Some supplements pose risks to heart health. For example, red yeast rice supplements can amplify the effects of cholesterol-lowering medications. And garlic supplements canincrease the levels and effects of some medications for heart health, such as blood thinners (causing bleeding), cholesterol-lowering drugs (causing muscle damage), and blood pressure drugs (causing dangerous drops in blood pressure). It’s important to talk to a doctor before trying any new supplement, and to ask if a supplement will interfere with a medication regimen.
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A good workout video for older adults will be tailored to their health needs. It should have a warm-up, workout, cool-down, some stretching, an inspiring tone, tips to maintain the proper form, and the ability to make modifications. Types of workouts for older adults include low-impact cardio, tai chi, yoga, seated yoga, marching in place, resistance band exercises, and body weight workouts. Online exercise classes from Harvard Health Publishing are designed specifically for older adults.
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A Harvard-led study published Sept. 23, 2020, in Neurology Clinical Practice found five unapproved drugs in supplements that promise to boost cognition.
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A study published online Oct. 20, 2020, by BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care suggests that tea and coffee consumption are linked to a reduced risk for early death among people with diabetes.
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Some evidence suggests that people who report the highest intakes of vitamins A and E from both diet and supplements, and high intake of vitamin D just from supplements, have the fewest complaints of respiratory illness.
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A healthy diet, regular aerobic exercise, and proper sleep are essential to keep your brain healthy. But a new study that followed older adults into their 90s found that regular work engagement and a high level of life satisfaction are also associated with mind benefits. These help to utilize various thinking skills, increase a person’s sense of worth, and encourage more brain-building goals and activities.
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Whole grains are equally important as fruits and vegetables for a balanced healthy diet. People who want to choose food products with whole grains should look for the word “whole” or “whole-grain” before the grain’s name as the first ingredient.
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Men who follow active surveillance for managing their low-risk prostate cancer can now use two online calculators to estimate if their cancer will become aggressive in the future. Men can share this information with their doctor to help establish new strategies regarding when they should have PSA tests and biopsies, and whether to continue active surveillance.
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People looking for new ways to strengthen their core can try walk-and-carry exercises, also known as “loaded carries,” where they hold weights like dumbbells or kettlebells while walking. This type of movement teaches how to brace the core, which engages much of the entire core musculature, including your shoulders, back, and hips.
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Bursitis is a common age-related joint inflammation that often strikes the knee and elbow, but also can occur in the hip, shoulder, or heel. Injury and repetitive use are the common causes. Fortunately, bursitis often goes away with some basic home self-care treatment. People can also reduce their risk of future flare-ups by practicing preventive measures and being more mindful about protecting their joints.
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