(HealthDay News) - If hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause are cramping your style, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these suggestions:

* Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.

* Get plenty of regular exercise.

* Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help certain women, but it carries medical risks. Discuss HRT with your doctor.

* Foods rich in soy may help some side effects, such as hot flashes.

* Get plenty of sleep, and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

(HealthDay News) -- Between 5 percent and 20 percent of Americans will get hit by the flu bug this year, but some simple precautions can keep you from becoming one of that number, an expert said.

The flu shot is the most effective method of preventing the flu, said Dr. Robert C. Goldszer, associate chief medical officer at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. It's important to get your shot early in the flu season -- October and November -- and to get a shot every year, Goldszer said. Everyone is eligible for a flu shot, and many places offer it for little or no cost.

(HealthDay News) - If hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause are cramping your style, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these suggestions:

* Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.
* Get plenty of regular exercise.
* Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help certain women, but it carries medical risks. Discuss HRT with your doctor.
* Foods rich in soy may help some side effects, such as hot flashes.
* Get plenty of sleep, and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
* Avoid caffeine and alcohol.