Poor sense of smell linked to depression
In a study that followed more than 2,000 community-dwelling older adults over eight years, researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine say they have significant new evidence of a link between decreased sense of smell and the risk of developing late-life depression. Their findings, published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, do not demonstrate... READ MORE
Do carbonated beverages weaken bones?
Q: Do carbonated drinks leach calcium from bones? Does this increase the risk for osteoporosis? Can drinking soda make a diagnosed case of osteoporosis worse? A: The best answer I can give to your questions is “maybe.” A number of studies have linked carbonated drinks with osteoporosis. Data from the Framingham Osteoporosis Study looked at carbonated drink consumption among more... READ MORE
Three mistakes to avoid with fresh nuts
We know nuts are good for you. They’re an excellent source of antioxidants and fiber, pack plenty of nutrient-dense monounsaturated fat, and have been shown to lower cholesterol, inflammation and your risk of heart disease. Walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, almonds and the lot are tasty treats in trail mix, but their uses are nearly never-ending. Fold walnuts into homemade bread dough,... READ MORE
Weight loss surgery relieves joint pain
Weight loss surgery has many proven benefits, including reducing blood pressure, improving blood sugar and reducing cardiovascular risk. Now, data from a large multicenter study of bariatric surgery in the U.S. suggest long-lasting improvement of pain and physical function can be added to this list. The study followed nearly 1,500 people for up to seven years after they had either... READ MORE
Is fructose something we should avoid?
The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to no more than six teaspoons per day. The reality? Americans, children and adults alike, consume an average sugar intake of 17 teaspoons per day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Western diet is largely made up of processed foods, most of which contain added sugar. Fructose, specifically high ... READ MORE
Persistent cholesterol? This study needs you
When we have high levels of bad cholesterol in our blood, plaque builds up in our arteries, leading to blockages, strokes or heart attacks. This type of heart disease is called atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and it can be deadly. About 2 million Americans are hospitalized each year with the condition, and 400,000 of them die, according to the American Heart... READ MORE
A simple summer salad of tasty tomatoes
If you’re an avid gardener and have been blessed with a bounty of ripe tomatoes, a simple summer salad is a great way to make the most of (and use up) this garden favorite. Salting the tomatoes before mixing them into the salad brings out their juices, which make a base for the dressing. There’s also no need to peel homegrown tomatoes here, because their skins are usually thin and... READ MORE
Is having a slow heart rate a concern?
Q: My father sometimes develops a very slow heart rate. He tells me not to worry because he feels OK. What happens inside the heart when the rate gets too low? A: The steady beat of your heart depends on a crescent-shaped cluster of cells in the upper right portion of your heart. Called the sinoatrial or sinus node, it emits a tiny jolt of electrical current that triggers the heart to... READ MORE
Exercise study to boost veterans’ health
By now more than half of Americans say they’ve had Covid, according to the Centers for Disease Control. But some haven’t fully recovered, particularly those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. The Baltimore VA Medical Center wants to help veterans fully recover from Covid. Researchers have launched a study nicknamed “BOOST” to give free exercise... READ MORE
Sweet potatoes, kale make a filling salad
For your next healthy meal, lean on a versatile ingredient like sweet potatoes as a key ingredient in this Sweet Potato Power Salad, a light yet filling solution that can feed the whole family. Easy to add to a variety of recipes to enhance flavor and nutrition content, sweet potatoes can be used in sweet, savory, simple or elevated recipes. Plus, they can be prepared on the stove,... READ MORE
