A new year often brings new goals, many of which focus on improving our health and lifestyle. Whether it’s adopting healthier eating habits, staying active, improving sleep, or prioritizing self-care, setting New Year’s resolutions is a common tradition. But turning those resolutions into lasting habits? That’s the real challenge.
In this episode of HEALTH, Yeah!, experts from Stony Brook Medicine share strategies for creating realistic goals and sticking to them, setting you up for long-term success.
The Experts
Konstantinos Spaniolas, MD
Dr. Spaniolas is a professor of surgery and the director of the Stony Brook Bariatric and Metabolic Weight Loss Center. In this podcast episode, he shares strategies for starting a weight loss journey without feeling overwhelmed, the importance of multidisciplinary support, and how to overcome weight loss plateaus with physical activity and nutrition adjustments. He also encourages people to start small, take baby steps, focus on progress rather than perfection, and match goals with the tools and support needed to succeed.
Joseph Giglio, DPT
As the physical and occupational therapy supervisor at Stony Brook Medicine, Joe Giglio has over 34 years of experience helping patients stay active. In this episode, he explains the importance of incorporating both aerobic and resistance training into your routine, why movement matters for long-term health, and how to exercise effectively at home.
Kimberly Hsu, MD
Dr. Hsu is a family medicine physician specializing in preventive care and education. In this podcast episode, she discusses the importance of annual checkups, staying up to date on vaccinations, and how nutrition, hydration and supplements can support your immune system during the winter months.
Adrienne Haughton, MD
Dr. Haughton is the director of clinical and cosmetic dermatology at Stony Brook Medicine. In this episode, she offers tips on skin health, the importance of wearing sunscreen year-round and the role of antioxidants in skincare. Dr. Haughton also shares insights on anti-aging treatments and preventive skin care routines.
Veronique Deutsche-Anzalone, PsyD
Dr. Deutsche-Anzalone, a clinical psychologist specializing in postpartum and women’s mental health, offers practical guidance on sticking to resolutions. She discusses the SMART goal-setting framework, stress management strategies and the role of mindfulness practices in enhancing mental well-being.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
Starting Your Health Journey
- 00:00: Introduction to our experts
- 01:30: How to begin a weight loss journey without feeling overwhelmed
- 02:00: First steps to support weight loss
The Role of Exercise
- 03:00: How often should you exercise?
- 03:45: Beginner steps to start an exercise routine
- 04:30: Realistic weight loss goals and targets
- 05:00: How to handle plateaus
- 06:00: The importance of resistance training and preserving muscle mass as you age
The Impact of Sleep and Stress
- 07:00: Why sleep is crucial for weight loss and overall health, including cognitive function
- 08:00: The link between sleep apnea and weight challenges
- 09:30: Sleep hygiene tips
- 10:30: Recent advancements in weight management
Preventive Health and Vaccinations
- 12:45: The importance of annual wellness visits, vaccinations and preventative care
- 12:30: Vaccination recommendations for different ages
Skincare Tips
- 14:10: Essential skin care tips, including use of sunscreen and anti-aging treatments
- 15:00: Use of antioxidants to protect skin
- 15:30: How often to visit a dermatologist
Screenings for Health Conditions
- 16:50: When to visit a provider for various screenings, including mammograms and colonoscopies
- 18:00: Screening for osteoporosis
- 19:00: Signs of skin cancer to monitor
Boosting Skin and Immune System Health
- 20:10: Anti-aging skin products to consider using
- 22:10: Foods and nutrients that support overall health and skin’s appearance
- 22:50: Supplements to support immune defenses
- 24:10: How exercise and hydration support wellness
Making Resolutions That Stick
- 26:20: Why many resolutions fail and how to make SMART goals
- 30:45: Practical stress management techniques
- 32:00: How to overcome negative self-narratives and thoughts
- 33:00: The benefits of mindfulness and a guided exercise
- 35:00: How to let go of self-judgment
- 36:30: Benefits of diaphragmatic breathing and how to practice it
