News from NYU Langone Health
Does Drinking Hot Water Have Any Health Benefits?
The New York Times
The latest wellness trend on TikTok involves drinking hot water in the morning, with claims that it improves digestion, reduces bloating, and aids weight loss. While scientific evidence is limited, Lisa Ganjhu, DO, a gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health, explained that after a night of slowed digestion, consuming anything upon waking—regardless of temperature—stimulates the gastrointestinal tract. "It’s basically telling everyone, ‘OK, get up. We’ve got to get moving,’" she said. This can trigger a bowel movement, which in turn can help reduce bloating. Experts agree that the primary benefit is likely hydration, which is crucial for overall health.
3/04/2026
Everyone’s Into Fiber. But Is a Fancy Supplement Necessary?
The Strategist
An article on the growing popularity of fiber supplements consults experts, including Julia Adamian, MD, an internist at NYU Langone Health, and medical director, NYU Langone Internal Medical Associates. Dr. Adamian advises that while whole foods are the best source of fiber, supplements can be beneficial, particularly for travel-induced constipation. She stresses the importance of adequate hydration when using supplements to avoid side effects like gas and bloating. Dr. Adamian also recommends simple, single-ingredient powdered fibers, such as psyllium, over newer, more expensive blends with multiple ingredients, and cautions against unregulated marketing claims.
3/04/2026
Kidney transplant, recovery rates dropped following allocation memorandum
Healio
According to a study led by Syed A. Husain, MD, MPH, an assistant professor in the departments of surgery and medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, an allocation memorandum from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network may have contributed to lower rates of kidney recovery and transplants. The August memorandum raised concerns about disciplinary action for allocations out of sequence. Researchers found that after the memo was sent, daily kidney recovery and transplant rates dropped compared to two reference periods. The study suggests that if sustained, this trend could result in approximately 1,500 fewer transplants annually.
3/03/2026
What Do You Do When You're Allergic to Everyone?
Allure
The increasing popularity of perfumes is creating challenges for people with fragrance allergies and sensitivities. The article explains diagnostic methods like patch testing, which Emily M. Milam, MD, a dermatologist and associate director, Skin and Cancer Unit at NYU Langone Health, describes as a way to 'interrogate the skin's immune system.' The piece details conditions such as allergic contact dermatitis, multiple chemical sensitivity, and mast cell activation syndrome, sharing personal stories of individuals whose lives are severely impacted by exposure to fragrances in public and private spaces.
Also reporting was: Yahoo Health, Currently
3/03/2026
How Concerning Is Microplastics-Prostate Cancer Study Link?
Medscape
New research led by Stacy Loeb, MD, professor in the Departments of Urology and Population Health at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and NYU Langone Health, suggests a potential link between microplastics and prostate cancer. The pilot study, presented at the ASCO Genitourinary Cancers Symposium 2026, detected microplastics in prostate tissue from nine of 10 men, with higher concentrations in tumor tissue versus benign tissue. While Loeb emphasized the data is preliminary and cannot establish causality, she advised reducing plastic use. The research team has received funding from the US Department of Defense to expand the study.
3/04/2026
Saline irrigation equally effective as Betadine, antibiotic powder in infection prevention
Orthopedics Today
Research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting found saline irrigation is as effective as other solutions in preventing joint infection after total hip arthroplasty. The study, involving researchers from NYU Langone Orthopedics, showed similar infection rates for saline compared to dilute povidone-iodine lavage or vancomycin powder. Joshua C. Rozell, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Langone Health, stated the results suggest the type of irrigation solution does not significantly impact infection rates. Olivia Schaffer, BS, a research fellow at NYU Langone Orthopedics, also contributed to the presentation.
3/04/2026
What Happens to Your Blood Sugar When You Skip Breakfast
Health
Skipping breakfast can impact blood sugar regulation, potentially leading to higher glucose spikes and increased hunger later in the day. According to the article, the body must work harder to maintain normal blood sugar levels without a morning meal. Gillian A. Goddard, MD, endocrinologist and adjunct assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, explains that when the brain lacks glucose, it may produce ketones for fuel, which can cause a foggy feeling. She also notes that metabolism follows a circadian rhythm, with the body being more sensitive to insulin earlier in the day.
3/04/2026
Does HRT Lower Osteoporosis Risk?
Medscape
Research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2026 annual meeting suggests women who start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) within a year of menopause may have a lower osteoporosis risk over the long term. Commenting on the findings, Abigail Campbell, MD, a sports medicine orthopedist and co-director of the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at NYU Langone Health, explained that HRT gives back some estrogen, which is protective against bone loss. However, she urged caution, noting that HRT is not safe for everyone, such as those with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers, and recommended proven strategies like weight-bearing exercise for bone health.
3/04/2026
