• Featured News

    Housecall: Want to Trim Your Waistline? Try Walking

woman exercising outdoors by walking her dog
THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES

Walking: Trim your waistline, improve your health
Pressed for time but want to fit in some physical activity? Walking can be an ideal low-impact exercise. Here's how to start and stay motivated.

Food-borne illness: First aid
If food poisoning turns up as an unwanted guest at a party, it's important to know the symptoms and how to feel better as soon as possible.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Can I still be active if I have chronic hives?
Exercising can make chronic hives worse, but it's still possible to work out. Try these suggestions to reduce the chance of flare-ups.

Dieting? Beware of liquid calories
If you're counting calories over the holidays, be sure to watch what you drink. Try these healthy tips.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS 
Slide show: A guide to spices and herbs
Living with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) or microscopic polyangiitis (MPA)
Manage the pain of rheumatoid arthritis
Spirituality and stress relief: Make the connection

HEALTHY RECIPES
Ambrosia with coconut and toasted almonds
Lima bean ragout with tomatoes and thyme
Sweet potatoes and roasted bananas
Beef stew with fennel and shallots

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Can chicken soup cure a cold?
There's no cure for the common cold. But if you're sick, chicken soup may help you feel better. Warm liquids, such as chicken soup, tea or warm apple juice, help speed up the movement of mucus through the nose. This relieves congestion and limits the amount of time viruses are in contact with the lining of your nose. Plus, soup and other liquids help prevent dehydration.

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
Going the distance: Dealing with grief and bereavement
Few losses are as devastating as the death of a loved one, but grieving is a necessary part of the healing process.

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