Posted on: December 19, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

High blood pressure at middle age means brain problems in old age

If you’re like most, you figure you won’t really have to worry about hypertension until you’re well into your 50s or 60s. That’s a mistake that could set you up for stroke and dementia. New research says controlling your blood pressure is a “long game,” and we’d all be wise to start paying attention now… But most people I know who are in their 40s and even their early 50s…

Posted on: December 19, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Could the key to good sleep start in your gut?

Everyone has trouble sleeping occasionally, and most of us are familiar with the common causes of sleeplessness: stress, anxiety and depression, sleep disorders, neurological problems and physical problems like pain. But there may be another group of middlemen making it tough for you to get sleep, and they reside in a surprising place: your gut… We’ve likely all had to deal with the fatigue, crankiness and lack of focus caused…

Posted on: December 18, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

New and improved Mediterranean diet reduces heart risks even more

You’ve probably already heard that one of the best diets you can choose to lower your risk of heart disease, stroke and even diabetes is the Mediterranean diet. Rich in plant-based foods, healthy fats, fiber and heart-loving polyphenols, the diet is one of the most recommended for heart health. Now, a new study has found a way to take the benefits of the “Med diet” to a new level, by…

Posted on: December 18, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Women are more likely to die from heart attack and heart failure than men

Heart attack continues to be the leading cause of death in men. But women do suffer heart attacks, and when they do, they appear to get the shorter end of the stick. In fact, recently published research found women to be at a surprisingly higher risk for heart failure and heart attack death than men… In fact, women face a 20 percent higher risk than men of developing heart failure…

Posted on: December 18, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Everyday activities that can skyrocket your well-being and mental health

Thanks to the roller coaster year 2020 has been, more of us are facing challenges to our well-being and mental health. After all, it can be challenging to feel happy, alert and bursting with energy when you can barely leave your house. But research shows some simple everyday activities can increase your energy and well-being… In fact, scientists have long known that physical activity can help us stay happier and…

Posted on: December 17, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Three key periods in life when alcohol can hasten cognitive decline

The holiday season is buzzing with celebrations, albeit smaller this year, that include plenty of drinks to go around. But it’s no secret that alcohol affects the brain. Though the occasional celebratory drink may be alright, researchers have identified three key times in our lives when alcohol can be especially harmful to our brains. The Average US adult doubles their intake of Alcohol between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, according to…

Posted on: December 17, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

How antioxidants may reduce vulnerability to COVID-19

As COVID-19 spreads, scientists are unraveling the complexities of the disease and the virus behind it. One thing they’ve discovered is a particular mechanism that could explain why there are those among us, like the elderly and people with chronic disease, who are more vulnerable to infection, as well as provide clues to help them. A recent study led by McGill University researchers uncovered clues in the proteins involved in…

Posted on: December 17, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

How to reduce heart failure risk by 42 percent

Sadly, almost 380,000 people are likely to die this year due to heart failure. And while numerous factors can raise your risk of becoming one of those statistics — like high blood pressure, heart attack and even diabetes that damages your blood vessels — there’s an easily modifiable risk factor that might surprise you… your sleep pattern. More and more research is linking unhealthy or poor-quality sleep to your chances…

Posted on: December 17, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Colds, COVID-19 and the flu? Here’s the doctor’s secret weapon

You know the mantra for how to avoid getting sick this winter: Wash your hands and wear a mask. And when the days start getting shorter, the temperature drops and cold and flu season kicks in, we could all use an immunity boost, COVID or no COVID. That’s where my favorite secret weapon comes in… Yes, you’ve probably heard me say it as often as public health officials tell you to…

Posted on: December 16, 2020 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

The ultimate diet for stress management

As the pandemic continues to spike and uncertainty continues to reign, stress is fast approaching crisis levels in the U.S. Some of us have tried self-care, meditation, exercise and calming herbs. But managing your stress could be even easier — with the right diet… One that’s already well known for its amazing health benefits… And we need that more than ever… Even before the events of 2020 descended upon us,…