120 - Mirror Cells, Fighting Inflammation with Food, and Artful Healing - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

120 -- HealthHippieMD Week In Review Audio Overview

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Curiosity Killed the Bias

How to see the humanity in anyone | Psyche Guides explores the transformative practice of "deep curiosity," a tool for fostering empathy, connection, and understanding across divides. The author recounts a yearlong journey meeting individuals with opposing beliefs and challenging stereotypes fueled by assumptions and social media. Through the DIVE model—Detach, Intend, Value, Embrace—he teaches how to unlearn biases, prepare for meaningful dialogue, and honor others' dignity. By viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, deep curiosity strengthens relationships and enriches self-awareness. This guide empowers readers to break barriers and connect authentically in an increasingly polarized world. (Thanks, Laura!).

+see also: The War For Kindness - The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos - Apple Podcasts.

Food Fights Inflammation

An anti-inflammatory diet swaps processed foods for whole, nutrient-dense options to combat chronic inflammation. Foods rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and essential nutrients help reduce oxidative stress and regulate hormones. A Mediterranean-inspired diet—packed with fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and olive oil—nurtures a healthy gut biome, while magnesium-rich and brightly colored foods fight stress and free radicals. Spices like turmeric and garlic add flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits. While diet is just one piece of the wellness puzzle, adopting these habits offers long-term physical and mental health benefits—making it a marathon worth running. An anti-inflammatory diet can boost your health. What to eat and what to avoid | Fortune Well.

How Seed Oils May Ignite Cancer Risks

A new study highlights the potential role of omega-6 fatty acids—abundant in seed oils used in ultra-processed foods—in promoting inflammation that fuels colon cancer. Researchers found high levels of these proinflammatory lipids in tumor samples, alongside a deficiency in inflammation-resolving omega-3s. Experts point to dietary shifts since the 1950s, with ultra-processed foods and seed oils dominating modern diets, as a likely factor. While diet isn't the sole contributor, the findings emphasize the complex interplay of food, lifestyle, and genetics in cancer risk, advocating for moderation in omega-6 consumption pending further research. Ultraprocessed Foods High in Seed Oils Could Be Fueling Colon Cancer Risk | Scientific American.

Chasing Happiness

What can ancient philosophy teach us about a well lived life? Examining different schools of philosophical thought can teach us a lot about different ways to create happiness. The philosophy of happiness, explained in 10 minutes - Big Think.

Love Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Arthur C. Brooks explores the paradox of love and happiness, arguing that the exhilarating, passionate phase of romance—while thrilling—isn't what brings enduring joy. Instead, he highlights "companionate love," rooted in friendship, mutual understanding, and commitment, as the foundation of lasting happiness. Backed by research like the Harvard Study of Adult Development, Brooks demonstrates that stable relationships, especially those built on deep friendship, are the strongest predictors of lifelong contentment. With humor and personal anecdotes, he underscores that the secret to staying in love lies in simply liking your partner—your best friend. The Kind of Love That Makes People Happiest - The Atlantic.

+see also: This heartwarming video from Coldplay featuring Dick Van Dyke. All My Love Official Version, Director's Cut.

Press Paws

A recent study suggests that dogs may communicate intentionally by pressing buttons linked to words. Researchers found that some dogs form two- or three-word combinations, such as "want food," which appear deliberate rather than random. The study monitored button-pressing behaviors in over 150 dogs using soundboards, finding that dogs can express needs akin to a young child. However, skeptics argue the behavior could stem from training or reinforcement rather than true language understanding. While questions remain, the research highlights dogs' intelligence and their potential for deeper interaction with humans. Dogs may be able to communicate by pressing buttons, research suggests - The Washington Post (gift article).

Snooze You Can Use

Science-Backed Sleep Tips from 2024 to Help You Snooze Better | Scientific American explores 2024's popular sleep trends and their scientific validity. Highlights include the benefits of short naps for memory and mood and caution against "bed rotting," which disrupts circadian rhythms. TikTok's "sleepy girl mocktail" sheds light on magnesium's role in relaxation, while sleeping on the floor offers mixed results for back health. Sleep divorces—partners sleeping separately—can improve rest for mismatched sleepers. To combat election-induced insomnia, experts recommend unplugging, meditating, and reframing anxious thoughts with gratitude. These evidence-backed strategies aim to optimize sleep quality for a more restful 2025.

Artful Healing

Susan Magsamen's exploration of neuroaesthetics reveals the profound effects of art on mental health, trauma recovery, and cognitive disorders. This emerging field connects art, science, and well-being, showing how aesthetic experiences—from painting and dance to music—positively reshape our brains. Programs like Creative Forces empower trauma survivors, while dance improves cognition and mobility in Parkinson's patients. The arts, accessible to all, offer transformative benefits, reducing stress and fostering resilience. By embracing creativity, we can enhance our mental and physical health, proving that the arts are as essential as exercise or nutrition. 'Neuroaesthetics' Reveals How the Arts Help with Dementia and Trauma | Scientific American.

Neuroinflammation and Muscle Fatigue

Neuroinflammation, sparked by the brain's immune response to infections or chronic diseases like Long COVID and Alzheimer's, disrupts the brain-muscle connection, leading to muscle fatigue. This research uncovers how brain-released cytokines alter muscle energy production without damaging muscle structure. Studying fruit flies and mice, scientists identify a universal brain-to-muscle communication pathway that reallocates energy to combat infection. Potential treatments, such as neutralizing antibodies, aim to block this signaling. With further exploration, targeting this axis could alleviate fatigue in long COVID and other neuroinflammatory conditions, improving life for millions worldwide. Brain inflammation may be the reason behind muscle fatigue after infection and injury.

Mirror Cells: The Dark Reflection of Life

Scientists warn of the existential risks posed by "mirror cells," organisms built with reverse-handed DNA and proteins, defying the fundamental biology of Earth's life forms. These synthetic microbes, immune to natural defenses and capable of ecological devastation, could trigger pandemics or disrupt ecosystems if released. While promising medical advancements like long-acting drugs, their potential to bypass immune systems and evolve uncontrollably outweighs the benefits. Leading researchers advocate banning this technology, urging global dialogue to prevent catastrophic consequences before these innovations take root. A 'Second Tree of Life' Could Wreak Havoc, Scientists Warn - The New York Times (gift article).

+see also: one of the most memorable articles from Wired (from 25 years ago!)-Why the Future Doesn't Need Us | WIRED.

The Gut: The New Frontier of Mental Health Treatment

Emerging research highlights the potential of targeting gut cells, rather than brain cells, to treat depression and anxiety. Traditional SSRIs, while effective, often cause systemic side effects. Scientists have observed mood improvements in mice without the usual drawbacks by focusing on serotonin production in the intestines, unveiling the gut-brain connection's crucial role in emotional regulation. This novel approach may also address concerns about SSRI safety during pregnancy, offering a safer alternative for both mothers and babies. These findings could revolutionize mental health care by delivering effective relief without compromising physical well-being. Drugs targeting gut cells, not brain cells, fight depression better - Earth.com. (thanks, Amy!).

+see also: Gut Feelings: The Role of the Microbiome in Behavioral Health — HealthHippieMD.

114 - Empathy, Antibiotics, and Artificial Affection - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

The Healing Touch: Empathy’s Real Power in Medicine

Research suggests that empathy from doctors isn’t just comforting—it may significantly impact patient outcomes. A recent study reveals that highly empathetic physicians are linked to greater pain relief, improved functionality, and better quality of life for chronic back pain patients, surpassing even opioid and surgical interventions. Yet, empathy is rare among overburdened doctors, especially in brief appointments or with marginalized groups. Experts argue that empathy enables better communication, diagnosis, and adherence to treatment, making it a crucial, if undervalued, tool in healthcare. Despite systemic challenges, fostering empathy may be essential for truly effective care. The Power of Physician Empathy.

AI’s Hallucinations Risk Patient Safety

While popular in healthcare, OpenAI’s Whisper transcription tool is under fire for generating “hallucinated” content—text that wasn’t spoken. Despite being cautioned against high-risk usage, Whisper is employed in over 30,000 medical settings, sparking concern among experts. The tool’s reliance on predictive modeling can lead to troubling inaccuracies, with researchers reporting fabricated content in up to 80% of analyzed transcripts. Without original audio retention, verifying transcriptions becomes nearly impossible, a critical issue in healthcare where accuracy is paramount. The widespread adoption of “good enough” AI highlights the urgent need for regulation in medical tech. OpenAI’s Transcription Tool Hallucinates. Hospitals Are Using It Anyway | WIRED.

Navigating the Risks of Artificial Affection

As AI develops, the dangers of user addiction go beyond the dystopian fears of runaway technology. Instead, the article highlights a subtler threat: AI’s allure as a source of companionship. With AI already being used as friends, partners, and mentors, we face a future where relationships with nonhuman agents could displace human connection. AI’s endless adaptability makes it uniquely addictive, as it tailors responses to user desires, fostering dependency. Experts suggest that without regulatory and design measures, these digital companions might exacerbate loneliness, diminish human connections, and make real-world relationships harder to sustain. The allure of AI companions is hard to resist. Here’s how innovation in regulation can help protect people. | MIT Technology Review.

+See Also: There are no guardrails.’ This mom believes an AI chatbot is responsible for her son’s suicide.

A New Grip on Consciousness

In exploring the spectrum of consciousness, scientists now employ innovative tools like the “breathe-squeeze” method to measure subtle transitions between conscious states, from alertness to sedation. Developed initially for sleep studies, this technique involves participants squeezing a device with each breath, allowing researchers to track shifts in awareness without disruption. Anesthesiologists are adapting this approach to study consciousness under anesthesia more precisely, revealing that consciousness isn’t binary but exists along a continuum. This method offers a clearer picture of consciousness and may improve clinical care for anesthesia, coma, and sleep disorders, bridging scientific and philosophical inquiries about the nature of consciousness. Consciousness Is a Continuum, and Scientists Are Starting to Measure It | Scientific American.

How to Sleep Through Election Stress

With the high-stakes 2024 U.S. presidential election looming, many Americans report losing sleep over “electsomnia.” Experts from Scientific American share practical, science-backed strategies to curb election-induced insomnia. Sleep specialists emphasize the importance of recognizing one’s anxiety triggers and setting boundaries with news intake. Practicing gratitude, mindful relaxation, and progressive muscle exercises can prepare the mind and body for rest. Additionally, whether evening tea or cozy audiobooks, rituals can provide comfort while minimizing caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, which aids sleep quality. As election stress builds, these habits can promote better, more restful nights. Is Election Anxiety Keeping You Awake? Sleep Experts Share Advice | Scientific American.

Mind Games

While brain training games promise to stave off dementia, research shows mixed results. Studies reveal that cognitively stimulating activities like puzzles, crosswords, and reading can benefit brain health and delay cognitive decline. Specialized brain games may improve specific skills but don’t necessarily transfer benefits across broader cognitive functions. Experts suggest activities that challenge mental skills could build “cognitive reserve,” potentially delaying dementia symptoms, though direct evidence is limited. Ultimately, like exercise, mentally stimulating tasks hold promise but lack definitive proof as a safeguard against dementia. Can Puzzles and Games Prevent Dementia? - The New York Times (gift article).

The Fiber Fix for Antibiotic Blues

Antibiotics can disrupt the gut’s microbial balance, temporarily diminishing beneficial bacteria while allowing hardy, fast-growing strains to dominate. Restoring gut health post-antibiotics often hinges on diet, with fiber-rich foods like garlic, oats, and bananas supporting beneficial bacteria regrowth. High-fiber diets help re-establish a diverse microbiome faster, while fermented foods like kimchi may replenish lost bacteria. Probiotics, however, offer limited benefits, sometimes even slowing recovery. For those dealing with antibiotic side effects like bloating, easing into fiber may be best. Ultimately, a balanced diet fosters resilience and diversity in the gut. What Should I Eat While Taking Antibiotics? - The New York Times (gift article).

Why Music Strikes a Chord in Our Minds

Music isn’t just background noise—it’s a universal, powerful tool for emotional depth and connection. Philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer believed music uniquely reveals life’s truths, bypassing words and directly engaging with our consciousness. Neuroscientific research affirms this by showing how music activates the brain’s reward centers, even easing symptoms of disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Music enhances emotional experiences, especially when enjoyed live or alone. Whether upbeat tunes for joy or sad songs for solace, music helps us process feelings, connect with others, and even unlock higher self-awareness. Why Music Really Does Make You Happier - The Atlantic.

110 - Rapamycin, Genes on Sale, and Flowing Through Jazz - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

There will be no newsletter next week as I gather with family and friends to celebrate my son's wedding. The newsletter will resume on Sunday, October 6.

Forever in Your Food

PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are increasingly found in food, raising concerns about long-term health impacts. These synthetic substances, used in products like nonstick cookware and food packaging, resist breakdown, contaminating farmland through sewage sludge fertilizer. Linked to cancer, liver disease, and developmental issues, PFAS can accumulate in food, particularly in items like milk, eggs, and seafood. While the FDA's tests show low levels in most foods, the full extent of contamination remains to be seen, and regulatory gaps leave questions about how safe our food supply truly is. How Dangerous Is PFAS in Food? - The New York Times (gift article).

Leaky Gut Instinct

Emerging research suggests long-term COVID-19 in children might be linked to gut permeability, or "leaky gut." Dr. Lael Yonker, a pediatric pulmonologist, has launched the first clinical trial testing larazotide, a drug to tighten intestinal walls. This trial seeks to address symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal pain, and attention issues in children with long-term COVID-19. While long Covid research has primarily focused on adults, Yonker's trial could provide an essential treatment option for young patients, possibly offering a breakthrough in combating this debilitating condition. The Gut Might Hold the Key to Treating Long Covid in Kids | WIRED.

Plastic Fantasy

In a lawsuit backed by ProPublica's reporting, California accuses ExxonMobil of deceptive marketing regarding its chemical recycling process, pyrolysis. The oil giant claims the technology transforms plastic waste into reusable products, such as fruit cups, but evidence shows less than 0.1% of the recycled content ends up in new products. Despite this, ExxonMobil advertises 30% recycled content using controversial accounting methods. The lawsuit likens this practice to past tobacco industry deceptions, calling for billions in penalties to fund public education and sustainability efforts. ExxonMobil Accused of Deceptive Marketing of Plastics Recycling Process — ProPublica.

Genes on Sale

Remember That DNA You Gave 23andMe? - The Atlantic explores the potential sale of 23andMe and its genetic data, raising concerns about DNA privacy. As the company struggles financially, with stock declines and leadership upheavals, its most valuable asset—customers' genetic information—may be sold. This creates uncertainties about how future owners might use sensitive data, with risks extending beyond current privacy policies. Insurance companies, law enforcement, and other third parties could exploit the DNA data for profit or surveillance. The article underscores that once DNA is shared, it cannot be fully controlled, posing long-term consumer risks.

AI Doctor's Notes

As physicians face overwhelming patient messages, AI tools like MyChart's "In Basket Art" are stepping in to draft responses. These tools use AI models to mimic doctors' voices, providing medical advice or administrative replies. Though many hospitals embrace efficiency, concerns over transparency and potential errors in AI-generated responses grow. Experts worry about automation bias, where physicians may rely too much on AI, risking patient safety. As AI edges into clinical decision-making, ethical questions arise about the role of technology in personal doctor-patient communication. That Message From Your Doctor? It May Have Been Drafted by AI - The New York Times (gift article).

The Rapamycin Gamble

Rapamycin, a drug traditionally used as an immunosuppressant, has gained attention in the longevity community for its potential anti-aging benefits. Early studies in animals, including mice, show promise, suggesting the drug can extend lifespan by inhibiting the mTOR complex, which is linked to cellular health. However, human studies remain inconclusive, with mixed results and limited long-term data. While some users report improvements in energy, reduced inflammation, and other minor health benefits, skeptics caution about the drug's potential risks, such as immune suppression. The quest for a longer, healthier life continues—cautiously. Rapamycin and Anti-Aging: What to Know - The New York Times (gift article).

A Recipe for Health

How UTSW's Food as Medicine Program Is Revolutionizing Physician Education - D Magazine explores the Food as Medicine program at UT Southwestern (UTSW) and how it is transforming physician education by incorporating culinary medicine into medical training. Spearheaded by Dr. Jaclyn Albin and Program Director Milette Siler, the initiative teaches medical students and residents how to use food to combat chronic illness. With cooking classes and real-world nutrition lessons, physicians learn to help patients manage conditions like diabetes and heart disease through diet. The program partners with local communities and aims to make healthy eating accessible and culturally sensitive, tackling health outcomes and social isolation. I am currently enrolled in a similar class offered online: Culinary Health Education Fundamentals (CHEF) Coaching—The Basics-Overview | Continuing Education Catalog. (thanks, Amy!).

Flowing Through Jazz

In a study of jazz musicians, researchers used EEG scans to explore the brain activity behind entering a "flow state," a heightened, effortless creative focus. Jazz guitarists of varying experience levels improvised while their brain activity was recorded, revealing that more experienced musicians frequently entered flow. Brain scans showed reduced activity in areas associated with cognitive control, suggesting that expertise enables performers to "let go" mentally, allowing creativity to flourish. This research sheds light on how mastery and relaxed focus foster spontaneous innovation. Brain Scans of Jazz Musicians Reveal How to Reach a Creative 'Flow State' | Scientific American.

Empathy: A Team Sport?

Empathy isn't just an individual endeavor—it's socially driven. Research shows that empathy flourishes when it's a group norm, not just a personal skill. Programs like "empathy cafes" and classroom workshops reveal that structured dialogues and reflective listening can foster understanding, even across deep divides. Neuroscience supports this: empathetic behavior lights up specific brain regions, and witnessing empathy in others boosts our empathetic response. The key takeaway? Empathy thrives when nurtured in communities, showing that togetherness can make the cognitive challenge of empathy more manageable and rewarding. Being Empathetic Is Easier when Everyone's Doing It | Scientific American.

041 - Doctor Dog, AI Mind-Reading, and Smelling Virtual Roses - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Long Telomeres

"Short telomeres were thought to be bad — people with premature aging syndromes had short telomeres — so, by analogy, long telomeres were thought to be good..." A paper published last week, Familial Clonal Hematopoiesis in a Long Telomere Syndrome | NEJM, challenged current assumptions about telomere length. Link Between Long Telomeres and Long Life Is a Tall Tale, Study Finds - The New York Times

Rapamycin

"Rapamycin is a paradoxical drug. It improves anti-cancer immunity, but it may also cause cancer. It protects against bacterial infection, halts viral replication, and suppresses the immune system. It reverses symptoms of Alzheimer's disease but also increases plaque deposits in the brain. It improves metabolic function, but it also causes type 2 diabetes. This list of contradictions goes on and on; however, there is one thing about Rapamycin that scientists tend to agree on: it is potentially the most powerful anti-aging drug ever discovered." I learned quite a bit from the article: Rapamycin: Unlucky history of the most powerful anti-aging drug.

ChatGPT's Empathetic Bedside Manner

In a recent study, healthcare professionals preferred the responses from A.I. over those from flesh-and-blood doctors. Could generative A.I. have a place in the future of healthcare-patient interaction? ChatGPT Has a Better 'Bedside Manner' Than Doctors.

+Quartz has some suggestions on how to get more out of your ChatGPT queries: How to use ChatGPT at work.

Futile Care

The Atlantic had an interesting opinion piece on the importance of end-of-life planning: An ICU nurse reflects on futile care. _"But what I think and feel doesn't matter. What matters is what the patient would think and whether the people who make choices about their care both know what the patient would think and understand the likelihood that their choices will have this result. This is often not the case."

Inside the Upcoming $1.5 Trillion Farm Bill

The Conversation published a peek behind the curtain as the government ramps its efforts to bring forth the next farm bill. These four challenges will shape the next farm bill – and how the U.S. eats.

The Association Between Season Allergies and Mood Disorders

"Not only are the physical symptoms draining, but a growing body of research also shows an association between allergic rhinitis — commonly known as hay fever — and mood disorders like anxiety and depression." How Seasonal Allergies Can Affect Mental Health.

Childhood Obesity

Obesity in U.S. children was already high and was exacerbated by the pandemic.Obesity in children is rising dramatically, and it comes with major – and sometimes lifelong – health consequences talks about the trend and its implications.

Mindfulness and Meditation

The benefits of mindfulness and meditation practice are numerous. The article Mindfulness, meditation, and self-compassion discusses benefits and gives practical steps to begin your practice.

Noggin Reading

Scientists have developed a mind-reading technology powered by A.I. that can decode a person's thoughts into speech. The researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a large language model to analyze brain recordings and translate them into sentences. Although the technology's potential to help those who have lost their ability to speak, like stroke victims, is promising, it raises ethical privacy concerns. Mind-reading technology, powered by A.I., sparks ethical concerns.

Oh, Look At All the Lonely People

A recent study suggests that the brains of lonely people respond to visual stimuli in unique ways, unlike non-lonely people, implying that lonely people may view the world differently. The findings also suggest that being surrounded predominantly by people who view the world differently from oneself may be a risk factor for loneliness. The brains of lonely people process the world differently

Ode to the Human Genome Project

The Economist had an excellent article on the Human Genome Project, How the Human Genome Project revolutionized biology, although I was disappointed not to see the microbiome mentioned. As Julien Davies pointed out, the HGP is incomplete until we understand the role of microbial DNA: In a Map for Human Life, Count the Microbes, Too | Science.

Tweaking Vegetable Genes for Taste

Scientific American published an article on how CRISPR gene editing technology is being used to improve the taste of food: Tweaking Vegetables' Genes Could Make Them Tastier--And You'll Get to Try Them Soon - Scientific American (Thanks Dave Pell - NextDraft)

Doctor Dog

The article How My Dog Knows When I'm Sick is about how dogs can sense when their owners are sick and the signals they use to detect it. According to researchers, dogs can smell changes in their owners, including a virus or bacteria infection. They can also pick up on emotional changes, such as depression or lethargy, through the owner's voice changes. While it's unclear what dogs make of these changes, they may be more curious or suspicious than concerned. Nonetheless, dogs' empathy has significant benefits for human health.

Smell the (Virtual) Roses

Olfaction is tightly coupled with the parts of the brain responsible for emotions and memory. The evocative nature of the sense of smell is why companies are interested in deploying smell in the Metaverse: How to bring scents to the Metaverse and Smelling in V.R. environment possible with new gaming technology.

009 - Doritos Dementia, Pain Clocks, and Forest Bathing - HealthHippie Week In Review - September 11, 2022

Random Acts of Kindness

Prosocial behaviors are good for you and the recipient of your generosity. The article, The Unexpected Power of Random Acts of Kindness, talks about the phenomenon. I learned that many underestimate how much the receiving party appreciates a small act of kindness.

Compassion

Empathy, the ability to feel someone else's pain and take on their burdens, is a valued trait in society. There is evidence that empathy comes at a cost. Instead, we should strive for compassion. Are You Empathetic? Try Compassion Instead. discusses the differences between empathy and compassion and offers practical advice on how to cultivate compassion in one's life.

Building a Simple Life

The article, 5 rules to build your version of the simple life, offers some helpful advice on how to decrease complexity day-to-day and live a better life. "By dedicating yourself to less, you do those things better. What activities and pursuits you decide to cut should result from a long, honest self-examination of the things that are important and meaningful to you." I've touched on many of the topics covered in the article: Dark Horse: Purpose, Fulfillment, Success (and Ikigai), Time Poverty: a significant threat to wellness, and ZigZag Project - ZigZag Podcast.

Mucus, Slime, and Snot

The article, Slime keeps appearing in nature and scientists are just starting to figure out why, discusses the ubiquity of this biological product of proteins and sugars found everywhere, from our saliva to snail trails.

+More on snot: The Science Behind Why We All Have Snot

Immortal Jellyfish

The article, This Jellyfish Can Live Forever. Its Gene May Tell Us How, was interesting. The report covers the research into why the jellyfish, Turritopsis dohrnii, is essentially immortal. Although scientists doubt there is generalizability in humans, the study is interesting nonetheless.

Optimizing Forest Bathing

Numerous scientific studies reveal the physiological and psychological benefits of time spent among trees. Japanese doctors go as far as prescribing "forest bathing:" Take a Walk in the Woods. Doctor's Orders There is not yet an understanding of how different kinds of treescape affect us. Scientists Are Unlocking the Secrets of Why Forests Make Us Happy, focuses on some of the issues. The article does not mention the microbiome. The microbiome is involved in mood: Gut Feelings: The Role of the Microbiome in Behavioral Health. I've often wondered if the inhaled and ingested products of the forest (bacteria, fungi, etc.) play some role in the beneficial effects of nature on physiology and psychology. I'm willing to bet they do. Give me a holler if you're interested.....

Measuring Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Intelligence positively influences health, relationships, and how well one does personally and professionally. Some research suggests people with emotional intelligence have enhanced resilience to stress. Interestingly, scientists cannot agree on a definition of emotional intelligence. A unified theory of emotional intelligence is important because the theory determines what must be measured. Emotional intelligence might make you more resilient, but there's a catch.

Are we in a Psychedelic Bubble?

The Wired article, Is the Psychedelic Therapy Bubble About to Burst, , offers an alternative view to the current hype surrounding psychedelics. The report is well worth the read.

Synthetic Microbiomes

An article on a Stanford group that successfully developed a stable microbiome when transplanted into bacteria-free mice: Scientists Have Made a Human Microbiome From Scratch. The article summarizes the recent manuscript published in Cell: Design, construction, and in vivo augmentation of a complex gut microbiome. I have yet to read the paper, but the initial thought that grabbed me was questioning how generalizable this tool could be. The assemblage of microorganisms in the gut microbiome has many interdependencies. Thus, if even a single resident ordinarily present in the gut is missing in the model, any conclusions reached could be erroneous. I hope this is used as a research tool, not just a way to cash in on the microbiome gold rush.

Cognitive Biases, Brain Biology, and Stubborn Minds

"People form opinions based on emotions, such as fear, contempt, and anger, rather than relying on facts. New facts often do not change people's minds." Cognitive biases and brain biology help explain why facts don't change minds, is an interesting article that gives some insight into biology and psychology of polarized thinking.

Science-Backed Friend-Making

I've enjoyed a new podcast find, Healthier Together (except for the advertisements). Making friends as an adult is hard. The recent episode, Science-Backed Secrets For Making Friends As An Adult with Dr. Marisa G. Franco, offered many insights and tips. The interview, along with a recent article prompted me to purchase Dr. Franco's book, Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make--and Keep--Friends I'll let you know what I think.

+More on making friends as an adult (listen to this first): The Secret to Making Friends as an Adult.

The Pain Clock

We have known patients experience increased pain at night, which was assumed to be due to sleep deprivation. But a recent small study, Circadian rhythmicity of pain sensitivity in humans, hints that the periodicity may be due to circadian rhythms. The study's findings are summarized in Why Pain Feels Worse at Night. Although the study was small and performed only in men, it offered plenty of food for thought.

Doritos Dementia

Yet another reason to put aside processed food in favor of whole plant-based foods. The article, More Evidence Ultraprocessed Foods Detrimental for the Brain, summarizes a recent study presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference. The study showed that a higher intake of highly processed foods was associated with a faster executive and global cognitive function decline. _"Participants who reported consumption of more than 20% of daily calories from ultra-processed foods had a 28% faster rate of global cognitive decline and a 25% faster decrease of the executive function compared to those who reported eating less than 20% of daily calories from ultra-processed foods." _

Quote of the Week

"Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time." — Ruth Bader Ginsburg