Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Healthy aging and longevity

5 important blood tests beyond the basics

Published July 1, 2021

Five blood tests beyond basic blood work may be worth pursuing for older adults. For example, a test to determine one’s vitamin B₁₂ level might be helpful, since older adults sometimes have trouble absorbing that vitamin. Likewise, older adults have less ability to absorb sunlight through the skin, which may lead to less production of vitamin D. Other blood tests to consider include those for HIV or hepatitis C infection, and a test to measure fasting blood sugar.

Healthy aging and longevity

Wearable fitness trackers may aid weight-loss efforts

Published July 1, 2021

A review published online March 17, 2021, by the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that fitness trackers helped overweight or obese people with chronic conditions reduce body weight and body mass index.

Healthy aging and longevity

Advisory group: Too soon to recommend routine vitamin D screening

Published July 1, 2021

An advisory group finds there is not enough evidence to recommend routine screening for vitamin D deficiency.

Diet and nutrition

Returning to restaurants — and to healthy eating

Published June 30, 2021

Many of us miss dining out. Now that restaurants are offering indoor and outdoor dining again, it's tempting to cut loose and order restaurant meals without thinking about nutrition. But if you're trying to stick to a healthy diet, try these tips when you're out in a restaurant.

Healthy aging and longevity

By the way, doctor: Is spirulina good for you?

Updated June 21, 2021

I read that spirulina is the next wonder vitamin. What can you tell me about it?

Healthy aging and longevity

Potassium and sodium out of balance

Updated June 21, 2021

The body needs the combination of potassium and sodium to produce energy and regulate kidney function, but most people get far too much sodium and not enough potassium.

Healthy aging and longevity

HIV rates rising: Could new forms of PrEP help?

Published June 18, 2021

Last year, approximately 1.7 million new HIV infections occurred worldwide, and rates of infection are also rising in parts of the US. While a daily pill known as PrEP can help prevent HIV, two new formulations could make it easier for a broader range of at-risk people to use.

Healthy aging and longevity

Post-pandemic weight loss: There's an app for that

Published June 16, 2021

There are a myriad of apps and programs designed to help people lose weight, but many companies are offering products that go beyond traditional food tracking, taking a mindfulness-based approach to help people understand why they eat the way they do, and how to make beneficial changes to their eating routine.