Dr. Deb Fitness

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In this section, Dr. Deb answers some of your important questions regarding health and fitness. If you would like to submit a question for her to answer, please do so in the space below. Most questions will be answered in 7-10 days. This section is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your own physician.

I have heard that some people who are into fitness eliminate bananas from their diets. What would be the reason for this?

Details: Published on Friday, 04 October 2013 01:27

First of all, I am not sure what the "into fitness" phrase indicates. Bananas seem to be one of those foods that people either love or love to hate. Let's discuss both the benefits and perhaps what some would see as deterrents from eating bananas.

Why does metabolism slow down with age, and what, if anything, can be done to prevent it?

Details: Published on Saturday, 31 August 2013 19:47

First, let's define "metabolism." The metabolic rate of a person consists of: 1) the basal metabolic rate (BMR) or the closely related resting metabolic rate (RMR); and 2) the expendable metabolic rate (EMR). The BMR is defined as the amount of energy utilized by the body at rest (kcal/day). The EMR is the extra number of calories (kcal/day) that the body utilizes for all extra activities (sitting, standing, eating, working, exercising, etc.) beyond that used while lying still.

How can I prevent and treat osteoarthritis?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:47

Arthritis is a general term that describes pain and inflammation in joints. Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis, affecting about 28 million Americans, 80 percent of whom are women.

I've already had a bone fracture - How can I prevent future fractures?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:47

Osteopororis is a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms. People typically do not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden strain, twist or fall results in a fracture.

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and osteoporosis?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:47

Osteoarthritis is the most common of more than 100 different forms of arthritis. Also called "degenerative arthritis" or "wear-and-tear arthritis," osteoarthritis appears as a person ages. As the body grows older, the cartilage or cushion between bones softens and deteriorates.

What is the best exercise for prevention and treatment of lower back pain?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:46

Low-back pain is one of the most common medical complaints, and it accounts for more time lost from work than any other injury or disability. It can occur at any age in both men and women, and it is the most frequent cause of activity limitation in individuals under age 45.

What is curvature of the spine, and can it be treated?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:45

The spine is a column of small bones, or vertebrae, that support the entire upper body. The cervical vertebrae are the five spinal bones that support the neck. The thoracic vertebrae are the twelve spinal bones that connect to the rib cage.

What kind of exercise is best for maintaining bone density?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:45

First, Some Background Information... In the mature skeleton, bone is subjected to a dynamic process of breakdown and renewal termed remodeling. If breakdown exceeds renewal, loss of bone density occurs.

How much calcium do I need and what is the best way to obtain it in the diet?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:43

Calcium is essential for the heart to beat, nerve impulses, and a healthy skeleton. Calcium is lost on a daily basis and must be replaced. 80% of young women and teenage girls are not consuming enough calcium

How can I reduce my chances of falling and having a fracture?

Details: Published on Tuesday, 27 August 2013 13:42

Osteoporosis by itself does not cause fractures; it raises the likelihood of a bone breaking. We have already reviewed ways to increase bone strength by adequate calcium, vitamin D intake and exercise.

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Ask A Question

I have heard that some people who are into fitness eliminate bananas from their diets. What would be the reason for this?

Why does metabolism slow down with age, and what, if anything, can be done to prevent it?

How can I prevent and treat osteoarthritis?

I've already had a bone fracture - How can I prevent future fractures?

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and osteoporosis?

What is the best exercise for prevention and treatment of lower back pain?

What is curvature of the spine, and can it be treated?

What kind of exercise is best for maintaining bone density?

How much calcium do I need and what is the best way to obtain it in the diet?

How can I reduce my chances of falling and having a fracture?