Lead vs. Plastic

A pile of blue/green pipes reach skyward

Lead water pipes created a health disaster in Flint, but replacing them with cheaper plastic — as some cities are doing — carries hidden costs Above image: Plastic water pipes may be cheaper, but they also come with risks. Mark Bernard/iStock/Getty Images Plus   By Rajpreet Grewal, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; Laodong Guo, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, […]

5 Things to Do Before Breakfast to Kick-Start a Great Day

Morning Routine, Chicago Health Magazine

We’ve all been there — hitting the snooze button several times before rolling out of bed, rushing out of the house, skipping breakfast — and still not starting work on time. You may not realize this, but your morning routine can determine the mood of your entire day. Luckily, there are five easy things that […]

Mayo Clinic Q&A: What to Drink to Stay Hydrated

Alkaline Water, Chicago Health Magazine Online

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I know I need to drink while I exercise, but what is the best fluid? I’m wondering how much I should drink and if I need to drink special water, as someone mentioned alkaline water. Is alkaline water better at rehydrating your body than nonalkaline, or plain, water? ANSWER: Staying hydrated during […]

Mayo Clinic Q&A: For Most People, Plain Water Is Just Fine

alkaline water, Chicago Health Magazine Online

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I’ve heard that alkaline water is better at rehydrating your body than nonalkaline, or plain, water. Is this true? ANSWER: In short, for most people, plain water is better. But first, it’s important to understand the definition of alkaline water. Scientists use pH to describe how acidic or basic a substance is, […]

Ask the Harvard Experts: Prevent Kidney Stones with Simple Dietary Changes

kidney stones, Chicago Health Magazine Online

Q: I recently passed a kidney stone. I never want to go through that pain again! What’s the best diet to avoid another kidney stone? A: First and foremost, be sure you drink plenty of fluids every day and avoid dehydration. Kidney stones form when certain minerals concentrate in the urine and form hard crystals. […]

More Water, Fewer UTIs?

Can water help prevent UTIs? Image of glass of water in front of purple background.

Harvard Health Blog All too many women recognize the signals of urinary tract infections, or UTIs: pain and burning when urinating, coupled with a frequent urge to do so. A simple change in behavior could help prevent a common UTI known as recurrent cystitis in women, according to a randomized controlled study published in JAMA […]

Four new rules for staying hydrated

Beer bottles on ice

During the heat of summer, staying hydrated is even more important, especially if you’re exercising outdoors. While plain water should still be your everyday go-to, try a few of these strategies as well. Chill before you sweat. If you’re looking to set a new record in that 10K or sprint triathlon, slurp an ice slurry, […]

The big benefits of plain water

Pitcher of water and glass on a table

By Mallika Marshall, M.D. Harvard Health Blog “Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.” Unlike Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s Ancient Mariner, who was surrounded by undrinkable salt water, most Americans have an unlimited supply of clean water to quench our thirsts. Yet many of us turn a blind eye to it and instead reach for […]

Swim to your health

Swimming pool shown from underwater

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention whatdoctorsknow.com Swimming is the fourth most popular sports activity in the United States and a good way to get regular aerobic physical activity. Just 2 1/2 hours per week of aerobic physical activity, such as swimming, bicycling or running can decrease the risk of chronic illnesses. This can […]

How water and health are connected

Woman drinking water

By Rachel Moeller Gorman, EatingWell.com Water accounts for 60 percent of our body — or about 11 gallons or 92 pounds inside a 155-pound person — and is essential to every cell. We use water to cool our body with sweat, to circulate oxygen and fuel to our organs and take away waste products via […]

Water Safety Tips for Kids Help Prevent Drownings

By Nancy Maes You might think you know the signs of drowning: a kid frantically waving his arms high in the air and screaming for help over and over again. But in reality, the signs of distress are much more subtle. “People who are drowning very rarely call out for help. If they do, it’s […]