Latest Stories

Latest Stories

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

7 signs a vitamin D deficiency is dragging you down

It’s estimated that a whopping 42 percent of people are vitamin D deficient. Unless you get blood work regularly to monitor your levels, you may never know you’re lacking in this important vitamin until you start experiencing symptoms. Let’s take a look at seven sneaky signs you should be on the lookout for…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Why your eyes are a window to your heart attack risk

You’ve heard the phrase, “Your eyes are the windows to your soul.” Well, according to research, they might also be the windows to your heart. In fact, what your eye doctor sees during your exam could reveal whether a heart attack or stroke is in your future so that you can take steps to save your life.

Joyce Hollman

How sugar steals your vitamin C

To effectively use the power of vitamin C to combat oxidative stress, your white blood cells need 50 times more C in their cell walls. Macrophages in your respiratory tract are dependent on C. And it helps the body produce interferons to keep viruses from replicating. See why it’s more important than ever to understand how sugar steals yours?

Carl Lowe

Get thinner with the right kind of apple

An apply a day can do a lot of good things. A study of how apples support the gut microbiome shows that one variety in particular may promote the growth of bacteria associated with less body fat…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Coffee’s incredible benefits: longevity plus heart health

For decades, there’s been a debate as to whether our favorite morning beverage is truly friend or foe when it comes to our health. But a study of almost half a million people may give you a a reason to rejoice and pour a second cup each morning…

Carolyn Gretton

Poor gut health and the risk of aggressive breast cancer

Investigators have discovered interesting connections between breast cancer and the health of the body’s different microbiomes. In fact, the gut may be just as influential as the breast microbiome when it comes to the risk of aggressive breast cancer…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Scleroderma: The autoimmune – heart disease diet link

In people living with scleroderma, the immune system tricks tissues in the body into thinking they’re injured. This causes a buildup of scar tissue that hardens the skin and damages blood vessels and internal organs. But it get much worse with a common metabolite found in a very common diet…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Light on sleep? This heavy habit will get you more Zzzs

Not getting good sleep can tear down your health. You can try sleeping pills. But they can be addictive and carry additional risks. Instead, you might opt for something completely natural that comes with the kind of side effects you’ll actually appreciate — maybe even dream about…

Jenny Smiechowski

5 big benefits of good old-fashioned buttermilk

Fermented foods are all the rage nowadays because they contain probiotics that support gut health. But despite the enthusiasm for everything from yogurt to sauerkraut to kombucha, there’s one fermented food that doesn’t get much love — buttermilk. As a result, we’re missing out on some serious benefits…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Nighttime blood pressure: What every diabetic should know

It’s no secret blood sugar problems can complicate your health. In fact, it’s been long known that diabetes and heart trouble go hand-in-hand. And according to researchers at the American Heart Association, every diabetic should be on the lookout for one thing that could double their risk for heart trouble — what your blood pressure does at night.

Virginia Tims-Lawson

How opioids sabotage your ‘feel good’ receptors to make pain worse

Emotional pain can cause chronic pain and chronic pain can cause emotional pain. It’s a bidirectional relationship that’s made worse when opioids enter the mix. So, while taking these painkillers can make you feel better early on, over time, they only make your problems worse.

Joyce Hollman

COVID’s legacy for young adults: Metabolic disorders

We don’t often think about young adults as being at high risk from a COVID infection. But research looking at the impact of even mild infections among them points to a potentially risky constellation of health issues they need to watch out for in the coming years…

Joyce Hollman

The link between diabetes, UTIs and the hormone that helps

Diabetes can lead to complications, especially infections. In fact, diabetics are 10 times more likely to suffer urinary tract infections. And yes blood sugar is to blame for its impact on the innate immune system…

Joyce Hollman

5 things you need to know about drug interactions with cannabinoids

The effect of cannabinoids, when compounded with the effects of certain other drugs, can create some dangerous symptoms. Here’s what you need to know about possible interactions before you start to use CBD.

Joyce Hollman

Is a sharp mind as simple as taking a daily multivitamin?

Multivitamins are an easy way to supplement a diet that’s not always perfectly balanced, even though skeptics will tell you they only produce expensive urine. But their impact on cognitive decline in those most at risk is nothing to flush down the toilet…

Carolyn Gretton

The real stroke and heart disease risks of fake sweeteners

Anyone who’s ever tried to lose weight is familiar with those pink, blue and yellow packets, and has probably had quite a few diet sodas in their lifetime. But not only do they work counter to that goal, those fake sweeteners carry very real dangers…

Margaret Cantwell

8 Chemopreventive foods: The future of cancer therapy

Have you heard of chemopreventive agents? They can be synthetic (like pharmaceuticals) or natural compounds, like those found in foods. They help fight cancer by putting a big kink in cancer’s molecular pathway. Here are the strongest contenders to put to work…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Endurance and performance slipping? Could be medication

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, an athlete or work out for your wellness, improving the diversity of your microbiome could improve your motivation and your endurance. Especially if you’ve taken medication found to steal your fuel…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Beat back Alzheimer’s in just 20 minutes a week

People living with mild cognitive impairment, where their memory has “slipped” but doesn’t significantly interfere with daily life yet, have ten times the risk for Alzheimer’s. But experiencing symptoms of MCI doesn’t mean dementia is inevitable. Especially if you have 20 minutes a week to spare…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Workout revelation means less time at the gym and more muscle

Lifting weights is one of the best ways to avoid frailty, slim a fatty heart and reduce diabetes and stroke risk. But how much and how often do you have to lift to build muscle? If I told you how little it takes, I’m not sure you’d believe me. So here’s the proof…

Joyce Hollman

Fact or myth: Breakfast like a king for better weight loss

When trying to lose weight, there’s an old saying that goes something like this: breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dine like a pauper. But do morning calories really equate to weight loss?

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Are your blood sugar levels hurting your eyes and kidneys?

It’s no secret that blood sugar problems can lead to complications. And two of the most likely areas where secondary issues occur are the eyes and kidneys. A 36-year study offers advice on the optimal HbA1c level to avoid that damage…

Joyce Hollman

Hormone found to stop a key trigger of Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease slowly steals a person’s physical and mental abilities. But research indicates a substance produced naturally by the body can be used to control the debilitating symptoms. And it’s a therapy that involves a hormone that’s simple to boost…

Carolyn Gretton

Is a nut the secret to aging better? 30-year study says yes!

Previous studies have shown that a handful of this particular nut can make a difference for heart and metabolic health. Now data gathered over 30 years has reinforced not only these health benefits — but opened an unparalleled window into healthy aging…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Foods that raise men’s colorectal cancer risk

It’s a no-brainer that eating anything that barely resembles real food and bears a list of unpronounceable ingredients could be remotely healthy. That’s why these foods contribute to dementia, weight gain and colon cancer. But why is the cancer risk so much higher for men?

Carolyn Gretton

The antibody that could take down Alzheimer’s plaques

Alzheimer’s disease therapies leave a lot to be desired. But researchers are learning more about the mechanisms behind the disease and may have found a link to a whole new avenue of treatment… delivering antibody-based therapies across the blood-brain barrier.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

How to get benefits over and above your ‘total daily steps’

Over and over, the research tells us that to live longer, shoot for 10,000 steps a day. Getting more daily steps has been linked to a healthier brain, heart and independence. But truth be told, you can walk less and get benefits over and above your total daily steps with this simple trick…

Dr. Elizabeth Klodas MD, FACC

A cardiologist’s take on eggs, cholesterol warnings and the new study

Brand new research says higher consumption of dietary cholesterol — specifically eggs — was significantly associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease. So, after years of conflicting information, do we have the definitive answer to whether it’s safe to eat eggs? See what a cardiologist says…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The elderberry’s secret to warding off cold and flu

You’ll probably never see elderberries in the fruit section of your grocery store, but these berries have been used for centuries to boost immunity and fight off viruses, like flu and the common cold. But have you wondered if they stand up to their reputation? Here’s what the science says…

Carolyn Gretton

The medication that could raise your breast cancer risk

There are a lot of potential risk factors for breast cancer, and researchers are discovering more every year. In fact, they’ve uncovered one that could be linked to medication commonly prescribed for certain psychiatric conditions. Here’s what they know so far…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

How to avoid catching Coronavirus, flu, or colds on an airplane

Spring break is just around the corner and if you’re thinking of flying, here’s some sobering news: 1 in 5 people who travel on planes will suffer from a cold or flu after the flight. That’s because they are in an enclosed area where some germs can remain for up to seven days. You think those cruise ships had it bad? Think again…

Jenny Smiechowski

The simplest way to slay morning grogginess

Being jolted awake by an alarm when your body isn’t ready to get up stinks. But for most of us, it’s an inescapable fact of life. But what if there was a way to make your morning alarm experience less miserable? And it could help you wake up far more chipper next time your alarm goes off? Alright, here’s how…

Easy Health Options Staff

Get your best sleep ever with these 7 products on Amazon

Like many people, I’ve always had a problem getting enough sleep, but refuse to resort to pills and prescriptions. Does that sound like you? If you’re ready to ditch the tossing and turning and grab more shut-eye, we’ve put together a list of the best sleep products we think you can find…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Change up your exercise intensity to change your brain, your mood and your life

Exercising regularly is one of the best things you can do. It lowers the risk of numerous conditions from heart disease and high blood pressure to diabetes and even cancer. But did you know you can turn the dial on exercise intensity to affect specific aspects of brain health?

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The Japanese secret that reduces the risk of dying from anything (well, almost)

When you think of good health, heart disease protection, and longevity, fermented foods may not be the first to come to your mind. But the long-lived Japanese can affirm: They’re valuable tools against diseases — especially one that kills 37 Americans every second…

Jenny Smiechowski

2 nutrients that boost the immune system’s ability to battle melanoma

The link between bacteria in your body (your personal microbiome) and diseases like cancer is stronger than ever. Prebiotics and these bacteria have a special relationship. So it’s not all that surprising that researchers found two prebiotics decrease the risk of melanoma…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Treatment sheds light on avoiding long-term consequences of concussion

As much as we’re learning about the long-term effects of concussion, recovery is still challenging. Considering consequences like concentration and memory problems, it’s an important issue to address. Especially for seniors who can surprisingly experience a concussion during a fall even without hitting their head…

Joyce Hollman

What cocoa does for healthier arteries

Peripheral artery disease is a condition in which your arteries are narrowed and can’t carry enough blood to the parts of your body furthest from your heart, like your arms and legs. It increases heart attack and stroke risk, too. Its early signs can be surprising, but perhaps not so much as the spice that can help…

Joyce Hollman

The treatment that can keep a ‘broken heart’ from killing you

Can you really die of a broken heart? Previous studies leave little doubt. In fact, a person’s risk of having a heart attack increased 21 times over in the day immediately following the death of a loved one, and six times in the following week. It’s serious enough that doctors are looking at how to prevent a ‘grief heart attack’…

Dr. Elizabeth Klodas MD, FACC

What really matters about cholesterol in the big scheme of things

Cholesterol remains one of the most confusing areas of both nutrition and heart health. So, I’ll break it all down for you here… First, you need to know the difference between dietary cholesterol and blood cholesterol. Because one is a scapegoat that’s stealing the spotlight and keeping your focus from where it needs to be…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The best first-aid step for minor burns to avoid scarring or worse

What do you do when you’re taking that hot bowl of soup out of the microwave and it splashes on your hand, blistering your skin and bringing you to tears? Everyone has their own ideas on how to treat a burn. But if you make the wrong choice you could end up with scarring, needing a skin graft or fighting a nasty infection…

Jenny Smiechowski

Sick of being told what to eat? Try the anti-diet

Many of us have lost our natural ability to simply eat. We worry we eat too much or too little. We count calories or eliminate entire food groups. Wouldn’t it be nice to let go of oppressive dieting rules and learn to eat intuitively again, just like when you were young? Here are 8 simple ways to make eating fun again…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Can trying too hard ruin your chance at happiness?

Here in the U.S., our Declaration of Independence says that each of us is entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Another very American mantra is to try and try again. But for a lot of us, following that advice is resulting in the exact opposite of what we’re looking for…

Jenny Smiechowski

Is it possible to get fiber’s fantastic health benefits without the bloat?

When you embrace healthy habits, so many good things happen… Your skin clears up. You have more energy. Your mood is lighter. But occasionally, healthy living comes with a side effect or two. Take high-fiber diets as an example… there’s a definite downside. If the bloating is unbearable here are tips to get past it…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

7 warning signs of a thyroid problem

That butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your throat, known as the thyroid, may be small, but it packs quite a punch when it comes to your health. According to the American Thyroid Association, up to 60 percent of Americans with thyroid issues don’t know it’s causing their problems. Watch for these common signs…

Joyce Hollman

Can stress really turn your hair gray?

When Marie Antoinette was captured during the French Revolution, her hair reportedly turned white overnight. One look at “before and after” photos of most American presidents tells the same story. We’ve all heard tales of people who turned gray after a stressful event. But what does science say about it?

Jenny Smiechowski

The surprising reason yogurt lowers breast cancer risk

If you’re looking for an easy way to take a bite out of your breast cancer risk, eating more yogurt is a safe and simple way to stack the deck in your favor. That’s because bacterial-induced inflammation may be at the root of cancer in general… but more specifically breast cancer. Here’s some solid evidence…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

One vital reason men may want to cut down on dairy

Check out any current food pyramid and you’ll still see a tall glass of milk taking its place of honor in the dairy section of the chart. But, is dairy really heathy for us? Well, according to a new study, the answer might be a resounding no — especially for all the men out there trying to avoid prostate cancer…

Joyce Hollman

The common factor that makes gum disease as dangerous as diabetes, obesity and heart disease

Inflammaging means that, as we age, our bodies become progressively more inflamed. The immune system army has been fighting disease for years, and it’s left some ‘destruction’ behind in its wake. So it’s time to get serious about the common factor behind this unifying theory of disease…

Jenny Smiechowski

Algae may be just what you need to make your gut alright

Our guts are ailing us on a massive scale. Acid reflux, ulcers, constipation, diverticulitis, leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, food allergies and intolerances. Something is not agreeing with our guts. The question is… what can we do about it?

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

DIY vertigo relief corrects a surprising cause of this dizzying condition

If you suddenly feel as if the world is spinning around you, you could have a condition known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo or BPPV. BPPV’s vertigo-inducing spin can be frustrating, nauseating and limiting. And, the experts say that it’s all caused by tiny crystals in your ears. Here’s one way to beat BPPV…

Jenny Smiechowski

The belly fat and repeat heart attack connection medicine can’t save you from

In the months and years after a heart attack, there’s concern about having another one. After all, 20 percent of people who’ve had a heart attack have a second one within five years. Worrying, though, won’t prevent another, and neither will medicine for that matter. But your belly fat might…

Dr. Elizabeth Klodas MD, FACC

A cardiologist’s warning about giving up the carbs

As a cardiologist who’s always been interested in nutrition, I encourage you to step away from the hype and the false trends, move beyond macronutrients, and follow the dietary advice that has stood the test of time, allows humans to live long well, and is profoundly elegant, simple and sound, starting with carbs…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The flavonols found to reduce Alzheimer’s risk by almost 50 percent

You’ve probably heard of antioxidants. They’re the healthy compounds that fight free radical damage from the oxidative stress caused by everything from exposure to U.V. rays to eating fried foods and even your body’s own physiological processes. Now, the effect of one kind at keeping Alzheimer’s away has been measured, and it’s amazing…

Joyce Hollman

Doctors finally admit they’re rushing patients to unnecessary treatments

When you’re contemplating surgery, there are two things you’re probably thinking about: How expensive will it be? And, more importantly, how risky will it be? A third question should be: is this surgery even necessary?

Jenny Smiechowski

4 health conditions CBD helps the most according to Johns Hopkins

Cannabidiol has the potential to improve a lot of people’s health. But what conditions will it work for? That question’s a doozy. Especially since there’s a lot of misinformation out there about what cannabidiol can and can’t do. But recent research by the ‘big guns’ shows that CBD is helpful for at least four health conditions, and probably more…

Joyce Hollman

4+ ways strength training protects you from disease and frailty

We know by now that exercise is not an option… but not for the reason most often associated with exercise, like getting in shape. Without some form of regular exercise, most of will find it hard to live a long, full, healthy life, avoid cancer and weak bones and the telltale signs of frailty creeping in…

Margaret Cantwell

The kidney disease research that could save hearts

For far too long, saving our hearts has focused on one thing: cholesterol. But heart research into another growing health problem may intersect this blind spot of cardiovascular research to provide an answer for two very serious health conditions that both lead to vascular calcification… and hearts that give out.

Margaret Cantwell

10 researched ways to reduce your breast cancer risk

I don’t know about you, but I was so sad to hear that actress Shannen Doherty’s cancer is back… and with a vengeance. It’s a risk many of us worry about, and some, more so than others, have an elevated risk. Though there is no cure, we can lessen those risks, starting with these simple habits, backed by research…

Joyce Hollman

Ginger’s potential to ward of superbugs and other ways to avoid nosocomial infections

When you’re admitted to a hospital, whether for surgery or an illness, you expect to come out healthier than you went in, or at least not sicker. Unfortunately, for one in every ten people, just the opposite happens. While in the hospital, those people contract a nosocomial infection.

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