Newsletter

This is my first attempt at a “newsletter”. I have tried to cover basic subjects that patients, friends, family and colleagues frequently question me on. Being healthy starts with a good diet, exercise and adequate sleep. Feel free to email me with your comments or suggestions for future topics.

A hormone is a hormone is a hormone

Bioidentical hormones come in FDA approved prescriptions (pills, patches, creams, etc) and compounded formulations. Bioidentical hormones are all similar and synthesized in the laboratory; they are NOT found naturally in plants. For those who need treatment with hormones such as estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and/or thyroid, she/he should receive the LOWEST dose for the problem to avoid adverse effects (such as cancer, cardiovascular disease).
See www.menopause.org, www.ACOG.org

Condoms, condoms, condoms

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are increasing as well as unplanned pregnancies. The best prevention is abstinence, education and condoms. STIs are transmitted by vaginal intercourse as well as oral and anal sex. The human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine protects against the transmission of 4 (of over 100) HPV viruses.
See www.Guttmacher.org, www.CDC.gov, youngwomenshealth.org

Bone health

Calcium: 1000-1500 mg daily (best consumed as food such as milk or yogurt). Supplements may be taken in one dose.
Vitamin D: 800-1000 IU daily (or some sunlight)
Other factors: increase weight bearing exercise; avoid being too thin, alcohol, smoking (other risk factors for bone loss should be discussed with your doctor)
See: www.NOF.org, www.osteo.org

Heart disease

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in women (and men). Check your risk at www.AmericanHeart.org.