• Monday’s Housecall

slightly overweight woman measuring waistline, stomach
THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES

Menopause weight gain: Stop the middle age spread
Think you're destined to gain extra pounds after menopause? Here are some ways to keep those scale numbers from creeping up.

Sickle cell anemia
September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Get the facts about this inherited blood disorder and treatments that can help you cope.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Who gets rheumatoid arthritis?
Besides age, find out which risk factors might make you more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis.

White whole-wheat bread: Is it nutritious?
Having trouble adding whole grains to your diet? Using white whole-wheat bread may make it easier.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ...
Coping with chronic hives
Slide show: Golf stretches for a more fluid swing
Caregiving for someone with atrial fibrillation
Traumatic brain injury

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HEALTHY RECIPES
Apple salad with figs and almonds
Shrimp-apple salad
Acorn squash with apples
Tasty apple pie

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Tai chi: Meditation in motion?
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese exercise that uses slow, gentle dance-like movements to encourage relaxation, improve balance, and strengthen muscles and joints. You don't need special clothing or equipment to do tai chi. Look for tai chi classes at your local community education center, senior center or health club.

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

NOW BLOGGING
Nutrition-wise: Heart age: How old is your heart?
One way to understand your risk for a heart attack or stroke is to learn your heart age with an online calculator.