It's Thursday, January 22, and in today’s edition of The Blue & Green Letter, we look at:

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Heart disease deaths are finally dropping, but it remains the leading killer in the US, claiming more lives than cancer and accidents combined. As per data by the American Heart Association, coronary blockages have decreased, while obesity among youths is rising, and nearly half of adults have high blood pressure. Experts emphasize that 40% of deaths are preventable only through improving key lifestyle metrics.

US measles cases have hit a record-breaking high, officially threatening the nation’s 26-year elimination status. Despite this surge, CDC Deputy Director Ralph Abraham called the potential loss of the status the "cost of doing business”, citing international travel and "personal freedom" for unvaccinated communities. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) will meet on April 13 to decide if the U.S. will officially lose its standing.

🗞️ A new study links California wildfire smoke to increased autism diagnoses. 

🗞️ Outbreak of a rare fungal infection leaves one dead and dozens sick in Tennessee.

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🍋 Can you overdo Vitamin C? Not really — it’s water-soluble, so your body just pees out the excess. But this story by Vogue warns that megadosing for that glass skin glow won't boost your health. In fact, pushing past the daily limit with high-dose supplements only risks digestive issues and kidney stones. 

🎶 What’s a high-tech sonic healing experience doing in the world’s most exclusive retreats? For years, the medical community has been using music to help reduce stress levels. Now, wellness destinations are evolving that concept into vibroacoustic therapy — in hopes to calm nerves and soothe “frazzled spirits”, a story by the New York Times notes. 

🥯 Stop falling for the healthy breakfast trap. EatingWell dieticians say your usual muffins and smoothies often lack the fiber and protein needed to keep you full. Luckily, the 10 a.m. crash is avoidable with this simple fix: aim for 20 to 35 g of protein to stay energized and full until lunch. 

⚠️ When food recalls are hitting one a day, how do you stay safe? Women’s Health reports that while recall numbers are steady, hospitalizations are surging. To cut the risk, cook fresh produce, use a meat thermometer, and sign up for grocery store loyalty programs to receive instant alerts.

🧀 Is Parmesan the new protein bar? Self reports that while “big parma” (yes) is trending as a gym snack, eating blocks of cheese is risky. It's packed with protein but loaded with enough saturated fat and sodium to strain your heart. This one’s a skip, sadly!

🏠 Research says about 27% of Americans above the age of 18 are now estranged from a relative. One investigation by Cosmopolitan sees millennials and Gen Z leading the shift — choosing personal peace and mental health over toxic family obligations. But what killed the “family is forever” promise? 

🤳 Your brain doesn’t know you’re resting when you're on a phone! The Conversation says this digital self-care is a paradox — activities like second screening and bed-rotting stimulate the same neural systems that need rest. Unsurprisingly, the only way out is … you’ve guessed it. 

🏋️ Real Simple reports that half of us are too intimidated to even enter a gym. While the truth is — nobody is actually watching you! To beat the nerves, try planning ahead and picking consistency over intensity. A visit during off-peak hours might save you some stress. 

🔋 The viral 75 Medium challenge is the latest TikTok trend that wants you to prioritize sustainability. It trades the grueling all-or-nothing rules of 75 Hard for a 90/10 diet and 45 minutes of daily movement. Healthline experts say this realistic approach builds lasting habits and doesn’t leave you burnt out midway through.

Thanks for reading! At The Blue & Green Letter, we track wellness trends and health essentials every day, bringing you one well-curated update to help you live well and stay informed.

Disclaimer: The information shared here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Our content is sourced from reputable health publications and government data. Readers are encouraged to review the original articles and consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.