Whole Body Optimism

Embracing Health Optimism: Surprising Health Insights from Dr. Doug Lucas

Join us for an enlightening episode of "Whole Body Optimism for Healthcare Professionals," where your host, Dr. Chrissy, explores groundbreaking approaches to health and wellness with the renowned Dr. Doug Lucas. As a dual board-certified physician in orthopedic surgery and anti-aging/regenerative medicine, Dr. Lucas shares his unique journey from the fine arts to revolutionizing healthspan, bone health, and holistic patient care through his platforms Optimal Human Health MD and Optimal Bone Health MD.
In This Episode:
Introduction to Dr. Doug Lucas: Learn about Dr. Lucas's unconventional path from a ballet dancer to a pioneering physician in optimizing health and longevity.
The Philosophy Behind Optimal Human Health: Discover Dr. Lucas's philosophy on patient care and his mission to provide education and innovative health solutions.
Common Misconceptions in Healthcare: Dr. Lucas addresses widespread misconceptions about diet and lifestyle, particularly the pitfalls of undernutrition and excessive exercise among healthcare professionals.
Strategies for Optimal Health: Uncover practical advice for maintaining muscle mass, optimizing hormones, and enhancing overall wellness through mindful lifestyle choices.
The Twin Study Revisited: Dr. Lucas critically examines the findings and implications of a popular study on vegan diets, offering a nuanced perspective on nutrition and muscle health.
Nutritional Tips for Busy Professionals: Get valuable tips on preparing and choosing foods that support a busy lifestyle without compromising nutritional value.
Addressing Infertility in Healthcare Professionals: Dr. Lucas and Dr. Chrissy delve into the alarming rates of infertility among female healthcare providers and discuss strategies to support fertility through diet and lifestyle adjustments.
Closing Thoughts and Resources: Wrap up with key takeaways and learn how to connect with Dr. Lucas for personalized guidance in achieving optimal health and longevity.
Check out Dr. Lucas online 
Instagram: dr_douglucas
YouTube: Bones, Hormones, and Healthspan
 
Also: Stay connected with Whole Body Optimism for Healthcare Professionals on Instagram and Facebook for more insights into achieving a healthier, happier, and more optimistic life. Whether you're navigating the demanding world of healthcare or looking to enhance your personal wellness journey, this episode is a must-listen.
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Transforming Surgery Departments with Mindfulness and Wellness with Jane Lodato

Jane Lodato currently serves as the Wellness Chief systemwide for Mount Sinai Surgery in New York City and has a private practice teaching and consulting clients throughout the U.S.
Having practiced and studied mindfulness meditation for 25 years, Jane is a graduate of the rigorous Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program sponsored by University of California Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center.  Jane is also certified as a Mindfulness Mentor with additional training focused on dealing with anxiety, fear, anger, and the neuroscience in retraining the brain.
Jane’s prior experience as an executive in global public corporations gave her firsthand experience and insight into the resilience required in fast-paced, high-stress environments. Having earned a BA in Psychology from the University of Oregon, Jane began a marketing career at Nike, went on to work at Apple, led ABC Television’s prime time advertising effort, became SVP of Marketing for Universal Studios Television, founded the Emmy Award-winning Sierra Club Productions, and was Head of Marketing of Silicon Valley Bank.
As a result of her background working with CEOs, Venture Capitalists and Boards, coupled with her experience in leadership and coaching individuals, Jane developed a proprietary form of secular Mindfulness training designed to provide tools to combat burnout and stress for individuals in high performance, demanding environments.
Jane began teaching surgery division chiefs and administrative leadership at Mount Sinai Hospital System in 2019. She continued to expand the program and offerings when New York hospitals were ravaged with the Covid virus. The Mount Sinai Department of Surgery created the Chief of Wellness position to bring Jane on board, where she is affectionately referred to as “The Surgeon Whisperer”!
Jane created systemwide departmental programs that enable clinicians and staff to effectively practice and work in a culture that prioritizes and promotes professional fulfillment and optimizes the function of the Department – with the goal to reduce turnover, burnout, medical and administrative error, and disruptive behavior - as well as to improve productivity and job satisfaction. She provides customized private and group mindfulness training, stress relief coaching, crisis intervention and conflict management support for individuals and groups. Jane incorporates holistic methodologies to include alternative practices that focus on the unique needs of each person, group, and organization.
Contact Jane Lodato
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

The Gut Microbiome and Female Health: Unveiling Crucial Links

Overview: This episode explores the intriguing bi-directional relationship between the gut microbiome and hormone production, particularly focusing on female health. Dr. Chrissy reviews a seminal article from the journal Biology, published in November 2022, which details how different elements of female physiology, such as pregnancy, menstruation, PCOS, and female cancers, are influenced by the gut microbiome.
Key Points Discussed:
Female Health Disparities: Dr. Chrissy highlights the underrepresentation of women in health studies and how various diseases disproportionately affect women, emphasizing the need for gender-specific research in pathophysiology and treatment.
Gut Microbiome's Role in Hormone Regulation: The episode delves into how the gut microbiome affects hormone levels, including estrogen, and how this, in turn, impacts women's health across different stages of life.
Focus on PCOS: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), affecting 8-13% of women worldwide, is discussed in detail. The episode covers how gut microbiota influences PCOS symptoms like insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism.
Female Cancers: The link between gut microbiome dysbiosis and cancers such as breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer is explored. The discussion includes how certain bacteria could potentially influence cancer progression and treatment responses.
Pregnancy and Postpartum: Insights into how a healthy gut microbiome contributes to a healthier pregnancy and postpartum period, potentially influencing everything from preeclampsia to postpartum depression.
Menstrual Cycle: Dr. Chrissy explains how the gut microbiome changes during different phases of the menstrual cycle and its potential effects on premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Menopause and Post-Menopause: The episode discusses how menopause affects gut microbiome diversity and its subsequent impact on health issues prevalent in postmenopausal women, such as osteoporosis and weight gain.
Therapeutic Strategies: Various potential therapeutic strategies like probiotics, fecal transplants, and dietary adjustments are suggested as ways to harness the gut microbiome for better health outcomes in women.
 
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
 

CLEAN SLEEP SERIES #5: Dr. Angella Holliday-Bell with The Power of Sleep: Transforming Health and Productivity

The Power of Sleep: Transforming Health and Productivity
In this enlightening episode of Whole Body Optimism for Healthcare Professionals, host Dr. Chrissy welcomes Dr. Angela Holiday Bell, a renowned sleep specialist and the founder of The Solution is Sleep LLC. Dive deep into the critical importance of sleep and discover how it mirrors the effects of alcohol on cognitive and physiological functions when neglected. Dr. Bell shares her personal journey from battling insomnia during her pediatric residency to becoming an expert in sleep health. Learn about the innovative strategies she employs to help professionals, particularly those on night shifts, optimize their sleep for better health and productivity.
Listeners will gain insights into:
The behavioral and cognitive transformations necessary to combat insomnia and improve sleep habits.
The impact of sleep on overall health, including its influence on fertility and professional performance.
Practical advice for anyone struggling with sleep, especially those waking in the early hours, and how to effectively retrain your sleep cycle.
This episode is packed with actionable tips and compassionate expertise, aiming to empower healthcare professionals to prioritize and revolutionize their sleep habits for a happier, healthier, and more optimistic life.
Tune in to explore how you can turn sleep into your most powerful ally in personal and professional wellness.
Instagram: Dr. Angela Holliday-Bell 
Website: The Solution is Sleep
 
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

CLEAN SLEEP SERIES #4: Unlocking Wellness: Sleep Coach Christine Meyer's Blueprint for Transformative Sleep

🎙️✨ New Episode Alert: Unraveling the Secrets to Better Sleep with Christine Meyer ✨🎙️
Bonjour, friends! Dive into a world where your well-being is the star of the show 🌟. On today's episode of Whole Body Optimism for Healthcare Professionals, I, Dr. Chrissy, had the pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Christine Meyer, a beacon of knowledge in the health and wellness space.
Christine, with her rich background as an ACE certified health coach, yoga body certified breath coach, and more, shares her unique journey from a focus on traditional wellness pillars to the transformative power of good sleep 🌙. Discover how sleep, often overlooked, becomes a cornerstone for achieving a healthier, happier you.
We delve deep into the science behind sleep, its critical role in stress management, and why it's the secret ingredient in your wellness recipe. Christine's passion for helping midlife women navigate the challenges of sleep, particularly during transitional life phases, is truly inspiring.
Plus, get insider tips on clean sleep hygiene practices 🛌, the impact of sleep environment temperatures, and the nuanced challenges healthcare workers face in their quest for restorative rest.
This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a toolkit for anyone looking to prioritize sleep and, by extension, their overall well-being without sacrificing career and personal goals.
Don't let another restless night define your tomorrow. Tune in and transform your approach to sleep, embracing the path to a more optimistic, energetic, and fulfilled life.
Remember, Whole Body Optimism is about more than just feeling good; it's about thriving in every aspect of your life.
Follow Christine for more tips:
Instagram: christinesleepcoach
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

CLEAN SLEEP SERIES #3: Sleep Smarter with Dr. Nishi: Transform Your Nights, Transform Your Life

Join us for an inspiring dive into the transformative power of sleep with Dr. Nishi, where she shares her journey from aspiring pediatrician to a leader in psychiatry and sleep medicine. Learn about the critical role of sleep in combating burnout, the impact of lifestyle choices on our sleep quality, and practical tips for a restful night.
Highlights:
Dr. Nishi's pivot from pediatrics to psychiatry and sleep medicine.
Battling burnout with yoga, meditation, and a holistic approach.
Insights into supplements, the effects of alcohol on sleep, and optimizing your sleep environment.
Empowering healthcare professionals to prioritize wellness and embrace change.
Discover:
How simple changes can lead to profound improvements in sleep and overall well-being.
Dr. Nishi's advice for integrating sleep science into daily healthcare practice.
Tune In: If you're seeking to improve your sleep and by extension, your life, don't miss this enlightening discussion. Follow Dr. Nishi's journey and tips for unlocking the door to better health and vitality.
Stay Connected: Follow us for more episodes on wellness and visit Dr. Nishi's YouTube channel and practice website for deep dives into sleep medicine and integrative psychiatry. Let's embrace better sleep together!
 
Click here to get Dr. Nishi's FREE Clinical Sleep Toolkit
Click here to get Dr. Nishi's FREE Sleep Medicine Pearls for Outpatient Doctors
 
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
 
 

CLEAN SLEEP SERIES #2: The Transformative Power of Sleep: A Deep Dive with Lauren Ziegler

In this enlightening episode of Whole Body Optimism for Healthcare Professionals, Dr. Chrissy sits down with Lauren Ziegler, an expert in mindfulness, yoga therapy, and psychology with a focus on the healing powers of sleep. Lauren shares her personal journey and how it led her to specialize in using yoga therapy to promote restorative sleep and overall well-being. Together, they explore the critical role of sleep in cognitive function, emotional stability, physical health, and how healthcare professionals can navigate the challenges of shift work to find balance and rejuvenation. Discover practical strategies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) and Yoga Nidra, to enhance your sleep quality and embrace a healthier, more fulfilled life.
Introduction to Lauren Ziegler: Learn about Lauren's background in psychology, mindfulness, and yoga therapy, and how her personal experiences shaped her focus on sleep as a fundamental element of health.  [1:00]
The Elixir of Life - Understanding Sleep's Importance: Dr. Matthew Walker's research highlights sleep as an unparalleled healer. Lauren and Dr. Chrissy discuss how sleep offers a mini liberation from daily stresses and rejuvenates the body and mind. [4:00]
Sleep Statistics and Public Health: Addressing the CDC's declaration of insufficient sleep as a public health crisis, they delve into the statistics showing how many adults are sleep-deprived and the consequences of sleeping less than the recommended seven to nine hours. [8:00]
The Impact of Insufficient Sleep: From fatigue and cognitive impairment to long-term health risks like Alzheimer's, explore how lack of sleep affects us in ways we might not immediately recognize. [12:00]
Navigating Sleep Challenges for Healthcare Professionals: Discussing the specific challenges faced by those in the healthcare industry, particularly with 24-hour shifts, and how it impacts patient care and personal well-being. [17:00]
Strategies for Improving Sleep: Lauren introduces CBTI and Yoga Nidra as effective methods for overcoming insomnia and improving sleep quality, sharing how these practices can make a significant difference. [23:00]
Final Thoughts and Takeaways: Reflecting on the importance of prioritizing sleep for overall health and the role of mindfulness and yoga therapy in achieving better sleep. Lauren and Dr. Chrissy emphasize that a holistic approach to sleep can lead to a more optimistic, energetic, and fulfilled life. [34:00]
Resources and How to Connect: Information on how listeners can learn more about Lauren Ziegler's work, access the Sleepful app, and implement the discussed strategies to improve their sleep. [38:00]
Contact Information:
Lauren Ziegler's Website: LaurenZiegler.com/Sleepful
Lauren Ziegler's Sleep Retreat
Whole Body Optimism for Healthcare Professionals: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more tips on achieving whole body optimism.
Closing: Thank you for joining us on this journey through the transformative power of sleep. Remember, making sleep a priority is a step towards a happier, healthier, and more optimistic you. Tune in next time for more insights on whole body wellness for healthcare professionals.
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
 

CLEAN SLEEP SERIES #1: Restoring Wellness: Interview with Dr. Jamie Coleman and Discussion on Insights into Sleep, Stress, and Self-Care

Let's kick off the month of April with a "Clean Sleep" Series!! 
Guest: Dr. Jamie Coleman, Associate Professor of Surgery and Vice Chair of Wellness at the University of Louisville
Episode Summary: Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Jamie Coleman, a trauma surgeon with a profound interest in the intersection of sleep, stress, and wellness in the medical profession. Dr. Coleman shares her personal and professional journey from aspiring to be a surgeon since childhood, influenced by her microbiologist grandmother, to her current role focusing on the wellness of physicians and surgeons through sleep research.
Key Takeaways:
A Surgeon's Path: Dr. Coleman recounts her initial dream of becoming a surgeon, her general surgery training in Chicago, and her trauma and critical care fellowship in Atlanta, leading to her passion for addressing physician wellness.
Research on Sleep Deprivation: As a principal investigator for significant studies, Dr. Coleman delves into the physiologic impact of sleep deprivation, stress, and burnout amongst physicians, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to promote better sleep habits and overall wellness.
Finding Your Purpose: Dr. Coleman encourages medical students, residents, and established physicians to remain open-minded throughout their careers, allowing for pivots that align more closely with their authentic selves and passions.
Practical Advice for Improved Sleep: Dr. Coleman offers actionable advice for better sleep hygiene, including the importance of tracking sleep, maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, and creating an optimal sleep environment.
Connect with Dr. Coleman:
Learn more about Dr. Coleman's research and access resources for improving sleep and reducing burnout through the links provided in the podcast notes.
Closing Thoughts: This episode highlights the critical importance of addressing sleep and wellness within the healthcare profession. Dr. Coleman's insights remind us that taking care of ourselves allows us to better care for our patients, reinforcing the idea that wellness is not just a personal responsibility but a professional necessity.
Dr. Coleman Instagram
 
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
 

Meet the Natural Heart Doctor - Dr. Jack Wolfson

Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, best-selling author, husband and father, and the Nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor. For over two decades, more than a million people have experienced the transformational power of his care and strategies on Natural Heart Health originating from his Scottsdale, AZ practice. He is named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. His book, The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health, is an Amazon #1 best seller.
Dr. Jack Wolfson is a doctor who is done seeing patients die at the hands of our current Big Pharma-driven medical system. He has a different, and logically proven, natural approach to today’s critical heart and health conversations. By replacing the “standard of care” with eating well, living well, and thinking well, Dr. Jack speaks on alternative care for heart health, cholesterol, mold toxins, thyroid issues, anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, long COVID, mask wearing, and more. He is anti-statin drugs, and is an advocate for a healthy gut, diet, sunshine, exercise, and sleep.
Follow him online:
Natural Heart Doctor Website
Instragram 
Facebook
TikTok
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Interview with Dr. Robyn Tiger StressFreeMD.com

My exciting interview with Dr. Robyn Tiger is for you if you are looking for ways to reduce stress and find more ways to prioritize your own well-being without sacrificing your career and personal goals! Dr. Tiger trained as a radiologist and she really knows how to see way beyond what you can see with the human eye. That "x-ray" vision allows her to nurture what lies deeper in our inner selves. I learned so much from our interview and I know you will too!! 
 
Lifestyle Medicine, an emerging specialty within the medical field, prioritizes lifestyle-based interventions for the prevention, management, and in some cases, treatment of various diseases. This approach advocates for a holistic view of health, acknowledging the profound influence of our lifestyle choices on our overall well-being.
Dr. Robin Tiger is a pioneer in this field. As the founder of StressFreeMD, Dr. Tiger holds board certification in Lifestyle Medicine, alongside credentials as a certified life coach, yoga therapist, and an iRest® meditation instructor.
Renowned for her expertise in stress management with the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, Dr. Tiger underscores the necessity of recognizing and addressing stress as a means to avert professional burnout. Through her guidance, healthcare professionals are equipped with practical tools and strategies, fostering a life that is both balanced and enriching.
Check out her awesome website or follow her for inspiration on Instagram! 
StressFreeMD.com
Dr. Tiger on Instagram
 
Read the Terms of Use before listening to the Whole Body Optimism Podcast. This podcast is for entertainment, informational, and general educational purposes only and should not be considered to be healthcare advice or medical diagnosis, treatment or prescribing. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.