Smoking is one of the worst habits you can take up since it's linked to all sorts of health risks such as lung cancer, emphysema, and cardiovascular disease. That's a pretty convincing list to make anyone quit (or never start), but a recent study suggests one surprisingly good thing could come out of smoking — prevention of certain types of allergies. Smoking cigarettes decreases the body's Read more

Curfew Violators Face Violence: Police in Kashmir have warned they will shoot any violators of a curfew imposed in Kashmir ahead of a huge, planned independence rally. Some Muslim protesters are ignoring the curfew to denounce Pakistani President Zardari who said the Islamic militants fighting Indian rule are "terrorists." Pakistan has previously supported anti-Indian militants and has fought Read more

Black lawmakers want menthol flavor included in a bill set to ban cigarettes with a candy, fruit, or spice flavor. The Congressional Black Caucus says the legislation should not specifically exempt menthol cigarettes, the flavor favored in the black community, according to today's New York Times. Since the 1950s, tobacco companies have targeted menthol cigarette advertising at the black Read more

A new coffee shop opened up near where I live, and they serve more than lattes and peppermint tea. When you walk by, you can see tables outside with people puffing on hookahs. This whole hookah bar/parlor scene has found its way into American culture, and its popularity raises an important question. Is it safe? When you smoke from a hookah, you inhale flavored tobacco from a hose that is attached Read more

I think sweet potatoes have gotten a bad rap because of their high carb content. They shouldn't be overlooked because they are one of the most nutritious foods you can eat. Not only that, they are a great option if you're craving something sweet. Want to know why they're so good for you? They're bursting with healing antioxidants due to their high levels of vitamins A and C. Antioxidants Read more