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Housecall: First aid for insect bites and stings
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THIS WEEK'S TOP TOPICS
Insect bites and stings: First aid
Most reactions to insect bites and stings are mild, causing little more than redness, itching, stinging or minor swelling. Rarely, insect bites and stings, such as from a bee, wasp, hornet, fire ant or scorpion, can result in severe reactions. Some insects also carry disease, such as West Nile virus. Learn how to take care of an insect bite or sting that causes a mild reaction, and when you need to seek emergency medical care.
The truth behind the most popular diet trends of the moment
With so many competing and often contradictory diet trends, finding a healthy eating plan that works for you can be confusing. Is skipping meals a bad idea or a secret weight-loss weapon? Should you eat a low-fat or high-fat diet? You probably could eat less added sugar, but should you eliminate it completely? Compare and contrast four popular eating styles — Whole30, the ketogenic diet, the anti-inflammatory diet and intermittent fasting — and see if one might be right for you.
EXPERT ANSWERS
Can a Mediterranean diet lower Alzheimer's risk?
A Mediterranean diet — one rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, legumes, whole grains and fish — offers many heart-healthy benefits. But a Mediterranean diet also may benefit your brain. Learn more from Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford, a Mayo Clinic neurologist.
Strength training sets: How many for best results?
Are you considering adding strength training to your workouts? For most people, a single set of 12 to 15 repetitions with the proper weight can build strength and improve fitness as effectively as can multiple sets of the same exercise. Learn more from Dr. Edward Laskowski, a Mayo Clinic physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and co-director of the Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Center.
PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Brain aneurysm
Nearsightedness
Canker sore
Liposuction
HEALTHY RECIPES
English cucumber salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Crabcakes
Creamy asparagus soup
Barley and roasted tomato risotto
HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Protein: Heart-healthy sources
Does your diet include unhealthy sources of protein — perhaps burgers, hot dogs and fried chicken — in excess? Do your heart a favor and choose your proteins wisely. Legumes — beans, peas and lentils — are a great source of heart-healthy protein. Legumes are typically low in fat and contain no cholesterol. Legumes also contain soluble and insoluble fiber.
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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