Questions and Answers

Nevertheless, the prevalence of inactivity in industrialized countries is considerable and relevant to the rise in obesity. In the United States, less than half of all adults meet the federal 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines, and fewer than 3 in 10 high school students get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Read More

The etiology of obesity is far more complex than simply an imbalance between energy intake and energy output. Although this view allows easy conceptualization of the various mechanisms involved in the development of obesity, obesity is far more than simply the result of eating too much and/or exercising too little (see the energy-balance equation, below). […] Read More

Although several classifications and definitions for degrees of obesity are accepted, the most widely accepted classifications are those from the World Health Organization (WHO), based on body mass index (BMI). The WHO designations are as follows: Grade 1 overweight (commonly and simply called overweight) – BMI of 25-29.9 kg/m2; Grade 2 overweight (commonly called obesity) […] Read More

Obesity is a substantial public health crisis in the United States, and internationally, with the prevalence increasing rapidly in numerous industrialized nations.  Read More

Obese people have an unhealthy and abnormally high percentage of body fat. To measure obesity, researchers use a formula that is based on an individual’s weight and height, known as the body mass index (BMI = weight in kg / m2). Obesity is defined as a BMI above 30. Read More

Avoidance is the best defense against allergies. But if you can’t get away from your allergen, or, more specifically, if you can’t give up your dog, or cat, or gerbil, and your symptoms can’t be helped by over-the-counter medications, see an allergist. For some patients, a custom-made allergy shot can be designed to desensitize you […] Read More

There is no scientific evidence to support the theory that eating local honey or pollen will cure allergies. Practically speaking, most people’s seasonal allergies are caused by airborne pollen from grass and ragweed, and those aren’t the plants that honey bees are visiting. So it’s unlikely that the pollen you’re allergic to is the pollen […] Read More

Always consult your doctor when you experience wheezing. Wheezing can be due to allergies or asthma, but sometimes it’s a sign of a heart problem. It’s better to be safe and check in with your physician. Read More

Food allergies are not likely to cause a runny nose. They usually cause scratchy, itchy mouth and throat; or you may develop hives, a skin rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps, or have difficulty breathing. Some older individuals experience a runny nose when they eat spicy, hot foods. That’s called gustatory rhinitis, and the […] Read More

You should consult with your physician. There are several types of over-the-counter allergy medications. Antihistamines can cause sedation and performance impairment. Zyrtec (cetirizine), Claritin (loratadine), and Allegra (fexofenadine) may also cause sedation, but if taken at night, this side effect can be minimized. These three antihistamines are safe to take on a daily basis. Over-the-counter […] Read More