Health articles

Enjoying the outdoors is a great way to get exercise and fresh air. Here are some pointers on staying safe and dealing with common health issues.

A few tips to consider while you're making plans for your next trip abroad.

Before you pack your suitcase to head off on your next voyage, don't get stuck with any unwanted travel bugs. Find out about travel vaccinations, dealing with other travel illnesses, travel insurance, and staying safe.

Everyone you talk to these days seems to be taking a probiotic. Should you be taking one too?

Losing weight can be challenging – and keeping it off can seem harder than losing it in the first place. But it needn't be. There are just a few straightforward things to keep in mind.

Hesitant about getting the COVID-19 vaccine? Here are some common myths about the COVID-19 vaccine, debunked.

Kindness, often underestimated, is a powerful force that has the ability to make a positive impact on our lives. But why is it so? What is it about a simple act of kindness that can affect our emotional and mental wellbeing? More importantly, how can we become more kind, particularly in a world where stereotypes and unconscious biases are prevalent?

Having ADHD can affect many areas of a person's life. Families play a vital role in encouraging and supporting children with ADHD to do their best. Families can give hope to their children by seeking treatment for their child's ADHD symptoms. Fortunately, treatment and support can help manage the symptoms and problems that the child with ADHD experiences.

Water is being talked about everywhere these days and it's even in the news. Lots of questions are being raised: how much water should you drink and what kind of water should it be? Which type of bottle is safest for storing water? And what's actually flowing in our water supply?

An active lifestyle is the key to keeping fit and healthy. Read on for tips on nutrition and injury prevention.

Are you curious about how medications used to treat ADHD actually work or how they should be taken? Read on to learn more about ADHD and its treatment.

Millions of Canadians suffer from allergies and asthma. When your immune system identifies a normally harmless material as a threat, it can set off symptoms like sniffles, sneezes, rashes, or breathing problems.

Do you know what to do if someone's choking? How about if they've stopped breathing or don't have a pulse? Learn more about how to help and why it's important to take an accredited first aid course.

Over 6 million Canadians have some form of arthritis. In fact, it's one of the leading causes of long-term disability in Canada today. Appropriate treatment, as well as learning how to manage this chronic condition, can go a long way to help. Find out about the differences between the most common forms of arthritis and what you can do to help manage the symptoms.

Prepare yourself for piles of leaves, a Thanksgiving feast, and the festive, fun foods of the fall harvest.

Modern babies seem to require a lot of accessories! Car safety seats, multi-purpose strollers, cozy slings, soothing pacifiers, and jumpy swings - with all this stuff, we're bound to run into a few risks.

It's September and the back-to-school bell is sounding. As a parent, you want to help your child get off to a good start for the school year. The place to begin is here, where you can find a selection of healthy tips for boosting your pint-sized pupil's physical and emotional well-being.

The quality of your sleep depends so much on the quality of your sleep environment.

You want your child to experience the best summer of their life - a summer at camp. But if your child wets the bed, how do you handle the prospect of their going away and sleeping overnight at camp? Find out how to avoid those distressed calls from camp by arming yourself with information about bedwetting and summer camp.

Five tips on taking care of your mental health during the pandemic.

How your financial well-being benefits your health and relationships

You may not be riding over 200 km a day in the Tour de France, but there's nothing like getting on your bike and feeling the wind in your face. Cycling is great fun and has countless health benefits. But before you hop onto your two-wheeler, remember: safety comes first!

Starting to breast-feed your baby? Learn more about the benefits of breast-feeding and what to expect.

Children have thinner and more delicate skin than adults, so it's more sensitive to irritation. Here are the top 5 tips to help parents care for a child's sensitive skin.

Premature babies, or preemies, particularly those born before 37 weeks in the womb or those who are very small, need extra help. Find out more about your preemie's special needs.

On weekends and after school, your kids have more time than ever to watch their favourite television shows and play their favourite computer games. But could these sedentary hobbies be putting your child in danger for developing obesity?

Whether you wear shoes for fashion or for function, you should always wear shoes that fit and that minimize pain and risk of injury.

When you think about spring cleaning, your mind probably jumps to dusting off shelves, clearing out closets, or scrubbing your floors until they sparkle. But have you ever considered extending the concept of spring cleaning to your health and health goals? Decluttering isn't just for your physical spaces; it's equally beneficial for your mental and physical wellbeing too. Treat the changing seasons as a time for renewal and for setting wellness goals that align with your desires and needs.

Spring is just around the corner, bringing with it the promise of blooming flowers, lush green landscapes, and unfortunately for many of us, some unwelcome seasonal allergies too. While spring allergies may feel inevitable, there is good news: preventive measures and treatments can help manage symptoms and make the bloom-filled season more enjoyable.

There are more ways you damage your teeth every day than you might think, including some things you do with the best of intentions.

Have you used a herbal remedy to relieve a headache, or tried massage to relieve stress? If so, you're not alone. Studies show that more than 70% of Canadians have used some form of alternative or complementary medicine. Read on for more information about complementary medicine and tips on safety.

So many different things can affect bowel habits – age, medications, general health and diet, social and cultural influences. But when constipation (irregularity) becomes a regular part of your life, you may wonder how common it really is.

Millions of Canadians use birth control, and yet up to 40% of pregnancies in Canada today are unplanned. Contraceptives will only prevent pregnancy if they're used properly and consistently, so it's important to know what your options are and to find the kind of birth control that works best for you.

Sticking to a nutritious diet can be a whole lot easier when you stock your kitchen with the handiest, healthiest cooking tools and the right pantry staples.

Should I wear a face mask when I go out in public during the COVID-19 pandemic?

COVID-19’s enormous impact on our everyday lives can be especially hard on those recovering from opioid addiction. Learn how to maintain recovery and stay safe during the pandemic.

Find out more information about COVID-19 and its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Determine your risk of exposure and serious illness from COVID-19.

A guide on what to do if you think you've been exposed to or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

How will COVID-19 affect the upcoming flu season?

Tips for celebrating the holidays safely this year

Most of us have had diarrhea at some point in our lives. Find out why we get it and what you can do to manage your diarrhea. Test your knowledge with our "true or false" questions, and learn some interesting facts about diarrhea.

Dreams are fascinating and enigmatic. What can psychology and science tell us about what – and why – we dream?

If you have a drug allergy, taking a medication that should make you feel better may result in your feeling much worse. Do you have a drug allergy? Are you concerned about the possibility of developing one? Do you have friends or family who have drug allergies?

Many Canadians suffer from eating disorders. Eating disorders have a major impact on the lives of affected individuals and their loved ones. Eating disorders can result in serious health problems. We've put together facts on these disorders, how to recognize them, and how to help someone who might be suffering from one.

Your infant scrapes her tiny, razor-sharp nails across her dry, red skin while she sleeps. Or your toddler son's skin has broken out in a scaly, red rash. You may be wondering, "Could it be eczema?" Learn more about this common skin condition to determine your next steps.

In the winter months, especially during the post-holiday period, it can be a challenge to make our wellbeing a priority. However, this is precisely when our attention to self-care becomes even more important. As we face the looming cold and flu season, incorporating mindful practices into our daily routine can empower us to fortify our defenses against winter's chilly grasp, all the while savouring the comforting warmth it offers.

We get most of our information about the world from our sense of sight. However, many people overlook eye health as part of their regular health routine. Learn how to protect yourself from the most common causes of blindness and keep your eyes healthy.

Like the rest of your body, your eyes can deteriorate as you get older - but a problem with your eyesight is no small matter. We take a look at some common vision problems and some things that can be done to help weakening eyesight.

You've read about them… You've seen the testimonials… You probably have friends who have lost several pounds on them. And they're popular – all those people can't be wrong, can they? Weight loss is healthy, right? So why shouldn't you go on one of the latest popular diet plans? What have you got to lose? Well, more than just weight, perhaps.

If you have a food allergy, you may feel that food is no longer your friend. But knowledge is power. Learn how you can identify your food sensitivity and spot your triggers, even when they appear in disguise.

Learn how your financial situation can affect your mental health.

5 simple financial self-care tips to help you achieve your financial goals

How your financial situation affects your physical health

Develop a battle plan against the flu this year. Know what you will be up against, get the facts on prevention, learn tips for a quick recovery, and find out when it is appropriate to seek further medical attention.

You unload your bundle of groceries into the cupboards, pantry, and fridge. You want to make sure it all "keeps" - stays fresh and safely edible. Different foods need different storage. Are you sure you're putting everything where it should be?

Get lost in travel without losing track of healthy habits. Here's your flight plan.

As children head back to school, the cold and flu season looms. Protect kids from seasonal cold, flu, and H1N1 (swine flu) by preparing them with powerful preventive plans.

Halloween brings potential health and safety hazards, but there's no need to take all of the fun out of the night! Keep the boos from becoming boo-hoos by following some tricks (and treats) of the trade.

Practicing good hand hygiene is how we can all help each other during an infection outbreak.

Food plays a key role in our lives, both when we're sick and when we're well. How much do you know about how it affects you? Grow your knowledge about the food you eat and the food you buy.

During the holiday season, many of us find it challenging to maintain healthy habits. Here's how to get through the season in good form.

Everyone knows what it's like to get a headache. The all-too-familiar throbbing pain and nagging pressure can often strike when we're feeling stressed, tired, or emotionally upset. But there are ways to prevent and relieve headaches. Read on to get the "heads up" on head pain. And while you're at it, get tips on medicine cabinet cleaning – don’t let all that clutter make your headache even worse!

A garden provides so much – a bounty of wholesome foods and herbs, a place to relax, and a natural way to get some exercise. Dig into this healthy hobby!

Could you be at risk of hearing loss? Find out what causes hearing loss, how to protect yourself, and how to tell if you're losing your hearing. If you already have hearing loss, learn more about what you can do to cope.

Do home remedies for head lice really get rid of the creepy crawlies, once and for all?

Wish you could check your blood pressure or cholesterol in the comfort of your own home? You already know that do-it-yourself pregnancy tests are on hand at pharmacies, but did you know they also stock self-testing kits for a range of health conditions? We give you the lowdown on two home kits now available.

Scan the food labels on supermarket shelves. Do you understand all you're reading? Find out the significance of the numbers and the nutrients behind the names.

If you're like many Canadians, you consider your family doctor to be one of the most valuable resources you have when it comes to managing your health. But knowing how to talk to your doctor can help you get the most out of this vital relationship.

How will the recent death of a teenaged girl after receiving the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine affect Canadians?

Integrative medicine – what does it mean? Is it dangerous? Find out how to know what's right for you.

Ever wonder about the origins of your body's odd little itches, twitches, tickles, and pops? We're on the trail to track down the triggers of a few common but curious body sounds and sensations.

One of the first things people see is your smile... but keeping your teeth and gums healthy can keep you smiling for reasons you may not have thought of. Find out how oral health affects your overall health and how to best care for your teeth and gums.

Do you have questions about managing breast-feeding problems? Learn more about dealing with milk supply, feeding, and breast pain issues, and find out when to call a lactation consultant.

After the indulgent December holiday season, many of us find ourselves in need of a fresh start when it comes to our eating habits. January is the perfect time to hit the reset button on your eating habits and elevate your meal planning skills. Meal planning techniques will not only break up the monotony of your diet, but also guide you towards healthier food choices.

Fitting your medications into a busy lifestyle can be a challenge. Here are some tips on managing your medications at home and while travelling.

Milk whips up much controversy – especially since it seems like such a simple drink. Let's spill the facts about milk alternatives, allergies and intolerances, and the nutritional benefits and potential drawbacks of this most familiar of beverages.

Sleep appears so simple: lie down, close your eyes, and doze. But sleep can be a complicated matter!

Only about 17.5% of Canadians get enough regular physical activity. But it's easier than you may think. Read on for exercise and nutrition tips to stay active and fit.

Nutritional supplements are big business. Every day, ads and news stories tell us about supplements promising to prevent heart disease and cancer, improve our memory, and much more. But is it all true? We sort through the hype to bring you information you can trust.

Does this sound familiar? A yeast infection is bad enough the first time it occurs. But what if it keeps coming back? If you suffer from frequent yeast infections, find out why this happens and what you can do about it!

As we spend more and more hours on our computers, it's time we stop to consider some of the potential benefits and drawbacks of a life lived online.

Hundreds of Canadians die each year while waiting for an organ transplant. Underlying this unfortunate statistic is the fact that only a fraction of Canadians register as donors, leaving Canada with lower donation rates than many countries, including the United States.

Certain people are at high risk of vaccine-preventable diseases. Find out which vaccines are important for you.

There's lots of buzz these days about the human "microbiome". But what exactly is it anyway?

Did you know that 1 Canadian in 12 has a rare disease? Thousands of rare or "orphan" conditions exist - some affecting only a handful of people, some with obscure or confounding symptoms, and some for which finding diagnosis and treatment can be a time-consuming challenge.

In the fast-paced world we live in, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, often neglecting our own wellbeing in the process. As the new year unfolds, it's the perfect opportunity to reflect on our habits and make a conscious effort to prioritize our health and happiness. The key lies in setting healthy habits that not only contribute to our wellbeing but also have a positive impact on the planet.

It's back-to-school time again! Make the transition from summer to school smooth and stress-free.

Like good nutrition and exercise, adequate sleep is part of a healthy lifestyle. Sleep deprivation is an unrecognized cause of many problems, including accidents, illness, and poor job performance. It affects many people, and it's on the rise. Find out how your sleep habits could be affecting you, and what you can do to get a good night's sleep.

Primary health care is the real "workhorse" of the health care system. It can improve health and quality of life by providing more efficient, better-coordinated care. It can also help build a more sustainable health care system for the future.

With all the health benefits of staying active and physically fit, exercising might be an important part of your day-to-day life. While you might not think of whatever you're doing as being hazardous, sports injuries often go with the territory. Here are some tips to help make your workouts safer.

As we say farewell to winter and welcome the blooming flowers and sunny days of spring, it's important to remember that this transition isn't just about swapping our woolens for linens; it also requires changes to our skincare routines. The transition from the cold, dry months of winter to the more temperate days of spring necessitates a shift in skincare routines. Adjust your skincare regimen to protect your skin from spring elements that can cause dryness, sun damage, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation.

Many emergency room visits related to medication use are caused by people not taking their medications properly. Don't become a statistic! Find out how to take your medications properly and stick with your treatment plan.

Sitting around at home more than usual? COVID-19 has affected many of the ways we stay active and maintain our physical wellbeing. Read on to learn ways to exercise during this time.

Now that we're in the heart of winter and the days are noticeably shorter, maintaining your commitment to health and wellness is more important than ever. When motivation wanes, harnessing psychology can help us overcome challenges.

Adults need vaccinations too. Find out why and which vaccines are important for you.

Pharmacists are dynamic, patient-oriented professionals committed to fulfilling the health care needs of their patients. Pharmacy is a profession that is expanding in new directions to meet the health care needs of all Canadians.

Even in the extreme heat, humidity, and sunshine of summer, let your inner health and beauty shine through.

Make spring a time of renewal for your head, heart, and home. Clear out the old, unsafe, or out-of-date items from your home and welcome in a healthy, new season.