Latest Stories

Latest Stories

Joyce Hollman

11 exotic superfruits with supersized nutrition

Instead of dreaming of tropical islands this winter, why not try some exotic fruits that hail from warmer climates? Here are 11 exotic “superfruits” that are fun to try, and packed with enough nutritional power to dispel the winter doldrums and most anything else that ails you…

Carolyn Gretton

Why more men are getting thyroid cancer

It’s been known for some time that people who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of getting certain cancers, including thyroid cancer. But it’s been unclear exactly how many cases of thyroid cancer are connected with weight — until now — and the findings should be a wake up call, especially for men…

Joyce Hollman

Study finds inflammatory foods feed Alzheimer’s and dementia

Research shows inflammation is a driving force behind obesity, heart disease and diabetes. Now research is stacking up that connects it with Alzheimer’s and dementia. The good news? Foods feed that inflammation in a dose-dependent manner and a change of diet could make a big difference.

Joyce Hollman

Weird causes and signs of low blood pressure

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, comes with its own set of troublesome symptoms. And, just like high blood pressure, it may also be a signal of other things going wrong in the body — surprisingly enough, even with your thyroid…

Carolyn Gretton

How grains can dash diabetes by more than 30 percent

The average American eats less than one daily serving of whole grains, and some studies show that over 40 percent of Americans never eat whole grains at all. When you know what whole grains can do for blood sugar, it’s no wonder so many Americans are in trouble…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The unexpected truth behind AFib triggers

AFib skyrockets your stroke risk. By throwing your heart out of rhythm, the condition can result in blood clots being released, blocking blood flow to your brain. If that wasn’t bad enough, strokes caused by AFib tend to be more severe than strokes from other causes. That’s why getting to the truth about AFib triggers is vitally important…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Best reason to exercise: rebuilding your body to live healthy longer

Aging means slowing down, doing less and retiring, right? Wrong! According to research from Harvard, if you’re taking it easier as the years pass, you’re missing out on processes in the body that can actually build your body back stronger and fight disease to help you live healthier and longer…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

An unexpected perk of housework: Healthy aging

Need a reason to stop procrastinating when it comes to household chores and get that sweeping, vacuuming and dusting done? A study looked at housework specifically for its ability to increase the amount of physical activity people get, and found quite a few unexpected perks that promote healthy aging…

Carolyn Gretton

The surprising habit that weakens your pelvic floor (and we all do it!)

Sucking in our stomachs can seem normal, especially for women. But it turns out it’s not exactly healthy for us to be holding in our stomachs all the time. Read on to discover the dark side of “stomach gripping” and why it might have you running to the nearest restroom faster…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The FODMAP diet: Reducing symptoms and disease-causing bacteria

The FODMAP diet has been found to reduce the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. But it wasn’t clearly understood how. Well, now we know. We also know that many people with IBS have a very unique microbial signature that’s downright dangerous…

Carolyn Gretton

15 chemicals linked to early menopause

It’s long been known that following menopause, women face an elevated risk of numerous health problems. But for women who experience early menopause (before the age of 50), the risks carry an extra wallop. And unfortunately, outside factors are contributing to this phenomenon…

Carolyn Gretton

‘Altered metabolites’ could be causing your migraines

Researchers have identified a connection between a genetic link and altered metabolites that appears to increase susceptibility to migraine. Good news is, to correct these metabolites and hopefully cut down on the painful condition, they’re looking at diet and a particular supplement that’s already shown major promise…

Joyce Hollman

The confusing way iron levels factor into Alzheimer’s

Iron is an essential nutrient. Iron deficiency anemia is all too common, especially in women and people over 65. But iron overload can also lead to serious health concerns. This conundrum is plaguing research over the past five years that has discovered a complicated relationship between iron levels and Alzheimer’s…

Joyce Hollman

The chemicals causing high cholesterol

We’ve known about the harmful effects of phthalates for some time now. They disrupt our hormones. They also cause thousands of deaths from heart disease each year. A new study has shown exactly how a specific chemical works in our bodies to raise cholesterol and cause heart disease.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Does your blood type increase your risk for certain diseases?

A Japanese concept called ketsueki-gata suggests that blood type shapes personality. The Blood Type Diet suggests certain foods may be healthier based on blood type. And while research on the validity of these concepts may be lacking, science is learning that blood type may influence disease risks…

Easy Health Options Staff

Flurona: What is it and what to watch for

Months and months ago we warned that the fall and winter months were expected to be a little rocky thanks to the combination of COVID-19 and a potentially nasty flu season. There was concern the viruses could muddy diagnoses and delay effective treatment. But things have gotten more confusing…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

5 scary facts about flu and your heart

You might have heard the news that a bad flu season might be just around the corner. But while getting the flu might leave you worried that you’ll suffer from a complication like pneumonia, bronchitis or a bacterial infection of the lungs, most of us don’t think about what it’s doing to our heart.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Two hot drinks that could lower your risk of stroke and dementia

Do you prefer coffee or tea? Either way, if you’re drinking the optimum amount you’re doing yourself some big favors, especially when it comes to risk of stroke and dementia. You may love either drink, but they love your brain more…

Carolyn Gretton

To lower blood pressure, use your whole spice rack

If you have high blood pressure, you’ve probably been told to cut back on salt. But just because you’re using less salt doesn’t mean you have to skimp on flavor. There are plenty of herbs and spices that will not only add flavor to your meals, but will also lower you blood pressure, so says science…

Carolyn Gretton

The strong connection between bad sleep, bad attitude and bad aging

Getting older has its advantages, but losing sleep isn’t one of them. Not only does age-related sleep loss hurt your physical and cognitive health, researchers are finding it can make you distressed about aging. And that negative outlook could have further consequences for your physical and mental well-being…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

Heart disease in a paper bag: The worst and least chemical-laden fast foods

There’s probably not one of us who believes eating fast food is healthy. But what’s the harm in the occasional indulgence? Well, you might be surprised to learn there’s far more lurking inside that greasy bag you get in the drive-thru than just anti-nutrients that pack on the pounds…

Carolyn Gretton

Can estrogen help stave off Alzheimer’s in women?

While there are a lot of myths surrounding menopause, one thing remains true — this midlife change brings estrogen production to a crashing halt. And that loss of estrogen can lead to health issues well beyond hot flashes and night sweats. The connection between estrogen and Alzheimer’s is one that may surprise you…

Joyce Hollman

Eat more fish to lower risk of vascular brain disease, stroke and dementia

Vascular brain disease involves damage to blood vessels in the brain and is a risk factor for vascular dementia and stroke. Sounds quite scary and it is. But if you’re eating the right stuff — specifically the best brain food — you can greatly lower your risk for the disease and the dangers that come with it.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The chemical-fat combo driving prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is only surpassed by melanoma as the most common cancer among men in the United States. In fact, almost 250,000 men will receive the diagnosis this year alone — a rate that’s predicted to skyrocket! What’s driving the numbers up? “Forever chemicals” and a dietary component that seems to accelerate tumor growth.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Your body on carbs: Metabolic distress and accelerated aging

A good deal of research has shown long-term overconsumption of carbs has a negative impact on metabolism, weight and overall health. But very little was known about how the body processes large amounts of carbohydrates eaten in a single meal. Hold onto your hats: it’s not just your metabolism that’s at risk…

Joyce Hollman

Why older adults are at high risk from this ‘open door’ to disease

When you hear the term “leaky gut,” some awful pictures may spring to mind. But the truth is that a leaky gut is like an “open door” through which harmful microbes (even COVID-19) and toxins enter your bloodstream, causing all manner of illness. If you’re an older adult, your risk is higher. That’s why researchers looked into ways to help you close that door for good…

Carolyn Gretton

The surprising hormone that helps burn belly fat

Most people consider ghrelin, the hormone that produces those hunger pangs, an enemy of their weight-loss efforts. But that’s not really the case. It turns out ghrelin may be an ally in losing a particularly stubborn form of fat…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

7 ways to reduce your risk of cataracts

Currently, the only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one. This makes focusing on cataract prevention vital to maintaining healthy eyesight. Watch for these signs and follow these tips on how you can prevent cataract development — naturally…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

A salty diet can starve your brain of oxygen

Remember those old commercials that warned us of what drugs could do to our brains by frying an egg in a skillet? Turns out that same demonstration is fitting when it comes to salt’s effects on the brain… including tissue damage from hypoxia.

Carolyn Gretton

How spinach can help prevent colon cancer

Popeye was right — spinach really is a superfood. It’s loaded with fiber and nutrients like vitamins A, C, K and B2, folate, manganese, calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron — not to mention powerful carotenoids that support eye health. But science has pinpointed several ways this leafy green goes after colon cancer…

Craig Cooper

4 best foods to treat erectile dysfunction (slideshow)

These foods can boost your testosterone levels and nitric oxide levels, resulting in better erectile function without exposing you to the dangers of erectile dysfunction drugs.

Jenny Smiechowski

5 ways dangerous pesticides are entering your home

We use more than a billion pounds of pesticides per year in the U.S. alone. While we’d all like to think pesticides don’t affect the people, animals and plants they’re not intended for, we know better. Those chemicals move and drift…and find their way into your home. Here’s where to look…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The weird effect these positions have on your brain

It’s long been known that exercise has a positive impact on your brain and your memory. It decreases your risk of Alzheimer’s and can even slow cognitive decline. If you don’t move, your temporal lobe is doomed. So what about these other positions…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

Two activities scientifically proven to lower your blood pressure

Hypertension is scary, especially if your blood pressure is what they call “resistant.” That means adhering to a combination of at least three antihypertensive medications of different classes, which usually includes a diuretic. This post is for you…

Joyce Hollman

The best diet to fight off macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye disease that causes more blindness than glaucoma and cataracts combined. More than ten million Americans have it. The reason so many of us do could be the standard American diet. Because compelling research shows another much healthier diet could stop this sight-stealer in its tracks.

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Why your gut may never recover from the damage of antibiotics

Should you head to the doctor at the first sign you’re sick, fill your prescription and start popping the pills they give you? You might want to think twice. Scientists are looking at what they do to your gut, and it turns out antibiotic use can cause permanent change in your gut and lead to serious problems.

Jenny Smiechowski

The surgery that raises autoimmune disease risk by nearly 50%

It’s easy to turn your nose up at plastic surgery when you’re young. But as you get older, a little surgical help starts to get more tempting. But before you make any serious decisions, here’s something you need to know… There’s one cosmetic procedure that causes a sky-high risk of autoimmune disorders in women.

Dr. Mark Wiley

Giving thanks, a powerful healing vehicle

Gratitude is a powerful social emotion; a deep feeling of thankfulness, one that has long reaching benefits for wellness and quality of life. And multiple studies show that aside from being a socially favorable way to be with others, it has powerful effects on your health…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

3 signs back pain is shortening your life and how to stop it

Back pain is common across all ages, genders and socioeconomic groups. But, if you’re a woman age 40 to 80, your odds of suffering are the highest of any group. But more concerning is that back pain may be shortening your life. Here are three signs to look for and steps to take if you’re in pain…

Jenny Smiechowski

Science says weighted blankets really smother insomnia and anxiety

Deep pressure therapy simulates hugs, cuddling, swaddling, and holding — all things we’ve been trained from a young age to enjoy. When someone we love hugs us or hold us, we feel safe, calm and relaxed. And that’s likely why pressure can relieve anxiety and help you sleep…

Jenny Smiechowski

The coffee with the most brain protection

By now, the health benefits of coffee are indisputable, offering protection from heart disease to cancer. But if you want to use coffee for its brain benefits, there’s something you need to know: Not all coffee provides equally effective protection. It depends on the roast…

Joyce Hollman

8 surefire ways to stick with your fitness goals

Let’s face it: it’s all too easy to stop following an exercise program when the weather turns cold. Even knowing it’s the best way to stave off cancer, heart disease and diabetes won’t help you hit the ground running when the temps are frigid, unless you have a few tricks up your sleeve…

Jenny Smiechowski

The best nutrient to fight inflammation-fueled memory loss

Do you know why your memory starts to slip as you get older? Immune cells in the brain known as microglia become inflamed and release chemicals that interfere with cognitive and motor function. This leads to cognitive decline. But there’s a simple way to cool this brain-harming inflammation…

Joyce Hollman

What you need to know about blood thinners before knee surgery

In the U.S., each year over half a million people have knee surgery. During the time following surgery when you can’t move around, there’s a big risk of developing a deadly blood clot. Blood thinners carry side effects as scary as a blood clot itself, and aspirin has been called “risky.” What can you do?

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

How age-related leaky gut makes you sick and old

Leaky gut is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a condition in which the lining of your gut becomes too permeable, allowing particles that should remain in your digestive tract to cross into your other tissues. But besides making you sick, it’s making you old. Here’s how to stop it…

Dr. Michael Cutler

The signs and dangers of estrogen excess for men

What do we know about estrogen in men? We know a lot… unfortunately, because more than just tanking men’s testosterone levels, estrogen excess can lead to some serious health problems. That’s why it’s important to know symptoms, why it develops, its associated health risks… 

Joyce Hollman

8 concerning skin conditions that show up after 40

Some strange things can start happening to your skin once you’ve reached your fifth or sixth decade of life. Here are eight skin changes that men and women may observe as we get older, what to expect to see and what to do about them…

Virginia Tims-Lawson

The vitamin deficiency that contributes to heart disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. An important factor is arterial stiffness because the less flexible your arteries are (and the higher your pulse wave velocity), the higher your risk of heart disease and death. But scientists have shown this vitamin is a big help…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

Two factors that raise a woman’s fall risk

Every 19 minutes someone over 65 dies from a fall, making falls the leading cause of death in this age group. But, what puts you at risk? And why are you more likely to fall as you age? Well, according to new research it goes beyond balance — especially for women….

Jenny Smiechowski

Why your showerhead could give you a lung infection

The shower is a warm, happy place. But it can be a dangerous place too. And I’m not referring to your risk of slipping and falling. I’m talking about that dangerous showerhead hanging over your head… a breeding ground for hazardous bacteria that can cause a serious infection.

Jenny Smiechowski

An anti-viral treatment might cut Alzheimer’s cases in half

A new study shows that there’s a causal link between a virus that affects almost 80 percent of the adult population and Alzheimer’s. That’s a scary thought, but not all bad news: If Alzheimer’s is caused by a virus, that means there are new options for treatment…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The good-for-you food that won’t make you gain weight

For years there’s been a debate about nuts. On one side, experts have claimed that nuts are good for you and you should eat them daily. While the other side has said that nuts are high in fat, healthy or not, and will lead to weight gain. So, who’s right? Who do you believe?

Joyce Hollman

How the FDA is sneaking your vitamins out the ‘back door’ for drug profits

It’s no secret that the FDA has an alliance with major drug companies. But did you know that there’s a secret “back door” to the FDA that is allowing drug companies to remove natural supplements from the market for sole use in their drugs? Here’s how it’s happened right under our noses…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The thyroid connection to chronic fatigue

There’s tired… and then there’s the kind of fatigue that makes you feel like just getting out of bed is an impossible task. Luckily, there’s hope. Researchers have discovered a connection between low levels of thyroid hormones and chronic fatigue syndrome that could make all the difference.

Joyce Hollman

Your doctor could be all wrong about your blood pressure

Have you been diagnosed with high blood pressure? Maybe you were even prescribed that scary drug they found could cause cancer (remember the recall?). What if you didn’t really have high blood pressure at all. What if your doctor made a mistake? It happens more often than you’d think…

Jenny Smiechowski

The food that helps you break free from the junk food blues

Depression makes you want junk food. But research shows junk food makes you more depressed. So, you just keep digging yourself deeper and deeper. There’s one type of food that drives the junk food blues more than any other. But there’s one food that can turn the junk food blues around…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

The new oil on the block that gives olive oil stiff competition

If you have cholesterol problems, medication can often just add fuel to the fire. That’s because statin drugs come with more than enough of their own risks, including liver damage, blood sugar problems and neurological damage. But a new oil on the block may be exactly what you need…

Dr. Adria Schmedthorst

4 ways endurance training disease-proofs your body

If you’ve been wondering what the best exercise may be, you may have found it… especially if your goals are to slash your risk of disease, kickstart your metabolism, reduce your bad cholesterol and quench heart-harming inflammation. It all comes down to what endurance training does for your gut.

Joyce Hollman

7 foods to soothe winter skin

Winter is probably the worst time of year for anyone’s skin. But for those of us with naturally dry skin, as well as skin that’s passed its fifth decade or so, the challenge of making it through the winter can be even greater. Let’s keep it healthy and looking good, too…

Dr. Isaac Eliaz

Harvard identifies best foods to fight breast cancer

Previous research has demonstrated links between increased fiber intake and reduced breast cancer risk. So for years, the best advice to cut your breast cancer risk was eating more fiber. Not so fast. Turns out there were other nutrients at work doing a better job at keeping breast cancer at bay…

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