A Medical Dispatch for Well Beings
Volume 5, Number 3 | May 2023
Dear health connoisseurs,
Welcome to the latest edition of our dispatch. We are finally dusting off the last remnants of pandemic residue, and are on the precipice of a new force which I hope brings more benefit than harm to healthcare. Yes, I’m talking about the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence.
AI has emerged as a transformative technology with the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery and outcomes, leading to better patient experiences, improved diagnosis and treatment, and reduced costs. While the hype around AI in healthcare is palpable, it is important to recognize that the field is still in its nascent stages and there are many challenges and opportunities ahead. Our Innovation Council will be spending the majority of our time over the next 3-4 months to explore this new tool and share our perspectives on how AI/ChatGPT intersects with health, healthcare, and medical research.
In this edition, we dive into the science behind weight loss drugs and mindfulness, examining the facts amidst the hype. Our interview with Dr. Michelle Cardel, a renowned obesity and nutrition scientist, registered dietitian, and the Head of Clinical Research & Nutrition at WeightWatchers, sheds light on the revolutionary impact of drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Moujaro in the treatment of obesity. Additionally, we feature insights from three guests from our neuroscience podcast series, providing the latest scientific developments on mindfulness, meditation, and psychedelics. Lastly, we hear from Dr. Erika Drazan, a pediatrician, on the academic benefits and positive mental health outcomes of promoting socialization among children during summer break. Join us as we explore these exciting topics and navigate the complexities of these fascinating fields.
This issue also features a spotlight on some of the talented individuals at our New York office, as well as the most recent COVID booster recommendations. We also delve into the inspiring work of nonprofit organization, Eat Real, which is driving positive change in the way children eat within school environments.
The Truth About Weight Loss Drugs
Each edition of our newsletter features exclusive interviews with experts from the Private Medical community, providing valuable insights and answers to our pressing health questions. This month, we are privileged to speak with Dr. Michelle Cardel, a distinguished obesity and nutrition scientist, registered dietitian, and the Head of Clinical Research & Nutrition at WeightWatchers.
Dr. Cardel delves into various misconceptions about weight loss, shedding light on the truth behind GLP-1 inhibitors, which are commonly marketed under brand names such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. She also shares her expertise on the science of lifestyle change, the importance of addressing weight and health with our children, and the challenges of sustaining weight loss.
Tune in to her insightful conversation with Private Medical’s Dr. Natalie Walsh and Dr. Tatiana Ivan on the Inside Medicine podcast, or read a summary of the discussion below.
Mindfulness, Meditation, and Psychedelics
This season on our podcast, Inside Medicine, we were honored to host three doctors who are leading the way in the fields of neuroscience, mental health, and mindfulness. Dr. Josh Woolley provided valuable insights on the topic of psychedelic therapy, while Dr. Jud Brewer shared his expertise on breaking unhealthy habits. Finally, Dr. Jay Sanguinetti explored the benefits of mindfulness and human connection. In the following section, we highlight the key takeaways from each of these esteemed experts.
A Social Summer Can Help Kids Stay Active, Academically Engaged, and Feeling Positive
Our Silicon Valley pediatrician Dr. Erika Drazan on why being social in the summer is essential for a child’s development.
The Latest on COVID Boosters
Our infectious disease expert, Dr. Geemee Chung, shares the most recent vaccine guidance.
