Wellness LetterWellness Advice

Wellness Advice

Happiness

Small Acts of Kindness = Increased Happiness

During my years of practicing medicine, I often received gifts from my patients—things like homemade cookies and similarly thoughtful offerings. And while I absolutely enjoyed the cookies, it was...
what your doctor should not say

When Words Hurt: Here’s What Your Doctor Shouldn’t Say

I’m going to cut to the chase here: Doctors are not always good communicators. I do believe most of us are compassionate, and try to convey that. Still, we...
How Healthy is Duck

Duck: Good, Bad, or Somewhere In-Between?

I saw duck fat spray at my local supermarket for the first time. That got me wondering—how healthy (or unhealthy) is duck compared to other types of poultry? It’s a...
hiatal hernia

Hi Hiatal Hernia, What’s Up?

I’ve been told I have a hiatal hernia that is causing my heartburn. What can I do about it? A hiatal hernia doesn’t cause heartburn, but it is often associated...
Laser cap for hair loss

Laser Caps for Hair Loss?

I went to a reputable hair loss clinic where, as a woman, I was diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia. The dermatologist there recommended I try a laser cap—but it’s expensive...
blood sugar monitoring

Blood Sugar Monitors for Everyone? Not So Fast

Imagine if, any time you indulged in a piece of cake or a bowl of chips, you could know what those carbs were doing to your blood sugar levels...
voice change as you age

Why Is My Voice Changing?

My voice seems to be changing as I get older. Is this normal? Vocal cords age along with the rest of the body. These twin bands of connective tissue are...
Evidence-Based Reporting

Reaffirming Our Commitment to You

Only a few months into 2025, it’s safe to say this has already been a rough year for science. The Trump administration has wasted no time in pushing its...
endodontist

What Is an Endodontist?

I always go to my family dentist for cleanings and fillings and other basic dental work. Some of my friends have gone to an endodontist—but I’m not sure for...
vitiligo

Vitiligo: Distressing But Treatable

Over the years, I’ve noticed people with the skin condition vitiligo. But as a middle-aged man, I was surprised when I recently developed it myself on my hands, since...