Scientifically proven diets that work

Many diets promise weight loss, but the choices narrow with regard to diets that prevent heart disease and stroke. Two backed by extensive research are the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and the Mediterranean diet. Both share an emphasis on plant foods and healthy fats. The DASH diet is more specifically targeted to lower blood pressure and provides detailed guidance on what to eat. The Mediterranean diet is a general style of healthy eating rather than a detailed diet plan. (Locked) More »

Ask the doctor: Vitamin C for health?

Vitamin C has been promoted as a way to boost the immune system and fight off colds, but research has not proven this or any other health benefits of taking vitamin C supplements. (Locked) More »

Ask the doctor: Prostate surgery and ED

Studies have not shown that taking an erectile function drug right after prostate surgery helps men to recover more erectile function, compared with just taking the drugs as needed for sexual activity. (Locked) More »

Memory slips? Consider these seven common causes of forgetfulness

A variety of factors can contribute to general forgetfulness. They include poor health, medications, sleeplessness, lack of exercise, stress, depression, and alcohol use. Thinking speed can also slow down with aging, which could make it take longer to remember things. Anyone concerned with changes in memory should discuss it with a doctor. It also helps to use simple memory-support tricks, such as putting personal items like keys and a wallet in the same place every day and avoiding multitasking. More »

Iron and your health

Fatigue is usually not related to a shortage of iron. In adults, iron deficiency is most common in women of childbearing age. Anemia caused by low iron does become more common with aging, affecting 10% or more of people 65 and older. This is sometimes caused by internal bleeding related to cancer or gastrointestinal disease. Most people can meet their daily iron needs from food. Red meat, poultry, eggs, and fish supply the most iron per serving. Plant foods also supply iron, but in a form that is harder for the body to absorb. People who eat few or no animal foods need to compensate by eating a larger amount of iron-rich plant foods, such as leafy greens, legumes, whole grains, and mushrooms. Foods fortified artificially with iron also help Americans to meet their iron needs. (Locked) More »

Yoga offers range of health benefits

Many men are familiar with gym training, working with weights, and jogging. But yoga also offers a range of health benefits. It combines stretching, breathing, and focused mental attention. Research suggests regular yoga can help to reduce risk factors for heart disease. It can help with arthritis symptoms, low back pain, and balance. It is best to try yoga with expert guidance, since attempting challenging yoga poses or overstretching muscles and tendons could lead to injuries. More »

Abdominal aortic aneurysm: When you need this one-time test

Men 65 and older who ever smoked can be checked for a dangerous bulge in the main blood vessel that leads from the heart, through the abdominal area, and down to the legs. A bulge is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Most are small, grow slowly, and do not ultimately rupture. But being diagnosed with an AAA leads to indefinite follow-up testing and can cause anxiety because of the possibility of fatal rupture.   (Locked) More »

Gain more weight, get more GERD

A study in Norway found that weight gain was directly tied to experiencing new chronic heartburn symptoms. Losing weight is the long-term solution to heartburn, though acid-reducing medication soothes symptoms in the short run. More »