News & Events
Protect Your Kidneys with Plants
Most of us are born with two kidneys, the bean-shaped organs that filter and process waste products in our bodies. New research suggests that eating a healthy plant-based diet may reduce the risk of kidney disease, but high-sugar, vegetarian junk food may raise that...
Is It Time to Cut Back on the Caffeine?
Classified as a psychoactive drug, caffeine is a bitter substance found in coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, some nuts and certain medicines. It has many effects on the body’s metabolism, including stimulation of the central nervous system. It can make you feel...
Simple Steps to Surviving the Summer Heat
Summer heat can be more than uncomfortable—it can be a threat to your health. Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this fact, more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year, according to the CDC. There are several...
Tips for Sun Safety
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. Follow these recommendations to help protect yourself and your family. Shade You can reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree, or other...
Nutrition Tips for Cancer Prevention
Does Lifestyle Impact Cancer Risk? According to the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research, between 30 and 50% of all cancers are preventable with healthy lifestyle choices, avoiding occupational carcinogens and environmental...
Sleep to Prevent Prediabetes
More than one out of three American adults gets too little sleep. In the long term, a sleep debt increases the risk of several chronic health problems including type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Even in the short term, failing to get adequate sleep...
Amazing Architecture Challenge
Amazing Architecture challenge starts July 22. Behind every building, there’s a story. A fascinating tale of why, when and how every skyscraper, monument or home came about. Together with your Aetna Virgin Pulse teammates, you’ll unlock these stories as you discover...
Intermittent Fasting: A Scientific Look
There’s been a lot of talk lately about intermittent fasting for weight loss... but is this all just talk or is there scientific information to back it up? What is intermittent fasting? Also known as "alternate day fasting," intermittent fasting can take many forms....
The FDA Wants to Clear the Confusion Surrounding Food Expiration Dates
On Thursday, May 23, 2019, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued guidance urging the food industry to streamline food labels into one standard one. Specifically, they pushed for the industry to abandon confusing expiration dates and adopt a standardized “best...
The Dangerous Bugs That May Be in Your Home
A recent report from the CDC shines new light on the dangers that kissing bugs present. While their name may seem harmless, triatomines (their insect name) earned their cutesy nickname because they tend to bite people on the face. What’s more, these bugs carry a...
Going Camping? What You Need to Know
As the temperatures rise and the days become longer, many Americans will head out on camping adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned camping pro or new to the activity, it’s always a good idea to review camping safety tips. Don’t Forget to Pack the Essentials Before...
Are Neti Pots Safe?
Little teapots with long spouts have become a fixture in many homes to flush out clogged nasal passages and help people breathe easier. Along with other nasal irrigation systems, these devices — commonly called neti pots — use a saline, or saltwater, solution to treat...