Seeking fitspiration on social media?

Now that it’s 2024, perhaps you’ve thought about taking up a new exercise program, eating better, or some other ways to improve your health. That’s great! Or, as my grandfather would say, “there’s nothing wrong with that” — his highest possible praise. In fact, few medical treatments rival the massive health benefits of regular exercise. […]

After prostate cancer treatment, a new standard of care for rising PSA

It isn’t often that a study leads to fundamental changes in how cancer patients are treated. But new research is doing just that for some men with prostate cancer that recurs after initial treatment. Post-treatment recurrence The first sign of recurrence is typically a rise in blood levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). PSA should drop […]

Immune boosts or busts? From IV drips and detoxes to superfoods

Ever see ads for products that promise to supercharge immunity? Activate your body’s natural defenses? Support a healthy immune system while delivering a potent boost derived from nature’s hottest immune-enhancing ingredients? While the words may change to reflect the latest trends, the claims certainly sound amazing. But do the multitude of products promoted as immune […]

Are poinsettias, mistletoe, or holly plants dangerous?

Last winter, my wife shooed the dog and visiting toddlers away from our poinsettia plants, saying “they’re poisonous, you know.” I did not know. But it turns out that the belief that poinsettias are deadly is widespread. The same could be said for mistletoe and holly. But are their reputations for danger well-deserved? Since these […]

A fresh look at risks for developing young-onset dementia

Dementia usually develops in people ages 65 years and older. So-called young-onset dementia, occurring in those younger than age 65, is uncommon. Now, a new study published in December 2023 in JAMA Neurology has identified 15 factors linked to a higher risk of young-onset dementia. Let’s see what they found, and — most importantly — […]

Winter hiking: Magical or miserable?

By midwinter, our urge to hibernate can start to feel constricting instead of cozy. What better antidote to being cooped up indoors than a bracing hike in the crisp air outdoors? Winter backdrops are stark, serene, and often stunning. With fewer people on the trail, you may spot more creatures out and about. And it’s […]

Magnets, sound, and batteries: Choosing safe toys

This holiday season, as parents, friends, and family set out to buy toys for children on their lists, or donate them to those in need, here are some suggestions for things you shouldn't buy — and those you should. Not all gifts need to be purchases, of course. Opportunities for play bring joy and sharpen […]

What to do if you think your child has the flu

Once influenza season is underway, it’s natural that if you hear your child start coughing, you wonder: could this be the flu or another virus? And if you think it is the flu, what should you do? Is it the flu, RSV, COVID –– or just a cold? It’s not always easy to tell these […]