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LIFESTYLE
MEDICINE

response to data from the Nurse’s Health Study, women were told to
stop their hormone replacement therapy due to concerns that it in-
creased the risk of breast cancer. Upon some deeper reflection of this
body of science, it appears that perhaps we jumped the gun. Clearly,
hormones are not for everyone, but does that mean we shouldn’t be
having individual discussions and considering the options on a case-
by-case basis? Every woman (and man) deserves to live their best life,
which includes weighing the pros and cons of HRT.

Purpose
We work, have family and friends. But what if we don’t like our
work? Perhaps we have gone through some changes and our relation-
ships have been challenged? Maybe it was the pandemic that forced
us into isolation and we just haven’t quite made it back. Having some-
thing in life that truly gets us going, fires us up, and/or inspires us is
fundamental to our overall health and wellbeing. It doesn’t have to
be your paid job either. Pick a passion and decide to step up. It could
also be how you contribute to your family, your community or your
church, but just do something that matters TO YOU. No one is look-
ing. No one is judging. This is you being you, and making a difference.

Connectedness/Community
According to the CDC, “Social connectedness can lead to longer
life, better health, and improved well-being.” People living an isolated
life tend to have more health problems. I’ve seen this firsthand in pa-
tients and family members. Humans were meant to go through life to-
gether — to lean on one another, to learn and grow together, and to
share with one another. Don’t wait for landmark dates or catastrophic
events to embrace this innate human tendency. There is no need to en-
list of hundreds of friends or join several groups … simply having a few
close friends/connections can be enough. It’s not about the number,
but more about the depth of those connections that matters.
Making these changes may sound overwhelming, but life is all
about the journey. Cultivating a “life well lived” takes time and effort
but is absolutely within each of our grasps if we just slow down and
make it a priority. That’s why I’ve dedicated my practice to helping
patients improve their health, decrease their disease risk, and live their
best lives.

Jennifer Seger, MD, is board certified in Family Medicine
and Obesity Medicine and founder of the Dr. Jenny Wellness
& Weight Management Program, where she guides patients to-
ward their best possible quality of life through a comprehensive, evidence-
based approach to wellness. Dr. Seger is a member of the Bexar County
Medical Society.

Visit us at www.bcms.org 17