Marina del Rey Hospital

07/21/2025

Confused about SPF? You’re not alone. 🧴☀️

SPF 15, 30, 50, 100… what do those numbers actually mean?
This quick guide breaks down how SPF grades work, how much UVB protection they really offer, and how to choose the right level based on your time outdoors.

Because the best sunscreen isn’t just what’s in your bag—it’s the one that fits your life.

07/17/2025

Not all hand sanitizer is created equal—and some may not protect you at all.

From strong scents to cute packaging, it’s easy to grab the most eye-catching bottle. But if your sanitizer doesn’t have at least 60% ethyl alcohol or 70% isopropyl alcohol, it won’t kill most germs—including Hepatitis A, flu, or the common cold.

Learn how to check the label, what ingredients to avoid, and how to choose a hand sanitizer that actually works. Because smelling like a cupcake is fun—but staying germ-free is smarter.

Want to stay protected from viruses like Hepatitis A? Read our expert-backed guide on hand hygiene and why choosing the right hand sanitizer matters: https://ceda.rs/4dQdCIH

07/16/2025

Think your metabolism slows down as you age? Not so fast.

Stephanie Carter, MS, RDN, registered dietitian and nutritionist at Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital, debunks the most common metabolism myths—submitted by our own staff. From calorie confusion to “slow metabolism” fears, she sets the record straight with science-backed facts you can trust.

Want to know what really affects your metabolism, and what doesn’t? Watch now for expert tips on staying healthy and energized at any age.

07/14/2025

Warm weather brings more time outdoors. But without the right precautions, summer fun can lead to sunburn, dehydration, or even a dangerous trip to the emergency room.

Here are five simple tips to stay safe in the sun:

07/11/2025

Is Vitamin D Deficiency Sneaking Up on You?

Vitamin D deficiency remains one of the most common and clinically under-recognized health concerns—even in sunny states like California. Despite year-round sunshine, many people still don’t get enough.

“Many people assume they are getting enough, but we see low levels across all kinds of patients,” said Theresa Burkhard, Pharm.D, Director of Pharmacy at Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital. “Especially those who spend most of their time indoors, have darker skin tones, are older, or have certain health conditions.”

Vitamin D is essential for calcium balance, bone strength, immune function, and more. But too little—or too much—can have consequences. Fatigue, muscle weakness, poor immune response, and brittle bones can all be signs of a deficiency.

The best way to know if you’re getting enough? Don’t guess—get tested. A simple blood test can determine your vitamin D levels and help your doctor decide whether supplementation is necessary.

“Get your levels checked and supplement only as needed based on lab results and clinical guidelines,” Burkhard advised. “With vitamin D, more is not always better. It’s about finding that healthy balance.”

If you're unsure about your levels or have risk factors, ask your provider. A quick test today could support your long-term health for years to come.

07/10/2025

Not all bug sprays are safe for kids. This quick guide breaks down which ingredients parents can trust—and which to avoid.

When it comes to protecting your child from bug bites, choosing the right insect repellent matters. Not all ingredients are created equal—especially when it comes to young, sensitive skin. That’s why it’s important to use bug spray only as directed and choose age-appropriate formulas.

Some ingredients, like DEET under 30%, are safe for children as young as 2 months when used correctly. Others, such as picaridin and IR3535, are known for being low-odor, gentle, and effective. But even plant-based ingredients aren’t always risk-free—oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE/PMD), for example, shouldn’t be used on kids under 3.

Using the product properly is just as important as choosing the right one. Always avoid applying repellent to children’s hands, eyes, or broken skin. Spray onto your own hands first, then apply it to your child’s skin. Use only enough to lightly cover exposed areas, and wash it off once you’re back indoors.

When shopping, skip products with strong essential oils, high DEET concentrations, or anything not clearly labeled for use on children. These can lead to skin irritation or accidental exposure through the mouth or eyes.

Still unsure? Ask your pediatrician. They can guide you toward safe, effective repellents based on your child’s age, skin sensitivity, and outdoor activity plans.

07/03/2025

Did you know high temperatures can make some medications less effective—or even dangerous?

As summer heats up, it’s important to store and transport your prescriptions the right way. Learn how to protect temperature-sensitive medications, avoid common storage mistakes, and stay safe while traveling.

Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay on track with your treatment plan! ☀️

07/03/2025

Leadership, empathy, and teamwork—on and off the field.

The Los Angeles Rams rookies recently visited Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital to uplift patients and staff through connection, compassion, and community spirit. Players Wyatt Bowles, Benjamin Dooley, Ty Hamilton, and Konata Mumpfield handed out Rams flags and footballs, shared heartfelt conversations, and brought smiles to every room they entered.

“It’s a blessing,” said Mumpfield. “I feel like we’re put on this earth to do that, to do things like this and give back."

As the Official Healthcare Partner of the Rams, Cedars-Sinai is proud to support moments that remind us what care—and leadership—truly mean.

06/25/2025

Nothing beats the power of human connection. 💙🏈

The 2025 Los Angeles Rams rookie class brought their A-game to Cedars‑Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital—delivering smiles, signing footballs, and sharing meaningful moments with patients and families. It was a powerful reminder that kindness is the ultimate team effort.

In what’s become an annual tradition, the newest Los Angeles Rams class of rookies was welcomed to Cedars-Sinai. The players were greeted by Bryan Croft, Cedars-Sinai executive vice president and chief operating officer.“We know you’re going to take us to the Super Bowl this year,” Croft sai...

06/24/2025

Can the right diet really ease gut issues like IBS and SIBO?

A new Cedars-Sinai study shows that a specialized low-fermentation diet not only improves symptoms—but also enhances patients' quality of life.

Discover how simple changes to what you eat can make a big difference in managing digestive disorders.

06/20/2025

Thanks for visiting us, Los Angeles Rams! ! 💙🏈

06/18/2025

It’s not just what’s on the surface.

One often-overlooked men’s health issue is adipose visceral fat: fat stored deep in the abdomen, surrounding organs like the liver and intestines. You can’t see it, but it quietly affects how your body functions every day.

Over time, it’s been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, blood sugar issues, poor sleep, low energy, and mood shifts.

Why is this especially important for men?

“As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, and this is linked to increased visceral fat,” says Jeremy Korman, MD, Medical Director of the Cedars-Sinai Marina Weight Management Center. “After age 30, men lose about 1% of testosterone per year, which correlates with increased visceral fat deposition.”

Visceral fat is hormonally active, triggering inflammation that impacts how you feel, function, and recover. If you’re experiencing low energy, disrupted sleep, or just feeling “off,” your body may be asking for support.

The good news is that small changes, like better sleep, daily movement, whole foods, hydration, and stress care, can make a big difference. A quick check-in with your doctor can help you stay ahead.

Because when it comes to your health, how you feel matters most.