NOURISH MD: Doctor Dietitian Dialogues

In this episode of Nourish MD , Meg sits down with chiropractor and movement specialist Dr. Christian Barney, D.C., C.C.S.P., D.A.B.C.O., A.R.T., for an empowering conversation about aging, mobility, balance, and why decline is not an inevitable part of getting older. As Dr. Barney explains, “aging is normal, but loss of capacity is not.” Together, they explore:• Why many adults believe pain and s...

Stress shapes how we think, react, and move through daily life — and chronic stress can quietly shift the body into survival mode. In this episode, Meg talks with Dr. Courtney Harkins, Psy. D., MFT about how unprocessed emotions show up physically, why therapy isn’t only for moments of crisis, and how simple, accessible tools can help regulate the nervous system and build resilience. They explore...

In this episode, Meg Tancredi, MS, RD talks with UCI Health OB‑GYN Dr. Rebecca Sauer about what women truly experience during peri‑, meno‑, and post‑menopause — and why no two journeys look the same. Dr. Sauer explains how symptoms can vary widely, why women’s concerns are often dismissed, and what individualized, evidence‑based menopause care should include. They also discuss practical ways to ad...

Registered dietitian Meg Tancredi, MS, RD breaks down what RDs actually study, why their training matters, and how to make sense of a world full of conflicting nutrition information. She explains why weight loss is more complex than “calories in, calories out,” what metabolism really does, how to think about supplements, and why sustainable change comes from habits and mindset rather than extremes...

In this episode, Meg talks with Dr. Burak Ozgur, Medical Director of the Hoag Spine Institute and a nationally recognized neurosurgeon, about what pain really means — and why it doesn’t always signal damage. Dr. Ozgur explains how modern spine care blends conservative therapies, diagnostics, rehabilitation, and minimally invasive surgical options, and why surgery should be a thoughtful tool rather...

In this episode, Meg Tancredi, MS, RD talks with psychologist and Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Dr. Kristen Kvamme about what truly drives lasting behavior change. They explore why willpower isn’t the answer, how all‑or‑nothing thinking gets in the way, and why small, consistent actions create the biggest results. You’ll hear about the role of tracking, shifting negative self‑talk, a...

Unlock the hidden story your blood sugar tells every day. Whether you live with diabetes or simply want more energy, this episode of Nourish MD reveals why blood sugar is the key to understanding fatigue, cravings, inflammation, and even how your body ages. 🔍 What you’ll learn in this episode: How blood sugar impacts energy, mood, hormones, and metabolism Why traditional lab tests miss the daily...

🌟 In this re-release of the Nourish MD Podcast, we revisit one of our most impactful episodes: “Understand Your Pain.” Dr. David H. Nguyen, a double board-certified pain management specialist , returns with a fresh perspective on treating acute and chronic pain. 🎙️This episode highlights Dr. Nguyen’s multimodal approach—from image-guided injections to regenerative medicine—and his belief that wel...

In this thoughtful encore episode, retired OB-GYN Dr. Jay Masserman joins Lauren Papanos and Romana Brennan to unpack the journey from perimenopause to post-menopause. With decades of experience caring for women through every stage of life, Dr. Masserman offers clarity on hormonal changes, common symptoms like hot flashes, and the nuanced pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 💬 What...

In this edited encore episode, Dr. L. Richard Van Meter, MD, FCCP, returns with fresh clarity on prostate health, aging, and men’s wellness . With over 35 years of experience and a reputation for compassionate care, Dr. Van Meter breaks down what every man—and every partner—should know about prostate function, cancer risk, and proactive screening. 🎧 What You’ll Learn What the prostate does and ho...

In this powerful rerun from Season 1, rheumatologist Dr. Farshid Bozorgnia, MD, joins hosts Lauren Papanos and Romana Brennan to explore the root causes of chronic pain and inflammation. Drawing from his extensive experience at UCI Health, Dr. Boz shares how a multimodal approach—combining lifestyle, medication, and integrative care—can transform patient outcomes. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: Understandi...

In this informative edited rerun from Season 1, gastroenterologist Dr. Richard G. Quist joins host Lauren Papanos to break down the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for reflux and heartburn . Whether you’re managing chronic discomfort or just curious about digestive health, this episode offers expert insights and actionable advice . 🔑 What You’ll Learn : • Reflux Demystified: Understand wh...

In this informative, edited rerun from Season 1, u rologist Dr. Seth A. Cohen joins host Lauren Papanos to explore the essentials of bladder health and how to prevent urinary tract infections. Whether you're managing recurring UTIs or simply want to support your urinary wellness, this episode offers practical, evidence-based guidance. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: Bladder Basics : Understand how your...

In this enlightening rerun from Season 1, Dr. James M. Weiss, MD, FCCP, joins hosts Lauren Papanos and Romana Brennan to explore the foundations of preventative cardiovascular care. From blood pressure basics to lifestyle strategies, this episode empowers you to take charge of your heart health with confidence and clarity. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: Heart Health Essentials : Understand how your heart f...

In this special rerun from Season 1, we revisit one of our most impactful conversations: the science and soul of sleep. Hosts Lauren Papanos and Romana Brennan, both Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, are joined by Dr. William Davis, MD, to explore how sleep shapes every aspect of our health — from immune resilience to emotional balance. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: Sleep Science Simplified: Dr. Davis b...

Sinus SOS: Mucus, Myths, and Medical Truths - Stuffed up or sniffly? In this rerun episode, registered dietitians Lauran Papanos, RD, CSSD, and Romana Brennan, MS, RD, welcome Dr. Sepehr Oliaei, board-certified otolaryngologist at UCI Health, to clear the air on sinus issues, allergy myths, and what that mystery mucus really means.🎙️ With expertise in ear, nose, and throat disorders—and a clinical...

🎙️ In Episode 13 of the Nourish MD Podcast, co-hosts Lauren Papanos and Romana Brennan sit down with clinical social worker and author Stephanie Erickson, MSW, LCSW, PSW, for an illuminating conversation on mental well-being in older adults . From the emotional toll of caregiving to the gaps in support systems for aging individuals and their families, this episode explores how therapy, advocacy, a...

Are your eyes trying to tell you something? 👁️ From blurry screens to dry eyes and even chronic health clues, this eye-opening episode of the Nourish MD Podcast unpacks the powerful connection between vision and overall wellness. Join Ramona and Lauren as they sit down with Dr. Caleb Shumway, board-certified ophthalmologist at Beach Eye Medical Group , to explore how modern technology, mindset, an...

Hair loss isn’t just about genetics—it’s a complex puzzle involving thyroid health, gut microbiome, nutrient levels, and even stress hormones. In this deep-dive episode, Nourish MD’s dietitians Ramona Brennan and Lauren Papanos reveal the hidden connections between nutrition and hair regrowth, from essential vitamins like biotin and zinc to blood sugar balance and adrenal health. Whether you’re ex...

Doctor Dietitian Dialogues: Skin Health & Dermatology with Dr. Fan - In this episode of Nourish MD, hosts Romana Brennan and Lauren Papanos sit down with Dr. Fan, a board-certified dermatologist from UCI Health, to dive deep into the science of skin health. From common concerns like eczema and acne to complex conditions such as autoimmune skin diseases and melanoma, Dr. Fan provides expert ins...

🎙️ In this episode of Nourish MD, we explore the crucial role of nutrition in cancer care —how dietary strategies can help manage symptoms, support recovery, and enhance overall patient outcomes. From evidence-based approaches to emerging research, we dive deep into the ways food can be a powerful ally in treatment. Join us for expert insights, practical applications, and meaningful discussions on...

Join host Romana Brennan as she explores integrative oncology with Dr. Richard Lee in this enlightening episode of the Nourish MD Podcast. Dr. Lee, Cherng Family Director's Chair at City of Hope, shares how evidence-based therapies are transforming cancer care and enhancing patient well-being. Discover the roles of acupuncture, mind-body medicine, and nutrition in managing symptoms like fatigu...

Could your blood sugar be causing vision problems? Did you even know that was possible? Learn all about the power our blood sugar has in our bodies! Join co-hosts Lauren Papanos and Ramona Brennan as they take a deep dive into the relationship between blood sugar and vision health in this episode of Nourish MD. Discover how blood sugar regulation affects eye health, learn about nutrients that comb...

Welcome to Through the Looking Glass: Eye Health and Prevention . Discover expert tips and insights into preserving your vision with Dr. Jenny Hu ! In this episode, Dr. Hu shares practical advice on eye health, the role of lifestyle, and expert tips to maintain vision. About the Guest Jenny Hu, MD , is an ophthalmologist specializing in premium cataract surgery, oculoplastic surgery, minimally inv...

Discover expert-backed tips for achieving a healthier and more graceful aging journey. Join registered dietitian nutritionists Lauren Papanos, MS, RD, CSSD, and Romana Brennan, MS, RD, as they dive into the transformative changes our bodies experience with age and share actionable strategies to enhance your quality of life—at any stage of life! 🎙️ Tune in to learn how to take the right steps towar...