NHA Today Podcast

Welcome to Season 2 of the NHA Today podcast.Dr. Stephan Esser officially steps in as the new host of NHA Today - bringing a powerful legacy, a fresh perspective, and a clear vision for the future of health.A fourth-generation plant-based advocate, Dr. Esser shares the deeply personal story that shaped his path from growing up at his grandfather’s health retreat, founded by NHA pioneer Dr. William L. Esser, to witnessing firsthand the transformative power of lifestyle medicine.In this introductory episode, he outlines what listeners can expect from the show moving forward: science-based, practical, and honest conversations about what actually creates lasting health.Together, we’ll explore:The foundational principles of whole-person healthWhy lifestyle (not products) drives long-term wellnessHow to cut through misinformation and take control of your healthWhat it means to become the “CEO of your own health”This episode sets the tone for a new chapter of NHA Today focused on clarity, empowerment, and real, sustainable results.🎧 Tune in and discover how simple, science-backed choices can help you reclaim your health and vitality.

What role do antioxidants, nitric oxide, and plant diversity play in optimizing your health? In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, guest host Kylie Buckner, RN, sits down with her husband, Cyrus Khambatta, PhD, to continue their deep dive into mitochondrial health and plant-based nutrition. Together, they explore how antioxidant-rich foods, polyphenols, and nitrate-dense vegetables directly support energy production, cardiovascular health, and long-term wellness. As a plant-based family raising a daughter together—alongside two rescue cats from their time living in Costa Rica—Kylie and Cyrus bring both clinical expertise and real-life application to this conversation. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why fruit is not the enemy and how it supports metabolic health • The critical role of antioxidants and polyphenols in reducing oxidative stress • How eating a diverse range of plant foods strengthens cellular function • Why nitrate-rich vegetables (like spinach, beets, and celery) support nitric oxide production • How nitric oxide improves blood flow, exercise performance, and recovery • Simple ways to incorporate these foods into your daily routine 🔗 Links & Resources Cyrus Khambatta, PhD & Kylie Buckner, RN Website: https://www.evolution-health.co National Health Association https://www.healthscience.org

What if your gut symptoms weren't random—but signals pointing to a deeper root cause? In this episode of NHA Today, guest host Kylie Buckner, RN sits down with Dahlia Marin, RDN, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Gastrointestinal Nutritionist, to explore a functional, root-cause approach to gut health. Dahlia specializes in complex digestive conditions like SIBO, IBS, and gut dysbiosis, combining clinical experience with her own personal healing journey. Together, Kylie and Dahlia unpack why so many people remain misdiagnosed, overlooked, or stuck in symptom management cycles—and what it really takes to heal. They dive into the often-missed contributors to gut dysfunction, the importance of a full health timeline, and how nutrition—especially a plant-based, microbiome-focused approach—can support lasting gut repair. This conversation is honest, practical, and empowering for anyone navigating digestive issues or looking to better understand their body. In this episode you'll learn: • Why gut issues are often misdiagnosed or misunderstood • The root causes behind IBS, SIBO, and gut imbalances • How life events, stress, and diet shape gut health over time • The role of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics • How a plant-based approach can support gut healing • Why a personalized, whole-person intake is essential Links & Resources Dahlia Marin / Married to Health Website: https://www.marriedtohealth.com Program: https://www.marriedtohealth.com/good-gut-sibo-ibs-program Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marriedtohealth/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Marriedtohealth National Health Association https://www.healthscience.org

-

What if your kitchen could become your sanctuary? In Episode 163 of NHA Today, guest host Kylie Buckner, RN sits down with whole-food plant-based chef and educator Stefanie Dougherty of Green Sage Life to explore how cooking can become a mindful, creative, and deeply nourishing ritual. Together they discuss: How plant-based cooking can shift from "chore" to creative joy Why engaging your senses reduces stress and builds mindfulness The powerful antioxidant role of herbs and spices How global spice blends transform simple meals Why beauty and nourishment go hand-in-hand The difference between "wellness rules" and the art of living well Stefanie shares practical kitchen tips, from sharpening your knife to layering flavors and reminds us that health is not just science. It's art. It's ritual. It's presence. This episode is an invitation to slow down, curate what you consume, and rediscover joy in your everyday meals. Links & Resources National Health Association (NHA): https://www.healthscience.org 🌿 Stefanie Dougherty – Green Sage Life Website: https://www.greensagelife.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greensagelife/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@greensagelife 🌿 Kylie BucknerWebsite: https://www.evolution-health.co Green Glow Lifestyle Podcast 🎧 More NHA Today episodes:https://www.healthscience.org/podcast