Tag

Health And Wellness

All articles tagged with #health and wellness

Smart Stretches: Pre- and Post-Exercise Routines for Better Performance
health-and-wellness3 days ago

Smart Stretches: Pre- and Post-Exercise Routines for Better Performance

Cedars-Sinai advises a pre-workout routine of dynamic stretches (20–30 seconds each) to warm up and prep the muscles and joints, followed by a post-workout routine of static stretches (about 30 seconds each) to improve flexibility and aid recovery; aim for at least five minutes of warm-up before exercising. The article lists dynamic moves like Standing Knee to Chest, Open/Close the Gate, Hamstring Scoops, Butt Kicks, Standing Hip Flexor/Open-Book and various lunges/walk-outs, plus static stretches such as Supine Knees to Chest, Hamstring Stretch, Torso Twist, Figure Four, Calf Stretch, Thread the Needle, Open-Book with Hip Twist, and Neck Stretch. It also covers safety tips (stretch to mild resistance, avoid sharp pain, don’t stretch injured areas) and notes arthritis considerations, recommending consultation with a clinician if pain persists.

Accutane Isn’t a Nose Job, It Just Clears Acne and Can Make the Nose Look Sleeker
health-and-wellness12 days ago

Accutane Isn’t a Nose Job, It Just Clears Acne and Can Make the Nose Look Sleeker

The Cut investigates the idea of an “Accutane nose job,” explaining that isotretinoin (Accutane) does not alter bone or cartilage like rhinoplasty. Instead, it treats acne by shrinking oil glands and reducing inflammation, which can make the nose appear sleeker when blemishes clear. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner have claimed effects, and some doctors even use isotretinoin after nose surgery to curb swelling, but the drug carries many side effects and is typically a last-resort acne treatment.

Estranged and at peace: a mom prioritizes health this Mother's Day
health-and-wellness19 days ago

Estranged and at peace: a mom prioritizes health this Mother's Day

A 53-year-old mother, Kendall Williams, remains estranged from her 30-year-old son since 2023 after she cut ties to protect her health amid emotional abuse concerns; she’s now in cancer remission and has written about estrangement, while experts say many families navigate boundaries and that Mothers Day often amplifies grief. The piece offers coping ideas like planning activities, seeking support, and recognizing that estrangement is more common than people think.

Protein blind spots: four subtle signs you may be under-eating
health-and-wellness23 days ago

Protein blind spots: four subtle signs you may be under-eating

A Washington Post Well+Being piece emphasizes that protein is essential for preserving muscle as we age and that many adults may not meet recommended intake. It notes that protein is widely available in foods and drinks, yet you can still be under-consuming, and highlights four subtle signs of insufficient protein intake (with fatigue during workouts as one example). The article references guidelines suggesting 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily to help protect muscle and support longevity.

Rotavirus surge prompts travel caution for families with infants
health-and-wellness26 days ago

Rotavirus surge prompts travel caution for families with infants

Rotavirus is rising nationwide, heightening hospitalization fears for babies as the CDC’s shift to shared clinical decision-making on vaccination creates mixed messages. Illinois sticks with the AAP schedule, but experts warn declining uptake could worsen outcomes, even as Comer Children’s Hospital notes more gastroenteritis cases. Some families are delaying summer travel to protect vulnerable infants.

Small daily habits that help protect your brain as you age
health-and-wellness27 days ago

Small daily habits that help protect your brain as you age

Experts say brain health in aging hinges on daily habits that build cognitive reserve: stay mentally active and keep learning, exercise regularly (about 30–35 minutes of aerobic activity 4 times per week plus strength and flexibility twice weekly), wear helmets and seat belts to prevent head injuries, quit smoking, control blood pressure and diabetes, eat a healthy, less-processed diet, maintain a healthy weight, and get seven hours or more of sleep. These actions, highlighted by the Alzheimer's Association, can delay cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk.

Mandarins vs. Oranges: Key Differences in Taste, Size and Nutrition
health-and-wellness29 days ago

Mandarins vs. Oranges: Key Differences in Taste, Size and Nutrition

Mandarins and oranges are both citrus fruits but belong to different groups: mandarins are smaller with loose, easy-to-peel skins and a sweeter, milder flavor, while oranges are larger with thicker peels and a more balanced sweet-tart taste. Nutritionally, mandarins pack more vitamin A and carotenoids, whereas oranges have more vitamin C and slightly higher fiber; both supply vitamin C, potassium and fiber, plus flavonoids that support health. Be mindful of added sugars in some prepackaged mandarins, and note that citrus can trigger reflux or interact with certain medications, so a varied, moderate intake is best.

Glp-1 drugs and 'Ozempic personality': when weight loss comes with emotional blur
health-and-wellness1 month ago

Glp-1 drugs and 'Ozempic personality': when weight loss comes with emotional blur

The Washington Post report highlights reports of emotional flattening and reduced motivation—often called 'Ozempic personality'—among some GLP-1 drug users (e.g., Ozempic/Wegovy). While many patients see weight loss and mood benefits, clinicians have documented anecdotes of dulled joy and motivation that sometimes improve when doses are lowered. The exact cause is unclear, with hypotheses ranging from pharmacological effects on dopamine-related reward pathways to psychological and lifestyle factors. Large studies show associations with mental-health changes and potential overall benefits in some cases, but causation isn’t established. Safety and personalized care remain the priority as researchers gather more data.

Creatine Unpacked: Benefits, Safety, and Practical Guidance
health-and-wellness1 month ago

Creatine Unpacked: Benefits, Safety, and Practical Guidance

Creatine is a well-supported supplement that can boost muscle strength, support heart and brain health, and may help certain neuromuscular conditions, with vegetarians/vegans potentially benefiting more due to dietary sources. It's generally safe at small-to-moderate daily doses, but high doses can stress kidneys in people with kidney disease and may cause weight gain, GI symptoms, and, with long-term high use, may reduce the body's own creatine production. Typical safe dosing is about 2-3 grams per day (creatine monohydrate), with some evidence that 5-10 grams daily long-term is also safe; always consult a healthcare provider before starting. Topical creatine creams exist but lack robust evidence and can cause skin reactions. Some populations (pregnant/breastfeeding, diabetes, liver disease, Parkinson’s, bipolar disorder) lack enough safety data; use caution.

Playtime Pays Off: Kids Who Game Often Shine Academically
health-and-wellness1 month ago

Playtime Pays Off: Kids Who Game Often Shine Academically

A Columbia University study of 3,195 children aged 6–11 found that those who played video games more than five hours per week had higher odds of strong intellectual functioning (1.75x) and greater overall school competence (1.88x) after adjusting for demographics. They were also more socially integrated with peers and had fewer relationship problems, with no significant increase in mental health issues. Experts caution against overinterpreting the findings and emphasize moderating screen time, but the study suggests gaming may confer cognitive and social benefits that merit further investigation.