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Probiotics have been in the wellness spotlight for some time—all thanks to their gut health benefits. But now, companies are selling the popular supplement with other health benefits beyond keeping you regular. During peak cold and flu season, you may see more claims about probiotics for immune system support. But can probiotics truly help boost your immune system and help your body fight off illnesses like the common cold? According to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics, probiotics are live microorganisms that, when taken in specific amounts, provide certain health benefits. They are considered 'good' bacteria that can help stop the overgrowth of 'bad' bacteria in the gut and produce beneficial compounds like short-chain fatty acids that can help regulate metabolism, inflammation, and disease. Some studies have even found that probiotics may be linked to helping absorb vitamins, reinforce the gut…

If you’re pondering trying to get stronger, healthier, faster or fitter in the new year, you’re not alone. Last year, over 75 percent of the Americans who made New Year’s resolutions vowed to change something related to their health, exercise, or diet, according to the Pew Research Center. But judging by the statistics that emerge every year about just how few resolutions actually stick, it’s fair to assume that many of those new habits didn’t make it past February. One reason why our fitness-related resolutions often don’t have staying power, according to certified personal trainer Emily Decker, CPT: “When you’re making a goal, and not taking the body into account, if the goal doesn’t work out, the body is usually the first place we go for blame. But we didn’t ask what the body wanted in the first place.” For this reason, Decker…

Your daily horoscope for New Year’s Day feels like a clean slate in all the ways. Not only is the moon in a new sign (intellectual Aquarius) as of early this morning, but it also comes close to transformative Pluto and opposes mighty Mars, reminding us of our own inner strength. Your brunch with your besties might be less boozy and more brainiac this year, as everyone will be abuzz about revolutionary theories and innovative concepts. This might just mean you’re excited about the new Oura ring you got for Christmas, but the tagline for the day is “the future is now.” So share your liberatory resolutions with the table along with that pitcher of mimosas. Looking for even more astrology insights? Read your January 2025 horoscope and your full 2025 romance horoscope. Aries March 21–April 19 It’s officially 2025, and the moon…

If a case of norovirus, also known as the stomach bug, halted your holiday plans this season, you’re not alone. According to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 91 reported outbreaks of norovirus during the week of December 5. To put that into perspective, between 2012-2020, the maximum number of reported cases during the same time period was only 65. Although cases continue to soar, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. What is norovirus? Norovirus, also known as the Norwalk virus, is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain. In some cases, it can also cause fever, headache, and body aches, but it is not the same virus that causes the flu. Although most people recover from the illness within three days, they can continue…

Plenty of things can keep you awake at night: noisy neighbors, anxiety, acid reflux, or a restless partner, to name a few. But something you never thought would make the top of the list? An itchy anus. That’s right—it’s very possible that, like any other body part, your bum can become quite scratchy as soon as you head to bed… and it isn’t very pleasant. It may even have you searching the internet for: why does my anus itch at night? While a mild itch is usually no biggie, a persistent itch could be pruritus ani (aka the medical name for anal itching). It might come with other symptoms—like burning, irritation, soreness, or thick, leathery skin on or around your anus—and it can be caused by many different things, from skin conditions to the type of underwear you choose. Can’t figure out why…

It’s New Year’s Eve and your daily horoscope feels equally anchored and anarchic. We’re just on the other side of the new moon, and the lunar energy will remain in down-to-earth Capricorn until just an hour after midnight ET, helping us prepare for festivities without much drama. But, if you stay out until the wee hours, things could get weird after the rebellious Aquarius moon takes over. With wounded healer Chiron mixing up the astro weather, it’s a good day to think about how we repair our wounds, forgive ourselves for perceived flaws, and find ways to heal the people we love. Letting go of pain and trauma just before we enter 2025? Not only is it free, it’s totally freeing. You can cry or hug it out, but definitely plan to let it all out of your system. Looking for even more…

In a year marked by numerous food recalls, Horizon Organic Dairy, LLC has stepped into the spotlight with its latest announcement. They have issued a voluntary recall for their Organic Whole Milk 8-fluid ounce cartons. According to a report by Forbes, while there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this milk, CVS Pharmacy, a major retailer of the brand, has preemptively alerted customers about this potential spoilage issue. The 8-ounce cartons, marketed as convenient, on-the-go beverages for children, are widely available across various retail outlets, including grocery stores, coffee shops, and smaller food markets. As of this publication, it is noteworthy that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not officially announced the recall, making this situation distinct as a retailer is taking proactive measures to warn customers first. Alongside this alert, CVS has made arrangements for refunds for…

The new year starts on a dramatic note in your weekly horoscope for December 29, 2024, to January 4, 2025. First, you experience a turning point in your healing journey when Chiron (which represents your deepest pain and wounding) retrograde ends in Aries on December 29. You may feel more tender and sensitive but also empowered and in awe at your growth over the last few months. Luckily, there’s a new moon in Capricorn to look forward to on December 30. This is actually the best day of the year to set New Year’s resolutions and intentions. You have the determination and grit to nail down your five-year plan and to bring those visions to life! Don’t forget to celebrate all you’ve accomplished this year, too. On the same day, December 30, Mercury in Sagittarius connects with Chiron in Aries, prompting healing conversations.…

As a health writer and editor who’s commissioned more than my fair share of stories about gut and butt health over the years, I’ve long been interested in adding a bidet to my home. After all, many gastroenterologists and urologists are quick to sing their praises on bidets as an alternative to wiping with dry toilet paper (or, gasp, wet wipes), and I’ve traveled outside the U.S. enough to realize just how widespread they are in other parts of the world. I finally got my chance when Tushy released its newest bidet attachment this fall: The Tushy Wave Non-Electric Bidet Seat ($189). Tushy is a trusted name in the world of bathroom accessories with the Tushy Classic gracing many a list of the best bidets, so it’s safe to say the Wave is the latest and greatest in the bidet game. Here’s my…

Pulling out all those cozy spices to make your favorite pumpkin pie or maybe some pillowy cinnamon rolls? If you haven’t touched them in a while, you might be wondering whether they’re still okay to use. Knowing when to throw out spices can be tricky, as they’re dried and technically can’t spoil the way other food items in our fridges and pantries can. The answer is technically yes, you can still use old spices, even if it’s been a year. As in, cooking with old spices or dried herbs isn’t going to make you sick. But, you might want to replace them for other reasons, experts say. Here’s what you need to know. Do spices have an expiration date? Officially, no. Dried herbs and spices can pretty much keep indefinitely without spoiling. But they might not be that potent after hanging out in…