Franciscan Health sports medicine physician Thomas Schmittdiel, MD, explains how warmup and cool down sessions during practice can prevent injuries.

Your workouts deserve the right fuel! 🥗 Whether you’re training for a 5K or hitting the gym daily, the athlete plate method helps you match your meals to your activity level—without complicated calorie counting. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/athlete-guide-to-meal-planning

Don't let the sudden temperature changes keep you sick. Learn how weather changes can impact your health and how you can be prepared. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/weather-changes-make-you-sick

Welcome board-certified nurse practitioner Brian Dabbs, NP, to Franciscan Health Nephrology & Hypertension located at 3920 St. Francis Way, Suite 220 in Lafayette, IN. To make an appointment, call (765) 428-5950. https://directory.franciscanhealth.org/provider/brian-d-dabbs-np

Flu season can be tough, and it seems like this year has been especially challenging for many people across the U.S. Get tips on early symptoms and how to bounce back faster. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/how-to-get-through-a-bad-flu-season

If you have diabetes, getting even a mild illness can make blood sugar management more difficult. Learn how to take charge of your #diabetes health during sick days. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/diabetes-sick-days #DiabetesCare

Skip the gym crowds, parking hassles, and fees! If you're someone who prefers the privacy of your own space to work out, we've got you covered. Check out these effective exercises you can do from the comfort of home: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/weight-loss-exercises-home

Franciscan Health and Tippecanoe Senior Services hold the Tippecanoe Senior Wellness Walk on alternate Fridays starting at 11 a.m. Jan. 9 at the Tippecanoe Senior Center in Lafayette. Participants can register onsite before the start of each walk. For info, call (765) 423-6909.

Franciscan Health’s Family Birth Centers in Northwest Indiana welcomed its first baby of 2026 on New Year’s Day. Jacob Robert Patrick Kelly, Jr., was at 1:29 a.m. at Franciscan Health Crown Point. He weighed 6 lbs., 14 oz., and was 19.7 inches long. #NewYear #BabyNewYear

At 12:05 a.m., on Jan. 1, River Joseph became the first baby born in 2026 at Franciscan Health Lafayette East. He weighed in at 5 lbs. pounds, 9 ounces, and measured 17 ½ inches. #NewYear #BabyNewYear

Franciscan Health Olympia Fields’ Family Birth Center welcomed its first baby of 2026 on New Year’s Day. Sofia Aylani was born at 9:02 a.m., making her the first baby born at at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields in 2026. She weighed 7 lbs., 10 oz., and was 20 inches long. #NewYear #BabyNewYear

At 1:16 a.m., on New Year’s Day, Baby Talbott became the first baby born in 2026 at Franciscan Health Indianapolis. He weighed in at 8 lbs., 3 oz., and measured 20 inches. #HappyNewYear #BabyNewYear

With #measles cases detected at two major US airports amid holiday traffic, know what steps to take if you or your child may have been exposed. Franciscan Health infectious disease physician Erika Kaufman-West shares tips. Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4Ny7VqppJk

This year, aim for success with your New Year's resolutions by setting simple goals that provide big gains. Check out these 5 small-but-mighty New Year's resolution ideas: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/5-healthy-but-simple-new-years-resolutions

How to get through a bad flu season: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/Community/Blog/How-To-Get-Through-A-Bad-Flu-Season

Franciscan Health cardiologist Dr. George Lolay explains that "holiday heart" symptoms often show up after heavy meals or alcohol—common during the festive season. Learn more about holiday heart syndrome: https://bit.ly/4aYy6PW Watch the full interview with WTHR: https://bit.ly/4qeTDs3

Looking for a new role for the new year? We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the following positions: Respiratory Therapist, CT Technologist, and Inpatient Coder. Join our team: jobs.FranciscanHealth.org.

Finding fitness activities you enjoy before the new year can give you a head start on your New Year's resolutions and prevent injuries through preparation. Here’s what you should know. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/successful-fitness-new-years-resolutions

If you’re in the hospital and your healthcare team says rehabilitation is in your future, you’ve got options. Learn more about them. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/rehabilitation-options-after-the-hospital

Ready to stop smoking in 2026? Get tips to start the year right: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/new-year-stop-smoking-time-start-now

Welcome cardiologist Vinod Sehgal, MD, to the Franciscan Physician Network Franciscan Medical Pavilion located at 3500 Franciscan Way, Suite B. Michigan City, IN. To make an appointment, call (219) 878-8200. https://directory.franciscanhealth.org/provider/vinod-sehgal-md

Lafayette, Crawfordsville and Rensselaer visitor updates begin Monday, Dec. 29. • Visitors must be at least 18 years of age. • If visiting a patient who has respiratory symptoms, visitors are asked to keep a mask on and do not visit the cafeteria, coffee and gift shops or waiting rooms.

Protein = more than muscle 💪 This essential nutrient helps build bone, supports immunity, balances blood sugar and helps you heal. Learn more about protein and its benefits. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/power-of-protein

Holiday heart syndrome can strike after binge drinking, causing irregular heartbeats and even heart attacks. Learn the symptoms, risks and five ways to protect your heart this season. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/5-ways-to-avoid-holiday-heart-syndrome

Breathing easier with pulmonary rehab for #COPD. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/pulmonary-rehab-copd

Stress fractures often occur in people who walk, run or return to sports after a break. Franciscan Health explains the signs, the causes and when to seek care. Know how to protect your bones and return to activity safely: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/stress-fractures

Franciscan Health’s Pet Therapy programs bring comfort, reduce stress and lift spirits for patients, families and staff. Learn more about the PAWSitive impact the therapy dogs are making. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/pawsitive-pet-therapy

"It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you ... yes, it is Christmas every time you smile at your brother and offer him your hand." - Mother Teresa Wishing you and your loved ones a merry Christmas and happy holiday season.

Don't let great food and fun with family distract you from your health this holiday. With high blood pressure being a leading risk factor for heart attack and stroke, it's crucial to keep your blood pressure at bay. More: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/high-blood-pressure-holidays

Struggling with COPD symptoms? Learn the vital difference between short-acting and long-acting inhalers and how to ensure your medicine actually reaches your lungs. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/using-inhalers-for-copd

Alzheimer’s and dementia are not the same. Learn how they differ — and why memory loss isn’t a normal part of aging. Early diagnosis and compassionate care can make all the difference. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/alzheimers-vs-other-dementias-whats-the-difference

Looking for your next big career move? We’re excited to offer amazing opportunities for Registered Nurses, Case Managers, and Clinical Dietitians! If you’re passionate about making a difference, come join our team at Franciscan Health. Apply today at jobs.franciscanhealth.org.

Thank you to Toys for Tots and our community helpers for the gifts for our young patients at Franciscan Health Lafayette East!

With Christmas days away, New Year's celebrations aren't too far behind. Think about your New Year's resolutions beforehand. Here are 5 healthy resolutions that can give you a great start to the new year. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/5-healthy-but-simple-new-years-resolutions

Learn the benefits of plant-based eating, how meat and milk alternatives compare and simple ways to add more plant-forward meals to your day. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/plant-based-eating

Welcome board-certified internal medicine and weight management physician Leonid Kats, MD, to Franciscan Physician Network Hammond Clinic located at 7905 Calumet Ave. in Munster, IN. To schedule an appointment, call (219) 836-5800. https://directory.franciscanhealth.org/provider/leonid-kats-md

Learn about the different types of dementia, early signs and practical caregiving tips. Franciscan Health shares how to bring calm and comfort into dementia care. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/understanding-dementia

This fruit salad recipe is a great choice to match the holidays. With a tangy lemon poppy seed glaze that adds a fun twist and keeps the fruits looking fresh, it's both healthy and delicious. See the recipe: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/recipe-holiday-fruit-salad

This fruit salad recipe is a great choice to match the holidays. With a tangy lemon poppy seed glaze that adds a fun twist and keeps the fruits looking fresh, it's both healthy and delicious. See the recipe: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/recipe-holiday-fruit-salad

Did you know? #Psoriasis is more than skin deep. It's a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions. Let's break the stigma and spread awareness, not misconceptions. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/psoriasis-isnt-contagious-and-other-myths-busted

The holidays are here, and so are the endless trays of cookies, fudge and festive treats in the office. 🍪✨ It’s okay to enjoy the flavors of the season, but you don't have to wait until Jan. 1 to feel in control of your health. 🔗 Read the full guide here: https://bit.ly/3N79P0c

❄️ Winter can be tough on your feet—especially if you have diabetes. Franciscan Health shares expert tips to help you stay safe and healthy this season. 👣 Read more: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/diabetes-winter-foot-care

At Franciscan Health Olympia Fields we’re so grateful to our amazing team for transforming our space into a festive, welcoming place that warms the hearts of our coworkers, patients and our entire community. ❤️🏥 Your dedication and creativity make a meaningful difference this season!

Get Healthy: Medical Report: An ounce of prevention — including recommended vaccines — worth a pound of holiday cheer. Franciscan infectious diseases physician Dr. Erica Kaufman West explains. nwitimes.com/niche/get-he...

Not all back pain needs surgery. If you've been diagnosed with spondylitis, the good news is that many people respond well to medications. The sooner treatment starts, the better the outcomes. Learn more: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/spondylitis-treatment

Accessory breast tissue is more common than many think. Dr. Constanze Rayhrer explains what causes it, how it responds to hormones, its cancer risk and when removal might be an option. Full blog here: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/accessory-breast-tissue

Can you drink alcohol if you have diabetes? 🍷🍺 It depends. Learn how alcohol affects your blood sugar, what’s safe to drink and when to skip it. Read more: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/diabetes-and-alcohol

Found out you have colon polyps after a colonoscopy? Don’t panic, most are harmless and easy to remove. Learn what colon polyps mean, which types are precancerous and how follow-up screening keeps you healthy for the long run. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/colon-polyps-cancer

The Franciscan Health Foundation received a special delivery from our friends at the Laborers’ International Union of North America – Local 5. Their generous toy donation is helping bring comfort and smiles to children in the Emergency Department at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields. 💙🎁

Any man can get prostate cancer — even you. But if you know the signs and get screened, you can protect your health. Learn about prostate cancer care and treatments from Franciscan Health. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/prostate-cancer-symptoms-and-screening