Posted 06/10/2010
Are Heart Palpitations Dangerous?
A doctor's answer
By Leigh Anne Otte
“My heart skipped a beat.” It’s a nice saying. But when it really happens—and happens a lot—it can seem less romantic.
Read More >>Posted 10/22/2009
Does Alcohol Increase or Decrease Your Risk of Cancer?
Study findings are confusing
By James Hubbard, MD, MPH
Well, here we go. Many recent studies, including one I referenced recently, have lauded drinking alcohol for its heart and stroke benefits. Now comes a large British study advising caution: any alcohol at all may increase the risk of cancer. Read More >>
Posted 09/14/2009
Happy Music May Lead to Happy Blood Vessels
Good medicine for your cardiovascular system
By Elaine Magee, MPH, RD
When is the last time you purposely played some joyful music and gave yourself a few moments of pleasure and inspiration? Well, you might want to start making this a daily dalliance. A small study from the Preventive Cardiology program at the University of Maryland measured blood vessel function in 10 people while they listened to music that they said gave them a sense of joy. The researchers discovered that their blood vessels dilated (expanded) by 26%. Read More >>
Posted 09/03/2009
Is Laughter the Best Medicine?
Studies point to humor’s benefits
By Elaine Magee, MPH, RD
More studies need to be done, of course, but it sure looks like there are some potential health benefits to filling as much of your day as possible with laughter and positive emotions such as joy, hope, and optimism. Read More >>
Posted 05/04/2009
Is the Vitamin B Trio a Bust?
Perhaps not as powerful as first thought
By Elaine Magee, MPH, RD
Is the famed vitamin B trio (folate + vitamin B6 + vitamin B12), which is thought to help prevent heart disease, a bust? The answer leads you back to food, not supplements. Read More >>
