The no-drug approach to mild depression

While antidepressants can relieve and control symptoms of mild or moderate depression, they are not the only option. Fortunately, many nondrug options are available to help manage depression symptoms and prevent future episodes, such as exercising regularly, avoiding unhealthy foods, expressing gratitude, and staying socially active. More »

What exercises are best for bone health?

Weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, jogging, stair climbing, hiking, or dancing, is the best way to strengthen bones as a man ages. Resistance training using free weights, resistance bands, or gym machines can stimulate bones in the wrists, arms, and lower body. More »

What could cause my breasts to become larger?

Men who develop swollen, tender breasts may have a condition called gynecomastia. While it can be embarrassing, it rarely has a serious cause. However, in adults, the condition warrants a medical evaluation to look for possible health issues and drug side effects.  Weight loss may help if breast enlargement is due to excess fat. More »

A different kind of heart attack

There are two basic types of heart attacks—type 1 and type 2. In type 1 heart attacks, rupture of a fatty plaque leads to a blood clot that completely blocks a coronary artery. In type 2 heart attacks, the problem is severely reduced flow through long-standing narrowing of a coronary artery. While both types are serious, type 2 may be the most concerning because its warning signs are often less dramatic and many men won’t seek medical care until it’s too late. Knowing the symptoms of type 2 attacks can enable men to recognize them. (Locked) More »

The dish on dairy

Dairy isn’t a necessary component of a healthy diet. Some research warns against consuming too much dairy, while other studies show some benefits from regular dairy consumption. Still, for many men, it is an easy way to get the required calcium, vitamin D, and protein they need to keep their heart, muscles, and bones healthy and functioning properly. (Locked) More »

Should you get a home genetic test?

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic test kits are popular to identify people’s ancestral history, but the technology also may reveal risks for specific medical conditions, like Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and even cancer. A DTC test can’t reveal everything about a person’s health, but for some individuals, it may help them learn more about their current and future health. (Locked) More »

Soothing solutions for irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is most common in people in their 30s and 40s; however, it can occur at any age. The exact cause of IBS has yet to be discovered and it is impossible to prevent. The goal is to focus on managing the condition, which can be done by identifying specific triggers for IBS symptoms and then adopting strategies to make your symptoms less severe and less frequent. The most common treatment approaches are diet, stress management, and medication. (Locked) More »

Shorter sleep may cause dehydration

Adults who sleep only six hours per night may have a higher chance of waking up dehydrated, compared with those who sleep longer. Besides getting more sleep, drinking at least one full glass of water upon waking up can help. More »