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INTEGRIS Health On Your Health Blog

Check back to the INTEGRIS Health On Your Health blog for the latest health and wellness news for all Oklahomans.

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Caffeine While Breastfeeding: What Amount Is Safe?

Navigating the world of motherhood brings countless questions, and for many new moms, one of the pressing topics is about the consumption of caffeine while breastfeeding. As you savor your morning coffee, afternoon tea or soft drink, you might wonder how these beverages could affect your nursing journey.

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How Breastfeeding Supports Safe Sleep in Babies

Whether you’re expecting your first bundle of joy or settling into the rhythm of new parenthood, creating a quiet, calm and safe sleep area for your baby is essential. But did you know breastfeeding can be incorporated into your safe sleep routine?

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How Can Your Thyroid Affect Pregnancy?

We learn from Mitchell West, M.D., an obstetrician/gynecologist (OBGYN) specializing in women’s health at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Women's Baptist in Oklahoma City, about why thyroid issues happen, what complexities can develop and how to treat these conditions.

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Cervical Health: Do Pap Smears Hurt?

The words “pap smear” can be a cringe-worthy phrase for many women, especially young women who have yet to experience their first cervical cancer screening. While this test is an important part of women’s health that can mean catching precancerous cells and other abnormalities early, the uncertainty and personal barriers associated with a pap smear can leave many women scared or hesitant to schedule a visit with their OBGYN.

Lainey Townsend

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Does Breastfeeding Make You Hungry?

Mothers who begin breastfeeding often experience a newfound sensation – the hunger for more food. Breastfeeding is hard work, and you can expect to burn several hundred more calories per day. But there are also other reasons why breastfeeding makes you hungry. Read more to find out why these changes occur and which foods to eat to replenish the lost calories.

Lainey Townsend

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Postpartum Anxiety: What are the Symptoms and Treatment Options?

Postpartum anxiety describes anxiety – intense, excessive and persistent worry – that mothers or new parents experience in the first 12 months after the birth of their child. Many parents worry about their newborn, whether it’s health or development.

Lainey Townsend

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What to Know About Yeast Infections During Pregnancy

Yeast infections, a type of fungal infection, are one of the more common ailments you can deal with during pregnancy. This blog will shed light on what causes these infections and how you can safely treat them without worrying about harming your baby.

Lainey Townsend

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Foods That Fight Hot Flashes

This blog will explain the role of food and hot flashes and compile a list of foods to add to your diet.

Lainey Townsend

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Winter Skincare Tips for Women Over 50

We’ve assembled some tried and true measures you can take right now to soothe and smooth throughout the colder months.

Lainey Townsend

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Who Should Get Screened for Cervical Cancer?

This blog will share the latest cervical cancer screening recommendations and guidelines and explore what your test results mean.

Lainey Townsend

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Why Can't I Lose Weight?

We explain how weight loss works and cover some of the most common reasons why people can’t lose weight no matter what they do.

Lainey Townsend

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How to Get Rid of a UTI

Urinary tract infections are common among women, so common that many think they can treat them at home and go about their day. But are at-home treatments enough or do antibiotics provide the best remedy? This blog will explore why it’s important to treat UTIs early, which bacteria causes UTIs and which antibiotics may be prescribed to treat an infection.

Lainey Townsend

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High-protein cereals: A Healthier Breakfast Alternative?

Instead of turning to eggs and other processed meats for protein sources at breakfast, some consumers have ventured into the world of high-protein cereals as an alternative. This blog will explore this growing market and expand on the possible health benefits.

Lainey Townsend

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What Toxins Are In Your Beauty Products?

You may not think twice about the skin cream you rub on your face, the eyeliner you apply before work or the shampoo you lather up in your hair. These products, which seem relatively safe in theory, typically contain dozens of ingredients that are difficult to pronounce and even harder to spell. But just what are these chemicals, some of which can be considered toxins, and what do they mean for your health? We compiled a list of some of the most common ingredients and which products you can find them in.

Lainey Townsend

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Perimenopause and You: What to Expect

Perimenopause is the stage between fertility and menopause. It marks the beginning of the end of your reproductive years. Perimenopause is also sometimes called the menopausal transition. We explain what perimenopause is and symptoms to look out for.

Lainey Townsend

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Do You Need a Digital Detox?

Technology has improved our lives in many ways. But like anything in life, too much can sometimes lead to harm. Have you ever thought about trying a digital detox to give your mind and body a rest? It can be just as beneficial as eating your daily vegetables.

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What Does it Mean to be High Risk for Breast Cancer?

To learn more about what high risk breast cancer means, we sought out information from Nicole Sharp Cottrell, M.D., a board-certified and fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist at INTEGRIS Breast Surgery.

Lainey Townsend

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Benefits and Uses of Petroleum Jelly

How often do you think about petroleum jelly? It’s very useful. It’s an effective moisturizer and works by serving as a physical barrier on the surface of the skin, trapping moisture. There are many uses for purified petroleum jelly. We share what you should know.

Lainey Townsend

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The Stress-Digestion Connection

Have you ever lost your appetite before a big presentation or event? Our emotional brains and our physical bodies communicate constantly and what happens to one certainly affects the other. It's called the gut-brain connection, and it’s very real. We explain what you should know.

Lainey Townsend

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How Does Body Image Affect Mental Health?

The next time you walk past a mirror, take a second to stop and look at yourself – what you see in the reflection is your body image. These thoughts and feelings can either be positive or negative. We will detail the four aspects of body image, how societal norms affect body image and highlight tips on how to keep a positive body image.

Lainey Townsend

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Why Am I Peeing So Much?

We explore common causes of frequent urination, how certain medications increase your trips to the bathroom and what you can do to limit frequent urination at night.

Lainey Townsend

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Reading Books is Good for Your Mental Health

When your mind gets absorbed in a good book, experts say it only takes six minutes for your body to begin to relax. In fact, when reading was tested against many traditional forms of relaxation, it reduced stress by 68 percent and was the highest ranked method among those tested.

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Learn to Quash the Negative Self-Talk: It May Be Harming Your Health

Your self-talk is shaped by your beliefs, experiences and the situations of your daily life. It can be positive, neutral or negative. We share the different types of negative self-talk and tips to help turn it around.

Lainey Townsend

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Living With Endometriosis

Living with endometriosis is more than just a painful menstrual cycle. This condition, which occurs in 10 percent of women, can impact your sex life, ability to have children and alter your day-to-day life. This blog will address how some simple dietary changes, along with certain medical treatments, can help you live a more enjoyable life with endometriosis.

Lainey Townsend

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What is Self-Esteem and How Can We Improve it?

Self-image is what you think other people think of you, and also how you want other people to think of you. Self-esteem is what you think of you. How do the two work together? What should you do if they don’t align, or if they’re too low or too high?

Lainey Townsend

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Catching Cancer Early

One of the first and most pressing questions cancer patients want to know after their initial diagnosis is which stage the cancer is at. The answer to this question can often be the difference between a positive prognosis and an uphill battle full of hurdles. We’re here to walk you through why cancer staging matters, how cancers are classified by stage and how the staging process works.

Lainey Townsend

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Wellness Trend: Facial Yoga and Gua Sha Stones

A wellness trend based on this concept has sprung up in the past couple of years. It’s called facial yoga, a combination of massage therapy, acupressure, exercise and relaxation. This free, non-toxic, non-invasive technique stimulates muscles, tightens skin and eases tension.

Lainey Townsend

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The Health Benefits of Walking

We discuss how walking can improve various aspects of your mental and physical health and how many steps per day you should take to experience benefits.

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Timeline After Breast Cancer Diagnosis

This article is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of which factors play a role in your prognosis and what you should expect in the coming days, weeks and months following your diagnosis.

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Foods That Give You Energy

A well-balanced meal can keep you fueled for as long as four hours, so another pro tip is to eat every four hours or so, to keep a steady flow of energy. What foods give you energy? We share 17 foods that will help keep you fueled.

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Common Causes of Premature Aging

Premature aging can happen as a result of common lifestyle factors and behaviors, all of which can be corrected or altered. We’ll explain how premature aging can affect you and discuss some simple tips on how you can avoid it.

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Natural Oils for Skin Care

The skin is one of the most important organs in the body, so, we explain which oils are good for your skin.

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Chlorophyll: What is it? Is it Good For Your Health?

If eating green vegetables is good for you, then ingesting a condensed form of the substance that makes your greens green must be really good for you, right? Let's find out.

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What Happens When You Neglect Your Health?

What’s the worst that could happen if you avoid the doctor’s office? Better yet, why do you even need a doctor if you’re not sick? The answer: many benign health problems can easily become an issue without proper oversight. We’re here to explore exactly what happens when you neglect your health and why you should prioritize regular checkups.

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Eat for Hydration: 20 Water-packed Foods to Enjoy

Did you know, good hydration also helps with mood, sleep and cognition? Learn what foods you can eat to help with hydration.

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How to Spot Depression in Loved Ones

One in five Americans is affected by mental illness. While common, it can sometimes be difficult to spot in loved ones. To mark Mental Health Awareness Month, we highlight the signs and symptoms of depression, what to look for in your loved ones and the steps you can take to help if a loved one is depressed.

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What You Need to Know About Feminine Leakage

Dr. Dena O'Leary, an INTEGRIS Health urogynecologist, discusses female incontinence. It's highly treatable, although many women are too embarrassed to speak to their doctors about it.

Dena O'Leary, M.D.

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What Causes Infertility in Women?

Conceiving a child is a complex physiological process. There are several intertwined parts that work together to produce a baby. To help highlight Fertility Awareness Week, we spoke to Andrea Partida, D.O., an OB-GYN at INTEGRIS Women’s Health Enid, to outline what causes infertility, how to manage infertility in women and how to cope with this difficult condition.

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Preventive Health Care Appointments You Should Have Each Year

Preventive health care appointments are critical in helping detect and diagnose certain diseases, disorders and cancers.

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What You Need to Know About In Vitro Fertilization

If you are struggling with infertility, you are not alone. About 12 percent of women in the United States have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term. There are several services to help women get pregnant, including artificial insemination, embryo transfer, freezing of embryos or sperm, genetic testing and in vitro fertilization (IVF). To help clarify some of the options, we break down what you need to know about IVF.

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Handling Peer Pressure as an Adult

Peer pressure doesn’t go away. What does go away are many of the excuses you could make as a teen or young adult. As an actual adult, there are fewer excuses, so what do you do? We share tips on dealing with adult peer pressure.

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Common Orthopedic Injuries in Winter

To help keep you and your family safe this winter, David B. Parker, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, provides information and insight into common orthopedic injuries during the colder months some tips on how to stay safe.

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Collagen for Your Skin: Healthy or Hype?

The makers of collagen supplements and creams happily tout the amazing results their products promise us: plump, dewy, youthful skin, strong, smooth nails and hair and even healthier, stronger bones and joints. Can it be true, though? We’ll break down the basics of collagen.

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My hair is thinning. What can I do?

A certain amount of hair loss is normal. Most of us lose 50 to 100 hairs each day, with new hairs taking their place quickly enough that we overlook the ones we've shed. The problems start when new hair doesn't replace the hair that has fallen out. We explain potential causes and provide tips to help combat hair loss.

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Treatment for OCD

OCD Awareness Week is October 11-17. Most people experience obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors during their lives, but for a person suffering from OCD, those behaviors and the cycle of obsession and compulsions becomes so extreme that it disrupts normal life. Luckily, treatments are found to be helpful in treating this disorder.

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What You Should Know About Dense Breast Tissue

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here is what you need to know about dense breast tissue. While having dense breasts is normal, it does pose challenges in detecting breast cancer.

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How To Talk To Your Doctor About Pain

Oftentimes patients find it difficult to grasp the right words to describe pain, or they worry they’ll unintentionally exaggerate it or minimize it through the words they use. Inaccurate descriptions can lead to misdiagnoses, misaligned treatments to manage the pain or an ailment going undiagnosed altogether. To arm you with the vernacular you need to describe pain during your next doctor’s visit, we put together a guide to help you and your physician see eye to eye on your pain level so you can get to work alleviating or managing it.

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Different Types of Mental Health Providers

When you're struggling with your mental health, finding the treatment and practitioner right for you can be daunting, which is why we’ve broken down the different mental health professionals by their treatment processes and licensures.

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What to Know About Birth and Breastfeeding During COVID

It's Breastfeeding Awareness Month, which is a good time to talk about navigating the birth of your baby and your options for breastfeeding during the pandemic.

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Why Is Wearing a Mask So Important?

INTEGRIS Health supports three social interventions that have proven to slow the spread of the virus. These include social distancing, hand hygiene and community masking. If local government officials were to issue mask mandates, we would support the effort.

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Myths and Facts About Wearing a Mask

There has been much debate about wearing masks and misinformation has spread online. Let’s clear the air (so to speak) about the most common misconceptions regarding masks.

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What You Should Know About Common Lung Diseases Including COVID-19

With the novel coronavirus constantly in the news, you probably think about your lungs quite often these days.

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How to Wash Your Hands to Prevent the Spread of Coronavirus

Washing your hands is one of the simplest ways to avoid getting sick and prevent the spread of disease to others. Here's how to do it right.

KLOYD

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Do You Need a Prenatal Screening?

Pregnancy is a time of great hope and anticipation, but it can also be a time of anxiety as some women worry their baby may have health problems. For mothers who want details about their baby’s health or potential for health problems, prenatal screenings are an option.

KLOYD

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Raising Awareness for Heart Disease in Women

February is American Heart Month, an event to remind Americans to focus on their hearts and encourage them to get their families, friends and communities involved. Because women sometimes have misleading symptoms, it’s especially important for them to be aware.

KLOYD

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The Basics of Folic Acid

Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that helps your body make new cells like skin cells, hair and nails. More importantly, folic acid helps form the neural tube in the early development of babies. Let’s learn why folic acid is such a vital vitamin for women.

KLOYD

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Healthy Gut, Healthy Life? How the Microbiome Diet Can Impact More Than Your Weight

Your diet affects the colony of microbes (aka bacteria) found in your gut, which has the potential to influence your sleep, weight, food allergies, your likelihood for developing certain diseases and more. This colony is called your microbiome. But, just what exactly is a microbiome and how can you ensure yours is healthy and balanced?

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The Top 19 Blog Posts of 2019

To recognize 2019 — and as a way to usher in 2020 — we've collected the 19 most popular On Your Health blog posts of 2019. From new food fads and trends to specific male and female issues, readers were interested in a variety of preventive methods to assist in overall health and wellness.

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Slip, Trips and Falls: How to Stay Safe in Icy Weather

Winter-related slips and falls not only cause countless injuries but also result in lost work, increased insurance costs and just a whole lot of pain. Here are some of our best tips on how to stay safe from falls in icy weather.

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10 Tips to Stay Safe During the Holidays

Staying healthy during the holidays takes a little pre-planning, but it can be done. See our 10 tips on how to keep your health (and sanity) whether you’re driving in a car, taking a train, flying in a plane or just spending time with family and friends.

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Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas

Instead of splurging on boxes of candy or gift cards, why not find presents that will bring health and wellness to those you love the most? Helping them feel healthy is one of the best gifts you can give. Check out seven of our favorite good-for-you gift themes below. Don’t feel guilty about giving yourself some of these healthy goodies as well!

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Who Are DES Daughters? What’s Their Risk of Developing a Rare Vaginal Cancer?

An estimated five to 10 million were exposed to DES in the womb from 1938-1971. Today, many women might not even know they are at risk, but scientists are calling them the “DES Daughters.”

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What is Radon? How Is It Linked to Lung Cancer?

Radon exposure is the top cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. The EPA estimates radon causes more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year, the number two contributor behind smoking.

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When Is a Virtual Doctor's Visit a Good Choice?

With telemedicine innovations like INTEGRIS Virtual Visit, patients can access health care straight from their homes with only the internet and a screen!

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What is Sciatica?

Sciatica nerve pain ranges from a dull ache to a burning and excruciating pain. Sometimes, the pain hits like a sudden shock when you sneeze or cough, and some patients may experience numbness, muscle weakness or tingling along the affected leg. So, what exactly is sciatica and how can it be treated?

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How to Give Yourself a Breast Exam in Five Easy Steps

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here is a quick and easy way to perform a monthly self-exam.

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INTEGRIS Joins the CDC in Recommending Oklahomans Cease Use of E-cigarettes and Vapes

The first four cases of serious lung injury related to e-cigarettes have been confirmed in Oklahoma. Nationwide, 26 people have died so far. While the investigation is ongoing, the CDC recommends that people refrain from using e-cigarette products.

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What is a HIIT Workout?

HIIT, or high-intensity interval training, is a workout where you give 100 percent effort through quick, intense bursts of exercise, followed by short recovery periods. This type of training gets your heart rate up and burns more calories in less time.

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Anosmia Stinks: When You Lose Your Sense of Smell

Being able to smell a rose is something most people take for granted. Losing your sense of smell impacts not only your ability to detect odors, but also many other areas of your life. For instance, your sense of smell is directly related to your ability to taste. How many people suffer from a smell or taste disorder, and is there any treatment?

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The Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Tai Chi

Tai Chi is known as "meditation with movement." It's great for people of all fitness levels who want to improve their health. Here is what to expect from your first class.

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What Is Brown Fat? Can It Help Your Body Lose Weight?

If ongoing studies on brown fat show the same results in humans as they did in mice, fat tissue and hormones may hold a very important key to effective weight loss.

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A Guide to Healthy Cholesterol

According to the Oklahoma City County Health Department, one in six adult Oklahomans has high cholesterol, one of the leading causes of heart disease in the U.S. Heart attack, stroke, heart failure, cardiovascular disease and other conditions can be caused by high cholesterol. We’ve broken down the basics to help you improve your healthy cholesterol levels.

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Counter the Negative Effects of Sitting with Yoga Stretches at Your Desk (no yoga mat required!)

Happy Yoga Month! While "sitting is the new smoking" might be an exaggeration, extended sitting really does have damaging health effects. But by simply standing and stretching (using these handy desk yoga poses) you can have a profound effect on lessening the negative effects of sitting.

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What is a Food Desert and How Does It Affect the Obesity Crisis in Oklahoma?

You've probably seen all the news recently about the closing of the Smart Saver in northeast Oklahoma City, which was the last grocery store in the area. But why does it matter, and how does it impact both the hunger and the obesity epidemics in Oklahoma?

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Delicious Recipes Featuring Superstar Summer Superfoods

Fruits and vegetables are the superstars of summer eating. The summer cornucopia is full of “superfoods” that taste like sunshine and are filled with life-nourishing vitamins and minerals our bodies need.

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Advice and Recipes To Boost Your Milk Supply

When they are breastfeeding, many new mothers may wonder if they are producing enough milk. They may look for ways to naturally boost their milk supply so that their baby gets all the nutrition and antibodies that breast milk can provide. Luckily for breastfeeding mommies, there are ways to maintain and boost your milk production, including recipes.

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Overcoming Common Breastfeeding Obstacles

Happy World Breastfeeding Week! You spend nine months taking birthing classes, building the perfect registry and organizing your nursery. Yet many new moms don’t prepare for breastfeeding. It seems like a natural thing, so it should come easy, right? Unfortunately, natural instinct can only go so far. We can help.

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Alternative Products For Food Intolerances (with recipes!)

For many Americans living with food intolerances or allergies, finding tasty alternatives to items like dairy or wheat can be an ongoing scavenger hunt. Luckily, lots of options are being developed. Here is a quick guide to alternative products for food intolerances, with recipes!

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What is Insulin Resistance? What is Prediabetes? How Can You Prevent It?

Did you know it's possible to be thin and prediabetic, or obese and never get diabetes? It depends on your genes. Anyone who develops diabetes has a gene that allows insulin resistance to happen. Our genes load the gun but more importantly, our lifestyle pulls the trigger. Certified diabetes educator Brent Wilson explains.

Brent Wilson, RD/LD, CDE

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Heatstroke in Oklahoma

People who work or play outside during the extremely hot Oklahoma summer run the risk of several heat-related injuries. The most serious is heatstroke, which can cause organ damage or even death. Dr. Layne Keathly gives symptoms to watch for so you can keep your family cool this summer.

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Should You Buy Organic Fruits and Vegetables?

Explore our annual list of the cleanest and most pesticide-laden fruits and veggies for informed organic shopping.

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The Benefits of Unplugging From Your Smartphone

When was the last time you went an entire day without using your phone to scroll through social media, snap a photo, check your email or play a game? The convenience of a smartphone makes it hard to put down. Researchers have noticed the uptick in smartphone use and some are asking, “Do smartphones cause more problems than they solve?”

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Is Blue Light Harmful?

After staring at a computer for hours, who hasn’t felt like their eyes were tired and dry? But can the blue light given off by screens, smartphones and other digital sources actually cause damage to your body?

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Don’t Skip Your Stretches

It might not be the most exciting part of working out, but stretching is just as important as cardio and strength training. Incorporating these stretching exercises will help you improve flexibility, reduce tightness and make your workouts safer.

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Diabetes in Oklahoma

Oklahoma has the seventh highest rate of type 2 diabetes in the country. But it doesn't have to be this way! With lifestyle changes, it can be controlled and even reversed.

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What to Expect After a Stroke: On the Path To Recovery

There is life after stroke. With time and repetition, new routines will become familiar. Rehabilitation can build your strength and confidence and can help you continue your daily activities despite the effects of stroke.

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Fireworks and Veterans with PTSD

The Fourth of July is a time of celebration and a way of honoring America’s independence. The holiday is synonymous with backyard barbecues, red-white-and-blue celebrations, sparklers and fireworks, but those booming firecrackers can trigger added stress, especially to military veterans who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

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June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month

It is estimated that 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. While the statistic is sobering, there’s even more dire news: that number is expected to double by the year 2050. Dr. Lane Tinsley, a neurologist at the INTEGRIS Neuroscience Institute in Oklahoma City, shares important facts you need to know about Alzheimer’s disease.

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Types of Headaches and How to Treat Them

Suffering from headaches? Learn more about different types of headaches, how to treat them and when to seek medical attention.

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All About Migraines

To mark National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, Dr. Charles Morgan, a neurologist at INTEGRIS, explains the science behind migraines and how to help manage and treat symptoms.

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Know Your Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

Whether you’re walking a trail in the woods, trimming brush in your backyard, or pitching a tent in one of Oklahoma’s campgrounds, you may come across poison ivy this summer – and before you know it, you might be sporting a red, itchy rash. The best way to avoid poison ivy is to recognize it when you see it. Here’s how to identify poison ivy, oak and sumac so you can avoid all of them!

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Areas of the Body Most Injured by Fireworks

Fireworks are likely a part of your Fourth of July celebration, but that doesn’t mean they are safe! The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates an average of 250 people make a trip to the emergency room each day of the month with a firework-related injury around the holiday. What areas of the body get the most damage?

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Guided Imagery to Combat Anxiety and Promote Healing

Studies have shown guided imagery can help the mind and body relax. It has also been shown to help manage anxiety, stress and depression, to reduce pain, lower blood pressure, lessen nausea and give patients a better sense of control and well-being. If you are healing from cancer or feel anxiety or stress, this complementary therapy might be good for you.

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The Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction

How do you know when your need for alcohol becomes abnormal? When does a craving for a drink signal an alcohol addiction? What should you do if you think you have a problem?

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What is the Golden Hour in Strokes? Why is it Important?

During a stroke, the brain loses as many neurons as it does in almost 3.6 years of normal aging for each hour in which treatment fails to occur.

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The Best Bicycle Groups and Trails in Oklahoma City

Remember the freedom you felt as a child when you hopped on your bike, pedaled down the street and let the wind hit your face? That childhood joy isn’t just for kids. Today, millions of adults and children still revel in the fun of bike riding both for pleasure and for health. Why not see what you've been missing and try out these OKC bike trails?

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How Common Are Snake Attacks in Oklahoma?

Residents across Oklahoma recently watched a terrifying video that showed a large snake biting an unsuspecting Lawton man directly in the face. But just how common are snakes in Oklahoma? How poisonous are they? Should you be worried that one might be lurking in your mailbox? It's important to know which snakes are most dangerous and what to do if a loved one gets bitten.

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Everything You Need to Know About Your Cervix

You might be surprised to learn how few women are familiar with their own reproductive system. In a recent study, only 44 percent of women were able to correctly identify the cervix. Let’s start at the beginning and have an open discussion about what the cervix is, where to find it, and how to keep yours healthy.

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Rowing Your Way to Fitness in Oklahoma City

Learn more about this fast and fun workout, whether you’ll be sitting pretty on an indoor rowing machine or enjoying the fresh air with an outdoor row at the state-of-the-art OKC Boathouse District.

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Myths About Men and Fertility

It’s been estimated that up to 15 percent of all couples attempting to have children face some form of infertility. To mark National Infertility Awareness Week, we're discussing male infertility to debunk some common myths and reinforce some facts.

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A Way to Combat the Unpredictability of Living With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Is that cramping, abdominal pain or bloating simply indigestion, or could it be something more? April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month, so learn to identify the FODMAPs that may be causing your IBS.

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Oklahoma City Ranks 18th for Seasonal Allergies in the U.S.

Oklahoma City is ranked 18th in the nation for "Most Challenging Places to Live with Spring Allergies." What is the main culprit for Oklahoma City having a bad allergy season?

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What is Macro Tracking and Does It Work?

Macro tracking, when done correctly, can be an effective alternative to restrictive dieting. While it may not be right for everyone, tracking your macronutrients can help you maintain a proper caloric intake for your goals and change your body composition without being restrictive or making you feel sluggish and hungry.

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What Are Mesonutrients and Why Are They Important?

You might already know about macronutrients and micronutrients, but did you know that hidden within foods such as turmeric, tomatoes and blackberries are active compounds called mesonutrients that might play a big role in making these foods so good for you? Many health publications and websites are proclaiming mesonutrients as the newest health trend of 2019. So, why are mesonutrients so important?

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The Basics of Breathing Machines: The CPAP

CPAP breathing machine tips for those with sleep apnea, including how to get started and who pays for the device.

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What Is Your Circadian Rhythm and Why Is It Important?

Maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm is crucial for healthy sleep. To mark National Sleep Awareness Week, here's why your internal clock is so important, plus tips to keep yours humming along seamlessly.

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When to See a Doctor About Daytime Sleepiness

Ever feel so sleepy at work you can't keep your eyes open? Here's when you need to see a doctor.

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Don't Fear Your Colon Cancer Screening (or the Prep, Either)

Reality check: prepping for your colonoscopy is easy. Dr. Arun Sachdev, a gastroenterologist at INTEGRIS, dispels some myths about the feared procedure and weighs in on the new mail-in test that you can do at home.

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Mommy and Me Fitness Classes in Oklahoma

Working your child into your fitness routine is easy when you know where to go! Here is a list of Mommy and Me classes in the OKC and Tulsa metro areas.

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Hidden Signs of an Eating Disorder

The last week of February is Eating Disorders Awareness Week. You might not know who could be silently struggling with disordered eating. Here are hidden signs.

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Food Safety Tips for Pregnant Women

There is a lot to think about when you're busy growing a human. Since we are winding down February’s Prenatal Infection Prevention Month, we want to share food safety tips and information for pregnant women to reference whenever they need it.

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What is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy spas have been growing across the U.S. in the last few years. At the spa, a person will sit or stand in a booth cooled to subzero temperatures for a few minutes. Supposedly, there are mental and physical health benefits. But is it safe?

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The Health Benefits of Owning a Pet

If you have a pet, you have a companion, a workout partner and someone who is always glad to see you — all in one furry package.

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The Truth About "All Natural" Skin Care and DIY Products You Can Make at Home

Are you thinking about making the switch to all-natural skin care? Here's what you need to know.

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Vaginal & Ovulation Bleeding: When Should You See a Doctor?

Most of the time your period will come and go without causing much fuss. But what about those times when your cycle gets thrown out of whack and you have abnormal bleeding? Should you be concerned? When period changes happen – such as a heavier or lighter flow or timing abnormalities – it can be hard to decide if you need to call your doctor or if what you’re experiencing is in the range of normal.

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25 Things Every Woman Over 50 Should Know

By the time you reach the half-century mark, you have seen and done a lot, but there are also plenty of things you might not know. Here are 25 excellent pieces of information, curated just for you.

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Which Type of Milk is Healthiest?

Whole, non-fat, reduced, skimmed, almond, soy, rice — the grocery store milk aisle keeps expanding. We've come far from the days of simply choosing plain or chocolate! The many options can seem overwhelming when all you want is something to pour over your morning cereal or put in your coffee. So, what’s the skinny on milk?

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A Summary of Changes to Alcohol Laws in Oklahoma

In the fall of 2018, Oklahoma’s laws concerning alcohol officially changed for the first time in decades. Whether or not you supported the state question, now that stronger wine and beer are more readily available for purchase, we think it’s important to educate you on the changes that may affect how you consume them.

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The Latest High-Tech Health Gadgets to Add to Your Holiday Wishlist

This holiday season, give the gift of health. It’s incredible how far technology has progressed to bring healthy living into our homes through fun gadgets. Check out some of our favorites.

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Hot Yoga: What's So Hot About It?

Yoga is everywhere these days, and its health benefits are touted all over health websites and fitness magazines. More than 36 million Americans practice yoga, according to a 2016 survey. One of the most trendy types is something called "hot yoga." Fans claim hot yoga offers increased benefits, such as cleansing impurities from the body. But is it safe?

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The Basics of Resistance Bands: Easy Exercises You Can Do Anywhere

Finding time to exercise can be challenging, so convenience is key. While a fancy gym membership can be fun, it's not necessary to stay in shape. A resistance band can work your entire body. And the best part? You can use it anywhere.

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The Best Apps for Your Health

Technology can tempt us to be sedentary. It's so easy to sit on a couch and binge Netflix or spend hours glued to our phones, but don’t lock your devices away just yet. Smartphones and watches are quickly becoming handheld personal trainers. Fitness-focused apps are readily available for both iPhones, Androids and other smart devices.

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An INTEGRIS Surgeon Discusses Safe, Nonsurgical Anti-Aging Treatments

Open a magazine, read a blog or log in to your social media. If you’re a woman, you’ve probably noticed you’re being targeted. Smooth this, firm that, tone this and take these supplements for younger looking skin. Dr. Scott Shadfar, a dual board certified otolaryngologist and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, explains which options are safe and effective.

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Inherited Breast Cancer Risk, Genetic Testing and Information on a Preventive Mastectomy

Genetic testing and preventive mastectomies are changing the game for young women who are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

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Can Nutrition Influence Breast Cancer Risk?

Juli Johnson, an APRN at the INTEGRIS Cancer Institute, often gets asked if there are foods that lower the risk of breast cancer. Here is her answer.

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Hot Flash News Flash

Ugh, hot flashes. You'll know it when you feel it. What’s actually happening is not fully understood, but some likely causes are changes in reproductive hormones or to the hypothalamus. Fun fact: not every woman gets them, but some women endure them for years. Dr. L. Wayne Houk sheds some light on remedies that do or don't work to relieve symptoms.

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Understanding "Matrescence," A Woman's Transition Into Motherhood

Matrescence can feel like a big swirl of emotion, but much of it is physically rooted in hormone changes, just like adolescence. INTEGRIS OB-GYN Dr. Katherine Shepherd talks about the physical and mental journey women go through on the way to becoming a mother.

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Organic Feminine Hygiene Products: Are They Worth It?

As women continue to make the decision to “go green,” organic tampons and sanitary pads are becoming increasingly popular. But there’s speculation as to whether they’re better for your health than traditional options. Is the higher price tag typically associated with organic tampons and pads worth it?

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Aging with Agility Through Functional Fitness

Did you know 60 is the new 40? We’ve all got to take care of ourselves so we can live healthier as well as longer. Adding something called “functional fitness” into your exercise mix yields unique healthy aging benefits.

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Ovarian Cancer: The Silent Killer

If caught early, ovarian cancer has a high rate of survival. However, the insidious nature of this cancer means that it often remains undetected until it has progressed rapidly. Fortunately, there are ways to educate yourself on ovarian cancer and learn how to recognize the signs of this disease.

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Know Your Birth Control Options Part 3: Permanent Contraception

A variety of factors will likely determine the right kind of birth control for you. Common considerations include effectiveness, cost, existing health issues, cycle length and severity, lifestyle habits and even acne concerns. In this blog post, we're examining permanent contraception.

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Know Your Birth Control Methods Part 2: Hormonal Contraception

A variety of factors will likely determine the right kind of birth control for you. Common considerations include effectiveness, cost, existing health issues, cycle length and severity, lifestyle habits and even acne concerns. In this blog post, we're examining hormonal contraception.

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Know Your Birth Control Options Part 1: Barrier Methods

A variety of factors will likely determine the right kind of birth control for you. Common considerations include effectiveness, cost, existing health issues, cycle length and severity, lifestyle habits and even acne concerns. How do you choose the best option? This blog explains barrier methods.

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The Drug Overdose Crisis in Oklahoma

One Oklahoman dies every day from an opioid overdose. Today marks International Overdose Awareness Day, dedicated to remembering those who lost their battle with addiction and acknowledging the grief felt by families and friends remembering those who have died or had a permanent injury as a result of an overdose. Most importantly, this day spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable.

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Preventing Bone Loss and Rebuilding Bone with Exercise

Imagine having bones so fragile even a sneeze can lead to a painful fracture or break. For people living with severe osteoporosis, avoiding a situation like this is an everyday challenge. Fortunately, for many who are at risk for developing osteoporosis, preventive exercises can help keep bones in good shape.

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Why You Need Vitamin D

Vitamins and nutrients are essential to help your body fight illness and stay in good health. Unlike most vitamins found in nutrient-rich foods, getting the proper amount of vitamin D is a little trickier.

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Protect Your Skin by Avoiding These Unexpected Sunburn Triggers

Did you know the hot Oklahoma sun can do serious damage to your skin in as little as 10 minutes? Take a look at these unexpected triggers that might cause you to burn in the sun before you know it.

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Robotic Hysterectomy

Dr. Root discusses the benefits of robotic hysterectomy compared to a traditional hysterectomy in this short, informative video.

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Chronic Pelvic Pain

Dr. Root discusses chronic pelvic pain, including endometriosis, in this short, informative video.

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Female Urinary Incontinence

Did you know 25 percent of women of reproductive age, and 40 percent of postmenopausal woman, suffer from urinary incontinence? Dr. Root explains treatment options in this short, informative video.

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Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

For years, women have turned to hormone replacement therapy to help balance the effects of menopause. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has become trendy in recent times, marketed as a more natural solution to hormone therapy. We’re here to help explain exactly what BHRT is and how it compares to standard hormone replacement therapy.

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"It Always Seems Too Early Until It's Too Late"

Today is National Healthcare Decisions Day. Studies show 90 percent of people believe talking with their loved ones about end-of-life care is important, but only 27 percent have actually had the conversation.

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Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: The Dangerous Heart Condition New Moms Should Understand

Did you know a healthy expectant mother can be diagnosed with a heart condition that can be fatal, mere days before giving birth? Peripartum cardiomyopathy is an uncommon yet sometimes fatal form of cardiac disease, in which the heart muscle thins and weakens late in pregnancy and following childbirth. Dr. Zeeshan Khan, an interventional cardiologist., tells you how to recognize the signs.

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Oklahoma's Latest Health Rankings

It's early in 2018, which means it’s time for America’s Health Rankings® Annual Report. The report, recently released by the United Health Foundation, ranked Oklahoma number 43 in the U.S. in terms of health. We’re breaking down the data and highlighting some interesting facts about Oklahoma.

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Want to Age Well? A Physician Answers Common Questions on Aging

It’s never too early (or too late) to start thinking about healthy aging. Even if you didn’t learn healthy living and aging habits when you were young, now is the perfect moment to take charge and be on your way toward a healthier life. Dr. S. Christopher Shadid, a family medicine physician at INTEGRIS, answers your most pressing questions about aging.

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How to Create a Workout Calendar

One of the best ways to establish a new habit is to write it down. As you look forward, consider creating a workout calendar to help keep your healthy habits on track. Here are a few of our favorite tips to build an effective game plan.

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What You Should Know About Pregnancy and Infection

For expectant mothers, keeping your baby safe is the top priority. That’s why it’s important to be aware of potential risks that could put your baby in harm’s way. Contracting an infection can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women because infections can be passed on to the baby during pregnancy, while giving birth or even while breastfeeding.

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Unhealthy Eating Habits and the Risk of an Eating Disorder

If you find yourself preoccupied about food and weight, you may have the symptoms of an eating disorder. Take the quiz to find out more.

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Sciatic Nerve Pain During Pregnancy

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from your uterus to your legs. It connects the spinal cord to your leg and foot muscles. When you’re pregnant, the most sensitive area of the sciatic nerve can become inflamed. Although this inflammation is very common during pregnancy, it can cause major discomfort in the lower back and legs.

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What are Nightshades and How Can They Affect Your Gut?

Nightshades like tomatoes, peppers and eggplants have a bad reputation. Even the name "nightshade" sounds ominous. For some people, nightshades have been known to cause digestive issues and even aches and pains. Before you cut these healthy foods out of your diet, here is some information about nightshades and how they can affect your gut.

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