Before you take an over-the-counter medicine, take a supplement, or begin a new diet or exercise regimen, investigate to discover the practicalities and see if there might be something that works better.

Using input from doctors, health specialists, and a wide variety of studies, this practical guide for health addresses a wide variety of issues readers are likely to encounter: becoming a smart medical consumer, looking good, losing weight and getting fit, family matters, food, drinks, and your diet, around the house, in your medicine cabinet, medical tests, treating what ails you, and is it safe or dangerous.

Compiled here is the most comprehensive, reliable advice, but readers should remember that each case is different and there are times when consulting your medical practitioner is important.

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