Topic: African Americans
Vanadium Supplements and African American Health: What to Know Before You Buy
What is vanadium? Vanadium is a trace mineral found in small amounts in foods such as mushrooms, shellfish, black pepper, parsley, and whole grains. It is sold as a supplement, usually as vanadyl sulfate, and marketed for blood sugar control…
Uterine Fibroids and African American Women
Uterine Fibroids and African American Women Uterine fibroids disproportionately affect African American women, leading to a higher prevalence and more severe symptoms compared to other racial groups. This disparity can result in adverse health outcomes, such as increased rates of…
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) and African American Health: What It Does and Who Needs More
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and African American health Vitamin B2, also called riboflavin, helps the body turn food into energy. It is also needed to activate other B vitamins, including vitamin B6 and folate, and it supports healthy skin, eyes, nerves,…
Probiotics and African American Health: What Your Gut Bacteria Say About Your Risk
Probiotics and African American health Probiotics are everywhere, from yogurt aisles to supplement shelves. They may help digestion, and researchers are finding that the bacteria living in our gut may influence the risk of colon cancer, a disease that hits…
Vitamin C Deficiency in African Americans: Who’s Really at Risk?
Why vitamin C matters My Black patients know they should get more vitamin C, but many are not able to eat enough fruits and vegetables to get it. Vitamin C supports the immune system, helps the body absorb iron from…
Statin Intolerance in African Americans: Why It Happens and What Helps
When my patients have high cholesterol levels, I frequently suggest starting a statin (a cholesterol medicine) to bring the levels down and, therefore, lower their risk for heart attack, stroke, and circulation problems. Many are scared to start the medications…
Metformin Intolerance in African Americans: Why It Happens and What Helps
“I don’t want metformin” When my patients get diagnosed with diabetes, the first medication I want to prescribe is metformin. Almost immediately, many push back, saying metformin is "a terrible medication" and, "isn't there something else they can try first?"…
Fish Oil Benefits for African Americans
Fish oil and African Americans A lot of people take fish oil capsules every day. Where did that come from, and why is it important? People who eat more fish have lower rates of heart disease, the number one killer…
Apple Cider Vinegar and Black Health: What It Can (and Can’t) Do
Many of my Black patients report taking apple cider vinegar to treat almost anything! Unfortunately, it's not that simple and it doesn't cure everything. Apple cider vinegar has been touted for weight loss, better digestion, and lower blood sugar. Some…
Calcium and Prostate Cancer in Black Men: Why More Isn’t Better
Calcium and prostate cancer Black men should be cautious with calcium supplements and large amounts of dairy. Several studies have found that higher calcium intake is linked to a higher risk of advanced and aggressive prostate cancer, and the link…
