Metabolism comprises a number of biochemical processes that are necessary to maintain life.  One type of metabolism (catabolism) produces energy by breaking down complex molecules. The breakdown of carbohydrates during digestion is an example of a catabolic process.  The other type of metabolism (anabolism) is constructive, such as when muscle mass is increased. Anabolic processes…...

In recognition of Lyme Disease Awareness month this May, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages Americans to learn about this common tick-borne disease and take steps to protect themselves if they live in or visit areas with Lyme disease activity.  Statistics from the CDC indicate that there has been a progressive rise…...

Bioclimatology is the study of climate in relation to living organisms, in particular the way in which weather conditions can affect human health.  While this would seem to be a relatively new science stemming from concern regarding environmental deterioration, the relationship between atmospheric conditions and health was touched on over 2,000 years ago by Hippocrates…...

Everyone worries or feels anxious from time to time.  Financial issues, conflicts faced at work, problems with relationships--- these are just a few of the events that can bring about anxiety.  In prehistoric humans worry, or its more exaggerated counterpart, fear, may have even provided some benefits. Triggering the “fight or flight” response activated mental…...

A restaurant dining survey performed by the market research group, Living Social, found that the average American eats out on 4.8 occasions each week.  Nearly half of these respondents described themselves as "meat lovers," 22 percent said that they had a "sweet tooth," and 19 percent were self-described "fast food junkies". With the common tendency…...

Tremor is an unintentional, rhythmic muscle movement, most often affecting the hands.  In some cases, tremor can be a sign of a neurological disease but the most common type of tremor occurs in otherwise healthy people.  Today's Health Tip will focus on this common type of tremor, known as "essential tremor". Causes for tremor – There…...

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is present in cells and tissues throughout the body.  In excess, it has received the deservedly bad reputation of being capable of blocking blood vessels. Indeed, having too much cholesterol does place you at higher risk for the development of heart attack and stroke. Misconceptions about cholesterol, however, may…...

Although you might expect this Health Tip to be about large carnivores like polar bears or mountain lions, a tiny insect---the mosquito---is responsible for more deaths each year than all the 'man-eating' animals in the world combined.  These deaths do not occur due to a venomous bite or a sting causing an allergic reaction but…...