Independent Living Archive

Healthy aging and longevity

Did we really gain weight during the pandemic?

Published October 5, 2021

Researchers studying weight gain during the pandemic looked at health records for millions of people from both before it and during the first year of it. Unsurprisingly, a significant percentage of people gained weight, but less expected is that nearly as many people lost weight during the same time period.

Healthy aging and longevity

Inspect your nails for melanoma

Published October 1, 2021

Melanoma doesn’t only affect the skin; it can sometimes occur in and around the nails on the fingers and toes. People should examine the nails as well as the skin for signs of cancer. One sign to look for is dark streaks or bands under the nail.

Healthy aging and longevity

What are the best ways to trim my waist?

Published October 1, 2021

Attacking visceral fat found deep inside the abdomen, around the organs, is the best way to reduce waist size. Doing more aerobic and resistance exercise, limiting sugary foods and beverages, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can help.

Healthy aging and longevity

Sunscreen makers withdraw products found to contain cancer-causing substance

Published October 1, 2021

In July 2021, Johnson & Johnson recalled five aerosol sunscreen products and CVS stopped selling two sunscreen products because of the presence of the carcinogen benzene.

Healthy aging and longevity

Reduce the health risks from "forever chemicals"

Published October 1, 2021

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of manmade chemicals that are widely used in products such as nonstick pans, stain repellants for furniture and carpets, cosmetics, and industrial products. These compounds are dangerous to human health and may lead to immune system problems and increased risk of certain cancers. Avoiding exposure by filtering water and choosing PFAS-free products can help to reduce those risks.

Healthy aging and longevity

Do statins increase the risk of dementia?

Published October 1, 2021

A study published June 29, 2021, by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) found no link between statin use and a higher incidence of dementia in adults ages 65 and older, but other studies have described possible cognitive changes related to statin use. Experts say that the benefits of taking a statin for people who have risk factors for cardiovascular disease generally far outweigh the risks. Statin use can reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke by 25% to 30%.

Healthy aging and longevity

Do BMI numbers add up?

Published October 1, 2021

For decades, researchers have used body mass index (BMI) to estimate a person’s body fat mass and predict possible health risks. While BMI is helpful, it can’t accurately measure the type of fat people accumulate, especially among older adults. Monitoring one’s waist size with a simple measuring tape may be a better option.

Healthy aging and longevity

Looking past blood pressure numbers

Published October 1, 2021

For decades, blood pressure treatment was dictated by a person’s numbers, with a blood pressure less than 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) considered normal. But evidence has proved this to be an inadequate goal. Research now suggests an individualized approach to managing blood pressure that considers other heart health risks, lifestyle habits, and family history may be a better way to ward off heart attacks and strokes.

Healthy aging and longevity

Can whole grains help whittle your waist?

Published October 1, 2021

It appears that people who eat at least three servings of whole grains per day gain fewer inches around their waist than people who eat less than half a serving per day, according to a study published online July 13, 2021, by The Journal of Nutrition.

Healthy aging and longevity

Can I skip vaccination if I had COVID?

Published October 1, 2021

Evidence suggests that people who've had COVID-19 may have some natural protection against the virus, but will have a much stronger immune response if they also get the vaccine.

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Independent Living Archive

Articles

Did we really gain weight during the pandemic?

Inspect your nails for melanoma

What are the best ways to trim my waist?

Sunscreen makers withdraw products found to contain cancer-causing substance

Reduce the health risks from "forever chemicals"

Do statins increase the risk of dementia?

Do BMI numbers add up?

Looking past blood pressure numbers

Can whole grains help whittle your waist?

Can I skip vaccination if I had COVID?

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