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    Housecall: Living with rheumatoid arthritis

close-up of hands with rheumatoid arthritisTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Tips for coping with rheumatoid arthritis 
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, the best thing you can do is follow your health care provider's advice and take medications exactly as prescribed. You also can take steps at home to manage your pain and stay active. Learn more from Dr. April Chang-Miller, a Mayo Clinic rheumatologist.

Rheumatoid arthritis: Is exercise important? 
Many people with rheumatoid arthritis tend to avoid exercise because they're afraid that the activity might worsen their joint pain. But exercise is one of the key treatments to reduce the disability often associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Here's what you need to know.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Do energy drinks really boost energy? 
Most energy drinks contain large amounts of caffeine, which can provide a temporary energy boost. Some energy drinks contain sugar and other substances, as well. The boost is short-lived, however, and may be accompanied by other problems. Learn more from Katherine Zeratsky, a Mayo Clinic registered dietitian nutritionist.

Is a hyperextended knee a serious injury? 
A hyperextended knee occurs when the knee is bent backward, often as a result of landing wrong after a jump. This can damage ligaments, cartilage and other stabilizing structures in the knee, as well as the underlying bone. 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
Graves' disease
Rhinoplasty
Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
Brain tumor

HEALTHY RECIPES
Avocado salad with ginger-miso dressing
Smoked Gouda and vegetable poached egg sandwich
Hot ham and cheese sandwiches with mushrooms
Turkey pesto melt

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Simple ways to cook healthier
If you want to cook healthier, try these tips to capture the flavor and retain the nutrients in foods without adding excessive amounts of fat or salt:

  1. Use herbs and spices instead of salt.
  2. When steaming food, use a flavorful liquid or add seasonings to the water to enhance the flavor.
  3. Stir-fry a meal, since you need only a small amount of oil or cooking spray for this cooking method.

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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