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    Housecall: Alcohol — if you drink, moderation is key

THIS WEEK'S TOP TOPICS
Alcohol use during the holidays
During the holiday season, it may seem like opportunities to celebrate are everywhere. And when it comes to alcohol, the message can seem mixed. Drinking alcohol may offer some health benefits, especially for your heart. On the other hand, too much alcohol may damage your heart and increase your risk for certain cancers, liver disease, stroke and other serious health problems. When it comes to alcohol, the key is moderation. Here's what you need to know.

Weight management during the holidays
With all the parties and gatherings, and special foods, watching your diet can be hard during the holidays. You may find it's more manageable to shift your focus from weight loss to weight management. Learn more from Katherine Zeratsky, a Mayo Clinic registered dietitian nutritionist.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Do breast enhancement supplements work?
Many supplements are marketed as a natural means of breast enlargement. However, they aren't likely to work and might have side effects, including adverse interactions with some medications. Learn more from Dr. Sandhya Pruthi, a Mayo Clinic general internal medicine physician and past director of the Mayo Clinic Breast Diagnostic Clinic.

Is it safe to get a flu shot during pregnancy?
If you'll be pregnant during flu season, be sure to get a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that all women who are pregnant during flu season get a flu shot, regardless of their trimester. The vaccine protects both you and your baby. Learn more from Dr. Tatnai Burnett, a Mayo Clinic OB-GYN.

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HEALTHY RECIPES
Chicken with braised pineapple
Vegetarian chili
Tuna pita pockets
Chickpea polenta with olives

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
What are superbugs?
Superbugs are strains of bacteria that are resistant to several types of antibiotics. These bacteria can cause pneumonia, urinary tract infections and skin infections that are difficult to treat. To protect yourself from harmful bacteria, wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. You can help slow the spread of drug-resistant bacteria by taking antibiotics properly and only when needed.

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

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