Category: Primary Preventive Care

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, cause discomfort and frustration for many people, especially women. If you’ve endured the pain of a UTI, you understand the urgency of prevention. While antibiotics offer relief post-infection, the true defense lies in preventing UTIs in the first place.

UTIs often target women and those assigned female at birth. Around 20% of women will experience a UTI in their lifetime. 

What is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a prevalent microbial infection affecting various components of the urinary system. The urinary system encompasses the urethra, bladder, and kidneys, and UTIs can manifest in any of these anatomical segments.

UTIs commonly originate from bacterial infiltration of the urinary tract.

Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella, Proteus, and Enterococcus are the most common bacteria that can cause a UTI.

These bacteria typically ascend into the urinary tract urethra and can eventually move into the urinary bladder. When the bladder isn’t completely voided and bacteria continue to overgrow the infection can eventually climb further up and into the kidneys, resulting in a kidney infection (pyelonephritis).

Here are 12 ways you can help to prevent UTIs

1. Drink Plenty of Water

Staying well-hydrated is a cornerstone of urinary tract health. Women who consume less than 1.5 liters of water daily have a 50% increased risk of developing UTIs. If you are prone to getting UTIs then you should be hydrating regularly. Adequate hydration encourages frequent urination which helps to flush out bacteria from your urinary tract. Aim for about eight glasses of water every day.

If plain water isn’t your preference, consider decaffeinated herbal tea or milk.  Avoid hydrating with excessively sweetened beverages as this may contribute to elevated blood glucose levels.

Reducing alcohol and caffeine intake can also contribute to a healthier urinary system.

2. Urinate Before and After Intercourse

Sexual activity – especially in women – can introduce bacteria into the urethra. To mitigate this risk, habitually urinate before and after intimacy. This practice helps eliminate potential bacteria that could lead to a UTI.

Additionally, gently cleaning your genital area before intercourse can contribute to maintaining cleanliness and minimizing the transfer of bacteria to the urethra.

3. Stay Hydrated After Intercourse

After intercourse, try to drink a glass of water to help flush out any bacteria that might have entered your urethra during sexual activity.

4. Wipe Front to Back

After using the bathroom, make it a habit to wipe your genital area from front to back. This simple action is crucial because the rectum is a common source of E. coli bacteria. By wiping in this direction, you minimize the risk of transferring these bacteria from the anus to the urethra which can prevent UTIs.

If you are dealing with diarrhea, adhering to the front-to-back wiping method becomes even more critical.

Diarrhea can disrupt normal bowel movements and increase the potential for E. coli to spread from the rectum to the urethra.

5. Take Cranberry Extract

Cranberry extract can be an effective preventive measure against UTIs. Regular consumption of cranberry products containing proanthocyanidins (PACs) can hinder the attachment of bacteria to the bladder wall, reducing the risk of infection. Opt for cranberry supplements over cranberry juice, as supplements provide a higher concentration of PACs.

6. Avoid Scented Vaginal Washes and Bubble Baths

Preserving the inherent bacterial equilibrium within the vaginal region plays a pivotal role in UTI prevention. Scented feminine products have the potential to upset this delicate balance, providing an environment for detrimental bacteria to thrive. It’s advised to avoid the use of scented douches, pads, tampons, and powders. Additionally, scented bath oils, soaps, and bubble baths can lead to genital irritation and disrupt the harmonious bacterial equilibrium of the vaginal area.

7. Avoid Holding Your Urine

Delaying trips to the restroom can create a breeding ground for bacterial growth. If you are prone to getting UTIs aim to urinate every 3 to 4 hours and fully empty your bladder each time. This practice becomes even more crucial during pregnancy, as pregnancy increases the risk of UTIs.

8. Use Probiotics

Probiotics are vital in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your body, including your urinary tract. They promote a strong immune system and support the growth of beneficial bacteria in both the vagina and urinary tract.

Including probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir can help prevent the propagation of harmful bacteria that can lead to UTIs.

9. Opt for Loose Clothing

Choose clothing that promotes airflow and minimizes moisture accumulation in your genital area. This can help inhibit bacterial growth that thrives in warm, damp environments.

10. Evaluate Birth Control Methods

Some birth control methods can contribute to bacterial overgrowth and UTIs. Diaphragms, non-lubricated condoms, spermicides, and spermicide condoms are potential culprits. If you suspect your birth control is linked to UTIs, consult with your doctor to explore alternative options for birth control

11. Prioritize Proper Hygiene

Practicing good hygiene habits is essential for preventing UTIs. As discussed, wiping from front to back after using the restroom helps prevent the transfer of bacteria from the rectum to the urethra. However, showering daily and especially after activity that causes sweating is even more crucial if you are prone to UTIs.

12. Consider Antibiotics When Necessary

If you experience recurrent UTIs unresponsive to preventive treatment, your healthcare provider might recommend a low daily dose of oral antibiotics. This preventive approach can help manage harmful bacteria and reduce the likelihood of UTIs.

However, long-term antibiotic use should be closely monitored by your medical provider.

While common, UTIs are an unwanted nuisance and can lead to serious infection if left untreated.

Adopting these simple yet effective practices proactively can help reduce the risk of introducing detrimental bacteria into your urinary tract and keep you pain-free. 

When you’re trying to lose weight, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by all of the diets, supplements, and meal replacement plans promising quick results. It’s important to approach these claims with a critical eye since most of them don’t have the support of scientific evidence.

The ones that do however all boil down to one common thing – limiting your calories.

Limiting your caloric intake or burning more calories than you consume is the only way to lose weight. Learning and mastering how to do this consistently over time is how you lose weight and keep it off.

In this guide, I will teach you how to curb your caloric intake and how to keep it in check consistently.

We will cover everything from creating a calorie deficit to tracking your progress to maintaining weight loss.

Caution: This is not a lose-weight quick guide. This article will show you how to manage your diet so that you can lose weight consistently one pound at a time without the need for dieting or medications.

What are Calories?

Before we delve into how you can lose weight naturally, you must understand calories. 

A calorie is merely a unit of heat energy. Generally speaking, it is defined as the amount of heat energy needed to heat 1 gram of water by 1 degree Celsius. Today, we can use a machine known as a bomb calorimeter to burn food and measure how many calories (heat energy) are released from the foods that we eat and the drinks that we consume.

The amount of calories in specific foods is determined by their unique chemical composition. Generally, foods high in fats and carbohydrates provide more calories, while protein-rich alternatives typically provide fewer calories.

Similarly, when we eat food our bodies metabolize that food for energy. The heat energy released is also measured in calories. This can be measured using a formula known as the Harris-Benedict Formula. You will not have to use this formula.

The more food we consume the more fuel we have to utilize. If we consume too much food our bodies will store that extra fuel for future use. We indirectly measure this fuel as calories. Or put another way, our bodies will store the extra calories.

Eating too many calories will result in weight gain.

How Many Calories Do I need?

The amount of calories you need per day is called your basal metabolic rate (BMR). Your BMR is the amount of calories your body burns at rest to maintain vital functions. 

How Many Calories Do I Burn Per Day?

Now that you know how many calories you burn at rest or BMR, you need to understand how many calories you use or burn per day given your activity level. Your activity level significantly influences the amount of calories you burn per day. Calculating how many calories you burn based on your activity level will show you the difference between what you need at rest versus what you are burning based on your lifestyle.

 You can use the chart below to calculate this. Just multiply your weight in pounds by the multiplier in the right-hand column that corresponds with your activity level.

For instance, if you weigh 190 pounds and you are lightly active then you would do the following: 190 x 13.5 = 2,565 cal. Thus your body needs 2,565 calories per day to maintain your current weight. Eating any more than this consistently will cause you to gain weight whereas eating any less than this consistently will result in weight loss.

You must eat at a caloric deficit in order to lose weight.

Now that you know how many calories you are burning daily, you can start deciding how many calories you need to cut out in order to lose weight.

While the number of calories required to gain or lose a pound depends on a variety of factors, as a general rule of thumb, you should cut your caloric intake by about 500 calories per day to lose 0.5 lb to 1lb a week. While this is not a perfect calculation, this is a good place to start in order to get an idea of how many calories you need to eat in order to lose weight.

Always remember to stay hydrated if you are going to be cutting your caloric intake by drinking plenty of water.

You should also consult with your primary care provider if you plan on cutting more calories than this or if you notice any concerning symptoms.

How Can I Monitor My Caloric Intake?

Now that you know how many calories you need to eat to lose weight, you need to monitor how many calories you are consuming.

There are several apps and online calculators that will help you do this. 

Tracking your calories creates a sense of awareness and accountability.More importantly, it empowers you to make informed choices about portion size and food selection.

If you would rather not use calculators or apps to help you lose weight and prefer a general guide of what foods you should or should not eat, please reach out to our office directly.

How Can I Cut Calories?

Here are the three effective ways to cut your calories:

1. Cut Out Poor Quality High-Calorie Foods

This one is straightforward. When aiming to cut calories, you must cut down on poor quality high-calorie foods from your diet.These foods typically include processed snacks, sugary drinks, and items high in saturated fats.

You can significantly lower your caloric intake by reducing or eliminating these unhealthy choices. Opt for nutritious alternatives like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. 

2. Switch to More-Filling Low-Calorie Options

Another effective strategy to reduce caloric consumption is to switch from less-filling high-calorie options to more-filling, low-calorie options.

For instance, instead of reaching for calorie-dense desserts like cookies, pastries, and chips, consider alternatives like fresh berries or nuts like almonds or cashews. Similarly, swap out calorie-rich beverages like soda or sugary juices for water, low-sugar or sugar-free herbal tea, or sugar-free flavored sparkling water.

These substitutions allow you to enjoy satisfying foods and beverages while reducing your caloric intake.

3. Cut Down on Portion Sizes

Cutting down on portion sizes is a practical way to reduce calorie intake without eliminating your favorite foods.

Avoid eating whole portions in one sitting from restaurants. These portions tend to be more than one serving size and can be spread out over multiple days to help keep you at a daily caloric deficit.

Be mindful of how much food you put on your plate, and avoid going for seconds just to feel stuffed.

Paying attention to hunger and fullness cues can help prevent overeating. Remember, it’s not about depriving yourself of food but rather finding a balance that allows you to enjoy your meals while controlling your caloric intake.

4. Know Your Menu Options

We all love to eat out and enjoy the occasional “fast food” restaurant. You don’t have to cut out your favorite restaurants in order to lose weight. You just have to know what your options are and how often you can “splurge” on unhealthy options. Every restaurant, even McDonalds, has low-calorie options. Check out this list here for some of the more popular resturants.

How Can I Curb My Appetite?

Oftentimes, the hardest part of eating less and maintaining a caloric deficit is controlling your appetite. Appetite control can be difficult, especially when your body is used to overeating or consuming more calories than you need.

This can be even more difficult when we factor in such things as busy work/life schedules, readily available low-quality food options, and foods that are designed to make you eat more. 

There are effective strategies that can help you curb your appetite and make healthier choices. Incorporating these 3 habits into your daily routine can help.

1. Eat Low-Calorie Meals that are Filling

This one is also straightforward.

Focus on incorporating fiber-rich foods like vegetables and whole grains. These nutrient-dense options provide volume and help you feel full for extended periods. Including lean proteins like chicken, fish, or legumes can also contribute to satiety.

2. Drink Plenty of Water with Meals

Hydration is important for overall health; drinking water before or during meals can help you feel more satisfied. Staying properly hydrated is important because, at times, the body may mistake thirst for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking or overeating.

3. Dont Deprive Yourself of food

Cutting calories while keeping your hunger in check can be difficult. As stated earlier, often times the hardest part of eating less is controlling your appetite. One of the worst things you can do when trying to cut weight however is to deprive yourself of food to the point where you are hungry for a significant portion of your day. This can result in such adverse effects as weakness, fatigue, depression, irritability, lightheadedness, nausea, upset stomach, and headache. No one wants to feel any of these let alone more than one of these symptoms at any given time.

No weight loss plan can work unless you find a balance where you can curb your hunger while eating enough and maintaining your motivation to want to continue losing weight. Because of this, it is important to eat at regular intervals throughout the day so that you can continue to maintain satiety/fullness. Even if you aren’t hungry, you should consider eating regularly throughout the day in order to avoid feeling hungry. As you can expect, feeling hungry and irritable is the quickest way to derail your weight loss and cause you to go back to the unhealthy eating patterns that resulted in the weight gain in the first place.

Note: If you are having difficulty curbing your appetite sometimes you may need a little extra help. There are medications that may help control your appetite while you progress towards your weight loss goals. If you would like more information please reach out to our office.

If you look closely at the ingredient labels on the food items in your pantry, you will likely find a wide range of food additives. While some additives are generally safe and pose minimal risks to most individuals, others have been associated with negative health effects and are best avoided. In this article, we will briefly cover which food additives to avoid when possible.

What Are Food Additives?

Food additives are substances added to our foods to enhance their taste, appearance, shelf life, and sometimes quality. They are vital in preventing foodborne illnesses, enabling food transportation to remote areas, and helping to lower costs for mass production. While they play a vital role in the foods we consume, it’s essential to recognize that not all food additives are created equal. In fact, some food additives should be limited or even removed from consumption. 

Here are seven food additives you should avoid:

1) Artificial Food Coloring

Artificial food coloring is commonly used to brighten and enhance the appearance of various foods, like candies. It’s a popular way to enhance the visual appeal of dishes, making them more enticing.

Health Effects of Artificial Food Coloring:

Specific artificial food dyes, such as Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40, and Blue 1, have been linked with allergic reactions in some individuals. Excessive consumption has been shown to contribute to hyperactivity in sensitive children and may be linked to ADHD.

Some food dyes like Red 40 contain benzene which is a known carcinogen that has been shown to promote tumor growth in animal studies. More research is needed to fully assess their impact on humans.

To make healthier choices, limit your intake of artificially colored processed foods and opt for naturally colorful whole foods.

2) Sodium Nitrite

Sodium Nitrite is commonly found in processed meats such as deli meat, canned tuna, and sausages. It is a preservative that helps prevent bacterial growth.

Health Effects of Sodium Nitrite

Too much consumption of sodium nitrite has been linked to bladder cancer and other health problems. When exposed to heat, nitrites can convert into nitrosamines which are also known carcinogens. Because of this, you should do your best to reduce your consumption of processed meats when possible. 

3) High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

HFCS is a highly-refined artificial sweetener derived from corn. It is found in most processed foods like processed bread, flavored yogurt, candy, salad dressings, cereals, soda, juice, candy, breakfast cereals, and canned vegetables. 

Health Effects of HFCS:

Consuming HFCS excessively can lead to weight gain, increased LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, the development of diabetes, and overall inflammation. The inflammatory effects of HFCS may cause worsening symptoms for those with such conditions as arthritis, gout, or autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

Studies have shown that high-fructose corn syrup can contribute to belly fat accumulation which can be an issue for those trying to lose weight. Because of this, you should avoid regular consumption of snacks and foods containing high fructose corn syrup. 

Ideally, you should eliminate or limit your consumption of any sugary sweeteners as many have been linked to a number of deleterious health effects. However, if you do consume sweeteners you should do so in moderation and consider using natural sweeteners like raw sugar, honey, dates, agave, or maple syrup. Unfortunately, however, not all natural sweeteners are considered compltely safe for consumption such as Stevia and Monk Fruit.

4) Stevia, Truvia, Monk Fruit

Stevia, Truvia, and Monk Fruit are popular natural sweeteners that many people use as alternatives to sugar in their baking and beverages.

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the plant  Stevia Rebaudiana. 

Truvia is a commercially produced product from multinational corporations Coca-Cola and Cargill Inc. Because it is derived from Stevia, those corporations have deemed it a natural sweetener.

Monk Fruit is a plant native to Southern China with a sweetness 250 x that of table sugar.

Health Effects of Stevia, Truvia, Monk Fruit:

Recent studies have raised concerns about the specific sugar replacement in products like Monk Fruit, Stevia, and Truvia. One sugar replacement, erythritol, found in these sweeteners, has been associated with stroke, blood clotting, and heart attack. Moreover, Stevia may cause side effects like bloating, nausea, and gas.

5) Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is a commonly used preservative in salad dressings, pickles, carbonated beverages, and fruit juices. It helps prevent spoilage and fungal growth in meat-related food items like packaged meats.

Health Effects of Sodium Benzoate:

While the FDA generally recognizes sodium benzoate as safe, studies have highlighted some significant side effects. For instance, merging sodium benzoate with artificial food coloring has amplified hyperactivity in young children. Excessive intake of beverages containing this food additive was also shown to be associated with increased symptoms of ADHD in college students. Furthermore, when combined with vitamin C source, this food additive can be converted into benzene, which is associated with the risk of cancer development.

Carefully read food labels and avoid products containing ingredients like benzoic acid or benzene, particularly when combined with vitamin C sources like citric acid.

6) Trans Fats

Trans fats are found naturally in dairy products and meat from ruminant animals like cattle, sheep, and goats. They are also present in synthetic forms in processed foods such as deep-fried fast foods, margarine, and certain baked goods made with partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. These fats enhance flavor and extend the shelf life of food products.

Health Effects of Trans Fats:

Numerous studies have shown that trans fats increase LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) levels while decreasing HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) levels. This imbalance in cholesterol levels increases the risk of heart attacks, heart disease, and strokes. Trans fats are also associated with increased inflammation and diabetes.

To reduce your intake of trans fats, minimize your consumption of processed foods that contain partially hydrogenated oils such as processed chips, cookies, cakes, pastries, margarine, crackers, and fast foods. Our motto is, if it comes in a bag and you can pop it open and eat it on the go then it most likely has trans fats.

Consider healthier alternatives like whole foods, freshly baked goods, natural fats like butter, and olive or coconut oil.

7) BHA/BHT

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are artificial antioxidants obtained from petroleum. They are widely used as preservatives in various food items, such as cereals, potato chips, chewing gum, and many vegetable oils. The main function of BHA and BHT is to safeguard against color alterations, flavor deterioration, and food spoilage.

Health Effects of BHA/BHT:

Studies have shown that BHA and BHT affect the brain’s neurological system and alters behavior. While these additives are considered antioxidants, they have been shown to form reactive compounds in the body that may actually be carcinogenic.

To minimize exposure to these additives, prioritize whole, unprocessed foods and read food labels carefully.

Tips for Avoiding Unhealthy Food Additives

Here are some practical tips to help you avoid harmful food additives and make informed choices.

1) Prioritize Freshness:

Choose fresh foods in their natural form and vibrant hues and colors. Explore the option of going to your nearby farmer’s market or subscribing to CSA (community-supported agriculture) deliveries so you can obtain fresh produce.

2) Frozen Food Can Be a Good Option:

If fresh foods are not available, frozen fruits and vegetables can be a nutritious alternative. Look for options without any additives or preservatives.

3) Read Food Labels:

Before adding a product to your grocery cart, take a moment to read the ingredient list. Avoid purchasing items with known additives, and be cautious of ingredients that are difficult to pronounce or understand.

The Bottom Line

Food to avoid for High Blood Pressure

To keep your blood pressure under control, it is best to limit or avoid the following foods

• Red meat such as beef and pork
• Salty foods such as processed meat, salty snacks, pickles, olives, canned soup, cheese, and tomato sauce.
• Sugary foods and drinks such as prepackaged meals, soda, and fruit juice
• Alcohol should be limited to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

High blood pressure is a serious problem, but a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and limited in salt, saturated fat, and sugar can help control and prevent this disease.

One of the most common questions I often get from my patients is, “How do I read my cholesterol lab results?” Understanding your cholesterol values and how they play a part in your overall health is one of the many things I enjoy explaining. Knowing your cholesterol numbers and how to interpret them will give you a better idea of what changes you need or don’t need to make in regard to your overall lifestyle and diet.

What is a Cholesterol Test or Lipid Panel?

A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid panel, is a blood test used to measure cholesterol and fats in your blood. By analyzing the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood, a lipid panel test can help determine your risk of developing fatty deposits (plaques) in your arteries. This is a condition known as atherosclerosis.

Persistently high cholesterol levels can result in atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can result in significant negative long-term effects such as heart attack and stroke since blood flow to vital organs such as the heart and brain can become compromised.

What Does a Cholesterol Test/Lipid Panel Measure?

The Cholesterol test/Lipid panel measures four main types of cholesterol labs: HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.

• High-Density Lipoprotein or HDL level

High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is a type of cholesterol often called “good” cholesterol. HDL carries excess cholesterol from your bloodstream to your liver, where it can be processed and eliminated from your body. 

High HDL cholesterol levels can help clear out the harmful LDL cholesterol from your arteries. This can help maintain adequate blood circulation to your organs and lower your risk of long-term organ damage from things like heart attack and stroke. 

• Low-Density Lipoprotein or LDL Level

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is commonly called the “bad” cholesterol. LDLs are necessary for carrying cholesterol to your body’s cells for vital functions. However, having too much can lead to serious health problems. This is because having too much LDL in your bloodstream can cause it to aggregate in the walls of your arteries. This can in turn result in the build-up of plaque known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis in your arteries can result in the compromise of blood flow to your vital organs over time.

•  Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the body that can be used for energy. When we need energy, our body can utilize these triglycerides much like a car can utilize fuel for energy. When we eat too much food our body can store the extra calories we consume from this food as triglycerides for later use.

Years of research have shown that a high level of triglycerides on a lipid panel test is indicative of a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. 

In addition, certain factors like uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and a high-calorie diet can all contribute to increased levels of triglycerides in your body.

• Total Cholesterol

Total cholesterol is the sum of all types of cholesterol circulating in your bloodstream. It is calculated using the following formula:

HDL + LDL + 20% of triglycerides = total cholesterol

Knowing your total cholesterol level is important in assessing your overall risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular issues.

How do I interpret my cholesterol lab result numbers?

The normal range of cholesterol lab values described above are as follows:

Note that these are general guidelines, and individual optimal levels may vary depending on various factors such as age, gender, family history, and overall health.

• HDL, LDL, and Total Cholesterol Test Results (mg/dl)

Dr. Sergio Guiteau is a physician who is board certified in Family Practice and Sports Medicine with added certifications in Aesthetic Medicine. He specializes in Preventive Medicine, Sports Medicine, and  Anti-Aging Medicine and blogs on rhm.sys.mybluehost.me/website_d5adaba3/blog

Have you been curious about what the benefits of fish oil actually are?

Have you wondered whether or not it’s even worth taking fish oil?

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This is associated with many bodily functions and preventive health benefits. 

Let’s take a look at what fish oil really even is and what are the benefits of supplementing with fish oil.

What is fish oil and where is it found?

Fish oil is the fat or oil found in the tissue of oily fish like salmon, herring, tuna, anchovies, and mackerel. Mammals such as humans cannot naturally produce the components found in fish oil. Because of this, eating enough fish or taking fish oil supplements can help you obtain an adequate amount of omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids are important components of cell structure and also have a key role in fat metabolism. In fact, research is ongoing in trying to better understand the importance of Omega-3 fatty acids in such things as metabolism and healing. 

What are the components of fish oil?

Fish oil contains the omega-3 fatty acids, eicoapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which have health benefits. Studies have shown that EPA and DHA are important for proper fetal development, including neuronal, retinal, and immune function. EPA and DHA likely also have positive effects on inflammation, heart health, and cognitive function.

What are the health benefits of fish oil?

Fish oil may be associated with several health benefits, including a decrease in the following:

• Inflammation
• Blood pressure
• Triglyceride levels in the blood
• LDL (bad) cholesterol

Omega-3 fatty acids may also lead to an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol and improvements in joint pain and stiffness.

What are the side effects of fish oil supplements?

Fish oil supplements generally do not cause any harm if taken as recommended; however, they can cause side effects including a fishy aftertaste, heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, and rash. High doses of fish oil may increase the risk of bleeding. 

What are some possible interactions with fish oil?

Taking fish oil supplements can interact with certain medications.

Taking fish oil supplements with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, herbs, or certain other supplements can increase your risk of bleeding.

Low blood pressure may occur if you take fish oil supplements with blood pressure medications.

Some birth control medications may reduce fish oil’s effect on triglycerides.

Orlistat (Xenical, Alli), a weight loss medication, may actually decrease the absorption of fish oil. Therefore, it’s recommended to take Orlistat and fish oil two hours apart.

Always ask your health care provider if you’re unsure whether or not you take any of these types of medications.

How much fish oil should be taken daily?

The recommended daily consumption of combined EPA and DHA is 250-500 mg. Before you buy fish oil supplements, be sure to look at the label on the bottle to see how much EPA and DHA is provided.

In summary

Fish oil is important for many functions of the body and may be associated with many health benefits. Before you take fish oil supplements, be sure you talk to your doctor about your medications, allergies, health problems, and pregnancy or breastfeeding status. Also, be sure to look at the label on the bottle to determine how much EPA and DHA is provided.

Dr. Sergio Guiteau is a physician who has certifications in Aesthetic Medicine and is board certified in Family Practice and Sports Medicine. He specializes in Anti-Aging Medicine and blogs on rhm.sys.mybluehost.me/website_d5adaba3/blog