#323: Learning the Dance of Wellbeing with Dr. Naomi Parrella
“I think that's the really fun thing about the human body because it's pretty resilient and even little changes can make huge outcomes changes and make everything else kind of fall into place. We just have to figure out what's that first thing to just you know, nudge a little bit?” –Dr. Naomi Parrella
In this episode of I AM HUMAN, I chat with Dr. Naomi Parrella about learning to tune in to the signals of our bodies to improve our well-being and longevity. We discuss the circadian code, informed nutrition and how we can tackle the health crisis affecting our country.
Our conversation also explores contrasting health philosophies between Japan and the United States, particularly how the Japanese focus on prevention and understanding the body's signals vs. the American tendency to seek quick fixes for discomfort. By learning from different cultural practices, we can adopt a more holistic approach to health, emphasizing the "dance of well-being" where we respond adaptively to our body's cues and environment for optimal health outcomes.
Dr. Parrella also highlights the importance of starting with basic nutritional habits and incorporating simple physical activities to build a strong foundation for health. Lastly, we dive into the transformative power of education and informed consent in healthcare. Dr. Parrella shares inspiring stories of patients who have reversed chronic conditions like diabetes through lifestyle adjustments, demonstrating the ripple effect of one patient's success inspiring others in the community. Join us for an empowering conversation that underscores the value of education, compassion, and the unique purpose each human holds.
Dr. Naomi Parrella has a rich background shaped by a bicultural upbringing and international education, embracing diverse perspectives in her approach to wellness. She has positively impacted over 10,000 patients with her dynamic methods for healthier living. As Medical Director at Rush Center for Weight Loss and a sought-after speaker for top organizations like United Airlines and Google, Dr. Parrella remains dedicated to enhancing lives. Now, as Chief Medical Officer at Zero, the leading fasting tracker and metabolic health app, she extends her expertise to a global audience, driven by her lifelong mission to make a profound difference in healthcare.
Discussion points:
(00:00) Dr. Parrella intro and background
(04:23) Growing up in Japan, developing an interest in wellbeing
(10:04) What is the ‘dance of well-being’? Understanding the body’s signals
(17:30) Signals and rhythms are crucial for health, resilience, and adaptability, including the circadian code and life stages.
(22:06) Informed nutrition, intermittent fasting, physical activity, and systemic changes for a healthier environment.
(27:29) Tackling the health crisis in our country. Education and informed nutrition can lead to significant health improvements and inspire others in the community.
(35:17) Self-Compassion- Embracing imperfection and self-compassion leads to personal growth, with persistence and practice, while being kind to ourselves during transitions.
(40:07) Challenges and rewards of half ironman training and practice, mental resilience, health protocols, dietary habits, and importance of flexibility and hydration.
(49:09) Closing questions, what we wish people knew
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Dr. Naomi Parrella
Chief Medical Officer at Zero App
Informed by the unique experiences that stem from a bicultural upbringing and international education, Dr. Naomi Parrella has never believed there’s only one way to do anything. Now that she’s helped over 10,000 patients live healthier, fuller lives, it’s safe to say her dynamic approach to wellness works.
Whether she’s serving as the Medical Director at Rush Center for Weight Loss or speaking to organizations like United Airlines and Google, Naomi keeps one goal front and center: Improve the lives of others. Now, as Chief Medical Officer of the world’s most popular fasting tracker and metabolic health app, Zero, she’s leveraging the lessons her distinguished career has provided to improve even more lives at a broader scale than ever before.
The information on this blog, website and podcast is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your or your child’s eating, nutrition or growth, consult a doctor.