Tag: Wellness

Black Americans have long shared health information through word of mouth. From diagnoses to good old-fashioned DIY remedies, we've passed down knowledge to family members, friends and neighbors for generations. That cultural influence runs deep, affecting how we understand our health and how we treat it. And while that can be empowering, it can also interfere with our understanding of how to prevent disease and get timely care.

Fitness advice is everywhere, from social media hacks to age-old beliefs at home and work. Confusion about supplement hype and spot reduction can push people toward unrealistic goals. Personal trainer William McCray, with 18 years in the fitness industry and a kinesiology degree, separates fact from fiction. Key insights include starting fitness journeys with one change rather than complete overhauls, understanding your meaningful why before changing routines, and recognizing that hydration needs vary by body size and activity level. Supplements support but don't replace healthy eating and movement. Women won't become masculine from strength training due to testosterone differences. Strength training benefits younger athletes when focused on form and fundamentals. Most people lack adequate protein intake. Diet matters more than exercise alone for lasting change. Sweat indicates cooling, not calorie burn. Soreness differs from injury warning signs like swelling or discoloration. Fasted cardio works for some people. Spot reduction is myth; targeted exercises strengthen specific muscles but don't burn localized fat.

August is Hair Loss Awareness Month, and for many Black women, the reality of alopecia is deeply personal. Alopecia is not just one condition. It includes scarring and non-scarring forms, each with different causes, symptoms and treatment options. Scarring alopecia causes inflammation that can permanently damage hair follicles, preventing future hair growth. The main types are Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia, Lichen Planopilaris and Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia. For non-scarring alopecia, genetics play a major role. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for scarring alopecia to stop inflammation before follicles are permanently destroyed.

July is Fibroid Awareness Month, but for many Black women, fibroids are a constant concern. According to the National Institutes of Health, Black women are three times more likely to develop fibroids than other women. They also tend to get them at younger ages and often have larger, faster-growing tumors and more severe symptoms. Today, women have more options than ever, but understanding them can feel overwhelming.

Karamo Brown opens up about his Queer Eye journey, including a relapse during season 3, and his renewed focus on wellness and sobriety.

The foods you eat, how much you eat, and how often you eat them can mess with your energy levels, blood flow, and hormones—all key players in supercharging your sex life.