Ground flaxseed: Better than whole?

Flaxseed is high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and phytochemicals called lignans. Flaxseed can help reduce total blood cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels — and, as a result, may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Flaxseed oil also contains omega-3 fatty acids, but it doesn't have the beneficial fiber that the seeds have. More...

Economy raising stress levels, putting health at risk

The 2008 Stress in America survey found finances, jobs and the economy have significantly increased stress levels in America over the past two years, which health experts say can contribute to heart disease, diabetes and other illnesses. Stress also can make people more susceptible to infections and increase inflammation that contributes to stroke, arthritis, diabetes and frailty. More...

Counseling programs help dieters keep off lost pounds

A University of Florida study of obese women who participated in a weight-loss program found those who continued to get in-person or telephone counseling were better able to keep the pounds from returning a year later, compared with those who received dieting tips from a newsletter. Researchers say the findings offer an inexpensive way to maintain weight loss, especially for people in remote areas. More...

Elderly cancer survivors do better with home diet, exercise programs

A study of 641 elderly cancer survivors found those receiving telephone counseling, a specialized workbook and newsletters on diet and exercise had half the functional decline when compared to those who didn't participate in the program. The intervention group lost more weight and increased their ability to do moderate to vigorous activity by 44.9 minutes a week compared with 29.7 minutes a week in the control group. More...

Study: Most Americans don't control blood pressure

A study stated that 70% of people with high blood pressure, or hypertension, aren't taking measures to control it. Out of those taking care of it, 71% changed their eating habits, 80% limited or eliminated their salt use, 69% exercised and 73% took medication for hypertension. More...