Healthy aging and longevity Archive

Some doctors recommend eating meals earlier in the day to control weight, and some evidence backs that up. For example, a 2022 study found that eating later in the day increased hunger and fat storage, and decreased appetite-reducing hormone levels and fat burning. To eat meals earlier in the day, one approach is eating either two large meals per day (a large breakfast and a second large meal in midafternoon) or at least having a third meal that ends by 5 p.m.

The new year is a good time for people to take a good look at their medication regimens and consider if they need to make any changes. That could mean talking to a doctor or pharmacist to see if all the drugs in a regimen are still necessary. Or it could mean looking for ways to save money on prescriptions — perhaps using an online pharmacy (which might have cheaper prices) or applying for a drug manufacturer's patient assistance program. Other things to consider are ways to become more organized about taking medications reliably, such as using an automatic pill dispenser.

A fever is the immune system's response to an infection or invader. Most fevers drop after people take over-the-counter medications. People should call a doctor if their fever reaches 103° F and go to an emergency room if it reaches 105°.

As with a financial portfolio, older adults should routinely review their wellness portfolio to ensure their health investments meet their short-and long-term goals. Working with their doctor, personal trainer, and nutritionist, they can identify areas that require changes and implement new strategies. Older men often don't make investments in strength training, balance, and their mental health, but should.

Nearsightedness is a growing problem worldwide. While genes and developmental factors play a role in whether a child becomes nearsighted, research suggests that spending time outdoors can lower a child's risk of developing this condition.

Bedtime procrastination often interferes with getting sufficient quality sleep, which is a pillar of good health. If you are guilty of staying up too late, there are things you can do to try to change your behavior.

The holiday season is full of parties, gatherings, food, and drink — making it an ideal time to adopt healthier eating habits. Doing so can help you manage stress and avoid overeating, and will set you up for success in the new year.

A 2022 study found a 31% reduction in Americans' use of prescription sleep aids from 2013 to 2018. The drop-off was even sharper among people 80 and older, who were 86% less likely to use FDA-approved sleep drugs by the end of the study period.

Fermented foods and drinks such as kimchi, kombucha, and tempeh are increasingly popular, adding to mainstays such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and beer. Heat and bright lights during manufacturing can destroy some beneficial probiotics. Fermented products can ease digestion, dampen inflammation, boost nutrient absorption, and battle harmful bacteria. People should look for product labels that say "live and active cultures" and avoid shelf-stable versions, which don't contain probiotics.

While muscle pain is a possible side effect of taking statins, most discomfort is not caused by the drug, but most likely a "nocebo effect" where negative expectations can lead to perceived side effects.