Riya Baibhawi

What Are Telomeres? Are They Secret to Longevity?

<span>Ageing</span> is an inevitable part of life and there is nobody you can stay young forever. However, there are many who remain fit even at older age and are often seen crediting genetics, their lifestyle or sheer luck for their vitality. However, science has another answer to this—telomeres. These are protective caps at the end of <span>DNA</span>. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Telomeres</span>: Explained</h2>

Telomeres are structures made of repetitive DNA and protein, but they do not contain genes. During cell division, these caps divide, so that the genetic material is protected. Over time, these caps shorten, eventually reaching a point where cells can no longer divide, leading to senescence or cell death. Shortened telomeres have been linked to various age-related diseases, including cancer, osteoarthritis, and heart disease. On the other hand, longer telomeres are thought to allow cells to divide more often, potentially prolonging health and longevity. 

However, recent research complicates this narrative. While studies on animals and humans suggest an association between longer telomeres and better health, there are certain drawbacks. For instance, cancer cells exploit an enzyme called telomerase to maintain telomere length, which enables uncontrolled cell division. This makes people with 

exceptionally long telomeres due to genetic mutations are more susceptible to higher risks of certain cancers and chronic conditions.

Lifestyle factors also play a significant role in telomere health. Sedentary behaviour, smoking, poor sleep, and chronic stress are all associated with accelerated telomere shortening. On the other hand, regular physical activity, a nutrient-rich diet, and stress management have been shown to preserve telomere length. For instance, moderate exercise and antioxidant-rich foods help combat inflammation, a key driver of telomere degradation and age-related diseases.

<h2>What Determines Telomere Length?</h2>

Empirical evidence suggests that telomere length may be partly predetermined at birth, with chromosome-specific differences. This challenges earlier assumptions of uniform telomere lengths across all chromosomes and underscores the complexity of genetic contributions to ageing.

A study titled Mice with hyper-long telomeres show less metabolic aging and longer lifespans, published in Nat Commun in 2019 showed that mice with longer telomeres lived longer. Researchers said, "In the past, we generated mouse embryonic (ES) cells with longer telomeres than normal (hyper-long telomeres) in the absence of genetic manipulations, which contributed to all mouse tissues. To address whether hyper-long telomeres have deleterious effects, we generated mice in which 100% of their cells are derived from hyper-long telomere ES cells. We observe that these mice have longer telomeres and less DNA damage with ageing. Hyper-long telomere mice are lean and show low cholesterol and LDL levels, as well as improved glucose and insulin tolerance."

<h2>What Really Influences Longevity?  </h2>

Longevity is influenced by varied factors including genetics, environment and lifestyle factors. A focus on healthy living—regular exercise, a healthy and balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mental well-being—remains the most reliable strategy for ageing gracefully and reducing the risk of chronic ageing. Ultimately, while telomeres offer a biological window into ageing, the key to a healthier life lies largely in our everyday lifestyle choices.  

<strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/why-do-you-sleep-more-in-winters-it-has-everything-to-do-with-your-hormones-article-151111315" data-type="tilCustomLink">Why Do You Sleep More In Winters? It Has Everything To Do With Your Hormones</a>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Telomeres

Ageing

Telomeres and ageing

longetivity

The 'Big Beautiful Bill' Now Awaits Trump's Sign To Become A Law As Deadline July 4 Is Here; What It Means For Healthcare

Study Finds Women Who Work Night Shifts Have A Greater Risk Of Asthma

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Can This Extremely Hot Weather Trigger Our Mental Health?

Ageing is an inevitable part of life and there is nobody you can stay young forever. However, there are many who remain fit even at older age and are often seen crediting genetics, their lifestyle or sheer luck for their vitality. However, science has another answer to this—telomeres. These are protective caps at the end of DNA. Telomeres: ExplainedTelomeres are structures made of repetitive DNA and protein, but they do not contain genes. During cell division, these caps divide, so that the genetic material is protected. Over time, these caps shorten, eventually reaching a point where cells can no longer divide, leading to senescence or cell death. Shortened telomeres have been linked to various age-related diseases, including cancer, osteoarthritis, and heart disease. On the other hand, longer telomeres are thought to allow cells to divide more often, potentially prolonging health and longevity. However, recent research complicates this narrative. While studies on animals and humans suggest an association between longer telomeres and better health, there are certain drawbacks. For instance, cancer cells exploit an enzyme called telomerase to maintain telomere length, which enables uncontrolled cell division. This makes people with exceptionally long telomeres due to genetic mutations are more susceptible to higher risks of certain cancers and chronic conditions.Lifestyle factors also play a significant role in telomere health. Sedentary behaviour, smoking, poor sleep, and chronic stress are all associated with accelerated telomere shortening. On the other hand, regular physical activity, a nutrient-rich diet, and stress management have been shown to preserve telomere length. For instance, moderate exercise and antioxidant-rich foods help combat inflammation, a key driver of telomere degradation and age-related diseases.What Determines Telomere Length?Empirical evidence suggests that telomere length may be partly predetermined at birth, with chromosome-specific differences. This challenges earlier assumptions of uniform telomere lengths across all chromosomes and underscores the complexity of genetic contributions to ageing.A study titled Mice with hyper-long telomeres show less metabolic aging and longer lifespans, published in Nat Commun in 2019 showed that mice with longer telomeres lived longer. Researchers said, "In the past, we generated mouse embryonic (ES) cells with longer telomeres than normal (hyper-long telomeres) in the absence of genetic manipulations, which contributed to all mouse tissues. To address whether hyper-long telomeres have deleterious effects, we generated mice in which 100% of their cells are derived from hyper-long telomere ES cells. We observe that these mice have longer telomeres and less DNA damage with ageing. Hyper-long telomere mice are lean and show low cholesterol and LDL levels, as well as improved glucose and insulin tolerance."What Really Influences Longevity?  Longevity is influenced by varied factors including genetics, environment and lifestyle factors. A focus on healthy living—regular exercise, a healthy and balanced diet, adequate sleep, and mental well-being—remains the most reliable strategy for ageing gracefully and reducing the risk of chronic ageing. Ultimately, while telomeres offer a biological window into ageing, the key to a healthier life lies largely in our everyday lifestyle choices.  ALSO READ: Why Do You Sleep More In Winters? It Has Everything To Do With Your Hormones

What Are Telomeres? Are They Secret To Longevity?

what are telomeres​​? can they slow down ageing?

Health and Me

Ishita Roy

The "Big Beautiful Bill" Now Awaits Trump's Sign To Become A Law As Deadline July 4 Is Here; What It Means For Healthcare

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Medical Memoir: Today's Anti-Ageing Retinol Carries The Burden Of A Long History Of Human Experiments

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In a controversial move with far-reaching health consequences, the U.S. House passed the <span>Trump</span> administration’s sweeping domestic agenda legislation—dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill”—just before the <span>July 4</span> deadline set by the president. 

While its proponents claim it will make the country “stronger, safer and more prosperous,” leading health experts warn the bill is a dangerous and unethical setback for public health in the U.S.

With major cuts to Medicaid, significant changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and reduced access to basic nutrition and reproductive services, the legislation’s health implications are vast and immediate.

At the heart of the bill is a $930 billion cut to Medicaid funding over the next decade—the deepest reduction to the program in its history. 

In addition, for the first time, work requirements will be imposed on certain able-bodied adults aged 19 to 64 to retain their Medicaid benefits. Parents of children aged 14 and older must also meet this 80-hours-per-month rule through employment, training, volunteering, or school.

Dr. Jason M. Goldman, president of the American College of Physicians (ACP), as reported in healio.com, called the cuts “devastating” and warned they would cripple the U.S. health care system and worsen public health outcomes. 

Similar concerns were echoed by the American Medical Association (AMA), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Emergency Nurses Association, all of whom opposed the bill.

Dr. Arthur L. Caplan, founding head of the Division of Medical Ethics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, called the bill “immoral, unethical, and tragic,” also reported in healio.com.

“Slashing Medicaid and imposing work requirements is punishing our poorest, most vulnerable, and mentally ill populations,” Dr. Caplan said. 

“It’s unconscionable that the solution to economic reform is to cut basic health care.”

<h4>No Access To Affordable Care Act</h4>

The bill also weakens the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which could lower enrollment rates and disrupt access to care. One of the major changes is the elimination of automatic re-enrollment in ACA plans. Policyholders must now update their information annually, and the open enrollment window has been shortened by a month.

For individuals applying outside the open enrollment period—due to life events like job loss or family additions—advance premium subsidies will no longer be available immediately. Under current rules, applicants get up to 90 days of help while their paperwork is processed. The new law forces applicants to wait for full documentation approval before receiving assistance.

According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the result will be catastrophic: an estimated 11.8 million more uninsured Americans by 2034.

“These patients don’t disappear,” Dr. Caplan said. “They flood emergency rooms with preventable issues—headaches, infections, chest pain—overburdening a system already stretched thin.”

With millions projected to lose insurance, ERs may become the default safety net—a role they are not equipped to handle.

“Hospitals will close. Services will shrink. Waiting times will skyrocket,” Dr. Caplan warned. “And it won’t just affect the poor—it will affect everyone.”

He also criticized the bill for ignoring the root cause of health care costs in the U.S.

“We have the most expensive, inefficient system in the world. Yet instead of tackling pricing, this bill cuts access,” he said.

<h4>SNAP Benefits, Nutrition &amp; Health Impact</h4>

The bill also drastically alters the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), affecting roughly 42 million Americans. The age for work requirements has been raised from 54 to 64, and overall benefits will be reduced. 

Many families will now receive less support—$292 for an individual and $975 for a family of four.

Nutrition is a cornerstone of preventive health, and public health experts say this rollback will contribute to higher rates of malnutrition, particularly among older adults and low-income families.

<h4>Reproductive Health and Planned Parenthood Defunded</h4>

In another blow to health access, the bill defunds Planned Parenthood, making it ineligible to serve Medicaid patients. According to the Contraceptive Access Initiative, 10% of Medicaid-covered women who received family planning services in 2021 did so through Planned Parenthood.

The move will severely limit access to contraception, STD testing, cancer screenings, and reproductive counseling, particularly in underserved areas.

<h4>Physician Payments, Rural Hospitals, and more</h4>

To soften the backlash, the bill includes a 2.5% temporary increase to Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rates in 2026, and reinstates certain telehealth flexibilities, as noted by the American Telemedicine Association.

However, experts like Dr. Caplan argue that these are inadequate responses to a much deeper crisis.

“That’s like saying the ship is sinking, but we’ve added two lifeboats,” he said. “Increased reimbursement won’t matter if your patient population loses coverage.”

4th july

big beautiful bill

trump

health and wellness

fourth of july

july 4

In a controversial move with far-reaching health consequences, the U.S. House passed the Trump administration’s sweeping domestic agenda legislation—dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill”—just before the July 4 deadline set by the president. While its proponents claim it will make the country “stronger, safer and more prosperous,” leading health experts warn the bill is a dangerous and unethical setback for public health in the U.S.With major cuts to Medicaid, significant changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and reduced access to basic nutrition and reproductive services, the legislation’s health implications are vast and immediate.What’s at StakeAt the heart of the bill is a $930 billion cut to Medicaid funding over the next decade—the deepest reduction to the program in its history. In addition, for the first time, work requirements will be imposed on certain able-bodied adults aged 19 to 64 to retain their Medicaid benefits. Parents of children aged 14 and older must also meet this 80-hours-per-month rule through employment, training, volunteering, or school.Dr. Jason M. Goldman, president of the American College of Physicians (ACP), as reported in healio.com, called the cuts “devastating” and warned they would cripple the U.S. health care system and worsen public health outcomes. Similar concerns were echoed by the American Medical Association (AMA), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Emergency Nurses Association, all of whom opposed the bill.Dr. Arthur L. Caplan, founding head of the Division of Medical Ethics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, called the bill “immoral, unethical, and tragic,” also reported in healio.com.“Slashing Medicaid and imposing work requirements is punishing our poorest, most vulnerable, and mentally ill populations,” Dr. Caplan said. “It’s unconscionable that the solution to economic reform is to cut basic health care.”No Access To Affordable Care ActThe bill also weakens the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which could lower enrollment rates and disrupt access to care. One of the major changes is the elimination of automatic re-enrollment in ACA plans. Policyholders must now update their information annually, and the open enrollment window has been shortened by a month.For individuals applying outside the open enrollment period—due to life events like job loss or family additions—advance premium subsidies will no longer be available immediately. Under current rules, applicants get up to 90 days of help while their paperwork is processed. The new law forces applicants to wait for full documentation approval before receiving assistance.According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the result will be catastrophic: an estimated 11.8 million more uninsured Americans by 2034.“These patients don’t disappear,” Dr. Caplan said. “They flood emergency rooms with preventable issues—headaches, infections, chest pain—overburdening a system already stretched thin.”Emergency Rooms on the BrinkWith millions projected to lose insurance, ERs may become the default safety net—a role they are not equipped to handle.“Hospitals will close. Services will shrink. Waiting times will skyrocket,” Dr. Caplan warned. “And it won’t just affect the poor—it will affect everyone.”He also criticized the bill for ignoring the root cause of health care costs in the U.S.“We have the most expensive, inefficient system in the world. Yet instead of tackling pricing, this bill cuts access,” he said.SNAP Benefits, Nutrition & Health ImpactThe bill also drastically alters the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), affecting roughly 42 million Americans. The age for work requirements has been raised from 54 to 64, and overall benefits will be reduced. Many families will now receive less support—$292 for an individual and $975 for a family of four.Nutrition is a cornerstone of preventive health, and public health experts say this rollback will contribute to higher rates of malnutrition, particularly among older adults and low-income families.Reproductive Health and Planned Parenthood DefundedIn another blow to health access, the bill defunds Planned Parenthood, making it ineligible to serve Medicaid patients. According to the Contraceptive Access Initiative, 10% of Medicaid-covered women who received family planning services in 2021 did so through Planned Parenthood.The move will severely limit access to contraception, STD testing, cancer screenings, and reproductive counseling, particularly in underserved areas.Physician Payments, Rural Hospitals, and moreTo soften the backlash, the bill includes a 2.5% temporary increase to Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rates in 2026, and reinstates certain telehealth flexibilities, as noted by the American Telemedicine Association.However, experts like Dr. Caplan argue that these are inadequate responses to a much deeper crisis.“That’s like saying the ship is sinking, but we’ve added two lifeboats,” he said. “Increased reimbursement won’t matter if your patient population loses coverage.”

the "big beautiful bill" now awaits trump's sign to become a law as deadline july 4 is here; what it means for healthcare

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A new UK-based study published in ERJ Open Research, has found that women who work permanent night shifts face a significantly higher risk of developing moderate to severe <span>asthma</span> compared to those who work during the day. 

The findings add to the growing body of evidence that shift work, particularly night shifts, can have adverse effects on health—this time, with a gender-specific warning.

The study, conducted by researchers using data from over 280,000 participants in the UK Biobank, observed that 5.3% of the cohort had asthma, and 1.9% had moderate to severe asthma. Among these, female night shift workers stood out: those who worked permanent night shifts were found to have 50% higher odds of developing moderate-severe asthma than female day workers.

Interestingly, this association was not observed among male shift workers.

<h4>Circadian Disruption and Lung Health</h4>

Dr. Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant - Interventional Pulmonology at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, explained how <span>circadian rhythm</span> disruption could increase respiratory risk.

“When our body’s natural rhythm is thrown off by night shifts or irregular sleep, it impacts not just our sleep cycles but also lung function,” he explained. 

“The lungs don’t get the recovery time they need. Over time, this can impair breathing, reduce oxygen levels, weaken immunity, and elevate the risk of serious respiratory issues—especially in those already predisposed to asthma or COPD.”

The researchers also suggested that hormone levels—specifically testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)—may play a protective role against asthma. Women, especially post-puberty, tend to have lower levels of these hormones, possibly explaining their greater vulnerability.

Dr. Sunil noted that recent studies have reinforced the protective role of testosterone in reducing airway inflammation, which is a key concern in asthma management. “This could explain why asthma tends to be more severe in women after puberty,” he said. While hormone testing is not standard in asthma diagnosis yet, he believes that advancing research may soon shift clinical protocols.

The study further found that women who had undergone hysterectomies—with or without oophorectomies—also faced a higher risk of moderate to severe asthma, suggesting that hormonal changes could further exacerbate vulnerability.

“Female biology is more sensitive to circadian disruption,” Dr. Sunil pointed out. “Estrogen may worsen airway inflammation when sleep cycles are disturbed, while testosterone seems to offer some protection—something men naturally benefit from.”

He added that these findings should encourage workplaces to consider flexible schedules or regular lung health screenings for female night shift workers.

Women working night shifts also reported more frequent symptoms such as wheezing or chest whistling and had greater odds of obstructed lung function compared to their male counterparts.

“In practice, we often see female patients with wheezing and breathlessness, but the link to lifestyle factors like night shifts is rarely discussed,” Dr. Sunil said. “These patterns are crucial for early diagnosis and management but remain under-addressed.”

Given the hormone connection, researchers suggested that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) might be explored as a preventive measure for postmenopausal women doing night shifts.

“HRT could help balance hormone levels, protect lung function, and reduce inflammation,” Dr. Sunil said. “But it must be approached cautiously, given known risks like blood clots or heart disease. Tailored care strategies and careful risk assessment are key.”

asthma risk in women

night shift worker women asthma

asthma risk in women who work night shift

circadian rhythm

asthma

A new UK-based study published in ERJ Open Research, has found that women who work permanent night shifts face a significantly higher risk of developing moderate to severe asthma compared to those who work during the day. The findings add to the growing body of evidence that shift work, particularly night shifts, can have adverse effects on health—this time, with a gender-specific warning.How Was The Study Conducted?The study, conducted by researchers using data from over 280,000 participants in the UK Biobank, observed that 5.3% of the cohort had asthma, and 1.9% had moderate to severe asthma. Among these, female night shift workers stood out: those who worked permanent night shifts were found to have 50% higher odds of developing moderate-severe asthma than female day workers.Interestingly, this association was not observed among male shift workers.Circadian Disruption and Lung HealthDr. Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant - Interventional Pulmonology at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, explained how circadian rhythm disruption could increase respiratory risk.“When our body’s natural rhythm is thrown off by night shifts or irregular sleep, it impacts not just our sleep cycles but also lung function,” he explained. “The lungs don’t get the recovery time they need. Over time, this can impair breathing, reduce oxygen levels, weaken immunity, and elevate the risk of serious respiratory issues—especially in those already predisposed to asthma or COPD.”The Hormonal LinkThe researchers also suggested that hormone levels—specifically testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)—may play a protective role against asthma. Women, especially post-puberty, tend to have lower levels of these hormones, possibly explaining their greater vulnerability.Dr. Sunil noted that recent studies have reinforced the protective role of testosterone in reducing airway inflammation, which is a key concern in asthma management. “This could explain why asthma tends to be more severe in women after puberty,” he said. While hormone testing is not standard in asthma diagnosis yet, he believes that advancing research may soon shift clinical protocols.Gender-Specific VulnerabilityThe study further found that women who had undergone hysterectomies—with or without oophorectomies—also faced a higher risk of moderate to severe asthma, suggesting that hormonal changes could further exacerbate vulnerability.“Female biology is more sensitive to circadian disruption,” Dr. Sunil pointed out. “Estrogen may worsen airway inflammation when sleep cycles are disturbed, while testosterone seems to offer some protection—something men naturally benefit from.”He added that these findings should encourage workplaces to consider flexible schedules or regular lung health screenings for female night shift workers.Underdiagnosed, UnderdiscussedWomen working night shifts also reported more frequent symptoms such as wheezing or chest whistling and had greater odds of obstructed lung function compared to their male counterparts.“In practice, we often see female patients with wheezing and breathlessness, but the link to lifestyle factors like night shifts is rarely discussed,” Dr. Sunil said. “These patterns are crucial for early diagnosis and management but remain under-addressed.”Could HRT Be a Solution?Given the hormone connection, researchers suggested that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) might be explored as a preventive measure for postmenopausal women doing night shifts.“HRT could help balance hormone levels, protect lung function, and reduce inflammation,” Dr. Sunil said. “But it must be approached cautiously, given known risks like blood clots or heart disease. Tailored care strategies and careful risk assessment are key.”

study finds women who work night shifts have a greater risk of asthma

Measles Outbreak Update: Kentucky Confirms Its First Case

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As you prepare for the long-awaited <span>Fourth of July</span> weekend, a perfect blend celebrations is on the horizon. Whether you're hitting the beach, planning a cross-country road trip, or enjoying fireworks from your front porch, staying healthy and safe should be part of your celebration plan. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations have issued updated health guidance to help travelers prepare for a worry-free Independence Day weekend.

<h4>Rising Measles Concerns: Check Your Vaccination Status</h4>

This summer, one of the top travel health concerns in the U.S. is the resurgence of measles. 

As of June 2025, the CDC has reported a sharp rise in cases, with children under five and unvaccinated adults being particularly vulnerable.

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According to the CDC, this is the highest number of measles cases the country has seen in recent years.

The outbreak is especially concerning in parts of the Midwest and Southeast, where clusters of infection have been reported. 

If you’re planning to travel to or through these regions, or internationally to areas such as Europe, Africa, or Asia where measles is also spreading, it's critical to confirm that your measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccinations are up to date.

The CDC urges all travelers over the age of 12 months to receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, and in some cases, an additional dose may be recommended for added protection. Carrying proof of vaccination, especially for international travel, is strongly advised.

<h4>Sun Protection For Beach Celebrations</h4>

With sunshine expected across much of the country, sun safety is more important than ever. The CDC recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, but not all sunscreens are created equal.

There are two main types: chemical sunscreens, which contain ingredients like avobenzone or oxybenzone to absorb UV rays, and mineral sunscreens, which rely on physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect rays off the skin.

<strong>READ MORE:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/why-your-sunscreen-isnt-enoughskincare-rules-you-should-follow-this-summer-article-152189025" data-type="tilCustomLink"> Why Your Sunscreen Isn’t Enough—Skincare Rules You Should Follow This Summer</a></strong> 

According to dermatologists cited by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), mineral sunscreens are often better for sensitive skin or for individuals with skin conditions such as rosacea or acne.

Regardless of which type you choose, reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Other smart sun safety habits include wearing wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

 <h4>A CO Detector, Your Travel Essential</h4>

While sunscreen may top the list of travel must-haves, a portable carbon monoxide (CO) detector is an often overlooked but important safety tool—especially for those staying in cabins, older rentals, or poorly ventilated accommodations.

The CDC warns that carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly and hard to detect since the gas is odorless and colorless. 

Wichita-based traveler Kathryn Gillett recommends carrying a compact, battery-powered CO detector—available for around $20—as part of your travel kit. The device, about the size of two stacked smartphones, can provide peace of mind, particularly when venturing into remote or unfamiliar lodging environments.

Traveling often throws a wrench in healthy eating habits, but it doesn’t have to. For a budget-friendly and nutritious solution, the CDC suggests packing pulses—a group of foods that includes beans, lentils, and peas.

These fiber- and protein-rich foods are easy to prepare, affordable, and support gut health and blood sugar regulation. They also have a low environmental impact, making them a smart, sustainable choice for eco-conscious travelers.

<strong>YOU MAY LIKE TO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/with-fourth-of-july-around-the-corner-are-you-making-these-food-safety-mistakes-at-your-cookout-article-152194410" data-type="tilCustomLink">With Fourth Of July Around The Corner, Are You Making These Food Safety Mistakes At Your Cookout?</a></strong>

Options like canned chickpeas, lentil salads, or homemade bean wraps are simple to prepare and travel well. They also double as high-energy snacks to keep you going between fireworks shows and road trip stops.

<strong>READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/healthier-popcorn-alternatives-you-can-try-for-your-july-4-movie-nights-article-152213873" data-type="tilCustomLink">Healthier Popcorn Alternatives You Can Try For Your July 4 Movie Nights</a></strong>

happy 4th of july 2025

July 4th

us independence day

As you prepare for the long-awaited Fourth of July weekend, a perfect blend celebrations is on the horizon. Whether you're hitting the beach, planning a cross-country road trip, or enjoying fireworks from your front porch, staying healthy and safe should be part of your celebration plan. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations have issued updated health guidance to help travelers prepare for a worry-free Independence Day weekend.Rising Measles Concerns: Check Your Vaccination StatusThis summer, one of the top travel health concerns in the U.S. is the resurgence of measles. As of June 2025, the CDC has reported a sharp rise in cases, with children under five and unvaccinated adults being particularly vulnerable.ALSO READ: Measles Outbreak Update: Kentucky Confirms Its First Case According to the CDC, this is the highest number of measles cases the country has seen in recent years.The outbreak is especially concerning in parts of the Midwest and Southeast, where clusters of infection have been reported. If you’re planning to travel to or through these regions, or internationally to areas such as Europe, Africa, or Asia where measles is also spreading, it's critical to confirm that your measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccinations are up to date.The CDC urges all travelers over the age of 12 months to receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, and in some cases, an additional dose may be recommended for added protection. Carrying proof of vaccination, especially for international travel, is strongly advised.Sun Protection For Beach CelebrationsWith sunshine expected across much of the country, sun safety is more important than ever. The CDC recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, but not all sunscreens are created equal.There are two main types: chemical sunscreens, which contain ingredients like avobenzone or oxybenzone to absorb UV rays, and mineral sunscreens, which rely on physical blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect rays off the skin.READ MORE: Why Your Sunscreen Isn’t Enough—Skincare Rules You Should Follow This Summer According to dermatologists cited by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), mineral sunscreens are often better for sensitive skin or for individuals with skin conditions such as rosacea or acne.Regardless of which type you choose, reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Other smart sun safety habits include wearing wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). A CO Detector, Your Travel EssentialWhile sunscreen may top the list of travel must-haves, a portable carbon monoxide (CO) detector is an often overlooked but important safety tool—especially for those staying in cabins, older rentals, or poorly ventilated accommodations.The CDC warns that carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly and hard to detect since the gas is odorless and colorless. Wichita-based traveler Kathryn Gillett recommends carrying a compact, battery-powered CO detector—available for around $20—as part of your travel kit. The device, about the size of two stacked smartphones, can provide peace of mind, particularly when venturing into remote or unfamiliar lodging environments.Eat Healthy Traveling often throws a wrench in healthy eating habits, but it doesn’t have to. For a budget-friendly and nutritious solution, the CDC suggests packing pulses—a group of foods that includes beans, lentils, and peas.These fiber- and protein-rich foods are easy to prepare, affordable, and support gut health and blood sugar regulation. They also have a low environmental impact, making them a smart, sustainable choice for eco-conscious travelers.YOU MAY LIKE TO READ: With Fourth Of July Around The Corner, Are You Making These Food Safety Mistakes At Your Cookout?Options like canned chickpeas, lentil salads, or homemade bean wraps are simple to prepare and travel well. They also double as high-energy snacks to keep you going between fireworks shows and road trip stops.READ: Healthier Popcorn Alternatives You Can Try For Your July 4 Movie Nights

planning a july 4 getaway? don't skip these health essentials

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