Are You Suffering from Secondhand Stress?

Picture this: You’re quietly enjoying your Americano and catching up on email when your cubemate starts melting down over her bad performance review. Or you’re about to stream last week’s episode of Scandal when your friend texts you about the major drama with her off-again guy. Even though nothing’s actually changed in your life, you may feel your blood pressure surge and your heart beat faster, just as if you were the one coping with tension and pressure. Yep, stress can spread just like a virus—and like the flu, it can make you sick, experts say. Read the full article on Shape.com.

Are E-Cigarettes Dangerous?

Voters and legislators kicked cigarettes out of most bars and restaurants years ago. But now they’re back in a different form: Electronic cigarettes—smokeless cartridges that release nicotine vapors—are popping up in public places. Several cities and states—including North Dakota, New Jersey, and Utah—have explicitly banned their use indoors, but many haven’t. And while the dangers of secondhand smoke are well documented—and you know to keep your distance from smoke—how hazardous is the vapor from e-cigs? Read the full article in Men’s Health.

3 Ways to Outsmart Father Time—Starting Now!

Old brains do learn new tricks. Trying different things, working out, and making social connections can alter neural structures even when you’re older, improving your memory and health as a result, according to research presented at the American Association for the Advancement of Science conference in Chicago this past weekend. But don’t wait until you reach your golden years. Read the full article in Men’s Health.

Bacon, With a Side of Superbugs?

Every year, farm animals swallow an estimated 30 million pounds of antibiotics before we swallow them. Many of these medications are the very same type your doctor might prescribe—and health experts fear if these meds are used in animals, their ability to fight your infection will diminish. Now, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is taking steps to cut back on this barnyard drug problem. Here’s what you need to know about the ruling, and how to protect yourself in the meantime. Read the full article in Men’s Health.