Health Discovered

While birth control is widely used today, misinformation around it still persists. Questions like: Will birth control affect my future fertility? Does it cause weight gain? And how do I know which option is right for me? We spoke with Natalie Crawford, MD, fertility doctor and co-founder of Fora Fertility, about the full spectrum of birth control – from hormonal to non-hormonal options. She breaks down common side effects, key health conditions to discuss with your doctor, and how to choose the best method for each stage of life, from adolescence to postpartum to menopause.Additional resources: https://www.bedsider.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the protective layer around the nerves. It affects more than 2.8 million people worldwide, most often younger adults between ages 20 and 40 –  with women significantly more affected. What are the symptoms? What should newly diagnosed individuals know? In this episode, Robert Bermel, MD, Director of the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis at the Cleveland Clinic, explains what happens after an MS diagnosis, from early signs and the importance of timely treatment to lifestyle strategies and long-term planning. We also hear from Hanna Jones, a 31-year-old MS advocate and blogger, who shares her personal journey of being diagnosed and how education helped her face her diagnosis. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a caregiver, or simply curious, this episode offers insight, guidance, and hope.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does jealousy sometimes creep into our friendships? How can we recognize when a slow drift is turning into a silent goodbye? And how can we strengthen communication and emotional connection with our friends? We speak with Lia Love Avellino, LCSW, modern love therapist and founder of Spoke Circles in Brooklyn, about the outside pressures friendships face, the importance of renegotiating connection, breaking the jealousy-shame cycle, and clarifying our needs in supportive, mutual ways. Friendships are vital to emotional wellness, so tune in to learn how to better check in with your friends and yourself.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cancer therapies can save lives, but they often come with tough side effects that aren’t always fully addressed. What side effects should you expect from cancer treatments – and how can you manage them? We sat down with Elizabeth J. Cathcart-Rake, MD, an oncologist at Mayo Clinic, to explore how these effects impact patients’ physical, emotional, and financial well-being – and why quality of life deserves just as much attention. From nausea and fatigue to neuropathy and sexual side effects, we explore the most common fears and how to talk with your doctor. You’ll learn how different therapies (chemo, hormonal, immunotherapy, targeted therapy) impact your body, plus practical, evidence-based tools to help you feel like yourself during treatment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does oral health affect your entire body? What is the oral microbiome, and how can oral bacteria trigger inflammation beyond your mouth? In this episode, we spoke to Nammy Patel, DDS, holistic dentist and leader of Green Dentistry, to dive into how gum disease impacts chronic conditions and autoimmune health. We also explore myths about oral health, the effects of smoking, pregnancy-related dental changes, and warning signs that mean it’s time to see your dentist. Plus, we discuss dental care disparities and share resources to help you protect both your smile and overall wellness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to age with dignity in today’s healthcare system? What will it take to truly transform how we care for older adults in America? In this episode, the first of a six-part series, we explored the documentary Aging in America: Survive or Thrive, created by the John A. Hartford Foundation. We spoke with Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN, president of The John A. Hartford Foundation, to explore the legacy of Dr. Robert Butler and how hospitals are utilizing the “4 Ms” framework (What Matters, Medication, Mentation, Mobility) to enhance care for older adults. We dive into the stark disparities based on income, race, and geography, and highlight programs working to close those gaps. From dementia care models to creative workforce solutions and caregiver support, this conversation offers a hopeful, practical look at reimagining aging in America. Visit johnahartford.org/agefriendly for information about the 4Ms of age-friendly care. Helpful articles and videos can also be found here.  Additional resources: Harvard Business Review article on how employers can support family caregivers of older adults  The RUSH University Medical Center Caring for Caregivers program My Health Checklist The Reframing Aging Initiative The UCLA Alzheimer's and Dementia Care programSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Obesity is far more complex than willpower. In this episode, we spoke with Robert F. Kushner, MD, renowned weight management expert, to explore how the medical community’s understanding of obesity has shifted – from a perceived lifestyle choice to a recognized chronic condition shaped by biology, genetics, and environment. Our guest expert breaks down modern diagnostic tools, new treatments like GLP-1 receptor agonists, and how to create stigma-free care. We also spoke to patient guest, Michele Tedder, RN, host of Dear Healthcare Provider, who shares her lifelong struggle with weight and related health issues, how GLP-1 medication helped her, and how obesity should be treated with the same compassion and seriousness as other chronic diseases. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over 100,000 Americans are waiting for life-saving kidney transplants, with 17 dying each day. Why isn’t universal donation enough? Could xenotransplantation – transplanting gene-edited organs from other species into humans – be the answer? We sat down with Sanjay Gupta, MD, CNN’s chief medical correspondent, to unpack his documentary Animal Pharm and explore the promise and perils of this scientific frontier. We dive into his visits to biosecure pig facilities, ethical questions across faiths, and concerns around infection, cost, and organ rejection. Dr. Gupta also looks ahead to the potential use of pig hearts, lungs, and livers. Tune in for a rare blend of hope, controversy, and cutting-edge science.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition. Despite increasing rates in Autism diagnoses and its growing presence in public conversation, there is a great deal of confusion around the causes and how to navigate this diagnosis. To help clarify key questions, we spoke with Suma Jacob, MD, PhD, a child-adolescent-adult psychiatrist and neuroscientist, about autism’s causes, including genetics, prenatal factors, and the impact of improved screening. We also explored therapies and ways to support individuals and families. Later, Karen J. Parker, PhD, a Stanford University Truong-Tan Broadcom endowed professor, shared insights on the rising rates of diagnosis, promising biological markers, and what current research may mean for the future of autism care and understanding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is lifestyle medicine, and how can it apply to cancer care? In this empowering episode, we explore the transformative role of lifestyle medicine in cancer survivorship. We spoke to Amy Comander, MD, medical director of the Mass General Cancer Center-Waltham and the Breast Oncology Program at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, who explains how intentional choices around nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mental health can play a powerful role in cancer care. From diagnosis through recovery, we explore how these interventions can complement treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, helping patients regain a sense of control and improve their quality of life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.