What is thiamine?

Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1 and thiamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, particularly energy metabolism and nerve function. It's a water-soluble vitamin, meaning it cannot be stored in the body and needs to be consumed regularly through diet or supplements.  

What are the benefits of thiamine?

Energy Production: Thiamine helps the body's cells convert carbohydrates into energy, which is essential for

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The summer sun beckons with its warm embrace, but that golden tan comes with a hidden cost. Dr. Holly Thacker dives deep into the phenomenon known as "tanorexia" – the addiction to tanning that has serious health implications many don't recognize until it's too late.

This addiction isn't merely psychological. When your skin is exposed to ultraviolet radiation, your body releases endorphins – those feel-good neurochemicals that create a genuine physical dependency. "People can actually get addicted to this," Dr. Thacker explains, drawing parallels between tanorexia and other recognized addictive behaviors.

Whether you're concerned about your own tanning habits or protecting children's delicate skin, this episode delivers practical, science-backed advice for maintaining healthy skin while still enjoying outdoor activities. Because as Dr. Thacker reminds us, all natural complexions are beautiful – it's about being "happy in your own skin" while keeping that skin healthy for years to come.

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Want to know more about red light therapy? From skin rejuvenation and hair regrowth to easing joint pain and mitigating psoriasis, Dr. Thacker breaks down the facts of this phototherapy trend that's turning heads in spas and gyms. Discover how this non-invasive treatment could be the key to unlocking alternative health solutions while understanding the necessity of caution due to its experimental nature.

Host Dr. Holly Thacker also discusses the critical role of consulting trained professionals for any laser or phototherapy treatments, warning against the perils of untrained providers. Tune in to hear more about maintaining a balanced, holistic approach to health and discover the subtle art of navigating alternative therapies with wisdom and care. Don't miss out on practical tips and expert insights to help you take charge of your wellness journey!

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Discover the secrets to maintaining optimal urinary health as Dr. Holly Thacker unravels the complexities of urinary tract infections (UTIs) that particularly affect women. Have you ever wondered why women are more susceptible to these irritating infections, especially with age and hormonal changes? 

Join her as she dissects the anatomical differences and lifestyle factors that make women prone to UTIs and uncover the role of menopause in increasing this vulnerability. Dr. Thacker shares crucial insights on recognizing symptoms, understanding the distinction between lower and upper urinary tract infections, and the severe complications that can arise if left untreated.

Equip yourself with practical strategies to prevent and manage UTIs effectively. Dr. Thacker covers all the bases, from local estrogen treatments and the newly approved Pivya (pivmecillinam) to understanding the benefits and limitations of cranberry extract. 

For those dealing with recurrent infections, find out why a urologic evaluation might be necessary and explore preventive measures that can safeguard your wellbeing. Tune in for an insightful conversation designed to empower women with knowledge and solutions for better urinary health.

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What is collagen?

The body naturally produces collagen. You can support collagen production by eating collagen-rich foods such as chicken and fish skin and a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamin C, zinc and copper. Oral and topical collagen products are popular for improving skin and joint pain.

Collagen is a type of protein and makes up 30% of the body’s protein. There are 28 types of collagen and type I collagen makes up 90% of the collagen in the human body.

Collagen

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Can celiac disease be the hidden culprit behind your health issues? Discover the profound effects of this autoimmune condition on women's health as Host Dr. Holly Thacker unpacks its impact on nutrient absorption, particularly vitamin D and iron, and its connections to osteoporosis and infertility. Explore the hereditary aspects and understand why distinguishing between celiac disease and gluten intolerance is crucial. 

This episode offers a comprehensive guide to recognizing how undiagnosed celiac disease might be influencing your health, especially if you're facing unexplained infertility or persistent nutrient deficiencies.

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Dr. Holly Thacker breaks down the differences between L-carnitine and taurine, and how they can benefit the body together. 

Mass General Brigham-led randomized trial suggests vitamin D can protect against telomere shortening, which is linked to risk of age-related disease 

Results from the VITAL randomized controlled trial reveal that vitamin D supplementation helps maintain telomeres, protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten during aging and are linked to the development of certain diseases. The new report, which is published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, is based on data from

What is alpha-lipoic acid?

Alpha-lipoic acid is an organic compound made naturally in the body and can be found in certain foods. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) acts an antioxidant and helps break down carbohydrates and make energy.

What are the benefits of alpha-lipoic acid?

Reduces oxidative stressHelps the body control blood sugar levelsHelps nerve pain in people with diabetic neuropathyMay lower total cholesterolMay help with weight loss in people who are overweightMay

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Unlock the complexities of menopausal hormone therapy for breast cancer survivors in this episode of the Speaking of Women's Health podcast. Join Host Dr. Holly Thacker and her esteemed guest, Dr. Holly Pederson, as they navigate the intricate world of genetic testing and its crucial role in guiding treatment decisions. 

Dr. Pederson, a leading expert in the field, emphasizes the importance of revisiting genetic tests conducted before 2013 to ensure breast cancer survivors receive the most informed care. They explore the advancements in genetic science and discuss the layers of genetic risk, revealing how these insights can revolutionize both treatment and screening practices.

Their conversation further examines the challenges faced by elderly women considering hormone replacement therapy. This episode offers a thoughtful reflection on the unique considerations for breast cancer survivors, especially those with BRCA mutations, and the importance of individualizing patient care.

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What is L-carnitine?

L-carnitine is an amino acid made by the body and found in some food and supplements. L-carnitine is found in almost every cell of the body. It plays a critical role in energy production by turning fat into energy.

About 95% of L-carnitine is stored in the muscles with trace amounts in the blood, liver, heart and kidneys. Most people obtain small amounts of L-carnitine from eating animal products like meat and dairy.

What are the benefits of

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Dr. Holly Thacker dives deep into the world of endocrinology and anti-aging with guest Dr. Elena Christofides. Dr. Christofides highlights how hormonal health significantly impacts women’s well-being as they age.

The discussion covers common health challenges women face, potential treatments, and the importance of personalized assessments to optimize health through lifestyle and pharmacological means.

• Explanation of endocrinology and its roles in overall health
• Common health concerns for midlife women
• Importance of understanding aging vs. hormonal imbalance
• Overview of Metformin and emerging treatments like rapamycin
• The significance of mitochondrial health
• Connection between environmental factors and health optimization
• Empowerment through health advocacy and informed choices

For more information on Dr. Elena Christofides, visit endocrinology-associates.com. You can listen to Dr. Christofides podcast on medcentral.com.

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What is creatine?

Creatine is a compound that comes from three amino acids: arginine, glycine and methionine. Creatine is naturally produced in the body and stored mostly in the muscles and brain. 

What are the benefits of creatine?

Creatine is mostly known for its benefits on athletic performance and muscle mass production. However, creatine has been studied to play an important role in other parts of our health, including:

Heart healthManage type 2

What is taurine?

Taurine is a naturally occurring sulfur-containing amino acid found throughout the body, including the brain, eyes, heart and muscles. Taurine is also found in certain foods and the body can even produce it by itself.

What are the benefits of taurine?

Taurine plays an important role in the body’s heart health, immune system and brain. It also helps:

Blood pressure regulationMaintain proper hydration and electrolyte balance in your cellsForm bile

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This episode celebrates Women’s Health Month by emphasizing awareness, education, and empowerment in women's healthcare. Join Dr. Holly Thacker as she discusses essential health topics, from vital screenings and nutrients to effective self-advocacy during medical visits.

In addition to physical health, this episode highlights the significance of mental wellness, advocating for the self-care of women who often prioritize the needs of others over their own well-being.

Make sure to subscribe for more episodes and share your insights after listening!

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Mexican Chicken Casserole

Chicken Taco Rice Salad

Mock-A-Rita

Salsa Chicken

Fish Tacos With Mango Pico

Taco Salad

Apple Chicken Quesadillas

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Discover the unexpected journey of endocrinologist Dr. Divya Yogi-Morren as she navigates gestational diabetes firsthand. Her personal experience offers unique insights and fosters empathy towards those managing this challenging condition. Alongside Dr. Morren's story, we unravel the complexities of gestational diabetes management, from the intricacies of carb counting to the essential lifestyle changes required. This conversation is more than just about coping; it's about empowerment through knowledge, as we uphold our Speaking of Women's Health motto: Be Strong, Be Healthy, and Be in Charge!

Whether you're considering parenthood or seeking to understand the long-term health implications of this disease, this episode is your guide to navigating gestational diabetes and a healthy pregnancy.

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Discover the ancient art of acupuncture with Dr. Holly Thacker and our esteemed guest, Dr. Jing Fan, a renowned expert bridging the worlds of Chinese and Western medicine. Together, they unravel how this centuries-old practice can do more than just alleviate pain. From managing menstrual cramps to aiding in stroke recovery, Dr. Fan provides an enlightening perspective on acupuncture's capacity to balance hormones and enhance bodily functions by manipulating energy flows, or qi, across the body’s meridians.

Dr. Fan takes us on a journey through the myriad health benefits acupuncture offers, emphasizing its role in addressing complex conditions like osteoarthritis, Bell’s palsy, and even mood disorders. He shares his clinical expertise on how acupuncture releases endorphins, boosts blood flow, and influences neurotransmitters, offering a holistic approach to health. Whether it's alleviating chronic pain or supporting addiction recovery, Dr. Fan explains why acupuncture is a valuable tool in modern medicine’s toolkit.

For those curious about acupuncture's safety and practicalities, they cover essential tips for a safe experience, highlighting the importance of finding licensed professionals. Dr. Fan also shares his tailored recommendations for treatment frequency, ensuring listeners understand how to optimize results. They wrap up with how you can connect with both Dr. Fan and Dr. Thacker for further insights, ensuring that expert advice is just a call or click away. Tune in to unlock the secrets of acupuncture and its transformative potential for health and well-being.

For more information on Dr. Jing Fan or to make an appointment with him, visit clevelandclinic.org or call 440-940-2706.

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Speaking of Women's Health Executive Director Holly L. Thacker, MD shares 15 insider women's health tips, including ways to reduce skin bruising, tips for brighter skin, how to improve blood pressure and even ways to help with weight loss.

Nearly 40 different kinds of common generic medications are being recalled, according to a report posted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The medications, all produced by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Inc., were initially recalled on March 13. The FDA gave the recall a Class II risk level on April 8.

Which Drugs Were Recalled? 

There were 39 different generic medications included in this recall, used to treat dozens of different