On Health with Houston Methodist

Houston Methodist

On Health with Houston Methodist is for the health conscious, curious and even skeptics out there. Each week, our hosts are joined by a Houston Methodist expert to explore an everyday wellness trend or significant health topic. For more than 100 years, Houston Methodist has provided the best — and safest — clinical care, advanced technology and patient experience. We are proud to be a top hospital in Texas and the nation. For more health advice and tips from Houston Methodist experts, check out our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

  1. Cancer Screening: Can One Blood Test Really Detect 50+ Cancers?

    4D AGO

    Cancer Screening: Can One Blood Test Really Detect 50+ Cancers?

    Cancer screenings are an important part of staying healthy. Still, they might feel inconvenient — and sometimes even uncomfortable. So what about tests that claim to detect dozens of cancers from just a single blood draw? In this episode, we dive into the rise of multi-cancer detection blood tests, breaking down how they work and what the science says — for now. Expert: Dr. Brittany Barthelemy, primary care doctor  Notable topics covered: What multi-cancer detection blood tests are and why they’re getting attentionWhy aren’t these tests FDA approved?Key findings from the PATHFINDER study, including false-positive ratesThe high out-of-pocket cost and lack of insurance coverageShield: FDA-approved blood testing for colon cancerWhat to know about “silent” cancers, like pancreatic and ovarian cancerPractical ways to reduce cancer risk, including proven screenings and lifestyle habitsIf you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    31 min
  2. Cortisol: Is the ‘Stress Hormone’ Stressing You Out?

    MAR 10

    Cortisol: Is the ‘Stress Hormone’ Stressing You Out?

    Cortisol has made headlines in the past couple of years. If your feed has you questioning whether cortisol is behind everything from “moon face” to belly fat, this episode is here to help. We break down what cortisol actually does, what a normal daily cortisol curve looks like and why true cortisol disorders are rare. We also dig into what’s more likely behind carrying more weight around the midsection and whether it’s worth measuring cortisol at all. Plus, why the basics (sleep, managing stress and healthy routines) tend to matter more than any alleged cortisol quick-fix — including “cortisol cocktails.” Expert: Dr. Nadir Mulla, primary care physician Notable topics:  Why cortisol is the body’s energy mobilization hormone The cortisol curve: how the body naturally controls cortisol levels How rare are cortisol disorders? The simple morning habit that could optimize your cortisol curve Uncovering what's more likely to be behind "cortisol face" and "cortisol belly" What heart rate variability can tell you about your stress levels  Why managing stress, your sleep schedule and diet are more important than any cortisol quick-fix tips  "Cortisol cocktails" may work — just not for the reason you might think Learn when to see your doctor about fatigue and any symptoms If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    44 min
  3. Wearables: What They Can & Can’t Do

    MAR 3

    Wearables: What They Can & Can’t Do

    It's estimated that almost half of Americans now use wearable technology to monitor their health. Whether using a smartwatch, ring or fitness tracker, we have access to a steady stream of data that tech companies say can tell us about everything from our sleep to our metabolic and heart health. But is that sleep score or biological age your wearable suggests real? In this episode, we examine wearables, the data they offer and what they can and can’t tell us about our health. Expert: Dr. Eleonora Avenatti, cardiologist and obesity specialist   Notable topics covered: Why we’re drawn to hyper-personalized health data The differences between wearables and medical-grade devices  How reliable are wearables at detecting hypertension, AFib and other heart conditions? Which metrics produced by your wearable you can trust  Can AI help us make sense of our health data? Is it safe? How your doctor may feel about using wearable technology Tips for using this tech responsibly What’s next for how we use wearables to manage our health If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    40 min
  4. Protein: It’s Everywhere — How Much Is Too Much?

    FEB 24

    Protein: It’s Everywhere — How Much Is Too Much?

    With protein being added to everything from chips to water these days, you may be questioning whether you’re getting enough of it. In this episode, we break down how much protein your body really needs, who may benefit from more, when “extra protein” is just clever marketing and practical ways to improve your diet with often-overlooked and affordable sources. Expert: Knubian Gatlin, Registered Dietitian Notable topics covered: How much protein the average adult actually needs (and how to calculate it) The difference between adequate vs. optimal protein intakeWho truly benefits from higher-protein diets What happens when you eat too much protein — from mild symptoms to more serious risks Signs you may not be getting enough protein Protein bars, chips, shakes and water: Helpful tools or marketing hype? Affordable and often-overlooked sources of high-quality protein Plant-based vs. animal protein: What really matters How protein needs change across life stages Practical tips for improving protein intake without overdoing itIf you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    23 min
  5. Stress & Anxiety: How to Tell the Difference & Tips for Coping

    12/02/2025

    Stress & Anxiety: How to Tell the Difference & Tips for Coping

    Stress and anxiety are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same — and understanding the difference matters. While stress actually can be helpful in short bursts, anxiety can take a serious toll on your mental and physical health. With 42 million Americans living with anxiety — and nearly half of Gen Z reporting the feeling — it’s time to unpack what’s normal, what’s not and how to cope. In this episode, we explore why anxiety is on the rise and practical strategies to help you feel more in control.  Expert: Dr. Olivia Tomasco, Primary Care Physician  Notable topics covered:  How to tell the difference between stress and anxiety When stress can be beneficial — and when it becomes harmful Fight, flight … freeze? What happens when you retreat inward Digital overload and social media: The new anxiety triggers Are some people naturally more anxious? Coping tricks everyone should know, including the truth about the sleepy girl mocktail Self-care, therapy, medications: Options for managing anxiety disorders The role of your primary care provider in supporting mental health OCD and anxiety: How they’re connected How to know when it’s time to ask for help — and where to start Common myths about stress and anxiety that need to go away If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    34 min
  6. Staying Active: What Counts as Exercise & How Much Is Enough?

    11/18/2025

    Staying Active: What Counts as Exercise & How Much Is Enough?

    Wondering whether your exercise routine is hitting the mark? You’re not alone. Most of us leave P.E. class behind without ever really learning how to work out as adults. In this episode, we break down what counts as exercise, how much you need and why intensity matters. From everyday activities to structured workouts, learn what truly moves the needle for your health and fitness. Plus, practical tips for tracking progress and staying consistent — without overcomplicating things.  Expert: Dr. Jonathan Zalamea, Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician  Notable topics covered:  Physical activity vs. exercise: What’s the difference? Walking the dog, cleaning the house, yardwork — do they count? How heart rate plays into exercise intensity and why that matters It’s not all cardio — the value of strength training Exercise isn’t the only wellness factor that impacts your fitness Tips for staying motivated for exercise New to the gym? What to try first Fitness tracking: The good, the bad, the fixation Tips for recovering between workouts What to do if pain or injury sets you back If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    37 min
  7. Fiber: Should You Be ‘Fibermaxxing’?

    11/11/2025

    Fiber: Should You Be ‘Fibermaxxing’?

    Move over, protein: Fiber is the newest macronutrient darling of the food world. Content creators promoting optimal digestion suggest we maximize fiber intake — “fibermaxxing” — by eating fiber-rich foods with every meal and snack as well as using fiber supplements as needed. The fibermaxxing crowd claims the approach can help with everything from gut health to improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels and may even aid in cancer prevention. Can increased fiber intake and other digestion-related trends, such as the dense bean salad and post-meal walks, really deliver better overall health? Expert: Dr. Michael Allen, primary care physician Notable topics: What is fiber, and what role does it play in our diet?How much fiber you need in a day (you’re probably not getting enough)Who needs more fiber, and who needs to moderate their intake?How the body reacts when you have too little or too much fiber in your diet Is fibermaxxing a safe trend?The role hydration plays when increasing fiber intakeDense bean salad: Is it a healthy option?Can taking a walk after eating really help with your digestion and blood sugar levels? How to safely start increasing your fiber intake If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    38 min
  8. Gut Microbiome Tests: What They Do (& Don't) Tell You

    11/04/2025

    Gut Microbiome Tests: What They Do (& Don't) Tell You

    What if there were tests that could determine which foods to add or subtract from your diet for optimal health? That’s just one of many overarching claims of the various gut microbiome tests now available and gaining popularity online. But can an over-the-counter test really tell you how healthy (or unhealthy) your gut microbiome is? A gastroenterologist breaks down what you should know about these expensive consumer health tests. Expert: Dr. Christopher Fan, gastroenterologist Notable topics:  The differences between tests gastroenterologists use and at-home testsIs there a true definition of a healthy gut microbiome?Do we actually know which microbes are “good" or “bad?”Can you address constipation, bloating and other symptoms through these tests? Leaky gut: The truth about this term making the rounds onlineWho (if anyone) might benefit from gut microbiome testingActions you can take to promote a healthy, happy gut microbiome If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

    34 min
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About

On Health with Houston Methodist is for the health conscious, curious and even skeptics out there. Each week, our hosts are joined by a Houston Methodist expert to explore an everyday wellness trend or significant health topic. For more than 100 years, Houston Methodist has provided the best — and safest — clinical care, advanced technology and patient experience. We are proud to be a top hospital in Texas and the nation. For more health advice and tips from Houston Methodist experts, check out our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.

Information

  • Creator
    Houston Methodist
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    98
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 On Health with Houston Methodist
  • Show Website
    On Health with Houston Methodist

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