Olympic swimmer and nine-time gold medalist Caeleb Dressel shares how his dog Jane and cat Rems boost his overall health and help him through “bad practices” and “rough days.” Image Provided by Caeleb Dressel
Gold medalist swimmer Caeleb Dressel shares the positive impact his pets have on his life.
Dressel says his dog and cat provide him with mental and emotional support.
Studies suggest that pets can help boost the mental and physical health of people.
Olympic swimmer Caeleb Dressel returned home from the Paris Olympics with two gold medals and a silver. Being welcomed by his wife, son, their dog Jane, and cat Rems brought him the comfort and perspective he needed.
“[I] get caught up in very much the hustle of everything and media and sponsors and training and making sure I’m getting to bed on time that I forget to take a breath,” he told Healthline.
Sitting on his porch watching Jane happily relax gives Dressel a reality check he said he appreciates.
“[I’ll] give it another couple weeks or a month, no one is going to be talking about Paris. They’re on to the next thing, so I know it’s a lot bigger deal in my mind, and certainly, Jane and Rems help me forget about that,” said Dressel.
A lifelong love of animals
Dressel’s dad is a retired veterinarian. Growing up, his family had many pets, including a bird, guinea pigs, hamsters, and a rat. He bought Jane the day after he graduated college.
“[As] soon as my college career finished, I got 5 hours of sleep, woke up, and drove to go get Jane at 8 weeks old,” he said.
Because his dad’s first dog was a black lab, Dressel wanted the same.
“She’s been with me since literally day one of my professional career, so she’s technically seen more than anybody else in my circle. She’s seen all the bad practices, all the rough days. She’s been really special, just to be there with me,” said Dressel.
His wife Meghan brought their cat Rems into the relationship.
“Rems has such a funny nighttime routine where we’ll get into bed, and it’s usually about 10 minutes on the dot, we’ll hear him jump up on the bed, and then…he’ll paw to get under the covers, and then he spoons with Meghan the whole night,” he said.
How pets can provide mental health support
Pets have long been known to provide significant emotional and physical benefits to their owners.
“Owning a pet provides feelings of comfort, security, and unconditional love. Further, the need to care for one’s pet helps provide a sense of structure, purpose, and leads to boosts in self-confidence and self-care,” Deborah Serani, PsyD, professor of psychology at Adelphi University, told Healthline.
The bond between humans and pets furthers the notion that they are not just furry companions but valued and special family members, she added.
So is the case for Dressel who welcomes Jane to sleep on his side of the bed.
“So anytime I travel, it’s kind of tough to get used to not having her paw next to me, her farts, her bad breath, all that stuff,” he said. “It’s the same thing with Rems…it’s funny the dynamic me and my wife have with Jane and Rems, we have a kid, but they’re truly our kids. I refer to Rems as our first-born son, and Jane is my daughter.”
There are also benefits to interacting with animals even if they’re not your own pet, said Beth Steinberg, PhD, RN, senior researcher with the Center for Integrative Health at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
As the principal investigator of a recent study, Steinberg and colleagues evaluated the effects of regular therapy dog visits on healthcare workers in high-stress inpatient hospital units. They found that healthcare workers who interacted with therapy dogs during their work shifts reported decreases in stress and burnout and significant increases in self-reported mood.
“While these findings indicate that interactions with therapy dogs offered immediate benefits for these essential healthcare workers, future research is needed to better understand longer-term benefits, as well as downstream effects for patient care and satisfaction,” she told Healthline.
Pets can provide physical health benefits, too
The simple act of petting or interacting with a dog, cat, or other companion animal can lower a person’s blood pressure and increase the endorphins or feel-good hormones in the brain, said Steinberg.
According to the American Heart Association, pet ownership, particularly dog ownership, is probably associated with decreased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and may have a causal role in reducing CVD risk. Having a pet may also help lower cholesterol and blood sugar.
“Pets can also help us be more active and make activity more enjoyable,” said Steinberg. “Studies show that people diagnosed with cardiovascular disease have increased activity levels and better outcomes when a pet accompanies them on daily walks.”
In addition to walks, Dressel enjoys playing catch with Jane and especially swimming with her.
“She loves baseballs and an orange rubber ball we have. On the weekends, we go to the pool…she loves to swim, and we try to get her exercise,” he said.
Why Dressel is joining fellow Olympians to promote better pet health
Along with other Olympians, including sprinter Gabby Thomas and gymnast Simone Biles, Dressel is part of Nulo’s Fuel Incredible campaign, which highlights the connection between eight USA athletes and their pets.
The collaboration aims to inspire pet parents everywhere to elevate their pets’ nutrition, ensuring they can fully participate in every aspect of their mutually active lives.
Leading up to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Dressel said he had more sponsors than he did heading into the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“I didn’t want to do that again. I have my family now, and I want to be very particular about who I take on, and because I want to be there for the companies I take on, and also I want to be organic,” he said.
Teaming up with Nulo felt right to him. He said the initiative is about more than selling dog food.
“It’s not just a product. I’m associated with [them for] truly the love of pets,” said Dressel. “I want to take care of [Jane] the best I can. She’s been in my corner her whole life and has given me so much joy.”
Vitamin D supplements may help boost your cardiometabolic health in several ways, including improved blood pressure and cholesterol FreshSplash/Getty Images
A study found that vitamin D is linked with better cardiometabolic health.
People taking it had better blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose.
Some groups did even better, such as those with vitamin D deficiency or lower BMI.
Experts say it’s a good idea to get tested by a doctor before taking larger doses.
Sunlight and vitamin D-rich foods are the best ways to get this important nutrient.
According to a large meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, taking vitamin D supplements was linked with better cardiometabolic health.
The study, published online on July 26, 2024, in the journal Engineering, found that a daily median dose of 3,320 International Units (IU) was necessary to achieve these benefits.
Study participants consuming vitamin D had better blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic), total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, and fasting blood insulin.
However, the effect was stronger in non-Westerners, older adults, people with lower baseline vitamin D levels, those with lower body mass index (BMI), and those who took the supplement longer. This was especially true regarding glycemic-related measurements.
The study authors additionally highlighted the importance of providing each person with an individualized dose, given these differences in response.
“Our findings suggest that higher vitamin D levels are required to maintain cardiovascular health in non-Westerners, obese, and older populations,” they wrote. “Consequently, consideration should be given to administering higher doses for longer durations when designing personalized intervention strategies aimed at enhancing cardiometabolic health in these populations.”
How vitamin D supplements were linked with better cardiometabolic health
To conduct their study, the team searched several large databases of medical research to identify all relevant studies.
Altogether, 99 suitable studies were found that included a total of 17,656 participants.
These participants ranged in age from 6 to 75 years, with a median age of 50.35.
Both Western and non-Western countries were included.
The researchers extracted data from the studies in order to learn how effective vitamin D supplementation was in improving cardiometabolic risk factors.
They also looked at how people’s ethnocultural background (Western versus non-Western), baseline vitamin D levels, BMI, vitamin D dosage, age, and length of supplementation influenced the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Their analysis found that, overall, vitamin D supplementation improved all measures of cardiometabolic health throughout the entire population.
The groups who benefited the most were non-Westerners, those who started with a 25-hydroxy vitamin D level of less than 15.0 ng/mL (below 20 ng/mL is generally deemed to be vitamin D deficiency), those having a BMI less than 30 kg/m2 (non-obese), those 50 years of age or above, and those using vitamin D supplements for longer than three months.
How much vitamin D should you take per day?
Akanksha Kulkarni, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at Prowise Healthcare, who was not involved in the study, advised that it is necessary to get a blood test prior to supplementing to see what your current vitamin D levels are.
“This test is usually performed by your doctor, who will also give you guidance on how to administer the dose if necessary,” she said.
She urges caution because vitamin D can build up to toxic levels if taken in excess for too long.
It can cause calcium to build up too high, contributing to kidney stones and even bone damage, according to Kulkarni.
People should avoid taking large amounts of vitamin D without visiting a doctor, she stressed.
However, if you do opt to take a supplement, the National Institute of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements says the recommended amount of vitamin D for adults 19-70 is 600 IU daily. This amount rises to 800 IU over the age of 70.
Up to 4,000 IU daily is considered to be safe. Anything above this should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision.
What are the healthiest ways to get vitamin D?
Michael Lahey, MD, a physician and preventive healthcare specialist with My Weight Loss Partner, who was also not a part of the study, said that one of the best ways to get adequate vitamin D is through sun exposure.
“Natural production of vitamin D requires only moderate amounts of sunlight, 10-30 minutes, 2-3 times a week,” he said.
“But one should not expose their skin to the sun without protection to prevent skin harm,” added Lahey, noting that too much unprotected sun exposure can raise your risk for skin cancer.
“Tanning beds are the worst and should be strongly discouraged,” he added.
You can also get plenty of vitamin D from foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks, said Lahey. There are times, however, when supplementation could be advisable.
“This is especially important during winter or in such regions where the sun does not shine through most of the year,” he said. “Lack of sun and proper diet can be met with supplements to ensure that your body has the right vitamin D it requires.”
Takeaway
A new study has found that vitamin D supplementation was associated with improved cardiometabolic health.
People who took vitamin D supplements had better blood pressure, total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, and fasting blood insulin.
However, some people — such as non-Westerners, older adults, people with lower baseline vitamin D, those with lower BMI, and those who took the supplement longer — responded even better.
Experts say most adults should stick with the recommended amount of vitamin D — 600 IU — unless they have been tested and advised by a doctor to take more.
Exposure to sunlight (within limits) and eating foods rich in vitamin D are the best ways to maintain vitamin D levels.
Inaccurate high blood pressure readings caused by certain arm positions could lead to misdiagnosis of hypertension. Oscar Wong/Getty Images
In a new study, researchers say different arm positions can produce different blood pressure readings.
They report that blood pressure readings taken when the arm is resting on a hard surface such as a desk are slightly lower than when the arm is resting in a person’s lap or hanging by their side.
Experts say inaccurate higher readings could lead to a hypertension misdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions like medication.
Does it really matter whether your arm is resting on your lap or hanging by your side when you have your blood pressure taken? Experts say it just might.
In a new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, researchers say three different arm positions produced three different blood pressure readings with a difference of 4 to 7 points on the top and bottom numbers.
The researchers found that blood pressure taken while a person’s arm is resting on a hard surface such as a desk or arm chair produced the most accurate readings.
If a person’s actual top number on a blood pressure reading is 115, an incorrect arm position could increase that mark to more than 120, pushing them into the category of elevated blood pressure. If someone’s actual measurement is 126, a misreading could bump that number above 130 and into the category of stage 1 hypertension.
“This is a very practically useful study that reiterates the importance of proper blood pressure measurement technique in order to obtain the most accurate blood pressure readings,” said Cheng-Han Chen, MD, an interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in California.
“This study shows that seemingly small differences in blood pressure measurement technique can affect blood pressure readings. While a 4-to-7 point difference in a blood pressure reading may not seem like a lot, it is enough to push someone’s blood pressure into a higher category, such that they may end up being started on a blood pressure medication that they might not need,” Chen, who wasn’t involved in the study, told Healthline.
Different arm positions change blood pressure readings
For their study, researchers looked at 133 adults between the ages of 18 and 80. The average age was 57.
About 53% of the participants were female, 77% were Black, and 41% had a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, which classifies them as having obesity.
In addition, 36% of participants had a top blood pressure number of 130mm HG or higher at the start of the study.
The researchers measured the participants’ blood pressure while people held their arms in three different positions:
resting on their lap
laying on a hard surface
hanging along the side of their body
All the participants had their blood pressure taken with all three arm positions, but they were randomly assigned to one of six groups that differed in what order the measurements were taken.
By the study’s end, researchers concluded that blood pressure readings taken while the arm was supported on a surface such as a desk or chair arm were lower than the measurements taken when the arm was in a lap or hanging by the side.
“This research highlights the importance of utilizing correct technique and arm positioning in order to obtain accurate blood pressure measurements in a real-world clinical setting,” said Megan Kamath, MD, a cardiologist at UCLA Health in California who was not involved in the study.
“In the 2017 U.S. hypertension guidelines, categorization for stages of hypertension vary by increments of 10 mmHg, so one can imagine that a difference of 4 to 7 mmHg can make a significant difference in moving someone to a different level of categorization, which has implications for both treatment of hypertension and lifetime cardiovascular risk,” Kamath told Healthline.
Small changes in blood pressure numbers matter
A blood pressure reading measures the total amount of force your blood pushes across the walls of your arteries.
The top, or systolic, number indicates the pressure on the artery walls as your heart beats. The bottom, or diastolic, number determines the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
When taking blood pressure measurements, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends:
avoiding caffeine, smoking, and exercise for 30 minutes beforehand
positioning a blood pressure cuff on the upper arm at mid-heart level
placing feet flat on the floor with the back supported
In their study, researchers found that systolic pressure was 6.5 points higher when participants had their arms dangling by their side compared to when their arms rested on a desk. The diastolic number was 4.4 points higher with the arm hanging by the side.
When participants’ arms were on their laps, the systolic reading was 3.9 points higher than in the supported position. The diastolic pressure was 4 points higher.
“Incorrect positioning can result in up to 7 mm Hg error in the measurement,” said Eugene Yang, MD, a professor of cardiology and medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and member of the American Heart Association’s HTN and KCVD Hypertension Science Committee. Yang wasn’t involved in the study.
“This can have significant consequences when making decisions about whether someone needs to be treated for hypertension,” he told Healthline. “Furthermore, when this error is compounded by other mistakes, such as not waiting 5 minutes before taking a measurement or making sure your feet are flat on the ground, the impact on the readings could be even more substantial,” Yang continued.
Kamath stressed the importance of obtaining accurate blood pressure readings.
“This research highlights the importance of taking quality measurements to ensure that our patients are treated appropriately based on these findings,” she said.
“Hypertension is a significant risk factor in cardiovascular disease and has significant implications for both prevention and treatment of disease across the lifespan so it is crucial for healthcare professionals to recognize potential inconsistencies and address them.”
Accurate blood pressure readings at home are equally important. “Patients taking their blood pressure at home using a home cuff should remember to always take it with the arm in a supported position,” Chen said.
Kamath noted the research also provides important information for patients. “This study should encourage patients to be advocates in their own healthcare,” she said. “Patients should feel empowered to ask for a repeat blood pressure measurement if the measurement being obtained is significantly different than previously obtained.”
Yang agreed. “The techniques of blood pressure measurement in the office also apply to patients at home,” he said.
“Mistakes made at home will also translate to incorrect readings that possibly lead to overtreatment of blood pressure based on these measurements. Clinicians have a responsibility to educate their patients on how to measure their blood pressures correctly at home,” Yang noted.
What to know about high blood pressure
Nearly half of adults in the United States have high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
A higher percentage of males have high blood pressure compared to females.
High blood pressure is also more common in non-Hispanic Black adults than in non-Hispanic white adults, non-Hispanic Asian adults, and Hispanic adults.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, puts a person at a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. The CDC estimates that in 2022 high blood pressure was a primary or contributing cause of 685,875 deaths in the United States.
High blood pressure doesn’t always cause symptoms. Sometimes symptoms don’t appear until someone has had hypertension for years. When they do manifest, symptoms may include:
skin flushing
red spots in front of the eyes
dizziness
There are ways to lower your risk of high blood pressure. The CDC lists these strategies:
eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
stay physically active (aim for a minimum of 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week)
don’t smoke
limit your alcohol intake
get adequate sleep
“People looking to avoid developing high blood pressure should eat a healthy balanced diet low in sodium, engage in regular physical activity, get an adequate amount of quality sleep, maintain a healthy weight, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and reduce their stress levels,” Chen recommended.
Takeaway
Researchers report that arm position can make a difference during blood pressure readings.
They found slightly lower blood pressure numbers when a person’s arm is laying on a hard surface such as a desk compared to the arm resting in a person’s lap or dangling by their side.
Experts say this variation in numbers could be the difference between someone being diagnosed with high blood pressure and prescribed unnecessary medication.
As we approach another winter season, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is ramping up its comprehensive surveillance systems to monitor flu and other seasonal respiratory viruses. Here’s an overview of how we’re working to keep the nation informed and protected. …
You may have seen reports about a rise in cases of Marburg virus disease in Rwanda, which we are monitoring closely. Marburg virus belongs to the filovirus family, along with Ebola. It can cause haemorrhagic fever, meaning it can damage …
“I want people to see that ADHD isn’t something to be fixed; it’s something to be embraced,” says Hilton. Photography by Kevin Ostajewski
Paris Hilton is opening up about her journey to being diagnosed and living with ADHD.
She is speaking out to help break the stigma surrounding neurodivergence.
Hilton hopes by hearing her story, others will feel less alone.
Paris Hilton has a lot behind her iconic name: socialite, model, singer, actress, media personality, and businesswoman — including CEO of her next-gen media company, 11:11 Media, and her nonprofit, 11:11 Media Impact.
In recent years, she’s added another title to that list that’s especially close to her heart: ADHD advocate.
Diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, Hilton is open about navigating life with a neurodiverse brain on social media, during interviews, and even while she sings. Her latest album includes a song titled, “ADHD,” with the following lyrics:
Now look at me, I’m the best I can be I was so down, thought I’d never be free My superpower was right inside, see? It was ADHD.
In an effort to help further increase awareness, Hilton recently partnered with Understood.org to provide resources to women and children with ADHD on how to navigate life, work, and health. This year, for ADHD Awareness Month, the non-profit will take over Hilton’s social media channels to provide content featuring expert-vetted tips and research.
“While I have the platform to shine a light on living with ADHD, they’re creating resources and communities for people, especially women and children, to feel supported,” Hilton told Healthline. “I love that their mission is all about empowering people to embrace their unique strengths. Together, we’re working to help break the stigma around ADHD and make sure no one feels alone in their journey.”
Below, Hilton shared more with Healthline about living with ADHD, how it’s her superpower, and what she wants others to understand about the condition.
Can you tell us a little bit about your journey to being diagnosed with ADHD?
Hilton: I was diagnosed much later in life, which, looking back, explains a lot of what I went through as a child and teenager. Growing up, I struggled to focus in school and found it hard to fit into the traditional learning environment. I felt misunderstood, and it created this feeling that something was “wrong” with me when, in reality, my brain just works differently. Once I was diagnosed, my life became so much easier because I was able to implement tools that have helped me thrive!
Can you share some treatments, methods, and/or self-care practices that help you manage ADHD?
One of my favorite tools is turning everything into audio — it helps me stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed by written text. I also break tasks into smaller, manageable steps so I don’t feel like I’m tackling everything all at once. Surrounding myself with a supportive team who understands how I work has also been a huge help. I truly believe it is just as important for the individual living with ADHD and the people around them to educate themselves. And then there’s self-care — I have a very structured skin care routine at night that helps me quiet my mind. I find routines really help soothe the brain and provide structure to the end of my day.
How is ADHD your superpower?
I call ADHD my superpower because it’s what makes me who I am! My brain doesn’t think in a straight line — it zigzags, and that’s allowed me to see things from angles other people might not. It’s why I’ve been able to spot trends early, push boundaries, and build my career in unexpected ways. When I’m passionate about something, I can hyper-focus and throw myself into it completely, which is how I’ve achieved a lot of success. ADHD gives me creativity, resilience, and the ability to think outside the box — qualities I consider my greatest strengths.
What do you think is the biggest misunderstanding about people living with ADHD?
I think one of the biggest misunderstandings is that people with ADHD are just distracted or incapable of focusing, which couldn’t be further from the truth. ADHD isn’t about being lazy or unmotivated; in fact, we can be incredibly driven and productive when something interests us. People often don’t realize how much effort it takes to manage the constant mental noise and energy that comes with ADHD. It’s exhausting at times, but it doesn’t mean we’re any less capable.
What do you wish more people understood about living with ADHD?
I wish people understood that ADHD doesn’t define us by our challenges; it actually gives us unique strengths. Yes, it comes with difficulties — like managing distractions and feeling overwhelmed — but it also comes with incredible gifts like creativity, empathy, and the ability to think differently. I want people to see that ADHD isn’t something to be fixed; it’s something to be embraced. I hope more people recognize that neurodivergence adds value to the world, not something to hide.
By sharing your experience with ADHD, do you hope to help break the stigma and help others?
Absolutely! That’s one of the main reasons I wanted to share my story with ADHD — it’s not something I used to talk about because of the stigma, but I’ve come to realize how important it is for people to know they’re not alone. So many people — especially women — are undiagnosed or misunderstood, and I want to help change that narrative, so I wrote my song “ADHD” on my new album INFINITE ICON. If even just one person feels seen and understood because of my story, then it’s all worth it. Shifting the narrative — not just for myself, but for anyone who’s ever felt like their differences were a disadvantage. “ADHD” is my way of saying that it’s okay to be different, and in fact, it’s those differences that can make you unstoppable.
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
I just want to remind anyone living with ADHD — or any other challenge — that you are not defined by your diagnosis. ADHD is my superpower, and I do not believe it limits your potential; it unlocks new possibilities. Never be afraid to ask for help or create your own path. We’re all in this together. Keep “sliving!”
Kylie Jenner says using nipple cream as a lip moisturizer is one of the best secrets of her daily skin care routine. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic/Getty Images
In a recent video, Kylie Jenner spoke of how she uses nipple cream on her lips.
Nipple cream contains lanolin, a product derived from sheep’s wool.
Experts say this substance has long been used as a moisturizer.
It has the ability to lock in moisture and soothe irritated skin.
It might also have antibacterial properties and protect from infections.
While it took a “squad of 15” to get Kylie Jenner glammed up for her sister Kendall’s appearance at the Schiaparelli Spring/Summer 2025 show on Day One of Paris Fashion Week, she revealed that sometimes the simplest of products can make all the difference.
In a video she posted to Instagram and TikTok on September 27, 2024, the 27-year-old reality star demonstrated a surprising product she uses to give her lips moisture and shine: Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream.
Facing the camera, Jenner went through her routine, brushing her teeth, washing her face, and moisturizing her skin.
Then she applied the cream to her lips, telling the camera, “Nipple cream for your lips, it’s like the best secret.”
However, while Jenner later looked fabulous heading to the event, does her lip care tip really work?
Dr. Anju Methil — who specializes in dermatology and cosmetology as well as serving as a medical consultant with ClinicSpots — said that lanolin is not a new thing.
“Lanolin has been around for centuries as a go-to skin moisturizer, and it’s especially popular in nipple creams,” she said.
Dr. Hamdan Abdullah Hamed — a dermatologist and the co-founder of PowerYourCurls — further explained that lanolin is a substance that comes from the wool of sheep.
It “contains many natural fats and oils,” he said. “These are very similar to what human skin makes already.”
It is this similarity that gives it its power to protect our skin and prevent the loss of moisture, said Hamed.
“Due to its special qualities, lanolin can soothe irritated skin, making it very good for people with conditions such as eczema or psoriasis,” he said. “It’s like giving your skin a warm and comfy embrace!”
How lanolin can help your lips
However, it’s not just good for soothing your skin; it can also keep your lips soft and hydrated, according to Methil.
“If you deal with dry or chapped lips, lanolin might just be the secret ingredient you’ve been looking for,” she said.
Methil added that it’s especially good for lips because it forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture.
“It also has emollient effects,” she said, “which attract moisture and hold onto it, leaving your lips feeling soft and supple.”
And, if that’s not enough, it’s possible that lanolin might also have anti-inflammatory properties, said Methil. This can help soothe red and irritated lips.
If you are dealing with severely dry or cracked lips, it could be a “game changer,” she added.
“Whether it’s from the cold, wind, or just licking your lips too much, lanolin helps to calm things down and relieve that uncomfortable feeling,” said Methil.
Other products that can provide the same benefits as lanolin
While lanolin provides many skincare benefits, there are some people who might not want to use lanolin, according to Methil.
“Although lanolin is generally safe and effective, there’s a small chance you could be sensitive or allergic to it,” she said.
If you’ve never used it before, Methil suggests doing a patch test on a small area of your skin to make sure you don’t react to it.
“[T]here are other products that can help your skin too,” said Hamed. Some of the products he suggests include:
Petroleum jelly. “It is similar to lanolin because it keeps moisture in and shields your skin from irritants,” he said.
Shea butter. Hamed explained that this product is derived from the nuts of the shea tree. “It helps calm dry skin and lessen irritation,” said Hamed.
Coconut oil. While you might know coconut oil for its use in cooking, it can also benefit your skin. It might also have antibacterial properties making it a good way to prevent infections, he said.
Beeswax. This common ingredient in many lip balms creates a layer that seals in moisture and protects your lips from irritation, according to Hamed.
Hyaluronic acid. “This thing is like a magnet for moisture!” he said. “It pulls water to your skin, so it stays hydrated and looks full.”
Takeaway
Reality star Kylie Jenner recently revealed in an Instagram video that one of her secrets for having beautiful, soft lips is lanolin nipple cream.
However, skin experts say using it on your lips isn’t so strange. It’s been used for centuries as a moisturizer due to its ability to protect, hydrate, and soothe skin.
If you don’t want to use lanolin, there are other skincare alternatives that can provide similar benefits. These include petroleum jelly, shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax, and hyaluronic acid.
People are flooding social media with Mucinex fertility success stories, sharing why they believe taking the over-the-counter cough medication helped them get pregnant. South Agency/Getty Images
Users on social media say the “Mucinex Method” has helped them get pregnant.
The “Mucinex Method” involves taking a medication containing guaifenesin while trying to conceive in order to improve fertility.
Doctors say that there’s no research that supports the use of guaifenesin to improve fertility.
Users on TikTok and other social media platforms are sharing stories that taking Mucinex helped them to get pregnant, sometimes after only one dose.
How?
Guaifenesin, Mucinex’s active ingredient, is an expectorant that relieves congestion by thinning mucus in the air passages, making coughing easier.
However, some social media users believe that it also helps to improve fertility by thinning cervical mucus.
“I’m a true believer of Mucinex. It has worked for so many women, especially women who have tried for years to get pregnant…I took Mucinex, first try, and we’re pregnant,” said TikTok user Amanda Macgibbon in a video.
Comments on the video share similar stories about what is now being referred to online as the “Mucinex Method.”
“After 2 miscarriages and a year of infertility, I finally tried the Mucinex method, and now I am 15 weeks pregnant,” wrote one user.
Despite numerous anecdotal reports on social media, doctors dispute whether these claims have any scientific validity outside of a very small 1982 study with limited evidence.
“Where we stand right now, there’s no data, there are no studies that show that using mucinex or any medication that has guaifenesin in it increases the chance of pregnancy or improves fertility,” Michelle Roach, MD, the Medical Director of the Vanderbilt Fertility Clinic and an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, told Healthline.
Mucinex Method: What is it?
The “Mucinex Method” involves taking Mucinex or another medication containing guaifenesin at various intervals according to a female’s menstrual cycle. There is no exact protocol, so the dosage, regularity, and even the variety of Mucinex appear to vary from video to video.
The general consensus among social media users involves taking the medicine throughout the fertility window, the time of the menstrual cycle when a person is most likely to get pregnant, and prior to intercourse.
The goal of taking Mucinex is to increase the likelihood of pregnancy by thinning the cervical mucus, which is believed to improve sperm motility.
But Roach pushes back on these claims.
“Physiologically, in women, that happens on its own. When a woman is ovulatory, there will be a physiologic change that happens naturally with the cervical mucus. This change happens on its own to try to help make it easier for the sperm to meet the egg. So you don’t need the Mucinex to do that,” she said.
Reckitt, the maker of Mucinex, has also warned against taking the product for any other indication than those prescribed on the box. In a statement to Healthline, the company stated:
Reckitt is aware of recent social media activity surrounding Mucinex and fertility, and we understand why there is heightened interest in this topic. As a global leader in health and hygiene, it is important that we clarify that Mucinex should only be used as intended in line with label directions. Taking Mucinex for infertility constitutes off-label use.
Taking any medications outside their approved indications or without acknowledging all active ingredients may be harmful. In case of doubt, we recommend women have a discussion with their healthcare professional. Please always read the label and safety information before taking any self-care medication.
Is Guaifenesin safe to take if you’re trying to get pregnant?
Guaifenesin is generally a safe medication, including for females who are trying to become pregnant. However, it can result in some side effects, including:
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
You should inform a doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away.
Mucinex and other medications containing guaifenesin are frequently combined with other ingredients to treat cough and cold, such as dextromethorphan. Always read the ingredients on the packaging to ensure there are no potential allergens or contraindications.
“Given that there’s no real data to support the use, I usually encourage women to not take it unless there’s some other medical reason for them to take it. As with any medication, you should carefully weigh the risks and benefits,” said Roach.
Health misinformation can easily spread on social media
Benjamin Morse, BA, a Visiting Lecturer in New Media and social media expert at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, told Healthline that social media algorithms can make it harder to sort through good and bad information.
“Instead of having to look something up, you’re getting it served to you by algorithms, by people who purport to be experts,” he said.
“If I’m a pregnant woman or if I’m dealing with mental health issues, the algorithm is putting things in my face, and the algorithm is not going to fact-check for me,” added Morse.
Addressing health misinformation online is a complex topic that is often framed as a battle between free speech and censorship. Some claim that restricting information about health topics violates the first amendment, while others argue that the government and social media platforms must do more to clamp down on false and potentially harmful health topics.
According to Morse, combating misinformation comes down to improving digital literacy:
“They need to teach digital literacy in school at a younger age. So kids know how to navigate the internet. I think with adults, it’s the same thing. They need to have an education as well,” he said.
Roach suggests that if people have questions or concerns, they shouldn’t hesitate to raise them with their doctors.
“There’s a lot of misinformation out on social media, particularly as it pertains to fertility. So, we always counsel patients that if they have a concern or a question or a thought, that they should always reach out to us to get our opinion or our feedback,” she said.
The bottom line
Users on social media are promoting the “Mucinex Method” to improve fertility and help get pregnant.
The “Mucinex Method” involves taking Mucinex or another medication with the ingredient guaifenesin during your fertility window and prior to intercourse.
Despite numerous anecdotal reports, doctors say there is no evidence to support the use of guaifenesin to improve fertility.
Diet and lifestyle factors play an important role in breast cancer prevention. A&J Fotos/Getty Images
Early-onset breast cancer in females under 50 is increasing, a new report shows.
Deaths from breast cancer are declining overall, but disparities among women of color persist.
Aside from a genetic component in some people, breast cancer is highly influencedby diet and lifestyle factors.
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, following a healthy, balanced diet, and limiting exposure to environmental toxins are proven ways to reduce breast cancer risk.
Breast cancer mortality rates have fallen in recent years, but early-onset breast cancer is on the rise.
While breast cancer deaths have decreased by 44% in the past 30 years, the biennial update from the American Cancer Society warns of an uptick in breast cancer diagnoses in females under 50.
Moreover, disparities in mortality rates among women of color persist compared to white women. Black women face higher risks of triple-negative breast cancers and have the lowest survival rates for nearly every breast cancer subtype and stage, the report shows.
Driving breast cancer rates in all females, aside from any genetic predisposition, are myriad factors, many of which are modifiable byproducts of modern-day living.
Recent research has shown that, in 19 out of 30 types of cancer, nearly half of all cases in the United States are linked to modifiable risk factors. A significant proportion of these cancer cases affect females, including breast cancer.
Following lung cancer, female breast cancer is linked to the most modifiable risk factors.
One possible culprit? Alcohol. A progress report from the American Association for Cancer Research linked alcohol consumption to a higher risk for six cancer types, including breast cancer.
Other factors, such as overweight and obesity, difficulty following a healthy diet, and exposure to environmental toxins, also play a role in breast cancer development.
“It’s important to know that the breast organ itself is more vulnerable than other organs to cancer, which is why breast cancer is more common and the price more vulnerable,” said Marisa C. Weiss, MD, chief medical officer and founder of Breastcancer.org.
“If you look at modern life, where people are not having babies until later, they’re not breastfeeding, they’re drinking a lot, or they’re overweight and not exercising, they’re not eating well, or they’re using pharmaceutical hormones for an extended time, it’s a combined set of reasons why breast cancer is more common today than it used to be, including in young women.”
Healthline spoke with Weiss to learn more about early-onset breast cancer and some of the modifiable risk factors, plus other tips for breast cancer prevention.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and brevity.
Risk factors influencing early-onset breast cancer
Weiss: Breast cancer used to be pretty rare 100 years ago, and it’s become the most common cancer to affect women. 1 in 8 women — 2.3 million globally — are affected by breast cancer each year.
The explanation for the increase in the incidence of breast cancer overall, especially in younger women, is multifold. When it comes to steps you can take that have been proven to drop your risk of breast cancer you should try to:
maintain a healthy weight
exercise regularly
eat a mostly plant-based diet (i.e., the Mediterranean diet)
Here’s a closer look at some of the main factors that may be affecting rising breast cancer rates in young females.
1. High prevalence of overweight and obesity
Weiss: Obesity or being overweight affects two-thirds of women. Carrying extra weight increases inflammation, which irritates the cells of the body and can make it more likely that a cancer cell could occur. Extra weight brings puberty on earlier, which is a risk factor for breast cancer.
For people carrying extra weight, it’s often harder to exercise, and they’re less likely to eat well. One study linked a 30% higher risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women with obesity compared to those without obesity.
Of course, it’s very hard to get to and stick to a healthy weight, but getting there reduces the risk of breast cancer and the risk of recurrence if you’ve been diagnosed.
2. Increased exposure to environmental pollutants
Weiss: Pesticides and plastics, fragrances, and other types of pollutants — many of them are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve in fat after exposure.
If you had exposure to a pesticide years ago, let’s say DDT, you may still have residue of DDT in your fat tissue, which could raise your risk of breast cancer.
To reduce your exposure to pollutants, avoid products containing fragrances, and don’t cook in plastic.
4. Rising alcohol use among females
Weiss: Alcohol use in women is increasing. And the more alcohol you drink, the higher your breast cancer risk.
Recent studies show there’s no safe level of alcohol use. Any alcohol use can increase breast cancer risk, which is an unpopular reality. If you drink, limit how much you drink.
5. Hormones in conventional dairy products
Weiss: There are hormones in the products that we eat that could stimulate breast cancer cell growth.
The conventional dairy industry, not the organic one, keeps cows pregnant as often as possible because pregnant cows make more milk.
So, whatever’s in the pregnant cow’s milk is more likely to have hormones. Hormones generally live in the fat of the milk.
But in the organic milk industry, they’re not allowed to do that. They only take milk from pregnant cows at the beginning of the pregnancy, not toward the middle and the end, when hormone levels are higher.
If you want to avoid hormone exposure, buy organic fat-free milk. While it sounds elitist to say, ‘Just go out and buy organic,’ it’s true that organic products, including milk, are increasingly available in places like Walmart grocery stores or in other places that serve people with lower incomes.
Try to find nonhormonal methods of effective contraception, like an IUD that doesn’t contain hormones.
Why is it so important to limit or avoid alcohol?
Weiss: We already know girls who drink alcohol are more likely to have overgrowth of breast cells — hyperplasia — while they are still girls. While it may not be breast cancer, they’re more likely to have bumps and more likely to get a biopsy.
We don’t know exactly why alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer. It probably has to do with how the liver responds to it and maybe hormone levels that may increase.
It may be that we don’t know the whole story about why alcohol increases cancer risk. Still, there’s pretty strong evidence that says there’s an association between drinking alcohol and a higher risk of breast cancer, and the more you drink, the higher the risk.
But there’s an opportunity to modify your risk — you can drink a nonalcoholic beverage when you go to a party, like flavored seltzer in a wine glass, with a mint and a lime.
When you drink wine with food, you drink more slowly. When you go to a restaurant, put your hand over your glass to avoid being topped off.
Drinking less alcohol also makes a big difference in managing your weight. If you stop drinking alcohol, you will be consuming fewer calories from the alcohol.
Diet and nutrition tips for breast cancer prevention
Weiss: Modern life is full of all kinds of exposures that are not healthy for us. If you’re in the grocery store you have choices, you can choose to bring home food that’s healthy rather than not healthy.
For example, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a list of the ‘Dirty Dozen,’ which is the top fruits and vegetables that are most likely to be grown in the presence of pesticides and other junk. You want to buy those from organic sources like, just like you would milk.
The junk in the environment also concentrates as it goes up the food chain, which is why a bigger fish, like a tuna, is more exposed to junk like mercury throughout its life. So it’s a good idea to eat lower on the food chain.
I tell my patients that the main show on their plate should be fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, grains, spices, and different colors of the rainbow. Your meat, fish, chicken, and pork should be more of a sideshow.
A vegetarian diet is still healthier even if it contains foods on the Dirty Dozen list. A Mediterranean diet is the healthiest diet even if you can’t afford to buy organic.
When you eat chicken, for example, take off the skin because that has a lot of the fat in it. When you eat fish, avoid the brown fat part underneath since it contains junk in it.
Enjoy tuna every once in a while, otherwise, enjoy smaller fish (i.e. sardines, anchovies) or even tilapia and flounder, which economically are cheaper than eating something higher on the food chain. The bigger the fish, the higher on the food chain and the more junk there is in there.
For people who can’t afford organic food, a vegetarian diet is still healthier even if it contains foods on the Dirty Dozen list. A Mediterranean diet is the healthiest diet even if you can’t afford to buy organic.
Are there any risks to soy consumption?
Weiss: Soy contains isoflavones, a protein with very weak estrogen levels. I think it’s fine to consume relatively unprocessed soy foods (e.g., edamame, tofu, tempeh, and soy milk).
“Economic vegetarians” who can’t afford meat or people who follow diets where their biggest source of protein is soy. Their risk of breast cancer is low.
What I do warn people against is concentrated pharmaceutical-grade soy protein powder. We don’t know if that’s safe, so I would say avoid it.
Dense breasts: What can you do to lower breast cancer risk?
Weiss: First, don’t panic. The new FDA rule says you’re required to know if your breasts are dense or not. It’s important to know that breast density is not a diagnosis, it’s just a description, and it’s based off your mammogram.
Half the women who get mammograms have dense breasts. Of the half — a quarter of the whole pie — have what we call heterogeneously dense breasts, or patches of dense tissue.
About a quarter of all breast cancers, which is half of the half who have dense breasts, have extremely dense breast tissue. This means that your risk of breast cancer may be a little higher, and it also means that it’s a little harder to find breast cancer in there because it’s like trying to find a polar bear in a blizzard. Then you might need some extra testing like an ultrasound or an MRI.
There’s a whole list of factors that influence your breast cancer risk. Breast density is just one of them.
So breast density, your family history, your weight, your alcohol consumption, whether you’re socially isolated, have uncontrolled diabetes, have been on extended use of HRT or birth control pills, etc. — you want to look at all those factors.
If you find out that you have dense breasts, it’s good to talk with your doctor or a genetic counselor about your overall risk.
It is also important to note that while uncommon, breast cancer also occurs in men. The condition affects about 1 in 800 men in their lifetime, compared with 1 in 8 women.
Takeaway
Early-onset breast cancer cases are on the rise. While overall breast cancer mortality is declining, disparities persist, with women of color still facing significant risks.
Key risk factors for breast cancer include obesity, alcohol consumption, hormone exposures, and environmental pollutants.
The role of genetic factors, particularly in women of color and those with a family history of breast cancer, should also be taken into account. Talk with your doctor if you have dense breasts or other risk factors for breast cancer. They may recommend genetic testing for personalized risk management.
New research shows a form of intermittent fasting improved blood glucose in people with metabolic syndrome, a condition affecting 1 in 3 U.S. adults. Sammyvision/Getty Images
In the United States, an estimated 1 in 3 people have metabolic syndrome, which raises the risk for developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
A new study investigates whether a form of intermittent fasting called time-restricted eating (TRE) might help remedy the condition.
While more long-term studies are needed, the researchers found significant improvements after following a short-term personalized TRE regimen.
Intermittent fasting protocols are gaining interest among researchers and health enthusiasts for their potential benefits.
The researchers found that eating within an 8–10-hour window may help improve blood sugar control in people with the condition. Although the study has some limitations, its findings align with previous, similar research.
Health effects of time-restricted eating
According to the authors of the new study, one-third of people in the United States have metabolic syndrome, an umbrella term for a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors:
high blood pressure
high blood sugar levels
excess fat around the waist
high triglyceride (blood fat) levels
low levels of good cholesterol (HDL)
If left untreated, people with metabolic syndrome have an increased risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
Uncovering lifestyle interventions to reduce the burden of metabolic syndrome is vital work for researchers. Some scientists believe that time-restricted eating (TRE) might help people with this condition.
Following a TRE protocol means only consuming calories for a set number of hours each day. Outside of these times, only water or black, unsweetened tea and coffee may be consumed.
As an example, if someone starts their breakfast at 9 a.m. and finishes their last meal of the day at 9 p.m., they have a 12-hour eating window. If they decided to try TRE, perhaps they would skip breakfast, eat their first meal at midday, and eat their final meal at the same time as usual. This would give them a 9-hour eating window.
Can time-restricted eating treat metabolic syndrome?
The latest study is a randomized controlled trial — the gold standard of medical research. The scientists recruited 108 people with metabolic syndrome and an average age of 59.
For the 3-month study, the researchers split the participants into two groups:
nutrition counseling
nutrition counseling plus a personalized 8- to 10-hour TRE intervention.
At the beginning of the study, participants’ average eating window was just over 14 hours. During the study, they reduced their eating window by around 4 hours.
At the end of the study, the TRE group had significantly improved their HbA1c, or hemoglobin A1C, which is a marker of average blood sugar levels used to monitor diabetes.
“Lowering HbA1c reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes,” Adrian Hernandez, a registered dietitian nutritionist and owner at AEH Nutrition LLC, who was not involved in the study, told Healthline. “By reducing the risk or progression of type 2 diabetes, you also improve the development of metabolic syndrome.”
Those in the TRE group also lost weight without losing muscle mass, reduced their body mass index (BMI), and lost belly fat, all of which can reduce the risk of chronic disease if maintained.
Although the results are hopeful, the authors note that the study was relatively short duration, and that they had to rely on participants reporting when they ate — which is not always reliable.
“While there are clear limitations to the study, I would still say TRE is a viable option for those with metabolic conditions,” Hernandez said, noting that other “research on TRE and intermittent fasting shows similar outcomes.”
How does time-restricted improve metabolic health?
Rebecca Russell, a functional medicine registered dietitian at The Social Nutritionist, not involved in the study, explained how TRE can help people with metabolic syndrome.
“One reason TRE may be effective is that it aligns food intake with the body’s natural circadian rhythm,” she told Healthline.
Circadian rhythms help orchestrate the rise and fall of hormone levels throughout the day, sleep-wake cycles, metabolism, digestion, and much more.
“By restricting eating to an 8–10 hour window, we can work with our body’s natural ebb and flow, enhancing metabolic efficiency,” Russell continued.
Russell explained how eating when the body is naturally primed for digestion and energy utilization may help improve:
Avery Zenker, a registered dietitian at EverFlex Fitness, not involved in the study, noted how TRE might help in other ways. “Fasting periods also give the digestive system a break, which can improve gut health and allow for essential repair and recovery,” Zenker told Healthline.
Mir Ali, MD, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, not involved in the current study, told Healthline that, other than circadian alignment, “fasting for a period of time directs the body toward burning fat.” This helps explain the weight loss seen in this and other studies, Ali noted.
Food quality matters
If you are eating less food overall, it is important to focus on quality to ensure you get all the essential nutrients your body needs during your eating window.
“Choosing the right foods is the most important thing for weight loss,” Ali said.
Zenker agreed. “TRE cannot compensate for low-quality food choices, so it’s important to focus on eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods rather than relying on timing alone to improve health outcomes. Focusing on a nutritious diet is essential, regardless of when you’re eating,” Zenker said.
Who should avoid time-restricted eating?
According to Hernandez, TRE is not suitable for everyone, including:
pregnant people
malnourished individuals
anyone taking medications that affect blood sugar
athletes or very active individuals who have higher nutrient needs
Also, “Individuals with a history of disordered eating may find the restrictive eating window triggering, potentially exacerbating unhealthy behaviors,” Russell said.
“Additionally,” she continued, “people with type 1 diabetes or those on medication for type 2 diabetes need to be cautious as fasting can lead to dangerous drops in blood sugar.”
How to get started with TRE
Russell stressed the importance of consulting with a “qualified healthcare professional to determine if TRE is suitable for your individual needs. If you decide to proceed, a gradual approach is often best.”
She suggests first reducing your eating window to 12 hours, then gradually dropping it down to 10, and finally 8 hours. “It’s crucial to maintain a balanced, nutrient-dense diet within your eating window.”
“If you tend to eat close to bedtime, I’d start there first,” Zenker said. “Eating closer to bedtime is linked to poorer health outcomes, so cutting out late-night snacks is a positive start.
Another tip Zenker shared is to “eat an adequate amount of protein and fiber since this can help manage hunger and satiety during the fasting period. And don’t forget to prioritize other lifestyle factors, like sleep, stress, and exercise”.
Importantly, Russell explained, “If you find yourself overeating or reaching for less nutritious foods due to excessive hunger during your restricted eating window, TRE may not be the healthiest approach for you.”
Takeaway
A new study concludes that restricting food intake to 8–10 hours each day might reduce metabolic syndrome, potentially reducing cardiovascular risk.
Although TRE might be beneficial for some, it is still important to concentrate on food quality. Importantly, certain people should not try TRE, like those who are pregnant or have diabetes.
