What you’ll learn:

GLP-1 medications have transformed the conversation around weight loss, but their benefits may extend far beyond the number on the scale.

In this episode, Dr. Lily Dastmalchi, a preventive cardiologist and obesity medicine specialist, discusses how GLP-1s can improve heart health, reduce the risk of heart attack and support long-term wellness. We also explore key risk factors for heart disease including obesity and menopause, who may benefit from treatment and why healthy lifestyle habits remain essential for success.

Featuring:
Lily Dastmalchi, DO, MA, FACC, FASPC, MSCP

Cardiologist

Inova Schar Heart and Vascular

Key takeaways with chapter markers:

• How GLP-1s improve heart health, from lowering blood pressure to A1C [1:55.895]
• Who are typical heart patients [4:55.835]
• What happens during a prevention screening [5:35.555]
• Is taking a GLP-1 a lifelong commitment? [9:27.865]
• Why GLP-1s aren’t a quick fix for weight loss [10:42.745]
• How nutrition and exercise remain critical to long-term success [11:06.785]
• What research shows about weight regain after stopping GLP-1 medications [13:31.015]
• How GLP-1s impact brain chemistry and appetite regulation [14:55.505]
• How oral GLP-1 medications may improve access to treatment [16:14.735]
• Who are candidates for GLP-1 therapy [20:09.985]
• Why preserving muscle mass through exercise is important during weight loss [22:19.595]

FAQs:

What are GLP-1 medications?

GLP-1 medications mimic a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate appetite, blood sugar and digestion. Some are approved for diabetes, while others are approved for chronic weight management and studies show other potential benefits.

Are GLP-1 medications only for weight loss?

No. Studies have shown that some GLP-1 medications can also help lower blood pressure, improve lipid disorders, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, and more.

Am I a candidate for GLP-1 therapy?

Eligibility depends on factors such as body mass index (BMI), weight-related health conditions, diabetes status and overall health. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if a GLP-1 is right for you.

What you’ll learn:

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, finding the right care quickly can make all the difference.

In this podcast, Rachel Bronsther, MD, division chief of psychiatry at Inova, discusses EmPATH – a specialized unit designed to provide rapid mental healthcare in a calming, therapeutic environment. Learn how this innovative approach is improving the experience for patients and families while connecting them to the support they need.

Featured guest:

Dr. Rachel Bronsther

Division Chief of Psychiatry

Inova

Key takeaways with chapter markers:

• Inova’s EmPATH unit (emergency psychiatry assessment, treatment and healing) provides dedicated care for mental health crises [0:11.07]
• Calming, open environment, with less restrictions than a normal psychiatric unit [4:40.84]
• Multiple therapy sessions to robust aftercare plans – what happens during an EmPATH visit [6:51.028]
• EmPATH helps you get quicker access to follow-up care [9:59.288]
• Partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and where EmPATH fits in [11:29.468]
• How to access the EmPATH unit [12:00.54]
• People who think they need help usually do – EmPATH meets you where you are [25:41.326]

FAQs:

What is EmPATH?

EmPATH stands for emergency psychiatry assessment, treatment and healing. This innovative unit provides emergency care in a calming, therapeutic environment for adults ages 18+ who need observation-level care. EmPATH’s focus is on stabilizing, starting appropriate treatment, providing therapeutic interventions and connecting patients with ongoing outpatient mental healthcare and resources.

How do I access EmPATH?

Inova’s EmPATH unit is located near the Inova Fairfax Medical Campus emergency room (ER). Patients in crises should come to an Inova ER. From there, they may move to EmPATH.

Are you or your child in crisis?

Call, text or chat 988. It’s free, confidential and available 24/7/365. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.

What you’ll learn:

Night sweats, hot flashes, brain fog, cognition issues, sleep disturbances, joint aches and pains. Sound familiar? They’re all symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Most women experience one or more, but there is relief. In this episode, Dr. Erin Perucci, OB/GYN, provides insights into symptoms and treatment options and reveals some surprising truths. Tune in for practical tips to help you navigate your changing hormones and get back to feeling like yourself again.

Featured guest:

Erin Perucci, MD, MSCP

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Inova Women’s Services

Key takeaways and chapter markers:

• Symptoms, night sweats to cognition issues [1:47]
• How the Menopause Society governs science-based recommendations for care [2:55]
• Assessing if you’re in perimenopause or menopause [5:37]
• Why some symptoms, like heart palpitations, get overlooked [8:00]
• Range of treatments, from lifestyle changes to newer medicine options [8:53]
• What you need to know about supplements [10:36]
• Nutrition and menopause [11:10]
• Debunking old hormone therapy myths [11:44]
• Different forms of hormone therapy, risks and benefits [15:16]
• HRT patients can see a 60-80% reduction in symptoms in first six weeks [16:41]
• When to seek care [17:17]

FAQs:

What is menopause?

Menopause is the stage of life when a woman’s menstrual period has stopped permanently. Typically, after a menstrual period has not occurred for 12 consecutive months. This marks the end of her reproductive years. Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase leading up to menopause, during which hormonal changes occur and symptoms can start.

How long does perimenopause last?

Perimenopause can last for several years, typically four to eight, before menopause occurs.

Is hormone replacement therapy (HRT) safe?

HRT can be safe for many people. More recent research and newer types of HRT have led experts and the FDA to update their warnings. Like with any medication, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are risks and benefits based on your age and other health factors, and it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor.