Ask Doctor Dawn

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 5-15-2025: Dr. Dawn provides a comprehensive overview of bone health, describing bones as the "silent architects" of our bodies that require ongoing care and attention throughout life. She outlines key risk factors including family history of fractures, eating disorders, hormonal changes, digestive surgeries, and medication use, while explaining how DEXA scans measure bone density through T-scores and Z-scores, recommending the FRAX risk calculator as a superior predictive tool. She shares practical strategies like weight-bearing exercise and proper vitamin supplementation (D, K2, calcium) alongside explaining the roles of osteoclasts and osteoblasts in bone turnover and how medications influence this balance. She addresses a caller's question about strontium citrate and isoflavone supplements for bone health after cancer treatment, clarifying that these differ from problematic boron and suggesting C-telopeptide or N-telopeptide testing to verify bone turnover rates beyond DEXA results. The program discusses a promising non-hormonal male contraceptive called ADAM, a dissolvable hydrogel implant shown in preliminary trials to block sperm for up to two years without serious side effects. Dr. Dawn addresses misconceptions about autism, describing it as a spectrum with diverse manifestations, explaining its neurological basis in atypical brain pruning patterns, and emphasizing it as a complex genetic vulnerability to environmental events. She evaluates a listener email about a supplement for urinary incontinence and metabolic health, warning listeners about marketing tactics and insufficient evidence behind many commercial products. Dr. Dawn examines "Fatty 15," a pentadecanoic acid supplement marketed for metabolic health, noting that while some rodent studies show promise for insulin sensitivity and liver health, human evidence remains limited compared to well-established benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Dr. Dawn shares news about Orforglipron, a new oral GLP-1 medication in pill form for diabetes and weight management that appears as effective as injectable versions like Ozempic.. The show concludes with information about innovative plant-based transparent paperboard, a cellulose-based material that biodegrades within 300 days while offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 5-08-2025: Dr. Dawn examines groundbreaking research on rising rates of early-onset colorectal cancer worldwide, explaining how researchers have identified a bacterial toxin called colibactin produced by specific E. coli strains that appears to cause early genetic mutations in cancer-controlling genes, potentially explaining why younger generations face significantly higher cancer risks. She discusses how modern medical practices like antibiotic overuse and cesarean deliveries may disrupt protective gut microbiomes, while diets low in fiber and high in animal fats create conditions where harmful bacteria thrive and damage the protective mucosal barrier, potentially exposing colon cells to cancer-causing mutations. Dr. Dawn explains fascinating research on transgenerational memory in C. elegans worms and mice, where learned aversions to specific odors are genetically passed down to offspring through epigenetic mechanisms involving methylation and RNA pathways, challenging traditional views on inheritance and suggesting implications for human genetics. Responding to an email about posterior tibial tendon disease (PTTD), she offers comprehensive management strategies including cross-massage with ice, proper footwear selection, careful stretching techniques, and anti-inflammatory approaches while cautioning against invasive procedures like steroid injections that might weaken tendons. She discusses promising research on rosemary's potential in Alzheimer's treatment, explaining how carnosic acid activates the NRF2 pathway that controls antioxidant proteins, with researchers developing a more stable chemical analog that reduced inflammation and improved memory in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Dawn provides updates on vaccination recommendations, noting that egg allergy questions are no longer needed before flu vaccines, pneumococcal vaccines are now recommended for all adults over 50, and explaining the small risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome with RSV vaccines compared to the much larger risk of RSV-related deaths. She shares information about a new hypertension risk calculator called PREVENT that reclassifies many patients to lower risk categories, potentially allowing 2.6 million Americans to manage their blood pressure through lifestyle changes rather than medication, particularly benefiting older women who face different risk profiles than men.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 04-24-2025: Dr. Dawn issues an alert about hair growth vitamins containing high doses of biotin that can interfere with important medical tests, explaining how biotin supplementation can cause false readings for thyroid function, troponin, parathyroid hormone, sex hormones, vitamin D, testosterone, PSA, and ferritin tests. Responding to an email about non-stick cookware safety, she examines various ceramic-based technologies claiming to be non-toxic, noting concerns about Teflon alternatives like Thermalon and ScanPan, and recommending cast iron as the safest option, particularly for households with pregnant women. A caller inquires about plant-based diets after hearing a radiation oncologist's claim that all animal products are harmful. Dr. Dawn advocates for a balanced approach rather than extreme positions, suggesting practical strategies for increasing vegetable consumption without laborious food preparation. She discusses counterintuitive findings in cancer research where advanced age can actually reduce cancer risk, explaining how aging cells produce a protein called NUPR1 that makes them iron-deficient and less able to regenerate, potentially offering insights for new therapeutic approaches. A caller asks about Dr. Gundry's claims regarding lectins in foods like almonds and peas, with Dr. Dawn explaining that while lectins are plant defense mechanisms that can be toxic in high amounts, moderate consumption is generally safe because the liver builds additional enzymes to process these compounds and this improves general detoxification. Dr. Dawn clarifies misconceptions about soy products, explaining that fermented options like tempeh have fewer anti-nutrients than raw soybeans (edamame). Tofu while not fermented, undergoes processing that reduces anti-nutrient properties by approximately 90%.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 4-17-2025: Dr. Dawn analyzes a leaked federal health program budget document, noting a significant $80 billion cut in discretionary funding, workforce reductions of 20,000 employees, elimination of disease prevention programs, and potential reorganization chaos that could impact healthcare access. She reports on research showing a troubling 5% increase in infant mortality rates in states that have implemented abortion bans, with particularly high increases among Black infants, demonstrating that these bans may have unintended negative consequences on families. Responding to an email about Dupuytren's contracture, Dr. Dawn describes a radiation therapy approach used in Europe that can treat early-stage disease with lower radiation doses, potentially stopping progression without surgery. She discusses new research suggesting that bacterial vaginosis should be treated as a sexually transmitted infection by treating both partners, which reduced recurrence rates from 63% to 35% compared to treating only the woman. Dr. Dawn addresses an email from a breast cancer survivor experiencing menopausal symptoms recommending 5-HTP, trazodone for sleep disruption, iron supplementation for her low ferritin, and dietary adjustments while noting concerns about the black box warning for NOT FEXO - CHECK THE EMAIL FOR THE NAME OF THE DRUG. A studio guest joins the conversation about healthcare priorities, discussing how the American medical system focuses more on disease treatment than prevention, with both agreeing that public spaces should be redesigned to encourage physical activity like in European cities. Responding to an email about a 61-year-old man experiencing dizziness and balance issues when standing or walking, Dr. Dawn suspects B12 deficiency possibly caused by past heavy alcohol use and longstanding acid reflux medication, recommending specific tests. She recommends a few drops of hydrogen peroxide in each ear every night as the best at-home solution to melt earwax buildup and prevent recurrence of blockage.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 4-10-2025: Dr. Dawn responds to an email about difficult-to-control asthma, recommending quercetin and inhaled cromolyn as mast cell stabilizers, and suggesting Montelukast to address leukotrienes while investigating possible mold exposure as an underlying cause. She discusses groundbreaking research on age-related bone deterioration, explaining how osteocytes undergo structural changes with age, and exploring the concept of cellular senescence including potential treatments like quercetin/dasatinib combination therapy, fisetin, and metformin. A frequent caller with a history of sepsis, osteomyelitis and eye infections describes newly developed high blood pressure, with Dr. Dawn explaining how oxidative stress from infection can damage endothelial cells, reducing nitric oxide production and suggesting L-arginine, beet consumption, and proper blood pressure measurement techniques. Responding to an email about preventing cartilage loss, Dr. Dawn evaluates glucosamine sulfate research, noting key differences between effective and ineffective studies, while emphasizing the importance of achieving healthy body weight as a primary factor in preventing osteoarthritis progression. Dr. Dawn provides guidance to an email question about choosing a primary care physician before retirement, recommending selecting doctors established in their practice for 3-4 years and warning against Medicare Advantage plans that limit provider options. She addresses an email from someone experiencing persistent fatigue following Epstein-Barr virus reactivation, suggesting additional testing to confirm viral load through PCR rather than relying solely on antibody levels, while exploring alternative causes including long COVID, mold exposure, or autoimmune issues.

Explore the differences between vertigo and dizziness, including how inner ear crystals cause positional vertigo and treatment options like the Epley maneuver. Learn about managing POTS linked to long COVID with supplements and advanced diagnostics. Discover challenges faced by patients with Dupuytren's contracture regarding Medicare and the impacts of treatment choices on quality of life. Also, uncover how misleading research has skewed Alzheimer's studies for years, shifting the focus to tau proteins as more reliable markers.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-27-2025: Dr. Dawn comments on how inappropriate conclusions of cause and effect lead to too many drugs being prescribed and incorrect claims of drug allergies. Dr. Dawn examines the risks of ibuprofen overuse, discussing how NSAIDs can damage the gut lining, affect kidney function, and lead to various health complications when used long-term. She provides insight into Medicare reimbursement rates for common lab tests, explaining the significant price disparities between Medicare payments and commercial rates. The show explores the current H5N1 bird flu situation affecting egg and dairy production, discussing viral mutations and the promising development of a universal flu vaccine. Dr. Dawn explores the remarkable fact that among placental mammals, only humans, certain bats, elephant shrews, and one species of spiny mouse experience menstruation, leading to challenges in research models. She recounts the fascinating history of menstruation research, from 1940s scientists chasing elephant shrews in South Africa to shipping bats in takeout containers for laboratory studies. The show details modern breakthroughs in menstruation research through organoids and organs-on-chips technology, explaining how these tools are revolutionizing our understanding of women's health. Dr. Dawn addresses perimenopause and hormone replacement therapy, discussing historical misconceptions and current treatment perspectives. The show concludes with research on artemisia, explaining how this traditional herb shows promise in treating polycystic ovary syndrome through its effects on hormone regulation.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-20-2025: Dr. Dawn responds to an email about osteoporosis treatment options, explaining the risk assessment for fractures, discussing injectable alternatives to Fosamax for patients with swallowing difficulties, and analyzing vibration plate therapy's effectiveness for osteoporosis. The show explores scientific curiosities including genetically modified "woolly mammoth mice" created using CRISPR technology, showing how gene editing advances could potentially resurrect extinct species and preserve the endangered. Dr. Dawn shares research revealing that tea leaves can effectively remove heavy metals from water, with both black and green tea varieties working equally well. The show discusses how strength training provides the most significant benefits for insomnia sufferers, outperforming other exercise types by creating the micro-damage necessary to trigger deep, restorative sleep. Dr. Dawn describes fascinating developments in biohybrid robotics, where researchers created a functional hand using lab-grown human muscle tissue capable of gripping objects and making scissor gestures. Now they'll work on "rock" and "paper". A caller seeks clarification about the tea purification process, with Dr. Dawn explaining that discarding used tea bags (rather than composting them) prevents reintroducing concentrated heavy metals into the environment. She examines Alpha-gal syndrome, a meat allergy triggered by Lone Star tick bites that can cause reactions to mammalian products including red meat, gelatin, keratin, and lanolin. The show addresses environmental concerns about "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in sewage sludge fertilizers, potential risks to farmworkers and highlighting studies linking drinking water contamination to increased childhood cancer rates in affected areas. Dr. Dawn explores the expanding benefits of GLP-1 drugs beyond weight loss, including reduced risks for liver failure, cardiac arrest, addiction disorders, and even Alzheimer's, while noting potential side effects. She discusses how GLP-1 medications fundamentally change food preferences and behaviors, citing cases where users shift spending from restaurants to exercise equipment and from processed foods to fruits and vegetables. A caller seeking advice on building muscle mass at age 70 receives recommendations about proper protein intake, hydration needs with kidney disease, and the importance of resistance training over general activity.

Broadcast on KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-13-2025: Dr. Dawn debunks the common misconception about extra virgin olive oil's smoke point indicating oxidation damage, citing new research showing it remains stable and safe even at high cooking temperatures due to its high flavenoid and antioxidant content. She discusses critical timing factors for surgical procedures, sharing research that reveals a "weekend effect" with 9-12% higher mortality rates for surgeries performed on Fridays compared to early-week procedures. The show examines promising AI technology that can detect depression and other mental health conditions through voice patterns alone, potentially improving diagnosis in diverse populations regardless of language barriers. A caller asks about measles vaccines and Robert Kennedy Jr.'s controversial claims, with Dr. Dawn explaining different vaccine types and clarifying that while live virus vaccines can technically cause disease in immunocompromised individuals, this is extremely rare and preventable. Dr. Dawn explores the landmark "Nun Study" tracking 678 nuns over 30 years, highlighting discoveries about cognitive resilience including how early-life linguistic abilities correlate with reduced dementia risk and how some individuals remain mentally sharp despite having Alzheimer's brain pathology. The show discusses promising research on transcranial direct current stimulation for Alzheimer's patients, showing how electrical stimulation of specific brain regions improved verbal learning and word production abilities for up to eight weeks. Dr. Dawn examines psychological factors associated with dementia risk, noting that while negative thinking patterns correlate with cognitive decline, determining causality remains challenging. She shares a breakthrough in ALS research identifying neurofilament light chain proteins as a potential biomarker that correctly identified people with ALS more than 80% of the time and predicted survival rates. The show concludes with fascinating microbiome research on bile acids, explaining how gut bacteria transform liver-produced bile and how certain microbial bile acids can either promote or inhibit inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer development.

The discussion covers heart health and the risks associated with stenting in coronary artery blockage. An inspiring story of a blood donor who saved millions highlights the power of altruism. Listeners learn about the health risks of microplastics and practical tips to reduce exposure. Cold water plunge therapy is evaluated for its temporary benefits but potential dangers. The podcast warns about bird flu findings and the need for improved food safety regulations. Insights are shared on vaccine research and the critical role of nutrition in child health.