Loneliness can affect us all at different times, in different ways. Whether it’s a fleeting feeling or a constant state of disconnection, here are five ways to beat loneliness From time to time, we all experience the odd bout of loneliness. Sometimes it can creep up on us during periods of change (like a move or the end of a relationship, for example), and leave us feeling physically or emotionally distanced from other people. Loneliness doesn’t just strike when we’re…
Omega-3 supplements may help keep young people with a high risk of schizophrenia from getting the condition, according to a small study. Back in 2010, Australian researchers reported that taking the supplements for 12 weeks prevented a first episode of a psychotic disorder for up to a year in high-risk study participants ages 13-25. Now, in a follow-up study, the team checked on how 71 of the 81 volunteers were doing. They found that: 9.8% of the group given omega-3…
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. This summer I was in one of those tourist traps that sell insipid signs like, “I’m on Lake Time” or “Love You More.” They also had one I’ve never seen before, and it has stuck with me ever since. It said, “Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone.” Damn right. The one false belief holding you back is that you think that your past determines who you are. If…
What is Colloidal silver? Colloidal silver is a mineral. Despite promoters’ claims, silver has no known function in the body and is not an essential mineral supplement. Colloidal silver products were once available as over-the-counter drug products, but in 1999, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ruled that these colloidal silver products were not considered safe or effective. Colloidal silver products marketed for medical purposes or promoted for unproven uses are now considered “misbranded” under the law without appropriate…
A lifelong friend of mine suffered from debilitating anxiety for years. It was hard to watch her have panic attacks, knowing that people did not understand her behavior. Although anxiety disorders are the most common mental health illness in the United States, only about one-third of affected individuals receive some form of treatment. From a young age, I read books every chance I got. Taking a particular interest in the human brain, it was only natural that I would go…
It’s about being balanced and informed. Exploring the upsides and downsides to cannabis. We’ve reported a ton on the benefits of cannabis and its potential in medical applications, but what about the other side of the coin? Is it fair to say cannabis comes with no downsides? When treating people and seeing positive benefits, what negative effects might also come? Marijuana has been the subject of intense debate over these last few years. Now legal in multiple states in the…
Nutrition is full of misinformation. Everyone seems to “know” what is right, most often based on zero evidence. Here are the top 11 most common nutrition mistakes that people keep repeating. 1. Drinking Fruit Juice Fruit juice isn’t always what it seems to be. It is often little more than water mixed with sugar and some kind of fruit concentrate. In many cases, there isn’t any actual fruit in there, just chemicals that taste like fruit. But even IF you’re…
We all want to live happier lives, but happiness is not something that is acquired through getting what you want. Happiness is something that we create. Feeling happy is a choice that we get to make every day. In just the same way, feeling unhappy is also a choice we get to make every day. While some days don’t warrant feelings of happiness, if we find ourselves continually choosing unhappiness day after day, eventually we may find ourselves leading a…
A new study suggests a link between the use of a popular pain control drug during pregnancy and high rates of behavioral issues in children. What does this mean for pregnant women? Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in many pain relief medications. While other drugs may not be suitable for pregnant women, products containing acetaminophen can be used by expectant mothers seeking pain relief for headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, fever or cold symptoms. The medication is considered safe, and there…
New research increasingly shows a link between positive emotions and good physical health. It may be a case of chicken and egg—people who are happier tend to cultivate healthier habits and those who practice healthy habits report greater happiness—but health and happiness are clearly connected. There are also simple practices that will boost both your happiness and your health. How Happiness Affects Health The role of negative emotions on health has long been studied, with clear evidence that serious, sustained…