Dr. Elizabeth Smoots is a board-certified family physician and fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. She can be reached at doctor@practicalprevention.com
Her columns are not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment.
Before adhering to any recommendations, consult your health care provider.
Prevention's proven way to improve health Each year our country throws more money into health care than any other nation. But tens of millions of Americans still suffer from preventable disorders and chronic illness. Are you or others you know among them? [More] September 30 Fiber-rich diet assists weight loss Do you want to cut cravings and lose weight? Eating foods rich in fiber can help you reach your goal. High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds help fill you up without filling you out. And they're very... [More] September 23 A woman's guide to heart health Many women falsely assume heart disease mainly afflicts men--but the truth is that more females than males die of the disorder in the U.S every year. According to the latest guidelines from the American Heart Association, about half of women will... [More] September 16 Risks kids face after treatment for cancer Jordan developed leukemia as a young child. At age 5, his treatment for the blood cancer consisted of radiation to his head and chemotherapy. But now that Jordan is 12 years old, and about to enter adolescence as a cancer survivor, he still isn't... [More] September 9 8 ways to cope with osteoarthritis Scientists have long considered osteoarthritis a wear-and-tear disease of joint cartilage. But new evidence about the common form of arthritis has translated into a more accurate view. [More] September 2 Here's the straight scoop about high blood pressure Myths and facts about high blood pressure: Myth: Signs such as sweating, nervousness or fatigue indicate you have high blood pressure. [More] August 26 Higher temps may boost risks for kidney stones As global warming heats up, kidney stones have joined the hot list for illnesses that merit more attention. The University of Texas predicts that kidney stones will grow even more common in the United States. [More] August 19 Sneak peek at new fitness guidelines from feds Most people know that being a couch potato is a bad idea, but are you aware of exercise options for preventing disease and maintaining good health? A federal physical activity guidelines advisory committee has reviewed the past 12 years of evidence... [More] August 5