You’ve probably done these exercises since high school, but you could be making mistakes that lead to injury. You’ve probably done a few squats in ... more »
The gluten-free diet may be popular, but is it healthy for everyone? Over the past few years, the gluten-free market has exploded. Between 2009 and ... more »
What’s the best way to store food in a refrigerator to keep it fresh? Apples in the bottom drawer, tomatoes up top, fish in the middle. Or should ... more »
Arthritis can cause not only pain and stiffness, but disability. Are there any natural approaches that work? Arthritis can start out as just a few ... more »
When you’re on a budget, you can still eat healthy if you’re careful about your choices. Can we really eat healthy on a budget? That’s been up ... more »
If herbs and nutrients don’t help calm your anxiety, you should give meditation a try. A few weeks ago, I talked about the herbs and supplements ... more »
Staying consistent with exercise is difficult—but we have some tips to help. You know how it goes. You start out with that new exercise program, ... more »
Your brain has a devious way of tricking you into failing when it comes to weight loss. Used to be we thought weight loss was just about eating less ... more »
You can help reduce blood sugar levels with certain foods and supplements. I have a friend whose father has suffered with type 2 diabetes for years. ... more »
There are a million recommendations for how to reduce stress—which ones really work? “Just breath deeply. You’ll feel better.” “Here, ... more »
Omega-3 fatty acids are good for you, but contaminants aren’t. Which seafood types are safest? Those healthy omega-3 fatty acids can potentially ... more »
Studies show that work can be very bad for our health, and can even increase risk of disease and death. Most of us admire the hard-working ... more »
Some caffeine may be good for you, but how much is too much? It wasn’t that long ago that the general perception of caffeine was negative. Recent ... more »
Sunscreens may not offer the protection we thought they would. Sunscreens cause cancer! Sunscreens don’t protect against melanoma! Sunscreens are ... more »
Stop your brain from sabotaging your weight-loss goals! The majority of the evidence says that eating after 8:00 isn’t good for us, for a number of ... more »
Is there a way to stay productive even when you don’t feel like it? Things are clicking along. You’re getting a lot done. Your business is doing ... more »
Is it really true that we can “boost” our metabolism? One really frustrating thing about getting older is that the eating habits that have served ... more »
Is organic food really better for you? Organic food is always better, right? According to sales, yes. They increased by 11 percent between 2013 and ... more »
Could significantly reducing your daily caloric intake really help you live longer? Science is shouting about the benefits of reducing calories. Could ... more »
Regular intake of some foods and herbs may help tame symptoms of anxiety. Most of us face anxiety in our lives every now and then. It tends to come ... more »
Just how often does your colon really need to be cleaned? I haven’t reached the age where I need to think about colon cancer screening yet, but my ... more »
Recent studies suggest it’s not how much we eat, necessarily, but when we eat it that could be contributing to weight gain and disease. Weakest time ... more »
These five superfoods won’t break the bank, but they will provide great health benefits. Last week we talked about five superfoods that are more ... more »
Which superfoods are mostly super-hype?I just finished performing in a production of “Sweeney Todd.” (I played the French horn in the pit ... more »
Too much artificial light has been linked with obesity, diabetes, and cancer. I spend about two weeks each year on the Pacific Coast, in a little ... more »
Recommendations are mixed, but I think on the whole, most of us can benefit by drinking more water. It’s a natural miracle worker: plain old ... more »
Another study shows meditation protects the aging brain—is it time to work it into your daily routine? My grandmother lived until she was 93 years ... more »
Recent tests show that many supplements are not what they say they are. Is there any way to know if what you’re getting is the real thing? Take a ... more »
A juice fast may help jolt you into healthier eating, but it can also be dangerous. They’re trendy. They’re supposed to be healthy. But do they do ... more »
Studies have shown mixed results on soy—should we avoid it or not? In a 2011 survey, about 81 percent of consumers rated soy as healthy. About a ... more »
Could it be that slow runners live longer in the end? You know the tale. The tortoise, weary of the hare’s constant ridicule of his slow-moving ... more »
New evidence suggests we’ve been all shook up over salt for no reason. If you have heart disease in your family, you know the drill. Put away the ... more »
Is it possible that too much kale could be bad for you? American novelist Edna Ferber was quoted as saying, “Perhaps too much of anything is as bad ... more »
You know too much sugar can pad your waistline, but did you know it can also affect your mood and memory? Too much sugar in your diet can lead to ... more »
Too much snacking can derail your weight loss goals. You’re hungry. You just ate an hour or so ago, but you’re hungry. At least, that’s what ... more »
Broccoli is one of the many foods that can help relieve arthritis pain and inflammation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states ... more »
If you’re regularly drinking soda, you could actually be shortening your life. You already know that sodas aren’t good for you. But a recent study ... more »
Studies have found that beans can be powerful protectors against breast cancer. Studies have already linked a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, ... more »
We’re all exposed to heavy metals—learn how to protect yourself. Lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic—these are the four most concerning heavy ... more »
Studies show that shiitake mushrooms have powerful immune-boosting properties. We’ve officially entered the cold and flu season. You may have ... more »
Dandelion greens should be in your green smoothie! A recent survey reported that nearly a third of Americans are leery of green juices, with 28 ... more »
Studies show that spices are gallant warriors in the battle against cancer. “A growing body of research—primarily lab studies—is now zeroing in ... more »
Walking is great exercise no matter how you do it, but you can up your calorie burn with these tips. If you weigh about 160 pounds and you walk at a ... more »
Peppermint tea helps promote easy digestion, which may help you lose a few pounds. If you’re trying to lose weight, you may have already cut back on ... more »
The change of seasons can make us feel blue. Try these 10 tips to put a smile back on your face. It’s the fall season. How do you feel? Maybe you ... more »
Migraines not only cause pain and suffering, but stress, job problems, and insomnia. Might meditation help? The Migraine Research Foundation states ... more »
Depression may have more to do with our “gut feelings” than we thought. After Robin William’s death in August 2014, the issue of depression was ... more »
Craving an ice cream shake? Try eating an apple first— it may satisfy your appetite and reduce your intake of calories. A 2013 survey based on ... more »
Chlorophyll juice is popular in the juicing world, but is it really the source of all those health benefits? You may remember talking about ... more »
Lunchmeats have been linked with an increased risk of cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Avoid after 50! Let’s face it—things change ... more »
Forget harsh, chemical treatments—you can have strong, pretty nails through natural methods. Even if you’re not obsessed with the latest nail ... more »
Though hummus helps fight cravings and may lower cholesterol, it can also pad your waistline. Sometimes healthy foods get a pass in the diet books. We ... more »
Tart cherry juice is one of the many things that will help you fall asleep. Sleeping pills are not good for you. Recent studies have linked them with ... more »
A recent study shows that runners—regardless of how fast or far they run— live longer than non-runners. What if by performing just one exercise ... more »
A recent study reports that older people do best tackling their hardest projects in the morning. I’ve always been a night owl. Even as a kid I was ... more »
Add these foods to your breakfast menu to help keep yourself looking and feeling young. How would you like to start your day off by helping your body ... more »
Sauerkraut is a good source of healthy probiotics—which may protect your liver. It used to be that only alcoholics had to worry about fatty liver ... more »
The all-you-can-eat buffet may be tasty and inexpensive, but it can also be extremely unhealthy. Buffets can be a great option. Everyone can get ... more »
Regular sodas are horrible for your health, but you can make your own healthy alternatives! You know sodas aren’t good for you. So you take one of ... more »
Recent studies have shown that low-fat isn’t always the best. But what fats should you have in your diet? Mainstream nutrition convinced us for ... more »
New study shows: a cynical attitude can increase your risk of dementia. Do you tend to think the worst of people, expecting they’ll probably ... more »
Studies show that pets can boost your mood, make you more attractive, and even help you live longer. If you own a pet, you already know they’re good ... more »
Though medical marijuana has some health benefits, regular use can also cause serious health problems. Medical marijuana (cannabis) is gaining steam. ... more »
Is organic milk really better for you than conventional? A new study reports on the issue. For years the debate has been ongoing—is organic really ... more »
A recent study shows that nearly a third of the world’s population is overweight or obese. We all know about the overweight/obesity epidemic. But ... more »
A raw food diet may leave kids with serious nutrient deficiencies. Many adults swear by it—the raw food diet. Eating only uncooked fruits and ... more »
Red wine has antimicrobial properties that can kill plaque-causing bacteria in the mouth. Want white teeth? Stay away from red wine, they say. But ... more »
That same old gym routine can leave you feeling like a hamster on a wheel— not good for your fitness goals. Astronaut Neil Armstrong is quoted as ... more »
If you’re getting bored with the same old steamed and raw veggies, try these ideas for getting more greens into your diet. You’ve heard it a ... more »
Eggs are bad for you. High fructose corn syrup is no different from other sweeteners. These are the myths spread by mainstream nutrition—and ... more »
If you get frequent muscle cramps, you may be low on certain minerals. Here at Renegade Health, we advocate getting your blood tested regularly to ... more »
Two recent studies add evidence to the idea that insecticides are killing off honeybees. A couple years ago, we did a post on the four reasons why our ... more »
Studies have found that forest bathing can help boost the immune system and reduce risk of heart disease. You’re eating right, exercising, and ... more »
The root of the horseradish plant makes a popular condiment, but also has promising potential in fighting cancer. You may be familiar with horseradish ... more »
Studies show that compounds in sauerkraut may help prevent cancer, boost immunity, and more. A one-cup serving of sauerkraut provides about a quarter ... more »
If you have creases that run diagonally across your ear, you may be at a higher risk of heart disease. Is your index finger shorter than your ring ... more »
A recent study found the herbicide glyphosate in human breast milk, raising concerns about widespread contamination. If you haven’t heard of ... more »
Vacation is not the time to feel sick— use these tips to increase your odds of feeling great while away from home. Getting sick is never fun, but if ... more »
Go ahead—sing out loud. Studies show it helps relieve stress and anxiety. You’re eating right. You’re exercising regularly. You’re doing your ... more »
Even when you’re away from home, you can reduce contaminants in your water through some natural methods. A 2001 study of 19 U.S. cities by the ... more »
There is no cure for hives, but you can try natural options to soothe the itching and redness. You itch. You scratch. And they just get worse. ... more »
Regularly drinking hot tea may reduce your risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer hasn’t gone away. In fact, it’s getting worse. According to the ... more »
Pickles are good for you, right? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that 67 million adults—about 31 percent—have high ... more »
Tart cherries could help relieve your muscle pain after exercise— try them in your smoothie or stir them into yogurt. The American Psychological ... more »
This is the perfect snack for your next flight. Read on to find out why. Actor Chris Pratt is quoted as having said, “I have some weird habits. For ... more »
Grabbing a handful of these on most days could help extend your life. Current estimates are that overall, life expectancy today is about 78.7 years. ... more »
An enzyme in pineapple can help clean teeth and help remove stains. White teeth make you look younger. They may also make you look more ... more »
Though it’s generally best to avoid sharing human food with your dogs, some foods won’t hurt them. You’re not supposed to feed your dog table ... more »
Studies show that some foods can really increase how attractive you look to the opposite sex. You know eating a healthy diet makes you feel better. ... more »
A study actually found that watercress can help fade your fine lines and wrinkles. You know that good food can create good skin. But did you know that ... more »
Though pesticides are dangerous at high levels, recent studies have also suggested they may cause health problems at low levels of exposure, as ... more »
According to research, the earlier you retire, the quicker your memory declines. Retirement. For many, it’s the pinnacle of achievement, the time to ... more »
Some foods are particularly helpful for middle-aged women, reducing risk of heart disease and dementia. Menopause. Weight gain. Sagging skin. ... more »
With this tree in your back yard, you can help prevent cancer, boost your immune system, and lower your cholesterol. If you have a birch tree in your ... more »
In addition to your neti pot, try these herbs for faster relief of your sinus infection. The headaches. Earaches. Stuffiness. Insomnia. Sinus ... more »
This little guy knows what to do for a nasty cough. I recently swapped out my antihistamines for butterbur, and have been amazed at how much better I ... more »
Even if you’re eating right and exercising, you could be making some daily mistakes that age you. Even if you’re eating right, exercising ... more »
Anti-anxiety medications work, but come with side effects. Herbs can be equally effective but less disruptive to your day. Are you swimming in stress ... more »
To keep your brain functioning optimally as you age, it’s important to adopt a brain fitness plan. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ... more »
Exposure to pesticides can increase your risk of Parkinson’s disease. We all know it’s best to avoid pesticides. So far, they’ve been linked to ... more »
Reading with your child is a great way to introduce them to concepts like healthy eating and nutrition. Since welcoming the arrival of little Hudson ... more »
The baobab fruit has three times the vitamin C of an orange, 50 percent more calcium than spinach, and a good supply of antioxidants—six times the ... more »
Studies show grass-fed is just plain better for you than other alternatives. Americans are eating less meat. In 2012, a Department of Agriculture ... more »
Things like warming foods and drinking enough water can help you enjoy toasty hands no matter the temperature. In early February 2014, the Chicagoist ... more »
A lot of people are buying electric toothbrushes because they believe they clean better. Is that true? In America, we tend to think that if it’s ... more »
Quinoa is a healthy and nutritious grain alternative for those looking to avoid gluten. Are you on a gluten-free diet? If so, you may be missing ... more »
Studies show that regular use of antacids can cause a number of health problems. If you’re suffering a little heartburn and you’re on the go, do ... more »
Listening to your favorite upbeat music 50 minutes a day may help you avoid the cold and flu this winter! You already know about washing your hands, ... more »
Winter allergies can be worse than spring ones, causing symptoms that feel like a cold. When most of us think of allergies, we think of grasses, ... more »
Think you can’t exercise outdoors in the winter? Think again—it could help you feel a lot happier! Winter weather may get you thinking the only ... more »
A number of hot beverages—including plain hot water—can provide health benefits in cold weather. When the weather gets cold outside, we naturally ... more »
Reiki and other ancient healing techniques have a number of health benefits to offer us today in our modern world. Over the last few decades we’ve ... more »
Studies show that a little dark chocolate each day can provide a number of important health benefits. Have you been avoiding chocolate lately because ... more »
Studies show that having a healthy intake of zinc (from foods like these oysters) can help protect you from diabetes, and may help control blood sugar ... more »
Studies indicate that meditation may help keep blood pressure levels in the normal range. Typical lifestyle modifications for high blood pressure ... more »
A recent study suggests that drinking watermelon juice before working out can help reduce muscle soreness. If you’re into regular exercise ... more »
Kale is a nutrient-rich vegetable that’s a great option for those who may be too acidic. Last week, we talked about pH balance in the body, and how ... more »
A diet high in acidic foods can put a strain on kidneys, increasing risk of kidney stones and potentially, osteoporosis. Spinach is one of the most ... more »
Chia, flax, and hemp seeds are all great sources of protein and antioxidants, and make an easy healthy addition to your diet. About a decade ago, ... more »
The things you do first thing in the morning can set the stage for the rest of the day. If we want to get better at something, the best way is often ... more »
In a recent study, natural essential oils—including tea tree oil (from the tree shown here)—were more effective at killing super bugs than ... more »
If you want to eat healthier when dining out, go with friends who make healthy choices, researchers say. If you’re trying to lose weight, you may ... more »
If you’re suffering from a low white blood cell count, increasing your intake of garlic may help. A number of health conditions can cause the white ... more »
Rather than resort to medications, try this natural remedy for knee arthritis pain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that ... more »
While you’re snoozing, you could be exposed to flame retardants, which have been linked to hormone disruption. It looks so innocent sitting there in ... more »
Some studies show that living near high-voltage power lines may be harmful to human health. Can you increase your risk of cancer through exposure to ... more »
If improperly prepared, homemade sauerkraut may contain botulism-causing bacteria. On September 11, 2010, the headline of the day in Canada read, ... more »
If you have psoriasis, you may want to take chondroiton supplements. The National Psoriasis Foundation states that psoriasis is the most prevalent ... more »
Refining processes can strip oils of their natural nutrients. Today, we’re talking about cooking oils, and how we actually get the oil from the ... more »
Hot chocolate contains compounds that actually reduce levels of stress, helping the body release fat.One of the most challenging things about trying ... more »
Anxious? Depressed? You may need probiotics. That our mental state affects our digestive health is a concept most of us are familiar with. What’s ... more »
The CDC recently found a deadly amoeba in the water supply of a Louisiana town. The “Naegleria fowleri amoeba” is a parasite—a particularly ... more »
Sciatica often goes away on its own, but meanwhile it causes painful and debilitating symptoms. Most of us know someone who has suffered from ... more »
A recent study found chicken nuggets are less than 50 percent chicken. If you want a glimpse of what fast food is really like, just let it cool down. ... more »
Chronic inflammation is linked with diseases like Alzheimer’s and heart disease, but can be tamed with certain anti-inflammatory foods. Inflammation ... more »
Bananas have a special fiber that can help block the transmission of bugs that aggravate Crohn’s disease. The idea that diet can affect flare-ups of ... more »
A lot of ready-made commercial baby foods have added sugar. If one food we buy off the shelves is expected to be nutritious, it’s baby food. Many ... more »
Do you need to use soap to wash produce? What’s the best way to get rid of pesticide residue? Fruits and vegetables are good for you—but the ... more »
“We didn’t ask for this!” Antibiotics used in feedlots are contributing to superbugs that are killing Americans. A recent study found ... more »
What should you look for when getting your blood tested? A blood test can tell you a lot about your health. In fact, nearly two-thirds of the data for ... more »
A recent study found that about a third of the fish we eat isn’t what we think it is. A February 2013 study by Oceana, the largest international ... more »
After years of being told to eat breakfast to lose weight, a new study says…maybe not. Trying to lose weight? Eat breakfast. It’s the advice ... more »
Medications can keep your blood pressure levels under control, but they can also increase your risk for some types of cancer. If you’re taking blood ... more »
In addition to parasites and bacteria, sushi may also be contaminated with toxins. After talking about parasites and bacteria in former posts, now ... more »
Astrologists believe that when mercury appears to be moving backwards, areas of communication and travel are compromised. Are we affected by the ... more »
Sushi can be contaminated with bacteria and viruses, which can cause digestive issues. After talking about parasites in a former post, now it’s time ... more »
Might that plate of sushi be contaminated with parasites? An informal poll by Gastroenterology & Endoscopy News showed that most doctors who ... more »
Concerned about diabetes? It may help to consume more cinnamon on a daily basis. The American Diabetes Association states that 25.8 million children ... more »
Concerned about diabetes? It may help to consume more cinnamon on a daily basis.Last June 2013, Dr. Williams posted about the protective effects of ... more »
Your garden plants may be contaminated with a pesticide known to be toxic to honeybees. For the last several years now, we’ve been hearing about the ... more »
Do you need to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day? It depends on a number of factors. The standard advice for years has been that you should ... more »
Which foods you choose may make more difference to your waistline than how much you eat. “Eating smart, not eating less, may be the key to losing ... more »
Men named relaxing time with family as one of the things that keep them happy and healthy. What really makes men happy—and healthy? There are plenty ... more »
If you’re making stir-fry tonight, which condiment is healthiest to use? If you’re getting ready to cook some stir-fry, rice, an Asian salad, ... more »
If you think the full moon makes you restless at night—you could be right. We’ve all been hearing how important it is to get a good night’s ... more »
What oil is the safest and healthiest to cook with? Grapeseed, olive, sunflower, canola, coconut—there are so many options. Which is the best for ... more »
Think cast iron is sticky and hard to clean? Think again—properly seasoned, cast iron is naturally “non-stick.” In 2003, the Environmental ... more »
We love our tuna, but we’re eating too many of them. It’s time to try other options. According to a 2009 study by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) ... more »
High altitudes expose you to more radiation. Is there any way to reduce the health risks? The government has introduced new advanced imaging scanners ... more »
Do you need to go this far to protect yourself from illness while flying? In June 2013, American Airlines announced plans to add even more seats to ... more »
After contaminated wheat was discovered in Oregon, farmers sued Monsanto for genetic pollution. On June 12, 2013, Huffington Post ran an article ... more »
New research discovered that probiotics, like those found in yogurt, may help relieve stress and anxiety. A recent study has provided more evidence to ... more »
Hormones are risky—here are some other ways to help reduce the frequency of hot flashes. Personal summers. Power surges. Hot flashes. Whatever you ... more »
Ticks carry a number of diseases, including Lyme disease, so be sure to protect yourself this summer. Are you protected from ticks this summer? If you ... more »
Rather than pop a pill, how about bumping up your consumption of certain foods when you need nutrients? Did your doctor recently tell you that ... more »
Americans throw away thousands of dollars every year in spoiled produce. Try these tips for making your goodies last longer. We’re all trying to eat ... more »
Despite what the media would have us believe, there are a lot of good things about getting older. In today’s world, we’re faced with continual ... more »
Sometimes we all need a little help cutting back on calories—try these tips! Eating too much. Gaining too much weight. Worrying about diabetes and ... more »
A new study suggests that feeling anxious about your relationship can lower your resistance to disease. We all know that stress is bad for us, but a ... more »
Some herbs like gingko biloba (pictured here) can thin the blood, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding. According to research performed at the ... more »
Many cleaning projects around the home can be completed with natural products that don’t present health risks. In 2010, a study published in ... more »
Have you checked the ingredient list on your soymilk, pudding, toothpaste, or chocolate? You may find “carrageenan,” a food additive recently tied ... more »
A vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in the elderly, and can lead to dizziness and an uneven gait. Our friend Dr. Williams recently wrote about ... more »
Current estimates show you’re likely to live longer than your parents, but those extra years may be unhealthy. Each generation is supposed to be ... more »
The horned melon has a unique taste, and is low in calories. Are you a foodie? Do you enjoy trying new food items—particularly if they have unique ... more »
Do you save time cleaning by using non-stick cookware? Best to check it again to make sure it’s not creating risks to your health. Do you cook ... more »
Men who watch TV for three hours or more a day could suffer from reduced fertility. According to the Mayo Clinic, about 15 percent of couples are ... more »
If you see elderflower in your back yard, you could use the flower heads in pancake batter to make fritters, or infuse them for tea. When you’re on ... more »
Trail mix is healthy, right? Well, sometimes yes, but you have to be choosy. The food industry is smart, and knows that most people are looking for ... more »
It’s eco-friendly, but is it making your family sick? That reusable shopping bag you’re taking to the grocery store could be eco-friendly, but it ... more »
What you eat can affect how you smell—but fortunately, some foods act like sweet perfumes. Garlic is a super healthy food, with studies indicating ... more »
If you’re not getting enough sun exposure, you could be deficient in vitamin D, which can increase your risk of cancer and heart disease. We’ve ... more »
Over the past four decades, the rates of nearsightedness have nearly doubled. Do you find that you are having trouble seeing clearly from a distance? ... more »
Dementia and Alzheimer’s are on the rise—here’s how to protect your brain power. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s ... more »
Pain relievers may help you get a good night’s sleep, but they could also lead to hearing loss. Most people don’t like to rely on over-the-counter ... more »
Mold is definitely unattractive, but it can also be dangerous for your health. Mold is bad news. Study after study points to the health damage it can ... more »
If you or your kids are feeling anxious, the chemicals in your plastics may have something to do with it. Plato is quoted as having said, “Nothing ... more »
The simple Chrysanthemum can help you breathe cleaner indoor air. In a 1987 study, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ranked indoor air ... more »
Brushing and flossing help, but with these tricks, you can do even more to improve your smile. You know you’re supposed to regularly brush, floss, ... more »
A new study indicates that children who eat fast frequent fast food meals may be more at risk for asthmatic symptoms. On February 6, 2013, we ... more »
Most people are trying to keep their cholesterol numbers down, but when is low too low? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states ... more »
“Dogs come when they’re called. Cats take a message and get back to you.” —Mark Bly The ASPCA states that the average lifespan of the indoor ... more »
A raw food diet may be great for your four-legged friend—but there are some risks. No grains, no by-products, no preservatives. No people food, ... more »