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:41:00 GMT

Our thoughts and prayers this week were with the family of Natasha Richardson, after the actress suffered a fatal brain injury while skiing in Canada. But it's also left many of us wondering exactly how Richardson was hurt so badly--and whether it's something that could happen to us.

How Antidepressants Can Fight Chronic Pain

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:41:00 GMT

Antidepressants are used to fight the depression that can come with chronic pain, but they also act directly on pain in some patients, and are used in the treatment of fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions.

Why You Should Plant a Pot Garden

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:41:00 GMT

I don't know about your part of the world, but in mine, this winter has been utterly miserable, weather-wise. And to top it off, we just endured a snowstorm, followed by several frigid days and ice-slicked sidewalks. I've had it.

Quiz: Surprising Migraine Causes and Cures

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:12:00 GMT

Think you know what really triggers that debilitating pain in your head? This simple test reveals why you might be wrong...and how getting it right can make your migraines much more manageable.

No-Brainer Guide to Healthy Portions

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:12:00 GMT

This handy chart is part of Health magazine's Feel Great Weight Plan: Your What-to-Eat Guide. From breakfast to dessert, here's your complete eating strategy. To keep weight off, keep these quick guidelines in mind.

Study: Weather Change Can Trigger Throbbing Headaches

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:03:00 GMT

Most people who are prone to headaches or migraines suspect that certain things, such as red wine or strong perfume, can trigger their head pain. Now a new study suggests that rising temperatures could trigger headaches, too.

Can a Bad Marriage Hurt Your Health? Maybe, If You're a Woman

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:03:00 GMT

When a marriage is rocky, it can make both partners feel depressed. But only middle-aged women--not men--seem to have health problems associated with marital strife, such as high blood pressure, excess belly fat, and other factors that boost risks for heart attack and diabetes, according to a study being presented Thursday at the American Psychosomatic Society meeting in Chicago.

4 Tricks for Sticking to Your Diet When You're Exhausted

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:03:00 GMT

1. Pack a snack. When I know I'm going to spend all day on the go, I make sure my purse is packed. I always have a water bottle on hand, as well as a high-protein snack like an all-natural energy bar or peanut butter on whole-grain bread.

Never Ignore a Sore, Swollen Leg (Especially If You're on a Diet)

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:03:00 GMT

Obesity is related to a variety of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, but it also doubles your risk of another condition that's not even on your radar.

7 Essentials for the Dieter's Kitchen

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:03:00 GMT

Stock your kitchen cabinets with these seven calorie savers and you'll see the scale start to move in no time.

What Causes Artery Clogs? A Visual Guide

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:12:00 GMT

An unpronounceable disease, atherosclerosis, is the number-one killer in the United States; it's responsible for more than a quarter of our deaths each year. Who knew? (Cancer is number two on the list.)

5 Quick Ways to Stop Back Pain

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:12:00 GMT

Roughly 8 out of 10 people suffer from back pain at some point during their lives. Women, in particular, are prone to posture and back problems...thanks to toting around outrageously heavy purses, going through pregnancy, or giving one-hip rides to kids. Whether you're in the midst of fighting the ache or just want to prevent it, here are some expert-endorsed quick-and-easy ways to wage your war.

3 Ways Breast Cancer Can Screw Up Your Sex Life

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:12:00 GMT

You might be one of the lucky few whose sex life cruises through breast cancer diagnosis and treatment without so much as a bounce. More likely, there are bumps in the road or you may have stalled out altogether. According to the National Cancer Institute, one in two women treated for breast or gynecologic cancer experiences some combination of low desire and pain with intercourse. Below, a list of the most common problems and some expert suggestions on what to do about it.

Drug-Free Treatments for Dry, Itchy Skin

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:12:00 GMT

As temperatures drop, heaters clank on, and the wind whips up, the battle for healthy skin begins. Dry air takes away the thin layer of oil that traps moisture in the skin, flaring itchy and painful conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and severe dry skin.

A Condom Trick to Try With Your Guy

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:12:00 GMT

Los Angeleno Carmen Donovan (not her real name), 27, has a rock-solid condom policy designed to protect her from whatever sexually transmitted disease (STD) may come along. "It's not negotiable," she says. "If a guy refuses to wear a condom, he's not having sex with me. It's that simple."

Are You an Annoying Patient? Docs Tell All

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:03:00 GMT

Erin Krebs, MD, once had a patient who spent the first eight minutes of his appointment telling her everything that was wrong with the past four primary care doctors he'd seen--including one she knew personally and considers a "lovely person."

Is Your Makeup Making You Look Older?

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:03:00 GMT

We asked makeup pro Jeannie Mai and wardrobe guru Alison Deyette of TLC's 10 Years Younger, to name their top instant agers--the things women do that actually make them look older.

America's Top 10 Healthiest Fast Food Restaurants

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:44:00 GMT

Who hasn't unwrapped a sandwich while driving down the highway or pulled a hard U-turn into a fast-food joint on the way home from a late meeting or soccer game? We practically live in our cars, so we need quick food, and please, we'd like it to be healthy.

Are Alcohol's Effects Different on an Airplane?

Tue, 16 Feb 2009 21:31:00 GMT

Q: Does alcohol affect you more when you drink on an airplane A: In a word, yes. Changes in air pressure, fatigue from flying, and especially dehydration all cause alcohol to be more potent than usual, says Eric Rimm, ScD, associate professor of epidemiology and nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health.

Live Your Ultimate Life: Give Yourself a Pep-Talk

Tue, 16 Feb 2009 21:31:00 GMT

If you're facing a new challenge... Ease the dread by telling yourself what you'll get out of it. Have to give a presentation at work? Think: Getting through this will give me more confidence the next time I need to speak in public. Trying a new gym class? Remind yourself that you're braving it to get healthier. Go, you!

Easy Ways To Protect Your Eyes At Any Age

Tue, 16 Feb 2009 21:31:00 GMT

Been squinting a lot lately? Have to move your newspaper 6 inches away from your eyes to read it? Vision problems creep up on you as you age. But good habits--not unlike the ones you've already established to protect your heart, bones, and brain--can help keep your eyes healthy. Try these simple tips to safeguard your vision now and for years to come.

How Old Will I Be When My Memory Starts to Go?

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 17:04:00 GMT

A study in the Journal of Neuroscience found that older people failed to recognize someone they've seen once 43 percent of the time.

Skin Softening Oils Rich in Omega-3 Fats

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 17:04:00 GMT

A new British Journal of Nutrition study suggests that flaxseed oil supplements can help moisturize your skin and reduce irritation from dryness. The oil is rich in omega-3 fats, which help fight inflammation and boost the health of cell membranes.

Google Flu Suggests Influenza Season Picking Up Speed

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 17:04:00 GMT

It's been a relatively mild flu season so far, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but activity on Google Flu Trends---which tracks search terms plugged into Google, not actual flu cases--suggests that cases will probably rise in coming weeks.

25 Random Things...About Health

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:47:00 GMT

In the spirit of those annoying, addictive, you-know-you're-reading-them-even-though-you-wish-you-weren't Facebook notes popping up everywhere, Health.com presents its list of 25 random things you might not know about the human body, nutrition and exercise, sex, sickness, and health. Go ahead: Pass it on to your friends.

Three Sisters Find Kidney Donor for Dad Using Craigslist

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:41:00 GMT

The Craigslist ad was short and to the point: "Please Help Us, My Dad Needs a Kidney!" Jennifer Flood, 30, and her sisters (her twin Cynthia and older sibling Heather, 32) posted the message on Craigslist in a desperate attempt to find a someone willing to make the ultimate sacrifice: donate a kidney to a complete stranger without asking anything in return.

Can I Exercise When I Have the Flu?

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:41:00 GMT

Are you sniffling, sneezing, and coughing? If you're like most people, you probably don't relish the thought of lacing up your sneakers and hitting the road (or the gym) when you have a cold or flu. But those who persevere when they're sick and don't break their exercise routine may be on to something. Some experts argue that moderate exercise can actually have a beneficial effect on cold symptoms, according to the American College of Sports Medicine.

Dating Tips for Those Living with Psoriasis

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:41:00 GMT

Dating is rarely easy for anyone. But when you live with a disfiguring skin disease like psoriasis, you have another layer of anxiety to add to the everyday stresses of finding a partner. For many people living with the condition, insecurities about their appearance and fear of rejection get in the way of romance. But having psoriasis doesn't have to prevent you from finding your happily ever after...and in some ways, it might even help.

Dogs Sniff Out Clues in the Fight Against Cancer

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 15:39:00 GMT

They've got funny names for cancer researchers, like Captain Jennings and Tibbs. They're also a little furry and have a tendency to lick their white-coated colleagues. But these canine lab assistants may one day make it possible to detect cancers early enough to keep them from becoming fatal.

Resveratrol: Miracle Supplement or As-Seen-on-TV Rip-off?

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:31:00 GMT

Here we go again, another miracle supplement courtesy of 60 Minutes," I thought to myself after I watched the newsmagazine's recent report about resveratrol (a compound found in red wine) and its seemingly amazing potential to slow the aging process.

Are Your Instincts Making You Fat?

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:31:00 GMT

Can't resist those Krispy Kremes in the break room? Don't blame your lack of self-control. Good old-fashioned willpower doesn't work, according to the book The Instinct Diet by Susan Roberts, PhD, a professor of nutrition and psychiatry at Tufts University.

How to Call In Sick Without Jeopardizing Your Job

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:01:00 GMT

Eric McCoole, 37, called in sick on St. Patrick's Day in 2000, and no, he didn't have a cold, the flu, or a sinus infection. He didn't even have the sniffles. "Being of Irish descent, I wanted to take the day off," says McCoole, a government employee in Alpine, Calif.

28 Days, 28 Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:01:00 GMT

Celebrate American Heart Month by using this calendar of tips to lower your risk for heart disease. Each year, more than 870,000 Americans die from cardiovascular disease...it's the leading cause of death among women and men. The good news is that the vast majority of heart disease cases can be prevented with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Each day we'll reveal a new way you can stay heart healthy...this month and every month. Click on today's date below, and check back often for updates.

5 Reasons Why You Can't Concentrate

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:01:00 GMT

You misplace your keys, waver between work assignments and YouTube, and daydream during conversations. Some of it's normal..life can get pretty hectic...but how do you know if you have a more serious problem? For adults who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), this chronic inattentiveness becomes debilitating.

Super Bowl Sunday: How to Have a Healthy Game Day

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:43:00 GMT

Heading to a game-day bash? Don't kiss your healthy habits good-bye at kickoff. Sure, you can try to burn some extra calories by cheering hard for your favorite team, but that won't do much if you're loading your plate high with potato skins and cheesy dips...and washing it down with beer after beer.

iPhone Applications to Get You Moving: Biking, Running, Yoga, and More

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:53:00 GMT

As iPhones get better and more affordable, more and more of my friends and colleagues are opting to replace their current mobile devices with this all-in-one gadget. And while many of them are having fun downloading random, pointless applications that pour virtual beer or sound like light sabers, not many of them have realized yet that the iPhone can also help transform their health and fitness goals.

Ending Weight Bias: The Easiest Way to Tackle Obesity in America

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:11:00 GMT

Discrimination is diminishing, giving way to progress...all the way to the White House. And we're all thinking about the challenges ahead for America. The key to addressing one of our biggest health challenges--the obesity crisis--may lie in making size discrimination illegal.

Laid Off? The 8 Healthiest Ways to Spend Your Time

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:41:00 GMT

If you've recently been handed a pink slip, you likely have a lot of free time on your hands. Once you've got your severence package and health insurance in order, you can use your unemployment to focus on your health...something that can save you a lot of cash in the long run.

Top Spa Tricks for Your Tub

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:41:00 GMT

Relaxing in a tub full of warm, sweet-smelling goodness seems like the ultimate indulgence. But these baths, from top spas across the country, are anything but frivolous...they nourish winter-worn skin, ease achy muscles, even inspire creativity.

How to Get Really Gorgeous Skin

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:41:00 GMT

You can fix age spots, stretch marks, varicose veins, and other unsightly spots. Here's how.

How to Tell if You Have a Sinus Infection

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:28:00 GMT

At least once a year, Anna Lord, a 32-year-old from Seattle, has "almost unbearable pain" behind her eyes, cheeks, and forehead. Sometimes she has sinus drainage, and occasionally the discomfort arrives with a low-grade fever. Her symptoms often occur after she has had a cold or allergy symptoms. She rarely takes antibiotics, preferring to rest and soldier through her sickness.

How Cholesterol Affects Your Heart's Health

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:28:00 GMT

How to Fight Colds, Flus, and Infections at Any Age

Sat, 17 Jan 2009 15:56:00 GMT

No matter where you go in life, somebody's sneezing, and possibly spreading colds, the flu, or other infections. Strangers on the elevator, kids at day care, even those self-important colleagues who refuse to take sick days...they all pose a risk.

Diet-Friendly Airport Eating: 8 Easy Meals On-the-Go

Sat, 17 Jan 2009 15:56:00 GMT

Stuck at the airport with an unexpected delay or long layover? Sounds like a dieter's worst nightmare. But don't despair if you didn't plan ahead with a purse full of figure-friendly snacks.

"Nasal Washing Sounds Gross, but It Stopped My Sinus Infections"

Sat, 17 Jan 2009 15:56:00 GMT

After suffering through 10 years of sinus infections (and their accompanying face pain, clogged passages, and two to three rounds of antibiotics per infection), I was ready to try anything...even the all-natural neti pot that my doctor recommended.

American Idol Judge Randy Jackson on Living With Diabetes

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:12:00 GMT

When television's most popular show, American Idol, kicks off its eighth season Tuesday, the buzz may be about new judge Kara DioGuardi. But hard-rocking bass guitarist and music industry legend Randy Jackson, who has judged alongside Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul since the show's first season, is trying to raise buzz about something completely different: how to successfully manage type 2 diabetes.

How to Get Acai on the Cheap

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:12:00 GMT

The hottest new superfood is probably one you've never heard of...and probably can't pronounce. Acai (ah-sigh-eee) is a rich purple fruit that reportedly has 10 times the antioxidants of red grapes.

Hormone Therapy Linked to Brain Atrophy in Older Women

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:12:00 GMT

Not too long ago, millions of postmenopausal women were taking estrogen as part of hormone therapy to protect their hearts, prevent cancer, and keep their brains sharp. But two new studies in the journal Neurology show that not only does hormone replacement therapy increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and breast cancer in women over the age of 65, but it also shrinks their brains.

How the Stars Get And Stay Slim

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:50:00 GMT

We've all seen celebrities show up on the red carpet two weeks after giving birth, looking oh-so-svelte in their designer gowns. We've heard all about the stars' parties, where food and drink of every kind tempts them. And we know just how hard it would be on our waistlines if we lived the A-list life. So how do Julia and Jennifer and J. Lo manage to stay slim amid the luxe life? A key ingredient: their celebrity chefs.

Immunity Boosters: 5 Indian Spices With Curative Properties

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:02:00 GMT

If you've ever shied away from cooking Indian food because of mile-long ingredient lists, I can relate. I've made countless curries, and have whittled that list to just five key spices-cumin seeds, coriander seeds, ground turmeric, mustard seeds, and ground red chili.

Pomegranate Juice: Packed With Antioxidants

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:02:00 GMT

It's time to start ordering pometinis at girls' night out (or making your own pome-ritas at home). A new University of California, Los Angeles, study ranked 10 beverages by their levels of disease-fighting antioxidants-and pomegranate juice came out on top. Here, the healthiest beverage powerhouses:

Top 5 Diet Myths Debunked

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

You buy wheat bread, watch the sweets, and have sworn off supersizing. But you still might be falling prey to some common diet myths. Read on to find out about the worst ones, and what you can do to outwit them.

Best and Worst Advice From Top Diet Plans

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

It's 2009. The turkey, eggnog, and stuffing you ate over the holidays have been digested and are now living on your belly, butt, and thighs. You want to lose serious weight, fast, but don't have time to read every diet book out there.

6 Diet Trends You Should Never Try

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

It's getting close to the New Year, when the vast majority of Americans resolve to lose weight. But before you even think about starting a diet to drop pounds fast, I've compiled a list of the worst diets around so you won't waste your time on them. This list isn't just my opinion, either; I sought the help of registered dietitians who are members of the Weight Management Dietetic Practice group of the American Dietetic Association. Here are the nominees:

How the Stars Get And Stay Slim

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

How a Trip to the Salon Can Ruin Your Health

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

Just 36 hours after getting a pedicure at an upscale nail salon near her home in Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania, Jamie Joffe, 38, had a fever of 101 degrees and a very scary-looking toe-"It was about five times its usual size, and there was greenish goo oozing out from under the nail," she recalls. Joffe went to the emergency room, where they diagnosed her with a staph infection, probably from scissors or a cuticle pusher contaminated with the bacteria. "The doctor made an incision and drained all this stuff out of it," she says. "If I hadn't gotten the infection treated quickly, it could have spread to the rest of my body."

Smart Eating Tips for Your Whole Body

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

Eating well just got easier: Simply match these good-for-you foods to your body parts.

Head-to-Toe Solutions for Stress

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT

Worrying about being able to pay the bills? The babysitter canceled-again? Situations like these are the modern-day equivalent of being attacked by a saber-toothed tiger, and our bodies rev up to face the threats, says Paul J. Rosch, MD, president of the American Institute of Stress. Chronic stress can lead a whole host of physical and emotional problems.

Manic Spending Puts Bipolar Patients at Risk for Financial Woes

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:40:00 GMT

Like many Americans, Kim and Peter Fanelli of Lakewood, Colo., are struggling to stay afloat during the current economic crisis. As an added burden, the couple has bipolar disorder. Peter's chauffeur job is offering fewer shifts, but he needs to stick with it because he becomes eligible for health insurance in February.

Booze, Drugs, and Bipolar Disorder

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:40:00 GMT

The mood swings, mania, panic, and deep depression experienced by people with bipolar disorder are hard enough to bear. But according to a 1990 study, 56% of bipolar patients also have a substance abuse problem, which can make treatment even more difficult.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:40:00 GMT

Bipolar disorder, sometimes called manic depression, affects nearly six million American adults, or about 2.5% of the adult population, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Some patients who eventually get diagnosed spend years, even decades, cycling through institutions and switching therapists before they get the correct treatment.

5 Simple Things That Could Cut Your Breast Cancer Risk

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:13:10 GMT

A recent study showed the link between drinking and breast cancer was especially strong in the 70% of tumors known as hormone-sensitive.

8 Natural Remedies That May Help You Sleep

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:13:10 GMT

f sleep has plunged to the bottom of your to-do list, you're not alone. Although the National Sleep Foundation recommends getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night, the average American logs only six hours and 40 minutes. What gives? Blame crazy schedules and, of course, sleeping woes. Before you rush to the drugstore to buy an over-the-counter (OTC) sleep medication, try one of the following natural sleep remedies.

How to Care for Itchy, Dry Skin in the Winter

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:13:10 GMT

How to Protect Yourself From HPV and Cervical Cancer

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:13:10 GMT

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is nicknamed "the common cold of STDs" because if you're a sexually active adult, you've probably contracted several of the 100 different types out there--more than 30 of which are sexually transmitted--and you probably had no idea. A new vaccine promises to make the virus much more scarce in the future, but HPV is still the number one cause of cervical cancer and genital warts.

Web Making You Sick? Help for "Cyberchondriacs"

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 12:54:10 GMT

Ever googled a minor symptom only to come away convinced you had a serious disease? You're not alone. In a Microsoft Research study released this month, a quarter of respondents said they use the Internet as they would a medical expert, and more than 90% of those surveyed said medical Web searches had, at least once, led them to review content related to a serious illness.

Laid Off? What to Do Right Now About Health Insurance

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:09:10 GMT

Nearly two million American jobs have been lost in the past year, and millions of people will likely be laid off or have their hours scaled back in 2009. If you think you might be one of them, know this: You're almost certain to lose your employer-sponsored benefits with your full-time job.

Tired of Ambien? Sleep Drugs for the Near Future

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:09:10 GMT

If you've ever taken medicine to help you sleep, you're probably in one of two camps: Either it worked well and provided much needed relief, or it was a waste of money, caused a slew of side effects, and left you wondering what better options were out there. While there are plenty of sleep drugs available to treat everything from insomnia to restless legs syndrome, they haven't stopped the pharmaceutical industry from searching for newer, more effective, and more profitable medications.

10 Ways to Save Money on Health Costs During the Recession

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 08:00:00 GMT

Whatever the prospects for health-care reform, the sick economy is going to put lots of pressure on Americans. Unemployment will be up, the number of uninsured will rise, companies will surely cut health benefits to employees, and all this stress will be, well, unhealthy.

Holiday Toys of 2008: Are They Safe?

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:30:00 GMT

Parents concerned about toy safety this season can rest a little easier than last year. After all, 2007 saw a tsunami of recalls, mostly involving toys made in China; this year the number of toys sent back for safety reasons declined somewhat after laws were strengthened. But in an area where consumers want 100% confidence, this holiday shopping season will once again fall short.

6 Things Teens Needs to Know About Sex

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:45:45 GMT

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