Dr Dillner’s health dilemmas
Dr Luisa Dillner on the everyday health issues that affect your life
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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?
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Some brands of multivitamins claim to provide mothers-to-be with the maximum nutritional support needed for a baby, but at high prices. However, evidence doesn’t support their claims, or the prices they charge
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Some doctors are sceptical about the benefits of taking statins, while others believe people are suffering heart attacks and strokes because of misleading information
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Greasy food is often thought to cause spots, but there are worse culprits for zits
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For the millions of people who work in front of a screen, headaches, sore eyes and a painful neck are all too common. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to avoid discomfort
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While it hasn’t been proved that physical activity mitigates your likelihood of getting the disease, the evidence shows a strong link – so get moving
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Many of us worry that our breath smells, but it’s hard to diagnose yourself. Oral hygiene is the key to preventing halitosis
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The latest research suggests that those ending work younger are more likely to die earlier than those staying in jobs. But is the data clearcut?
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The experts are unanimous: holidays do you good, and you should take more of them. Here are the pitfalls to avoid …
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Experts say no but many people link their attacks to stress or emotional upset
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Meningitis is a killer – so immunisation is appealing. But at up to £390 for a full, three-jab course, and with limited effectiveness, it’s a hard choice to make
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Our sedentary lifestyles are increasingly being blamed for a range of problems. Stand-up and treadmill desks might seem to be the answer, but is it worth shelling out for one?
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Research shows that male rats are less stressed if they spend more time together - the same could be true for humans
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The family of a woman in the US who died from ovarian cancer after using Johnson & Johnson baby powder has been awarded damages. So how much of a risk does talc pose?
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A new study has suggested that organic milk might contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. But that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily better for you
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One study implies that boredom make you likelier to die earlier, but another concludes that it spurs creativity …
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Everyone over 18 should be screened for the condition, says a US task force. Meanwhile, UK officials say it should only be done for those at high risk. Who’s right?
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Divorce and separation can have a hugely detrimental impact on children. But Swedish studies show that having them live with each parent half the time is the best way to help them cope
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Relationships with friends and family reduce the risk of disease at every stage of life, says a new study. So should we all be getting out more?
Can insomnia be cured by online therapy?