Know the hidden secrets of paper towels

By Suzy Cohen
Posted on October 11, 2023

Paper towels are a household staple. You wipe your counters with them, dry your hands, and maybe even pat your freshly washed lettuce like I do. But have you ever paused and pondered over what’s lurking within those white sheets? The answers might surprise you. First, let’s talk about how they feel. Ever notice the luxurious softness of VIVA compared to the rugged strength of... READ MORE

Using mindfulness with Type 2 diabetes

By Matthew Solan
Posted on October 09, 2023

Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet and sufficient sleep are cornerstones of self-care for people with Type 2 diabetes. But what about mind-body practices? Can they also help people manage or even treat Type 2 diabetes? An analysis of multiple studies published in the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine suggests they might. Researchers analyzed 28... READ MORE

Three vaccines recommended for this fall  

By Jim Miller
Posted on October 04, 2023

Dear Savvy Senior, Which vaccines are recommended for those on Medicare this flu season? —Just Turned 65                                                                                 Dear Just Turned, There are actually three different types of vaccines older adults should consider getting this... READ MORE

50+Expos return to Virginia, Maryland

By Beacon Staff
Posted on October 03, 2023

The Beacon newspaper’s annual in-person 50+Expos return this month. Thousands of older adults and their families are expected to attend the free events, featuring a range of valuable resources, informative speakers, health screenings, volunteer opportunities and entertaining activities tailored to their interests and needs. This year’s 50+Expos will be held at two... READ MORE

Some surprising facts about pistachios

By Lori Zanteson
Posted on September 29, 2023

There’s no denying the irresistible pistachio. Its smooth beige shell reveals a peek of the green goodness within. Native to the Middle East, including what is now Turkey, Iran and Syria, pistachios were considered royalty and an aphrodisiac. Chinese legend says they bring good luck to those who hear the shells pop open while sitting under a pistachio tree. Plump with powerful plant ... READ MORE

Causes and treatments for peptic ulcers

By Amy Oxentenko, M.D.
Posted on September 27, 2023

Dear Mayo Clinic: Last year, I was diagnosed with heartburn due to a peptic ulcer. My doctor suggested that I see a specialist. Who should I see, and what type of treatment is available? A: Many people will note that they have “heartburn,” and it is important to know that such a symptom could be related to one of several issues in the digestive tract, including peptic ulcer... READ MORE

Does Medicare cover second opinions? 

By Jim Miller
Posted on September 25, 2023

Dear Savvy Senior, The doctor I currently see thinks I need a knee replacement, but I would like to get some other treatment options before I proceed. Does Medicare cover second medical opinions? —Limping Larry Dear Larry, Getting a second medical opinion from another doctor is a smart idea that may offer you a fresh perspective and additional options for treating your knee so you ... READ MORE

Questions re: probiotics, spinal stenosis

By Howard LeWine, M.D.
Posted on September 22, 2023

Q: Is there a recommended daily intake of probiotics? A: There are two ways to get more good bacteria into your gut: fermented foods and dietary supplements. Fermented foods are the most natural source. Probiotic supplements, which are typically sold over the counter, are reserved to treat specific ailments as suggested by your doctor and are not recommended for everyday use. Plus,... READ MORE

What is a liquid diet and is it healthy?

By Matthew Kadey
Posted on September 22, 2023

In America, there is no shortage of diets to cling to: Paleo, plant-based, keto, DASH — all with their merits and pitfalls. Another popular choice is the liquid diet, or the so-called “juice cleanse.” Whether you drink juices, blender shakes, tea, broths or soups, liquid diets are nutrition programs that direct you to get either some, most or all of your daily calories from liquids ... READ MORE

Is it normal memory loss or worrisome?

By Kari Mongeon Wahlen
Posted on September 21, 2023

Dear Mayo Clinic: My mom is in her 80s, and I’ve noticed that her memory seems to be slipping. Sometimes she forgets a person’s name or can’t recall what she did the day before. Is it normal to have these types of lapses at her age, or should I be worried they are signs of something more serious? A: It is understandable that you are concerned about changes in your mother’s... READ MORE