The surprising ingredient that makes favorite recipes tastier and healthier

Modern or current may not be the word that comes to mind when you think of cottage cheese, but this dairy case classic is experiencing a resurgence that is taking it beyond the diet plate to a starring role in how consumers eat today. Read More

COPD and women [Infographic]

Trouble falling back to sleep? How to beat middle of the night wakefulness

Have you been hitting the snooze button on your insomnia? Or wishing you could? Waking in the middle of the night is the No. 1 sleep problem in America, according to National Sleep Foundation annual polls. You may already know what to do to get to sleep, but if you tend to wake in the night and have difficulty returning to sleep, keep these tips in mind. Read More

How safe is your home? [Infographic]

A 'not-so-rare' story in the journey of a rare disease diagnosis

Cushing's disease is a rare but serious, debilitating endocrine disorder caused by the presence of a non-cancerous pituitary tumor in the brain which ultimately leads to excess cortisol in the body. Here's what you should know about Cushing's disease. Read More

Nursing home admissions avoided with simplified prescription packaging

Numerous factors impact a senior's ability to live independently, such as health and memory problems, mobility issues, and care coordination concerns. Often overlooked is the fact that one quarter of all nursing home admissions are the result of poor medication adherence. Read More

Boomers and beyond: A 5-step action plan for keeping your heart healthy

More baby boomers and older adults are taking a proactive approach to heart health. Living a heart-healthy lifestyle in your golden years and dealing with any type of diagnosis head-on is the smart way to keep your heart pumping strong for many years to come. Following these five easy steps can help you take control. Read More

Making heads or tails of health care plan options

Health insurance is confusing - regardless of whether your employer provides your insurance, you qualify for Medicare or Medicaid, or if you are footing the bill yourself for private insurance. Read More

Resistant hypertension [Infographic]

Igniting the conversation about rare diseases

To comfort a cold or flu, home remedies make a world of difference

For generations, families have passed down home-spun remedies that can help loved ones feel that even during those sniffles and sneezes, they're cared for. Having a bowl of grandma's famous soup or your aunt's special healing concoction can help your body heal and set your mind at ease. Recently, a group of Latina mom bloggers shared their families' home remedies that bring comfort to loved ones. Read More

TV tip-overs a hazard for young children

Many homes have new TVs decorating the living room, bedroom, den and even the kitchen. These TVs often feature the latest wide, flat screens, which give viewers great definition and clarity. But while they provide a beautiful viewing experience, flat screen TVs are top-heavy on a narrow base, and they can easily be pulled off an entertainment center or other piece of furniture. Read More

What is the 'Obamacare' Bronze Plan?

The open enrollment period begins for the new health plans created by the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a. Obamacare) on Oct. 1, yet most Americans couldn't name one of the new health plans let alone describe all the services they cover. Read More

The skinny on lighter fare for summer

It's possible to enjoy light summer dining without sacrificing taste, variety or fun - all the good things we associate with warm weather eating. Here are ideas for better-for-you versions of some summer favorites. Read More

Brooke Burke-Charvet takes on a challenge for allergy relief

For many, spring's warmer weather is welcomed with spending more time outside. But for allergy sufferers, the season can mean facing symptoms that make them look and feel bad. Read More

Better romance to beat the seasonal blues

As spring struggles to break through in much of the country, many of us can't help being affected and feeling comfort food, sitcoms and even chocolate aren't enough to lift our mood. Relationship expert Ian Kerner, Ph.D, the author of five books on sex and relationships, including "Sex Recharge," shares how to beat the seasonal blues by getting back into bed. Read More

Creating the perfect sleep environment this spring

Everyone, including moms and doctors, can agree that a good night of sleep is necessary for good health, high energy, and an individual's overall well-being. Not getting enough good sleep - or rapid eye movement sleep - can affect the mind and body's ability to react appropriately to outside factors, the National Sleep Foundation reports. Read More

Active resolutions: How to go from sore to more

Every year, about two-thirds of Americans resolve to get fit or lose weight. Unfortunately, 73 percent give up within six weeks, according to a survey by Harris Interactive. While time and commitment are often to blame, many fitness experts suggest sore and fatigued muscles have a lot to do with why we lose steam in a new routine. Read More

Experience an extraordinary life with diabetes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in 10 Americans is living with diabetes and one in three adults could have diabetes by 2050. While every case requires an individual treatment plan, with the right attitude and management, people living with diabetes have an opportunity to overcome the challenges they face. Read More

Iron matters for patients with chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem in the United States, impacting more than 25 million Americans, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Kidneys perform many important functions in the body, including regulating and controlling the production of red blood cells. When kidneys are not fully functioning, the production of red blood cells can decline and cause anemia in many CKD patients. Read More

Safer flying strategies for travelers with peanut allergies

Coping with a peanut or tree nut allergy, however, doesn't mean you - or your peanut- or tree nut-allergic child - have to forego the convenience of air travel. You can take steps to minimize your risk of having an allergic reaction while flying. Read More

Reinvent dinner in minutes with common pantry staples

Busy families face the dinnertime challenge every day. Not only do they need to find a nutritious meal the entire family will enjoy, but they need to do so in a limited amount of time. With a few tricks, it's easy to get out of the dinner rut and score big with tasty, wholesome meals that use pantry staples in creative ways. Read More

Cleaning the right way to remove allergens

When you're done with spring cleaning, you may assume you've eliminated any allergy triggers that were lurking in your home. But the truth is, if you don't clean the right way, you might be making the problem worse. To maximize your cleaning efforts and reduce allergens, consider these simple tips. Read More

Rethink what you drink [Infographic]

Rare diseases: Increasing awareness for better patient outcomes

Programming your child's health - 5 nutrition tips for baby's future health

Studies show that what a woman eats just before and during pregnancy will impact the health of her child for the rest of his or her life. It's an area of research called fetal programming. Here are some nutritional tips for mothers to help support their children's future health. Read More

You are unique - your nutrition should be too

Remember when you were a child and the world was big - full of adventure and possibility? You ate your favorite cereal for breakfast, lunch and dinner and at the end of every day, your mom would make you take those little multi-flavored vitamins usually shaped like a popular cartoon character. You didn't necessarily understand why you had to take these, but you always did what your mom told you - because mother knows best. Read More

Healthy eating tips for a well-rounded diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is a common goal for people throughout the year. For some, eating well is about losing weight. For others, it's critical for survival, such as for those who suffer from kidney failure. No matter what your personal reason, a few simple tips can help you eat tasty, nutritious meals that will help you live well. Read More

Thyroid awareness [Infographic]

The truth about losing weight: Separating facts from fiction (and magic pills)

Losing weight can dramatically improve your emotional and physical health, but it's often a slow process. Millions of American adults use dietary supplements to lose weight, choosing a range of products that claim to decrease appetite, block fat absorption or increase metabolism. But with hundreds of products on the market, how do you determine which one to choose? Read More

Scratching the right itch: Does your pet have seasonal allergies?

Humans may sneeze and sniffle when trees and flowers start to bud in the spring, but many pet owners wouldn't know if their pet was suffering from treatable allergy symptoms, which are likely to occur at the same time of year. Read More

Get glowing with simple tips for summer skincare

Go nuts and celebrate your health with a handful

Good things really do come in small packages. And when it comes to your health, pistachios pack a powerful punch: They help you manage your weight, may help reduce blood pressure and a study published in the "International Journal of Impotence Research" shows they may even help with erectile function. Here are three big reasons why you should unshell and celebrate your health with a handful. Read More

Knowing your risks for type 2 diabetes

Understanding your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, or getting an early diagnosis, is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death. Read More

The impact of rare diseases on patients and caregivers in the United States [Infographic]

Three tips to make your hospital stay safer

Each year, millions of Americans seek hospital care to treat a wide range of medical problems - from accidental injuries to chronic or life-threatening illnesses. While the majority of patients have positive outcomes, it is imperative to remember patient safety should be a top priority for everyone. You can take steps to make sure your hospital stay is as safe as possible. Read More

The right home tools for a healthier lifestyle

Even with the best intentions, many of us who resolve to live a healthier lifestyle in 2013 will fall back into old, familiar habits much sooner than we would like. To maintain motivation and create a routine that is both sustainable and effective, it's important to invest in the right tools for every room in your house. Read More

Five reasons Asian Americans should get tested for hepatitis B

More than 1 million Americans have a lifelong, or chronic, infection of hepatitis B. This includes one out of every 12 Asian Americans. If you or your parents were born in Asia or the Pacific Islands, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you get tested for hepatitis B. Read More

Expert fitness tips for a healthy, effective summer slim-down

While children long for the lazy carefree days of summer, many adults view the season as a reason to be active and get healthy. Whether to look good for an upcoming beach vacation or simply to have the energy to enjoy the season to the fullest - setting health goals is a great first step. Sticking to those aspirations doesn't have to be difficult or stressful. Just follow a few expert tips and you'll look and feel great in no time. Read More

One of the most common skin conditions you've never heard of

What affects an estimated 16 million Americans, more commonly occurs in women and tends to appear after age 30? If you didn't guess "rosacea," you're not alone - 78% of Americans don't know what this condition is despite the fact that it's very common. Rosacea appears on the skin as redness, unpredictable blushing, pimples, bumps and can even affect the eyes, causing itchiness and irritation. Unlike the more commonly known skin issue - acne, rosacea isn't caused by bacteria: inflammation is the culprit, and it can be exacerbated by internal factors such as stress, anger, embarrassment or by external triggers, including spicy foods, alcohol and hot beverages. Read More

Stroke around the world: the shocking truth

What every parent needs to know about keeping kids safe around medicine

Every year more than 67,000 children are treated in an emergency room for accidental medicine poisoning. That's one child every eight minutes. Even more surprising is that in 86 percent of serious cases seen in emergency rooms, the child got into medicine belonging to an adult. Read More

Safety tips for seniors: reducing risk, increasing peace of mind

If you're just entering retirement, chances are you have many years of good health and independence ahead. But the normal aging process still brings limitations that we all need to prepare for - such as slower reaction times and declining vision - which can lead to accidents and injuries. Many accidents are preventable though, and you can take simple measures to enhance your safety as you age. Read More

Rare Disease Impact Report quantifies patient and caregiver challenges on journey to diagnosis and beyond

Getting a diagnosis is just the first of many challenges patients with rare diseases - and their caregivers - face. Read More

What parents need to know about concussions

Parents of young athletes know that along with the many benefits of participating in sports, there comes a certain amount of injury risk. And while most would agree that the benefits of being active and involved in athletics outweigh those risks, it's important to make sure your child gets proper treatment if an injury occurs. As more evidence surfaces about long-term health challenges related to concussions, it's especially crucial that parents bring themselves up to speed on the proper procedures for caring for an athlete who experiences a concussion. Read More

The wedding shoe trend for everyone: pain-free and pretty

Sparkles, spangles and color, new or vintage, whatever your preference in wedding shoe styles there's one trend that every bride should get behind: comfort. Here is some advice for choosing the most comfortable options in some popular wedding styles. Read More

Learn how to be healthy, active and live well with diabetes

Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed with, or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. Read More

Lou Gehrig's Disease stalks military veterans

Many U.S. military veterans like retired Air Force Technical Sergeant David Masters of Omaha, Neb. have bravely fought for their country only to return home to wage another battle against Lou Gehrig's Disease. No one knows why, but veterans are twice as likely to develop this fatal disease clinically known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Read More

Pregnancy can be a beautiful thing

The big news that a baby is on the way is a time for celebration, excitement and planning. Many couples choose to keep this information quiet for the first couple of months, so they can celebrate the upcoming change in their life together. But sometimes, morning sickness for the mom-to-be can let the news out of the bag earlier than intended. Read More

How to be your kids' fitness mentor

"Do as I say, not as I do," has never been an exemplary parenting style. As childhood obesity has more than doubled over the past 30 years, the need for an active lifestyle has never been greater. If parents make fitness a priority, chances are their kids will too. Read More

Sleep in America: Exercise your right to sleep [Infographic]

Hearing aid technology takes a giant leap forward

It's no secret that today's hearing aids are light years ahead of the hearing aids made just a decade ago. In fact, in size, shape, and technological advances, the changes in hearing aids have been nothing short of amazing. For example, new micro-processor technology has allowed hearing aids to be so tiny, they can sit on a fingertip; and at the same time, provide a remarkably natural-sounding hearing experience. Read More

Five things to do before sending your child to camp wearing hearing aids

Summer is approaching and many parents will be sending their children off to camp. If your child wears hearing aids and is set to attend a summer camp for kids of all abilities, there are five things you can do to help your child get the most from his or her summer camp experience. Read More

Staying at the top of your game

We feel our best when we do our best. At the top of our game is where we all want to be. This is as true in the workplace as it is on the basketball court. But to stay at the top of your game at work and in life, you need to stay primed - ready for that next big play. It requires staying alert; keeping your skills sharp; and hearing your best. That's right - hearing your best. Listening is one of the top skills employers look for in those being promoted. Read More

Health watch: Superbug infections putting more at risk

As new medical breakthroughs emerge, the role of antibiotics has also evolved and helped patients dealing with anything from ear infections to serious lung infections like pneumonia. However, antibiotics are not foolproof. Bacteria, when exposed to antibiotic drugs, can learn how to resist them. These resistant bacteria are known as superbugs, which are harder for antibiotics to kill. Here's what you need to know. Read More

Preventing medication fraud and abuse starts at home

Prescription drug abuse has reached epidemic proportions across the United States. More than 6 million Americans abuse prescription drugs and much of the abuse begins at home, according to a national survey on drug use and health. In fact, more than 70 percent of those who illegally use prescription pain relievers obtained them through friends or family, including surreptitiously raiding the home medicine cabinet. However, a recent study revealed that only 19 percent of parents are concerned about the misuse of narcotic pain medicines in their own families, showing that many do not recognize the severity of the problem. Read More

Boomers turning 65 face complex healthcare choices

Every day, about 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. Not everyone will sign up, but it's important to understand the importance of early choices when enrolling in Medicare for the first time. Read More

Smarter snacking for spring and summer

The air turns mild and warm, people gladly shed winter coats, and the days grow longer-everything about spring is lighter and brighter. Since the warmer months bring about many occasions to enjoy the best of backyard cookouts and boardwalk fare, the season's more indulgently delicious offerings may cause us to consider departing from our wellness goals. Read More

Survival tips for every Alzheimer's disease family caregiver

Organ donation: gift of a second chance at life

In 2012, there were more than 115,000 people in the U.S. awaiting an organ transplant - enough to overflow the country's largest football stadium. Each year, more than 28,000 Americans receive a donated organ, but sadly, more than 6,500 people die each year waiting for an organ. It is, however, a problem with a solution - one that depends a lot on education and selflessness. Are you registered as an organ donor? Here is what you need to know. Read More

Facts matter when your health is at stake

Learning that you have a disease or medical condition can be overwhelming. You need to learn more about your condition. You may get advice from all directions. In the end, you want to understand your treatment options so that you can discuss your choices with your health care provider. But how do you know what information to trust? Read More

Who has time for sick days? Tips to fight the cold, cough and flu this year

While health experts advise sick workers to stay home to avoid spreading germs, few of us can afford to take that many sick days off from work or home life. Fortunately, you can get by fighting cold and flu symptoms if you're not able to take sick days. Read More

A year-end report card on school cafeterias: Did they make the grade for improved nutrition?

The 2012-2013 school year brought a new curriculum to school cafeterias across the United States. For most of the country's 17,000 school districts, it was an accelerated class, requiring the complete revision of school menus, from ingredients to food pairings to recipes, to meet the new USDA nutrition guidelines. Read More

When ordinary distraction is something more: diagnosing ADHD

What parent hasn't had to call a child's name more than once to get his attention? Or wondered how she can still be "bouncing off the walls" at the end of a long, tiring day. Moments of intense activity or occasional inattention are typical kid behavior, but for some children the problem is extreme and impairing. How can parents tell if their child's energy or distraction is ordinary or something more? Read More

Living with chronic pain? Find the right help

When a person is in pain, he or she will seek options to attempt to reduce the pain or make it go away entirely. For minor pains like headaches, muscle aches and small wounds, often over-the-counter drugs can help reduce the suffering. But people with chronic pain may have to search for other solutions. A pain physician, like an anesthesiologist, is a patient's best solution provider for treating chronic pain conditions. Read More

Cycling to help stop diabetes

Tour de Cure is a fun way to get out with your family, friends or co-workers and has routes designed for all riders - from 5-mile family rides to 100-mile century rides. It is a ride, not a race, so participants are encouraged to go at their own pace. Read More

Graduate certificates help nurses advance their careers

As the U.S. health care system continues to evolve, industry demand for more highly educated nurses is growing. Data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing shows current and prospective nurses are responding to rising education requirements: enrollment in all types of programs at nursing schools across the country increased from 2010 to 2011. Read More

Helping the brain use alternative fuel may ease symptoms of Alzheimer's

Whether a patient faces a simple health problem, such as a head cold, or one as complex as Alzheimer's disease, relieving the symptoms is often as important as resolving the issue itself. Yet for the more than 5 million Americans affected by Alzheimer's, treating the symptoms is even more vital. Read More

Zapping top myths about laser hair removal

For people considering laser hair removal for the summer, there's good news - now is the perfect time to start. Easily hidden under typical cool weather clothing like bulky sweaters and leggings, skin is shielded from the sun and thus in perfect condition for hair removal. However, many men and women are on the fence when it comes to investing in long term hair removal due to several common misconceptions. Read More

Make laundry safety a priority this summer - and always

Sunnier skies and summertime fun are just around the corner, and with them comes plenty of outdoor activities like longs days at the playground, sporting events and barbecues. With so many options, the last thing most people want to think about is household responsibilities … but all that outdoor fun can add up to a lot of laundry. Read More

Bone and joint pain in America [Infographic]

Hepatitis C a top health concern for baby boomers [Infographic]

How your diet can help save your vision [Infographic]

Frequent spring allergy questions answered

Spring is in the air - and that means pollen, mold spores and other airborne allergens are going to bring on sneezing and wheezing for an estimated 40 to 50 million Americans. Read More

How to host a healthier happy hour

Going out with co-workers or friends after work is a great way to relax, but when you host a happy hour at home, you have full control over the guest list, atmosphere, music and, most importantly, the menu. Use these simple tips to entertain your friends, and your home may just become the new happy hour hot spot. Read More

Knowing your health heritage: the familial link of diseases

Family members can have many things in common, including physical characteristics and personality traits. While some traits are obvious, like having red hair or blue eyes, some shared traits are not as obvious, such as the risk for developing a common medical condition, like high cholesterol, or a rare disease. Read More

Rare Disease Day is February 28 [Infographic]

Flu by numbers [Infographic]

Baby boomers and age-related eye disease

As the population continues to age at an unprecedented rate, the concern about age-related eye disease comes more into focus. Read More

Healthy summer skin: tips for every age

As people show more skin with the summer season, it is important to get into a skincare routine that fits your lifestyle. Extended time in the sun can result in unwanted wrinkles, blemishes and sagging skin, not to mention more serious consequences - melanomas, scarring and skin cancer. Read More

Foot care tips to keep you moving while on vacation

Decongestant, check. Sunscreen, check. Antacids, check. So you're going on vacation and your bag is well-stocked with remedies for every illness that could possibly derail your good time - from sunburn to an upset stomach. While you're taking steps to preserve your good health on vacation, don't overlook the body part that will carry you through all that fun: your feet. Read More

Good sleep is essential to leading a healthy life

Salty snacks reduce stress

Stress affects everyone and can cause problems at work, home and with health. Researchers have found that stress is a leading cause of illness, affecting as much as 20 percent of the population. Economic factors, such as a recession, have also been shown to significantly increase population-wide stress levels. Read More

How you eat helps preserve your vision [Infographic]

New technologies offering hope for those with tinnitus - or ringing in the ears

If you experience a constant ringing in your ears that's bothersome at best and debilitating at worst, you are far from alone. Tinnitus affects roughly one in five Americans and about 16 million people have serious tinnitus that requires medical attention. It's also the most common disability for military veterans, since it can be caused by extended exposure to loud noise. Read More

New initiative celebrates unsung heroes of severe allergy awareness

How to breathe easier in your own home this spring

With spring on the horizon, airborne allergens and pollutants can cause much grief to homeowners who suffer from breathing problems such as asthma and seasonal allergies. With the potential for increased irritation, allergy sufferers typically seek long-term, consistent relief any way they can. Read More

Paula Deen encourages you to take a walk in her footsteps and start seeing diabetes in a new light

Paula Deen and her sons, Bobby and Jamie are helping adults find simple ways to manage everyday challenges associated with type 2 diabetes. Read More

Winning weight loss tips

Winter can stretch for a very long time in many areas of the country, and with the extensive cold often comes the temptation to let weight loss goals fall by the wayside. Adopting these five strategies can improve your chances of winning at weight loss. Read More

Fitness tips to get ready for summer fun

The sun is shining longer every day, telling you that it's time to get ready for vacations, activities with family and friends and of course, swimsuit season. To help you prepare, there are some simple fitness tips you can follow to look and feel good this summer season. Read More

Simple steps to a healthier heart

For millions of Americans, the battle against heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions goes on year-round. The steps to achieve better heart health can be simple. Experts agree that heart disease can be both preventable and controllable with the appropriate lifestyle changes. Read More

Diet rich in nutrients promotes a lifetime of healthy vision

From dry eye to age-related eye diseases, research shows that nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining the health of our eyes. Caring for eyes includes looking carefully at what you eat. Read More

Prevention, detection tips for the most common type of cancer

Melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, has steadily increased over the past three decades - to the rate of one American dying an hour from it, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Detecting melanoma when it is most treatable is key to survival. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, and improve your chances of catching it in its most curable stages. Read More

Three home improvement tips to help you breathe easier

A survey by Angie's List revealed Americans spend more than $300 billion annually on remodeling projects. Yet these endeavors typically focus solely on a home's aesthetics while ignoring one important consideration: Is your home healthy? Read More

Medicine cabinet makeover tips for people with high blood pressure

If you're among the 68 million Americans who have high blood pressure, you may feel that taking your medicine, getting plenty of exercise and eating a healthy diet means you're doing everything you can to manage your condition. But with cold season in full swing and many areas of the country recording record numbers of flu cases, it might be time for a medicine cabinet makeover as well. Read More

Medical device innovations lead to extraordinary advances

From custom prosthetics to minimally invasive surgery, innovations in medical devices are leading to some astonishing advances. One example: an artificial heart that uses plastic tubes instead of heart valves to move blood in and out of two plastic ventricles. It's a remarkable development - and it's just one of many in the works, often made possible by specialized plastics. Read More

What is your arthritis I.Q.? [Infographic]

May is International Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Awareness Month [Infographic]

Healthy foods and creative recipes provide vitamin D when sunshine is scarce

When days are short and sunshine is scarce, it's only natural to feel a little out of sorts. The sun is the body's chief source of vitamin D, and for many Americans, clouds and cold temperatures can lead to deficiencies. Fortunately, there are other sources that provide this important vitamin - some of which come in a deliciously edible form. Read More