• Housecall: Cold remedies

a young woman sitting on a couch, wrapped in a blanket who is looking sick

THIS WEEK'S TOP TOPICS
Cold remedies: What works, what doesn't and what can't hurt
For generations, people have turned to chicken soup to help cure colds. Does it really work? What about other remedies? Get the facts and feel better soon.

Weight-loss goals: Set yourself up for success
Realistic, well-planned weight-loss goals keep you focused and motivated. Here are some handy tips to help you achieve your dreams.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Is a low-phosphorus diet helpful for kidney disease?
If your kidneys don't work well, you may need to limit how much phosphorus you eat or drink. Here's how to adjust your diet. Learn more from Rachael Majorowicz, a Mayo Clinic registered dietitian nutritionist.

What are the effects of marijuana during pregnancy?
Find out how using marijuana while you're expecting can endanger both you and your baby. Learn more from Julie Lamppa, a Mayo Clinic certified nurse midwife.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Primary progressive aphasia
Bags under eyes
Buerger's disease
Peripheral artery disease

HEALTHY RECIPES
Savory vegetable dip
Crispy potato skins
Quesadillas
Poached pears

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Stress and headaches: Stop the cycle
Stress can make your head hurt, and a headache can really stress you out. Either way, you can rein in the pain with these tips to keep stress under control:

  • Simplify. Ask yourself what really needs to be done and what can be dropped.
  • Delegate. Look over your to-do list and delegate what you can.
  • Laugh. Staying positive with humor is a great way to relieve stress.
  • Relax. When you feel your muscles begin to tense, breathe deeply. Focus on inhaling and exhaling deeply and slowly for at least 10 minutes.
  • Exercise. Regular exercise provides a healthy break from the stress of daily life.

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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