The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine in Our Direct Primary Care Practice

Lifestyle Medicine focuses on addressing the root causes of chronic disease through sustainable, evidence-based habits. In our Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice, we integrate these principles into personalized, relationship-based care—giving you the time, support, and access you need to make meaningful changes.

1. Whole-Food, Plant-Forward Nutrition

What it is: Eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and minimally processed foods.

How we incorporate it:

  • Individualized nutrition counseling during unrushed visits

  • Practical guidance focused on real-life eating—not fad diets

  • Support for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and weight management

  • Lab review and follow-up to track progress over time

2. Regular Physical Activity

What it is: Consistent movement that supports cardiovascular health, strength, mobility, and mental well-being.

How we incorporate it:

  • Personalized activity plans based on your goals, schedule, and physical limitations

  • Emphasis on sustainable movement (not extreme exercise programs)

  • Ongoing encouragement and accountability through direct access to your clinician

  • Adjustments over time as your health improves

3. Restorative Sleep

What it is: Getting adequate, high-quality sleep to support energy, immune function, mood, and metabolic health.

How we incorporate it:

  • Screening for sleep issues such as insomnia or sleep apnea

  • Behavioral strategies to improve sleep quality

  • Medication review to identify sleep-disrupting factors

  • Long-term follow-up to ensure lasting improvement

4. Stress Management

What it is: Reducing chronic stress and building resilience through healthy coping strategies.

How we incorporate it:

  • Identifying stressors during comprehensive visits

  • Teaching practical tools such as breathing techniques, mindfulness, and boundary setting

  • Integrating mental and physical health care

  • Providing ongoing support between visits when stress levels rise

5. Avoidance of Risky Substances

What it is: Minimizing or eliminating tobacco, excessive alcohol, and other harmful substances.

How we incorporate it:

  • Nonjudgmental conversations focused on your goals

  • Evidence-based support for smoking cessation and alcohol reduction

  • Medication support when appropriate

  • Close follow-up and encouragement throughout the process

6. Positive Social Connections

What it is: Strong relationships and a sense of connection that support emotional and physical health.

How we incorporate it:

  • Recognizing loneliness and social isolation as health risks

  • Discussing relationships, work-life balance, and community support

  • Encouraging connection as part of your overall care plan

  • Building a strong, trusting patient–clinician relationship

Why Lifestyle Medicine Works Especially Well in Direct Primary Care

Our DPC model allows:

  • Longer visits to address root causes, not just symptoms

  • Frequent touchpoints for coaching and accountability

  • Care plans tailored to your life—not insurance checkboxes

  • A true partnership focused on long-term health

Lifestyle change is not about perfection—it’s about progress. We’re here to guide, support, and walk alongside you every step of the way.

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