BASS Health & Medicine Blog

Medical expertise, health tips, and wellness advice from Northern California’s top specialists.
A person adds a packet of sugar-free sweetener into coffee — illustrating mindful sugar substitute use for diabetes management.
Lifestyle

Are Sugar-Free Sweeteners Really Safe for Diabetics?

Sugar-free doesn’t always mean risk-free — here’s what you should know about artificial sweeteners and blood-sugar control.

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Recent Posts

Health Education
 | 
April 16, 2025
How Much Water Should I Drink a Day?
Primary Care
 | 
April 12, 2025
Stress Management with Your Primary Care Provider
Your PCP can help you recognize stress-related symptoms, connect you with the right specialists, and build a healthier lifestyle plan for long-term relief.
Primary Care
 | 
April 10, 2025
Allergy Medications 101: What Can Your PCP Prescribe?
From antihistamines to nasal sprays, here's how your PCP can guide your allergy relief.
Group of boys and girls stacking hands with their PE teacher during basketball practice, symbolizing teamwork and youth sports physical readiness.
Kids Care
 | 
April 1, 2025
Are Sports Physicals Required for Kids to Play Sports?
Are sports physicals required for your child’s team? Learn what schools look for, how often to get one, and how BASS providers can help.
Illustration of microplastic particles surrounding a human brain, symbolizing research on microplastics and cognitive health.
Neurology
 | 
February 14, 2025
Can Microplastics Affect Your Brain? What We Know About Dementia Risk
Researchers have discovered microplastics in human brain tissue. Here’s what that could mean for dementia risk and long-term brain health.
Health Education
 | 
February 7, 2025
Shingles: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention
A breast cancer survivor hugs her caretaker inside Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, symbolizing hope, recovery, and compassionate support.
Cancer
 | 
February 4, 2025
Breast Cancer Survival Rates: How Early Detection and Regular Checkups Save Lives
Early detection is the most powerful tool against breast cancer. Learn how survival rates improve dramatically with regular screenings and prompt care.
A slice of bread with a sad face carved into it, symbolizing gluten intolerance and the challenges of avoiding gluten-containing foods.
Health Education
 | 
January 31, 2025
Gluten Intolerance: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage It
Digestive issues after eating bread or pasta? Learn how gluten intolerance differs from celiac disease—and how to manage symptoms with a gluten-free lifestyle.
Lifestyle
 | 
January 31, 2025
A Week of Heart-Healthy Recipes to Celebrate American Heart Month
Seven Recipes of Delicious and Nutritious Meals to Support Your Heart Health
A U.S. Army color guard presents the flags during the 2023 NFL Frankfurt Game opening ceremony as New England Patriots players Bailey Zappe, Tyquan Thornton, and JuJu Smith-Schuster stand on the field, symbolizing unity and the physical demands of professi
Health Education
 | 
January 29, 2025
Common NFL Injuries and Recovery Times: What Fans (and Athletes) Should Know
From ACL tears to concussions, here’s what you need to know about the most common NFL injuries — and how long recovery really takes.
Health Education
 | 
January 27, 2025
Are Weight Loss Injections Right for You? Here’s What You Need to Know
A Comprehensive Guide to Weight Loss Injections
Knowledge
 | 
January 21, 2025
Medicare Basics in California
What You Need To Know About Federal Health Insurance
Health Education
 | 
January 15, 2025
What Parents Need to Know About the Red Dye No. 3 & Other Potentially Harmful Food Additives
From California's Pioneering Ban to FDA Action: Protecting Your Child's Health in 2025
Health Education
 | 
January 7, 2025
Understanding Bird Flu: Recent Spread, Risks, and Key Differences from Seasonal Flu
What You Need to Know About The Recent Bird Flu Surge in Northern California
Health Education
 | 
December 7, 2024
The Importance of Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations: Staying Healthy This Holiday Season
Prioritize Your Health: The Essential Guide to Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations for a Safe and Joyful Holiday Season
Primary care provider with stethoscope and health checklist.
Health Education
 | 
November 11, 2024
What Is a Primary Care Provider (PCP) & Why You Need One
Start Navigating Your Healthcare Journey Today with a Primary Care Provider!
Woman with a bloated stomach in discomfort.
Gastroenterology
 | 
May 29, 2024
Why Am I Always Bloated? Common Causes and When to See a Doctor
Constant bloating isn’t normal. Learn what causes persistent stomach bloating, when to worry, and how internal medicine specialists can help.