Health Discovered

Fasting is both timeless (as a part of many traditions) and trendy for its weight loss and health benefits. Is it safe – and worth the hunger? Also, get a behind-the-headlines scoop on evaluating health news. Plus, what to know if you take probiotics.

Check out our slideshow: Health Benefits of Pumpkins

Electric scooters have literally popped up overnight in many cities across the U.S. Leigh Vinocur, MD, an emergency physician in Baltimore, talks about the safety risks that come with this zippy new mode of travel. Flu season starts up soon. We’ll tell you everything you want to know about the shot, including why it can't give you the flu. Also, get the truth about aspirin and your health and learn how to shrug your way to better posture.

Check out our slideshow to learn about other numbers that affect your health: Numbers That Matter as Much as Your Weight

STDs are more common than ever, with record-high rates. Our Chief Medical Editor, Dr. Michael Smith, tells us why it's happening and how to protect yourself. Also, is coconut oil healthy or not? Plus, get a pediatrician's tips to help your kids thrive now that they're back in school. 

Resilience can get you through tough times. Our Medical Editor Dr. Neha Pathak tells us what helps. Find out about surprising things that can spike your blood sugar. Take our quiz on what boosts your mood. Plus, learn why you might want to do a little babysitting, for your own health.

https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20180822/can-tragedy-teach-resilience-and-can-it-last

We challenged WebMD staffers to try the Whole 30 eating program for 21 days. Our Chief Medical Editor Dr. Michael Smith talks with two participants about their experiences. Editor Stephanie Snipes provides a cook’s perspective and shares how changing her diet helped ease some aches and pains. Editor Maira Olivera discusses how Whole 30 helped lower her blood pressure, and offers tips on how to stick to a plan when you’re eating out. Plus, find out how a new recipe can help you avoid takeout temptation.

Psychologist Dr. Susan J. O'Grady on how to process the grief that comes with miscarriage, and what not to say to someone who has been touched by it; Dr. Neha Pathak explains why you might want to dial back your smartphone use; plus the connection between distracted eating and your weight. 

Wendy and Jess, hosts of the the Food Heaven podcast, share their must-have kitchen gadgets, meal-prep tips, and eat-healthy advice; WebMD news editor Valarie Basheda discusses a concerning trend -- more women are drinking too much; plus, how you can benefit from some "good" stress.

Alcohol Consumption On the Rise Among Women

Beau Coffron, better known as Lunchbox Dad, shares ideas to up your lunch game; WebMD medical editor Dr. Neha Pathak on strategies to stay sane during the back-to-school hustle; plus, tips to get your kids talking.

We challenged WebMD staffers to try meditating for 21 days. Our chief medical editor Dr. Michael Smith talks with two participants about their experiences. Health editor Mark Spoor shares how meditation helped him curb anxiety and stress, and content strategy manager Anna Lanfreschi opens up about how meditation finally helped her get a good night's sleep. Plus, get tips on how to start meditating and how to avoid common pitfalls. 

Dr. Michael Smith on how to protect yourself from heat stroke; summer health myths that might surprise you; Dr. Neha Pathak on the importance of the age you feel; tips to keep your dog safe around water; and why you should consider putting your nose in book. 

Take our quiz: Summer Health Myths