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

In this episode of What the Health, we delve into the often-overwhelming stress many feel during the holiday season. Host John Salak speaks with Dr. Ken Duckworth, Chief Medical Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about the various causes of holiday stress, from unrealistic expectations set by Hallmark movies to seasonal affective disorder. Dr. Duckworth offers practical coping strategies tailored to individual needs, emphasizing the importance of being kind to yourself, limiting social media exposure, and seeking support when necessary. Tune in to learn more about managing stress, finding joy in the season and maintaining mental wellness during the holidays. For more insights and Dr. Duckworth's book, 'You Are Not Alone,' visit NAMI.org.00:00 Introduction: The Joy and Stress of the Holidays01:24 Understanding Holiday Stress with Dr. Ken Duckworth01:53 Individual Experiences and Coping Strategies02:53 The Impact of Idealized Holiday Expectations04:33 Seasonal Affective Disorder and Other Stress Factors07:40 Social Media’s Impact on Holiday Stress14:29 Recognizing Serious Mental Health Symptoms21:42 Coping Strategies and Seeking Help26:43 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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/wellwellusaConnect with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness):Website: https://www.nami.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NAMICommunicate/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NAMI LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nami/ Learn More about Ken Duckworth, M.D.:Website: https://www.nami.org/about-nami/who-we-are/meet-our-leadership/ken-duckworth/ Additional ResourcesYou Are Not Alone Book Series: https://www.nami.org/support-education/publications-reports/you-are-not-alone/ 

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 Process01:03 Defining Healthy Aging02:05 Guest Introduction: Dr. Leanne Clark Shirley03:22 Diverse Perspectives on Aging05:57 The Impact of Ageism10:25 Economic and Social Implications23:26 Societal Support and Policy26:58 Innovative Approaches to Healthy Aging32:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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/wellwellusaConnect with the American Society on Aging:Website: https://www.asaging.org/ Twitter: https://x.com/asagingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/asaging/?ref=sgmLinkedIn: 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 Challenges01:41 Meet Dr. Whitney Linsenmeyer02:03 Understanding Holiday Eating Pressures06:26 Strategies for Healthy Holiday Eating08:28 Navigating Family and Social Pressures11:26 Exercise and Physical Activity Tips12:42 Hosting Healthy Holiday Gatherings14:49 Alcohol Consumption During the Holidays15:28 Post-Holiday Resolutions and Mindset23:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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/wellwellusaConnect with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:Website: eatrightpro. comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatrightPROInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatright_pro/Twitter: https://x.com/eatrightPROLinked-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 Disconnect01:23 The Healing Power of Music: SongwritingWith:Soldiers02:09 Meet Terry Radigan: Songwriter and Healer02:39 The Mission and Impact of SongwritingWith:Soldiers07:13 Creating Songs: The Collaborative Process10:40 Personal Stories and Reflections24:18 Building a Community Through Music27:38 Supporting Songwriting with Soldiers35:12 Conclusion and Call to ActionDon'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/wellwellusaConnect with SongwritingWith:Soldiers:Website: https://songwritingwithsoldiers.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/songwritingwithsoldiers/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SongwritingWithSoldiersTwitter: 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 Epidemic01:05 The Impact of Media on Political Stress01:47 Expert Insights: Dr. Mary McNaughton-Cassill03:08 Historical Context of Political Stress04:36 The Role of 24-Hour News Cycles08:53 Psychological Factors and Media Influence14:16 Generational Differences in Political Stress20:44 Coping with Modern Stressors26:22 Adapting Political Strategies in a Polarized World27:09 The Role of Education in Understanding Polarization28:06 Terror Management Theory and Fear in Politics29:42 The Physical Impact of Political Stress32:10 Managing News Intake to Reduce Stress33:54 Couples Therapy Approach to Political Discourse38:33 The ACT Formula for Stress Management40:24 Optimism and Resilience in Political Uncertainty42:23 Concluding Thoughts on Political Stress45:05 Final Remarks and ResourcesDon'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/wellwellusaConnect 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 Overview00:59 Challenges in Diagnosing Celiac Disease01:35 Ways to Manage and Diagnose Celiac Disease01:59 Expert Insights: Interview with Meghan Donnelly02:46 What is Celiac Disease?04:36 Symptoms and Long-term Impacts06:06 Increasing Awareness and Diagnosis07:08 Genetic Factors and Triggers14:43 Testing and Diagnosis Procedures23:20 Myths and Misconceptions26:33 Navigating Gluten-Free Living32:36 Future of Celiac Disease Research34:49 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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/wellwellusaConnect with the Celiac Disease Foundation:Website: https://celiac.org/Instagram: https://instagram.com/celiacdiseasefoundation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CeliacDiseaseFoundationX: https://twitter.com/celiacdotorgYouTube: 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 Health01:01 Common Eye Problems and Diseases02:03 Expert Insights: Dr. Patel on Eye Care02:54 Understanding Vision Changes with Age12:31 Eye Health Tips and Misconceptions17:12 Diabetic Eye Disease and Macular Degeneration23:08 Glaucoma and Other Eye Conditions33:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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/AcademyEyeSmartTwitter: https://x.com/AcademyEyeSmartLinkedIn: 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 Debate01:26 Personal Impact of Climate Change02:04 Guest Introduction: Saskia Salak02:48 Saskia's Journey into Climate Work04:22 Awareness and Perception of Climate Change07:53 Defining Climate Change09:31 Mitigation, Adaptation and Geoengineering11:38 Challenges in Accepting Climate Change17:47 Personal Health Impacts of Climate Change26:59 Understanding the Impact of Fossil Fuels on Climate Change27:49 The Connection Between Climate Change and Health Issues27:58 Climate Change and Skin Cancer28:24 The Role of Ozone and Greenhouse Gases29:22 Wildfires, Pollution and UV Radiation30:25 Vector-Borne Diseases and Climate Change31:43 Food and Water Scarcity33:41 Mental Health and Climate Change37:06 Climate Justice and Vulnerable Communities39:02 China's Role in Climate Change41:09 Personal Actions Against Climate Change43:40 Misconceptions and Optimism About Climate Change46:18 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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 Living00:48 The Politicization of Sustainability01:14 Challenges and Judgments in Sustainable Practices02:19 Introducing Kenny Barnes from Sustainability Matters03:14 Defining Sustainability05:55 Practical Aspects of Sustainability08:56 Generational Perspectives on Sustainability10:59 Incorporating Sustainable Practices19:42 The Role of Government and Organizations23:09 Global Perspectives on Sustainability24:48 Misconceptions About Sustainability27:08 Optimism for the Future29:24 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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/SustainabilityMattersVAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sustainabilitymattersva X: https://x.com/smattersvaLinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/sustainabilitymatters YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sustainabilitymatters 

In this episode of What the Health, our host interviews Tracy Packiam Alloway, PhD, an award-winning psychologist and author of The Working Memory Advantage. The discussion addresses common concerns about memory lapses and distinguishes between disease-related and everyday memory issues. Dr. Alloway explains the concept of working memory, its vulnerability to stress, and how various lifestyle factors, including diet, exercise and mental practices, can support and enhance memory function across the lifespan. Practical strategies and insights are shared to help improve memory in both adults and children, providing a comprehensive understanding of this vital cognitive function.00:30 Introduction to Memory Lapses01:40 Interview with Dr. Tracy Packiam Alloway02:23 Understanding Memory Loss05:49 Types of Memory and Their Functions09:57 Memory Testing and Its Importance14:35 Improving Memory Function25:50 Supporting Memory in Children28:40 Memory Products and Misconceptions32:29 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDon'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 Tracy Packiam Alloway, PhD:Website: https://tracypackiam.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-packiam-alloway-phd-50063531 Books: https://tracypackiam.com/books Additional Resources: https://tracypackiam.com/senbooks