Insulin and glucagon are the two key hormones involved in regulating your blood sugar levels. Most people rarely give them a second thought, but if you have diabetes or pre-diabetes, you know the significant influence these hormones can have on your health. When blood sugar is not properly regulated, it can lead to various health complications – some of which can be life-threatening if unaddressed.  If blood sugar levels are consistently too high, a condition known as hyperglycemia occurs, a hallmark of diabetes mellitus. Conversely, if blood sugar levels drop too low, a condition called ..read more

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects millions of people around the world, causing significant discomfort and routine disruptions in daily life. It’s predominantly characterized by abdominal pain, as well as altered bowel habits.  If you’re one of the millions of Americans who deal with IBS, you’ve likely wondered how long the condition lasts and what you can do to reduce some of its worst symptoms.  Although there is no permanent cure for IBS, there are certain steps you can take to prevent and shorten flare-ups. Let’s discuss the factors that influence this syndrome and what you ..read more

Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis are both musculoskeletal conditions that are associated with aging – but although they may seem similar, these conditions are not the same.  Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in joints, which can cause significant pain and stiffness. Osteoporosis, on the other hand, is characterized by low bone density and increased risk of fractures due to bone weakening.  In the United States, osteoarthritis affects over 32.5 million adults, and osteoporosis affects approximately 10 million individuals – the m ..read more

The liver, our body’s largest internal organ, plays a crucial role in detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage. Despite its resilience, the liver can be affected by various factors, including lifestyle choices and medical conditions. In this blog, we’ll delve into the importance of liver screening and how it can benefit your overall health. Liver screening involves a series of tests designed to assess the health and function of the liver. These tests can detect abnormalities, inflammation, fatty liver disease, viral infections (such as hepatitis), and other liver conditions at an earl ..read more

If you’ve ever felt like breathing was a challenge after a meal, you know how distressing the sensation can be. Shortness of breath after eating can be related to a range of conditions and usually feels like a tightness in your chest or, in some cases, a sense of suffocation.  Although these symptoms can be alarming, there are usually treatable causes behind them. To prevent shortness of breath in the future and to understand what’s going on, you’ll need to get to the root of these underlying triggers. Here’s what you need to know about shortness of breath after eating, what causes it, a ..read more

The holiday season, often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration, can be particularly challenging for individuals dealing with depression. The juxtaposition of festive cheer and personal struggles can intensify feelings of isolation and sadness. However, amidst the difficulties, there is hope. A recent poll found that 45% of Americans would prefer to skip the holidays entirely to avoid the associated stress. This blog explores strategies for coping with depression during the holidays and sheds light on how participating in depression clinical research studies can be a beacon of hope for t ..read more

Gastroparesis is a digestive disorder in which the stomach delays its release of contents into the small intestine. This condition occurs when the muscles in the stomach become impaired or damaged.  Common causes of gastroparesis can include: Diabetes Nerve damage Viral infections Certain medications  Gastroparesis is not all that common, impacting roughly 10 men and 40 women out of every 100,000 people. Of these affected patients, each can experience slightly different side effects. Most commonly, symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a feeling of fullness.  ..read more

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a complex and debilitating neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of individuals and their families worldwide. Often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, LBD poses significant challenges for both patients and caregivers. Although LBD can affect both men and women, certain studies indicate a marginally higher occurrence in men. Clinical research is at the forefront of unraveling the mysteries of LBD, providing hope for improved diagnosis, treatment, and, ultimately, a better quality of life for those living with this condition. In this blog, we will delve into ..read more

High triglycerides, also known as hypertriglyceridemia, is a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While triglycerides are a normal component of your blood, elevated levels can increase the risk of various health problems, including heart disease. In this blog, we will explore what triglycerides are, what causes them to become elevated, the associated health risks, and strategies for managing high triglycerides. What Are Triglycerides? Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. They are the most common type of fat in the body and are primarily d ..read more

Dealing with medical challenges like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can feel like navigating turbulent waves. This chronic condition, commonly known as acid reflux, affects millions globally, disrupting comfort and well-being. GERD’s complexity lies in its multifactorial cause rooted in lifestyle habits, genetic predisposition, and physiological factors. In this guide, we will provide insight into GERD’s nature, causes, and management, leading to smoother seas and enhancing quality of life. By understanding GERD, those affected regain control, continuing their voyage with renewed conf ..read more