• Cardiovascular

    Housecall: Are you drinking enough water?

a smiling woman holding out a glass of waterTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Want to stay hydrated? Drink before you're thirsty
Did you know you're already dehydrated when you start to feel thirsty? And that how much water you need per day depends on a number of factors, such as what you eat and the way you move your body? The climate and the weather on any given day can influence your hydration needs, as well. Here's what you need to know about staying hydrated.

Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness
Unfortunately, negative attitudes and beliefs toward people who have a mental health condition are common. Others' judgments almost always stem from a lack of understanding rather than facts. Learning to accept your condition, recognizing what you need to do to treat it, seeking support and educating others can make a big difference in dealing with the stigma of mental illness.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Is honey an effective cough remedy?
Drinking tea or warm lemon water mixed with honey is a time-honored way to soothe a sore throat. But honey alone may be an effective cough suppressant, too. Learn more from Dr. James Steckelberg, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist.

What are the heart health benefits of grass-fed beef?
Many people think grass-fed beef tastes better than cattle raised on a diet that includes grains. Compared with other types of beef, grass-fed beef may have some heart health benefits, too. Learn more from Dr. Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Meditation: A simple, fast way to reduce stress
Domestic violence against women: Recognize patterns
Sudden infant death syndrome
Testosterone therapy: Benefits and risks as you age

HEALTHY RECIPES
Sweet potatoes and roasted bananas
Brussels sprouts with shallots and lemon
Seasoned baked cod
Portobello and blue cheese salad

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Have a cold? Common sense rules
There's no cure for the common cold, but you don't need to feel miserable while you're toughing it out. Drink plenty of fluids. Try chicken soup. Rest as much as you can. Use saline nasal spray to relieve stuffiness. Gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat. Turn on a humidifier. And to prevent spreading your cold to others, wash your hands often.

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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