Obesity levels are at all-time highs in the United States and also in places like Mexico, an ominous development for a world awash in calories. Gradually, scientists are making incremental gains in understanding how brain hormones are related to dysfunctional appetite. The identification of hunger-regulating hormones like leptin and ghrelin are expanding the science of expanding waistlines. Yet hunger and overeating are not simple functions of body chemistry. They involve behavior, genes, attitudes, upbringing, socialization, emotions and environmental stimuli as well. Intense life c...

The information we get about dietary nutrition in general and fats especially can often feel overwhelming. With so many details to wade through, it can be hard to understand the components that make up a healthy diet.

Scientists are pulling back the veil on breast cancer and realizing that it's a far more complicated disease than anyone ever thought.

The Fourth of July holiday is popular for fireworks and outdoor activities such as swimming and family picnics. Another popular July 4 tradition is firing up the grill for some outdoor cooking.

When expecting, it can be nerve-wracking to consider all the changes going on in your life and how to be ready to take care of this new, tiny, amazing creature.

The danger presented by alcoholism is widely recognized, but many people still overindulge. Now, the doctors charged with defining addiction may label many more of them as alcoholics. The American Psychiatric Association is in the late stages of revising their influential rulebook : the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual . There are indications that the standards used to differentiate partying from actual addiction will be changed to the point where many college revelers, sports fans who imbibe, and weekend pub denizens will now have a medical diagnosis. The new Diagnostic and Statis...

With today’s fast-paced lifestyles, 24 hour news cycle, constant smartphone connection and ever-present deadlines, workplace stress can, for some, seem overwhelming. By knowing what factors can contribute to work stress, and how stress at work can affect your health, you can stay in control and manage your workplace stress for the benefit of both yourself and your loved ones. Stress Factors Many variables can come into play and potentially cause emotional and physical harm to workers. These differ from job to job and person to person. Some well-known causes of stress are ...

Rheumatoid arthritis can last a lifetime. As the years pass, the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis can spread to other organs, causing a variety of health problems. In some cases, the complications of rheumatoid arthritis can be deadly.

On June 27, National HIV Testing Day encourages all Americans to learn their HIV status. It may be the most important test you take!

Alzheimer's disease will affect more and more people as the population ages. This disorder slowly robs the old and the not-so-old of their wits and memories, and there is no cure. Evidence has accumulated that some people inherit genes that increase their risk for the condition. A project is underway to stop the dementia before it starts, by giving drugs to those with genes that are a risk factor for Alzheimer's. Despite decades of efforts, there is not a clear understanding of the neurological cause of Alzheimer’s. After many millions of dollars spent, countless studies and t...