• Monday’s Housecall

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THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Pyramid or plate? Explore these healthy diet options
Healthy diets come in all shapes and sizes. Pick one and discover how easy it is to follow a good-for-you meal plan.

Pilates for beginners: Explore the corechocolatesboxof
Pilates isn't just for fitness fiends. It's an accessible way you can strengthen your core muscles for better posture, balance and flexibility.

EXPERT ANSWERS
Healthy chocolate: Dream or reality?
In moderation, chocolate — especially dark chocolate — may help prevent heart disease.

Echinacea: Is it effective for the common cold?
Echinacea may slightly reduce how long a cold lasts and how severe its symptoms are, but the effect may be too minor to notice.

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PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Broken heart syndrome
Runny nose
Organ donation: Don't let these myths confuse you
Chronic fatigue syndrome

HEALTHY RECIPES
Steak with steamed vegetables, soba noodles and ginger sauce
Chocolate pudding pies
Quinoa risotto with arugula and Parmesan
Strawberries and cream cheese crepes

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Quit smoking: Put your reasons on paper
Consider what you don't like about smoking and why you want to quit smoking. Are you worried about health consequences, such as lung cancer and heart disease? Do you want to feel better? Set a good example for your kids? Rid yourself of that lingering smoke smell on your hair, skin and clothes? Write it all down and carry the list with you. Each time you go to pick up a cigarette or other tobacco product, read your list and remind yourself why you want to quit.

NOW BLOGGING
Nutrition-wise: A healthy twist on chocolate
Want to indulge without guilt? Try thinking outside the heart-shaped box.