E Is for Energy: The Biology That Determines How You Age
Energy is more than feeling tired. In this post, Dr. Golnosh Sharafsaleh (Dr. The Geriatrician and Lifestyle Medicine Expert explores the biology behind low energy through the HEALTH framework, explaining how mitochondrial function, insulin resistance, oxygen delivery, stress physiology, circadian rhythm, and medication burden influence fatigue and aging. Learn why many chronic diseases begin as energy dysfunction and how protecting energy systems preserves resilience, longev
2 days ago5 min read
The HEALTH Framework: H Is for Health Systems in Aging
Aging is the shifting balance of multiple systems that must continually communicate, compensate, and adapt.
The brain does not age in isolation from the vascular system. Muscle does not weaken independently of metabolism. Immunity does not decline without influence from stress, sleep, and inflammation. Every system is interconnected, and when one falters, the others adjust, sometimes quietly, sometimes dramatically. This post reviews the H in the HEALT framework.
Feb 83 min read
What Is Healthspan? A Geriatrician’s Framework for Aging Well
We spend decades focused on how long we might live, yet far less time thinking about how well we live along the way. Healthspan is not about avoiding aging or chasing youth, it is about preserving function, energy, meaning, and dignity over time. In this post, Dr. G introduces the HEALTH Framework, a practical, whole-person model for understanding and improving healthspan across the lifespan.
Jan 315 min read
Berberine, Metabolism, and Longevity: What to Know and When to Be Cautious
Berberine is a plant-derived compound studied for its effects on blood sugar, insulin resistance, gut health, and metabolic longevity. Often compared to metformin, berberine works differently, largely through the gut microbiome. This article explains how berberine works, its potential benefits, side effects, drug interactions, and who should use caution.
Jan 255 min read
The Importance of Fiber: Why Most Americans Are Not Getting Enough
High Fiber Fruits and Vegetables As I was advising a patient on how much fiber they needed, I realized that I do not have a blog post on fiber. So here it is!! Fiber is one of the most important and most overlooked nutrients in the modern diet. It plays a critical role in digestive health, blood sugar regulation, cholesterol management, and gut microbiome health. Despite these benefits, the vast majority of Americans do not consume enough fiber each day, which has meaningful
Dec 15, 20253 min read
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): How It Supports Brain Function, Mood, and Overall Health
This brief, evidence-based overview explains how N-acetylcysteine (NAC) may support brain health, mood, inflammation, and overall metabolic balance. Learn how NAC boosts glutathione, helps regulate oxidative stress, and may improve clarity and resilience. Includes key safety notes, dosing, and why it’s important to talk with your doctor before starting NAC.
Nov 30, 20255 min read
Cancer and Aging: Prevention Begins Long Before Diagnosis
Cancer and aging are deeply connected, sharing many of the same biological roots, like inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic changes. This post explores how prevention begins decades before diagnosis through lifestyle, nutrition, movement, and awareness. It’s not about guilt or blame, but empowerment and hope, whether you’ve never had cancer, are living with it, or are in remission.
Oct 10, 20255 min read
