The former recommendation of “one drink for women and two drinks for men” has been shown by new studies to be unsafe. New research examined the neurological impact of alcohol consumption in healthy adults, using MRI, and discovered a correlation between alcohol intake and decreased blood flow to the brain. The findings were published in the journal Alcohol.
Alcohol is a toxic chemical, especially to the liver, but other organs are not immune to its toxicity, either. In the United States, there are 178,000 alcohol-related deaths each year. It is a leading preventable cause of death. Moderate drinking, social drinking, and even occasional drinking are deemed unsafe. No amount of alcohol is safe.
Hantavirus on a cruise
A rare, severe, often fatal respiratory illness transmitted to humans primarily through inhalation of aerosolized virus from infected rodent waste (droppings, saliva, urine). The May 4, 2026, Andes hantavirus outbreak, which caused 3 deaths, occurred on the MV Hondius, a polar expedition ship operated by Oceanwide Expeditions. Where there are rodents, hantavirus infection is possible, even at home. The common hantavirus is not transmitted from human to human, but the Andes variant, unfortunately, is. Hence, the global concern.
Warning: IV therapy
The trending IV therapy for rejuvenation is just a hype, and could be dangerous, especially for healthy people. It could help people who are sick and dehydrated. The “extra” vitamins in the therapy could lead to excess vitamin intake, which is toxic to the body. Complications include infection, nutrient overload, and heart and kidney strain. Taking supplements by mouth is safer when taken as prescribed. Stay away from IV therapy, which will only benefit the deep pockets of the therapists, not the unsuspecting, ignorant patient. The FDA should investigate this unhealthy trending IV therapy. Be wise. Don’t be a victim of “snake oil” scams.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. This is the most important among the supplements we take daily. D3 is formed when ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight hit our skin. Food sources include fatty fish (salmon, sardines, etc.), egg yolk, and beef liver. This vitamin supports the immune system and keeps muscles and brain cells functioning well. Deficiency can lead to Rickets, Osteomalacia, and a weakened immune system response. The usual dose is between 600-800 IU for adults, based on condition, sun exposure, and age. Discuss the dosage fr you with your physician. Vitamin D3 is one supplement that is FDA-approved and vital to health.
Greek Yogurt
Gut health (microbiome) is fundamental to our overall health. One food item that supports our microbiome is Greek yogurt, which contains live and active cultures of good bacteria (probiotics). Each 5.3 to 7 oz serving provides 95 to 150 calories, 15-20 grams of protein, and about 4-8 grams of carbohydrates. Greek yogurt with fruits, obviously, has added calories, but it helps in encouraging people to consume yogurt. My favorite is the Chobani Vanilla Greek Yogurt – Mango-Passion Fruit, for breakfast, snack, or dessert. The plain ones are better for diabetics and those trying to lose weight. Overall, Greek yogurt plays an essential role in maintaining our gut health.
Caution: sleep aids
About 8.4 percent of Americans (20 million people) use some form of sleep aid to fall or stay asleep. Many of these medications are over-the-counter drugs, including the natural herbal varieties. Some take sedatives or tranquilizers. Warning: These can cause rebound insomnia, dependency, addiction, drowsiness, dizziness, cognitive impairment, even dangerous sleep-driving, increased falls and dementia, urinary retention, blurred vision, increased risk of stroke or heart issues, especially among seniors. Reports have revealed that users of sleep aids, even diphenhydramine (Benadryl), herbals, or hypnotics, have shorter life expectancy and a higher incidence of fatal accidents and health complications. Do not take any sleep aid, even melatonin, magnesium, or herbals, without consulting your physician.
Peace of mind
In today’s unsettling incidence of crimes, including home invasion, about 75 percent of households in the United States, and 16.6 percent in the Philippines, use some form of home security alarms. Many of them are new, easy-to-install DIY systems, which are modestly priced as low as $300. The more sophisticated security system with smart home security (WiFi) devices is obviously more expensive. A recent (2024) survey shows that about 31 percent of Americans regularly experience stress and anxiety about potential home break-ins, and 44 percent worry about their home being burglarized while they are away. A home alarm system, with WiFi security cameras, provides priceless peace of mind. Some even add a shotgun and/or a S&W Magnum .357 to their system. It is sad, but times have changed, and we have to adapt to the new social disorder to protect our family, ourselves, our home, and property.
Colonoscopy
Is there any age limit to having a colonoscopy, or major surgery, for that matter? With today’s more sophisticated and safer anesthesia and surgical techniques, minimally invasive procedures, or even robotic surgery, there is practically no age limit to any of these procedures. The condition and health of the patient are the main determining factors, more than the age. Medicare covers colonoscopy among seniors, with no age limit, every 10 years, or every 2 years for those with polyps or those at high risk. Colonoscopy is a lifesaver, a brief procedure that could be done under twilight or deep sedation. Let’s take advantage of the advances in medical technology to attain or maintain good health.
Broccoli and cancer
Between 9 and 20 percent of people dislike or hate broccoli, but surveys reveal that 85 percent of Americans like it, more than turnips, beets, or Brussels sprouts. Broccoli, like other cruciferous vegetables, is associated with lower colon cancer risk. Colon cancer diagnoses under the age of 50 are on the rise; one cause is a diet high in processed foods. Other risk factors are a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, alcohol, and environmental factors. As of 2022, there were more than 1.9 million new cases of colorectal cancer worldwide. A new study (data from 17 studies involving 97,000 participants) posted in the journal BMC states that eating cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts (20-40 grams a day), helps lower the risk for colorectal cancer by 20 percent. The cancer-fighting compounds in them are sulforaphane, indoles, and glucosinolates. Previous studies linked cruciferous veggies to decreased risk for colon, ovarian, bladder, lung, stomach, prostate, and pancreatic cancers.
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, distinguished educators, renowned scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com. On Amazon.com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
