epocrates

What your patients are reading: Week of June 2, 2025

June 6, 2025

Keeping you a step ahead is our priority. That's why we've gathered some of the top stories your patients might be reading. Here are this week's highlights:

Billy Joel diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, cancels performances

(People)—Billy Joel was notably absent from the June 4, 2025 premiere of his two-part documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes at the Tribeca Festival, following his recent diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). NPH is a rare neurological disorder characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles, leading to symptoms such as impaired balance, vision, and hearing. Joel, 76, has canceled all upcoming performances and is undergoing targeted physical therapy under medical supervision. His care team has advised against performing during his recovery, and he has expressed gratitude for the support of fans and the quality of his medical care.

Daily coffee linked to healthier aging in women, Harvard study finds

(Newsweek)—A 30-year analysis of 47,513 women in the Nurses’ Health Study suggests that moderate midlife caffeine intake—about 315 mg/day from coffee—may promote healthier aging. Defined as survival past age 70 without major chronic disease, cognitive decline, or physical impairment, healthy aging was significantly more likely among regular coffee drinkers. No similar benefit was seen with tea, decaf coffee, or cola; in fact, cola consumption was linked to poorer aging outcomes. Researchers controlled for lifestyle and dietary factors. Lead author Sara Mahdavi noted coffee’s potential to support both mental and physical function when paired with healthy habits, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking.

‘Fibermaxxing’ trend promotes gut health, but experts urge caution

(Women's Health)—The TikTok-driven “fibermaxxing” trend encourages high fiber intake—often via smoothies and supplements—to mimic satiety effects of GLP-1 agonists. While it highlights fiber’s benefits, including improved glycemic control and reduced chronic disease risk, experts warn of potential harms from rapid increases. Most adults fall short of the recommended 25 g/day for women and 38 g/day for men. Fibermaxxing often exceeds these targets, which can lead to bloating, cramping, erratic digestion, and, in rare cases, GI blockages or nutrient malabsorption—especially without adequate hydration. Nutritionists advise a gradual, food-first approach to avoid discomfort and support long-term adherence. Sudden overconsumption may disrupt digestion and deter sustained dietary change.

Any views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in these articles are solely that of the publication and/or author and do not reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of epocrates and athenahealth.

Sources:

Kaplan, I. (2025, June 4). People. Billy Joel Absent from His Star-Studded Documentary Premiere After Revealing Rare Brain Condition Diagnosis. https://people.com/billy-joel-absent-from-documentary-premiere-after-brain-condition-diagnosis-11747766

Kim, S. (2025, June 2). Newsweek. Scientists Reveal Popular Drink That Helps Women Age Well. https://www.newsweek.com/drinking-coffee-helps-healthy-aging-women-new-study-2079767

Bradfield, H. (2025, June 4). Women’s Health. Why everyone on TikTok is suddenly ‘fibremaxxing’ – and nutritionists are warning of risks. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/food/healthy-eating/a64954762/tiktok-fibremaxxing-trend/