11th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: To qualify for bariatric surgery, one typically needs a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or 35-39.9 with serious health conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea. Common health issues that may emphasize surgery necessity include type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, heart disease, and joint pain. Candidates must be at least 18-years-old with no maximum age limit, although health… Read more »
4th Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Chronic diseases linked to prolonged obesity include type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, certain cancers, and liver disease. Obesity significantly increases the risk of these diseases by affecting insulin use, making the heart work harder, increasing blood pressure, and altering hormone levels. Bariatric surgery can be a beneficial countermeasure, often normalizing blood sugar levels, reducing blood pressure, and assisting in weight… Read more »
2nd Jun, 2025
TL;DR: Urine leakage during exercise, known as stress urinary incontinence (SUI), can be caused by increased belly pressure due to activities like running, jumping, and coughing. Weak pelvic floor muscles or a malfunctioning sphincter muscle can lead to this issue. Factors increasing the risk of leaks include childbirth, menopause, high-impact sports, obesity, chronic coughing, surgeries, and certain diseases. Leakage varies between genders, with women experiencing… Read more »
14th May, 2025
TL;DR: Bariatric surgery in Mexico isn't as safe as in the U.S., due to lower regulation, limited data reporting, and lack of follow-up care. Death rates for U.S. bariatric surgery are under 0.1%, while a study showed a 7% leak rate in Mexico. Mexican clinics often lack sought certifications like JCI, risking tool cleanliness, readiness for emergencies, and quality of care. Emergency situations from complications… Read more »
3rd May, 2024
There appears to be growing evidence suggesting the potential anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, among other supplements. Turmeric, specifically its active compound curcumin, is gaining attention in scientific research thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. But does that mean turmeric can reduce inflammation in the body? A Closer Look At Curcumin Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated the ability of curcumin to modulate inflammatory pathways by… Read more »
26th Apr, 2024
Inflammation, often regarded as the body's response to injury or infection, is a complex biological process involving intricate interactions among various cells, mediators, and tissues. While acute inflammation is a crucial defense mechanism, chronic inflammation can lead to any number of detrimental health outcomes. In recent years, scientific research has increasingly emphasized the importance of reducing chronic inflammation in the body to enhance overall well-being,… Read more »
12th May, 2023
Our own Dr. Sasse ran in the Boston Marathon this year! Here, he shares his thoughts on the rewarding experience. One of the amazing things about marathon racing is how much it makes one appreciate health. After about twenty miles on the road, a runner’s brain chemistry seems to conjure some positive emotions like gratitude over the good fortune and good health required simply to… Read more »
30th Sep, 2022
Overactive bladder, leakage and incontinence can start at any age, but as progressive conditions, they will worsen with time. Well-meaning tips for "stopping leaks" can provide advice to potentially slow down that progression, but by the time most people are needing real help, the first-line therapies and even the very best tips simply aren't enough. The good news is that treatments to resolve overactive bladder,… Read more »
12th Aug, 2022
Gastroparesis is a chronic debilitating disease that presents with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, bloating, early fullness after eating and upper abdominal pain. Along with these symptoms, an objective finding of delayed stomach emptying on specialized imaging and absence of mechanical obstruction on endoscopy are both required for a formal diagnosis. The mechanism of cellular and molecular breakdown that leads to gastroparesis has been elusive and complex,… Read more »
17th Jun, 2022
As a regular contributor to Sixty & Me, Dr. Sasse shares commentary on the effects of both incontinence and obesity on seniors, plus the most effective and appropriate treatments. One relevant topic? A failing bladder sling. Read on for the highlights, or check out the post in full. From the Post "The bladder sling is a procedure recommended to many women. While there are a number… Read more »