What The Health: News & Information To Live Well & Feel Good

This episode of the What the Health podcast features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Nell Smircina, a licensed acupuncturist and advocate for the ancient medical practice of acupuncture. The discussion highlights acupuncture’s growing popularity in the U.S., touching on its reported benefits for conditions like pain management, allergies and stress, as well as the safety, effectiveness and misconceptions surrounding the practice. 

Dr. Nell shares her journey from aspiring surgeon to acupuncturist, emphasizing acupuncture’s role within the larger system of traditional medicine and its potential as an integrative remedy in modern healthcare. The episode also covers the importance of choosing a licensed practitioner and how acupuncture is adapting to contemporary needs, such as through telehealth. Resources for further exploration of acupuncture, its benefits and finding qualified practitioners are shared and included below in the show notes.

00:32 Introduction to Acupuncture: Popularity and Questions

01:46 Exploring Acupuncture with Dr. Nell Smircina

02:32 Dr. Nell's Journey into Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine

04:19 Demystifying Acupuncture: Misconceptions and Realities

10:07 The Evolution and Efficacy of Acupuncture

14:47 Acupuncture's Role in Recovery and Pain Management

17:20 Understanding How Acupuncture Works

20:54 Integrating Acupuncture with Traditional Medicine

25:50 Navigating Licensing and Finding a Qualified Acupuncturist

30:24 Closing Thoughts and Resources on Acupuncture

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 of Acupuncturists

• Website: https://asacu.org/ 

Connect with Dr. Nell Smircina:

• Website: https://drnell.com/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-nell-smircina-10094267/ 
• Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/drnellofficial/ 

In today's turbulent world, where societal, political, and environmental challenges seem to abound, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and distressed. In this episode, host John Salak sits down with Dr. Ahona Guha to explore the impact of a broken world on mental health and strategies for coping and thriving amidst adversity.

00:32 Introduction: The Broken World We Live In

01:17 The Impact of a Broken World on Mental Health

01:45 Introducing Our Guest: Dr. Ahona Guha

02:37 Dr. Guha's Journey into Mental Health

04:13 Understanding the Book: Life Skills for a Broken World

05:16 Is the World Really Broken?

06:20 The Global Impact of a Broken World

08:03 The Role of Mental Health in a Broken World

08:23 Understanding the Biopsychosocial Framework

09:43 The Challenge of Addressing Societal Impact on Mental Wellbeing

17:38 The Importance of Seeking Professional Help

19:33 The Misconceptions and Realities of Mental Health

23:58 Joining the WellWell-Being Community

24:29 Health Hacks for a Broken World

25:56 Conclusion: Navigating a Broken World

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. Ahona Guha:

• Website: https://www.ahonaguha.com/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drahonaguha/ 

In today’s episode of What the Health, John discusses the severity of cardiovascular disease with Dr. Harmony Reynolds, a volunteer for the American Heart Association focused on women's issues in cardiovascular health. They discuss the increasing prevalence of heart disease, particularly among women. Dr. Reynolds emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of heart disease, as early diagnosis can be critical. Furthermore, she highlights common misconceptions about heart disease in women and provides practical advice on maintaining heart health. The conversation covers the increasing risk due to lifestyle factors like poor diet and lack of exercise. Important insights are shared about countering these factors and promoting heart health.

00:30 Introduction to Cardiovascular Disease

01:44 The Growing Threat of Heart Disease in Women

01:46 Interview with Dr. Harmony Reynolds on Women's Cardiovascular Health

02:04 Understanding the Perception of Heart Disease in Women

03:24 The Rising Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

03:43 The Impact of Lifestyle Choices on Heart Health

04:59 The Global Impact of Cardiovascular Disease

06:01 The Disproportionate Rise of Heart Disease in Minority Women

06:15 The Connection Between Pregnancy and Heart Disease

07:50 The Importance of Raising Awareness for Women's Heart Health

10:44 The Role of the Medical Community in Heart Health Awareness

16:06 Understanding Heart Attack Symptoms and Prevention

19:37 The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle for Heart Health

25:42 Addressing Challenges in Raising Heart Health Awareness

31:36 Health Hacks 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 Heart Association:

• Website: https://heart.org
• Website: www.goredforwomen.org

Connect with Dr. Harmony Reynolds:

• NYU Langone Health Website: https://nyulangone.org/doctors/1285627695/harmony-r-reynolds 

• Connect with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute:
• Website: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/ 

In today’s episode of What the Health, Professor Angel Algarin from Arizona State University discusses the current status of the HIV epidemic. He highlights the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that despite significant advancements in treatments, HIV remains a consequential national and global issue. The virus continues to impact particular sections of the population, including gay and bisexual men and certain racial/ethnic groups disproportionately. The conversation also touches on the persisting, insidious effects of HIV-related stigma and the need for better awareness regarding prevention, testing and treatment. Effective interventions are available, but access disparities persist. Professor Algarin ends with an optimistic outlook, hoping for an escalation in efforts to reach those who need it the most.

00:31 Introduction to the Current State of HIV

01:30 The Silent Threat of HIV

02:20 Interview with Professor Angel Algarin

02:52 Understanding HIV Stigma and Misconceptions

04:42 The Role of Advocacy in HIV Awareness

05:27 The Importance of HIV Testing and Awareness

09:34 Addressing HIV Stigma in Different Communities

11:47 The Impact of Culture on HIV Perception

22:17 The Future of HIV Epidemic

26:41 Conclusion and Health Hacks

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 Angel Algarin:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angel-algarin-8a3b19151  
• X: https://twitter.com/PHealthAngel 

Connect with Arizona State University:

• X: https://twitter.com/ASUResearch
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/shhlab_asu

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Centers for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/  
• HIV.org
• World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/  

In this What the Health episode, our guest, Dr. Kotwal, discusses the complexities of thyroid conditions and autoimmune diseases. Delving into personalized treatment approaches, long-term management, and common misconceptions, the episode provides valuable insights for listeners. Dr. Kotwal dispels myths, emphasizes individualized care, and shares proactive measures for maintaining thyroid health. Tune in to unravel the intricacies of thyroid well-being with expert guidance from the American Thyroid Association.

Take advantage of other health and wellness insights by joining our WellWell-Being community at WellWellUSA.com for exclusive discounts on a wide range of health products and services.

Chapter Summaries:

00:30 Introduction to Thyroid and its Importance

00:51 Understanding Thyroid Conditions and Autoimmune Diseases

01:50 Interview with Dr. Anupam Kotwal on Thyroid Conditions

02:29 Understanding the Thyroid Gland and its Relation to Autoimmune Diseases

04:36 Exploring the Causes and Dangers of Thyroid Conditions

11:55 Demographics and Thyroid Conditions

20:21 Treatment and Management of Thyroid Conditions

30:09 Misconceptions and Myths about Thyroid Conditions

32:41 Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes for Thyroid Health

35:14 Conclusion, Final Thoughts, and Health Hacks

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 The American Thyroid Association:

• Website: https://www.thyroid.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThyroidAssociation
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amthyroidassn/?hl=en
• X: https://twitter.com/thyroidfriends
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-thyroid-association/

Connect with Anupam Kotwal, MD:

• Bio: https://www.unmc.edu/intmed/divisions/dem/faculty/kotwal.html 
• X: https://twitter.com/DrAKotwal 

Connect with WellWell USA:

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

Welcome to another episode of What the Health. Join our host, John Salak, for an in-depth exploration of sleep apnea—an often-overlooked sleep disorder. In conversation with Dr. Andrew Michael Namen, an American Academy of Sleep Medicine expert, they dissect the neurological impact, testing, diagnosis and treatment options for sleep apnea.

Take advantage of other health and wellness insights by joining our WellWell-Being community at WellWellUSA.com for exclusive discounts on a wide range of health products and services.

Chapter Summaries:

0:00:30 Introduction to Sleep Apnea

0:02:33 Understanding the Prevalence of Sleep Apnea

0:02:54 Exploring the Types and Causes of Sleep Apnea

0:05:49 The Impact of Sleep Apnea on Your Health

0:13:05 Identifying Sleep Apnea Symptoms

0:18:01 Testing and Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea

0:22:36 Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

0:29:38 Living with Sleep Apnea: Personal Experiences and Advice

0:31:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts with Health Hacks

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 The American Academy of Sleep Medicine:

• Website: American Academy of Sleep Medicine | AASM | Sleep | Medical Society

Connect with WellWell USA:

Website: https://wellwellusa.com/

Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/

All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Join hosts John Salak and wellness expert Angie Miller as they unravel the complexities of New Year's resolutions and personal growth. Delving into the allure and challenges of setting resolutions, the conversation emphasizes the need for realistic goal-setting, strategic planning and the role of accountability in achieving sustainable change. Angie's insights highlight the importance of support systems and embracing learning curves while empowering listeners to foster self-belief and redefine success. Tune in for expert guidance on navigating the path to personal wellness.

Take advantage of other health and wellness insights by joining our WellWell-Being community at WellWellUSA.com for exclusive discounts on a wide range of health products and services.

Chapter Summaries:

0:00:30 Introduction to New Year's Resolutions

0:01:32 The Reality of New Year's Resolutions

0:02:51 Guest Introduction: Angie Miller: Perspective on New Year's Resolutions

0:06:22 The Importance of Support and Strategy

0:09:47 The Role of Accountability in Achieving Goals

0:16:28 Angie's Personal Experiences with Setting Goals

0:22:14 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

0:24:19 Health Hacks and Conclusion

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 Angie Miller:

• Website: https://www.angiemillerfitness.com/
• Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strong-mind-strong-body/id1539692297 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiemillerfitness/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angiemillerfitness/?hl=en 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngieMillerFit 

Connect with WellWell USA:

• Website: https://wellwellusa.com/
• Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/

All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Dr. Gregory Scott Brown joins John Salak to unravel the complexities of seasonal depression in this episode of What the Health. They explore how seasonal changes affect mood, energy and behavior, shedding light on the prevalence, risks and remedies for this often underestimated mental health concern. Dr. Brown emphasizes early recognition, self-care strategies and professional intervention as crucial steps in managing seasonal depression.

Take advantage of other health and wellness insights by joining our WellWell-Being community at WellWellUSA.com for exclusive discounts on a wide range of health products and services.

Chapter Summaries:

0:00:30 Introduction to Seasonal Depression

0:01:56 Understanding Seasonal Depression with Dr. Gregory Scott Brown

0:02:51 Exploring the Reality of Seasonal Depression

0:06:20 Seasonal Depression: Who is at Risk?

0:07:19 The Growing Problem of Seasonal Depression

0:08:02 Distinguishing Seasonal Depression from Other Types

0:09:37 Dealing with Seasonal Depression: Strategies and Remedies

0:12:42 Recognizing Seasonal Depression in Others

0:13:22 Confronting Seasonal Depression: Self-Awareness and Professional Help

0:16:00 Health Hacks: Practical Tips for Managing Seasonal Depression

0:17:25 Conclusion: Acknowledging and Addressing Seasonal Depression

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 Dr. Gregory Scott Brown:

• Website: 
• https://www.gregoryscottbrown.com/ 
• Book: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-self-healing-mind-gregory-scott-brown?variant=39727618588706 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregorysbrownmd/?hl=en  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregorySBrownMD/ 

Connect with WellWell USA;

Website: https://wellwellusa.com/

Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/

All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

Join Dr. Jason Fung as he unveils the hidden dangers of diabetes, shedding light on its prevalence, misconceptions, and actionable insights for prevention and treatment. Discover the reversibility of Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes in this informative episode of What The Health.

Take advantage of other health and wellness insights by joining our WellWell-Being community at WellWellUSA.com for exclusive discounts on a wide range of health products and services.

Chapter Summaries:

0:00:30 Introduction to the Diabetes Epidemic

0:01:32 Misconceptions and Ignorance about Diabetes

0:02:49 Introducing the Guest Speaker: Dr. Jason Fung

0:07:56 Understanding the Different Types of Diabetes

0:11:47 The Rising Prevalence of Diabetes in Younger Populations

0:14:47 The Role of Weight and Diet in Diabetes

0:16:22 The Medical Profession's Approach to Diabetes

0:17:47 The Importance of Diet and Lifestyle in Diabetes Management

0:23:44 Demographic Differences in Diabetes

0:24:48 Key Takeaways and Closing Remarks

0:26:17 Health Hacks: Final Thoughts on Diabetes

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 Dr. Jason Fung:

• Website: 
• https://www.thefastingmethod.com/ 
• https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/ 
• Books: https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/books 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjasonfung/ 
• Facebook: https://twitter.com/drjasonfung 

Connect with WellWell USA;

Website: https://wellwellusa.com/

Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/

All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa

In this episode of "What the Health," host John Salak engages in a meaningful conversation with former NFL player Julius Thomas. The interview delves into the topics of concussions and mental health challenges in sports, shedding light on the importance of awareness and education in these areas. Julius Thomas shares his insights and experiences as a professional athlete, emphasizing the significance of identifying and addressing the hidden challenges that student-athletes may face. 

The episode encourages parents, athletes, coaches, and administrators to take charge of recognizing and dealing with these issues, providing guidance on identifying symptoms and seeking professional help when needed. The conversation also highlights the positive impact of sports on physical and mental health while emphasizing the need for a balanced and informed approach to protect the well-being of athletes.

Listeners are encouraged to visit Julius Thomas's website, ParentsPlaybook.com, for further information and resources related to youth sports, mental health and performance.

Take advantage of other health and wellness insights by joining our WellWell-Being community at WellWellUSA.com for exclusive discounts on a wide range of health products and services.

Chapter Summaries:

0:00:30 Introduction to the episode: The Impact of Concussions in Sports

0:02:55 Introducing Special Guest: Julius Thomas

0:04:58 Julius Thomas' Journey to Pursue a Doctorate

0:06:21 The Impact of Sports on Mental Health

0:09:35 The Reality of Concussions in Youth Sports

0:12:32 The Impact of Concussions in Professional Sports

0:17:40 The Importance of Concussion Evaluation

0:20:03 Julius Thomas' Personal Experience with Concussions

0:25:09 Mental Health Challenges in Sports

0:31:51 The Role of Parents and Coaches in Supporting Athletes

0:36:03 Julius Thomas' Personal Journey and Reflections

0:43:31 Health Hacks:The Importance of Awareness and Education

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 Julius Thomas:

Website: 

• https://www.parents-playbook.com/
• https://www.mastery-development.com/

Social Media Links

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julius_thomas/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JuliusThomas80

Connect with WellWell USA;

Website: https://wellwellusa.com/

Join WellWell-Being: https://wellwellusa.com/register/

All Things WellWell USA: https://linkin.bio/wellwellusa