Research-based articles on weight management, joint health, gut health, and natural wellness to help you make informed health decisions.
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most common over-the-counter acne treatments. It works by killing bacteria and drying out pores. But many people find it stops working after a few weeks or never works at all. The main reasons are using the wrong strength, not applying it correctly, having a type of acne that benzoyl … Read more
No, your whole body does not go into the MRI machine specifically for a lower back scan, but the table you lie on does slide fully into the tunnel for a traditional closed MRI. The machine only images your lower back—your head, chest, and legs are not scanned. However, some newer open or wide-bore MRI … Read more
Hematocrit (Hct) is the percentage of your blood made up of red blood cells. It tells doctors how much oxygen your blood can carry. Low hematocrit often means anemia, while high hematocrit can point to dehydration or other conditions. Understanding your Hct level helps you and your doctor spot potential health problems early. What Is … Read more
Sugar is sugar. Whether it comes from a sugar cane stalk or a bottle of agave nectar, your body processes it in very similar ways. The short answer is yes, natural sugar does raise blood sugar levels. But there is more to the story. Different natural sugars have different effects. Some are absorbed quickly. Others … Read more
Yes, many women can take estrogen after menopause as part of hormone therapy, also called menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). It is a well-established treatment for hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. But it is not right for everyone. Your personal health history, the timing of when you start, and the type of estrogen therapy … Read more
High blood pressure does not have a simple cure, but it can be effectively controlled. The most reliable way to lower your blood pressure is a combination of lasting lifestyle changes and, when needed, medication prescribed by your doctor. This means eating less sodium, more vegetables and whole grains, staying at a healthy weight, getting … Read more
Wearing headphones with an ear infection is generally a bad idea. It can increase pain, trap moisture, and push bacteria deeper into the ear canal. For most people, the risks outweigh the convenience. Until the infection clears, it is better to avoid headphones altogether. How Can Headphones Make an Ear Infection Worse? Headphones create a … Read more
The relationship between vitamin B12 and blood pressure is indirect but real. B12 helps control homocysteine, an amino acid linked to blood vessel damage and high blood pressure when levels get too high. B12 is also needed to make red blood cells, and a deficiency can cause anemia, which affects how your heart works. But … Read more
Use a flashlight and a mirror to look inside your mouth. Tilt your head back, open wide, and say “ahh” to see the back of your throat. Your tonsils are the two oval pads on each side. Check for white or yellow spots on the surface, redness, swelling, or visible lumps that may be tonsil … Read more
Dry hair happens when your hair lacks enough water in the cortex. The fix is not just piling on oils. The real strategy is to get water into the hair and then seal it in. You add moisture by using a combination of water-based products, humectants, and occlusives. Start with a rinse or a water-based … Read more