Strengthen your core in minutes a day
The best exercise I do only takes a minute. Granted, it is often the longest and most grueling 60 seconds of my life. I sweat, I shake, and I often collapse in relief when it’s over. But spending quality time in a plank pose always pays off. The plank pose is holding a push-up position while resting on your forearms. This simple move is the ideal exercise for strengthening crucial... READ MORE
Ways to overcome the effects of 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. Research over the past decade has revealed that many cancer patients experience these symptoms as a consequence of specific damage to the brain... READ MORE
Tools that can help you stop smoking
Dear Savvy Senior, I understand that COVID-19 hits smokers a lot harder than nonsmokers, but quitting at my age is very difficult. Does Medicare offer any coverage that helps beneficiaries quit smoking? —Must Quit Dear Must, It’s true. Smokers and vapers have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 infection, as the coronavirus attacks the lungs. That’s why quitting now is more... READ MORE
Study suggests red light improves vision
Staring at a deep red light for three minutes a day can significantly improve declining eyesight, according to a new study from University College London, the first of its kind in humans. Scientists believe the discovery, published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, could signal the dawn of new, affordable home-based eye therapies,... READ MORE
Tips for skin care and wrinkle prevention
Q: Between dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and trying to stay informed about what’s happening in the world, I’m finding myself significantly more stressed than usual, and it’s negatively impacting my skin. What changes can I make to my skin care routine to best take care of my skin and reduce the emergence of wrinkles? A: The skin is the human body’s largest... READ MORE
How to eat healthy may change with age
Eating right can help keep your body and mind healthy and extend your quality of life. But some older Americans may face barriers to getting enough nutrients or calories. Physiological changes that come with aging can result in reduced caloric needs, which can lead to decreased food intake and altered body composition, even in healthy older adults. This can be compounded by diminished ... READ MORE
Eyes track our aging at the molecular level
People often say that the eyes are windows to the soul. Now it appears they may also be windows to human aging. All people age, but individuals do so at different rates — some faster, others slower. While this observation is common knowledge, there is no universally accepted measure of biological aging. Numerous aging-related metrics have been proposed and tested, but no marker has... READ MORE
Avoiding kidney stones, digestive issues
Q: I recently passed a kidney stone. I never want to go through that pain again! What’s the best diet to avoid another kidney stone? A: First and foremost, be sure you drink plenty of fluids every day and avoid dehydration. Kidney stones form when certain minerals concentrate in the urine and form hard crystals. By drinking plenty of fluid, you can decrease the concentration of these... READ MORE
Best foods to eat for better night sleep
Having trouble sleeping? These snooze-inducing snacks can help you escape a slumber slump: Popcorn Eating a heavy meal within two hours of bedtime can keep you awake, but light-and-airy popcorn makes a great late-night snack. Popcorn contains carbohydrates that help send the amino acid tryptophan to your brain, where it is used to make serotonin — a sleep-inducing... READ MORE
Mexican zucchini soup is great for summer
Years ago, my idea of home cooking was purchasing mainly processed foods and serving them along with salads and fruits, thinking I was cooking healthy for my family. Now I know that wasn’t the case. With some detective work, I discovered that I had many food allergies and sensitivities, which led me to master allergy-friendly cooking. I’m happy to say that a year after taking my... READ MORE
