Staying Healthy Archive

Articles

Can blue light-blocking glasses improve your sleep?

Exposure to blue light during the daytime is desirable: it helps synchronize the body's circadian clock and helps people stay alert. But stimulation from certain wavelengths of blue light in the hours leading up to bedtime can interfere with sleep. Glasses that block stimulating blue light, whether prescription or not, are being touted as helping with sleep, but the evidence is questionable.

Wondering about COVID-19 vaccines if you're breastfeeding?

If you're breastfeeding, you may have questions about the COVID-19 vaccines. Experts agree that people who are breastfeeding should receive the vaccine to help them and their baby stay healthy. Get informed by consulting trusted health sources, and talking with your medical providers about your options.

What happened to trusting medical experts?

In all aspects of our lives, we rely on the knowledge and advice of experts. So why are hundreds of thousands of people in the US rejecting advice on COVID-19 from well-respected health authorities, and embracing advice from those with dubious expertise –– and unproven and potentially dangerous remedies?

Surprising findings about metabolism and age

Metabolism is combination of all the chemical processes that allow an organism to sustain life. Multiple factors like age, sex, body mass, physical activity all have an effect on metabolism, but a new study revealed surprising information about the timing of age-related changes in metabolism over the course of the lifespan.

Did we really gain weight during the pandemic?

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.

Sunscreen makers withdraw products found to contain cancer-causing substance

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.

Inspect your nails for melanoma

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.

What are the best ways to trim my waist?

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.

Can I skip vaccination if I had COVID?

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.

Reduce the health risks from "forever chemicals"

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.

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