The What and Why of Support Groups

Support groups are made up of people with common interests and experiences. People who have been or are going through a similar circumstance can do more than sympathize with you—they can truly understand your thoughts, feelings and questions. Often, people who have been through what you’re going through have fewer judgments about what you “should”… Read more »

Gut Instincts

Probiotic, micro-biome, gut-brain axis, leaky gut, food intolerance…these words have become more common in the past few years, and yet there is a lot of confusion about what is going on with our gut. We used to think of the gut or gastrointestinal tract as a somewhat indestructible channel through the body that had no… Read more »

When Children Feel Entitled

Often parents begin noticing unanticipated changes in their children, especially after holidays and special occasions. Consider how endowed children were during these exceptional times, not only in terms of presents but also yummy treats, late bedtimes, entertainment, no homework, less chores, and vacations. Other parents may overcompensate when their children have challenges such as illness,… Read more »

When Roles Reverse

Life throws curve balls. How we handle those curve balls will determine if we come out on top or badly bruised; planning and preparing for potential curve balls of life will make a world of difference. One probability in the lives of adult children is their parents will age, become frail, have a significant health… Read more »

Rescue Dogs

No home is complete without the pitter patter of dog feet. Baxter and Jasper came into our lives three months ago. It took three days to learn their personalities, three weeks to adjust, and three months to become part of the family. After tragically losing Kayla, our beloved Irish terrier, I initially resisted any adoption.… Read more »

Are You Prepared For Future Health Care Costs?

The usual method for estimating spending needs in retirement is to take your post-retirement household budget and tack on an inflation rate, such as 3%. Some expenses may increase at a faster rate than the inflation rate you use, others at a slower rate, but overall, expenses such as housing, utilities, food, and so on,… Read more »

Eyelid Lumps and Bumps

The eyelids are delicate structures meant to protect the eyes. Like all skin, they are prone to various lumps and bumps that leave us wondering, “Is this something to worry about?” Areas of concern may appear gradually or seemingly suddenly. They may be quite obvious or very subtle. An exam by a physician is the… Read more »

The Year of the Rear

In my practice, 2015 could be called “The Year of the Rear” because buttock procedures have exploded in popularity. Both men and women are having procedures done in higher numbers than ever before. The most commonly requested procedure is known as the Brazilian butt lift. There are a handful of high profile celebrities that deny… Read more »

Want to Lose the Double Chin?

A double chin can make you look older and heavier, no matter what your age and weight.  Often, genetics play a big role, as the fat in this area (known as submental fat) may persist, despite efforts to diet and exercise. In the past, the only option to treat this often undesirable feature was surgical,… Read more »

Natural Remedies for Dry Skin

Skin is the largest organ in our bodies. It’s what holds our muscles, bones, and tissue intact and also provides a barrier, keeping the bad organisms out and absorbing the good. Skin helps regulate our body temperature by absorbing and releasing heat and helps flush out toxins. Amazingly, skin also regenerates and heals itself. So,… Read more »

Keeping Students, Faculty and Families Fit

Palm Springs’ Cielo Vista Charter School has opened a new community fitness center, thanks to a well-deserved $70,000 grant from the Desert Healthcare District (DHCD). In 2010, the school created a wellness program that went beyond traditional PE classes to teach students about healthy eating and lifestyles. The goal of the three-year grant-funded program called… Read more »

Golfers: Doing Crunches Might Get You Off Course

Developing a six-pack for abdominals seems to be the fitness craze for the New Year. A large percentage of infomercials focus on having a ripped mid-section, and while  this might be aesthetically pleasing to the eyes, it may not be very functional. Even though this article is primarily for golfers, the average fitness buff might… Read more »

A Healthier Burger

Sometimes we crave a good burger, so with health in mind, here is one for you!  Mainly vegetarian, totally satisfying with no guilt trip, and a lot of nutrition with only 482 calories.  Try this healthy Spinach Burger and you will be convinced that vegetarian food can also be very delicious and enjoyable.  1 hour… Read more »

Granting Produce to Valley Seniors

With nutritious meals essential to a healthy life, the Auen Foundation is providing a $50,000 grant to FIND Food Bank in support of its signature program, Project Produce. The program provides fresh fruits and vegetables to local residents in need of food assistance. “This generous gift will help deliver healthy, nutritious fruits and vegetables to… Read more »