Neck PROBLEMS!

Every time you look in the mirror, a key to your well-being stares back at you. An enlarged  thyroid may mean your gland is producing too much or too little hormone. The key is knowing what to watch for. Perform this simple self-check once every two months.

1. Hold a mirror in front of you and focus your gaze on the lower front area of your neck, right above your collarbone.
2. Tilt your head back, moving the mirror along with you.
3. Take a medium-size sip of water.
4. As you swallow, watch your thyroid area, checking for any unusual bulges or protrusions. (Note: don't confuse your thyroid with your Adam's apple, which is farther up.)
5. If you see anything suspicious, go to your doc.

Q: How long does it take to gain a pound of fat?

   Activity level, age, and size determine how many calories you need in a day to maintain your weight. After you eat something, your body takes days to process the nutrients that are burned for fuel, and then stores excess calories as fat.

   It was thought that 3,500 extra calories equaled a pound, but new research found that the number varies. For example, over time, lean people gain less obese people  do after taking in the same amount of additional calories.