Dr. Lisa Belisle

Children’s Health and the Paraben Paradox

By Lisa M. Belisle, MD, MPH
Originally published August 28, 2007, The Maine Switch

I have two nephews and two nieces under the age of four, so the recent news about lead-tainted toys from China hit my family hard. While my children are now school-aged and less likely to be impacted by this problem, I empathized with my sisters. Emily and Amy are caring, responsible mothers, and they have always done what is best for Elijah, Stella, Colby and Eleanor. They would have made different choices regarding their children’s playthings if they had known they might put their babies at risk for developmental delays. What parent wouldn’t?

Celebrate the Dog Days: Take Time Off for Your Health

By Lisa M. Belisle, MD, MPH
Originally published August 7, 2007, The Maine Switch

When the temperature climbs, my dog finds a breezy spot under a window and moves only when absolutely necessary. Lightning (my dog) seems to know that his body needs a respite from the heat, and thus expends as little effort as possible. Lightning has the right idea. During these ‘dog days of summer,’ we should be giving our bodies a break.