If you answered ‘C’, you’re right! Viruses for the flu vaccine are grown in chicken eggs, so people with an egg allergy need to ask their doctors whether they should get the vaccine. If the allergy is mild, it’s usually fine to get the flu shot, but not the nasal mist. Consult your doctor first – and get the flu shot in a doctor’s office instead of another venue.

Source: Kids Health

If you answered ‘C’, you’re right! Phobias are common and can be difficult to treat, but other people’s experiences can help to cure phobias. Watching someone else safely interact with the supposedly dangerous situation can help reduce and prevent responses of fear. Researchers attribute this to the ‘social learning condition,’ saying that this way of learning helps to diminish learned fear.

Source: Karolinska Institute

If you answered ‘C’, you’re right! There are several kinds of vegetarian diets. Lacto-ovo vegetarians eat dairy foods, eggs, fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds… but avoid meat, fish, and poultry. A vegetarian diet has been associated with lower levels of obesity, reduced risk of heart disease, and lower blood pressure.

Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

If you answered ‘B’, you’re right! A recent study at American University indicates that many people are unable to reduce their caffeine consumption without suffering withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms combined are a condition called ‘Caffeine Use Disorder’. The negative effects of caffeine often go unrecognized because, as the most commonly used drug in the world, it is seen as socially acceptable. Researchers suggest that healthy adults should limit caffeine consumption to no more than 400 mg per day, which is the equivalent of two to three 8-ounce cups of coffee.

Source: American Association for the Advancement of Science

If you answered ‘C’, you’re right! Researchers in Australia used a fluffy robotic harp seal named PARO to evaluate the effects of interactions with robotic pets on people with dementia. They found that PARO had a significantly positive influence on quality of life and reduced signs of anxiety. There is already substantial evidence to suggest that interaction with animals can be beneficial, but live animals can put patients at risk of injury or infection.

Source: Medical News Today & Northumbria University

If you answered ‘B’, you’re right! Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that is indigestible. It runs through the digestive tract without being broken down by enzymes, helping keep your digestive system running smoothly. Most Americans need at least 20 to 30 grams of fiber per day, but only get about 15 grams. Whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and nuts are all good sources of fiber.

Source: Harvard School of Public Health

If you answered ‘C’, you’re right! Gluten is a protein found in grains, such as wheat and barley. Mothers may be able to curb the prevalence of type 1 diabetes in children by adopting a gluten-free diet during pregnancy and lactation. Though this study has only been conducted in mice so far, researchers are optimistic that these findings can be applied to humans. When mouse mothers ate a gluten-free diet, the intestinal bacteria in both the mothers and pups changed, which appeared to protect the pups from developing type 1 diabetes. As always, be sure to consult your doctor before making any major changes to your diet.

Source: American Diabetes Association

If you answered ‘B’, you’re right! Fish such as swordfish, shark, and king mackerel contain high amounts of mercury – a toxin that can be especially harmful to expecting or nursing mothers and young children. While some fish may be high in mercury, many provide health benefits like omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help brain and nerve growth and protect the heart. To get the recommended weekly allowance of fish, consume low-mercury fish like sardines and sole.

Source: Harvard Heart Letter

If you answered ‘C’, you’re right! Listening to music can help with keeping the brain sharp during old age. Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine say that listening to music you’re not familiar with can challenge your brain. When introduced to a new genre of music, the brain has to work to understand the meanings and melodies of the song. So try listening to your kids’ or grandchildren’s playlist!

Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine

If you answered ‘B’, you’re right! The abdominal area is a dangerous place to have excess body fat because the fat cells there can affect the production of hormones. Some of the hormones produced in the abdomen are responsible for decreasing appetite or affecting the body’s response to insulin. Fat in the area can also create chemicals that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, regular diet and exercise can help get rid of abdominal fat.

Source: Harvard Health Publications

If you answered ‘A’, you’re right! New research has found that women who are exposed to greater levels of light while sleeping tend to be obese. The study took into account factors that could influence exposure to light levels, such as physical activity, the presence of young children in their homes, and sleep duration. Though the association between light exposure and metabolism is interesting, further investigation is needed to tell whether sleeping in complete darkness will help prevent obesity.

Source: The Institute of Cancer Research

If you answered ‘A’, you’re right! Though sit-ups were once considered the best way to tighten abs and trim your waistline, they no longer reign supreme. Sit-ups target only a few muscles and can be hard on your lower back, while exercises like planks and yoga use a better balance of core muscles. Your core includes back, side, pelvic, and buttock muscles, and it forms a central link between your upper and lower body. Core fitness is considered an essential part of any exercise program.

Source: Harvard Medical School