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Antidepressant may help manage irritable bowel syndrome symptoms

A 2023 study suggests that taking low doses of amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant also used to treat nerve pain, may be one of the best pharmacologic choices to help improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Strength training tied to smaller risk of knee osteoarthritis and pain later in life

In a 2023 study, people who engaged in regular strength training were less likely than those who didn't to develop knee pain and knee osteoarthritis as they approached their senior years.

Mood boosters

Everyone goes through periods when they feel low, lethargic, or stressed. These episodes usually pass after a while, but if symptoms linger or begin to interfere with daily life, people should seek professional help. Otherwise, people can take several steps to boost their mood, such as exercising more, spending time outdoors, volunteering, meditating, and keeping a gratitude journal.

The big problem of ministrokes

Many people who suffer a first-time stroke had a prior warning from a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a ministroke. TIAs can last anywhere from 30 seconds to 20 minutes, although most usually last at least five minutes. TIAs usually have typical stroke symptoms, but because they are mild and brief they tend to be missed or ignored. People should seek immediate medical care after an attack.

Greater amounts of abdominal fat may harm brain health

A 2023 study found a link between excess abdominal fat and lower brain volume, particularly in regions involved in thinking, memory, and performing everyday tasks.

Red meat may raise diabetes risk

A 2023 study suggests that eating more red meat-about a one additional serving each day-is linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes than those who eat less.

Shining light on night blindness

Night blindness makes it hard to see in dim or dark settings, which can affect safety at home and make driving dangerous after dark. While the cause varies, there are steps people can take to address these problems.

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