This Half-Minute Health Helper video from Life Line Screening focuses on the positive results from one study that associated general, overall health to lower risk of disease – specifically, Alzheimer’s disease. Taking care of yourself really is all it’s cracked up to be, and this study proves it.

Learn more about the study results by watching the video below. For more information on ways to lower or identify your risk of serious health conditions like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and more, explore the preventive health screenings offered by Life Line Screening. Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about what you can do for

For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health-Helpers: Your Overall Health

Here is the audio text to the video:

“Many healthcare professionals actually believe you can delay or even prevent Alzheimer’s disease by taking care of your overall health.

It’s true. A study done by Chinese researchers, long-known for proactive healthcare, found that individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s. So just remember to take a preventative, proactive approach to your overall health.”

We hope you will read the following statement to gain a better understanding of the value of Life Line Screening’s services – and recognize that many who are quick to criticize commercial screenings may not be considering all the facts. You can also read what our many satisfied customers have to say on our Testimonials page – real stories from real patients and the value screenings had for them.

Preventing Screenings Misconceptions

As a clinical vascular surgeon for 30 years, I have seen many terrible health outcomes, including strokes and ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA), which could have been easily prevented had the patient only known of their presence. So much death and terrible disability could be avoided by identification of previously unknown disease and successful preventive measures.

In order to prevent readers from developing misconceptions about Life Line Screening and the services we provide, I would like to address several of the key points raised by our critics in the recent Kaiser Health News/Washington Post story:

Why screenings are necessary

Critics in the story assert that Life Line Screening conducts unnecessary testing, with a particular negative focus on vascular screening. The reality is that many people are at risk for diseases such as stroke and heart disease but experience no symptoms until it is too late.

Vascular disease currently represents the top cause of preventable death in the United States. U.S. patients suffer over 800,000 strokes per year – 80% without warning, and the risk of stroke doubles every decade after age 55 (1). Carotid artery disease, a leading immediate cause of strokes (2), can be easily discovered by an ultrasound quick scan while asymptomatic, and with effective management, strokes can be prevented.

Some critics in the article contend that the incidence of disease found from screenings is too low to make them worthwhile. According to our database of over 8 million screenings, approximately 8% of our patients are revealed to have a serious to moderate incidence of disease. We think the chance to alert these patients they are at risk and give them the ability to work with their physician to better manage their health and take action when medical intervention or lifestyle changes can still make a difference, is certainly “worthwhile.”

Who we screen

The story implies all screening companies are the same and will screen the general market indiscriminate of whether it makes sense for the consumer. This is not accurate, as there are many companies who screen based upon recognized appropriate risk factors. This is exactly the case for Life Line Screening. 93% of our patients have one or more risk factors (the same criteria used by many respected hospitals) and the average age of our patients is 62. That’s far from the characterization of broadly screening the general market, and in contrast, supports that our screenings offer a valued healthcare service for today’s seniors – many of whom face significant access to care challenges and need options outside the traditional system.

What USPSTF is, and what it isn’t

The author and others in the story rely heavily on the guidelines of the U.S. Preventive Task Force. However, this organization’s chief role is to provide recommendations to federal programs like Medicare on what services should be paid for with tax-payer dollars – not evaluate new healthcare services for consumers. They do not examine community-based screening for the purposes of early identification and treatment with lifestyle coaching and medical management, which is what Life Line Screening does.

The guidelines referenced are also seven years old and are currently undergoing review, which will necessarily include new evidence in the literature not available at the time of their initial recommendation. For example, under the current limited guidelines for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screenings, 50% of AAAs will be missed (3).

These facts help to explain why their recommendations, particularly around carotid artery screenings have generated widespread controversy and criticism from well respected experts calling for it to be reexamined – at the very least making it clear that relying solely on this recommendation as a rationale for dismissing these screenings is a mistake.

Hopefully this information and data help clarify some of the information presented in this recent story. If you have any further questions about Life Line Screening and the services we provide, feel free to reach out to Joelle Reizes, our Global Communications Director, at JReizes@llsa.com.

Sincerely,
Andrew J. Manganaro, MD

Diplomate, American Board of Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Thoracic Surgery
Member, International Society for Endovascular Surgery
Fellow, American College of Cardiology
Member, Society for Vascular Medicine
Member, Society for Vascular Surgery
Fellow, American College of Surgeons
Member, Society for Vascular Ultrasonography
Fellow, International College of Surgeons
Fellow, International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery

References:

(1) NIDDS: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/stroke/stroke_needtoknow.htm
(2) The NIH Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy vs Stenting Trial (CREST) Fact Sheet, found at: http://stroke.nih.gov/programs/crest-fact-sheet.htm
(3) Kent CK, Zwolak RM, Egorova NN, et al. Analysis of risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysms in a cohort of more than 3 million individuals. J Vasc Surg 2010; 52: 539-48.

• A healthier heart.
• Burned calories.
• A healthier brain.
• Steadier blood sugar levels.
• A connection to other people.
• And much more.

So take a minute and laugh today. Tell a joke to a co-worker. Laugh off that embarrassing moment you’ve been thinking about. Smile. Have a hoot. Your body deserves to experience the many benefits of a full, hilarious howl of laughter.

The Need for Women’s Health Awareness

Although May is National Stroke Awareness month, May 12 through 18 is also National Women’s Health Week – a time to focus on improving women’s health through preventive action.

Recent data shows that not all American women are living longer than previous generations. In 43 percent of the country’s counties from 2002 to 2006, women’s mortality rates have actually become worse than they were in 1992 through 1996. It’s also important to note that the United States ranks 49th in the world for women’s health.

With dangerous health conditions like heart disease, the number one killer of American women, preventive action can make a difference. Identifying a heart problem before it becomes catastrophic has the potential to save lives. Other conditions like type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and stroke can also be prevented.

Learn more about the importance of Women’s Health Week and preventive health screenings now.

New Stroke Device Promises Better Patient Outcomes

Stroke kills one American every four minutes. Think about it. That’s a great deal of preventable deaths.

Catching a stroke early is one of the best ways to lower the chances of a patient suffering dangerous, life-altering consequences. Two new stent-retrievers used in the United States have the potential to provide better outcomes for patients suffering from strokes.

Although not a preventive measure, these medical devices are used in surgery to stop an ischemic stroke before it worsens. They are used by physicians to trap and remove a large clot within the brain artery, thereby allowing blood flow to the brain and stopping damage to the brain cells. These devices are best for patients who are not candidates for clot-dissolving medications or who have not responded to medications.

Read more about these revolutionary medical devices here.

Diet Myths You Should Avoid

Do you think all calories are equal, so it doesn’t matter what you eat? Think again. ABC News recently released a list of diet myths that can actually make you gain weight, and this is one of them. The truth is, all calories are not equal. Your body burns and stores various foods differently. Some foods take more work to burn and store, meaning you can burn more calories depending on which foods you eat.

Another common myth is that strength training will “bulk you up”. Both a pound of muscle and a pound of fat weigh the same – a pound – however muscle is denser than fat, meaning a pound of muscle will take up less space than a pound of fat. Muscle weight is good weight because it can actually make you look smaller. It also boosts metabolism throughout the day and helps keep you leaner over time.

Read more diet myths from the ABC News article here.

Get Involved on LifeLongHealth.com

We’re talking latest health news, nutrition, staying active, and more on LifeLongHealth.com. Want to get involved in a discussion? Here’s what’s trending right now.

• One Meal Only If you could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? Share with us here.
• VIDEO: Dr. Oz’s Recommendations on Vitamins
  In this video, Dr. Oz discusses his recommendations on vitamins that we should take to strengthen our health. Watch the video and then share your thoughts with us.
• Heart Cath What does a heart cath procedure feel like? Help ease the worries of one LifeLong Health member by sharing your own heart cath experience here.

Diabetes is an ongoing threat to the well-being of people all around the globe. Not only is type 2 diabetes a serious disease that can forever alter someone’s life, it’s also a major risk factor for other conditions like stroke, kidney failure and heart disease.

Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which the body can’t properly produce enough insulin, the hormone that converts food into energy. People with diabetes can live with it for years without even realizing they have it. In fact, many people don’t learn they have the condition until it leads to something detrimental, like stroke.

Every day, about 280 Australians develop diabetes. Unbeknownst to many, diabetes is Australia’s fastest growing chronic disease, and just like our U.S. branch of Life Line Screening, the Australian Screen For Life is committed to lowering this statistic. How? By offering glucose/type 2 diabetes screenings that can identify the condition before it worsens.

It is recommended that people over the age of 45 should undergo a blood glucose test for type 2 diabetes. Adults with high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels should also be screened for the disease. Other risk factors that may prompt the need for screening include family history, being overweight, physical inactivity, and having high triglycerides.

Together with the preventive health screenings in the United States and the United Kingdom, Screen For Life strives to promote lifelong health and well-being by identifying either risk of type 2 diabetes or valuable peace of mind. It doesn’t matter where you live – your health deserves to be taken care of. Do it for yourself, your family, and your friends.

Learn more about the health screening services in Australia provided by Screen For Life to decide if scheduling a health screening is right for you today.

In today’s weekly health motivation post, take some words of wisdom from Frank Sinatra to live a life that makes you happy – and healthy – for years to come.

“I faced it all and I stood tall and did it my way.” – Frank Sinatra.

Back to Basics: FAST Stroke Signs

May is National Stroke Awareness month, and even though many of us have probably heard of the most common stroke risk factors and warning signs, it’s important to be reminded. Catching a stroke early can drastically improve a person’s chances of recovering without life-altering, catastrophic consequences.

When the brain experiences a lack of blood supply because of a blocked artery, a stroke may occur. By following the FAST tool, you can help detect the symptoms and responsiveness of someone suffering a stroke.

F = Face: Ask the person to smile. Is the smile uneven? Does one part of the smile droop?
A = Arms: Can the person raise both of their arms? See if one arm is weaker than the other.
S = Speech: Do the person’s words slur together? Can you understand what they are saying?
T = Time = If you notice any of the above stroke signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Read more about stroke warning signs and risk factors here: http://www.lifelinescreening.com/disease-information/stroke.aspx?WT.svl=1

Depression and Alzheimer’s Development

One new study found a link between depression and later development of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. Vascular dementia is a condition caused by reduced or blocked blood flow to the brain. This can deprive the brain of essential nutrients and oxygen, killing brain cells.

Published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, the analysis combines 23 prior students of 50,000 older adults over five years. Results showed that the participants who suffered from depression were 65 percent more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and more than twice as likely to develop vascular dementia.

“We think depression is toxic to the brain, and if you’re walking around with some mild brain damage, it will add to the degenerative process,” said co-author of the study, Meryl Butters, Ph.D., in a Psych Central article. Read the full article here.

Sugar-Free and Fat-Free: Is it Really Better?

Eating healthier means avoiding foods loaded with sugar and fat, right? Not necessarily. A new article from U.S. News reveals that even if you eat foods labeled with “sugar-free” or “fat-free” claims, their substitutes may not be all that better for you.

Sugar-free foods usually replace the refined sugar with artificial sweeteners. Although artificial sweeteners don’t have any calories, they’re actually sweeter than regular sugar. This can confuse your body, which thinks because it’s sweet, it should have calories. Because of this, your body can go looking for calories later, making it easier to binge.

Fat-free foods aren’t necessarily better for you, either. Fat-free foods, such as fat-free salad dressings, replace the fat with sugar. When you eat sugar, it eventually gets stored in your body as fat, so technically you’re still eating fat. However, keep in mind that not all fats are bad for you – monounsaturated fat and omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that your body needs.

Read more from the article here.

Get Involved on LifeLongHealth.com

We’re talking latest health news, nutrition, staying active, and more on LifeLongHealth.com. Want to get involved in a discussion? Here’s what’s trending right now.

• Tips Needed to Live Heart Healthy How are you trying to live heart healthy? What lifestyle changes have you made to protect your heart, and what tips do you have for others? Share with us.
• Smart Phone Apps to Help Live Healthier Do you have any favorite apps you use to keep yourself healthy? Read a few we’ve found and share with us your must-have health apps.
• VIDEO: Could a Smart Phone Change Your Medical Care? Watch this video with Brian Williams and learn about the possibility of smart phones changing medical care. After watching, share your thoughts with us.

One of the easiest ways you can lower your stroke risk is by maintaining a healthy diet. Watching what you eat by avoiding high-fat, high-sodium foods and instead choosing nutritious, fiber-rich foods can have a direct impact on your risk of stroke. Are you willing to give it a try?

In this Half-Minute Health Helper video from Life Line Screening, learn about one type of food group that has been seen to lower stroke risk. For more information on ways to lower or identify your risk of stroke, explore the preventive health screenings offered by Life Line Screening. Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles.

For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health-Helpers: Lower Your Risk of Having a Stroke

Here is the audio text to the video:

“The old saying “you are what you eat” seems to prove itself time and time again. A new Swedish study claims that middle-aged and older adults may be able to lower their risk of stroke by switching to low-fat dairy products – proof positive that diet consideration is a good strategy in managing your ongoing health for both men and women. So go leaner to go longer.”

This week’s health motivation focuses on your emotional and mental health. If forgiving and forgetting can build you up emotionally and help you maintain health and happiness, why not do both of those things? Pursuing happiness can help you maintain higher levels of health all around. It can also help promote the motivation you need to pursue health for your physical body, as well.

New Study: Antioxidants May Not Ward off Strokes

Previous evidence has linked specific vitamins to a protective effect in the brain, potentially reducing stroke risk. One new study found, however, this may not be the case with antioxidants.

Researchers found that people who ate or drank foods containing high amounts of antioxidants, such as red wine, tea, oranges, or coffee, were just as likely to develop neurological problems as those who did not consume antioxidant-rich foods.

The study looked at about 5,400 participants over the age of 55 for a period of 14 years. During the study, 599 were diagnosed with dementia, and 601 had a stroke. There was no difference in stroke or dementia risk among those who consumed large amounts of antioxidants, and those who did not.

Read more about the study here: http://health.yahoo.net/news/s/nm/antioxidants-may-not-ward-off-strokes-dementia

5 Cancer-Fighting Foods

The power of prevention is unquestionable, even with diseases like cancer. There are things you can do to lower cancer risk, including eating certain cancer-fighting foods. These foods contain nutrients and vitamins linked directly to lower risk for certain types of cancers.

Carrots, for example, contain an antioxidant that has been found to help prevent rectal cancer. Other foods like spinach and kale have a similar effect. Grains that include breads and cereals which contain folic acid can help lower risk of colon cancer.

Read the other top 5 cancer-fighting foods here: target=”new”>http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20689132_3,00.html

Cold Sores and Memory Loss

Are you prone to painful, unattractive cold sores? New research shows that the virus responsible for cold sores may actually increase risk of cognitive decline.

The study involved the examination of the antibodies to common infectious agents in the blood of 1,625 participants. This created an “infectious burden index”. Results showed that participants who ranked higher on the infectious burden index had a higher likelihood of having worse cognitive abilities.

This study by Columbia University researchers was published in the journal Neurology and provides a link between cognitive decline and herpesviridae viral infections, which have also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and stroke in past studies.

Read more here: http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2013/03/26/cold-sores-linked-to-cognitive-decline/

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Is it Normal for our Sense of Smell to Change When We Age? Read about one study that examined the relationship between sense of smell in older adults and the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, then join the discussion.
• Botox: Have you had success with Botox injections for something other than wrinkles? Feel free to share your opinion on Botox here.
• Motivation? What Motivates You? What motivates you to stay active, to eat healthy, and to live an overall healthy lifestyle? Share your secrets to help motivate others here.

Where is it? Is it a beach on the east or west coast? Is it on your porch with the birds chirping around you? Is it in your home next to a fire crackling in the fireplace? Wherever it might be, it’s a place that helps you deal with stress. As Stress Awareness Month comes to an end, keep in mind the importance a healthy mind plays on a healthy body. Make an extra effort moving forward to keep your stress levels low, and see the benefits grow.

New Study: Traffic Pollution and Heart Disease

Air pollution from automobiles isn’t only bad for the environment – it may also be bad for your heart. New research found that long-term exposure to fine particle matter from traffic pollution raises heart disease risk.

The specific form of traffic emission examined in this research is fine particle matter (PM), a type of pollution that consists of particles the size of about 1/100th of the width of a human hair. When these particles are inhaled, they can lodge in the upper airway and cause serious health effects. One of these health effects is an increased heart disease risk.

Read the full article on the new research here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/18/traffic-pollution-heart-disease-risk-fine-particle-matter_n_3112881.html

Melatonin and Diabetes Risk

Although much is known about type 2 diabetes, the exact cause remains a mystery. Many studies work to establish a connection between various factors and the development of the disease. One new study, published in the online journal JAMA, found a link between the secretion of melatonin in the bloodstream during sleep and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Specifically, participants who secreted the least amount of melatonin in their bloodstream during sleep had double the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Melatonin, a hormone that helps control other hormones, is produced by the pineal gland in the brain and is highest at night, lowest during the day. It is essential for a good night’s sleep.

Read more about this connection between melatonin and type 2 diabetes risk here: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/259338.php

How Exercise & Computer Use Help Fight Memory Loss

We already know many of the benefits of exercise. One new study found, however, that when combined with computer use, exercise has the ability to protect against memory loss late in life.

Researchers studied participants who engaged in moderate physical activity (for example, brisk walking), and who used a computer on a regular basis. Results showed that these participants were 64 percent less likely to have mild cognitive impairment when compared to those who did not participate in computer use and exercise.

Learn more about this study by reading the full article here: http://vitals.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/05/01/11488093-computer-use-and-exercise-may-help-fight-memory-loss?lite

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Is it Normal for our Sense of Smell to Change When We Age? Read about one study that examined the relationship between sense of smell in older adults and the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, then join the discussion.
• Side Effects from Your Blood Pressure Meds What side effects are associated with some of the most common blood pressure medications? Share your experiences here.
• Motivation? What Motivates You? What motivates you to stay active, to eat healthy, and to live an overall healthy lifestyle? Share your secrets to help motivate others here.

These startling statistics hit close to home among Americans because heart disease is also the number one killer in the United States. While Americans can turn to Life Line Screening for a proactive approach to identifying heart disease risk, Australians can turn to Screen For Life.

Screen For Life is the Australian branch of the Life Line Screening family. Similar to Life Line Screening, the Australian screening company provides health testing for potentially dangerous health conditions, including:

• Stroke/carotid artery disease
• Stroke/atrial fibrillation
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Peripheral arterial disease
• Osteoporosis
• High cholesterol
• Type 2 diabetes

High cholesterol is one major risk factor of heart disease, and approximately 1.3 million Australians are currently living with high cholesterol levels. While much of the blame for high cholesterol can be placed on the foods we eat, it is important to identify high cholesterol levels and work proactively to lower them through healthy lifestyles or medication recommendations from a physician. This can help decrease risk of developing heart disease or experiencing a life-threatening heart attack.

Together with the preventive health screenings in the United States and the United Kingdom, Screen For Life strives to promote lifelong health and well-being by identifying either risk of disease or valuable peace of mind. Taking charge of your own health is possible wherever you live, whether it’s here in the U.S. or halfway across the world in Australia.

Learn more about the health screening services in Australia provided by Screen For Life to decide if scheduling a health screening is right for you today.

In this Life Line Screening video, we discuss the connection between the amount of fat a person has in their mid-section and risk of developing cognitive disorders like dementia down the road. Learn more about this connection by viewing the video below.

For more information on proactive and affordable ways to stay healthy, explore the preventive health screenings offered by Life Line Screening. Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health-Helpers: Dementia Risk

Here is the audio text to the video:

“A California researcher from Kaiser Permanente found that even if you aren’t technically overweight, access pounds around your mid-section during middle age may raise your risk of dementia later in life.

Researchers measured the waists of more than six thousand people in the 1960’s and 70’s and looked to see how many of those people developed dementia over an average of 36 years. The higher the abdominal circumference, the higher the risk by nearly three times.

Of course you can do something to reduce that risk: diet and exercise. Surprise, surprise. So trim that belly and you’ll trim your risk of dementia, too.”

No matter what you may be going through at this time in your life, take a moment to breathe and relax. What helps you deal with stress? Is it exercising, yoga, cooking, or relaxing on your porch on a warm day? Whatever it might be, find what works for you and just relax. We all deserve that now and then, and your mental and physical well-being will benefit from it.

New Study on Red Meat and Heart Disease

The connection between a diet full of red meat and heart disease has been established for quite a while. New research shows, however, that the link may not be from the fat in red meat like we originally thought.

Research published in the journal Nature Medicine shows that the artery-hardening culprit might actually be L-carnitine – a nutrient and popular dietary supplement found in red meat that is involved in fat digestion. The study showed that when L-carnitine was consumed, certain microbes in the gut create another chemical called trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO). This chemical alters the way the body processes cholesterol, therefore leading to higher heart disease risk.

Read more about the study here: http://www.latimes.com/health/boostershots/la-heb-carnitine-heart-disease-microbiome-20130408,0,6081972.story

Tips for Beating Allergy Season

Allergy season is characterized by lots of sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and irritating congestion. As the air fills with pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, many people are burdened with allergy symptoms. Although you can’t prevent pollen from entering the air, you can do something to decrease your allergy symptoms.

ABC News lists 8 ways you can outsmart your allergies, some of which include changing your exercise plan to avoid spending significant time breathing heavily outdoors, watching for signs of non-seasonal allergies, choosing natural fabrics for clothing like cotton instead of synthetic materials, and more.

Read the full list here: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Allergies/ways-outsmart-allergies/story?id=18840620#.UWQvODfqR4s

Diabetes Research Lacking in Areas of Prevention

While it’s incredibly important to focus on improving treatments for serious health conditions like diabetes, we can’t forget the importance of prevention, as well. Is diabetes research focusing too much on treatment and not enough on prevention? According to a new Duke University study, the answer is yes.

The study results published in the journal Diabetologia point to evidence that current diabetes research efforts may not be adequately studying diabetes prevention, management or therapeutic safety. In the study, 75 percent of the 2,484 trials correlated with diabetes focused on diabetes treatment, while only 10 percent were conducted to focus on preventive measures.

Read the full study details here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/07/diabetes-research-studies-trials-treatment-prevention_n_3022070.html

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Fiber – Adds to Lifelong Health: How do you get your daily fiber? Studies have proven the health benefits of fiber – are you getting enough of it in your diet? Join the discussion here.
• Restless Leg Syndrome: This condition involves tingling, abnormal sensations in the calves, thighs, or legs. Have you had success with treating RLS? Share with us.
• Have You Read about the Health eHeart Study? A new study hopes to help physicians better understand how the heart functions and develop new ways to predict heart disease. What do you think of the study?

In this Life Line Screening video, we investigate the idea that it is possible to keep your brain functions fresh and, in the process, prevent the development of serious cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s. Watch the video below to learn more.

For more information on proactive and affordable ways to stay healthy, explore the preventive health screenings offered by Life Line Screening. Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health-Helpers: Keeping Your Brain Active

Here is the audio text to the video:

“I’m sure you’re familiar with the saying you’re never too old to learn. That has never been more true than today.

As the New York Times reports, older adults are heading back to the classrooms in record numbers. The study suggests that online learning is one reason for the increase in attendance, where age disparity is not an issue. The other reason for the increase is based on reports that keeping the brain stimulated may prevent or put off Alzheimer’s.

According to the article, study and learning keeps the blood, oxygen and sugar pumping through the brain and it does, in fact, help memory. Knowledge is power, and now is prevention, too. That’s smart.”

This week, as you continue to strive for lifelong health, just remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to be different. Lastly, it’s okay to decide not to settle. Are you getting bored with your workout routine? Spice things up by trying something new. Are you already tired of eating the same fruits and vegetables every day? Search for some delicious, healthy recipes online. Life doesn’t have to be perfect, and it most certainly doesn’t have to be boring. Good luck!

Will You Develop Heart Disease? Check Your Earlobes

You’re probably wondering, “how can my earlobes predict if I have heart disease?” Sounds fishy, but a new study in the journal Angiology found that earlobes may hold a sign that points towards increased risk of developing heart problems in the future.

Specifically, the study examined 253 people with no known heart conditions. Among the participants, those with a noticeable ear crease on the earlobe were 10 percent more likely to have blocked arteries, a common cause of heart disease. The earlobe creases were the most common among participants suffering from the most severe arterial backups, further indicating the connection.

Read the full study results here: http://news.menshealth.com/can-your-earlobes-predict-heart-disease/2013/03/30/

Are You Ready for Allergy Season?

Most of us are excited for the beginning of spring. With the birds chirping, buds popping up on the trees, grass turning green again, and more sunshine, what’s not to love? We can name one thing: allergies.

Experts say that this year, springtime allergies will be more severe and last longer, plaguing more people with allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and fatigue caused by tree pollen. Southern states typically seen an increase in allergies beginning in January, but northern states usually experience symptoms from high tree pollen levels in March, April, and May.

Read the full article on springtime allergies here: http://news.health.com/2013/03/28/springtime-allergies-more-severe-last-longer-now-experts-say/

Report: Older Americans More Obese

Americans may be living longer lives, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the quality of life is better. A recent article from NBC News discusses a report that details a trend among older Americans: they’re becoming more obese.

From the years 1988 to 1994, approximately 22 percent of Americans over the age of 65 were considered obese. As of 2010, however, that number has increased to 38 percent, leading to even more risk of preventable diseases and health problems, like stroke, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and even depression.

Read the full article here: http://vitals.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/08/17/13339382-report-older-americans-more-obese-face-high-housing-costs?lite

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Sweeteners: Are there any natural sweeteners out there that aren’t bad for your health? Which ones do you prefer? Share with us.
• 100 Days of Real Food: Have you ever considered eating only “real” food for a certain length of time by cutting out unhealthy sugars and fats? Please join the discussion here.
• What Suggestion Would You Give a Company to Promote Wellness? Wellness and prevention are two central themes that are taking center stage lately. Do you have any suggestions for companies looking to get involved? Share them.

This week as you set about the challenging journey of a healthy lifestyle, keep in mind how important your health is to your overall life. Just like anything else in life that you cherish, treat your health with the care and attention it deserves. Take care of it. Make it a high priority. From there, the rest will fall into place.

What do you plan to do this week to take care of your health? We’d love to hear. Share with us in the comments!

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Faith and Lifelong Health: Do you think faith can add to your lifelong health? In what way? Join the discussion here.
• Food Cravings What exactly do food cravings mean? And what food cravings do you get that you have to have? Share your thoughts and experiences here.
• No, You Can’t Have that Extra Large Coke? What are your thoughts on the NYC judge striking down the sugary-drink size rule? We’d love to hear. Share with us.

How to Cut Heart Disease AND Cancer Risk

Think you have to do something extra to lower your risk of heart disease and cancer – two very different diseases? Think again. New research published in the journal Circulation found that when people follow at least six of the seven heart-healthy guidelines given by the American Heart Association (AHA), cancer risk is reduced by 51 percent. In summary: you can reduce your cancer risk while you reduce your heart disease risk.

The seven heart-healthy guidelines from AHA include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, controlling your cholesterol levels, lowering your blood pressure, reducing blood sugar, and avoiding cigarettes. Think you can tackle six of those?

Read the full article on the research findings here: http://news.menshealth.com/fight-cancer-and-heart-disease-at-once/2013/03/29/

The Impact of Fiber on Stroke Risk

If you’re aware that the foods you eat have a major impact on your risk of serious ailments like heart disease and stroke, you’re on the right track. Choosing to eat the wrong foods, like processed foods loaded with sodium or sugar, can raise your risk of stroke. On the other hand, eating foods high in fiber, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can lower your risk.

Studies have linked increased fiber intake with a reduction in serious stroke risk factors like high blood pressure and high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. Eating more nuts, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, along with lowering other risk factors by not smoking and exercising regularly, can help keep your stroke risk down.

Read the full article here: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-57577083/eating-more-fiber-may-lower-stroke-risk/

Searching for a Doctor? Look for These Traits

Choosing a doctor is a serious decision because ultimately, they will be treating the most essential element of your life: your health. Without health, you can’t live. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for while searching for a doctor, so you can find the right one.

ABC News Recent released a list of the top traits to look for in a doctor, which include things such as whether or not he takes his time, whether he is well-rested, whether he is up-to-date on current medical research and technology, whether he listens to and respects your concerns, and more. See the full list of traits here: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Wellness/traits-doctor/story?id=18627838

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Sweeteners: Are there any natural sweeteners out there that aren’t bad for your health? Which ones do you prefer? Share with us.
• No, You Can’t Have that Extra Large Coke? What are your thoughts on the NYC judge striking down the sugary-drink size rule? We’d love to hear. Share your opinion.
• Favorite Book You Read in 2012: Were there any books you read last year that really stood out, captivated you, made you keep turning pages? What are your favorites? Join the discussion.

This month, make an extra effort to kick-start your health and improve your lifestyle. Preventive action is the best kind of action, because it allows you to take charge of your own health. And when you start to feel unmotivated, tired, or unenthusiastic, Life Line Screening will be there with some weekly motivation.

Along with the start of spring, April is National Stress Awareness Month. To combat that stress, who’s to say you can’t enjoy something sweet every now and then? Just remember, moderation is key.

What’s your favorite dessert to eat when you’re feeling stressed? Share with us in the comments!

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com.  Here’s what’s trending:

• No, You Can’t Have that Extra Large Coke: What are your thoughts on the NYC judge striking down the sugary-drink size rule? We’d love to hear. Share with us.
• Favorite Book You Read in 2012: Were there any books you read last year that really stood out, captivated you, made you keep turning pages? What are your favorites? Join the discussion.
• Food Cravings: What exactly do food cravings mean? And what food cravings do you get that you have to have? Share your thoughts and experiences here.

“We…know that osteoporosis medications don’t work without calcium and vitamin D,” said NOF President Robert Recker, M.D., on the NOF website, “and [we] are concerned that the release of the USPSTF recommendations will lead to more individuals not getting sufficient amounts of these nutrients and an increase in broken bones.”

Calcium and vitamin D are clearly one piece of the bone health formula, and other components, such as eating a diet full of fruits and vegetables, exercising, not smoking, not drinking heavily, and working with a healthcare provider to determine an appropriate treatment plan for osteoporosis, are key steps to take.

“Everyone needs to get the recommended daily amount of calcium and vitamin D to enjoy good overall health and especially bone health,” Recker said. “My concern is that the media’s coverage of the USPSTF recommendations is not balanced with the important benefits of these nutrients and may lead individuals to stop taking the needed amount of calcium or vitamin D without consulting with their healthcare provider.”

Always discuss all health decisions or changes with your healthcare provider. Should your healthcare provider recommend a daily supplement of calcium or vitamin D, remember that they are the experts when it comes to your health. Every person should have the recommended daily amount of calcium and vitamin D for optimal, lifelong health.

To read the full response from the National Osteoporosis Foundation regarding the recommendations of calcium and vitamin D supplements made by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, click here: http://www.nof.org/news/903

Foods that Slow Down Aging

We’re all getting older. There’s nothing we can do about that. What we can do is slow down the appearance of aging by changing our bodies from the outside and inside.

Research has shown that Omega-3’s, also known as the fatty acids in foods like fish, can help lower risk for health conditions like heart disease, depression, arthritis and more. New results show that they may also help slow down the aging process by promoting reduced destruction of the part of the DNA that keeps the aging process slow.

“The DNA parts that were affected were the ends of chromosomes, called telomeres,” said Dr. Martha Belury, Ph.D., R.D., in the Grandparents.com article. “What we think happens in aging is the telomeres get shortened. This is indicative of wear and tear on the cells, which can lead to cell death.”

Read more about the study here: http://www.grandparents.com/health-and-wellbeing/anti-aging/anti-aging-foods

Study: Reduce Diabetes Risk by Standing Up

Although exercising is a great way to stay active and lower your risk of developing several dangerous health conditions like heart disease, stroke and diabetes, one recent study shows you can actually reduce your diabetes risk by simply swapping time you spend sitting with time you spend standing and walking around.

According to the Medical News Today article, people at risk for type 2 diabetes are frequently told to take part in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. The study published in Diabetologia, however, reveals that more importance should simply be placed on reducing sedentary time (time spent sitting or moving very little) with any type of movement, like standing and walking.

Ready the full study results here: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/257111.php

The Growing Threat of Alzheimer’s Disease

According to a new report on global death and disease, Alzheimer’s disease is the fastest growing health threat in the U.S. The report reveals that the number of people predicted to develop the memory disease will triple with the next 40 years, amounting to a total of 13.8 million Americans with Alzheimer’s disease.

The report also provides insight into the major reasons for health threats to Americans, revealing that Americans are most likely to die from diseases caused by their own unhealthy lifestyles, like using tobacco or overeating. Changing lifestyles to lower major disease risk factors like quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can dramatically lower the number of Americans succumbing to preventable diseases.

See more information on the report findings here: http://vitals.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/03/05/17196908-alzheimers-fastest-growing-health-threat-report-says?lite

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Sweeteners Are there any natural sweeteners out there that aren’t bad for your health? Which ones do you prefer? Share with us.
• 100 Days of Real Food Have you ever considered eating only “real” food for a certain length of time by cutting out unhealthy sugars and fats? Please join the discussion here.
• What Suggestion Would You Give a Company to Promote Wellness? Wellness and prevention are two central themes that are taking center stage lately. Do you have any suggestions for companies looking to get involved? Share them.

In this Life Line Screening video, we explore a new study from the University of Miami School of Medicine that put the well-known issue of too-much salt intake to the test. View the video to discover the results of the study and find out why they might matter to you and your health.

For more information on proactive and affordable ways to stay healthy, explore the preventive health screenings offered by Life Line Screening. Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health-Helpers: The Risks of High Salt Intake

Here is the audio text to the video:

“Most people already know that high levels of salt are not good for the human body and normally lead to a higher blood pressure over time. Now a new study led by the University of Miami School of Medicine seems to support the claim that there is a strong link between high salt intake and conditions such as heart disease and stroke – not just high blood pressure.

And just like sugar, hidden salt is everywhere, so read your labels to keep salt off your tables.”

Having Trouble Sleeping? Exercise Might Help

Between those who take the time to exercise and those who don’t, one group is sleeping better at night, according to one recent study.

The research results from the 2013 Sleep in America poll of 1,000 adults between 23 and 60 years of age found that the people who exercised got more quality sleep than those who did not. The actual amount of sleep the participants got every night was the same for both groups, however those who exercised found they were sleeping better and waking up feeling more rested each night.

“Compared to people who don’t exercise, vigorous exercisers were much less likely to have insomnia-related symptoms, such as having difficulty falling asleep or waking up too early and not being able to get back to sleep,” the HealthDay News article states.

Read the full study findings here: http://news.health.com/2013/03/04/exercise-leads-to-better-sleep-poll/

The Link Between Belly Fat and Osteoporosis

Too much of anything can be bad for your health. New research has found that when drinking beer or consuming an unhealthy diet leads to a “beer belly” (also known as belly fat), it can potentially lead to osteoporosis.

The study from the North American Society for Radiology shows obesity in the midsection among men can be associated with osteoporosis. This is due to the added stress excess weight in the midsection can put on the spine, bones and joints, increasing risk of bone weakening and fracturing.

Although men tend to have a lower risk of developing osteoporosis than women, this study shows that men with excess weight in their trunks are at an increased risk compared to men without this added midsection weight.

To ready the full story on the study, click here: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/02/27/beer-bellies-in-men-linked-to-osteoporosis/

Nutrition Myths Busted

We’re nearing the end of National Nutrition Month, but it doesn’t mean the focus on nutrition has to end. In fact, we can always keep learning about healthy nutrition to promote a healthy life.

In this Yahoo! Health article, common nutrition myths are explored and dispelled. For example, are you under the impression that all carbohydrates are bad for you? Contrary to what you’ve been told, your body needs carbohydrates for energy. However, not all carbs are the same. Certain carbs like white flour and added sugars can actually hurt your health if consumed too heavily. Stick to refined carbohydrates like whole grains so your body gets the healthy energy it needs.

To read the full list of common nutrition myths and their true answers, view this link: http://health.yahoo.net/experts/drmao/5-nutrition-myths-dispelled

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Here’s what’s trending:

• Sweeteners Are there any natural sweeteners out there that aren’t bad for your health? Which ones do you prefer? Share with us.
• What Suggestion Would You Give a Company to Promote Wellness? Wellness and prevention are two central themes that are taking center stage lately. Do you have any suggestions for companies looking to get involved? Share them.
• 100 Days of Real Food Have you ever considered eating only “real” food for a certain length of time by cutting out unhealthy sugars and fats? Please join the discussion here.

Some of these foods include a variety of nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans, hazelnuts), salmon and other fatty fish like mackerel and sardines, berries (strawberries, blueberries, cranberries), spinach, other leafy greens and even coffee. The key is to consume a diet that contains healthy fats rather than trans fats and sugar.

Read the full article on the best foods for your brain here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/23/alzheimers-prevention_n_2734550.html

The Downside to Snacking at Night

New findings from a study published in the journal Current Biology found that the body’s ability to regular blood sugar changes throughout the day. This impact on metabolism leads to an increase in fat production at night and less fat production during the day.

Previous studies found that night-shift workers are more prone to obesity and diabetes. This new study backs up those findings by pointing out the body’s increased fat production during the day.

“Disrupting your biological clock leads to a disruption of metabolism such that there’s more of a tendency to put on fat” even with the same amount of calorie intake, said co-author of the study Carl Johnson in the news article.

Read the full study results here: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/02/25/why-snacking-at-night-is-bad-for/

Sleep Deprivation and Your Genes

You’ve probably heard over and over how important quality sleep is to your health. Did you know that lack of sleep can actually have a negative impact on your genes?

A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that regular sleep deprivation can disrupt the activity of your genes and even affect functions like metabolism. These disruptions can lead to long-term effects on the body.

“If people regularly restrict their sleep, it is possible that the disruption that we see…could have an impact over time that ultimately determines their health outcomes as they age in later life,” said study co-author Simon Archer in the news article.

Read more here: http://healthyliving.msn.com/health-wellness/aging/sleep-deprivation-may-disrupt-your-genes

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

You can get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. [http://www.lifelonghealth.com/] Here’s what’s trending:

• Generic Drugs: When you’re prescribed a generic drug over a brand-name drug, do you feel like the quality is lacking? Share your thoughts here.
• What Suggestion Would You Give a Company to Promote Wellness? Wellness and prevention are two central themes that are taking center stage lately. Do you have any suggestions for companies looking to get involved? Share them.
• Hard Topic – Emotional or Physical Abuse: How have you removed yourself from an abusive situation or helped someone you know remove themselves? Please join the discussion here.

One study has shown that caffeine may contribute to keeping our brains functioning properly. In this Life Line Screening video, learn about the results that showed coffee’s effect on people with the beginnings of Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive impairments.

Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health-Helpers: Coffee and Alzheimer’s Disease

Here is the audio text to the video:

“As we’re living longer and longer lives, we all want those extra years to be happy, healthy and productive and not compromised with foggy brain function. An article posted recently on WebMD.com announces a study reporting that three cups of coffee a day can stem the tide against debilitating cognitive conditions in older adults who are already experiencing memory problems.

It’s interesting to note that coffee was the main source of caffeine among people in the study as opposed to soft drinks or teas, which may indicate that there’s also a benefit to the bean, as well. So to help keep your mind sharp, remember to jump on the java.”

Study Finds Mediterranean Diet is Good for the Heart

These days it may seem like so many foods and drinks are bad for your health. We keep hearing about more and more foods that raise risk for serious conditions like heart disease. New study results show the upside to certain foods because they actually promote healthy hearts.

One study found that participants who ate a Mediterranean diet, a diet filled with low-fat foods like nuts, extra-virgin olive oil, fruits and vegetables had substantially healthier hearts compared to participants who ate diets of low-fat dairy products, grains, fruits and vegetables. Specific results showed that those on the Mediterranean diet were 28 to 30 percent less likely to develop cardiovascular disease compared to the other participants.

Life Line Screening takes a proactive approach to heart health and firmly believes in the power of prevention. Learn more about understanding your risk of heart disease today, or read the full article on the Mediterranean diet study here: http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/02/25/us-diet-heart-disease-idUSBRE91O0XC20130225

How Much Fast Food Makes Up Your Diet?

When we’re on the run with no time to make food ourselves, we often turn to fast food joints like McDonalds, Wendy’s or Burger King. Although these restaurants do offer foods that seem to take the healthy route, like salads, they also offer foods packed with calories and fat.

Recently, federal health officials reported that fast food from restaurants like the ones listed above make up approximately 11 percent of the average American adult’s daily calorie intake. The good news is this number has gone down compared to previous statistical data for the years 2003 to 2006, when the number was 13 percent.

Different factors were noted during the study, one of which was age. This factor showed that there is a significant difference between the age groups, with younger people consuming more fast food than older people.

Read the full findings here: http://news.health.com/2013/02/21/fast-food-makes-up-11-percent-of-calories-in-u-s-diet-cdc/

Newest Diabetes Drug and Pancreatitis Risk

A new study revealed negative findings regarding a new set of diabetes drugs used to control blood-sugar levels. These drugs, Januvia and Byetta, are used by millions of Americans and have been linked to an increased risk of developing pancreatitis. Specifically, patients who take these drugs are twice as likely to develop the disease.

Pancreatitis involves the inflammation of the pancreas and can be painful and dangerous if not treated properly. The pancreas is an organ that releases the hormones insulin and glucagon – two enzymes that help digest food.

Read the full article on the study here: http://health.usnews.com/health-news/news/articles/2013/02/25/newest-diabetes-drugs-linked-to-higher-pancreatitis-risk

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Get involved with the health and nutrition discussions going on right now at LifeLongHealth.com. Check out what’s trending now:

• Minute Clinic: Discuss: Have you seen the ads on television on the CVS Minute Clinic? What are your thoughts on this? Discuss with us here.
• Hard Topic – Emotional or Physical Abuse: How have you removed yourself from an abusive situation or helped someone you know remove themselves? Please join the discussion here.
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Published in the Lancet, the study included data from the years 1990 to 2010 that analyzed the health landscape of 19 countries, including the U.S., the UK, Australia, Canada, Norway and more. The study found that the UK’s premature death rate for men and women is relatively high compared to other countries. The reason was linked to growing cases of preventable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and lung disease.

Risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, high body mass index (BMI), poor diets and lack of physical activity are associated with an increased risk of developing these preventable conditions. Similarly, the U.S. deals with these risk factors and preventable diseases, as heart disease remains the number one killer of Americans.

An Emphasis on Healthy Lifestyles

The findings of the study call for an increased emphasis on the importance of a proactive approach to healthcare. By implementing healthier lifestyles, the risk factors mentioned above can be lowered and risk of unnecessary, premature death from conditions like heart attack or stroke can be decreased.

Lifelong health is increasingly important across the world. To take control of your own health, you must be willing to change your lifestyle in healthy ways. Considering a preventive health screening is another method that can empower you with knowledge about the state of your health. Whether it’s alerting you to serious risk of disease, or simply providing you with peace of mind, health screening tests have the power to help you take the first step towards proactive healthcare.

To take charge of your life today, learn more about healthy living and lifelong health, or explore more information on the preventive health screenings of Life Line Screening.

What are your thoughts on a proactive approach to healthcare? What are you doing to ensure you’re in control of your health? Share with us in the comments.

Can Diet Soda Raise Risk of Diabetes?

Soda isn’t exactly healthy for you, but drinking diet soda isn’t so bad. Right? Maybe not.

New research shows that even drinking sugar-free drinks like diet soda can raise a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reviewed the beverage habits of over 66,000 women over a period of 14 years. Results showed that the women drank more diet soda than sugar-sweetened drinks over the study period.

The surprising finding is that due to the rate of diabetes development among the women over the 14 year period, the diet soda drinkers had a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than the regular soda drinkers. It’s important to note, however, that the study only found a correlation between diabetes and diet soda, not a direct causal relationship.

Read the full study results here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/11/diet-soda-diabetes-risk-type-2-artificially-sweetened-sugar_n_2663247.html

Study Finds Link Between Southern Diets and Stroke

The Southeast is commonly referred to as the “Stroke Belt” because the incidence of stroke is higher compared to other regions of the United States. One new study links this increased incidence of stroke to the popular southern diet of deep-fried foods and sugary drinks.

Eating a diet that consists of six meals a week of foods like processed meats, french fries, hamburgers, hot dogs, sweet tea, soda drinks and more increases a person’s risk of stroke by 41 percent compared to people who only eat these foods once a month.

Life Line Screening conducts preventive screenings that can detect risk for stroke before it reaches catastrophic, potentially deadly levels. Do you have risk factors for stroke? Find out today and learn more about the benefits of a preventive stroke screening.

Read the full article on southern diets and stroke risk here: http://barrow.patch.com/articles/southern-diet-marijuana-linked-to-increased-stroke-risk

Best Foods for the Minerals and Vitamins You Need

A healthy diet consists of foods loaded with the vitamins and nutrients we need to keep every part of our bodies, from our brains to our hearts to our bones, healthy. But how do you know if the foods you’re eating are giving you the substantial vitamins and minerals you need for years of health?

Yahoo! Health recently featured a list of the best foods that contain the minerals and vitamins you need, like vitamin A, C, D, zinc, potassium, calcium and more. Some of these foods include sweet red peppers (vitamin C), fatty fishes like salmon (vitamin D), sweet potatoes (potassium) and more.

Read the full list of the top foods for sufficient minerals and vitamins here: http://health.yahoo.net/articles/nutrition/photos/best-foods-every-vitamin-and-mineral#0

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• Hard Topic – Emotional or Physical Abuse
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• Actual Costs of Healthcare Tests
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App stores for smartphones are full of free health apps with tips, tricks, advice and tools to keep you on the move and informed about your health. This includes everything from diet and weight loss tools to symptom checkers to healthy, well-rounded recipe ideas.

Along with the Life Line Screening UK team, we’ve rounded up a list of the top five FREE health apps that are great for people over age 50.

App #1: MyFitnessPal Calorie Counter and Diet Tracker
Whether you’re trying to lose weight or just maintain a certain daily calorie intake, this app is sure to help. MyFitnessPal is easy to use and features a food diary, exercise tracker, calories and nutritional details of over 425,000 foods and more. You can also record your meals and workouts to make sure you’re sticking to the healthy diet you’ve pledged to keep.

App #2: Medscape
If you have symptoms and you don’t know what they mean, WebMD’s Medscape app can help answer your questions. This free app gives you access to over 3,500 illnesses and health conditions and their symptoms along with prescription bios, harmful medication interactions, and even the latest healthcare news.

App #3: Instant Heart Rate for Android and iOS
This free app is the perfect sidekick when you want to log your blood pressure. Without the need for any external hardware, this app tracks color changes in the light passing through a finger placed over the phone’s camera to detect your blood pressure.

App #4: Sleep Cycle Calculator
Getting proper amounts of quality sleep can keep you healthy in more ways than one. This app helps you to get the best possible sleep with it’s high-tech alarm that can be set to wake you during an optimal time in your sleep cycle so you get the ideal amount of sleep.

App #5: Stress Doctor
Along with sleep deprivation, stress can also negatively affect your health. With the Stress Doctor app, you can access a mix of breathing practices and modern technology to lower your stress and anxiety. The app uses a heart rate monitoring technology that turns your smartphone into a real-time biofeedback device.

If you have a smartphone and haven’t taken advantage of any free health apps, you’re missing out. Take advantage of the many tools available to you that can help make living a healthy, smart lifestyle easier. Try out some of the free health apps above, and tell us what you think of them on our Facebook page here.

Learn more about lifelong health from the professionals at Life Line Screening today.

In this Life Line Screening video, learn more about the link between positive thinking, less-stressed individuals and a decreased risk of dangerous heart attacks. See why you should make an extra effort to stay happy and reduce the stress in your life to lower your chances of experiencing a debilitating heart attack.

Life Line Screening is proud to offer cardiovascular disease screenings for individuals at risk. Risk factors include things like smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, an unhealthy diet, family history and more. Are you at risk? Learn more about our heart disease screenings today.

Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health Helpers: Positive Thinking

Here is the audio text to the video:

“It’s long been noticed that grumpy, stressed-out Type A personalities are at a higher risk for having a heart attack. So I guess it comes as no surprise that studies show that individuals who are upbeat, enthusiastic and optimistic appear to have fewer heart attacks.

So manage that stress with a little meditation, exercise, or some lively music, and turn that frown upside down and your heart will be smiling too.”

Do you want to stay up-to-date on the latest health news? Start with the weekly news roundups from Life Line Screening. Below, we examine recent headlines featuring the effects of salt reduction in our diets, sleep and poor diets, and everyday activities that can replace going to the gym.

Eat Less Salt to Live Longer

Too much of anything can be bad for your health, and salt is no exception. A new study published in the journal Hypertension found that almost half a million American lives could be saved if we all lowered our salt intake by just a fraction of a teaspoon per day.

Specifically, the study found that a gradual, 40 percent reduction of salt consumption over the period of a decade could lengthen the lives of about 280,000 to 500,000 people. How? This salt reduction easily lowers hypertension and heart disease, two major health problems.

Read the full study findings from ABC News here: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2013/02/11/cutting-salt-slowly-could-prolong-half-a-million-lives-study-finds/

Not Sleeping Well? It Could Be Your Diet

Things like high anxiety, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and more can all have negative effects on the amount of rest you get each night. One new study found that having a poor diet can also affect how well you sleep.

Published in the journal Appetite, results showed that certain nutrients in food can impact sleep duration, meaning a poor diet can cause you to wake up throughout the night and start your day not feeling rested. Data was analyzed from a nutrition survey and results found that short sleepers (no more than five to six hours of sleep per night) ate the most calories in their diets compared to normal sleepers (nine or more hours).

Read the rest of the article on sleep duration and nutrition here: http://healthyliving.msn.com/nutrition/poor-nutrition-can-bite-into-your-sleep-experts-say

Skip the Gym, Try These Everyday Activities

Good news for those of us that don’t have the time or money to go to the gym, but still want to exercise. A new study found that short stretches of physical activity through everyday activities, like raking the leaves or choosing the stairs over an elevator, may be just as good for your body as a trip to the local fitness center.

“We encourage people to seek out opportunities to be active when the choice is available,” said study author Paul Loprinzi in the HealthDay article. “For example, rather than sitting while talking on the phone, use this opportunity to get in some activity by pacing around while talking.”

Read more about this study here: http://news.health.com/2013/02/11/everyday-activities-may-have-same-health-benefits-as-going-to-gym/

What’s Trending on LifeLongHealth.com

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• Discuss: The Pros and Cons of Having a Credit Card
Credit card debt can have a physical impact on your body through the stress it may cause. What do you think of having a credit card? Share with us.

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Do vitamins really have proven health benefits? Are they necessary for overall health? Tell us what you think here.

• Hard Topic – Emotional or Physical Abuse
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Life Line Screening screens for a variety of serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation, peripheral arterial disease, carotid artery disease and more. Because many of these conditions are asymptomatic in the early stages, they often go unnoticed until it’s too late.

Discover all of the capabilities of Life Line Screening by viewing the video below. In it, you’ll meet the Chief Medical Officer and learn about the facts of the screening services of the company. See for yourself what sets Life Line Screening apart from any other screening company.

Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about it’s preventive health screenings or advice on healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Life Line Screening: Who We Are

Here is the audio text to the video:

“I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure; those words have never been more true than today. Our noninvasive, state-of-the-art screenings make it easy to take charge of your own health and the health of your loved ones.

And that’s why you’re here. Everyone knows someone who’s had a heart attack or a stroke, maybe someone very close to you, and we also know that preventive medicine is the best medicine, that early identification of a disease is the key to avoiding life-altering, even life-threatening problems later on.

Hi, I’m Joelle Reizes, Communications Director at Life Line Screening.

Life Line Screening is the nation’s leading provider of preventive health screenings. Since 1993, no one, including clinics and hospitals, has screened more people than we have.

Life Line Screening works in conjunction with many world-renowned healthcare institutions, and employs highly-trained technicians and board-certified doctors. Our equipment is exceptionally high-quality as well. We’re also rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. Here to tell you more is our Chief Medical Officer.

I’ve been a vascular surgeon for more than 30 years, and nothing frustrates me more than seeing a patient who’s suffered a stroke or ruptured aneurysm which, if we had found it early, could have been prevented. That’s the reason for screening; it’s as simple as that.

We’d like to share a few important things about our company, and the technologists that you have entrusted with your screenings today. We’ve been doing screenings longer than anyone else, and are the only international provider, with screenings here in America and also in the United Kingdom and Australia. We screen about a million people a year, all with one thing in common: they’re advocates for their own health and wellness.

We have some of the most sophisticated screening equipment in the industry. Our ultrasound machines were designed to be used by the military on the battlefield. They’re state-of-the-art and continually calibrated to ensure accuracy and confidence. Most importantly, the technologists who are conducting your screenings are exceptionally trained and very experienced. In fact, the average Life Line Screening technologist has screened over 40,000 people, so you can trust them to be experts in what they do, and to provide your screenings in a comfortable and caring manner.

The goal here, and the goal of most any physician, is going to be to find out what’s wrong with you before something happens that could really have a bad effect and sometimes debilitating effect.

For more information about Life Line Screening or to schedule an appointment, visit www.lifelinescreening.com today.”

Especially when it comes to high cholesterol, there are solutions other than taking medication. Changing your diet is one of them. In this Life Line Screening video, explore some easy food swaps you can make to lower your cholesterol levels and decrease your risk of experiencing heart disease, stroke and more. View the video to discover below to see which foods you should switch with other healthier options.

Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Half-Minute Health Helpers: Easy Food Swaps

Here is the audio text to the video:

“Everyone these days knows that too much bad cholesterol in one’s body can contribute to heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. The good news is that simple dietary changes can help lower cholesterol levels, oftentimes without the need of taking medication.

A new article on Health.com suggests simple substitutions you can make in your diet to cut your cholesterol consumption, like using walnuts in salads instead of croutons, drinking red wine instead of alcoholic cocktails, and using vinegar and lemon juice instead of fattening salad dressings. Those satisfying and tasty switches will have your heart saying “thank you” instead of, “is there a doctor in the house?”

Life Line Screening will be making a stop at the Liberty Bank for Savings located on Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago on February 20. Liberty Bank released a statement on this recent arrangement with details on the different screenings that will be offered. The screenings include:

• Stroke/Carotid Artery Screening
• Heart Rhythm Screening (for atrial fibrillation)
• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
• Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening
• Osteoporosis Risk Assessment

Individuals with risk factors for any of the above conditions are strongly encouraged to attend. Through these screenings, you can identify your risk for diseases that, with early detection, can be prevented from causing life-altering, potentially catastrophic health problems.

Liberty Bank for Savings is holding our preventive screenings at their location because of their commitment to community service. You can learn more about Liberty Bank and it’s different community service events on its website or read the full article about the upcoming health assessments here.

To pre-register for a health screening at the Liberty Bank location on Wednesday, February 20, search for it here.

Learn more about the benefits of preventive health screenings from Life Line Screening today.

Want to Lower Your Heart Disease Risk? Become a Vegetarian 

It’s been known for awhile that eating too much red meat isn’t good for your heart. One new study found that eating no meat at all through a vegetarian diet can lower heart disease risk by 32 percent compared to a non-vegetarian diet.

The diet is thought to be so heart-healthy because of what’s left out – not what’s eaten. Vegetarian diets are notorious for being very low in saturated fat and sodium, which are two ingredients that can negatively affect the heart.

“Saturated fat is the single greatest dietary factor in the production of cholesterol,” said Dr. Peter McCullough, a cardiologist at St. John Providence Health System in Michigan, in the ABC News article. “Sodium intake is the single greatest dietary determinant of blood pressure.”

High blood pressure and high cholesterol are two of the three top causes of heart disease (the third being smoking). Take care of your heart and become proactive in your health. Learn more about the cardiovascular screenings  from Life Line Screening, or read the full ABC News article here: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2013/02/04/vegetarians-have-lower-heart-disease-risk-study-finds/

Best Ways to Ward Off Winter Heart Risks 

With the month of February being American Heart Month, it’s also important to note that it’s still winter and winter can be a tough season for the heart. How exactly can the season cause a 36 percent increase in heart-related deaths compared to summer? Experts say it could be caused by multiple factors, like colder temperatures, fewer daylight hours and increased respiratory and influenza outbreaks.

ABC News lists the top ways to prevent an increase in heart problems throughout January through March, and suggests things like eating more nuts that are packed with nutritious monounsaturated fatty acids, resisting the urge to become more sedentary by getting out of the house to go sledding or bowling, and more. See the full list here: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/HeartHealth/heart-attack-deaths-spike-winter/story?id=18399815

Starling Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Prediction for 2050  

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. It affects millions of Americans and currently has no cure. Now, experts are saying the number of Americans diagnosed with the disease is expected to triple by the year 2050.

The results, published in the journal Neurology, show that by 2050, almost 14 million Americans could have Alzheimer’s disease. Approximately 4.7 million American adults had the disease in 2010. Why such a large prediction? Progress in research into treating and delaying the disease has so far been lacking, and needs improvement to reduce this prediction.

Read the full article here: http://news.health.com/2013/02/06/number-of-americans-with-alzheimers-may-triple-by-2050/

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The cardiovascular screenings offered by Life Line Screening can help identify a possible threat of heart disease. These preventive screenings identify risk factors like high cholesterol, elevated C-reactive protein, high glucose and high blood pressure. All of these factors can contribute to significant and sometimes fatal heart problems if not identified and properly treated by a physician.

In honor of National Heart Month, we are proud to announce a new Life Line Screening coupon code for a FREE heart risk assessment with the purchase of a screening package valued at $139 or higher. This assessment is valued at $50 and you can get it for FREE!*

To access your Life Line Screening discount for a free heart risk assessment, purchase your screening package by calling 877-754-9631. You MUST call this number to receive your free heart risk assessment. 

Don’t wait until your risk for heart disease is high enough to cause serious health problems. Take control of your health status. Call for your free heart risk assessment today.

* Free heart risk assessment only valid with a screening package purchase of $139 or higher.

February is American Heart Month and is observed to spread awareness for heart disease and lower the number of people affected by this deadly health condition. One way to spread awareness is to alert people to the heart disease risk factors to look for and ways to lower them.

Life Line Screening has put together a fun, shareable infographic with a contest that offers some great ideas for foods that offer heart-strengthening nutrients you may not be aware of. For instance, did you know you can eat pizza that’s heart healthy? This is just one of many tasty foods you can munch on while lowering dangerous heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Here is what you can do:

• Check out the infographic below for more scrumptious heart-healthy foods, and feel free to share with your friends.
• Submit your own heart healthy recipe by commenting on this post and qualify to win a
  free health screening and a subscription to Eating Well magazine.
• The deadline for submissions is Friday, March 1
• The winner will be selected on Friday, March 15

Good luck!

Is Heart Disease in Your Genes?  

In a recent ABC News article, new study results found that one type of cholesterol that we’ve never heard of may be one of the leading causes of heart disease, and it develops from an abnormality in the genes.

Specifically, this type of cholesterol seems to be the primary cause of aortic stenosis, a serious heart conditions that affects more than 1.5 million Americans. The condition involves the narrowing of the main valve that regulates blood flow between the heart and the rest of the body. This condition typically shows very few symptoms until it reaches a dangerous point that can involve heart attacks or even death.

Life Line Screening offers preventive cardiovascular screenings to detect risk of conditions that often don’t show symptoms until it’s too late. Learn more about these health screenings  now, or read the full article on the study linking a certain type of cholesterol to the human genes here: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/cholesterol-heart-disease-trigger-genes/story?id=18424425

Visual Guide to Portion Control [INFOGRAPHIC] 

In some circumstances, the solution to a healthy and nutritious diet along with healthy weight loss isn’t necessarily cutting out every food you enjoy. With proper portion control, you can still enjoy a piece of chocolate every now and then.

This new infographic from Ragan’s Health Care Communication News visually demonstrates the right amounts of certain foods like hummus, chocolate brownies, meat and more. For instance, a healthy portion of daily whole grains, which is about a half of a cup, should be no bigger than a light bulb. A healthy portion of a baked or mashed potato should be no larger than a computer mouse. Get the idea?

See the entire portion control infographic here: http://www.healthcarecommunication.com/SocialMedia/Articles/10315.aspx

How a Mediterranean Diet is Good for Diabetes 

A Mediterranean diet emphasizes healthy fats like olive oil, nutritious vegetables and small portions of lean meats. It is now being considered an optimal diet for people with diabetes because of its ability to lower blood sugars.

Results compiled from 20 studies found that of all diets testing on adults with type 2 diabetes, Mediterranean diets, low-carb diets, high-protein diets and low glycemic index diets all lowered the participants’ blood sugars. This is said to be because all of these types of diets rank foods by how quickly their carbs turn into glucose.

The results were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Read more about the study results and what the lead author had to say about it here: http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/02/06/us-diet-diabetes-idUSBRE9150ZU20130206

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Heart disease remains the number one killer of Americans and a major threat to the health and well-being of people everywhere. The Centers for Disease Control  state that only 27 percent of survey respondents in 2005 knew all major symptoms of heart attack and when to call 9-1-1.

By understanding risk factors and identifying them early, individuals can lower their chances of ever suffering a heart attack. The most common risk factors for heart disease include:

• Family history
• Increased age
• Smoking
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Physical inactivity
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Elevated C-reactive protein

You can contribute to the overall goal of Wear Red Day and American Heart Month by spreading awareness of the major risk factors for heart disease. If you or someone you love has some of the risk factors listed above, consider scheduling a preventive screening  for cardiovascular issues. These screenings are designed to identify a heart problem before it turns into something catastrophic, like a heart attack.

To see the full photo album of our staff sporting red on Wear Red Day, visit our Facebook page.

A recent blog post from one of our cardiovascular screening participants reveals how important taking a proactive stance to health can be. In his blog, Charlie Streisel details his experience with Life Line Screening and the road it has led him down, along with reasons to strive for a healthy, active lifestyle no matter what age you may be.

“I just retired from teaching and my wife and I [had a screening done] almost two years ago,” Charlie told us. “There was a minor issue in my left carotid at the time. Maybe four months ago, I went back to follow up and there was a significant issue in my left carotid. I’m extremely active, I’m probably the healthiest person I know…so this was a major setback for me. I just went to be careful.”

Charlie explains in his blog how after following up with his physician and undergoing further diagnostic testing, a vascular surgeon told him his left carotid artery was “severely restricted” and required surgery.

The blogger showed no symptoms prior to undergoing a cardiovascular screening, but had a seriously restricted carotid artery that could have led to a stroke if not identified. He is grateful for his experience at Life Line Screening because it found something his doctors had not.

“If I hadn’t [gone to Life Line Screening], I probably would’ve had a stroke,” Charlie said. “I’ve been to my family physician before, and they didn’t check my artery because they generally don’t check the neck. They don’t look for that.”

Life Line Screening is dedicated to helping make people aware of unrecognized health problems and encouraging them to seek follow-up care from a physician. Not only do we urge all individuals to practice prevention with healthy diets and physical activity, we urge all individuals with disease risk factors to learn more about what preventive health screenings can offer. Our caring medical professionals are here to make your journey towards health as simple and stress-free as possible.

“The staff was friendly and professional,” Charlie said, “and I was in and out relatively quickly. It was non-invasive and a fast procedure.”

Take your health into your own hands. Become proactive with your health so a dangerous condition can be identified before it becomes catastrophic and life-altering.

Read the full blog post by Charlie Streisel here: http://streisel.wordpress.com/2013/01/18/getting-older-the-right-way/

Secrets of People Who Never Get Sick 

It seems like this time of year, everyone’s coming down with something. Some people even get sick more than once. So how do the lucky few who seem to never get sick escape the germs that many of us succumb to?

In this article by MSN Healthy Living, some of the secrets of people who never get sick are unveiled. These immune-boosting tips can help people avoid getting sick and include things like getting a massage, taking a cold shower, eating ginger, washing your hands frequently, and taking vitamin C and zinc supplements, which some studies show are helpful for preventing viruses.

Taking action to avoid getting sick is a smart, safe way to keep your body healthy this winter. What are your tricks for avoiding illnesses like the common cold and flu? Share with us in the comments, or read the full MSN article here.

Could Snoring be a Sign of Stroke and Heart Disease?

For most of us, snoring is annoying simply because it can keep us from getting a good night’s rest. Whether it’s you or your bed partner that snores, new research says it may actually be a loud, annoying alarm bell for something much more serious.

Following a study conducted by researchers at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, snoring has been found to be a major risk factor for conditions like stroke and heart attack. The most surprising part of the results shows that snoring is a bigger risk factor than smoking, being overweight or having high cholesterol.

How is this possible? The research shows that snoring can reveal damage to the carotid arteries, which are responsible for supplying oxygen-filled blood to the brain. The study results were submitted to the journal The Laryngoscope or you can read about them here.

Music’s Effect on Long-Term Memory 

Among Alzheimer’s patients near Indianapolis, music therapy has been shown to trigger memories that the disease has stolen. When music is played, the Alzheimer’s patients are quick to get up on their feet and start dancing.

“Music stores itself in the long-term memories very deep in your brain,” said Amanda Janz of the Alzheimer’s Association in this news article. “And even though you have residents who are not able to communicate effectively anymore with words, somehow they can still remember music that was a big part of their lives when they were younger.”

Working on keeping your brain sharp is a great way to proactively prevent memory loss and avoid conditions like Alzheimer’s. Read about easy ways to keep your brain sharp  or read the full news story on music’s effect on memory here.

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In this HealthDay TV video, we learn about a study about the impact of omega-3’s, nutrients commonly found in fish, on the heart and prostate health. View the video below to reveal the results. Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Omega 3s that Protect Against Heart Disease May Negatively Affect Prostate?

Here is the audio text to the video:

“A type of fat that can protect the heart may not be such a good guy elsewhere in the body. Omega-3 fatty acids have earned a good reputation. Found in fish like salmon, omega-3’s can help prevent heart disease. On the other hand, trans-fatty acids, which are often found in processed foods, have a reputation for being unhealthy for the heart.

In a new study, researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center checked out how these nutrients may affect men’s risk of prostate cancer. Their results were more than a little surprising.

They included about 3,400 middle-aged and older men. Roughly half of the men had prostate cancer and the others didn’t have the disease. The researchers took blood samples to measure their levels of omega-3’s and trans-fatty acids. Men with high levels of the omega-3, known as DHA, actually had a greater risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

On the other hand, as the men’s levels of trans-fatty acids went up, their risk of serious prostate cancer went down. Despite these findings, the lead researchers said that the benefits of eating fish to protect against heart disease outweigh the possible risk of prostate cancer.

I’m Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV with the news the doctors are reading, health news that matters to you.”

10 Things that Weaken Your Immune System

Your immune system needs to be strong to fight off illnesses like the cold and flu, especially this time of year. One surefire way to get sick this winter is take part in things that weaken your immune system. ABC News recently released a list of the worst things for your immune system, and you’d be surprised what made the list.

The first way to hurt your immune system is to avoid social interaction. Studies have shown a connection between friendship and a stronger immune system. Second on the list is lack of sleep. By scrimping on sleep every day, your immune system sees reduced numbers of killer cells that fight germs, making it weaker. Read other things that can harm your immune system from ABC News now.

Study: Walking Lowers Women’s Stroke Risk

Since obesity and lack of physical activity are already known as risk factors for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stroke and more, it’s not surprising that one study found a definitive link between weekly walks and decreased stroke risk in women.

According to the Huffington Post, both men and women who participated in the study were told to report on their weekly physical activity along with their medical history, diet and lifestyles. Over the average 12 years of follow-up that occurred, researchers found that walking for at least three-and-a-half hours a week was linked to lower stroke risk for women when compared to those who didn’t walk. There was no link found between the men’s stroke risk and walking.

Preventive health screenings are another way to stay on top of your health and identify a health problem before it becomes catastrophic. Learn more about the different types of health screenings from Life Line Screening today.

Causes of Memory Loss that Aren’t Alzheimer’s

Memory loss happens to almost everyone. Although sometimes memory loss combined with other warning signs can point to Alzheimer’s disease, not all memory loss is caused by the development of this brain disease.

According to Yahoo! Health, a few causes of memory loss that aren’t Alzheimer’s include chronic stress, depression, certain medications, a malfunctioning thyroid, heavy alcohol consumption and more. All of these causes of memory loss may seem alarming, but are not necessarily associated with a major brain disease. If you have memory problems, read the full list of causes of common memory loss to learn more.

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Beginning a healthier lifestyle doesn’t have to be hard and these tips from HealthDay TV can help make it easy. Learn the three steps you should take to make achieving your health goals all the more possible.

View the video below to discover how you can set yourself up for success this year. Visit Life Line Screening’s YouTube channel to learn more about healthy lifestyles. For those without video capability, the text is provided below.

Tips to Help You Begin Living a Healthier Lifestyle

Here is the audio text to the video:

“Doctors often tell people to lose weight, eat healthier and stop smoking. Now let’s talk about how you can actually do these things.

Hi, I’m Dr. Cindy Haines, host of HealthDay TV. Living a healthier lifestyle can be hard, but change isn’t so tough if you go about it the right way. Try these three steps:

One: Learn why you want to change. We all want to be healthy, but that’s kind of a vague hope that may not inspire you to change your life. Write down what being in good health would help you do, like feel better, be more fit, or live long enough to see your grandkids grow up. If you need inspiration for living a healthier life, review your list.

Two: Figure out how ready you are. Are you ready to make healthy changes now? If not, might you be ready in a few months? People at different stages of readiness need different motivations to take action. If you aren’t quite willing to change yet, think about what you would need to do to become more ready.

Three: Break big goals into smaller ones. Losing 50 pounds is like climbing a mountain. If this is your goal, think instead about starting with a ten pound loss. Make mini goals that will help you reach it, like starting to walk around your block, then later jogging around it, then entering a 5k race in your community.

I’m Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV with the news the doctors are reading, health news that matters to you.”

12 Flu Myths Busted 

If you’ve been keeping up with the news lately, you know how serious the flu is this year. With that in mind, how much of what you know about the flu is really true or is a myth? ABC News released an article addressing the most common flu myths and why they are just that: myths.

What are some of these so-called myths? To name a few: the flu vaccine can give you the flu, the flu vaccine is dangerous, young, healthy people don’t need to get a flu vaccine because the flu is only dangerous for elderly or infants, and more. See why these and other common flu myths are far from truthful and why you shouldn’t listen when you hear such accusations by reading the full ABC News article.

Best and Worst Foods for Heart Health

When you have an unhealthy heart, you can have an unhealthy body all around. Many risk factors like obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and more can put you at greater risk for heart disease or stroke. The good news is that certain foods can help keep your heart healthy and strong by reducing these risk factors.

Recently, U.S. News ranked the best and worst diets for heart health. These 29 diets, as described by the Huffington Post, have their own way of reducing cardiovascular disease risk and lowering risk factors. The Mediterranean Diet, for example, puts a heavy emphasis on fresh produce, monounsaturated fats and protein, with low amounts of red meat and other foods that have been seen to be unhealthy for the heart.

A heart screening is another way to keep your heart healthy and stay knowledgeable about your risk for heart problems. Life Line Screening offers affordable health screenings that can help identify a possible threat from heart problems before they get worse. Learn more today.

FDA Panel Backs Approval of New Diabetes Drug

A new diabetes drug has been making headlines as of late. According to the New York Times, a panel of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration has backed the approval of a new drug for type 2 diabetes. The drug, called canagliflozin, is made by Johnson & Johnson. The medication lowers blood sugar by causing it to be excreted in urine.

Although the panel recommended approval of the drug, they were somewhat concerned about its possible side effects. Studies show that the drug may temporarily increase a person’s risk for stroke or heart attack.

Risk factors for diabetes include obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, family history, advanced age, high triglycerides and more. If you think you might be at risk for diabetes, learn more about the type 2 diabetes screenings offered by Life Line Screening today.

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15 Best Ways to Ward Off a Cold or Flu 

This time of year is often referred to as cold and flu season, because the colder temperatures make us more susceptible to sore throats, fever, runny nose and more. ABC News tells us that on average, adult Americans get three colds per year, each lasting a week or two. On top of that, 5 to 20 percent of adults will get the flu this year.

So how can you make an effort to prevent yourself from succumbing to a cold or flu this year? Take your health into your own hands by doing a few things known to help prevent these illnesses, such as frequent hand washing, meditation, eating more garlic, exercising, getting vaccinated and eating fewer sweets, among others. Read the full list from ABC News.

Life Line Screening urges all individuals at risk for disease to take control of their health by practicing preventive measures, such as health screenings. These screenings can help identify a serious health condition before it reaches catastrophic levels. Learn more about preventive health screenings today.

Study: Trouble Remembering Object Names Starts at Age 50

As we get older, we notice small changes in our ability to remember things, such as someone’s name. One study from researchers in Belgium found that as early as age 50, memory of the names of common objects doesn’t come as quickly when compared to younger people.

In the study, people in their 50s weren’t able to name objects as quickly as participants in their 20s and 30s, but once they did remember the name, the people in their 50s were as accurate as the younger group. People in their 60s and 70s, however, were not as accurate with remembering object names.

“We don’t know yet why this happens,” said study researcher Clemence Verhaegen in a Fox News article. “[I]t may indicate changes in our language abilities only or it may be caused by physical factors that have nothing to do with language. More studies are needed to reveal what it really going on.”

Top Medical Breakthroughs of 2012

A lot happened in 2012, and even though researchers didn’t discover a magic pill to make us all look and feel younger, they did make many notable discoveries. For instance, one paralyzed woman successfully became the first person to ever move her prosthetic limb with brainpower.

Other outstanding medical insights from 2012 include a milestone met when laws made the majority of U.S. cities smoke free, new genetic discoveries made in association with autism, Alzheimer’s and mental illness, and one early study found promise for a lung cancer vaccine. Read more about these medical breakthroughs from Health.com.

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As mentioned in a recent Daily Local News story, the demand for diagnostic testing has been increasing by 2 percent every year for the past five years. Growth for these medical and diagnostic laboratory tests are expected to increase even further by 2017, at 4.5 percent.

Combined with the 700,000 strokes that occur in the United States each year, the value and significance of preventive health screenings like those from Life Line Screening are becoming more evident. For those with risk factors that could lead to certain health conditions, like a stroke, taking the affordable route of a vascular screening could end up being life-saving if the condition is discovered early.

“A person can walk around with problems and show no symptoms,” said Dr. Andrew Manganaro, chief medical officer at Life Line Screening, in the Daily Local News article.  “These problems can be identified immediately with a non-invasive ultrasound, but in general, these screenings are not covered by insurance companies because most won’t cover testing unless a person has symptoms.”

Seeking a diagnostic ultrasound from a physician without the ability to have it covered by insurance, therefore, can be quite expensive. It can cost thousands of dollars. The alternative? Seeking a health screening from Life Line Screening, who offers a variety of tests starting at $139, significantly more affordable than the cost of testing through a hospital.

“These are screenings, not diagnostic exams,” Manganaro said, “so the savings can be passed on to the patient.”

It’s important to note, however, that not everyone is a suitable candidate for preventive health screenings. For those with specific risk factors, screenings make more sense and can be beneficial.

“If you’re a man who’s a smoker, age 65 or older, and have hypertension, screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm makes sense,” Manganaro said. “In women, the risk is very low…so…[f]or a woman who has normal blood pressure and doesn’t smoke, that screening makes no sense. Patients should always talk to their doctor first to see if a screening is worth doing.”

Read the full news story or learn more about risk factors and preventive health screenings now.