Can probiotics help with weight loss?
Dear Mayo Clinic: My friend insists that taking a probiotic supplement has helped her lose 50 pounds by keeping her gut bacteria in check. Will taking a probiotic in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise help me lose weight? A: It is true that the gut bacterial population in people who are obese differs from the population in people who are lean. Whether this difference... READ MORE
Watch out for new Medicare card scam
Dear Toni: I am concerned about a phone call I received yesterday from a representative with Medicare asking all types of personal questions and informing me that there was a new plastic Medicare card with a chip like a credit card. I told the caller what you said during your online Medicare webinar about not giving personal information over the phone. I’m concerned that I could... READ MORE
Nine reasons for shortness of breath
Experiencing shortness of breath, medically termed dyspnea, is common. It’s a sensation where you’re uncomfortably gasping for breath, feeling suffocated, yet it’s distinct from air hunger. This could be a fleeting issue, often tied to exercise or temporary ailments like bronchitis, but for some, it becomes a persistent whisper of a deeper problem, hinting at inefficient oxygen and... READ MORE
Medications that can interfere with sleep
Q: I am wondering if one of my medications is interfering with my sleep. Which types of drugs are more likely to do that? A: Medications that affect sleep can be prescription drugs or over-the-counter remedies. Here are some common culprits: Antidepressants. Antidepressants are typically prescribed to treat depression or anxiety, and they have varying side effects, even within the... READ MORE
Seven fruits that are good for your heart
Fruit (yes, fruit!) has the power to improve your heart health. That’s because it’s loaded with nutrients that can help lower your cholesterol and blood pressure — which are good for your overall heart health. Plus, research shows that people who eat four or more servings of whole fruit a day significantly lower their risk of developing high blood pressure. Fresh, frozen, canned,... READ MORE
People over 65 should get another Covid shot
Older U.S. adults should roll up their sleeves for another COVID-19 shot, even if they got a booster in the fall, U.S. health officials said in February. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Americans 65 and older should get another dose of the updated vaccine that became available in September — if at least four months has passed since their last shot. In making the... READ MORE
Healthy and affordable lunch foods to try
While lunch is often an afterthought when it comes to meal planning, what you eat midday can make a big difference in how you feel all afternoon. Trade up your deli sandwich with a bag of chips for some of these foods to get more from your lunch without spending too much time in the kitchen. Canned tuna: “Seafood is packed with protein, helping you feel full and satisfied. It’s ... READ MORE
Treatments for a persistent stuffed nose
Q: My nose constantly feels congested, especially on the right side. I don’t have any other symptoms. What might be causing it? A: The nasal block you feel is likely due to a chronic condition or obstruction that is reducing the amount of air passing through your nose. Allergies or a chronic sinus problem might be the cause. The insides of your nose and sinuses are lined with a... READ MORE
Understanding and reducing stroke risks
Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. It will affect 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 globally. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, and it can result in oxygen starvation, brain damage and loss of function. There are two main types of strokes. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood vessel carrying... READ MORE
Easy-to-use toothbrushes and flossers
Dear Savvy Senior, I have arthritis and hand tremors that affect my grip strength and make brushing my teeth difficult. I’ve read that electric toothbrushes can help make the job easier. Can you make any recommendations? —Arthritic Alice Dear Alice, For those who suffer from arthritis or have other hand weaknesses or tremors, an electric toothbrush is an often turned to solution ... READ MORE
