Berkeley Wellness Alerts

Women's Health Alerts

Carbs and Fat: Different for Women

There are differences in how men’s and women’s bodies process dietary fat and carbohydrates and thus in the resulting levels of blood cholesterol, some research suggests.

The Truth About Soy and Breast Cancer

Will eating soy reduce the risk of breast cancer, as some studies suggest? Or might it promote and/or fuel breast cancer, as others warn?

Crucial Advice About Women’s Knees

One out of every four sports injuries involves the knee, and female athletes have a much higher rate of knee injuries than men. Here's how to safeguard your knees.

Can You Change Your (Age) Spots?

There’s a good chance you will develop at least a few age spots at some point, especially if you’re fair-skinned. Age spots are harmless, but there are ways to make them fade away.

Is Gluten Really the Cause of Your Stomach Woes?

Many women troubled by indigestion, fatigue, depression, or other symptoms think they are sensitive or allergic to wheat (specifically its protein, gluten) and thus eliminate it from their diets. But this is not usually necessary—or advisable.

Soybeans for Bones

Is soy beneficial for bones—especially for women after menopause, when bone loss accelerates? It’s too soon to say, but isoflavones in soy may help stimulate bone formation.

Chlamydia: The Hidden Dangers

Chlamydia is the most frequently reported sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the U.S., affecting an estimated 3 million people a year—the majority teens and young adults, but also older adults. 
It’s three times more common in women than men.

Alcohol: Different for Women

Moderate alcohol intake is defined as no more than two drinks a day for a man, and one for a 
woman. Why the difference?

Ear Candling--Risk Without Benefit

Ear candling is promoted as an ancient healing practice and a natural way to cleanse your ears. But it’s neither natural nor safe.

Fibromyalgia: A Mystery Story

Fibromyalgia is a puzzling syndrome characterized by chronic pain in muscles and joints. It affects an estimated six million Americans, mostly women.

Hormone Therapy: Is "Natural” Better?

Under the ever-seductive banner of “natural,” a whole new commerce in estrogen has arisen—individualized estrogen (or progesterone) regimens prepared by “compounding” pharmacies. Here's what you need to know.

Sports Bras: When Your Cup Runneth Over

If you’re a woman with large breasts, high-impact activity can be uncomfortable—perhaps embarrassing, too. Finding the right sports bra can make all the difference.

Hair-Raising Questions For Women

Hair loss is a normal part of aging not only for men, but for quite a number of women, too. Here’s why you might have hair loss and what you can do to reverse it.

PMS: 9 Do’s and Don’ts

There’s no agreement about what causes premenstrual syndrome. Proposed culprits range from nutritional deficiencies and hormonal irregularities to underlying emotional disorders. But here are some possible ways to get relief.

Foot Notes: Bunions

Many women develop bunions, which can be painful and unsightly. A severe one can make it hard to walk. Here’s how to cope.