• Before you hit record, consider whether a photo might tell the story just as well. Videoheavy social platforms require enormous amounts of data storage and streaming power, which translates into a significant carbon footprint. Short videos can be fun and engaging, but a single photo post uses far less data and energy to upload, store and view. When a picture can communicate the same message, choosing a photo over a video is a simple way to reduce your digital impact.

Dear Doctors: I just finished a tough year in grad school, and my diet hasn’t been that great. I know your gut microbiome has a lot to do with good health, and I want to get mine into better shape. I’m thinking about probiotic capsules, but it’s confusing. How do you know which ones to take?

• Do you want to prevent wasps and hornets from building nests on your house? Instead of reaching for chemical insecticides, fill a spray bottle with soap and water and spray the nest directly. This simple method works because the soapy mixture clogs the insects’ breathing pores while also creating a slick surface that helps break down the nest. The residual soap can also make the area slippery enough to discourage new nests from forming in the same spot. For best results, spray in the evening or early morning, when wasps and hornets are less active and inside the nest.

Dear Doctors: On Dr. Eve Glazier’s podcast, a dentist strongly recommended using a tongue scraper for oral health. Then I came across one of your columns, which warns against cleaning one’s tongue. I’m confused. Can someone clear this up?