Ocala

Many people, and especially those diagnosed with cancer, preemptively eliminate sugar from their diets, because of the widely held belief that “sugar feeds cancer” or “cancer loves sugar.” The hope is that by not eating sugar, they can stop cancer from growing and spreading. The truth is more complicated. There …

By Christian Oraedu, MD Spider veins and varicose veins affect millions of Americans, causing both cosmetic concerns and physical discomfort. These visible networks of blue, purple, or red veins typically appear on the legs and can indicate underlying venous insufficiency. Fortunately, modern medical advances have introduced minimally invasive treatments that …

Do you suffer from Parkinson’s Disease? If so, you’re not alone. Parkinson’s Disease affects millions of people worldwide, making it one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. This progressive condition challenges patients and their families daily, but ongoing research offers hope for better management and potential breakthroughs in treatment. What …

By Dr. Andrew Franklin, DPM, PH.D Living with diabetes requires constant vigilance, and one of the most serious complications that can arise is the development of diabetic foot ulcers. At Ocala Podiatry, we understand the challenges patients face when dealing with these wounds and is committed to providing comprehensive treatment …

By Gene Turner, MD, FAARFM November is Movember, a global movement dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues and encouraging men to take proactive steps toward optimal wellness. While men are statistically less likely to visit healthcare providers regularly, the reality is that many common health concerns can be …

Each November, Movember is recognized worldwide as a campaign to raise awareness for men’s health. While this month highlights a range of men’s health concerns—from mental wellness to cancer prevention—Optimize U Ocala focuses on one issue that quietly affects millions: low testosterone. This often-overlooked condition can significantly impact a man’s …

By Dr. Shakti Narain, MD, FCCP Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) represent two prevalent respiratory conditions affecting millions of Americans. COPD, a progressive lung disease resulting from prolonged exposure to irritants, causes persistent breathing difficulties. OSA is a sleep disorder characterized by recurring airflow obstructions …

As we navigate another year of respiratory illnesses, understanding the distinctions between seasonal influenza and COVID-19 remains crucial for protecting our health. While both viruses share similar symptoms and transmission methods, they are fundamentally different diseases requiring distinct approaches to prevention and treatment. Different Viruses, Different Origins The seasonal flu …

Elite athletes have known the secret for years. LeBron James credits it for his longevity. Tiger Woods used it to rebuild his body. Cristiano Ronaldo swears by it for peak performance. The secret? Pilates. And now, as pickleball explodes in popularity among men of all ages, this often-misunderstood training method …

By Kelly S. Kevitt, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC Understanding DiabetesNovember marks American Diabetes Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about a condition affecting more than 38 million Americans. At UF Health, we recognize the importance of education, prevention and compassionate care in managing diabetes — a disease that impacts not …