health-letter
Avoid foods rich in saturated fats (e.g., whole dairy products and red meat), and trans fats (e.g., in prepackaged baked goods and deep-fried fast foods). Consume limited amounts of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (e.g., fish and olive oil).
A colonoscopy can help prevent the diagnosis of late-stage colon cancer. Research suggests that the test can reduce the likelihood of advanced colorectal cancer diagnosis by 70% in adults with average risk.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is effective at treating depression. It’s based on the idea that our thoughts make us suffer as much as external things do. Changing unhealthy thinking can bring relief.
Weight loss and muscle strengthening may help stave off joint replacement. Stronger muscles are better able to absorb pressure placed on the joints. Weight loss can also reduce the amount of pressure on the joints.
People can take charge of their health by being more proactive. That includes keeping track of health information, speaking up about health concerns, exercising for the physiological benefits, and improving diet.
Resistant hypertension is the term for high blood pressure that can’t be controlled. It’s often caused by nonadherence to medication regimens, too much salt in the diet, or side effects from other conditions, such as a lack of sleep or kidney problems.
Quitting smoking is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, despite subsequent weight gain. Researchers say quitters who gain a few pounds still have about a 50% lower cardiovascular disease risk than smokers, even if they have diabetes.
Sunscreen labels must follow new rules. To make claims that a sunscreen is water resistant, that it can prevent sunburn, or that it can prevent skin cancer, the product must pass government tests.
The tiny specks or “floaters” that drift across one’s field of vision are usually harmless and often disappear or become less noticeable on their own. But sometimes they indicate a condition that can lead to vision loss.
Fatigue has many possible causes. People who experience fatigue should share symptoms with their doctors to help pinpoint any underlying disease that may be causing the fatigue.