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Pop Quiz! Put the Pro in Probiotics

There are plenty of adages extolling the importance of the gut: “an army marches on its stomach,” “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and “go with your gut feeling,” are just a few. Doctors and scientists are adding another: “gut health affects overall health.” There are trillions of bacteria, viruses, and…
The Heart of the Matter

Area Physicians Weigh In on ECGs for Student Athletes by PAUL CATALA As the school year ramps up, parents are busy lining up appointments so their student athletes can get their sports physicals. Over the past decade, there’s been increased interest in the incorporation of electrocardiogram heart screenings in these physicals. An electrocardiogram, or ECG,…
When Heroes Need Help

New Initiative Seeks to Connect Veterans and First Responders With Mental Health Resources by RYAN MILEJCZAK A new initiative here in Central Florida seeks to help veterans and first responders struggle with mental health challenges. The Heroes Wellness Collective, launched by Lake Wales-based Operation Recovery, seeks to create a centralized, online platform that connects veterans…

Kickoff Summer with Clean Teeth!

By William Nerestant, DDS With June here, that means the Florida summer heat is back and school is out! We pay a lot of attention to dentist appointments and checkups as we get ready to go back to school or during the school year to have a bright smile for picture day, so does that…
Celebrating Our New Pediatric Center with a Free Summerfest and These Safety Tips

by SANJA COSIC, MD We have several locations throughout Polk, Highlands, and Hillsborough counties that serve our pediatric patients. However, at our Avon Park location, we are celebrating our new center with a FREE Summerfest! This family-friendly event will be held on June 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 950 CR 17A…
Cholesterol and Healthy Eating

By Shiva Seetahal, MD Cholesterol is a word everyone is familiar with but few can easily explain. Most of us are aware that too much cholesterol is bad for the body and associated with heart disease, but recent insights into the roles of “good” cholesterol and terms such as “trans” fat have created areas of…