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Two drug dealers were surprised by police as they opened their front door to find armed officers poised to raid their flat in Birmingham
Two drug dealers were surprised by police as they opened their front door to find armed officers poised to raid their flat in Birmingham
You use it to brew your coffee, make your kid's mac and cheese, and even soak in it with some bubbles after a long day. You assume your tap water is perfectly healthy because…aren't there regulations for that? The government does have solid legislation in place that prohibits water companies from providing the public with tap water that doesn't meet certain standards. The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was passed by Congress in 1974 and enforces drinking water standards by setting limits on levels of harmful contaminants, such as lead and disinfectants.But "the Safe Water Drinking Act only tests for 91 chemicals," according to Dr. Scott Michael Schreiber, DC, DACRB, DCBCN, MS, LN, Cert. MDT, CKTP, CNS, Maine, "so many go undetected and end up in drinking water." Your pipes, faucets, or other equipment may also expose you to some nasty chemicals that can negatively affect your health. Here are 30 ways your tap water could ruin your health. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. 1 You can get metal poisoning Heavy metal isn't just a type of music you banged your head to in the '80s. According to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, a heavy metal is "…any metallic element that has a relatively high density and is toxic or poisonous even at low concentrations." While heavy metals are naturally occurring in the earth, they can easily seep into our groundwater and cause major health problems if consumed in large quantities. Common heavy metals include:ArsenicIronCadmiumLeadMercuryCopperZincAccording to Caleb Backe, Certified Health&Wellness Expert for Maple Holistics, hard water with traces of these metals is normal. However, he warns, "In large amounts, tap water contaminated with these substances could cause metal poisoning." The symptoms of poisoning can vary based on the type of metal you were exposed to, but may include nerve damage, diarrhea, memory loss, or muscle cramps.The Rx: Backe suggests adding a point-of-entry filter to the faucets you use daily if you're concerned about the heavy metals in your water supply. You can also install a whole-house filter, which is designed to remove sediment, rust, and chlorine from your water. 2 Nearby chemical plants can contaminate your water Dr. Schreiber states, "If you live near chemical plants, refineries, or other industries, chemicals can contaminate drinking water." Your local chemical plant produces industrial waste, which may be affecting the country's water supply. According to the Center for Public integrity, manufacturing plants, mining and waste disposal companies have been contaminating the water supply across the country for decades. A 2013 study by the National Research Council found that there were over 126,000 plants throughout the country that tested positive for groundwater pollution. Some of the worst offenders that are seeping into our supply include arsenic and lead, which can create a host of negative health effects.The Rx: The EPA monitors most industrial chemical releases to ensure they don't negatively impact the water supply. However, if you live near a potential offender, it's important to pay attention to the quality of your water and review the annual water quality report provided by your water company. If you have a private well, you're responsible for the quality of your water. Test your water annually and more frequently if you notice any changes in taste, odor, or color. 3 Exposure to chromium-6 could cause cancer According to the EPA, chromium-6 is present in soil, volcanic dust, rocks, plants, and animals. However, when this chemical leaks into our water supply, it can cause problems. Backe warns that this specific chemical is a known carcinogen. For chromium, the EPA has a drinking water standard of 0.1 milligrams per liter (mg/l) or 100 parts per billion (ppb), which is upheld by the SDWA.The Rx: Chromium is an odorless and tasteless metal so it can be hard to detect yourself. However, Backe states, "Yellow water signifies the potential presence of chromium-6." If your water develops a yellowish tint, report it to your water company immediately so they can test for the presence of chromium. In most cases, however, this yellowish tint can be attributed to rusty pipes. 4 Lead can change your child's behavior If you live in an older home, chances are your pipes have corroded if the home hasn't been re-piped. Lead from corroding pipes can enter your tap water in small amounts. Small amounts of lead in water is usually not especially harmful for most people. However, Dr. Lina Velikova, MD, PhD, from Disturb Me Not warns "…if you are constantly exposed to it, you may notice some symptoms." She also points out that children are more susceptible to negative health effects from lead. Dr. Velikova says, "Kids and infants are at the biggest risk. Some of the symptoms include behavioral changes, learning problems, lower IQ, and even slower growth."The Rx: If corroded pipes are the cause of the presence of lead in your tap water, it may be time to invest in new pipes. If this is too big an investment for now, Dr. Velikova suggests, "Alternatively, you can flush your pipes with cold water before drinking it. Always leave the water to run for a few seconds and then use it. Make sure to use only cold water, since hot melts the lead and mixes with it." You can also install a reverse osmosis filter for your faucet or entire home, which is proven to be the most effective at eliminating lead. 5 You could be exposed to asbestos "As a health investigator that specializes in asbestos exposure, I find that many people are unaware of the dangers that may be present with tap water," says Bridget Rooney of Mesothelioma.com. Asbestos cement pipes were used prior to the 1980's and if you've never re-piped, they could still be present in your home today. Since these pipes have been used for years, they may become brittle and begin to deteriorate. If these pipes are disturbed by nearby construction or simply begin to naturally corrode, asbestos fibers can begin to enter your tap water.Rooney states, "Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma cancer, a very aggressive disease." The Mayo Clinic confirms that there are treatments for mesothelioma cancer, but there is no cure and more often than not, this disease is deadly.The Rx: Even the smallest exposure to asbestos is dangerous. The SDWA requires water companies to notify customers of exposure to this chemical within 30 days. However, if you're worried about your own pipes, ideally, you will have your home re-piped. Ms. Rooney also suggests that you install "…a filtration system with a filter that is one micron or less." This will filter out asbestos fibers from your home's tap water. 6 You could get Legionnaires disease The Mayo Clinic defines Legionnaires disease as a severe form of pneumonia. An infection causes lung inflammation, which is often accompanied by a fever, muscle pain, headache, and chills. Additionally, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and other symptoms may be present after the first day of infection. In most cases, elderly residents, smokers, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to contracting Legionnaires disease.This disease is contracted after exposure to a bacterium called legionella. According to Dr. Anthony Kouri, M.D. from the University of Toledo Medical Center, "It is usually spread through aerosolized water, but can be present in ice machines, water filters, water heaters, or in a shower head."The Rx: The EPA ensures that SDWA regulations are met in regards to legionella bacteria. If this contaminant is present in your water, you will be notified by your water company. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), water management program teams are responsible for monitoring water quality and the presence of bacteria in the public water supply and in apartment complexes or other housing facilities. 7 Excess fluoride could cause neurological damage According to Michelle Miller, MSACN from Physio Logic, "Fluoride has been added to public water supplies in order to prevent tooth decay. However, recent research strongly suggests that water contaminated with fluoride is linked to neurological, immune, and gastrointestinal damage. The CDC states that two out of three Americans are supplied with fluoridated tap water." A study conducted by Harvard Public Health concluded that countries that don't fluoride their water have experienced large drops in the number of cavities residents had.The Rx: If your water supply includes fluoride, Miller suggests obtaining a Berkey water gravity filter for your home. This filter is proven to eliminate many contaminants from water, including fluoride. This type of system can be set up independently of your home's plumbing and will still leave essential and healthy minerals in your tap water. 8 Your baby could get "blue baby syndrome" from nitrates Methemoglobinemia, also known as "blue baby syndrome," occurs in infants when they simply aren't getting enough oxygen in their blood. Hemoglobins are responsible for carrying oxygen in our blood. However, with excessive exposure to nitrates, the hemoglobin is converted into methemoglobin, which prohibits it from carrying oxygen to the blood.Adults have mature enzymes that are able to convert this methemoglobin back to hemoglobin. However, infants don't have these enzymes and methemoglobin can be dangerous if left untreated. Infants with "blue baby syndrome" can develop cyanosis, a bluish tint to the skin. If nitrate levels continue to escalate, infants can develop permanent brain damage or die.According to Dr. Kouri, "Nitrates originate primarily from fertilizers and can get into the drinking water. Babies drink a large amount of water relative to their size. Even short term exposure to nitrates at the level or just above the acceptable level can pose a threat to infants."The Rx: If you get your water from a public water company, it is responsible for testing for nitrates. However, if you have a private well and suspect your water supply contains nitrates, get it tested with help from a local state certification officer. There are several ways to treat water that contains nitrates, including distillation, reverse osmosis, and ion exchange. Keep in mind that mechanical filters and chemical disinfection do not remove nitrates from the water. You can contact your local health department for advice on the best method to remove nitrates from your well water. 9 You could get Giardiasis Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes an illness called Giardiasis. The CDC concludes that the most common symptoms of this illness include:GasDiarrheaAbdominal crampsDehydrationNauseaVomitingThe disease affects infects nearly 2% of adults and 6% to 8% of children in developed countries worldwide and is the most common intestinal parasitic disease in the U.S. An infected person has Giardia parasites in his or her feces. If these feces bacteria become present in drinking water, the disease can easily spread. Sewage overflows, agricultural runoff, stormwater runoff, or nonfunctioning sewer systems can cause the spread of this bacteria to other people.The Rx: Avoid drinking tap water after a flood or if you know a sewage system isn't working properly. If you suspect your tap water is infected with Giardia, bring it to a rolling boil before using it. You should consider installing a reverse osmosis filter in your home. A filter that has a pore size of 1 micron or smaller or is certified by NSF Standard 53 for cyst removal or reduction can also eliminate these parasites from your water. 10 You could be drinking Volatile Organic Compounds from nearby dry cleaners Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are present in dry cleaning chemicals. They contain carbon and can vaporize into the air at normal air temperatures. As vapors, groundwater is susceptible to absorbing these VOCs. Once the VOCs leak into the groundwater, they can easily also become present in the water supply. According to a study conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey, the group of VOCs that was most commonly found in groundwater was trihalomethanes (THMs), which includes chloroform. Exposure to these VOCs can cause various symptoms for many people, including nausea, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sore throat, or other irritations.The Rx: Nearby dry cleaners and other industrial businesses may be contaminating your local area's groundwater, which can lead to VOCs in your water supply. According to Keith Bernard, CEO of CLEAR2O, "Filtering water at home can alleviate many harmful contaminants before they reach your glass." Consider installing a water filtration system in your home, or even just using a filtered water pitcher for your tap water before you drink it. 11 You could die from lead poisoning Older water systems may be constructed from lead piping and as these pipes age, small particles of lead can enter the water. The EPA warns that exposure to lead in your tap water can bioaccumulate in the body. You may not feel any symptoms from exposure to this contaminant at first, but consistent exposure can lead to decreased kidney function, cardiovascular effects, such as hypertension, and reproductive issues. According to Dr. Kouri, "Lead poisoning can be deadly if not treated." Therefore, it's important to know if your water supply contains lead and if it does, to pinpoint and fix the problem.The Rx: If your water comes from a private well, have it tested by a professional at least once every year so you can ensure your water quality stays above SDWA standards. If you want to use a filter to ensure lead is removed from your tap water, the EPA advises that you only buy a filter that's certified by NSF International to remove lead. 12 You could ingest radioactive substances Construction, drilling, or other disruptions to the earth's surface can release radioactive substances, such as radon, uranium, and radium. These radioactive contaminants can get into the groundwater and eventually seep into your water supply. The EPA concludes that there are varying levels of naturally occurring radioactive substances in different areas throughout the country. The SDWA limits the contamination level of these substances in water and in some cases, public water companies must treat their water to ensure these levels are acceptable.However, it's important to know the radioactive substance levels of your own home's tap water to ensure it's safe. According to Dr. Kouri, "Exposure to these substances can lead to different types of cancer including bone, skin, kidney, liver, and lung cancer."The Rx: Tina Marinaccio MS, RD, CPT, an Integrative Culinary Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, suggests that you visit the Environmental Working Group site and type in your zip code to learn about potential water contaminants in your area. You can also use the site for advice on the best water filter to remedy the issue. If you're dealing with a less-than-ideal water quality report, Marinaccio says, "You will likely need a whole house reverse osmosis filter to deal with what your water company is throwing at you." 13 Too much copper can be bad for your body Copper is another naturally occurring substance that can be found in the environment. At low and manageable levels, copper is essential to the proper functioning of your body. However, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), exposure to copper at excessive levels can trigger negative side effects, including:DiarrheaStomach crampsIrritation of the nose, mouth, and eyesNauseaIn some cases, ingestion of too much copper can even lead to death. The ATSDR warns that you may be exposed to high levels of copper if your home's plumbing is made of copper piping and your water is especially acidic.The Rx: If you feel your pipes may be exposing you and your family members to too much copper, you should consider repiping your home. Additionally, the ATSDR recommends running your water for at least 15 seconds in the morning before using it. This can allow high levels of copper in the pipes to decrease before you're exposed to it. 14 Bacteria or parasites could make you sick A breach in one of your pipes or corrosion can expose you to harmful bacteria or parasites through your water. There are many common bacteria found in tap water but in most cases, the public water companies meet the standards set through the SDWA. If you live in an agricultural area, your water may be more susceptible to bacteria from animal feces. For example, the Minnesota Department of Health warns residents that e. Coli and coliform bacteria may be present in their tap water due to the abundance of wildlife and farms in the area.Exposure to these bacteria can lead to unhealthy symptoms, such as nausea, stomach cramping, vomiting, fatigue, fever, and cramping. Residents with already compromised immune systems may face more serious health consequences if exposed to these bacteria or parasites, including chronic illness or death.The Rx: If your water is provided through a public water company, the EPA has strict guidelines that prohibit the presence of bacteria such as E. coli. If your water supply is contaminated, your water company must notify you within 24 hours. If you have a private well, have your water tested annually to ensure these bacteria are not present. Maintain your household septic system regularly with the help of a professional and disinfect your well and equipment as advised.Marinaccio says, "You can have your water tested, but if you are showing symptoms of toxicity, you would need to have blood and stool testing done by a qualified healthcare practitioner to determine a treatment plan to express whatever contaminants are being harbored in the body." Once you learn which contaminants are present in your water, you can buy a filter that specifically addresses this particular bacteria or parasite. 15 You could get Hepatitis A Hepatitis A is a liver disease that can be easily spread and can result in illness for several weeks or death, depending on the severity of the case. An unvaccinated person can contract this disease after ingesting microscopic fecal matter bacteria from an infected person. In most cases, well water is safe from a contagious virus like Hepatitis C.However, according to the CDC, "When any water source, including private wells, is contaminated with feces from infected humans, the water can potentially spread the Hepatitis A virus." If a sewage system stops functioning properly or backs up, it can contaminate a well line, leading to tap water that may contain feces from infected persons. Improper maintenance or function of the well can also lead to this contamination.The Rx: Always maintain your well and ensure the sewage system is also up and running properly. If you suspect your well has been contaminated, bring your water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it to kill any active bacteria. Keep in mind, a pinpoint filter will not help to eliminate the spread of this disease in an infected well. You may need to disinfect your well with chlorine but you should consult a water quality professional before using your tap water again. 16 You could ingest pharmaceutical drugs When pharmaceutical drugs are no longer needed, it's common for their users to flush the remaining product down the toilet. Pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and other medical providers may also discard unused pharmaceutical drugs into the water system or into the dumpster, which is returned to the earth. However, this can allow these drugs to become present in our water treatment plants and eventually in our water supply.There are no regulations within the SDWA that directly address pharmaceutical residues in water supply. According to a U.S. Geological Survey study, "Effluents from two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) that receive discharge from pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities (PMFs) had 10 to 1000 times higher concentrations of pharmaceuticals than effluents from 24 WWTPs across the nation that do not receive PMF discharge." In most cases, only trace amounts of these drugs are found in the water and are not enough to produce negative health effects for users.The Rx: If you want to ensure your home's tap water doesn't contain any trace amounts of pharmaceutical or illegal drugs, you can use a water filter at home. The Natural Resources Defense Council is encouraging pharmaceutical companies to produce more "eco-friendly" drugs and to dispose of their excess product responsibly. The EPA has also added 10 pharmaceutical compounds to its watchlist to investigate potential harmful effects. Eventually, legislation may be passed that sets maximum contamination levels in the public water supply. 17 You could experience gastrointestinal problems While the CDC confirms that the U.S. has one of the safest public water systems in the world, it's still possible to get sick from your tap water. The presence of e. Coli or salmonella bacteria in the water you ingest can give you flu-like symptoms that include stomach cramps, diarrhea, or vomiting. These two bacteria were among the top 10 most common outbreaks in the U.S. water system. In most cases, the symptoms of these outbreaks go away on their own but pregnant women, elderly residents, and children are more susceptible to serious side effects that may warrant hospitalization.The Rx: In most cases, the only way you'll be exposed to bacteria like e. Coli or salmonella in your water is if there was a flood or natural disaster. If sewage somehow seeps into the system due to an improperly functioning system, you and your family can be affected. Don't use your water if your well or public water system after a natural disaster or during a power outage. Consider getting a whole-house filter or even just a faucet filter for your water. 18 Your water could contain harmful pesticides Farmers use pesticides to protect their crops, which allows them to ensure they grow food that will sell. However, these pesticides can easily seep into our groundwater and become present in our water. Even if you're buying organic foods at the grocery store, your tap water may be exposing you to these pesticides anyway. The effects of exposure to these pesticides may vary, depending on the type and level of pesticides in the water source.If you get your water from a private well, you're responsible for getting your water tested to ensure there aren't pesticides. If your water supply comes from a public water system, the EPA sets some regulations on these companies to ensure pesticide levels stay low. However, keep in mind, not all types of pesticides are monitored in our public water.The Rx: The National Pesticide Information Center suggests that you install a point-of-use charcoal filter or reverse osmosis treatment to your water source. This will remove or reduce the amount of pesticides in your water. If you live near a heavy agriculture area, consider testing your water for pesticides more frequently than once a year. You can ask a local health department professional for assistance in this testing. 19 Excess chlorine could make you sick Many water treatment facilities use chlorine in their water filtering process to kill bacteria and germs. However, when it's combined with other compounds, it creates chemicals as byproducts that can be harmful to your health. According to Backe, "An example of one of these chemicals is THMs, which is linked with an increased risk of cancer and kidney issues." If you're a dialysis patient, the chlorine used to treat your water may also negatively affect the functionality of your machine and equipment. You should consult with your medical professionals about proper maintenance and chlorinated water.The Rx: The CDC states, "Chlorine levels up to 4 milligrams per liter (mg/L or 4 parts per million (ppm) are considered safe in drinking water." If your water supply has excessive levels of chlorine, you should be notified by your public water company immediately. However, if you're worried about exposure to chlorine from your tap water, consider getting a whole-house water filter. 20 You could get Norovirus Norovirus refers to all "Norwalk-like viruses" (NLV). These are contagious viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. In most cases, Norovirus is spread by touching a person who's infected or touching a surface that was already touched by an infected person. However, in some cases, Norovirus can be spread through your private well water source.A sewage overflow or non-functioning system can cause human feces to enter the water source. This is more likely to occur after a natural disaster, such as flooding. If contaminated feces bacteria are present in your water and you consume it, you can be sick with Norovirus for several days and chances are, your family members will also be infected.The Rx: Don't drink water after a natural disaster or sewage system failure until you get the all-clear from your water company. Keep your private well maintained and disinfect it when suggested. Keep in mind, norovirus is tolerant to chlorine so you may need to use a different disinfectant if you suspect your well is contaminated. Get your private well water tested at least once a year and get advice from a professional on how to disinfect it. You can contact your local health department for a list of professionals who can test your well water for contaminants. 21 You could be drinking arsenic Certain rock formations and other natural environments create an element called arsenic. But just because it's naturally-occurring doesn't mean it's safe. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic can increase your risk for skin cancer, bladder cancer, lung cancer, and heart disease.If your water comes from a private well, you may be at risk for ingesting arsenic every time you take a sip. The EPA has strict guidelines and limits on arsenic in tap water distributed by public water companies. However, as a private well owner, it's your responsibility to ensure the levels of arsenic in your water are acceptable.The Rx: The CDC warns that heating or boiling your water will not remove arsenic. You should consider installing water treatment equipment that performs reverse osmosis, ultra-filtration, distillation, or ion exchange in each faucet in your home. It's also important to test your well water annually for arsenic and other contaminants. If the levels are unacceptable, consult a professional on recommended procedures to increase the quality of your water. 22 Viruses could live in your water According to Bernard, "Most tap water is contaminated with a variety of pollutants that may increase your risk for serious health conditions. Inadequate sanitation, poor protection of drinking water sources, and improper hygiene often lead to sewage and feces-contaminated water. This can create an environment that is ideal for harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses." The EPA has strict regulations on the levels of bacteria and parasites that can be present in the public water supply. However, your own pipes and water system may be what's to blame for excessive bacteria in your water. Depending on the types of bacteria you're exposed to, you may experience symptoms that include nausea or diarrhea.The Rx: "If you're showing signs of a bacterial infection and you suspect your water supply, you'll need to have it tested. If high levels of bacteria are present, you may need to install a filter that addresses the specific bacteria in your water. According to Robert Weitz, a certified microbial investigator and founder of RTK Environmental Group, "If you do have contaminated water, there are usually water purification systems to fix your specific issue. Purification systems can vary based on contaminants, so it's important to know what's in your water." 23 Hard water can irritate your skin The water supplied to many areas through the public water system is considered "hard water." This simply means the water is high in mineral content, including calcium and magnesium. While hard water is harmless and won't make you sick, it can be frustrating when using it to bathe or wash your hands. This water is known to create a "soap scum" on your skin that's impossible to wash off. According to the USGS, "In hard water, soap reacts with the calcium (which is relatively high in hard water) to form 'soap scum.' When using hard water, more soap or detergent is needed to get things clean, be it your hands, hair, or your laundry." Not using enough soap can make your washing ineffective and doesn't kill bacteria on your skin properly. If you're careful to use enough soap but you don't wash it off properly, it could lead to skin irritation or itchiness.The Rx: If hard water is bothering you, you can opt to install a water softener in your home. This machine connects directly to your water supply and filters out the minerals that make your water hard. In most cases, these systems use salt to remove these minerals. Keep in mind, water softener systems require maintenance and you should consult a professional for installation. 24 You could get sick from blue-algae bloom Blue-green algae bloom, also referred to as cyanobacteria, naturally occurs in lakes, rivers, and other surface waters. Warm water causes these bacteria to grow and in some cases, they can produce cyanotoxins, which can cause health risks in humans and animals if ingested. In some severe cases, this ingestion can lead to death. If these cyanobacteria do not contain toxins but are present in water, they can adversely affect the taste and smell.Public water systems use chlorine and other disinfectants to ensure blue-green algae bloom doesn't affect the water quality. However, if a severe bloom event occurs in your local area, the public water company's treatment facility may have trouble keeping up with the removal of these bacteria and toxins.The Rx: If you know your area is experiencing an algae bloom, follow the instructions given by your water company. You may be required to boil the water before use or you may be advised not to use your tap water at all for a period of time. According to the EPA, nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus may encourage cyanobacteria to grow. Excessive nutrients like these can leak into water from local agricultural facilities and industrial centers. Ensure your water doesn't have high levels of these bacteria by reviewing your water report. You can also install a whole-house filter that targets these nutrients and bacteria. 25 Your stagnant tap could breed organisms Most bacteria love to grow in moist, dark places so what could be a more perfect environment than your home's pipes? If there's a breach in your pipes or they haven't been used in a while, bacteria and organisms can begin to grow and breed. If you use this contaminated water, you may begin to see negative health effects. According to Weitz, "Drinking and bathing in contaminated water can cause chronic health issues, including joint pain; damage to the brain, kidneys, and neurological system; skin rashes and other dermatological problems; body numbness; gastrointestinal illness; hair loss; and immune deficiencies. If you or a family member has any of these symptoms, your water may be to blame."The Rx: Old or corroding piping may be what's causing an influx of bacteria in your water. Consider repiping your system if it's old and showing signs of wear and tear. Pipes that have remained stagnant for a while may also produce this bacteria. Dr. Nikola Djordjevic, MD from MedAlertHelp.org, says, "When you come back home from vacation, you should let the water run from all the taps for a few minutes before drinking it. In case there is organic infestation or your plumbing system is old, this precaution should flush the contaminated water out." 26 You could be drinking raw sewage If your well water equipment fails or your public water company's sewer system backs up or stops functioning properly, it can spell disaster for the water supply. Seepage from a septic tank into your well can cause sewage to be present in your water. A natural disaster that caused flooding in your area can also negatively affect your water quality. This sewage may contain e. Coli or coliform bacteria, which can cause sickness, including diarrhea, stomach cramping, and vomiting. If you have recurrent gastrointestinal problems, your water may be contaminated with sewage.The Rx: Heed all warnings about water quality after a natural disaster and follow the instructions provided by your water company. Review your water company's annual water quality report to ensure your water is safe to drink. Have your well water tested annually and have all components tested and maintained properly. If your water's odor or color changes drastically, contact your water company to investigate. 27 A nearby coal mine could mess with your water's pH level If you live near an abandoned coal mine, you may assume that since the earth is no longer being disturbed, you don't have to worry about chemical exposure. However, the ground around a coal mine is laden with some nasty chemicals, like sulfuric acid and dissolved iron. According to the USGS, "The acid runoff further dissolves heavy metals such as copper, lead, and mercury into groundwater or surface water." Not only does this contaminated water negatively affect the nearby wildlife, it can also seep into the public water supply and cause problems with your home's drinking water.If your water's pH level isn't balanced and your water is acidic, it can quickly corrode your pipes. This can give your water an unpleasant odor, color, or smell. These metals can also make you sick, causing symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting.The Rx: According to the Water Systems Council (WSC), if you suspect your water has been contaminated by a nearby coal mine, it's important to test its pH level. Your local health department can help you find a professional to test your water. If the pH level is under 7, you'll need to take action. You can install a pH neutralizing filter and chemical feed pump to filter out these heavy metals and to inject a neutralizing solution into the water. 28 Your pipes could be corroding Whether or not you're near a coal mine, your pipes could be experiencing corrosion, which is also dangerous to your health. If your pipes are old, dealing with acidic water, or damaged in any way, they may begin to corrode. Not only can this eventually lead to a big leak, it can also expose you to lead, copper, bacteria, and other contaminants that can make you and your family sick. Dr. Kouri says, "Many old water systems utilize pipes made with lead. As these age, they may seep lead into the water supply." Lead can cause a host of health issues, from sickness to death.The Rx: Your water company's annual water quality report will not be helpful if it's your home's pipes that are causing the problem. If your water has a different taste, odor, or color, pipe corrosion may be the culprit so you'll need to test it from your faucet. A local health department professional can suggest a water tester in your area. If there is a problem, you should repipe your home. You could also get a whole-home water filter, preferably one with solid-block carbon. 29 A nearby fuel leak could seep into your tap water When you fill up your car's gas tank, do you ever wonder where the gas is stored? It's stored underneath the ground in underground storage tanks (USTs). Other industries also use these USTs to store gasoline and other chemicals underground so they're easily accessible. According to the Sierra Club, "There are 680,000 USTs and a backlog of 130,000 cleanups; 9,000 new leaks are discovered annually."When these chemicals or gases leak from their containers, they spread quickly through the ground and become present in groundwater. This eventually contaminates the public water supply. In addition to gasoline, some of the chemicals that can leak from USTs and seep into groundwater include:BenzeneXylenesCadmiumLeadNaphthaleneThe Sierra Club warns, "One pin-prick sized hole in an UST can leak 400 gallons of fuel a year." While most of the gasoline in water is quickly filtered out by the public water company's system, some of it can still be present when it reaches your tap. If nearby USTs are leaking toxic chemicals, there is no safe amount for ingestion. Exposure to these chemicals through tap water can lead to cancer. Children exposed to these chemicals through water can experience developmental issues.The Rx: If you feel your well water has been contaminated with gasoline or other chemicals, stop drinking it. You may need to connect to a public water supply instead or obtain a water treatment unit specifically designed to remove the chemical from water. If you receive water from a public water company, follow the instructions provided by the company and don't use the water until the company confirms it's safe. Warm and hot water is more likely to expose you to these contaminants, so if you use water to shower or wash clothes, always keep it cold. 30 PFAs could wreck your immune system Derek Mellencamp from Aquasana defines polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOs) as "chemical compounds that have been used in many products for their fire retardant, non-stick, and water-proof characteristics." Since these harsh chemicals are used in fire retardant foam and in other industry manufacturing, they've become present in our groundwater and in our public water supply. A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was detected in the blood of more than 98% of the U.S. population.Mellencamp warns that exposure to these chemicals is known to have, "detrimental impacts on infant and childhood growth; women's health and pregnancy; cholesterol levels, the kidneys and liver; the immune system and more." The EPA and CDC have also linked these chemicals to certain types of cancer.The Rx: Your public water company is required to inform you if your water is contaminated with unacceptable levels of these chemicals. The company may suggest that you use an alternative water source if the water isn't safe for a period of time. However, if you're concerned about PFAs and PFOs in your water, Mr. Mellencacmp suggests installing a water filter. A filter that meets the NSF Standard P473 is designed to remove these chemicals from water. If you're not sure, you can visit the NSF website to verify that the filter in question has been certified to remove these chemicals from tap water. And to get through this pandemic without catching coronavirus, don’t miss this essential list: Most COVID Patients Did This Before Getting Sick.
Living to be 100 used to be a novelty, so much so that Willard Scott, the Today Show weatherman, would announce your name on air in awe (Al Roker still does). Yet, these days it's not so uncommon to live that long. We're all living longer than ever. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently pegs 78 years of age as the average life expectancy. That's not too shabby considering a century ago people lived to be around 39 (due to an influenza outbreak).But what if we could push it 25 years more?Worldwide, there are nearly 500,000 people who have made, or surpassed, the 100-mark, and this number is projected to grow to 3.7 million by 2050. Here, Eat This, Not That! Health rounds-up the latest research that'll not only help you to live to be triple digits, but ensure you're happy doing so. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. 1 Have a Drink Don't down a bottle of Jägermeister in hopes of a long life ahead. But a glass of red wine, by all means. "Our research shows that light-to-moderate drinking might have some protective effects against cardiovascular disease," says Bo Xi, MD, associate professor at the Shandong University School of Public Health in China and the lead author of a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, "while heavy drinking can lead to death. A delicate balance exists between the beneficial and detrimental."The Rx: Red wine contains antioxidants, can lower cholesterol, reduces the risk of stroke and increases bone density. Enjoy one to two glasses a day if you wish. 2 'Meat' Less Often Eating meat less than once a week may increase longevity by 3.6 years, according to a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition. Another 22-year study out of Finland found increased mortality and disease among individuals with higher animal protein intakes.The Rx: If you must eat meat, opt for leaner proteins (chicken, turkey, lean cuts of beef) and keep off the bacon and sausages since diets heavy in processed meats are linked to higher risk of cancer and heart disease. Otherwise, explore the exciting new world of plant-based nutrition, with a product like Beyond Meat, made with pea protein. 3 Avoid Toxins Be mindful of your surroundings, and what you're breathing in. Everything from Benzene (found in gasoline), cigarette smoke, and other toxins can lead to cell degeneration and increase mortality rates, studies show.The Rx: Don't miss this essential list of 100 Ways Your Home Could be Making You Sick. 4 Dip Into the Mediterranean Diet Olive oil, veggies, fruits, nuts, seafood and a moderate amount of wine and cheese—we've all heard the Mediterranean diet is the secret to a longer life. In fact, numerous studies have linked the diet to improving brain health and function, lower risk of cancer and other diseases.The Rx: Now it's time you tried it. Eat almonds, hummus, wild salmon, garlic, lemon, quinoa, cauliflower, chia seeds and olives frequently. Eat eggs, Skyr, and chicken moderately. And eat red meat rarely. Avoid entirely the packaged, processed, store-bought items that are loaded with additives. 5 Learn About Your Genes Gene variants found in centenarians have been linked to their longer lives. A healthy lifestyle can help people live into old age, but these genes help maintain basic maintenance and function of the body's cells in individuals of advanced age, in their 80s and beyond.The Rx: You can't outrun genetics but you can learn about yours. Consider taking a DNA test, in which you'll learn about your proclivity to certain diseases. 6 …or Try the Japanese Art of Eating Japan is doing something right! It currently holds the title of longest life span, according to the World Health Organization. This may have something to do with the size of their plates. When it comes to diet, the Japanese tend to eat smaller portions—specifically the size of a salad plate—and don't overstuff themselves. Centenarians studied in Okinawa stop eating when they are 80 percent full. They also tend to live seven years longer than Americans, according to a study, and have fewer cases of heart disease and cancer.The Rx: Experiment with the 80% rule. Or at the very least, don't keep eating when you feel full. 7 Actually Use Those Vacation Days Don't work so hard; your life depends on it. A Finnish study followed male businessman born between 1919 and 1934, and found that those who didn't sleep enough, were overworked, and didn't take enough time off (i.e. vacation) were 37 percent more likely to die between the years of 1974 and 2004. By 2015, some of the oldest participants, who always took their vacay, reached 81 to 96 years of age.The Rx: Our current culture rewards non-stop go-and-do work. But at what cost? If you have vacation days, use them to unplug, and be firm with your boss if you must. He'll value your work more if you're alive than dead. 8 Binge Less Each hour you binge Netflix, Hulu, HBO—the list goes on—after the age of 25 may cut your life by 22 minutes, according to research out of the University of Queensland, Australia. Those who spent an average of six hours in front of the tube per day were also likely to die five years earlier than those that didn't watch TV at all.The Rx: There are other reasons to stop clicking "next episode." They can be addictive and eat up your time. (Robert De Niro is currently suing an ex-employee because he watched 55 episodes of Friends in a row.) Enjoy your One Day at a Time—one episode at a time. 9 Sleep…But Not Too Much A study out of the University of Naples found that too little or too much sleep—sleeping less or more than six to eight hours on average—is linked to a 30 percent higher chance of premature death.The Rx: Seven to eight hours of shuteye is the sweet spot. 10 Eat Those Mustards Packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, studies have found mustards, also known as Brassicaceae, will keep you around longer, according to researchers.The Rx: Enojy cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, radishes, watercress, Brussels sprouts and a few spices like horseradish, wasabi and, yes, white, Indian and black mustard. 11 Say Cheese Hey, none of us are getting out of this alive, but that's no reason to keep that sour mug. Researchers examined smile intensity among photos of baseball players from the 1950s. Of the players who had died in the years 2006 to 2009, those who were not smiling in those photos lived an average of 72.9 years, while the big smilers lived nearly 80 years. They concluded that there's a clear link between smiling intensity and longevity.The Rx: Men, stop telling women to smile. It's demeaning and implies they're subservient. However, given the impact on our health (mental and otherwise), we could all stand to turn that frown upside down. 12 Learn Something New (Anything!) Old dogs can't learn new tricks but you can. Education, coupled with a healthy weight, leads to a longer life expectancy, revealed a study out of the University of Edinburgh, with almost a year added to your life for each year spent studying beyond school.The Rx: Pull a Dangerfield and go back to school—even if it's just an herbalism course, knitting class or continuing ed program. 13 Choose Your Jobs Wisely Avoid certain jobs, some of the deadliest out there, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, if you want to stick around longer. On the flip side, find a job you love. You'll be happier, longer, which can impact you positively long-term.The Rx: Truck driver, farmers and construction laborers are among the most dangerous, mainly owing to vehicular accidents. 14 Live in (or Near) a Big City Country life is serene, but the Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging found that living in a major city can also support longer life spans because of stronger health systems, and more access to learning, arts, culture, and other healthy stimulants.The Rx: Eat This, Not That! Health is based in New York City and our editors can attest living here indeed makes you feel young, although struggling to afford it might age you. Weigh the fantasy versus reality before any leaps. 15 Keep Close Relationships Good relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives, a Harvard study revealed. Another study in Personal Relationships looked at 270,000 people in nearly 100 countries with a strong link to better health in older age among those with strong friend and family connections.The Rx: Send a "friend request" to someone you'd like to be closer to—and meet them in person, not just online. 16 Cut the Gut Compared with persons with a normal body mass index (18.5 to 25), those who are underweight, overweight, and obese have an increased risk of death over a 30-year period. Being too underweight, or at the extreme, obese, can impact health significantly over time, show studies.The Rx: A book like Zero Belly Diet can help you cut dairy, reduce bloat, stay plant-based and be leaner for life. 17 Think Hard About Marriage Stay away from men. That's what centenarian Jessie Gallan, at one time Scotland's oldest woman, credited for her longevity. "They're more trouble than they're worth," she said in an interview before her death in 2015. Granted, Gallan was a tough woman without or without a man. She started working at the age of 13 and spent her 109 years staying fit and having good people in her life but never walked down the aisle.The Rx: There's no definitive research supporting a link between marriage and longevity one way or the other, although one study found that "current marriage is associated with longer survival. Among the not married categories, having never been married was the strongest predictor of premature mortality." Our advice: Marry the person you want to spend your life with, and give one another room to grow. 18 Once Married, Ask Yourself, "Am I Truly Happy?" If you want to live longer, make sure you and your spouse are happy. A study published by the Association for Psychological Science found that a happy marriage can lead to a longer life.The Rx: A good marriage is linked to a more active life and healthier habits, overall. How's your relationship? 19 Have Some Kids (If it's Right for You) As stressful as parenthood gets at times, having kids can actually keep you around longer since it encourages a healthier lifestyle—you're more likely to give up smoking and stay active, shows one study.The Rx: Don't have children just to live longer. But if you do have or want kids, remember that your habits become theirs. Set the example. 20 Walk it Off Keep a good pace. Brisk walking will keep your heart healthy and add some years to your life, according to a recent Mayo Clinic study. Researchers reported that women who walked more quickly had a life span of about 87 years compared to 72 years for women who walked slowly. Meanwhile, men who walked quickly had a life span of about 86 years compared to 65 years for men who walked more slowly.The Rx: "Walking is man's best medicine," said Hippocrates. Get steppin'. 21 Get a Little Nutty A handful of nuts a day may keep the doctor away, according to Harvard University research, which found that people who crunch some nuts daily lived 20 percent longer than those who didn't.The Rx: Our favorite is almonds. Besides being an easy go-to snack that you can whip out of your bag during a good ol' 9-5 shift, almonds are also chock-full of essential vitamins and minerals, with vitamin E and biotin being the most predominant. Those nutrients enable your skin to remain smooth and gives your lush hair and strong nails the nutrition they need to flourish. 22 Keep Moving Don't stop—ever! The moment you become stagnant, things may go downhill. Stay active. A 2016 study found that elderly people who exercised for just 15 minutes a day, at an intensity level of a brisk walk, had a 22 percent lower risk of early death compared to people who don't exercise.The Rx: "For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends these exercise guidelines: Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity," reports the Mayo Clinic. 23 Spice Things Up To quote Dr. Nelly of Nellyville: It's getting hot in here. Frequent spicy food consumption is linked to a longer life. Those who eat spicy foods nearly every day have a 14 percent chance of living longer, according to a Harvard study. Capsaicin and other compounds in chili peppers have been linked to fighting cancer, obesity, and more.The Rx: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper into your eggs every morning, for a one-two punch of protein and spice. 24 Know Your Purpose in Life Researchers at the Carleton University in Canada say that having a sense of purpose may add more years to your life, because of positive relations and emotions and overall well-being.The Rx: Start small. Rather than ask yourself, "Why am I here? What is my place in the Universe" ask yourself, "What can I do today that will make me feel like I've enriched my life, or the lives of others?" 25 Get Downward, Dog Yoga can help improve digestion, calm the nervous system, lower blood sugar, and so many other tangible benefits. It's no wonder researchers say it will help increase your overall life span.The Rx: Get your chaturanga on! There's no doubt a yoga studio near you, with teachers who will welcome first-timers. For long-timers, consider a retreat. 26 Brush and Floss Taking care of your teeth and gums isn't just about preventing cavities or bad breath. The mouth is the gateway to the body's overall health. Not flossing allows plaque to build up, which then turns into tartar that can eventually irritate the gums, which can lead to various infections and disease over time. Researchers followed more than 5,400 people for 18 years and found that those who did not brush their teeth daily had a 22 to 65 percent greater risk of dementia than those who brushed three times a day.The Rx: The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day. Use fluoride toothpaste, and brush for two minutes. 27 Caffeinate with Coffee Coffee is packed with tons of healthy compounds, including antioxidants, which can protect the body against cellular damage that can lead to disease, studies show.The Rx: Drinking four to five cups daily is also associated with a reduced risk of early death. 28 Work Out! This one is pretty self explanatory. An active lifestyle will keep you around longer. Exercising at a moderate level for at least 150 minutes can add on 3.4 years to your life, according to the National Institute of Health.The Rx: Try one of these 25 Easy Exercises That Boost Your Health Fast. They really work. 29 Volunteer Helping others can only make you feel good, and it helps boost overall mental health throughout time, which impacts the body's immunity to fight disease, according to a study published in BMC Public Health.The Rx: Animal rescue shelters, national parks, Habitat for Humanity, local libraries, political campaigns and the YMCA are a few places that rarely say no to help. 30 Do the Deed Studies show sex releases endorphins and hormones in the body, which can help combat feelings of loneliness and depression, keep you physically active, reduce stress relieving, and boost mental wellness.The Rx: Take this advice seriously. Having sex is one of the 40 Things Cardiologists Do to Protect Their Hearts. 31 Take the Stairs Are there stairs nearby? Good. Use them. The European Society of Cardiology released a study showing how brisk movement, particularly being able to climb three flights quickly, can reduce your risk of early death from cardiovascular and oncologic, and other diseases.The Rx: Skip the elevators and escalators, and track your steps with a fitness watch, if you need more motivation. 32 Slice the Sugar The sweet stuff won't get you far in life—literally. Too much sugar is linked to shorter life spans, according to one study. Sugar has even been linked to reprogramming how our genes function. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 14% of the daily calories the average Ameican consumes comes from added sugars. And it shows. According to a Population Health Management publication, the number of Americans diagnosed with diabetes increased more than three times between 1990 and 2010. This just so happens to be the same years sugar starting becoming more prevalent in our food.The Rx: A book like Sugar Free 3 can teach you how to identify added sugars—and how to give them up. 33 Get Spiritual Get in touch with your spiritual side. People who attend religious services, or have some spiritual connection, typically experience lower levels of anxiety, depression, have lower blood pressure, and are generally in better health. An 18-year study published in PLOS One found that regular service attendance was linked to reductions in the body's stress responses, and worshippers were 55 percent less likely to die.The Rx: You read that right: 55 percent less likely to die. Start by defining what spirituality means to you, and then see if there's a community that supports that common interest. 34 Meditate for at Least 5-10 Minutes Daily If you're not connected to a particular religion, you can still find your spiritual balance through meditation. Not only does it improve mental health, but meditating has been linked to a lower risk of cancer and other diseases, according to a study from the University of California-Davis, which found that regular meditation produces higher levels of telomerase, an enzyme that helps lengthen the telomeres in our chromosomes, which impact aging.The Rx: Apps like Insight Timer, Headspace and Calm have taken meditating mainstream; try one. One of our favorite apps is 10% Happier, from ABC News man-turned-meditator Dan Harris. 35 Laugh Harder If you know how to laugh at things, you'll live longer. A 15-year study out of Norway assessed the link between a sense of humor and mortality rates among 53,556 men and women and found that women who had a good sense of humor lived longer, despite illnesses, including cardiovascular disease; cheerful men faired just as well with laughter protecting them from infection.The Rx: We've been obsessed with the funniest lines from HBO's Succession—and aren't even sure it's a comedy! 36 Stay Positive Want to live to 85 or longer? Optimistic thinking can add years on to your life, say researchers at Boston University School of Medicine. Optimistic people can better regulate emotions so we can bounce back from stressors and difficulties more effectively.The Rx: Technically, the glass is always half full. The other half is air. 37 Get a Little Creative, Curious ]Creativity keeps the brain healthy and may decrease mortality rates. Researchers agree. Creative people just tend to live longer.The Rx: Remember this, if something's blocking you: You don't have to be "creative" to create. 38 Love Yourself Be good to yourself. Self compassion goes a long way, say researchers. It's associated with better moods, can improve body image, and is linked to happiness, optimism, wisdom, personal initiative, and more. Overall, it improves our entire mental health, which keeps our body more resilient to stress and illnesses.The Rx: Did we mention we love that thing you said today? So smart! So funny! So wise. 39 Make Like Goldilocks People who eat fiber-rich foods, including some good 'ole oatmeal or porridge, cut their risk of dying from cardiovascular, infectious, and respiratory diseases by 24 to 56 percent in men and by 34 percent to 59 percent in women, shows one study.The Rx: Buy "regular" oatmeal and add berries for sweetness. Anything else may be loaded with dangerous added sugars. 40 Go Team Cat or Team Dog Owning a dog is linked to a longer life, according to researchers out of Uppsala University in Sweden, who reviewed national registry records of 3.4. million men and women, ages 40 to 80.If you're a cat person, you'll get some extra years from kitties as well. A study by the Minnesota Stroke Institute found that people who owned cats were 30 percent less likely to suffer a heart attack.The Rx: We mentioned volunteering at the ASPCA. If you feel truly capable of caring for a pet, discuss taking one home. We like these questions from Nylabone:"Do you have enough time for a dog?Do you work long hours?Can you make it home on your lunch break for a quick walk?Does your job require you to travel frequently?Can you afford to care for the breed you have chosen?" 41 Eat Simple Get back to basics with food. Those who incorporate more whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and fish and limiting too much sodium, unhealthy fats, excess red meat, sugar, and processed foods, improved their overall health and life expectancy.The Rx: For the web's #1 nutrition resource, and to make the right food choice every time, head to Eat This, Not That! 42 Know Your Family History Does longevity run in your family? Dig deeper into your family history, including lifestyle habits, illnesses, deaths, and beyond. It may help us tap into how long we ultimately have here.The Rx: Put together a family tree—with dates of birth, death, and causes. 43 Make Time for Tea Time Tea contains flavonoids, a compound that works to boost health. One study found that 88 percent of women were 40 percent more likely to live longer because they drank two cups of tea per day.The Rx: Go green. The most potent catechin in green tea is EGCG, the powerhouse compound that's responsible for most of green tea's weight loss properties. In addition to revving your metabolism and boosting the breakdown of fat, EGCG can also block the formation of new fat cells. 44 Find Your Healthy Weight A normal body weight may extend lifespan by delaying the process of aging. The current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention define a normal BMI range as 18.5 to 24.9; overweight is 25 or higher, and obesity is 30 or higher. Researchers report a 44 percent increase in risk of death for participants with a BMI of 30.0 to 34.9.The Rx: Talk to your doctor about the right weight for you—and ask for a recommendation for a nutritionist. 45 Pull an Aquaman Get in the water. In comparison to other physical activities, swimming is linked to more years on this planet. A 13-year study out of the University of South Carolina found that swimmers only had a 1.9 percent risk of death during the research period, while mortality rates were 11 percent for inactive, 7.8 percent for walkers, and 6.6 percent for runners.The Rx: Get off the treadmill and into the water once in a while. 46 Cycle Faster If you're cycling faster, you may live five times longer than some slower peddlers, reveals one Danish study. Higher intensity cycling is linked to decreased heart disease, and mortality rates.The Rx: Push your pedals to the metal! 47 Wash Your Hands A study found that 95 percent of people fail to wash their hands long enough to kill harmful bacteria, which can lead to infection and other illness.The Rx: Here's a tip: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends washing your hands with soap and water for 15 to 20 seconds, or the time it takes to hum or sing "Happy Birthday" twice. 48 Don't Smoke This one is obvious. Smoking (even "light" smoking) is linked to premature death and a plethora of potentially fatal illnesses along.The Rx: If you smoke, quit now. It can add another 10 years to your life.RELATED: Dr. Fauci Says Most People Did This Before Catching COVID 49 Keep Score of Your Snore Snoring is a major sign of sleep apnea, which causes you to stop breathing in your sleep as throat tissues collapse and blocks your airways. Sleep apnea is linked to everything from memory problems, high blood pressure, weight gain, depression, and can even be fatal. Nearly 42 percent of deaths in people with severe sleep apnea were attributed to stroke and cardiovascular disease or stroke, compared to the deaths in people without the condition.The Rx: If you snore—or your partner says you do—see a doctor and ask about sleep apnea. 50 Have Fun! In the end, just have a good time in this life! Mental health has a tremendous impact on our overall health and well-being. One study even found that older people, ages 52 to 76, who are enjoying life have a 35 percent lower risk of dying over a five-year period than unhappy ones. Thanks for taking time out of your life to read this far. As for yourself: to get through this pandemic without catching coronavirus, don’t miss this essential list: Most COVID Patients Did This Before Getting Sick.
Over the course of the pandemic it has become increasingly clear that some places are more risky for COVID-19 transmission than others. This is why city and state governments have opted to put certain restrictions in place, limiting gatherings in public and private venues. During Friday’s White House COVID-19 Response Team Briefing, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, revealed that new research has identified one of the key places where you are likely to catch the virus. Read on to find out where—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. Dr. Walensky of the CDC Said People Caught COVID at RestaurantsReferencing new research published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Dr. Walensky threw down the cold, hard facts. “We have demonstrated that masks work,” she said, adding that in-person dining does not. “This is not the first report that demonstrates the impact of in-person dining and how cases and deaths will follow after in-person dining,” she pointed out.“Mandating masks was associated with a decrease in daily COVID-19 case and death growth rates within 20 days of implementation. Allowing on-premises restaurant dining was associated with an increase in daily COVID-19 case growth rates 41–100 days after implementation and an increase in daily death growth rates 61–100 days after implementation,” the CDC report reads. “Mask mandates and restricting any on-premises dining at restaurants can help limit community transmission of COVID-19 and reduce case and death growth rates. These findings can inform public policies to reduce community spread of COVID-19.”“I think all of this is very consistent,” Dr. Walensky continued. “I think we’ve known that restaurants have led to cases, have led to clusters. So I think this is yet another report at a large population level or a durable period of time that has demonstrated that you have decreases in cases and deaths when you wear masks and the increases in cases and deaths when you have in-person restaurant dining.”Therefore, she states that the CDC “would advocate for policies” requiring masks and limiting in-person dining “certainly while we're at this content of a high number of cases.”RELATED: Dr. Fauci Just Said When We'd Get Back to NormalHow to Stay Safe During the PandemicSo follow the fundamentals and help end this pandemic, no matter where you live—wear a face mask that fits snugly and is double layered, don’t travel, social distance, avoid large crowds, don't go indoors with people you're not sheltering with (especially in bars), practice good hand hygiene, get vaccinated when it becomes available to you, and to protect your life and the lives of others, don't visit any of these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.
A little movement goes a long way for these three women battling underlying diseases.
It was taken by her "paparazzi" husband.
Bye bye, blonde.
Over the last few weeks, health experts are warning that the COVID-19 variants that have been popping up around the world, will likely soon become the dominating strains. So, what should you be doing to avoid becoming infected with the virus mutations? During Friday’s White House COVID-19 Response Team Briefing, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the chief medical advisor to the President and the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, revealed the tools that are available in the battle against the COVID-19 mutations. Read on to learn how to avoid the variants—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. Dr. Fauci Said the Vaccine Helps Protect Against the MutationDr. Fauci explained that the United States will likely follow in the footsteps of many European countries, who experienced “a decrease in cases over a six week period,” before plateauing. “And now over the past week, they saw an increase in cases by 9%—something we desperately want to avoid,” he explained. While it is natural for viruses including SARS-COV2 to mutate, (“I refer to it as virology 101,” he said) they do have one major flaw. “They have poor proofreading mechanisms,” he revealed. “A virus cannot mutate if it doesn't replicate and it replicates in an infected individual.” Therefore, when there is a lot of community spread, a virus is more likely to evolve and mutate. “Variants again evolve because of selection pressures, namely just fundamental pressure to enhance its own replication and propagate itself, as well as pressure to evade neutralizing antibodies,” he said. This is where vaccines come in, and why getting the vaccine is a crucial part of avoiding the mutated strain. “This has important implications for vaccines, as well as the potential role of immunosuppressed people who get infected, don't clear the virus very rapidly, and allow it to mutate in the individual,” he said. “So a suboptimal immune response favors the generation of variance.”He continued to explain that when you get a first dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, “you get a response that is protected. In this case, it would be about 52%. However, the second dose brings that level of antibodies quite high, which gives it redundancy to prevent the evolution as well as to protect against viral variance.” “Said in a just plain and simple way, suboptimally human responses to wild type virus promote the generation of variances and the lack of potency or redundancy other than immune response to protect and suppress variance is another issue of concern.”RELATED: If You Feel This You May Have Already Had COVID Says Dr. FauciHow to Stay Safe During This PandemicTherefore, getting vaccinated is key in ending the mutation. Additionally, “adherence to the public health measures in an arena of a high baseline of infections with masks, distance, avoiding congregant settings, washing hands.”So follow Fauci’s fundamentals and help end this pandemic, no matter where you live—wear a face mask that fits snugly and is double layered, don’t travel, social distance, avoid large crowds, don't go indoors with people you're not sheltering with (especially in bars), practice good hand hygiene, get vaccinated when it becomes available to you, and to protect your life and the lives of others, don't visit any of these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.
"They'll change everything you ever thought about black pants and pet hair."
You’ll find knit tanks, flutter-sleeve tees, linen pants, and more.
A history of the hedgerow and a love letter to weeds: the best books to celebrate spring. Whether you are after a novel or informative non-fiction, hope and renewal are in the air at last, writes Lia Leendertz
What could be worse than a broken heart? The fact that you may be doing the breaking. According to the CDC, heart disease is the number one killer of Americans every year—accounting for one in every four deaths—many of them preventable. You can make easy changes to your lifestyle to reduce your risk. Here are 40 things you've probably been doing that hurt your heart—and what you can do to make it better. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. 1 You Don't Know the Signs Most of us think stabbing chest pain is the telltale sign of a heart attack. In the movies, there's the classic scene where the man gasps, clutches his heart, and collapses. But heart attacks don't only strike men—heart disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S. And in women, the symptoms can be much less dramatic. According to experts at the National Heart Association, women having a heart attack may feel:Uncomfortable pressure or a feeling of fullness in the chest that lasts for a few minutes, or goes away and comes backPain that radiates into the shoulders, neck, jaw, back, or either armShortness of breath with or without chest painBreaking out in a cold sweat, vomiting and nausea, extreme fatigue, or feeling lightheadedThe Rx: These heart attack signs may be subtle, but they're no less deadly. Man or woman, if you have any of these signs, call 911 and get to a hospital. 2 You Think You're Too Young to Have a Stroke You're out shopping with a friend when your arm gets tingly and your words start slurring. This couldn't be a stroke—you're too young for that, right? Nope. Compared to 20 years ago, strokes are on the rise in people under the age of 45. A study in JAMA Neurology found that acute ischemic stroke hospitalization rates in women aged 18 to 34 rose nearly 32 percent. Researchers think this is linked to an increase in high cholesterol, tobacco use, high blood pressure and obesity.The Rx: Know the signs of a stroke. This acronym is easy to remember: FAST, which stands for facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulties, and time to call 911. 3 Your Eyes Are Turning White If you notice a white or gray ring around your iris, and you aren't a zombie, it might mean you have arcus senilis—a potential sign of high cholesterol. According to the Mayo Clinic, it's not unusual if you're over 30 years of age. If you're younger than that, it could be cause for concern. Whitening in the cornea in younger people is a potential sign of familial hyperlipidemia, a common genetic disorder that increases blood fats and increases your risk of a heart attack.The Rx: Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice these white rings around your cornea to check your cholesterol levels. 4 You're Not Flossing Enough Taking care of your teeth isn't just about having a bright white smile. The American Heart Association's journal Hypertension says there is a link between gum disease and heart disease. Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in your bloodstream (because it could get in through your bleeding gums). And, there is a connection between tooth loss and coronary artery disease.The Rx: We know it's a pain but floss every night, brush your teeth at least twice daily, and go to your dentist for a cleaning. 5 You Have a Lot of Angry Outbursts Do you see red when a driver cuts you off in traffic, or your favorite football team fumbles the ball? Uncontrolled anger can lead to an increase in heart trouble, according to the Journal of American Medicine. When you get angry, stress hormones flood your body, which causes your face to flush, your heart to race and your blood pressure to rise. Chronically angry people have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease. And if you're a man, you're more likely to experience this rage: males reported "higher rates of anger attacks/aggression, substance abuse, and risk-taking compared with women."The Rx: Anger is natural—we all get ticked off sometimes. But unsuppressed anger is bad for you, and it takes a toll. You might seek anger management therapy to find ways to manage your emotions. There's no proof it will prevent a heart attack, but it can help your peace of mind. 6 You Have a Broken Heart There really is such a thing as dying of a broken heart—it's not just something made up for romance novels. Broken Heart Syndrome is triggered by major stress, like the death of someone you love or an ugly breakup. It's a temporary heart condition sometimes called takotsubo cardiomyopathy that disrupts your heart's ability to pump normally. The good news is, broken heart syndrome is treatable and usually clears up within a few weeks.The Rx: Don't try to deal with the stress of losing a loved one alone. Reach out for help—whether to a trusted doctor, a therapist, or family and friends. No one has to go through that pain alone. 7 You Don't Have a Dog Want to get heart healthy? The American Heart Association says that owning a dog is associated with lower risk of heart disease. Not only are dogs great companions, they get more than wagging their own tails—they get your tail moving. That's because dogs need to be walked every day, and dog owners are 54 percent more likely to get at least the recommended level of exercise.The Rx: Consider adopting a pet from the Humane Society. 8 You're Rocking Out Heavy metal music gets your blood pumping, but it doesn't do much for your heart health. A study by the University of Florence found that patients who listened to classical, Celtic, or Indian music and practiced slow breathing for a half hour each day had significant improvements in blood pressure.The Rx: Don't throw out your favorite AC/DC t-shirt. But be aware of the calming effects of classical, and add some Mozart to your musical mix. 9 You Have Insomnia Sleep is essential for your health. When people suffer from insomnia, they're not just exhausted—they're at greater risk for all kinds of health problems. Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by not being able to fall asleep or stay asleep. Chronic insomnia is a sleep disturbance that happens at least three times per week and lasts for at least three months. This kind of insomnia is what puts you at greater risk. According to a report published in Hypertension, chronic insomnia is associated with a significant increase in hypertension.The Rx: You don't have to live with insomnia—it is treatable. The National Sleep Foundation recommends talking with your doctor for treatment options. 10 You're Sleeping Too Much There really can be too much of a good thing when it comes to sleep. According to a study conducted in the United Kingdom, sleeping more than 9 hours per night is linked to a 30% greater risk of early death. And napping during the day can be just as dangerous. The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that women who take naps every day are 58% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease.The Rx: Get a good night's sleep – between 7 and 9 hours. 11 You're Ignoring Your Snoring If you wake up feeling exhausted every morning, and your partner complains that you snore a lot, you may have a condition called sleep apnea. It's more than just annoying—it's dangerous. Symptoms include high blood pressure, waking up gasping for air, and the inability to concentrate. With this disorder, the muscles in the back of your throat fail to keep the airway open. Not only does this give you a terrible night's sleep and low blood oxygen levels, the National Sleep Association says it can lead to congestive heart failure, heart attack, and cardiac arrhythmia (a disturbance of your heart's rhythm).The Rx: Snoring can be a major health problem, so ask to see a sleep specialist if you think you might have sleep apnea. They can give you a diagnosis and treatment to help you get some quality sleep. 12 You're Gaining a Lot of Weight—and It's in Your Waist For decades, we've been told to worry about our body mass index (BMI) when it comes to weight. But a study by the North American Menopause Society showed that it's not how much fat, but where it is on your body that matters most to your heart. Belly fat, also called visceral fat, is the most dangerous kind because it surrounds your vital organs deep inside your body. Women who carried fat mostly in their torso were three times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than women who have more fat in their legs.The Rx: If you're having trouble keeping the weight off, talk to your doctor for advice on how to manage your risk. 13 You're Skipping the Doctor Do you only go to the doctor when you want a prescription, or think you have the flu? If so, you're not alone—26 percent of people in one recent survey said they had trouble paying for healthcare services, and 20% had canceled a visit because they couldn't afford it. (Even if you can afford it, you might be too busy to go.) If you're skipping out on your annual checkup, you could be putting your health at risk. The cuff that squeezes your arm is an important part of your screening according to the National Heart Association, because high blood pressure usually has no symptoms—so you won't know if it's out of control without going to the doctor's office. You may also have your cholesterol levels checked to see if you're at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke.The Rx: We know it can be expensive and inconvenient, but see your doctor for preventative check-ups if at all possible. 14 You're Sitting Too Much Working at a desk, driving to work, binge-watching Netflix—all of that downtime has a high price. Australian researchers found that every hour spent watching TV is linked to an 18% greater risk of death from cardiovascular disease, the same as smoking two cigarettes.The Rx: You don't have to give up watching Westworld. But take breaks every now and then to get up, stretch your muscles, or jog in place to keep your blood flowing. 15 You're Not Hanging Out with Friends Being lonely really can hurt your heart—in a literal way. According to research published in the journal Heart, people who reported not having close friendships or feelings of loneliness had a 32% higher risk of stroke, and a 29% increased risk of coronary heart disease. People who have a good circle of friends have a better chance of a longer life—social connections can help us feel more positive, recover from illness faster, and increase immune function.The Rx: Pick up the phone and call your friends. If you're feeling depressed, talk to a doctor or a therapist to get help. 16 You're Too Serious Does the weight of the world hang on your shoulders? You might benefit from a good laugh. Research has shown that laughter is linked to chemical changes in the body that reduce stress and increase pain tolerance. According to a study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, adults over the age of 60 who participated in weekly "group laughter sessions" had an increase in mineral bone density. Findings also show that people with a sense of humor are linked to a 73% lower risk of death from heart disease.The Rx: The next time it's your pick on movie night, choose a comedy instead of a dark documentary. 17 You're Taking Antibiotics By now you've probably heard that taking too many antibiotics isn't a good idea—because bacteria become resistant to them and morph into "superbugs." But antibiotics can also be bad for your heart. According to European Heart Journal, long-time antibiotic use changes the microbiome in your gut and associated with significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease.The Rx: We're not saying to stop taking your antibiotics—that can lead to other health problems. But just be aware that long-term use of any medication carries risk, and talk to your doctor about it. 18 You've Been Hospitalized Hospitals are where you go to get well—but laying in your hospital bed for too long without moving can put you at risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). That's when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in your leg. When that clot breaks off and travels up to your lungs, it's a life-threatening condition called a pulmonary embolism. Warning signs of DVT include leg pain or tenderness, leg swelling, skin that feels warm to the touch, and red streaks on the skin.The Rx: The American Heart Association recommends wearing compression stockings or getting out of your hospital bed quickly after surgery if possible. Talk to your doctor about how to manage your risk of deep vein thrombosis. 19 You're A Woman On "The Pill" Oral contraceptive pills are a highly effective birth control—but they increase risk of high blood pressure in some women. According to the American Heart Association, this is most likely in women who smoke, are overweight, have had high blood pressure during pregnancy, or have a family history of high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a silent killer – many adults don't even know they have it because there are often no obvious symptoms.The Rx: Don't quit taking your medication without talking to your doctor first. 20 You Smoke (Or You Breathe Secondhand Smoke) The science is clear: smoking is bad for your heart. According to the CDC, smoking is a major cause of cardiovascular disease—and not just in the ways you might think. Lighting up can raise triglycerides (a fat in your blood), lower your "good" HDL cholesterol, make your blood stickier and more prone to clotting, cause thickening and narrowing of your blood vessels, and a whole host of other nasty side effects. The effects are significant for nonsmokers who breathe secondhand smoke at home or work, too—a 25% increased risk of heart disease and 20% greater risk of stroke.The Rx: Quit the sticks. If you're having trouble kicking your smoking habit, talk with your doctor. And to live your happiest and healthiest life, don't miss this essential list of the Worst Things For Your Health—According to Doctors. 21 You Are Depressed The mind-body connection is well known in the medical community. So, it comes as no surprise that mental pain can cause physical pain. Research shows that people with cardiovascular disease are more likely to have depression, and people with depression are more likely to have cardiovascular disease—the two are linked. But they link is also proportional, which means the more severe your depression, the more likely you are to develop heart disease and die from it.The Rx: Don't suffer from depression in silence. Seek help from a therapist—there's zero shame in taking care of your mental health. 22 You Don't Know Your Numbers There is debate about whether keto diets are good for your health, but the science is clear on one thing: too much LDL cholesterol is linked to heart disease. LDL causes fatty deposits to build up in your arteries, which reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to your heart. The American Heart Association says it's vital for men and women to keep a close eye on their cholesterol.The Rx: Start eating a heart-healthy diet and limit your red meat, saturated fats like coconut oil, and full-fat dairy. You can also increase your intake of "good" HDL cholesterol 23 You're Not Eating Your Veggies Your mom was right—you have to eat your vegetables if you want to be healthy. The CDC recommends 2 cups of fruit per day and 3 cups of vegetables for adults for a healthy diet because they are rich in nutrition and low in calories. And, according to an English study of 65,000 adults over more than 7 years, those who ate the most produce every day lowered their risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 31%.The Rx: Any amount of green is good for you, so don't be scared off by a high target. 24 You're Eating Too Much Sugar Sorry donut lovers: even if you're at a healthy weight, a diet high in sugar may increase your risk of heart disease. According to a study published in the Journal of American Medicine, people who ate more than 25% of their calories as sugar were more than twice as likely to die from heart disease as those whose diets had less than 10% sugar. Now, not all sugars are "bad"—naturally occurring sugars like lactose (milk) and fructose (fruit) aren't the same as added sugars, like the ones in your large vanilla latte.The Rx: The American Heart Association advises women to limit added sugar—less than 100 calories per day, or about 6 teaspoons. For men it's about 150 calories, or 9 teaspoons. 25 You've Had Breast Cancer Breast cancer is one of the scariest things a woman can go through. If you're over the age of 45 and have completed your cancer treatment, you have a greater risk of heart disease. According to a Brazilian study published in Menopause, when compared with women over 45 who had not experienced breast cancer, those who underwent treatment have a much higher likelihood of cardiovascular problems.The Rx: You can manage your risk by making heart-healthy lifestyle changes, like eating less saturated fat and exercising more. 26 You Are A Woman with Diabetes Diabetes is a common condition in the United States—affecting about 1 in every 11 people. It's what happens when your body can't make enough insulin, and sugar builds up in the bloodstream. According to the CDC, women with diabetes have a 40% greater risk of developing heart disease and a 25% greater risk of stroke than men do.The Rx: If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor about how to lower your risk of heart disease. 27 You're Chewing Tobacco Some people think they can avoid the nasty side effects of cigarettes by chewing tobacco instead—but it's not a safer option. Chewing tobacco is a smokeless tobacco that's placed in the cheek and sucked, and doing so raises your heart rate and blood pressure. According to the CDC, smokeless tobacco is linked to cancer, addiction to nicotine, and increased risk of death from stroke or heart disease.The Rx: Just don't do it. If you're already chewing tobacco, see your doctor to get help quitting. 28 You Are Stressed Out When you have trouble at work or an unexpected bill, can you handle it? Everyone feels and experiences stress differently. But when your stress gets out of control, you can feel it in your body – because stress makes your body release adrenaline. That hormone makes your breathing and heart rate speed up temporarily as you prepare for "fight or flight." According to one study, "prolonged inflammatory response may inflict serious damage upon its host."The Rx: If you are feeling super stressed, try doing some yoga or going for a walk—or for a quick fix, watch some cat videos. Laughter really can be the best medicine. 29 You Have Anemia If you feel exhausted all the time, it might be because you have anemia. This condition develops when your blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells (or hemoglobin). These cells carry oxygen. So, when you don't have enough red blood cells, your body doesn't get enough oxygen and your organs don't function properly. This can lead to an irregular heartbeat, because your heart has to pump more to make up for the lack of oxygen in the blood – which can lead to an enlarged heart or heart failure. According to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, anemia is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.The Rx: Eat more leafy greens (like spinach) with high levels of iron—or take an iron supplement—to help combat anemia. 30 You're Not Exercising Enough The next time you think about skipping exercise to sleep in, think twice. As many as 250,000 deaths per year in the United States are linked to a lack of exercise. In fact, being a couch potato is one of the top five risk factors for heart disease, along with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and obesity.The Rx: The American Heart Association advises adults to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. You don't have to compete in the Ironman—ballroom dancing, a round of tennis, or a brisk walk will do the trick. 31 You're Exercising Too Much Love hitting the gym for hours at a time? You could be putting your heart at risk. A study in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that adults who did more than three times the recommendations—150 minutes of moderate exercise per week—could be doing cardiovascular damage. Another study from Denmark found that people who jogged a lot, and at higher intensity, were more likely to die during the course of the study than those who exercised less often. In fact, it was almost the same risk as those who did not exercise at all.The Rx: Don't overdo it—20 minutes of moderate exercise every day is the sweet spot for heart health. 32 You Have High Blood Pressure Here's a scary thought: almost half of all adults in the United States have high blood pressure, and most of us don't even know it. According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure is called a silent killer because it often doesn't show any obvious symptoms. Hypertension is what happens when the force of blood is consistently too high. A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80. When left unchecked, high blood pressure can lead to damage to your circulatory system, stroke, heart attack and other health problems.The Rx: See your doctor regularly to have your blood pressure checked. Limit salt and alcohol, and try to exercise regularly. 33 You're Taking Too Much Aspirin You might think of aspirin as a harmless over-the-counter drug, and since it's been pushed as heart-healthy, why not pop one? It might surprise you to learn that aspirin can actually cause deadly complications in some people. The FDA warns that while aspirin can help prevent a heart attack by "thinning" the blood, that could cause the unwanted side effect of bleeding in the heart or brain.The Rx: Talk to your doctor before you start taking aspirin for your heart so you can weigh the benefits and risks. 34 You're Eating Too Much Red Meat Sorry, carnivores—that juicy steak is bad for your heart. A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that people who eat red meat—but not vegetarians or those who eat only white meat like pork—have increased levels of the chemical trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). This compound is made by gut bacteria to digest food, and has been found to raise the risk of heart disease and early death. Not only that, but a diet heavy in red meat can actually change kidney function. Some people in the study had a ten-fold increase in TMAO levels after only a month of eating red meat, which didn't happen in people who ate poultry, fish, or other non-meat sources of saturated fat.The Rx: Watch your intake of red meats. The American Heart Association advises baked fish, skinless poultry, and trimmed lean meats—but no more than 5.5 cooked ounces daily. 35 You Haven't Tried Probiotics By now, you've probably seen bottles of probiotics on the pharmacy shelf. Many people reach for them to stay "regular," or help reset the system after taking antibiotics. Probiotics are "good bacteria" found in foods prepared by fermentation like kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. So, when you pick up a container of yogurt and read "active live cultures Lactobacillus"—that's your probiotic. Some scientists think probiotics may help lower risk of heart disease. The European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that certain yogurts decreased total cholesterol by 4% within one to two months.The Rx: Studies on probiotics are ongoing, so more therapeutic uses are likely to come. It never hurts to eat a little yogurt (as long as it's not loaded with too much sugar). 36 Your Heart Rate Is Too Low Do you get dizzy or feel like you might pass out for no reason? You might have a low heart rate. This is sometimes a sign of a strong heart—but if it's too slow, it can be cause for concern. A normal resting heart rate for adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute – that means your heart isn't working too hard to pump blood. Elite athletes in top cardiovascular condition often have heart rates under 60 BPM. But if you're not training for a triathlon, it could be a sign of bradycardia, where your heart isn't pumping often enough. Left untreated long-term, this can lead to heart failure, low blood pressure, high blood pressure, and chest pain.The Rx: A low heart rate doesn't always require treatment. If you're noticing dizzy spells or other troublesome symptoms, talk to your doctor. 37 You Love Your Hot Tub Too Much Soaking in a hot tub is one of the best ways to relax and unwind—but for some, it can be dangerous. When you spend too long immersed in hot water, you could experience blood pressure that's too low. That's because heat can make your vessels dilate, which lowers your blood pressure and makes your heart work harder, which is taxing on an unhealthy heart.The Rx: The Mayo Clinic says it's probably ok for people with stable heart disease to use hot tubs, as long as they limit the time to 15 minutes or less. 38 You Haven't Tried CBD Oil Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a natural remedy that seems to be everywhere right now. It's created by extracting only CBD from the cannabis plant. That way, you get the health-related benefits of cannabis without the "high"—because CBD is not psychoactive. While the overall health benefits are still uncertain, recent research has shown a link to heart health, stating "a single dose of CBD reduces resting blood pressure and the blood pressure response to stress."The Rx: The effects of CBD oil are still being studied, so it's uncertain exactly what the risks and benefits are. If you're taking other medications, be sure to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this remedy a try. And to get through this pandemic without catching coronavirus, don’t miss this essential list: Most COVID Patients Did This Before Getting Sick.
The royal shared some books she and her stepson "had such a special time reading."
While the COVID-19 situation has improved since the late fall and early winter months, when surge-upon-surge of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths were occuring, we still aren’t at the finish line. During Friday’s White House COVID-19 Response Team Briefing, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), asked the country to slow down and consider the specifics before doing something that could be detrimental to the health of the nation. Read on to find out what she is asking—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. Dr. Walensky Said You Cannot Stop Wearing Your MaskAs some states—including Texas and Mississippi—are starting to ease COVID-19 restrictions, Dr. Walensky is begging the country not to abandon the fundamentals. She pointed to an article published today in the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report “highlighting the critical importance of these prevention strategies to end the real risks when prevention measures are eased.”“This study looked at the relationship between COVID-19 cases and deaths and both state issued mask mandates and restaurants resuming on premises dining from March to September of 2020,” she explained. “The researchers found that increases in both daily death rates and COVID cases and deaths slowed significantly within 20 days of putting mask mandates into place and protective effects of the mask mandates grew stronger over time.” However, in contrast, “increases in daily death rates of COVID-19 cases and death grew more quickly within 40 to 80 days following restaurants being allowed to resume on premises dining.”“This report is a critical reminder that with the current levels of COVID-19 in communities and the continued spread of more transmissible virus variants, which have now been detected in 48 States, strictly following prevention measures remains essential for putting an end to this pandemic,” she pointed out. “It also serves as a warning about premature lifting these prevention measures.”She concluded by offering some hope. “There is a light at the end of this tunnel, but we must be prepared for the fact that the road ahead may not be smooth,” she said, adding that it “is within our control by continuing to wear a mask and following CDC's public health recommendations while we get more people vaccinated. We can bring this pandemic to an end.”RELATED: If You Feel This You May Have Already Had COVID Says Dr. FauciHow to Get Through This Pandemic SafelySo follow Fauci’s fundamentals and help end this pandemic, no matter where you live—wear a face mask that fits snugly and is double layered, don’t travel, social distance, avoid large crowds, don't go indoors with people you're not sheltering with (especially in bars), practice good hand hygiene, get vaccinated when it becomes available to you, and to protect your life and the lives of others, don't visit any of these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the safety of vaccines, and their feelings about the Pfizer vaccine are clear: “FDA evaluated and analyzed the safety and effectiveness data from clinical trials conducted in tens of thousands of study participants and manufacturing information submitted by Pfizer-BioNTech” and found “clear evidence that Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine may be effective in preventing COVID-19 and support that the known and potential benefits outweigh the known and potential risks of the vaccine’s use.” So what are those risks? Read on to see who should not get the vaccine—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. 1 Here’s Who Should Not Get the Vaccine, Says the FDA You may have heard that a small number of people had severe allergic reactions to the Pfizer vaccine. “Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported following administration of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine during mass vaccination outside of the clinical trial setting,” says the FDA. Therefore: “You should not get the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine if you: had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of this vaccinehad a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient of this vaccine.” "What the Pfizer people are saying is that if you have a history of a severe allergic reaction, you should either not take this vaccine, or if you do take it, take it in the context of a place where if you do develop an allergic reaction, it could be readily and effectively treated," said Dr. Anthony Fauci in a CNBC Healthy Returns Livestream. Keep reading to see what exactly is in the vaccine, to see if you might be allergic. 2 So What’s in the Vaccine? Says the FDA: “The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine includes the following ingredients: mRNA, lipids ((4-hydroxybutyl)azanediyl)bis(hexane-6,1-diyl)bis(2-hexyldecanoate), 2 [(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide, 1,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3- phosphocholine, and cholesterol), potassium chloride, monobasic potassium phosphate, sodium chloride, dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, and sucrose.” Next see what you should tell your vaccine administrator before getting yours. 3 What You Should Tell Your Vaccine Administrator Before Getting the Vaccine According to the FDA, “tell the vaccination provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: have any allergies have a fever have a bleeding disorder or are on a blood thinner are immunocompromised or are on a medicine that affects your immune system are pregnant or plan to become pregnant are breastfeeding have received another COVID-19 vaccine.” 4 Discuss Your Case With Your Doctor, if You Have Allergy Concerns The CDC has some good advice for those unsure: “If you have had an immediate allergic reaction—even if it was not severe—to a vaccine or injectable therapy for another disease, ask your doctor if you should get a COVID-19 vaccine. Your doctor will help you decide if it is safe for you to get vaccinated,” they explain. Additionally, those with an allergy to polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polysorbate should also avoid getting it. “These recommendations include allergic reactions to PEG and polysorbate. Polysorbate is not an ingredient in either mRNA COVID-19 vaccine but is closely related to PEG, which is in the vaccines. People who are allergic to PEG or polysorbate should not get an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine,” they explain. RELATED: Dr. Fauci Just Said When We'd Get Back to Normal 5 Serious Adverse Events Are Rare The FDA says “serious adverse events, while uncommon (<1.0%), were observed at slightly higher numerical rates in the vaccine study group compared to the saline placebo study group, both overall and for certain specific adverse events occurring in very small numbers,” says the FDA. “These represented common medical events that occur in the general population at similar frequency. Upon further review by FDA, these imbalances do not raise a safety concern, nor do they suggest a causal relationship to vaccination for the vast majority of reported serious adverse events.Serious adverse events considered by FDA to be plausibly related to the vaccine or vaccination procedure were one case of shoulder injury at the vaccination site and one case of swollen lymph node in the armpit opposite the vaccination arm.”So barring any allergies, get vaccinated when it becomes available to you, and to protect your life and the lives of others, don't visit any of these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.
A major study on nearly 2 million adults worldwide confirms what nutrition experts have been suggesting for decades: Eat your fruits and vegetables. Best of all? It actually doesn't take much to get health benefits that can extend your life.Research published in the journal Circulation compared data on 26 studies that encompassed the eating habits of 1.9 million people from 29 countries. Researchers found that eating about five servings of fruits and vegetables—particularly if it's three servings of veggies and two of fruit—was associated with the lowest risk of death. Eating more than that amount was not shown to provide additional benefits in terms of longevity. (Related: The 7 Healthiest Foods to Eat Right Now).Those in the study who consumed at least five servings had a 13% lower risk of death from all causes, and that was particularly notable with respiratory disease—that many servings conferred 35% lower risk of death from a condition such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Not all fruits and vegetables offered the same benefits, however. Starchy vegetables like peas, corn and potatoes, as well as fruit juices, didn't seem to offer as much risk reduction compared to more vitamin-packed options like green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and berries.Keep in mind that five servings may be less than you think. Here are some examples of a single serving size:Half an avocado5 broccoli florets16 grapes1 small banana4 large strawberries1 cup raw lettuce or other leafy greensHalf of a large bell pepper1 medium apple, about the size of your fist1 kiwifruit7 cherry tomatoesAlthough the recent study found that five servings seemed to be the sweet spot for longer life, that doesn't mean eating more won't give you other health benefits, according to John Bagnulo, PhD, director of nutrition at The Center for Mind-Body Medicine. He says gut health is particularly important for a range of advantages, from better digestion to improved immunity to a happier mood, and fruits and veggies are the best gut-health boosters."Not only are you getting more vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables, but you're also getting the best possible source of fiber when you eat them," he says. "I suggest getting two cups per meal, or about half your plate. There is honestly no downside to increasing your fruit and vegetable consumption."For more, be sure to check out 7 Habits That Are Hurting Your Immune System, According to Harvard.
This isn't very reassuring. 😥
In just a few months, we went from having no COVID vaccines to three—the Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson&Johnson. So, which one is right for you? In an interview with Blue Star Families CEO Kathy Roth-Douquet, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the chief medical advisor to the President and the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases discusses the differences between the three, including how efficient they are in terms of protection against the virus, and reveals which you should get. Read on to learn the answer—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. 1 Pfizer and Moderna Are “Messenger RNA Vaccines” Dr. Fauci started by explaining the difference between the three vaccines, revealing that the Pfizer and the Moderna, the first to become available to the public, are messenger RNA vaccines. “Messenger RNA is the genetic code that tells the body to make certain proteins,” he explained. “So when you inject it into an individual, it codes for the spike protein on the virus, and the body sees that, thinks it's the virus, but it's not. It's just a protein of the virus. It makes a good immune response. And then when you get exposed to the actual virus, you're protected, that's the MRNA of Pfizer and Moderna.” 2 Johnson&Johnson Is “A Little Bit Different” “It's a little bit different with the J&J,” he continued. However, “the ultimate end game is you still make an immune response to the spike protein, but instead of injecting just the MRNA, you get a benign harmless cold virus called adenovirus. And you stick in that, the gene, the DNA of the spike protein, which then codes for RNA, which then codes for the protein.” 3 All Three Offer Protection Against the Virus The bottom line? “At the end of the day, both of them are inducing a response to the spike protein of the COVID-19 virus, which we call SARS-COV2,” Dr. Fauci continued. “So they're called different vaccine platforms. Both are very effective, highly effective, particularly against severe disease requiring hospitalization and sometimes leading to death.” 4 So, Which Should You Get? Dr. Fauci advises not to discriminate against any of the three vaccines. “I would recommend, get the first one you could get,” he revealed. “If you go into a clinic and one vaccine is available now, and another one will be available in a month, I would go right for the one that's available now. Given the circulation of viruses in the community, you want to get protected as quickly and as expeditiously as you possibly can.” 5 Get the Vaccine, ASAP And, he stands by this advice, even if it is revealed that any or all of these vaccines do not protect against the variants, which soon could become the dominating strains. “The best way to get protected against the new strains is to get vaccinated and get a high enough titer to the strain that's contained in the vaccine, even though it isn't matched directly to the strain that's in the community. What it is is that a high enough titer will give you enough cushion to get some degree of protection against the variants,” he said. “So I would not wait. Waiting would be a mistake.” RELATED: Dr. Fauci Just Said When We'd Get Back to Normal 6 Do Your Part in Ending the Pandemic So follow Fauci’s fundamentals and help end this pandemic, no matter where you live—wear a face mask that fits snugly and is double layered, don’t travel, social distance, avoid large crowds, don't go indoors with people you're not sheltering with (especially in bars), practice good hand hygiene, get vaccinated when it becomes available to you, and to protect your life and the lives of others, don't visit any of these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.
It’s hard to tell the precise moment you’ve caught coronavirus. “One of the biggest problems with COVID-19 is that by the time you know you are infected, on average, you will have already infected three other people,” Dr. Deborah Lee tells Eat This, Not That! Health. “The virus is highly contagious in the early stages – before you even know anything is wrong.”“People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported—ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness,” says the CDC. “Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19”—read on to see if you have any of these symptoms, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus. 1 Fever or Chills The is the #1 most common sign you may have COVID-19. “The medical community generally defines a fever as a body temperature above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. A body temp between 100.4 and 102.2 degree is usually considered a low-grade fever,” reports OSF Healthcare. “In the age of COVID-19, one of the things people should keep in mind is that if they are having any kind of fever that is persisting, they should probably go get tested,” Dr. Sarah Joseph, MD, an internal medicine and pediatrics specialist, tells OSF. 2 Cough The CDC says a cough is a sign you may have coronavirus; more specifically, the cough is usually dry. “Considering that COVID-19 irritates lung tissue, the cough is dry and persistent. It is accompanied with shortness of breath and muscle pain,” reports Science Alert. “As disease progresses, the lung tissue is filled with fluid and you may feel even more short of breath as your body struggles to get enough oxygen.” 3 Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing “Shortness of breath refers to unexpectedly feeling out of breath, or winded….However, if you find that you are ever breathing harder or having trouble getting air each time you exert yourself, you always need to call your doctor,” reports Harvard Health. “That was true before we had the recent outbreak of COVID-19, and it will still be true after it is over. Meanwhile, it's important to remember that if shortness of breath is your only symptom, without a cough or fever, something other than COVID-19 is the likely problem.” 4 Fatigue Fatigue is a common symptom for people with COVID—and for people who have already had COVID and are suffering from Post-COVID Syndrome. Unlike being sleepy from, say, a hard day’s work, a COVID fatigue is a “full body tired,” as if you have physically lost the will or ability to move as much as you normally do. This can last for the duration of your illness—or, for “long haulers,” for months and perhaps forever. 5 Muscle or Body Aches Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, has warned of “myalgia” in some long-haulers, and those who have just contracted COVID may also experience aches, pains or cramps. 6 Headache “My fever was always around 101.6, give or take. Tylenol seemed to be keeping it at bay, sort of. I was already on an antibiotic, an inhaler and a cough syrup with codeine so I could sleep at night. None of which seemed to be doing anything,” reported Broadway actor Danny Burstein. “My friend described the headaches like a hammer inside his head that was trying to chip its way out. That's an understatement.” 7 New Loss of Taste or Smell “Temporary loss of smell, or anosmia, is the main neurological symptom and one of the earliest and most commonly reported indicators of COVID-19,” reports Harvard Medical School. It is often accompanied by a sudden loss of taste. “Studies suggest it better predicts the disease than other well-known symptoms such as fever and cough, but the underlying mechanisms for loss of smell in patients with COVID-19 have been unclear.” 8 Sore Throat “A sore throat is usually marked by:Pain or feelings of dryness, scratchiness or rawness in the throatDifficulty talking and swallowingSore and swollen glands in the neckRedness or patches of pus in the throat and on the tonsils,” reports Sharp Health News. “However, research shows only 5% to 14% of people with COVID-19 experienced pain or irritation in the throat. More common symptoms include fever, dry cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, headache and sudden loss of taste or smell.” 9 Congestion or Runny Nose “Congestion/runny nose is common for the common cold and would be uncommon to be the only symptom for influenza,” reports the University of Michigan Health. “Congestion/runny nose can be a symptom of a COVID infection and might be the only symptom in mild cases.” 10 Nausea, Vomiting or Diarrhea “COVID-19 might cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms, including a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea,” reports the Mayo Clinic. “These symptoms might only last one day. Some people with COVID-19 have diarrhea and nausea prior to developing fever and respiratory symptoms.”Note that, per the CDC, “this list does not include all possible symptoms. CDC will continue to update this list as we learn more about COVID-19.” 11 Emergency Warning Signs The symptoms you just read about indicate you may have COVID; if you experience them, contact a medical professional and schedule a test. Also: “Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately,” says the CDC:Trouble breathingPersistent pain or pressure in the chestNew confusionInability to wake or stay awakeBluish lips or face“This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you,” and to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don't miss these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.
Fido has nothing on these cute pups. From Redbook