• Housecall: Start walking and stay motivated

a woman, man and dog walking down a snowy path in the woods

THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Walking: Trim your waistline, improve your health
Pressed for time but want to fit in some physical activity? Walking can be an ideal low-impact exercise. Here's how to start and stay motivated.

Food allergies: Understanding food labels
Besides providing nutritional information, food labels help you identify products that could cause an allergic reaction. Get answers to a few common questions.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Presbyopia: A cause of blurred distance vision?
Having trouble focusing your eyes at different distances? It could be an early symptom of an age-related vision change.

Doppler ultrasound: What is it used for?
A Doppler ultrasound test can estimate the blood flow through your blood vessels. Learn which conditions it may help your doctor diagnose.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Slideshow: Add antioxidants to your diet
Sore throat: Treatment
Multiple myeloma symptoms
Reducing the discomfort of hidradenitis suppurativa: Self-care tips

HEALTHY RECIPES
Crispy baked chicken legs
Braised kale with cherry tomatoes
Sweet potato and squash pie
Quibebe soup

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Depression: Provide support and encouragement
If you know someone who's depressed, provide support and encouragement:

  1. Listen. Offer your ear, but avoid giving advice or opinions.
  2. Give positive reinforcement. Remind your loved one how much he or she means to you.
  3. Make plans together. Ask your loved one to join you for a walk, a meal or another favorite activity.

Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org.

NOW BLOGGING
Going the distance: On the path to finding happiness
The elusive dream of happiness is determined by your attitude more than anything. See what else is involved.

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