Hometown Health - Mayo Clinic Health Systemhttps://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/rss-feeds/hometown-healthMayo Clinic Health System Hometown Healthen{8B02F056-8928-4652-A5CA-F45CF15E74D0}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/finding-joy-throughout-lifeFinding joy in every phase of your lifeIn every chapter of your life, you can become overwhelmed by the day-to-day realities and wonder where the joy went. Joy is there, even during difficult times. Learn ways to help you find it.Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{91DA9A6F-259B-4333-8E3F-B030145E6DF0}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/dont-bet-on-itDon't bet on it: How to know when sports betting is more than entertainmentThe thrill of making a wager on the outcome of a big game can be exhilarating. But sports betting can spiral out of control if it becomes an addiction. Learn how to spot the signs of a problem.Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{CDD2DAA2-C3D3-4F18-8C5E-F70605BF97E8}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/charcuterie-board-food-safetyCharcuterie boards: Popular and pretty for party food ― but are they safe?Social media is awash with images of intricately arranged platters of party tidbits also known as charcuterie boards. When creating one, be sure you're serving up safety along with the snacks.Thu, 14 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{2D1C6576-1FE7-474B-BB0A-D562C5A4092D}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/steps-to-prevent-norovirusSteps to prevent norovirusAnyone can be infected with the highly contagious illness norovirus. Follow these tips to decrease your risk of getting the viruses that cause gastroenteritis, often referred to as the stomach flu.Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{B2DDC3D6-6E55-4022-B6D6-2993718832CA}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/kindness-behind-midwest-niceGood for you, good for others: Practicing the kindness behind 'Midwest Nice'Decoding "Midwest Nice" can be confusing for newcomers to the region. Learn what lies behind this form of social interaction and how to practice its underlying kindness.Tue, 12 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{3E27CF3E-C05F-4607-99D8-73EC18907074}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/how-can-i-become-a-better-runner-and-avoid-injuryWant to become a better runner? Tips to step up your performance, prevent injuriesWhether you're new to running or have some experience under your feet, there's a desire to become even a bit better. These tips can set you on the road to becoming the runner you aspire to be.Tue, 05 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{D0EEC98D-276D-4423-B23C-D83B7598FEEF}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/belly-breathing-benefitsHow belly breathing benefits your body, mindAre you breathing from your belly or chest? Most people chest breathe, but belly breathing is more efficient and offers a wealth of body and mind benefits. Learn how to breathe from your belly.Mon, 04 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{9C7A51A7-6F44-4F69-A142-C46F278004DB}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/essential-oils-and-pregnancyAromatherapy use and safety: What to know about essential oils during pregnancyDuring and after pregnancy, some people use aromatherapy with essential oils to relieve discomfort and promote relaxation. Find out which oils are helpful, and what to consider if you want to try them.Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:00:00 Z{FFC50130-EC8E-461E-90F9-A80C87D77B31}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/calcium-intake-and-absorptionCalcium intake and absorption: Are you getting enough?Did you know calcium is the most abundant mineral in your body? It makes up about 2% of your weight and is necessary for strong bones. Find out if your daily calcium intake hits the recommended level.Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{12DB192C-454B-4D69-B0CF-F19350A3AE7A}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/consider-time-when-dealing-with-sepsisConsider T.I.M.E. when dealing with sepsisMore than 40% of adults are unfamiliar with the dangers of sepsis, which occurs as a result of infection. Use this tool to recognize the signs and symptoms, and get immediate care.Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{8D691893-F84B-4AE6-A9C0-3431BCE268A9}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/smart-decisions-improve-your-winter-healthSmart decisions improve your winter healthWinter is beautiful, but the cold, ice and snow can be treacherous for many people. Learn how smart decisions can keep you safe — and out of the emergency department — during the winter season.Fri, 23 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{C916BE86-28E8-4983-A1D1-38F4785E3D6E}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/understanding-your-heart-testUnderstanding your heart test: What to expect, how to prepareHearing you need a test on your heart may be scary, but understanding the purpose of the test can help put you at ease. Learn about common heart tests, and get practical tips to help you prepare.Thu, 22 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{C61B08EC-2417-4D56-8B11-53C87ED8D802}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/use-mindfulness-to-cope-with-chronic-painUse mindfulness to cope with chronic pain<p>Mindfulness has become a popular concept. Frequently thought of as a way to manage stress and improve focus, discover the benefits of mindfulness practice for helping with chronic pain.</p>Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{644B5882-AA50-4428-A521-D82C8DC83661}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/dried-beans-healthy-mealsDried beans: Rock stars of healthy meals<p>Looking to cook up something delicious and heart-healthy that doesn't break your food budget? You may already have the solution – beans – in your pantry. Learn about these meal-time rock stars.</p>Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{A3E01B14-C307-4B3B-AF14-353FECF49AC6}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/common-questions-about-vitamin-k8 common questions new parents ask about vitamin KAn injection of vitamin K is a preventive measure that's recommended for newborns. Get answers to common questions new parents have about why vitamin K is needed and what can happen without it.Mon, 12 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{A356A31C-1397-4C96-B12A-1BD6C89CD8DB}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/9-ways-to-tame-anxiety-during-the-covid-19-pandemicBuilding resilience: 9 ways to tame anxiety Racing heart, trembling body and scattered mind. Anxiety is common and can overtake your emotions and life. Discover practical strategies to build resiliency when faced with your anxiety triggers.Thu, 08 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{47EFA163-F082-4473-A29A-F136D45C8F16}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/know-your-numbers-heart-rateKnow your numbers: What is your heart rate?The better you understand your heart rate, the more you can maximize your movement to give your heart a good workout. Learn why your heart rate matters and how to find your target heart rate.Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{31BABF27-F2A3-45FA-99DE-7FDDC80341CC}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/redefining-liver-healthRedefining liver health: Understanding steatotic liver disease More than a quarter of the world's adult population is affected by the most common form of chronic liver disease. Learn about a shift underway to redefine steatotic liver disease and raise awareness.Tue, 06 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{66061306-71F7-4C91-91E3-4CE29AA6DFB4}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/blood-pressureMore than stress: What you eat affects your blood pressureStress can increase your blood pressure, but so can what you eat. This eating plan can reduce or control blood pressure while reducing risk of stroke and heart attacks.Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{7D203637-1185-4D78-921D-9CA04789A37A}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/game-day-grub-tipsGame day grub: Tips for winning with party food choicesGame day sports parties are associated with food, friends and fun. Get tips to score big at your next party with a winning lineup of nutritious and delicious food options for your guests.Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{2CD77B46-26AB-4CA5-AF66-2D740533923C}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/establishing-healthy-behaviors-that-stickEstablishing healthy behaviors that stick<p>Setting resolutions and goals may be done with the best intentions, but it's easy to have them break down over time. So why do people fall short of goals to make healthy diet and lifestyle changes?</p>Thu, 01 Feb 2024 00:00:00 Z{20E8D44F-64AB-413A-B5EB-52B3482A80BB}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/cold-plunge-after-workoutsCan taking a cold plunge after your workout be beneficial?Immersing in frigid water may not seem like it would be good for your health. Find out why research is showing that a cold plunge can reduce inflammation and soreness, as well as give your mood a lift.Tue, 30 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{0ADC0F10-1FB2-4925-A728-2409510A5B4A}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/fast-facts-on-fats-and-heart-healthFast facts on fats and heart healthSome fats are healthier for your heart than others. But how can you tell? Learn about each of the main types of fats, which to keep on hand and which ones you should try to avoid.Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{7B983F2A-D1E6-42D3-9FD8-53838FD1C883}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/is-it-an-allergy-or-the-common-coldIs it an allergy or a common cold?It's common to deal with a sore throat, runny nose or cough during winter. Taking a close look at your symptoms can help you determine if you have a common cold or if allergies may be affecting you.Fri, 26 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{5CEE9298-8AEA-4FE6-8B1F-FD239AC3F7BA}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/treatment-for-enlarged-prostateEffective, energetic treatment for enlarged prostateAn enlarged prostate is a common condition as men get older. Read about a safe, effective and minimally invasive treatment option that uses bipolar energy to resolve uncomfortable urinary symptoms.Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{DE01F9D4-90C9-4860-BA80-C3ED57ED8574}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/family-history-ethnicity-and-glaucomaFamily history, ethnicity give insights into glaucomaAnyone can get glaucoma, but certain families, and particularly African Americans, are most susceptible. Learn more about this sight-stealing disease and how screening can protect your vision.Wed, 24 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{06D4F2DA-F5EE-4F3F-9C89-A6E469E3CF00}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/isometric-exercise-and-blood-pressureIsometric exercise: Using body weight to lower blood pressureIsometric exercise focuses on contracting specific groups of muscles. Learn why it's gaining attention for its role in controlling blood pressure and how to do some exercises at home.Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{16136786-949B-46A9-8275-522F779E792E}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/common-orthopedic-injuries-from-winter-activitiesFrom ski slopes to skating rinks, winter sports hold risks for ortho injuriesWinter is filled with fun outdoor sports that improve your health. But what happens when muscle and joint injuries occur? Learn about common injuries, and get prevention tips.Fri, 19 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{4088C4F4-492D-4644-80CF-62125A2B0F6A}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/sensible-snackingAre you mindlessly munching or sensibly snacking?Smart snacking plays a role in your energy level, daily nutrients and weight management. Get expert tips to plan your snacks, evaluate hunger cues and make every nutrient-dense bite count.Wed, 17 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{BCBA998E-E7E7-4AA7-A5AB-02AE82CF7E83}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/volunteers-polish-skills-stay-activeVolunteers polish skills, stay activeNeal and Claudia Coit volunteer at the same location, but each found an opportunity that fits them best. Read about what they do and why it keeps them coming back.Mon, 15 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{000264BA-36B6-47E4-9AF7-6C660666A030}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/what-are-hidden-sources-of-caffeineCaffeine consumption: How much is too much, hidden sourcesFrom beverages to food and medication, you may consume caffeine to help you concentrate or be alert. Learn how much is too much when it comes to caffeine and the hidden sources you may not know about.Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{E98A7BF5-BDBD-4333-9C08-C2B4AFF81412}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/bronchiolitis-in-childrenBronchiolitis in children: Understanding cause, symptoms, concernsFor parents, the symptoms of a viral illness are worrisome in infants and young children. Learn about a lower respiratory viral infection called bronchiolitis and symptoms to watch for in children.Thu, 11 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{ACE87F93-0560-41F5-96BA-062DB759A3EB}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/freezing-preserves-food-freshnessFreezing preserves food freshness, flavorFrom reducing food waste to stretching your food budget, freezing foods at home is an easy, convenient way to preserve freshness and flavors. Check out these tips for best results.Wed, 10 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{EE6436B9-82CD-474D-A997-362F2DA2BC19}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/social-media-risks-tips-to-keep-your-children-safeSocial media risks: Safeguarding children's online experienceSocial media allows children to easily connect with friends, but the digital world can become a threat when not used safely. Get tips to help them use screened devices and social media in a safe way.Fri, 05 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{B8DE094A-D483-452D-A583-4E8E45107E7C}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/boost-vitamin-c-with-in-season-citrusBoost vitamin C with in-season citrusNot only do the sunny colors and flavors of citrus fruits brighten meals, the vitamin C these foods contain is vital to your health. Learn more how easy it is to add to your diet.Wed, 03 Jan 2024 00:00:00 Z{6AD3EA06-5ECF-4B94-A26F-5EC49CE5ECC9}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/why-are-you-coughing-so-muchWhy are you coughing so much?<p>From a tickle in your throat to a chronic cough, you may wonder why you are coughing so much. Learn how to distinguish if your cough is a minor inconvenience or a sign of illness.</p>Fri, 29 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{0FB564AB-612D-4883-98CB-61375A921F43}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/resolutionsCrafting healthier resolutions: Setting and achieving your goals This year, don't just make a resolution — make a plan with a healthy vision using SMART goals to help you overcome challenges when making resolutions for the new year.Thu, 28 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{AEF185AA-BD7C-4591-A7B5-E16AC7ADAC39}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/setting-boundaries-for-well-beingMap it out: Setting boundaries for your well-beingDo your daily responsibilities and obligations leave you feeling stretched thin, stressed or anxious? Learn how setting boundaries can be a powerful tool for your mental and emotional health.Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{CDF21185-66B5-44D3-BBB2-26079D5887E0}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/featured-topic/6-common-flu-misconceptions6 common flu misconceptionsCommon myths about the flu may keep you from taking the necessary steps to protect yourself from the illness. Learn the truth about lowering your risk — starting with the annual flu vaccine.Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{09C66AEB-6F01-43F0-A47C-02B5FCDB8832}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/recognizing-and-addressing-a-loved-ones-alcohol-abuseRecognizing, addressing a loved one's alcohol useAddiction to alcohol affects millions of people every year. Learn the signs that alcohol may be an issue for your loved one, and get tips for providing support for recovery.Tue, 19 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{A24D0C80-0C46-4601-A188-F71B88AC8F61}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/sleep-and-athletic-performanceSleep your way to better athletic performanceSleep plays a crucial role in athletic performance. It allows your body to recover and your mind to absorb new skills. Learn about more benefits and how to build sleep into your training routine.Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{25FDBF62-2255-4B7C-AF9D-E0CD3D15C842}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/feeling-like-youre-all-earsFeeling like you're all ears?"I'm all ears" typically means you're listening, but it has a different meaning if you feel self-conscious about prominent ears. Learn about a procedure that can change the ear shape and position.Thu, 14 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{E8C71364-AF5C-46D5-8E82-E0EF726953A7}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/winter-wellness-healthy-holiday-tipsWinter wellness: 7 tips for staying healthy during the holidaysDiscover strategies for staying healthy during winter festivities. From staying hydrated to conquering stress, you can enjoy the holiday season without compromising your well-being.Wed, 13 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{8CA56CB1-B58C-4010-B524-DB81B9137660}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/thyroid-disease-symptoms-and-treatmentThyroid disease: Learn the types, symptoms and treatments<p>The thyroid gland makes a hormone that regulates metabolism. Sometimes it can make too little or too much of the hormone, resulting in thyroid disease. Find out the types, symptoms and treatments.</p>Tue, 12 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{25B8B6DF-0BC7-4B92-8838-8A847038989B}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/have-you-talked-to-your-children-about-alcohol-useHave you talked to your children about alcohol use?Caring adults in children's lives have the power of influence. Get tips to help you talk with your children about the dangers of alcohol. It could save a life.Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{676BD1E7-F00E-449B-A3A6-37192FEF72E5}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/5-ws-of-healthy-handsThe 5 Ws of healthy hands can help you avoid germs, illnessesPreventing illness during the cold and flu season starts with the who, what, where, when and why of handwashing. Teach your children about hand hygiene with these tips.Thu, 07 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{892A4ED2-2995-4D60-BE20-9107744769DF}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/hearing-loss-and-brain-health-linkYou can’t remember what you can't hear: The hearing loss, brain health linkMissing out on the sounds of daily life can lead to isolation and have an impact on your brain health. Learn more about the connection between hearing and cognition.Wed, 06 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{A656C56C-F11D-492E-B30D-44F760848CBF}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/6-tips-for-living-with-copd6 tips for living with COPDCOPD, a chronic inflammatory lung disease most often caused by long-term smoking, is a leading cause of disability and death in the U.S. Learn strategies to cope with COPD and slow lung damage.Tue, 05 Dec 2023 00:00:00 Z{6A076A9A-BD8A-42F3-998E-E606C2E7F5B5}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/volunteers-make-connectionsVolunteers make connections, reap benefitsTogether, Mary and Ben Zweber have nearly 50 years of volunteer experience with Mayo Clinic Health System. Learn what keeps this couple — now in their 90s — coming back and giving of their time.Thu, 30 Nov 2023 00:00:00 Z{D2597D3F-FB49-4253-8380-78FA3F2886C2}https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/healthy-changes-you-will-be-thankful-forHealthy changes that will make you thankful<p>Making a few changes to your favorite holiday meals and spending your calories wisely can help you celebrate in a healthier way. Get healthy recipe makeovers with loads of flavor and fewer calories.</p>Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 Z