Caitlin Dow

It’s no secret that moving your body helps keep it healthy. But if you’re like most people, you walk right by the dumbbells as you head to the treadmill at the gym. In fact, evidence is mounting that muscles are more than just for show. Here’s why it’s time to add some push-ups, planks, and squats to your fitness routine.

It never fails. You turn on the TV, start a new podcast, open a web browser, or walk through the supermarket, and you’re bombarded with ads pushing quick fixes to help keep you going in a demanding world: an immune boost here, a hangover cure there, a supplement for your hair or skin, or a little something to help you relax at night. What’s the evidence that these drink mixes, gummies, probiotics, and powders deliver on their promises? We took a look.

As people cut back on added sugars, low-calorie sweeteners are stepping in. They add sweetness with few or no calories to sodas and sports drinks, yogurts and ice creams, cookies and candy, toothpaste, and more. Are they safe? It depends on the sweetener. Here are some key findings on the most popular ones. To learn more, check out our guide to sweeteners and other food additives.

Madison Avenue is alive and kicking, not just on TV but in ads, posts, and videos on social media, YouTube, you name it. Food companies make it so easy. They dress up refined carbs with a dash of vegetables. Or turn up the protein in candy. Or find a new ploy to sell water. What could go wrong?