Latest Stories

Latest Stories

Joyce Hollman

10 purple foods that fight cancer, stroke

In the world of fruits and vegetables, the color purple signifies something special. Any time you’ve got a purple or dark blue fruit or vegetable on the menu, you’re consuming a healthy dose of a special antioxidant-rich plant pigment known as anthocyanin.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The kind of coffee that can lower diabetes by 60 percent

You may have heard that coffee reduces blood sugar problems. In fact, numerous scientific studies have linked higher coffee intake to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. Now, thanks to a cutting-edge technique, the one type of coffee that can truly give you that diabetes protection has been identified…

Jenny Smiechowski

The not-so-beautiful side effect of beauty supplements

Lots of factors affect the health of your hair, skin and nails… Thyroid issues, hormonal imbalances, medication, aging. But no matter what’s behind your issues, the result is the same: slipping self-confidence. A lot of people turn to beauty supplements. But one could affect the lab work at your next checkup…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The natural compound that could ward off dementia (and how a high salt diet destroys it)

For decades doctors have preached to us about reducing the amount of salt in our diets to achieve better blood pressure numbers to keep our hearts healthier… Well, according to a new study, there’s another reason to watch your salt intake. And, this time it’s about your brain, instead of your heart…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

How to keep chemo from giving you heart disease

Chemo leaves you exhausted, nauseous, confused and unable to focus (chemo brain), and even worse — at risk for other health problems, including heart disease. That’s why, when diagnosed with cancer, there’s one healthy habit your doctor will advise you to continue, and research shows the sooner the better…

Jenny Smiechowski

Is yoga as good for your brain as aerobic exercise?

Countless studies show aerobic exercise has a near-miraculous effect on brain aging. In fact, a 2016 study found it not only prevents age-related brain shrinkage and cognitive decline… it also reverses it. But, could yoga alone provide the same brain benefits that a run or a heart-pumping bootcamp class could?

Jenny Smiechowski

This parasitic worm may be our best hope against drug-resistant superbugs

Rroughly 700,000 people die per year from diseases that don’t respond to antibiotics worldwide. What can we do about it? Find alternatives for the antibiotics we’ve used over and over again for decades. And researchers from Northeastern University have just done exactly that…

Joyce Hollman

If you have this health problem, your flu shot may not work

About two-thirds of the U.S. population is overweight or obese. If you find yourself among that two-thirds, there’s something else you should know. If you get a flu shot, it will probably be less than effective. Here’s why and extra precautions you should take…

Joyce Hollman

6 housing options for aging loved ones that need more care

If you have a senior in life that needs special care, the options may seem overwhelming. Which type of care is best and most appropriate to my senior spouse or parent’s needs? How do I even begin to choose? If you’re facing this decision, or feel you will be soon, here are six possible options…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The natural ‘antibiotic’ that could fend off strep throat

Antibiotic resistance has been labeled an epidemic and according to the CDC, “More than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the U.S. each year.” Well, it’s possible that if more of us turned to this natural antibiotic powerhouse, that we could avoid a personal assault from these superbugs…

Dr. Michael Cutler

Time to realize there is help for female sexual dysfunction

For some reason, subjects like erectile dysfunction in men get a lot of attention, but when it comes to sexual problems that women face, everyone is a little hushed. No reason to be. So, let’s talk frankly about this important subject, starting with the many things that can contribute to it…

Jenny Smiechowski

Are these common viruses behind the worst brain diseases?

When we hear the word “herpes,” most people think of cold sores or STDs. But Chickenpox, Mononucleosis and Roseola are all caused by a herpesvirus. The list goes on. And now there’s mounting evidence that long after herpesvirus symptoms pass, they increase the risk for major neurological diseases…

Jenny Smiechowski

The invisible factor fueling glaucoma

As we age, our eyes are vulnerable to disease — macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. If you have a genetic tendency toward age-related eye diseases, then you’re really at risk. But beyond obvious risk factors for eye diseases, there’s an invisible factor endangering your vision…

Joyce Hollman

Rewire your brain to eat less sugar and save your memory

Daily sugar consumption has been shown to reduce the formation of new neurons in the hippocampus, a process known as neurogenesis. It also increases the presence of cytokines, proteins that cause inflammation. Even though we’re wired to want sweets, it’s possible to rewire your brain to turn them away…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The new twist on the Mediterranean diet (Hint: Meat is back!)

The Mediterranean diet is known as one of the healthiest to follow if you want to avoid a plethora of diseases including Alzheimer’s and diabetes. The focus is on olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains and fish. Would you be excited to know there’s now a meatier version?

Joyce Hollman

Don’t let psoriasis destroy your arteries

It might seem strange to think that psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes skin inflammation, redness and scaling, could also lead to coronary heart disease. After all, it’s external. There’s no such thing as “psoriasis of the heart,” right? A dangerous myth about psoriasis is that it’s only skin deep…

Jenny Smiechowski

How even a quick trip to a heavily polluted city affects your heart

Pick almost any chronic disease around, and I can find you scientific evidence that air pollution increases the risk of it… Diabetes. Alzheimer’s. Heart disease. Breast cancer. It plays a part in them all. It turns out you don’t even have to live somewhere highly polluted to damage your health. A short visit will do…

Jenny Smiechowski

The super fun (and fluffy) secret to being less lonely in 3 months

You have tons of friends on Facebook. You get lots of emails every day. You’re active in online forums and support groups. But somehow, you’re still lonely. What gives? No matter what’s holding you back from tackling your loneliness head on, don’t worry. I know a simple way you can feel far less lonely…

Joyce Hollman

Why friendship is as important as diet and exercise

On the Japanese island of Okinawa, it’s quite common for people to live to be 100 or more. Okinawa is a Blue Zone — a place known for longevity where science has identified the reasons. And Okinawans know that, besides diet, friendship is the thing that will make for a long, healthy life…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The lifesaving truth about exercise after 60, heart disease and stroke

By 2050, two billion people worldwide will be over the age of 60. That’s a lot of people who will be at risk for potentially deadly health conditions — including heart disease and stroke. How can you grab the highest levels of protection once you pass the 60 mark? 1.1 million people prove it’s this way…

Dr. Michael Cutler

What to expect during a dermal filler procedure

Inevitably, with age, comes a loss of fullness and support in the face. Certain areas may appear to sag while others may look hollow. Dermal fillers can help “replace” that loss to help cheekbones look high and sculpted as well as make other face and even body shape changes that can be quite profound. 

Joyce Hollman

Surprising ways science says music can be medicine

When a school of medicine as prestigious as the one at Johns Hopkins University puts dollars into researching something, you know it’s got real possibilities. Take music — now being used as a way to treat neurological conditions and other diseases, as an alternative to medications, and there’s evidence it works…

Jenny Smiechowski

The diet that could eventually replace insulin

Synthetic insulin is one of the most impactful and amazing discoveries of the 20th century. Since it was discovered in 1921, it’s saved countless lives. But there’s no denying that insulin comes with some downsides…

Jenny Smiechowski

A lot more EVOO means a lot less dementia-causing brain protein

Have you ever found yourself stuck in the oil aisle unable to decide what bottle to purchase? Should you go with classic — but controversial — canola? Hip hempseed? Antioxidant-rich avocado? I’d stick with an old standby — olive oil, for all these reasons and more…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The simple practice that lowered blood pressure by 15 points

When you’re trying to lower your high blood pressure, every little bit helps. Especially if you’re among half of those diagnosed who can’t get it under control, even with medicaiton. A surprising natural method tested at Brown University helped lower blood pressure by an average of 15 points,

Joyce Hollman

How to drink away obesity, diabetes and heart disease

Harvard researcher showed it lowers Parkinson’s risk. Other research says it’s protective against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. And still more says it could help prevent liver cancer. So when the latest report showed it could help beat obesity, diabetes and heart disease, no one had to twist my arm to drink up…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Worried about your brain? Pamper your heart

To keep an optimally functioning brain, many of us take supplements, play memory games, do crossword puzzles, and in general spend a lot of time concentrating on the organ between our ears. But taking care of your brain actually starts with caring for a completely different organ…

Dr. Elizabeth Klodas MD, FACC

Grass-fed, Impossible or corn-fed: Which burger is the healthiest?

Which is the healthiest choice: An Impossible Burger (plant-based), a grass-fed beef burger, or a traditional corn-fed beef burger? These three “meat” categories may appear distinct, thanks to good marketing and environmental activism… but as a cardiologist, my answer might surprise you…

Joyce Hollman

If folks over 60 with high LDL live the longest, why should we lower it?

When it comes to medications, if you’re like most people, you take what your doctor advises. But what if you take a medicine for years that research shows is really of very little value and that the side effects outweigh the benefits as the years progress? Such is the case with statins prescribed to lower cholesterol.

Jenny Smiechowski

What your gum health and weight have in common

It may seem like your arthritic knees and rosacea have nothing to do with one another. That your IBS and allergies are completely unrelated. That your gum disease and inability to get your BMI down are two separate problems. But the fact is, almost all chronic health conditions are caused by the same thing…

Easy Health Options Staff

7 risks of vitamin D deficiency [infographic]

Vitamin D is a miracle worker. Yet, the standard American diet contains very little of this vitamin your body uses as a hormone. In fact, more than 1 in 3 American adults are deficient in vitamin D and face some very serious health risks…

Dr. Mark Wiley

Sculpt your arms with beginner’s push-ups

Push-ups are one of the most basic exercises you can do for arm and upper body strength. They’re also the hardest if you don’t have strong arms. But how do you get there? Baby steps…

Jenny Smiechowski

10 ways coconut oil brings out your natural beauty

Coconut oil is a must-have beauty staple for anyone who hates spending loads of money on beauty products that are filled with questionable chemicals and additives. And the results? Glowing, naturally beautiful skin and hair!

Kelley Martin

In the kitchen with Kelley: Celery sticks with hummus and olives

The cancer-fighting potential for this snack is through the roof! Plus, if you want help with weight management, a gut health-boost and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes — enjoy it often.

Dr. Mark Wiley

This martial arts tip can save you from a bad fall

I love traditional martial arts, especially the kind that are focused on self-development and grounded in traditional methods of mind-body development and physical culture. Plus, there are many movements from traditional martial arts that can carry over into everyday life.

Jenny Smiechowski

Should you choose between plant or animal protein?

When you eat a protein-packed diet, you’re giving your body the tools it needs to do build muscle, replenish body tissue, and produce important hormones, enzymes and more. But what kind of protein is best for your body?

Jenny Smiechowski

Hydrate, alkalize and energize with this 3-ingredient tonic

Move over kombucha, there’s a new health tonic in town. It’s considered hydrating, energizing and will give your immune system a swift boost. All this and it’s so easy anyone can make it…

Craig Cooper

6 things you should know about the ‘anti-aging’ hormone

Human growth hormone (HGH) is popular as a performance-enhancing substance and for its anti-aging properties. Before you decide to use HGH, be sure you have all the facts and consider the pros and cons…

Debra Atkinson

The no-excuse at-home exercise you can do in minutes

Keeping your body in motion is important, especially if you want your energy back. And getting started is not as hard as you might think! These simple at-home exercise solutions take less than 10 minutes a day…

Dr. Isaac Eliaz

Leaky gut syndrome: How illness starts in the gut and overtakes the body

The stomach has ways of telling us when we’ve made a mistake. That’s usually when we reach for one of the many remedies that can alleviate the situation, from over-the-counter antacids, to home remedies like peppermint tea. In a short time, we get relief.

Dr. Mark Wiley

6 things that will scare you off the couch

Have your ever thought about how much time you spend sitting? When you string it all together it’s staggering, scary and downright dangerous. Here are 6 reasons to get off the couch and 6 creative ways to move more often…

Jenny Smiechowski

The common virus linked to 6 kinds of cancer

A common virus has been linked to at least six different types of cancer. Chances are you’ve had this virus, but may be unaware. That’s because 90 percent of people worldwide test positive for it, and most are symptom-free.

Jenny Smiechowski

The sweet multi-vitamin in a tablespoon

A certain black sludge-like substance that looks like it came out of the bottom of an oil barrel is actually a potent health remedy with a long history of treating stomach ailments, arthritis, anemia and more… not to mention, it contains more vitamins and minerals than you can shake a stick at…

Kelley Martin

In the kitchen with Kelley: Turkey and dried plum bites

Dried plums (prunes) are a great source of fiber (12 grams in just one cup) and most Americans don’t get near enough of the 20-25 grams recommended. Hold on to your turkey leftovers and give this snack a try…

Dr. Michael Cutler

For percolated perks, drink this much coffee

I keep reading about the health effects of coffee, yet I have been taught all my life to stay away from this beverage. Seems there are articles and opinions on both sides. It gives me confidence to know that there are actually loads of science about coffee’s health benefits and …

Jenny Smiechowski

5 ways to reset your body clock and cut cancer risk

It’s easy to forget all of the things your circadian clock does for your body (like regulating your hormones, mood and metabolism) when it’s running right. But when it needs to be reset, it’s harming your health in a way that could give you cancer.

Jenny Smiechowski

5 reasons eczema is more than skin deep

It’s itchy. It’s embarrassing. But the toll of eczema is more than skin deep. If you suffer from this chronic skin condition you’re at a greater risk for other serious health problems your doctor has probably not even mentioned to you.

Dr. Isaac Eliaz

Immune-boosting superfoods may also boost your personality

It’s fascinating how the different systems in your body work together. Now it appears your immune system is far more connected to the goings-on in the rest of your body and mind than ever realized… perhaps even affecting your personality.

Dr. Brad Cutler

When to see a chiropractor

Chiropractic has a lot to offer many neuro-musculoskeletal conditions, like those that affect your nerves, muscle, bone and especially the joints. But let’s be clear, chiropractic does not “cure” anything and is not a panacea, even for pain conditions. So when is it helpful?

Dr. Michael Cutler

Why hormones make you heavy

What happens over the years when you are constantly or repeatedly under high stress demands, be they physical, mental or emotional? You probably guessed it — hormones gone wild that cause weight gain.

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The king of the dirty fruits

Pesticides, herbicides and fungicides accumulate in your cells, fatty tissue and nervous system weakening your immune system by suppressing the function of white blood cells. Is your favorite fruit too risky to eat?

Debra Atkinson

Is your protein powder making you fat?

Fifty percent of randomly tested protein products contained carcinogens. Many more contain soy, MSG, sucralose, sucrose, or fructose, just to mention a few things that increase the likelihood you’ll crave sugar and store fat.

Margaret Cantwell

8 ways to eat for health without breaking the bank

Despite what you may have heard, you don’t have to pay a fortune to eat healthy. Follow the right path, and you may even find you save money by foregoing the ‘convenient’ health risks of processed foods.

Dr. Terry Wahls

5 steps to speed recovery from concussions and traumatic brain injury

Concussions and traumatic brain injury, or TBIs, affect over a million Americans every year. The vast majority are relatively mild, not requiring hospitalization. However, even in these mild concussions, over 75% will develop chronic pain, problems with memory and attention, irritability, and other neurocognitive issues.

Dr. Mark Wiley

Dynamic squats for lower body strength

Oftentimes people complain of low back pain, and this can be related to imbalances or weakness in the strength and tone of the leg muscles; the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Squatting is a great way to develop leg strength through the full range of motion.

Craig Cooper

10 reasons to eat ginger

Ginger is a spice that has been valued for millennia for its culinary zing and healing properties. The latter benefit is largely attributed to …

Dr. Mark Wiley

Warm up and loosen joints with single leg jacks

It is important to warm up before physical activity. Dynamic warm-ups are your best bet because they accomplish a lot in a short amount of time and elevate your heart rate slightly.

Jenny Smiechowski

Is cockroach milk the next big thing?

Conventional cow’s milk is full of growth hormones and antibiotics. Soy milk disrupts your hormones. Almond milk is overly processed and light on nutrients. But what about cockroach milk…

Easy Health Options Staff

Pokémon Go reduces depression?

Lately, chances are you’ve come across hoards of teenagers and adults sitting together, staring at their phones. At first glance, it’d be easy to dismiss the groups as indulged millennials wasting their time, but the Pokémon Go app is actually being credited with something positive…

Kelley Martin

In the kitchen with Kelley: Healthy honey mustard sauce

What child doesn’t like to dunk or drown his food in condiments, dressings, dips and sauces? And let’s face it; we adults dip and dunk and smother our food, too. But more often than not, we compromise our health by doing so — because most condiments are made with high fructose corn syrup (HFCS).

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