Victoria Whittington

I’m a registered dietitian and freelance journalist writing an article for EatingWell about overlooked daily habits that may quietly accelerate aging—and what to do instead. For this piece, I’m looking to speak with MDs and DOs (ideally physicians specializing in longevity, preventive medicine, internal medicine, dermatology, endocrinology or geriatrics) about surprising, everyday habits that may negatively impact how we age over time. We’re specifically looking for “hidden” habits—things people may not realize can influence healthy aging (for example: inconsistent sleep, chronic stress, too much sitting, under-eating protein, excessive ultra-processed foods, social isolation, poor blood sugar regulation, skipping resistance training, etc.). Please share brief responses to any of the following: 1. What’s one overlooked or “hidden” daily habit you believe may accelerate aging, and why? 2. What is this habit doing in the body that may speed up aging (for example: increasing inflammation, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, hormone disruption, muscle loss or cellular damage)? 3. Are there visible or measurable signs this habit may be affecting how someone ages (such as skin changes, low energy, poor recovery, cognitive changes, muscle loss or metabolic dysfunction)? 4. Is there research linking this habit to faster biological aging, chronic disease risk or reduced longevity? What does the evidence show? What’s one realistic change people can make to reduce the impact of this habit and support healthier aging? Please include: Full name Credentials Title

I’m a registered dietitian and freelance journalist writing an article for EatingWell about evidence-based morning habits that may help reduce dementia risk and support long-term brain health. For this piece, I’m looking for insights from preventive neurologists, cognitive/behavioral neurologists, sleep neurologists and geriatricians who can comment on simple habits people can do before 10 a.m. to support brain health and potentially lower dementia risk over time. We’re specifically looking for practical, realistic morning habits backed by research (for example: morning light exposure, movement, hydration, blood pressure-supportive habits, breakfast patterns, sleep/circadian support, etc.). Please share brief responses to any of the following: What is one morning habit you recommend before 10 a.m. to help lower dementia risk, and why? What does the research say about how this habit supports long-term brain health or cognitive function? Are there any specific mechanisms involved (for example: cerebral blood flow, glymphatic clearance, circadian rhythm, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, blood pressure regulation, etc.)? What is one practical tip for making this habit more consistent in everyday life? Are there any common morning habits people should avoid because they may negatively affect long-term brain health? Please include: Your full name Credentials Title

I’m a registered dietitian and freelance journalist writing an article for EatingWell about supplements that may help lower colon cancer risk. For this piece, I’m looking to speak with gastroenterologists and GI oncologists who can comment on whether any supplements may play a role in colon cancer risk reduction. The article will emphasize that supplements are not a substitute for regular screening, a high-fiber eating pattern, physical activity, limiting alcohol, not smoking and other evidence-based prevention strategies. Please share brief responses to any of the following: 1. Are there any supplements you think are worth considering for people who want to lower their colon cancer risk? If so, which ones and why? 2. What does the research suggest about this supplement and colon cancer risk? 3. What mechanisms may explain the potential benefit? For example: supporting gut microbiome diversity, reducing inflammation, improving vitamin D status, increasing calcium intake, supporting regular bowel movements or affecting bile acid metabolism. 4. Who may benefit most from this supplement, and who should avoid it or talk with their doctor first? 5. What lifestyle habits should people prioritize first to lower colon cancer risk? Please include: Full name Credentials Title Specialty