How much water should you be drinking each day?

For most healthy people, listening to their body’s signals can help ensure that they are drinking enough water to meet their needs. Older adults with memory problems may need assistance in making sure that they are drinking enough, particularly in hot weather or when drinking other liquids that may have a diuretic effect.

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Toxic beauty

Personal care products contain numerous chemicals that are, in many cases, untested and not confirmed to be safe. Recent studies have linked hair dyes and straighteners to a higher risk of breast cancer. Experts say women should take more time to consider what’s in the products they are using.

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Oh, my aching jaw

There are different underlying reasons for the types of orofacial pain commonly called temporomandibular joint problems, or TMJ. Not all of them are caused by problems with the joint itself, and specialists are getting better at diagnosing them. Orofacial pain may result from a joint problem, a muscle-based problem, a headache syndrome, or a pain processing problem.

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What causes a leaky mitral valve?

The mitral valve controls blood flow between the upper and lower chambers on the left side of the heart. Some people are born with a faulty mitral valve, which can cause blood to leak backward across the valve, a problem known as mitral regurgitation. But most people acquire mitral regurgitation in response to a different heart ailment, such as a heart attack, heart failure, or heart muscle disease. People with a moderate amount of mitral regurgitation should see their physician twice a year and get a yearly echocardiogram, or sooner if they develop symptoms. These include shortness of breath, fatigue, cough, palpitations, and swollen feet or ankles.

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Run for a longer life? Just a short jog might make a difference

Small amounts of jogging or running may lower the risk of heart disease and help people live longer. Even running just once a week, for less than 50 minutes ‌each time and at a speed below 6 mph, seems to have benefits. Experts recommend starting low and slow, such as by adding short periods of running during a brisk walk. Each week, adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity (such as brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity (such as running) or a combination of moderate and vigorous physical activity.

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