Articles related to Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism

Drinking beer and spirits is linked to elevated levels of visceral fat, which is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and other health complications. Moderate wine consumption shows no such association with levels of this harmful fat and may even protect against it.

Hyperglycemia is associated with poor clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. Most medical societies recommend less stringent glucose control, in the range of 140 to 180 mg/dL, for critically ill patients. In this population, although glucose management is essential, hypoglycemia is associated with increased mortality. Enhancing the amount of time glucose levels are in the target range and minimizing glycemic variability have been associated with improved outcomes in critically ill patients.

Follow this case study of a 71-year-old man found to have significant, asymptomatic hypokalemia discovered in routine outpatient lab work. How would you manage this patient?

New research into intermittent fasting has found that the practice is generally safe, producing few gastrointestinal, neurologic, hormonal, or metabolic effects. Additionally, the research found that intermittent fasting is on par with traditional calorie-restricted diets for weight loss.

Diabetes medications, such as metformin, have glucose-independent effects on the male reproductive system. However, until now, it was unknown if these effects lead to birth defects in offspring. This study concludes that metformin intake in men is associated with major birth defects, particularly genital birth defects in boys.

At the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) annual meeting, Carina Venter, PhD, associate professor of pediatrics at Children’s Hospital Colorado and the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, provided the latest data on the role that maternal diet during pregnancy may have on the infant microbiome and the subsequent development of allergies and asthma. The findings are that eating plenty of vegetables and limited fried, low-fiber, and sugary foods may prevent asthma and allergies in unborn children.