Health

A bowl of yogurt with granola and blueberries on top.

11 Items to Add to Your Diet for Gut Health

Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms that influence everything from digestion to immune function and even mood. The good news? You can nurture this ecosystem through what you eat. Below are some of the best foods for a healthy gut to include in...

A variety of fruits and vegetables.

How to Manage Diabetes Effectively

Managing diabetes involves a combination of healthy eating, regular physical activity, medication or insulin (when prescribed) and ongoing monitoring of blood sugar levels. Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed or are looking to better manage your condition, a structured and proactive approach can help you live a healthy and active...

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10 Signs of Drug Addiction to Be Aware Of

Drug addiction, or substance use disorder (SUD), affects individuals from all walks of life. It can lead to physical, emotional and social consequences, making early recognition of the signs crucial for intervention. This article outlines common signs of drug addiction to be aware of, followed by available treatment options....

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How to Spot Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction is a complex illness. While some signs of opioid addiction are widely recognized, others can be subtle and easily overlooked. Recognizing these signs early can be crucial in helping someone seek help before their addiction worsens. This article explores ten signs of opioid addiction, starting with uncommon symptoms to watch for. One lesser-known sign of opioid addiction is persistent itching. Opioids can trigger the release of histamines, which can cause excessive scratching, rashes or skin irritation. If someone frequently complains about itching without a clear medical cause,...

A stuffed dog plushie wrapped in a grey blanket with a stethoscope on it.

How to Avoid the Worst Health Insurance

Choosing the right health insurance plan is one of the most important financial and medical decisions you can make. Some plans may leave you with high out-of-pocket costs, unexpected coverage gaps or difficulties in accessing care when you need it most. This article will detail what to avoid when selecting health insurance and compare the costs and coverage of different plans to help you make the best decision for your needs. A high premium does not always mean a plan provides great coverage. Some plans charge expensive monthly premiums...

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How to Spot & Treat Fabry Disease

Fabry disease is a rare genetic disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A, leading to the accumulation of a fatty substance in various tissues of the body. This build-up can result in a range of signs and symptoms that impact multiple organ systems. Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for improving quality of life and reducing complications. In this article, we explore the common signs of Fabry disease along with current treatment options, such as Galafold, a medication used to help the body use its...

An illustration of kidneys hovering over a doctor's hands.

Medications and Lifestyle Strategies for Kidney Health

Effective management of kidney disease involves a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes aimed at slowing disease progression, managing symptoms and preventing complications. In this article, we look at medications used to treat immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN)—a common form of kidney disease—and explore essential lifestyle modifications that support kidney health. Treatment typically focuses on controlling symptoms, reducing proteinuria (excess protein in the urine) and preserving kidney function. The following medications are commonly employed in managing IgAN. Tarpeyo (budesonide) is a relatively new medication approved for primary IgAN. It's...