Throat cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect various parts of the throat. The Cleveland Clinic notes that the areas most commonly affected are the larynx, or voice box, and the oropharynx, the middle section of the throat. According to the American Cancer Society’s 2024 statistics, it is estimated that there will be approximately 58,450 new cases of oropharyngeal cancer and about 12,650 new cases of laryngeal cancer. Throat cancer treatment typically involves surgical removal of the cancerous growths.

One of the primary risk factors for throat cancer is the use of tobacco products, including smoking, chewing tobacco, and snuff. Other key risk factors include frequent and heavy alcohol consumption and infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). While most adults will encounter HPV at some point, not everyone can clear the virus effectively. Current research seeks to understand why this is so, and in the meantime, it is important to discuss with your doctor if you are a candidate to receive the HPV vaccine to lower your risk.

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What are the red flags for throat cancer?

The red flags for throat cancer include painless lumps in the neck and swollen lymph nodes. Miriam Lango, MD, FACS, a board-certified head and neck surgeon at MD Anderson Cancer Center, notes, “Lymph nodes are essentially tiny little sieves that capture dangerous particles circulating around our bodies. Sometimes, cancer cells get caught there and start growing in place.”

Dr. Lango also emphasizes several other throat cancer symptoms that should prompt a visit to your doctor:

• Changes in your voice or speaking clarity

• Breathing difficulties

• Trouble swallowing

• Involuntary weight loss

• Bleeding in the throat

• Visible abnormalities

• Persistent, typically one-sided, throat pain

Dentists also play an important role in detecting throat cancer. During regular check-ups, dentists can spot abnormal growths, ulcers, or other suspicious signs in the mouth and throat area and refer patients for further evaluation if needed.

The personal experience of a 61-year-old throat cancer survivor demonstrates the importance of recognizing these symptoms and seeking medical attention right away. A persistent, raspy change in his voice led him from his primary care doctor—who initially thought it was related to acid reflux—to a specialist who performed a scope and discovered the cancer. This early detection played an essential role in saving his voice.

How I Knew I Had Throat Cancer

By Roy C. as told to Dr. Patricia Varacallo, DO

What can be mistaken for throat cancer?

Let me share a personal experience that highlights how easily the symptoms of throat cancer can be mistaken for less serious conditions. For decades, I’ve battled with persistent heartburn and acid reflux, alongside relentless sinus issues such as post-nasal drip, sore throat and a barrage of seasonal allergies. Being a lifelong smoker didn’t help matters.

In October 2016, something new emerged: A raspy quality in my voice. My wife picked up on it right away, and while I brushed it off as the onset of a common sore throat—especially with Ohio’s chill setting in—it stubbornly lingered and worsened over the following weeks.

Realizing this was no ordinary cold, I visited my family doctor. Initially, he saw no major cause for alarm, attributing the hoarseness to my chronic acid reflux, and treated it as such. However, as weeks turned into two months with no improvement, my concerns—and those of my doctor—grew. Eventually, he referred me to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT doctor). It was a decision that would set me on a path to confronting a diagnosis I hadn’t anticipated: Throat cancer.

Being diagnosed with throat cancer

Having dealt with gastrointestinal issues in the past, undergoing a scope examination wasn’t new to me. However, this visit was markedly different.

As the ENT doctor conducted the scope, he discovered a concerning mass on my voice box and took a biopsy. The word “mass” struck a chord of disbelief within me. It’s one of those revelations that catch you off guard; after all, we often take our ability to speak for granted until something goes wrong. I remember asking: Am I going to lose my voice?

The doctor, with his reassuring demeanor, calmed my fears somewhat. He explained that we needed to wait for the biopsy results, and if it confirmed cancer, he would refer me to a team of specialists dedicated to preserving my voice as much as possible. The immediate priority, he emphasized, was to determine whether the cancer had spread. Fortunately, the ensuing PET/CT scan showed that the cancer was localized to the voice box alone.

Treatment for throat cancer

At the time of my diagnosis, I was wrestling with a tremendous load of stress, a great deal of it financial. As an electrician, there was no way I could afford to put down my tools—even temporarily. My wife and I were in a tight spot financially, and the income was indispensable. Learning that the cancer had not metastasized brought a deep sense of relief during this time.

Despite my diagnosis, I continued working, though much less frequently, picking up jobs here and there. I am lucky to have close friends who rallied around my wife and me, easing some of our financial burdens and allowing me to concentrate on my recovery.

I was also under the care of an outstanding medical team—doctors, physician assistants, and nurses—dedicated to treating my cancer while making every effort to preserve my voice. My treatment regimen consisted of seven weeks of combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy. I underwent radiation treatments five days a week and received chemotherapy once a week. I learned the importance of precision in radiation therapy—the doctor made sure it targeted the tumor while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue, which was crucial for maintaining my voice quality.

The side effects turned out to be much milder than I anticipated, which I attribute to the precise targeting of the cancer. The worst I experienced was a persistent sore throat, discomfort while swallowing, and fatigue—challenging, yes, but deeply grateful that was the extent of it.

Finding my voice again

I understand that many cancers initially appear without noticeable symptoms. I do count myself lucky that my own cancer presented with a clear sign, helping me to seek treatment early.

After my treatment, the scans showed no signs of cancer, and to this day, I remain cancer-free. I make it a point to keep regular appointments with my doctors to ensure it stays that way.

This journey has changed how I value my voice and communication ability. Even though my voice isn’t quite the same, I treasure it more than ever and don’t take it for granted.

I also stopped smoking, and while I know quitting cold turkey isn’t feasible for everyone, I urge anyone struggling with smoking to talk to their doctor about quitting strategies. That’s the most important advice I could offer to anyone reading this.

About the expert Miriam Lango, MD, FACS, is a board-certified head and neck surgeon and serves as a professor in the department of head and neck surgery at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX.About the expert

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You probably know that what you eat can significantly impact your health and how you feel, especially as you get older. Some animal proteins come with concerns related to heart health and other issues, and ultra-processed foods are associated with diabetes, cancer, and more.

According to the National Institute on Aging, healthy eating is a “cornerstone” of healthy aging. However, it’s not just a matter of avoiding foods with too much sugar or fat. New research suggests that avoiding specific nutrients—and making sure you’re getting enough of others—could actually change how quickly your body ages.

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The study, which will be published in September 2024 in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging, was conducted by an international team of 13 researchers who followed 3,969 postmenopausal women with an average age of 63. The researchers referred to the participants’ “epigenetic clocks,” an approach that combine genes with lifestyle markers such as blood sugar and cholesterol values, education level, alcohol consumption, and other factors. The researchers’ goal was to determine whether the study participants’ “biological age” was older than their chronological age.

Looking to information on the participants’ diets, the researchers were also able to pinpoint certain nutrients associated with accelerated or decelerated aging. They found that higher intakes of three nutrients, in particular, may slow down aging:

1. Coumestrol, which the National Library of Medicine calls an “anti-inflammatory agent.” It’s found in foods like soy beans, green beans, spinach and more. The researchers believed it mimics estrogen, which may help protect against heart disease and diabetes.
2. Beta-carotene, which your body uses to make vitamin A, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. This can boost skin, eye and reproductive health, as well as protect your immune system. You can get beta-carotene in foods like sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, cantaloupe and apricots.
3. Arachidic acid, a saturated fatty acid that can help prevent heart disease, according to Metabolon, a research organization that analyzes molecules to understand health and disease. Arachidic acid is found in peanut oil and cocoa butter. 

The researchers also identified six nutrients associated with faster aging:

1. Added sugar, which the researchers noted can promote oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to faster cellular aging.
2. Gondoic acid, a monounsaturated long-chain fatty acid found in many plant oils, like jojoba, and linked with a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality.
3. Behenic acid, a “saturated very long-chain fatty acid,” according to the National Library of Medicine, which the researchers linked to higher cholesterol levels. It can be found in foods like macadamia nuts, tamarind and black elderberry, among others.
4. Arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid which can increase inflammation. It’s typically found in poultry, meat, fish, seafood and egg products.
5. Vitamin A, an excess of which the researchers say can lead to liver toxicity, and the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements suggests can cause health issues and potentially lead to coma or death.
6. Ash, which the study authors clarify “represents inorganic mineral content and thus largely sodium content of foods.” Too much of this can lead to high blood pressure.

The idea, of course, is to eat a diet rich in a variety of plants and light on saturated fats and sugar. The ingredients on your cosmetics may also be worth a glance—while this study focused on eating, some of the less favorable chemicals also show up in beauty products like moisturizers and foundations.

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Struggling with high blood pressure can feel like a balancing act. Called a “silent killer” because it often does not come with any symptoms, high blood pressure describes what happens when the force of your blood pushing against your artery walls is too high.

This can cause damage to your arteries over time, leading to heart attacks, stroke and heart disease. High blood pressure is a widespread problem, with the World Health Organization reporting there are about 1.28 billion adults between the ages of 30 and 79 with the condition.

To manage your blood pressure, doctors often recommend adopting a generally healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet, regular physical activity and avoiding harmful habits like smoking or drinking alcohol. There are also more specific choices you can make to protect your heart health, though—and a new study indicates that ensuring you have enough of one crucial vitamin could make a major difference.

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Led by Spanish researchers in collaboration with Harvard University’s school of public health, a team of doctors and food scientists aimed to identify a link between high blood pressure and vitamin D consumption, with previous research indicating that adequate vitamin D levels could protect cardiovascular health.

To examine this, the researchers followed 16,437 participants who completed questionnaires about their dietary habits. The team estimated participants’ vitamin D levels using a predictive model that considered many variables, including age, sex, vitamin D intake from diet and supplements, body mass index, skin reaction to sun exposure (which stimulates the body’s natural production of vitamin D), time spent walking each day, and hours spent in the sun daily during the summer.

Participants also self-reported whether they were newly diagnosed with high blood pressure. When the researchers checked back in with participants after more than a decade on average, 2,338 participants reported that indeed they’d been diagnosed with hypertension—and the researchers observed an interesting trend.

The participants with higher vitamin D levels were less likely to develop high blood pressure, while participants with the highest levels had a 30% lower chance of developing high blood pressure than those with the lowest levels. Even with a small rise in vitamin D levels (as little as a predicted increase of one nanogram per milliliter of blood, according to the study authors), the risk of high blood pressure dropped by 7%.

These findings suggest that consuming adequate vitamin D could be an important part of managing your blood pressure and protecting your cardiovascular wellness. You can boost your vitamin D levels by getting a few minutes of sunlight each day (wearing sunscreen and protective apparel), eating foods rich in vitamin D like fatty fish, eggs and fortified dairy products, or taking a vitamin D supplement.

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• Dietitians Share 6 Tips to Help Your Gut Absorb Vitamin D

You might be surprised to know that rice is one of the dishes that food safety experts take most seriously. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that’s because of a particular bacterium called Bacillus cereus, which can grow on starchy foods when they sit between 40 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, according to experts. Another reason, as Cleveland Clinic gastroenterologist Christine Lee, MD states: “Rice is a bunch of tiny pieces, so it has more surface area than something like a steak. More surface area means more places for germs to hide.”

That’s a word to the wise, but it still doesn’t quite explain the reason for a recall affecting a nationally distributed rice brand. The US Food and Drug Administration has announced a recall of 27,600 one-pound bags of Lundberg Family Farms Sustainable Wild Blend Gourmet Rice. The FDA reports the cause of the recall as the following: “Product may contain foreign object that appears to be of rodent origin.”

The administration has given this a Class II recall designation, which they say is applied to “a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”

Here’s what else we know about this recall, per the FDA: The rice was distributed to Arizona, California, Florida, Maine, New Hampshire, Oregon and Wisconsin inside 4,600 cases that each held six bags of rice. The FDA suggests the product shipped to three total retailers. Lundberg Family Farms rice is sold at major national supermarket chains as well as online retailers like Amazon, but based on this report it’s not clear whether the rice in question was distributed specifically to these stores.

To identify if you bought the recalled wild rice, look for lot code 231004 and best-by date 10/04/24.

The FDA reports this recall was originally initiated in May 2024 and just given a risk classification in recent days. Based in Richvale, CA, north of Sacramento, the manufacturer is said to have reached out to customers but does not offer a clear action for remedy. A look at the “Press Room” section of their website also does not appear to list the recall.

If you bought this product, it may be worth contacting the place of purchase for a refund and citing the recall link highlighted above on this page.

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• More Than 200,000 Pounds of a Popular Deli Meat Brand Recalled Nationwide
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What Each FDA Recall Classification Means
Class I Recall	“A situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Class II Recall	“A situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
Class III Recall	“A situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.”

Strawberries have always topped my list of favorite fruits, and it turns out, I’m not alone. Strawberries rank as the fourth most sold fruit in the United States, according to the International Fresh Produce Association. It’s easy to see why—they aren’t just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile. They fit seamlessly into almost any meal or snack and shine in countless low-calorie desserts. (Who can resist dark chocolate-covered strawberries?)

What’s even more impressive? Strawberries also pack a serious health punch. “Strawberries are among the healthiest fruits with high antioxidants, vitamins and fiber,” notes Gillian Culbertson, MS, RD, LD, CSOWM, a clinical registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Human Nutrition. Strawberries also fall into the category of functional foods, meaning they provide health benefits well beyond basic nutrition, explains Culbertson. They support heart and brain health and even promote a healthy gut microbiome.

So, let’s just say I was thrilled when my editors assigned me the task of eating strawberries every day. With my background in family medicine and a nutrition certification, I knew strawberries had their perks, but diving deeper made me appreciate them even more.

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What are the health benefits of strawberries?

Plenty of research supports the idea that strawberries can improve your overall health. A 2021 study in the peer-reviewed journal Antioxidants revealed that consuming strawberries for four weeks significantly enhanced antioxidant levels in the body, improved endothelial function, and reduced inflammation, particularly in adults at risk of cardiometabolic issues.

A 2023 study by researchers at San Diego State University found that regular strawberry consumption could boost both heart and brain health. In just eight weeks, eating two servings per day improved cognitive functions and cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension.

Culbertson breaks down what makes strawberries such a great superfood:

• Low in calories: With just 46 calories and 11 grams of carbohydrates per cup, strawberries are a smart addition to any meal, perfect for a light, summery dessert without overloading on calories.

• Fiber-rich: Each cup offers three grams of fiber, which supports cholesterol management, helps regulate blood sugar by slowing digestion and aids in weight control by keeping you full longer. Fiber also promotes a healthy digestive tract and gut microbiome, potentially reducing the risk of intestinal cancer and supporting regular bowel movements.

• Potassium-packed: Containing 220 milligrams of potassium, strawberries help enhance nerve, heart and muscle function. This mineral is crucial for maintaining fluid balance and can help lower blood pressure and prevent conditions like osteoporosis and kidney stones. Given that many people don’t get enough potassium, strawberries are an excellent choice to fill that gap.

• Vitamin C: Offering more vitamin C per serving than an orange, strawberries are great for your bones, cartilage, skin and blood vessels. They’re essential for wound healing and iron absorption, providing 84 milligrams of vitamin C per cup.

• Folate: Folate is important for healthy cell growth and red blood cell formation. Strawberries are a good source of this vitamin, which benefits overall cellular function.

• Rich in phytochemicals: Strawberries contain beneficial compounds like flavonoids, anthocyanins and quercetin, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. These can help protect against chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, enhance cognitive function and combat cancer.

Strawberries also offer a host of other vitamins and minerals in smaller amounts, making them an all-around powerhouse for health.

The best way to consume strawberries

You might already know that strawberries often appear on the “dirty dozen” list—a term for the fruits and vegetables most likely to carry pesticide residues. This brings us to an interesting fork in the road: Should we choose organic or not?

Organic strawberries are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, offering peace of mind for those concerned about chemical exposure. However, as Culbertson notes, “They can also be more expensive. Nutritionally, organically grown and conventionally grown have similar nutritional profiles.”

Culbertson assures that conventional strawberries’ pesticide levels are within the safe limits established for human health, but it’s still wise to wash them thoroughly. Running them under warm water for about 10-20 seconds can help remove any lingering residues. Some experts recommend a vinegar fruit wash.

How do you pick the best strawberries, whether at the market or in the field? Culbertson advises looking for strawberries that are uniformly bright red—since they don’t ripen after being picked. Fresh, green leaves and plump berries are signs of freshness; avoid any that are shriveled or have dry-looking spots.

And keep an eye out for mold, especially if you’re picking your own. Choose berries that are fully ripened and untouched by pests. “It’s important to wash berries, but not until you are ready to eat them. They will keep longer in the refrigerator and freeze well,” Culbertson adds.

Eating strawberries every day

Experts recommend enjoying about one serving of strawberries daily, equivalent to one cup or eight juicy strawberries. Personally, I couldn’t resist doubling up occasionally (inspired by that San Diego State study previously mentioned). Besides strawberries, it’s important to include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet to maintain optimal health. The American Heart Association advises aiming for five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.

I chose organic strawberries from my local supermarket to minimize exposure to pesticides and other potential contaminants, such as forever chemicals, though research on their impact is still ongoing.

Strawberries are simply divine on their own, which is how I enjoyed them most of the time. However, I do love a bit of variety. On a couple of days, I tossed them into a spinach salad, and on another, I whipped up a frozen strawberry smoothie for breakfast. They’re also perfect sliced over plain Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of granola—both a hearty and heart-healthy treat. To top off the week, I baked a strawberry banana bread that was a smash hit, winning over not just me but my husband as well.

If you’re looking for another creative way to use strawberries, try making your own jam. Culbertson recommends cooking down the strawberries, then adding chia seeds, lemon juice and an optional sweetener like honey or maple syrup. This homemade jam is a fiber-rich, low-sugar alternative to the available versions in stores.

I had good blood sugar regulation

One of the most noticeable differences during my week of eating strawberries daily was that I experienced stable energy levels and reduced cravings for sweets and carbs—both clear signs of effective blood sugar regulation. Culbertson points out that strawberries are particularly good at helping control blood sugar levels after meals, largely thanks to their fiber content. This fiber slows glucose absorption into the bloodstream, which helps prevent sudden spikes.

I increased my antioxidant levels

Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, so incorporating them into your diet can naturally enhance these protective levels. Culbertson explains that eating strawberries can lower C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation in the body, and reduce oxidative stress. Higher antioxidant levels are also associated with improved cognitive health, such as better memory, clearer thinking, and more stable moods, as well as quicker recovery from physical activity.

I reduced my risk of chronic diseases

Due to their nutrient density, regular consumption of strawberries can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and cancers. Strawberries not only improve heart and brain health but also aid in blood sugar control and lower blood pressure. Additionally, Culbertson points out that they contribute to weight management by keeping you full and promoting a healthy gut flora.

Is it safe to eat strawberries every day?

Yes, it’s safe to enjoy strawberries daily, as long as you’re not allergic to them. Opt for organic strawberries if you can, and make sure to wash them thoroughly. Aim for one serving a day, and balance them with various other fruits and vegetables to ensure a well-rounded diet.

If you’re diabetic and concerned about your fruit intake, experts recommend keeping each serving of fruit to no more than 15 grams of carbohydrates. Fortunately, one serving of strawberries naturally falls within this guideline.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about incorporating strawberries into your diet, be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

About the expert Gillian Culbertson, MS, RD, LD, CSOWM, located in Wooster, OH, is a clinical registered dietitian with the Cleveland Clinic Center for Human Nutrition.

For wellness updates delivered to you daily, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

• Should You Eat Strawberries? Their Nutrition Facts, Benefits, and More
• I Ate Watermelon Every Day for a Week-Here’s What Happened
• 5 Fruits You Need to Eat Every Day to Not Gain Weight
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Talking parenting with a member of a boy band whose songs we danced to two-and-a-half decades ago has a way of hitting you with how much has changed since we were listening to *NSYNC CDs. Joey Fatone agrees: “A hundred percent,” he says. “I can give [my kids] my experience and say, ‘This is what happened when I did it … As we get to be adults, we give it to them in the best way that they can understand it.”

This week, Fatone and his 14-year-old daughter Kloey partnered with Great Clips on a campaign to help the generations get on the same page just in time for back-to-school season. Great Clips, which is offering the first 24,000 individuals who register a free haircut for their child at any participating Great Clips salon, is also hosting a Slang Dictionary with “translations” from teacher influencers across the country. Get the details on both at GreatClips.com/BacktoSchool.

Still true to his street smart-but-sweet rap, Fatone chatted with The Healthy by Reader’s Digest about keeping kids safe in a digital world…and why staying “relevant” is not his goal. “We sound so old,” he laughed. “But it’s the truth.”

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The Healthy by Reader’s Digest: Joey, we love that you and your younger daughter Kloey have teamed up with Great Clips on this campaign. Would you call yourself a proud girl dad?

Joey Fatone: It’s great. The two ages that I’m in right now, it’s like one’s out the door and adult and I can talk and have adult conversations. And the other one is slowly getting into her late teens and becoming a woman and starting to have questions. Thank goodness I have an older daughter that can help her with some of those awkward moments that I had with my younger daughter sometimes. But I think it is just amazing. I am in a position, and the way I guess maybe that we have raised—my ex-wife and myself—have raised the kids to where try to be open up with us as you can. You’re not going to ever really get in trouble if you tell the truth. They may take it hopefully into consideration and they’re going to make their own assessment and then their own choice.

The Healthy: The world has changed so much since we were young, and a lot of that can be attributed to tech.

Joey Fatone: A hundred percent.

The Healthy: Mental health was sensitive when we were growing up, and now the pressures have gotten even way more intense.

Joey Fatone: It’s a lot different because back in the day it was, I’m going to write a note and make fun of you. OK? Let’s just be real, this was the thing: If whoever was picking on something, you’d write the note. The note would get around just the school. Just the school—

The Healthy: Which was mortifying enough!

Joey Fatone: Mortifying, you’re right. But oh my gosh, everybody would talk. But now you’re thinking about Internet, where there are people that can see it and hear it and it’s everywhere. So it’s magnified even so much more, and it’s so much weight on somebody. I think that’s why people start to either get so obsessed with it, overcompensate, or they get depressed. People think that this is all real. And a lot of times, pardon my French, I tell even my daughter flat out, do you realize a lot of these social media things are flat-out BS? Even the littlest things make you say, Well, am I good enough? How come I feel bad about this?

It’s amazing how you can go through so many emotions on this just on your phone, when back in the day I would read a Hallmark card and that’s how I get choked up. That’s not the case anymore. You see anything and everything on that device. I try to be as honest as I can to my kid. There’s a lot of information that you can definitely use with social media and the internet, but that should not be your life.

The Healthy: It’s interesting to hear your perspective as someone who was an influencer just before “influencers” became a thing.

Joey Fatone: I think a lot of people don’t understand: These influencers, they try to do it to where they show their life all the way, and then when they become famous, they try to hide their life. But now people want to know more, and then you’re like, Well no, wait a minute, this ain’t fun anymore. It’s like, Yeah, it was fun and funny because you were doing it on your own pace. Now there’s a demand for it, and now you have to deliver content. And what happens if your numbers are not good anymore? Does that mean you’re not good enough? Then that’s a whole other depression and a trickle effect that happens. I think we’re in that age and that generation, we lived through the stuff before that. I know it sounds like we’re dating ourselves. (Laughs.) We sound so old, but it’s the truth.

The Healthy: You know, to that point: There’s a growing conversation, as there should be, about the idea that when we talk in the media, or social media, or anywhere about the personal lives of famous people, we have to remember that they are human and just like us, they’re allowed to make mistakes. But lately, we’ve seen some very well-known figures who came up right alongside you navigating some tough things, maybe even some mistakes, in their personal lives. Is there a part of you that’s just grateful you’ve been able to make a living doing what you’ve loved, but you enjoy not being in the spotlight all the time?

Joey Fatone: Here’s the problem for people: It’s like a drug. So the minute you stop, then you go, What do I do? For instance, when I was in the group and I stopped with the group, there was about two years that I didn’t do anything. My ex-wife was like, “Yo, get off your ass and go do something. You’re bothering me now. Now you’re invading my space where you would come in, we’d do everything and then you’d go to work. This dynamic is not happening anymore.” I was just sitting there doing absolutely nothing—like, you need to go do something. So I kept myself busy and kept it on a fun thing, [getting] back to the certain things that I’ve done. I always made sure it made sense. It always made sense of something. I wasn’t just doing it just to do it. I wasn’t doing it just to make a quick profit.

There were times I’ve done one or two things where I did a commercial on YouTube for a buddy of mine who did fireworks, a company called Phantom Fireworks. People were like, Oh my gosh, look at Joey. He’s hit rock bottom. It’s a real cheesy commercial. I’m like, You realize I did that for the fun of it. I didn’t get paid. And the only reason—the reason I did it, if you really want to laugh, is I wanted a cake that said The Fat One. So I have a fireworks [display] that is called “The Fat One.” That is why I did it. There was not a financial gain to it. I wanted to own a firework that had my name on it. Again, if it works, if it’s fun, that’s what I’m doing.

I understand it: You have to survive. You have to do things that you may not want to do and bite the bullet to make money to obviously pay for your life. But there’s certain people, like you said, where they constantly are going on tour and not quitting because they created a lifestyle for themselves that if they don’t keep that money keep coming in, you’re not going to be able to create or keep that lifestyle.

The Healthy: For people you know, is there a fear of not seeming relevant?

Joey Fatone: When people say, “Oh, what you doing? You’re Joey, blah, blah, blah. I haven’t seen you do anything.” I say, “Well, you know what? I did my job: You recognize who I am. That’s my job. My job is for you to know who I am, because if you don’t know who I am, I’m out of a job.” So the irrelevant for me is work-wise, but it’s not the irrelevant for me for what I need from me.

I don’t need the attention, though I do love to perform. I’m not like, Oh, look at me all the time. I love ensemble stuff. That’s why me and AJ [McLean of the Backstreet Boys] are doing this show together right now that’s on tour call Legendary Night. We said, “Let’s do that together.” I love ensemble stuff. You get to feed off of people and do different things and it’s not all about me. I don’t need it all about me. I get that.

The Healthy: We love that. Thanks for catching us up on your life.

Joey Fatone: Appreciate you.

For more wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

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• Simone Biles’ Mom, Nellie, Opens Up About Managing Type 2 Diabetes: “I Try To Mirror Simone”

Processed meat should be eaten in moderation—but a couple meat roll-ups with cheese can be a great high-protein lunch; and sometimes, a good-old-days kind of sandwich just hits the spot. Just as back-to-school season gets close, one of the most recognizable deli meat brands in the country has announced a recall of nine products due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. 

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According to a July 26 press release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), Boar’s Head Provisions Co. is recalling 207,528 pounds of ready-to-eat meat products. Boar’s Head sells delicatessen meats and cheeses in the delis of many supermarket chains and convenience stores across the country.

Federal officials with FSIS are currently working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate an outbreak of Listeria infections across several states. According to the FSIS, the outbreak is likely linked to meats sliced at delis. As of July 25, 34 people have been infected in 13 states, including 33 hospitalizations and 2 deaths.

According to the FSIS press release, all liverwurst products currently being sold by Boar’s Head could be contaminated with Listeria. The company is recalling other products produced on the same line and on the same day as the liverwurst products because they may have also been affected.

The recalled products include:

• “Boar’s Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst MADE IN VIRGINIA” sold in 3.5-lb. loaves in plastic casing, or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head VIRGINIA HAM OLD FASHIONED HAM” sold in 9.5-lb. and 4.5-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head ITALIAN CAPPY STYLE HAM” sold in 4-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head EXTRA HOT ITALIAN CAPPY STYLE HAM” sold in 6-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head BOLOGNA” sold in 4-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head BEEF SALAMI” sold in 2.5-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head STEAKHOUSE ROASTED BACON HEAT & EAT” sold in 5.5-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head GARLIC BOLOGNA” sold in 3-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.
• “Boar’s Head BEEF BOLOGNA” sold in 3-lb. packages or various weight packages sliced in retail delis.

The liverwurst products were produced between June 11, 2024, and July 17, 2024, and have a 44-day shelf life. The sell-by dates are printed on the side of the packaging and range from July 25, 2024, to Aug. 30, 2024.

The other products were produced on June 27, 2024, and have a sell-by date of August 10 printed on the packaging.

Product labels of all affected products are available here.

FSIS reports that these products could be in consumers’ refrigerators or in retail deli cases. If you’ve purchased any of the recalled products, they should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. FSIS also recommends cleaning your refrigerator thoroughly after removing any of the products to “prevent the risk of cross-contamination.”

The agency also had a warning for sellers, advising retail delis to “clean and sanitize all food and non-food surfaces and discard any open meats and cheeses in the deli.”

This has been categorized as a Class I Recall, which, according to the FDA, means this is “a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”

What Each FDA Recall Classification Means
Class I Recall	“A situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Class II Recall	“A situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
Class III Recall	“A situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.”

According to the Cleveland Clinic, eating food contaminated with Listeria can cause fever, chills, headache, nausea, diarrhea, convulsions and more. It can also be life-threatening for people who are 65 years or older, people who are pregnant or people with compromised immune systems. If you are experiencing potential symptoms, be sure to talk to your doctor immediately.

• What Is a Recall, and Why Do They Happen? An Expert Explains
• What Is Processed Meat and Is It Bad for Your Health?
• More Than 120,000 Bottles of an Oatmeal Moisturizer Recalled USA Nationwide
• Nearly 14,000 Containers of Ice Cream Recalled in 8 States

Cigarettes are made of tobacco, and tobacco contains nicotine. While nicotine isn’t harmful per se (rather it’s the chemicals in cigarettes that are harmful and can cause cancer), nicotine is an addictive chemical responsible for creating a physical dependence on cigarettes. Here’s how it works: When you inhale a cigarette, nicotine enters your bloodstream and prompts your brain to release feel-good chemicals that make you feel happy and calm. What happens next? After you finish your cigarette, the feel-good chemicals dissipate, and your brain craves more. When your brain stops receiving these feel-good chemicals,  you can feel uncomfortable, irritable, restless, sad, or angry, or even have difficulty sleeping and concentrating. This is called nicotine withdrawal and it is the primary reason why so many people have trouble kicking the habit of smoking cigarettes. 

Every smoker’s quitting journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Below, we look at four effective strategies—from support hotlines to nicotine replacement therapy—that can help you embrace a smoke-free lifestyle. 

Programs & Hotlines 

Expert-led programs, such as the Quit Smoking Program offered at the University of Ottawa’s Heart Institute, are available across the country (and virtually) to provide personalized support. They typically involve a healthcare provider reviewing your medical history and medications and creating a customized treatment plan that may include a prescription for a nicotine replacement product. 

You can also access free support from a trained specialist via one of Canada’s hotlines. Counsellors are just a phone call (or text) away to help you develop a plan to quit smoking, answer questions you may have, provide support, and recommend services and programs in your community. For example, Quebec residents can contact I QUIT NOW for help in building a customized plan to quit smoking and for tips on how to  manage  stress  and eliminate cravings to smoke.. Smokers’ Helpline delivers a similar type of service for Canadians living in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island, Yukon and Ontario and offers interpreter services in over 100 languages. And Talk Tobacco is available for First Nation Inuit, Métis and urban Indigenous communities in the provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan. 

Therapy 

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been shown to be an effective tool to support  quitting smoking. The treatment focuses on identifying the thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that you experience during nicotine withdrawal and restructuring them so that you feel a lesser urge to grab a cigarette. Group therapy is also an option, ideal for those who seek support on their journey and can be more cost-effective than one-on-one CBT sessions. 

Another popular form of therapy to help quit smoking is hypnotherapy. Through visualization practices, therapists can guide smokers to see themselves as healthier people, which can encourage them to do what they can to get there. Many people report feeling more relaxed after hypnotherapy, and some even swear it helps them stave off smoking for good, but the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) says that there’s little evidence to show hypnotherapy is effective in smoking cessation.  

Cold Turkey 

When you quit smoking cold turkey, you quit without using treatments. There are a couple of ways to do it: You can cut back on the number of cigarettes you smoke per day or per week until you reach zero, or you can quit completely from the start. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns if you smoke half a pack of cigarettes a day or more, quitting cold turkey will be significantly more challenging, particularly because of the significant withdrawal symptoms. 

Health Canada has a few tips to help you cope with such withdrawal symptoms: 

• Delay: Aim to delay smoking for as long as possible—even if it’s just five minutes. This can help you cut back on the number of cigarettes you’re smoking in a day over time. 

• Distract yourself: Get absorbed in an activity that demands your complete concentration, such as a game or a hobby. 

• Deep breathing: Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth—this can help encourage relaxation and lessen feelings of stress and irritability. 

• Drink water: The action of holding a glass of water and bringing it to your lips can replace your desire to do the same with a cigarette. 

• Discuss: Talk about your progress with a friend or a coach to release tension and gain support. 

Nicotine Replacement Therapy 

The above measures are most effective when paired with nicotine replacement therapy (“NRT”). In Canada, NRTs are regulated under the Food & Drugs Act (FDA) to ensure safety and efficacy and are intended for use by adults aged 18 and older who smoke regularly and wish to quit.  

NRT is available in a few different forms:; nicotine patches, which stick to your skin and release nicotine into your bloodstream; Nicotine gum, lozenges and inhalers that release right into your mouth; and nicotine pouches like Zonnic. Prescription medications such as Varenicline and Bupropion can also help reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. 

Currently, Zonnic a form of NRT, is the only legally authorized nicotine pouch available in Canada. It was approved for sale by Health Canada in October 2023, and delivers nicotine to your body via a pouch that is placed under your upper lip to temporarily relieve nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine is addictive, and therefore NRT should only be used by adults to help  them quit smoking, and not for recreational use. 

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for support on quitting smoking.   

ZONNIC is a form of Nicotine Replacement Therapy for adults 18 years of age and older. This product may not be right for you. Always read and follow the label. 

Anxiety and stress are common experiences in our lives, but when they persist, they can profoundly affect our mental and physical health. According to statistics from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental health concern in the US, affecting over 40 million adults.

While “anxiety” and “stress” are terms often used interchangeably, they differ in their origins and impacts. Ken Duckworth, MD, author and chief medical officer for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), who is also double-board-certified in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry and Brad Sjostrom, LCSW, MAC, licensed clinical social worker and director of behavioral health at AdventHealth Porter Hospital explain that stress arises from “external triggers,” like an impending work deadline or dealing with financial issues.

Sjostrom points out that while stress usually has a specific cause and resolves after the situation is dealt with, anxiety is often internal and marked by persistent worry that doesn’t subside, even in the absence of a direct trigger. This ongoing anxiety can significantly affect daily life, sometimes manifesting in surprising ways, such as changes in weight.

Can anxiety lead to weight loss? Both Dr. Duckworth and Sjostrom affirm that it can, although sometimes it may also result in weight gain. Researchers are still exploring the precise reasons behind these varied effects.

However, it’s important to note that not all stress or anxiety are detrimental. A “sweet spot” exists—it can be overwhelming if excessive or uninspiring if insufficient. Taking breaks and returning to simple pleasures—spending time with loved ones, exploring nature, enjoying hobbies, or going on vacation—can help restore balance, says Sjostrom.

Continue reading to learn more about the interaction between anxiety, stress and the body, and understand why weight might fluctuate under these conditions. If you’re experiencing unexplained weight changes and suspect they may be related to anxiety and stress, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out other potential health issues.

Understanding how anxiety and stress affect your body

Dr. Duckworth and Sjostrom explain that both anxiety and stress activate your sympathetic nervous system, commonly known as the “fight or flight” response. This response increases your heart rate and blood pressure, boosts your metabolic rate for quick energy release, promotes muscle catabolism to provide additional fuel, and enhances fat breakdown to meet the body’s immediate physical demands.

Sjostrom further comments, “Cumulative stress can lead to anxiety, which impacts all functions of the body, particularly the central nervous system, which can be in a heightened state of arousal. Anxiety can lead to panic attacks, which can duplicate a cardiac event, cause a sense of doom and provoke shortness of breath.” Anxiety can also manifest through various physical symptoms, such as:

• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite and indigestion
• Chest pain
• Headaches

Dr. Duckworth adds, “This is why many strategies to deal with anxiety activate your parasympathetic nervous system.” This part of the nervous system is known for its role in “rest and digest” functions, helping to calm the body and alleviate anxiety symptoms.

How anxiety and stress impact appetite and weight

“Both anxiety and stress can cause either a decrease or increase in appetite,” Sjostrom explains. For example, when facing a high-pressure situation like a big presentation, some people might find they can’t eat until it’s over. This total loss of appetite is a common response to acute stress or anxiety.

On the flip side, those who experience ongoing anxiety may turn to what’s often called “emotional eating” as a way to comfort themselves. This habit involves eating to soothe worries and dampen negative emotions, which can lead to weight gain.

So, whether anxiety leads to weight loss or weight gain really varies from person to person. The effects are as individual as our responses to stress and anxiety themselves.

Does anxiety affect sleep?

Yes, anxiety significantly impacts sleep, and both experts concur that individuals experiencing acute anxiety or living with an anxiety disorder frequently face challenges in falling asleep, remaining asleep, and often waking up too early.

Disrupting sleep patterns can lead to several health issues, as sleeping is essential for physical restoration, brain function, and emotional regulation.

There’s also a connection between insufficient sleep and weight gain. Lack of sleep can disrupt the balance of hunger hormones, namely ghrelin and leptin, leading to increased appetite and cravings for high-calorie, carbohydrate-rich foods.

How does anxiety affect gut health?

You may already be familiar with the concept of the gut-brain connection, where the gut is often referred to as the “second brain” by some medical experts. Research suggests that regular bowel movements might even lower your risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Sjostrom highlights how our language reflects this link; people often describe having “butterflies” in their stomachs or feeling nausea during stressful situations. Traumatic events might even feel “gut-wrenching.” He explains: “Anxiety can alter gut microbiota in a negative way where food is not efficiently processed, energy is depleted, and people are prone to gain weight.”

Anxiety disorders can also lead to a variety of gut issues, such as gastrointestinal upset, irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea, which can impact your weight.

Dr. Duckworth comments on dietary approaches to managing anxiety, noting that there is not a well-established approach at this point and that more research needs to be done in this area. If you’re interested in what foods could potentially exacerbate anxiety, here are 11 foods to avoid if you’re anxious.

Strategies for managing anxiety and reducing stress

Experiencing anxiety and stress isn’t your fault—many factors, including genetics, upbringing, childhood traumas and temperament, can make some individuals more prone to these conditions. Fortunately, there are many strategies recommended by both experts to help manage anxiety and keep stress at bay, which can also be beneficial if you’re noticing changes in your weight:

1. Address issues as they come: Avoid letting issues pile up. Address challenges as they arise to prevent them from contributing to greater stress later.
2. Challenge your thoughts: Recognize that not all your thoughts are facts. Anxiety often stems from cognitive distortions, such as negative self-talk I am no good, Nobody likes me or catastrophic thinking such as, This situation is unbearable.
3. Enhance emotional skills: Learn skills like emotional regulation and distress tolerance. Techniques like focusing on your breathing, recognizing and addressing negative thoughts, and responding more calmly can be incredibly beneficial.
4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Engage in regular exercise and ensure you get consistent, restful sleep.
5. Avoid substance abuse: Abstain from heavy drug and alcohol use as withdrawal can often manifest as anxiety.
6. Seek professional help: If your anxiety feels unmanageable, seeking psychotherapy or medication might be necessary.

The key takeaway is to find what works best for you. Individual responses to different strategies can vary, so it’s important to be open to trying different approaches. If you’ve attempted these methods without success, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor or seek a referral to a mental health professional who can offer additional support and explore the possibility of medication if needed.

About the experts Ken Duckworth, MD, is author of You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health and the chief medical officer for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). He is also double-board-certified in adult and child/adolescent psychiatry and completed a fellowship in forensic psychiatry. Brad Sjostrom, LCSW, MAC, is a licensed clinical social worker and director of behavioral health at AdventHealth Porter Hospital. He also obtained a Master Addictions Counselor certification.

For daily wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

• 10 Trusted Home Remedies for Natural Anxiety Relief
• 8 Silent Signs Stress Is Making You Sick
• Top Tricks from Therapists on How to Deal with Anxiety
• 8 Mini Meditations to Relieve Stress and Anxiety

Why do you work out: Is it to lose weight? Build muscle? Strengthen your heart? Soothe your mind? No matter the reason, there’s a universal effect we all experience: Exercise makes us feel good.

That is, unless, you’re engaged in online comparison. When you glance at Instagram or TikTok, it’s almost impossible not to see content from a perfectly fit influencer touting what they eat in a day or their super-short morning workout (when it would almost certainly take hours of exercise per day to look that way).

Many of these accounts purport to promote a healthy lifestyle, but they’re selling aesthetics—and though they might be aspirational, new research suggests that inspiration could be doing more harm than good.

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A recent online experimental study aimed to examine the impacts of three popular social media trends—”fitspiration,” “body positivity,” and “body neutrality”—on body dissatisfaction and emotional well-being among women.

For the June 2024 study published in Body Image, a team of four German researchers specializing in clinical psychology and psychotherapy randomly assigned 382 women (172 with reported eating disorders, and 210 without), to view 30 Instagram posts that fell under one of the three categories:

• “Fitspiration” posts showcased thin-muscular women promoting health and fitness.
• “Body positivity” posts featured images of larger female bodies encouraging self-love.
• “Body neutrality” posts included text-based illustrations focusing on appreciating the body’s functionality.

Participants completed questionnaires on body dissatisfaction and mood both before and after viewing the posts—and the results were telling. Viewing “fitspiration” images increased body dissatisfaction, while both “body positivity” and “body neutrality” posts led to reduced body dissatisfaction.

Regarding mood, “fitspiration” posts reduced positive feelings but had no effect on negative emotions. “Body positivity” posts maintained positive feelings and decreased negative ones. Interestingly, despite reducing negative mood, “body neutrality” posts also decreased positive mood.

The effects of these trends were consistent for women with and without eating disorders, underscoring the potential harm of “fitspiration” content on body image and emotional well-being, regardless of mental health. Next time you’re looking for a bit of inspiration, turning to real-life inspiration and instruction from a trainer or nutritionist may be a more beneficial bet that helps you stay committed to your overall wellness.

• 5 Common Statements an Eating Recovery Psychologist Says We All Need to Avoid
• 6 Comments About Someone’s Weight Loss That Can Hurt When They’e Meant to Flatter, Say Experts
• 15 Things a Body Image Coach Wishes You Knew

Vaping involves the use of a handheld electronic device, such as an e-cigarette or vape pen, which heats a liquid to create an aerosol mist that users inhale into their lungs. This liquid generally contains nicotine, flavorings, propylene glycol, and other additives. According to the Cleveland Clinic, vaping can lead to a range of health issues, including breathing problems, organ damage, and addiction.

Data from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention shows that 4.5% of all adults in the U.S. use e-cigarettes, with usage rates notably higher among young adults aged 18 to 24. Approximately 3.4 million or 11% of this population are reportedly engaged in vaping, compared to 6.5% of adults aged 25 to 44, and 2% of those aged 45 and older.

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, largely because it is perceived to help avoid the weight gain often associated with quitting cigarettes. Authors of a 2022 systematic review on e-cigarettes and weight gain highlight this issue, noting, “Smoking cessation is associated with a mean increase of four to five kilograms in body weight after 12 months of abstinence, and most weight gain occurs within three months of quitting.” (This kilogram range equates to eight to 11 pounds.) The appeal of vaping can be attributed to nicotine, a common component in both traditional cigarettes and most vaping products, known for its appetite-suppressing effects.

Given this information, for users it may be natural to wonder whether vaping nicotine truly assists in weight loss. Continue reading to discover the latest research and explore safer alternatives for managing weight without the associated risks of vaping.

Does vaping nicotine cause you to lose weight?

Nicotine is often recognized for its appetite-suppressing effects, though the effects on weight management are mixed. It increases metabolic rate—the speed at which your body converts food and drink into energy. This boost in metabolism can lead to weight loss as the body burns calories faster. Nicotine also triggers the release of hormones that reduce hunger, which can decrease food intake.

A 2020 study also points to another important aspect: The repetitive hand-to-mouth motion associated with both smoking and vaping. This behavior might influence food consumption habits, potentially helping to prevent or delay weight gain.

However, nicotine has been shown to increase insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells become less effective at absorbing glucose from the bloodstream. This causes the pancreas to produce more insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels, resulting in increased stores of visceral body fat—fat that accumulates around the internal organs in the abdominal cavity and is linked to numerous health risks, including heart disease and diabetes.

While vaping nicotine may provide temporary appetite suppression and potential weight loss, its effects on long-term weight management remain unclear. As such, vaping is not considered a reliable and safe method for weight loss and is associated with significant health risks, including cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems and an elevated risk of lung diseases. Additionally, nicotine’s addictive nature can make it difficult to quit smoking or vaping, leading to prolonged exposure to potentially harmful substances contained in these products.

Will I gain weight if I quit vaping?

Quitting nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes, doesn’t necessarily lead to weight gain, but it is a possibility. The reasons why some people might gain weight after quitting are not fully understood, but Christine Zellers, MPP, and Karen Ensle, EdD, RDN, FAND, CFCS—both educators in Family and Community Health Sciences at Rutgers—highlight three key factors that could contribute:

1. Increased food intake: It’s common for people to change their eating habits after they stop smoking or vaping. Many report feeling hungrier, likely as a withdrawal symptom from nicotine. Although this increased appetite might cause some initial weight gain, research indicates that eating patterns typically normalize over time.
2. Changes in metabolism: Nicotine can speed up metabolism, and without nicotine, the metabolic rate can slow down, meaning fewer calories are burned throughout the day. This slowdown can lead to weight gain, even if your calorie intake remains unchanged.
3. Reduced physical activity: Another risk factor for weight gain is decreased physical activity. Often, those who quit smoking or vaping might feel less inclined to engage in exercise, contributing further to potential weight gain.

Safer alternatives to vaping for weight management

If you’re looking for safer and more effective ways to manage your weight and quit vaping, a variety of options are available to you. Also, it’s important to consult your doctor for guidance and address any weight management concerns you might have:

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): Products like nicotine gums, patches, lozenges, and sprays can help manage nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms in a safer manner than vaping. These are approved by health authorities and are designed to help you quit nicotine altogether in a gradual way.

Professional counseling and support groups: Behavioral support can increase your chances of quitting nicotine. This could include therapy sessions with a counselor or joining support groups.

Prescription medications: Certain medications can help reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. These need to be prescribed by a healthcare provider and are often used in combination with other quitting strategies.

Mindfulness and meditation: These practices can help manage the stress and anxiety that might lead you to vape.

Physical activity: Regular exercise can reduce stress, improve mood, and decrease the need for stress-relief habits like vaping. Activities can range from yoga and walking to more intense physical exercises, depending on your preference.

Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet improves overall health and can help keep your mind and body occupied and away from cravings. Some find that keeping their hands and mouths busy with healthy snacks like carrot sticks or nuts can also mimic the hand-to-mouth action of smoking or vaping.

Hobbies and social activities: Engaging in hobbies and social activities you enjoy can help occupy your time and mind, helping reduce the psychological need for vaping.

For more wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

• “I Got Lung Disease from Vaping and Almost Died”
• 8 Vaping Statistics That May Shock You
• Does Vaping Affect Your Bone Health?
• Trying To Quit Smoking? A New Study Suggests Replacing Cigarettes with This

Either “Avena sativa” or “colloidal oatmeal” is typically a main ingredient in a true oatmeal-infused moisturizer. This is the case for a brand like Aveeno, whose products are formulated to soothe skin with the anti-inflammatory properties of oats, or to slough away dead skin cells with the natural exfoliating effects of the grain.

This week the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that recently a dupe brand of Aveeno was recalled due to a health concern related to its ingredients. On June 7, 2024 a recall was initiated for 120,319 eight-ounce bottles of a Canadian-made product called “Oatmeal Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion” containing 1.3% dimethicone as the active ingredient.

The FDA says the recall applies to “USA nationwide” distribution. While it’s not clear where the recalled units were sold, by looking specifically for the manufacturer name Brands International Corp. and the Made in Canada designation, it appears the product has been marketed under the brand name “Kissable” on Amazon, possibly in addition to other brand names. The Kissable product features colors and other visual branding aesthetics that appear to mimic Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion’s oat stalk, green logo and earth tones, and placement of text.

The FDA lists two lot codes for the recalled oatmeal moisturizer:

Lot #24092009, expiration 03/27

Lot #24094010, expiration 04/27

The cited reason for the recall is Microbial Contamination of Non-Sterile Products: confirmed presence of mold contamination. This might make sense if the product did in fact contain oat or its extracts, but this point raises further questions about the full list of ingredients. Dr. Patricia Varacallo confirms that nowhere is Avena sativa or any form of oatmeal listed among the ingredients. Instead, the product contains ingredients like mineral oil and DMDM hydantoin, which is said to be used to control mold growth. Dimethicone as the active ingredient is a silicone product that has been criticized for its chemical exposure risk.

The product says it contains aloe and vitamin E, either of which may potentially be the source of mold.

A look at the front of a bottle suggests the product also claims to be fragrance-free, though Fragrance is listed as one of the ingredients.

The FDA has categorized this as a Class II recall.

What Each FDA Recall Classification Means
Class I Recall	“A situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Class II Recall	“A situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
Class III Recall	“A situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.”

The Cleveland Clinic explains that mold can be absorbed through the skin and can be hazardous, with most severe implications for individuals who have a mold allergy. The leading health system lists the following as symptoms of mold exposure: Runny nose or nasal congestion, wheezing, itchy eyes or throat, coughing and sneezing, headaches and skin rash. The Clinic adds that prolonged or more extreme exposure may lead to pregnancy complications, cancer, liver, kidney, or blood issues, and more.

For more wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

• Recall of 7 Major Shampoo Brands in 43 States Warns of Toxin Risk
• 70,000 Outdoor Chairs Recalled by Popular Decor Brand for “Crushing and Amputation Hazards”
• A Sought-After Weight-Loss & Diabetes Drug Has Been Recalled Nationwide
• What Is a Recall, and Why Do They Happen? An Expert Explains

At 34, Olympic gymnast Nastia Liukin has racked up more achievements than many people reach in a lifetime. The 2008 all-around champion has five Olympic and nine World Championship medals, earned from years of hard work that she was practically destined for.

Born in Moscow to two former champion gymnasts, much of Liukin’s life was dedicated to the sport—and now she’s asking a reflective question: How much of her success comes from excellent genes, and how much comes from her own blood, sweat and tears?

In a new partnership with AncestryDNA, Liukin is promoting its Traits test kit, which analyzes a saliva sample to identify your genetic predisposition to over 30 performance traits, such as self-discipline, speed and hand-eye coordination. The test allows you to compare your results to those of world-class athletes like Liukin to see how your natural talents stack up.

Liukin shared her results with The Healthy by Reader’s Digest to chat about how she used her natural strengths to her advantage and overcame her natural weaknesses to become a champion. She also discussed the advice she has for the US women’s gymnastics team heading into the Paris 2024 Olympics and how she’s still finding joy and purpose outside of the gym.

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The Healthy: This is such a neat partnership! As an athlete, taking cues from your body and learning its language must be especially important. Looking at your traits, one example that jumped out at me was that you have a “lower pain tolerance.” Can you talk about how you’ve learned to listen to your body to honor something like that and how when to push yourself?

Nastia Liukin: Yeah, that’s actually a really great question. It was always essential. My dad was my coach, and both my parents were Olympic and world-champion gymnasts. I guess I always kind of thought I had some pretty good genes. 

But in terms of the pain and injuries, my dad was always very adamant about taking care of your body and that gymnastics is just a short time of your life. So I was always listening to my body and instilling the importance of if something started hurting, tell them right away before it became more serious. So yeah, I guess you don’t realize many of these things. After seeing these traits, many were super eye-opening, and then there was a lot that I was like, “That makes total sense.”

The Healthy: It’s so interesting!

Nastia Liukin: I know! And I think it’s cool because anybody can do it, so anybody can log onto the website and order a kit, and you can compare it with your friends or with other athletes from all over the world, which is, I think, so cool because you always wonder, “Is it something they were born with?” We place athletes almost on this pedestal of being superheroes at times. It’s really interesting to take a step back and realize maybe which part of it is this God-given talent, essentially your DNA, and what part of it is just hard work or pushing through what they’re not supposed to be good at, [such as] me on vault. It was just very, very cool to see.

The Healthy: Absolutely. A big part of being able to reflect on where our natural weaknesses lie is seeing where we might need to put in more of that effort. For example, another trait listed for you is that you’re “less naturally strong,” though obviously, you put a lot of work into your strength. Many people might be discouraged if they’re not naturally talented at something. How do you get in the mindset to develop a skill that feels daunting?

Nastia Liukin: Well, the strength part, especially, I always knew that if I wanted to achieve the goals that I wanted to achieve, then I had to put in the work. On the other hand, flexibility came a lot more naturally to me, and I don’t have to spend as much time on flexibility to this day. However, the strength aspect of everything has always been the most challenging. Even gaining muscle for me is a lot more difficult than for others. 

For it not to be daunting, you have to know what your goals are and understand what you want. If it’s something that you really want to achieve and succeed at, then you have to block that daunting feeling out. Another trait that you have to have is the focus and ability to be a goal-setter to achieve goals and push past obstacles. 

The Healthy: I’d love to talk about the Olympics with you. We just watched the US women’s gymnastics team get named the other week, and of course, they’re gearing up for such an exciting, high-pressure time. What do you wish you could say to yourself during these moments between trials and competition in 2008? Obviously, the final result couldn’t have been better for you, but is there anything you would’ve done differently in your preparation?

Nastia Liukin: No, I don’t think so. I have always tried to live life, not just gymnastics, but life in general, without regret. And I think that going back—I mean, to be honest, we had actually had a second trial. So Shawn and I were named to the team at the Olympic Trials, and then we were told we still had to show our readiness at the second Olympic Trials, which is at a training camp. And so it was honestly not much celebrating just because we had to go to camp. Every single athlete that went to that training camp packed as if they were going to the Olympics, but half the girls went to the Olympics, and half had to go home. And so it was emotionally a little bit challenging. It’s a team sport, but it’s an individual sport. People’s dreams are coming true; people’s dreams are not coming true.

So it was a lot of different feelings all at the same time. So, to be honest, I don’t necessarily know what I would’ve done differently because all we did was train. I think there wasn’t much time to celebrate or anything. If anything, it would be just to be present and enjoy. It goes by so fast that I think just trying to take moments throughout and pause to take it in would maybe be something that I would not necessarily change but would add to my experience.

The Healthy: What about in the aftermath of the games? No matter how this team performs, what advice would you share from your experience of coming down from that Olympic high?

Nastia Liukin:  To surround yourself with the people who have and always will be in your life before and after. And to know that you’re not going to be defined by one thing, even the success that hopefully they’ll all have at the Olympics. Take advantage of the opportunities and enjoy the ride, but at the same time, know that you’re not going to be defined by it, and it’s something that you did. It’s not something that you are if that makes sense. 

The same is true for gymnastics as a whole. I always like to think gymnastics is something that I did, versus I am the gymnast. And I believe that if you’re able to take it that way and know that yes, at this moment, this is the most important thing because you have trained your whole life for it—but there’s also life beyond that, and there’s going to be many more exciting things in your life.

And you don’t necessarily have to compare those things. I think for the longest time, I tried to find something that would make me feel as fulfilled as I did at the end of a seven-hour training day. Well, newsflash, there’s nothing. There’s not going to be a feeling that exactly replicates the feeling of training seven hours a day besides training seven hours a day. And so I think if you’re able to recognize that and know that you don’t have to compare it to that, you can find other things that bring you passion and joy and fulfillment, but they don’t all have to be the same or feel the same. That, to me, was kind of eye-opening once I realized that. I think for a while, I was chasing that feeling, right? That feeling of winning and the pride that I felt in that. And it’s like you’re never going to probably feel that because representing your country at the Olympics is top of pride, and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean you have to find that again. You can find other things that you can take similar pride in but on different levels.

The Healthy: We love that. Great advice. And on the note that you do gymnastics, you are not the gymnast; what else have you been up to lately? What’s next for you? 

Nastia Liukin: I just launched a pickleball collab with Recess and designed some paddles. That has been something that I’ve enjoyed doing. And it was kind of the first sport you could say that I really enjoy. I’m not an expert; I’m not even remotely great at it, but I enjoy it. And I think that was fun for me to find because I never really had something I enjoyed as much as gymnastics. 

A few other things are coming out this month that I unfortunately can’t quite announce, but coming soon! Then I will be going to Paris, so I’m looking forward to being at the games. This will be, I believe, my seventh Olympics, which is crazy. I’m just really looking forward to cheering on the team. This will be the first time that I’ll actually be able to cheer from the sidelines. I’ll still be working and doing a bunch of different things, but I think from a personal side, and a biased side, one of my parents’ athletes made the Olympic team. So I’m super excited to cheer on Team USA and just be at the Olympics. There’s no greater event, in my opinion. Again, I’m biased, but the energy and experience in Paris are wonderful. So I’m looking forward to it.

The Healthy: Awesome. Is there a self-care routine that you can never skip? And I’m curious if that’s changed for you from when you were competing as an athlete.

Nastia Liukin:  Yeah, I would say when I was competing as an athlete, I would get a massage twice a week, and I wish that didn’t change. That was more of a recovery of my body than it was for self-care. And now, I don’t do as much with my actual body regarding training and conditioning. I would say it’s more mental recovery and just going on walks every single day. I do a sunset walk when I’m in California with my dog. Even if I’m in the middle of something, I always pause what I’m doing to catch the sunset and do that because it just helps me get more grounded, whether it was a stressful day, whether it was a great day, or whatever it was. I think that to me is just as important as physical recovery when I was an athlete.

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The Seventies and Eighties babies in the room are likely among the most delighted to see breakdancing—known in its circles as “breaking”—debut as an Olympic sport the very same year hip-hop celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Sunny Choi is a star on Team USA’s inaugural breaking roster, but her athletic career started off as a gymnast until an injury forced her to leave the sport. Choi went on to study at the University of Pennsylvania, which led to a career in book publishing and then as a global director at a legacy cosmetics company.

But, as she told us, she was yearning for something else. Here, in partnership with the Incredible Egg in a campaign entitled “Meant To Be Broken,” Choi—also a self-proclaimed foodie—shares why “breaking” eventually became no longer a choice.

The Healthy: Sunny, you’re making history! What do you hear fans and supporters saying about this first-ever event at the Olympics?

Sunny Choi: I think, in general, people are really excited about it. It’s the first time hip-hop has been represented like this on the Olympic stage, and it’s special to have a diverse group of people represent it. While I know there are plenty of haters out there, I feel like the fans are overwhelmingly supportive, and people are just really, really excited about it. I know some of the older generation wishes breaking would have been around during their time, but they’re glad it’s here now.

The Healthy: As if breaking isn’t unique enough, you have an inspiring story for anyone who’s dealing with pressure and doubt in their careers. You went from competitive gymnastics to graduating from Penn and then working in corporate America. Can you talk about the decision to pursue your Olympic dreams?

Sunny Choi: “Meant to be Broken” helps to illustrate the way that I looked at things when I was making the decision to leave corporate America and pursue my dream. My entire life, I had lived in a box, done everything I was supposed to do and checked off all the boxes to be outwardly successful. I went to a good school, was a good athlete, started working in corporate America and was on my way to buying a house and having a family.

But at the end of the day, I wasn’t happy, so this was about breaking out of the mold and breaking everyone’s expectations of me and myself to pursue a path that would fulfill me and make me happy. When the Olympics were announced, I realized that no one was telling me I needed to do this, so I needed to get out of my head and make some changes to fulfill this childhood dream.  I did some internal work, and then, ever since making the decision, I haven’t looked back.

The Healthy: Breaking definitely takes athleticism. How do you train—and how do you protect yourself from injury?

Sunny Choi: Breakers today are just like many other high-level athletes. Some very specific things about what we do make breaking unique and challenging. For example, because there’s such a big creative component to breaking, we must mentally be “on” the day of the battle. It’s not just about taking care of ourselves physically, but also mentally. I think there’s been more awareness about mental health and talking about it for high-level athletes.

It’s not just about showing up and doing the same thing we’ve practiced over and over and over again because I’m freestyling, and we don’t know what songs are going to play, so we have to be present and locked in with our bodies and be willing to let go of control. So, because of that, I think it’s even more important than in some other sports to take care of ourselves as the whole mind, body and soul.  I’m taking care of my mind by going to therapy and doing things that make me happy throughout the day, whether cooking myself a meal, going on long walks with my dog without my phone, or going to hot vinyasa. Then, the physical piece is training, where I see a strength and conditioning coach. I also do a lot of recovery work, which includes compression boots, and if I have access, I’ll do an ice bath.

There’s also the soul piece: Connecting with people, enjoying what you’re doing and taking care of everything. The way I see it, training is so much more than what we’re doing physically.

The Healthy: We understand that you’re a big fan of eggs, like us and our readers. Talk to us about your eating habits and how you nourish your body to compete.

Sunny Choi: When competing, I’m quite picky about the foods I eat because I have to choose foods that work well with my stomach and fuel me. I’m mostly focused on protein as a macro. I am careful about getting a wide variety of foods, so throughout the day, I ensure I include some vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats to balance. However, the only thing I am really tracking is protein.

Eggs play a huge part in helping me to get to my protein goals. I eat many eggs because they are a super easy and quick way to include protein and nutrition in my meals. I often fry or scramble eggs to put them on my dinner meal. Eggs are my go-to for breakfast. Honestly, sometimes I wish I could have eggs for all three meals of the day, but that doesn’t really help me in terms of balance and getting a variety of foods. I like to fry eggs in sesame oil, and that’s a go-to when I’m lazy.

Having a sweet treat, I think, is also part of the balance. I have a humongous sweet tooth so I like to make and keep a batch of my custard freeze around—because sometimes you just need something sweet at the end of the day.

The Healthy: We ask this in all of our interviews: Is there a self-care habit you refuse to skip?

Sunny Choi: I can’t say “refuse” because, to be honest, I’m often breaking my own rules. But generally, an important one for me is when I go on walks with my dog, I either don’t take my phone or pull my phone out of my pocket unless, for some reason, I need to check the time or something. This enables me to get away from everything for a little bit. I feel like we’re inundated all day, every day, and that’s the time I take and set aside for myself each day.

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If you haven’t already tried some of the modernized menstrual care products on the market, it may officially be time. Harvard University‘s school of public health suggests younger menstruators are embracing market disrupters like absorbent period underwear and menstrual cups—though tampons, as well as pads, are still most popular when looking across age demographics.

If your go-to is a tampon, you may be aware of growing concern that’s not only due to environmental issues and the possibility of toxic shock syndrome (which the National Library of Medicine describes as “an acute-onset illness … classically associated with high absorbency tampon use”), but also because of a health risk a new study is illuminating: Exposure to toxic metals.

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Set to be published in August 2024 in the scientific journal Environment International, the study was led by a team of nine environmental scientists and epidemiology researchers at University of California at Berkeley, New York’s Columbia University, and University of Michigan. The researchers report they tested 30 tampons across 14 brands and 18 product lines for the presence of metals and metalloids. Though they don’t mention specific brand names, the team says they “generally selected products that were listed as top sellers on a major online retailer, as well as ‘store-brand’ products from several large chain retailers in the US.”

The researchers evaluated the presence of arsenic, barium, calcium, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, mercury, manganese, nickel, lead, selenium, strontium, vanadium and zinc.

They discovered that all of these metals are “present in quantifiable concentrations” in tampons.

Several are also toxic: Arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead and vanadium. According to the researchers, “all tampon samples” contained detectable levels of these toxic metals, with “elevated mean concentrations” of arsenic, cadmium and lead in particular.

The researchers speculated that metals could be introduced to tampons in several ways: The raw materials that make up tampons, such as cotton, rayon or viscose could be contaminated during production; tampons could be contaminated with metals from water used during manufacturing; metals could be added intentionally as microbial agents or to aid in lubrication when inserted. For example, they note that cadmium and zinc, which were detected in the highest concentrations, “are used for odor control, lubrication and as antimicrobial agents.”

The researchers noted that there is “no safe exposure level” to lead, with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry reporting that lead exposure can cause brain damage, impaired kidney function, digestive problems, heart disease, depression, impotence and more. Perhaps most alarming, they speak to the particular danger of this as it relates to the female reproductive system and exposure to the vagina, saying the chemicals “could be absorbed by the vagina’s highly absorptive tissue, resulting in systemic exposure.”

Further, they add: “Menstruators may use more than 7,400 tampons (4 tampons/day  4 days/cycle  12 cycles/year  39 years of cycles) over their reproductive years, with each tampon being retained in the vagina for several hours.”

They suggest the type of tampon you use could make a difference in the nature of your exposure. The researchers found that non-organic tampons had higher concentrations of lead. With that said, organic tampons had higher concentrations of arsenic. The World Health Organization has stated that prolonged exposure to arsenic has been associated with bladder cancer, among other types, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that some types of lead are likewise “probably carcinogenic to humans.”

If tampons are what feel most comfortable to you during your period, trying a similar inserted product such as a menstrual cup could be a safer, healthier alternative.

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Studying a nutrition label can quickly get confusing. If there’s saturated fat, does that automatically mean it’s bad for you? How much fiber do you need? And protein? It’s easy to get overwhelmed—but according to Beth Czerwony, MS, RD, CSOWM, LD, registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic, there’s one detail you need to pay attention to above all else.

“The biggest thing is looking at the portion size,” Czerwony says. The other numerical figures will just snowball if you don’t portion your plate according to the product’s suggested serving size.

Other helpful guides are carbohydrates, specifically fiber, along protein and fat. Czerwony says when it comes to fiber, “the more, the better,” and that we all should avoid trans or saturated fats as much as possible.

People with certain health concerns should also pay attention to specific figures on nutrition labels. For those with diabetes, Czerwony says the added sugars and carbohydrate fields are important. For anyone trying to shed weight, calorie intake can be a helpful guide. Based on your health, it may be helpful to establish whichever parameters are appropriate, based on conversations with your doctor.

“Sometimes you have to make compromises, sometimes you have to make the best decision based on what that food is and what’s available,” Czerwony says. “But, over time as you become more proficient in it, and you have a better idea of certain brands and certain stores, it’s going to be a little easier. In the very beginning, it does take a little bit of time and a little bit of investigation to know what you’re looking for.”

And lately, if you’ve noticed that more groceries appear with two sets of nutrition facts, Czerwony doesn’t blame you if it’s caused a double-take. “Food labels have morphed over time, so you may see two food labels on the back of a package,” she says, breaking it down: “One is for the entire package, and one is for that actual serving.”

If you’re unsure about which numbers on a nutritional label are most pertinent to your needs, Czerwony recommends speaking with a dietitian who can help you develop a nutrition plan. What’s the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist? The Cleveland Clinic explains that dietitians tend to go through more extensive and specialized training than a nutritionist. While many nutritionists are highly trained, the requirements for dietitians are usually based on a higher standard. It takes months of clinical practicum training and a degree to gain dietetics accreditation.

For more wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

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