In this issue: Heart attacks in healthy people, leftover meds, MSG in food, CT scan safety and more

HOUSECALL Mayo Clinic is ranked #1 in the nation. Vol. 19, Issue 25 | March 26, 2018   THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES     Disposal of unused pain medications If you've been prescribed opioids, you may be tempted to hang on to leftovers in case you need them. But this can have deadly results if kids or pets accidentally ingest these drugs.     Metabolic syndrome   Too much belly fat and a low level of "good" cholesterol are just two of the criteria that make up metabolic syndrome. Should you be concerned?           EXPERT ANSWERS   Monosodium glutamate (MSG): Is it harmful? A small percentage of people may have short-term reactions to MSG in food. Learn about the potential symptoms. CT scans: Are they safe? Find out if the health information gained from CT scans outweighs any potential risk from radiation.   PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ... Diabetes prevention: 5 tips for taking control Ankylosing spondylitis Swollen lymph nodes Infographic: How healthy people can suffer a heart attack Bipolar disorder     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. Mayo Clinic Guide to Pain Relief offers the latest treatments and therapies available to help you to feel better and live a more active, comfortable life. Take control today! Learn how.     The Mayo Clinic Diet online Designed to help you lose 6 to 10 pounds in two weeks! Start with a personalized diet profile now.     HEALTHY RECIPES   Strawberries and cream Pasta salad with mixed vegetables Overnight orange cinnamon baked French toast   HEALTH TIP   Losing weight: 5 tips that work If you need to lose weight, take these simple steps to improve your chances of long-term success: 1. Make a commitment. 2. Find your inner motivation. 3. Set realistic goals. 4. Learn to enjoy healthier foods. 5. Get and stay active.   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     Give to Mayo Clinic A gift to research at Mayo Clinic is a gift of life. Donate now.     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.