In this issue: Portions and pounds, tried and true cold remedies, opioid safety tips and more

HOUSECALL Mayo Clinic is ranked #1 in the nation. Vol. 19, Issue 3 | January 8, 2018   THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES     Smart use of opioids and other ways to manage pain Opioids are sometimes the right treatment for pain, but they're never without risk. Find out how to use them safely and discover alternative ways to ease discomfort.     Cold remedies: What works, what doesn't, what can't hurt   For generations, people have turned to chicken soup to help colds. Does it really work? What about other remedies? Get the facts and feel better soon.           EXPERT ANSWERS   Folic acid supplements: Can they slow cognitive decline? The jury is out as to whether folic acid supplements can benefit those with dementia, but learn what researchers have found. Chronic stress: Can it cause depression? Not coping well with chronic stress can wear you down and increase the risk for depression.   PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ... Slide show: Portion control for weight loss Presbyopia Strep throat Dental implant surgery Slow cooking recipes     TRUSTED HEALTH TOOLS   Use our Symptom Checker to explore possible causes of your symptoms based upon Mayo Clinic's patient care experience.   Use these simple calculators and self-assessments for personalized health tips.   BMI calculator Mayo Clinic healthy weight pyramid     MAYO CLINIC PRODUCTS & SERVICES   Take control of chronic pain Don't put up with pain for one more day! Get the information you need to help you successfully manage persistent pain. The Mayo Clinic Guide to Pain Relief offers the latest treatments and therapies available to help you feel better and live a more active, comfortable life. Take control today! Learn how.     New year, new you! The Mayo Clinic Diet online is designed to help you lose weight and keep it off! Start now.     HEALTHY RECIPES   Quinoa cakes Quesadillas Fruit and nut bar   HEALTH TIP   Fitness takes more than huffing and puffing When it comes to fitness, huffing and puffing your way through aerobic exercises such as running, biking or swimming isn't the only thing that matters. A good, balanced exercise program includes five key components: aerobic fitness, strength training, core exercises, balance training, and flexibility and stretching. If you're not getting all five, it's time to mix up your routine.   Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover even more healthy lifestyle topics at MayoClinic.org.   Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy    |    Opportunities     Did you know? Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution dedicated to patient care, education and medical research. Proceeds from advertising and the sale of Mayo Clinic books and newsletters support Mayo Clinic's mission. Share our passion for science and health. Please consider a gift to Mayo Clinic. Click here to donate.     Connect with Mayo Clinic For more of our reliable health information and tools, visit us at MayoClinic.org. Or add us to your social network!   Like us on Facebook Follow on Twitter Discover your Network   Watch on YouTube Patient Stories View More Newsletters     © 2018 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905. All rights reserved.