Doctor Reveals Three Surprising Things to Avoid

A doctor has shared three unexpected habits she consciously steers clear of, and some might surprise you.

This insight came from a recent video posted on TikTok by Dr. Nicole Van Groningen, an internal medicine physician based in Los Angeles.

Known for debunking medical myths and simplifying health news on social media, Dr. Van Groningen took a moment to discuss her personal practices as a physician.

First on her list is the use of antibiotics “just in case” or as a precaution. She emphasized that while antibiotics are miraculous for treating severe bacterial infections, their misuse can lead to significant issues.

“Antibiotics are fantastic, life-saving in critical situations,” she stated. “But they can cause a range of problems when not used properly.” One major concern is antibiotic resistance, which can lead to serious conditions like liver and kidney inflammation.

Dr. Van Groningen noted that over-prescribing antibiotics is a primary factor in developing C. difficile infections, which can be quite severe. C. diff can infect the colon and is notably contagious.

Even when someone doesn’t develop C. diff, antibiotic use can disrupt the gut microbiome. Recent studies have suggested a link between antibiotic use and an increased risk of colon cancer, which she attributes to changes in gut health.

Moving on, Dr. Van Groningen also cautioned against frequently using Benadryl, an over-the-counter allergy medication. Although it’s useful for acute allergic reactions, it’s not intended for long-term use.

She pointed out that while Benadryl can be effective in the moment, prolonged use may be associated with a higher risk of dementia, particularly due to its numerous side effects—like sedation and confusion—in older populations.

Lastly, she stressed the importance of sleep, stating she would “never trade sleep for productivity.” Sleep is a fundamental aspect of health and well-being, she believes.

Dr. Van Groningen referenced various studies linking chronic sleep deprivation with heightened risks of serious health problems, including dementia and cardiovascular disease. It’s clear that maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is vital for long-term health.