We've been chatting with our physicians and medical staff about subjects they want us to cover on the blog, and below are three of the biggest ones that keep coming up. Enjoy these three simple health tips that can serve you well now—and long into the future.

Note: As with all content on our blog, the following information is meant to be educational in nature, not medical advice.

1. Make sure you understand the difference between common vs. normal.

People often use the words "common" and "normal" interchangeably. This isn't necessarily a big deal during everyday discussions about benign topics. But when it comes to medicine, it's a different story. 

For example, for people over the age of 65, it's common to make multiple trips to the bathroom during the night. But guess what? It isn't normal, meaning an underlying medical condition is likely causing the increase in frequency—a condition that a doctor should diagnose and treat.

Another example: In pop culture, we often hear jokes about women peeing their pants a little when they laugh or sneeze. TV shows and movies might suggest this is a normal change after childbirth and/or menopause. But the reality is, while "common," the change isn't "normal" from a medical standpoint. And the good news is that effective treatment options do exist.

We could go on and on, but our point is this: We want to challenge assumptions about common vs. normal. So the next time you're dealing with a nagging medical condition and you chalk it up to being common and normal, stop and ask yourself if that's true. While the condition might indeed be common, that doesn't mean it's normal.

And the best person to advise you on the difference? Your doctor. 

You might be surprised to discover you don't have to simply live with something because you thought it was normal for someone your age or biological sex. This is especially true for many conditions that urologists treat—from urinary incontinence to constipation to ED to many conditions in between. Let us help.

2. Red flags to watch out for regarding all those weight-loss promises you see in ads and on social media. 

When it comes to lasting weight loss, there is no such thing as a quick fix. You probably already know that, but some social media influencers and advertisements will do their best to convince you otherwise. 

So how can you make sure you avoid deceptive marketing? Watch for red flags that indicate a diet or exercise program doesn't have your best interests in mind.

• Red flag #1: They are making a large claim, like "no one should eat gluten" or "sugar causes cancer." Unless they cite peer-reviewed research to back up these claims, the claims are likely false; the influencers are using extremism to get your attention.
• Red flag #2: They are trying to sell you something. It should not cost you hundreds of dollars to get access to a weight-loss program that is created by someone who is uncredentialled. Some influencers may take advantage of those who are in a vulnerable place.
• Red flag #3: It involves special shakes, juices, or meal bars. Quality nutrition and daily energy require eating real food and an adequate amount of calories.
• Red flag #4: There are strict rules as to what you "can" and "cannot" eat. There is a reason why the USDA, CDC, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) publish the recommendation to eat all food groups. Eliminating an entire food group can cause vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Those who are on a special diet, such as keto, gluten-free, dairy-free, etc. will benefit from seeing a registered dietitian to ensure they are consuming proper nutrition.
  
  

By the way, while it's common to reflect on your current health at the beginning of a new year, keep in mind that weight loss doesn't need to be the goal. Did you know that dietary changes are often considered first-line treatment for certain urologic and related conditions, like overactive bladder, constipation, and kidney stones? 

Seeing a registered dietitian can help people make positive changes that could have a big impact on their overall health and wellness. 

3. Make your "routine health" a priority in 2022.

It's hard to believe we've gotten through two years of a pandemic. While GBU has kept its doors open the entire time, we know COVID kept many people from seeking treatment for new or chronic ailments—or even from getting routine screenings, like PSA checks.

If that describes you, now is the time to change course. Your health matters. Make an appointment with one of our physicians and let them help you get back on track.