Latest Stories

Latest Stories

Joyce Hollman

Anxiety-relieving practice deemed effective as medication

Generalized anxiety disorder can be challenging, often leading to isolation, physical illnesses, chronic pain and fatigue. Risky antidepressants have been the go-to treatment, but a drug-free alternative just went head to head against the pills and the news is good…

Joyce Hollman

How exercise works like a roadblock to prostate cancer progression

Prostate cancer is the second most deadly cancer in American men. Previous research has shown an exercise program could release chemicals that control the growth of prostate cancer. Now the news is even better…

Carolyn Gretton

The activity that slashes diabetes risk 44 percent

Blood sugar problems that lead to diabetes are most common around the age of 45. That spells big trouble, including an increased risk of heart disease, nerve damage and even sexual problems. Lifestyle changes can improve things, but this one gets powerful results…

Carolyn Gretton

A concerning connection: breast cancer survival and heart disease

Breast cancer deaths are declining. If we stop right here, that’s certainly great news. But even though fewer women are dying from the cancer, their treatment may set them up for another disease they should be followed closely for…

Joyce Hollman

Worried about Alzheimer’s, cholesterol and blood pressure? There’s a tea for that

Drinking tea warms the soul. I find it one of the most soothing things I do for myself. What’s even better? Knowing this guilty pleasure has lots of researched benefits—many among the biggest health issues we face today.

Joyce Hollman

15 minutes of yoga and your ‘stroke’ number could drop 10 points

Exercise and health go together like PB and J. Typically, people choose one kind of exercise that works for them. I’m not knocking that because getting any exercise is a good thing. But adding in a little yoga can balloon benefits for blood pressure…

Carolyn Gretton

The ‘d’eeper problem behind age-related muscle weakness

Sarcopenia is the progressive loss of muscle mass, strength and functionality associated with aging. But have you heard of dynapenia? If you want to keep fraily, falls and decline out of your future, you need to understand how deep age-related muscle loss goes.

Joyce Hollman

Thunderstorm asthma: What allergy sufferers should know

A lot of us suffer from allergic rhinitis or hay fever. There’s nothing that unique about seasonal allergies, except maybe this: If you have hay fever, you are at risk for a serious event called “thunderstorm asthma,” even if you don’t normally have asthma.

Carolyn Gretton

An important step forward in gauging men’s prostate cancer risk

The old standby, PSA testing, isn’t 100 percent accurate, leading to unnecessary biopsy and treatment and loads of anxiety. But when it was scaled back, metastatic prostate cancer cases rose. The key is identifying men by risk level—and a new tool may be the answer to saving lives…

Carolyn Gretton

The uncomfortable condition Americans won’t talk about

Too many Americans suffer from chronic bloating — that tight, heavy, swollen feeling in your abdomen that can be caused by a number of conditions. What’s worse, few are seeking help. If you’re one of them, you don’t have to suffer in silence…

Joyce Hollman

5 additional benefits of walking when you do it backwards

Walking is my exercise of choice. No equipment or special skills required! But what really inspires me to lace up my walking shoes is the documented benefits. But guess what? Walking backwards is even better, especially if you have joint or low back pain…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The one thing disrupting your natural protection from obesity and diabetes

Researchers have found that though fats, salt and sugar are the quickest recipe for poor health, one among them does the most damage at making your body ripe for metabolic disease, especially when your natural protection is missing…

Joyce Hollman

Spice it up: A tasty way to a healthier gut

Your gut microbiome needs a variety of bacteria to do its job and keep you healthy. And spice is, as they say, the variety of life. After learning what spices can do for the diversity of your microbiome, that saying may take on a whole new meaning…

Carolyn Gretton

Worn-out non-stick cookware: Not just ugly — but toxic

In the 1950s, a convenient chemical made non-stick pans the best thing since sliced bread. Or so we thought. But perfect omelets and easy cleanup came with a hefty price: our health. And if you’re still using old non-stick pans, here’s why that threat is even greater…

Joyce Hollman

What men who want to avoid colon cancer eat

Colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer and men tend to have a higher risk than women. Caught early, it’s treatable. That’s what brought a group of scientists to re-examine the power of diet to prevent colon cancer specifically in men.

Carolyn Gretton

The surprising truth about the color of snot

Snot — it’s certainly not something you would discuss at the dinner table. But it’s something we should be more aware of, especially since you can tell a lot about your health, from colds to molds, from what color your mucus is…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The 3 most impactful ways to support your brain

Much research exists about how to hold onto a sharp mind as we age. But the bottom line comes down to protecting the grey and white matter of your brain. Norwegian researchers whittled down the three best ways to do that…

Joyce Hollman

DHA: The omega-3 that’s like poison to tumors

If you’re supplementing your omega-3s, it’s probably because you know they’re tied to heart health, a longer life and a super brain. Need I say more? Well, what if I told you that one in particular killed cancer cells and slowed development of tumors?

Carolyn Gretton

The ‘K’ey nutrient for strong bones when you need them most

Breaking a bone, especially a hip, is a real concern for women as we age. So it stands to reason that if there’s something you can do to help prevent that issue later in life, you’d want to do it. Research says a key factor is a forgotten nutrient that drastically reduces that risk….

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

5 steps to make your resolutions stick

If you’ve set a goal for the new year, whether it’s a fitness plan, quitting smoking, drinking less or having more fun, the odds are against you. Most resolutions fall to the wayside by the 2nd Friday in January. But here are five research-backed tips that can give you your best chance…

Easy Health Options Staff

Alert: Blood pressure tablets recalled over cancer risk

Just before Christmas, the FDA announced, as a public service, that drug manufacturer Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc. has issued a voluntary recall for Quinapril — a blood pressure-lowering medication that may contain a cancer-causing impurity. Here’s what we know…

Carolyn Gretton

Lower your blood pressure in 20 minutes without sweating

Sure, exercise will lower your blood pressure. But it’s not the only way. Have you ever wondered what people mean when they talk about mindfulness? It’s much more than mumbo jumbo. Not only does it take BP numbers down, it kickstarts a signaling molecule your body uses to do just that…

Joyce Hollman

The ‘causal link’ to Alzheimer’s you can break

Research relies on different types of studies. Some are “observational,” where researchers observe the effect of a risk factor. Then there are the ones we get really excited about. These identify an actual causal factor that, if avoided, can greatly cut your risk of something like Alzheimer’s…

Joyce Hollman

Kidney cancer is silent, until it’s not: Know the symptoms

Kidney cancer is fast becoming one of the more common cancers. It often strikes around age 65, but likely starts sooner because, in its earliest stages, kidney cancer often does not cause any noticeable symptoms. And diagnosis occurs after it has spread. Know these signs…

Jenny Smiechowski

How to reduce dementia risk by 90 percent

Exercise and brain health go hand in hand… But how much time do you have to put in to prevent the most dreaded of age-related brain diseases — dementia? Science finally has a solid answer: A recent study determined a goal you can set to obliterate your dementia risk…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Stretch away low back pain in 6 simple moves

If you’re living with low back pain, you’re not alone. And whether your pain is sharp and shooting, dull and achy or radiating, there are things you can do at home to get relief, including the 5,000-year-old practice deemed just as effective as physical therapy…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The virus no one wants that could eradicate cancer

When you think of the herpes simplex virus, not much that’s pleasant comes to mind. But what if the virus that can wreak so much havoc could also be used for good, like causing advanced tumors to disappear, shrink or stop progressing?

Joyce Hollman

What’s in your mug could lower your risk for hip fracture

A hip fracture, especially over 60, can be a nightmare. The long period of immobility that follows can bring on dangerous health complications. Calcium and vitamin D are important, but you may be shocked to know how much your coffee or tea habit may help…

Carolyn Gretton

Allergies in the wintertime: Weather as a trigger

For some people, allergies can be an issue year-round. Even when there’s frost on the ground and no pollen in the air, they’re still dealing with sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. One allergy expert points to weather as a possible trigger and what may help…

Carolyn Gretton

Why bladder problems increase with age for some women

In the United States, roughly 17 percent of women ages 20 and older suffer from urinary incontinence. While that doesn’t seem like a lot, the number skyrockets as women age. And so does overactive bladder. But why are these conditions worse for some, and where’s the relief?

Joyce Hollman

6 habits that hijack your immune system

You probably already know that bad nutrition and poor sleep can sabotage your immune system. But there are some lesser-known habits you may be engaging in right now that are compromising your immune system’s ability to protect you at a time when you need it most.

Jenny Smiechowski

3 dangers of drinking too much green tea

With all the hype around green tea’s health benefits, it’s tempting to sip on the stuff all day, every day. But it turns out that drinking too much of this typically healthy beverage comes with a few potential side effects… including one serious one.

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The best time to check your blood pressure

High blood pressure and heart disease go hand in hand. Most of us get checked regularly at our doctor’s office. Hopefully yours is in the green… but there’s a way to check it to see if red zone numbers are in your future.

Joyce Hollman

5 smoothies that calm inflammation and boost immunity

I’m focusing on superfood combinations that can boost my immune system and tame inflammation. Both will lower my chances of a COVID-19 infection, or any infection, for that matter. And since spring has finally arrived and it’s warm out, I’d like to share five of my favorite superfood smoothie recipes with you.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Switch couch time for naptime for better mood and BMI

Stay-at-home orders have most of us sitting more than ever. Estimates show that levels of physical activity have plummeted by 32 percent, leading to added stress and depression as well as weight gain. A new study has shown that substituting nap time for sitting time could help you feel and be healthier.

Jenny Smiechowski

All whole grains aren’t as healthy as you’ve been made to think

Fiber is a health-giving, life-saving nutrient. Research shows eating a high fiber diet decreases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and colorectal cancer. It also extends life expectancy. The problem is, not all sources of fiber deliver the same benefits — especially if they’re “whole grain.”

Jenny Smiechowski

Just one fast food meal can lower your brain power

With all the stress, uncertainty and monotonous days spent hunkered down at home, many of us are eating less healthy than we normally would. But it turns out, even a little bit of junk food has a swift and serious impact on your brain’s ability to function.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Drinking more whole milk clobbers ‘cluster’ of cardio threats

Both diabetes and high blood pressure significantly increase your risk of dying from both heart attack and stroke, with diabetes alone nearly doubling that risk. Now, new research has found that simply adding more dairy to your diet could be the key to avoiding both conditions, especially if you go full fat.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Ancient Chinese remedy soothes indigestion without drugs or side effects

If you live with indigestion that causes bloating and stomach pain, you might be tempted to head to your doctor for a prescription. But wait… many of those pills have been linked to Alzheimer’s. Luckily, a new study has found safe, effective indigestion relief in an ancient Chinese practice.

Joyce Hollman

Drink away weight and disease risk with green tea

With obesity on the rise, more people are looking at green tea as an aid in fat burning and weight loss, as well as for its other health benefits. An international group of researchers did a deep dive into how green tea can help with weight loss.

Joyce Hollman

When low blood pressure signals a hidden health problem

We spend a lot of time talking about the dangers of high blood pressure. But did you know that low blood pressure (hypotension) holds dangers all its own? Here’s what you need to know about hypotension, its effects and how to prevent it.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Fight Alzheimer’s with your toothbrush

Alzheimer’s is one of the scariest diseases on the planet. It doesn’t just steal your life, it steals who you are and the lifetime of memories you’ve accumulated. Scientists have proven that one of the easiest ways to postpone or even prevent Alzheimer’s could be found in your bathroom.

Joyce Hollman

11 health hacks for your best life after 40

There are changes you can make in your forties that will keep you healthier, more energetic and more alert for decades to come. Here are 11 changes you can make that will make a big difference over time.

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The cholesterol danger in every cup

A new study says there’s a little-known factor that could be increasing your chances of ending up with worrisome cholesterol levels. It’s something you could be drinking on a daily basis.

Jenny Smiechowski

How potatoes can help pump up your muscles

Potatoes are probably the most controversial vegetable. No one would say that broccoli is unhealthy, but potatoes have plenty of naysayers… mostly because they’re high in carbs. But the truth is that potatoes are a good source of nutrients, including protein that can fuel your muscles.

Easy Health Options Staff

Why your body craves CoQ10

The vital antioxidant nutrient Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is responsible for providing an energy spark to all 100 trillion of your body’s cells. And scientists have proven that sufficient CoQ10 is critical for producing 95 percent of your body’s personal energy. But its effects go much deeper…

Joyce Hollman

9 secret signs of thyroid trouble

When your thyroid is functioning properly, your health blossoms. When it isn’t, the effects on your health can be more widespread than you’d ever imagine. Here is a list of 9 lesser-known signs of thyroid trouble you need to be aware of.

Joyce Hollman

Vitamin K: The secret to hard bones and soft arteries

Vitamin D and calcium, the dynamic duo of bone health, are probably the first things you think of when you think about how to keep your bones healthy… but vitamin K is crucial for building bone strength and can be found in many of the foods we eat.

Jenny Smiechowski

Stevia: The natural, zero-calorie sweetener that slays fatty liver

High sugar intake is directly linked to liver cancer, liver scarring and fatty liver disease — a condition that can lead to cirrhosis. But there is a zero-calorie savior that can satisfy your sweet tooth and save your liver — stevia.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Collagen supplement reduces lines and wrinkles from UVB rays

Spending time in the sunshine lifts your mood and gives you a vitamin D boost that keeps your bones and your immune system strong. But it also leads to UVB-induced skin damage and premature aging. Could supplementing collagen reverse that damage and restore youthful skin?

Jenny Smiechowski

Apples, berries and tea fend off Alzheimer’s

If you want to reduce your odds of developing Alzheimer’s, you should make one simple change to your diet — eat more flavonoid-rich foods. Why? Because the amount you eat now directly impacts your risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia in the decades to come.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

6 ways apple cider vinegar could save your health

When you think of apple cider vinegar, you probably picture that tangy salad dressing that makes your mouth water or that tart marinade that gives your favorite chicken dish an extra kick. But, if you’re only using the flavor-packed powerhouse in your cooking, you could be missing out on some big health benefits…

Jenny Smiechowski

How getting mindful can help eliminate chronic stomach symptoms

Do you have stomach issues, food allergies or intolerances? What if you could get rid of your gut trouble without changing anything in your diet? It sounds too good to be true, but it’s possible. That’s because gut issues don’t always have to do only with the contents of your stomach…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The high fiber fruits and veggies that lower breast cancer risk by 8%

One in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in her lifetime. And even while breast cancer rates have been decreasing, this year alone, over 42,100 women will die from it. But a review of 20 studies proves a high fiber diet is a solid way to bring your breast cancer risk down.

Virginia Tims-Lawson

6 signs you’re deficient in these essential nutrients

In many modern countries, even the U.S. where most people have access to high-quality nutrition, vitamin deficiencies are more common than most realize. That puts wellness at the top of the list… starting with these essential nutrients…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

6 habits that age you, kick them to keep your age a secret

We all want to look younger. Yet, little things you do each day could be aging you beyond your years… That’s why we’re counting down six seemingly harmless habits that can leave your face looking like a road map. If you’re doing any of these, stop now to keep your age a secret…

Dr. Elizabeth Klodas MD, FACC

The statin mistake that increases your weight and decreases your health

On their own, statins are not a fool-proof guarantee of better outcomes. In fact, I recommend that all my patients eat a heart-healthy diet. Why? Because if your cholesterol is high and you can reduce it with diet alone, that’s always the better answer. That’s why a new study is so alarming…

Jenny Smiechowski

High selenium diet increases chance of COVID-19 survival

With COVID-19 going around, you want your immune system to be primed and ready to fight if and when it needs to. That means you should pay a little extra attention to the vitamins and minerals you’re getting daily. A new scientific review shows that high selenium levels could be linked to a higher likelihood of surviving COVID-19…

Jenny Smiechowski

The clean 15 and dirty dozen fruit and veggie guide for 2020

I buy a lot of my food organic, but not all of it. Sometimes, the price tag is so steep that I convince myself my body can handle a little dose of pesticides for the sake of my pocketbook. But based on all I’ve learned about pesticides and produce, I know I need to be strategic about which foods I buy organic and which ones I don’t…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The top 5 science-backed benefits of walking

There’s one exercise that can be done anywhere. No special equipment is required and the benefits are wide-ranging — from boosting your brain health to keeping your heart ticking.So, throw out the excuses and break out your shoes…

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