Radio Health Journal

Can Suicide Be Prevented? Stories From Survivors And Loved Ones September is National Suicide Prevention Month. And though many organizations focus on helping people learn the warning signs, our guests argue that not every death is preventable. This week we hear stories from prevention experts, loved ones, and a suicide attempt survivor. Cheap Drugs Have A High Cost: The Safety Issues Of Generic Prescriptions The FDA uses standards called Current Good Manufacturing Practices to ensure safe and reliable pharmaceutical products. However, recent research shows that generic prescription drugs manufactured in India have almost 50% more reported serious adverse events. Our expert discusses the steps needed to keep consumers safe. Medical Notes: A New Weight Loss Drug Without The Side Effects, How Paternal Drinking Affects Kids, And How To Fix Your Arthritic Knees Without Surgery Why are weight loss drugs so difficult to take long-term? Alcoholism doesn't just affect one person. Fix your bad knees without surgery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. And though many organizations focus on helping people learn the warning signs, our guests argue that not every death is preventable. This week we hear stories from prevention experts, loved ones, and a suicide attempt survivor. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/can-suicide-be-prevented-stories-from-survivors-and-loved-ones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The FDA uses standards called Current Good Manufacturing Practices to ensure safe and reliable pharmaceutical products. However, recent research shows that generic prescription drugs manufactured in India have almost 50% more reported serious adverse events. Our expert discusses the steps needed to keep consumers safe. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/cheap-drugs-have-a-high-cost-the-safety-issues-of-generic-prescriptions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some diseases are tough to self-diagnose, but AI is here to help. Does bacteria get a bad rap? Have you had enough water today? Probably not – and that's a big problem. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-ai-can-diagnose-your-parkinsons-disease-how-bacteria-can-lower-your-medical-bills-and-the-dangers-of-dehydration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breaking Down The Most Effective (And Ineffective) Treatments For ADHD Synopsis: Every case of ADHD requires a unique treatment plan because no one child is the same. However, there are many options and not much research on how they all work independently and together. Our experts this week break down what research shows to be the most effective options and the surprising results for what doesn't work. Primal Wounds: How To Break Harmful Cycles For Healthier Relationships Synopsis: Some psychotherapists theorize that our strongest emotional reactions often stem from childhood “primal wounds.” They can make us feel inadequate, powerless, or undeserving. While these triggers can create harmful cycles if ignored, our expert explains how they can act as protective mechanisms that can be our biggest strengths to improve relationships and turn vulnerabilities into personal superpowers. Medical Notes: AI Can Diagnose Your Parkinson's Disease, How Bacteria Can Lower Your Medical Bills, And The Dangers Of Dehydration Some diseases are tough to self-diagnose, but AI is here to help. Does bacteria get a bad rap? Have you had enough water today? Probably not – and that's a big problem. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some psychotherapists theorize that our strongest emotional reactions often stem from childhood “primal wounds.” They can make us feel inadequate, powerless, or undeserving. While these triggers can create harmful cycles if ignored, our expert explains how they can act as protective mechanisms that can be our biggest strengths to improve relationships and turn vulnerabilities into personal superpowers. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/primal-wounds-how-to-break-harmful-cycles-for-healthier-relationships Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every case of ADHD requires a unique treatment plan because no one child is the same. However, there are many options and not much research on how they all work independently and together. Our experts this week break down what research shows to be the most effective options and the surprising results for what doesn't work. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/breaking-down-the-most-effective-and-ineffective-treatments-for-adhd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Toothpaste may be the cause of your child's allergies. An antimicrobial chemical called triclosan (try-klow-san) has been a staple ingredient in everyday products like mouthwash and clothing for decades. A new player in the fight against forever chemicals. An apple a day may help you sleep better. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-to-flush-out-forever-chemicals-eat-fruit-to-sleep-better-and-is-toothpaste-causing-your-allergies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Short Kids Are Being Given Growth Hormones – Is It Safe? Many parents begin to worry if their child is much shorter than classmates, and some go as far as to give growth hormone to their kids. However, it doesn't make the significant difference that these families hope. Our experts explain when growth hormone is appropriate, and how the real solution to shorter kids feeling inferior is society's mindset. Radical Women: The History Of Breast Cancer In America It's no secret that October is the month of breast cancer awareness, but it wasn't always this way. There was a time when speaking of cancer was taboo and women having any choice of how they were treated was even more strange. Author Judith Pearson discusses the three women who transformed the breast cancer movement into what we see today. Medical Notes: How To Flush Out ‘Forever Chemicals', Eat Fruit To Sleep Better, And Is Toothpaste Causing Your Allergies? Toothpaste may be the cause of your child's allergies. An antimicrobial chemical called triclosan (try-klow-san) has been a staple ingredient in everyday products like mouthwash and clothing for decades. A new player in the fight against forever chemicals. An apple a day may help you sleep better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's no secret that October is the month of breast cancer awareness, but it wasn't always this way. There was a time when speaking of cancer was taboo and women having any choice of how they were treated was even more strange. Author Judith Pearson discusses the three women who transformed the breast cancer movement into what we see today. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/radical-women-the-history-of-breast-cancer-in-america Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many parents begin to worry if their child is much shorter than classmates, and some go as far as to give growth hormone to their kids. However, it doesn't make the significant difference that these families hope. Our experts explain when growth hormone is appropriate, and how the real solution to shorter kids feeling inferior is society's mindset. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/short-kids-are-being-given-growth-hormones-is-it-safe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not all generic drugs are created equal. How much of a benefit do you get from learning a second language? A new product to help stop the spread of malaria. Your next hospital visit may look a bit greener. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-why-kids-should-be-bilingual-stopping-the-spread-of-malaria-and-are-generic-drugs-dangerous Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Segment 1: Facing Dementia: Early Detection And Advancements In Treatment Dementia can be a scary diagnosis. And though it's an umbrella term for many conditions, identifying the specific cause is crucial for effective treatment. While most cases aren't curable, our expert explains how advances like new blood tests, medications, and lifestyle changes can make a noticeable difference. Segment 2: The Best Way To Protect Athletes From Overuse Injuries Many young athletes are focusing on a single sport year-round, but new research shows this can lead to longer recovery times, higher re-injury rates, and more serious injuries. Our expert explains how this impacts the athletes' careers later in life and recommends a protocol that will reduce overuse injuries. Medical Notes: Why Kids Should Be Bilingual, Stopping The Spread Of Malaria, And Are Generic Drugs Dangerous? Not all generic drugs are created equal. How much of a benefit do you get from learning a second language? A new product to help stop the spread of malaria. Your next hospital visit may look a bit greener. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many young athletes are focusing on a single sport year-round, but new research shows this can lead to longer recovery times, higher re-injury rates, and more serious injuries. Our expert explains how this impacts the athletes' careers later in life and recommends a protocol that will reduce overuse injuries. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-best-way-to-protect-athletes-from-overuse-injuries Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dementia can be a scary diagnosis. And though it's an umbrella term for many conditions, identifying the specific cause is crucial for effective treatment. While most cases aren't curable, our expert explains how advances like new blood tests, medications, and lifestyle changes can make a noticeable difference. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/facing-dementia-early-detection-and-advancements-in-treatment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is your gut making you sick? Should you be drinking one type of water over all the others? Does vibrant food make us eat more? If you're sick of hangovers, we may have a solution. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-best-alcohol-for-minimal-hangovers-the-impact-of-color-additives-and-is-one-brand-of-water-healthier-than-the-rest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Segment 1: Hormone Imbalances May Be Causing Your Mental And Physical Issues Hormones regulate nearly every function in the body, yet their role in women's health is often overlooked in conventional medicine. Misdiagnosis of hormone imbalances can lead to physical and emotional suffering. Dr. Julie Taylor explains the proper tests and education that can help women find the root cause of many different symptoms, empowering them to better understand and manage their health. Segment 2: Are Pharmacy Benefit Managers To Blame For Your Massive Health Bills? Last week we discussed how PBMs operate within healthcare, including negotiating drug prices and operating clinical programs. And though PBMs are under increasing scrutiny from lawmakers and the FTC, experts argue that reform – not removal – is key to creating a more transparent and efficient system. Medical Notes: The Best Alcohol For Minimal Hangovers, The Impact Of Color Additives, And Is One Brand Of Water Healthier Than The Rest? Is your gut making you sick? Should you be drinking one type of water over all the others? Does vibrant food make us eat more? If you're sick of hangovers, we may have a solution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hormones regulate nearly every function in the body, yet their role in women's health is often overlooked in conventional medicine. Misdiagnosis of hormone imbalances can lead to physical and emotional suffering. Dr. Julie Taylor explains the proper tests and education that can help women find the root cause of many different symptoms, empowering them to better understand and manage their health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/hormone-imbalances-may-be-causing-your-mental-and-physical-issues Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week we discussed how PBMs operate within healthcare, including negotiating drug prices and operating clinical programs. And though PBMs are under increasing scrutiny from lawmakers and the FTC, experts argue that reform – not removal – is key to creating a more transparent and efficient system. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/are-pharmacy-benefit-managers-to-blame-for-your-massive-health-bills Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You should sleep more to ease your headaches. Should you swap your morning coffee for magic mushrooms? Does exercise always make you happier? You may be more extroverted than you think. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-anti-aging-properties-of-psychedelic-mushrooms-how-sleep-is-linked-to-migraines-and-the-exercise-for-happiness-myth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cognitive neuroscientist Resh Gupta argues that anxiety isn't a one-size-fits-all condition, but a spectrum of experiences that affect cognitive control in different ways. Her research explores how specific types of anxiety can be treated more effectively with tailored mindfulness practices. Gupta's newly proposed framework aims to reshape how scientists study and treat anxiety. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/not-all-anxiety-is-the-same-and-neither-are-the-solutions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pharmacy Benefit Managers, or PBMs, play a powerful but often invisible role in U.S. healthcare. While they're often blamed for rising drug costs, recent research suggests the real culprit may be drug manufacturers and patent protections. Our experts explain how PBMs have evolved from simple claims processors into complex organizations that work behind the scenes for insurance companies, pharmacies, and employers. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/pbms-the-invisible-influence-behind-modern-healthcare Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Low Dose is a specially-curated segment that combines the most interesting RHJ stories into one, bite-sized episode. Bypass all the fluff and get straight to the information you need to know. This week, we highlight the scientifically-backed strategies for manifesting your dream life, how the fashion industry is poisoning you, and a very real future where parents can design their own perfect baby. You can find more information about our guests and where to find each full episode below: 00:00-03:55 - The science to manifesting your dream life (Manifestation: Dr. James R. Doty ⁠⁠https://radiohealthjournal.org/manifestation-the-scientific-path-to-creating-your-dream-life/) 04:00-07:00 - How your clothes are poisoning you (Toxic Fashion: Alden Wicker ⁠https://radiohealthjournal.org/mercury-hats-arsenic-dresses-and-poisoned-shoes-toxic-fashion/) 07:00-10:00 - The future of genetically-modified humans. (Gene Editing: Dr. Elizabeth McNally https://radiohealthjournal.org/genomics-pt-2-designer-babies-illegal-experiments-and-moral-issues/) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diabetics may no longer have to suffer through frequent injections. Should you skip the doctor and just ask AI? How you can unlock super-human healing. Why football players should start taking ballet classes. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-to-unlock-superhuman-healing-why-football-players-should-start-practicing-ballet-and-can-ai-replace-your-doctor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Born with NF1-PN, a rare genetic disorder, Austin Fields spent his childhood learning how to live in a body riddled with benign tumors. Though removal surgery is the main treatment for this painful condition, a new medication has recently been approved for adults with NF1-PN. Our experts explain what it's like to live with this condition and how this novel drug is enhancing patients' quality of life. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-new-drug-that-shrinks-tumors-for-patients-with-nf1-pn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many experimental drugs being tested for various conditions, but many of them never get to real patients due to obstacles like low rates of clinical trial participation. Dr. Casey Chapman explains a growing research method that brings the trials directly to patients and gives them the opportunity to access a wider range of medications. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/increasing-patient-access-to-experimental-drugs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Researchers have discovered a new cause of infertility. Not all of us grow from adversity. Will the ocean be our newest water source? Why you should embrace PDA. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-infertility-air-pollution-ocean-water-pda Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we continue the discussion about how our genes influence our future. Our expert explains how our genetics affect the people around us – and how their genes affect us, from parenting to romance. Dalton Conley, author of The Social Genome, explains the immense impact of this hidden influence. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/two-sides-of-the-same-coin-theres-no-such-thing-as-nature-vs-nurture Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a historic move, the FDA has taken the first steps to phase out animal testing in research. Though it's been a requirement for new drug development for decades, there are other, more accurate methods that the FDA wants to move forward with. Elizabeth Baker, Esq. discusses these new methods and the emerging technology helping to remove animal testing from all drug research. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-fda-is-vegan-why-the-agency-is-phasing-out-animal-testing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week: Why your gaze can boost running performance, a breakthrough in early cancer detection, the future of dental implants, and how childhood nutrition shapes adult health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/run-faster-cancer-detection-high-tech-teeth/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Edible sunscreens have become a hot topic, but can SPF gummies replace your normal sunscreen? Dr. Susan Massick explains how UV rays cause damage throughout our body and what type of protection will be most effective. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/edible-sunscreen-can-you-eat-your-sun-protection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can your genes predict how much money you'll make in your career? Dalton Conley, a sociologist, explains how our genes can be predictive of all aspects of our life – from BMI to who we're friends with – in his new book, The Social Genome. Would you want to know the odds your genes have predetermined about life outcomes? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/from-weight-to-career-success-how-your-genes-can-predict-your-future Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does poor sleep do to your brain? How can you grill smarter this summer? And could optimism secretly improve your health? We break down the latest science. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-poor-sleep-can-change-your-brain-how-to-grill-safely-this-summer-and-the-secret-superpower-of-optimism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the daily life of a paramedic, true emergencies are rare, resources are thin, and burnout runs high. Instead of glamorized rescues, medics often face issues that would be better handled by social workers and lawyers. This week, Joanna Sokol details her experience on the job and why the field is desperate for better worker rights. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/inside-the-ambulance-chaos-camaraderie-and-the-calls-you-never-see-on-tv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chronic pain in children is often dismissed as “growing pains,” but ignoring it can lead to lifelong health and socioeconomic consequences. Dr. Tonya Palermo emphasizes the need for better pain education and early intervention to help kids avoid long-term damage. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/dont-blame-growing-pains-the-dangers-of-ignoring-childhood-pain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can inflammation affect fertility? Could curiosity change your life? This week, we explore cutting-edge research on anxiety treatments, parenting patterns, and the science of self-improvement. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-to-change-your-personality-customizing-your-anxiety-treatment-and-a-hidden-cause-of-infertility Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whenever we experience pain, our bodies use internal pain relief symptoms to reduce some of that discomfort. Though it's been believed that men and women use the same, main system, a new study is pioneering an entirely new understanding of chronic pain. Our experts discuss this research and how it could change the future of pain management. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/her-pain-his-treatment-issues-with-the-generic-approach-to-pain-relief Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The adrenal glands regulate cortisol, a hormone crucial for managing stress and energy. When stress is chronic, cortisol imbalances can cause fatigue, anxiety, and pain. Dr. Izabella Wentz offers simple lifestyle changes that can help restore balance and improve your overall health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/full-body-reset-stress-cortisol-and-adrenal-dysfunction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ultrasound isn't just for imaging. Sleep apnea may silently rewire the brain. A new non-opioid painkiller shows promise—without the dangerous side effects. Dementia can make people act out in unexpected ways—and families are often left struggling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New technology like AI offers promise, but experts say true healthcare reform starts with prevention, not just innovation. The U.S. spends more on healthcare than any other nation, yet outcomes lag because we focus on expensive treatments instead of early care. Our expert explains how real change will require prioritizing prevention to keep people healthier from the start. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-future-of-medicine-pt-2-a-new-era-of-healthcare-focuses-on-prevention Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Jakki Maser's back pain started at 13, doctors brushed it off as a minor injury. Years of unrelenting pain and dead-end appointments led her to uncover the real cause herself – Bertolotti's syndrome, an underdiagnosed spinal condition. This week, our experts explain how to accurately catch this condition and the best treatment methods for a full recovery. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/bertolottis-syndrome-the-under-diagnosed-cause-of-back-pain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your ‘aura' may just be a mixture of oils and fats on the skin. Scientists still don't fully know why we yawn—but they're getting closer. The debate over fluoride is back in the spotlight. Urban rats may be more than just an annoying pest. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-science-behind-your-aura-the-fluoride-debate-and-the-real-reason-behind-your-yawn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For people with inflammatory bowel disease, daily life can be painful, unpredictable, and isolating. The successful management of IBD means addressing both physical and mental symptoms. Our experts discuss treatment approaches and a new program aiming to end the stigma and offer support for patients. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-mental-and-physical-toll-of-inflammatory-bowel-disease Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most Americans don't have a clear picture of what universal healthcare really means. Dr. Marschall Runge says we're unlikely to see fully free, unlimited care – but a model based on preventive, team-based medicine is possible. In his new book, The Great Healthcare Disruption, Runge outlines how AI, better access, and more shareable medical records could revolutionize care – if we also prioritize our own health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-future-of-medicine-pt-1-do-we-want-free-or-innovative-healthcare Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is there a new brain region for our senses? Why are so many adults feeling alone? Can fish oil really slow down aging? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-fish-oil-slows-aging-the-loneliness-epidemic-and-how-to-better-understand-autism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the most part, food companies are allowed to police themselves when introducing new food additives to market. This gap in oversight is the product of a GRAS loophole, a decades-old FDA policy. Jennifer Pomeranz explains how the status-quo is threatening public health and offers innovative solutions for reform. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/gras-fed-loopholes-why-your-diet-is-more-toxic-than-the-fda-knows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rheumatoid arthritis is tough to diagnose and even harder to treat effectively. Thankfully, researchers are creating more precise tests that can match patients to the right treatment plan on the first try. Our experts explain the challenges of rheumatoid arthritis and a new test that can bypass the trial-and-error approach to medicine. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/more-than-growing-pains-the-hidden-toll-of-rheumatoid-arthritis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A diabetes drug may be helpful in the fight against alzheimers. A tiny part of the brain may be the key to treating addiction. Kids should join a sport to boost their mental health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-brains-secret-microstructure-that-has-powerful-impacts-why-kids-should-play-sports-and-how-a-diabetes-drug-can-fight-off-alzheimers-disease Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast-exclusive episode, you'll hear the original interview audio between Radio Health Journal producer Kristen Farrah and psychologist and Vietnam War veteran Dr. Edgardo Padin-Rivera. The two have a conversation about military indoctrination, the mental health of soldiers, and the challenges of navigating life after service. They also dive into Padin-Rivera's personal experiences of war, addiction, and his journey to find peace.  Trigger warnings: racial slurs, violence, trauma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even though we have developed fantastic antibiotics for tuberculosis, the disease continues to devastate communities – especially lower-income populations in developing countries. John Green, a best-selling author, dives into the disparities that exist within the world of tuberculosis and how we can get life-saving treatment to the millions that need it. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/why-everything-is-tuberculosis-to-best-selling-author-john-green Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Experimenting on humans can be a dangerous and scary endeavor, but we've created guidelines to make sure that our clinical trials are the safest they can be. However, all of this effort is lost when it comes to pregnant women. We have very little data on how some of the most-used medications affect this population simply because it's not researched. Our guest explains why we need to start including this population in clinical trials and how it can be done safely and effectively. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/why-we-should-experiment-on-pregnant-women Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices