In this episode of the HEALS Pod, I, Diego Trujillo, have the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Preethi R. Kumar, a board-certified physician from Reliant Physicians, who specializes in lifestyle medicine. This conversation has been a long time coming, and I am thrilled to finally delve into a topic that is not only close to my heart but also increasingly relevant in today's health landscape.

We kick off the episode by sharing personal stories about our journeys toward health and wellness. I open up about my own struggles with weight gain and the transformative changes I made after a wake-up call from social media. Dr. Kumar resonates with my experience, sharing her own path from working in acute care settings to realizing the importance of preventative health through lifestyle choices. Her transition to outpatient care allowed her to focus on empowering patients to make healthier decisions without relying solely on medications.

Throughout our discussion, we explore the six pillars of lifestyle medicine: nutrition, exercise, sleep, social connections, avoidance of toxic substances, and emotional health. Dr. Kumar emphasizes the significance of these pillars in preventing chronic diseases and maintaining overall well-being. We dive deep into the importance of sleep hygiene, the impact of diet on our health, and how social connections can enhance our emotional well-being.

One of the most enlightening parts of our conversation is when Dr. Kumar explains the concept of "blue zones," areas in the world where people live longer, healthier lives due to strong community ties and healthy lifestyle choices. We discuss how modern society often lacks these connections, leading to isolation, especially among seniors, and how fostering relationships can significantly improve mental health.

As we navigate through the episode, we also touch on practical strategies for listeners to implement in their own lives. Dr. Kumar introduces the idea of setting SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—to help individuals incorporate healthier habits into their busy lives. We discuss the challenges many face in maintaining a balanced lifestyle and how small, manageable changes can lead to significant improvements over time.

This episode is not just about the science of health; it's about the human experience and the choices we make every day. Dr. Kumar's insights provide a refreshing perspective on how we can take control of our health through simple yet effective lifestyle changes. Whether you're struggling with your own health journey or simply looking to enhance your well-being, this conversation is packed with valuable information and inspiration.