Have you ever stopped in the grocery aisle to contemplate whether something you were about to buy was healthy? A lot of the foods we love have gotten bad raps over the years from research. They may contain ingredients that contribute to chronic conditions from diabetes to dementia to heart disease and some cancers.

Over the years, red meat, salt, eggs, bread, potatoes, peanut butter, coffee and dairy have all been on the ‘don’t eat’ list when it comes to a healthy diet. But has science got it wrong? The answer is yes … and no. Research is increasingly pointing to the benefits of these and other ‘unhealthy’ foods demonized over decades as bad for us due to the increased risk of chronic disease when overindulged. 

While many of the medical elements of Alzheimer’s disease remain a mystery for researchers, it’s increasingly obvious that lifestyle choices heavily influence our risk for this debilitating disease.  

Knee pain can interfere with your ability to move, workout and perform daily activities. It also can affect your overall quality of life. While therapies are available to manage and treat knee pain, some of the most effective ways to address arthritis-related knee pain and stiffness are knee braces, hydrotherapy and exercise, according to a study published in PLOS One.  

There’s been an uptick in kidney cancer media attention since 46-year-old Brad Arnold, lead singer for the rock band 3 Doors Down, was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer. Kidney cancer, along with other kidney diseases, is a major public health concern. While these conditions affect a small percentage of the population, the number of cases is increasing.

Loose clothing. Living a healthier lifestyle helps you gain muscle, making it easier to zip up your jeans and button your jacket.

Better focus. A healthier lifestyle is known for sharpening attention and concentration.        

Legendary musician Billy Joel recently cancelled his current tour after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), which is also known as water on the brain.  

This rare condition can develop if the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is blocked. CSF helps absorb shock, protecting the brain and spinal cord. It also provides the brain and spinal cord with nutrients and removes waste. Each day, the brain ventricles produce enough CSF to fulfill its functions. The fluid is then reabsorbed into the blood.  

When it comes to keeping our bodies functioning, Vitamin D plays a starring role. Often called the "sunshine vitamin," it's one of the 13 essential vitamins our bodies need for growth and maintenance. Yet, despite its importance, more than 40 percent of American adults don't get enough of it. Here’s why Vitamin D matters so much and how you can ensure you're getting an adequate supply.

The Fundamental Role of Vitamin D

Vitamin D isn't just another over-the-counter supplement — it's a critical component in multiple bodily functions.

For many years, the only way to positively diagnose Alzheimer’s disease was studying the brain after a patient had died. But medical advances like advanced scanning combined with memory tests and family history has made it easier for physicians to diagnose the disease.

Now the Food and Drug Administration has approved a new blood test that will help doctors zero in on the disease earlier.

Many household and personal care products list the chemical compounds phthalates among their ingredients. Phthalates are often referred to as “everywhere chemicals,” because they’re commonly used and continuously leach into the environment.