July 2023: What we published on SingleCare

Wondering what mattered on SingleCare in July 2023? This month we focused on practical info you can use: a couple of supplements worth watching, prescription drugs being repurposed, and health topics that link physical and mental care. Below I’ll give quick takeaways and what you can do next.

Supplements worth a look

Two posts looked at supplements people ask about. Grains of Paradise is a spice turned supplement that some people use for digestion and weight support. Early reports suggest it may boost metabolism and even affect testosterone, but evidence is limited. If you try it, start with a low dose and watch for stomach upset.

Laminaria is a seaweed supplement rich in iodine and nutrients. It can support thyroid function for people with low iodine, and some report better digestion. Don’t self-prescribe high doses if you have thyroid disease—check iodine intake with your provider first. Both posts emphasize: supplements can help, but they don’t replace medical care.

Prescription drugs and clinical uses

We covered a range of prescription topics this month. Dapsone remains a go-to option for Erythema Nodosum Leprosum, reducing inflammation and immune-driven lesions. It works well for many patients, but needs blood monitoring because of possible anemia and rare side effects like methemoglobinemia.

Divalproex, usually for epilepsy and bipolar disorder, has been studied for ADHD. Results are mixed and side effects—weight gain, tremor, liver issues—can be significant. Talk to a specialist before considering it for ADHD, especially for women of childbearing age because of teratogenic risks.

Everolimus showed promise in research for colorectal cancer as an mTOR inhibitor that can slow tumor growth. It’s not a simple switch-in therapy; side effects include immune suppression and metabolic changes, so oncologists weigh benefits vs risks carefully.

We also published two clinically relevant pieces connecting conditions and care. One explains the strong link between Bulimia Nervosa and anxiety: anxiety often fuels binge–purge cycles, and treating only the eating behavior misses half the problem. Combine therapy (CBT) and psychiatric care for better outcomes.

Another post explored how Hepatitis C can trigger autoimmune responses. If someone with HCV shows new joint pain, dry eyes, or rashes, testing for autoimmune markers makes sense. Treating the viral infection can change autoimmune activity, so coordinated care between hepatology and rheumatology helps.

Which article should you read first? If you’re considering a supplement, start with the Grains of Paradise and Laminaria posts. If you or someone you care for has a complex condition—like colorectal cancer, HCV, or an eating disorder—read the drug and condition posts and bring questions to your clinician.

Want full details? Click any post title in the archive to read the full article and see references, dosing notes, and safety tips. If you’re trying something new, get a quick check-in with your healthcare provider first.