CU Anschutz Health & Wellness Center News and Stories

Danielle Ostendorf, MS, PhD, CEP, serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus within the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes. Specializing in promoting long-term physical activity adherence in adults with overweight or obesity, she has led numerous studies at the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, with several published in medical journals. Her research continues to yield findings that advance our understanding and treatment of chronic diseases and weight management.

We recently interviewed Ms. Ostendorf about her journey into this field and her current research endeavors, shedding light on her innovative approach to weight loss and chronic disease prevention.

Wellness Connections | April 30, 2024

Inaugurated in 2020, the Colorado Obesity Medicine Training Program at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus stands as a testament to groundbreaking innovation in medical education. This visionary program, initiated by Dr. Dan Bessesen, marks a pivotal moment in the start of obesity medicine as a distinctive specialty.

Juliana Hontou | February 23, 2024

In the realm of cancer rehabilitation, the journey from diagnosis to recovery is anything but linear. Often, patients go through a number of struggles, experiencing several unprecedented changes to both their physical and mental health. Playing a pivotal role in reshaping this journey is Nicole Gleason, the Program Manager of BfitBwell, a non-profit 3-month-long personalized exercise program for patients diagnosed with cancer. Starting the program from the ground up, Nicole has led the transformation of BfitBwell from just an idea a decade ago, to now a vital resource for cancer survivors here in Colorado.  

Wellness Connections | February 23, 2024

Dr. John Michael Taormina is a distinguished obesity medicine provider practicing at the CU Medicine Weight Management and Wellness Clinic located at the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center, where he contributes to the advancement of knowledge and care in the areas of obesity and wellness. His commitment to advancing healthcare is evident through his numerous accolades, including being recognized as an Outstanding M.D. Instructor/Fellow at the Colorado Nutrition Obesity Research Center in 2023.

Wellness Connections | January 25, 2024

Cancer survivors often face unique challenges in maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-treatment, especially when grappling with overweight or obesity. Recognizing this need, researchers from the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center (AHWC) are launching a new research study called BfedBwell, which is supported by the University of Colorado Cancer Center. Emily Hill, PhD, RDN, who is Principal Investigator for the study states, “The study aims to work collaboratively with a co-design team comprised of program delivery staff, cancer experts, and people who have had cancer to develop and test a survivorship nutrition program.”

Wellness Connections | January 24, 2024