ERIKA SCHWARTZ, M.D.
YOUR MEDICAL QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Is Gaining Weight Just Part of Growing Old?
I’m in my 40s and have been gaining weight around my belly. Is this just part of getting older?
— Joey R., Midland, Texas
While metabolism does slow down with age, belly weight gain isn’t inevitable. This type of weight gain is important because abdominal fat accumulation increases your risk of diabetes and heart disease, among other problems. To get rid of undesirable fat accumulation, focus on increasing protein intake to maintain muscle mass — aim for about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight daily. Incorporate strength training at
least twice a week, even if it’s just bodyweight exercises at home. Even small changes like taking
stairs instead of elevators or parking farther away can help. If you’re gaining more than 1-2 pounds per year, or your waist measurement is over 40 inches, talk to your doctor about other options for medically supervised weight loss.
I have been getting frequent heartburn lately. Should I be worried? — Monty V., Green Bay, Wis.
Occasional heartburn may be caused by the type of food you eat. If you’re eating something spicy, or are allergic or sensitive to dairy, alcohol, or coffee, you may get heartburn. If, however, this occurs regularly
ERIKA SCHWARTZ, MD
Founder of Evolved Science, a pioneering New York City medical practice, Dr. Erika Schwartz has revolutionized healthcare through her groundbreaking work with bio-identical hormones. For over three decades, she has championed a whole-person approach to wellness that balances hormones as the foundation for disease prevention, op- timization, and longevity.
A bestselling author of eight books, Dr. Schwartz’s expertise has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Vogue, and numer- ous other publications. As a distinguished faculty member of A4M and host of the Redefining Medicine podcast, she continues to transform healthcare by empowering patients worldwide with knowledge that eliminates fear and improves outcomes.
Dr. Schwartz’s mission remains clear: when patients have access to the right information, they can take control of their health and achieve their highest quality of life.
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plex medical landscape, understanding your own body is essential. This book nterpreter, cutting through confusing medical terminology and empowering listen to your body’s signals. Learn to ask the right questions, avoid hasty d take control of your health journey when consulting medical professionals. se are the tools you need to confidently navigate your wellbeing.”
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cine is obsessed with managing disease, not restoring health. We’ve built an nd pharma—but healing doesn’t come from a prescription pad. It comes from the body’s language, down to its smallest molecules. We’re not here to fight ere to rebuild health, cell by cell. If you’ve ever felt betrayed by a system that cted you, this book will wake you up—and arm you with the truth. Dr. Erika done something few have the courage to do: speak out, stand up, and give power back to the people. Read every word.”
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Dr. Erika Schwartz is a global pioneer in preventive medicine and the author of eight bestselling books. Her newest, Don’t Let Your Doctor Kill You, will be published in September.
— more than two to three times a week — it could indicate the presence of gastric inflammation like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or even an ulcer. Before running to the gastroenterologist for an endoscopy, you might want to consider changing your diet and avoiding acid-producing foods (tomatoes, chocolate, and the others mentioned above). Also, eat smaller meals, do not lie
down right after eating, have dinner at least four hours before bedtime, and raise the head of your bed. You might try taking Pepcid or other over-the- counter (OTC) antacids for a short course and see how you feel. If you truly follow this advice and still suffer from heartburn, you should see a gastroenterologist.
I have had chronic shoulder pain for years, and I’m at the point where I’m considering joint replacement. I have lots of friends and relatives who’ve had hip or knee replacements, but I don’t know anybody with an artificial shoulder. Is it safe and effective? — Roger A., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Shoulder replacement is not as common as knee and hip replacement. The results are not as consistent,
and the long-term improvement in function is not as great as with a knee or a hip. Most physicians would recommend physical therapy
and serious consideration before embarking on such a drastic course of treatment. I would encourage you to see if
your shoulder improves with intensive physical therapy. Have your doctor make sure it is your shoulder and not your neck that is causing the problem. Sometimes pain that seems to
come from the shoulder is actually from a neck injury. Consider seeing a chiropractor who employs something called the atlas orthogonal technique, which is noninvasive and often improves shoulder pain dramatically.
I’ve been having lower back pain that gets worse after long shifts. What can I do?
— Donald N., San Antonio, Texas
The key is addressing both immediate relief and long-term prevention. For immediate relief, try alternating ice and heat — ice for 15-20 minutes to reduce inflammation, then heat to relax muscles. OTC anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen may also help. Do not use them for more than a week, since they can irritate your stomach. For long-term management, focus
on strengthening your core muscles with simple exercises like planks and bridges. Pay attention to lifting technique — always bend your knees and keep your back straight. If you’re standing for long periods, use anti- fatigue mats when possible and wear supportive work boots. Consider seeing a physical therapist if the pain persists more than a few weeks or interferes with sleep. The stronger your core, the less likely you will need any medical advice.
Note: All information presented in this column is for informational purposes only. It is not specific medical advice for any individual. You should take no action solely on the basis of this publication’s contents. Readers are advised to consult a health professional about any issue regarding their health and well-being.
Questions for Dr. Schwartz? Email
askschwartz@newsmax.com and write “Ask Dr. Schwartz” in the subject line. AUGUST 2025 | NEWSMAX MAXLIFE 97
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