50+Expos return to Virginia, Maryland
The Beacon newspaper’s annual in-person 50+Expos return this month. Thousands of older adults and their families are expected to attend the free events, featuring a range of valuable resources, informative speakers, health screenings, volunteer opportunities and entertaining activities tailored to their interests and needs. This year’s 50+Expos will be held at two... READ MORE
Some surprising facts about pistachios
There’s no denying the irresistible pistachio. Its smooth beige shell reveals a peek of the green goodness within. Native to the Middle East, including what is now Turkey, Iran and Syria, pistachios were considered royalty and an aphrodisiac. Chinese legend says they bring good luck to those who hear the shells pop open while sitting under a pistachio tree. Plump with powerful plant ... READ MORE
Causes and treatments for peptic ulcers
Dear Mayo Clinic: Last year, I was diagnosed with heartburn due to a peptic ulcer. My doctor suggested that I see a specialist. Who should I see, and what type of treatment is available? A: Many people will note that they have “heartburn,” and it is important to know that such a symptom could be related to one of several issues in the digestive tract, including peptic ulcer... READ MORE
Does Medicare cover second opinions?
Dear Savvy Senior, The doctor I currently see thinks I need a knee replacement, but I would like to get some other treatment options before I proceed. Does Medicare cover second medical opinions? —Limping Larry Dear Larry, Getting a second medical opinion from another doctor is a smart idea that may offer you a fresh perspective and additional options for treating your knee so you ... READ MORE
Questions re: probiotics, spinal stenosis
Q: Is there a recommended daily intake of probiotics? A: There are two ways to get more good bacteria into your gut: fermented foods and dietary supplements. Fermented foods are the most natural source. Probiotic supplements, which are typically sold over the counter, are reserved to treat specific ailments as suggested by your doctor and are not recommended for everyday use. Plus,... READ MORE
What is a liquid diet and is it healthy?
In America, there is no shortage of diets to cling to: Paleo, plant-based, keto, DASH — all with their merits and pitfalls. Another popular choice is the liquid diet, or the so-called “juice cleanse.” Whether you drink juices, blender shakes, tea, broths or soups, liquid diets are nutrition programs that direct you to get either some, most or all of your daily calories from liquids ... READ MORE
Is it normal memory loss or worrisome?
Dear Mayo Clinic: My mom is in her 80s, and I’ve noticed that her memory seems to be slipping. Sometimes she forgets a person’s name or can’t recall what she did the day before. Is it normal to have these types of lapses at her age, or should I be worried they are signs of something more serious? A: It is understandable that you are concerned about changes in your mother’s... READ MORE
Weight-loss drugs raise anesthesia risk
Patients who take blockbuster drugs like Wegovy or Ozempic for weight loss may face life-threatening complications if they need surgery or other procedures that require empty stomachs for anesthesia. [Ozempic is also used by some patients with Type 2 diabetes.] This summer`s guidance to halt the medication for up to a week may not go far enough, either. Some anesthesiologists in the... READ MORE
Healthy oils to choose at home and out
Some people may be cautious when it comes to using oils in cooking or with their food. Eating fat with meals conjures thoughts of high cholesterol and, well, getting fat. The fact that some fats are labeled as “bad” adds to the confusion and misconception that all fats are unhealthy. But that isn’t the case. “It’s important to consume oils,” said Shilpa Bhupathiraju,... READ MORE
Trade-offs with new Alzheimer’s drugs
Another experimental Alzheimer’s drug can modestly slow patients’ inevitable worsening — by about four to seven months, researchers reported last month. But there are safety risks, too. Eli Lilly and Co. is seeking Food and Drug Administration approval of the drug, called donanemab. If cleared, it would be only the second Alzheimer’s treatment convincingly shown to delay the... READ MORE
