Top 5 Patient Education Stories of 2025

From practical, everyday health tips to timely safety alerts and emerging research that offers real hope, The Educated Patient’s most-read stories of 2025 reflected what patients and caregivers needed most: clear, trustworthy information that empowers better decisions.

These top five patient education stories stood out for their impact, relevance and ability to translate complex medical topics into meaningful guidance for real life. Together, they capture a year defined by prevention, awareness and progress across chronic disease, mental health, medication safety and breakthrough science.

1. The Order of Eating: How It Impacts Blood Sugar for People with Diabetes

Postmeal blood sugar spikes can contribute to fatigue and are a particular concern for people with diabetes, but research shows that the order in which you eat foods can help reduce these increases. Studies suggest that starting meals with fiber-rich vegetables, followed by protein and healthy fats, and saving carbohydrates for last can slow digestion and lead to more stable blood sugar levels. Combined with healthy habits like balanced nutrition, portion control and regular physical activity, this simple strategy can be a helpful tool for improving blood sugar management.

2. Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder, With Molly Sherb, Ph.D.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression linked to reduced daylight in fall and winter that goes beyond temporary “holiday blues,” often causing persistent low mood, fatigue and changes in sleep or appetite. People at higher risk include those living in northern regions, women, young adults and individuals with a family history of mood disorders, according to Molly Sherb, Ph.D., of Mount Sinai. Effective treatments include light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, medications when appropriate, and supportive lifestyle habits like regular sleep routines, movement, nutritious eating and increased exposure to daylight.

3. FDA Issues Recall for Popular Blood Pressure Medication

In August, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalled more than 11,000 bottles of spironolactone 25-mg tablets after a possible aluminum contamination was identified in a specific lot. Spironolactone is a diuretic that is mainly used in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, although it is also prescribed to treat fluid retention among people with kidney disorders or liver cirrhosis, as well as hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood).

4. What Dry January Can Teach Us About Alcohol Use Disorder

Dry January can be a helpful reset, but struggling to cut back, experiencing withdrawal symptoms or repeatedly failing to stop drinking may signal an underlying alcohol use disorder rather than a temporary habit. Peter Vernig, Ph.D., MBA, says these warning signs should not be ignored, as physical discomfort or loss of control can indicate a need for medical support. Treatment options range from outpatient therapy and peer support groups to medications and inpatient care, and addressing mental health alongside alcohol use is key to long-term recovery.

5. Potential Revolutionary Therapy Shows Promise in Autism Treatment

A Phase 2 study presented at the 2025 International Society for Autism Research meeting found that the experimental medicine L1-79 may improve social skills in teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. In the 12-week study of 58 participants ages 12 to 21, those taking L1-79 showed nearly an 8-point improvement on a standard measure of real-world social functioning, a change considered clinically meaningful. Clinicians and caregivers also reported overall symptom improvement, and the drug was well tolerated with no serious side effects.