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Harvard study: Early sweet-drink habits tied to high blood pressure later in life

A major study linked high intake of sugary drinks like soda, fruit juices, and sports drinks during teen years and early adulthood with an increased risk of developing high blood pressure in middle age. Replacing sweet drinks with water, milk, or whole fruit may help offset some of those risks.

Hot weather hikes: Staying safe when temperatures spike

Summer is a great time to take a hike, but it’s essential to make sure you’re prepared for the weather and conditions where you are. Hiking safely and planning ahead will make your trek more enjoyable.

C-reactive protein: Should healthy people be tested for it?

Scientists are learning that chronic inflammation can raise people’s risk for cardiovascular disease much like established risk factors. The American College of Cardiology advocates measuring an inflammation marker called C-reactive protein in healthy people to reveal hidden heart disease risk.

The 5 pillars of longevity: Movement, nutrition, sleep, stress reduction, and social connection

The term “longevity” encompasses both living longer and staying in good health. Research consistently indicates that five lifestyle pillars promote longevity: movement, nutrition, sleep, stress reduction, and socialization. But it’s impossible to gauge which pillar counts most toward longevity.

What is a longevity specialist, and should I see one?

Longevity (or healthspan) specialists focus on preventing age-related disease and extending people’s healthy years, rather than waiting to treat illness once it appears. Ideally, a longevity specialist focuses on proven health fundamentals before supplements and experimental therapies.

Does intermittent fasting work?

Intermittent fasting, a dietary pattern that alternates between periods of eating and fasting, has become a popular weight-loss approach. A 2026 scientific analysis suggests it may not work as well for weight loss as some people have thought.

Think fast: How does your face protect you?

Not only is our face our calling card to the world, its features evolved to mount immune system defenses, help ward off illness, and protect us in many ways. Our eyes, nose, mouth, and facial structure itself all contribute to our continued well-being.

Extreme heat: Staying safe if you have health issues

Climate change has made life-threatening heat waves increasingly common across the globe. Anyone with health issues will have a more difficult time in extreme heat, including older people and people with diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and other conditions. Be prepared by knowing how to identify and treat heat-related illness, and how to plan for hot days.

Diverticulitis diet: Foods to avoid during and after a flare up

During a diverticulitis flare-up, it’s important to stay nourished and hydrated. Start with clear liquids, then progress to low-fiber soft foods before gradually reintroducing high-fiber foods. For long-term prevention, focus on a high-fiber diet and regular exercise.

Beef tallow, seed oils, and full-fat dairy: Are any of them heart-healthy?

Foods that contain mainly saturated fat, such as beef tallow and butter, are less heart-healthy than those that contain mainly unsaturated fats, including olive oil and seed oils such as canola oil and soybean oil.

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