Live Better This Week: Walk More, Sit Tall, Eat Smart

Welcome to this week's edition of Public Health Without Politics. This week, we cover simple but powerful health habits—from the surprising benefits of walking and posture to why fiber and fitness matter.

Plus a book on end-of-life care, a bold idea to end the drug crisis, and a nostalgic look at the Presidential Fitness Test.

Trending in Health this Week

• Take a walk! Walking truly is the most underrated health gem there is. A fitness coach this week highlighted how it can burn more belly fat than hours of cardio.

• Americans aren’t eating enough fiber. You can add more by eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Bring back the Presidential Physical Fitness Test! President John Kennedy said, ““Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.” You probably remember taking this in grade school, but the program was discontinued in 2012. Ohio wants to bring it back to fight childhood obesity.

• A new trial found that exercise is “better than drugs” at preventing cancer from returning after treatment.

• The New York Times highlighted five keys to a healthy diet: Prioritize whole foods, eat more healthy fats (avocado!), watch out for added sugars, cook more, and learn to love a healthy diet.

Book Review: Being Mortal by Atul Gwande

Being Mortal is a thoughtful book about aging, dying, and how we navigate the final years of life. What stood out is how rarely we talk about death—despite it being something we all have to face—simply because it makes us uncomfortable. Gawande encourages a more honest, compassionate conversation about what truly matters at the end of life.

You can also watch the short documentary here.

Read the full piece on my Substack here.