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We all know dogs offer love and companionship. Why else would they be called "man's best friend." But did you know they also provide their owner with powerful mental and physical health benefits.

You're More Active

Okay, maybe your bulldog wants to lie on the couch all day snoring, but most dogs love to go for walks, hikes and are always up for a game of tug. Several studies have shown that dog owners get more daily exercise than non-dog owners. Remember, some dogs need more exercise than others, for bigger dogs try rollerblading, running, biking or skateboarding to get the blood flowing. 10 Dog...

The sun is out, the weather is great, the pools and beaches are open, and the ice cream trucks are out in full force. But while air conditioners crank on all across the country, most people aren't thinking about the importance of blood donation; a simple action with huge benefits. 

Summer is a historically slower time for blood donations. However, blood usage doesn't decrease during this time. In fact, the seasonal decline in donations happens to coincide with what AAA calls the 100 deadliest days of summer, which last from Memorial Day until school starts up again. These 100 days mark a...

With summer in full effect, it should be easier to get some sun exposure to help boost your intake of vitamin D, aka the "Sunshine Vitamin." But have you ever wondered if you're getting too little? And what's the best way to get it? 

While you are enjoying fresh air and sunshine this summer, keep in mind:

• Vitamin D is produced by your skin when it's exposed to sunlight, but it can also be obtained from certain foods, vitamin D-fortified foods and supplements.
• Vitamin D is important to bone health because it helps to absorb calcium, which is used to make strong bones and teeth.
• Without enough...

A great recipe for the tomatoes just coming off the vine. This Simply Salad contest winning dish was submitted by Debby Bernier, UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA. 

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 20 grape or cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• Olives of your choice, amount based on your liking
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese balls
• ½ c. onions of your choice or scallions, chopped
• ¼ c. fresh parsley or Italian seasoning, if desired
• 1/2 c. olive oil
• 1/8 c. balsamic vinegar

Directions

Mix all ingredients in a bowl. This is a recipe to have fun with and make your own according to your tastes. Optional: Replace oil...

Have some leftover chicken? With just a few ingredients, you can re-purpose it for a healthy lunch. This Simply Salad contest winning dish was submitted by Frances Lucas, UMass Memorial Medical Center - Marlborough Campus, Marlborough, MA 

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 2 c. chopped, cooked chicken
• ¼ c. diced celery
• ¼ c. raisins
• ¼ c. fat free plain Greek yogurt
• 1 T mayonnaise made with olive oil
• ¼ t salt
• ¼ t pepper
• Optional stuffing ideas include: carrots, lettuce, sprouts.

Directions

In a bowl, combine all ingredients. Serve.

A hockey check, a bicycle accident, a fall from a tree. All are potential causes of a concussion or traumatic brain injury. Concussions, and especially sports-related concussions, can vary in the extent of the injury and the severity of the symptoms. Common mental or physical symptoms might include trouble concentrating, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, sensitivity to light or forgetfulness. 

Correct management of a sports-related concussion is crucial in not only helping the athlete begin healing, but in preventing further damage. It can be difficult, however, to understand the proper course of...

There are many circumstances that play a role in the development of an eating disorder including genetics, mental health, cultural impact, environmental abnormalities, family influences, and a myriad of other factors, however, social media plays a significant role and should continue to be explored and monitored.

Fall crisp apples gives this salad a little sweetness. This Simply Salad contest winning dish was submitted by Shauna Paskell, Radiation Oncology, UMass Memorial - HealthAlliance Clinton Hospital, Burbank Campus, Fitchburg, MA 

Serves 2

Ingredients

• ½ c. dried apples
• 4 c. romaine lettuce
• Dried cranberries, as much as desired
• ¼ c. honey roasted peanuts
• 4 oz. chicken, cut into small pieces
• 2 oz. apple balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Directions

Add ingredients together and drizzle with 2 oz. of apple balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

If you're a parent of a preteen or teen, we know you have many questions about the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. HPV causes cancer. Cancer can be prevented. The HPV vaccine is the first line of defense against several types of cancers. However, many parents still struggle with the decision to vaccinate their son or daughter, as information about the vaccine can be confusing.

What Is HPV? Does it Cause Cancer?

Every year in the United States, more than 37,000 people will get cancer caused by HPV. HPV is a virus that is passed through sexual contact (penile-vaginal, penile-anal, mouth...