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    Housecall: Getting ready for a 5K

crowd of runners running in marathon or raceTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
7-week training schedule for 5K beginners
Taking on a 5K run or walk can add a new level of challenge and interest to your exercise program. And 5K — 3.1 miles — can be a great distance for a beginner. You can prepare for a 5K in just two months with this step-by-step plan.

End of life: Caring for a dying loved one
Caring for a dying loved can be challenging. Even when you know the end of life is approaching, you might not feel prepared. Understanding what to expect and what you can do to increase your loved one's comfort can help.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Are there any proven Alzheimer's prevention strategies?
There's strong evidence that several factors associated with leading a healthy lifestyle may reduce your risk of Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. However, more research is needed before any of these factors can be considered a proven strategy to prevent Alzheimer's disease. Learn more from Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford, a Mayo Clinic neurologist.

Is cellulitis contagious?
Cellulitis is an infection of the deeper layers of the skin. It most commonly is caused by bacteria that normally live on the skin's surface. This potentially life-threatening bacterial skin infection usually is not spread from person to person, so how can you contract it? Learn more from Dr. Lawrence Gibson, a Mayo Clinic dermatologist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Testicular cancer
Muscular dystrophy
Heart murmurs
Morgellons disease: Managing an unexplained skin condition

HEALTHY RECIPES
Ham, pineapple and asparagus crepes
Broccoli with garlic and lemon
Rice noodles with spring vegetables
Pineapple cream cheese pie with berries

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Love to golf? Protect your elbows
Golfer's elbow is pain and inflammation on the inner side of the elbow. To keep your game on course, think prevention:

  1. Strengthen your forearm muscles. Use light weights or squeeze a tennis ball.
  2. Do some dynamic stretching (half-swings) before you golf. Walk or jog for a few minutes to warm up your muscles first.
  3. Fix your form. Ask an instructor to check your grip and swing technique.
  4. Know when to rest. At the first sign of elbow pain, take a break.

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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