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A significant proportion of motor vehicle deaths involve people who’ve consumed alcohol but whose blood alcohol levels do not exceed legal limits, according to a study published online March 3, 2020, by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Some research says taking a daily fish oil supplement can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, while other studies say the evidence remains thin. While fish oil is the best source of omega-3 fatty acids (essential nutrients that the body cannot make on its own), taking an over-the-counter fish oil supplement probably provides no extra heart benefit beyond a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of omega-3-rich fatty fish, nuts, and seeds.
Although nocturnal leg cramps can strike people at any time of life, they become more frequent with age. Performing foot stretches and applying ice and heat can treat flare-ups. Leg stretches, staying hydrated, and wearing proper footwear can reduce their frequency.
Struggling with making decisions is more likely as people age and experience natural cognitive decline. This can make it harder to choose the right course of action, especially if there are multiple options. There are steps people can take to improve decision making, such as narrowing down choices, gathering only basic information, and consulting with friends and family.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the more common health issues older men face. ED drugs often are a standard solution, but they have their downsides, like possible side effects and over-dependency. In many cases, lifestyle changes like exercise, diet, and weight loss may slow the progress of ED and help manage it.
About one in four men older than 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis during their lifetime. Proper bone health not only can help protect men from osteoporosis, but can also reduce their risk of serious breaks or fractures from falls or other injuries. Adopting certain exercises and getting adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D are the best strategies for keeping bones strong and safe.
Regular stretching becomes even more important as people age. Flexibility naturally declines over time as muscles lose strength and tone, and ligaments and tendons get tighter, which makes many everyday movements more difficult like reaching overhead, squatting, twisting, and bending over. A simple daily all-around stretching routine can help improve flexibility and mobility.
A new study suggests that total daily steps—8,000 to 12,000—and not how many steps you take per minute is related to a longer life.
Combining a standard 12-point biopsy and an MRI-targeted biopsy may lead to a more accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer, suggests a recent study.
The combination of living more in the moment while also focusing on how to cope with future stresses can help people manage stress better than either practice by itself.