Experience an extraordinary life with diabetes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in 10 Americans is living with diabetes and one in three adults could have diabetes by 2050. While every case requires an individual treatment plan, with the right attitude and management, people living with diabetes have an opportunity to overcome the challenges they face. Read More

Medicine cabinet makeover tips for people with high blood pressure

If you're among the 68 million Americans who have high blood pressure, you may feel that taking your medicine, getting plenty of exercise and eating a healthy diet means you're doing everything you can to manage your condition. But with cold season in full swing and many areas of the country recording record numbers of flu cases, it might be time for a medicine cabinet makeover as well. Read More

Better sex for better health

Listen up ladies, there's a sexual paradox. Just as you're getting older and when - for some - sex may not be a priority, that is exactly when you need it most. Sexual activity is good for a woman's health - especially if she is entering into any of the menopausal phases of life - peri-menopause, menopause or post-menopause. Read More

Good sleep is essential to leading a healthy life

Facts matter when your health is at stake

Learning that you have a disease or medical condition can be overwhelming. You need to learn more about your condition. You may get advice from all directions. In the end, you want to understand your treatment options so that you can discuss your choices with your health care provider. But how do you know what information to trust? Read More

PTSD: Not just a military problem

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. While it is often closely associated with combat veterans and other members of the military, the fact is PTSD can affect anyone who experiences a traumatic event. Read More

To comfort a cold or flu, home remedies make a world of difference

For generations, families have passed down home-spun remedies that can help loved ones feel that even during those sniffles and sneezes, they're cared for. Having a bowl of grandma's famous soup or your aunt's special healing concoction can help your body heal and set your mind at ease. Recently, a group of Latina mom bloggers shared their families' home remedies that bring comfort to loved ones. Read More

Foot care tips to keep you moving while on vacation

Decongestant, check. Sunscreen, check. Antacids, check. So you're going on vacation and your bag is well-stocked with remedies for every illness that could possibly derail your good time - from sunburn to an upset stomach. While you're taking steps to preserve your good health on vacation, don't overlook the body part that will carry you through all that fun: your feet. Read More

How to host a healthier happy hour

Going out with co-workers or friends after work is a great way to relax, but when you host a happy hour at home, you have full control over the guest list, atmosphere, music and, most importantly, the menu. Use these simple tips to entertain your friends, and your home may just become the new happy hour hot spot. Read More

One size doesn't fit all in reproductive health

Every woman knows that in the world of fashion, there's no such thing as "one size fits all." Yet for decades, American women have seemingly accepted the "one size fits all" approach when it comes to dealing with reproductive health issues. This one-size approach has meant that each year, thousands of women undergo hysterectomies that they may not need. Read More

Boomers turning 65 face complex healthcare choices

Every day, about 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. Not everyone will sign up, but it's important to understand the importance of early choices when enrolling in Medicare for the first time. Read More

Key factors, statistics in major depressive disorder [Infographic]

Time is short to prepare for the Obamacare metal plans

Millions of consumers will be faced with a choice to enroll in one of four different Obamacare "metal plans," on Oct. 1. The metal plans are new categories of health insurance - nicknamed "metal" because each plan is named after a metal - created by the Affordable Care Act, a.k.a. Obamacare. Read More

What to do when your drinking becomes a problem

There's no denying that drinking is a widely accepted element of social life in America. Cocktail parties, evenings out, formal functions, and even a drink or two with dinner are customary practices. However, alcohol abuse is a major problem in this country and, on a different level, many "social drinkers" probably don't even know that they have a drinking problem. So how much alcohol is too much? Read More

Lou Gehrig's Disease stalks military veterans

Many U.S. military veterans like retired Air Force Technical Sergeant David Masters of Omaha, Neb. have bravely fought for their country only to return home to wage another battle against Lou Gehrig's Disease. No one knows why, but veterans are twice as likely to develop this fatal disease clinically known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Read More

New initiative celebrates unsung heroes of severe allergy awareness

The surprising ingredient that makes favorite recipes tastier and healthier

Modern or current may not be the word that comes to mind when you think of cottage cheese, but this dairy case classic is experiencing a resurgence that is taking it beyond the diet plate to a starring role in how consumers eat today. Read More

Zapping top myths about laser hair removal

For people considering laser hair removal for the summer, there's good news - now is the perfect time to start. Easily hidden under typical cool weather clothing like bulky sweaters and leggings, skin is shielded from the sun and thus in perfect condition for hair removal. However, many men and women are on the fence when it comes to investing in long term hair removal due to several common misconceptions. Read More

Three tips to make your hospital stay safer

Each year, millions of Americans seek hospital care to treat a wide range of medical problems - from accidental injuries to chronic or life-threatening illnesses. While the majority of patients have positive outcomes, it is imperative to remember patient safety should be a top priority for everyone. You can take steps to make sure your hospital stay is as safe as possible. Read More

Keep your office healthy to prevent a flu outbreak

A flu outbreak in your workforce can cause problems in several different areas of your business. The best flu prevention is encouraging and educating workers on how to be proactive at fending off the flu virus. By making sure your employees do the best they can to stay in good health and flu free, you can keep your business running smoothly and efficiently. Read More

The impact of rare diseases on patients and caregivers in the United States [Infographic]

Finding inspiration in basketball

If you love March basketball, here's how to use the time and energy you spent on choosing a winning bracket to live your own hoop dreams. Read More

The right home tools for a healthier lifestyle

Even with the best intentions, many of us who resolve to live a healthier lifestyle in 2013 will fall back into old, familiar habits much sooner than we would like. To maintain motivation and create a routine that is both sustainable and effective, it's important to invest in the right tools for every room in your house. Read More

What parents need to know about concussions

Parents of young athletes know that along with the many benefits of participating in sports, there comes a certain amount of injury risk. And while most would agree that the benefits of being active and involved in athletics outweigh those risks, it's important to make sure your child gets proper treatment if an injury occurs. As more evidence surfaces about long-term health challenges related to concussions, it's especially crucial that parents bring themselves up to speed on the proper procedures for caring for an athlete who experiences a concussion. Read More

Hepatitis C a top health concern for baby boomers [Infographic]

Expert fitness tips for a healthy, effective summer slim-down

While children long for the lazy carefree days of summer, many adults view the season as a reason to be active and get healthy. Whether to look good for an upcoming beach vacation or simply to have the energy to enjoy the season to the fullest - setting health goals is a great first step. Sticking to those aspirations doesn't have to be difficult or stressful. Just follow a few expert tips and you'll look and feel great in no time. Read More

Free birth control gives women more choice

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) also known as "Obama Care," an estimated 47 million women are gaining access to all FDA-approved methods of birth control free of charge. This new law provides access to birth control methods that may have been too expensive for many women with private health insurance plans before the ACA provisions took effect last year. The result is that these women will now have more options to choose from as they decide what method works best for them. Read More

Sleep in America: Exercise your right to sleep [Infographic]

Massage tips to help ease your over-active muscles

Now that summer has arrived, you are beginning to engage in more outdoor activities, including running, hiking, biking and recreational sports. After being less active during the winter and spring, however, you may experience aches and pain in muscles, and massage therapy can help to alleviate discomfort naturally. Here are some tips for achieving a great massage therapy experience. Read More

Organ donation: gift of a second chance at life

In 2012, there were more than 115,000 people in the U.S. awaiting an organ transplant - enough to overflow the country's largest football stadium. Each year, more than 28,000 Americans receive a donated organ, but sadly, more than 6,500 people die each year waiting for an organ. It is, however, a problem with a solution - one that depends a lot on education and selflessness. Are you registered as an organ donor? Here is what you need to know. Read More

Address your skin's needs through a holistic approach to facial skincare

Many women cite a number of external factors that can trigger sensitive skin flare-ups, including harsh ingredients, weather and makeup. What they may not know is that lifestyle choices can also influence the health and appearance of their skin. Follow these top tips from the experts to get flawless skin. Read More

The skinny on lighter fare for summer

It's possible to enjoy light summer dining without sacrificing taste, variety or fun - all the good things we associate with warm weather eating. Here are ideas for better-for-you versions of some summer favorites. Read More

A 'not-so-rare' story in the journey of a rare disease diagnosis

Cushing's disease is a rare but serious, debilitating endocrine disorder caused by the presence of a non-cancerous pituitary tumor in the brain which ultimately leads to excess cortisol in the body. Here's what you should know about Cushing's disease. Read More

Melanoma facts [Infographic]

The wedding shoe trend for everyone: pain-free and pretty

Sparkles, spangles and color, new or vintage, whatever your preference in wedding shoe styles there's one trend that every bride should get behind: comfort. Here is some advice for choosing the most comfortable options in some popular wedding styles. Read More

Expecting dinner guests? Tips for managing different diets

With food allergies and gluten intolerance on the rise, it takes more than seating flexibility and a vegetarian option to host a successful dinner party these days. Hosts today need to be able to accommodate a variety of dietary needs, from providing kosher foods to gluten and nut-free items. Read More

Five reasons Asian Americans should get tested for hepatitis B

More than 1 million Americans have a lifelong, or chronic, infection of hepatitis B. This includes one out of every 12 Asian Americans. If you or your parents were born in Asia or the Pacific Islands, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you get tested for hepatitis B. Read More

Trouble falling back to sleep? How to beat middle of the night wakefulness

Have you been hitting the snooze button on your insomnia? Or wishing you could? Waking in the middle of the night is the No. 1 sleep problem in America, according to National Sleep Foundation annual polls. You may already know what to do to get to sleep, but if you tend to wake in the night and have difficulty returning to sleep, keep these tips in mind. Read More

How your diet can help save your vision [Infographic]

Making heads or tails of health care plan options

Health insurance is confusing - regardless of whether your employer provides your insurance, you qualify for Medicare or Medicaid, or if you are footing the bill yourself for private insurance. Read More

Frequent spring allergy questions answered

Spring is in the air - and that means pollen, mold spores and other airborne allergens are going to bring on sneezing and wheezing for an estimated 40 to 50 million Americans. Read More

Helping the brain use alternative fuel may ease symptoms of Alzheimer's

Whether a patient faces a simple health problem, such as a head cold, or one as complex as Alzheimer's disease, relieving the symptoms is often as important as resolving the issue itself. Yet for the more than 5 million Americans affected by Alzheimer's, treating the symptoms is even more vital. Read More

When ordinary distraction is something more: diagnosing ADHD

What parent hasn't had to call a child's name more than once to get his attention? Or wondered how she can still be "bouncing off the walls" at the end of a long, tiring day. Moments of intense activity or occasional inattention are typical kid behavior, but for some children the problem is extreme and impairing. How can parents tell if their child's energy or distraction is ordinary or something more? Read More

Ask the pharmacist: How to avoid medication misfortune during a natural disaster

Whether it's plywood, bottled water or generators, Americans gather the necessary supplies and seek the appropriate shelter if confronted by the wrath of Mother Nature. Regardless of the disaster - hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires - lives can be turned upside-down in an instant. Some of the most commonly overlooked items, as people stock up for emergencies, are prescription medications. In some cases, not having access to necessary medication can itself be a life-threatening situation. Read More

Understanding lung cancer [Infographic]

New study results make choosing a blood glucose meter easier [Infographic]

Do you really know who is providing your medical care?

Whether you're being treated for a minor injury or undergoing major surgery, it's likely you'll encounter not just one, but a team of health care professionals. While having multiple professionals working to provide you with the highest quality and safest care eases some fear, it also can cause confusion. When undergoing a surgery or procedure, it is important to truly know and understand who is providing your care. Read More

Stroke around the world: the shocking truth

Learn how to be healthy, active and live well with diabetes

Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed with, or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. Read More

Knowing your risks for type 2 diabetes

Understanding your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, or getting an early diagnosis, is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death. Read More

Nurses lead revolution toward improved health care delivery

The health care industry has evolved since a series of sweeping legislative reforms began to take effect in 2010. New policies and regulations, millions of new patients and the introduction of advanced technology have added pressure to an already complex system. As this transformation continues, health care leaders are keeping an eye on how the system is functioning to ensure these changes fuel improved health care delivery. Read More

Bringing home baby: When to call the doctor

Most new parents are anxious when their infant has a fever, or is fussy, stuffy and simply not acting right. But how do you decide to call the pediatrician or to wait - especially in the middle of the night? Read More

Digestive tract not on track? [Infographic]

Reinvent dinner in minutes with common pantry staples

Busy families face the dinnertime challenge every day. Not only do they need to find a nutritious meal the entire family will enjoy, but they need to do so in a limited amount of time. With a few tricks, it's easy to get out of the dinner rut and score big with tasty, wholesome meals that use pantry staples in creative ways. Read More

Four health checks every woman must do - for herself and those she loves

American women spend more time taking care of their families, homes and jobs than themselves. Women who consider themselves generally in good health and who are very busy may be less inclined to stay on schedule with important health checks. Here are four health checks every woman should have. Read More

Suppress the sneeze: Tips to help prep your home for allergy season

The season of sneezing has made its annual return and that can only mean one thing for homeowners: preventative cleaning measures. Especially true for allergy and asthma sufferers, there is no better time to get a head start on prepping your home against unwanted allergens than the early weeks of spring. Read More

Giving back to family caregivers: Tips to help those who sacrifice for others

No one knows exactly what life will bring, but we all know that there will be joys and there will be challenges. Sometimes, life gives you a combination - as millions of average Americans who are family caregivers can attest. Providing dedicated care to a loved one is a generous way to live one's life, but it can also brings difficulties, stress and isolation. That's why giving back to those unsung heroes - caregivers - who give so much can make a world of difference to them, and the people they help. Read More

Better romance to beat the seasonal blues

As spring struggles to break through in much of the country, many of us can't help being affected and feeling comfort food, sitcoms and even chocolate aren't enough to lift our mood. Relationship expert Ian Kerner, Ph.D, the author of five books on sex and relationships, including "Sex Recharge," shares how to beat the seasonal blues by getting back into bed. Read More

Programming your child's health - 5 nutrition tips for baby's future health

Studies show that what a woman eats just before and during pregnancy will impact the health of her child for the rest of his or her life. It's an area of research called fetal programming. Here are some nutritional tips for mothers to help support their children's future health. Read More

Gluten-free meals with 'wow' factor, from breakfast to dinner

As awareness of gluten-free diets continues to grow, more people are searching for ways to make their menus delicious, creative and varied while still staying gluten-free. In the past, forgoing gluten was challenging at best and frustrating at worst, due to a lack of available ingredients and products. But that was then. Now, whether it's gluten intolerance or a goal of healthier eating that drives your meal plans, you can indulge and enjoy great meals from breakfast to dinner (and everything in between). Read More

Brooke Burke-Charvet takes on a challenge for allergy relief

For many, spring's warmer weather is welcomed with spending more time outside. But for allergy sufferers, the season can mean facing symptoms that make them look and feel bad. Read More

Cycling to help stop diabetes

Tour de Cure is a fun way to get out with your family, friends or co-workers and has routes designed for all riders - from 5-mile family rides to 100-mile century rides. It is a ride, not a race, so participants are encouraged to go at their own pace. Read More

Paula Deen encourages you to take a walk in her footsteps and start seeing diabetes in a new light

Paula Deen and her sons, Bobby and Jamie are helping adults find simple ways to manage everyday challenges associated with type 2 diabetes. Read More

Tips to protect your pet - and your home - from fleas and ticks

Fleas and ticks are on every pet owner's radar when warm weather flourishes. This is the season when both pets and people are itching to get outside, but without proper protection, four-legged friends can end up itching even more. However, if fleas and ticks take hold, and an infestation starts, this seasonal concern can turn into a year-round headache. That's why many veterinarians advocate parasite prevention all year long. Read More

Putting together the pieces to manage childhood asthma [Infographic]

Improving family connections with better hearing

Does this sound familiar? You tell your spouse all about the aggravating thing that happened at work today. He or she seems to be nodding in agreement, until you ask what you should do about the situation. Your spouse's response? "Um - could you repeat that?" Read More

You are unique - your nutrition should be too

Remember when you were a child and the world was big - full of adventure and possibility? You ate your favorite cereal for breakfast, lunch and dinner and at the end of every day, your mom would make you take those little multi-flavored vitamins usually shaped like a popular cartoon character. You didn't necessarily understand why you had to take these, but you always did what your mom told you - because mother knows best. Read More

Add years to your pet's life with expert tips

Few things in life are as special as the unconditional love and loyalty a pet provides. With 78.2 million owned dogs and 86.4 million owned cats in the United States, according to The Humane Society, it's obvious Americans enjoy having pets. What might not be so apparent is how best to care for them. When it comes to making sure your pet stays healthy and lives as long as possible, what steps can you take? Read More

Thyroid awareness [Infographic]

Eye-opening facts and myths about eye health [Infographic]

Leading a well-balanced lifestyle [Infographic]

Boomers and beyond: A 5-step action plan for keeping your heart healthy

More baby boomers and older adults are taking a proactive approach to heart health. Living a heart-healthy lifestyle in your golden years and dealing with any type of diagnosis head-on is the smart way to keep your heart pumping strong for many years to come. Following these five easy steps can help you take control. Read More

Nursing home admissions avoided with simplified prescription packaging

Numerous factors impact a senior's ability to live independently, such as health and memory problems, mobility issues, and care coordination concerns. Often overlooked is the fact that one quarter of all nursing home admissions are the result of poor medication adherence. Read More

Salty snacks reduce stress

Stress affects everyone and can cause problems at work, home and with health. Researchers have found that stress is a leading cause of illness, affecting as much as 20 percent of the population. Economic factors, such as a recession, have also been shown to significantly increase population-wide stress levels. Read More

Rare diseases: Increasing awareness for better patient outcomes

Hearing aid technology takes a giant leap forward

It's no secret that today's hearing aids are light years ahead of the hearing aids made just a decade ago. In fact, in size, shape, and technological advances, the changes in hearing aids have been nothing short of amazing. For example, new micro-processor technology has allowed hearing aids to be so tiny, they can sit on a fingertip; and at the same time, provide a remarkably natural-sounding hearing experience. Read More

A year-end report card on school cafeterias: Did they make the grade for improved nutrition?

Have school cafeterias made the grade when it comes to revising and changing school menus to meet the new USDA nutrition guidelines? Many health experts say yes, giving the country's more than 17,000 school districts an "A" for their efforts to add new recipes and more fruits, vegetables and whole grains to their weekly menus. Read More

Rethink what you drink [Infographic]

Why going gluten-free doesn't mean going grain-free

It's impossible to stroll the aisles in your local supermarket without seeing package after package labeled "gluten-free." But who really needs a gluten-free diet, and what does it mean to convert your daily diet to be gluten-free? Read More

Health watch: Superbug infections putting more at risk

As new medical breakthroughs emerge, the role of antibiotics has also evolved and helped patients dealing with anything from ear infections to serious lung infections like pneumonia. However, antibiotics are not foolproof. Bacteria, when exposed to antibiotic drugs, can learn how to resist them. These resistant bacteria are known as superbugs, which are harder for antibiotics to kill. Here's what you need to know. Read More

Take three laps for kids' good dental health with NASCAR star Greg Biffle

What can a kid do in two minutes? If they want good oral health, they'll spend that time brushing their teeth twice a day, recommends the American Dental Association. Race fans of all ages can join Greg Biffle, driver of the No. 16 3M Ford Fusion, to put good dental health on the fast track. With good brushing and flossing habits, a smart diet and regular visits to the dentist, they can have a great smile. Read More

Flu by numbers [Infographic]

Active resolutions: How to go from sore to more

Every year, about two-thirds of Americans resolve to get fit or lose weight. Unfortunately, 73 percent give up within six weeks, according to a survey by Harris Interactive. While time and commitment are often to blame, many fitness experts suggest sore and fatigued muscles have a lot to do with why we lose steam in a new routine. Read More

Resistant hypertension [Infographic]

Affected by diabetes? Important facts and developments you should know

A disease so prevalent that it is labeled an epidemic in America, diabetes affects nearly 26 million children and adults, according to the American Diabetes Association. As this number grows, so does the urgency of finding a cure. Staying informed is an important part of managing a diabetes diagnosis. Here are some of the top myths and misconceptions about diabetes. Read More

Three home improvement tips to help you breathe easier

A survey by Angie's List revealed Americans spend more than $300 billion annually on remodeling projects. Yet these endeavors typically focus solely on a home's aesthetics while ignoring one important consideration: Is your home healthy? Read More

Medical device innovations lead to extraordinary advances

From custom prosthetics to minimally invasive surgery, innovations in medical devices are leading to some astonishing advances. One example: an artificial heart that uses plastic tubes instead of heart valves to move blood in and out of two plastic ventricles. It's a remarkable development - and it's just one of many in the works, often made possible by specialized plastics. Read More

Safer flying strategies for travelers with peanut allergies

Coping with a peanut or tree nut allergy, however, doesn't mean you - or your peanut- or tree nut-allergic child - have to forego the convenience of air travel. You can take steps to minimize your risk of having an allergic reaction while flying. Read More

Women athletes have races geared just for them

Women are busier than ever these days - the latest report from RunningUSA says women account for nearly eight million U.S. road-race finishers, with the number continuing to climb. For many women, running provides an opportunity to take a break from the challenges of work, family and other stress to be their best selves while combining fun, personal accomplishment and camaraderie with others. Read More

Five things to do before sending your child to camp wearing hearing aids

Summer is approaching and many parents will be sending their children off to camp. If your child wears hearing aids and is set to attend a summer camp for kids of all abilities, there are five things you can do to help your child get the most from his or her summer camp experience. Read More

Ask the Pharmacist: Poison prevention starts at home

It's a serious problem with a simple solution. Nearly 1 million children under the age of 5 are exposed to potentially poisonous medicines and household chemicals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no better time than now to learn more about preventing accidental and unintentional poisonings. Read More

Pregnancy can be a beautiful thing

The big news that a baby is on the way is a time for celebration, excitement and planning. Many couples choose to keep this information quiet for the first couple of months, so they can celebrate the upcoming change in their life together. But sometimes, morning sickness for the mom-to-be can let the news out of the bag earlier than intended. Read More

Baby boomers and driving vision - maintaining safety and independence

It is estimated that by 2030, nearly one in five adults will be 65 and older, and nearly double the 40 million today by 2050. This will lead to a significant increase in older adults driving vehicles for both necessity and pleasure. Unfortunately vision, cognitive skills and motor functions decline as we age. Here's what you need to know to keep your vision health in top shape, particularly while on the road driving. Read More

Rare Disease Impact Report quantifies patient and caregiver challenges on journey to diagnosis and beyond

Getting a diagnosis is just the first of many challenges patients with rare diseases - and their caregivers - face. Read More

Simple ways to reduce excess sugar in your diet this summer

Warm weather offers many sweet delights, from trips to the beach and more free time, to seasonal foods and soirees with family and friends. Unfortunately, many of the foods we commonly associate with spring and summer are high in added sugars. Hidden sugar in summer foods can make it a challenge to regulate calories and stay on track with your health goals. Read More

The truth about losing weight: Separating facts from fiction (and magic pills)

Losing weight can dramatically improve your emotional and physical health, but it's often a slow process. Millions of American adults use dietary supplements to lose weight, choosing a range of products that claim to decrease appetite, block fat absorption or increase metabolism. But with hundreds of products on the market, how do you determine which one to choose? Read More

What is your arthritis I.Q.? [Infographic]

One thing you don't want to bring back from vacation

Bed bugs have been found in schools, homes, college dormitories and even the finest hotels. Protect yourself and your belongings when you're traveling by learning to identify these globetrotting pests. Read More

How to breathe easier in your own home this spring

With spring on the horizon, airborne allergens and pollutants can cause much grief to homeowners who suffer from breathing problems such as asthma and seasonal allergies. With the potential for increased irritation, allergy sufferers typically seek long-term, consistent relief any way they can. Read More