The Dose - podcast cover

The Dose

A weekly look at the health news that matters to you. Dr. Brian Goldman brings you the best science from top experts in plain language. He cuts through the BS and confusion to give you a dose of smart advice that you won’t find anywhere else. New episodes every Thursday.

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Episodes

What should I know about fluoridated drinking water?

Some communities in the U.S. are debating whether to remove fluoride from water supplies. And it's also happening in Canada. Officials recently voted to stop water fluoridation in Montreal's West Island. Dr. Gerry Uswak, a public health dentist and dental therapy professor at the University of Saskatchewan, explains how fluoride protects teeth, while addressing controversial research linking fluoride with a variety of medical conditions. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-tra...

Nov 28, 202421 min

How does black plastic affect my health?

You may have heard you should throw out your black plastic kitchen utensils. That’s because it could be leaching harmful chemicals into our food. Tizazu Mekonnen, a professor of chemical engineering and Canada Research Chair in sustainable multiphase polymers, explains how black plastic in our home can be harmful to our health, and offers safer alternatives we can use. Click here for an important update on the study highlighting the link between black plastic and brominated fire retardants. For ...

Nov 21, 202421 min

What do I need to know about walking pneumonia?

Doctors across Canada say they're seeing a spike in cases of walking pneumonia. It's a milder form of pneumonia that doesn't often lead to hospitalization, but can still lead to serious issues like meningitis and encephalitis. Dr. Caroline Quach, a microbiologist and pediatric infectious diseases specialist, explains what could be fuelling cases and how to protect against infection. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made avai...

Nov 14, 202422 min

How can women have better sex?

Sex isn't always easy to talk about. And for women who have difficulties with orgasm and libido, it can be complicated if they haven't learned much about their genitals, or explored what turns them on. Lori Brotto, a professor and Canada Research Chair in women's sexual health at the University of British Columbia, says better sex starts with education and communication. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the...

Nov 07, 202426 min

How can I protect myself from prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men, with an estimated one in eight men expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime. John Lewis, a prostate cancer researcher and University of Alberta oncology professor, says better screening tools will help detect the disease more effectively in men. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this...

Oct 31, 202421 min

What can I do to reduce my risk of breast cancer?

While breast self-exams haven't been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality, Dr. Mojola Omole — a general surgeon, breast surgical oncologist and president of the Black Physicians' Association of Ontario — says women should still perform self-exams to know what is normal, and when to seek care. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link ....

Oct 24, 202420 min

What do I need to know about rabies?

Human cases of rabies are not common in Canada, but experts say people still need to be cautious and avoid infection. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist at Toronto General Hospital and Dr. Scott Weese, a professor and veterinary internal medicine specialist at the Ontario Veterinary College, explain everything you need to know about rabies from the human, and the animal side. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be ...

Oct 17, 202429 min

I'm an adult! Why do I have acne?

While most people think of acne as a skin condition for adolescents, it can also develop in adults. Dr. Kerri Purdy, head of dermatology at Dalhousie University, explains some of the risk factors for acne (genes and hormones, not necessarily diet) as well as the latest treatments. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link....

Oct 10, 202423 min

Which vaccines do I need this fall?

It's fall respiratory illness season and experts are once again urging Canadians to get vaccinated. Dr. Susy Hota, division head of infectious diseases at the University Health Network and Sinai Health in Toronto, breaks down the latest vaccines and treatments for influenza, COVID-19 and RSV, while also talking about how everyone can stay safe this season. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. F...

Oct 03, 202425 min

What do I need to know about whooping cough?

Whooping cough cases are on the rise across Canada and vaccination rates in some provinces aren't keeping pace. Dr. Cora Constantinescu, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist in Calgary, explains how whooping cough is distinct from other respiratory infections, and how children and adults can stay safe. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link...

Sep 26, 202425 min

What do I need to know about iron deficiency?

Iron deficiency is relatively straightforward to treat, yet a significant percentage of Canadian women and girls live with the condition. Dr. Michelle Sholzberg, a hematologist at St. Michael’s Hospital and director of hematology in the University of Toronto's department of medicine, explains how to diagnose iron deficiency and maintain our body's iron stores. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workda...

Sep 19, 202425 min

What do we know about how women's bodies deal with heat?

Experts know that men and women respond to heat differently, but we're still learning about how women respond to extreme temperatures. Dr. Amita Mahajan, an endocrinologist and clinical assistant professor at the University of Calgary, explains how extreme heat affects women's bodies and the role that hormones play in regulating their core temperatures. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For ...

Sep 12, 202424 min

Why should I be concerned about mosquitoes?

Experts are warning Canadians about the risk posed by mosquitoes due to environmental factors like climate change. Dr. Sumon Chakrabarti, an infectious diseases specialist with Trillium Health Partners in Mississauga, Ont. explains what we need to know about mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile Virus.

Sep 05, 202421 min

Bonus | Ozempic: Is It Scarier Than We Thought? From Science Vs

There are a lot of fads, blogs and strong opinions, but then there’s SCIENCE. Science Vs is the show from Gimlet that finds out what’s fact, what’s not, and what’s somewhere in between. Science VS looked at the class of weight loss drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists a year ago, and they've only gotten more popular — and more controversial. We’re hearing that these kinds of drugs can be tough on your stomach, and that the weight loss comes with worrisome loss of muscle. We’ve also heard claims ...

Aug 09, 202439 min

What can I do to prepare for a summer medical emergency?

Whether it’s travelling abroad, or being active outdoors, summer can increase risk of injury, burns and bites. Emergency physician Dr. Shaneka Kulasingham walks us through common summer medical emergencies, how to avoid them and what to do if you end up needing help. She also gives tips on what to pack in a first-aid kit. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit:lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, cl...

Jun 26, 202421 min

What do I need to know about anaplasmosis?

As Canadians spend more time outdoors, enjoying yet another warm summer, experts are warning about anaplasmosis — a tick-borne disease that's slowly on the rise. Heather Coatsworth, chief research scientist of field studies in the National Microbiology Laboratory, explains what we need to know about anaplasmosis, as well as offers tips on how to avoid tick bites. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next wor...

Jun 20, 202419 min

How can mindfulness help athletes?

As the Edmonton Oilers head into Game 3 of the Stanley Cup finals, Dr. Brian Goldman speaks to the team’s mindfulness coach, George Mumford . He talks about the work he’s doing with the Oilers to keep them focused, and how anyone can tap into mindfulness to achieve their goals. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link....

Jun 13, 202423 min

How can I handle a traumatic event?

Almost two-thirds of Canadians have experienced a traumatic event in their lifetimes. For some people, exposure to trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Margaret McKinnon, a professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioural neurosciences at McMaster University, explains how we can better process trauma. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this...

Jun 06, 202419 min

What do I need to know about sexually transmitted infections?

Sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections are on the rise around the world, including in Canada. But there are easy steps we can take to prevent the spread of SBBIs. Nolan Hill, a training centre facilitator at the Centre for Sexuality in Calgary, explains what you need to know. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link....

May 30, 202422 min

What should I know about dry eye?

Dry eye disease affects millions of Canadians, and more and more young people are being diagnosed. Among the risk factors is increased screen time. What is dry eye disease and what can you do about it? Ophthalmologist Dr. Johanna Choremis shares what you need to know. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link ....

May 23, 202422 min

How can I keep my brain sharp as I age?

We’re all looking for ways to avoid cognitive decline, whether it’s by doing word puzzles or staying fit. So what actually helps keep our brains healthy? Dr. Steven Laureys, neurologist and Canada Excellence Research Chair in neuroplasticity at Laval University, shares what you need to know. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link ....

May 16, 202426 min

How should I treat migraine attacks?

For the millions of Canadians who suffer from migraines, new medications approved in Canada over the last five years have changed the game. Neurologist Dr. Elizabeth Leroux shares what you need to know about how to prevent and treat migraines. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link ....

May 09, 202426 min

How do ultra-processed foods affect my health?

Canadians on average consume nearly half of their calories from ultra-processed foods. These are foods with added textures, colours and flavours that often contain high levels of salt, sugar and fat. Université de Montréal associate professor Jean-Claude Moubarac explains how ultra-processed foods can affect our physical and mental health, and how we can better tailor our diets. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made availabl...

May 02, 202421 min

How can I safely stay active while injured?

While we tend to think rest is the key to recovering from an injury, physicians recommend keeping the body moving, if possible, but at a lower intensity. Sport medicine physician Dr. Laura Cruz explains why "motion is lotion" and provides some low-impact exercises that can help our bodies more easily recover. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this lin...

Apr 25, 202423 min

What's going on with H5N1 bird flu?

H5N1 is in the news again, and this time it has spread to cattle in several U.S. states. It has even infected a dairy worker in Texas. Global health epidemiologist Raywat Deonandan explains how avian flu is spreading, how transmissible it is, what vaccines are available, and why we shouldn't be too worried just yet. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click t...

Apr 18, 202419 min

How does the health of my mouth affect my overall health?

Timely access to dental care doesn't just help improve your oral hygiene, it can also help maintain your overall physical wellbeing. Canadian Dental Association president Heather Carr explains why a healthy mouth translates into a healthy body, and how we can best protect our oral health. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link ....

Apr 11, 202423 min

How can I watch a solar eclipse and protect my eyes?

A once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse is right on the horizon, but don't forget to protect your eyes. Ophthalmologist Dr. Yi Ning Strube explains how staring at a solar eclipse can damage our eyes, while offering advice on how we can protect our vision and still enjoy a natural wonder. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link ....

Apr 04, 202420 min

What do I need to know about recreational nicotine products?

Anecdotally, nicotine pouches are becoming more popular with young people in Canada — despite the potentially harmful health effects. Dr. Nicholas Chadi, a pediatrician and researcher in adolescent and addiction medicine, explains how these pouches are being marketed and how they could be harming youth. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link....

Mar 28, 202421 min

Why should I stretch regularly?

Evidence shows there are health benefits to stretching as its own physical activity, not just before or after a workout. Human kinetics and recreation professor David Behm explains the health benefits of stretching, saying that doing it even for a few minutes a day can improve our overall physical wellness. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link ...

Mar 21, 202423 min

What’s the connection between stress and my health and well-being?

We all face stresses in our lives, from getting stuck in traffic to arguing with our partner to losing a loved one. What is all that stress doing to our bodies, and what can we do to manage it? Dr. Zindel Segal, distinguished professor of psychology and mood disorders at the University of Toronto Scarborough, shares what you need to know. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts . Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes ...

Mar 14, 202425 min
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