The Science of Health Podcast

An overwhelming amount of information exists about the best way to eat for long-term health. Breaking through the clutter is challenging and sometimes subjective. Licensed Dietitian, Kelli Santiago, MS, RD, CSSD, LD explains what to look for in the foods you eat or in the lifestyle changes you’d like to make in order to live your healthiest life.

Research is growing every day about the health risks of drinking. From heart health to cancer to damaging the immune system and sleep quality, even small amounts of drinking may be harmful. Medical toxicologist, Ryan Marino, MD, explains alcohol’s impact and whether any level of consumption is a healthy choice.

Integrative oncology provides data-driven therapies to help with pain, insomnia, anxiety and other side effects from cancer treatment. Medical oncologist, Santosh Rao, MD, explains how managing these symptoms can not only relieve side effects, but also improve treatment and outcomes.

From common concerns about weight gain to changes in bone health and sexuality, OB/GYN, Susan Lasch, MD, shares how to live your healthiest life after menopause. This insightful discussion covers the latest research and provides actionable strategies to thrive in this new chapter of life.

Telemedicine exploded during the pandemic and has held steady as a convenient way for people to get the care they need without leaving the house. Brian Zack, MD, explains how telemedicine helps more patients get essential care and why it isn’t just here to stay, but may become the preferred way to see your doctor.

Popular health advice is everywhere. From what to eat to how much to exercise, it can feel overwhelming to make the right choices. Naturopathic doctor, Jacob Wolf, ND, cuts through the noise and shares the evidence behind common health myths.

There are far-reaching consequences of loneliness on physical and mental health, including heart disease, dementia and depression. With half of adults reporting loneliness, psychiatrist Andrew Hunt, MD, shares common causes – from technology to changes in social dynamics – and strategies for improving social connections.

From foggy thinking to the impact on mood and physical health, interrupted sleep has consequences for your health. Kingman Strohl, MD, a specialist in sleep medicine, shares common causes – from stress to complex sleep disorders, and what you can do to get a better night’s sleep.

Retirement looks different for everyone. Studies have shown that prioritizing four key areas can greatly improve your retirement years, both mentally and physically. Martha Sajatovic, MD, a specialist in geriatric psychiatry, shares more and what to do if you’re already retired and feeling a lack of purpose.

Hot flashes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping, mood changes, brain fog, dry skin, joint pain, weight gain – these are just some of what women experience during menopause. Can anything be done to treat or lessen those symptoms? Can diet or medication help? And when is it time to see a clinician for advice? Jean Marino, CNP, a menopause and women’s health expert, comprehensively answers these and other questions she gets on a daily basis.

Becoming a better runner takes more than just desire. Learning how to make your body more efficient is essential. Strengthening core muscles, hydration and sleep patterns all play a role. So does mastering the mental game. How can you push past your obstacles? Laura Goldberg, MD, a sports medicine expert with more than 20 completed marathons, explains how to be a better, faster, stronger runner.

Many people want to be healthier versions of themselves. Taking that first step is the hardest part. What are you stepping into, and will it work? If you’re in a place where you’re finally ready to lose weight and are committed to success, Leena Khaitan, MD, MPH, can help. The Director of Bariatric Surgery provides data on surgical options and valuable information on other weight loss alternatives.

When a family member, friend or loved one says, "I have cancer," it’s hard to know what to say. You may feel emotional – of course you are shocked and sad. But so is your loved one. Oncology-certified social worker Eileen Matteo, LISW-S, OSW-C, describes the things you can do and say (and not say) to be supportive in this very difficult and emotionally charged situation.

Whether it’s caused by a lack of generational wealth, less education, community, trust or oppression, African-Americans are at a disadvantage when it comes to their own health. Data proves it. What does it mean to take a patient-centered approach to clinical care for African-Americans? Primary care physician, Gregory Hall, MD, provides an eye-opening explanation of why disparities exist and what can be done to address them and reverse the trends.

Annual visits to a primary care physician starting early in adulthood can pay large dividends later. Consistent monitoring of weight, blood pressure and other vital statistics tell a story for which a clinician can help write a positive ending. Family medicine doctor, Susan Ratay, DO, explains how starting a relationship with a physician early can impact unforeseen issues later in life. Preventive care can actually be life-saving.

The purpose of pain is to protect you, but for 50 million Americans, the pain is chronic. Pain management specialist, Kutaiba Tabbaa, MD, talks about headaches, back and knee pain, cancer and diabetes-related pain. He explains why a team approach and a motivated patient offer the best opportunity to manage chronic pain. Plus, some promising new therapies are on the horizon.

What happens when a woman’s body changes as a result of aging or pregnancy and childbirth? What’s the impact on her sex life and what options exist for treatment? Jean Marino, CNP, a female sexual health expert, explores these and other questions and others to break down the myths and share the latest science. There are a variety of treatments for arousal, desire and continuing a healthy sex life after menopause.

When you’re pregnant, especially for the first time, it’s hard to make sense of all the advice out there. You want to do everything right for the health of your baby, but you also want to counterbalance friends and family members who may be quick with advice or guidance. Should you really avoid hot tubs when you’re pregnant? What about exercise or coloring your hair? Certified Nurse Midwife, Pamela Hetrick has all the answers, and explains what is true and when to have a good laugh.

Almost one in every three Americans takes a multivitamin. But why? In many cases, nutrients from multivitamins are covered by a healthy daily diet. For some, vitamins and supplements are beneficial. But how do you know if you really need vitamin B, C or D? Or if fish oil or turmeric are right for you? Naturopathic doctor with UH Connor Whole Health, Dr. Jacob Wolf has the answers and helps you do your homework before buying a bottle of pills.

Babies dream more than adults. Waking up during sleep impacts whether a dream is remembered – and some people remember them while others don’t. Does that mean anything? Why are we ‘paralyzed’ while we dream? What does research say about the impact of supplements? Behavioral sleep medicine expert and licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Carolyn Ievers-Landis, PhD has the answers and also examines our ability to control our dreams and get rid of our nightmares.