This week, I talked about getting a PRP (platelet rich plasma) injection in my right knee to treat osteoarthritis. It was a fairly easy experience! I have minor swelling, and Dr. Zach said expect it to improve slowly over a couple of weeks. I also got diagnosed with NARROW ANGLES in my eyes WITHOUT increased eye pressure, but I need to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. I am at risk for acute angle closure glaucoma, which is vision-threatening. However, I think because I have normal pressure I'm at less risk. I'd be happier if I were seeing the ophthalmologist TOMORROW. Then I discussed the new upside food pyramid from the USDA. I am mostly in favor of it! It encourages people to cut way back on processed food, starches and sugars, and to consume more protein and produce, things I have been encouraging my patients to do for years. Nutritionists complain that it encourages more red meat, but that advice is more nuanced and I discuss that.

This week, I talked about lingering nerve issues for both myself and Ron since our respective surgeries. I have discovered that compression is helpful, specifically compression wear! I have most of my discomfort in my lateral left thigh, and when I wear a sleeve in that area, it significantly calms the discomfort, at least while I'm wearing it. Ron finds leg/foot sleeves helpful for his foot neuropathy. It at least feels better for a while! I also talked about, you guessed it, New Year's Resolutions. They mostly have to do with being kind to yourself, especially around food. More of that next week!

This week, I gave the wrapup for popular health news and topics in 2025. People were interested in longevity and healthy aging; those notorious GLP-1 and GIP drugs for weight loss; the best vitamins, minerals, and supplements for health. Big stories dealt with when the body starts aging rapidly; protein powders and lead levels; measles outbreaks and vitamin A. We finished with a discuss of a study that shows that most people in the world don't get enough essential fatty acids, and ways to do that.