Health is simple.  We just keep making it complicated.

We need all of the high tech medical procedures and tests that science can develop.  But huge steps forward in health – of individuals and also of society – can come from implementing much humbler ideas.  We need to take action based on scientific common sense and shared public health values.

Here are four of the latest scientific research reports that illustrate this theme.

Work stress adds nearly $200 billion to the nation’s healthcare bill

Instead of excess spending on fancy medical tests, let’s do something to minimize work stress and save ourselves some money instead.

Fasting for part of each day saves you from flab – regardless of the food you eat

Here are two other reasons to stop your eating before 8pm.

Poor doctor-patient communication can make your problem worse

Skilled, attentive listening is an experience that should be part of your daily life with family and friends.  But it’s also a form of medical intervention.

Prolonged use of many common drugs increases the risk for dementia

The drugs that were shown to  increase the risk of dementia were drugs that had an anti-cholinergic effect, and included some allergy drugs (Benadryl), older types of anti-depressants, and drugs for bladder control.

There are nearly always alternatives, including non-drug options.

Dr. Lavine has been an innovator in the use of movement and touch to promote health since 1981. He practices in New York City and Princeton, NJ.