We’ve already reached the summer solstice, and the sun is now the strongest it will be all year. So now’s a good time to remind everyone to use sunscreen anytime you go outside for more than 30 minutes. Even if you’re almost fully clothed, you still need to protect your face, ears and tops of your feet.… Read the rest
Category Archives: Illness
Preventing Diabetes: Brown is Always Better Than White
As diabetes continues its pandemic across the world, it’s crucial that we all truly understand how we could prevent this very preventable disease — at least for type 2 diabetes, which is the adult-onset diabetes mostly related to obesity and the “Western” lifestyle.… Read the rest
Chantix Pills to Stop Smoking: Do Risks Outweigh Benefits?
A few weeks ago I wrote a piece discussing options for smoking cessation, and I specifically plugged varenicline, known as Chantix in most countries, as being perhaps the most effective tool we doctors can now offer. Since my posting, a few drug warnings have come out, and it begs the question: do the benefits still outweigh the risks?… Read the rest
Insomnia: Is Your Lifestyle Causing It?
Since arriving in Beijing I’ve suffered terrible insomnia. I’ve had problems before, but never like this. I’m 55. What can I do to guarantee a good night’s sleep?
Insomnia is a common problem all over the world, but there are many causes for sleeping problems, so we need to dig deeper into your history.… Read the rest
Tired Every Afternoon? Here's How To Avoid It
… Read the restBy midday, I feel completely beat. I’m 37 and work as an English teacher in Beijing. I’m fine on mornings but by about 2 pm I just want to go home to sleep. Afternoon classes really drag. It’s been like this for a few months now.
Barbecue and Cancer: Let's Review The Risks
Summer is in full swing, and many of us are enjoying one of life’s favorite past times — eating barbecued foods. Who can’t resist ears of corn, or a burger or hot dog? I certainly can’t, and have no intention of stopping — but I am now more careful about what and where I eat barbecue , as well as how I prepare it. … Read the rest