COVID or Strep Throat: How to Tell the Difference?

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, waking up with a sore throat is enough to send many people into a panic. However, there are many common illnesses besides COVID-19 that can cause a sore throat, including strep. Here, we’ll discuss the main differences between the two to help you better identify the signs of each illness. To find out definitively if you have either, visit your doctor for testing.  (more…)

How to Boost Your Immune System

Maintaining a strong immune system is crucial for your body to fend off sickness and disease. While you can’t always control when you get sick, there are several lifestyle factors that can impact the strength of your immune system. 

By making small lifestyle adjustments, you can boost this and improve your health overall. Here, you’ll find our best tips for strengthening your that. (more…)

Understanding the Difference Between Bipolar and Depression

While there has been an increasing amount of awareness and diagnosis of mental health conditions, many people are still learning about mental illnesses. Bipolar disorder and depression are two of the most prevalent mental illnesses, with millions of people struggling with these conditions in the United States every day. 

While bipolar disorder and depression are distinct conditions, some of the similarities between the two illnesses can cause confusion. Here, we’ll discuss these conditions and how they differ from each other. (more…)

Recognizing The Signs That You’re Coping with a Mood Disorder

Mood disorders are a more prevalent health concern than many people may realize. Approximately 26% of American adults in any given year suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder. With a significant portion of the U.S. being affected by mood disorders and other mental health concerns, it’s important to know the signs that you’re coping with one.

Understanding Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are a type of mental health condition that mainly impacts a person’s emotions. With this disorder, individuals may experience extended periods of extreme emotions, whether that be sadness, happiness, or a combination of the two. Someone with a mood disorder may experience fluctuating levels of depression, apathy, anxiety, and irritability. Depression and bipolar disorder are among the most common mood disorders. (more…)

High Blood Pressure: 7 Steps You Can Take That Could Save Your Life

According to the CDC, 45% of Americans have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. That’s over 108 million people! Hypertension simply means that your blood is pushing too hard against your artery walls which can cause damage after some time. Blood pressure is measured in two figures: Systolic (the top number) and Diastolic (the bottom number). A systolic reading over 130 mm Hg or a diastolic reading over 80 mm Hg indicates hypertension.

Genetics plays a part in hypertension, but luckily there is still a lot you can do to reduce your risk and possibly save your life. Here are our top seven tips to prevent high blood pressure and be the healthiest you possible:

• Eat a Healthy Diet

You should be eating a healthy diet anyway, but proper nutrition is even more important for those with high blood pressure. Decreasing your sodium (salt) and saturated fat intake while upping your protein, fiber, and potassium intake is a good rule of thumb. Also, be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables! If you’re having a hard time knowing what to eat with high blood pressure, try the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan for some guidance. (more…)