Dr Dillner’s health dilemmas
Dr Luisa Dillner on the everyday health issues that affect your life
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Psilocybin mushrooms have been found to have minimal harmful effects and could potentially benefit those with depression. But they remain illegal, and there is a big risk if you eat the wrong type
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We’ve all tried to juggle several things at once. So does it work, or is it better to concentrate on just one task at a time?
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Fresh is best – right? In fact, studies on the relative benefits of fresh and frozen show no consistent differences
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Running is cheap, easy and reduces the risk of heart disease and early deaths. But do the health benefits outweigh those from other activities, such as walking, cycling or swimming?
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It’s estimated that a quarter of us are always trying to lose weight, and it’s commonly thought that stopping and starting diets causes problems. But what is the truth?
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New research has shown that more than a fifth of patients who do ask for one discover that their first diagnosis was incorrect
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As many as 5.4 million people in the UK may be taking pills to help with anxiety and depression, but does that mean they are hooked?
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Studies suggest older mothers benefit by being more emotionally mature and financially stable. But there are health risks with waiting longer to have kids. So what’s the best balance?
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Booze contains plenty of calories, although studies have shown that moderate drinking is not necessarily associated with piling on the pounds
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Not only is positive thinking linked to a host of health benefits, it can also make you more resilient
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Although advice suggested people should take supplements during winter, unless you are seriously deficient, the chance of it stopping you catching a cold is minimal
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A new study says that up to six hours a day is perfectly normal, and unlikely to do any harm – as long as your child is doing fine at school and getting enough exercise
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A new study says gym-goers are indeed fitter and healthier than non-members. But there are other ways to stay fit, and some of them may be even more beneficial
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Up to one third of women may experience pain during sex, but most never seek the treatment they need
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A new study suggests so – but don’t start sticking needles into your child. A detailed look at the results shows things aren’t so clear cut
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Some people can bounce back from life’s pressures, but others do not seem to have the capacity. Can anything help them to strengthen their emotional armour?
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The market for protein supplements is now mainstream – but many of us already eat twice as much protein as the World Health Organisation recommends
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Up to half of us have problems sleeping – and some experts say online treatment may soon become the norm. But which tool should you use?
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The consumption of cow’s milk is in decline as lactose intolerance does for dairy what gluten intolerance has done to bread. But if you are northern European, you are genetically modified to consume milk
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People with health anxiety are more likely to develop heart disease, says a study – news that will only make them more stressed. Psychological therapy is the best treatment …
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The drug has no measurable effect on acute back pain, according to a new study – so what should you be using it to treat?
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It may seem like a harmless display of affection, but allowing your pet to ‘kiss’ you could be dangerous – or even fatal
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Taking photos of one’s self is often thought to be addictive and unhealthy. But a recent report suggests it could actually improve your mood
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The US health department has stopped recommending it, but the NHS is still in favour. So, should you bother?
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For some, hookups and one-night stands can lead to increased confidence – but, for others, it can damage self-esteem and cause psychological distress
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A new study has found that boozers out on the town are more likely to underestimate their drunkenness if their companions are also drinking heavily. The lesson? Take a sober friend with you
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Can adolescents be trusted to make decisions about their health? New guidance from the US says those as young as seven should know their options
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With the FDA banning a number of chemicals associated with antibacterial products, maybe it’s time to go back to old-fashioned soap and water
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New research suggests that statins can improve erections as well as reducing cholesterol, but they may only work for some conditions
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You finally reach your desired weight, only to find it creeping back up. Now, researchers think they have discovered why
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A 1971 study claimed that the dates of housemates’ periods move, then align – but that long-held belief is being challenged by evidence and new studies
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While some work is good for your brain, doing more than 60 hours a week into your 40s is worse than doing nothing, according to a recent survey
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If you are feeling down, learning to tap dance or going out with friends can enhance mood, even if you don’t want to do them
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Doctors now think that 90% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes, including eating less salt and processed food, quitting smoking and exercising more. Should you be changing your habits?
Can mindfulness reduce fear of labour and postpartum depression?