• Health & Wellness

    Monday’s Housecall

Housecall Bannerwhite and brown sugar cubes and sweetenersTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES 
Artificial sweeteners and other sugar substitutes

Trying to cut back on sugar? Take a closer look at the alternatives — as well as their possible health benefits and risks.

Legionnaires' disease
A recent outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in New York may have you wondering if it could also happen near you. Learn more about this severe form of pneumonia.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Free blood pressure machines: Are they accurate?
There are better ways to get a reliable blood pressure reading than with the machines in drugstores and supermarkets.

Ear stapling for weight loss: Does it work?
Dropping unwanted pounds by having your ears stapled probably won't work and may pose serious risks.

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PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ...
Rosacea
Fitness tips for menopause: Why fitness counts
Frequent urination
Slide show: How to trim thickened toenails

HEALTHY RECIPES
Chinese-style asparagus
Fresh spring rolls with shrimp
Tossed greens with pasta, fruit and balsamic vinaigrette
Lemon or lime glaze for chicken, fish or vegetables

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Don't grocery shop on an empty stomach
If your stomach is growling, you may be tempted to put potato chips and chocolate chip cookies into your cart. Avoid unhealthy choices by eating before you shop. If you find yourself getting hungry while grocery shopping, drink some water or buy some nuts to munch on.

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

NOW BLOGGING
Nutrition-wise: Autism spectrum disorder and digestive symptoms
Having digestive problems and being a picky eater are common for kids with autism spectrum disorders. Here are some tips on making sure they eat a healthy diet.