• Housecall: Caffeine and your health

an overhead view of a single cup of steaming coffee on a green wooden surfaceTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Caffeine: How much is too much?
Each day, millions of people rely on caffeine to feel more awake and focused. Between morning coffees and afternoon sodas, though, are you consuming more than you should?

Lifestyle strategies to manage bad breath
Mints, mouthwash and gum can help banish bad breath, but prevention plays a big part, too. These lifestyle tips may work for you.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Is echinacea effective for the common cold?
If you're thinking about taking an echinacea supplement to get over a cold faster, here's what you should know about what the research shows.

Can girdles tighten abdominal muscles?
If you want a flat stomach, diet and exercise — not undergarments — are what count.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Get back to weight-loss basics
Video: Triceps extension with dumbbell
Psoriasis treatment options
Constipation: Lifestyle and home remedies

HEALTHY RECIPES
Roasted asparagus and wild mushrooms
Citrus salad
Almond-crusted chicken
Green smoothie

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Shopping for shades?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage your eyes — not just your skin. Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Opt for wraparound or close-fitting sunglasses with wide lenses that protect your eyes from every angle. Keep in mind that the color and degree of darkness sunglasses provide have nothing to do with their ability to block UV rays.

Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org.

NOW BLOGGING
Invest in yourself if you want the best chance for success

The future belongs to the fit. Despite gifts, skills and talents, if you don't invest in yourself physically, you won't go the distance

Receive a free e-subscription to Housecall and other health newsletters.