Kristie Leong M.D.

Sour taste doesn’t just make you pucker; research shows it could make you bolder. In a study spanning multiple countries, people who drank something sour took significantly more risks in a gambling-style game, with risk-taking jumping 16–40% compared to those who had sweet or…

Struggling to stay consistent with exercise? You’re not alone. What helped me: Scrapping the “perfect workout” mindset. There's no such thing! When I started counting any movement as a win, I stopped skipping and started showing up—for my health. Here's your action plan:

🌾 Quinoa does more than fuel you—it may help regulate you. Peptides released from its protein have been shown to inhibit ACE, the same enzyme targeted by common blood pressure meds. The result? Naturally lower blood pressure, without the side effects. Consider adding quinoa to…

Have you had your dose of phytoncides? Phytoncides are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that trees and plants release into the air. They’re part of the plant’s defense system, but they’ve been found to: Lower cortisol Reduce blood pressure Boost immune function (e.g., increase…

Did you know? Around 40% of the fiber in cabbage is soluble fiber, which specifically helps feed beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli that produce vitamins K2 and B12 in your intestines. #GutHealth #SolubleFiber

Many individuals with kidney disease are unaware until the condition is in a late stage. Kidneys can lose up to 90% of their function before warning signs such as swelling or fatigue appear. Take control of your health—early detection is key to protecting your kidneys.…

Exposing your eyes to sunlight early in the day shifts the nocturnal release of melatonin. This allows sleep to occur more easily. Gazing at a beautiful sunrise helps too! 🌅 Action Plan: Aim for at least 5–15 minutes of sunlight exposure within an hour of waking—longer if…

Did you know exercise boosts VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor.)? It's like fertilizer for your blood vessels. This growth factor may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by triggering the development of new blood vessels. #Fitness #HeartHealth

Did you know turmeric does more than fight inflammation? Its unique polysaccharide matrix may act as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria that support your gut health. And while curcumin, the star compound, isn’t a fuel source for microbes, its low absorption means it…

What if Parkinson’s doesn’t begin in the brain... but in your gut? The gut microbiome may be more than a bystander in Parkinson’s. The protein alpha-synuclein, central to PD, often shows up in the gut before the brain, raising the possibility that Parkinson’s starts in the GI…

Did you know? Mushrooms have a high potassium-to-sodium ratio, making them a gentle ally for hypertension. However, they alone, aren't enough for adequate blood pressure control, so talk to your physician if your blood pressures are consistently elevated. Also, make them part of…

Start the day with slow, deep breaths. Here's why: ➊ Activates the parasympathetic nervous system to calm the body ➋ Enhances focus + clarity by stimulating alpha brain waves ➌ Lowers blood pressure and resting heart rate ➍ Reduces cortisol and emotional stress ➎ Improves…

Got a wall? You’ve got one of the most underrated tools for heart health. Studies show they lower systolic blood pressure more effectively than traditional cardio like running. Just two minutes a day can make a serious impact. Press your back to the wall and feel your heart thank…

Daily Plate Composition (Ideal vs. Reality) Reality: 50% ultra-processed foods, 25% animal products, 15% refined carbs, 10% fruits & veggies Recommended: 50% fruits & veggies, 25% whole grains, 15% lean protein, 10% healthy fats That mismatch? It's where chronic inflammation…

Can something as simple as berries really help balance blood sugar? Thanks to anthocyanins, these colorful fruits can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose spikes. Just a handful a day could support long-term metabolic health. Action Plan: Combine berries with protein…

Think posture is just about appearances? No so. Science says how you sit can shape how you feel. A randomized controlled trial published in Health Psychology found that sitting upright during stressful situations led to: Higher self-esteem Improved mood Lower fear Reduced use…

Summer heat doesn’t just drain you—it speeds up insulin absorption, raising the risk of sudden blood sugar crashes. The problem? Symptoms like dizziness, sweating, and fatigue can blur the line between hypoglycemia and heat exhaustion. If you use insulin, don’t just chill the…

Did you know? Watching a sunrise or sunset can lower blood pressure. Studies show that exposure to natural beauty has calming physiological effects. They're also a visual metaphor for transition and renewal. #SunsetHealing #NatureTherapy