Category: Healthy Choices

Surprised? The media is broadcasting disease awareness campaigns and many doctors make it seem like there is no downside to getting checked out for potential medical problems. However, many doctors believe that this is just not true. Some tests can’t spot problems early enough to cure them. Others don’t discriminate between harmless issues and something that may be more worrisome. And following up on false alarms requires more tests and procedures that come with their own risks. Plus unnecessary tests… Read More

It has been known since the 1960’s that saturated fat raises LDL cholesterol, the “bad” cholesterol. But LDL is just one indicator for risk. Also known is that high levels of triglycerides in the blood raise heart disease risk. Saturated fat does raise LDL cholesterol. But compared to carbohydrates, it also raises HDL cholesterol – the “good” cholesterol – and lowers triglycerides. Research found that saturated fat is relatively neutral for heart disease risk compared to refined carbohydrates. Research also found:… Read More

For the estimated 1% of the poplutation with celiac disease, gluton is a kryptonite that can trigger digestive distress and cause long-term health problems. But for the vast majority of us, gluton is a harmless protein found in grains like wheat, rye and barley that is best known for giving bread its fluffiness. Nontheless, “gluten free” has become a major selling point, as if it were synonym for “low carb”. Gluten-free Betty Crocker cake mix and beer now line grocery… Read More

Eat well. Eating a balanced diet helps provide the essential vitamins and minerals our bodies need. It is important to eat a variety of different foods – an apple a day is great, but an apple one day, a banana the next and grapes after that is better! We draw our energy from food, and it is important to eat a little bit from every food group: fruits and vegetables, grains, meats and dairy products. Exercise. Staying fit goes hand in… Read More

If you’re like nearly half of all Americans, you take at least one supplement to boost your health. But are you spending your money on the right ones? For that matter, do you need to take vitamins at all? It can be hard to know. Question: I think I eat well. Do I need supplements? While we try to eat a balanced diet, most of us overestimate how well we’re really eating. Taking a multivitamin couldn’t hurt. Question: Can certain… Read More

Not only is life hard, it can unexpectedly become harder. One day we might be comfortably cruising along, and then suddenly it seems like everything is going wrong: Your marriage is in a shambles, or you’ve just discovered that you’re not as financially stable as you thought, or you suddenly lose a lover, friend, or family member. The world has changed. Everything seems ominous and uncertain. That’s when you can fall into the trap of pessimism and negativity. It may… Read More

We encourage you to take an active role in your health decisions. The following topics describe some of the important skills and habits you can develop for dealing with health problems: Making Wise Health Choices Self-Care Checklist Know Your Options Decisions about Medicines and Natural Remedies How Do You Make the Right Health Choices? It’s not always clear what choices are the right ones for you. There are often several approaches to diagnosing and treating a health problem. And you are more… Read More