NHA Today Podcast

In the world of health and wellness, many terms are tossed around, often becoming buzzwords. But what do they really mean? One such term is "whole-person health." What is it, and why is it important? In a recent episode of the Health Science Podcast, hosted by Dr. Frank Sabatino and sponsored by the National Health Association, Dr. Matthew Lederman, a board-certified internal medicine specialist and bestselling author, delves into the concept of whole-person health and its significance.

The Journey to Holistic Health

Dr. Lederman began his career in traditional internal medicine but quickly recognized the limitations of focusing solely on symptoms rather than the entire person. This realization led him to explore a more holistic approach to healthcare, integrating lifestyle and nutritional strategies alongside conventional treatments.

Understanding Whole-Person Health

Whole-person health, as explained by Dr. Lederman, is an approach that considers all aspects of a person's well-being, including physical, emotional, mental, social, and even spiritual health. Instead of treating isolated symptoms or conditions, this method looks at how different aspects of a person's life influence their overall health. By addressing the root causes of illness and promoting a balanced lifestyle, whole-person health aims to achieve optimal well-being.

Why Whole-Person Health Matters

The importance of whole-person health lies in its comprehensive approach. Traditional medicine often focuses on specific symptoms or diseases, sometimes neglecting the interconnectedness of various aspects of health. Whole-person health acknowledges that factors such as diet, exercise, stress levels, relationships, and emotional well-being are all interrelated. By addressing these areas together, individuals can experience more profound and lasting health improvements.

Dr. Lederman's Insights

Dr. Lederman emphasized the role of nutrition in whole-person health, advocating for a plant-based diet rich in whole foods. According to Dr. Lederman, the right nutrition can significantly impact physical health, mental clarity, and emotional stability. He also highlighted the importance of stress management techniques such as mindfulness and meditation, which can enhance emotional and mental well-being.

www.HealthScience.org/podcast/093-Dr-Matthew-Lederman

From chemical engineering to leading advocate for veganism and plant-based nutrition, Dr. Faraz Harsini's career transformation is as captivating as a bestselling mystery novel. As the founder and CEO of Allied Scholars for Animal Protection (ASAP), his story illustrates how a shift in perspective can drive significant changes in public health and animal welfare.

Early Influences and Career Shift

Dr. Harsini's journey into animal protection began with his early involvement in alleviating suffering. Inspired by the work of Patch Adams, he volunteered as a hospital clown, bringing joy to children battling cancer. This experience ignited a desire in him to make a more meaningful impact, prompting a shift from studying chemical engineering to pursuing a PhD in biomedical sciences with a focus on cancer research.

Awakening to Plant-Based Living

A pivotal moment in Dr. Harsini's life occurred when he began to question the dietary beliefs he had grown up with. Raised in a culture where meat consumption was deemed essential for health, a conversation with a friend challenged his views on animal products. This, coupled with growing awareness of the ethical and environmental consequences of meat consumption, led him to adopt a vegetarian and eventually a vegan lifestyle.

Impact of Plant-Based Diet on Health

Dr. Harsini's transition to a plant-based diet was more than a personal choice; it marked a professional epiphany. He realized that reducing animal product consumption could have a profound impact on health outcomes, particularly in preventing diseases like cancer. His research revealed that many leading causes of death, including cancer and heart disease, are preventable through lifestyle changes, further solidifying his commitment to advocating for plant-based nutrition as a key strategy for enhancing public health.

More about Dr. Harsini at: https://www.healthscience.org/podcast/092-Dr-Faraz-Harsini

Every year, billions of animals suffer unimaginable cruelty in factory farms, living in appalling conditions before meeting a brutal end. This stark reality forms the backdrop for the inspiring journey of Bobby Sud, an animal rights photographer and photojournalist.

A Journey from Health Crisis to Plant-Based Advocacy

Bobby Sud's path to veganism was deeply personal. Once weighing 300 pounds and suffering from type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension, Bobby's health was in dire straits. Living in Austin, Texas, he was inspired by his identical twin brother, who had adopted a plant-based lifestyle and experienced profound health benefits. Despite witnessing his brother's transformation, it took Bobby three years to make the leap himself, moving to Los Angeles to embrace a new way of living.

Bobby doesn't hold back when sharing the emotional and psychological hurdles he faced in making such a significant lifestyle change. For someone whose only source of joy was food, giving up unhealthy eating habits was a daunting task. He emphasized how isolating poor health can be and how terrifying it was to trust in the possibility of finding joy in other aspects of life.

 The Road Less Eaten: Exploring Global Vegan Culture

Bobby's passion for plant-based living extended beyond personal health. He was curious about how different cultures around the world embraced plant-based diets. This curiosity led to the creation of "The Road Less Eaten," a travel show inspired by Anthony Bourdain's style but focused on vegan cuisine and culture. Together with actress Ally Eisman, Bobby explored veganism in countries like Israel and Ireland, showcasing the universal appeal of plant-based food.

Despite the show's potential, it faced significant challenges in securing advertising and network support, ultimately leading to its premature end. However, the experience opened doors for Bobby, connecting him with influential figures in the animal rights movement and allowing him to transition into more impactful work.

 Learn more about Bobby Sud: https://www.healthscience.org/podcast/091-Bobby-Sud 

The health of children today is a growing concern, with rising rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and early signs of heart disease becoming increasingly prevalent. Recent studies have shown that even children as young as 10, consuming a standard American diet (SAD), exhibit fatty streaks in their blood vessels—a precursor to heart disease. Type 2 diabetes, once primarily an adult disease, is now being diagnosed more frequently in adolescents. These alarming trends highlight the urgent need for better nutritional education and lifestyle changes from an early age.

Dr. Roxanne George's Journey into Lifestyle Medicine

One medical professional who is committed to turning these trends around is Dr. Roxanne George, a board-certified pediatrician. On the most recent episode of the NHA Health Science podcast, Dr. George shared her transformative journey and insights into combating these health challenges with host, Dr. Frank Sabatino.

Initially drawn to epigenetics and cystic fibrosis research during her college years, Dr. George's career trajectory shifted significantly when she moved to Houston. There, she encountered alarmingly high childhood obesity rates, which underscored the inadequacies of current nutritional education in pediatric care.

Discovering the Impact of Plant-Based Nutrition

In Houston, Dr. George discovered the critical need to address childhood obesity and nutritional deficiencies. Her research revealed flaws in traditional dietary recommendations, particularly those promoting dairy consumption for calcium. She found that dairy products were associated with increased risks of cancer, diabetes, and high saturated fat levels. This revelation prompted Dr. George to explore plant-based nutrition as a healthier alternative.

A Personal and Professional Transformation

Dr. George's deep dive into the benefits of a plant-based diet led to a personal and professional shift. Influenced by seminal works like the China Study, she embraced a plant-based lifestyle almost overnight. This shift not only improved her own health but also reinforced her commitment to advocating plant-based nutrition within her pediatric practice.

Addressing Early Onset of Chronic Diseases

Dr. George is particularly concerned about the early onset of chronic diseases among children. The presence of fatty streaks in the blood vessels of 10-year-olds and the rising incidence of type 2 diabetes in adolescents highlight the critical need for dietary interventions. She advocates for a plant-based diet rich in fiber and low in saturated fats to combat these trends and improve long-term health outcomes.

Integrating Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine

Dr. George's practice integrates nutrition and lifestyle medicine into every pediatric visit. While her colleagues may not all be plant-based, they share a commitment to promoting nutrition and healthy lifestyles. Dr. George emphasizes the gradual incorporation of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into meals, making dietary transitions smoother and more sustainable for families.

 www.HealthScience.org/podcast/090-Dr-Roxanne-George

Vicki Brett-Gach, a prominent advocate for plant-based nutrition and lifestyle, recently brought her wealth of experience and passion to the NHA Health Science Podcast hosted by Dr. Frank Sabatino. Her appearance is an inspiration and she offered practical advice for listeners interested in exploring the benefits of plant-based diets and integrating them into their lives.

Journey to Plant-Based Wellness

Vicki Brett-Gach, a certified Vegan Lifestyle Coach and Educator, has dedicated her career to promoting the transformative benefits of plant-based eating. Her journey began as a personal quest for health and vitality, which she now shares through her coaching practice and public engagements.

Exploring Plant-Based Nutrition 

During her conversation, Vicki touched upon several pivotal themes about the plant-based lifestyle. 

Energy and Vitality: Vicki emphasized how transitioning to a plant-based diet can significantly boost energy levels and enhance overall well-being. She shared personal anecdotes and success stories from her coaching practice, illustrating the transformative power of nutritious plant foods.

Navigating Challenges: Recognizing the evolving landscape of dietary choices, Vicki discussed practical strategies for overcoming initial challenges when adopting a plant-based lifestyle. She highlighted the increasing accessibility of plant-based options and the growing awareness in mainstream dining.

Community and Support: Vicki underscored the importance of community in sustaining dietary changes. She discussed how online platforms and local gatherings play a crucial role in providing support and sharing resources among like-minded individuals.

Culinary Creativity: As a passionate culinary enthusiast, Vicki shared insights into creating delicious and nutritious plant-based meals. She encouraged listeners to explore diverse flavors and cooking techniques, making healthy eating both enjoyable and accessible.

Read more https://www.healthscience.org/podcast/089-Vicki-Brett-Gach 

Dr. Scott Harrington's interest in medicine and healthy living began early in life, deeply influenced by his mother's struggles with weight. Watching her navigate these challenges, he developed a fascination with diet books and a desire to help others achieve better health. However, it wasn't until 2012, after watching the documentary "Forks Over Knives," that his perspective shifted significantly. The film, which highlights the benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet, inspired him to embrace veganism and adopt a more holistic approach to health.

Military Experience and Plant-Based Transformation

As an active-duty Army physician, Dr. Harrington faced personal health challenges, including maintaining his own weight. Despite efforts to manage his weight through portion control and intense exercise, he often felt hungry and deprived. A turning point came when a Special Forces soldier introduced him to the plant-based diet, emphasizing its performance benefits. This encounter, coupled with the influence of "Forks Over Knives," led Dr. Harrington to adopt a plant-based diet, transforming his approach to health and wellness.

Integrating Military Insights into Healthcare

Dr. Harrington's military service, including deployments in Afghanistan, profoundly shaped his understanding of trauma and recovery. He emphasized the importance of normalizing responses to traumatic experiences, such as PTSD, and helping patients view their reactions as typical under extreme conditions. This empathetic approach has been crucial in his practice, allowing him to build trust and provide effective care for veterans and others dealing with significant stress and trauma.

Transitioning from Military Service

After years of long deployments and rigorous schedules, Dr. Harrington sought a change from his demanding life in active duty. Desiring more time with his family and a less strenuous routine, he decided to transition to a career that allowed him to work from home. This shift led him to a telemedicine provider called American Well, similar to Teladoc or Doctors On Demand, where he served as a staff doctor.

The Telemedicine Experience

During his two years at American Well, Dr. Harrington was licensed in multiple states, allowing him to reach a wide range of patients. While the job provided the convenience of working from home, it lacked continuity of care. The nature of telemedicine meant he often saw new patients with minor ailments, leaving him unfulfilled professionally. He found himself yearning for deeper, more meaningful patient interactions and the opportunity to discuss lifestyle medicine more comprehensively.

Learn more at: www.HealthScience.org/podcast/088-dr-scott-harrington

In the realm of health and wellness, some individuals find ways to intertwine their professional pursuits with their spiritual missions. Cyd Notter is one such individual. As an ardent advocate for plant-based nutrition and the author of "The Plan A Diet," Cyd uses her business as a platform to carry out her ministry. 

In a recent episode of the Health Science Podcast, Cyd shared insights into her journey, the power of community, and practical tips for overcoming barriers to a healthy lifestyle.

The Intersection of Business and Ministry

Cyd's commitment to health goes beyond the bounds of business; it is her ministry. Inspired by her faith and the belief that our bodies are wonderfully made, she founded the "Wonderfully Made Ministry." This initiative aims to promote healthy eating within her church community through weight loss challenges, cooking demonstrations, and educational talks. Despite modest attendance, Cyd remains undeterred, driven by the belief that even reaching a few individuals can make a significant difference.

The Power of Encouragement and Community

One of the recurring themes in Cyd's conversation was the power of encouragement and community. Reflecting on a quote by Clint Eastwood—"He gets up every morning and goes outside and doesn't let the old man in"—Cyd emphasized the importance of staying active and vibrant regardless of age. This sentiment resonated deeply with her and underscored her belief in breaking free from societal age-related stereotypes.

Addressing Resistance to Change

A significant portion of the conversation revolved around common barriers to adopting a healthier lifestyle. Cyd identified twelve specific reasons that often deter individuals from making lasting changes, including pain avoidance, emotional eating, food addictions, and ingrained habits. The avoidance of discomfort is a major hurdle for many people.  Cyd emphasizes that people who are successful long-term are willing to endure the short-term period of discomfort needed to get over the hump.

Family and peer pressure also play a significant role. Cyd cited an article suggesting that the lack of household support is the biggest reason for failure in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

https://HealthScience.org/podcast/087-Cyd-Notter

Since 1972, Helen Demes has been on an unwavering quest fueled by compassion. It all started at the age of nine when a black-and-white commercial aired by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), depicting the harrowing clubbing of harp seals. This profound moment ignited a lifelong dedication to animal welfare, shaping her path from a young age. 

Hailing from Cocoa Beach, Florida, Helen's fervor for animals blossomed as she spent her weekends volunteering at a sanctuary in Melbourne until she completed high school.

From Military Service to Animal Advocacy

After high school, Helen joined the military but remained committed to supporting animal welfare organizations financially. Eventually, she earned a degree in aerospace engineering and trained as a veterinary technician to prepare for her dream of running an animal rescue.

Establishing Sunset Farm Sanctuary

In 2016, Helen left her corporate job in Washington, D.C., and started Sunset Farm Sanctuary in Oregon with the support of her partner, Brian. Due to a number of factors, Helen and Brian relocated 141 animals, including disabled ones, to a new location in Arkansas, a logistical challenge that Helen navigated with determination.

The Sanctuary's most recent rescue was of 150 cats that came out of a hoarder situation.

Full post www.HealthScience.org/podcast/086-Helen-Demes 

Did you know that cardiovascular diseases claim approximately 17.9 million lives yearly worldwide? As well, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death among many age groups. To bring the light of day to these shocking facts, we've invited Dr. Daniel Chong, renowned naturopathic physician, to join Dr. Frank Sabatino on the latest episode of the NHA Health Science Podcast! 

Discover fascinating insights into combating cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of global mortality. Every day, 2,300 Americans succumb to cardiovascular conditions, emphasizing the urgency of proactive measures. 

With Dr. Chong's expertise, learn innovative strategies for prevention and treatment, exploring the transformative power of holistic approaches. From the surprising fact that heart attacks peak on Monday mornings to the staggering impact of high blood pressure affecting over 1.13 billion people worldwide, we uncover compelling truths about heart health. 

Tune in now to learn about the role of lifestyle medicine, evidence-based nutrition, and preventive care in prioritizing cardiovascular wellness. Let's embark on this enlightening journey together and take proactive steps towards healthier hearts! 

Listen to the episode featuring Dr. Daniel Chong here: www.HealthScience.org/podcast/085-Daniel-Chong  #NHAHealthSciencePodcast #HeartHealth #HolisticApproaches

Did you know that 90% of Type II diabetes cases are preventable through lifestyle changes? In our latest episode of the #NHAHealthSciencePodcast, we dive deep into this statistic with Marc Ramirez. Marc shares his inspiring journey of how he reversed his Type II diabetes through simple lifestyle modifications, particularly adopting a plant-based diet. His story is a testament to the power of food in transforming our health.

But it's not just about genetics. Marc emphasizes that our family history doesn't have to dictate our health outcomes. By making conscious choices about what we eat and how we live, we can significantly reduce our risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

Tune in to hear Marc's firsthand account of how he went from being at risk of a health crisis to thriving with vitality. His experience sheds light on the importance of taking control of our health destiny and making informed decisions about our lifestyle.

Join us for this enlightening conversation on the #NHAHealthSciencePodcast hosted by @drfranksabatino. Listen now at www.HealthScience.org/podcast/084-Marc-Ramirez  and start your journey to better health today! #HealthAndWellness #PlantBasedLiving