Is the portfolio diet the best diet ever?

News flash: What we eat can play a pivotal role in warding off — or treating — disease and enhancing quality of life. You may already believe this, and certainly mounting evidence supports that idea. But on the cluttered shelf of diets claiming top health benefits, which one ranks as the absolute best? That’s a…

Want to stop harmful drinking? AA versus SMART Recovery

Ready to address excessive drinking in your life? Many people find peer support helps them take steps toward recovery. Two well-known self-help organizations built around peer support are Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART Recovery). While some people seeking recovery even attend both programs, others forego both options. Why do people choose…

Which skin creams are most effective for eczema?

Quelling the discomfort of atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, can be a daily quest. This inflamed, itchy skin condition can interfere with sleeping, socializing, and many other activities. If home remedies such as gentle cleansing and regular moisturizing don’t provide relief, your doctor might recommend a prescription treatment to apply to your…

Why follow a vaccine schedule for children?

By the first week in September this year, US health officials had already tallied 247 cases of measles, a highly contagious illness. For perspective, in 2023, 59 measles cases were reported during the full year. This isn’t surprising, as vaccination rates for preventable childhood illnesses have decreased, according to the Centers for Disease Control and…

The popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters is soaring, but are they safe?

Ever ridden an e-scooter or e-bike? The convenience, affordability, and flat-out fun of these “micromobility” modes of transportation are undeniable. But did it also seem a bit dangerous? In fact, the rate of accidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters is climbing. Maybe that shouldn’t be surprising given their dramatic jump in popularity. And then there’s the…

Protect your skin during heat waves — here’s how

Global average temperatures have soared in 2024, surpassing records set just last year. Extreme heat poses numerous health risks, some of which are visible on our skin. Understanding how heat affects your skin can help you take measures to prevent or ease heat rash, eczema, rosacea, the discoloration of melasma, and many other skin conditions…