Golden Oak Medicine PLLC

12/15/2025

Hi friends, I was talking with a patient about adequate fiber intake and realized I didn’t have a blog post on the topic, so here it is. One thing to think about, fiber doesn’t have to come from sugary fruits. For example, a medium banana has about 3 grams of fiber. I almost never ever eat bananas.

The Importance of Fiber: Why Most Americans Are Not Getting Enough

12/01/2025

A patient asked me about a centenarian survey - 100 centenarians were surveyed, it was on NPR. My patient wanted me to summarize it, so I did, but figured I should share it. Here is the link to the article and here is the summary - the one thing I would add is Sleep, super super important.

Top 10 Takeaways from the Centenarian Survey
1. Centenarians stay active: Nearly half do weekly strength training, and 42% walk or hike regularly.
2. Healthy habits are common: 67% report eating a healthy diet, and 36% practice stress-relief activities like meditation.
3. They stay engaged: About 30% garden, and many continue hobbies that bring joy and meaning.
4. They don’t feel “old”: Most say they feel decades younger and experience aging as a slow, gradual process.
5. Positive outlook matters: 85% say they laugh easily and maintain a sense of humor.
6. They embrace technology: 40% play video games, and 27% have used AI tools like ChatGPT; nearly half use social media.
7. Strong social ties: Two-thirds stay closely connected with family and friends, and most have weekly in-person visits.
8. They manage stress differently: With age comes perspective, letting go of minor worries and focusing on small joys.
9. Community connection supports longevity: Research links strong social ties to lower chronic disease rates and longer life.
10. Lifestyle choices matter: Regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and maintaining purpose greatly influence successful aging and cognitive health.

A new survey of centenarians finds a growing number of people living to 100 have prioritized healthy habits. Here's how exercise, social connection and positivity play a role in aging well.

12/01/2025

A patient asked me about a centenarian survey - 100 centenarians were surveyed, it was on NPR, and I wanted me to summarize it, so I did, but figured I should share it. Here is the link to the articl,e and here is the summary - the one thing I would add is Sleep, super super important.

Top 10 Takeaways from the Centenarian Survey
1. Centenarians stay active: Nearly half do weekly strength training, and 42% walk or hike regularly.
2. Healthy habits are common: 67% report eating a healthy diet, and 36% practice stress-relief activities like meditation.
3. They stay engaged: About 30% garden, and many continue hobbies that bring joy and meaning.
4. They don’t feel “old”: Most say they feel decades younger and experience aging as a slow, gradual process.
5. Positive outlook matters: 85% say they laugh easily and maintain a sense of humor.
6. They embrace technology: 40% play video games, and 27% have used AI tools like ChatGPT; nearly half use social media.
7. Strong social ties: Two-thirds stay closely connected with family and friends, and most have weekly in-person visits.
8. They manage stress differently: With age comes perspective, letting go of minor worries and focusing on small joys.
9. Community connection supports longevity: Research links strong social ties to lower chronic disease rates and longer life.
10. Lifestyle choices matter: Regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and maintaining purpose greatly influence successful aging and cognitive health.

A new survey of centenarians finds a growing number of people living to 100 have prioritized healthy habits. Here's how exercise, social connection and positivity play a role in aging well.

11/30/2025

It's been a minute, but I wrote a new post. I have been finishing up my book, working on the last parts of publication, so the blog has not had much of my attention. Anyhow, friends, here is a new post. I hope you enjoy it. It's about NAC, a powerful brain-boosting supplement. (Also, look out for my book; it will be published early next year, called Life, Love, and the In-Between.)

This brief, evidence-based overview explains how N-acetylcysteine (NAC) may support brain health, mood, inflammation, and overall metabolic balance. Learn how NAC boosts glutathione, helps regulate oxidative stress, and may improve clarity and resilience. Includes key safety notes, dosing, and why i...

09/28/2025

As part of my 8-week Longevity Course at OLLI at UNC Asheville, tomorrow we’ll focus on cardiovascular health — and I just published Part 2 of my heart health blog series.

This post breaks down how to exercise for a stronger heart and longer life:
• What the 150-minute rule really means
• How to use heart rate zones (especially Zone 2) safely
• Why strength and balance training matter for longevity
• Tips to personalize workouts as you age

Read Part 2 here https://www.geriacademy.com/post/exercise-and-the-aging-heart-how-to-train-smart-for-longevity

Part 2 of our heart health series: Discover how exercise protects the aging heart and supports longevity. Learn what the 150-minute weekly guideline really means, how to use heart rate zones (including Zone 2) to train safely and effectively, and why adding strength and balance work keeps your heart...

08/07/2025

Check out the latest blog post on Choline - The essential nutrient good for your brain, muscles, and liver.
https://www.geriacademy.com/post/choline-the-brain-boosting-nutrient-you-re-probably-missing

Most people have never heard of choline, yet this nutrient is essential for healthy aging. It supports memory, muscle strength, liver function, and overall brain health. And according to research, nearly 90% of Americans don’t get enough choline in their daily diets.

05/07/2025

This week, we celebrate the heart, dedication, and compassion of nurses everywhere—and we are especially proud to recognize Tiffany, whose care and kindness make a difference every single day.

Thank you for being the extraordinary nurse and person you are!

Here’s to you, Tiffany—thank you for all you do!

04/01/2025

We’d Love to Hear Your Feedback!

Thank you for choosing Golden Oak Medicine for your healthcare needs.

We are always striving to provide the best possible care, and your feedback helps us to continue improving.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a few moments to share your experience with us by leaving a review. Your thoughts not only help us, but they also guide others who are looking for quality care.

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Thank you for trusting us with your care. We look forward to hearing from you!

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03/21/2025

📣 MMR Titer Questions – Let’s Talk About It!

I’ve been getting a lot of requests lately for measles titers, and I wanted to take a moment to share a quick update. Most of those measles titers have come back normal, but we’ve seen a few low mumps and rubella titers pop up. Understandably, this raises some questions—so I thought I’d answer them here!

Mumps:
If you were born before 1957, you’re generally considered immune to mumps due to natural exposure in childhood. While we have seen recent mumps outbreaks, they mostly occur in younger adults in close-living situations like college dorms. For older adults, a low titer doesn’t typically mean you need a booster. A third MMR dose is only recommended during an active outbreak in high-risk settings, which usually doesn’t apply to the older population.

Measles:
Similar to mumps, people born before 1957 are usually presumed to have lifelong immunity to measles. Unless you’re planning international travel, working in a healthcare setting, or have a weakened immune system, a low or even undetectable titer is not a reason to get revaccinated. In general, no booster is needed for most older adults.

Rubella:
Rubella is primarily a concern for pregnant women due to the risk of congenital rubella syndrome. Since this doesn’t apply to most older adults, re-vaccination isn’t routinely recommended—even if your titer is low. The only exceptions might be if you work in healthcare or are in a setting with higher exposure risk. Otherwise, no action is needed.
👉 And just a reminder: this is not medical advice—please always consult with your doctor about your individual health needs.
Hope this helps clear up some of the confusion! Feel free to share or reach out if you have more questions. 💉✨

Dr. G
Golnosh Sharafsaleh MD, MS, MBA, CPE, DipABLM, FAAFP, AGSF

03/09/2025

I read a pretty interesting article this morning on ageism, also mentions some really sad statistics. Currently there is 1 geriatrician for every 10,000 adults over the age of 65. Yet per the American Geriatric Society, one geriatrician can take care of up to 700 patients. We’re in. Health crisis

Ageism in healthcare is often an overlooked form of discrimination, yet its effects can significantly impact the quality of care older adults receive.

03/08/2025

Here is a blog post I just wrote on how Geriatrics meets Lifestyle Medicine ,

Aging well isn’t just living longer—it’s about vitality, independence & purpose. Learn how geriatrics & lifestyle medicine intersect.

03/03/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of our cherished therapy dog, Greta, who crossed the rainbow bridge on Friday evening while in the loving embrace of her mom, Tiffany. Just five weeks ago, she received a diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma. During her final weeks, Greta enjoyed all her favorite activities and spent precious time with those who loved her dearly. Her absence will be deeply felt, yet her spirit will remain in our hearts at Golden Oak Medicine. We are grateful for the joy she brought to our patients' lives during their visits.

With Love-
The Golden Oak Medicine Team