Staying Healthy Archive

Articles

Short bursts of evening activity fuel better sleep

A 2024 study suggests that short bursts of light activity before bedtime may improve sleep.

Counting steps or exercise minutes both work to promote health

A 2024 study suggests that women who engage in the most physical activity—regardless of how it's measured—have significantly lower risks of developing cardiovascular disease or dying early.

Breathe better after a chest cold, flu, pneumonia, or COVID

Sometimes mucus secretions in the lungs can persist after someone starts to get better from a chest cold, flu, pneumonia, or COVID. To cope with the problem, experts recommend two approaches. One is doing exercises that clear the lungs, such as a series of breaths and coughs that dislodges mucus. The other approach is doing exercises that strengthen respiratory muscles. An example is diaphragmatic breathing, a type of deep breathing that relies on the diaphragm muscle located below the lungs.

Try this: The ABCs of loosening stiff muscles

A three-move routine—arm sweep, back bend, and chair pose—can help loosen stiff muscles in the shoulders, back, and legs.

Is charcoal toothpaste safe for my teeth?

Charcoal toothpastes, marketed as tooth whiteners, contain activated charcoal, an abrasive substance that can help remove surface stains. While safe in small doses, charcoal toothpaste shouldn't be used daily, since it may damage tooth enamel.

Eating more fruits and vegetables may prevent chronic kidney disease

Eating a plant-based diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables has been shown to help lower high blood pressure. A 2024 study has found that these foods may also protect against worsening of chronic kidney disease in people with high blood pressure.

Low-dose aspirin now the preferred agent to help prevent blood clots after knee replacement

A 2024 study found that low-dose aspirin therapy was more effective than taking anticoagulants for reducing the risk of blood clots following a total knee replacement surgery. Aspirin therapy also caused fewer bleeding complications.

New guidelines released for vitamin D testing and supplementation

Updated guidelines say adults don't need routine testing of vitamin D levels. However, they should aim for daily vitamin D intake of 600 international units (IU) until age 70, and 800 IU after that either through vitamin D–fortified foods or a supplement of up to 1,000 IU.

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