RadioMD (All Shows)

News of the week, toxic dangers, and helpful health tips. You don't want to miss this! Straight talk from You Doc, Michael Roizen, MD. Dr. Mike and co-host Joe Galuski discuss more of the most prevalent health news you need to know from the past week. Plus, find out "What's Toxic & What's Not" from toxicologist and regular contributor, Gary Ginsberg. More from RealAge Top Recipes for Brain Health

Even the healthiest diets can fall short when it comes to the vital nutrients you need to really thrive. Which supplements are right for YOU?You've probably felt overwhelmed by the wall of supplements at your grocery or health food store and then thought, "Do I really need to take supplements? I eat a pretty healthy diet." OR, you've heard rumors that supplements really do nothing for you. It's time to cut through the confusion. Special guest, Michael A. Smith, MD, will explain why even the healthiest diets can fall short when it comes to the vital nutrients you need to really thrive. Dr. Smith's new book, The Supplement Pyramid: How to Build Your Personalized Nutritional Regimen, offers quizzes and step-by-step instructions that can help you design a personalized menu to meet your unique needs -- from natural remedies for better sleep to supplements that can help prevent or beat cancer. Don't waste another dollar on the wrong supplements. Bonus! 7 Myths About the Privacy of Your Health Info

Join Dr. Roizen and his expert guests for the latest health news, wellness advice and most up-to-date research from around the world. World-renowned physician, Dr. Michael Roizen, MD, continues to update your understanding of the meaning of health by providing an in-depth review of the most impactful health headlines. Joined by his co-host, Joe Galuski, they discuss the health news that matters most to you. The duo is later joined by Dr. Michael A. Smith, author of The Supplement Pyramid.  Dr. Mike will explain why even the healthiest diets can fall short when it comes to the vital nutrients you need to really thrive. Bonus! Real Age Tip 5 Easiest Foods to Grow

Why are the measles making a comeback in the U.S.? From the recent stats, the answer is YES.Are the measles making a comeback? The CDC says that they are seeing the highest number of measles cases in the United States since 2000 with over 300 cases reported so far. Why? What are the measles and how can you prevent the disease? Back in the year 2000, the U.S. thought it had "eliminated" the disease. Since then, a lot of press and attention has been paid to people not getting vaccinations due to various reasons, from Hollywood celebrities "taking a stand" to people with religious principles. State governments and regulations are getting stricter in some aspects, but the measles still has become a public health issue. So, how can this newly-raised problem be addressed? There is a concept called "herd humanity," which says that as long as people do their duty as American citizens, it is good for the public as a whole. So, for instance, as long as approximately 95% of the population vaccinates, the community as a whole is mostly protected. Unfortunately, not all individuals and communities adhere to that concept. For example, one of the recent outbreaks of measles occurred in Ohio in an Amish community, where vaccination rates are around 20%. One of the members traveled to a country where measles is still a huge issue, and brought the disease back. While there have been no deaths reported thus far, if the trend continues, there WILL be deaths in the future. What does measles look like? It's been so long since this has been a problem, that many younger doctors are ill equipped to deal with it. The disease presents as a typical virus infection with a rash. Children may experience a fever for 2-4 days, as well as coughing and red, watery eyes (similar to pink eye). Eventually the classic red spots will appear. The rash generally starts at head and face and spreads down to the feet. Unfortunately, the rash doesn't come until about two weeks after the child is infected, leaving opportunity for transmission. The problem with measles is the complications that can occur, which can't really be predicted. Viral pneumonia is one complication, which, of course cannot be treated with antibiotics. Encephalitis, an infection of the brain, also cannot be treated. Dr. Bruce Lobitz joins Dr. Leigh to discuss the recent increase in measles cases, as well as what you should look out for as far as symptoms in your own child.

When doing yard work, what are the best things you can do to keep your limbs safe while still getting the job done?More than 250,000 people were treated for lawn mower-related injuries last year, and the incidence of these injuries is on the rise. Kids under 19 account for 17,000 of these injuries every year, but adults are mostly affected. A lot of these injuries happen right away in the Spring, when you're a little out of practice and your lawnmower is still a little rusty from sitting over winter. Injuries often result from interactions with the blade. Remember, the blade doesn't turn off instantaneously. Furthermore, it doesn't even have to be "spinning" to cause damage, especially if it's just been sharpened and you're working with it while idle. Amputation results from many of these injuries, as hands/fingers and feet are often the most affected. There aren't many hand surgeons available that can even handle this type of injury. Also, there is a high risk of infection from cuts and lacerations, because of all the grass, dirt and debris that can enter the wound from an injury caused by the blade. Muscles, nerves, tendons, bones, skin can be affected. Reattachment of lost limbs is also made difficult by the risk of infection. So, given that statistic, what are the best things you can do to keep your limbs safe while still getting the job done? The more "hard" objects you can put between yourself and the mower, the better. Hard-sole shoes that have some stability are essential, and long pants are recommended. Make sure the lawnmower is functioning properly and that the blade is completely stopped before addressing any issues. Kids should never be around lawn mowing, whether they're riding on the mower with you, or just helping you pick up sticks in the yard. Teach your kids safety and the rules around the mower. Also, don't leave the mower unattended while it's running. Most riding lawnmowers have seat sensors that will stop the blade if you step off. But some individuals choose to disengage that safety function, a mistake that can put you at risk. Finally, safety goggles/glasses are also a good idea to protect your eyes from rocks, sticks and anything that might shoot out. Doing yard work can be enjoyable, so make sure you're not putting yourself or any of your loved ones at risk. In this segment, Dr. Ryan Stanton joins Dr. Leigh to discuss the dangers of mowers, as well as simple ways you can make sure no one in your family ends up in the ER.

The hot summer sun can feel like such a relief after a long winter. But there are some critical things to consider when it comes to the sun's rays.Being out in the hot summer sun can feel like such a relief after a long, drawn-out winter. But there are some critical things to consider when it comes to the sun's rays, and how exposure can increase your risk for skin cancer. There are two primary types of cancers: melanoma and non-melanoma. Non-melanoma includes basal cell carcinoma. With this type, you'll generally see a bump start to grow in sun-exposed areas of your body, oftentimes your face. The bump will grow very slowly with no other real symptoms and get wider and deeper as time goes on. While these bumps can be removed successfully, doing so can be potentially disfiguring if not taken seriously. There are actually 12-14 sub-types of this type of cancer. Some of them are more aggressive and can get to the bone or nervous system more quickly than others. People with Type-1 skin (always burn, never tan) and Type-2 skin (burn, sometimes tan) are primarily at risk. Melanoma is one of the deadliest types of cancers. The trouble with melanoma is that it can metastasize to other bodily systems, such as your lymph nodes, brain, spleen, etc. For instance, if you haven't paid attention to a mole initially, it can enter a vertical growth phase where it reaches the lower level of the dermis and can enter the lymphatic system. There is an easy way to remember how to look out for such moles, known as the ABCD (and sometimes E) rule. Assymetry Border is uneven Color (brown, blue, white) Diameter (greater than a pencil eraser) Evolving, meaning the mole is changing What are some key risk factors for developing a melanoma? People who work inside and don't get out very much, then are exposed to the sun for an intense period of time are particularly at risk because they have then traumatized the skin, sometimes beyond repair. Also, as with the non-melanoma types of cancer, people with Type-1 and Type-2 skin are very much at risk. If you often go to the beach, you're getting double exposure (the sand reflects the sun), and if you're someone who is constantly in the sun during the peak hours of 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., you are also in the high-risk group. What are some ways you can prevent skin cancer? Always wear sunscreen when exposed to the sun. Find a sunscreen you like, that you'll use all the time. Remember to apply an hour before you go out and every two hours after you've been out. And, use the recommended one (1) ounce per application. Dr. Patrick Carrington joins Dr. Leigh to explain the differences in skin cancers, as well as provide tips for recognizing and addressing potential problem areas.

An Urgent Care facility is not a replacement for the ER. Learn the key differences between the two, as well as signs that you should go directly to the ER.With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, many clinics, hospitals and ERs are seeing a rise in patients. Unfortunately, there is a shortage of physicians available to take on the demand; which means that more and more urgent care facilities are trying to fill the void of not enough primary care. This can become problematic when people start substituting Urgent Care for the ER. Many patients are simply misguided as to where they should go, while others are being referred to Urgent Care by their primary physicians. One thing to keep in mind is that you must understand what Urgent Care clinics can do, and what level of treatment you might be able to receive. Some facilities can perform and process blood work while others can't. It's difficult to diagnose more serious issues when you can't perform the proper tests. What are some critical warning signs that you should think twice about before skipping the ER and heading to Urgent Care? Anything heart-attack related, such as chest pain, pain down the arm, nausea, shortness of breath. Remember, women have atypical symptoms for heart attack such as dizziness or weakness, so those symptoms should not be ignored either. Of course stroke indications such as weakness, not being able to speak and having trouble walking should send you immediately to the ER. And any sort of seizure or instance of passing out should be addressed in an Emergency Department. If you are in doubt, you should always call 911. The 911 system was built to address emergencies. Always err on the side of safety. Another thing to consider is that even though these UC centers are popping up, there still aren't enough doctors. Physician "extenders" such as Nurse Practitioners and Physician's Assistants can help, but you must realize they are a different kind of provider than a doctor. NPs and PAs are OK for minor emergencies and they can help fill that void, but there is still need for primary care physicians. Also, some Medicare plans require that you be seen by a physician first, or they won't cover the care. Finally, UC centers charge the money up front, whereas ERs treat you first then worry about the money later. If there's any question in your mind that you absolutely need to see a doctor right away, the ER is the way to go. Dr. Rebecca Parker joins Dr. Leigh to discuss the critical differences between Urgent Care facilities and ERs, as well as the best ways to assess which option is best for you and your loved ones.

A recent poll shows that ER visits are on the rise since the Affordable Care Act was put into effect. Wasn't the ACA supposed to fix the healthcare system, not make it worse?A recent poll shows that ER visits are on the rise since January 1, 2014, when the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was fully put into effect. But wait a minute... wasn't the ACA supposed to fix the healthcare system, not make it worse? There are a lot of factors that go into this rise in ER visits. Actually, many physicians knew this trend was going to occur based on past experience. A key thing to remember is that just because you have health insurance, doesn't mean you have health care. Coverage does not equal access. Some of the increase could be due to people who are finally able to "afford" to go to the doctor. Oftentimes, these people have waited so long that the medical issue they're experiencing truly has become an emergency. In fact, when patients call their primary care physician for an emergency-type issue, four out of five physicians will recommend that they go to the ER. People are using the ER when they need to, not just willy-nilly. Over 90 percent of patients do actually belong there. The problem arises because the ACA has helped increase the demand for healthcare, but the supply of doctors is the same. What is the answer to this conundrum? Special guest, Dr. Rebecca Parker joins Dr. Leigh to discuss the rise in Emergency Department visits, as well as the future of Emergency care.

Can you control your asthma with the right nutrients?Have you ever experienced that gasping feeling like you're not getting enough air, coupled with a tight feeling in your chest? You might be having symptoms of asthma. Asthma occurs when you have inflammation in your air passages that results in the narrowing of the airways that transport oxygen from your nose and mouth to your lungs. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing and tightness in the chest. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the current number of adults suffering from asthma is 18.7 million. By using asthma medications, you are subjecting yourself to their side effects. However, this doesn't mean you should be throwing away your inhalers or medications. Rather, you might want to take a look into more natural approaches. Is there a natural way to help relieve your asthma symptoms? One nutrient to be adding into your diet is magnesium. Magnesium is involved with over 350 biochemical reactions in your body and plays a crucial role in every cell in your body; specifically your gastrointestinal system and the lining of your airway spaces. What are some other natural remedies to help with your asthma? Dr. Mike discusses what asthma is, some natural remedies and why these natural remedies benefit your overall health. Natural remedies for asthma relief: Magnesium Butterbur herb Quercetin Raw onions Lemon juice Ginger

Green bananas are not only filled with nutrients but also have amazing healing powers.Usually when you're grocery shopping and looking for bananas, you typically pick bananas that are yellow, since they are ready to eat immediately. But do you know the amazing benefits green bananas have for your health? Even though the green color is usually a sign it's not ripe, the banana still can be eaten. Green bananas are high in fiber, vitamins and minerals and contain starch, which can help control your blood sugar, lower your cholesterol and help manage your weight. What is the difference between eating a yellow banana versus a green banana? Like mentioned above, green bananas have resistant starch that cannot be broken down by enzymes from your digestive tract. Yellow, ripe bananas have great benefits as well but contain more sugar. What are some other hidden benefits of eating green bananas? Author, Suzan Damas, joins Dr. Mike to discuss why you should be eating green bananas, the benefits of green bananas and ways to prepare them.

Regenerative medicine is the process of replacing, engineering or regenerating human cells and organs to restore normal function.Nanotechnology focuses on the impact of nano-scalar metals in regenerative medicine. Nano-metals are a novel technique used to detoxify the body's burden of both heavy metals and other environmental toxins in order for body tissues to regenerate. Regenerative medicine is the process of replacing, engineering or regenerating human cells, tissues and organs to restore or establish normal function. Your body has the ability to rebuild and repair tissues, but as you get older, the ability to do so becomes challenging. However, there are other factors that contribute to the regeneration effect. For example, the environment you live in and the food you decide to eat makes a huge difference. Also, how does the lack of minerals in your diet have an impact on your cells' ability to regenerate in a healthy way? Dr. John Aplsey, author of The Regeneration Effect, shares the latest cellular technologies that help with detoxifying the body and helping the body to rapidly regenerate at the cellular and sub-cellular levels.

Be aware of these oral warning signs and the serious diseases they may indicate.According to research, oral cancer is one of the only cancers in the U.S. where numbers are increasing and not decreasing. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, close to 43,250 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year. Oral cancer includes cancer of your mouth, tongue, cheeks, soft palate and sinuses. Oral cancer appears as a growth or sore that does not go away. Recent studies show almost 40 percent of diagnosed cases are for those who are under the age of 45 and non-smokers. What are some warning signs of oral cancer? The first sign is any mouth ulcer or sore that doesn't heal over two weeks. We are all prone to sores or ulcers in mouth from trauma such biting your tongue or cheek, something you ate was too hot or from a virus. These sores, however, will go away within a few days. What are some other warning signs and symptoms that you should keep an eye on? Dr. Mike discusses the major warning signs in the mouth that could be indicating a more serious condition. Warning signs: Ulcers or sores in your mouth Hoarseness in your voice Swallowing issues Lumps on your neck Weight loss Tongue asymmetry

A recent study in Spain found that eating nuts three or more times a day decreased your risk of cancer.You might remember the saying, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." But have you heard that by eating nuts you will be keeping the doctor away and adding years to your life? A longitudinal study conducted by the Universitat Rovira I Virgili in Spain gathered more than 7,000 people over the age of 50 to test the nut-longevity connection. The researchers found that those in the study who ate nuts more than three times a week had reduced their risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease compared to those in the study who did not eat any nuts. In general, nuts have many powerful health benefits (that is, nuts that are raw and dry roasted, not smothered in salt). Nuts are a great source of unsaturated fatty acids, which can help lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol. Nuts also contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and protein. Instead of grabbing something out of the vending machine at work or reaching for those potato chips in your pantry, try eating a handful of mixed nuts. It may take a little will power, especially when that 2:00 p.m. lethargy is making you crave something sweet. However, your future self will thank you for it. What are some ways you can implement nuts into your diet? Dr. Mike shares information on the study, as well as ways you can implement nuts into your eating routine.

Concerns about being overweight begin as early as preschool, and the drive for thinness intensifies with age.Concerns about being overweight begin as early as preschool, and the drive for thinness intensifies with age. The results can have both physical and psychological repercussions, including potentially serious disordered eating. Because adolescents with eating disorders rarely seek help on their own, it is important that parents act on their suspicions quickly and not retreat behind a wall of denial. Parents who raise the issue with their teenager should expect a heated denial of any problem. The Female Athlete Triad refers to the combination of three medical conditions—eating problems, menstrual problems, and weak bones—seen in competitive female athletes. Prevention of the female athlete triad is important because it can interfere with normal growth and development, cause injury, and result in loss of strength and endurance. In this segment, special guest, Yolanda (Linda) Reid Chassiakos, shares information about these three conditions, as well as general guidance for prevention and treatment of disordered eating in your children.

If your kid is heading off to high school or college, how can you be sure they'll be kept safe?If your kid is heading off to high school or college you may be concerned about the increase in campus violence. As a parent, what can you do if you learn a violent act has occurred? What safety measures are in place to protect your child? One such measure is the Clery Act. The Clery Act was named after Jeanne Clery, who was raped and murdered in her dorm room by a fellow student on April 5, 1986. Her parents championed the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act) in her memory. This Act is a federal law that requires colleges to report crimes that occur "on campus" and clearly assert school safety policies. This information is available each year in an Annual Security Report (ASR), which can be found on your child's school website. The Clery Act also requires schools to have timely warnings when there are known risks to public safety on campus. In this segment, Yolanda (Linda) Reid Chassiakos helps sort out all the confusion and worry and gives guidance to help ease some of the fears when your child is away at school.