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Insulin resistance is a condition that occurs when muscle, liver and fat cells dont respond well to insulin. Most know that insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar, but it also has a role in fat storage and regulation of enzymatic activity in the body. So, if insulin is not able to do its job, it can cause us to have problems, one of which can be especially tough if were trying to address obesity.

The pancreas responds to insulin resistance by making more insulin, but guess what? Our cells still ignore it. This elevation can cause many issues with our bodies. We know that higher insulin levels are seen in type 2 diabetes, prediabetes and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Other clinical presentations include infertility, skin tags, acanthosis nigricans, high triglycerides and possibly more. This elevation in insulin also activates fat synthesis and weight gain. Weight gain makes cells even more resistant to insulin.

Blount Memorial registered dietitian Heather Pierce says this may sound like a downward spiral, but lifestyle choices can improve and often reverse insulin resistance.

Insulin resistance is very prevalent in our country, she said. Genetics and environmental factors contribute to this, too, but lets focus on lifestyle strategies. The core problem is high insulin levels. A fasting level can be obtained, but they are not commonly performed. Waist-to-height ratio is something you can do yourself to assess if you have insulin resistance. Divide your waist measurement by your height. Anything less than 0.5 indicates good insulin sensitivity. Basically, you want your waist to be no more than half of your height, she explained. If anything, this can give you the knowledge to begin making changes to your lifestyle, whether or not you are overweight.

Its the abdominal fat that is more likely to cause metabolic issues and insulin resistance, Pierce continued. We mentioned that the cells are not responding to this hormone, but how do we make them listen? Movement is one of the greatest ways to make cells more sensitive to insulin. Notice, I said movement, not a marathon or exercising to the point that you are injured. All movement is good, but strength training and interval training may be the best bang for your buck if you are limited on time. Our Wellness Centers at Springbrook and Cherokee are doing an excellent job of maintaining services safely through the pandemic, she said. There are also quite a few free apps and online videos that can help if youd rather exercise in your home. Either way, look at exercise as a medicine to help reverse insulin resistance, and find something that works for you.

Next, Pierce says what we eat is essential to lowering insulin resistance.

To reduce the amount of insulin circulating in the blood, we must understand what causes elevations, Pierce said. Elevation occurs slightly with protein intake, but theres no impact from fat. Carbohydrate is the main nutrient that raises blood sugar and then activates insulin to be secreted, so think of bread, cereals, crackers, pasta, rice, potatoes, snack cakes, sugary beverages and fruit. The goal is to get the sugar into cells to be used as energy or stored. Once our cells have stored enough sugar, the energy may wind up being stored as fat long-term. I dont usually recommend taking out all carbs and creating a cycle of dieting; I prefer to decrease the obvious culprits such as sweetened beverages and snacks, then tackle finding replacements for the common carbohydrates that are overconsumed.

Finally, when we eat can also be a game changer for insulin resistance, as well, Pierce said. Remember, when we eat our insulin goes up, and as long as insulin is up, weight loss is hindered. This just might explain why smaller meals throughout the day is not working for everyone. If we start limiting our eating times, we can lower our insulin levels. Youve probably heard of intermittent fasting and there are several ways to implement this safely. I recommend researching the options and reviewing them with your doctor first.

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BMH COLUMN; There are ways to improve or reverse insulin resistance - Maryville Daily Times

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Its a no-brainer that walking can be great for your health, but will you need to spend hours strolling around to eke out those fitness perks? Knowing how long it takes to walk a mile can help you plan ahead.

Maybe youve decided running is a hard pass. Maybe you want to give speed walking competitions a try. Or, maybe you just want to walk a mile in someone elses shoes and youre wondering how long its going to take. (Your own shoes are fine, too.)

No matter what you have planned, heres everything you need to know to put one foot in front of the other.

It takes, on average, about 15 to 22 minutes to walk a mile according to a large, long-term study. How fast youll walk depends on a few things: age, gender, physical ability, terrain, and whether someones holding the door for you

According to a 2011 study, men walk a bit faster than women, and your speed often decreases with age. Here are the breakdowns:

How long it takes to walk a mile: Men

How long it takes to walk a mile: Women

The world record for the fastest mile ever walked is held by British Olympian Tom Bosworth at 5:31. Thats faster than most people can run that same distance so its probably too ambitious a goal for first-timers.

Interested to see how fast your body can take you? Theres plenty of tech that can help you out. From pedometers to smart watches and phone apps, its easy to see your speed in real time and track your progress.

Apps like MapMyRun, FitBit (no band required), and Endomodo do the job of measuring distance and pace more accurately and easily than ever. You can also invest in watches from brands like Garmin and Apple that do almost everything except rub your feet after a long walk.

A good old-fashioned stopwatch (or the digital stopwatch on your phone) also still serves the purpose. Keep in mind: One lap around a typical outdoor track is a quarter-mile and indoor tracks are typically one-tenth or one-twelfth of a mile.

Races arent just for runners. USA Track & Field (USATF), the national governing body for foot racing, recognizes a wide range of official race-walking distances including everything from your basic 5K (3.1 miles) to ultramarathons of 31 and 62 miles. But, you probably wont want to walk 500 miles

Average walking time per race distance

If walking 30 minutes per day, shooting for a 20 to 30 minute pace, is a good general goal if youre looking to reap the health benefits of walking. Just keep in mind: your biggest mile marker is your own progress.

Its helpful to have goals to inspire you and to hold yourself accountable to, but just getting out there (or onto a treadmill) is a win. Aiming to do better than you did yesterday is still a big step toward a healthier you.

Research has found that even a small increase in walking can have big impacts on your overall health.

Accelerating your walking speed can accelerate your health benefits. Studies have shown that increasing how fast you walk can decrease your risk for cardiovascular disease (and who doesnt want a happy heart?). A 2019 study found that faster walking speed is also associated with boosting brain health.

Regular walkers tend to live longer, have lower blood pressure, and be less prone to chronic disease. Sound good? Just dont overdo it. While walking daily can help prevent certain joint pain, if youre just starting out, walking too far too quickly could lead to an overuse injury.

Walking, especially speed walking, can be an effective way to manage your weight, but if youre struggling to walk fast for the whole mile, dont give up! Try alternating 30-second or 1-minute intervals of faster walking with 1 or 2 minutes at an easier pace. Thatll help you build endurance and provide some weight-management benefits of walking.

Theres nothing magical about the mile. In fact, one study on sitting, standing, and walking found that it was actually spending less time sitting down that had the biggest impact on weight loss.

If you have a 9-to-5 that has you stuck behind a desk all day, try spending some of your time standing or walking in place while you work. You could invest in a standing desk or try piling up some boxes under your laptop.

Speed walking can be a great, low impact, way to stay active whether or not you want to get involved in competition. You dont have to go all Hal from Malcolm in the Middle with a morph suit and aerodynamic helmet to get into it, either.

According to the USA Track & Field, in order to qualify as race walking you need to keep contact with the ground at all times and your front leg has to be straight from the time your front foot hits the ground until its under your body.

To begin training, you could start with a weekly goal of 10 or 15 minutes per day for 5 days and gradually increase time, distance, pace, and number of workouts as you gain strength and endurance. Before long, youll be walking at super speed for 30 minutes or more, no sweat.

It takes around 15 to 22 minutes to walk a mile. If youre looking to lower your blood pressure, lose weight, and live longer, walking is a great exercise whether youre a beginner or a seasoned speed walker.

Dont worry if you cant walk a mile at record speed, just remember: A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. And so does a 1-mile walk.

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Walk on the Wild Side: Here's How Long It Takes to Walk a Mile - Greatist

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One in 10 breastfed babies loses more than 10% of birthweight in the first week of life

Where an infant has an underlying illness that causes poor weight gain, clinical features will usually be present

Persisting pain during breastfeeding can indicate problems with positioning and attachment. Simple interventions are often effective in improving milk transfer

Amelia is four weeks old. At the request of her health visitor, Amelias mother comes to see you with concerns about growth. Amelia is Lucy's first baby, is breastfed, and has just regained her birth weight. The growth chart in her parent-held child health record shows Amelia is currently on the 25th centile, having been on the 75th centile at birth. Lucy is worried about whether she is able to meet Amelias nutritional needs.

This article explores how to approach concerns about infant growth in the early weeks after birth, how to manage common problems, and when to seek additional support.

The aims of the consultation are to understand and explore parental concerns, look for evidence of illness in mother or baby, assess feeding, and provide advice, guiding families to additional support if required. Conversations about infant growth can be emotive and highly influential, making it essential to recognise and respond to parental concerns with sensitivity and provide evidence-informed guidance.

Anxiety about infant weight gain is common and can lead to early cessation of breastfeeding.12 In a UK-wide survey on infant feeding, the most common reasons to discontinue breastfeeding were concerns about milk supply, latch, or painful feeding.3 Slow weight gain in infants is usually related to suboptimal nutritional intake. Glandular breast tissue hypoplasia, which limits a womans ability to produce milk, is uncommon, with a reported incidence of 1 in 1000.45 Therefore, the consultation should consider maternal concerns and

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Growth concerns in the early weeks of life - The BMJ

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Obesity is a common, serious, and costly chronic disease, and it is rising in the US, reveals an analysis at a time when the health condition is seen causing greater risk for severe Covid-19. Twelve states in 2019 had an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35%: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia. This is up from nine states in 2018, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

All states and territories had more than 20% of adults with obesity. 20% to less than 25% of adults had obesity in 1 state (Colorado) and the District of Columbia. 25% to less than 30% of adults had obesity in 13 states. 30% to less than 35% of adults had obesity in 23 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. 35% or more adults had obesity in 12 states, write authors.

The Midwest (33.9%) and South (33.3%) had the highest prevalence of obesity, followed by the Northeast (29%), and the West (27.4%). The data comes from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, an on-going state-based, telephone interview survey conducted by CDC and state health departments.

The researchers found that obesity impacts some groups more than others. Combined data from 2017-2019 show notable racial and ethnic disparities: non-Hispanic Black adults had the highest prevalence of self-reported obesity (39.8%), followed by Hispanic adults (33.8%) and non-Hispanic White adults (29.9%). While six states had an obesity prevalence of 35% or higher among non-Hispanic White adults, 15 states had an obesity prevalence of 35% or higher among Hispanic adults. Another 34 states and the District of Columbia had an obesity prevalence of 35% or higher among non-Hispanic Black adults.

Obesity decreased by level of education. Adults without a high school degree or equivalent had the highest self-reported obesity (36.2%), followed by high school graduates (34.3%), adults with some college (32.8%), and college graduates (25%). Young adults were half as likely to have obesity as middle-aged adults. Adults aged 18-24 years had the lowest self-reported obesity (18.9%) compared to adults aged 45-54 years who had the highest prevalence (37.6%), reveals the study.

According to health experts, adults with obesity are at even higher risk during the Covid-19 pandemic. Having obesity increases the risk of severe illness from coronavirus and it may triple the risk of hospitalization due to a Covid-19 infection. Obesity is also linked to impaired immune function. Obesity decreases lung capacity and reserve and can make ventilation more difficult. As BMI increases, the risk of death from Covid-19 increases. Studies have demonstrated that obesity may be linked to lower vaccine responses for numerous diseases, cautions CDC.

Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black adults have a higher prevalence of obesity and are more likely to suffer worse outcomes from Covid-19. Racial and ethnic minority groups have historically not had fair opportunities for economic, physical, and emotional health, and these inequities have increased the risk of getting sick and dying from Covid-19 for some groups. Many of these same factors are contributing to the higher level of obesity in some racial and ethnic minority groups, the findings state.

Obesity is a complex disease with many contributing factors. The report says that neighborhood design, access to healthy, affordable foods and beverages, and access to safe and convenient places for physical activity can all impact obesity.

According to experts, the racial and ethnic disparities in obesity underscore the need to address social determinants of health such as poverty, education, and housing to remove barriers to health. This will take action at the policy and systems-level to ensure that obesity prevention and management starts early and that everyone has access to good nutrition and safe places to be physically active, they emphasize. Policymakers and community leaders must work to ensure that their communities, environments, and systems support a healthy, active lifestyle for all, recommends the team.

The authors say that systemic change takes time, as does long-term weight loss. They suggest that in addition to the steps everyone should take to slow the spread of coronavirus, individuals can help protect themselves and their families during this pandemic by eating a healthy diet, being active, and getting enough sleep. The epidemic of obesity is impacting the severity of the Covid-19 pandemic. Given the added risks associated with coronavirus, we need to support all individuals, especially members of racial and ethnic minority groups, to live active healthy lives, they conclude.

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Adult obesity rate on the rise, more than 20% Americans obese in all states with Blacks most impacted: CDC - MEAWW

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All in all, there's a lot to love about fall: It's the time of the year when you can slow things down, cozy up, and relax. Not to mention revisit your impressive sweater collection. But don't get too comfynot yet, anyway. While apple-picking is always a doctor-approved habit, there are also some things experts say to avoid. From overdoing it on added sugar (hello, pumpkin spice lattes!) to skipping your workouts, these are the worst things you can do for your health this fall. And for what you should be doing, check out The Single Best Thing You Can Do for Your Health Right Now.

In the summer months, you may combat stress through workouts and time spent reading on the beach. Just make sure you still find ways to deal with it during the colder fall months, too. According to Jessica Peatross, MD, a hospitalist and functional medicine doctor in Monterey Park, California, severe acute stress or chronic long-term stress can have an impact on how well your immune system functions.

"When you're stressed, there's an uptick in the fight-or-flight hormone, cortisol. If cortisol remains high chronically, research shows this can increase inflammation, which can confuse the body's defenses," says Peatross. "A type of our white blood cells, lymphocytes, also have a more difficult time responding to foreign invaders when you're stressed." And for all the ways being at your wit's end impacts your well-being, check out 18 Subtle Signs Your Stress Levels Are Harming Your Health.

There are so many downsides to going crazy on added or processed sugar, and that's exactly why doctors recommend keeping your intake to a minimum.

"In the short-term, added or processed sugar has been shown to cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, leading to increased secretion of insulin and then glucose crash. These fluctuations in blood sugar levels can negatively impact your energy levels," says Emmanuel Asare, MD, a New York-based internal medicine specialist and the founder of MiraBurst. "In the long-term, research shows that added sugar is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, increased risk of heart disease, development of some types of cancers, and other health issues."

Remember the flu? Even though it's been out of many people's minds with everything else happening in the world, now's the time to start making sure you're doing whatever you can to prevent all sicknesses. "With the winter months approaching and COVID-19 still lurking, it's more important than ever before to get vaccinated," says Niket Sonpal, MD, an internist and gastroenterologist in New York City. "The country will likely have a convergence of both flu and coronavirus this fall and winter, so getting the flu shot is extremely crucial this year (and every year)." And for more on the influenza virus, check out Everything You Need to Know About Flu Season This Year.

It's tempting to cozy up to one too many bottles of wine come fall, but Sunitha D. Posina, MD, a board-certified internist and locum hospitalist in New York, says to make sure to keep those glasses to a minimum in order to keep your health in check.

"While consuming alcohol can lower the chances of heart disease and improve blood pressure, regularly drinking more than two drinks a day can have many consequences on the rest of the body," she says. "At minimum, allow yourself two alcohol-free days a week to avoid developing liver problems and gaining weight. The CDC defines one drink per day for women and two for men as moderate drinking, which is associated in alcohol studies with the lowest mortality rates."

Just because it's sweater season doesn't mean you should stop eating healthy and working out. "With cooler weather, folks tend to spend more time indoors and be less active. Just because you're not wearing a swimsuit doesn't mean you should stop exercising," says Carmen Teague, MD, an internal medicine specialist at Atrium Health Mecklenburg Medical Group in Charlotte, North Carolina. "Commit to finding indoor opportunities to stay fit and active once it gets cold."

Once it gets cold outside, it's tempting to eat more warm and cozy comfort foods. But be sure you're still getting in at least five servings of fruit and veggies a day while doing so.

"Research has shown that eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables can reduce a person's risk of developing obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and some types of cancers," Asare says. "Fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and a wide range of health boosting antioxidants, including polyphenols. These plant-based nutrients help us lead a healthier, longer life by helping us reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases."

Yeah, yeahit's hard to sleep when you're so excited about making your pumpkin spice latte in the morning. But Sonpal says ensuring you're getting sufficient sleep every night (he recommends aiming for 7 to 8 hours) is important in maintaining good health, as well as a strong immune system.

"When the body is asleep, there's an increase in the release of T cells and cytokines in the bloodstream, which are vital parts of the immune system. Less sleep means fewer immune cells are being produced, therefore increasing the risk of infection," he says. "Not to mention, sleep deprivation can worsen or make it harder to manage stress. Stress alone weakens your immunity, leaving you vulnerable to getting sick." And to see where people are getting the least amount of shut-eye, check out This Is the Most Sleep-Deprived State in the U.S.

Having sweets in moderation is healthy. What's not good for your body, however, is eating your child's entire supply of Halloween candy. "The holidays, starting with Halloween, tend to afford many opportunities for sweets and dietary indiscretion," Teague says. "Be mindful of what you're eating, or sampling. It's okay to eat your Aunt Trilla's pumpkin pie, but you probably shouldn't devour the whole thing."

There's still so much to learn about COVID-19, and that's why it's important to stay informed on all the latest symptoms and news. "Come fall and wintertime, coronavirus infections will overlap with cases of the common cold and seasonal flu. Given that all three of these conditions can result in a cough, the symptoms may be difficult to distinguish," Posina says. "That's why it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 news in your city or neighborhood, and know what to look out for when it comes to showing symptoms."

If you're trying to shed some pounds before the holidays, this is not the way to go about it. According to Asare, there are many different side effects of weight loss pills depending on the type you take, ranging from insomnia and increased blood pressure to headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

"Besides the potential side effects of diet pills, it's also important to know that most people will regain some or all of the weight they lost when they stop using weight loss pills," he says. "In effect, the only safe, effective, and permanent way to lose weight is through lifestyle modification, which consists of increased physical activity and the adoption of healthy eating habits." And for more helpful information delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.

What's the problem with sour foods, you ask? According to Asare, they're not great for your stomach when you overdo it. "Most healthy fruits tend to be a little sour, and therefore sour foods are okay to consume in moderation," he says. "However, if too many sour foods are consumed improperly, it can lead to gastric upset. That is why it's important that certain sour foodssuch as lemonsare combined with other foods and drinks that aren't sour." And for more things you need to know about your midsection, check out This Is Everything Your Stomach Is Trying to Tell You About Your Health.

You might be tempted to skip breakfast in order to cut down on your daily calories, but Asare says eating something healthy can keep you feeling your best. "If you start your day with a healthy breakfast, it will 'wake up' your digestive system and jump start your metabolism," he says. "This will regulate your bowel movements and help your blood sugar levels to stay stable throughout the day."

It's the season of baked goods, and that means sugar, sugar, and more sugar. Dr. Asare says to be aware of how much added sugar is going into what you eat and drink. While he says natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit are generally safe for the body, he's not a fan of artificial options.

"Artificial sweeteners may have long-term health issues and therefore need more research to establish long-term safety," he says. "A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal in 2017 revealed that artificial sweeteners may be associated with long-term weight gain and increased risk of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease."

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The Worst Things You Can Do for Your Health This Fall - Best Life

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Note: In response to concerns about the coronavirus, many events may be subject to cancellation, postponement or attendance limits. Please contact organizers to confirm event details.

HEALTH NEWS

Gift shop volunteers needed

Gift Shop volunteers are needed at Beverly and Addison Gilbert Hospitals. This is a great way to learn about retail in health care or volunteer your time and experience in an enjoyable shop environment.

Volunteer benefits include shop discounts and a meal voucher. A variety of shift times are available including evenings and weekends. Please visit the hospitals website atbeverlyhospital.org/giving/volunteer-services for more information.

Pet therapy volunteers sought

Care Dimensions, formerly Hospice of the North Shore & Greater Boston, is seeking more volunteers with certified pet therapy dogs to provide pet therapy to hospice patients in a variety of settings throughout Greater Boston and on the North Shore.

Pet therapy dogs must be certified through a registered pet therapy organization. Volunteers will receive training and ongoing support while engaging in the rewarding experience of visiting hospice patients and their caregivers.

For more information about this volunteer opportunity, please contact Sheryl Meehan, Director of Volunteer Services and Complementary Therapies at SMeehan@CareDimensions.org or 978-750-9321.

SUPPORT GROUPS AND OTHER PROGRAMS

Safe Place Support Group

Safe Place is a support group in Beverly dedicated to helping people who have lost a loved one, co-worker or friend to suicide that meets from 7 to 8 p.m. the first and third Thursday of each month at St. Johns Episcopal Church, 705 Hale St..

Run by Samaritans of the Merrimack Valley, a program of Family Services of the Merrimack Valley, Safe Place provides a space to talk about your loss with others who are experiencing the same type of devastating loss. Its a place to talk, listen, cry, be silent, grieve, be understood and receive hope and understanding from other loss survivors. Safe Place is a confidential and free support group led by a trained fellow suicide loss survivor.

For additional information, contact Debbie Helms at dhelms@fsmv.org.

Alzheimers Caregiver Support Group

Spectrum Adult Day Health Programs, 600 Cummings Center, Beverly, will host an Alzheimers Caregiver Support Group from 1:30 to 3 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of the month.

The group will offer information and education about Alzheimers disease and related memory disorders, an increased understanding through shared experiences and mutual support from other caregivers. Free respite care available upon request. Light refreshments will be served

To RSVP for respite care or have questions, contact support leader Rachael Palmacci at 978-921-5020 or signup online at http://spectrumdayprogram.org.

Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Patients

An eight-session educational/support program for individuals newly diagnosed with breast cancer is held at the Beverly Hospital at Danvers. This program is designed to support, guide and provide knowledge.

The free program is held at Beverly Hospital at Danvers Breast Center, Beverly Hospital at Danvers, 480 Maple St., Danvers. Sessions are held on the first and thirdMonday beginning at 7 p.m. There is no fee.

For further details on upcoming dates or to register, please contact Kimberly Willis, NP-C, Certified Patient Navigator at kwillis@nhs-healthlink.org or call 978-304-8105.

Dementia Support Group

A Dementia Support Group will be held at Twin Oaks Center on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 7-8 p.m.

When you are faced with a loved one exhibiting symptoms of dementia, it can be a confusing and troubling time in your life. The group will help you understand the disease and gain knowledge about the best methods of care for your loved one.

People afflicted with cognitive impairments require additional care to keep their emotional and physical functioning strong and healthy. The centers specialized professionals connect to deliver consistent, stable care while creating an environment of warmth and understanding.

Twin Oaks Center is located at 63 Locust St., Danvers. The support group is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact Jennifer Tineo at 978-777-0011.

One Life recovery program

One Life, a faith-based recovery program for those struggling with life-controlling issues (hurts, hang-ups, and habits), meets every Friday night at 6:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Danvers. This program will help you find freedom from addictive and compulsive thoughts, behavior patterns such as co-dependency, pornography, chemical dependency, eating disorders, depression, emotional/physical abuse, anger, and other personal struggles. This tried and proven recovery program uses traditional methods to build recovery for those struggling with life experiences that affect our peace. The First Baptist Church of Danvers is located at 1 Water St., Danvers. Contact by phone at 978-774-8277, by email at Baptist1@verizon.net, or visit them at http://www.fbcdanvers.org.

Stroke Survivor Support Group

A free monthly Stroke Survivor Support Group held on the first Wednesday of each month from 10:30-11:30 a.m. The group meets at Addison Gilbert Hospital, 298 Washington St., Gloucester in the Longan Room. The free program is facilitated by a variety of professionals affiliated with the stroke program at Beverly Hospital.

Light refreshments will be available. There is no fee and preregistration is not required. For further information or questions, please call Eileen Consentino at 978-922-3000, ext. 2295.

Young Moms Pregnancy Workshop

The Healthy Pregnancy Workshop isa class specifically for teens and young women. It is a two-hour class to be attended in the first or second trimester, focusing on healthy pregnancy. There is no fee. To register or for further information, please call 978-922-3000, ext. 2720.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

The Beverly Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group meets on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Ledgewood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center, located on the campus of Beverly Hospital. This free meeting meets in the Garden Room, located on the first floor.

Preregistration is not required, those wishing further information may call the Community Relations Department at Beverly Hospital at 978-236-1650.

Melanoma Support Group

IMPACT Melanomasponsors a support group open to all those who have been diagnosed with Melanoma. The group is facilitated by Kelli Braga, LICSW, in the Garden Conference Room, located on the first floor of the Beverly Hospital.

The group meets on the second Thursday of each month at 6-7:30 p.m. There is no fee. Preregistration is requested. To register, or for further information, please contact Kelli Braga at Beverly Hospital 978-922-3000, extension 2710, or by calling theIMPACT Melanoma at 800-557-6352.

General Cancer Support Group

The General Cancer Support Group meets at Beverly Hospital on the first Wednesday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Womens Health Building in the small conference room.

Preregistration is required by calling the Social Work Department at Beverly Hospital at 978-922-3000, ext. 2710.

Healthy Streets Outreach Program

Healthy Streets Outreach Program, a program of Health Innovation, Inc., provides HIV, Hepatitis C testing, STI testing, Narcan and overdose prevention training, referrals to substance use treatment and mental health services.

Healthy Streets Outreach Program, is located at 100 Willow St., Second Floor, Lynn. For further information, please call: 781-592-0243.

Medication review

A free 15-minute review of medications may be scheduled with a registered pharmacist at Beverly Hospital. Appointments are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month. Participants are asked to bring a list of all medications, prescription and over-the-cou1nter medications, including vitamins, etc. To schedule a free and confidential appointment, please call Lahey Health Senior Care at 978-922-7018, ext. 1305.

Healthy Streets Outreach

Northeast Behavioral Health Healthy Streets Outreach Program provides rapid HIV testing, hepatitis C information, access to drug treatment, overdose prevention and Narcan training. All services, provided by NBH Healthy Streets Program, are available at various locations on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 978-767-3913 or 781-592-0243 to reach the outreach team.

Help with hoarding issues

The North Shore Center for Hoarding & Cluttering at North Shore Elder Services is the leader in providing a support system for those who are feeling overwhelmed by the stuff in their life. Many of us periodically reach a point where we need to simplify, organize and declutter. Sometimes we cannot do it alone and need some help in meeting this challenge; thats when the North Shore Center for Hoarding & Cluttering can offer assistance.

If you or someone you know might benefit from any of the professional services NSCHC can offer, call 978-750-4540 and ask for Information Services to make a referral. There are no geographic or age restrictions for participating in any of the services.

NSCHC is located at North Shore Elder Services, 300 Rosewood Ave., Suite 200, in Danvers. For more information, please contact Marnie McDonald, LCSW at (978) 624-2207 or mmcdonald@nselder.org

Community CPR programs

Beverly Hospital is offering several American Heart Association CPR courses designed for non-medical personnel and teach the skills and techniques used in adult, infant and child CPR. This course also covers choking in adult and children, and the use of protection devices for mouth-to-mouth breathing. This course is appropriate for anyone wishing to learn lifesaving CPR skills.

The cost of the course is $50 and includes the American Heart Association Heart Saver Student Workbooks. At the completion of the course you will receive an American Heart Association Heart Saver course completion card; this card signifies that you have successfully completed the CPR program.

The classes will run from 6-9 p.m. and are subject to cancellation due to low registration. The cost of the course is $50 and includes the textbook. To register or for further information , please contact Kim Regan at 978-922-3000, ext. 3436.

Suicide Survivor Support Group

SAFE PLACE, a peer-run suicide survivor support group is held for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. The support group is sponsored by the Samaritans of Merrimack Valley of Lawrence.

Friends are welcome to attend the free support group that meets at St. Johns Episcopal Church, 705 Hale St., Beverly Farms on the first and third Thursday of each month, from 7-8:30 p.m. There is no fee. Preregistration is not required.

For further information, please call Debbie Helms at 978-327-6671.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

The Beverly Hospital Prostate Cancer Support Group meets on the third Thursday of each month, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ledgewood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center, located on the campus of Beverly Hospital. This free group meets in the Garden Room, located on the first floor.

Preregistration is not required, those wishing further information may call the Community Relations Department at Beverly Hospital 978-283-4000, ext. 585.

Grief recovery

G.R.A.S.P. Grief Recovery after a Substance Passing a support group for families or individuals who have lost a loved as a result of substance use or addiction, meets on the first Thursday of every month, from 7-8:30 p.m. at Highland Hall inside the auditorium at Salem Hospital. For more information, call 781-593-5224 or 978-354-2660 or online at http://www.grasphelp.org.

Young Moms Childbirth Preparation Series

The CYM Childbirth Preparation Series is specifically for teens and young women. This seven-week series follows the Healthy Pregnancy workshop. This series prepares young women and their support people for labor and delivery. The class meets one evening a week for seven weeks. There is no fee; preregistration is required by calling 978-922-3000, extension 2720.

Helping seniors stay healthy

This winter as the rate of senior hospitalization typically reaches its highest point of the year the Home Instead Senior Care, serving Danvers and surrounding areas, has committed to reducing area hospitalizations through the launch of a new informational campaign aimed at educating families how to help aging loved ones remain healthy at home year-round.

There are many things families can do to help keep their senior loved ones out of the hospital. In fact, in a new study of nurses who work primarily with seniors, 99 percent say that the role families play in keeping seniors out of the hospital is just as important as the role of the medical community.

From monitoring their taking of prescribed medications for chronic conditions to attending doctors visits and checking in to ensure doctors instructions are followed, their role as a medical advocate is critical.

To help family members identify and act on potential warning signs, Home Instead is offering Five Ways to Prevent Senior Hospitalizations guide, developed in partnership with Dr. Carolyn Clevenger, incoming president of the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association.

This free resource includes information about common risk factors and the steps that families can take to help ensure a healthy lifestyle. Additional free family resources can be found at http://www.preventseniorhospitalizations.com. To obtain a copy of the guide or to learn more about how you can help keep your senior loved one out of the hospital this winter, please call 978-725-5995.

Surgical Weight Loss info sessions

Lahey Hospital & Medical Center is pleased to bring Surgical Weight Loss services to Lahey Outpatient Center, Danvers. While the actual surgery will be performed in Burlington, patients will now have the convenience of receiving preoperative and postoperative care close to home.

Surgical Weight Loss offers a multi-disciplinary team approach for treating obesity through a combination of surgery, behavioral health, and nutrition. This multi-disciplinary approach is the key to successful long-term weight loss and well-being.

As part of the offerings, free monthly bariatric information sessions are held at Lahey Outpatient Center, Danvers. These sessions are open to patients and the community, and are facilitated by surgeons and nurse practitioners of the program.

Patients who typically qualify for surgical weight-loss include those with a body mass index greater than or equal to 40, and/or a body mass index between 35 and 39 with at least one major medical co-morbidity, such as obstructive sleep apnea or hypoventilation syndrome, diabetes or hypertension.

Free upcoming Surgical Weight Loss info sessions are held 6:30-7:30 p.m. Please call 978-304-8020 for further information regarding upcoming programs.

Newly Bereaved Workshop

Held 5-7 p.m. first Thursday of every month at the Bertolon Center forGrief & Healing, 78 Liberty St., Danvers.The group is for those who have lost someone within the last three months.To sign up or forinformation: 855-774-5100; grief@caredimensions.org.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group

Held 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.second Thursday each month at the Beverly Senior Center, 90 Colon St. Group meets once a month at the Senior Center. Come meet other grandparents like you, get support, learn helpful informationand have some fun. Walk-ins are welcome. Held in the Meeting Room.For information: 978-921-6017.

Nar-Anon Support group

Held 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Salvation Army building, 93 North St., Salem. Affected by someone elses addiction? Nar-anon offers Hope. Nar-Anon is a worldwide fellowship for those affected by someone elses Addiction. As a twelve-step program, Nar-Anon offers help by sharing experience, strength and hope. Meetings are open to family and friends of addicts in the North Shore area. Meetings will continue as long as they are needed by the community. There is parking in the rear of the building via Mason Street. All meetings are free, non denominational, all are invited.

Caregiver Support Group

Held 10-11:30 a.m. thesecond Tuesday of each month at the Beverly Senior Center, 90 Colon St.Come participate with other caregivers in confidential discussions about the difficulties and joys of caregiving for a loved one. The support of others who understand and have similar experiences can be exactly what you need. Held in the Conference Room. Sign upin advance. For information:978-921-6017.

Gloucester Stroke Club

Held 10:30-11:30 a.m. on the first Wednesday of every month atAddison Gilbert Hospital, Longan Room,298 Washington St.,Gloucester.Support groups are a great way to meet each other, stroke survivors or caregivers who understand what you are going through. The club will offer members various activities such as arts and crafts, gentle exercise, and health demonstrations - such as massage, blood pressure checks and other social activities.

Peer and Recovery Support Group

Held 7-8:30 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month in the doctors conference room at Beverly Hospital, 85 Herrick St., Beverly. These support groups are for family and friends of those dealing with mental health challenges and also for peers in recovery and meet the last Wednesday of each month. For information: 617-984-0504; csadkowski@yahoo.com; namigreaternorthshore.org.

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A statewide effort to shine a light on the dangers of isolation for residents in long-term care facilities as the COVID-19 pandemic continues has come to East Texas.

Chasity Dillard and Judy Case last weekend placed more than 300 signs in Dillards yard on FM 2087 between Longview and Kilgore on behalf of Texas Caregivers for Compromise, a group working to get the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and Gov. Greg Abbott to approve a plan to open long-term care facilities, because they say isolation can also be deadly.

The signs read, Isolation kills, too, and each one has a name on it names of people the groups members said have died in isolation or remain in quarantine in a long-term care facility.

Dillard, a licensed vocational nurse with an East Texas hospice company and a member of the group, said she has seen firsthand the pain that pandemic-related isolation can cause.

For some of the elderly people, their nightmare has become a reality, My family is going to put me in a home and forget about me, Dillard said. They dont all understand that theres a sickness (pandemic).

Texas Caregivers for Compromise organizers said they are not asking the states government to open wide the doors to care facilities. Instead, they want one caregiver per resident to be allowed to visit with and care for their loved one.

In March, Gov. Greg Abbott shut down visitation at the states nursing homes in a move meant to protect the states most vulnerable populations safe from a pandemic that has proved especially deadly for older people.

This past month, the state put in place new guidelines to allow masked, outdoor, socially distanced supervised visits in what are called qualifying Phase 1 facilities. The facilities must not have a current resident or an employee with COVID-19 for 14 consecutive days. One of the groups organizers said few nursing homes in Texas have the designation.

Case, of Kilgore, helped Dillard place the signs over the weekend.

Her father, 90-year-old Emmett Stephens, is in the memory care unit at Arabella in Kilgore, a coronavirus-free Phase 1-approved facility. She can visit her dad, but she must make an appointment to see him and it must be outside so they can remain at least six feet apart.

Judy Case visits with her father, 90-year-old Emmett Stephens, while remaining socially distanced and outside at Arabella of Kilgore. She said it is suggested he wear a mask but that he will not keep one on.

Im really grateful to be able to see him, Case said. My dad is in good hands; were just locked out.

While being able to see him is good, Case said physical touch is also important for socialization, and she said that is breaks her heart to have to stay away from her dad.

He hasnt been able to hug me, Case said as her voice was breaking. He hasnt been able to see me as often he calls 911 because he thinks somethings happened to me.

She last saw her father, close and face to face on March 6.

Stephens, a war veteran, has suffered from depression and weight loss since isolation began in March, Case said.

He said he doesnt have a reason to live anymore, Case said. Ive feared my dad will die before that happens. He has to be reminded that theres a virus.

In May, after about two months of not being able to see her father, Case said she began writing letters to the governor. She was eventually connected with Mary Nichols on Twitter, creator of the Texas Caregivers for Compromise group.

Theres other people who feel this way too, Case said. This is not political. This is strictly for our families and to save our loved ones.

A Caregivers for Compromise group was first started on July 9 in Florida. Nichols, of Forney, started the Texas group on July 12. Since then, the Texas group has gained more than 2,600 members.

Nichols said the sign campaign is like sending their loved ones on a statewide road trip by proxy.

Its really to show how human this is, Nichols said. These are people, not statistics.

The signs started out in Forney then moved on to Fort Worth, Celina and Kilgore. The bright yellow and black signs will then travel to Henderson, Palestine, Bryan/College Station, Conroe, Marion, Marble Falls, San Angelo, Lubbock and Amarillo.

Case recently moved the signs to a field near the intersection of U.S. 79 and U.S. 259 South in Henderson. She received permission from the property owner to do so.

Nichols laments that many facilities are not applying to because Phase 1 approved and that the guidelines only allow caregiver access to the same residents who were previously able to visit at windows, have phone conversations or virtual visits.

Case said that if her father was bedridden, she might not be able to see him.

She said the guidelines do not allow residents who are bedridden, blind or have cognitive disabilities to participate.

Dillard said she has seen the mental health toll isolation takes while working in the health care industry.

Its terrible and really sad to see. I mean, were all human and we need social interaction, she said. Their dignity has been taken away from them, their family has been taken away from them.

She added that its hard to watch because death in isolation is preventable.

These residents feel like theyve been left to die alone, Dillard said. Were at a loss as to what we can do.

The best thing workers in these facilities can do is to keep residents engaged as best they can, Dillard said.

It breaks my heart, she said. They feel like theyre being held hostage.

Of the more than 1,200 nursing homes in Texas, only about 30 are Phase 1 approved, Nichols said. The guidelines do allow family access when a resident is actively dying.

Texas Caregivers for Compromise sent an essential caregiver plan to the governors office, to allow one family member access to loved ones in long term care, she said. Nichols also started a Change.org petition which has gained more than 20,000 signatures.

We are willing to do whatever it takes, Nichols said, adding that caregivers are willing to be tested frequently and wear PPE among other requirements. We dont want anyone else to die alone.

Caregivers often do more than just visit with loved ones, Nichols said. They clean dentures, brush teeth, clean and trim nails. This is all an added burden to healthcare workers, Nichols added.

The caregivers group members sometimes feel like their concerns are getting lost in the noise surrounding COVID-19 and other issues.

Theres so much else going on, Dillard said.

There are so many people who have no idea whats going on, Case said. Its disheartening to see people argue about masks when so many cant see their families. What people dont realize is that those case numbers going up or down affect us.

Courtney Stern is a reporter for the Longview News-Journal, a part of M. Roberts Media, which also includes the Kilgore News Herald, as well as other media outlets, such as the Tyler Morning Telegraph and the Panola Watchman.

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Provided by Eat This, Not That! salmon avocado cucumber toast

If you search "diet" in any search engine right now, you're going to end up with millions of results. The list of diets you can pursue goes on-and-on, promising fast results for a relatively decent price. However, there's still no scientific evidence proving diets work long term, which brings us to the ultimate question: What is the best diet for weight loss? And should you even diet at all?

In order to determine the best diet for weight loss, we turned to the Best Diets Rankings through the U.S. News&World Report. Every year they release a list of the best diets for people that includes data on how successful they are. Their rankings evaluate if the diet will provide short-term and long-term weight loss, if it's easy to follow, and if it's overall a healthy diet to follow.

While there are some diets that do rank higher in terms of losing weight specifically, that doesn't mean that those diets provide successful weight loss long term. So instead, we chose the U.S. News&World Report's Best Diets Overall, and there's one diet that stood out among the rest: The Mediterranean Diet.

Speaking of eating healthy, you'll probably want to avoid these 100 Unhealthiest Foods on the Planet.

First, some historical background. The Mediterranean Diet is based on the eating habits of those who live in the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Research and data actually show that those who live in these areas live a longer life compared to most, and typically suffer less from chronic or autoimmune diseases like heart disease and cancer.

If you're to evaluate the eating habits of those in the Mediterranean, their diets may actually shock you. The Mediterranean Diet is well-balanced and includes protein, fat, and yes, carbs. Lots of carbs, actually. And wine.

The U.S. News&World Report releases a new Best Diets Ranking every year, and while the Mediterranean diet continues to share the top spots with the DASH Diet (a diet that focuses on lowering blood pressure), it's constantly rated the most effective diet overall.

The Mediterranean diet isn't restrictive, which is likely why it has been successful for so many people. The Mediterranean Diet Pyramid looks similar to the nutritional food pyramid we know, but with a few alterations. Alterations that, in our opinion, make perfect sense.

The bulk of the Mediterranean Diet comes from fruits, vegetables, grains, oils, nuts, legumes, beans, and seeds. Now, the grains in this diet aren't highly processed simple carbohydrates, but whole-grain and homemade carbs served in proper portion sizes. Plus, these are the foods loaded with dietary fiber, which is the thing you should eat to lose weight.

The next "food group"and the second largestis actually fish and seafood. It's recommended to eat these oftenat least two times a week, if possible.

Next, you'll find a smaller section with poultry, eggs, cheese, and yogurt. "Moderate portions" are recommended, and clearly not as important as adding seafood to your diet.

And lastly, you'll find meats and sweets in the tiny tip of the pyramid. That's rightno restriction at all in this diet. You can still enjoy meals made with your favorite meats and sweets, but less often compared to all the other goodness the Mediterranean Diet has to offer.

Lastly, it's recommended to drink water and wine. Obviously more water than wineyou should be drinking this much water every daybut wine is not off-limits. There are actually a lot of health benefits to drinking a glass of red wine, and the Mediterranean diet sure takes advantage of it.

How you eat is a huge part of the success of the Mediterranean Diet, but it's not just the diet that provides results. It's also the lifestyle of the Mediterranean people that make a huge difference in their health and longevity.

Experts of the Mediterranean Diet say that being physically active and engaging in good community result in an overall well-balanced, stress-free life. Food is a huge part of the weight loss experience, but stress can also play a huge factor in it as well. Stress will increase cortisol levels, which can sabotage any efforts you make to lose weight. So take notes from the people of the Mediterranean and stress less about your meals and your days. Go for walks. Enjoy a delicious meal with friends. Drink red wine. Didn't think that would be part of your diet, did you?

If this sounds like the kind of diet that you need in your life, it's easy to get started. Here's our guide for starting the Mediterranean diet, along with a list of all the foods you can eat and even some healthy swaps for your go-to meals.

Sure, you may not lose weight as quickly as you would on a fad-diet like keto or Whole30, but you will experience a satisfying, long-term weight loss that will leave you feeling good about the skin you're in. After all, isn't that what we all want in the end?

For more healthy eating tips, be sure to sign up for our newsletter.

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Orthorexia is an eating disorder that is characterized as an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating.

It often involves restricting certain food groups and over emphasizes "clean eating" to a point where it interferes with quality of life.

It is difficult to estimate how many people have orthorexia as there is currently no formal diagnostic criteria.

Here is what you need to know about orthorexia from common symptoms to how it's treated.

People develop orthorexia when they obsessively fixate on "healthy eating." While deciding to pursue a healthy lifestyle isn't bad, people with orthorexia become compulsive and inflexible with their eating.

Unlike other eating disorders, orthorexia is usually not motivated by weight concerns or body image issues, says Meghan Windham, a registered dietitian at Texas A&M University.

Orthorexia often starts because a person wants to improve their overall health by taking control of the foods they eat. For many, this means turning to fad diets that restrict certain food groups or promote specific eating patterns. Windham says following these types of diets can quickly become obsessive, even if they don't start out that way.

People with orthorexia tend to be concerned about the quality of the foods they eat, rather than the amount of food that they eat. Food concerns can vary among individuals with orthorexia. For example, some may restrict major food groups such as dairy or gluten while others may be fixated with only consuming raw foods.

Orthorexia is not considered an official mental health condition by the DSM-5 the manual used to diagnose mental illnesses. One reason for this is because symptoms of orthorexia tend to overlap with other conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, anorexia, and other avoidant/restrictive food intake disorders (ARFIDs).

If left untreated, orthorexia can progress and lead to lasting mental and physical health consequences and may even take the form of other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia, says Paula Quatromoni, DSC, RD, an associate professor and chair of the Department of Health Sciences at Boston University.

Like most eating disorders, the signs and symptoms of orthorexia are mental, behavioral, and physical. Orthorexia presents differently in individuals, so symptoms may vary from person to person.

Mental, or emotional symptoms, of orthorexia tend to be similar to those of other eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These include:

Behavioral symptoms are some of the earliest signs of an eating disorder. According to Windham, those associated with orthorexia include:

People with orthorexia are at a higher risk of developing micronutrient deficiencies because they tend to restrict certain food groups. This can lead to physical symptoms if the deficiency is left untreated.

Here are some common micronutrient deficiencies in people with orthorexia and their corresponding physical symptoms:

These obsessive and compulsive behaviors around food choices can impede on a person's social life. "Some people find it easier to compulsively stay at home, rather than socialize to have complete control over theirfood environment, which quickly becomes a really isolating way to live," says Quatromoni.

It is important to try to recognize when someone needs help with orthorexia sooner, rather than later. "The longer someone has been in the trenches with this, the greater the health risks, and the longer the road to recovery will be," says Quatromoni.

It can be tricky to tell if someone has orthorexia or if they are just a healthy-eater. Windham says healthy eating has progressed to orthorexia when, "your food intake is governed by strict rules, rather than day to day choices."

According to Quatromoni, here are some signs that may indicate a person is developing orthorexia:

Early identification and intervention can help people with this disorder have the best possible outcomes in recovery.

If you are worried that someone you know may be experiencing these symptoms, here is some advice on how to approach them about your concerns, says Lauren Smolar, the director of programs at the National Eating Disorders Association.

"Oftentimes the symptoms we see in people with orthorexia are extensions of underlying psychiatric conditions or they are triggered by psychological stressors," says Quatromoni.

There are certain factors that place some people at higher risk of developing orthorexia. These include:

Orthorexia is treated with a combination of nutrition counseling and therapy. "It's important to work with a dietician to correct nutrient deficiencies and restore physical well being, as well as a mental health professional to treat the psychological side of this disorder," says Quatromoni.

"Nutrition counseling can help people with orthorexia relearn what a healthy plate looks like," says Windham. Nutrition counseling is education-based and can help people with orthorexia re-incorporate food groups they are scared of and understand the benefits of a varied diet.

Meanwhile, therapy can help people with orthorexia understand underlying mental health issues and stressors that may be driving their rigid food behaviors. If people are also suffering from anxiety or OCD, they may be prescribed medication to treat those conditions.

Read more about finding the best treatment options for eating disorders.

If you are concerned your healthy eating habits have become disordered or started to impede on your quality of life, you should seek help from a dietician, therapist, or contact the National Eating Disorders Helpline. "Even if you don't meet any official diagnostic criteria you are still deserving of care to help you work through the concerns you have about your behaviors," says Smolar.

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There are certain practices that we know can help end the Covid-19 pandemic, like wearing a mask, washing your hands and avoiding people. And when it comes to your individual health, there are habits that can help your immune system function at its best, according to leading infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci.

Fauci previously said that for those who have vitamin D deficiency, taking supplements can reduce susceptibility to infection (and Fauci himself takes vitamin D) and that vitamin C is good antioxidant.But Fauci has stressed that supplements are not a silver bullet or a replacement for things like social distancing or wearing a mask.

"If you really want to keep your immune system working optimally, there are things that you do that are normal things,"Fauci told Business Insider Thursday. These science-backed strategies are"much more healthy living than giving yourself supplements of anything."

Here's are the simple habits that Fauci recommends:

"Get a reasonable amount of sleep," Fauci told Business Insider.

Studies have shown thatpeople who sleep six hours a night or less are four times more likely to catch a cold than those who sleep seven hours a night.The reason? When you sleep, your body produces proteins thatare responsible for fighting infection and reducing inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic.But if you skimp on sleep, your body has a harder time fending off infection.

Other research suggests that sleep deprivation can impact how well your body responds to a vaccine.

"Get a good diet," Fauci told BI.

There's evidence that eating a balanced diet that includes a range of vitamins and minerals can help your immune cells function properly. On the flip side, eating a diet of highly-processed foods (think: sugary drinks, cookies, chips and lunch meats) can negatively affect a healthy immune system.

While one specific food can't boost your immune system, research has shown that nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, selenium, iron and protein can help immune cells function.

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