What The Health: News & Information To Live Well & Feel Good – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of What the Health, we dive into the importance of staying physically active as a mature adult. Host John welcomes Dr. Sabrena Jo from the American Council on Exercise to discuss effective fitness routines for those in their fifties, sixties, seventies, and beyond.

Dr. Jo explains the balance between the right amount of exercise and over-exertion, the significance of personalized workout programs, and the role of physical activity in maintaining both physical and mental health. Discover how to recognize effective exercise regimens, set realistic goals, and find certified trainers specializing in mature fitness. Tune in to gain valuable advice and inspiration to keep moving at any age.

00:00 Introduction to the Importance of Physical Activity

00:59 Challenges and Questions for Mature Adults

01:25 Expert Insights with Dr. Sabrena Jo

02:23 The Growing Trend of Fitness Among Mature Adults

03:17 The Role of Physical Activity in Managing Health

06:22 Defining Mature Fitness and Setting Realistic Goals

12:47 Building a Personalized Fitness Program

14:20 Finding the Right Fitness Professional

30:54 Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

37:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the American Council on Exercise:

• Website: https://www.acefitness.org/ 

Connect with Sabrena Jo, PhD:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrena-jo-phd-7396a3166

Explore the groundbreaking changes in healthcare with Dr. Jag Singh. From the integration of sensors and biometrics to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, this episode delves into how technology is reinventing medicine. Discover the impact on virtual care, proactive wellness, and individualized treatment, and understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Tune in to get insights from an expert on the forefront of medical innovation.

00:00 Introduction: The Changing Landscape of Healthcare

01:21 Expert Insight: Promises and Challenges of Future Medicine

02:01 Understanding Biometrics and Sensors

04:17 The Power and Potential of Sensors in Healthcare

06:06 Future Applications: From Wellness to Complex Care

16:40 Proactive vs. Reactive Treatment with Sensors

21:31 The Role of AI in Healthcare

26:33 Challenges and Misconceptions

32:30 Conclusion: The Reinvention of Medicine

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with Jag Singh, MD, PhD:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-liebowitz-7b636314/ 
• Website: https://www.jagsinghmd.com/ 

In this episode of 'What the Health,' John welcomes Dr. Leanne Clark-Shirley, President and CEO of the American Society on Aging, to discuss the multifaceted concept of healthy aging in America. They delve into the various definitions of healthy aging, the pervasive issue of ageism and how societal structures and policies support or hinder the aging population. Dr. Clark-Shirley shares her journey into gerontology and provides valuable insights on how individuals and society as a whole can better prepare for and support an increasingly older population. Learn more about the ongoing efforts and initiatives to promote healthy aging and the importance of shifting perspectives away from youth obsession.

00:00 Introduction: The Inevitable Aging Process

01:03 Defining Healthy Aging

02:05 Guest Introduction: Dr. Leanne Clark Shirley

03:22 Diverse Perspectives on Aging

05:57 The Impact of Ageism

10:25 Economic and Social Implications

23:26 Societal Support and Policy

26:58 Innovative Approaches to Healthy Aging

32:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the American Society on Aging:

• Website: https://www.asaging.org/ 
• Twitter: https://x.com/asaging
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asaging/?ref=sgm
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-society-on-aging/

Connect with Dr. Leanne Clark-Shirley:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lclarkshirley/ 

Other Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• AARP's Brain Health Action Collaborative: https://www.aarp.org/brain-health-action/ 
• Sound Health Network: https://soundhealth.ucsf.edu/ 
• SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders):  www.sageusa.org 
• Aging While Black: https://agingwhileblack.co/ 
• National Indian Council on Aging: www.nicoa.org 
• The Third Act: https://thirdact.org/ 

The holiday season often brings indulgent meals and an unhealthy portion of guilt over breaking dietary goals. In this episode of What the Health, we discuss finding a balance between enjoying holiday foods and maintaining a healthy diet with nutrition specialist Dr. Whitney Linsenmeyer from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Learn practical strategies for navigating holiday parties, hosting festive meals, and avoiding extreme diet swings. Tune in for expert advice on enjoying the holidays without sacrificing your health.

00:00 Introduction to Holiday Eating Challenges

01:41 Meet Dr. Whitney Linsenmeyer

02:03 Understanding Holiday Eating Pressures

06:26 Strategies for Healthy Holiday Eating

08:28 Navigating Family and Social Pressures

11:26 Exercise and Physical Activity Tips

12:42 Hosting Healthy Holiday Gatherings

14:49 Alcohol Consumption During the Holidays

15:28 Post-Holiday Resolutions and Mindset

23:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:

• Website: eatrightpro. com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatrightPRO
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatright_pro/
• Twitter: https://x.com/eatrightPRO
• Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eatrightpro/

Connect with Dr. Whitney Linsenmyer:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-linsenmeyer-11189925/ 

In this episode of What the Health, we explore the challenges veterans face upon returning home and how music can play a vital role in their healing process. Host John Salak introduces Terry Radigan, a renowned songwriter involved with SongwritingWith:Soldiers. Terry shares insights into the program, which pairs songwriters with veterans and first responders to create life-changing music. With Veterans Day approaching, Terry discusses the creation and impact of these songs, emphasizing the importance of community and support for those who have served. Tune in to learn more about how you can make a difference and support this powerful initiative.

00:00 Honoring Our Veterans: A National Disconnect

01:23 The Healing Power of Music: SongwritingWith:Soldiers

02:09 Meet Terry Radigan: Songwriter and Healer

02:39 The Mission and Impact of SongwritingWith:Soldiers

07:13 Creating Songs: The Collaborative Process

10:40 Personal Stories and Reflections

24:18 Building a Community Through Music

27:38 Supporting Songwriting with Soldiers

35:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with SongwritingWith:Soldiers:

• Website: https://songwritingwithsoldiers.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/songwritingwithsoldiers/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SongwritingWithSoldiers
• Twitter: https://x.com/songwritingwithsoldiers

In this episode of What the Health, John Salak welcomes Dr. Mary McNaughton-Cassill to explore the rising levels of political stress in the wake of the current U.S. election cycle. The discussion covers how 24-hour news cycles, social media and performance politics contribute to heightened anxiety and stress. Dr. McNaughton-Cassill provides historical context, noting how media evolution has intensified public stress, and explains psychological tendencies to focus on negative news. 

The episode delves into the media's influence on negativity and the loss of public trust, particularly among young people facing rapid technological and societal changes. Practical strategies for managing political stress are shared, such as moderating news intake, engaging with different perspectives and utilizing the ACT formula—Accept Reality, Create Vision and Take Action. The episode also promotes resilience and optimism, encouraging critical thinking and local activism.

00:00 Introduction: The Political Stress Epidemic

01:05 The Impact of Media on Political Stress

01:47 Expert Insights: Dr. Mary McNaughton-Cassill

03:08 Historical Context of Political Stress

04:36 The Role of 24-Hour News Cycles

08:53 Psychological Factors and Media Influence

14:16 Generational Differences in Political Stress

20:44 Coping with Modern Stressors

26:22 Adapting Political Strategies in a Polarized World

27:09 The Role of Education in Understanding Polarization

28:06 Terror Management Theory and Fear in Politics

29:42 The Physical Impact of Political Stress

32:10 Managing News Intake to Reduce Stress

33:54 Couples Therapy Approach to Political Discourse

38:33 The ACT Formula for Stress Management

40:24 Optimism and Resilience in Political Uncertainty

42:23 Concluding Thoughts on Political Stress

45:05 Final Remarks and Resources

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with Dr. Mary McNaughton-Cassill:

Give Way: Coping with Social Stress in the Connected World (Book): https://amzn.to/3BRb0vl

In this episode of What the Health, Meghan Donnelly from the Celiac Disease Foundation explores the challenges and realities of living with celiac disease. Celiac disease is a severe, long-term autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine's ability to absorb nutrients. While celiac disease is tied to gluten ingestion, it differs from gluten sensitivity. The difficulties in diagnosis, asymptomatic nature, and 200-plus potential symptoms of celiac disease are discussed. 

Meghan provides insights into the short- and long-term health impacts and the importance of genetic factors, lifestyle adjustments, and testing options. The necessity of a gluten-free diet is addressed alongside the efforts and obstacles in celiac research, future advancements and the role of the Celiac Disease Foundation. Awareness of potential links to other autoimmune diseases, the global prevalence and the importance of monitoring symptoms in one's diet are also highlighted. Finally, practical tips for managing celiac disease and reliable sources of information are shared, underscoring the importance of self-advocacy and seeking professional guidance.

00:00 Understanding Celiac Disease: An Overview

00:59 Challenges in Diagnosing Celiac Disease

01:35 Ways to Manage and Diagnose Celiac Disease

01:59 Expert Insights: Interview with Meghan Donnelly

02:46 What is Celiac Disease?

04:36 Symptoms and Long-term Impacts

06:06 Increasing Awareness and Diagnosis

07:08 Genetic Factors and Triggers

14:43 Testing and Diagnosis Procedures

23:20 Myths and Misconceptions

26:33 Navigating Gluten-Free Living

32:36 Future of Celiac Disease Research

34:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Connect with the Celiac Disease Foundation:

• Website: https://celiac.org/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/celiacdiseasefoundation 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CeliacDiseaseFoundation
• X: https://twitter.com/celiacdotorg
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/celiacdiseasefndtn 

Connect with Meghan Donnelly:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-donnelly-ms-rd-cdn-12496589/?trk=public_post-text

In this episode of What the Health, we discuss the importance of eye care and common vision problems with Dr. Purnima Patel from the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The conversation covers various topics, including the prevalence and risks of eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. 

Dr. Patel emphasizes that losing vision with age is not inevitable and highlights proactive measures to maintain eye health, such as wearing sunglasses, eating a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, regular exercise and routine eye exams. The episode also debunks myths surrounding eye exams and explains the advanced technologies available for detecting and managing eye conditions. The discussion aims to encourage listeners to take an active role in protecting their vision. Additionally, the episode underscores the societal impacts of chronic conditions like diabetes on eye health and the importance of early detection and treatment.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Eye Health

01:01 Common Eye Problems and Diseases

02:03 Expert Insights: Dr. Patel on Eye Care

02:54 Understanding Vision Changes with Age

12:31 Eye Health Tips and Misconceptions

17:12 Diabetic Eye Disease and Macular Degeneration

23:08 Glaucoma and Other Eye Conditions

33:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa 

Connect with the Academy of Ophthalmology:

• Website: https://www.aao.org/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaoeye/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyEyeSmart
• Twitter: https://x.com/AcademyEyeSmart
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-academy-of-ophthalmology/

Connect with Dr. Purnima Patel:

• Website: https://www.oravisionga.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pspateleyemd/

In this episode of What the Health, John Salak talks with Saskia Salak, a research scientist at NYU's Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab, about the immediate health impacts of climate change. They discuss the growing awareness of climate change, international disparities in understanding its causes and the tangible health risks such as heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues from worsening air quality and the mental health implications of climate change. 

Personal and governmental actions to mitigate and adapt to these changes and actionable steps individuals can take are highlighted. The discussion emphasizes climate justice and addressing the disproportionate effects on vulnerable communities.

00:00 Introduction to the Climate Change Debate

01:26 Personal Impact of Climate Change

02:04 Guest Introduction: Saskia Salak

02:48 Saskia's Journey into Climate Work

04:22 Awareness and Perception of Climate Change

07:53 Defining Climate Change

09:31 Mitigation, Adaptation and Geoengineering

11:38 Challenges in Accepting Climate Change

17:47 Personal Health Impacts of Climate Change

26:59 Understanding the Impact of Fossil Fuels on Climate Change

27:49 The Connection Between Climate Change and Health Issues

27:58 Climate Change and Skin Cancer

28:24 The Role of Ozone and Greenhouse Gases

29:22 Wildfires, Pollution and UV Radiation

30:25 Vector-Borne Diseases and Climate Change

31:43 Food and Water Scarcity

33:41 Mental Health and Climate Change

37:06 Climate Justice and Vulnerable Communities

39:02 China's Role in Climate Change

41:09 Personal Actions Against Climate Change

43:40 Misconceptions and Optimism About Climate Change

46:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa 

Connect with NYU's Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab:

• Website: https://www.sps.nyu.edu/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NYUSPS_ECJS_Lab/ 
• Linked-in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nyu-sps-center-for-global-affairs/

In this episode of What the Health, host John Salak discusses the complexities and misconceptions surrounding sustainable living with Kenny Barnes, Program and Outreach Coordinator for Sustainability Matters. They explore what sustainability truly means, the impact of individual actions, and how systemic change through voting and policy can make a significant difference. 

Kenny also highlights practical steps individuals and families can take to start incorporating sustainability into their lives, focusing on areas like reducing food waste, composting and making eco-friendly choices in the kitchen. The conversation underscores the importance of education, advocacy and community involvement in building a sustainable future.

00:30 Introduction to Sustainable Living

00:48 The Politicization of Sustainability

01:14 Challenges and Judgments in Sustainable Practices

02:19 Introducing Kenny Barnes from Sustainability Matters

03:14 Defining Sustainability

05:55 Practical Aspects of Sustainability

08:56 Generational Perspectives on Sustainability

10:59 Incorporating Sustainable Practices

19:42 The Role of Government and Organizations

23:09 Global Perspectives on Sustainability

24:48 Misconceptions About Sustainability

27:08 Optimism for the Future

29:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Don't miss an episode of What The Health. Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to get the latest news and insights on health and wellness issues delivered right to your device.

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/ 
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/ 
• All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa 

Connect with Sustainability Matters:

• Website: https://www.sustainabilitymatters.earth/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SustainabilityMattersVA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sustainabilitymattersva 
• X: https://x.com/smattersva
• LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/sustainabilitymatters 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sustainabilitymatters