Kristen N. Smith, PhD, RDN, LD
Sulfites are commonly blamed as the culprit behind wine-drinking headaches. While that hasn’t been confirmed, sulfites can be the cause of some other serious problems. These food additives have long been used to preserve freshness and are ingredients in many foods, beverages, cosmetics, and medications. They also occur naturally in … Read More
Even though COPD cannot be cured, it can be treated. COPD treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms, preventing the disease from getting worse, improving the ability to exercise, preventing and treating complications, and preventing and treating exacerbations. Almost every person with COPD will be prescribed a short-acting bronchodilator (either a … Read More
What is CBD oil? CBD is a non-intoxicating extract from the Cannabis sativa family of plants (which includes hemp and marijuana). CBD is just one of a family of chemicals known as the cannabinoids, shown to have anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, anti-anxiety, and anticonvulsant properties as well as homeostatic properties (meaning it maintains … Read More
People with asthma may suffer an asthma attack if they are exposed to certain triggers, which tend to vary from person to person. The following are the most common culprits. 1. Pollen Outdoor allergens include pollen and mold. Allergy season, when pollen counts are highest, varies depending on where you … Read More
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic or inherited disease of the mucus and sweat glands. It affects approximately 30,000 Americans, leading to chronic health problems and premature death. Advances in treatment, however, have dramatically improved outcomes in the past 20 years. In people with cystic fibrosis, or CF, the mucus produced … Read More
Unless you live under a rock, you know that smoking is bad for your health. Tobacco-related diseases kill more than 480,000 people each year in the United States alone, accounting for around 20 percent of all premature deaths. If you’re a smoker, the habit can shorten your life by up … Read More
Asthma is often thought of as a disease of childhood, but it can affect anyone at any age. In fact, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute reports that about 25 million Americans—including 7 million children—have asthma. It’s a condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrowed. Your airways … Read More
You take about 20,000 breaths a day, which means your respiratory system never stops working. It also means that your lungs need to be as healthy as possible in order for you to breathe easily as you age. Knowing the key facts about lungs can help you make healthy decisions … Read More
There are no cures for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but your doctor will work with you to figure out the right COPD medications and combinations of meds to relieve your symptoms. COPD exacerbation treatment in particular may involve several drugs. Below is a COPD medications list to inform you … Read More
