Can Video Games Improve Memory?

For anyone living with a condition such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, maintaining cognitive function and memory can be challenging! However, research suggests that engaging in games and activities designed to stimulate the brain can have significant benefits. Today, PatientsLikeMe will explore how playing games can help improve memory, enhance cognitive abilities, and reduce anxiety… Continue reading Can Video Games Improve Memory?

How Racism and Sexism Impact Black Women’s Health 

Systemic racism has plagued the United States since the country began. These oppressive systems impact every sector including healthcare. Black people, but especially Black women, have struggled to find equitable treatment from medical professionals for centuries. For nearly 30-years, Boston University has led the largest and longest running study of Black Women’s health in the… Continue reading How Racism and Sexism Impact Black Women’s Health 

French Fries: Kidney-Friendly or Not?

Curly, waffle, shoestring, and smiley french fries come in all shapes and sizes. They can be a delicious side dish for your favorite meal. Despite their deliciousness, they are often high in sodium and, therefore, not often considered kidney-friendly. While fast-food french fries can be a tricky option for those with CKD, other french fries can… Continue reading French Fries: Kidney-Friendly or Not?

Weight-loss Drug Shown To Reduce Risk of Heart Conditions

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Novo Nordisk’s application to include cardiovascular benefits on the label of Wegovy, a weight-loss drug. This makes Wegovy the first weight-loss medication authorized to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or heart-related death in individuals at higher risk for these conditions. The label expansion could… Continue reading Weight-loss Drug Shown To Reduce Risk of Heart Conditions

Harmful Chemicals to be Removed From Food Packaging

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that certain harmful chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often found in food packaging like fast-food wrappers and pizza boxes, will no longer be used in the United States. The decision comes after FDA studies revealed that such chemicals in food packaging were a significant… Continue reading Harmful Chemicals to be Removed From Food Packaging

CVS, Walgreens to Start Dispensing Abortion Medication

CVS and Walgreens have received certification to dispense mifepristone, a commonly used abortion medication. They will make it available in states where it is legal. CVS plans to start in Massachusetts and Rhode Island before expanding to more states. Walgreens, on the other hand, is beginning in select locations in New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, California,… Continue reading CVS, Walgreens to Start Dispensing Abortion Medication

How to Manage Your Cholesterol When You Have Chronic Kidney Disease

Senior African woman buying fresh fruits in supermarket

Do you struggle with high cholesterol and have chronic kidney disease? If so, you are not alone! It can be tough to manage cholesterol levels when you are also trying to manage other health conditions, like Chronic Kidney Disease. Here are a renal dietitian’s go-to tips for managing cholesterol levels with CKD. Cholesterol and Chronic… Continue reading How to Manage Your Cholesterol When You Have Chronic Kidney Disease

Fresh vs. Frozen Vegetables: Which is Best for Chronic Kidney Disease

A kidney-friendly diet rich in vegetables is important for managing Chronic Kidney Disease in a healthy way. But are fresh vegetables better for you than frozen vegetables when you have CKD? Let’s look into both options to determine which one is best for CKD.  Nutritional Differences Between Fresh and Frozen Vegetables for Chronic Kidney Disease… Continue reading Fresh vs. Frozen Vegetables: Which is Best for Chronic Kidney Disease

Become a PatientsLikeMe Community Leader 

Around the PLM Community, there are many members who are known for educating and uplifting others through sharing their experiences. They know a lot about managing their health! These members love being on PatientsLikeMe and are interested in learning more about the PatientsLikeMe platform. They are eager to share feedback and like trying out new… Continue reading Become a PatientsLikeMe Community Leader 

The Effect of Smoking on the Immune System

A recent study published in the journal Nature has revealed the harmful effect of smoking tobacco. It not only harms the body but also has a lasting impact on the immune system. It makes individuals more susceptible to diseases and infections even after quitting. Despite a decline in rates since the 1960s, it remains the… Continue reading The Effect of Smoking on the Immune System