The best snacks to eat for energy all day

By Jessica Cording, MS, RD
Posted on February 13, 2024

Snacking often gets a bad reputation, but strategic snacking can help us maintain stable energy throughout the day so we don’t crash and run out of steam. It can also help us avoid dips in mood that may be related to unstable blood sugar, which plays a big role in energy levels. For the most filling snacks that will help keep your energy levels up, aim for a combination of protein, fat ... READ MORE

Is hair loss related to protein deficiency?

By Robert H. Shmerling, M.D.
Posted on February 08, 2024

Q: My hair seems to be getting thinner, and I see more on my hairbrush now. Should I be eating more protein? A: For most people with hair loss, inadequate protein is not to blame. It’s true that severe protein malnutrition may cause hair loss. But people with adequate access to food, a normal appetite and normal digestion should not lose hair due to low protein intake. In fact,... READ MORE

Ways to improve your piece of the planet

By Leanne Italie
Posted on February 02, 2024

The fight against climate change requires the mass cooperation of industries, companies, governments and communities, but individuals also have a role to play. Little things make a difference and feel good, too. Here are a few small, easily achievable ways to lead more climate-friendly lives: Make the most of groceries Food waste is an enormous environmental concern, yet it’s often... READ MORE

Six high-fiber vegetables to add to your diet

By Ariel Klein
Posted on January 31, 2024

We all know that consuming a good amount of fiber is important for our overall health, but do we know why? “Eating more high-fiber vegetables is one of the best things people can do for their health,” explained nutrition expert Meghan Novoshielski M.S., RDN. “Fiber helps with weight loss, keeps blood sugars stable, protects cardiovascular and digestive health and fuels a healthy... READ MORE

Volunteers with asthma needed for NIH study

By Margaret Foster
Posted on January 29, 2024

If you or someone you love suffers from asthma, you know how frightening an asthma attack can be — gasping for breath, unable to get enough air. Researchers want to know what causes inflammation in the lungs that leads to asthma and other diseases. A study is underway now at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute comparing lung cells from healthy people with those of people with ... READ MORE

Make room in your diet for tiny flaxseeds

By Lori Zanteson
Posted on January 26, 2024

Not so long ago, flaxseed was trending high on the health food scene. If this superfood has fallen off your radar in recent years, now’s the time to bring it back and find room for flax in your diet and your pantry. This tiny seed is mighty in nutritional value and is associated with several health benefits. “Flaxseeds provide dietary fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and phytoestrogens... READ MORE

Ways apples can help with weight loss

By Novella Lui, RD, M.H.Sc.
Posted on January 24, 2024

There is such a range of tips and diets promising weight-loss results, it’s easy to forget that some everyday foods can add volume to your meals and snacks without adding many calories. Apples are an excellent option for a healthy weight-loss diet. The sweet and tart fruit is budget-friendly, convenient and loaded with nutrients. Here are some reasons why registered dieticians say... READ MORE

How to support people with depression

By Erik Wing
Posted on January 22, 2024

Dear Mayo Clinic: My brother has been diagnosed with depression. I want to help him, but I don’t know what to do. Can you give me ideas for how best to support him? A: When a loved one is affected by depression, it can be difficult to understand what is happening or what you can do to help. Clinical depression is an incredibly complex and individualized process. Understanding... READ MORE

Help for nagging cough; coping with grief

By Howard LeWine, M.D.
Posted on January 18, 2024

Q: I can’t shake this dry cough. It’s been more than a month. Otherwise, I feel OK. Do I need to worry, and what can I do to help relieve it? A: First, I want to know if you were ever a smoker and whether you had cold symptoms or COVID-19 before the cough began. When someone has a cough lasting longer than five to six weeks, and perhaps even sooner for smokers, I usually order a... READ MORE

Items you should never store in a pantry

By Casey Barber
Posted on January 17, 2024

Sometimes you don’t see the fine print “refrigerate after opening” on the jar’s label. Or you grew up with the peanut butter in the pantry and never thought anything of it. But we can be smarter about how we store things. If you keep these common ingredients refrigerated or frozen, you’ll cut down on food waste and keep these kitchen staples fresher longer. Here are more... READ MORE