Pregnant women warned against using weight-loss jabs

A Texas woman tragically died after contracting a rare and deadly brain infection caused by a "brain-eating" amoeba. Health officials traced the infection back to contaminated water in her RV’s tank, which she used for nasal rinsing. The CDC confirmed the case, highlighting the extreme—but real—dangers of improper water use for personal hygiene.

Editor’s Note: This story is a grim reminder of how something as routine as nasal rinsing can turn deadly if done with unsafe water. While infections like this are extremely rare, they’re almost always fatal—making it crucial to use sterile or properly treated water for medical or hygiene purposes. It’s also a wake-up call for RV owners and travelers about maintaining clean water systems, even in seemingly low-risk scenarios.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is overseeing significant staff and budget reductions at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA), with its workforce slashed by over a third. Experts are sounding the alarm that these cuts could undo hard-won progress in tackling overdose deaths and mental health crises.

Editor’s Note: SAMHSA plays a crucial role in addressing addiction and mental health—issues that have only grown more urgent in recent years. Cutting its resources now could mean fewer programs, less research, and ultimately, more lives lost to preventable causes. It’s a move that could ripple through communities already struggling with these crises.

Big food companies are racing to simplify their products by slashing the number of ingredients they use, touting these pared-down versions as better for consumers. But here’s the catch: fewer ingredients don’t always mean healthier. Some experts argue it’s more about marketing than nutrition, leaving shoppers to wonder if they’re being sold a genuine upgrade or just clever packaging.

Editor’s Note: We’re all trying to eat better, and food brands know it. By trimming down ingredient lists, they’re tapping into the demand for "clean" eating—but it’s worth asking whether these changes are meaningful or just another way to charge more for the same old stuff. This story matters because it digs into how companies respond to health trends and whether we’re really getting what we pay for.

Trump's nominee for surgeon general, who has publicly slammed corporate influence in healthcare for putting profits over public health, is now facing scrutiny for his own financial ties to wellness products. It's a classic case of "do as I say, not as I do"—criticizing conflicts of interest while potentially benefiting from similar arrangements.

Editor’s Note: This story highlights the tension between political appointees' public rhetoric and their private financial dealings. If the person tasked with safeguarding the nation's health is entangled in the same conflicts they condemn, it undermines trust in public health leadership—especially at a time when skepticism toward institutions is already high.

Al Roker brought his Start TODAY Walk to Philadelphia, leading a lively two-mile stroll through the city with some iconic local flair—Philly Phanatic and Gritty, the beloved mascots, joined in on the fun. It was a mix of fitness and hometown spirit, showcasing the city’s charm while promoting healthy habits.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another celebrity appearance—it’s a feel-good moment that ties together health, local pride, and a dash of star power. Events like this highlight how simple, joyful activities (with a side of mascot antics) can bring people together and inspire healthier lifestyles. Plus, who doesn’t love seeing Gritty and the Phanatic out causing mischief?