Latest Stories

Latest Stories

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Safety and effectiveness of drugs for back pain up for grabs

When your doctor prescribes drugs for your low back pain, he’s working with what he’s got. But whether analgesic medicine provides meaningful relief is still an open question, a new study has found. You may be surprised at what may work better…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The heart attack threat healthy cholesterol scores can hide

A study has confirmed that not only can a little-known lipoprotein accurately predict your risk of developing atherosclerosis (where fatty deposits clog your arteries), it can be measured by at-home genetic testing just as accurately as bloodwork done in a doctor’s office. But if you’ve got good cholesterol numbers, your doctor isn’t looking for it…

Carolyn Gretton

Your brain on high blood pressure: Changes that lead to dementia

If you have high blood pressure, your heart’s not the only thing you have to worry about. It can also impact your brain. In a “world first,” researchers have mapped specific brain regions impacted by high blood pressure and how that can increase your odds of dementia…

Joyce Hollman

Why golfers who tee off regularly could live up to 5 years longer

It turns out that playing golf just once a month can have a positive impact on heart attack and stroke risk. And, let’s face it, the older we get, the harder it is to participate in other sports that could lower that risk as much. But there’s even more to golf than meets the eye. Find out how it plays into longevity…

Joyce Hollman

Endangered Microbiome: Protecting your biggest ally

When you hear the word “bacteria,” the first thing you may think of is a disease-causing organism that needs to be eradicated. But without the bacteria in your gut microbiome, it’s your health that could disappear. And science says we should all be worried about that…

Carolyn Gretton

Stroke, cancer and 43 other conditions linked to sugar

Some foods contain natural sugars, But unless you follow a strict whole foods diet, daily added sugar is setting you up for disease, and not just diabetes or obesity. 45 adverse health conditions have been linked to added sugars prompting a new limit…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Accelerated aging and depression: More than just the blues

Depression is more than a mental state. People with depression are at far higher risk of chronic disease and even early death. However, no one knew why until an undeniable link between depression, disease and something called senescent cells was uncovered…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The other reason some men ‘go’ all night

When men over a certain age start making multiple nightly bathroom trips, two things usually enter their minds: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as enlarged prostate, and that other serious prostate problem no man wants to face. But often it’s a condition they’ve never considered…

Carolyn Gretton

Low-dose radiation: Common diagnostics linked to heart disease

Few of us are exposed to high-dose radiation (unless it’s to kill cancer cells). But what about the exposure that comes from X-rays or CT scans? We’ve been told for years not to worry about low dose radiation. But the effects on the heart aren’t so benign…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

Bone loss: A significant risk factor for dementia

Bone loss and dementia are both health problems we have a higher risk of as we age. So for years, there’s been speculation about a connection between these issues. What they’ve found will have you running for your next bone density screening.

Joyce Hollman

Anticipatory stress: How worry over politics is harmful

Studies show stress affects physical health. But not just stress in the moment. Anticipatory stress is stress you’re anticipating, and politics is a big trigger. If this sound like you, there are a couple of ways to manage it and avoid the harmful effects…

Carolyn Gretton

The link between a hunger hormone, immune response and COVID-19

During the pandemic, a few things became clear: certain segments of the population were hit harder than others. One group was obese patients who seemed otherwise healthy. And it has shone a light on fighting leptin resistance, not only for healthy weight but for healthy immune response…

Joyce Hollman

Regulating forever chemicals in your water: Too little too late?

The EPA has taken the first step to regulate forever chemicals in our drinking water. These chemicals get stored in our bodies and wreak havoc on our health. So is it too little too late? Here’s how to protect against this dangerous exposure…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Is fitness enough to save a man’s heart from high blood pressure?

Hypertension is a risk factor for heart attack, stroke and premature death. For years, we’ve been told exercise can help. In some analyses, exercise was as effective as drugs. But a 29-year study came to a surprising conclusion about exercise, blood pressure and man’s risks for heart trouble…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Losing weight and gaining it back still benefits the heart

Losing weight and then putting it back on is something most of us can relate to. But don’t get too down on yourself. If improving heart health is your goal, you may be surprised to find how long even temporary weight loss does a heart good…

Joyce Hollman

Why exercise is essential to surviving colon cancer

Exercise is one of the healthiest habits we can practice. You know it protects the heart, but there’s a strong connection between cancer and exercise too. Even following diagnosis, find out why you should start moving as much as possible…

Carolyn Gretton

The ‘every day’ nutrient that takes down the Alzheimer’s gene

It’s unsettling to get news you carry the Alzheimer’s gene. But even though it may raise your risk of cognitive decline, there are ways to offset it. One of them is a nutrient you already eat every day, and if you eat more, you can lower that risk by 30 percent…

Dr. Michael Cutler

Testing for hormone imbalances

Your hormonal system is like a symphony orchestra. When everything is in harmony your health and vitality are great. When they’re off, so are you. From stress hormones to sex horrmones, men and women alike can suffer. But the more you know, the better your chances of getting back on track…

Carolyn Gretton

Paxlovid mouth: The unpalatable truth about the COVID-19 antiviral

One of the most common treatments for COVID-19 is the antiviral Paxlovid. While it’s reported to be effective at shortening the severity and duration of the virus, it has its drawbacks — among them a nasty side effect known as “Paxlovid mouth” you’ll need this advice about…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Significant sign of cellular aging linked to Alzheimer’s

It’s a given that short telomeres accelerate aging. But after decades of research into plaques and tangles as hallmarks of Alzheimer’s, new insights show those tiny caps at the end of our DNA strands also affect brain structure, and why we need to keep them longer as long as possible…

Carolyn Gretton

Peripheral artery disease: How sleep contributes to the pain in your legs

The most noticeable symptom of peripheral artery disease is pain and cramping caused by poor blood flow to the muscles in the legs. It occurs most often when walking, but you may be surprised how much sleep has to do with it…

Joyce Hollman

Brain imaging shows common supplement’s impact on depression

The gut plays a major role in the production of neurotransmitters and chemicals that influence the immune system, metabolic functions and even the brain. And by looking at brain changes, researchers know just how important the gut is in helping to fight symptoms of depression.

Joyce Hollman

7 medications that make your bladder work overtime

About half of all adult women deal with some level of incontinence. Many men do too. A surprising cause is often medication that’s taken for other conditions. Here are seven classes of medications linked with urinary incontinence, and some natural ways to take back control of your bladder.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Gut problems since COVID? You and 6 million others

Most of us are lucky enough to have experienced only a mild bout with COVID-19. But if you’ve noticed GI symptoms since, COVID may be to blame. Six million new cases prove what some experts are saying: The GI tract serves as a reservoir for the virus.

Craig Cooper

I took metformin for a week and this happened

Metformin, the leading prescribed “wonder” drug for type 2 diabetes, is reported to be anti-aging, anti-cancer and even helpful with weight issues. So, truth be told, I wasn’t looking at metformin as a drug — I was looking at it more as a “superfood.”

Dr. Mark Wiley

Simply press these points for headache relief

Headaches don’t have to ache. Before your head starts hurting again, check out this quick and easy guide to the acupressure points that can head off headache pain before the suffering intensifies. You may be amazed at how well and fast these points quell pain.

Carolyn Gretton

Why experts say this is the prostate cancer prevention diet

Prostate cancer is one of the most common and fatal cancers in men. For men with low blood levels of lycopene and selenium, there’s an increased risk not just for the cancer, but the damaging effects of the radiation used to treat it. There’s a diet that can help that and more…

Carolyn Gretton

‘First of its kind’ study: Restricting calories slows pace of aging

By far, the most convincing evidence for slowing aging has come from calorie restriction. For years, studies involving fruit flies, worms and even mice have shown it can extend lifespan and delay onset of age-related disorders. Finally we know what it can do for us too…

Joyce Hollman

The ‘invisible’ chemical increasing Parkinson’s diagnoses

Trichloroethylene is a chemical used in manufacturing as a solvent and degreaser. Up until the 1970s, it was used to decaffeinate coffee, of all things. Now, there’s a strong possibility it’s increasing cases of Parkinson’s disease…

Joyce Hollman

The one factor that outweighs obesity-related cancers

Obesity has been synonymous with poor health, especially cancer, for decades. But does the label hold? After a review of 40 years of data, the picture of health might change. There’s more than weight behind these cancers…

Carolyn Gretton

The link between nighttime light and your thyroid

We use more artificial light than ever at night, both indoors and outdoors, and it’s affecting our health. Night light use is connected with a higher risk of obesity, depression, sleep disorders and diabetes. And according to researchers, it may be raising our risk of a particular type of cancer…

Tracey G. Ingram, AuD

Vitamin B6 joins the fight against COVID-19

Vaccines are now available for COVID-19, but many people are struggling to get an appointment. Research has explored the benefits of vitamins D and C and minerals like zinc and magnesium in fortifying the immune system against the virus. But one critical vitamin has been missing, until now.

Joyce Hollman

Where do you fall on the food addiction scale?

If you were in the clutches of drugs or alcohol, you’d want out. It’s time to think about foods that are bringing your health down the same way, foods that are engineered to addict you. Here’s insight into the worst culprits and how to break free.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Pandemic pain: Why your chronic pain has worsened

If you’ve noticed you have a harder time dealing with pain lately, you’re not alone. Like most things in the past year, research shows that for victims of chronic pain, the likelihood that you’re feeling worse than ever is off the charts. Here’s why your pain is worse and what can help…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Research rekindles the question: Are eggs healthy?

The egg debate has gone on for years. Some studies indicate eggs contribute to heart disease, cancer and a shorter lifespan, while others have demonstrated a protective effect. There’s a lot on the line when it comes to eggs. So, it’s no wonder the debate is ongoing. Here’s what the latest research reveals…

Carolyn Gretton

Curcumin: The spice that wards off liver damage

Curcumin, a compound found in the spice turmeric, is well-known as a powerful anti-inflammatory that’s shown promise in relieving several diseases, including cancers of the stomach, blood and lungs. As if these benefits weren’t enough, the spice may also help protect the health of another vital organ.

Tracey G. Ingram, AuD

Sleep deprivation nearly doubles dementia risk

Sleep is critical time the brain uses to clear toxins, build memories and reinvigorate parts of the brain that help us continue to learn and function independently. If you’re missing out on valuable shut-eye, these processes are short-circuited, and you could potentially set yourself up for serious problems.

Joyce Hollman

What is lifestyle medicine and what can it do for you?

What if lifestyle interventions were looked on as legitimate, bona fide treatments, just as medications are? The growing discipline of lifestyle medicine is making this “what if” a reality, and instead of medicalizing disease, provides an easier pill to swallow.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Is being a workaholic ruining your health?

Previous studies have shown a combination of stress and work can increase your risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In other words, being a workaholic can ruin your health. Here’s how to gauge your risk and how to turn it around.

Carolyn Gretton

How refined grains stack your odds of heart attack and stroke

It’s no news flash that refined grains like white flour are bad for your health. But while many studies on refined grains have focused on their impact on weight and blood sugar, it turns out they significantly boost our odds for heart attack or stroke. Good news: Whole grains do just the opposite.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Best drink for stroke and heart attack survivors

Even if you’ve survived a heart attack or stroke, your risk of dying prematurely increases. In fact, in the first month after a cardiac incident, risk of death skyrockets, and this risk can remain high for years. The good news: You’re a survivor, and researchers are tirelessly working on ways you can keep it that way.

Carolyn Gretton

How are ‘SuperAgers’ avoiding Alzheimer’s?

While scientists have been able to identify key markers of Alzheimer’s disease, they’re still trying to work out why some people develop the disease and others do not. Some, called ‘SuperAgers,’ even appear to be resistant. And researchers are trying to unravel their secret…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

How to keep computer vision syndrome from ruining your eyesight

It’s almost impossible to avoid a computer or digital screen, including your phone. But these modern conveniences are causing new threats to your eyesight. Here’s what you should know about computer vision syndrome, and how to avoid it when you can’t avoid a screen.

Carolyn Gretton

Overcome stress eating and improve metabolism with ‘psychobiotics’

There is a complex interplay between stress eating, obesity and the kinds of metabolic issues that can lead to type 2 diabetes. Managing all these factors usually takes multiple steps. But a team of researchers may have found an interesting shortcut involving a particular kind of “good” bacteria…

Joyce Hollman

3 ways group singing boosts our health

Choral groups may not be singing together much right now, but hopefully that will change soon. Because the emotional and physical health benefits science shows happens when we blend our voices are just too good to pass up…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The fruit that guards against sunburn, UV damage and skin cancer

We all need a little sunshine in our lives. It’s an important source of vitamin D. Get too much sun, though, and UV damage can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. But there’s a tasty way to give yourself an extra layer of sun protection and guard against sunburn…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

What each serving of fruit and veggies does to heart disease, stroke and cancer

It’s no surprise to any of us that despite the best efforts of moms everywhere, 90 percent of us are still not eating enough fruits and vegetables. But what if we did? For starters, 7.8 million early deaths a year could be prevented. Scientists can even measure the benefits in each serving, and reveal the magic number for saving lives…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Why napping is good medicine for your brain

Do you get a little bit sleepy as the afternoon wears on? Are you feeling that after lunch slump that makes you want to just curl up, close your eyes and drift off, if only for a little while? Here’s your excuse to give in: napping may be good medicine for your brain.

Carolyn Gretton

German scientists’ ‘cancer plan’: Age 50+ take vitamin D

For years, scientists have been studying how vitamin D influences a number of diseases, particularly inflammatory diseases, diabetes and cancer. That’s why a group of scientists formulated a plan…

Tracey G. Ingram, AuD

The difference between surviving a heart attack or not

We’ve seen lots of research about the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle. But how active, or inactive you are, has been found to have a great impact on whether a heart attack kills you on the spot or serves as a mere warning that you need to make some major lifestyle changes.

Joyce Hollman

Longevity gas: The smelly secret to living longer

People focus on avoiding gas. But inside the body, one gas in particular acts as a chemical messenger, one that could offer smelly protection against life-threatening illnesses and boost longevity. But the wrong foods can cheat you of it.

Tracey G. Ingram, AuD

Sleep apnea: An underdiagnosed threat for women

Are you waking up feeling tired and sluggish after a full night’s sleep? Do you find yourself suffering from daytime sleepiness? For women, obstructive sleep apnea is often underdiagnosed and the consequences can be dangerous…

Dr. Mariza Snyder

Top 10 supplements to balance hormones naturally

Your hormones rely on key nutrients to work at their best, and it is virtually impossible to get everything you need through food alone, unless you want to eat 10lbs of broccoli sprouts every day! Let’s take a look at the best and most well-researched supplements for various types of hormonal support!

Carolyn Gretton

Green tea boosts cancer-destroying ‘guardian of the genome’

Green tea is well-known for its positive benefits on metabollism, brain funtion, blood sugar and longevity. Now, researchers say its key compound may increase a natural anti-cancer protein know as the “guardian of the genome.”

Joyce Hollman

Walnuts slash heart disease and diabetes

During early Roman times, the walnut was considered a food for the gods. But recently scientists have been using artificial intelligence to dig deeper and identify the specific components of walnuts that can add years to your life by slashing disease risk.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Two words on the problem with face shields: Vortex rings

While we eagerly await word from the experts on how much longer wearing a mask could be a daily part of our lives to avoid COVID-19 transmission, many have switched to clear face shields to mitigate the downsides of cloth masks. But are they as safe?

Carolyn Gretton

Medical marijuana and high blood pressure: Here’s what we know

Medical marijuana, or cannabis, has been used medicinally to provide relief for chronic pain, nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis patients. But what about heart health? More studies are needed but there’s positive news about its effect on blood pressure.

Tracey G. Ingram, AuD

Taurine: A natural ‘antibiotic’ and more

Antibiotics are lifesavers. But because we’ve relied on them too heavily, we’ve contributed to a big downside: antibiotic resistance. But scientists are finding promise in a nutrient found in many common foods that may trigger good bacteria in the body to go after disease-causing pathogens.

Virginia Tims-Lawson

How bacteria can provide a barrier against pneumonia

The difference between a mild case of the flu and possible hospitalization is the development of pneumonia. Just in time, researchers have identified one more way to reduce risk for a lung infection…

Carolyn Gretton

Why your mouth is the gateway to health or disease in your body

We know it’s important to keep our teeth and gums clean, but we often don’t consider how much good oral hygiene is connected with our whole-body health. More and more research is showing just how much our oral health can influence our overall health — and vice versa…

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