Harvard Health Content API

Some people with diabetes use a device that continuously monitors the level of blood sugar. The monitor sends the information wirelessly to another device, such as a smartphone, so the person can easily see the blood sugar level. As of 2024, there is no solid evidence that these monitors can help people who do not have diabetes. However, the monitors may one day prove to be useful in people with diabetes risk factors, such as obesity, prediabetes, or a family history of diabetes.

Being a night owl might increase the risk of developing many health problems, so it might be worth it for night owls to go to sleep a little earlier. The sleep schedule must be shifted slowly to make a lasting change. Tips to do that include setting a bedtime goal between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m.; going to sleep 20 minutes earlier every five days, until the bedtime goal is reached; possibly using certain sleep aids until the bedtime goal is reached; and setting a consistent wake time no later than 9 a.m.

As people face their mortality, they often focus on how to live their best life in their remaining time. Two Harvard experts—Dr. Howard LeWine and Dr. Anthony Komaroff—share advice on how they are achieving this during their golden years. Some of their suggestions include embracing the natural changes of aging, doing inspiring activities, learning to live in the moment, and finding one’s sense of purpose.

A 2024 Harvard study of more than 92,000 healthy men and women (average age 56) found that consuming about half a tablespoon of olive oil per day was associated with a 28% reduction in the risk for dementia-related death, regardless of diet quality.

A 2024 report from the CDC found that stroke rates are rising in middle-aged and even young adults. Scientists say the increase might be due to rising rates of obesity, high blood pressure, and opioid use. Stroke rates in people 65 or older have remained the same.

A short episode of anger may have adverse effects on the cells lining the blood vessels, according to a 2024 study. The findings may help explain the long-observed link between negative emotions and an increased likelihood of cardiovascular problems.

Advice about the amount of physical activity required to stave off heart disease and other chronic ailments is usually expressed as a time-based goal. But counting steps may be just as useful, according to a 2024 study.

A 2024 study suggests that the more alcohol people drink—whether they imbibe beer, wine, or hard liquor—the higher their blood pressure.

Contrary to popular belief, stretching probably won’t help people avoid sore muscles or injuries, which often result from overuse. However, short but regular stints of stretching can improve flexibility (the ability to move the joints and muscles through their full range of motion) and help people stay active as they age. Improved flexibility can make it easier to do everyday tasks involving walking, climbing stairs, or reaching. And for people who hike, play pickleball, golf, or other sports, a regular stretching program may improve their performance.

The scientific understanding of HDL cholesterol has evolved in recent years, and many cardiologists now believe that HDL may be more of a bystander rather than a “good guy” that helps lower heart disease risk. While some types of HDL are great at plucking excess cholesterol from LDL and artery walls (a process referred to as reverse cholesterol transport) other types of HDL don’t do this. In clinical trials, medications to raise HDL levels—including a drug specifically designed to improve reverse cholesterol transport—have not succeeded in lowering heart attacks and strokes.