Maya Acosta
Maya Acosta is a health and wellness educator, podcaster, and content creator from Dallas, Texas, advocating for whole-food, plant-based living. As co-leader of the Plant-Based DFW Pod, she educates the public on healthy living through various initiatives such as lectures, potlucks, and walks with the doc. Maya hosts the Healthy Lifestyle Solutions podcast and is a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine's Women's Health Interest Group. She promotes female health and covers pregnancy, thyroid issues, menopause, and more.
Maya serves as a Pod Action Committee member for PlantPure Communities, creating courses to teach other leaders how to share their messages and support their communities online. Her dedication to health outreach is evident through her involvement in various initiatives such as lectures, potlucks, documentary screenings, and walks with the doc. As a content creator, Maya covers events and makes cooking videos for social media and YouTube.
Maya's passion for helping women take control of their health has become her "ikigai," meaning her life purpose. Maya's dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle and empowering women to take control of their health is truly inspiring.
304
May 4, 2023
304: Fighting Chronic Inflammation with a Plant-Based Diet | Maya's Health Tip
In this Healthy Lifestyle Solutions Podcast episode, host Maya Acosta discusses chronic inflammation and its link to chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's. She explains how a plant-based diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, can reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Key takeaways: Chronic inflammation is a natural response of our immune system to infection, injury, or stress. However, when it becomes chronic, it can lead to a wide range...
Guest: Maya Acosta
301
April 27, 2023
301: 5 Lessons from The Blue Zones: Unlocking the Secrets to a Long and Healthy Life | MAYA'S TIP
In this podcast episode, we delve into the fundamental concepts behind Blue Zones, regions worldwide where people live longer and healthier lives than the rest. We discuss the commonalities in lifestyle habits and diets of people living in Blue Zones. These have led to practical recommendations for people worldwide who want to improve their health and increase their chances of living long and healthy lives. The episode explores the importance of a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, soc...
Guest: Maya Acosta
300
April 25, 2023
300 Episodes and Counting: Lessons Learned from the Healthy Lifestyle Solutions Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Riz and Maya reminisce on how they initially started the podcast together. Nearly five years later, Maya has taken the podcast to focus more on women's health while adding a new segment titled "Doctor In The House" that features Dr. Riz as a guest expert. Key Takeaways: From simple beginnings to a thriving podcast: Maya and Dr. Riz take a walk down memory lane, reflecting on the early days of their podcast and how it has evolved over the years. Learning from mistakes...
Guest: Maya Acosta
298
April 20, 2023
298: Eat Your Way to Better Health: The Color-Coded Food Guide | Maya Health Tip
Maya Acosta discusses the popular tool which categorizes foods into green, yellow, and red based on their nutritional value and health impact. Whether you are dealing with diabetes or heart disease or simply want to lose weight, you will want to look closely at green-light foods for optimal health. Key takeaways: Adhering to the traffic light system can help individuals make healthier choices and improve their health by emphasizing the consumption of green light foods, limiting yellow foods, a...
Guest: Maya Acosta
295
April 13, 2023
295: 7 Reasons Why Your Gut Needs Fiber for Optimal Health | Maya's Health Tip
Fiber is essential in regulating blood sugar levels, reducing cholesterol levels, and promoting a healthy weight. The consequences of not consuming enough fiber can lead to short-term digestive problems and long-term chronic diseases. The benefits of a high-fiber diet include improved digestion, reduced inflammation, enhanced immunity, and better mental health. A varied and thriving gut microbiome is essential for good health, and a fiber-rich diet can promote its growth. Key Takeaways: Fiber ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
295
April 8, 2023
292: Our Experience at the Couples Retreat with Relationship Expert Katie Hendricks | Maya Acosta
Maya Acosta talks about her recent experience attending a couple's retreat led by relationship expert Katie Hendricks in Ojai, California. The podcast host shares how building healthy relationships is a key pillar of lifestyle medicine and how relationships can affect one's health. Here are three key points from the episode: Learn about the Hendricks Institute and the foundation of its work. Get insight into a couple's course in Ojai, CA. Learn which Hendricks books Maya recommends if yo...
Guest: Maya Acosta
286
March 24, 2023
286: The Carbohydrate Conundrum: Debunking Myths and Understanding Complex vs. Refined Carbs | Maya's Tip
Welcome to today's podcast episode, where we will discuss health tips about carbohydrates. The topic of carbohydrates is often misunderstood, with many saying that they avoid carbs but not specifying whether they are referring to complex or refined carbohydrates. In this episode, we will look at the differences between the two, the health benefits of being on a whole foods plant-based diet, and address some common myths about carbohydrates. We will also refer to Dr. John McDougall's book, "The ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
283
March 16, 2023
283: Plant Power: Debunking the Myths About Protein on a Plant-Based Diet
Today's topic is one that often comes up when people are considering a plant-based diet: protein. This episode will discuss how much protein you need, protein deficiency concerns, the myth of complete proteins, and healthy plant-based protein sources. We'll also debunk the myth that plant-based protein is inferior to animal-based protein and discuss how incorporating more nutrient-dense plant-based foods can help promote overall health and well-being. Key takeaways: Debunking protein myths ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
280
March 9, 2023
280: MAYA'S TIP: Eating for Optimal Health: The Power of Dr. Greger's Daily Dozen
In this episode, we explore the power of Dr. Michael Greger's Daily Dozen and how it can help you eat for optimal health. The Daily Dozen is a powerful tool to help you eat for optimal health. Focusing on nutrient-dense whole plant-based foods gives you the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients your body needs to function at its best. With the app Dr. Greger created, it's easier than ever to track your progress and incorporate the Daily Dozen into your diet. By eating more of the good stuff, y...
Guest: Maya Acosta
278
March 7, 2023
278: Doctor in the House with Dr. Riz: Your Health Questions Answered
In this bonus episode of the Healthy Lifestyle Solutions Podcast, host Maya announces exciting changes to the podcast's direction, including adding bonus episodes featuring a new segment called "Doctor in the House with Dr. Riz," who will address common health concerns and answer listener questions. Maya also shares tips for getting the most out of the podcast's content and announces the rebranding of the Plant-Based DFW website under the new name Healthy Lifestyle Solutions. In this episode,...
Guests: Maya Acosta , Dr. Rizwan Bukhari
277
March 2, 2023
277: MAYA'S TIP: Say No to Booze: The Benefits of Sobriety for Women
Women who drink heavily are at an increased risk of heart disease, which can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health problems. Are you curious about the benefits of sobriety and reducing alcohol intake? Stick around to learn more. In this episode, you will learn the following Women who drink heavily are at a higher risk of developing heart disease and other health problems Learn about strategies for reducing your alcohol intake The sober curious movement is about explori...
Guest: Maya Acosta
275
Feb. 23, 2023
275: MAYA'S TIP: Calm and Collected: Women and the Importance of Stress Reduction for Heart Health
Are you aware of the impact that stress can have on your heart health? What steps have you taken to reduce stress in your life? Join me as I share tips on what you can do to manage your stress. In this episode, you will learn the following Learn about everyday stressors that may affect your health Discover tips for reducing your stress Learn about apps that can help you relax Resources Sign up to download Maya’s FREE Guide to Plant-Based Diet: https://bit.ly/mayaspracticaltips Fol...
Guest: Maya Acosta
273
Feb. 16, 2023
273: MAYA'S TIP: Sleeping Beauties: Women and Heart Health through Quality Sleep
How can you improve your sleep quality and reduce your risk of heart disease as a woman? Join us as we explore the importance of quality sleep for women's heart health and the best ways to enhance it. In this episode, you will learn the following Heart disease is a leading cause of death for women, and lack of quality sleep is a contributing factor. Discover tips for improving sleep quality The foods that you eat and your meal routines can affect your sleep Resources Sign up to do...
Guest: Maya Acosta
271
Feb. 9, 2023
271: MAYA'S TIP: Ladies, Start Your Engines: Women and Exercise for Heart Disease Prevention
Are you aware of the powerful impact that exercise and diet can have on your heart health as a woman? Want to learn about the best forms of exercise and plant-based foods for optimal recovery and risk reduction? Tune in to discover how you can empower yourself to take control of your health and lead a brighter, healthier future. In this episode, you will learn the following How various forms of exercises can support heart health Which plant-based foods can help you recover after an exercise...
Guest: Maya Acosta
270
Feb. 7, 2023
270: Healthy Hearts: Lifestyle Choices for a Stronger You
Heart disease is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. It can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and lead to serious health problems like heart attack and heart failure. Additionally, taking steps to prevent heart disease can help individuals live longer, healthier lives and reduce the burden of heart disease on the healthcare system. In this episode, you will learn the following Heart disease is the leading cause of death and disability Lifestyle choices ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
269
Feb. 2, 2023
269: Travel Toolkit | How To Consume Healthy Plant-Based Meals While Traveling
Are you planning a trip? Don't miss a beat as we give you our plant-based lifestyle travel toolkit in today's Thursday Health Tip episode. Learn some advice on what to eat on flights, maintain a healthy diet while traveling, and more! In this episode, you will learn the following How to prep meals for a flight How to prep meals at your travel destination How to enjoy meals when eating out at your destination Resources Sign up to download Maya’s FREE Guide to Plant-Based Diet: h...
Guest: Maya Acosta
267
Jan. 26, 2023
267: Dining Out Toolkit | 3 Tips to Dining Out While Enjoying a Healthy Meal
Now that you've decided to be healthier, it's essential to stick to your plant-based diet when dining out. Today's Thursday Health Tip discusses maintaining a healthy plant-based diet while dining away from home at restaurants and with loved ones. Don’t miss out on this episode! You will learn the following: How to find restaurants with plant-based options How to quickly review a menu and order healthy meals How to enjoy dining with others without feeling awkward Resources: Sign up ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
265
Jan. 19, 2023
265: MAYA'S TIP: Meal Planning in 5 Easy Steps
Discover a great way to incorporate healthy eating into your lifestyle in this Thursday's Health Tip episode. We'll cover simple steps to efficiently plan and prepare meals and develop a habit of making achievable and sustainable gradual changes to your diet. Today, you’ll learn: What to eat for breakfast, lunch & dinner How to navigate the grocery store How to set up your kitchen for success Resources: Download Maya's FREE 12-page Grocery & Meal Planner to get started on a whole...
Guest: Maya Acosta
263
Jan. 12, 2023
263: MAYA'S TIP: Simplify Cooking Plant-Based at Home
In this Thursday’s Health Tip episode, we’ll talk about healthy ideas on what foods you can keep inside your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Learn the nutritional value of having these foods, tips on making cooking plant-based at home quick and easy, and practical advice when you’re doing groceries. Keep following this podcast segment to consistently achieve your lifestyle goals! In this episode, you will learn the following: Plant-based foods to store in your pantry, fridge, and freezer ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
262
Jan. 10, 2023
262: Steps Towards Achieving Optimal Health: Why Your Diet Matters
This episode is about the lack of nutrition education in our society and about the results of not educating the public, such as the high rate of preventable deaths related to diet and the fact that medical schools do not push nutrition education. We will cover steps on how you can get started on a plant-based diet. In this episode, you will learn the following: Majority of the deaths are preventable through healthy lifestyle changes, mainly nutrition A whole food plant-based diet can hel...
Guest: Maya Acosta
261
Jan. 5, 2023
261: MAYA'S TIP: Start Your Health Goals Using This Ultimate Guide
If you’re looking to improve the quality of your life this year, stay connected with us for more episodes that will surely change your perspectives on a plant-based lifestyle. Listen in as we quickly discuss the facts about plant-based diets, a practical guide to healthier food choices we designed for you, and more to expect this month. Start your objectives for healthy living and challenge yourself to be better today! Resources mentioned in this episode Sign up to download Maya’s FREE Guide t...
Guest: Maya Acosta
260
Jan. 3, 2023
260: Maya’s Story and an Introduction of Herself to New Listeners
Get to know more about our host in this episode as Maya shares her introduction to lifestyle medicine and plant-based diets, her journey and learnings over the past few years of podcasting, and her advocacy for a plant-centered diet and simple lifestyle interventions toward a healthy quality of life. Tune in to stay healthy in 2023! Key takeaways to listen for Maya’s personal stories of discovering healthy lifestyle medicine and plant-based foods Healthy Lifestyle Solutions podcast: Its ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
259
Dec. 30, 2022
259: 2022 Recap and What’s New in 2023
Today, we wrap up all the great experiences and things we should improve from this year’s podcasting journey. Dive into this episode to learn how we’re planning to connect more with you as our listeners and exciting changes to look forward to in 2023 that will surely enhance the quality of your life. Don’t miss this opportunity to head into the new year with new learnings! Key takeaways to listen for Major takeaways on the rebranding and how it affects the main purpose of this podcast show ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
250
Dec. 1, 2022
250: MAYA'S TIP: Five Tips for Attending a Lifestyle Medicine Conference
Join us in today's episode as Maya gives the biggest highlights of the Annual Lifestyle Medicine Conference in Orlando, Florida. Keep listening for upcoming events and tips on how to make the most out of every conference experience! Key takeaways to listen for Upcoming events you should know Biggest takeaways from the 2022 Lifestyle Medicine Conference Tips for attending a Lifestyle Medicine Conference Resources mentioned in this episode To learn more about the PAC Pod Leader's...
Guest: Maya Acosta
239
Oct. 27, 2022
239: Celebrating 4 Years of Podcasting with Maya Acosta
In this episode, join us as we celebrate this podcast’s four years of success and four years of inspiring individuals from all walks of life to adopt a healthy lifestyle and foster overall wellness. Be empowered by Maya’s podcasting journey, how it has changed through time, how she adapted a plant-based diet, and how she first became an advocate for healthy living! Keep supporting this show to learn more! This episode covers the following: How Maya started her podcasting journey The begi...
Guest: Maya Acosta
237
Oct. 20, 2022
237: MAYA'S TIP: How to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Maya Acosta helps raise awareness of lifestyle modifications that can help reduce the risk of breast cancer in this episode. In this episode, you will learn the following: Lifestyle changes that you can do to reduce your risk of breast cancer How eating plant-based foods and exercising regularly may help reduce the risk of breast cancer Importance of maintaining a healthy weight Resources: Get a FREE copy of Maya’s Guide to a Whole Foods...
Guest: Maya Acosta
235
Oct. 13, 2022
235: Peaceful Planet Foundation: A Houston Retreat Recap with Maya Acosta
If you want to improve your mental health, wellness, and sustainability, this episode is for you. Today we’ll discuss the solution in depth to get the most out of your holistic lifestyle, so tune in to learn more! In this episode, we cover the following: Garth Davis' insights on protein consumption Best ways to build resiliency The environmental urgency of our food choices Resources: Get a FREE copy of Maya’s Guide to a Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet by clicking the link provided: http...
Guest: Maya Acosta
233
Oct. 6, 2022
233: Thrive in Life by Understanding Your Signature Strengths with Maya Acosta
Do you want to discover what your best qualities are? Join us as we use The VIA Survey of Character Strengths to uncover your greatest qualities and leverage your strengths to achieve your best life. Tune in to unleash your strengths! Key takeaways to listen for VIA Institute on Character: History, purpose, and VIA survey Character strengths and virtues classification Maya’s 5 signature strengths How signature strengths are expressed from childhood to the present The effects of ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
231
Sept. 29, 2022
231: Plant-Based Nutrition | The Secret to a Longer and Healthier Life with Maya Acosta
Did you know that embracing a plant-based diet can have incredible health benefits? Eating healthy grains, legumes, and greens can help enhance your overall health and well-being, so listen in to learn more! In this episode, you will learn: Why people in "Blue Zones" live longer than the average How lifestyle medicine can improve people's quality of life The importance and benefits of a plant-based nutrition Other episodes you'll enjoy 13: Lifestyle Docs | Drs. Munish & Bandana C...
Guest: Maya Acosta
229
Sept. 22, 2022
229: MAYA'S TIP: A Lifestyle Medicine Approach to Overall Physical & Mental Health
In honor of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, we'll discuss depression and lifestyle medicine's role in improving our general health in today's episode. Join us in spreading awareness about mental health and promoting good lifestyle choices. Key takeaways to listen for Raising awareness about suicide prevention The role of nutrition on our mental health How to use Lifestyle Medicine Pillars to improve your mood Resources mentioned in this episode 168: How ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
226
Sept. 15, 2022
226: Sobriety as a Way of Life | A Personal Testimony
When we talk about sobriety, we frequently speak about physical sobriety, but what is the most critical step you can take to free yourself? Today, Maya discusses how to overcome addiction and the need to modify your lifestyle to optimize your overall health. Stay tuned to learn how to practice emotional and physical sobriety. Key takeaways to listen for How alcohol affects emotions and behavior What an alcohol-reliant lifestyle looks like Identifying personal triggers and the lies dri...
Guest: Maya Acosta
223
Sept. 8, 2022
223: The Ultimate Cancun Vacation Checklist with Maya Acosta
Today, we'll look at the best foods in Mexico, dietary meals you can make, and how to enjoy dining out in restaurants while on vacation. Stay in touch and discover how to make the most of your vacation travel arrangements while a maintaining plant-based diet. Key takeaways to listen for Ideal foods to prepare when traveling Recommended vegan restaurants in Cancun to explore Delectable vegan cuisine to round out your leisure experience How to travel and eat nutritiously while follow...
Guest: Maya Acosta
221
Sept. 1, 2022
221: Podcast Movement Conference and Peaceful Planet Foundation Retreat 2022
Today, we'll discuss the key insights from the World's Largest Podcast Conference, which recently concluded in Dallas, Texas. Learn how this convention can help you grow professionally, evolve, and strengthen your podcast community in this episode. Continue to stay tuned for more exciting events and conferences that you will undoubtedly enjoy! Key takeaways to listen for Recent developments and personal experiences from the Podcast Movement Conference Why podcasting is an amazing way to ...
Guest: Maya Acosta
218
Aug. 25, 2022
218: Top 7 Episodes of 2022
Today, we've chosen seven of this year's most popular episodes, where you'll learn more about diet, sleep, joining a support group, and building healthy relationships. Join us as we explore the realm of lifestyle medicine. Leave a comment and share it with anyone who could learn from it! Top 7 Episodes 154: Organic Plant-Based Foods For Natural Healing with Jarrod and Anita Roussel 152: Psychological & Emotional Well-Being For A Sustainable Lifestyle with Koen Vaessen 162: Healthy Eating...
Guest: Maya Acosta
216
Aug. 18, 2022
216: The Amazing Health Benefits of Berries
Whether you buy organic or commercially grown berries, it is essential to understand why we should consume them daily. Today, we'll discuss the health advantages of berries and how to buy them and incorporate them into your diet. Keep tuning in to learn more about the wonders of berries. In this episode, you will learn: How to shop and store berries Organic vs. conventionally grown berries Why you should eat berries daily Other episodes you'll enjoy 210: The Real Cost of Eating Hea...
Guest: Maya Acosta
214
Aug. 11, 2022
214: So I Went to the Food Is Medicine Conference...Now What?
A group of podcasters comes together to help others learn how to create change and grow their online presence to make an impact in the world. In this episode, you will learn: How a young vegan turned bullying into a comeback story The process of change (becoming aware, contemplating, adopting new behaviors, etc.) Why you should join our August 27th, Create An Impact Online to grow your online confidence, presence, and leadership Other episodes you'll enjoy: 213: Leveraging Lifestyl...
Guest: Maya Acosta
Aug. 4, 2022
212: The Five Best Apps for Eating a Whole Food Plant-Based Diet with Maya Acosta
If you're looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet but have no idea where to start, Maya will go through 5 apps that can help you get started on a whole food plant-based diet. In this episode, you will learn: The foods you should eat on a daily basis How to use an app to find recipes and facilitate grocery shopping How to eat healthily when you travel Other Episodes you'll enjoy 210: The Real Cost of Eating Healthy | Why Plant-Based Foods are More Affordable T...
Guest: Maya Acosta
182
May 4, 2022
182: Things to Anticipate in the Future
Ready for more lifestyle and wellness tips? Today's episode is all about the upcoming activities we will attend and some of the following topics and guests. So stay tuned to hear positive feedback about our podcast, and note our important announcements to keep on top of your health! Key takeaways to listen for Interesting podcast topics in the next episodes Upcoming guest appearances and events Listeners’ feedback about the show Resources mentioned in this episode To find out more...
Guest: Maya Acosta
156
Feb. 3, 2022
156: Where Do You Get Your Protein?
Protein is essential for weight loss, muscle mass, and overall health. But, where do we get it? Listen in as Maya outlines the risks of eating too much protein and if plant-based foods contain adequate protein. Key takeaways to listen for Protein: What it is and how our body process it Dangers of consuming too much protein How much protein do you need on a daily basis? Why should you consume plant-based protein? Resources mentioned in this episode Physician Committee for Respon...
Guest: Maya Acosta
143
Dec. 22, 2021
143: Making Healthy Living a Priority with Maya Acosta
Don’t miss this episode as we invited Sally back to the show to interview Maya Acosta, PAC co-member and a Pod co-leader. Stay tuned to know more about the enormous impacts of plant-based nutrition on Maya and her family, as well as the healing power of lifestyle medicine. Key takeaways to listen for Why should you adopt a plant-based diet? Impacts of educating your family about plant-based nutrition Best way to increase vegan awareness in your community PlantPure community: Advanta...
Guest: Maya Acosta
1
Sept. 8, 2019
1: Just A Couple of Plant-Based Sailors
Welcome to Plant-Based DFW a podcast ...
Guests: Maya Acosta , Dr. Rizwan Bukhari