What is tick-triggered alpha-gal syndrome?
It’s common knowledge that ticks can spread infections that cause serious illnesses, including Lyme disease. Now health officials are trying to raise awareness of a lesser-known problem: a life-threatening allergy to meat triggered by tick bites. The problem, known as alpha-gal syndrome, was first linked to a particular species of ticks about 15 years ago. But cases are on the... READ MORE
The real benefits of counting steps
Dear Mayo Clinic: I've read so much about the health benefits of tracking my steps. But there's a lot of confusing information out there. How many is the right number? Are some "steps" better for you than others? Please help. A: Whether you're tracking steps with your phone, a smartwatch or an old-school pedometer, the result is the same: you'll have a good indicator of how much you're... READ MORE
How to protect your vision right now
As you get older, your risk for some eye diseases may increase. However, there are steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy – and it starts with taking care of your overall health. Set yourself up for a lifetime of seeing your best with these eight tips from the experts at the National Eye Institute in honor of Healthy Vision Month: 1. Find an eye doctor you trust: Many eye... READ MORE
FDA panel backs first-of-its-kind flu vaccine
A new kind of flu vaccine moved a step closer to the U.S. market in June, as federal health advisers recommended approval of the first made with the same mRNA technology that was key to ending the Covid-19 pandemic. The Food and Drug Administration is evaluating Moderna’s new shot, dubbed mFlusiva, for older Americans ahead of the winter flu season. Moderna is seeking full approval for ... READ MORE
How much calcium intake is too much?
Q: I take a 500 mg calcium supplement every morning. I drink about three glasses of milk daily, plus the milk on my breakfast cereal. Is this too much calcium? Is there any danger from taking in more calcium than you need? Can it cause calcium buildup in my heart? A: Yes, you are taking in more calcium than you need to keep your bones and the rest of your body healthy. The current... READ MORE
New pill promises hope for pancreatic cancer
A novel pill helped people with advanced pancreatic cancer live longer, raising hopes of long-needed better treatments for one of the deadliest types of cancer. “While not curing the cancer, it is a very large step forward,” said Dr. Zev Wainberg, of the University of California, Los Angeles, who helped lead the study. The drug is called daraxonrasib, and it blocks a mutated... READ MORE
New drug may help Alzheimer’s patients
When people have Alzheimer’s disease, an estimated 20% to even 50% suffer from hallucinations and delusions; that is, they see or believe things that aren’t real or true. It goes without saying that these symptoms are upsetting for not only the patient but everyone around them. “These symptoms can be distressing for both patients and their caregivers. Researchers are studying... READ MORE
Try these grab-and-go fiber-rich foods
Hitting your daily fiber quota is notably difficult, but not getting enough can take a toll on everything from your gut to your heart. “Research shows that higher fiber intake is linked to a lower risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, pancreatic cancer and diverticular disease,” said Julie Pace, RDN, a functional dietitian and the founder of Core Nutrition Health... READ MORE
Simple salad is healthy, crunchy and colorful
When the weather turns warm, I find myself wanting lighter dishes with plenty of color and pizzazz. I have made this salad three times in the last couple of weeks, and each time I am so pleased with how it tastes and looks. I’ve also slightly changed up the recipe each time I make the dish. Sometimes, for example, I’ll omit the cheese and top the salad with grilled chicken, salmon or... READ MORE
Dizziness could be a form of migraine
Most people think they understand migraines. A pounding headache, sensitivity to light, maybe nausea. The person retreats to a dark room and waits for the storm to pass. But migraines don’t always look like that. Some people experience migraines without severe head pain at all. Instead, they develop symptoms like dizziness, brain fog, visual disturbances or a strange floating sensation,... READ MORE
