• Cardiovascular

    Housecall: What’s keeping you from exercising?

a close-up of a calendar, with a red push pin and the word Exercise! written on one date square and underlinedTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Barriers to fitness: Overcoming common challenges
Sticking to a regular exercise schedule can be challenging. Boredom, embarrassment, lack of motivation or time, and fear of injury can get in the way. What's keeping you from exercising? Try these practical strategies to stay on track.

Integrative medicine: Alternative becomes mainstream
Complementary medicine has never been more popular. Nearly 30 percent of adults report using complementary and alternative medicine. Doctors are embracing these therapies, too, often combining them with mainstream medical therapies. The combination is called "integrative medicine." From herbal remedies and dietary supplements to ancient healing systems and mind-body techniques, learn more about complementary and alternative medicine, and see what might be right for you.

EXPERT ANSWERS
What is raw water?
While the U.S. has one of the safest public drinking water supplies in the world, concerns over lead and other contaminants have led some to seek alternatives to tap water. As a result, drinking unprocessed water, also referred to as "raw" or "live" water, has become a trend. But is it safe? Learn more from Katherine Zeratsky, a Mayo Clinic registered dietitian nutritionist.

Will taking care of my teeth help prevent heart disease?
Poor oral health has been debated as a possible cause of heart disease for many years. While there appears to be some connection between oral health and heart disease, more research is needed to understand it. Learn more from Dr. Thomas Salinas, a Mayo Clinic prosthodontist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Eating disorders
Bullous pemphigoid
Peptic ulcer
Spinal injury: First aid

HEALTHY RECIPES
Butternut squash ravioli
Veggie pizza
Quinoa stuffed peppers
Whole-grain banana bread

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Are you getting enough calcium?
If dairy foods are off the menu, how can you be sure you're getting enough calcium? Try going green. Broccoli and dark green vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and turnip and collard greens, are good sources of calcium. Also look for calcium-fortified foods, such as soy milk and fruit juices.

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

Receive a free e-subscription to Housecall and other health newsletters.