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Prioritize Wellness

2025-01-20T12:16:28+00:00January 20th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Health Care, Public Health|

Making Wellness a Priority:

How to Build Sustainable Habits for Lasting Change

The start of a new year brings fresh motivation, but how many of us have found that our resolutions fade by February? Whether it’s losing weight, exercising more, or eating healthier, many New Year’s resolutions are abandoned because we try to make drastic changes too quickly. This year, instead of focusing on a single goal or quick fix, let’s focus on building sustainable habits that will help you achieve long-term wellness.

With National Healthy Weight Week kicking off January, it’s the perfect time to remind ourselves that lasting health isn’t about chasing a number on the scale—it’s about feeling good in your body, boosting your energy, and making balanced, consistent choices. It’s about creating habits that become second nature. As the new year begins, many of us are filled with the drive to make positive changes in our lives.

The Power of Habits Over Resolutions

At the heart of long-term success is consistency. This year, let’s shift the focus from quick fixes to sustainable habits that you can continue throughout the year—and beyond.

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Learn more about the health care you deserve.

A Healthy Weight is More Than a Number

We often think of “healthy weight” as a specific number on the scale, but in reality, it’s about feeling strong, energetic, and confident in your body. Healthy weight isn’t just about losing pounds—it’s about balancing your physical, mental, and emotional health. Rather than obsessing over a number, consider your wellness in broader terms: are you sleeping well? Are you moving your body regularly? Are you nourishing yourself with whole, nutrient-dense foods?

As we celebrate National Healthy Weight Week, it’s a good time to remember that lasting health comes from balanced lifestyle choices. This includes eating nutritious foods, staying physically active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep.

Creating Sustainable Habits for Wellness

So how do you make wellness a priority this year? Instead of focusing on drastic resolutions that can be hard to maintain, try these simple habits that you can incorporate into your routine for sustainable health:

1. Eat Balanced, Whole Foods

Focus on meals that are rich in nutrients—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Start by incorporating one or two healthier meals into your week, like a hearty vegetable stir-fry or a fresh salad with lean protein. Over time, as these meals become a regular part of your routine, you’ll find it easier to make healthier choices overall.

2. Move Your Body Regularly

Exercise doesn’t have to mean spending hours at the gym. Find activities that you enjoy—whether that’s walking, yoga, swimming, or dancing. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, but remember that even small amounts of movement can make a big difference. Start with a short daily walk, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. The goal is to make movement a regular, enjoyable part of your day.

3. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management

Sleep and stress management are often overlooked but are crucial components of overall wellness. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night and incorporate stress-relief practices into your routine—whether it’s deep breathing, meditation, journaling, or simply taking time for yourself. Reducing stress and getting quality sleep supports both physical health and emotional well-being.

4. Set Realistic, Achievable Goals

The key to success is setting small, realistic goals that are easy to achieve. Instead of a broad goal like “lose weight,” break it down into specific, manageable steps: perhaps aiming to cook more meals at home, increase your water intake, or walk 10,000 steps a day. These small wins build momentum, helping you stay on track and feel accomplished.

Ready to create sustainable habits that work for you?


Start Small, Build Momentum

Remember, the goal is to create lasting habits, not quick fixes. Make the small changes…whether it’s replacing sugary snacks with fruit or committing to a 10-minute daily stretch, these habits will compound over time, helping you feel stronger, healthier, and more energized.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on your wellness—but true change comes when you shift from “resolutions” to “habits.”

Instead of setting an intention to “lose weight” or “exercise more,” commit to creating a lifestyle that supports your overall health. When you make wellness a priority and focus on building sustainable habits, you set the foundation for a healthier, happier future.

Thyroid Awareness Month

2025-01-13T14:58:11+00:00January 13th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Thyroid Disease …

the symptoms and what you need to know

Approximately 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, yet 60% of those affected are unaware of their condition. January is Thyroid Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of understanding thyroid health and recognizing the early signs of thyroid disorders. At Roots Health DPC, we dedicate our time to empowering you in all aspects of your health—including your thyroid.

What is the Thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front of your neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating your metabolism and overall health. It produces thyroid hormones that affect almost every organ and system in your body. From controlling your heart rate to managing how quickly food moves through your digestive system, the thyroid is one of the most important endocrine organs in your body.

The Importance of Awareness

  1. Women are 5-8 times more likely than men to experience thyroid problems. In fact, 1 in 8 women will develop a thyroid disorder in their lifetime.
  2. Untreated thyroid disease can lead to serious conditions, including heart disease, osteoporosis, and infertility.

While thyroid problems can be life-long, they can often be managed effectively with proper care. That’s why it’s so important to stay informed and ask questions when it comes to your thyroid health.

We treat the WHOLE person.

What are the Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Disease?

Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism):

  1. Racing heart rate
  2. Weight loss with increased appetite
  3. Anxiety, insomnia, or nervousness
  4. Muscle weakness

Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism):

  1. Fatigue, sluggishness
  2. Weight gain
  3. Cold intolerance, constipation
  4. Hair loss or depression

Thyroid Nodules or Cancer:

  1. Unusual lump or swelling in the neck
  2. New cough, hoarseness, or swollen glands

Getting Screened: The Importance of Testing

If you’re concerned about thyroid health, screening is key. Blood tests like the TSH test are commonly used to assess thyroid function. TSH levels can serve as an early indicator of thyroid issues, even before symptoms develop. Additional tests, such as T4 and T3 tests, help diagnose conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Ask Questions

Your thyroid health matters, and it’s important to feel comfortable asking questions about your health and screenings. At Roots Health DPC, we work with you to ensure that you fully understand your condition and understand all the options for management so that you can make the best decision for your well-being.

Book a FREE Meet and Greet TODAY

This Thyroid Awareness Month, take the first step towards better health by checking in with your physician to work together to keep you healthy, informed, and empowered.

Habits

2025-01-06T13:01:41+00:00January 6th, 2025|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Public Health|

Transform Your Health: Building Lasting Habits

At Roots Health, we believe that wellness isn’t just about occasional efforts—it’s about creating lasting habits that lead to lasting change. The secret to real transformation lies in our daily routines, and we’ve taken the principles of habit formation to heart in our blueprint for wellness and help our patients intentionally build healthier habits, one step at a time.

Harness the Power of Your Brain

Did you know that your brain is constantly working behind the scenes to make your life more efficient? It’s true! Our brains are incredibly powerful, organizing and integrating massive amounts of data quickly, so we can perform routine tasks on “auto-pilot” without even thinking about it. This ability to create habitual pathways is a gift, and at Roots Health, we believe you can harness it to design the life you want.

Transform your health by building habits that last a lifetime!

But how can you take control of your habits and steer your brain toward health and wellness? It starts with understanding the process of habit formation and using it to your advantage.

What is a Habit?

A habit is a behavior you perform regularly—something that, over time, becomes automatic. For example, brushing your teeth or making your morning coffee. The process of forming a new habit involves repetition and consistent practice. But it’s not just about doing something repeatedly; it’s about understanding how to build habits intentionally, so they become a seamless part of your life.

At Roots Health DPC, Dr. Diaz works closely with patients to develop personalized wellness plans that revolve around intentional habit formation. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, manage stress, or adopt better nutrition habits, we’ll help you create the pathways that lead to lasting success.

The Habit Loop: Cue, Behavior, Reward

Your brain forms habits by following a simple loop: cue → behavior → reward. The more often this loop is repeated, the stronger the pathway becomes. Here’s an example:

Let’s say you want to start meditating daily. Instead of focusing directly on the behavior (the meditation itself), focus on the cue that will trigger the habit. You can link your meditation practice to something you already do every day—like making your morning coffee. Here’s how you could set it up:

  1. Cue: As soon as you begin brewing your coffee, it’s time to meditate.
  2. Behavior: Spend 2 minutes meditating while your coffee brews.
  3. Reward: Enjoy your coffee after you meditate.

By linking a new behavior (meditation) to an existing habit (coffee brewing), you create an easy and natural flow. Over time, the habit of meditation will become just as automatic as drinking coffee. And soon, you might even start to feel off if you skip it. That’s the power of intentional habit-building.

Habits vs. Goals: The Key to Sustainable Success

At Roots Health, we guide patients through the process of habit formation, not just goal setting. Goals are important, but they are just the destination. Habits are the journey, the daily actions that carry you toward those goals.

For example, if your goal is to lose weight, the habit might be daily exercise, meal prepping, or mindful eating. Focusing on small, consistent habits will carry you much further than obsessing over the end goal. When you build the right habits, the results will follow.

Let’s turn intentions into lifelong habits.

 

Start Today: Build Your Wellness Routine

If you’re truly ready to level up your life and embrace self-care, the first step is understanding the power of habits. At Roots Health, we’re here to guide you through this process. With a focus on personalized care and sustainable wellness strategies, we’ll help you build the habits that will transform your health—for life.

Are you ready to create a wellness routine that works for you? Let’s start building your future, one habit at a time.

Start with DPC

2024-12-30T14:13:31+00:00December 30th, 2024|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Membership, Public Health|

New Year, New Health:

Start Your Wellness Journey TODAY

As we step into 2025, many of us are reflecting on the year ahead and setting new wellness goals. Whether it’s improving fitness, managing stress, or prioritizing preventive care, New Year’s resolutions often focus on taking charge of our health. But how can you ensure these resolutions stick beyond January?

At Roots Health, we believe that health goals are most achievable with personalized care and consistent support. That’s where Direct Primary Care (DPC) comes in. Our innovative healthcare model offers dedicated, proactive care designed to help you stay on track all year long.

Discover how Roots Health DPC can provide personalized care and lasting results.

 

Why Choose DPC for Your Wellness Journey?

In traditional healthcare, visits are often rushed, leaving little room for personalized attention. With DPC, you have direct access to a physician who knows you, your health history, and your wellness goals. This partnership provides the guidance, resources, and accountability you need to make lasting changes.

Setting Realistic Health Resolutions

The best way to achieve your health goals is by starting small and staying consistent. At Roots Health, your DPC physician will work with you to:

  1. Assess your current health and create a personalized action plan.
  2. Set realistic goals and track your progress with regular check-ins.
  3. Adjust your plan as needed to ensure lasting success.

Kickstart 2025 with Roots Health DPC

As we open our doors to new families in January, we’re looking for members who prioritize their health and are ready for real transformation. If you’re ready to commit to your wellness journey in 2025, we’d love to partner with you.

Start your journey with personalized care at Roots Health DPC and make 2025 your healthiest year yet.

Take the first step—schedule your consultation now and start 2025 with confidence!

Open Enrollment

2024-10-21T13:11:07+00:00October 21st, 2024|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Membership, Public Health, Special Offer|

Open Enrollment is Just Around the Corner!

It’s that time of year again—Open Enrollment is approaching!

Whether your health insurance is through your employer or you’re exploring private policies, this is your chance to select a plan that truly fits your needs. Starting January 1, you’ll want to be confident in your choices, as they will typically lock in until the next enrollment period unless you experience a qualifying event.

Navigating Your Options with Confidence

At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we’re here to help you navigate these important decisions. Unlike traditional insurance companies that prioritize profits, we put our patients first. Our focus is on delivering quality healthcare, grounded in the oath we took as healthcare providers.

Confused by all the health plan options during Open Enrollment?

What to Look For During Open Enrollment

Here are a few key factors to consider as you review your options:

1. Cost Changes: Be on the lookout for any increases in premiums or out-of-pocket costs for services like lab work and imaging. As a Direct Primary Care member, you’ll benefit from significant savings on these services, making your healthcare more affordable.

2. Prescription Drug Coverage: Check for changes in your medication coverage. Sometimes, essential medications may no longer be covered or could be moved to a higher-cost tier. At Roots Health, we offer discounted pricing on medications for our members, ensuring you have access to the treatments you need without breaking the bank.

3. In-Network Providers: Many patients find that their preferred physicians are no longer in-network with their new plans. With Direct Primary Care, you can rest assured that our services remain unaffected by these insurance changes. Your care will always come first.

4. Transparent Pricing: One of the most significant benefits of Direct Primary Care is our commitment to transparency in pricing. There are no surprise copays or unexpected bills—what you see is what you get. This allows you to plan your healthcare expenses without stress.

Maximizing Your Coverage

If you’re considering plans with high deductibles and low premiums, pairing them with a Direct Primary Care membership can save you thousands in healthcare costs. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your direct healthcare services are consistent and predictable, regardless of insurance fluctuations.

Transitioning Jobs or Facing a Lapse in Coverage?

Direct Primary Care is an excellent option during times of transition, offering transparent pricing and covering the majority of your healthcare needs. We recommend maintaining some form of catastrophic coverage to protect yourself against unexpected medical emergencies.

Make Informed Choices This Open Enrollment

This is your opportunity to take control of your healthcare. Let us guide you through the process and ensure you make the best choices for your health and well-being.

Struggling to navigate Open Enrollment and find the right coverage?

Schedule a consultation with us today! Together, we can navigate Open Enrollment and ensure you have the coverage that serves you best. Your health matters, and we’re here for you—every step of the way.

National Primary Care Week

2024-10-07T12:22:06+00:00October 7th, 2024|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Celebrating National Primary Care Week:

The Power of Direct Primary Care

As we celebrate National Primary Care Week, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the importance of accessible, compassionate, and personalized healthcare. At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we believe that health care should be about more than just treating symptoms; it’s about building lasting relationships and fostering overall well-being.

Feeling lost in a system that treats you like just another number?

Why Choose Direct Primary Care (DPC)?

In today’s fast-paced world, many people feel like just another number in the healthcare system. Direct Primary Care is a refreshing alternative that prioritizes the human touch in healthcare, focusing on meaningful interactions and comprehensive care.

The Benefits of DPC:

1. Personalized Care: With DPC, you get more than just a provider; you gain a trusted partner in your health journey. Our team takes the time to understand your unique needs, preferences, and goals, ensuring you receive tailored care that resonates with you.

2.Continuity of Care: We believe that effective healthcare is built on trust and familiarity. In a DPC model, you have consistent access to the same healthcare team, fostering deeper connections and better understanding of your medical history. This continuity enhances the quality of care you receive.

3. Comprehensive Care Coordination: Navigating the healthcare landscape can be overwhelming. With DPC, we act as your health advocate, coordinating your care seamlessly. Whether you need referrals to specialists or help managing chronic conditions, we’re here to ensure you receive the comprehensive support you need.

4. More Time with Your Provider: In a DPC model, appointments are longer and less rushed. This allows for thorough discussions, questions, and personalized care plans, ensuring you feel heard and valued during every visit.

5. Holistic Approach: We focus on the whole person, integrating physical, mental, and emotional health. Our approach promotes overall wellness, helping you achieve a balanced lifestyle.

As we honor National Primary Care Week, we invite you to explore the benefits of Direct Primary Care. At Roots Health, we are dedicated to providing you with compassionate, accessible, and comprehensive care that prioritizes the human connection.

Let’s Partner for Your Health

Your health journey is unique, and you deserve a healthcare model that respects and nurtures that individuality. If you’re ready to experience the difference that Direct Primary Care can make, schedule your consultation with us today. Together, we can create a supportive environment where you feel empowered and cared for every step of the way.

With Direct Primary Care, build lasting relationships with a trusted healthcare partner.

Remember, healthcare is about relationships, and we’re here for you.

Mental Health for Families

2024-09-30T12:08:50+00:00September 30th, 2024|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Mental Health, Public Health|

Breaking the Silence:

Supporting Mental Health for Families

As we navigate life’s challenges, it’s important to take a moment to focus on an often-overlooked aspect of well-being: mental health. Families are the backbone of our communities, but when one member is facing mental health challenges, the effects can ripple throughout an entire household.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s recognize the importance of prioritizing mental health for everyone in the family. Whether you’re a parent, sibling, or caregiver, it’s essential to understand that your health and well-being matter just as much as those you support.

Are you seeking personalized support and resources tailored to your health care needs?

Why Prioritizing Your Mental Health Matters

When a loved one struggles with mental health issues, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and even isolation for family members. But it’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone in this journey. By prioritizing your mental health, you can create a more supportive environment for everyone involved.

Here are a few practical steps to help you focus on your mental health:

  1. Connect with Others: Seek out support groups or mental health professionals who can provide guidance and a listening ear. Sharing your experiences can foster a sense of community and understanding.
  2. Establish Healthy Boundaries: It’s okay to set boundaries that protect your mental and emotional well-being. Communicate openly with your loved ones about what you need, and remember that it’s not selfish to take time for yourself.
  3. Engage in Self-Care: Make time for activities that rejuvenate your spirit. Whether it’s a daily walk, indulging in a hobby, or simply unwinding with a good book, self-care is essential for maintaining your mental health.

At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we’re committed to supporting families through their unique challenges. Our compassionate team is here to provide the resources and guidance you need, tailored specifically to your situation.

You don’t have to face these challenges alone.

We believe in creating a supportive environment where everyone’s mental health is prioritized. Schedule your consultation with us today, and let’s work together to ensure that your family thrives, no matter what health care needs arise.

Feeling overwhelmed and ready to focus on your well-being?

Remember, your mental health matters.

Take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.

Why Choose Direct Primary Care Over Traditional Models?

2024-09-23T13:14:23+00:00September 23rd, 2024|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Membership, Public Health|

Why Choose Direct Primary Care?

The Advantages Over Traditional Care Models

In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a refreshing alternative. If you’re disenchanted with your current healthcare experience… it’s important to understand how DPC works so you know your options.

Discover the personalized, transparent, and comprehensive care model that puts you first.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between DPC and traditional care models.

1. Personalized Attention vs. Rushed Appointments

  • Traditional Care: In traditional models, appointments are often shorter and can be rushed due to high patient volumes. This means less time for discussing your concerns and a more fragmented approach to your care.
  • Direct Primary Care: DPC practices prioritize longer, unhurried appointments, allowing you to spend more time with your provider. This approach fosters a deeper relationship and a more thorough understanding of your health, leading to personalized better care.

2. Simplified Costs vs. Complex Billing

  • Traditional Care: Traditional care often involves complex billing procedures, with separate charges for office visits, lab tests, and other services. This can lead to unexpected costs and confusion, especially when dealing with insurance claims and co-pays.
  • Direct Primary Care: With DPC, you pay a simple, predictable monthly fee. This straightforward pricing model eliminates the need for insurance billing and hidden costs, making your healthcare spend transparent and easy to manage.

3. Direct Access vs. Insurance Gatekeepers

  • Traditional Care: In traditional models, accessing care often requires navigating through insurance gatekeepers and obtaining referrals or using urgent care. This is time-consuming and frustrating and can delay your access to necessary care.
  • Direct Primary Care: DPC offers direct access to your primary care provider without insurance hurdles. You can contact your provider directly via phone, email, or secure messaging, getting the responses you need when you need them.

4. Focused Care vs. Fragmented Services

  • Traditional Care: Traditional care can sometimes feel fragmented, with different specialists working in silos. This may lead to disjointed care and communication challenges, impacting the overall effectiveness of your treatment.
  • Direct Primary Care: DPC emphasizes a holistic approach to your health. We coordinate all aspects of your care, including referrals to specialists when needed, ensuring a cohesive and integrated approach to your health care plan.

5. Proactive Wellness vs. Reactive Treatment

  • Traditional Care: Traditional care focuses on treating illnesses and symptoms as they arise. This reactive approach can sometimes lead to more severe health issues that could have been prevented with earlier intervention.
  • Direct Primary Care: DPC promotes a proactive approach to wellness, emphasizing preventivion. By focusing on lifestyle changes and early intervention, DPC helps you maintain better overall health and avoid potential issues before they become serious.

6. Limited Access vs. Comprehensive Services

  • Traditional Care: Traditional care models may have limited access to certain services and resources, especially if they are not covered by insurance or are deemed non-essential.
  • Direct Primary Care: DPC provides a wide range of services, from routine exams to urgent care with minor procedures, all covered by your monthly fee. This comprehensive approach ensures that you have access to the care you need without worrying about additional costs.

Experience the difference with Direct Primary Care.

Discover the DPC Difference

At Roots Health DPC, we’re dedicated to providing a healthcare experience that prioritizes your needs and well-being. Our Direct Primary Care model offers a personalized, transparent, and comprehensive approach to your health. If you’re looking for a more direct, patient-centered healthcare experience, we invite you to explore the benefits of DPC with us.

Contact us today to learn more about how Direct Primary Care can transform your healthcare experience. Let’s work together to create a healthier, happier you!

Yoga and Your Health

2024-09-16T13:07:42+00:00September 16th, 2024|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

National Yoga Awareness Month

Major benefits of yoga practice

As we celebrate National Yoga Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to explore how yoga can be a game-changer for your overall health. Yoga isn’t just about flexible poses and deep breaths; it’s a holistic practice that nurtures both body and mind.

Personalized care at Roots Health DPC can support your wellness goals.

1. Stress Reduction

Yoga’s focus on mindful breathing and meditation helps lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress.

A relaxed and balanced state of mind help you manage daily stressors more effectively.

2. Improved Flexibility and Strength

These benefits contribute to better posture and reduced risk of injuries.

3. Better Mental Clarity

Yoga encourages mindfulness. Centering your attention on the present moment, , which can improve mental clarity and focus leading to improved concentration and memory.

4. Boosted Immune System

The combination of reduced stress, better sleep, and physical activity supports a more resilient immune system, helping you stay healthy year-round.

Start Small

You don’t need to be a yoga expert to reap its benefits. Even a few minutes of daily practice can make a significant difference. Consider joining a class or using online resources. We work to find routines that fit your lifestyle.

Don’t wait—start your journey to better health now.

This National Yoga Awareness Month, take a moment to embrace the many health benefits yoga has to offer. Your body and mind will thank you!

Happy practicing!

National Folic Acid Awareness Week

2024-09-09T13:01:30+00:00September 9th, 2024|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Women and Folate

Let’s review the importance of folate (vitamin B9) in preventing birth defects, including spinal cord malformations like spina bifida.

Health and Wellness is a Text Away!

Why Folate Matters

Folate is essential. Adequate folate intake before and during early pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of serious conditions, such as:

  1. Neural Tube Defects: These include life-threatening conditions affecting the spinal cord and brain.
  2. Spinal Cord Malformations: Proper folate levels are crucial for healthy spinal cord development.

Why Act Now?

All women of child-bearing age need to take folate.

The majority of pregnancies are unplanned, and the neural tube forms early in pregnancy, often before a woman realizes she’s expecting. Consuming enough folate daily is a proactive step to ensure a healthy start for future pregnancies.

Folate (400mcg) is present in most Multi-Vitamins for Women.

At Roots Health DPC we are with you every step of the way in your journey helping you make the best decisions for your health and wellness. Learn more and ensure your future is healthy.

Stay informed and proactive this Folate Awareness Week!

No waiting. Healthcare delivered when you need it.