Thriving with Arthritis -with Dr. Diana Girnita

Dr. Diana Girnita MD, PhD
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Thriving with Arthritis is an evidence-based podcast dedicated to helping people understand, manage, and live well with arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Hosted by Dr. Diana M. Girnita, MD, PhD, a double board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology with a PhD in Immunology, the podcast bridges modern rheumatology with lifestyle and integrative medicine. The show covers a wide range of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, Sjögren’s disease, gout, and other inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders. Each episode provides clear explanations of diagnosis, lab testing, imaging, medications, biologics, and emerging therapies—alongside practical strategies for nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress regulation, and chronic pain management. Listeners hear conversations with experts in rheumatology, immunology, nutrition, physical therapy, and mind-body medicine, as well as real patient stories that highlight the challenges of diagnosis, flares, remission, and long-term disease management. Dr. Girnita brings over 20 years of clinical and academic experience, including advanced postdoctoral training at Harvard University and the University of Pittsburgh. She is widely recognized for combining rigorous scientific medicine with a whole-person approach that treats not just disease activity, but the person living with the disease. An educator with a global reach, Dr. Girnita has accumulated over 30 million views across YouTube and social media, where she delivers clear, science-based education on autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Medscape, and other major medical publications. Thriving with Arthritis empowers patients to make informed decisions, navigate the healthcare system with confidence, reduce inflammation, prevent complications, and reclaim quality of life.

  1. FEB 4

    Evidence Based Tips to Reduce Inflammation in Rheumatoid Arthritis

    In this episode, Melissa Schenkman, MPH, MSJ, Founder of YMyHealth,  and Dr. Diana Girnita  discuss a real-life roadmap for people with chronic illnesses like Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They are also discussing Dr. Girnita's new book “Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis” and the science behind lifestyle medicine: how the gut microbiome communicates with your immune system, why fiber and short-chain fatty acids matter, and how sugar, salt, and even certain vegetables can influence inflammation in sensitive people. We also cover conditions that can mimic Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), like celiac disease, and why “Dr. Google” can increase fear instead of clarity. If you want practical, evidence-based steps—without the overwhelm—this conversation will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and hopeful. Key points discussed in the episode Why Dr. Girnita wrote “Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis” after ~20 years in practice: moving from purely textbook science to patient-centered insights, patterns, and real-world outcomesThe core message: thriving vs. surviving: RA is a chronic condition, but it doesn’t have to define your life or identityPatients are different: response to treatment and lifestyle changes varies widely—personalization mattersGut microbiome + immune system connection: the gut contains trillions of bacteria; a large portion of the immune system sits near the gut lining, so gut signals can drive systemic inflammationFiber as an anti-inflammatory tool: fiber supports beneficial gut bacteria and leads to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that help “calm” immune overreactivityWhat SCFAs do (in plain language): they act like immune messengers that reduce overactivation and may lower systemic inflammationSugar and inflammation: excess added sugar can increase pro-inflammatory pathways and may shift gut bacteria toward patterns associated with more inflammationSalt and immune activation: high salt intake may push immune cells toward a more pro-inflammatory state; practical advice includes removing the salt shaker and using spices (garlic, turmeric, rosemary, thyme) insteadNightshade vegetables: in some people (not everyone), foods like tomatoes/eggplant/peppers may worsen symptomsCeliac disease can mimic RA: joint pain and small-joint symptoms can resemble RAViruses as potential triggers: EBV (mono) and COVID were discussed as possible immune triggers in genetically predisposed people The “Dr. Google” warning: online information can mislead, catastrophize, and amplify fear—use curated, reputable medical sources and avoid absorbing others’ worst-case experiences as your future.Bigger takeaway: genetics load the gun, but lifestyle pulls (or doesn’Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    50 min

  2. JAN 26

    How Rheumatoid Arthritis Speeds Aging—and How to Push Back

    What if rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t just cause joint pain—but quietly speeds up how fast your entire body ages? In this episode of Thriving with Arthritis, Dr. Diana Girnita sits down with Dr. Neha Bhanusali, from the University of Central Florida, with additional training in lifestyle medicine and culinary medicine, to explore the powerful and often overlooked connection between chronic inflammation, biological aging, and rheumatoid arthritis. In this conversation, we move beyond trends and misinformation to focus on what actually matters for patients living with Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune diseases. Key Chapters & Takeaways RA and accelerated aging (“inflammaging”): chronic inflammation can accelerate biological aging—even in relatively young patients.Chronological age vs biological age: Why many RA patients feel older than their peersWhy labs don’t always match symptomsThe truth about methylation tests and anti-aging supplementsMedications plus lifestyle—not one or the otherMovement when you’re in painWhy muscle matters in RANutrition without perfectionGut health, fiber, and fermented foodsSupplements: what’s reasonable and what’s riskyWeight, inflammation, and GLP-1 medicationsMenopause and autoimmune diseaseChronic stress, sleep, and immune agingThe top 3 lifestyle pillars for RA and healthy agingNeha Bhanusali is a board-certified rheumatologist with advanced training in lifestyle and culinary medicine. She also shares practical, plant-forward education on her YouTube channel @PlantForwardMD. https://www.youtube.com/@PlantForwardMD If you want evidence-based guidance that helps you live better—not just treat labs, subscribe to Thriving with Arthritis. Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    50 min

  3. JAN 21

    Why Psoriatic Arthritis Goes Misdiagnosed for Years | GLP-1 Medications & Inflammation Breakthrough

    Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is the most commonly misdiagnosed form of inflammatory arthritis—and it's costing patients years of their lives. In this episode of Thriving with Arthritis, Dr. Diana Girnita and Dr. Vishnuteja Devalla explain why psoriatic arthritis symptoms are often mistaken for fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and other conditions, leading to diagnostic delays. Discover the red flags doctors miss, the latest biologic treatments revolutionizing Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) care, and the groundbreaking connection between GLP-1 medications (like Tirzepatide, Zepbound, Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy) and reduced inflammation in autoimmune disease.  Could these diabetes and weight-loss drugs be a game-changer for patients with inflammatory arthritis? What You'll Learn: Why does psoriatic arthritis take an average of 5-7 years to diagnose correctlyThe subtle signs, symptoms, and the connection with other parts of the body like eyes, tendons, and the gutHow insurance companied dictate care in choosing your treatmentCutting-edge biologic therapiesThe emerging science behind GLP-1 receptor agonists and systemic inflammation reductionWhy traditional healthcare models fail chronic disease patients—and what we're doing differentlyKeywords: psoriatic arthritis diagnosis, PsA symptoms, GLP-1 inflammation, GLP-1 autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis vs psoriatic arthritis, biologic treatment psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory arthritis misdiagnosis, telehealth rheumatology, chronic inflammation treatment. Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    1h 3m

  4. 11/14/2025

    Autoimmune Diseases: Signs, Myths, Realities, New Treatments and the AI challenges

    In this episode, Dr. Diana Girnita and Dr. Vishnu Devala explore the complexities of autoimmune diseases, discussing their causes, symptoms, and the latest treatments. They delve into the role of gut health, environmental triggers, and the potential of AI in transforming diagnosis and treatment. The conversation also addresses common myths and misconceptions, offering insights into managing these conditions effectively. Takeaways Autoimmune diseases can affect various body systems, not just joints.AI has potential but cannot replace rheumatologists.Gut health plays a significant role in autoimmune conditions.Vaccines do not increase the risk of autoimmune diseases.Lifestyle changes can significantly impact autoimmune disease management.CAR T cell therapy shows promise for autoimmune treatment.Genetic testing for autoimmune diseases is not recommended for everyone.Environmental triggers can influence autoimmune disease onset.Women are more prone to autoimmune diseases due to biological factors.Misinformation about autoimmune diseases is widespread and harmful.Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Autoimmune Diseases00:03:00 Role of AI in Medicine00:06:00 Gut Health and Autoimmunity00:09:00 Vaccines and Autoimmune Diseases00:12:00 Lifestyle Changes and Management00:15:00 New Treatments and CAR T Cell Therapy00:18:00 Genetics and Autoimmune Diseases00:21:00 Environmental Triggers00:24:00 Women and Autoimmune Diseases00:27:00 Combating Misinformation Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    55 min

  5. 04/07/2025

    Living with Sjogren’s Syndrome: Dr. Girnita's approach in treating a complex autoimmune disease

    In this inspiring episode of Thriving with Arthritis, Dr. Diana Girnita, board-certified rheumatologist and founder of Rheumatologist OnCall, is interviewed by Raha Saber—a courageous woman navigating life with Sjogren’s Syndrome. Raha shares her powerful journey through years of misdiagnosis, and how she ultimately found answers, support, and strength. Raha reached out to Dr. Girnita after years of following her content on Youtube and Instagram and asked her to share her approach on treating this complex autoimmune disease. Dr. Girnita breaks down what Sjogren’s Syndrome really is, why it’s often misunderstood or overlooked, and how a comprehensive, holistic approach can make a meaningful difference in managing this autoimmune disease.  The conversation blends medical expertise with real-life experience to shed light on integrative treatments, nutrition, supplements, and mindset shifts that can help patients thrive. Whether you’re living with Sjogren’s, caring for someone who is, or simply seeking expert guidance on autoimmune health, this episode delivers education, empowerment, and encouragement. What You’ll Learn: The real-life challenges of living with Sjogren’s SyndromeCommon signs, symptoms, how is Sjogren's disease diagnosedWhy diagnosis is often delayedThe role of anti-inflammatory diets, supplements, and stress managementHow to advocate for yourself as a patientExpert advice from a top expert rheumatologist on managing Sjogren’s holisticallyCheck out Dr. Girnita's Youtube channel to learn more about Sjogren's Disease. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnLTV1sl8cpyrIZmRfZ6hHt897QLYJwel Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    45 min

  6. 03/31/2025

    From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Sona’s Story of Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis

    Welcome to another inspiring episode of Thriving With Arthritis, hosted by Dr. Diana Girnita—rheumatologist, immunologist, and founder of Rheumatologist OnCall. In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Girnita is joined by Ms. Sona, a courageous patient who shares her personal journey from pain, frustration, and delayed Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis to healing, hope, and empowerment through a holistic and personalized care approach. If you’ve ever felt lost in the healthcare system, uncertain about medications, or afraid of your autoimmune diagnosis, this episode will speak directly to you. Ms. Sona opens up about her experience navigating months of undiagnosed rheumatoid arthritis, her struggle to find relief within a traditional insurance-based model, and how discovering direct specialty care and a telemedicine-based practice changed everything. Together, they discuss: The challenges of getting a timely RA diagnosisWhy traditional healthcare often fails autoimmune patientsThe power of personalized, holistic care—including lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory diets, and supplementsHow Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) medications can be safely introduced when paired with patient education and supportThe emotional toll of chronic illness—and how to reclaim your identity beyond the diseaseWhether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with rheumatoid arthritis for years, this episode will offer insight, inspiration, and real-world strategies to help you thrive—not just survive—with autoimmune disease. 📚 Mentioned in this episode: Dr. Girnita’s book Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis—a holistic roadmap that bridges cutting-edge treatments with lifestyle medicine. Now available on amazon.com:   https://amzn.to/3ZVmKpX 🎧 Listen to discover: Real RA symptoms and early warning signsThe benefits of telemedicine in autoimmune careWhy standard RA treatment should be personalizedHow to implement holistic practices without fear or confusionHopeful, science-backed strategies for reducing inflammation naturally Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    18 min

  7. 03/24/2025

    Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Lifestyle Strategies, Science & Hope with Dr. Diana Girnita

    In this special episode, Dr. Diana Girnita joined Melissa Schenkman, Founder of YMyHealth Podcast, to discuss Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Dr. Girnita shares insights from her new book, Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis, a must-read guide for anyone navigating this complex autoimmune condition. Together, they explore how millennials diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can take control of their health through holistic lifestyle changes, including anti-inflammatory nutrition, gut health, sleep optimization, exercise, and stress reduction.  Dr. Girnita breaks down the science behind RA, the role of the microbiome, short-chain fatty acids, and why certain foods might be triggering flare-ups. This episode is packed with science-backed tips, and hopeful insights for anyone living with or supporting someone with an autoimmune disease. 🎧 Listen to learn about: Early signs and symptoms of RA in millennialsThe power of lifestyle medicine in managing inflammationWhat foods can help—or hurt—your autoimmune journeyReal patient stories that inspireDr. Girnita’s mission to revolutionize autoimmune careWhether you're newly diagnosed, managing Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) long-term, or simply seeking guidance on chronic inflammation, this episode will give you the tools and hope to thrive—not just survive—with rheumatoid arthritis. Don’t forget to check out Dr. Girnita’s book Thriving with Rheumatoid Arthritis on Amazon https://amzn.to/3ZVmKpX  and visit her YouTube channel @RheumatologistOnCall for more expert videos! Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    48 min

  8. 12/11/2024

    How to manage Rheumatoid Arthritis during winter time?

    In this episode of 'Thriving with Arthritis,' hosted by Dr. Diana Girnita, a rheumatologist, you will learn invaluable strategies for managing rheumatoid arthritis during cold weather.  Dr. Girnita explains how cold weather affects joints and offers practical tips. She also highlights the importance of anti-inflammatory nutrition, regular exercise, even in winter, and mindfulness techniques to manage stress and sleep. Plus, you will learn about emergency tips for flare-ups!  This episode is a comprehensive guide to help arthritis patients navigate cold weather challenges effectively. Resources: Dr Girnita's Book:  THRIVING WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: Your Science-Backed Guide to Conquering RA https://amzn.to/4g2rNdY Paraffin Wax Machine for Hand and Feet: https://amzn.to/49ziArm Support the show More info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhD Website: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/ Email: Contact@rheumatologistoncall.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200

    22 min
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Thriving with Arthritis is an evidence-based podcast dedicated to helping people understand, manage, and live well with arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Hosted by Dr. Diana M. Girnita, MD, PhD, a double board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology with a PhD in Immunology, the podcast bridges modern rheumatology with lifestyle and integrative medicine. The show covers a wide range of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, Sjögren’s disease, gout, and other inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders. Each episode provides clear explanations of diagnosis, lab testing, imaging, medications, biologics, and emerging therapies—alongside practical strategies for nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress regulation, and chronic pain management. Listeners hear conversations with experts in rheumatology, immunology, nutrition, physical therapy, and mind-body medicine, as well as real patient stories that highlight the challenges of diagnosis, flares, remission, and long-term disease management. Dr. Girnita brings over 20 years of clinical and academic experience, including advanced postdoctoral training at Harvard University and the University of Pittsburgh. She is widely recognized for combining rigorous scientific medicine with a whole-person approach that treats not just disease activity, but the person living with the disease. An educator with a global reach, Dr. Girnita has accumulated over 30 million views across YouTube and social media, where she delivers clear, science-based education on autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Medscape, and other major medical publications. Thriving with Arthritis empowers patients to make informed decisions, navigate the healthcare system with confidence, reduce inflammation, prevent complications, and reclaim quality of life.

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