We all know sleep is important, but new research from University of Colorado Boulder found that if you don't get the right amount—too little or too much— you may have an increased risk of heart attack, even if you follow a healthy lifestyle. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, also uncovered that people who have a family health history of heart disease can decrease their risk of heart attack by getting six to nine hours of sleep a night. Read the full story here.
Wondering how much sleep is just the right amount? We tell you, here.
If you want more health headlines, we've combed through this week's top stories, so you don't have to. Here's what else caught our attention.
Two Soft Drinks a Day—Regular or Diet—Can Increase Your Risk for Earlier Death
A new study suggests that sweet-tasting drinks are associated with an increased risk of earlier death from all causes. Researchers say two or more soft drinks per day increases a person's risk for earlier death from all causes. It doesn't matter if the drink is sweetened with sugar or artificial ingredients. Besides obesity and heart disease, researchers say excess sugar increases the risk of digestive health problems as well as Parkinson's disease.
Another Person Dies From Lung Disease After Vaping
A second person has died from a severe lung illness after vaping, according to a lead investigator on the case in Oregon. The investigator said that the person had apparently become sick after vaping T.H.C. from a product purchased at a recreational marijuana shop in the state. Here's another story about lung injury and vaping.
New Drug for Low Sexual Desire In Women
Women who feel distressed by a lack of sexual desire may have some help on the way. Recently the FDA approved bremelanotide (Vyleesi), a new medication for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). Learn more about the drug and HSDD here.
Study Finds Women at Greater Risk of Depression and Anxiety After Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy is associated with an increased risk of long-term mental health issues, especially depression and anxiety, according to a cohort study by Mayo Clinic researchers involving nearly 2,100 women. Click here to understand the signs of depression in women.
