What Happens to Your Hormones As You Age?

It’s common knowledge that our hormones change as we get older, but do you know exactly what changes occur?

Hormones are produced by the endocrine system and then secreted into the bloodstream. From the bloodstream, the hormones are distributed throughout the body into various organs and tissues.

As we age, the levels of certain hormones rise and fall as our organs and tissues begin slowing down. The following changes are common in most people:

  • The pituitary gland, which both stores and produces hormones, reaches its maximum size at age 20, then gradually becomes smaller with age.

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What Causes Winter Allergies?

Are allergy symptoms driving you crazy during the winter months? You’re not alone. One allergy specialist with the Mayo Clinic estimates that 5-20% of Americans have some type of winter allergy. That’s up to 65 million people!

What are Winter Allergies?

Winter allergies are simply allergies that are more prevalent in the colder months. These allergies include: (more…)

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Common Allergies Tested for in an Allergy Test

Over 50 million people in the United States each year experience allergy symptoms. That’s over 15% of the population! It’s no wonder that allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness here as well. Allergies are also the most common medical condition in children. Many adults walk around feeling “blah”, foggy, and congested (like a cold that never goes away), without even realizing these symptoms are caused by allergies. 

The cost of allergies is not just in human suffering. The AAFA estimates that almost $45 billion is spent on allergy care each year. That’s a huge chunk of change! (more…)

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Tips for Avoiding Illness this Winter

Your immune system is your body’s best weapon against harmful pathogens, like the COVID-19 virus. Without your immune system, you would be left vulnerable to infection by the same germs repeatedly.

Many products and methods claim to boost the immune system, but more research is needed to prove these claims. For example, ginger, garlic, and yogurt are commonly claimed to improve immune system function.

However, research does support that living a healthy lifestyle is good for every part of your body. Avoid COVID-19, the common cold, the flu, and any other cold-weather bugs that come around with these tips:

  • Relax

Meditate, unwind, and destress every single day for your best physical and mental health. Stress is a leading cause of medical issues in the United States, so don’t skip this very important part of self-care. (more…)

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COVID, Flu, or Cold: Making Sense of the Symptoms

We’re coming out of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and heading full-speed into cold and flu season. Many people mistake COVID-19 symptoms with the common cold or influenza, making disease transmission more likely. While the precautionary measures for each condition are similar, knowing the difference in symptoms is important to identify COVID and quarantine quickly. Use this handy chart to tell if your symptoms are due to COVID-19, the common cold, or the flu. (more…)

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