Dose of Truth: How to avoid prescription medication mishaps
Adults over the age of 40 take one or more medications prescribed by their doctor. Most people will continue to take some sort of medication for nearly half their life. So, it’s important to know that you’re managing your medications correctly, which may not be as simple as you think. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” joined us to talk about the proper way to handle prescriptions, and shares his tips and tricks to help make things easier.
Dr. Simmons also talks about the effectiveness of using magnesium for sleep, which has become a popular TikTok trend.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Jan. 18, 2024.
A Dose of Truth: Could consuming ultra-processed products pull us into depression?
For years, experts have shared the risks associated with processed food and drinks on our physical health, but what about our mental health? Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” explains the first large study to suggest consuming ultra-processed products could be linked to depression.
The fall season is here and that usually means an increase in sicknesses going around. Dr. Simmons discusses the three main viruses – influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. He also shares why health officials say this year could be different, and what we should do to prepare.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Oct. 5, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Can fungi be the fix? Magic mushrooms as potential migraine treatment
Is the magic in the mushrooms? Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” explains the recent research which found that psilocybin, the primary substance responsible for the psychedelic effects of “magic” mushrooms, was effective when used to combat migraine pain.
Plus, Dr. Simmons discusses TikTok trends once again. This time it’s toothpaste, as influencers claim it not only pops pimples but also plumps up lips.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Sept. 21, 2023
A Dose of Truth: Can poor dental health impact more than our mouth?
Good oral health may actually be beneficial to our brains. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” explains the research that claims there could be a connection between poor dental hygiene and brain health.
Giving our animals a smooch isn’t something we think much of, but is it actually safe? Dr. Simmons discusses a new study that claims kissing our pets can pose a potential danger to our health.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on September 14, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Sniffing out the serious issues with nasal tanning spray
The extremely popular “Barbie” movie has people capitalizing on the film’s success, with numerous themed beauty and fashion trends or products. Most may be harmless, but one of those products is causing some major concern among health experts. It’s a nasal tanning spray being pushed hard by TikTok influencers that’s filled with an illegal and potentially dangerous lab-made ingredient. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” explains the risks associated with these nasal sprays that claim to give skin a natural boost of bronze.
Dr. Simmons also shares the difference between legal and illegal uses of smelling salts, as well as the recent ban of one brand by FDA. Plus, he shares the truth behind a recent study that says pizza may help reduce the severity of rheumatoid arthritis.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Aug. 24, 2023.
Dose of Truth: The real risks of blood clots, regardless of age
Two-time Grammy winner, Tori Kelly was recently released from the hospital following a few-day stay after she collapsed while out to dinner. Upon arrival, doctors found blood clots in both her lungs and legs. At only 30 years old, is Kelly’s situation extremely rare, or can clots happen at any age? Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” explains risk factors, symptoms and possible prevention.
We know of sun burns, electrical burns and even chemical burns, but what about margarita burns? Dr. Simmons shares the strange science behind a simple squeeze of lime and why it does not mix well with the sun.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Aug. 10, 2023.
Dose of Truth: The cognitive connection between our bowels and our brains
Is chronic constipation connected to cognitive decline? Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” helps us understand how the frequency of our bowel movements could actually signal some issues in our brain.
When it comes to milk, does dairy dominate? Dr. Simmons shares how plant-based alternatives stack up. He also discusses the dangers of viral trends, including one that has some people consuming the commonly used household cleaner, borax, as a way to combat pain and inflammation.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Aug. 3, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Do we really need to ditch diet soda?
The safety of artificial sweeteners has long been called into question. Now, The International Institute for Research on Cancer (a branch of the World Health Organization) is expected to classify one of those sweeteners, aspartame, as a possible “cancer-causing” carcinogen later this month. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” breaks down the research and why the difference between risk and hazard, really matters.
Taking a daily dose of aspirin can be a lifesaving option, but it’s not for everyone. Dr. Simmons explains the potential benefits and risks, including a new health issue that the daily regimen may cause.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on July 6, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Does your pain point to arthritis? We talk types and treatments
Are you experiencing soreness, stiffness or tender joints? Those symptoms could be a sign of arthritis and should prompt a visit to your primary care physician. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” explains the different types and treatments when it comes to dealing with the potentially debilitating disease.
Dr. Simmons also shares why sleep side matters when it comes to your health. Plus, he teaches us the positive potential of “poo pills” – better known as Fecal Microbiota Transplantation – when it comes to fending of deadly diseases.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on June 29, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Routine Checkup Checklist (and bonus National HIV Testing Day!)
Routine checkups are an important part of our overall wellness. They can create a baseline, monitor any health-related changes and help catch something before it progresses. Although, not everyone needs them every year. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” explains those recommendations and who they apply to. He also shares potential problems that may be a reason to make an appointment.
There is no better time to get tested. National HIV Testing Day is June 27 and Dr. Simmons explains why everyone who is sexually active should get tested, regardless of sexual preference.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on June 15, 2023.
Dose of Truth: The importance of LGBTQ+ healthcare, allyship and open conversation
June kicks off LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” shares the importance of LGBTQ+ specific healthcare and why creating access to these providers really matters. He also discusses the path to becoming a true ally in the community and what that looks like.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on June 1, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Menopause medication, the new drug that treats hot flashes differently
Recently, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force drafted new recommendations for breast cancer screenings. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” talks about the reasoning behind the changes and why it could potentially save thousands of lives. He also discusses a new, FDA-approved drug used to treat hot flashes due to menopause, but in a much different, nonhormonal, way.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on May 18, 2023
Dose of Truth: Keeping in contacts and eye drop dangers
We rely on our eyes for so much, but could our daily routine be the cause of long-term damage? Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” discusses the recent investigation by the CDC into eye drops – specifically artificial tears – after they were linked to cases of blindness and even death.
Actress Tori Spelling showcasing the importance of using contact lenses as instructed after she developed a painful ulcer in her eye from leaving her daily contacts in for weeks – sometimes up to 20 days at a time. Dr. Simmons discusses the details of what happened and the lasting damage that improper use can cause.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on April 13, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Get that gut going! Vibrating pill used to stimulate movement
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently cleared two different treatments that have captured a lot of attention. First up, a vibrating pill that can help alleviate chronic constipation. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” shares the details behind this drug-free option. Plus, he explains why a new type of nasal spray could be a safer way to treat migraines for certain at-risk individuals.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on March 30, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Butt lifts and Botox, revealing the risks and alternatives
Cosmetic procedures continue to surge in popularity, but are there safer ways to achieve our goals? Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” helps us wade through the warnings associated with one of the most common cosmetic surgeries – the Brazilian butt lift. He also discusses the research behind a potentially safer, yet effective alternative to Botox that involves our own DNA.
Have a health question of your own? Reach out to us on our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. You can also send us an email, offtheclock@KTLA.com.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on March 16, 2023.
Dose of Truth: Understanding Bruce Willis’ Frontotemporal Dementia Diagnosis
The family of Bruce Willis recently announced that the 67-year-old actor has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), also known as frontotemporal degeneration. Nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP” Dr. James Simmons helps us understand this devastating diagnosis and what it means for his future.
Plus, we discuss the popular sugar replacement called erythritol – used to add bulk or sweeten stevia, monk fruit and keto reduced-sugar products – and why it’s now linked to serious health risks.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off the Clock on March 2, 2023.
A Dose of Truth: Honoring Black American’s Contributions to Medicine
The contributions of Black nurses, physicians, researchers, and medical scientists are often overlooked. As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” joined us to highlight just a few of the significant medical advances that were pioneered by Black Americans.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off the Clock on Feb. 16, 2023
Special Episode - Dr. James as Guest Co-Host of “Off The Clock” on KTLA!
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” guest co-hosts the entire episode! He also discusses the potential downfall of setting New Year’s resolutions and shares some simpler solutions to improve our health in the special health segment A Dose Of Truth (seen here).
Plus, we talk about the viral “lion diet,” which eliminates all foods except salt, water, and meat from certain animals. Dr. James explains the benefits it claims to have as well as the potential risks.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off the Clock on Jan. 5, 2023
A Dose of Truth: Could gas stoves bea hidden hazard to our health?
While there is no plan to ban gas stoves, a US Consumer Product Safety commissioner recently made headlines after suggesting they should be heavily regulated. She called them a “hidden hazard,” but are those health risks real? Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” discusses the truth behind the research.
Plus, we talk about the viral “migraine hat” which claims to help minimize the pain associated with a migraine. Dr. James explains if it’s truly helpful or just a hoax.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off the Clock on Feb. 2, 2023.
A Dose of Truth: Save a life with CRP basics
After Damar Hamlin collapsed during the Bill-Bengals game, medical experts immediately started CPR and saved his life. This incident has increased awareness about CPR and why it’s so important to get trained.
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” helps us identify the warning signs of cardiac arrest and how to administer CPR. He also goes over what an AED (automated external defibrillator) machine does and how to use it.
On top of these CPR basics, it’s important to get a full, comprehensive training along with your certification. Just visit CPR.Heart.org to find a location nearest you.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off the Clock on Jan. 19, 2023.
A Dose of Truth: World AIDS Day
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” is also a clinical ambassador for the CDC’s “Let’s Stop HIV Together” program. Today is World AIDS Day, and he joined us to discuss the importance of raising awareness and how we can help end the HIV epidemic across the globe.
Dr. James talked about tools to help defend against HIV, such as PrEP, and its effectiveness at preventing HIV through sex, regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, etc.
He also shared the significance of being “undetectable” if you are HIV positive, which means you can’t transmit HIV to someone else through sex. You can learn more about how “undetectable equals untransmittable” here.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Dec. 1, 2022
A Dose of Truth: It’s time to have that prostate cancer conversation …
November is National Men’s Health Awareness Month. Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” joined us in studio for the first time to discuss the important topic of prostate cancer.
He explained everything from preventative measures, exams, screening and treatment, including Henry DiCarlo’s experience about his own prostate cancer fight.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Nov. 17, 2022.
A Dose of Truth: World AIDS Day and a push to end the epidemic
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” is also a clinical ambassador for the CDC’s “Let’s Stop HIV Together” program. Today is World AIDS Day, and he joined us to discuss the importance of raising awareness and how we can help end the HIV epidemic across the globe.
Dr. James talked about tools to help defend against HIV, such as PrEP, and its effectiveness at preventing HIV through sex, regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, etc.
He also shared the significance of being “undetectable” if you are HIV positive, which means you can’t transmit HIV to someone else through sex. You can learn more about how “undetectable equals untransmittable” here.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Dec. 1, 2022.
A Dose of Truth: Is there a pill for that?
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” shares the research behind a promising new diet pill already approved to treat diabetes.
He also discusses the effectiveness of hair regrowth medication Minoxidil in its varying forms.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on Sept. 15, 2022
A Dose of Truth: Can beer help digestive issues?
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” joined us to talk whether weekend warriors get the same benefits as daily exercisers, does one Swedish company have the “miracle” hangover cure, and could beer actually be GOOD for our gut?
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on July 14, 2022.
A Dose of Truth: Do supplements work?
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” joined us to give us helpful information on our current health issues from a new study on the benefits of supplements to safety around Independence Day activities.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on June 30, 2022.
A Dose Of Truth: Sun safety, sunscreen, skin cancer, and a sweet SURPRISE!
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” shared news of his engagement. With the summer around the corner, he also answered some of our questions about the sun and our skin.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on May 5, 2022.
A Dose of Truth: Charity fashion show raises money to help LGBTQ community
Dr. James Simmons, nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” joined us to talk about “Sashay the Runway,” an upcoming charity fashion show put on by APAIT.
Dr. Simmons serves on the advisory board for the non-profit organization, whose mission is to positively impact the quality of life for vulnerable communities experiencing behavioral health challenges, housing insecurity, and those at-risk for HIV/AIDS.
The upcoming fashion show will raise money to help provide important services for those in the LGBTQ community.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off The Clock on June 2, 2022.
A Dose of Truth: Can eating raw meat help with fertility?
Recently Heidi Montag shared videos of her eating raw meat to help in her fertility struggles. Is this advice under-cooked or well-done? Plus, more on Chris Rock’s Non-Verbal Learning Disorder, and Bruce Willis’ retirement from acting because of his Aphasia diagnosis.
A Dose of Truth: Should you nod off in the nude?
The Off the Clock team was joined by Dr. James Simmons, a nurse practitioner and founder of “Ask the NP,” who helped us separate medical fact from fiction.
Dr. Simmons brought up a recent study that looked at sleeping in the nude and whether or not it had positive effects.
He also touched on how meditation can actually help people correct mistakes; whether or not CBD is effective for pain management; and interesting, sexy, medical research concerning seniors!
A Dose Of Truth: Can watching horror movies actually REDUCE your anxiety?
Stem cells to cure male infertility? 1 in 3 men would give up watching football for a flat stomach? Eating processed foods for just one month might trigger memory loss? And how in the heck does watching scary movies actually REDUCE your anxiety? All this and more fun than Michael Myers in a jumpsuit on this week’s edition of A Dose of Truth for KTLA’s new hit afternoon show Off The Clock!
A Dose Of Truth: Can Pineapple Juice Really Help with Pain?
Super fun segment on KTLA's new hit show "Off The Clock" where I breakdown the dangers of night shift work (link to cancer?), why your health might be at risk because you are having less sex, if nervous pooping is really a thing (and why), and of course ... what's behind the latest craze that is seeing Tik Tok influencers chug a gallon of pineapple juice?!
A Dose Of Truth: Are Butter and Cheese Good for Your Heart?
Whoa there?! This report made TONS of headlines, but don’t start melting cheese on EVERYTHING just yet. We break down what this study really said about dairy and heart health, plus we dive into the Nicki Minaj testicle twitter drama. Another super fun KTLA Off The Clock!
A Dose Of Truth: Can certain foods shave time off your life?
Some of your favorite foods could really be impacting your lifespan (looking at you hot dogs and chicken wings!) Plus, a slowing metabolism might not be to blame for weight gain and more on this week’s “A Dose of Truth” on KTLA’s new hit afternoon show Off The Clock!
A Dose Of Truth: Is “Man flu” A Myth or An Actual Condition?
Plus, the dangers of poppers (what are they anyway?!) and Chris weighs in on his very personal but potentially healthy relaxing bath habits!
A Dose Of Truth: Is Intermittent Fasting a Fad or Can It Improve Your Health?
And, Dr. James breaks down oral HIV prophylaxis for everyone, how well it works, and exciting new HIV treatments coming our way soon!
A Dose Of Truth: DNA, Diets, and Smelly Signs of Health!
Dr. James Simmons, a hospitalist nurse practitioner and founder of Ask the NP, gets down to the nitty-gritty! He tackles toilet troubles and gives us the secret to sniffing out a serious problem.
This segment aired on KTLA’s Off the Clock on June 3, 2021.
A Dose Of Truth - Off The Clock on KTLA
1.) Is your daily shower doing damage? - Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis were pretty much Hollywood's cutest couple, but their bathing habits have some folks questioning.
2.) Mental Health IS Health - Why it's important to address mental health the same as physical health and how some of the world's greatest athletes are collectively helping remove mental health stigma.
3.) Cupping Cure All - No it's not the latest body modification. But many swear by it's supposed health benefits. What is it, is it safe, and is it right for me?
4.) Magnetic attraction - New research into magnets as a possible form of birth control.