Archbold Blog

We’re coming up on spring break and summer, so our outdoor time will likely increase. While spending time outdoors in the sunlight is necessary for our health, protecting yourself from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays is also necessary. There’s nothing cool about painful sunburns, early wrinkles or a raised risk of skin cancer. And yet that’s just what too much UV exposure can bring. But sunscreen can help prevent all of these unwanted side effects. Below we give you some...

Whether you’re recovering from a heart attack or just trying to prevent one, eating a balanced diet full of whole foods and nutrients should be part of your plan. Eating the right foods helps keep your cholesterol and blood pressure in check, which also helps keep your heart healthy. So how do you start making changes to your diet that can improve your heart health? It might not be as difficult as you think. Making simple food swaps can keep your heart healthy and set you up for an...

You’ve finally committed to an exercise routine. And if you’ve got an activity tracker or smartwatch, you’re likely closing all the rings to prove it. But that’s not all your fancy, wearable fitness device is good for. Did you know it can tell you a lot about your heart, too? And when used properly with a heart rate training plan, it may even help you reach your fitness goals much quicker than you thought. Most heart rate monitors display your resting heart rate and allow you...

Allergies are problems of the immune system. Normally the human body defends itself against harmful things such as viruses or bacteria, but sometimes these defenses attack other things such as dust, mold or pollen. Allergies can affect anyone but generally are more common in children. However, allergies can happen at any age, and they can come back after being in remission for many years. What Are the Symptoms of Allergies in Kids? An allergic reaction can happen anywhere in the...

A stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow is cut off to part of the brain. It’s caused by either a blood clot or bleeding in the brain. If not addressed immediately, a stroke can turn life-threatening very quickly. Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability among people in the United States. Despite popular belief, a stroke can happen to anyone at any age. In fact, intracerebral hemorrhage strokes (bleeding in the brain tissue) are currently on the rise...

Need a sugar fix? Think again. Studies show consuming too much sugar has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems. That’s why health experts say it’s important to be mindful of your sugar intake. A Harvard study recently discovered the following statistic regarding sugar consumption. “Over the course of the 15-year study, people who got 17% to 21% of their calories from added sugar had a 38% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease...

January is Soup Month for a good reason. There’s nothing like sitting in front of the fire with a bowl of hot and hearty soup. Not only is homemade soup warm and comforting, but it’s also a great way to get extra nutrients and vitamins that your body needs. But does canned soup pack the same nutritious benefits as your grandma’s homemade vegetable soup? Not always. Though it may be an easy and convenient alternative, the soup you find in a can isn’t always the healthiest...

Did you know four out of five people that make New Year’s resolutions will break them? A third likely won’t even make it past January. Keeping your New Year resolution to lose weight can be a challenge. But it doesn’t have to be impossible. With a little dedication and planning, you can reach your weight loss goals. To help set you up for success, Dr. Katie Hanisee, Archbold’s fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon and medical director of the hospital’s bariatric program, is...

A 2022 study from Yale University suggests that moderately reducing your calorie intake – rather than adopting any specific diet – can lead to many health benefits. The study found that when a person consumed fewer calories, there was a correlation to improvements in their overall health, including: Weight loss Reduced inflammation in the body Improved immune function Potentially an enhanced, healthy lifespan The Benefits of Eating Less Eating fewer calories can...

Low-carbohydrate diets, including paleo and keto, are regular fixtures in the weight loss landscape. But your body really does need carbohydrates to function. “Despite their reputation as a starchy and unhealthy food, potatoes – as long as they aren’t fried – are a great source of nutrition to power you through your day,” said Jason Person, RD, LDN, clinical nutrition manager at Archbold. “Plus, potatoes are affordable and store well.” Did you know half a cup of cooked...

Getting diagnosed with cancer can shift your attention away from everything but your diagnosis. Two things you shouldn’t neglect, however, are your mental and physical health. “A cancer diagnosis can be devastating, and the days following can be thrown into chaos with the sudden bombardment of medical appointments,” said Debbie Beeson, cancer navigator at Archbold’s Lewis Hall Singletary Oncology Center. “But your emotional well-being is a significant part of your care.”...

During the holidays, there are many decisions to make when it comes to your diet. Eating is often the central focus of holiday celebrations, which can make deciding what to eat more challenging. Consider your health goals, but also remember to stay flexible. An all-or-nothing approach to dieting can lead to negative self-talk or disappointment if you aren’t meeting your goals. Set yourself up for success by finding small opportunities for healthy eating. Plan ahead with portion...