Slow weight loss can improve fatty liver
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common cause of liver disease in the United States, and is estimated to affect up to a quarter of adults in the world. It is defined by excess fat accumulating in the liver, and usually occurs in people with obesity, high blood sugars (diabetes), abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels, or high blood pressure. These disorders often run... READ MORE
Which is better: Olive oil or coconut oil?
Coconut oil has developed a cult-like following in recent years, with proponents touting benefits ranging from body fat reduction to heart disease prevention. Sadly for devotees, the evidence to support these assertions remains rather sparse. But there is plenty of research to suggest that other plant-based oils have advantages over their animal-derived counterparts, particularly when it ... READ MORE
Study tests ketogenic diet for Parkinson’s
Can a special high-fat diet help people with Parkinson’s disease? Although researchers haven’t found a cure for the degenerative disease, they’ve found ways to slow its progression — from medication to exercise such as boxing. This year, scientists at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke are studying the effects of a specific diet on Parkinson’s... READ MORE
COVID-19 News
Don’t mix vaccine with painkillers It’s best to avoid taking painkillers before or after a COVID-19 vaccine, unless you routinely take them for a medical condition. Although the evidence is limited, some painkillers might interfere with the very thing the vaccine is trying to do: generate a strong immune system response. Vaccines work by tricking the body into thinking it has a... READ MORE
Fast, easy and flavorful citrus chicken
There are several steps you can take to elevate lean chicken breasts for a weeknight meal. We started with a bold citrus vinaigrette. For an intense hit of citrus flavor, we used lemon juice enhanced with both lemon and orange zest. Then, pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensured that they cooked at the same rate and stayed juicy. A little cinnamon and cumin rubbed... READ MORE
Mushrooms offer variety of health benefits
The ancient Greeks believed mushrooms provided strength for warriors in battle, and the Romans perceived them as “food of the Gods.” For centuries, Chinese culture has treasured mushrooms as a health food, labeling them as an “elixir of life.” Traditional Chinese medicine continues to highly value mushrooms, believing they offer numerous health benefits, and play a role in... READ MORE
Helping your brain recover from chemo
Some of the most common symptoms experienced by cancer patients are memory problems, difficulties with multitasking, and reduced attention and concentration. Historically, cancer patients with these symptoms were often diagnosed with depression. But research over the past decade has revealed that many cancer patients experience such symptoms as a consequence of specific damage to the... READ MORE
The best exercise, meds for osteoporosis
Dear Mayo Clinic: What are the latest medications or exercise recommendations for women who want to avoid osteoporosis? I am 55 and went through menopause a few years ago. A: Although some bone loss is inevitable after menopause, developing a regular exercise routine can be useful in limiting that loss. Medications can be used to limit bone loss, too, but they are not necessarily for... READ MORE
Preparing to part with a dying loved one
The following is an excerpt from the book Preparing to Part: Love, Loss and Living, written by Steven Shefter after his wife, Susan, died of a terminal illness. The book both describes his family’s particular experience and draws general lessons that might be helpful to others facing a similar situation. As time was drawing to an end for Susan, she said to me, “Steve, I’m afraid I... READ MORE
Ancient grains can improve modern diet
According to conventional wisdom, it’s good to be young. But when it comes to whole grains, being age-old is something to celebrate. Thanks to newly rediscovered ancient grains like quinoa, teff and spelt, the diversity of whole grains available to us has never been greater. These grains are dubbed “ancient” because their cultivation has been occurring among cultures for... READ MORE
