Category Preventative Health

Building Healthier Communities: Your Guide to Leading Advocacy Efforts

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By Julia Merrill of Befriendyourdoc.org
julia@befriendyourdoc.org

Your passion for health and wellness can serve as a powerful agent of change, impacting not just your own life but also enriching your community. By directing this enthusiasm toward advocacy and educational efforts, you transform it into actionable initiatives that can significantly improve communal health. Embrace this role wholeheartedly, and you’ll find yourself at the forefront of promoting healthful changes.

Initiate Community Health Sessions

Consider launching small group sessions in your community to discuss crucial health topics like nutrition, exercise, and mental health. These gatherings offer a platform to share valuable knowledge and strategies for healthy living, providing a foundation for community members to make informed choices about their well-being. As these sessions grow in popularity, they can foster a supportive network, encouraging ongoing participation and commitment to health.

Advocate for Health Policy Changes

Dive into the complexities of local health policies to understand how they impact your community. Use your insights to advocate for enhancements or the development of new initiatives that promote better health outcomes. By engaging with policymakers and stakeholders, you can influence decisions that lead to substantial improvements in public health infrastructure and services.

Launch a Health-Focused Business

Launching your own health and wellness business not only aligns with your passion but also taps into a burgeoning market for health services. To start a business, identify your niche, create a solid business plan, secure financing, register your business, and establish your brand and online presence. Opting to establish a limited liability company (LLC) provides you with perks such as limited liability protection, potential tax benefits, and the flexibility to adapt operations with minimal bureaucratic overhead. To streamline the process and save on legal fees, consider using services like ZenBusiness to handle your LLC setup.

Collaborate with NGOs

Partner with local non-governmental organizations to create impactful health campaigns and awareness drives. These collaborations can amplify your efforts, reaching a wider audience and drawing in more community engagement. Together, you can organize volunteer opportunities that promote health education and preventative measures, making a tangible difference in the health landscape of your community.

Organize Public Health Events

Help plan and execute public events such as health screenings, workshops, or informational seminars. These events provide critical health information and services to the public, often reaching individuals who are underserved or unaware of available health resources. By making these opportunities accessible, you contribute directly to the improved health of your community.

Share Your Health Journey

Utilize the power of blogging or vlogging on sites like YouTube to share your health journey and expertise. This personal touch can resonate deeply with your audience, providing them with practical advice and emotional support. Your stories and tips can inspire others to take action toward healthier lifestyles, creating a ripple effect of health consciousness across digital platforms.

Establish Support Groups

Facilitate the formation of support groups where you and others can freely share both the struggles and victories of your health journeys. In these groups, foster an environment of trust and empathy, allowing members to connect and draw strength from each other’s experiences. This sense of unity not only bolsters individual commitment to health goals but also nurtures a supportive community atmosphere that can lead to sustained well-being.

Offer Personalized Health Coaching

Offering individualized sessions, counseling, or coaching can profoundly impact someone’s health journey. By tailoring your guidance and support to their specific needs and challenges, you equip them to pursue and achieve their health objectives more effectively. This personalized touch not only enhances their ability to meet goals but also provides the encouragement and accountability crucial for lasting health transformations.

In harnessing your passion for health and channeling it into advocacy, you create a multi-faceted approach that not only enriches your life but also significantly impacts those around you. Each step you take builds upon the next, weaving a network of health empowerment that can sustain and grow with the collective effort of your community. By stepping forward, you light a path for others, proving that individual passion can indeed lead to collective health improvement.

Unlock the secrets to a healthier, fitter lifestyle with insights from Dr. Stacey Naito. Follow her blog today for expert tips on health, fitness, and living your best life!

Reclaim Your Health Naturally With These Simple Lifestyle Changes

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Please check out this great article, written by Camille Johnson, who created https://bereaver.com

Photo via Pexels

Modern life, with its relentless pace and technological advances, often pulls us away from simple, natural practices that promote health and well-being. While conveniences abound, they sometimes come at the cost of our physical and mental health. By rediscovering and embracing natural methods to enhance our health, we can experience profound improvements in our overall quality of life. In this article, courtesy of StaceyNaito.com, we’ll go over several things you can do to feel better everyday.

Embrace Nature

Spending time in nature can significantly boost both your mental and physical health. The fresh air, sunlight, and green surroundings help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or a day at the beach, engaging with the natural world rejuvenates your body and mind. Regular outdoor activities also promote physical fitness, enhance overall well-being, and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

Perfect Posture

Practicing good posture is essential to prevent physical strain and maintain musculoskeletal health. Poor posture can lead to chronic pain in your back, neck, and shoulders, and may cause long-term damage if not corrected. If you work from home, investing in ergonomic furniture can encourage good posture while preventing wear and tear on your back, neck, and shoulders. Simple exercises and mindful sitting and standing can make a significant difference.

The Power of Herbs

Considering herbal supplements for minor ailments can be a wise and natural choice. Many herbs, such as ginger for nausea, peppermint for digestion, and chamomile for sleep, have been used for centuries with great success. Herbal remedies often have fewer side effects compared to conventional medicines, making them a safer alternative for treating everyday health issues. Always research and consult a healthcare professional before adding new supplements to your routine.

Minimize Chemical Exposure

Reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals in cleaning products and cosmetics is crucial for maintaining good health. Many commercial products contain toxic substances that can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Opting for natural cleaning agents like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, and choosing organic, chemical-free cosmetics can protect you from these risks. Making your own products can also be an empowering and satisfying way to take control of your environment.

Laughter and Joy

Incorporating humor and laughter into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your well-being. Laughter reduces stress hormones, increases endorphins, and boosts your immune system. Watching a funny movie, reading a humorous book, or sharing jokes with friends can lift your spirits and improve your health. Remember, laughter is not just a temporary escape; it’s a vital aspect of a balanced life that fosters long-term happiness and resilience.

Stress Reduction

Engaging in stress-reducing activities like yoga or pursuing hobbies can greatly enhance your mental and physical health. Yoga combines physical exercise with mindfulness, helping to reduce anxiety and improve flexibility. Pursuing hobbies you love can also provide a necessary escape from daily stressors, allowing you to unwind and recharge. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, these activities can bring joy, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment, contributing to overall well-being.

Focus on Gratitude

Keeping a gratitude journal to focus on the positive aspects of life is a simple yet powerful tool for improving mental health. Writing down things you are thankful for can shift your focus from negative thoughts to positive ones, fostering a more optimistic outlook. This practice can enhance your mood, increase resilience, and promote overall emotional well-being. Taking a few minutes each day to reflect on your blessings can lead to lasting happiness.

Embracing natural methods for health and well-being fosters a balanced and fulfilling life. By integrating these natural approaches into your daily routine, you can achieve a healthier, happier life, reaping the benefits of a more holistic approach to well-being and long-lasting vitality.

Resources and Tips to Help You Relax and Recharge Throughout the Day

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By Julia Merrill of Befriendyourdoc.org
julia@befriendyourdoc.org

Modern life is busy. You probably have a lot of obligations to juggle, from work to family, friends, school, and more. You might find yourself getting overwhelmed and frazzled regularly. In the big picture, this can lead to mental health issues like anxiety. Read on for some resources and tips from Dr. Stacey Naito’s blog to help you unwind and recharge your battery.

Take a Break to Focus on Your Physical Well-being

Regular exercise is good for your mental and physical health. Try these tips to get more physical activity.

  • If you can’t get to the gym, try this total-body home workout. It only takes 15 minutes and requires no equipment.
  • You can also get exercise with hacks like skipping the elevator and taking the stairs.
  • Yoga is another activity you can do from home that helps to bust stress and improve mental health.

Build a stress-busting mental health toolkit

Get proactive about tackling stress head-on when it arises.

Natural Remedies

Using natural remedies to relieve stress is important because they often have fewer side effects, can be cost-effective, and work harmoniously with the body’s natural processes to promote overall well-being and resilience. Here’s a list of three natural remedies for stress:

  • Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as yoga, jogging, or swimming, can significantly reduce stress levels by releasing endorphins and improving overall mood.
  • Meditation: Practicing meditation and mindfulness techniques can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional stability.
  • THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid): As a non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw cannabis, options for THCA may have therapeutic properties that help reduce stress without inducing a high.

Create a Relaxation Space at Home

When you need to take a break, curl up in your zen zone. Here’s how to make the perfect soothing space.

Know When to Ask for Help

If you’re constantly on edge and unable to relax, even with the above tips, it may be time for support. Here are some resources to help.

You don’t have to go through life feeling stressed and drained of energy. Making small changes to your daily routine can ensure you feel calm and refreshed. The resources above can help you get a better grasp on your daily well-being.
Read more informative articles on Dr. Stacey Naito’s blog today!

Eros Pro Massage Gun Review

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The wonderful folks at INEVIFIT sent me this Eros Pro Massage Gun to review, and I have to say, it’s a very high quality piece of equipment! Please check out my video review for more information, as well as the limited time promo code which you can use for $35 off and free shipping.

Order one at https://inevifit.com/products/inevifit-eros-pro-massage-gun

Can Booze Keep You Alive Into Old Age?

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Copyright: angrysun

We have all heard that excessive or regular alcohol consumption can have serious adverse effects on health and can contribute to a range of health problems. That being said, some studies have suggested limited health benefits associated with moderate alcohol consumption. It’s also interesting to note that there are many instances in which centenarians, including a 105-year-old patient I once treated, have touted their regular intake of alcohol has played a part in keeping them alive and healthy into their elder years.

Here are several arguments which support the idea that moderate alcohol consumption could contribute to longer lifespans:

  1. Cardiovascular Benefits: Some research has suggested that moderate alcohol consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. It is believed that alcohol can raise HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, which can have a protective effect on the heart.
  2. Antioxidant Properties: Red wine, in particular, is often touted for its potential health benefits due to the presence of antioxidants, such as resveratrol. These antioxidants may have anti-aging and disease-fighting properties.
  3. Social and Psychological Benefits: Moderate alcohol consumption in social settings can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. These factors may indirectly contribute to a longer lifespan by promoting mental and emotional health.
  4. Reduced Risk of Some Diseases: Some studies have suggested that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with a reduced risk of certain conditions, such as type 2 diabetes. However, this relationship is complex and not well understood.

Certain populations, especially those found in regions known as “Blue Zones,” where people tend to live longer, healthier lives, include moderate alcohol consumption as part of their cultural traditions. However, it’s important to note that the longevity of these populations cannot be solely attributed to alcohol consumption but is influenced by a combination of factors, including diet, lifestyle, genetics, and social interactions. It’s important to stress that these potential benefits are associated with moderate alcohol consumption, which is typically defined as one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. Excessive or heavy alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on health and longevity, including an increased risk of liver disease, addiction, cancer, and other serious health problems.

Furthermore, the relationship between alcohol and health is still a subject of ongoing research, and individual responses to alcohol can vary widely. If you have specific health concerns or are considering alcohol consumption for potential health benefits, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual circumstances. In many cases, the potential risks of alcohol may outweigh the potential benefits, and non-alcoholic means of promoting heart health and overall well-being should be considered.


Unlocking the Pinnacle of Physical and Emotional Well-Being

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Here’s another informative article by Camille Johnson of bereaver.com to inspire you to get the new year off to a fresh start!

Embarking on the path toward peak self-improvement often starts with cultivating an excellent physical and emotional presence. The role of self-assurance, influenced by both appearance and state of mind, cannot be underestimated. From casual daily interactions to life-defining moments, a boost in confidence can be a game-changer. To assist you during this transformative endeavor, this guide presented below by StaceyNaito.com is designed to present a meticulously curated set of recommendations.

Forge Strong Social Ties

One’s emotional landscape is deeply enriched by the presence of fulfilling social interactions. Humans are wired for connection, and fostering these connections significantly elevates one’s emotional well-being. Studies indicate that people with strong social bonds are generally happier and may even live longer. Therefore, one should consider taking up social hobbies or participating in community events to form and maintain meaningful relationships.

Staying in Shape

Starting a fitness routine can be a transformative journey toward better health and well-being. It begins with setting realistic goals and creating a balanced workout plan that includes a variety of activities to keep you engaged and motivated. Consistency is key, as regular exercise builds endurance, strength, and confidence. Nutrition also plays a crucial role, as a healthy diet complements physical efforts. For more detailed guidance and inspiration, visiting websites like StaceyNaito.com can provide valuable resources and expert advice to help you on your fitness journey.

Elevate Hair Care and Wardrobe Choices

The relationship between well-maintained hair, stylish attire, and self-esteem is undeniable. Investing in high-quality hair care products is essential for maintaining a healthy and vibrant appearance, much like the importance of choosing the right clothing for your wardrobe. The clothes you select play a crucial role in shaping how you feel throughout your day. For instance, choosing comfortable yet fashionable items can greatly enhance your daily experience. Similarly, incorporating a hair care routine that includes products like nourishing oils and effective shampoos transforms basic grooming into a luxurious experience. To boost your daily life, consider adding thoughtful and impactful pieces to your wardrobe that bring a sense of renewed confidence.

Cultivate a Skincare Regimen

Healthy skin is the canvas for your everyday look. Establishing a skincare routine that complements your skin type can yield a radiant complexion, positively impacting your self-esteem. For example, those with oily skin may benefit from a clay mask once a week, while people with dry skin may find relief with a hydrating serum. The important thing is consistency—following a skincare routine religiously can help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.

Pursue Goals with a New Degree

Setting and achieving goals is a powerful process that can lead to significant personal and professional growth. For instance, if advancing your education has always been a dream, you might consider going back to school. Choosing between online data science master’s programs can be a strategic step, especially if you’re interested in the field of data analytics. By enrolling in an online master’s degree in data analytics, you can deepen your understanding of data science, theory, and application, all from the convenience of your home. This goal not only enhances your skillset but also opens doors to new career opportunities and advancements.

Prioritize Sun Protection

It’s astonishing how often sun protection is overlooked, considering the irreversible damage that UV rays can inflict. Daily application of sunscreen should be as routine as brushing one’s teeth. Not only does this habit prevent premature aging, but it’s also a crucial step in warding off skin cancers. Moreover, consistent sun protection enhances your overall skin quality.

Opt for Nutritional Wisdom

Intricately tied to your physical appearance and general well-being is your diet. Avoiding processed foods and added sugars can have a remarkable effect on both your skin’s glow and your overall health. For instance, replacing soda with sparkling water or choosing whole grains over white bread can be game-changers. This shift toward mindful eating benefits not just your appearance, but also enhances your energy levels and mental clarity.

Uphold Dental Care Standards

A radiant smile compliments any look. It’s the centerpiece of your facial features and often the first thing people notice. Regular dental check-ups, along with at-home practices like brushing and flossing, play a key role in maintaining that confident smile. This ties back to the first point on emotional well-being; after all, a radiant smile is often an indicator of happiness and strong social connections.

The quest to attain the pinnacle of physical and emotional wellness is a multifaceted endeavor. It requires a balanced approach that incorporates various elements of lifestyle, grooming, and social interaction. The pursuit of the optimal self isn’t a sprint but rather a marathon, demanding consistent dedication and awareness. As you integrate these guidelines into your daily life, you’ll find yourself at the very summit of your beauty and wellness journey.

Uncover the Roots of Stress and Master Effective Management

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Here’s another fantastic article by Camille Johnson of bereaver.com which offers tips on managing stress.

In the whirlwind of modern life, stress often becomes a constant, yet unwelcome, companion. Its presence can be pervasive, affecting various aspects of our lives. Recognizing the sources of stress and developing effective strategies to manage it is not just beneficial; it’s necessary. This article dives into the primary causes of stress and equips you with practical ways to address them, aiming to bring balance and tranquility to your daily life.

Identify Your Stress Triggers

To manage stress, it’s imperative to pinpoint what triggers it. Stressors vary widely, encompassing aspects like work pressures, relationship dynamics, and personal responsibilities. By understanding these triggers, you can devise targeted strategies to mitigate their impact. This process involves self-reflection and may require changes in both perspective and lifestyle, but the reward is a more peaceful and manageable life.

Prioritize Fitness

Beginning a fitness routine is a powerful tool in combating stress, as it brings both physical and psychological benefits. Engaging in regular exercise leads to the release of endorphins, known as the body’s natural mood elevators, which help in reducing stress levels and enhancing overall mood. Physically, exercise improves cardiovascular health and increases strength and stamina, contributing to a greater sense of well-being and resilience against stressors. Additionally, a fitness routine provides structure and a sense of achievement, which can be particularly beneficial for mental health. It also offers a positive distraction, allowing for a break from daily stressors and the opportunity to focus on personal health and well-being. Discover a balanced and healthier you with customized nutrition and fitness plans from Stacey Naito!

Balance Work and Life

A common source of stress is the struggle to balance professional and personal life. This doesn’t mean compromising career goals but finding a harmony that supports both professional success and personal happiness. Here are some steps you can take to live a balanced life that is less stressful and more fulfilling:

  • Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Define specific working hours and stick to them, avoiding excessive overtime. 
  • Prioritize self-care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Prioritizing self-care ensures you have the energy and resilience to handle work stress.
  • Delegate: Delegate tasks when possible, both at work and home, to reduce your workload and free up time for other activities. 
  • Learn to say “no”: Saying “no” when necessary prevents burnout and allows you to maintain a healthier work-life balance. It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and others.

Consider Alternative Stress Therapies

Exploring alternative therapies can provide a distinctive path to stress relief, complementing traditional methods. The following methods have been recognized for their potential in managing stress:

  • Aromatherapy: The use of essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and rose have been shown to promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
  • Biofeedback: Biofeedback techniques use sensors to monitor physiological functions like heart rate and teach individuals how to control them. It can be effective in managing stress by providing real-time feedback on stress responses.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation: This technique involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to release physical tension and promote relaxation, making it an effective stress management tool.
  • THCa: Found in raw cannabis, THCa is a non-psychoactive compound that can offer stress relief benefits. It’s typically consumed in its natural form—explore the allure of THCA diamonds.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Mindfulness is a powerful practice for relieving stress by bringing one’s full attention to the present moment without judgment. By cultivating awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations, individuals can better understand their stressors and learn to respond to them in a more balanced way. Mindfulness meditation techniques, such as deep breathing and body scanning, promote relaxation and reduce the physiological effects of stress, such as elevated heart rate and muscle tension. Over time, regular mindfulness practice can lead to increased resilience, improved emotional regulation, and a greater sense of calm, making it an effective tool in stress management.

Cultivate a Positive Mindset

Cultivating a positive mindset can act as a protective barrier against life’s stresses. Adopting an optimistic attitude, acknowledging your successes, setting achievable goals, and engaging in self-compassion are powerful tools in diminishing the effects of stress. Additionally, being in the company of uplifting individuals and consistently nurturing a hopeful perspective not only wards off stress but also enhances overall life satisfaction. These proactive measures contribute to building resilience, enabling you to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.

Stress, while an inevitable part of life, doesn’t have to dominate it. By identifying its sources and adopting a comprehensive approach that encompasses physical, mental, and alternative strategies, you can effectively manage stress. This journey is about discovering what uniquely works for you, leading to a balanced and fulfilling life where stress is manageable, not overwhelming. Remember, prioritizing your well-being is not just beneficial; it’s essential.

Don’t Call Them ‘Private Parts’

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I wanted to share this brilliantly written article by Dr. Rachel S. Rubin, who demystifies the talk surrounding genitalia and sexual health. Hopefully readers will find some encouragement in the language and the wonderful explanations of reproductive physiology and anatomy, and will better understand conditions such as erectile dysfunction. For those of you who would like to check out the original post on Medscape.com, here is the link:

https://www.mdedge.com/familymedicine/article/265321/womens-health/dont-call-them-private-parts?ecd=WNL_FAM_231008_mdedge

By Rachel S. Rubin, MD

Today, I’d like to talk about private parts. You know: the genitals, down there.

I hate all of that. I really wish that we can get to a place where we can talk about genitals and sexual health the same way we do about high blood pressure and diabetes. In fact, when a new patient comes in and they get a new diagnosis of diabetes, you spend time explaining to them how their pancreas works. I don’t remember all the details because I’m a urologist. But you explain the details of diabetes, how it works, why therapy is important, and how it’s very important for quality of life.

I would like us to take that same understanding of anatomy and physiology and use it to explain to patients how their sexual health works because when they understand it, they then have the tools to make it better. I say to patients, “You have to know what parts you have in order to figure out how they drive, right?” We want them to drive better.

Let me give you an example. Many men come to see me with complaints of erectile dysfunction. They refuse to take sildenafil and tadalafil (Viagra and Cialis), saying, “Oh my gosh, those are magic pills. I won’t be a man if take them.” We all know that doesn’t make any sense. I explain to them how their penis works: “Your penis is a muscle. The muscle does two things. It contracts and it relaxes, just like your bicep. It’s just that your penis muscle is smooth muscle, which means it responds to fight or flight. It’s on the autonomic nervous system.”

I explain that if the muscle of the penis is relaxed, it fills with blood and expands. It gets big and hard, and it traps the blood. But when the muscles of the penis are contracted, when they are tight, it squeezes out all the blood, like squeezing out a sponge. So the important thing to do if you want to have good erections is to get the muscles to relax. Relaxed muscle increases erections. I get them to understand that sildenafil and tadalafil are phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors: smooth-muscle relaxants. Instead of saying, “I need to take Viagra or Cialis because I’m broken,” it’s, “Oh hey honey, I need to take my muscle relaxants because my muscles aren’t working the way that they used to.”

In the future, I’ll go into what happens in erectile dysfunction. We’ll go into what can happen with erectile dysfunction and the many reasons why it happens. It’s getting them to understand that if we get the muscles to relax, you will have better erections. This is how the penis works. It’s why the medicine works. The patients will actually try the therapy and they’ll feel so much better about it. They’ll say, “Oh my gosh, this makes so much sense.” They work on their mental muscles to get the muscles of the penis to relax. Understanding anatomy and physiology helps them understand the treatments, which leads to better outcomes.

How about the female side? If a woman comes to see me reporting that she can’t have an orgasm, part of it is education and understanding the anatomy and physiology. The clitoris and the penis are exactly the same thing. The head of the clitoris and the head of the penis are the same. The clitoris has legs that go all the way down to the butt bone. So everyone is sitting on their genitals right now. The butt bones connect to the bottom of the clitoris or the bottom of the penis. They each have legs called crura. When you get patients to understand where their anatomy is and how it functions, they will then understand how to maximize their quality of life.

The clitoris has smooth muscle just like the penis. When that smooth muscle relaxes, it gorges with blood. When you stimulate it, it can lead to orgasm for most people. But, wait a minute. The clitoris is not inside the vagina. It’s outside. It’s behind the labia majora. If you follow the labia minora up, you get to the head of the clitoris. If patients understand that, they then will understand that penetration is not the way the majority of people orgasm.

I love pictures. I show everyone pictures in my office. They help patients to understand why vibration or outside stimulation on the vulva will allow orgasm to happen. And so instead of patients coming in saying, “I’m broken, I can’t orgasm from penetration,” or, “Dr. Rubin, I’m broken because I can’t get erections,” getting them to understand the anatomy and physiology helps them understand the treatment.

As we go forward, I’ll talk more about anatomy and physiology and how to increase the sexual health of our patients. For now though, please stop calling them private parts. Please use your understanding of anatomy and physiology to educate your patients to have better sexual health and higher quality of life. You may be the only clinician to ever do so, and it will make their life so much better.

Dr. Rubin is an assistant clinical professor, department of urology, at Georgetown University, Washington. She reported conflicts of interest with Sprout, Maternal Medical, Absorption Pharmaceuticals, GlaxoSmithKline, and Endo.

Is Raw Food Good For Cats?

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My kitten Sumi at 10 months of age

Feeding raw food to cats and kittens is a topic of debate among veterinarians and pet owners. While some advocates believe in the benefits of a raw food diet for cats, it’s essential to consider both the potential advantages and risks associated with this feeding approach. When I got my cream European Burmese kitten Sumi, the breeder told me that she was accustomed to raw food, so after a few weeks, I acquiesced, looked up the specific brand of raw food, found a local distributor, and purchased the food. Luckily, my kitten and my junior cat (sable American Burmese Koji, who is 1-1/2 years old) both love the raw food, so they now get raw food every morning.

Here are some potential benefits of raw food for cats and kittens:

  1. Nutrient Density: Raw food diets can be formulated to closely mimic a cat’s natural prey diet, which is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This can provide essential nutrients in a highly digestible form.
  2. Improved Coat and Skin Health: Some cat owners report that their pets on raw diets have shinier coats and healthier skin, which could be due to the higher levels of essential fatty acids found in some raw ingredients. This is definitely true for my cats, including my 14-year-old Tenshi, whose coat had been looking dull until he started eating a small amount of raw food each morning (I have to limit the amount due to his kidney disease). His coat is now thicker and has a sheen to it similar to what he used to have when he was young.
  3. Dental Health: Chewing on raw bones and meat can help maintain dental health by reducing tartar buildup and promoting natural tooth cleaning. I actually get a kick out of watching Koji and Sumi eat raw food, because their wild instincts kick in, and they chew pretty vigorously.
  4. Weight Management: Raw food diets may help with weight management, as they are generally low in carbohydrates, which can contribute to weight gain.
  5. Allergy Management: Some cats with food allergies or sensitivities may benefit from a raw food diet because it allows for precise ingredient control, avoiding common allergens. Koji has some food allergies which I had discovered quite by accident, so it’s a relief to know that he has no issues with the raw food I feed him.
  6. Improved Digestion: Proponents of raw diets argue that these diets are easier to digest and can lead to fewer digestive issues, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Since incorporating raw food into my cats’ diets, I have noticed that vomiting is extremely rare.
  7. Increased Hydration: Raw diets often contain a higher moisture content, which can help keep cats well-hydrated and reduce the risk of urinary tract problems.

My two-year-old, Koji

It’s important to note that there are also significant risks associated with feeding raw food to cats and kittens:

  1. Bacterial Contamination: Raw meat, especially poultry and fish, can be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can pose health risks to both cats and humans. However, the company from which I purchase raw food, Blue Ridge Beef, uses High Pressure Processing (HPP), a cold-water process that applies pressure on the food that fractures the cell walls of pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli 0157:H7, and Listeria Monocytogenes, killing them while leaving all nutrients intact. I also wash my hands before handling the food, and when I section out the 2-pound chubs, I use a sharp knife to cut the chub into medallions, wrap the medallions in plastic wrap, and then into a freezer bag to re-freeze until feeding time.
  2. Nutritional Imbalance: Formulating a balanced raw diet that meets all of a cat’s nutritional needs can be challenging. Deficiencies or excesses in essential nutrients can lead to health problems. For this reason, I still leave dry and freeze-dried kibble for my cats to graze on, and I also feed them commercial wet food for dinner to ensure a balanced diet.
  3. Parasites: Raw meat can contain parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, which can be harmful to cats and can be transmitted to humans.
  4. Choking Hazards: Feeding bones can be risky, as cats may choke or suffer from intestinal blockages. However, I have noticed that Blue Ridge Beef Kitten Mix does not contain any large pieces of bone.
  5. Zoonotic Diseases: Cats on raw diets may be at increased risk of contracting zoonotic diseases, which can be transmitted from animals to humans.
  6. Cost and Time: Preparing and feeding a raw diet can be more time-consuming and expensive than commercial cat foods. I can’t imagine going through the hassle to make raw food for my cats, so I am thankful that I can purchase Blue Ridge Beef products which are almost completely hassle free. I will say that when I purchase a case of fifteen 2-pound chubs, I don’t look forward to tempering the chubs, cutting them into medallions, wrapping them and then placing them in bags, but I only do that every 5 months.

Before switching your cat or kitten to a raw food diet, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian who can provide guidance on whether it’s appropriate for your specific pet’s needs and help you formulate a balanced and safe diet. If you decide to feed a raw diet, it’s important to follow best practices for food safety to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination and ensure your cat’s overall health and well-being.

Why Multi-Cat Households Are More Fun

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Clockwise: Tenshi (14), Koji (2), and Sumi (9 months)

Having multiple cats in a household can be enriching and beneficial for both the cats and the humans involved. I can personally attest to this since I have always had more than one cat in my household since 1986, and can’t imagine my life without a gang of felines with whom to share my home. There are people I have known who have had one cat, and almost invariably, the singleton cat has proven to be antisocial, and in some cases, downright mean, while those who have at least two cats notice that their furry kids are friendlier and more curious.

Let’s explore the reasons in detail:

Social Interaction and Sense of Community:

  • Cats are social animals, and living with other cats can fulfill their need for companionship and social interaction. In a multi-cat household, cats can engage in grooming, play, and cuddling with each other, which helps reduce loneliness and stress.
  • Cats create their own little community, which can be heartwarming to witness. They may form close bonds, develop unique rituals, and even communicate with each other through body language, vocalizations, and scent marking.

My boys Koji and Tenshi

Hierarchy and Pecking Order:

  • Multi-cat households often establish a hierarchy or pecking order, with dominant and submissive cats. This hierarchy can help reduce conflicts by establishing clear roles within the group. As an example, my senior boy Tenshi definitely has the upper hand on Koji, even though Koji is full of energy and prone to getting into mischief.
  • Observing the cats’ interactions can be fascinating, as they negotiate and establish their positions within the household’s social structure. This dynamic can teach humans about animal behavior and social hierarchies.

Diverse Personalities:

  • Cats, like humans, have diverse personalities. In a multi-cat household, you’re likely to see a wide range of personalities, from outgoing and playful to shy and reserved. In my household, there is a continuum, ranging from Shima who is the shyest by far, to Koji who has some timid moments, to Sumi whose fearless and diva personality makes her outgoing and demanding (but always on her terms), to Tenshi who is the biggest lovebug and a bundle of lap Velcro.
  • These distinct personalities can provide entertainment and a deeper understanding of feline behavior. It’s fun to watch each cat’s unique quirks and habits.

Socialization and Training:

  • Multi-cat households can help in socializing kittens or newly adopted cats. They can learn from the resident cats and adapt to household routines more easily.
  • Older, more experienced cats can sometimes teach younger ones appropriate behavior and boundaries. Back in 2009, when I got Shima as a 3-week-old rescue, I noticed that she learned to run, purr, and play from the senior cat I had at that time.

Shima (14) and Sumi

Entertainment Value:

  • Cats in multi-cat households often engage in playful and interactive behaviors with each other, such as chasing, wrestling, and play-fighting. These activities can be entertaining for both the cats and the humans in the household. There is no end to the amount of entertainment which I get from watching my cats horse around throughout the day, even if it means that certain items get knocked over during their sessions. My cats keep each other company, which is very important to me when I step out for social outings.
  • Cats can also provide entertainment by watching their antics and observing their unique personalities. Their curiosity and playful nature can brighten up the home.

Reduced Boredom and Stress:

  • Having multiple cats can help reduce boredom and stress for individual cats. They have companions to interact with when humans are not available.
  • Cats can play with each other, which is mentally stimulating and physically engaging, reducing the risk of obesity and behavioral problems.

Human Benefits:

  • For humans, a multi-cat household can be emotionally rewarding. The cats provide companionship, comfort, and entertainment, enhancing the overall quality of life.
  • Multiple cats can also create a sense of purpose and responsibility for cat owners, as they must cater to the needs of a larger group.

While multi-cat households have many advantages, it’s essential to consider the potential challenges, such as introducing new cats carefully, providing enough resources (food, water, litter boxes, and scratching posts) for all cats, and monitoring for any signs of stress or conflicts. Proper care and attention can ensure a harmonious and happy environment for both the cats and the humans in the household.