Wellness LetterWellness Advice

Wellness Advice

sugar alcohols

Sugar Alcohols: Neither Sugars Nor Alcohol

I see “sugar alcohol” listed on quite a number of food labels, often on products boasting low sugar or low calories. What is this ingredient? Also called polyols, sugar alcohols...
Annual Wellness Exam

The Annual Wellness Exam: An Ounce of Prevention

On National Public Radio, there used to be two brothers, “Click” and “Clack,” who would talk about cars. Their show, Car Talk, was funny, and you could learn a...
Argan oil

Argan Oil Is Edible—Really?

I use soap made with Moroccan argan oil, but I’m wondering if the oil is also edible. If so, is it a healthful oil? Body care products containing argan oil—from...
High cholesterol

High Cholesterol a Concern No Matter Your Weight

If I’m thin, do I need to worry about my high blood cholesterol? I feel fine, am in good physical shape, and don’t want to take medication for what...
Impostor Syndrome

Are We All Impostors?

Do you ever feel as if you’re a fraud, you’re not as smart or accomplished as others perceive you to be, or you “lucked into” your successes rather than...
muscle relaxant for back pain

Muscle Relaxants for Back Pain?

I have on- and off-again low back pain. Would a prescription muscle relaxant be a good idea during a flare-up? It might be, depending on the cause of your back...
microwave fire

Help, My Microwave Is on Fire!

I had a fire in my microwave oven when I accidentally heated something in a paper bag that was wrapped in foil inside. Is the microwave safe to use...
Elder Abuse

Elder Abuse: An Often Hidden Problem

Have you ever been to the doctor and been asked questions about your safety, your food supply, or even your financial situation? While such questions may seem exceptionally nosy,...
angular cheilitis

Angular Cheilitis: Don’t Open Wide

I sometimes get sores at the corners of my mouth that are quite painful but fortunately go away after a few days. What might they be, and should I...
Bowel Movement

How Often Do You Poop?

I’ve heard you should have a bowel movement every day, but I tend to only have about four or five a week—is that too few? There’s no standard for how...