Dr. Aisha Thomas and Dr. Sydney Nichols, two board-certified internal medicine and infectious disease physicians/pediatricians, specialize in lifestyle medicine, a method of preventing, treating, and reversing chronic diseases through whole-person prescriptive lifestyle changes. According to studies, 80 percent of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes can be prevented by evidence-based improvements in diet and lifestyle. The doctors suggest making goals manageable and attainable for each pillar in which to live a longer life:
- Nutrition: Eating the colors of the rainbow found in fresh fruits and vegetables every day
- Physical activity: Moderate exercise like walking 30 minutes daily
- Restorative sleep: At least 7 hours per night with one hour before midnight being ideal
- Stress management: Finding healthy ways to relax (e.g., exercising or listening to music while connecting with other people through group activities or volunteering)
- Avoiding risky substances: Legal drugs (e.g., medical marijuana) & illegal ones plus processed foods full of non-nutritive chemicals + sugar/fat
- Positive social connection: Joining spiritual groups or volunteering
Dr. Thomas emphasizes that “prevention is key when it comes to managing chronic illnesses.” She says that “adopting these small changes can make an immense difference in your physical health as well as mental wellbeing.” Dr. Nichols adds that “the best way to tackle chronic diseases is through lifestyle change rather than medications or surgeries.” The doctors hope their evidence-based advice will lead to more individuals leading healthier lifestyles in order to reduce the number of cases of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes etc. in the population. They believe this will result in happier and longer lives overall.
By following these lifestyle changes, individuals can be proactive about their health and begin to enjoy a life of longevity. With more people living healthier lifestyles, our society will become stronger and more productive due to improved physical and mental wellbeing. Ultimately, Drs. Thomas and Nichols believe in the power of prevention, when it comes to chronic diseases, and by following their advice, individuals can lead a longer and healthier life. Dr. Thomas adds that “prevention is not just about knowing what to do but also understanding why you should do it”. Therefore, alongside their evidence-based advice, the doctors strive to educate and empower individuals to take control of their own health. With a holistic approach, Drs. Thomas and Nichols encourage individuals to make realistic lifestyle changes to prevent chronic diseases.
