Mental Floss

HEALTH

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A Chemical in Spider Venom Could Be a Key to Killing Skin Cancer Cells

A spider capable of killing you in 15 minutes might one day save your life.

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What Are Tonsil Stones?

They're kind of gross, but pretty common—and almost always harmless.

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Why You Shouldn't Skip the Flu Shot This Year

About 900,000 people were hospitalized for influenza last year. Here's how to avoid becoming one of them this season.

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Ohio Nurse Collects Barely Worn Hospital Socks for the Homeless

Kathy Francis collects and washes 35 pairs of hospital socks a week to give to people in need.

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7 Surprising Uses for Vodka

It's National Vodka Day. Think outside the bottle.

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The Most Googled Health Symptoms in Each State

Wisconsin has a green poop problem.

W3stfa11, Wikimedia Commons // CC BY-SA 3.0

The State Fair of Texas Is Offering "Sensory-Friendly" Morning Hours for Individuals With Autism

During Wednesday mornings, the fair will be a little easier on the eyes and ears.

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What Causes Hiccups?

The answer depends on whom you ask.

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PTSD Might Be Contagious

A survivor's spouse—or even their therapist—could be at risk.

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Artificial Ingredients Have Been Removed From McDonald's Classic Burgers

Included are Big Macs and cheeseburgers.

Stephen G. Dreiseszun, Viewpoint Photographers

New Apartment Complex in Phoenix Helps Adults With Autism Live Independently

Rent includes classes at the local community college.

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Life Insurer John Hancock Will Give You Discounts for Your Apple Watch Data

Your Fitbit and Apple Watch data could score you discounts.

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A Simple Trick for Making Even the Most Uncomfortable Chair 'Sittable'

Banish the backrest.

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The 'Pet First Aid' App From the Red Cross Prepares Pet Parents for Almost Any Situation

Find out what behavior is normal—and what warrants a trip to the vet.

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When the French Village of Pont-Saint-Esprit Went Temporarily Mad

The 1951 mass poisoning has been blamed on everything from tainted bread to a CIA experiment with LSD.

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The Most Influential Parasite in History

By some estimates, malaria has killed half of everyone who has ever lived—and it almost took down one former president.

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Should You Take a Daily Aspirin to Prevent Heart Disease?

A new study raises new questions.

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5 Ways to Express Your Gratitude (and Reap Its Benefits)

Studies show that taking stock of the good things in your life can increase your well-being.

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10 Facts About Rosacea

A recent study found that an estimated 415 million people worldwide suffer from the disorder.

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How Often Should You Poop?

Relax. Just do what feels right.

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Why You Should Be Wary of Prescription Drug Ads on TV

The persuasive ads can run afoul of FDA regulations and may not be telling you the whole story.

Apple

Move Over Life Alert: New Apple Watch Can Tell When You Fall and Will Call For Help

It launches September 21.

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This Mindfulness App Wants to Break You of Your Smartphone Addiction

Can't stay off your phone? Download Flipd.

10 Facts About Endometriosis

Pain, heavy periods, and infertility are symptoms of a condition affecting millions of women and girls.