Pediatrician Maruthi Madhav Sunkara, MD, has passed the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine (ABLM) Examination. Dr. Sunkara is now a Diplomate of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, and a board-certified lifestyle medicine physician. Known to be a rigorous exam, the healthcare professionals who pass the ABLM examination are regarded as experts in the science of preventing, treating, and reversing chronic disease in an evidenced-based manner.

“My recent board-certification in Lifestyle Medicine compliments my knowledge and expertise in Pediatric Care and Obesity Medicine,” said Dr. Sunkara. “I will utilize the knowledge acquired during the board-certification process and my unique pediatric experience to help parents manage their children’s health. I believe with patient and family education, and compassionate care, we can make a difference in children’s lives for the better.”

The ABLM provides quality education and credentials to physicians dedicated to the practice of lifestyle medicine. According to the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine is a medical specialty, which prevents and treats chronic conditions including but not limited to; cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

The six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine are: Nutrition, Physical Activity, Stress Management, Restorative Sleep, Social Connection, and Avoidance of Risky Substances. The application of these six pillars includes a whole-food, plant-predominant eating pattern, physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social connections. More importantly, the practice of these six pillars is effective in the prevention of chronic conditions.

“Lifestyle Medicine is evidence-based and growing in popularity,” added Dr. Sunkara. “The six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine are precursors to good health. What’s interesting is that the pillars can apply to anyone to maintain a healthy lifestyle and to prevent chronic disease.”

In addition to Dr. Sunkara’s recent achievement, he is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine and a certified asthma educator. Dr. Sunkara completed his residency in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine at Metropolitan Hospital Center, New York Medical College, and is the Chief of Pediatrics at Nathan Littauer Hospital.

Dr. Sunkara is accepting new pediatric patients. His office can be reached by dialing (518) 775-4234, and is located at Nathan Littauer’s Gloversville Primary Care Center at 99 East State Street, Suite 105, Gloversville, NY 12078.