https://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/vaping-vs-smokingMon, 28 Sep 2026 20:19:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:128bb37d-5df9-4be9-91be-53698c3b6859BCBSNM Connect TeamOne of the worst things you can do for your lungs and your overall health is to smoke. But many still don’t know that vaping is also dangerous. While experts expressed concern from the start, not everyone got the message. What Is Vaping? Vaping devices, or electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), are battery-operated devices that people use to inhale an aerosol (vapor) that usually contains nicotine, flavorings and other chemicals. They can resemble traditional tobacco cigarettes, cigars or pipes. But many look like everyday things like pens or USB memory sticks. Whether they look like cigarettes, pipes or pens, they all use a vapor to deliver nicotine without tobacco. This vapor sparked the use of the term “vape” and “vaping” instead of smoking. Some may think vaping is better than smoking. Many people, especially teens and young adults, still think e-cigs are cool and a healthier choice than tobacco. In fact, e-cigarette use among young people has reached epidemic levels, says the American Lung Association’s advice to parents . E-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco products among young people and have been for years now. Many teens and adults don't realize how much they’re harming their lungs and their brains by using them. How Does Vaping Affect Your Health Compared With Smoking? E-cigarettes generally contain fewer toxic chemicals than the mix of 7,000 chemicals in smoke from regular cigarettes. But vaping is not healthy . Most e-cigarettes also contain many toxic chemicals and metals, including lead and formaldehyde. They can be very harmful, especially for young people and pregnant women. And most vape devices, as many as 99 percent of those sold in the U.S. , contain nicotine. Nicotine is as addictive as cocaine and heroin. In fact, one vaping dose can have as much nicotine as 20 regular cigarettes. The evidence is building about just how many ways vaping can damage your body. Even in a short time, vaping can damage your heart and lungs. It puts you at risk for: Cancer Lung disease Pneumonia Heart failure Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) And research continues to show health risks from e-cigarette use. One recent study found a significant tie between former or current e-cigarette use and the development of respiratory diseases, including COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma, within two years of use. Vaping has also been linked to serious lung injuries, like bronchiolitis obliterans, often called popcorn lung . This condition happens when the smallest airways in your lungs are damaged by breathing in harmful chemicals, making it harder to breathe. Research has also found that exposure to secondhand vapor can be dangerous for others. Can Vaping Help You Stop Smoking? Researchers have gotten mixed results on whether vaping actually helps people stop smoking, compared to other methods for quitting. But what is clear is that most e-cigarettes are more harmful than the other methods for quitting. Vaping can actually make it harder to stop. Studies show that vaping is just as addictive as smoking regular cigarettes. And about 28 percent of smokers who use vaping are less likely to quit, says the American Heart Association. Many end up smoking and vaping. Remember, no tobacco or vaping products are safe . So those who don’t use them should not start. And those who do should stop. Talk to your doctor about proven, safe ways to quit. There are many proven aids and resources available to help you stop smoking. There are FDA-approved medications available to help people quit. Your health plan may cover the cost of medicine and counseling to support you. Check your benefits information to find out what your plan covers. For more information about how to successfully quit smoking or vaping, visit smokefree.gov or contact the Lung HelpLine and Tobacco Quitline. This free service from the American Lung Association offers help from RNs, respiratory therapists, pharmacists and certified stop smoking experts. Call 800-LUNG-USA (800-586-4872) or go to Lung.org/helpline . Protect Your Lungs Your lungs help you breathe. They help you fight infections. They help your other organs work. But they are easily harmed. Anything you breathe in can hurt them. Here’s how to protect your lungs : Get routine health exams and preventive care Exercise to improve lung capacity Avoid exposure to pollutants Protect yourself from respiratory and other infections Don’t use tobacco products or vape Sources: Can vaping damage your lungs? What we do (and don't) know , Harvard Medical School, 2023; Current evidence identifies health risks of e-cigarette use; long-term research needed , American Heart Association, 2023; What You Should Know About E-Cigarettes & Vaping , American Lung Association, 2025; About E-Cigarettes (Vapes) , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Learn About Bronchiolitis Obliterans , American Lung Association, 2025; Health Effects of Vaping , CDC, 2025Lung HealthHealth and WellnessQuitting is Good for Your HealthStop SmokingAddictionhttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/screening-lung-cancerMon, 28 Sep 2026 19:02:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:c0c67c53-4174-4466-9410-699151363ee2BCBSNM Connect TeamEvery cigarette shaves 11 minutes off your lifespan. When you quit smoking, you give yourself more time to do the things you enjoy with the people you love. The minute you stop smoking, you start lowering your risk for lung cancer — the leading cause of cancer deaths in adults. A Timeline to Healthier Lungs When you stop smoking, your lungs start to heal — right away. The American Cancer Society offers reasons to quit: Twenty minutes after you quit, your heart rate and blood pressure start to drop. A few days later, the carbon monoxide in your blood drops to normal. Two to three weeks after quitting, your circulation is better and lung function starts to improve. One to 12 months in, coughing and shortness of breath ease. Your lungs continue to repair themselves. At one to two years smoke free, your risk of heart attack drops dramatically. Five to 10 years afterward, your risk for stroke is lower — along with the risk for mouth and throat cancer. Ten years after quitting, your risk of lung cancer is about half that of a person who's still smoking. While quitting is one of the most important things you can do to lower your risk of lung cancer, there are other important steps you can take. Research shows that lung cancer screening can make a big difference in heavy cigarette smokers and former cigarette smokers. Lung Cancer Screening Lung cancer is stealthy. Often, there aren’t any symptoms until it has spread. After you quit, your risk for lung cancer stays elevated for 15 years. That’s why it’s important for smokers to quit as soon as possible. For heavy, long-term current and former smokers, one screening is proving to be an important tool in the fight against lung cancer. Studies show that low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans are effective in detecting lung cancer early when it can be more successfully managed. LDCT lowers the risk of dying in heavy smokers. Non-invasive LDCT scans look for certain abnormalities in the lungs. If a problem is found, additional testing will determine if it is lung cancer. Who Should Get Screened? The American Lung Association says the LDCT is most effective in people who meet these criteria: Are 50-80 years old Smoke cigarettes now Smoked a pack a day for 20 years Smoked two packs a day for 10 years Quit smoking within the last 15 years LDCT screening has risks. That's why it is only recommended for those at high risk for lung cancer. Don’t Skip Screening Be proactive. Take these steps to protect your lungs and fight lung cancer. Be honest about your smoking history. If you smoke now, smoked a pack a day for 20 years, or two packs a day for 10 years, get screened. Get screened even if you’ve stopped smoking. You’re still at risk if you smoked one or two packs a day within the last 15 years. Ask for the right kind of screening. Talk with your doctor about LDCT screening. Your doctor can advise you about your risk and whether it’s right for you. A doctor must refer you for an LDCT lung scan. Keep it up. Experts advise smokers and former smokers between the ages of 50 and 80 to be tested each year. Screening should continue until 15 years have passed since the last cigarette — or until the age of 80. Sources: Health Benefits of Quitting Over Time , American Cancer Society, 2025; Screening for Lung Cancer , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026; Lung Cancer Screening , National Cancer Institute, 2024; Is Lung Cancer Screening Right for Me? American Lung AssociationLung HealthHealth and WellnessCancerCancer Screeningshttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/diabetes-testsMon, 28 Sep 2026 16:17:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:e3a9c905-c3b7-4fcd-a8be-de46ad154907BCBSNM Connect TeamNo one likes to go get health screenings and tests. But if you have diabetes, there are some tests you really need to get done. It’s critical to follow your plan of care, but it can be a lot to keep track of. Is there anything you’re forgetting? Here’s an overview of what you need to do to manage your diabetes. Why Regular Diabetes Checkups Matter Regular appointments with your health care providers will keep you on top of your blood sugar numbers and other important steps for managing your diabetes. Your doctor and other providers will monitor your overall health and guide you to a specialist if needed. Complications often start out with a small, negative change that can easily worsen. Routine health checkups and tests allow you to find out about changes before they become serious problems. Talking with your doctor regularly also gives you the chance to: Ask questions Learn more about your diabetes Find out what you need to do to keep your blood sugar in your target range Find out how to manage your diabetes when you're sick Essential Diabetes Tests and Screenings Your doctor will help you figure out what tests you need and when. Here are some of the most important tests and exams people with diabetes need. A1C The hemoglobin A1C test is used to see how well your body is managing blood sugar. This blood test, sometimes abbreviated as HbA1c, shows your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. High A1C may make you more likely to have long-term complications, such as eye, kidney, nerve and heart disease. These serious health problems can be happening without you knowing it. Find out what numbers to aim for and more about this important test. Eye Exams Diabetes can cause eye problems that lead to vision loss or blindness . Diabetic eye disease often has no early symptoms. So it’s important to have regular eye exams with dilation. This test checks the retinas in the back of your eyes for signs that you have diabetic retinopathy or other diabetes-related eye problems. Talk to your PCP about how often to have your dilated eye exam . Urine and Blood Tests to Check Kidney Function The urine test, called the albumin-to-creatinine ratio, or uACR, checks for proteins in your urine to see how well your kidneys are working. Protein in the urine can be the first sign of kidney disease. The blood test checks for levels of creatinine, a waste product, in your blood. The test result is used to find out your glomerular filtration rate, or GFR. Your GFR shows how well your kidneys are removing creatinine from your blood. Both tests are needed to be sure your kidneys are healthy. Get these tests every year, even if you don’t have a history of kidney disease or high risk factors for it. You may have kidney problems before you feel any symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment is important. Blood Tests for Anemia With diabetes, you’ll need to have regular blood checks for anemia, a low amount of red blood cells. About 25 percent of Americans with diabetes also have anemia. The risk of getting anemia grows the longer you have diabetes. Anemia can cause complications like nerve and eye damage. And it can make things like heart, artery and kidney disease — common in people with diabetes — worse. Other Important Steps in Diabetes Management Take Care of Your Mental Health Studies show that about 40 percent of people with diabetes have depression. Depression can get in the way of managing your diabetes and how you care for yourself in general. Learn what signs to watch for and what you can do about it . See Your Dentist Research shows that there is a greater risk of gum disease among those with diabetes. It’s best to take good care of your teeth and gums and have dental checkups every six months. Check Your Feet The blood flow in your feet needs to be checked regularly. Your doctor will test the skin and nails for blood flow or nerve damage. And you should check your feet at home. Pay attention to pain, tingling or numbness in your feet, or a sore that doesn’t heal. That may signal nerve damage. Checking your feet regularly could save you from serious complications. Reach out to your doctor with any concerns. Make Sure You're Injecting Insulin Correctly Insulin will only work well if it is injected correctly. Whether you’re new to injecting insulin or have been injecting insulin for so long that you don’t give it a second thought, it is very important to review the right way to do it with your doctor or nurse at least once a year and when your treatment changes . Sources: Diabetes tests and checkups, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2026; At a glance: Diabetic Retinopathy , National Eye Institute, NIH, 2025; Diabetes and Anemia: Are They Related? , The Diabetes Council, 2020; How can diabetes affect my mouth? , National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD) NIH, 2022; Mental Health: Understanding diabetes and mental health , American Diabetes Association (ADA); Your HealthCare Team , ADA; Understanding A1C: What It Measures and Why It Matters , ADA; Peripheral Neuropathy , Cleveland Clinic, 2026; Diabetes Complications , ADA; Put the Brakes on Diabetes Complications , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Preventing and Treating Diabetes , American Heart Association, 2026Health and WellnessDiabetesA1cManaging Your DiabetesHealth Conditions and Preventionhttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/tummy-troubleMon, 28 Sep 2026 16:01:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:7623ff9a-3539-4ac4-a2a1-8890fd43a9c6BCBSNM Connect TeamWhy does your stomach hurt? It’s a good question — and a common one. Millions of Americans have at least one type of digestive problem. Some problems come and go, while others can upset your whole life. There are many different kinds of digestive problems, and that’s part of why it isn’t always easy to get to the cause of them. What’s the Trouble? It’s important to know what’s causing the issue so you can treat it. But the answer may not be so simple to find. To get to the bottom of the problem, you may need to play detective. Paying attention to how you feel — and when — can help. What symptoms are you having and when are you having them? What have you been doing when you have them? What and how much have you been eating or drinking when you have symptoms? Are you stressed out? What medicines are you taking? Once you have some information gathered about your symptoms, your doctor can help you figure out the problem and what to do. Two of the common causes of stomach issues are peptic (stomach) ulcers and acid reflux. Peptic ulcers are sores on the lining of your stomach. The most common symptom is a dull or burning pain in the stomach or upper abdomen, especially when your stomach is empty. Symptoms may also include bloating, nausea, vomiting and low appetite. Ulcers are usually caused by long-term use of certain medicines or by the H. pylori bacteria. Smoking can also contribute to ulcers and make symptoms worse. Food and drinks cannot cause ulcers, but they can make symptoms worse. Avoid drinking alcohol if you have an ulcer. Ulcer pain can last for a few minutes or a few hours at a time. The pain will come and go over a period of weeks or months. Eating or taking antacids can briefly lessen the pain. If you think you may have an ulcer, even if your symptoms are mild, you need to see your doctor. If not treated, an ulcer will continue to get worse. Tests are needed to find out for sure if you have an ulcer. Ulcers are usually treated with medicine. The medicine that is prescribed depends on the type of ulcer you have. Heartburn, or acid reflux , is one of the most common stomach issues. It happens when the acid in your stomach meant to break down food comes back up your esophagus and irritates the lining. In many cases, it may be caused by GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. A mild case of GERD isn’t generally a cause for worry, and many find relief with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Here are some other things you can try on your own: Quit smoking. Lose weight. Cut back on alcohol and carbonated drinks. Get more exercise. Take steps to lower your stress level. Avoid foods or drinks that make your symptoms worse. Try skipping acidic or spicy foods, for example. Try to wait two or three hours after eating before you lie down. If your symptoms are severe or happen often, see your doctor. If it doesn’t get better in a month or two after treatment, it may be time for testing to look for other underlying issues. Two red flags are losing weight and swollen lymph nodes in the neck, belly or shoulders. Tell your doctor right away if you have problems swallowing or have a lot of pain. Could IBS or Another Digestive Condition Be Causing You Symptoms? Sometimes tummy trouble isn’t even happening in your stomach. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common “stomach” issues, but the problem isn’t your stomach. IBS can cause pain, bloating and alternating constipation and diarrhea. About 10 to 15 percent of adults in the U.S. suffer from IBS symptoms. Pain from IBS may become worse after you eat a meal or if you are stressed. Making changes to your diet , like avoiding some foods and adding fiber, may help. Getting more sleep, more activity and learning techniques to manage stress may also help your symptoms. But if that doesn’t help, see your doctor. Your doctor may suggest taking OTC or prescription drugs or probiotics to get relief for your symptoms. Your doctor may also discuss mental health therapy or relaxation training. Some other common problems that may cause abdominal pain include: Constipation: You may feel sharp gas pains throughout the abdomen area or have a feeling of being bloated and full. If OTC remedies don’t work or you have long-term symptoms, see your doctor. Pancreatitis: Abdominal pain caused by inflammation in the pancreas is severe and sharp. You may also feel pain in your back or chest. It may cause nausea, vomiting and fever. If you have these symptoms, see your doctor. Diverticular disease : Severe pain in the lower left abdomen area may be caused by diverticulitis. It happens when the small pouches inside the large intestine become infected or inflamed. Fever, nausea, vomiting or constipation can be additional symptoms. If you have these symptoms, especially if you see blood in your stool, see your doctor. Learn more about the many digestive diseases from the National Institutes of Health. Don’t suffer in silence. If your symptoms are impacting your quality of life, talk to your doctor. Don’t put it off, especially if you are losing weight without trying or seeing blood when you use the toilet. Sources: Lower Abdominal Pain , Cleveland Clinic, 2022; Why Does My Stomach Hurt? , Johns Hopkins Medicine; Definition & Facts for GER & GERD , National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD), 2020; Digestive Diseases , NIDDKD; Digestive diseases , National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025; Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms Overview , American College of Gastroenterology; Digestive Disorders , U.S. Department of Agriculture; Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers (Peptic Ulcers) , Johns Hopkins Medicine; Treatment for GER & GERD , NIDDKD, 2020; Types of Diets and Tips on What to Eat with IBS , Healthline, 2025Health and WellnessHealthy EatingColon HealthStomachhttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/how-to-eat-for-longer-lifeMon, 28 Sep 2026 15:31:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:db18b124-b0eb-498a-aab6-a3c49fae9f5aBCBSNM Connect TeamBetter health can be yours at any age. And it may be easier than you think to make the changes that will have a positive effect on your health. We all know we should eat a healthy diet. But you may not know just how big an impact what you eat and drink has on your physical and mental health. Research shows that a healthy diet helps prevent many serious diseases and helps you live longer. And just as important, it helps improve your quality of life — now and in the future. What you eat can also impact mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. It’s never too late to start improving your diet. But the sooner you get started, the bigger impact the changes will have on your long-term health and quality of life. What Is Healthy Eating? Eating healthy means following an eating plan that includes a variety of nutritious foods and drinks. It also means getting the number of calories that’s right for you, says Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion . Making smart food choices can also help you manage your weight and lower your risk for long-term, serious health problems, including: Heart disease Type 2 diabetes High blood pressure Some kinds of cancer But more than 80 percent of people in the U.S. aren’t eating enough vegetables, fruits and dairy, says the Food and Drug Administration . And most people eat too much added sugars, saturated fat and salt, according to the Dietary Guidelines for America, 2020-2025. So what foods, and how much, should you eat? People have different nutritional needs at different stages in their lives. Start Young Eating healthy foods not only helps keep children healthier, it also builds habits they keep as adults that will help them stay healthier throughout their lives. A diet of healthy foods also helps stabilize their energy, improve their minds and even out their moods, says the American Academy of Family Physicians . Make these easy changes to improve your child’s diet: Drink sparkling or flavored water instead of soda. Have whole wheat or other whole grain foods instead of white bread, pasta or other foods made with processed flour. Try a fruity homemade smoothie instead of ice cream. Snack on vegetables and fruit, baked chips, and nuts instead of potato chips or other high-fat, low-nutrition snack foods. The Teen Years About 20 percent of kids between 12 and 19 years old are obese. Small changes in eating habits and more exercise can help, says the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases . Try these tips for teens: Eat more fruits and vegetables at meals. And have them as snacks. Get energy from low-fat, lean meats like turkey or chicken or other protein-rich foods like nuts, beans, tofu, seafood or egg whites. Help build bones with fat-free or low-fat dairy products like milk and Greek yogurt. Or try lactose-free milk or soy milk with added calcium. Avoid sugary beverages like sodas, presweetened tea and energy drinks. And try not to add sugar to foods and drinks. For Adults It isn’t necessary to stick to one, specific diet plan to have a healthy diet. But studies have shown that following a healthy eating plan like the DASH , MIND or Mediterranean diet can help adults of all ages maintain good long-term health and decrease the risk of death from many causes. These diets also help lower the risk of health issues that come with aging, like high blood pressure and dementia, says the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. And the foods emphasized in these types of diets don’t just help your body. They can also help your mental health. Foods loaded with the vitamins and minerals to boost your mind include: Oily fish like salmon, trout, mackerel, anchovies and sardines Broccoli and leafy greens like kale, spinach and romaine lettuce Walnuts, sunflower seeds, chia seeds and flax seeds Berries and dark-skinned fruit Lentils, chickpeas and beans Whole-grain rice, quinoa and oats Avocados Get Started If your diet needs improvement, get started with these simple steps: For snacks, choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats like nuts and seeds. Eat more fish and seafood. Flavor them with herbs and spices rather than sauces. Make vegetables and whole grains the base of your food plan instead of meat. Avoid high-fat red meat and processed meats. Cut back on foods with high salt levels and added sugars. Enjoy sweets only as occasional treats. Remember, making improvements to what you eat and drink can have a big impact on your health throughout your life. You can start small — just get started. Talk to your doctor about the dietary changes you’re making, especially if you have health issues or take medications that may be impacted by diet. Sources: At any age, a healthy diet can extend your life , The Washington Post, 2022; Eat Healthy , Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 2026; A Fresh Take on What "Healthy" Means on Food Packages , U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2025; Nutrition Tips for Kids , A merican Academy of Family Physicians, 2026; Take Charge of Your Health: A Guide for Teenagers , National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2023; Healthy Longevity , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2022; Foods Linked to Better Brain Power , Harvard Health Publishing, 2024Health and WellnessHealthy LivingHealthy EatingMental HealthHealthy MindNutritionhttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/link-nutrition-mental-healthMon, 28 Sep 2026 13:37:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:2058b572-235d-4635-b9f5-dde9117af058BCBSNM Connect TeamYou’ve likely heard the cliché a million times — “You are what you eat.” So you might nosh on foods reported to lower your blood pressure, strengthen your bones or burn belly fat. You might even load up on brain food to feed your head. As it turns out, the experts would back you up. Today, there’s plenty of research that shows the ways nutrition affects our brain health. What we eat can also play a vital role in our mental and emotional health. Missing key vitamins and minerals can lead to higher levels of stress and anxiety. Nutritional deficiencies may even add to cognitive disorders and dementia. Just like our body, the brain needs healthy fuel to work its best. Along with vitamins and minerals, it needs healthy fats, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, including plant-based proteins. A diet without these healthy foods can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body. That can lead to chronic inflammation. This chronic inflammation has been linked to the buildup of harmful plaques in the brain, which may contribute to Alzheimer's disease. Add These to Your Menu People who grapple with depression, anxiety and dementia often lack some key vitamins and minerals. Add foods to your diet that are rich in these: Omega-3 fatty acids that lower inflammation and are vital to brain health B vitamins that make brain chemicals that affect mood and other functions Vitamin D that plays a role in mood, sleep, hunger and digestion Amino acids that enhance brain health and fight depression and brain fog Folate that supports the production of “feel-good” serotonin Magnesium that is vital to the body’s stress response, recovery and repair Zinc that can help ease some symptoms of stress and anxiety Iron that helps nurture energy, positive moods and emotions Fiber that helps feed the good bacteria in your system that can affect your physical and mental health What foods should you eat to support your brain health? No one has the exact same dietary needs. But some nutrients are helpful for most everyone. These foods are loaded with the vitamins and minerals listed above: Oily fish — salmon, trout, mackerel, anchovies and sardines Leafy greens — kale, spinach and romaine lettuce Walnuts Sunflower seeds Chia and flax seeds Berries and dark-skinned fruit Legumes — lentils, chickpeas and beans Whole grains — rice, quinoa and oats Avocados Liver and other organ meats Olive oil Eggs Mushrooms Dark chocolate Shellfish Broccoli Before making any major changes to your diet, talk with your doctor or a registered dietitian who specializes in nutrition. Sources: The Best Brain Foods You’re Not Eating , The New York Times, 2022; Foods Linked to Better Brainpower , Harvard Health Publishing, 2024; Eating for well-being , Mental Health America; Psychiatric disorders risk in patients with iron deficiency anemia and association with iron supplementation medications: a nationwide database analysis , Biomedical Central, 2020; What Happens to the Brain in Alzheimer’s Disease? , National Institute on Aging, 2024Behavioral HealthHealth and WellnessDementiaUnderstanding Depression and AnxietyMental HealthHealthy MindDepressionAnxietyhttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/my-coverage-explained/b/weblog/posts/cancer-screening-preventive-diagnosticMon, 28 Sep 2026 13:36:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:23795b14-9db0-463d-b081-972f1a91c31bBCBSNM Connect TeamGetting screened for colon cancer is an important way to protect your health. Colon cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. But colon cancer can be successfully treated when it is found and treated early. Until it grows or spreads, colon cancer usually has no symptoms. So screening is vital for early detection. Talk to your doctor about which type of screening test is best for you. There are several options. Some are simple in-home tests. Others, like a colonoscopy, are done by a doctor. Colon cancer used to be a disease that mainly affected people over 45, but studies show it’s becoming more common in younger people. Catching it early gives people of all ages a better chance at successful treatment. If you’re between the ages of 45 and 75, talk to your doctor about routine colorectal cancer screening. If a history of colon cancer runs in your family, speak up. You may need earlier testing. Learn more about screening tests from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Getting the care you need to protect your health is important. It’s also important to ask questions before your test so you understand exactly what you’re getting and what it costs. Preventive and Diagnostic Tests Asking questions up front can help you understand the type of test your doctor orders and how your health plan will pay for it. And as with other health visits, going to an in-network provider can save you money. It’s important to know that there are both screening and diagnostic versions of many tests. For example, colonoscopies have both types of tests. Preventive A screening version is considered preventive care. Preventive screenings are routine tests ordered when there is no reason to suspect a problem. They are generally done at certain ages and intervals, like every two years. Many health plans cover most preventive health care services with no out-of-pocket costs when you go to your primary care provider or medical group (for HMOs) or a doctor or medical center in your plan’s network (non-HMO plans).* That means you pay no copay or coinsurance even if you haven’t met your deductible. You can find complete details of the preventive services your plan covers in your benefit book. Diagnostic If a person has symptoms or signs of a problem that were not found during a preventive screening, a diagnostic test will be ordered. Diagnostic tests take a closer look to see if disease is present. A diagnostic test may be ordered if anything unusual shows up on a preventive screening test. A diagnostic test is considered medical care, not preventive care. You will have out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic tests. For a colonoscopy, how much you may have to pay is based on what is ordered by your doctor and other factors. Preventive screening test: This is a routine colonoscopy for people who have no symptoms to suggest a problem. Diagnostic test: This testing is for people who have signs of a problem that were not found during a preventive screening. These may include anemia, gastrointestinal bleeding or blood detected by a stool test. You may have out-of-pocket costs for a diagnostic colonoscopy. The costs depend on what your doctor orders and whether there are other requirements for the kind of test you’re getting. For example, some states have laws that require certain tests to be covered without cost. Get the Details on Your Costs To avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs, ask your doctor what type of test is being ordered and what the estimated cost (if any) will be. Give the person who books your appointment the specific information from your health plan ID card. Make sure that the provider who will do the procedure is in-network. And ask if there are other providers who will be involved. Additional providers may perform related services like anesthesia and blood tests. Make sure all of the providers involved are in your plan’s network. Ask what facility you’ll be using and if it is in your plan’s network. And there may be additional costs for related services, such as bowel prep medicines, pathology tests and facility fees. Ask if you will have any related services that will affect your cost. To make sure a provider or facility is in your plan’s network, log in to your member account and go to Find Care. *Preventive services at no cost applies only to members enrolled in non-grandfathered health plans. You may have to pay all or part of the cost of preventive care if your health plan is grandfathered. To find out if your plan is grandfathered or non-grandfathered, call the customer service number on your member ID card. Sources: Screening for Colorectal Cancer , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2026; Colorectal Cancer Statistics , CDC, 2026; Colorectal Cancer , American Cancer SocietyBenefits and CoverageCancerPreventive CareColon HealthMedical CareColorectal Cancer Screening Optionshttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/espanol/b/seguroparati/posts/haz-una-lista-y-vuelvela-a-revisar-preparate-para-el-periodo-de-inscripciones-abiertasMon, 28 Sep 2026 12:22:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:fce63fa1-648d-43f0-9f94-ff4c48b197bbEquipoConnectEl período de inscripción abierta puede resultar confuso. Primas. Deducibles. Coaseguro. Redes. No te preocupes, estamos aquí para ayudarte. Aquí hay tres pasos importantes que te pueden ayudar a prepararte para el periodo de inscripción abierta de este año para obtener cobertura médica. Paso 1: toma nota de la fecha límite Marque su calendario y configure un recordatorio en su teléfono para las fechas de inscripción abierta, ya que pueden cambiar cada año. Paso 2: Reúne tu información personal Antes de comenzar a comprar, es posible que desees tener a mano cierta información personal: Comprobante de ciudadan ía o estatus migratorio de residente permanente de EE. UU. Números de Seguro Social o tarjetas de residente permanente o documentación que compruebe el estatus migratorio vigente de cada miembro de la familia. Comprobante de domicilio del estado donde vives Licencia de conducir, contrato de alquiler o factura de servicios públicos. Cobertura médica vigente Números de póliza de cualquier seguro médico e información sobre cualquier seguro médico disponible a través del empleo. Estatus migratorio Documentación con los números de estatus migratorio vigente. Ingresos de todos los miembros de la familia Formularios W-2, talones de cheques de pago, ingresos por desempleo/discapacidad, Seguro Social/pensión/jubilación, o copia de la declaración de impuestos más reciente. Método de pago ¿Cómo pagarás por la cobertura? ¿Pagarás con un cheque personal o tarjeta de débito o crédito? Paso 3: averigua si calificas para recibir ayuda para pagar los costos del seguro médico ¿Sabías que es posible que puedas obtener ayuda para pagar la cobertura de atención médica? Dependiendo de qué tan grande sea tu familia y cuánto ganes, puedes calificar para un subsidio , también conocido como crédito fiscal para las primas. Aprende mása Hay tres opciones principales para obtener más información sobre la inscripción abierta en Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico: Llámanos directamente al 888-809-1136 para hablar con un especialista en coberturas médicas autorizado de BCBSNM. Visita bcbsnm.com . Ahí puedes ver y todas las coberturas medicas disponibles. Comunícate con un agente de autorizado e independiente. Este es otro método de hablar directamente con alguien que te ayude a elegir un plan que cumpla con tus necesidades.Españolperiodo de inscripciónSeguro Para Tihttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/my-coverage-explained/b/weblog/posts/deals-blue365Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:36:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:332e0c52-05f0-4a9d-a09c-61eaa387b5a1BCBSNM Connect TeamDo your shopping lists never end? Are you a champion bargain hunter? Then Blue365 ® is perfect for you. Blue365 is a discount service that saves you money on a variety of everyday needs and healthy lifestyle aids. How Does It Work? Any member of a participating Blue Cross and Blue Shield plan is eligible for Blue365. With Blue365, you can browse available discounts that are updated regularly. Discounts fall into six categories: Apparel and footwear Fitness Hearing and vision Home and family Nutrition Personal care Here are some examples of what kind of deals you can find. Do you or your family need new athletic clothes to keep you warm while you’re on the move? Does anyone need new sneakers? Blue365 has savings from brands like allbirds and Skechers ® . Extra screen time for school or work can mean you or your family members might need eyewear. Do you have a loved one who could use dental services or a hearing test? You may find savings for glasses or contacts, dental services, or hearing aids. Has anyone been hinting they might like a wearable health or fitness monitor this year for a holiday gift? Choose devices from brands like Google FitBit ® , Garmin ® or Oura. Would you or someone you know get peace of mind with a remote medical monitoring system for infants or seniors? Blue365 savings may make this technology work with your budget. Even when bigger ticket needs or wishes come up — weight loss programs, gym memberships or online courses — Blue365 may have just what you need. How to Get Started Create a free account at blue365deals.com . Be sure to have your member ID card handy for this. Click All Deals on the top left of the screen. Or search in one of the categories. When you see the discount you want, click on Details . Sign up to get weekly deals sent directly to your email. Tips for Using Blue365 Like most sales, Blue365 deals come and go. If you see something you like, take advantage of the deal you find while it’s still available. You can search for the most recently added deals or deals that may be expiring soon using the search filter. There’s no limit to the number of deals you may use at any time. Feel free to try as many as you’d like! And you aren’t obligated to use any of the discounts if none of them appeal to you. Remember that Blue365 is not extra insurance coverage, and it is not a health plan. It’s a way to save money on health and wellness items and is an extra perk to your health coverage. Blue365 is a discount program only for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico members. This is NOT insurance. Discounts are only given through vendors that take part in this program. BCBSNM does not guarantee or make any claims or recommendations about the program’s services or products. BCBSNM reserves the right to stop or change this program at any time without notice. The relationship between the Blue365 vendors and BCBSNM is that of independent contractors. BCBSNM makes no endorsement, representations or warranties regarding any products or services they offer.DiscountsBenefits and CoverageBlue365Dealshttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/the-battle-brand-vs-generic-learn-factsMon, 28 Sep 2026 11:31:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:b0618b3e-75e4-43e0-8c1c-75e01d22f406BCBSNM Connect TeamTaking a generic drug is not like buying a store-brand soap. With soap, you might notice a difference. It may smell different. You may need to use more than the brand-name product. That is not true with generic drugs. When companies make a new brand-name drug, they get a patent. A patent stops other drug companies from making and selling the same drug before the patent runs out. When the patent on a brand-name drug expires, other drug companies can make a generic version. Generic versions can be equivalents or authorized generics, which are exact copies of the original brand name drug, or generic alternatives. Generic alternative drugs treat the same condition but do not have the same ingredients. After getting approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) , the generic drug is made and sold under the active ingredient’s name. Common Myths and Facts About Generic Drugs Myths Facts Generics are not as safe as brand-name drugs. Generic equivalents use the same ingredients. They work the same. They have the same risk-benefit profile. Generics are not as strong. Generic drugs have the same quality, strength, purity and stability. Generics take longer to act in the body. The generic drug delivers the same amount of active ingredient in the same time span. Brand-name drugs are made in modern manufacturing facilities, and generics are not. Use of sub-standard facilities is not permitted by the FDA. Brand-name drug Generic drug FDA Approved FDA Approved Marketed and developed by one drug company Made and sold by more than one company Sold under the trademark Sold under the trademark (authorized generics) What Is Bioequivalence? Generics don’t have to repeat the long clinical studies used to make the brand-name drug. The safety and value of the brand-name product has already been proven with research and many years of patient use. Instead, companies that want to make a generic must show the FDA that it is a “bioequivalent” to the brand drug. That means: It is made in the same way. It is made with the same ingredients. It acts the same in the body. How It Works The FDA considers several factors before it allows a company to make and sell a generic equivalent drug. There must be an FDA-approved brand-name drug the generic can copy. The generic must have the same ingredients at the same strength. It must come in the same form, like a tablet or liquid. It must be taken the same way, swallowed or given as a shot. It must have the same time release in the body, immediate-release for quick action or extended-release for slow effect over time. The drug company must show that the generic is bioequivalent to the brand-name. The generic's labeling must be the same. The drug company must prove the generic's chemistry, show how it’s made and uphold quality controls. Ingredients and the finished product must meet purity standards. The generic must be stable. It can’t change over time. The company must follow federal rules for good manufacturing. It must allow FDA inspections. Before the FDA approves a generic drug, it often checks the manufacturing site to make sure the company can meet its promises and produce a steady supply. Now that you know the care and safety that goes into making generic drugs, you can take yours with peace of mind. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about your treatment options. Sources: Generic Drug Facts , U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2021; What Is the Approval Process for Generic Drugs? , FDA, 2026, Generic Competition and Drug Prices , FDA, 2025FDAPrescriptionsHealth and WellnessPharmacyGeneric drugshttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/my-coverage-explained/b/weblog/posts/medical-tests-preventive-vs-diagnosticMon, 28 Sep 2026 09:58:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:bce1a335-4138-4ee4-9c04-dd838866ec4fBCBSNM Connect TeamWhen your doctor orders a test for you, it’s important to know what type of test is ordered. There are two types, preventive and diagnostic. Knowing the difference between these two types of tests will help you better understand your treatment plan. It will also help you understand how your health plan will pay for it. What’s the Difference? A screening test is often part of preventive care. Preventive screenings are routine tests ordered when there is no reason to suspect a problem. They are usually done at certain ages or timeframes depending on what they are for. The goal of these screenings is to check your health status and keep you healthy. In some cases, follow-up tests ordered by your doctor after the initial screening may also be considered preventive. A diagnostic test is ordered when there are signs or symptoms of a possible problem that were not found during a routine preventive screening. These tests take a closer look to see if disease is present. They are used to confirm or rule out a cause of the symptoms. Screening tests, such as Pap smears, colonoscopies and mammograms, are often less invasive than diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy. But some types of tests may have both preventive and diagnostic versions . For example, colonoscopies and breast cancer screenings have both preventive screening and diagnostic versions. A colonoscopy is often done as a preventive measure to detect any early signs of colon or rectal cancer. But a colonoscopy can also be a diagnostic test if it’s done because a problem is suspected. Similarly, a screening mammogram is usually performed regularly as a preventive measure. Preventive screening is used to detect breast cancer early, often before a lump can be felt. Your doctor may request additional tests as part of your preventive screening. Sometimes, your doctor may order breast cancer screening tests when there are signs of a problem that were not found during your routine screening tests. That may be considered a diagnostic test. A few things can affect whether a test is considered preventive or diagnostic. If you’re not sure what kind of test you’re having, ask your doctor. Test Type and Your Cost Share Many health plans cover most preventive health care services with no out-of-pocket costs.* This coverage applies when you go to your primary care provider or medical group (for HMOs) or a doctor or medical center in your plan’s network (for non-HMO plans). That means you pay no copay or coinsurance even if you haven’t met your deductible. You can find details about the preventive services your plan covers in your benefit materials. A diagnostic test is considered medical care, not preventive care. You may have out-of-pocket costs for these types of tests. The costs depend on what your doctor orders and if there are other requirements for that kind of test. For example, some states have laws that require certain tests to be covered without cost. Get the Details on Your Costs To avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs, here are some questions to ask your care team: What type of test or procedure will be ordered? Is it covered by my health plan? Is the provider in-network? Will any other providers be involved in the tests or procedures? Are they also in-network? Is the facility in-network? Are there any other related services or fees that may affect my costs? To make sure a provider or facility is in your plan’s network, log in to your online member account a nd go to Find Care . Depending on your plan, you may also be able to estimate the out-of-pocket costs for your tests or treatments. Knowledge is power. Know what type of test you’ll receive. This is the best way to be prepared to ask questions and not be surprised by unplanned costs. *Preventive services at no cost applies only to members enrolled in non-grandfathered health plans. You may have to pay all or part of the cost of preventive care if your health plan is grandfathered. To find out if your plan is grandfathered or non-grandfathered, call the customer service number on your member ID card. Sources: Screening and Diagnostic Tests: Know the Difference , Labcorp; Preventive vs. diagnostic care: What to know and why it matters , UCLA Health, 2022; Diagnostic Mammogram , National Breast Cancer Foundation, 2026Benefits and CoverageUnderstanding InsurancePreventive CareMedical Carehttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/making-a-list-checking-it-twice-preparing-for-open-enrollmentMon, 28 Sep 2026 09:25:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:c9d9a326-fa52-4bc6-8ce4-0d88b2476b8fBCBSNM Connect TeamThe open enrollment period can be confusing. Premiums. Deductibles. Coinsurance. Networks. We can help. Here are three important steps to help you prepare for this year’s open enrollment for health insurance coverage. Step 1: Make Note of the Deadline Mark your calendar and set a reminder on your phone for open enrollment dates as they may change every year. Step 2: Gather Your Personal Information Before you begin, you may want to have some personal information handy: Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency: That includes social security numbers or proof of legal residency for all family members. Current health insurance information: Gather policy numbers for any current health insurance you have and information about any available job-related insurance. State residency: You can use your driver’s license, housing lease or utility bills. Immigration status/legal residency status: If it applies to you, be sure to have your immigration document status numbers. Income information for all family members: This may include a copy of your last tax return, W-2 forms or pay stubs, and information about any unemployment, disability, social security, pension or retirement income. Method of payment: You can make your first (or “binder”) payment by personal check, cash or credit card. To make future payments automatically, you can sign up for Auto Bill Pay through your member account. Step 3: Find Out If You Qualify for Help to Pay Health Insurance Costs Do you know that you may be able to get help paying for health care coverage? Depending on how big your family is and how much you earn, you may qualify for financial help, such as a subsidy. Find Out More There are three main options to learn more about open enrollment from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico: 1. Call us directly at 888-809-1136 . H ealth plan specialists will answer your questions. 2. Visit bcbsnm.com . You can view all options available. 3. Contact an independent, authorized agent. This is another way to speak directly to someone who can help you choose a plan that meets your needs.Getting Health InsuranceBenefits and CoverageIndividual and Family CoverageCompare Health PlansBuy Health InsuranceOpen Enrollmenthttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/espanol/b/tucobertura/posts/ofertas-blue365Mon, 28 Sep 2026 09:11:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:cedeec2e-2ab4-4671-a33f-0b103674ce5eEquipoConnect¿Las listas de compras nunca terminan? ¿Eres cazaofertas? Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM) ofrece Blue365 ® , un servicio de descuentos para ahorrar dinero y tiempo en una variedad de necesidades cotidianas y servicios o artículos para un estilo de vida saludable. ¿Cómo funciona? Cualquier asegurado con cobertura participante a través de Blue Cross and Blue Shield es elegible para acceder a Blue365. Con Blue365, puedes hacer búsquedas de descuentos disponibles que se actualizan regularmente. Los descuentos se presentan en seis categorías: ropa y calzado, acondicionamiento físico, audición y visión, hogar y familia, nutrición cuidado personal. A continuación, te presentamos algunos ejemplos de los descuentas que puedes encontrar. ¿Tú o tu familia necesitan ropa deportiva para protegerse contra el frío mientras se ejercitan? ¿Alguno de ustedes necesita zapatillas nuevas? Blue365 ofrece descuentos de marcas como allbirds y Skechers ® . Pasar tiempo adicional frente a la pantalla por cuestiones laborales o escolares puede implicar que tú o tu familia necesiten artículos para la vista. ¿Tienes algún ser querido que pudiera necesitar servicios dentales o hacerse una prueba de audición? Podrías encontrar descuentos para anteojos o lentes de contacto, servicios dentales o aparatos auditivos. ¿Alguien ha insinuado que este año quisiera recibir un monitor portátil de la salud o de acondicionamiento físico? Elige dispositivos de marcas como Google FitBit ® o Garmin ® o Oura. ¿Crees que tú o algún conocido pueda tener tranquilidad si usan un sistema de monitoreo médico remoto para bebés o adultos mayores? Los ahorros en Blue365 podrían hacer que esta tecnología esté al alcance de tu presupuesto. Incluso si de gastos altos se trata, como programas para perder peso, membresías en gimnasios o cursos en línea, Blue365 podría ofrecer lo que necesitas. Cómo empezar Crea una cuenta gratuita en blue365deals.com . Ten tu tarjeta de asegurado de BCBSNM a la mano. Haz clic en Todas las ofertas​ en la parte superior izquierda de la pantalla. Cuando veas el descuento que deseas, haz clic en Detalles. Inscríbete para recibir las ofertas semanales directamente a tu correo electrónico. Consejos para usar Blue365 Al igual que la mayoría de las ventas, las ofertas de Blue365 vienen y van. Si ves algo que te gusta, aprovecha la oferta mientras esté disponible. A través del filtro de búsqueda puedes buscar ofertas recientes u ofertas que terminen pronto. La cantidad de ofertas que puedes usar en cualquier momento es ilimitada. Puedes usar todas las que deseas. Y no estás obligado a canjear ninguno de los descuentos si no te atraen. Recuerda que Blue365 no es un seguro de gastos médicos adicional ni una cobertura médica. Es un programa para ahorrar dinero en artículos para la salud y el bienestar y es un beneficio adicional a su cobertura médica de BCBSNM. *Blue365 es un programa de descuentos válido solamente para asegurados de Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico. Esto NO es un seguro. Algunos de los servicios que se ofrecen a través de este programa pueden estar incluidos en su seguro de gastos médicos. Debe consultar su certificado de beneficios y servicios médicos o llame al número de Servicio al Cliente que figura en su tarjeta de asegurado para obtener información específica sobre los beneficios. Usar Blue365 no cambia sus pagos mensuales, ni los costos de los servicios o los productos cuentan para los gastos máximos o los deducibles de la cobertura. Los descuentos solo se otorgan a través de proveedores que formen parte de este programa. BCBSNM no garantiza los servicios ni los productos de este programa ni hace afirmaciones o recomendaciones con respecto a ellos. Debe consultar a su médico antes de usar estos servicios y productos. BCBSNM se reserva el derecho a cancelar o cambiar estos programas en cualquier momento y sin aviso.EspañolTu CoberturaBlue365 EspañolDescuentoshttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/caregiver-self-careMon, 28 Sep 2026 08:26:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:485aa148-6770-4d06-addc-3e55b8aea9c9BCBSNM Connect TeamLook around and you’re bound to see a lot of caregivers. In the U.S., 1 in 4 adults are family caregivers. They may be caring for elderly parents, a sick spouse or disabled child. Caregiving in the United States is on the rise. According to AARP, 63 million adults, or one-quarter of all adults in America, act as a caregiver for an adult or for a child with a medical condition or disability. That’s an almost 45 percent increase over the last decade. Being a caregiver can be stressful and demanding. It often leads to caregiver burnout — a feeling of mental, physical and emotional exhaustion. Poor health, depression and anxiety are all symptoms of burnout. To cope with the pressures, caregivers may turn to smoking, alcohol or other unhealthy behaviors. If you’re a caregiver, it’s important to understand how it can impact you and what you may need to do to take better care of yourself. What Is a Family Caregivers? The Mayo Clinic describes caregivers as any adult who helps take care of another person, a spouse or partner, aging family member or friend, or a child with a disability. Often caregivers are employed full-time while also trying to balance the demands of caring for others. Many caregivers are part of what is called the “ sandwich generation .” That refers to people, typically in their 40s through early 60s, who are caring for older parents or family members, and caring for their own children, while also working full-time. How Caregiving Affects Physical, Mental and Financial Health While there are paid caregivers, increasing costs of living and care have led to more people acting as unpaid caregivers themselves instead of being able to hire help. Caregivers often wind up feeling stretched thin, trying to balance their life, work and caregiving responsibilities. While caregivers are trying to manage these responsibilities, they’re also often dealing with increased financial strain and work stress. Given the heavy burden, it’s no surprise that 1 in 5 caregivers report poor health . And many have high levels of stress , and that stress gets worse when they don’t feel they have enough support or even know where to ask for help. What Are the Signs of Caregiver Burnout? Caregivers may feel that there just isn’t enough time to take care of themselves. Thinking about self-care can feel like adding yet another “thing to do” to their ever-growing list. But without support and self-care, caregivers are at higher risk for mental and physical health problems. They can be at higher risk for depression and anxiety and other health conditions, like heart disease and diabetes. If you’re getting burned out, it’s important to get help. Some signs of caregiver burnout include: Feeling burdened or worrying all the time. Feeling tired often. Sleeping too much or not enough. Unexpectedly gaining or losing weight. Becoming easily frustrated or angry. Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy. Feeling sad. Having frequent headaches or other pains or health problems. Misusing alcohol or drugs, including prescription medicines. Missing your own medical appointments. Caregiver Support Resources and Ways to Get Help Are you or someone you know caregiving? Many people have heard that to care for others, you need to care for yourself first. But for many caregivers, that’s easier said than done. It’s important to know that it’s OK to look for support and ask for help for yourself, too. Caregiving is hard. Being a caregiver for loved ones can feel good and have benefits. But it can also be emotionally, physically, mentally and financially draining at times. It’s OK to accept help. If you’re not sure where to start looking for support, here are some suggestions from the Mayo Clinic: Join a local or online peer support group of other caregivers. Connecting and sharing with others going through similar experiences can help with stress and frustration. Short-term care, called respite care, can give caregivers a break. This care can be provided by a person or facility you pay for or a volunteer family member or friend. Seek social support through local community centers, faith-based organizations, or recreational centers or groups. Focus on what you can do. Try to identify small, simple changes that seem manageable and add them to your routine. You might start with small diet improvements or learn a short meditation to try. If there are other family members or friends who are willing to help, consider delegating responsibilities to lessen the caregiving load. Talk with your doctor or a mental health professional for support. If going in person is hard, try a telehealth visit. If you have a health insurance plan through your employer, consider taking advantage of your company’s Employer Assistance Program services and Family and Medical Leave Act benefits. If you have an individual and family/Marketplace plan, be sure to check your benefit materials or member account to see what mental health benefits and resources your plan includes. Some local organizations, like your local Area Agency on Aging, may also have resources to help with the financial burden of caregiving. For more resources, check out AARP’s care guides or local caregiving resources . And the Caregiver Action Network offers the Family Caregiver Toolbox . Sources: Caregiver stress: Tips for taking care of yourself , Mayo Clinic, 2023; Changes in Health Indicators Among Caregivers — United States, 2015–2016 to 2021–2022 , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Caregiving in the US Research Report , AARP, 2025; The Sandwich Generation Feels the Caregiving Crunch , AARP, 2020; The Sandwich Generation: Balancing Care for Parents and Children , Caregiver Action Network; National Respite Locator Service , ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center; Caregiving and the Sandwich Generation , Mental Health America, 2026; Caring for yourself while caring for others , NIH MedlinePlus Magazine, 2024StressBehavioral HealthHealth and WellnessMental HealthHealthy MindUnderstanding Behavioral Healthhttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/nutrition/w/recipe-book/350/thai-fried-rice-khao-padWed, 23 Sep 2026 15:43:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:766849f2-4ea9-4985-b240-998425e55b5bBCBSNM Connect TeamIngredients: Makes 6 servings 2 3/4 cup Jasmine Rice, cooked 2 Eggs 1 1/2 tsp Canola Oil 3 TBSP Canola Oil 3 TBSP Shallot, minced 2 TBSP Garlic, minced 1 1/2 tsp Low Sodium Soy Sauce 2 TBSP Fish Sauce 1/2 tsp White Pepper 2 TBSP Scallion, green, sliced 1/3 cup Cilantro, chopped Directions: Spread cooked rice in a thin layer on a sheet tray and cool. Fried rice is best with using leftover, cold rice. Crack eggs into a bowl. Whisk eggs. Heat 1 1/2 tsp oil in a nonstick pan on medium. Scramble eggs and break them into small pieces. Remove eggs and set aside. Add 3 TBSP oil to the same nonstick pan. Add shallots and garlic. Cook until fragrant. Add rice in a thin layer, being careful not to overcrowd pan. Allow rice to cook and get crispy, only stirring every 30 seconds or so. Cook until rice is nicely fried in places and heated through. Add soy sauce and fish sauce, toss rice. Add scrambled eggs, white pepper and scallions. Gently mix to incorporate. Garnish with fresh cilantro prior to serving. Serving Size: Serving size: 1/2 cup Nutritional Information: Per serving: 200 calories, 9 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 100 mg sodium, 20 g carbohydrate, 0 g sugar, 1 g fiber, 4 g protein Recipe Source: Recipe provided by FLIK Hospitality GroupAsianVegetarianSide DishesDiabetes/prediabetes - Carb ConsciousHeart Disease - Heart consciousHigh blood pressure - Sodium ConsciousRecipe bookGeneral Healthy - Health Conscioushttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/nutrition/w/recipe-book/349/thai-green-bean-saladWed, 23 Sep 2026 15:42:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:f2221e24-5a56-4d39-b6cf-81376e08159aBCBSNM Connect TeamIngredients: Makes 6 servings 1/2 lb Green Beans 1/4 tsp Sriracha 1 tsp Garlic, minced 3 tsp Brown Sugar 1 tsp Fish Sauce 3 tsp Lime Juice 1/4 tsp Canola Oil 3 oz Cherry Tomatoes, halved Directions: Trim green beans and cut into 1-inch pieces. Place green beans in a zip top bag or on a cutting board and smash them slightly with a heavy bottomed pan, just until slightly broken and bruised. In a bowl, whisk together sriracha, garlic, brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice and canola oil. In a bowl, toss together green beans, dressing and cherry tomatoes. Allow salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes in refrigerator before serving. Serving Size: Serving size: 1/2 cup Nutritional Information: Per serving: 25 calories, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 90 mg sodium, 5 g carbohydrate, 2 g sugar, 1 g fiber, 1 g protein Recipe Source: Recipe provided by FLIK Hospitality GroupAsianVegetarianSide DishesDiabetes/prediabetes - Carb ConsciousHeart Disease - Heart consciousHigh blood pressure - Sodium ConsciousRecipe bookGeneral Healthy - Health ConsciousSalad and Salad dressingshttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/nutrition/w/recipe-book/348/minty-thai-chicken-salad-lettuce-wrapsWed, 23 Sep 2026 15:41:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:541201dd-c4e8-41a0-a929-207f6260cff2BCBSNM Connect TeamIngredients: Makes 4 servings 1 tsp Canola Oil 1/4 tsp Paprika 1 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper 2 TBSP Onion, diced 1 1/4 tsp Lemongrass, minced 3/4 lb Ground Chicken 3/4 tsp Light Brown Sugar 1 TBSP Fish Sauce 1 Makrut Lime Leaf 1/3 cup Green Cabbage, shredded 2 oz Tomatoes, Julienne Sliced 2 oz Cucumber, Julienne Sliced 2 TBSP Lime Juice 3 TBSP Mint, chopped 12 each Bibb Lettuce Leaves 12 sprigs Cilantro, fresh Directions: Heat oil in a sauté pan. Add paprika and crushed red pepper. Cook for 10 seconds. Add onion and lemongrass, cook until softened. Add chicken, brown sugar, and fish sauce. Cook until chicken is cooked through temping 165ºF. Julienne lime leaf. In a bowl combine chicken mixture, lime leaf, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumber, lime juice and mint leaves. Chill mixture. Fill each lettuce leaf with 1/4 cup of chicken mixture. Garnish each lettuce wrap with a sprig of cilantro. Serving Size: Serving size: 3 each Nutritional Information: Per serving: 130 calories, 7 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 490 mg sodium, 4 g carbohydrate, 1 g sugar, 1 g fiber, 13 g protein Recipe Source: Recipe provided by FLIK Hospitality GroupAsianDiabetes/prediabetes - Carb ConsciousRecipe bookGeneral Healthy - Health ConsciousEntreehttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/review-insulin-injections-with-doctorWed, 23 Sep 2026 13:47:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:bfa231fc-710d-4f4f-8223-e4c97d0fae34BCBSNM Connect TeamWhen, where and how you inject your insulin affects your blood sugar levels. Whether you’re new to injecting insulin or have been doing it for many years, it’s crucial that you do it properly. To help you stay on top of your condition, talk to your doctor about it at least once a year. Review your injection instructions and ask questions. If your treatment changes, make sure you understand any new steps. Controlling and monitoring your blood sugar is a vital way to help avoid or delay serious health problems related to diabetes. Incorrect time, dose or method of injecting your insulin can make your blood sugar control worse. Remember these important steps: Stick to a routine. Take your insulin at the recommended time each day. Wash your hands before you start. Make sure the injection site is clean and dry. Switch your injection site each time. This helps avoid lumps under your skin that make it harder for your body to absorb the medicine. Switch between your upper arm, outer thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Do not reuse needles, and dispose of them safely. Store your insulin properly. Insulin works best when it’s stored at the right temperature and used by the expiration date. Each person’s treatment is different. Be sure to ask your doctor about your specific treatment. It’s also important to tell your doctor about any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, supplements or vitamins you’re taking. Some of them can interfere with your insulin. You’re not alone in treating your diabetes. We want to help you manage your health. Making sure you inject your insulin safely and effectively helps keep your blood sugar level in a normal range so you can stay healthier. Learn More About Managing Diabetes Visit our Diabetes section for more articles about managing diabetes. Sources: Diabetes Complications and Risks , American Heart Association, 2026; Type 2 Diabetes , Mayo Clinic, 2025; 4 Ways to Take Insulin , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Insulin Routines , American Diabetes AssoicationInsulinHealth and WellnessDiabetesManaging Your DiabetesHealth Conditions and Preventionhttps://connect.bcbsnm.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/prevent-virusesFri, 18 Sep 2026 19:12:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:dae6b07b-b085-422d-9809-1d372e15eb43EquipoConnectLas probabilidades de contraer una enfermedad viral son mayores en ciertas épocas del año, como durante el regreso a clases, cuando bajan las temperaturas y las personas pasan más tiempo en interiores, antes de las fiestas de otoño e invierno y al comienzo del nuevo año. Ahora es el momento de encontrar las mejores maneras de protegerte a ti y a tu familia de virus como los del resfriado, la gripe, la COVID-19 y el VRS ( virus respiratorio sincitial ). Los virus pueden causar enfermedades de distinta gravedad, desde leves hasta muy graves. Aunque el cuerpo de muchas personas puede combatir la mayoría de las enfermedades virales, algunas son más vulnerables. Los niños y los adultos mayores pueden enfermarse gravemente o incluso morir a causa de algunos virus. Por eso es importante que tú y tu familia tengan un plan. Un virus se propaga rápidamente si se transmite por el aire, como los virus de la COVID-19, el VRS, el resfriado o la gripe. Eso significa que se propaga cuando las personas enfermas no se cubren la cara al estar cerca de otras personas. El virus puede permanecer en el aire el tiempo suficiente para llegar a otras personas, aunque no estén cerca. A veces también puede propagarse cuando el virus está en las manos de una persona infectada o en algo que haya tocado. Hay medidas que puedes tomar para protegerte a ti y a tu familia. Vacúnate Vacúnate contra la gripe. Al igual que el resfriado, la gripe es contagiosa y causada por un virus. A diferencia del resfriado, puedes vacunarte para ayudar a protegerte a ti y a otras personas contra la gripe. Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, en inglés) indican que la mayoría de las personas mayores de seis meses deben vacunarse contra la gripe cada año . La gripe puede propagarse antes de que aparezcan los síntomas. Por eso otras personas pueden contagiarte incluso antes de saber que tienen gripe. La vacuna tarda aproximadamente dos semanas en proteger contra la infección por el virus de la gripe. Así que vacúnate lo antes posible. También es importante que estés al día con las vacunas y los refuerzos contra la COVID-19 . Los CDC indican que las vacunas son una forma segura y eficaz de protegerte contra la COVID-19. La vacuna se recomienda para la mayoría de las personas mayores de seis meses. Evita los gérmenes Seguir algunos pasos comunes puede ayudar a prevenir enfermedades. Recuerda hacer lo siguiente: Lávate las manos frecuentemente con agua y jabón durante al menos 20 segundos. Cuando no tengas agua y jabón a la mano, usa un desinfectante de manos a base de alcohol. Cuando tosas, cúbrete la boca y la nariz con un pañuelo desechable o con la camisa. Enséñales a los niños a doblar el brazo frente a la cara y a toser en la parte interior del codo. Después de usar un pañuelo desechable, tíralo a la basura. Evita tocarte los ojos, la nariz y la boca con las manos sin lavar cuando estés en un lugar público. Evita el contacto cercano con personas que estén enfermas. Quédate en casa cuando estés enfermo. Limpia y desinfecta los objetos y las superficies que se tocan con frecuencia. Esto incluye juguetes, manijas de puertas, grifos y controles remotos de televisión. No compartas bebidas ni utensilios cuando estés fuera de casa. Cada una de estas medidas ayuda a reducir el riesgo de contraer y propagar enfermedades infecciosas. Sin embargo, no existe una sola manera de prevenirlas. Por eso es importante practicar buenos hábitos que te ayuden a reducir el riesgo, señala Cleveland Clinic . Esto es especialmente importante para las personas con mayor riesgo de contraer enfermedades infecciosas, que incluyen: las personas con el sistema inmunitario debilitado, como quienes reciben tratamiento contra el cáncer, viven con VIH (sida) o toman ciertos medicamentos; los niños pequeños; las embarazadas; los adultos mayores de 60 años; las personas que no están vacunadas contra enfermedades infecciosas comunes; el personal de atención médica. Enfermarse no es agradable para nadie y puede ser peligroso. Pero puedes reducir considerablemente el riesgo al protegerte activamente a ti y a tu familia. ¿No sabes qué tienes? Si tienes resfriado, estornudos, tos o dolor de garganta, puede ser difícil saber si los síntomas se deben a alergias, un resfriado, la gripe o la COVID-19. Obtén consejos para saber cómo distinguirlos. Fuentes: Infectious Diseases , Cleveland Clinic, 2025; Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19 , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; About Influenza , CDC, 2026; COVID-19 Vaccines , CDC, 2025; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) , CDCEspañolTu SaludvacunasPrevención de la gripeLa gripeSalud y BienestarCOVID-19https://connect.bcbsnm.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/forma-rapida-de-ponerte-en-formaFri, 04 Sep 2026 10:16:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:2c9d4820-ef86-4e84-abab-3a8666430dabEquipoConnectSi quieres dar un giro a tu rutina de ejercicio, tienes muchas opciones. Si quieres aumentar tu nivel de acondicionamiento físico pero no tienes mucho tiempo, un entrenamiento más corto y eficiente puede ser la respuesta. Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades afirman que los adultos deben realizar regularmente actividades aeróbicas y de fortalecimiento muscular. El objetivo es hacer 150 minutos de ejercicio a la semana. Puedes repartir esos 150 minutos como más te convenga. Lo que funcione para ti Empieza por analizar tu nivel físico actual. Si aún no eres activo/a, habla con tu médico antes de comenzar un nuevo plan de ejercicios. Algunas formas de moverte más, como añadir más pasos a tu día o dedicar tiempo a los estiramientos, son seguras para muchas personas. Pero los planes de ejercicio no son iguales para todos. Si ya eres una persona activa y buscas algo nuevo, prueba los microentrenamientos. Las sesiones de ejercicio reducidas pueden ser muy eficaces. Y son una ventaja para quienes no tienen mucho tiempo para hacer ejercicio. Entrenamiento por intervalos Un microentrenamiento es el entrenamiento por intervalos. El entrenamiento aeróbico por intervalos , a veces llamado entrenamiento por intervalos de alta intensidad (HIIT), comenzó con los atletas élite. Pero no necesitas ser un atleta para hacerlo. El entrenamiento por intervalos consiste en alternar ráfagas cortas de actividad intensa con intervalos más largos de actividad menos intensa. Para empezar, las ráfagas de mayor intensidad deben ser de unos 30 segundos cada una, seguidas de una actividad de intensidad regular durante uno o dos minutos. El tipo de actividad que utilices para el entrenamiento por intervalos depende de tu nivel de acondicionamiento físico y de lo que te guste hacer. Es una forma de quemar más calorías en menos tiempo. También puede ayudar a evitar que te aburras. Otra ventaja es que no requiere de ningún equipo nuevo. La idea puede incorporarse a lo que ya estás haciendo. Prueba correr un poco en tu paseo habitual o a aumentar el ritmo regularmente durante una caminata. Puedes empezar a añadir intervalos a tu programa de entrenamiento poco a poco, sólo uno o dos intervalos de mayor intensidad durante cada entrenamiento. A medida que tu forma física mejore, puedes retarte a ti mismo con más intervalos. Incrementa hasta un total de 30 minutos para tu entrenamiento a intervalos. Asegúrate de hacer calentamientos durante unos cinco minutos antes de empezar a añadir intervalos y de enfriarte durante cinco minutos. Un total de 10 a 15 minutos de tu entrenamiento debe realizarse a una mayor intensidad. Durante el resto del tiempo, incluyendo el calentamiento y el enfriamiento, la actividad debe realizarse a un nivel de intensidad normal. Además de conseguir un mejor entrenamiento en un periodo de tiempo más corto, el entrenamiento a intervalos puede sacarte de un bache de aburrimiento al añadir algo nuevo. Si tienes problemas de salud o no haces ejercicio con regularidad, consulta a tu médico antes de empezar cualquier tipo de entrenamiento a intervalos. Otras opciones de acondicionamiento físico Si buscas más ideas que te ayuden a mantener tu ejercicio interesante, pruebe algunas de estas ideas. Entrenamiento en línea: Fácil de hacer en casa, el entrenamiento en línea puede hacerse a solas o en grupo. Puede ser una clase individual con un profesor. Dispositivos portátiles: Mantente motivado/a y en el camino correcto con un reloj inteligente o un rastreador de acondicionamiento físico. Pueden ayudarte a vigilar tu ritmo cardíaco y a controlar el tiempo que pasas de forma activa, sedentaria o durmiendo. Entrenamiento con el peso del cuerpo: El entrenamiento con pesas utilizando el peso del cuerpo es un plan que vuelve a lo elemental y puede ser barato porque utiliza poco equipo. Actividades organizadas al aire libre: Caminatas en grupo, paseos en bicicleta, excursiones... el cielo es el límite con actividades al aire libre. Y hacer ejercicio en grupo puede ayudarte a mantener la motivación y a divertirte más. Entrenamiento de fuerza con pesas libres: El entrenamiento con pesas libres puede hacerse solo o con un compañero o grupo en un gimnasio, en casa o incluso al aire libre. Es una buena idea empezar con un entrenador que te muestre la forma adecuada. Programas de acondicionamiento físico para personas mayores: Ahora existen más programas de acondicionamiento físico para los Baby Boomers que desean mantenerse activos. Sources: Adult Activity: An Overview , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023; Interval training for heart health , Mayo Clinic, 2023; Interval training: A shorter, more enjoyable workout? , Harvard Medical School, 2024EspañolTu SaludNutriciónEjercicioPeso