Not having a bowel movement every day doesn’t always indicate a problem. It is more important that bowel movements be free of pain or strain. To reverse constipation, get adequate dietary fiber, drink enough water, and check for constipating medications.
Most people do not fill their prescriptions for heart medications as directed. Unfilled prescriptions include those fop aspirin, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta blockers, calcium-channel blockers, thiazide diuretics, and statins.
Acupuncture relieves chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders, and from osteoarthritis and headaches. Acupuncture is often used in addition to standard treatments, such as pain medications, when they do not relieve pain well enough.
Combining rhythmic breathing and focused mental attention can elicit a healthful physiological state called the relaxation response. Being in the relaxation response for 10 to 20 minutes daily counteracts stress and its unhealthy effects.
If a new antidepressant does not work, switching to a new one immediately does not work does not worsen symptoms and may produce slightly better results over the long run.
Many people take a statin medication to lower their “bad” cholesterol. Some people can lower their risk for cardiovascular disease by taking a preventive statin, even if they have normal cholesterol. Discuss the pros and cons with your doctor.
Having a CT scan to detect early stage lung cancer prevents death in current or former smokers at high risk of developing lung cancer. Early testing and treatment includes potential harms as well as benefits. Talk to your doctor before seeking the test.
As we age, mental exercise can keep mental skills and memory sharp. Relatively difficult mental activities can help the most. Physical exercise also helps to preserve mental skills with aging.
Some studies show Echinacea helps shorten colds, some do not. Zinc lozenges may shorten symptoms by a few days. Taking steps to avoid catching a cold may be more effective than Echinacea or zinc supplements.
Dieters may avoid nuts because they contain so many calories. But nuts are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and nutrients. Limit portions and eat nuts instead of, not in addition to, foods such as red meat.