I AM HUMAN Yami Cazorla-Lancaster, DO, MPH, MS, FAAP

In this episode of I AM HUMAN, we learn more about perimenopause and menopause from experienced OB/GYN Dr. Nitu Bajekal. She describes typical symptoms and timelines and what we can do with our diet and lifestyle habits and behaviors to reduce symptoms and support our health and longevity. We also discuss indications for HRT/MHT and who to seek help from. This is an excellent and information-packed episode for people that will be or are going through this transition. 
Listen in as Dr. Bajekal shares some of the common and more unusual symptoms of menopause, discussing the importance of recognizing and respecting the varied experiences women may face. From the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy to the role primary care providers play in the management of symptoms, we cover all bases to ensure you are equipped with the information you need. We delve into the power of the six pillars of lifestyle medicine that can bolster health during menopause, discussing strategies for sleep, stress management, social connections, and more, all while maintaining a keen focus on the holistic nature of well-being. 
Dr. Nitu Bajekal, MD, is a Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the UK with over 35 years of experience. Specializing in Lifestyle Medicine, PCOS, and menopause, she's also a skilled surgeon. A Fellow of the Royal College and recipient of the Indian President’s Gold Medal, she's one of the UK’s first board-certified Lifestyle Medicine Physicians. Dr. Bajekal is dedicated to health advocacy, offering credible medical and lifestyle guidance. She co-authored acclaimed books like "Living PCOS Free" and "Finding Me in Menopause," reflecting her commitment to empowering individuals. Passionate about a vegan lifestyle, she integrates her beliefs into her work and life. 

Discussion points: 
(00:00) Dr. Nitu Bajekal reframes menopause as an opportunity for renewal and growth. She encourages women to view this life stage positively, dispelling fears and advocating for self-education on the changes to come. (06:37) Definitions of menopause and perimenopause, discussing the symptoms, onset, and the importance of recognizing this natural transition.  (10:15) Varied experiences women can have with perimenopause and menopause, from minimal symptoms to more severe manifestations.  (18:24) Unusual symptoms of perimenopause, such as joint pain and heightened sensitivities. The importance of not trivializing these changes and the need for proper diagnosis and management.  (23:17) The wide range of menopausal symptoms and the necessity for healthcare providers to take women's experiences seriously.  (26:19) Insights from the book, "Finding Me in Menopause," which addresses Dr. Nitu’s personal journey through menopause. She emphasizes how it can be a time of self-discovery and empowerment for many women. (34:08) Educating yourself and women in general, easing symptoms, and the six lifestyle pillars, including the critical roles of sleep, nutrition, exercise, and social networks during menopause.  (49:42) Benefits of soy and its role in preventing certain cancers, including prostate, bowel, and colon cancer. The doctors tackle common misconceptions about soy and estrogen, and the benefits of eating beans every day. (57:08) Who is a candidate, and when, for Hormone Therapy? (1:01:49) Final questions - success, goals, dreams, what we wish people knew Please subscribe, and reach out to us with your comments, questions, and feedback 
Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional. 
The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Sub

In this episode of I AM HUMAN, I interview Lily Correa, MPH, RD about the incredible and inspiring work that her amazing team is doing at NYC Health + Hospitals. We learn about her plant-based journey and how her work is so gratifying, but requires patience and perseverance. She also gives tips for how other health care professionals can make an impact and influence those around them.

Our conversation is not just about food; it's about rewriting the script of patient care. We unwrap the stories of plant-based athletes defying expectations and the community-centric model that elevates the role of diet and exercise in managing health. The Bellevue Hospital program isn't just a clinic; it's a beacon of change, demonstrating the sustainability and impact of a shared medical appointment model. Lily and her team, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Michelle McMacken, have crafted a legacy of empowerment, enabling patients to flourish in their health journeys through education and whole-person care. Lily's aspiration to author a Spanish-language plant-based cookbook speaks to her dedication to diversifying the nutrition dialogue. 

Lily Correa, MPH, RD, is a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, seeing the kitchen as a powerful tool for promoting health and wellness. As a registered dietitian and bilingual health educator, she honed her skills at Kaiser Permanente in Riverside, CA, where she led plant-based cooking classes and developed a ‘culinary curriculum.’ Her commitment led her to New York, where she studied health-supportive culinary arts at the Natural Gourmet Institute and contributed to launching the Plant-Based Lifestyle Medicine Program at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. In 2022, she became the Director of Education and Training for the Office of Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals Central Office, aiming to expand the Bellevue model citywide. Lily's expertise extends to presenting at academic conferences and community organizations, reflecting her dedication to advancing nutrition and lifestyle medicine, recognized by her Diplomate status from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. 

Discussion points: 
(0:00:00 - 0:05:10) Lily Correa introduction and family journey to plant-based diets, and moving to the U.S. from Peru.  (0:05:11 - 0:11:32) Lily's plant-based journey was influenced by her grandfather, a Seventh-day Adventist pastor, including the role of diet in managing his Type 2 Diabetes. The impact of immigration on dietary habits and health, as well as misconceptions about plant-based diets for athletes. (0:11:33 - 0:21:22) Lily's path from English literature to nutrition and public health- highlighting the significance of registered dietitians in culinary medicine.  (0:21:23 - 0:30:44) The growth and success of the Bellevue Hospital team, under Dr. Michelle McMacken's leadership, the clinic's shared medical appointment model, financial sustainability, and the potential influence of the “Bellevue Model” on health care across New York City and beyond. (0:30:45 - 0:40:28) Strategies for implementing lifestyle medicine programs and building supportive teams within healthcare systems. Patient success stories and the challenges of navigating established healthcare systems. (0:42:46) Final questions - success, goals, dreams, what we wish people knew, personal and global implications of dietary choices, the concept of legacy through success in healthcare, and the balance between work and personal life. Lily's goal to create a Spanish-language plant-based cookbook and the significance of each individual's story. Please subscribe, and reach out to us with your comments, questions, and feedback 
Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional.

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In this episode of I AM HUMAN, Dr. Tom Ingegno teaches us about cupping and how to safely use it at home as a healing method. He also describes when cupping would not be safe and when to seek professional help. This is a very informative episode especially if you are curious about trying cupping yourself.

A 10 to 15-minute cupping session could be your passport to relaxation, healing, and recovery. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, especially when dealing with certain health conditions, and understand why those intriguing marks are not the bruises they appear to be. Whether you're considering a professional session or contemplating cupping therapy at home, our in-depth discussion equips you with practical tips and knowledge to make the most out of this therapeutic adventure.

Dr. Tom Ingegno, DACM, LAC, is a clinician, speaker, and the best-selling author of The Cupping Book: Unlocking the Secrets of Ancient Healing. His clinic, Charm City Integrative Health, hailed as the "Future of Medicine" by NYT bestseller David Houle, offers innovative approaches to wellness. With over 25 years of experience and a knack for simplifying complex health concepts, Dr. Tom blends modern research and traditional practices with humor to empower listeners. Tune in for practical insights on reducing inflammation, boosting circulation, and optimizing immune function for vibrant health. 

Discussion points: 
(0:00:00) The historical and cultural significance of cupping therapy, its benefits, and safety considerations, including the misconceptions about the marks it leaves.  (0:04:35) Dr. Ingegno’s journey into Chinese medicine and the ancient origins of cupping, as well as its various health benefits such as improved circulation and pain relief.  (0:14:37) Safe application of cupping, the importance of treatment duration, and the necessity of communication between practitioners and patients regarding health concerns.  (0:21:28) Differences between medical, spa, and charlatan-led cupping are discussed, with advice on how to perform cupping at home safely using silicone cups. Demystifying the coloration (ecchymosis) caused by cupping, explaining that efficacy is determined by post-therapy improvement, not the darkness of the mark. (0:31:42) The synergistic effects of combining cupping with other therapies like salt therapy and acupuncture, particularly for respiratory health during allergy season.  The cultural significance of cupping and the importance of learning from diverse healing practices are highlighted. Final questions - success, goals, dreams, what we wish people knew Please subscribe, and reach out to us with your comments, questions, and feedback  
Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional.

The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Subscribe today, and send your feedback to podcast@doctoryami.com 

Dr. Yami is a board-certified pediatrician, certified lifestyle medicine physician, national board-certified health and wellness coach, author and international speaker. She is a passionate promoter of healthy lifestyles, especially the power of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic disease. She hosts the popular podcast I AM HUMAN (formerly Veggie Doctor Radio) which boasts listeners from 98 countries and more than a million downloads to date. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, has a certificate in plant-based nutrition and is a certified Food for Life Instructor. Dr. Yami owns Nourish Wellness, a pediatric practice in Yakima, Washington where she lives

In this episode of I AM HUMAN, we learn about an innovative technique called Emotional Brain Training (EBT) that can help shut off the stress cascade that leads us to mental and physical health. We also learn about the greater benefits of using EBT to connect with our joy so that we may live more purposeful and spiritual lives. This is a fascinating episode that I hope you will love!

Dr. Laurel Mellin reveals how EBT can transform lives by rewiring neural pathways and fostering resilience. Together, we examine the role of survival circuits in emotional regulation and how EBT can dramatically improve relationships, emotional eating and addiction recovery methods - offering a path to joy and fulfillment. The discussion takes us into EBT's unique ability to navigate through high-stress situations and return to a state of connection, a crucial complement to medical and psychotherapeutic interventions. We explore the importance of adversity in the quest for joy, how personal growth is intertwined with our capacity to face life's challenges, and the pivotal role EBT can play in nurturing self-compassion and resilience.

Discussion points: 
(00:00) Stress overload, where it comes from, how humans react Five brain states and how each functions EBT offers tools to switch off stress and improve relationships, well-being, and purpose by rewiring our brains (15:00) Rewiring Survival Circuits for Emotional Regulation (22:18) Emotional Brain Training for Healing - harnessing the power of emotions (29:08) Comprehensive Care for Addiction Recovery - EBT complements traditional addiction treatment, using a brain map to identify neural circuits and emphasizing the need for comprehensive care (32:21) Developing Self-Compassion and Joy through adversity - comfort does not equate to joy (36:05) Spiral Up App for Stress Relief - helps manage stress with quick solutions and deeper exercises for long-term resilience and improved relationships (42:29) Emotional Brain Training and Personal Growth – EBT transforms self-concept and resilience by managing emotions and stress, fostering purpose and authenticity Final questions - success, goals, dreams, what we wish people knew Please subscribe, and reach out to us with your comments, questions, and feedback 
Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional.

The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Subscribe today, and send your feedback to podcast@doctoryami.com

Dr. Yami is a board-certified pediatrician, certified lifestyle medicine physician, national board-certified health and wellness coach, author and international speaker. She is a passionate promoter of healthy lifestyles, especially the power of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic disease. She hosts the popular podcast I AM HUMAN (formerly Veggie Doctor Radio) which boasts listeners from 98 countries and more than a million downloads to date. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, has a certificate in plant-based nutrition and is a certified Food for Life Instructor. Dr. Yami owns Nourish Wellness, a pediatric practice in Yakima, Washington where she lives with her husband and two sons. Her book is called “A Parent’s Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy”. You can learn more about Dr. Yami at DoctorYami.com. 

Resources: 
EBT Connect Website
EBT Groups Facebook
Dr. Laurel Mellin IG
Dr. Laurel Mellin LinkedIn
Book: 1-2-3 Joy: Easy, Natural Weight Loss that is Scientific, Proven, Drug-Free & Fun 
App: Spiral Up!: https://spiralup.org

Join me on a transformative journey with Brittany Watkins, an acclaimed expert on emotional eating and the creator of the Echo Tapping™ Technique. Listen in as Brittany opens up about her evolution from a troubled teen to a pioneer in food psychology, sharing her expertise in EFT tapping to tackle emotional eating and cravings. We uncover the healing potential of her Echo Tapping Method, and delve into the emotional complexities tied to food. From understanding the difference between cravings and emotional eating, to confronting the unconscious blocks that sabotage our body image goals. Brittany shares her insights into the subconscious mind's influence on behavior, revealing the intricate links between food, love, and safety established since childhood. 
For those eager to challenge their food-related issues, I invite you to participate in a free seven-day Echo Tapping challenge, an opportunity to revolutionize your patterns and join us in celebrating the full breadth of the human experience.

Brittany Watkins is a leading figure in overcoming emotional eating. A renowned expert in Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), she's built a career helping people shed cravings, address self-sabotage, and achieve weight loss. Her innovative Echo Tapping™ Technique tackles the root causes of these issues quickly, offering the potential for therapy-like results in just a few sessions. Her impact extends far beyond her own practice, as she's trained hundreds of professionals in her method, who in turn help countless patients each year. With millions reached through social media and recognition in major publications, her work has established her as a powerful resource in emotional eating recovery.

 Discussion points: 
Brittany’s discovery of tapping as a troubled teen Transforming from a homeless teen to successful real estate pro with tapping A famous tapping case study - Mary Tapping popularity - celebrities, athletes are raising awareness The science of tapping and unconscious trauma Eliminating your “fight or flight” response to trauma, PTSD How the process works EFT vs Echo Tapping Women and subconscious memories of body violations Other unconscious triggers or weight loss blocks Freeing your brain from blocks, finding your life purpose Other scenarios - parties, visiting family Final questions - success, goals, dreams, what we wish people knew Please subscribe, and reach out to us with your comments, questions, and feedback
Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional.

The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Subscribe today, and send your feedback to podcast@doctoryami.com. 

Dr. Yami is a board-certified pediatrician, certified lifestyle medicine physician, national board-certified health and wellness coach, author and international speaker. She is a passionate promoter of healthy lifestyles, especially the power of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic disease. She hosts the popular podcast I AM HUMAN (formerly Veggie Doctor Radio) which boasts listeners from 98 countries and more than a million downloads to date. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, has a certificate in plant-based nutrition and is a certified Food for Life Instructor. Dr. Yami owns Nourish Wellness, a pediatric practice in Yakima, Washington where she lives with her husband and two sons. Her book is called “A Parent’s Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy”. You can learn more about Dr. Yami at DoctorYami.com. 
 
Resources: 
Brittan

In this episode of I AM HUMAN, sexuality researcher Kaamna Bhojwani discusses the complex interplay between sexuality and shame and how we can shed the shame and guilt to embrace a new self-identity. She also teaches us why it's important to open conversations about sex and sexuality with our children early as well as why we should expect that sex and sexuality will evolve over the course of a long-term relationship. 
 Kaamna Bhojwani is a preeminent researcher in the field of sexuality, with a particular focus on the complex interplay between shame, spirituality, and self-identity. Through a range of services, including one-on-one consultations, intimate group workshops, and impactful public events, Kaamna empowers individuals to shed the shackles of sexual shame and guilt, ultimately facilitating the embrace of a liberating and authentic sexual self. Kaamna’s expertise is a confluence of rigorous academic achievement (Master's degrees in Spiritual Psychology from Columbia University and Organizational Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology from Smith College) and a profound empathy for the human condition. This unique blend allows her to navigate the complexities of human sexuality with both intellectual depth and unwavering compassion. 
 Discussion points: 
Kaamna’s intro and background Studying the topics of spirituality and sexuality Childhood in India with open-minded parents What “sexuality” includes Shame vs. guilt How sexual shame manifests Giving “the sex talk” and continuing the conversation with your kids Women and orgasms The definition of “good sex” Changes in sexual habits with couples Shame in the healthcare system and other institutions Moms and sexuality Final questions - success, goals, dreams, what we wish people knew Please subscribe, and reach out to us with your comments, questions, and feedback  
Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional. 
The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Subscribe today, and send your feedback to podcast@doctoryami.com  
Dr. Yami is a board-certified pediatrician, certified lifestyle medicine physician, national board-certified health and wellness coach, author and international speaker. She is a passionate promoter of healthy lifestyles, especially the power of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic disease. She hosts the popular podcast I AM HUMAN (formerly Veggie Doctor Radio) which boasts listeners from 98 countries and more than a million downloads to date. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, has a certificate in plant-based nutrition and is a certified Food for Life Instructor. Dr. Yami owns Nourish Wellness, a pediatric practice in Yakima, Washington where she lives with her husband and two sons. Her book is called “A Parent’s Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy”. You can learn more about Dr. Yami at DoctorYami.com. 
 
Resources: 
Kaamna’s Website 
Kaamna’s IG  
More From Dr. Yami: 
Listen: http://bit.ly/vdrpodcast 
TEDx Talk - http://bit.ly/DOCTORYAMITEDX 
A Parent's Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy by Dr. Yami - https://amzn.to/40ZEQpT 
Questions? Email me: podcast@doctoryami.com 
More Listening Options: 
Apple Podcasts: http://bit.ly/vdritunes    
Spotify: http://bit.ly/vdrspotify   
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thedoctoryami 
Credits: 
Show Poducers: Dr. Yami, Alejandra Parra 
Graphic Designer: A