I often surprise my new patients when I don’t approach their health concerns in the way they expect. For instance, I once had a 50-year-old woman visit my office with awful joint pain. She was morbidly obese with pain in her fingers, knuckles, wrists, shoulders, knees and hips. A bone scan ordered by her conventional […]

I’m past the traditional age of retirement. But I don’t see myself stopping work anytime soon. I just enjoy talking with people about functional medicine too much. I love seeing my patients. And I experience a great deal of pleasure attending training and educational opportunities – especially when I’m invited as a keynote speaker. Plus, […]

Everyone wants to protect their heart health, and taking low-dose aspirin sounds like an inexpensive way to do that. The concept is simple. Aspirin works as a blood-thinner. The thinner the blood, the less chance blood clots might form that could block an artery and cause a heart attack. And really, what harm could come […]

Some patients insist that they need an antibiotic for their cold or flu – even though antibiotics are 100% ineffective against viral infections. Still, there are plenty of doctors who will pull out the prescription pad and satisfy their request. This type of inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics remains widespread. And it can be seen in […]

In the world of health supplements, minerals are… well, boring. They’re not the latest anti-aging breakthrough or the next big wellness trend. So most people simply forget about them. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t absolutely vital to your good health. Take magnesium for example. It plays a role in more than 300 systems that […]

I always kick-start my mornings with a cup of tea or coffee. Both of these caffeinated beverages are high in antioxidants. They help me greet the day with focus and energy. They’re great for my cardiovascular system and my liver. They lower my risk of heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. […]

Allowing your immune system to get run down during flu season is like sending the flu a personal invitation to take up residence in your body. There are plenty of reasons your immune function might not be working at full strength. Spending too much time indoors and a lack of physical activity are both linked […]

Our bodies were made for movement, yet many of us get far too little physical activity.  That’s unfortunate, because staying active as you age is one of the best things you can do to avoid dementia. It also helps reduce blood pressure, boost lung function, lower blood sugar and shed excess body fat. In fact, […]

I love being outdoors in areas that have a lot of trees and plants. I instantly feel better. It clears my mind and sharpens my focus. It energizes me and soothes me all at the same time. Nature has a tendency to do that for most people, and the benefits can be remarkable. Researchers in […]

Well, it’s that time of year again. People are packing their bags and getting ready to hop on flights to visit family and friends for the winter holidays.  Holiday travel is always stressful. And if you are traveling across time zones, the fatigue, irritability and digestive issues that accompany jet lag can compound that stress… […]

These days we hear a lot about the “fight against cancer.” I agree that we should do everything we can to fight this deadly disease. But I also think we should do more to prevent cancer in the first place. For example, what if I told you there are certain foods that actually increase your […]

The holiday season is nearly here, and between Thanksgiving and the New Year, you’ll attend any number of gatherings. Chances are good that alcohol will be flowing pretty freely at these events. So even if you don’t normally indulge, you’ll probably find yourself with a drink in your hand on more than one occasion. The […]

Now that we are reaching the colder side of the year, suppliers are going to ship fresh produce to your local grocery store from further and further away. In fact, according to the Fruit Growers Supply Company, the average fruit or vegetable in U.S. stores travels at least 1,500 miles before it reaches your grocery […]

When I was growing up, fiber was something people only talked about when they were constipated. But today, scientists know fiber does much more than help with bowel movements. It reduces body weight, lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, helps with diabetes, reduces inflammation and improves immune function. How can fiber do all of this? […]

People love their potatoes! The average American eats about 135 pounds of potatoes a year. That’s the equivalent of approximately one potato each day. Russet potatoes – sometimes called Idaho potatoes – are the most well-known type of potatoes in the United States. We bake them, mash them, fry them, roast them and boil them. […]

When it comes to ripening avocados, mangos, or bananas, you’ve probably heard of the old “brown paper bag” trick. Just place the fruit in a brown paper bag and fold the top down. Depending on how ripe it already is, it’ll be ready in about three to four days. I do this all the time. […]

For years, the use of corticosteroid injections to treat osteoarthritis has been controversial, and for good reason. While these injections may help relieve pain for a short while, they can actually worsen your arthritis. They damage bone and cartilage, cause rapid joint destruction, lead to stress fractures and may accelerate the need for joint replacement […]

My heart always goes out to stroke patients. One minute they’re perfectly fine. The next thing they know they are waking up in the hospital in complete confusion. Then the recovery process starts… rediscovering language skills and re-training your body to cooperate with simple movements. It’s a very scary experience that nobody wants to go […]

Now that October is underway, we are entering the cold and flu season. And chances are good that if you catch a virus in coming months, you’ll find yourself standing in the cold-and-flu aisle at your local drugstore trying to figure out what to take. Do you need a decongestant, antihistamine, cough suppressant, or something […]

Over the years, I’ve seen my share of patients who feel fatigued. Many of them also have related symptoms – brain fog, weakness, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, even trouble walking. Some complain of always feeling cold. Others say their mood is off or that their memory is starting to slip. These […]

In these days of health consciousness, food and beverage manufacturers will go to great lengths to convince you that their products will make your life healthier. You see it every time you go to the store. Marketers place starbursts on their products claiming they are sugar free, low fat, reduced sodium, cholesterol free, gluten free […]

I admit that I love a juicy steak or braised short ribs as much as anyone else. But there’s a big difference between enjoying meat in moderation and relying on it as the centerpiece of every meal. What concerns me the most is commercially raised meat. That’s the meat that comes from animals raised on […]

I love all of the colors of fruit that are available to us. They cover all spectrums of the rainbow. For me, fresh organic blueberries are one of my favorite snacks. It amazes me that such small berries can pack such a powerful punch. Every time I pop one in my mouth, I get a […]

A few years after I entered medical school my life was turned upside down. I went from being a nine-to-five clinical pharmacist to becoming an acutely sleep deprived medical student in a heartbeat. It wasn’t easy. I clearly remember hitting my third year of med school. That’s when those long, punishing hours of clinical rotations […]

If you get a urinary tract infection (UTI), the first piece of advice you’ll get from just about everybody you know is to drink cranberry juice. But does cranberry juice really help with UTIs? Or is it just an old wives’ tale? Before I answer that question, it’s important to understand UTIs. In a nutshell, […]

If you had chickenpox as a kid, you still have the virus in your body. It never really goes away after a chickenpox attack. Instead it sets up housekeeping in your nerves, where it can lie dormant for years. But when you get older it can be reactivated as herpes zoster – the virus linked […]

The two most common mental health disorders in the U.S. are depression and anxiety. Millions of people experience the persistent feelings of sadness, apprehension and dread that come with these mental health issues. While genetics may influence mental health, it’s lifestyle choices that matter the most – your diet, physical activity levels, sleep habits and […]

Avocados are one of my favorite foods, and not just because they taste good and are easy to add to my meals. Like olives, avocados are considered a super food. They are high in fiber, monounsaturated fats, vitamin A and vitamin E. Both of these fruits also have a high content of two powerful antioxidants, […]

When people reach a certain age, they often think it’s too late to make changes in their lives that will make a noticeable difference. It’s like they think they have a “best before date” stamped on their foreheads. But what if you didn’t have an age… didn’t know how old you were? Would that make […]

Just a few days ago you learned about the effect pink noise has on declining brain function. But there is another kind of noise that can have an even more profound effect on your mental faculties. Music! Think about it for a moment. You can hear a song from a single moment in your life, […]

If you’re not familiar with pink noise, it consists of soothing, natural sounds – like rain falling, ocean waves breaking or leaves rustling in the trees. I like to use pink noise to help me sleep when I travel, because it masks distracting sounds that might otherwise keep me awake. Interestingly, this type of sound […]

My first trip to Italy was a real eye opener. And I want to tell you all about it. But first, I have a question for you. What is your favorite Italian food? Is it pasta smothered in tomato sauce, meatballs, sausage and cheese? How about chicken parmesan? Do you love it? And, of course, […]

Our sense of smell is something we use constantly. It can be a first line of defense when it comes to alerting you to spoiled foods, dangerous chemicals or a fire. It detects scents that may soothe you, others that might evoke memories. And, of course, your nose picks up the odor of cooking foods […]

I’ll bet you didn’t know this but, historically, arthritis was not the plague that it is today. Prior to the mid 1900’s, the prevalence didn’t change a lot. But it has nearly doubled since the World War II era.  🤔What the heck happened between then and now? In a nutshell, instead of promoting healthy lifestyle […]

Your knees are important. You use them every time you sit, stand, walk, lift, or jump. But when they become inflamed and irritated, even the simplest tasks can feel overwhelming. Around one in every two adults will develop symptoms of knee osteoarthritis (OA) at some point in their lives. Even if you don’t have symptoms […]

In 2024, American adults spent nearly 2 billion dollars on over-the-counter laxatives! Clearly, we are a nation of people with poop problems. Otherwise, there wouldn’t be such a high demand for laxatives and stool softeners in our society. But constipation doesn’t happen without a reason. Diet, inactivity, and dehydration are common culprits—but often, the real […]

Just a few days ago, I shared several ways to boost your memory as you age. I love all of the opportunities – right at our fingertips – that can help improve brain health! After all, the brain is amazing. Every second of our lives, it sends electrical signals and messages that form trillions of […]

One of my favorite things to do after a long day of work is to sit down to dinner with a good book. And on days when I’m not working, I love the freedom of reading whenever I want. Needless to say, I’m an avid reader, especially fiction. But there is an interesting thing that […]

Some people avoid fatty foods altogether. Other people can’t seem to stop eating them. The truth is, both extremes can be problematic. Your body needs fat—specifically, healthy fats. Without them, you can’t absorb essential fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. These nutrients are vital for brain function, hormone production, energy levels, and the […]

Did you know the tongue has been used as a diagnostic tool for thousands of years? Physicians—especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—have long examined its shape, size, color, texture, and coating to uncover clues about overall health. They call this practice “inspecting the exterior to predict the interior.” While it may sound unusual, modern science […]

In the last 20 years or so, what we’ve learned about the importance of the human gut microbiome is amazing. Before that, we spent a lot of time demonizing the bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes that hang out in our guts. We were wrong about so many things. Back in the day…

Here’s a fact that just about knocked my socks off. Nearly 1 in 2 adults in the U.S. are living with high blood pressure. That’s about 116 million people! With numbers like that, it’s no surprise that blood pressure medications are handed out like candy. And while these drugs can be life-saving in the short […]

There was a time when you didn’t have to think much about your liver—unless you were a heavy drinker or had hepatitis. But those days are long gone. Today, one of the biggest threats to your liver doesn’t come from alcohol. It comes from something millions of people use every single day to ease their […]

Back when my kids were little, they wanted a treehouse. But living in North Miami Beach at the time, there weren’t many sturdy oaks around. Just clusters of palm trees. So, I improvised. I built a “next-to-the-trees-treehouse”—nestled in a copse of palms. They loved it! We also had a lagoon-style pool with a waterfall, and […]

In a world where food is available 24/7—from home delivered groceries to Uber Eats and DoorDash—it seems strange that so many of us walk around with a gnawing and persistent hunger. You eat… yet you still feel hungry. You snack… but your cravings just don’t quit. Why? It turns out that hunger isn’t just about […]

My 10-year-old grandson is a blur of energy. One day it’s soccer, the next it’s wrestling or swim team. He’s on the move from sunup to sundown — and somehow, never seems to tire. That’s the beauty of being a kid. Their energy is practically limitless, powered by fresh cells, long telomeres, efficient mitochondria, and […]

Have you ever heard the term “digital dementia”? It was first introduced in 2012 by German neuroscientist Dr. Manfred Spitzer, who theorized that the growing use of digital technology could lead to memory loss and cognitive decline. It was a bold warning—and it sparked concern among many healthcare professionals, caregivers, and aging adults alike. But now, […]

I love pretty much anything with garlic in it… garlic stuffed olives, roasted garlic hummus, wild caught shrimp in an EVOO garlic sauce. It can even make foods I’m not very fond of taste good. Spicing up my foods with garlic doesn’t just make them delicious. It makes them extremely healthy. Plus, I like the […]

As an Advanced Natural Wellness reader, you know that chronic inflammation is the driving force behind aging and age-related disease. It’s an underlying contributor to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, arthritis, non-alcoholic fatty liver, kidney disease, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer’s disease, premature aging and so much more! Unlike acute inflammation – the kind of inflammation […]

When you get thirsty, there are so many choices that are tastier than water. Soda, sweetened juices, or even a beer might sound good. And sure, all of these beverages do offer some hydration. But you have to consider all of the crap found in them. Things like sugar, corn syrup, sodium, artificial sweeteners and […]

We all have routines to clean and unclutter our homes. We sort out our closets and drop unused clothing at donation centers. Old storage containers and utensils in our kitchen cupboards and drawers are discarded. Tired rugs, sheets and curtains are replaced. Unwanted foods in the refrigerator are placed in the trash bin on garbage […]

Just about everyone knows a high sodium diet is bad for blood pressure and, therefore, bad for heart health. That’s one of the key reasons people make the effort to avoid salty foods like chips, French fries, processed meats and pizza. The problem is, there is a lot of added sodium in foods that don’t […]

Did you know that the older you are, the more likely you are to have type 2 diabetes? It’s true. Nearly 30% of adults 65 and older are diabetic. And about another 50% have prediabetes. This means about eight out of every 10 seniors have blood sugar problems. Even worse, many older adults with these […]

One thing I have seen over the years is that nearly everyone who has lost a parent to Alzheimer’s disease is terrified that they may develop the same condition as they age. So it may be heartening to learn that the U.S. just approved the first blood test for Alzheimer’s. According to Yale Medicine, the […]

When it comes to health, people place a lot of emphasis on their family history. They think “Oh, geez. Dad and grandpa both died so young that I probably don’t have much time left.” Well I have some great news for you. It turns out that genetics don’t play nearly as big a role in […]

Hypothyroidism is one of those misunderstood conditions that is often either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. That’s because the symptoms are so wide-ranging that it can be difficult to pinpoint. It can cause fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, irritability, depression, forgetfulness, weight gain, hair loss and dry skin. In women, many of these symptoms are similar to those […]

One of the supplements I recommend everyone take… every single day… is omega-3 fatty acids. Your body doesn’t produce them on its own, and it can’t function without them. So these essential oils have to come from dietary sources. Unfortunately, the omega-3 fatty acids you need the most are the ones that come from fish. […]

I love fresh fruits and vegetables. They’re loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are good for my health… and yours. Eating fresh, plant-based foods is one of the easiest ways to prevent cancer. These foods protect against high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and mental decline. They preserve your vision, prevent diabetes, keep you […]

One thing I notice when it comes to health concerns is that most people don’t pay nearly enough attention to their eyes. This is a mistake. Your eyesight is the key to independence. Once it starts to go, all sorts of things happen.

All berries are good for you, but fresh organic blueberries are, by far, one of my favorite snacks. The taste alone is enough to have me hooked on these tiny berries. As small as blueberries are, you wouldn’t think they would pack much of a nutritional punch. But I’m getting a plethora of health benefits […]

One of the biggest health threats here in the U.S. is the build-up of plaque in the arteries. It’s known as atherosclerosis, and it’s the underlying cause of about 50% of all deaths in westernized countries. As plaque builds up in the walls of blood vessels, it causes them to narrow and can even block […]

There are a lot of reasons why you might feel gassy. Maybe you eat too fast and swallow too much air with each bite, or drink too many carbonated beverages. Certain foods might lead to gassiness, like beans, peas, cruciferous veggies and whole grains. Carbohydrates and sugars ferment into gas. Any of these can lead […]

Even though gout is quite common, it’s one of the most misunderstood forms of inflammatory arthritis. Some people think only men develop the condition. But while the prevalence is higher in men, gout can also affect women. This is especially true after menopause. Gout is caused by a build-up of uric acid in the body, […]

There are plenty of places to lay blame for today’s epidemic of obesity and diabetes. And most of them boil down to lifestyle choices. However, there is one thing that I believe is greatly adding fuel to the problem. It’s a common decision that millions of people make every day in the name of good […]

Mushrooms are a staple in my kitchen. I toss them in my omelets and frittatas, put them in soups, stews and stir fries, add them to salads and veggie wraps, and use them as a topping on meats and fish. As it turns out, I’m the “odd man out.” The average American only eats about […]

Now that the weather is warming up, blooming trees and shrubs are releasing pollen into the air. And you know what that means… Spring allergy season has officially arrived in many parts of the U.S. If it seems like your allergies started early this year, you’re not alone. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation […]

People over in Japan often eat a traditional cucumber salad called sunomono. This dish is really easy to make. It’s simply sliced cucumbers in rice vinegar, seasoned with a little soy sauce and sugar, and topped with sesame seeds. Other items, like seafood, seaweed or tomatoes, can be added as desired. But there is something […]

Despite dozens of trials, the idea that men go through male menopause – or “manopause” – isn’t totally accepted in the medical community. It’s not even accepted by a lot of men. Does that make it any less real? In women, menopause is basically ovarian failure. The levels of female hormones produced by the ovaries […]

We often hear about the negative health consequences of too much sodium in our diets.  It raises blood pressure, contributes to plaque formation in the arteries and raises your risk of heart attack or stroke. It is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, can trigger kidney stones, aggravates joints and creates an inflammatory environment […]

How many times have you heard that vitamins are a waste of money and you’re just making expensive urine, throwing money down the drain if you purchase them? But the fact is, vitamins are needed to fill in nutritional gaps that, if not addressed, could lead to some very serious health concerns. You see, these […]

Over 100 years ago, William Howard Taft was the heaviest President to ever hold office in the U.S. Weighing in at more than 340 pounds he was what we call morbidly obese. At 275 pounds, Grover Cleveland was the second-heaviest President. But it’s interesting to note that neither of these men developed adult-onset diabetes. In […]

Back pain is the most common form of pain in the U.S. As a matter of fact, an estimated 75% to 85% of Americans experience some form of back pain during their lives. The good news is that most cases of back pain are temporary. About nine times out of ten pain improves without surgery. […]

A lot of people get in a bad mood when they’re hungry. They can throw a temper tantrum and lash out at the simplest little thing. These days there is a name for it. We call it being “hangry.” But is it really just a mental state? A bad mood? A feeling of irritation or […]

As we age, we reach the point where old bone breaks down faster than it’s being replaced. The result is osteoporosis… weak, brittle bones that break and fracture easily. And it’s not just women who are affected. Around one in three men over the age of 50 already have low bone mass density. And by […]

Last week you learned how certain medications can affect your blood press pressure. Well, that’s the thing about both prescription and over-the-counter drugs… There are issues with all of them. Not a single one of them is 100% safe. They interact with other meds you’re taking. None of them actually cure disease. And, for the […]

You probably already know that processed meat is bad for you. We’ve known for years and years that even a small amount on a regular basis is linked with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer – especially colon cancer. Now, a new Lancet study involving researchers from prestigious schools such […]

Sometimes people with high blood pressure do everything right. They start exercising, eat a healthier diet and monitor their sodium intake. But then they find that their blood pressure still isn’t budging. It can be really frustrating when someone with high blood pressure can’t get it under control, especially if they’re also taking blood pressure […]

The biggest fear for women who have survived breast cancer is that it will come back. This is a threat that survivors of all types of cancer face every day. Sadly, there is no silver bullet to prevent recurrence. However, there are things you can do in your life to change the environment where the […]

I know people who have tried to go on a raw food diet. And I realize how attractive the concept is. It sounds so “clean” to get living food enzymes and nutrients from raw food. And it is! Raw fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds are loaded with digestive enzymes and antioxidants. When you eat raw, […]

I’ve been limiting my intake of meat for quite a while now. But I still enjoy it on occasion. My absolute favorite is grass-fed New Zealand lamb. I pierce the top of the meat with a series of holes and fill each opening with a clove of garlic. Then, I cover the entire thing with […]

We hear a lot of bad news about carbohydrates. So some people try to avoid carbohydrate foods altogether. They’re afraid of “carbotoxicity.” This is the idea that eating any type of carbohydrate will contribute to chronic disease. Well, that’s a misconception. It’s not about whether you eat carbs or not. It’s more about whether you’re […]

Eating whole grain breads, cereals and muffins sounds great. They have to be a lot healthier than all of those refined grains sitting on the store shelves, right? Well guess what. A lot of those whole grain foods are only telling half-truths. Take the phrase “Made with Whole Grains.” What does that really mean? Well, […]

It wasn’t that long ago that red light therapy was something you could only find at dermatologist offices and luxury spas. The claims were that it could make skin firmer and reduce fine lines to make you look younger. It could fight off eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and other skin problems. It could regenerate and repair […]

When I think of the term “weekend warriors,” I immediately imagine two groups of people gathering in a large field on a Saturday morning. Somebody blows a horn or whistle, and everyone begins to throw rocks, stones and arrows at each other. Then, when Sunday evening rolls around, the group that has the most people […]

It happens to everyone. You sit too long in one position and a leg falls asleep. Lean on your elbow for a while and your lower arm and hand go numb. As the feeling starts to return, you feel like someone is pricking you with a couple of hundred tiny needles. It’s uncomfortable for a […]

Today’s modern world is full of stressors. We are bombarded with stressful situations all day long, day after day, month after month. Money woes, problems at work, health concerns, the death of a loved one and other troubling personal events top the list. But it doesn’t stop there. Headlines are riddled with news of wars, […]

People think arthritis only happens in old people. Ask any 40-year-old with arthritis, and they’ll tell you just how untrue that is. In fact, more than half of adults with arthritis are between the ages of 18 and 64. The truth is that, even though we often call arthritis an age-related disease, it’s not actually […]

Irritable bowel syndrome is one of those conditions that remain underdiagnosed in the U.S. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, it’s estimated that about half of the people affected by it have not been diagnosed. That’s because it’s a tricky condition. It generally comes with abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. But those […]

Now that we’re in the fall season, temperatures are dropping around the U.S. Even down here where I live in South Florida, we’ve finally been able to say goodbye to those sweltering days of summer. And in the upcoming months, we’ll start seeing snow flurries in the upper states. Well, while unpacking your winter gear […]

A lot of people tend to think snoring and sleep apnea are the same thing. They aren’t. When you snore, the soft tissue in your neck relaxes and vibrates when you draw in air. That vibration is the noise of snoring.  Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. But most people with sleep apnea do […]

When talking about Alzheimer’s, medical professionals often refer to amyloid plaques. The common belief is that these are the underlying cause of the disease – and that if you get rid of them, you’ll be cured. But that theory has been proven wrong, over and over again. First off, every time they’ve developed a drug […]

The Incredible Shrinking Man isn’t just the title of an old science fiction movie. It’s also a reality. We shrink as we age. Starting at about age 40, most people tend to lose about a quarter to a half inch of height each decade. Part of the reason is because of the gel-like cushions between […]

When it comes to cholesterol, mainstream medicine has it all wrong. LDL cholesterol isn’t the “bad guy”. In fact, it’s not even cholesterol. Neither is HDL. People don’t get that. You ask them what their cholesterol is and they say “Oh, my HDL is this or my LDL is that.” Those things are not cholesterol. […]

Did you know that being over 65 years of age is a risk factor for vitamin B12 deficiency? It’s true. But most mainstream doctors don’t really know how to diagnose it. That’s because they receive very little training on nutrition – generally less than 20 hours of nutrition instruction during their entire time at medical […]

Back in 1931 doctor Otto Warburg, M.D. won the Nobel Prize in medicine. He was a German Jew in pre-World War II Nazi Germany. So it must have been a difficult decision to award it to him. But they had to, because he was the first to recognize the metabolism of cancer. He discovered that […]

Dead butt syndrome. It sounds like the punch line of a bad joke. In fact, you’re probably already rolling your eyes and thinking, “Come on Doc, give me a break! There’s no such thing.” Actually, there is… kind of. Some experts are calling it gluteal amnesia. Others call it sleepy glutes. But “dead butt syndrome” […]

If you have varicose veins, you know how unattractive they can make you feel. These dark, twisted and bulging veins aren’t a pretty sight. Of course, the cosmetics industry sees this as a beauty issue. They are constantly peddling a new cream, ointment or mud pack that promises to erase those unsightly veins forever. Well, […]

With all we know about antibiotic resistance these days, you would think the use of these drugs would be more closely monitored. Well, a May 2024 study indicates otherwise. The researchers tracked more than 152 million visits to emergency rooms that resulted in one or more antibiotic prescriptions and compared them against diagnosis codes. Their […]

Dieting doesn’t work the same for everyone. Some people swear that Keto is the best. Others will tell you vegan is the way to go. There’s Pegan, paleo, Atkins or The Zone. You name it, and it worked for somebody. We are all so different that it makes perfect sense that there is not a […]

Meeting our nutritional goals these days can be tough, even when we eat a relatively healthy diet. That’s because modern day agricultural practices now dominate our natural food supply; our fruits, vegetables and other plant-based foods. And it has stripped so many of these foods of their high nutrient profiles. How did this happen?

Chronic, low level inflammation is like a plague these days. Nearly everyone has it, nobody wants it, and it is the underlying cause of nearly all of today’s biggest health threats. I’m talking about heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, cancer and more. But it’s not always unhealthy lifestyle choices that promote this problem. Sometimes my […]

We’ve known about microplastics for a while. We hear about how prevalent they are in water and other products sold or stored in plastic bottles, storage containers and wraps. But they are found in other places, too. They are in your tap water, fish and shellfish, and meat products produced from commercial livestock. There is […]

Up until around 50 years ago, we didn’t know much of anything about omega-3 fatty acids. The big breakthrough didn’t come until 1971. That’s when researchers compared the eating patterns of Eskimos and Danish people up in Greenland. What they learned is that the Eskimos had much lower rates of heart disease and a complete […]

Between all of the daily tasks I have to complete using my computer, tablet and phone, my eyes often feel like they are taking a beating. By the end of the day, it is not uncommon for my eyes to feel dry, gritty and itchy. This is pretty common for anyone who uses electronic devices […]

In the August 19, 2024 issue of Advanced Natural Wellness, you learned some surprising facts about age-related muscle wasting, or sarcopenia. You don’t have to be old to start experience symptoms; and you might not even look like you are losing strength and muscle mass. To top it off, we’ve been raised with the idea […]

Heartburn can be a scary thing. That’s because it feels like the pain and burning is coming from your heart. Even the name, “heartburn,” suggests that it is heart-related. Thankfully, that is not the case. Rather, the sensation of heartburn occurs when stomach acids back up into your esophagus. This is known as acid reflux, […]

It’s no secret that dental plaque, oral bacteria and gum disease can affect your heart health. For many years now there has been a link between what’s happening in your mouth and your risk of cardiovascular disease. It all starts off with a buildup of dental plaque. When the plaque and bacteria escape into your […]

As we humans grow older, we tend to lose lean muscle mass and strength. The medical name for it is sarcopenia. It brings to mind images of those frail, thin, older adults that we often see at the grocery store… or the ones tottering between family members as they are guided to a table in […]

Sex does a lot of good things for people. Everyone needs to have the feeling that happens during climax – that dopamine release. This pleasure chemical is responsible for the euphoria and satisfaction that floods through the body during the “big event.” But that wonderful feeling isn’t the only thing that happens.

As we grow older, a strange thing happens to our arteries. They start stiffening up. The older we get, the stiffer they seem to become. And unlike so many common health issues today, age is by far the major force behind this phenomenon. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t other contributing factors that are directly […]

There is a lot of confusion about prebiotics and probiotics. And then there is another type “biotic” altogether, called postbiotics, that most people don’t even know about. What are they? Where do they come from? How are they different from one another? Let’s start with the basics. Probiotics are live bacteria that add to the […]

The microbes in your gut aren’t just a bunch of bacteria that help break down and digest the foods you eat. They also “talk” to your brain. This phenomenon is called the microbiota gut-brain axis. Basically, it’s the ability your gut bacteria have to activate signals to your brain. This means your brain tunes into […]

Patients with hair that is unhealthy or thinning often ask me if they should take a “hair supplement.” Some of these men and women have already tried these types of supplements with little success. Others swear by them. Well, I’m going to give it to you straight. There are a lot of reasons for hair […]

The older you get, the more protein you need. And it’s not just about maintaining muscle strength. Protein also helps build strong bones, skin and hair. It aids digestion and has an important role in the regulation of hormones. So protein is definitely an important part of your diet. But there is a problem…

You’ve got a sharp ache in your lower back that you’ve never had before, so you head to the doc. He pokes and prods, then pats you on the arm and says, “You’re just getting older. You can expect to start feeling more unusual aches and pains than you used to.” Don’t you just want […]

There’s an old joke that goes something like this… The patient says, “Hey, Doc! It hurts whenever I do this.” The doctor replies. “Then stop doing that!” This little comedy routine has absolutely no relevance to real life, yet many people take it to heart. It is something that has plagued me during my entire […]

Just a few days ago we talked about the dangers of polypharmacy – taking five or more medications on a regular basis. As a quick follow-up to that, I want to alert you about how high summer temperatures – which are affecting most of the U.S. right now – can influence the way certain medications […]

In the June 3rd issue of Advanced Natural Wellness you learned about four types of medications that are dangerous for aging adults. The list included non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticholinergic medications, acid reducers and muscle relaxers. But there is a much larger problem when it comes to medicating older patients. It’s something called polypharmacy, which […]

Whenever I am a couple of weeks late changing the HEPA filters in my ionizers, they become especially filthy. They come out covered in a black, grimy fuzz and are thoroughly disgusting. Where the heck does this stuff come from? In my case, it’s probably because I live in a flight path. Every day when […]

People spend a lot of time thinking about food, cooking food and eating food. But they very seldom put very much emphasis on chewing their food. Just think about how long it takes to create perfectly smoked baby-back ribs or beef brisket for summer holidays. Nearly all day, right? But how soon is it over […]

When I was a teenager, AM radio stations blasted the summer season over the airwaves with regular frequency. “It’s summertime summertime sum sum summertime.” I loved it! School was out. I had a full three or four months of freedom. (And rest assured, I always made the most of it.) Even though I live in […]

Ask anybody you know what they think the biggest threat to their heart health is. I’ll bet the large majority of them will say high cholesterol. This makes statin drugs sound appealing; and makes a lot of people extremely willing to take them. And sure, statins really DO decrease LDL cholesterol. But there are probably […]

I remember my first colonoscopy clearly. I laid down on the table to get prepped for the procedure… Then, I opened my eyes, looked at the IV nurse, and said, “Okay, I’m ready.” She just looked down at me and said, “Honey, you’re done!” Wow! That was quick and easy. Thinking back, it really wasn’t […]

The safety of consuming artificial sweeteners has taken a BIG hit this year. I’ve warned you about them in the past. Despite marketing claims, they contribute to a larger waistline and the development of metabolic disorders like diabetes. Many artificial sweeteners are neurotoxins. They over stimulate neuron receptors which, over time, destroys brain cells. They […]

Do you have a hankering for something salty or fatty? Are you yearning for something sugary? It’s easy enough to grab a bag of chips, a slice of pizza, soda or candy bar to satisfy whatever desire you have. And to tell the truth, an occasional treat is no cause for concern. Almost everyone has […]

Everybody seems to think whole grains are the best high fiber foods to get their bowels moving. They eat them constantly and hope they will instantly relieve the constipation that often plagues adults, both young and old. So these foods fly off the racks of grocer’s shelves, whether they are in the form of bread, […]

What’s the deal with the high amounts of caffeine in coffee? Is it good for you, or is it bad for you? The consensus is not cut and dried, and I will explain why in a moment. First, let me share some of the great things that can happen when you drink a cup or […]

Fats are one of the most misunderstood food groups when it comes to health and weight. These days many people think anything that isn’t labelled “no fat” or “low fat” is unhealthy and fattening. Nuts are a great example of this. Study after study shows that people aren’t eating the recommended 1- to 1.5-ounces of […]

Sushi isn’t one of my “go-to” foods, but I get the appeal. Fish is a low-calorie source of protein and packed with healthy omega-3 fats that promote good health. Roll it together with rice, seaweed and veggies, and you’ve got your proteins, fats and carbs all prepared in convenient bite sized pieces. It’s a light […]

At last count, a whopping 85% of U.S. adults over the age of 59 reported taking prescription drugs. And about a third of those in their 60’s and 70’s said they were taking five or more prescription meds on a regular basis. Mix that with all of the over-the-counter (OTC) pills older adults take these […]

On March 19, 2024, you learned the difference between cage-free, free range, organic and pastured eggs. Since then, I’ve received several emails asking me what the REAL SITUATION with eggs is. Are they truly safe? Can I eat them without worry? Why do some experts say they are part of a healthy diet – and […]

Back in the 1960’s and 70’s, people had no idea what to do to prevent heart disease. But these days? Thanks to the Internet, pretty much everyone knows the secret… Don’t smoke, eat healthy foods, get regular physical activity, avoid processed foods, slack off on hard alcohol, and watch your sodium intake. There are even […]

When I was a kid, I wasn’t allowed to leave the table until I ate all of my vegetables. “They’re good for you!” my Mom would exclaim. The problem was, she didn’t know how to cook them. Broccoli and cauliflower were soggy masses of florets that had been boiled to death. Asparagus turned into a […]

Everyone loves the idea of eating a mostly plant-based diet. It’s healthy. It’s wholesome. It’s just downright good for you! Whole, plant-based foods are great for your heart, blood pressure, metabolism and memory. They protect against age-related health conditions, and can work wonders for your waistline. But there is a huge difference between the health […]

What kind of mouthwash do you use? There are so many choices these days and the claims are hard to know which one to choose. All of them promise to give you sweet-smelling breath. Some state that they’ll strengthen enamel. Others guarantee to whiten your teeth or pledge to kill germs that cause gum disease. […]

People have so many health concerns as they age. They worry about their hearts, memory, eyesight, weight and so much more. But when is the last time you wondered how your kidneys were doing? You really want to keep these 5-inch-long bean-shaped filters of your blood as happy as they can be. But kidney function […]

A few weeks ago, I mentioned that vitamin D is necessary to regulate the absorption of calcium in your body to help keep your bones strong and healthy. But Big Pharma is trying to change the dialogue about vitamin D. One thing we are seeing are more and more reports stating that routine vitamin D […]

Nearly all men will experience an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) in their lives. At some point, they will find themselves making constant trips to the bathroom, especially at night. And it may seem that urgency is required… but when you stand over the toilet you may only be able to dribble. You […]

Do you ever experience a weird flutter in your chest? Maybe your heartbeat feels like it skips a beat every now and then. Sometimes it might seem like it’s pounding or racing. It could even feel like your heart just performed a flip-flop. If any of these happen occasionally and is a short-lived sensation, it’s […]

When I go to bed at night, I often use a sound app on my phone to help me sleep. I like to listen to cricket noises or rain. Anything from nature works. But sometimes I just want white noise. On those nights, I play an air conditioner background noise. It blocks out most other […]

Milk. It does a body good. I agree with this statement… as long as it’s intended for babies who are suckling at their mother’s breasts. For adults? Not so much.

When I first started practicing medicine, I didn’t see a lot of liver disease. When I did run across a case, it usually involved someone who was a heavy drinker. There really weren’t a lot of surprises. Sadly, this is no longer true. We are seeing more and more cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease […]

Back in the 1980’s, the airwaves were filled with a song that wanted everyone to walk like an Egyptian. I never really understood the song itself, but I have to admit. All of the moves and grooves that went with it were great forms of physical activity. Anyone who wanted to participate had to raise […]

Back in the 1990’s and early 2000’s, men diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer thought it was a death sentence. So they often opted to undergo immediate surgery or radiation treatments, which can both result in serious, lifelong side effects. These days, however, men are increasingly choosing not to undergo immediate treatment. Instead, they are opting […]

In the last issue of Advanced Natural Wellness, you learned how ultra-processed foods can destroy your health. On the other hand, eating a nutrient-rich diet is one of the best things you can do to increase your chances of a long and healthy life. But trying to figure out what to eat can be overwhelming. […]

I hate walking into the grocery store. Most of the shelves are nothing but row after row of canned, processed, packaged, sweetened, and genetically modified foods filled with all sorts of things your body doesn’t know what to do with. These foods consist of sugars, fats, oils, sodium and all sorts of additives guaranteed to […]

A large part of the carbohydrates in your diet come from starches. Potatoes, breads, pasta and rice all fall into this category. I’m not a fan of these types of starchy foods. That’s because, when you eat too many of them, they can drive your blood sugar up and lead to metabolic disorders. So these […]

We all like to think that there is a single, correctable cause of disease. But the fact is, when things go wrong in the body, it’s never just one thing. And often-times, some of the things that negatively affect your health don’t even seem to have anything to do with the health condition in question. […]

High blood pressure is subtle. You can’t see it. You can’t feel it. You can’t hear it. It can quietly damage the body for years before symptoms start showing.  And the harm it can do to your health is incredible. Heart attack, stroke, dementia, kidney damage and even sexual dysfunction. But what really causes high […]

Nobody likes the feeling of an upset stomach. The nausea, vomiting, cramping and diarrhea are miserable. And uggh! The thought of putting food into an already upset stomach sounds like a horrible idea. Just the smell of certain foods can make you feel queasy all over again. Still, there are some foods and beverages that […]

Are knees that pop, creak, crunch or make grinding noises something you should be concerned about? Well, the occasional crack or pop probably isn’t anything to worry about. In most cases, that’s just gasses being released from the joint. But if one or both of your knees regularly makes rubbing, creaking and grinding sounds, it […]

Up until a few years ago, most folks considered eggs off-limits. If they ate them at all, they separated out the whites, and threw the most nutritious part – the yolk – into the garbage disposal. Well, now that eggs are off the hook when it comes to cholesterol and heart disease, you may be […]

I use extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) in the majority of my meals. Not only does it have great flavor, it’s absolutely THE BEST choice for my health. Unlike margarine, butter and other saturated fats, EVOO has medicinal properties that can reduce your risk of health issues and early death. I’m talking about things like […]

Have you ever noticed that certain skin problems run in some families? Mom, Dad and the kids all seem to have the same sort of problems. Perhaps it’s life-long issues with psoriasis. Or maybe it’s eczema. There is a reason for this. In particular, family members who grow up in the same household often follow […]

My father, brothers, and uncles all suffered from heart attacks. They also all had one strange physical sign – creased earlobes! Believe it or not, this is a warning sign that your arteries may be at increased risk for clogging. And there are well over 50 studies to prove it. (Look for a crease that […]

Not long ago, four American families took part in a very revealing experiment. The families were from Atlanta, Baltimore, Minneapolis and Oakland, and each included two or three children. For the first five days, the families ate their regular diets, which consisted of non-organic foods. These are the types of food that the average American […]

I’ve noticed an odd thing over the years. When it comes to choosing something to drink besides water, a lot of folks have no idea what constitutes a healthy beverage. For example, I’ve noticed that most of the “healthy” choices made by my patients include milk, juice and diet soda.

Last month I mentioned an interesting thing about music… how certain songs can transport you back in time to a specific moment that evokes a cherished memory. Have you ever noticed that the same thing happens with certain scents and odors? It might be a whiff of perfume that suddenly brings an image of your […]

My patients often ask me which type of alcohol is the “healthiest.” And they’re always disappointed in my answer. There is no “healthy” alcohol. “But doc,” they say. “Red wine protects your heart” … “Moderate drinking helps you live longer” …

I love hearing about older people who have defied the myth of old age. One of my favorites is Ernestine Shepherd. When she was in her late 50’s, she looked and acted like we seem to think people approaching their 60’s should. She was overweight, had no interest in exercise, and had never worked out […]

You often hear that vitamins and other supplements are a waste of money… that following a diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables provides all the essential vitamins and minerals you need. This is a nice concept in theory, but the fact is, only one out of every 10 adults eat the recommended daily servings […]

Back in 1988 a strange thing happened. A hospital launched a “Healthy Eating Day.” But shortly after enjoying the healthy lunch offered by the hospital, one of the surgical record-keepers fell ill. And before the end of the day, 10 more people who ate in the cafeteria experienced nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. What was happening? […]

When most people think of protein sources, their first thoughts generally run toward poultry, beef and other meat sources. Next on the list are things like eggs, milk and cheese; again from animal sources. Plant-based protein sources, like nuts or beans are never high on the list. For most folks, they aren’t even on the […]

The topics my patients ask me about run the gamut. But the one that always surprises me the most is when patients ask if it’s still okay to have sex. This question mostly comes from men who think they’re “too old” for bedroom activity or have a heart condition. (That doesn’t mean that a fair […]

Do you run out of steam before the day ends, or maybe even before it starts? If there isn’t an underlying health condition involved, there are a lot of different reasons this could happen. You might not be sleeping as well as you should. Maybe you’re not getting enough exercise. Stress can do it to […]

Some people think it’s “normal” to grow weak, lose weight and start moving at a snail’s pace as we grow older. That it’s “normal” to lose your mental faculties and succumb to dementia. If it’s so normal, then why are there so many active, healthy and engaged senior citizens out there? Take Norman Lear, for […]

Here’s a whopper of a statistic: Out of around 14 million US adults who have knee arthritis, it’s estimated that more than half of them will eventually require knee replacement surgery. Now, going through knee replacement surgery isn’t a walk in the park (no pun intended). After surgery, you literally have to learn to walk […]

Have you ever noticed that certain songs can transport you back in time? Back to a specific moment that evokes a cherished memory? Or that you can hear a song on the radio that you haven’t listened to for 10 or 15 years and suddenly remember every word, note and nuance of it? Some music […]

Sleep is one of those things a lot of people don’t get enough of. In our younger years, it just didn’t seem that important. We were too gung-ho to get as much done in a single day as we could. Who cared about sleep? But as we age, the decision to sleep or not isn’t […]

I don’t think people realize that herbal teas aren’t really tea, per say. Green and black teas all come from the same Camellia sinensis plant. The difference between them comes from green tea being steamed after the leaves are harvested. This prevents oxidation and increases levels of health boosting EGCG (Epigallocatechin). Herbal teas, on the […]

Have you ever noticed that all drug commercials are basically same? The words might change. But in the end, all of them portray happy people and happy families. TV ads for GLP-1 agonists are some of the worst. These are those drugs you see advertised on TV to support weight loss and help manage blood […]

People don’t comprehend the absolute unremitting pain of peripheral neuropathy. It begins with tingling in the feet, then moves on to a feeling of “pins and needles” or burning sensations like your feet are on fire. It can even feel as if you’re walking on clouds – like your feet aren’t touching the floor – […]

On December 14, 2023 the CDC announced that Flu and Covid cases had not yet reached their peaks this season. And sure enough, virus activity was on the rise during the last week of December. So we can expect to see this trend continue into January, maybe even February. Your best defense against these types […]