While children long for the lazy carefree days of summer, many adults view the season as a reason to be active and get healthy. Whether it's to look good for an upcoming beach vacation or simply to have the energy to enjoy the season to the fullest, setting health goals is a great first step.

Go outdoors

The weather is nice, so why not take your workout routine outdoors? So many outdoor activities are natural calorie-burners, plus they're a lot of fun. Ride bikes on the weekend, run around and play tag with your kids, or play fetch with the dog. Infuse your social activities with fitness, too. For example, finish a date night with a romantic walk outside, or have friends over for an outdoor barbecue and dance party.

Lighten meals

Light foods pair well with warmer weather, so take a fresh approach to meal time. Visit your local farmers market to pick up fresh, seasonal food and get creative in the kitchen. Incorporate water-based fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew and pineapple into meals. For dessert, freeze grapes for a sweet treat after dinner.

Drink up

Stay hydrated by stocking the fridge with healthy drink options. A big pitcher of cold water with slices of strawberries, cucumbers and lime is a refreshing drink that's readily available. This low-calorie drink quenches on even the hottest days.

Rise and shine

Get some fresh air first thing in the morning; it will keep you energized all day long. Take a quick walk or practice yoga outside -- try it during sunrise for a great way to start your day. You'll be surprised with how cheery and upbeat you'll feel.

Green your thumb

Gardening is a great way to enjoy the warm weather, plus you burn calories without even knowing it. Try planting your own herb garden. It's a simple activity you can even do with your kids. Plus, you will have quick access to fresh herbs when you want to add a healthy flavor boost to your dishes.

Try new activities

Warm weather is the perfect time to try something new. Take tennis or golf lessons, or meet friends on a weekly basis to play a different sport. Hit the sand with the family and try some beach body Pilates; do a few crunches on your towel, try some planks in the sand, and even some crab walks. Don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.

-- Brandpoint

New Research

Scientists studying skin and pigment disorders believe they have found a way to reverse the process that causes hair to gray as people age. Hair turns gray when massive oxidative stress causes a build-up of hydrogen peroxide in hair follicles. The hydrogen peroxide build-up leads to hair bleaching itself from the inside out. Researchers discovered that PC-KUS, a UV-B activated compound, reverses the hydrogen peroxide accumulation. PC-KUS can also be used to treat patients with vitligo, a skin condition where depigmentation of the skin causes light-colored patches on certain parts of the body.

-- MedicalNewsToday.com

Number to Know

25,943: The CDC estimates that 25,943 people in the U.S. have asthma, according to a 2011 National Health Interview Survey.

Children's Health

"If you're a parent, whether you're aware of it or not, you are your children's fitness mentor," says Kara Thom, co-author of "Hot (Sweaty) Mamas: Five Secrets to Life as a Fit Mom" (Andrews McMeel, 2011). "When parents exercise, they increase the odds their children will grow up to be active adults, making fitness a family value and turning exercise into family fun time."

For both fitness and nutrition, planning ahead is the key to encouraging kids to live the healthy way of life. Additional suggestions to make fitness important to kids include:

1) Join a fitness center where kid fitness is as important as adult fitness.

If you expect to exercise when you go to the gym, you should also capitalize on the opportunity to get your kids moving.

2) Pursue fitness goals together.

When Nina Hamza, 39, from Deephaven, Minn., signed her children up for kids swimming lessons, she saw the opportunity to sign herself up for adult swim lessons. The results exceeded her expectations. Not only did everyone improve in the pool, they found a way to bond as a family.

"My kids loved that I asked their advice on things; about how to breathe easier or what to do if you get a leg cramp," Hamza recalls. "Also, I appreciated their hard work more. I was in awe of their ability as I was learning and they were encouraged that I was so impressed by them." 

3) Keep kids engaged in physical activity year round.

It's easier to schedule lessons and workouts when school is in session and there's a routine. But when summer comes around, you find your kids at "lump camp," on the couch with video games. Take some time in the spring to plan out the summer months and schedule physical activity most days of the week, whether they are walking the dog, getting to the neighborhood park, or attending special summer programming that keeps kids on the move.

-- Brandpoint

When increasing your workout, don't bite off more than you can chew. Set short-term realistic goals that are attainable. Lengthening your running distance each week, upping the number of reps you do  on your favorite machine or increasing the weights you lift (by no more than 10 percent each week) will create a sense of accomplishment. Even when you feel like you do not have enough energy for a full workout, go outside for a walk, hop on the treadmill for 15 minutes or simply make it a point to take the stairs when possible -- every little step counts!

-- Family Features/Rockin' Refuel

Parents often use the adage "you are what you eat" to encourage children to make healthy food choices, but the saying is equally true for adults. Providing your body with a variety of nutrients lets you feel your best, and may even prevent disease and help you live longer.

Allison Tannis is a nutritionist, author and professional consultant. She believes that aging well means eating well. She recommends these five super nutrients.

1. Omega-3s

"It can be hard to see fat as healthy, but omega-3 fatty acids are potentially one of the most important nutrients for our health," says Tannis. "Omega-3 fatty acids are vital to the maintenance and function of our eyes, brain and nervous system - parts of us that start to weaken with increasing age. In addition, these healthy fats have great ability to fight inflammation that is the cause of painful joints, cardiovascular disease and even wrinkles."

How can you get your daily dose of 1 to 2 grams of omega-3s, as recommended by the American Heart Association? Wild-caught fish like salmon, sardines and Arctic char are good sources of omega-3s. Plant sources of omega-3s include flax, chia and hemp. It can be difficult to get enough omega-3s from food sources, so supplements are a good alternative.

2. Vitamin D

"Vitamin D is really only available to us from the sun," explains Tannis. "Sure, there are foods such as milk and orange juice that have added vitamin D. For some, these foods are a great choice, but for others, it can be hard to ensure you're getting enough of this essential vitamin through fortified foods."

Older people are prone to vitamin D deficiency, and therefore, may experience muscle weakness or impaired intestinal absorption. Tannis suggests that everyone, no matter their age, consider a vitamin D supplement if diet and sun exposure aren't adequate. From tasteless liquid drops to pills that combine multiple nutrients, there are a variety of options for vitamin D supplementation.

3. Probiotics

"Probiotics fight inflammation, promote digestive health and much more," says Tannis. "With age, there is a decrease in the most prominent probiotic in the colon, Bifidobacteria, leaving the colon prone to inflammation, which increases the risk of disease and discomfort."

Foods like kefir and yogurt are common sources of probiotics, but often it's not enough to get the full benefits. Probiotic supplements are a great way to maintain and rebuild probiotic levels in your digestive tract. "Seek out one with lots of different probiotic species," recommends Tannis. "You've got hundreds of kinds of probiotics in you. Each probiotic offers its own unique health benefits to your body, so having lots of different kinds in your system can help your body be at its best."

4. Green foods

"Greens are packed with more nutrients per bite than almost anything else on your plate. They are full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes and more," says Tannis.

What green foods are the best?

"The best greens to eat are the ones you like -- you don't have to hate your food. Love your food! Choose some greens that you enjoy and then, once a week, try something outside your comfort zone," Tannis suggests. "If you simply can't stomach enough greens, there are plenty of powders available, from simple single ingredient products to complex formulas."

5. Multivitamins

No matter what your age, eating a balanced diet provides your body with plenty of nutrients. "Try to ensure that at some point each day you enjoy foods from each color of the rainbow, and artificial coloring doesn't count," says Tannis.

Taking a multivitamin is one way to ensure your body has the minimum amounts of the essential nutrients it needs each day to function properly. If you are considering a multivitamin, look for one that is designed for your age, activity level and gender.

"Food hasn't changed, even though it feels that everyone is telling you something new about it," says Tannis. "Enjoy a well-balanced diet, rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, whole grains and fish. Nutrition really can be easy to swallow."

-- Brandpoint

New Research

Researcher at the Tel Aviv University in Israel may have found a way to diagnose schizophrenia by testing microRNA molecules in neurons from the nose. Neurons would be removed through a biopsy. MicroRNA molecules regulate gene expression. Researchers found that schizophrenic patients had more of one type of microRNA than non-schizophrenic patients. More testing is required before this method can be used to diagnose the disease, however, as researchers are unsure of whether the microRNA changes begin before or after schizophrenia symptoms begin to show. Currently, the only way to definitively diagnose schizophrenia is through sampling the brain during autopsy.

-- MedicalNewsToday.com

Number to Know

164 million: number of American homeowners who have gardened in the last 12 months, as stated in a 2012 report on GreenhouseManagement.com.

Boomer Health: Tips for avoiding physical discomfort while gardening

Fresh packets of seeds, the dirt between your fingers, and the smell of freshly churned earth - gardening season has officially begun. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a newbie to home planting, gardening is a great activity that provides both physical and mental health benefits.

In addition to burning calories while enjoying the peacefulness of Mother Nature, one unwelcome part of taking up gardening as a hobby is the potential for strain and injury. To get the most out of your time gardening, consider these tips for avoiding physical discomfort:

Start with a few stretches

Before grabbing your tools and heading to your yard, spend five or 10 minutes doing stretches focusing on your arms, legs, back and neck. You'll be moving and turning a lot, so be sure to stretch and loosen muscles to avoid strain when you're out tending your garden.

Avoid bending and lifting the wrong way

Chronic back pain is an issue for many Americans both young and old. Just because you have back issues doesn't mean you can't enjoy gardening. Consider installing raised garden beds, which allow you to garden without having to bend over. Additionally, container gardens can be placed on tables or deck railings for easy access. If you don't suffer from back pain, avoid back injury by bending and lifting the right way. Remember to maintain good posture, minimize quick twisting motions, bend at the hips and knees only, lift items in a slow and controlled manner, and enlist help if necessary.

Protect skin from the sun

One of the best parts of gardening is you get to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, but that can mean extended time in the sun so it's important to protect your skin. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and light cotton clothing that covers exposed skin are good first steps. Always apply a water-resistant, broad-spectrum lotion that is SPF 30 or higher at least 15 minutes prior to going outside, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.

These simple tips will help position you for a full season of gardening delights. Without injury or other physical irritations, you'll be able to savor the fruits of your labor in the beauty of the warm weather.

-- Brandpoint

With an online community you can commit to your goals and share struggles and successes alongside others in your same position. Fitness community sites range from free, forum based communities to monthly subscriptions with access to exercise and nutrition experts and structured programs designed to fit your personal goals. Pick one that fits your personality, goals and budget.

-- Life Fitness

Sunshine and fresh air make us fall in love with summer every year. It's a time to explore the outdoors and enjoy fashions like tank tops, flip-flops and sun dresses. How can you get beautiful summer-ready skin while keeping it protected from the sun's hot rays?

Get healthy, radiant skin that you'll be proud to show off with these skin care tips and tricks for warm weather months:

Toss your old sunscreen

Long days playing in the sun are a part of what makes summer such a special season. Be sure you protect your skin. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, so it's best to toss the remnants from last year and get fresh bottles. Look for options that are water-resistant, broad-spectrum and SPF 30 or higher. Apply 30 minutes before heading outside so sunscreen can be properly absorbed and reapply regularly to ensure constant protection.

Cleanse and moisturize

Cleansing daily not only helps to ensure skin looks fresh, but a clean base also allows sunscreen to be absorbed more easily and makeup to be applied more evenly. If your skin feels tight and dry after showering with soap, do not mistake that feeling for clean! That tight, dry feeling means soap has stripped your skin of essential nutrients.

Exfoliate regularly

Don't skip the exfoliation, especially in the summer. Exfoliation helps to boost skin's glow. It removes the top layer of dead skin cells and helps your skin to more evenly absorb moisturizers and sunscreens.

Stay hydrated

Hydration is essential inside and out. In the summer when you are more active and temperatures are warm, it is easy to become dehydrated. Ensure you are drinking plenty of water as well as hydrating your skin.

Nourish skin from the inside

Summer's bounty of flavorful produce isn't just a tasty way to reinvent meal time, it's also an opportunity to choose foods full of nutrients that are good for your skin. Colorful fruits are bursting with antioxidants that may help to protect your skin cells from external damage from the sun, smoke or even stress. Try berries like blueberries and raspberries, as well as dark-skinned grapes.

-- Brandpoint

New Research

Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology finds that college students who regularly binge drink have blood vessels with damage simliar to that caused by high blood pressure and cholesterol. This increases the risk for heart disease later in life. Binge drinking was defined by researchers as five or more drinks in a two-hour time span for men, and four or more in the same time span for women.

-- Medical News Today

Number to Know

61,646: The CDC reports 61,646 people in the U.S. were diagnosed with melanoma in 2009.

Children's Health

Most new parents are anxious when their infant has a fever, or is fussy, stuffy and simply not acting right. But how do you decide to call the pediatrician or to wait -- especially in the middle of the night?

Ciampa encourages all first-time parents to take advantage of the postpartum care, newborn CPR and safety classes offered at many hospitals and community centers. Knowledge and information can reduce stress when your baby isn't feeling well. She offers the following tips on what to look for when you suspect your baby may be sick:

Fever

Fever helps the body fight infection and doesn't always need to be treated. But sometimes, fever in a newborn can be serious. A temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher in a baby under the age of 2 months should be reported. Your doctor will likely ask whether the baby is feeding, urinating and sleeping adequately. Never give medicines or other home remedies to a baby without first consulting with a pediatrician.

- Your baby's skin appears yellow or you suspect jaundice
- The newborn's stools appear red, white or black (aside from the first black meconium bowel movements)
- Your little one has a persistent cold, cough or is vomiting (more than spitting up)
- Your baby is unusually fussy, lethargic or not waking up for feeds
- The baby is not wetting enough diapers (look for six or more daily after 6 days of age) -

-- Brandpoint

Head neutral, back flat, core tight, shoulders retracted -- these are some of the instructions your personal trainer is likely to command. Just don’t take them lightly. Better body positioning on cardio and strength-training equipment will help you maximize each movement and avoid injury. 

-- Life Fitness

One in five Americans will get skin cancer in their lifetime, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, has steadily increased over the past three decades -- to the rate of one American dying an hour from it, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Detecting melanoma when it is most treatable is key to survival. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, and improve your chances of catching it in its most curable stages.

Preventing skin cancer

- Always wear sunscreen when you go outside, even during winter months. In summer, use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

- Avoid tanning, including tanning beds. Multiple studies have found that indoor tanning increases your risk of melanoma by 75 percent, and the risk grows with every use.

Detecting skin cancer when it is most curable is one of the most important ways to ensure a positive outcome for skin cancer treatment. Your detection efforts should include:

- Visit a dermatologist for an annual skin cancer check.

If your dermatologist finds skin cancer, it's important to know you have treatment options. Patients whose melanoma is diagnosed when it is most curable have a survival rate of 97 percent, according to the American Cancer Society. Discuss your options with your doctor, and work in tandem with health care providers to ensure the best possible outcome for any treatment.

-- Brandpoint

New Research

A study done by the Medical University of South Carolina shows that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may help people quit smoking. TMS has already been approved by the FDA to treat depression, and is a noninvasive prcedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Researchers found that a single 15-minute TMS session reduced cue-induced cravings in those who smoked. The craving reduction was temporary, so the study recommends that smokers go to repeated TMS sessions.

-- MedicalNewsToday.com

Number to Know

19.3: According to the CDC, 19.3 percent of American adults, or 45.3 million people, currently smoke cigarettes.

Boomer Health

When it comes to startling health statistics, here are several you may not have heard: 36 million American have a hearing loss, yet only one out of every four people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually wears one, according to the National Institutes of Health's National Information Center on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Millions of Americans "miss or misunderstand" much of everyday conversation.

The first step for finding the right hearing aid is to see an audiologist. Audiologists hold doctoral degrees and are uniquely qualified to evaluate hearing loss and communication needs such as hearing in noisy environments like restaurants, in business meetings, church services, lectures, or just listening to the TV or an iPod. An audiologist can prescribe, program, fit and customize a hearing aid's high tech capabilities to improve your listening and communication experiences.

"Today's hearing aids are quite amazing," Goodman says. "They are natural sounding, fashionable and they work. There is no reason you should miss out on what could be the most important conversation of your life. Consumers have numerous options for purchasing hearing aids, and an audiologist can help you find the right solution for your communication challenges."

No best model or brand

Finding the right hearing aid is not about the model or brand - or even price. While it may not be necessary to pay a lot to find the hearing technology that works well for you, keep in mind that rock-bottom-prices often come with poorer quality. It is not just about a product--being fitted with hearing aids is a process.-

Modern hearing aids are sophisticated high-tech digital devices, with capabilities and options that vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Every ear is unique. Every brain deciphers sound differently. There is no "one size fits all." What works for your friend may not work for you. It's important to work with an audiologist that can help you select and optimize the hearing aids to meet your needs.

Finding the right hearing professional

Having a hearing test and getting fitted for hearing aids are the next steps, but it's also important to get counseling on how to use your hearing aids most effectively in different listening situations. You'll need adjustments to get the settings just right, and audiologists can manage this for you. Remember, an audiologist who carries several brands is more likely to help you find the best hearing aids for your communication needs. 

-- Brandpoint

When we feel sick, we call the doctor, and when we have a leaky pipe, we call the plumber. So when 30 minutes of cardio training and a stop in the weight room doesn’t generate the fitness results we want, why not turn to a professional who can coach us through the rut? Personal trainers evaluate your fitness goals to design a progressive program that will get you where you want to go. This starts with a thorough evaluation of your current fitness level that can be duplicated in the months that follow. Your trainer will make sure you know just how much you’ve improved.

-- Life Fitness

Immunizations have had an enormous impact in helping to improve the health of children in the United States, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While vaccination has helped to reduce many childhood diseases, some of these diseases still exist and could reappear if vaccination coverage wanes.

"Incidence of many serious childhood infections has greatly declined because of the widespread use of childhood vaccinations," said Dr. Patricia Samuelson, a family physician based in Sacramento, Calif. "However, if vaccination rates drop, disease rates could rise again, so it's important that we are diligent in vaccinating to help protect children."

Parents should know that it's recommended to vaccinate their children at certain ages and with the appropriate number of doses. Maintaining the schedule of a child's well visits helps ensure children get the vaccines they need, at the right times.

Vaccines are recommended not only for children, but for all people. While parents are naturally concerned about the health and safety of their children, it is important to remember that vaccination is key in helping to maintain health and wellness for people of all ages. In fact, the CDC has recommended immunization schedules for children and adolescents as well as adults.

Samuelson recommends talking to a health care professional to learn more about what vaccines are recommended for people of all ages.

"By staying informed and learning about recommended vaccines, people can learn how to help protect themselves and their loved ones from certain infectious diseases."

-- Brandpoint

New Research

An estimated 31.3 percent of US children age 10-17 were reported as overweight or obese, ranging from 22.1 percent to 39.8 percent across U.S. states. Generally, the prevalence of overweight or obese children increase among lower income families. However, some states with low rates of overweight/obese youth actually experience large disparities among income groups.

-- National Children's Health Survey

Number to Know

24.1: Percentage of children nationwide who live in a house where someone smokes, according to the National Children's Health Survey. That's nearly one in four.

Boomer Health

As many as 5,288 people age 65 and older were killed and 187,000 were injured in traffic accidents, according to 2009 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That group accounted for 16 percent of all traffic deaths and 8 percent of the injured, but accounted for only 13-percent of the population.
Most states have minimum vision requirements to possess a driver's license. A 2006 Vision Council report indicates that the 10 states with the highest rate of fatal crashes include four that require no vision screening for license renewal and four that only require vision screenings at intervals of eight or more years. The Vision Council also reported that only 20 states require more frequent vision screenings for older drivers.

Importantly, there are proactive measures seniors can take to preserve and enhance their vision. Many clinical research studies have demonstrated that older drivers can improve their vision by eating foods rich in the nutrients zeaxanthin and lutein or taking eye vitamins containing these nutrients. These nutrients create a protective film in the back of the eye known as, "macular pigment" to protect and improve vision.
Glare is a common complaint among older drivers, particularly at night. When a driver is "blinded" by an oncoming car's lights, they are literally "driving blind" for a period of time until vision recovers. Studies have demonstrated that recovery time from bright light-induced glare can be reduced by as much as five seconds by increasing macular pigment density through zeaxanthin and lutein supplementation.

Dense or thick MPOD (Macular Pigment Optical Density) can reduce uncomfortable and dangerous glare caused by oncoming headlights, street lights, and traffic lights; enhance contrast sensitivity to help drivers see pedestrians, vehicles, and other objects; and help diminish discomfort or sensitivity to bright sunlight.
Many Optometrists and Ophthalmologists offer MPOD measurement through a simple, fast, and inexpensive exam. Contact your eye care professional about having your macular pigment measured, and increasing your MPOD if needed.

Driving safety is important at any age, but as our population ages at an unprecedented pace, proactively taking care of your vision is vital to safety and independence.

-- Brandpoint

One of the biggest trends in fitness technology is wearable monitoring devices. They come in the form of bracelets or clips and go beyond classic heart rate monitors. Meant to be worn at all times, these devices can measure movement, calories burned, heart rate, sleep patterns, skin temperature and even blood oxygen levels. Most also sync with mobile apps to help you track these vital statistics over time. Investing in these tools and seeing results over time can be a huge motivator. Some of the most popular wearable fitness devices include the Nike+ Fuel Band, Core 2 from Body Media, Fit Bit Flex and Jawbone UP.

- Life Fitness

According to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the overall quality of the American diet gets a failing grade. According to the Healthy Eating Index, adults (19-plus years) score just 50 out of 100 on the quality of their diets. Hectic lifestyles may play a role in this failing grade, and registered dietitian and best-selling author, Dave Grotto has a few tips to maintain proper nutrition even when time is tight.

Eat nutrient-filled meals. Set aside five minutes to pack a healthy lunch before you head to work each day. Prepare meals such as a salad with grilled chicken or a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread -- healthy options that provide a combination of protein and fiber to give you sustained energy throughout the day. "It's vital that we find ways to get the nutrients our bodies need and eating well-balanced meals can do just that," says Grotto.

Take your vitamins. In addition to proper food choices, quality dietary supplements can be helpful to fill nutrient gaps.

Stay active and enjoy the sunshine. Even if it is minimal, find time to move each day while you're at work; take the stairs instead of the elevator or go for a 10-minute walk around the block. An added benefit of being outdoors, even for a short amount of time, is the exposure to sunlight, which helps skin produce vitamin D3.

Don't forget to take time for yourself. Rest and relaxation can help to rejuvenate your mind, and is an important part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Not only does Grotto recommend getting six to eight hours of sleep a night, he also suggests keeping to the same bedtime each night. Maintaining such a simple routine can really do the body good.

-- Family Features/Nature Made

New Research

A five-year study using data collected by the Tucson Children's Assessment of Sleep Apnea Study found sleep apnea is linked to behavioral problems in children. Children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) were more likely to have issues with attention, hyperactivity, disruptive behaviors, social competency, self-care and communication than children with no history SDB. Children with persistent sleep apnea were seven times more likely to have learning issues and three times more likely to earn grades of C or lower in school.

-- MedicalNewsToday.com

Number to Know

2: Sleep apnea is prevalent in nearly 2 percent of healthy children, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. At this age, sleep apnea is usually caused by oversized tonsils and adenoids.

-- MedicalNewsToday.com

Kids' Health

Head lice are a common community condition, with an estimated 6 to 12 million infestations occurring each year in the U.S., most commonly among school age children 3 to 11 years old. This means many parents are likely to experience firsthand how lice can impact their children, families or friends.

What are head lice? Head lice are tiny, wingless parasites that feed on human blood and live close to the human scalp. They move by crawling and are mainly spread by head-to-head contact, most commonly among preschool and elementary school children, and the people who live with them. Despite what you might have heard, it is uncommon that transmission occurs by contact with items such as clothing, brushes, towels or pillows recently used by someone with head lice. Further, personal hygiene and cleanliness have nothing to do with getting head lice.

How do you know? People with head lice may experience no symptoms at all, and misdiagnosis is common - live lice are small, quick and avoid light and the eggs (or nits) are often confused with dandruff, hair spray droplets or dirt particles.

Itching, which is caused by an allergic reaction to louse bites, is the most common symptom but may take four to six weeks to develop the first time someone becomes infested.

Finding a live louse on the scalp or in the hair - most commonly seen behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the head - is a good indication of an infestation. If crawling lice are not seen, finding nits attached firmly to the hair, close to the scalp (within a quarter-inch of the base of hair shaft) suggests, but does not confirm, that live lice may be present.

Tackling the problem Between school, sports, play dates and summer camp, children tend to be in close proximity to their peers, and may come in contact with someone who already has lice. Therefore, parents should educate themselves about all available treatments, including over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription options, before they get hit with an infestation.

-- Brandpoint

Are you sweating or just reading a magazine while you drone out riding a machine? Make sure your workouts in and out of the gym make you sweat. Go high intensity for short bursts during your workout to get in some interval training. If you are on the treadmill, try running at your fastest pace for a minute, take it down to recover for a minute and repeat. On the elliptical? Bump up the resistance level to work different muscle groups and increase effort. Track your workouts and make consistent plans to increase intensity and you will see progress.

-- Life FItness

With so many hours in a day, it's nearly impossible to just eat three meals. Everyone needs a snack to keep them feeling satisfied throughout the day. However, it's important to make smart choices when you reach for that mid-day pick-me-up. Next time you are considering skipping lunch, keep these tips in mind so you can have your snack and eat your meal, too.

Manage your sweet tooth: Every once in awhile it's OK to give into your sweet tooth. Depriving yourself won't make your body or your mind happy. So next time you're craving a sweet treat, reach for something that won't leave you feeling guilty.

Enhance what's in your eyesight: You are more likely to eat a healthy snack if it's within reach. So keep a bowl of fruit on your counter to reach for when you are feeling hungry. And if you find yourself overindulging at work, keep a container of mixed nuts on your desk; they will fill you up quickly and give you extra energy to help get you through the day.

Bring out the bowl: It can be hard to stop reaching for potato chips once you start; before you know it, the whole bag is gone. To help keep track of just how many servings you are eating, purchase snacks packaged in individual serving sized containers. If you are a club shopper, or if you just prefer to purchase the whole bag, remember that snacking out of the bag will make you more likely to overindulge. To avoid this, put your snack on a plate or in a bowl; it will help you realize just how much you're eating.

Slow it down: Do you tend to wait until you are extremely hungry to have a snack? Before you inhale your treats, take a breath and remember that when you eat your snack too quickly, you don't give your body time to digest and process whether or not you are satisfied. Eat slowly and savor every bite. You will feel as if you are eating more than you actually are, and your body will have time to decide if it is full or not.

-- Family Features/Dole

New Research

A study published in "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences" has found that social isolation can lead to a shorter lifespan for older patients. Even participants in the study who were happy in their isolation are more likely to die prematurely. This has led researchers to believe that it is lack of human contact, and not feelings of loneliness, that cause the shortened lifespan. However, because loneliness is difficult to define for scientific purposes, scientists cannot give definitive answers.

-- MedicalNewsToday.com

Number to Know

26: The most socially isolated patients in a study by University College of London had a 26 percent higher risk of dying than their less isolated peers.

-- MedicalNewsToday.com

Kids' Health

To help protect your child's vision, consider these tips:

- Know that prolonged use of electronic devices can exacerbate underlying eye conditions, so electronics should be used in moderation. Limit screen time to two hours or less a day (including watching TV, playing video games and using mobile phones).

- Encourage intentional blinking while electronic devices are in use to help refresh eyes with natural moisture that helps prevent bacterial infections, dry spots and corneal breakdown.

- Reduce additional eye strain by managing glare from windows and using low-watt bulbs in light fixtures.

- Keep computer screens 20 to 28 inches away from the face.

- Practice a rule of 20s to give eyes a rest. Every 20 minutes, ask your child to look at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds before refocusing attention up close again.

- Move around and change positions periodically while using a device.

- Watch for signs of eyestrain while electronic devices are in use, such as squinting, frowning at the screen or rubbing eyes.

- If vision problems or discomfort arise, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor for a professional evaluation.

When taking into account time at the office in front of a computer screen, many adults regularly use electronic devices for as long as, or even longer than, their children. Following the same advice not only sets a good example, but it can help protect your own eye health.

-- Family Features/Ameritas