Podcast
Health Matters
Hosted by NewYork-Presbyterian · EN
Your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.
If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical excellence, Health Matters features the latest news and insights from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our academic partners Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine. To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org
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How Can You Protect Your Joints?
2w ago00:14:45Summary readyJoints play a critical role in how we move, stay active, and maintain independence—but joint pain and arthritis can make everyday activities challenging. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Nana Sarpong, an orthopedic surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, about how joints function and what happens when cartilage wears down. Dr. Sarpong explains the difference between mechanical osteoarthritis and inflammatory forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, including how each impacts joint movement, pain, and stiffness. The conversation covers conservative treatment strategies such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, bracing, and injections—along with when surgery becomes the right option. Dr. Sarpong also explains how modern joint replacement surgery works, how long implants now last, and what recovery looks like. Dr. Sarpong debunks common myths, including whether cracking your knuckles is harmful, if weather really affects joint pain, and the idea that people with arthritis should avoid movement. His key message: motion really is lotion—and staying active is essential for protecting your joints and preserving long-term mobility. Chapters 00:00 – What Are Joints and How Do They Work? An overview of joint anatomy, function, and why joints are essential to movement 04:30 – Arthritis and Joint Conditions The difference between osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis, causes of joint pain and stiffness 08:45 – Treating Joint Pain and Arthritis Conservative care, physical therapy, injections, and when surgery becomes the right option 12:00 – Protecting Your Joints and Busting Myths Exercise, weight management, common misconceptions, and the importance of staying active Key Topics Covered How joints function in the body Osteoarthritis vs. rheumatoid and inflammatory arthritis Causes of joint pain, stiffness, and cartilage loss Physical therapy and non-surgical treatments Joint replacement surgery and recovery Exercise recommendations for joint health Weight loss and joint load reduction Myths about cracking joints and weather-related pain Takeaway Message Joint pain doesn’t mean you should stop moving. Staying active, strengthening the muscles around your joints, and managing weight can help protect joint function and slow arthritis progression. When conservative treatments stop working, modern joint replacement surgery offers safe, durable solutions that can restore mobility and independence for decades. Doctor Bio Nana Sarpong, MD, MBA, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee reconstruction. He is skilled in minimally invasive techniques, including partial knee reconstruction, primary hip replacement (both direct anterior and mini-posterior hip approaches), knee replacement, hip resurfacing, and complex primary and revision hip and knee replacement after failed surgeries. His practice leverages advanced technologies, including computer-assisted navigation and robotics, and offers the latest evidence-based surgical and nonsurgical treatment options. Based on a rigorous process to identify healthcare providers with a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, Super Doctors named Dr. Sarpong one of New York's Rising Stars. Dr. Sarpong was raised in New York City and attended Brandeis University, in Massachusetts, on the Posse Foundation Leadership and Merit scholarship, graduating magna cum laude. He received his MD/MBA degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and received the Norman S. Stearns MD/MBA Excellence in Leadership Award. Dr. Sarpong completed his orthopedic surgery residency at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where he was elected as executive chief resident in his final year. As a chief resident, he was the recipient of the Nas Eftekhar award for excellence in adult reconstruction and the chief resident teacher of the year award. He completed the prestigious adult reconstruction and joint replacement surgery fellowship at the Hospital for Special Surgery and NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he received specialized training in navigation and computer-assisted joint replacement and complex and revision reconstruction. Dr. Sarpong is actively engaged in research, with more than 80 peer-reviewed papers, textbook chapters, editorials, and national and international scientific presentations to his credit. His ongoing research interests include the impact of enabling technologies on patient outcomes after hip and knee reconstruction. Dr. Sarpong has served as a peer reviewer for many academic journals, including Foot & Ankle Specialist, the Journal of Arthroplasty, Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, HSS Journal, and the Knee Journal. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, the J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society, the New York State Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the American Orthopaedic Association, where he was elected as an emerging leader. Dr. Sarpong is committed to developing the next generation of leaders in medicine as a mentor to medical students, residents, and fellows.
SummaryWhat is Inflammation, and Why Does it Matter for Your Health?
4w ago00:14:41Summary readyShow Notes Inflammation is one of the body’s most important defense mechanisms—but when it doesn’t shut off, it can quietly contribute to serious health problems. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Charis Meng, a rheumatologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about how inflammation works and why chronic inflammation can put the body at risk. Dr. Meng explains the difference between short‑term, helpful inflammation and long‑term inflammation that lingers for months or years, affecting everything from joints to the heart, brain, and immune system. The conversation explores autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, what causes inflammation, and how lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, stress, and physical activity can impact inflammation. Dr. Meng also discusses treatment options ranging from targeted immune therapies to lifestyle changes, acupuncture, and emerging research on GLP‑1 medications. This episode offers clear, science‑based guidance to help listeners understand inflammation—and what they can do to help keep it in check. Chapters 00:00 – What Is Inflammation, and When Is It Helpful? How inflammation works as the body’s natural defense system 03:45 – Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Why inflammation sometimes doesn’t shut off—and how it can cause harm 07:30 – Inflammation and Disease Risk Autoimmune conditions, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer 09:45 – How to Reduce Chronic Inflammation Medical treatments, diet, exercise, sleep, and emerging research Key Topics Covered Inflammation and the immune system Acute vs. chronic inflammation Autoimmune diseases and rheumatoid arthritis Heart disease, diabetes, and cancer risk Anti‑inflammatory lifestyle habits Mediterranean diet and inflammation Exercise, sleep, and immune balance Acupuncture and integrative care GLP‑1 medications and inflammation research Takeaway Message Inflammation is the body’s natural healing response, but when it becomes chronic and doesn’t turn off, it can contribute to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. While some chronic inflammation is driven by autoimmune disease or factors beyond our control, healthy habits like diet, exercise, and sleep can still help support the body and reduce long-term health risks. Doctor Bio Dr. Charis Meng is an assistant attending rheumatologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, who is also certified in acupuncture. Her practice is in general rheumatology, and her special interests are in treating older patients with chronic pain, low back pain and inflammatory arthritis.
SummaryWhy Allergies Happen and How to Find Relief
Apr 800:16:21Summary readyWhy do allergies happen—and why do they seem to be getting worse every year? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. David Gudis, an otolaryngologist and chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia, to break down the basics of hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis. Dr. Gudis explains what’s really behind common allergy symptoms like sneezing, congestion, fatigue, and brain fog, and why hay fever is actually an overreaction of the immune system—not the pollen itself. He discusses why allergy seasons are lasting longer, how environmental factors and modern living may play a role, and the surprising ways allergies can affect sleep, concentration, and mental health. This episode offers practical, science‑based guidance—from simple prevention strategies to over‑the‑counter treatments and allergy shots—to help you breathe easier this season and beyond. Chapters: 00:00 – What Is Hay Fever? An introduction to allergic rhinitis and why allergy symptoms happen 04:00 – Why Are Allergy Seasons Getting Worse? Climate, environment, and changes in immune response 09:40 – How Do Allergies Affect Sleep, Focus, and Mental Health? The surprising impact on wellbeing, mood, and daily life 10:45 – How Do I Find Relief? Treatments That Work Avoidance strategies, medications, allergy shots, and nasal rinses Key Topics Covered: Hay fever / allergic rhinitis Immune system overreaction Seasonal and environmental allergies Mental health and sleep disruption Pollen season and climate effects Allergy prevention and treatment Nasal sprays, antihistamines, and immunotherapy Takeaway Message: Hay fever isn’t “just allergies” — it’s a real, systemic condition caused by an overactive immune response that can affect sleep, mood, concentration, and quality of life. The good news? Effective treatments exist, and with the right approach, allergy symptoms can be controlled Doctor Bio: Dr. David Gudis is an otolaryngologist and Chief of the Division of Rhinology and Anterior Skull Base Surgery at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia. He specializes in disorders of the nose and sinuses, including allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and nasal inflammation. Dr. Gudis is dedicated to helping patients understand the root causes of their symptoms and access effective, personalized treatments that improve daily life and overall wellbeing.
SummaryGut Health, Fiber, and the Microbiome, Explained
Mar 2500:16:08Summary readyWhat does your gut really do—and how can you keep it healthy? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. Haley Zylberberg, a gastroenterologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to find out the basics of gut health, from digestion and the microbiome to fiber, fermented foods, and the gut‑brain connection. Dr. Zylberberg explains how fiber supports digestion, why everyone’s “normal” gut function looks different, and how stress and mental health can directly affect the digestive system. She also shares signs of a healthy gut, red flags that shouldn’t be ignored, and why colorectal cancer screening is so important—especially as younger adults are being diagnosed more often. Whether you’re curious about probiotics, wondering how much fiber you really need, or looking to better understand your body, this episode offers practical, science‑backed guidance to help support lifelong gut health. Chapters: 00:00 – The Basics of Gut Health and the Microbiome What the gut is, how digestion works, and why the microbiome plays a critical role in overall health. 06:30 – Fiber, Food, and Supporting Your Gut How fiber supports digestion, how much you need each day, common misconceptions, and tips for increasing fiber safely. 11:30 – The Gut‑Brain Connection How stress affects digestion, why the gut and brain communicate so closely, and what that means for digestive symptoms. 15:10 – Red Flags and Colorectal Cancer Screening Warning signs of an unhealthy gut, when to see a doctor, and why colorectal cancer screening is essential and preventive. Key Topics Covered · Gut anatomy and digestion · The gut microbiome and “good” bacteria · Fiber benefits and daily fiber intake · Fermented foods and probiotics · Gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea · The gut‑brain connection and stress · Red flag digestive symptoms · Colorectal cancer prevention and screening guidelines Takeaway Message Your gut plays a central role in your overall health, and small, consistent habits—like eating enough fiber, managing stress, and knowing what’s normal for your body—can make a big difference. Paying attention to changes and staying up to date with recommended screenings can help catch problems early and even prevent serious disease. Expert Guest Dr. Haley Zylberberg’s clinical focus is general gastroenterology, with a specialization in celiac disease. She has a sustained interest in patient-outcomes research using large databases and has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles on celiac disease diagnosis and its clinical manifestations. Dr. Zylberberg earned her B.A. in neuroscience and behavior from Columbia University and her medical degree at Hofstra-Northwell School of Medicine, where she graduated with a distinction in research. She completed internal medicine residency at The Mount Sinai Hospital, followed by a gastroenterology fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where she served as chief fellow. During her fellowship, Dr. Zylberberg undertook advanced training in research methods, culminating in a master's degree in patient-oriented research from Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health.
SummaryHow Do Endocrine Disruptors Impact Our Health?
Mar 1100:16:11Summary readyDr. Mary Rosser, obstetrician gynecologist and director of Fazzalari Women’s Health at NewYork-Presbyterian The One and Columbia, joins us to explain how the endocrine system functions and how external chemicals can disrupt hormonal signals that influence metabolism, fertility, cancer risk, and long-term health. She details the most common sources of endocrine disruptors — including plastics, personal care items, cleaning products, and pesticides — and shares clear, manageable strategies for reducing everyday exposure. Dr. Rosser’s guidance empowers listeners to make small, sustainable changes that can help protect hormonal well‑being. Chapters: 00:00:00 — Understanding Hormones and Endocrine Disruptors 00:05:01 — Health Effects Linked to Endocrine Disruptors 00:09:55 — Everyday Sources and How to Reduce Exposure 00:17:28 — Can the Body Recover? Practical Steps and Final Takeaways Key Topics Covered What hormones are and how the endocrine system works What endocrine disruptors are and how they interfere with hormone signaling How endocrine disruptors enter the body (skin, food, air) Health impacts: metabolism, fertility, cancer risk, and chronic conditions Common sources of disruptors (plastics, BPA, phthalates, cosmetics, cleaning products, pesticides, microplastics) Practical ways to reduce exposure in daily life How to monitor hormone health and when to talk to a doctor The body’s ability to recover once exposure is reduced Takeaway Message This episode empowers listeners to understand how everyday chemicals can interfere with the body’s delicate hormonal system — and shows that small, practical changes in the products we use and the foods we choose can meaningfully reduce exposure. Expert Guest Dr. Mary L. Rosser, M.D., Ph.D., NCMP is an obstetrician gynecologist and the director of Fazzalari Women’s Health at NewYork-Presbyterian The One and Columbia. She is the Richard U. and Ellen J. Levine Assistant Professor of Women's Health (in Obstetrics and Gynecology) at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons. She joined the faculty of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University in April 2018 to provide routine gynecology care and to further develop a comprehensive well-woman program. She has been a practicing obstetrician gynecologist for more than 20 years, starting in private practice and then joining the faculty at Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, NY. While at Montefiore, she created, launched, and led the forty-person Division of General Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Rosser received her undergraduate degree at Emory University and a Ph.D. in Endocrinology at the Medical College of Georgia. She attended Wake Forest University School of Medicine and completed her residency at Emory University. She is also a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner, able to provide high-quality care for patients at menopause and beyond. Primary care and heart disease in women have always been areas of focus for Dr. Rosser. She conducted basic science research on heart disease during graduate school and was the Chair of the "Women & Heart Disease Physician Education Initiative" for District II of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology. She continues to conduct clinical studies around patient awareness and understanding of heart disease and well-woman care. Dr. Rosser serves on the Medical Leadership Team of the Go Red for Women movement of the American Heart Association and she is ACOG's liaison to the American College of Cardiology.
SummaryDiet and Your Heart: Can What You Eat Improve Your Numbers?
Feb 2500:12:10Summary readyHow much can what you eat really influence your heart health — and how quickly can you improve your blood pressure or cholesterol through diet? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with cardiologist Dr. Sean Mendez of NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital to break down the real connection between food and cardiovascular wellbeing. They explore what your health numbers mean — from blood pressure ranges to LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and the emerging marker ApoB — and how these values signal current or future risk. Dr. Mendez explains how dietary shifts can lower LDL cholesterol by 3 to 15 percent and reduce blood pressure by several points, even without medication. He also discusses salt sensitivity, the impact of saturated fats and processed foods, and why soluble fiber, healthy fats, and whole foods can play a powerful role in improving cholesterol. The conversation dives into the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet, outlining how each works, what they emphasize, and the evidence behind their ability to reduce blood pressure and overall cardiovascular risk. Dr. Mendez offers practical tips for getting started and key lifestyle factors that are essential for heart health. Whether you're hoping to lower your numbers, prevent future heart issues, or simply make more informed choices at the grocery store, this episode provides clear, accessible guidance on building a heart‑healthy way of eating. Chapters: 01:13 – What Do Heart Health Numbers Mean? 04:33 – How Quickly Diet Changes Improve Labs 10:59 – How to Start Changing Eating Habits Key Topics Covered What cholesterol, blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and ApoB measure How these numbers relate to cardiovascular disease risk Healthy ranges for blood pressure and cholesterol How diet can lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure How quickly lab results change after modifying eating habits The role of salt sensitivity and saturated fats in heart health Foods that help lower LDL, including soluble fiber and healthy fats The DASH diet: its structure, purpose, and evidence for lowering blood pressure The Mediterranean diet: core foods, flexibility, and cardiovascular benefits Differences between DASH and Mediterranean diets Practical starting points for improving eating habits Benefits of tracking food intake and identifying patterns Easy, heart‑healthy food and snack swaps Why lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, exercise, and limiting alcohol matter Common misconceptions about eating for heart health Why heart‑healthy eating is beneficial at every age Takeaway Message Small, consistent changes to your diet and lifestyle can meaningfully improve your heart health — at any age. Understanding your numbers (like LDL, blood pressure, and ApoB) empowers you to make targeted choices, and evidence‑based eating patterns such as the DASH or Mediterranean diet can lower risk over time. Even if medications are part of your care, diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management remain essential tools for protecting your heart. Expert Guest Dr. Sean Mendez is a non-invasive cardiologist at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn-Methodist Hospital and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. His clinical interests include preventive cardiology, valvular heart disease, and cardiovascular imaging, including echocardiography, stress testing, and vascular imaging. In addition to seeing patients in his outpatient clinic, he provides inpatient care in the cardiac care unit, cardiac telemetry unit, and consultative cardiology service. Dr. Mendez is passionate about providing his patients with the highest-quality, comprehensive cardiovascular care. He addresses all aspects of health to prevent the development and progression of cardiovascular disease. Dr. Mendez, a native of Buffalo, New York, graduated magna cum laude from the University of Alabama with a bachelor's degree in both biology and mathematics. He attended medical school at the University at Buffalo, where he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Society. Dr. Mendez then completed his residency in internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. He then completed his fellowship in cardiology at the Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was chief fellow. For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.
SummaryIs ‘Cozy Cardio’ as Effective as High-Intensity Workouts?
Feb 1100:17:44Summary readyIn this episode, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Jessica Hennessey, cardiologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Columbia, about the trend of cozy cardio and how accessible, home‑based movement can support cardiovascular health. Dr. Hennessey explains why moderate‑intensity exercise is both sustainable and effective, offering improvements in cardiovascular function, metabolism, and daily energy levels. The discussion explores the benefits of walking versus running, how heart rate zones help guide workout intensity, and the importance of rest and active recovery. Dr. Hennessey also highlights how movement helps regulate stress and why strength training—especially for women—is essential for long‑term metabolic and bone health. Chapters:Chapter 1: Understanding Cozy Cardio – Convenience, Comfort, and Where it Fits in Heart HealthUnderstanding cozy cardio and how low‑impact movement supports heart health, and how it lowers barriers to exercise and makes movement feel inviting.Chapter 2: Why Moderate Exercise MattersChapter 3: Cozy Doesn’t Mean Easy—Just AccessibleChapter 4: Walking vs. Running: Which Is Better for the Heart?Chapter 5: Using Heart Rate to Guide Your WorkoutChapter 6: The Importance of Rest Days and RecoveryChapter 7: HIIT: Benefits, Risks, and When to Use ItChapter 8: Strength Training & Heart Health, Especially for WomenChapter 9: Building a Sustainable Exercise RoutineChapter 10: Final Takeaway Key Topics CoveredWhat cozy cardio is and examplesHow cozy cardio focuses on convenience, comfort and lowering barriers to exercise.Moderate vs. High-Intensity ExerciseHow it can improve VO2 maxAccessibility and sustainability in fitnessWalking vs. runningUsing heart rate as a guide for exerciseThe importance of rest daysExercise as stress reductionHIIT workouts: explanation, benefits and riskStrength training and heart healthBuilding a sustainable routine by choosing activities you enjoy and making movement a natural part of the dayTakeaway MessageMeaningful improvements in cardiovascular health do not require high‑intensity workouts. Moderate, accessible forms of exercise—such as “cozy cardio”—can effectively enhance heart and metabolic function, support stress regulation, and promote long‑term adherence. By prioritizing comfort, sustainability, and consistency, individuals can integrate movement into their daily routines in ways that are both achievable and beneficial for overall health.Expert GuestDr. Jessica Hennessey is an electrophysiologist who specializes in arrhythmia management with a special focus on catheter ablation, pacemakers/defibrillators, and atrial fibrillation at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Dr. Hennessey is also the Esther Aboodi Assistant Professor of Cardiology (in medicine) at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She is board-certified in cardiovascular disease and cardiac electrophysiology.For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.
SummaryHow Does Alcohol Change Your Brain?
Jan 2800:13:25Summary readyWhat really happens in your brain when you drink alcohol — and what are the long-term effects over a lifetime? In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison sits down with Dr. Hugh Cahill, a neurologist at NewYork-Presbyterian the One and Columbia, to break down the science behind alcohol’s impact on brain health.They explore how alcohol affects neurotransmitters to create feelings of relaxation and euphoria, why it can impair memory, coordination, and judgment, and how even moderate drinking is linked to increase risk of brain shrinkage, vascular damage, mood disorders, and dementia. Dr. Cahill also explains the cumulative nature of alcohol’s effects and shares practical, evidence-based ways to protect your brain as you age — highlighting the powerful role of exercise, cardiovascular health, nutrition, sleep, and reducing alcohol intake.Whether you’re curious about Dry January, worried about memory and aging, or simply want to make informed choices about your health, this conversation offers clear, expert insight into how your habits today shape your brain tomorrow.Key Topics CoveredHow alcohol affects neurotransmitters (glutamate, GABA, dopamine, endorphins)Why alcohol causes relaxation, lowered inhibition, and impaired coordinationLong-term effects: brain atrophy, neuron loss, memory impairmentAlcohol as a neurotoxinLinks between alcohol and:Cumulative, lifelong impact of drinking—even at low to moderate levelsRole of exercise in promoting neurogenesis and brain resilienceImportance of cardiovascular health, vitamins (B1, B12), and metabolic healthLimited evidence that puzzles or brain games prevent cognitive declinePractical brain-health strategiesTakeaway MessageBrain health is shaped by long-term habits. Because alcohol’s effects are cumulative and even moderate use is linked to structural and vascular brain changes, reducing intake — along with exercising and managing cardiovascular risk factors—can meaningfully protect cognitive function and quality of life as we age.Expert GuestDr. Hugh Cahill is an M.D./Ph.D.-trained general neurologist providing comprehensive care for patients with a broad range of neurological conditions at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Cahill sees individuals with headaches, seizures, strokes, numbness, weakness, memory changes, and other common neurological concerns. Dr. Cahill as both a clinician and scientist supports an evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment, with an emphasis on careful evaluation and clear communication. For more health and wellness news, visit NewYork-Presbyterian’s Health Matters website.
SummaryCan Biohacking Reverse the Aging Process?
Jan 1400:17:17Summary readyIn this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Rekha Kumar, endocrinologist and primary care physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to unpack the science behind aging well. They discuss biohacking, longevity, and health span, separating evidence-based strategies from social media hype and exploring what truly helps us age well.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat “biohacking” really means● How biohacking ranges from simple lifestyle optimization to high-tech, experimental interventions● The difference between lifespan (how long you live) and health span (how long you live well)The Longevity Pyramid● Why the foundation of healthy aging is built on:SleepMovement and strength trainingNutritionStress managementSocial connection● How advanced tools and supplements sit at the top—and why they should never replace the basicsWearables and Tracking● How devices like smartwatches, glucose monitors, and fitness trackers can support behavior change● When tracking becomes counterproductive or stressfulPeptides and “Anti-Aging” Supplements● What’s proven (e.g., metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists)● What’s still experimental or under-studied (BPC-157, sermorelin, NAD boosters)Nootropics and Cognitive Enhancers● Everyday nootropics like caffeine● The role of L-theanine for “calm focus”● Myths around perfectly timed caffeine and cortisol rhythmsNutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition● How genes can influence responses to foods (e.g., lactose intolerance, APOE and saturated fat)● Why many direct-to-consumer genetic tests may overpromiseThe Gut Microbiome● The role of Akkermansia muciniphila in metabolic health● How medications like metformin and GLP-1s may positively shift gut bacteria● What’s still unknown about probiotic supplementationGenetic and Biomarker Testing● The difference between actionable medical insights and “information overload”● Why results of unknown significance can cause unnecessary anxietyThe Big Takeaways● There are no true shortcuts to longevity● Sustainable habits beat quick fixes● Our biology is built for rhythms, not constant optimizationFeatured ExpertAbout Rekha B. Kumar, M.D., M.S.Dr. Rekha B. Kumar is an attending endocrinologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an associate professor of Clinical Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. She specializes in adult primary care and endocrinology and has academic expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various endocrine disorders, including obesity/weight management, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, as well as metabolic bone disease.Dr. Kumar completed her undergraduate studies at Duke University and received her masters degree in Physiology from Georgetown University. She received her M.D. from New York Medical College and completed her residency training in Internal Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Kumar obtained her clinical fellowship in the combined Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism program at the NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Kumar is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes, & Metabolism, and Obesity Medicine.Coming Up NextIn the next episode of Health Matters, we’ll explore brain health and the short- and long-term effects of alcohol on the brain with Dr. Hugh Cahill. Subscribe and follow Health Matters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to stay up to date with expert-driven conversations on living well at every stage of life.About Health MattersHealth Matters is your bi-weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org
SummaryADVANCES IN CARE: Exploring Psychedelics as the Next Wave of Psychiatric Innovation
Dec 1700:19:42Summary readyThis week on Health Matters, we’re sharing an episode of NewYork-Presbyterian’s Advances in Care, a show for listeners who want to stay at the forefront of the latest medical innovations and research. On this episode of Advances in Care, host Erin Welsh first hears from Dr. Richard Friedman, a clinical psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Director of the Psychopharmacology Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine. Using his background in psychopharmacology, Dr. Friedman distinguishes between psychedelics and standard antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs, explaining the various mechanisms in the brain that respond uniquely to psychedelic compounds. Dr. Friedman also identifies that the challenge of proving efficacy of psychedelic therapy lies in the question of how to design a clinical trial that gives patients a convincing placebo. To learn more about the challenges of trial design, Erin also speaks to Dr. David Hellerstein, a research psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. Dr. Hellerstein contributed to a 2022 trial of synthetic psilocybin in patients with treatment resistant depression. He and his colleagues took a unique approach to dosing patients so that they could better understand the response rates of patients who use psychedelic therapy. The results of that trial underscore an emerging pattern in the field of psychiatry – that while psychedelic therapy has its risks, it’s also a promising alternative treatment for countless psychiatric disorders. Dr. Hellerstein also shares more about the future of clinical research on psychedelic therapies to potentially treat a range of mental health disorders.***Dr. Richard Friedman is a professor of clinical psychiatry and is actively involved in clinical research of mood disorders. In particular, he is involved in several ongoing randomized clinical trials of both approved and investigational drugs for the treatment of major depression, chronic depression, and dysthymia.Dr. David J. Hellerstein directs the Depression Evaluation Service at Columbia University Department of Psychiatry, which conducts studies on the medication and psychotherapy treatment of conditions including major depression, chronic depression, and bipolar disorder.___Health Matters is your weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation’s most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian’s long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org
Summary