In recent years, much attention has been paid to the amount of fats and sugars present in modern processed food and the typical American’s appetite for it.  Although the detrimental effects of fats and sugars are undeniable, the influence of additives in our food – allowed by the United States FDA but forbidden in peer nations with better health outcomes – has not been discussed enough.  Until our government forces U.S. food distributors to supply the same healthy food provided overseas to its people, our nation’s health may continue to suffer.

​You want the best for your pet, and one of the hardest things about keeping them at their healthiest is that they cannot tell you verbally when something is wrong.  It means that it is up to you to be educated on the best health practices for your dog or cat and to know facts from fiction regarding common pet health myths.

There are lots of medications that can cause tinnitus.  But tinnitus is usually a rare side effect, and you should not stop taking any medication without talking to your health care provider first.
There is no straightforward best treatment for tinnitus.  Some medications have been used off-label to treat tinnitus, and cognitive behavioral therapy seems to help.  If you have tinnitus, talk with your health care professional about how to ease the symptoms.

​It is common to feel dizzy. But when that feeling is connected to a sensation of the room or other environment moving or spinning around you, that is likely vertigo.  Vertigo is not a diagnosis.  Instead, it is a symptom of other conditions.  And some of these conditions are life-threatening.  So, when in doubt, do not delay care.  An emergency provider can help determine what is causing your symptoms and help you feel better.

Learn ways to encourage cats and dogs to drink more water since good hydration is vital for pet health.

If you are experiencing nausea in the morning, know this is a common symptom with many possible explanations.  Fortunately, many of those causes are not serious.  And the nausea may go away with a few minor changes to your daily schedule and habits.
But pay attention to warning signs that something else may be going in.  Talk to your provider if you are feeling nauseated daily or experiencing other new symptoms.

An injury to the back muscles causes most back pain.  Back pain from the kidneys is a less common problem.  But because the kidneys are so important, knowing the causes of kidney pain is essential.  If your back pain is severe or comes with a fever or changes in your urine, it is time to see a health care provider.

​Veterinarians offer a wide range of telehealth services, from diagnosis and treatment to e-prescriptions.  Veterinary telehealth works best in non-emergency situations, such as managing chronic conditions.  A televet can tell you if your pet should be seen in person.

​Various conditions or injuries can cause foot pain.  Fortunately, you may be able to manage your pain with self-care measures such as foot soaks, massages, and gentle stretching exercises.  But it is best to have your health care provider assess your symptoms and work with you on a treatment plan if your pain does not improve with self-care measures.  This step is vital if your symptoms are sudden, severe, or persistent.

Most people experience back pain at some point in their lives.  It can be frustrating if your recovery feels slow or keeps you from your daily activities.  An ice pack may help with pain and swelling in the first couple of days if you feel muscle soreness or strain from a workout or injury.  After that, heat is a better option for pain relief and improved mobility.
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While rest can be vital for your body to heal, sometimes even slight movements might help you regain strength and flexibility in your back.  Focus on minor, daily improvements, and do not get discouraged by setbacks.  Allow yourself to heal a day at a time.

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We all know food is essential for keeping the body healthy and fit.  Healthy food habits keep our bodies free from toxins, free radicals, nutrient deprivation, and certain diseases. 
Cancer is a complex disease with many types and potential causes.  Although we still do not know all the answers, various factors can contribute to cancer development.  Genetic structure and family history play a role.  But external factors, such as lifestyle habits, have an even more significant impact. 
The most crucial lifestyle factor for consideration is your diet.  Research shows that some foods are associated with a higher risk of specific types of cancer.  Some foods may increase your risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity, associated with certain types of cancer.  Other food products can contain carcinogens, which are harmful substances that can cause cancer.

Does your pet have a cute collar and tag containing your phone number if they get lost?  If so, do you still get anxious whenever it takes too long to find them?  Do your friends with pets and your veterinarian talk about the benefits of microchipping?  But, so far, you have not bit the bullet.  Should you microchip your furry friend?

​Digestion is a complex process involving different components of the body.  Food may take hours to days to travel through the digestive tract, with some foods taking longer than others to digest.  Supplements and probiotics may also affect digestion time.  Apart from diet, lifestyle changes, such as sleep and exercise, could be helpful ways to improve digestion.