Banner Health

01/20/2026

Beets are more than just a colorful addition to your plate—they are a functional food with scientifically backed benefits for your heart and muscles.

From supporting cardiovascular health to enhancing stamina during exercise, the natural nitrates found in beets play a vital role in how your body uses oxygen. But with the rise of beet powders and capsules, it can be hard to know which form is most effective for your goals.

Our latest blog explores the science behind this root vegetable and helps you navigate the choice between whole foods and supplements.

In this post, we cover:
- The role of nitrates in supporting healthy blood pressure levels.
- How beets can help improve recovery times for athletes.
- A comparison of fresh beets versus processed supplements.
- Important considerations for those prone to kidney stones.

Learn how to incorporate this nutritional powerhouse into your routine: https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/teach-me/beet-basics-what-beet-root-offers-and-when-to-consider-a-supplement

01/17/2026

When the temperatures drop, we tend to seal up our homes to stay warm—but that can also trap dust, allergens and pollutants inside.

Breathe easier this season with a few simple adjustments to your indoor environment. We break down how to keep your air fresh and your family healthy all winter long.

Small changes can make a big difference for your lungs this season. Get the rest of our winter air quality tips here: https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/simple-ways-to-keep-indoor-air-clean-this-winter

01/16/2026

Feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just out of balance lately? Meditation might be the simple reset you’ve been looking for. Studies show that even a few minutes of intentional breathing and mindfulness can help calm your mind, reduce stress and improve focus throughout your day.

It’s easy to get started with meditation, and a short, simple meditation practice can boost your physical and mental health. Here’s how to begin.

01/15/2026

Feeling stressed at work or juggling too much at home? You’re not alone and there are workplace benefits designed to help you through life’s ups and downs. Many people don’t realize their job may include an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) — a free confidential resource that supports your well-being and the well-being of your household.

Learn how employee assistance programs provide confidential mental health support, counseling and resources to cope with stress, anxiety and challenges.

01/14/2026

Most of us know smoking greatly increases the chance of lung cancer. But here’s something important: lung cancer can still happen in people who have never smoked at all and it’s more common than many people realize. About 10 % to 20 % of lung cancers in the United States occur in people who have never smoked or smoked fewer than 100 ci******es in their lifetime.

If you’ve never smoked, you may still be at risk of lung cancer. Learn the causes of lung cancer other than smoking and learn the means of prevention.

01/14/2026

Winter can throw our routines out of whack and that includes when we eat. What if changing when you eat could help your immune system stay stronger all season long? According to health experts, eating on a regular schedule that matches your body’s natural rhythm can support digestion, sleep and even your immune defenses.

Feeling rundown in winter? Your eating schedule may play a role. Learn how chrononutrition and meal timing can support your energy and immune health.

01/14/2026

Many people think all pneumonia is the same — but the truth is more complex. Learn what pneumonia really is, how anyone can get it and key steps to protect yourself. https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/better-me/myths-and-facts-about-pneumonia

01/14/2026

If your period didn’t show up on time it can feel confusing or stressful. Pregnancy and menopause are two obvious reasons for a missed cycle but there are other common causes that lots of people experience too.

Missed your period? Beyond pregnancy, it could be due to PCOS, eating disorders, menopause, stress, weight changes or medical conditions. Learn when to get care.

01/13/2026

Have you noticed it’s a little harder to read small print, drive at night or keep your eyes feeling comfortable after a long day? Just like skin or muscles, your eyes change as you get older — and many of those changes are completely normal. But there’s also a lot you can do to help keep your vision sharp for years to come.

Your vision changes as you age. Learn common age-related eye problems, what warning signs to watch for and how to protect your eyesight for years to come.

01/13/2026

Leading Scottsdale cardiologist Dr. David Rizik is speaking out about the urgent need for expanded health care access in the northeast Valley with a recent OpEd published in the Phoenix Business Journal. Serving Scottsdale patients for more than three decades, Dr. Rizik recently joined Banner Health because he recognizes what the data clearly shows: the community needs more health care options, not fewer.

"I didn't leave my professional home for decades lightly," Dr. Rizik writes. "I made the leap to Banner because I see what's coming: a future where world-class care, advanced research, and real hope for the sickest patients are the standard, not the exception. I've yet to meet a patient who's complained about having too many health care options. This is about survival, not convenience."

Learn more: https://www.bannerhealth.com/banner-scottsdale

01/12/2026

Feeling bloated sluggish or just out of sync after the holidays and heavy eating? You don’t need a strict cleanse or harsh detox to get your digestion back on track. A gentle reset with small kind changes can help your gut feel better and boost your overall well being

A season of comfort food and heavy meals can leave your digestive system feeling off. You don’t need a cleanse or detox. Try these gentle steps instead.

01/12/2026

If you’ve been wondering “Is it time for my daughter to see a gynecologist?” — you’re not alone! As our daughters grow up, their bodies change and questions come up that are perfectly normal to explore with a trusted health professional.

Your daughter’s first gynecology visit is a big milestone. It can be exciting and scary for your teen. Here’s how to prepare them for their first visit.

01/12/2026

As we get older it’s normal for visits to feel rushed or confusing, especially when there’s a lot to cover. But you deserve to be heard and understood every time you talk with your doctor. Here are some tips for communicating more effectively with your doctor.

As you get older, it may be harder to communicate with your doctor during your appointments. Here’s why and what you can do to make sure you’re heard.

01/11/2026

If you’re sick, you might turn to antibiotics or other medicines to help you feel better. But what happens when those medicines stop working? That’s happening more often today because of something called antimicrobial resistance. Learn more: https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/teach-me/what-you-can-do-to-help-prevent-antimicrobial-resistance

01/11/2026

We’ve all had that uncomfortable belly feeling — whether it’s cramps, bloating, nausea, gas or just a general “ugh” in your stomach. Before reaching for meds, there are simple natural options that might help calm your tummy and ease discomfort.

Depending on the nature of the abdominal pain, some natural remedies can be just as effective as medications,” said Russell Horton, DO, a physician with Banner Health.

01/11/2026

Have you ever felt exhausted, moody or just not quite yourself even though nothing big seems wrong? Before you assume it’s just hormones acting up, it’s worth knowing that stress, lifestyle and real hormonal changes can all impact how you feel — and they’re often connected.

If you’re feeling more exhausted and irritable lately, it could be stress, your hormones or both. Here’s what to know about hormone imbalance.

01/08/2026

If you’ve never heard of the difference between a screening and a diagnostic mammogram, you’re not alone. Many women don’t realize there is a difference until they’re suddenly faced with it. Although both types of mammograms are low-dose X-rays to look at the breast, they are designed for different stages of the diagnostic process.

Learn more: https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/teach-me/the-difference-between-screening-and-diagnostic-mammograms

01/06/2026

Starting Feb. 17, all Banner Health facilities in our area will be cashless. We will accept credit and debit cards, Apple Pay and Google Play for payment for services. Learn more here: https://www.bannerhealth.com/newsroom/press-releases/cashless-system-implementation

01/05/2026

Celebrating 65 precious arrivals in 2025!

What an incredible year it's been at Banner Ogallala Community Hospital! We're overjoyed to celebrate all the beautiful babies who made their debut in 2025.
2025 Baby Roundup:
👶65 Total Babies Born
💙 30 Boys
💗 35 Girls
👯 1 Set of Twins

To all the moms, dads and families who trusted us with your care—thank you for allowing us to share in these precious moments. Watching your families grow has been the highlight of our year!

01/05/2026

Antibiotics should only be used to treat bacterial infections and won’t help treat infections that are viral. Taking unnecessary antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance as well as possible side effects.

You shouldn’t fear antibiotics, but we do need to use them responsibly to ensure they continue working when we need them in the future. (via CDC)

01/02/2026

Back and neck pain are common, but sometimes they signal something more serious. Learn which symptoms to watch for, when home care is enough and when you should call your doctor.

Back and neck pain are common health complaints. Here’s when your home treatment may be enough, and when it’s time for medical advice from a professional.

01/01/2026

Here’s to a new year filled with good health, steady progress and meaningful moments. Wishing everyone a safe and healthy start to 2026.

12/31/2025

Due to the significant surge of seasonal flu, Banner Health is mandating all patients, visitors and staff to wear masks in patient areas of all Banner facilities, beginning New Year’s Day. While patients do not have to wear masks in their hospital rooms, everyone is encouraged to wear masks in non-patient areas as well. Masks will be available at facility entrances.

The new subvariant of influenza A, H3N2, is leading to higher infection rates. However, the seasonal flu shot remains highly effective against severe disease and hospitalization. The masking measure will help protect everyone in Banner facilities, including those in the most vulnerable populations, like those 65 and older, children 2 and under, pregnant women and others with chronic health conditions.

Learn about visitor restrictions at our hospitals.

12/30/2025

If your shoes aren’t doing their job, they might be silently affecting your feet, joints and posture. Learn the subtle signs that it’s time for a new pair and how to choose footwear that supports your whole body: https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/sneaky-signs-your-shoes-are-wrecking-your-body