Losing steam? Avoid these energy zappers

Lifestyle habits may be to blame for some daily fatigue. For example, eating too much processed food can increase inflammation, which impairs the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the molecule that delivers energy to cells throughout the body. Getting too little sleep or being too stressed out all the time can increase levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which also reduces production of ATP. Eating a healthy diet, getting more sleep, and reducing stress can reduce fatigue. So can avoiding dehydration, exercising more, and staying socially connected. More »

What is ALS?

ALS stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a terminal disease of the nerve cells that are involved in signaling muscles to move. Two medicines can slow but not stop the progression of the disease. (Locked) More »

Stay active, even with stiff ankles

Ankles typically stiffen over time for one reason or another, such as osteoarthritis, ankle impingement, old injuries, inflammatory disease, tendinitis, or foot problems such as flat feet. Treatment depends on the cause of ankle stiffness. Treating underlying conditions may ease symptoms. Icing and rest can also help tendinitis or inflammation. In cases of misalignment, bone spurs, or significant joint arthritis, surgery may be the best option. Often, however, ankle stiffness can be treated simply with physical therapy, weight control, daily exercise, and stretching. (Locked) More »

What's in your frozen treat?

All frozen desserts like ice cream, gelato, or frozen yogurt are treats with varying amounts of calories, fat, and sugar. Dairy-free options aren’t necessarily healthier. To make the healthiest choice, one must read Nutrition Facts labels and ingredients lists, and look for a treat with the lowest amounts of sugar, fat, calories, and sodium. It’s also important to remember that the amount of nutrients one consumes in a frozen treat should fit into the food intake for the day, not just one meal. (Locked) More »

Feeling woozy when you stand?

Orthostatic hypotension is a temporary drop in blood pressure when standing. The condition reduces blood flow to the brain, causing lightheadedness, blurred vision, or fainting. Some people don’t have any symptoms, and don’t discover they have orthostatic hypotension until they fall. Treatment can involve compression stockings, elevating the head of the bed at night, a high-salt diet, and medication. Getting up from a bed or chair slowly and drinking lots of fluids to prevent dehydration can also help manage the condition. More »

Answers to the top questions about cannabis extract

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating plant chemical that comes from hemp or marijuana. It is used to help reduce symptoms of many conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, arthritis, diabetes, a muscle disorder called dystonia, seizures, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Crohn’s disease, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, and insomnia. CBD is considered generally safe and well tolerated, though it’s not clear yet how much CBD is safe and for how long, or if it is safe specifically for older adults. CBD has some known side effects and drug interactions. (Locked) More »