Latest news with #endocrinologist
CNA
13-07-2025
- Health
- CNA
Science, risks and solutions behind obesity in Singapore
Obesity isn't just a global problem - it's hitting Singapore hard. In 2022, nearly 12 out of every 100 adults were obese - double the rate from 30 years ago. What's behind the surge and how is Singapore fighting back? Nicolas Ng talks to a senior endocrinologist to uncover the risks and solutions.
New York Times
10-07-2025
- Health
- New York Times
Can a ‘Cortisol Cocktail' Help Relieve Stress?
Feeling overwhelmed or sluggish? Can't sleep? Craving junk food? According to some on social media, the 'cortisol cocktail' may be just what you need. Its proponents say the drink, made from fruit juice, coconut water and salt, can help reverse a condition they call 'adrenal fatigue.' When you are chronically stressed, some influencers say, your adrenal glands will produce more of the hormone cortisol, causing the glands to become overworked and to start functioning poorly (or not at all). This, they add, can result in symptoms like fatigue, sleep issues and cravings for sweet and salty foods. Will the cortisol cocktail help you feel better? We asked five experts for their thoughts. What is cortisol? Cortisol is often called the stress hormone because it prepares your body to respond to threatening situations, but it also plays other important roles, including regulating metabolism, energy levels and circadian rhythms. The adrenal glands — two tiny, triangle-shaped organs that sit on top of your kidneys — release cortisol every day, said Dr. Irina Bancos, an endocrinologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Cortisol is highest in the morning, which helps you feel alert, and lowest in the evening, which lets you rest. When something stressful happens — say, you need to sprint to catch a bus or give an impromptu presentation at work — your adrenal glands produce extra cortisol. This increases the amount of glucose in your bloodstream so your body can use the sugar for quick energy. It also reduces the urge to use the bathroom so you can focus on the threat, Dr. Bancos said. Cortisol surges are helpful for stressful situations that occur in brief bursts. But with longer-term stressors, such as demanding jobs or difficult family circumstances, your cortisol levels may remain elevated — including at night, when it can affect your sleep, Dr. Bancos said. Poor sleep can cause symptoms that the cortisol cocktail is meant to address, like fatigue and food cravings. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Daily Mail
04-07-2025
- Daily Mail
Horror at stunning $2.6m California home after beloved doctor, 56, filed for divorce from high-flier husband
The husband of a beloved California doctor has been arrested months after she was found dead in their burning $2.6million home. Yoon 'Kevin' Lai, 63, was taken into custody on Thursday on suspicion of the murder of his endocrinologist wife, Irene Gaw-Lai, 56. The estranged couple, who share 16-year-old twin boys, was in the middle of a contentious divorce, their friends told ABC7. Gaw-Lai's remains were found on January 6 after firefighters extinguished a fire in her San Marino home. Her cause of death was ruled as undetermined. Lai initially told police that he had taken their sons to baseball practice and returned to the house being on fire. Police say she had signs of physical trauma on her upper body, which prompted a homicide investigation. Ga-Lai filed for divorce in August, 2024, and had previously filed for divorce from Lai in 2003, per court records cited by the Los Angeles Times. It's not clear whether Gaw-Lai died before or during the fire at the home, seen above It's still unclear whether she died before or during the fire in the home. Lai is being held on no bail before police present their case to the district attorney on Tuesday. He is a civil engineer and the president of a land surveying company. Gaw-Lai had her own medical practice in Arcadia, and her patients have been leaving tribute's on the business' Yelp page. 'Amazing Endocrinologist ! So sadden for her loss,' said one patient. 'I miss her so much and still trying to take in the tragic loss to the industry. I knew my health was on a positive path because of her. God bless you Dr. Gonzalo.' Another patient said: After many she was by far the best. Would love to know of others have found a new physician? It's not easy finding a great endo. Would appreciate any recommendations.' A third said: 'I had my appointment scheduled for today and was never informed about her death. So shocked and sad as I showed up to the office door and saw the notice. She's been very kind and attentive to my conditions. I will miss you, Dr Gaw.' Gaw-Lai's cousin Joyce Chen Banks also wrote a tribute for the doctor on Facebook after her death. 'Happy heavenly birthday, dear cousin Irene. I know you're probably up there shaking your head at me, thinking, "Seriously, still crying??!!" But what can I say? You were more than a cousin; you were like a sister to me. 'You always went out of your way to see us, even when I told you it was okay and you were busy seeing your patients. I miss you always, love you forever, and yes, I'll try to stop crying. No promises. Until we meet again...' Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.
South China Morning Post
15-05-2025
- Health
- South China Morning Post
How regular exercise reduces stress by keeping ‘fight or flight' hormone cortisol in check
For many of us, springtime brings a boost in mood and energy – we are drawn to the outdoors and become more physically active. This not only has positive effects on our cardiovascular system , but also on our body's stress regulation. How does exercise affect levels of the steroid hormone cortisol, known as the primary ' stress hormone'? Produced and secreted into the bloodstream by the adrenal glands atop the kidneys , cortisol is one of the most important hormones in the body. Among other things, it helps to mobilise energy reserves and regulate metabolism, and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the immune system Exercise, especially moderate forms such as swimming, are a great way to help the body stabilise cortisol production and manage stress, according to Kroiss. Photo: Shutterstock In stressful situations, spikes in cortisol levels trigger the body's 'fight or flight' response, a heightened physiological state in reaction to a stressor. But it is problematic if levels are persistently high from, say, stress at work or in your private life, or alcohol or caffeine consumption, says German endocrinologist Dr Matthias Kroiss.
