On Health with Houston Methodist

Digestive Health: Food Has Evolved — Our Gut Hasn’t

Modern food looks nothing like it did a generation ago, let alone thousands of years ago. What does this mean for your body? In this episode, we explore how our diets have changed dramatically over time, the types of food our digestive systems are hardwired to handle, and what that mismatch means for metabolism, gut health and more.  Expert: Dr. Archana Sadhu, endocrinologist  Notable topics covered:  * The evolution of the human diet  * How modern diets affect gut bacteria, inflammation and nutrient absorption  * Why ingredient lists matter, and how to tell when a food is ultra-processed  * Why fiber matters but “fibermaxxing” isn’t always the answer  * How pairing macronutrients helps the body digest food more smoothly  * The surprising importance of when you eat — not just what  * Cultural eating patterns and what the Mediterranean diet gets right  * Do vitamins and supplements really help your metabolism?  * Small, realistic changes that support digestion without overthinking food  If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog [https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/].

Workout Nutrition: What Works & What Doesn’t

Should you eat before a workout? What about after? And do you really need electrolyte drinks, protein shakes or preworkout supplements to see results? In this episode, we break down why you shouldn’t enter a workout fasted, the biggest misconceptions around fueling for exercise and what actually helps you perform better and recover faster. Expert: Amanda Beaver, registered dietitian Notable topics covered: * Why working out fasted can hurt your performance * Simple, realistic preworkout snack ideas (even for chaotic schedules) * How fueling needs differ for cardio, strength training and HIIT workouts * What actually matters when it comes to preworkout and postworkout supplements * The “protein-sparing effect”: Why carb intake matters after a workout * How consistently underfueling can impact hormones, immunity and overall health * Signs you might not be fueling enough — during workouts and beyond If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog [https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/].

Rec Leagues: The Case for Playing Sports as an Adult

Recreational team sports aren’t just for kids. In fact, 50% of young adults say they either play in a rec sports league or are interested in joining one. If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, we break down why it’s never too late to play, how to get started and tips for avoiding injuries as you get back into the game. Expert: Dr. Vijay Jotwani, sports medicine physician Notable topics covered: * Mental health and social benefits of playing sports as an adult * The underappreciated physical benefits of exercise, from heart health to balance * How to safely return to sports if it’s been a while since you last played * Choosing the right sport based on your age and fitness level * Why sports like pickleball and ultimate frisbee are so popular * Injury prevention tips for adult athletes * Stretching, warmups and cooldowns explained * Hydration and nutrition tips for game days * How accountability and community keep people moving long-term If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog [https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/].

Social Connection: How Your Social Life Benefits Your Health

Monitoring our macros, steps or sleep (maybe with a wearable?) might come to mind if one wants to optimize their well-being. But there’s another factor often gets overlooked in hacking our health: social connection. And, as a society, we’re currently lacking it. One in three Americans report feeling lonely every week, according to an American Psychiatric Association poll — and 30% of Americans age 18-34 say they feel lonely every day. Building a strong, meaningful social network (IRL, not online) can be as significant for our health as quitting smoking or losing weight. But what counts as meaningful connection — and can small talk, texting and casual interactions really make a difference? This episode explores how social connection shapes our mental and physical well-being, why loneliness and isolation aren’t the same thing, and how to build healthier, more authentic connections in everyday life. Expert: Dr. Olivia Tomasco, primary care doctor Notable topics covered: * What loneliness is and how it differs from isolation  * Why loneliness can affect both mental and physical health  * Who is most at risk for social disconnection?  * When technology helps connection — and when it may make loneliness worse  * Why both quality relationships and everyday small talk matter  * What a healthy, supportive connection actually looks like  * Whether texting, memes and other digital check-ins really count  * How to make new connections in more authentic, low-pressure ways  * When loneliness may be a sign it’s time to seek professional help  If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog [https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/].

Pelvic Floor: What “Strong” Really Means

You’ve likely heard of the pelvic floor, but what do you really know about it? For instance, are you aware that having a weak pelvic floor isn’t the only issue? An overly tight one can cause problems, too. In this episode, we break down what the pelvic floor actually is, why it matters at every stage of life and how it affects more than just childbirth or aging. From bladder control and exercise to pain, prevention and simple daily habits, it’s time to demystify this commonly overlooked, but critically important, part of the body.  Expert: Dr. Danielle Antosh, urogynecologist  Notable topics covered:  * Spoiler: The pelvic floor isn’t actually a flat “floor”  * Why pelvic floor issues aren’t limited to pregnancy, childbirth or aging  * Everyday activities that rely on the pelvic floor — often without you realizing it  * How to know if your pelvic floor is healthy and strong  * The difference between a weak pelvic floor and a tight one  * Symptoms that may signal a pelvic floor problem, including pain and urine leakage  * How menopause and aging can impact pelvic floor muscles  * Practical guidance on Kegels: how to do them correctly — and common mistakes  * The role of Pilates, yoga and other exercises in pelvic floor strength and flexibility  * When pelvic floor physical therapy or other treatments may be needed  * Why early awareness and prevention can make a long‑term difference If you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog [https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/].