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Written by: Joanne Wallenstein

Category: Health

Published: 24 August 2026

Most men expect their bodies to change with age. They may notice they don't have the same energy they once did. Some experience changes in their sex drive or sexual function. Others simply don't feel like themselves.

While aging does bring natural changes, they should not all be dismissed as "just getting older” nor should men just accept a decline in their health or quality of life.

“One of the biggest concerns I hear from men as they get older is remaining healthy enough to continue doing the things they enjoy,” says Dr. Angel Rodriguez, primary care physician at White Plains Physician Associates Pleasantville. “The good news is many men are increasingly prioritizing mental health, stress management, quality sleep, and brain health as part of their overall well-being. Yet, many men still delay routine checkups or ignore symptoms until they become more serious.”

Here is what he wants men to know to help them feel their best for years to come.

When Is It More Than Just Aging?

Unlike women, who experience menopause over a relatively defined period, men undergo a much more gradual decline in hormones such as testosterone. These age-related changes are sometimes referred to as andropause, or late-onset hypogonadism, although they occur slowly and vary considerably from one man to another.

Some men notice very little change, while others experience symptoms that affect their daily lives, including:

• Persistent fatigue or low energy
• Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
• Reduced muscle mass or strength
• Lower sex drive
• Erectile dysfunction
• Mood changes or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Poor sleep

Dr. Rodriguez advises, “If they're persistent or affecting your quality of life, don't ignore them.”

Your Body May Be Telling You Something Else

One of the biggest misconceptions is that these symptoms automatically mean low testosterone.

In reality, many different health conditions can cause the same symptoms, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, sleep apnea, obesity, depression, cardiovascular disease and even medication side effects. Lifestyle factors—including chronic stress, poor sleep, limited physical activity and unhealthy eating habits—can also play a significant role.

"Erectile dysfunction, for example, can sometimes be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease because changes in blood flow may appear there before they affect the heart," Dr. Rodriguez explains.

Fortunately, many of these conditions can be managed, making an accurate – and early – diagnosis the first step toward effective treatment.

Why Men Don't Talk About It

For many men, the hardest part isn't dealing with symptoms—it's bringing them up.

“There's still a 'macho man' mindset that tells many men they should be tough, self-reliant and able to handle problems on their own," says Dr. Rodriguez. "As a result, they may hide symptoms or simply accept them rather than seek help. Seeking help isn't a sign of weakness and staying silent can delay the diagnosis of conditions that are often highly treatable.”

The Truth About Testosterone—and Those "Wonder Pills"

Advertisements promising renewed energy, increased muscle, improved sexual performance and restored vitality seem to be everywhere.
While some men do have testosterone deficiency, Dr. Rodriguez says it's important not to assume that's what's causing symptoms.
"These symptoms are not specific to low testosterone," he says. "They may be caused by a variety of medical conditions or lifestyle factors."

Testosterone replacement therapy can be an effective treatment—but only for men who have both persistent symptoms and consistently low testosterone levels confirmed through appropriate blood testing.

Over-the-counter "testosterone boosters" are another story. Unlike prescription medications, these supplements aren't required to undergo the same rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness. Many have little quality scientific evidence to support their claims, and some may contain ingredients that interact with medications or pose health risks.

"The best first step isn't ordering a supplement online," says Dr. Rodriguez. "Talking with your provider to identify the underlying cause of symptoms is."

Keep Feeling Like Your Best Self

Taking care of your health isn't about waiting until something feels wrong—it's about staying ahead of problems before they develop.
As men enter their 40s, 50s and beyond, Dr. Rodriguez encourages men to establish an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider and stay up to date with recommended screenings.

And, whether it's declining energy, changes in sexual health, unexplained weight gain or simply not feeling like yourself, don't assume it's something you have to live with.

"Aging is inevitable, but poor health doesn't have to be," says Dr. Rodriguez.

Dr. Angel Rodriguez is the Medical Director of Primary Care at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates and he sees patients at WPHPA of Pleasantville. To schedule an appointment, call 914.849.4100.

This story originally appeared on Health Matters, a White Plains Hospital publication.

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Written by: Joanne Wallenstein

Category: Health

Published: 05 August 2026

Summer is a season for seniors to enjoy, whether tending the garden, taking evening walks, vacationing or cheering on the grandchildren at a ballgame.

But warmer temperatures can make it easier for older adults to become dehydrated, sometimes before they even realize it.

Dr. Jennifer Chovitch, a family medicine physician with White Plains Hospital Physician Associates' Scarsdale Medical Group, shares practical advice to help seniors safely make the most of their summer as well as guidance for their loved ones and caregivers.

Why Older Adults Face Greater Heat Risks
"The biggest misconception I hear is, 'If I'm not thirsty, I don't need to drink water,'" says Dr. Chovitch. "As we get older, that warning signal isn't as reliable. By the time many older adults feel thirsty, they may already be dehydrated."

As we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature. We sweat less, have less total body water and don't cool ourselves as effectively as we once did.

"Even small fluid losses can have a much bigger impact than people realize," Dr. Chovitch explains.

That means time spent walking through a street fair or simply sitting outside can sometimes lead to dehydration more quickly than expected.

Health Conditions and Medications Can Also Increase Risk
For many older adults, the weather is not the only concern.
Chronic conditions such as heart failure, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes and gastrointestinal conditions that cause fluid loss can all increase the risk of dehydration during the summer.

Certain medications can add to that risk, including:
• Diuretics ("water pills")
• Certain diabetes medications
• Laxatives
• Some medications used to treat anxiety, depression or insomnia
• Medications with anticholinergic effects, which can reduce sweating

"Some people should increase their fluid intake during hot weather, while others may have medical reasons to limit fluids,” says Dr. Chovitch. “It's always best to discuss a plan with your healthcare provider."

Don't Wait Until You Feel Dehydrated
"People often say, 'I'll just drink more water if I start feeling dehydrated,'" Dr. Chovitch says. "The reality is that older adults have weaker warning signals, so symptoms can develop before they realize anything is wrong."

Early signs can include dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, darker urine and decreased urination. Left untreated, dehydration can progress to confusion, delirium, a rapid heart rate and even kidney injury.

Heat exhaustion may also cause heavy sweating, pale skin, nausea, vomiting and weakness.

If an older adult develops confusion, loses consciousness, experiences seizures or has a body temperature of 104°F or higher, it may be heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Simple Ways to Stay Safe
Fortunately, staying safe doesn't mean staying indoors but keeping hydrated is key.

In addition to drinking water regularly (even if you don't feel thirsty), other preventative measures can include: air-conditioned spaces, wearing lightweight clothing, limiting alcohol and caffeine, avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat and taking shade breaks when spending time outdoors.

She also encourages family members to keep an eye on older loved ones during heat waves.

"Another common misconception is that heat illness only happens if you're exercising outside," Dr. Chovitch advises. "It can happen indoors too, especially if someone doesn't have air conditioning or adequate ventilation. A quick phone call or visit to check in on an older family member can make a real difference."

Enjoy Summer Safely
Summer should be about making memories, not a trip to the emergency department.
"Most heat-related illnesses are preventable," says Dr. Chovitch. "Staying hydrated, planning ahead and recognizing the early warning signs can go a long way toward helping older adults stay healthy and active all season."

To make an appointment with Dr. Chovitch, call 914-949-7556.
This story first appeared in Health Matters, a White Plains Hospital publication.

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Written by: Joanne Wallenstein

Category: Health

Published: 29 July 2026

Walk through almost any grocery store today and you'll find gluten-free products everywhere—from bread and pasta to cookies and cereal. Restaurants are prominently labeling gluten-free menu items, and social media is filled with influencers claiming that cutting out gluten leads to better health, more energy and less bloating.

But is gluten-free eating really healthier?

According to Dr. Ameet Hans, gastroenterologist at White Plains Hospital's Center for Advanced Medicine & Surgery, the answer depends on why you're avoiding gluten.

"For some people, avoiding gluten is medically necessary," she says. "For others, eliminating gluten may offer no health benefit. A healthy diet is less about avoiding one ingredient and more about choosing balanced, nutrient-rich foods."

Who Really Needs to Avoid Gluten?

Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat, barley and rye. It gives bread its chewy texture and helps baked goods hold their shape.

For most people, gluten isn't a problem. But for others, avoiding it is an essential part of staying healthy.

People with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, must completely eliminate gluten because it triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. Others, including people with non-celiac gluten sensitivity or a wheat allergy, may also benefit from avoiding gluten under the guidance of their healthcare provider.

Is Gluten-Free Healthier?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that foods labeled "gluten-free" are automatically better for you.

In reality, many packaged gluten-free products—such as breads, crackers, cookies and snack bars—contain more sugar, sodium and refined starches to help replicate the taste and texture of foods made with wheat than their traditional counterparts. At the same time, whole grains that naturally contain gluten provide important nutrients such as fiber, iron and B vitamins.

"For people who don't have a medical reason to avoid gluten, there's no strong evidence that eliminating it makes you healthier," says Dr. Hans.

Instead of focusing on what's missing from your plate, consider what you could be adding to it.

Build Your Plate Around Naturally Gluten-Free Foods

One of the best-kept secrets about gluten-free eating is that many healthy foods are naturally gluten-free to begin with.

Lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, beans, lentils, potatoes, rice and gluten-free grains such as quinoa can all serve as the foundation of delicious, satisfying meals. Healthy fats, fresh herbs and colorful produce add even more flavor and nutrition.

"When you focus on whole foods instead of processed substitutes, gluten-free eating becomes much simpler," Dr. Hans says.

Shop Smart—and Read Labels Carefully

Even if you don't rely heavily on packaged foods, gluten can sometimes show up where you least expect it.

Soy sauce, marinades, seasoning blends, salad dressings, soups and processed meats may all contain hidden sources of gluten.

For people with celiac disease, cross-contamination during food preparation is another important consideration, particularly when dining out.
Reading ingredient labels carefully and asking questions at restaurants can help ensure meals are truly gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Doesn't Mean Flavor-Free

Perhaps the biggest misconception about gluten-free eating is that it's restrictive.

White Plains Hospital recently partnered with Zwilling Cooking Studio for an interactive cooking event that demonstrated how fresh, naturally gluten-free ingredients can be transformed into colorful, satisfying meals with recipes built around seasonal produce, lean protein and bold flavors.

The takeaway wasn't simply how to cook without gluten. It was how to cook – and eat – well without it.

Whether you're following a gluten-free diet because of a medical condition or simply looking to incorporate more fresh, wholesome meals into your routine, healthy eating doesn't have to feel limiting.

Inspired to bring good eats into your own kitchen? Here are two tasty recipes from White Plains Hospital's gluten-free cooking event.

JICAMA, WATERMELON & CUCUMBER SALAD

Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: N/A

INGREDIENTS JALAPENO LIME VINAIGRETTE:
¼ cup lime juice
2 tsp honey or agave
1 Jalapeno
1 garlic clove, grated
⅓ cup avocado oil
Salt to taste

INGREDIENTS SALAD:
2 cups of watermelon, julienne
2 cups jicama, julienne
2 cucumbers, julienne
8 Mint leaves, chiffonade
Tajín or chili-lime seasoning

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Using an immersion blender or personal blender, add all of the ingredients for the
vinaigrette.
2. Blend until smooth, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. In a large bowl, toss the salad gently before serving.
4. Finish with mint and chili-lime seasoning.

ADOBO FLANK STEAK

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 30- 90 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS ADOBO FLANK STEAK:
2 tbsp olive oil
2 Chipotle peppers in adobo
3 garlic cloves
Juice of 2 limes
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano
Salt & pepper
2 lbs flank steak

INSTRUCTIONS ADOBO FLANK STEAK:
1. Blend all the marinade ingredients until smooth.
2. In a container or bag, add the flank steak and the blended marinade, and seal using a hand-held vacuum sealer. Marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a grill pan, fry pan, or grill on high.
4. Scrape or shake off the excess marinade. Adjust the heat to medium-high. Gently place the steak in the pan and sear on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side.
5. Rest before slicing against the grain.

CHEF NOTE: If time permits, remove the steak from the container after the marinating time, and place it on a sheet tray lined with a wire rack. Place the tray in the refrigerator uncovered for 1 hour or up to overnight.

To make an appointment with Dr. Hans, call 914-949-7556.

This story first appeared in Health Matters, a White Plains Hospital publication.

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Written by: Joanne Wallenstein

Category: Health

Published: 09 July 2026

Dr. Fara BellowsHot weather and dehydration can create the perfect conditions for kidney stones. Learn how they form, when to seek medical care, and what you can do to help prevent them.

As temperatures climb and hydration habits slip, doctors see a seasonal spike in kidney stones during the summer months—thanks in large part to dehydration. “The painful condition is very common, with about 10 percent of the population having a kidney stone at some point in their life,” notes Dr. Fara Bellows, a urologist at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates in Scarsdale.

What causes kidney stones? While healthy urine contains many chemicals dissolved in fluid, those chemicals (including calcium, oxalate, uric acid, cystine, and phosphate) can crystallize when hydration levels drop, explains Dr. Bellows.

For some, tiny stones pass on their own with minimal discomfort. For others, stones can become lodged in the ureter - the thin tube that carries urine from each kidney to the bladder. Symptoms can include:

• severe pain, often in the back or just under the rib cage
• nausea
• vomiting
• fever
• bloody or cloudy urine

If your pain is not improving with over-the-counter pain medications, or if you have difficulty urinating, persistent vomiting, or a fever, you should seek care in an Emergency Department. A urine test and imaging can help determine the cause and guide treatment, which may include medication or, in some cases, a procedure or surgery.

The good news: while there are many causes of kidney stones, most risk factors are modifiable. Dr. Bellows recommends the following during hot summer months:

1. Stay well hydrated. Most people prone to kidney stones should aim for close to 100 ounces of fluid daily to help produce enough urine to dilute stone-forming minerals. Individual fluid needs vary, so prioritize consistent intake and monitor your urine color, which should be clear to pale yellow.

2. Watch your diet. Avoid foods high in salt, sugar, and fat. Limit salt intake to about two grams per day (roughly one teaspoon), and keep animal protein to one serving daily, about the size of a deck of cards.

3. Make balanced choices. Limit alcohol and incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods into your diet.

Certain factors can also increase risk, Dr. Bellows adds, including a family history of kidney stones and conditions such as diabetes, gout, hyperparathyroid¬ism, or a history of gastric bypass surgery. Recurrence is common: about three out of four people who devel¬op a kidney stone will experience another.

As always, it’s best to consult with your doctor to develop a plan tailored to your individual risk. Bottom line: with the right hydration and dietary choices, many kidney stones can be prevented before they ever start.

To make an appointment with Dr. Bellows, call 914-949-7556.

This story first appeared in Health Matters, a White Plains Hospital publication.