CHEAR Center for Healthy Eating and Activity Research

01/18/2026

What if your eating goals had nothing to do with weight?

Realistic eating goals that actually support wellbeing look like:
✦ Eating regularly instead of skipping meals
✦ Re-establishing predictable routines
✦ Planning ahead without rigidity
✦ Practicing mindful eating without perfection
✦ Allowing flexibility — yes, all foods can fit

This isn't about control. It's about consistency and nourishment that supports both body and mind. That's where real stability lives.

https://bit.ly/4sHT1xh

01/17/2026

Science advancing care.🔬

New research led by Patricia Thistlethwaite, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon at UC San Diego Health, shows that a simple blood test could help doctors detect serious heart problems earlier, including pulmonary arterial hypertension, potentially before they become life-threatening.

"This has been a holy grail in the field — a simple blood biomarker that could tell us you have the disease, and yes, it's getting worse," said Thistlethwaite. "(It) would be a great advance compared to the multiple combinations of tests, some of them invasive, that are used to diagnose this disease."

New UC San Diego Health research shows a simple blood test could help doctors catch serious heart problems early.

01/16/2026

January is National Thank You Month, and we want to pause and express our gratitude.

To the individuals and families who trust us with their stories. To the providers and collaborators who share our commitment to compassionate care. To the community members who support research grounded in empathy and understanding.

Healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens through connection, collaboration, and shared purpose — and we’re grateful to be part of that together.

01/15/2026

Pills are set to transform obesity care in 2026.

New daily medications could mark a major turning point in how people manage weight, offering an alternative to injections and expanding access for millions. Here’s why experts like Eduardo Grunvald, MD, FACP, obesity medicine physician at UC San Diego Health, say this year could reshape obesity treatment.

Patients can already access the first GLP-1 obesity pill from Novo Nordisk, and a rival oral drug from Eli Lilly is slated for U.S. approval later this year.

01/15/2026

Feeling "off" with food in this new year?

You're not broken. You're not lacking willpower. And you're definitely not alone.

The weeks following the holiday season can feel heavier than expected — not because something is wrong with you, but because routines shifted, stress accumulated, and your body is doing what bodies do.

Binge eating isn't about discipline. It's shaped by biology, emotional regulation, and environment.

That "get back on track" pressure you're feeling? It might be doing more harm than good.

Let's talk about what actually helps.

https://bit.ly/4sHT1xh

01/14/2026

Cervical cancer is often silent in its early stages, but with proactive screening and expert care, it is highly treatable.

UC San Diego Health offers comprehensive cervical cancer care, from prevention and diagnosis to advanced treatment options, all centered around you.

health.ucsd.edu/care/cancer/screening-diagnosis/

Keep current on your preventive care routine and learn about lifestyle choices to reduce your cancer risk. Regular cancer screenings can prevent or detect cancer early when it is most treatable.

01/13/2026

Curious about TMS therapy?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to help relieve symptoms of depression, especially when other treatments haven’t worked.

UC San Diego Health psychiatrists explain how TMS works, what to expect and why it’s an effective option for treatment-resistant depression.

Explore TMS therapy and take the first step toward relief: health.ucsd.edu/tms

01/13/2026

Curious about TMS therapy?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to help relieve symptoms of depression, especially when other treatments haven’t worked.

UC San Diego Health psychiatrists explain how TMS works, what to expect and why it’s an effective option for treatment-resistant depression.

Explore TMS therapy and take the first step toward relief: health.ucsd.edu/tms

Why choose UC San Diego Health for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy? Cory Weissman, MD, PhD, and Jean-Philippe Miron, MD, PhD, psychiatrists a...

01/12/2026

We’re thrilled to celebrate Quyen Nguyen, MD, PhD, otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon at UC San Diego Health, on being recognized as one of the San Diego Business Journal’s 2025 Business Women of the Year. 🌟

Nguyen describes her career as “embodying the power of translating academic discovery into life-changing medical advances, driven by scientific excellence, visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to improving patient care.”

Thank you for paving the way for women in science and business, we’re proud of your achievements and can’t wait to see what you do next!

sdbj.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SDBJ-Business-Women-of-the-Year-2025-Winners.pdf

01/09/2026

Flu activity is on the rise across San Diego County, driven by a new strain (H3N2) of influenza A. Health experts warn flu activity can continue to increase throughout the winter months. Taking preventive steps now can help protect you and those around you.

Getting vaccinated is one of the easiest ways to lower your risk and help keep our community healthy. Flu shots are available at Express Care clinics for patients 6 months and up, with same-day or next-day appointments, 7 days a week, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Walk in or save your spot online for same-day or next-day medical care, including Express Care, Urgent Care and ER/emergency services, for kids and adults at UC San Diego Health. See next available appointment times and hours and save your spot online.

01/09/2026

A major step forward in precision oncology. 🧬

UC San Diego School of Medicine researchers led the first clinical trial to show that cancer treatments can be safely and effectively personalized using the DNA of a patient’s tumor, improving outcomes without increasing side effects.

This groundbreaking study moves cancer care beyond one-size-fits-all to truly individualized treatment.

Innovative clinical trial design is a central part of what we do at Moores Cancer Center,” said Diane Simeone, MD, director of Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health. “This study reflects the strength of our multi-disciplinary team-based approach, combining scientific leadership, clinical trial expertise and the infrastructure needed to bring discoveries directly to patients. It’s a powerful example of how we’re shaping the future of precision oncology and placing the patient at the center of every decision.”

Learn how UC San Diego Health’s personalized cancer care supports patients with treatments designed for their unique journey: health.ucsd.edu/cancer

First global trial shows tumor DNA-guided cancer therapy is safe and effective, improving outcomes through personalized drug combinations in oncology care.

01/07/2026

We’re proud to recognize the UC San Diego Health Hillcrest Labor, Delivery, Recovery and Postpartum (LDRP) Unit as the 2025 DAISY Team Award recipient, An honor given by a UC San Diego Health nurse selection committee in partnership with the DAISY Foundation, an international organization that recognizes extraordinary nursing care.

This team was nominated by both a grateful patient’s mom (and fellow nurse) and Ala Garza, senior nursing director at UC San Diego Health. Each highlighting a different moment, but the same unwavering excellence.

From compassionate bedside care, clear communication and swift action during a critical patient experience, to extraordinary teamwork and resilience in the face of a unit-wide flood, the Hillcrest LDRP team consistently put patients, families and one another first.

“They didn’t just respond to an emergency, they transformed a potential disaster into a demonstration of clinical excellence,” said Garza.

Thank you to the Hillcrest LDRP team for the care, professionalism and teamwork that continue to make a lasting impact on the families you serve every day.

Most nominations are based on patient stories submitted by patients, family members, nursing staff and nursing leadership. Learn more about the award and how to nominate a nurse:https://team.getwell.health/public/rounds/survey/ffmXa3apGn5Kg

01/07/2026

Join us for the UC San Diego Prostate Cancer Patient Summit 2026, a two-day event on January 30-31 is designed to educate, empower and connect patients, caregivers and advocates impacted by prostate cancer.

Attendees will hear from leading experts, learn about the latest advances in prostate cancer care and research and connect with others navigating similar journeys. The summit offers practical tools, trusted resources and meaningful conversations to support patients and families at every stage.

Located at UC San Diego Park & Market. Registration is free: moorescancercenter.ucsd.edu/outreach/prostate-cancer-patient-summit.html

01/05/2026

Could magnesium help protect your hearing? Emerging research suggests this essential mineral may support inner-ear health, particularly when it comes to noise-related damage. While it’s not a cure, it may play a role in prevention.

Hear what experts like Rick Friedman, MD, Ph.D., otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon at UC San Diego Health, have to say about what the science shows.

Magnesium shows promise for noise-related hearing damage, but human evidence is limited. Here’s who may actually benefit.

01/03/2026

We are celebrating the New Year at UC San Diego Health with the arrival of our first babies born in 2026!

Baby girl, Violet, was the first baby born at UC San Diego Health at 1:56am on January 1, 2026, at Jacobs Medical Center.

Baby boy, Noah, was the first baby born at Hillcrest Medical Center at 8:52am on January 1, 2026.

We are honored when families choose UC San Diego Health to be a part of such life-changing moments. Welcome to the world, Violet and Noah!

health.ucsd.edu/care/pregnancy-birth/

01/01/2026

Cheers to a joyful New Year! ✨

As we welcome 2026, we’re celebrating fresh beginnings, open possibilities, and the small sparks of inspiration that guide us forward.

May the coming year bring you moments that fill you with joy, opportunities that help you grow, and the courage to follow what truly lights you up.

We’re wishing you health, happiness, and hope in every season ahead. You deserve every good thing coming your way — today and all year long.

12/31/2025

If someone opens up about binge eating during the holidays, the way we respond can shape whether they feel safe or shut down.

From our latest CHEAR blog, here are a few supportive, non-judgmental phrases you can use:

✨ “Evenings can be especially tough—lots of people feel more overwhelmed then.”
✨ “It makes sense you’re struggling. There’s a lot happening all at once.”
✨ “This isn’t about willpower. You deserve support, not criticism.”

Simple, grounding language can make a world of difference for someone feeling ashamed or alone. Want more guidance on compassionate communication and how to help someone seek support?

https://bit.ly/4rSOI1B

12/29/2025

The holiday season can bring a mix of joy, pressure, and unpredictable schedules — a combination that can make eating feel more complicated than usual. When routines shift and stress builds, it’s completely normal to feel less connected to hunger and fullness cues or to notice urges growing stronger.

Small, steady supports can make a meaningful difference. Gentle structure, clearer boundaries, emotional check-ins, and reaching out early for help can all create a little more ease. None of this requires perfection — just a bit of kindness toward yourself in a season that asks a lot.

If you’re noticing heavier moments around food or emotions this time of year, you’re not alone. Support and resources are available at https://bit.ly/43vhzLW

https://bit.ly/4rSOI1B

12/27/2025

So much changes during the holidays: schedules, sleep, stress, social expectations, family dynamics.

All of these shifts can make it easier for binge eating symptoms to intensify—not because of lack of willpower, but because biology and emotions are working overtime.

CHEAR’s new blog breaks down the most common seasonal triggers and explains them in clear, relatable language:

• Why stress and fatigue can silence hunger/fullness cues
• How overwhelming emotions drive “checking out” while eating
• Why comments about weight or food hit harder this time of year
• What makes nighttime especially vulnerable

When we understand the “why,” we can approach ourselves with more compassion—and take small steps that truly support healing.

https://bit.ly/4rSOI1B

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas to all who celebrate! 🎄

May your day be filled with love, laughter, cozy moments, and the simple joys that make this season feel magical.

Whether you’re surrounded by family, celebrating with friends, or enjoying a quiet, peaceful day at home, we hope you find moments that make your heart feel full.

Wishing you warmth, connection, and a holiday season that feels bright and truly meaningful.

12/25/2025

The holidays carry a lot—expectations, memories, busy schedules, family dynamics, and emotional intensity. When the season feels heavy, eating can become a place where that weight shows up.

Binge eating during the holidays doesn’t mean you’ve “lost control.” It means you’re navigating a complex mix of stressors, emotions, and biological shifts that would challenge anyone.

You deserve space, understanding, and support—not pressure to push through or pretend you’re fine. If this season feels more overwhelming than joyful, you are not alone.

To connect with compassionate support, visit https://bit.ly/43vhzLW

https://bit.ly/4rSOI1B

12/23/2025

Your internal body clock — your circadian rhythm — has more influence than many people realize. When sleep is thrown off, meals are irregular, or stress builds, hunger hormones shift in ways that make nighttime cravings stronger.

Higher hunger signals + lower emotional regulation = a perfect storm for late-night eating.

This isn’t a personal failure. It’s biology. And once you understand your rhythms, you can work with your body instead of fighting it.

Even small changes in routine, consistency, and daylight exposure can make evenings feel less overwhelming.

https://bit.ly/4pL1rBK

12/22/2025

The holiday season can be joyful—but it can also be overwhelming for those who struggle with disordered eating or their relationship with food.

Gatherings, routines that shift, comments about eating or appearance, and the pressure to “just enjoy” can make this time of year feel complicated.

If this season feels heavier than expected, you’re not alone. Your feelings are real, and they deserve care—not judgment.

CHEAR is here to support you with research-backed treatment, compassionate clinicians, and no-cost study programs designed to help both teens and adults build healthier, more peaceful relationships with food and body cues.

If you or someone you love is finding the holidays difficult this year, we encourage you to reach out. Help is available, and healing is possible.

Learn more or connect with us: https://bit.ly/3DiMr7Z

12/21/2025

Happy Crossword Puzzle Day! ✏️🧩

Crossword puzzles give our minds a chance to slow down, focus, and enjoy a gentle mental challenge. They’re a small reminder that taking a break to engage your brain in a fun, structured way can support relaxation and emotional balance.

At CHEAR, we know that intentional moments like these—where you pause, breathe, and shift your attention—can help strengthen coping skills and support a healthier relationship with stress, routines, and daily rhythms.

Whether you’re a crossword pro or simply love a good brain teaser, we hope you find a quiet moment today to play, unwind, and give your mind something enjoyable to explore.