094 - When Drugs Go Wild, Dodging Microplastics, and The Brain's Fear Gear - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

The Brain's Fear Gear

A recent study, published in Science, elucidated a chemical "switch" in the brainstem's dorsal raphe nucleus of mice that converts stress into fear by altering neurotransmitter release, leading to anxiety disorders and PTSD. This switch involves neurons shifting from releasing glutamate to GABA. Experiments showed that blocking GABA synthesis or using fluoxetine (Prozac) could prevent generalized fear responses. Post-mortem studies on human PTSD patients confirmed this mechanism, opening avenues for targeted treatments. Understanding these molecular processes provides a pathway for developing specific interventions for stress-induced fear and related disorders. The brain's "switch" that puts fear into overdrive - Big Think

Put the 230 Genie Back in the Bottle

The article argues for reforming Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects online platforms from liability for user-generated content. Originally intended to encourage moderation of harmful content, Section 230 has instead enabled the spread of misinformation, online harassment, and social polarization. The article suggests a "notice-and-takedown" approach and other modifications to hold platforms accountable while preserving the law's benefits. Reform is necessary to mitigate the negative impacts on social discourse and restore some responsibility to the internet. It's Time to Restore Some Sanity to the Internet-Mother Jones.

A Trip Full of Pitfalls

MDMA's approval for PTSD treatment faces significant hurdles after an FDA advisory panel voted against recommending approval due to issues like biased self-reporting and inconsistent psychotherapy standards. The "unblinding" effect, where participants likely knew if they received MDMA or a placebo, raises concerns about the validity of positive outcomes. Allegations of therapist misconduct and insufficient monitoring of side effects further complicate the case. With the FDA's decision pending, the future of MDMA-assisted therapy remains uncertain, highlighting the challenges in proving the efficacy and safety of psychedelic treatments. The panel's decision will slow but likely not dampen interest in the use of psychedelics for mental health. "In many ways, we're creating a new field of medicine," said Lykos' senior medical director, Alia Lilienstein. The Case for MDMA's Approval Is Riddled With Problems | WIRED.

The Potential of Psychedelics

Gül Dölen, a neuroscientist and psychiatric researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, discusses the surprising potential of psychedelics to change the lives of those grappling with addiction, depression, and post-traumatic stress. A must-listen if you're curious about psychedelics and before you get too discouraged by the FDA Panel's decision this week. ‎The Joy of Why: Can Psychedelics Improve Mental Health?

Xylitol's Hidden Risks

Recent research highlights a concerning link between the popular sugar substitute xylitol and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. While xylitol is widely used for its dental benefits and low-calorie content, new findings suggest potential cardiovascular dangers. This revelation urges caution for those seeking healthier sweetener alternatives, emphasizing the need for further investigation into xylitol's long-term effects on heart health. Xylitol Increases Heart-Health Risks (Thanks, Dave - NextDraft).

When Drugs Go Wild

Modern drug pollution is transforming wildlife, with meth-addicted trout, fearless perch, and sex-changed fish among the casualties. Pharmaceuticals like antidepressants and contraceptives, entering ecosystems via inadequate waste treatment, are altering animal behavior and physiology. Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory, caused a dramatic decline in India's vultures, leading to increased rabies from unconsumed cattle carcasses. Experts urge urgent reform in drug design to mitigate these unintended ecological impacts, emphasizing that the same properties that make drugs effective in humans pose severe risks to biodiversity. Environmental exposure to pharmaceuticals is a pressing global issue demanding immediate attention. Meth-addict fish, aggro starlings, caffeinated minnows: animals radically changed by human drugs. (Thanks again Dave-NextDraft).

Food Waste Unpeeled

America's apple obsession reveals the broader issue of food waste. Despite producing 4.36 million metric tons of apples annually, a significant portion rots due to factors like overproduction and market fluctuations. This waste is emblematic of a more substantial problem, with 30-40% of all food in the U.S. wasted, equating to 133 billion pounds annually. The waste spans all stages of food production, exacerbated by weather, inefficient storage, and consumer habits. Innovations like controlled-atmosphere storage and advocacy from groups like The Farmlink Project show promise, but systemic change is essential to curb this massive loss and its environmental impact. America's Favorite Fruit Reveals The Hidden Truth About Food Waste.

+See Also: The Rotten Secret Plaguing America's Grocery Stores.

An Operating Room "Black Box."

Teodor Grantcharov's AI-powered "black box" aims to revolutionize surgical safety by recording and analyzing all OR activities. The technology captures everything from instrument use to environmental factors, offering a comprehensive view of operations. Despite the potential for significant improvements in safety and efficiency, the system faces resistance due to privacy concerns and fear of legal repercussions. Hospitals are divided between leveraging this data for quality improvements and managing the overwhelming influx of information. As the black box spreads, it promises a new era of transparency and enhanced patient care. This AI-powered "black-box" could make surgery safer | MIT Technology Review. (paywall).

Dodging Microplastics

Microplastics in food, air, and household items pose potential health risks. To minimize exposure, opt for less processed foods, use glass containers, avoid heating plastics, and switch to loose-leaf tea. Limit plastic use in furniture and clothing; frequent vacuuming with a HEPA filter and damp cloths can reduce indoor microplastics. Choose reusable water bottles and consider laundry solutions like special filters or washing less often. While complete avoidance is impossible, making informed choices can reduce microplastic intake, emphasizing the importance of manageable, everyday actions.How to Minimize Your Exposure to Microplastics - The New York Times (gift article).

073 - Whiskey Business, British Bake Off, and the Sinister Secrets of Sugar - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Life in the Fast Lane (podcast)

Ever wonder why time seems to accelerate as you age? Radiolab: The Secret to a Long Life explores the phenomenon.

Chronic Pain Conundrum (podcast)

Chronic pain casts its shadow over approximately one-third of the global population. Shockingly, for one in ten of these individuals, the pain reaches such devastating levels that it incapacitates them, thus establishing itself as the foremost cause of disability worldwide. The enigma surrounding certain types of chronic pain perplexes medical practitioners who struggle to provide effective treatments or unravel the underlying causal mechanisms. This enigmatic challenge looms large over societies, demanding innovative solutions to alleviate the burden on healthcare systems and provide much-needed relief for those enduring this relentless agony. Babbage from The Economist: The mystery of chronic pain (paywall).

Whiskey Business

In the article A bottle of scotch recently sold for $2.7 million – what's behind such outrageous prices? the author explores the unprecedented rise in Scotch whisky prices, exemplified by a recent $2.7 million sale. The article delves into the factors contributing to this trend, such as rarity, age, brand prestige, and collector demand. It discusses the allure of owning a piece of liquid history and how whisky has become a status symbol and investment opportunity for affluent enthusiasts. With captivating insights, the article unveils the fascinating world of ultra-high-end Scotch whisky auctions, shedding light on the intoxicating allure of these extravagant prices.

All I Needed to Know, I Learned in Grade School

In the article Teaching positive psychology skills at school may be one way to help student mental health and happiness the author explores the potential benefits of incorporating positive psychology into school curricula. By introducing students to techniques that promote resilience, optimism, and well-being, educators can empower them to navigate life's challenges better and enhance their mental health. The article emphasizes that fostering positive emotions, relationships, and personal strengths can increase happiness and improve overall mental well-being, ultimately providing students with essential life skills for a brighter future.

Age Beyond the Numbers

A New York Times article explored the intriguing world of "biological age testing." The article delves into the cutting-edge scientific methods used to determine one's biological age, including DNA analysis, biomarkers, and artificial intelligence. While these approaches hold promise in uncovering hidden health risks and offering longevity predictions, the article also highlights the skepticism surrounding the accuracy and practicality of these tests. As researchers continue to refine these techniques, the concept of biological age testing challenges our conventional understanding of aging and raises important questions about its role in the future of healthcare. Is Biological Age Testing Accurate or Useful? - The New York Times (gift article).

BMJ Christmas Edition: The British Bake Off

"Conclusion: Recipes for Christmas desserts from The Great British Bake Off often use ingredient groups associated with reductions, rather than increases, in the risk of death or disease. This Christmas, if concerns about the limitations of observational nutrition research are set aside, you can have your cake and eat it too." The BMJ's Christmas issue is now a well-established tradition. "Its mix of quirky comment articles, features, and peer-reviewed research was perhaps best described in a 2012 New York Times article as "lighthearted but rigorous." This year's articles include:

• Association of health benefits and harms of Christmas dessert ingredients in recipes from The Great British Bake Off: umbrella review of umbrella reviews of meta-analyses of observational studies | The BMJ
• Common Healthcare Related Instruments Subjected To Magnetic Attraction Study (CHRISTMAS): prospective in situ experimental study | The BMJ
• Retail demand for emergency contraception in the United States following New Year holiday: time series study | The BMJ
• Chocolate brownies and calorie restriction: the sweetest paradox? | The BMJ
• Cheers, not tears: champagne corks and eye injury | The BMJ
• The manosphere and men's well-being: How healthcare can help young men find alternatives to toxic online spaces | The BMJ

Sinister Secrets of Sugar (podcast)

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Andrew Huberman welcomes Dr. Robert Lustig, a renowned neuroendocrinologist and nutrition expert. Together, they dissect the conventional "calories in - calories out" model of metabolism and shed light on the role of macronutrients, fiber, and sugar in the equation. Delving into the nuances of sugar, particularly fructose, they explore its addictive qualities and how it rewires the brain's circuits related to cravings and satisfaction. The conversation extends to the profound impact of sugar on obesity, gut health, mental well-being, and the food industry's manipulation of refined sugars. The podcast is long but a must-listen for those curious about the profound impact of dietary choices on the mind and body. Huberman Lab: Dr. Robert Lustig: How Sugar & Processed Foods Impact Your Health.

The Funniest Articles of the Year

WaPo featured the funniest stories of the year. Opinion | Today's Opinions: The pieces that made us laugh the most in 2023 - The Washington Post (gift article).

Boomers Go Green

In this thought-provoking Wired article, the beef industry faces a seismic shift as baby boomers, traditionally avid beef consumers, pivot towards more sustainable and health-conscious eating habits. The article delves into the reasons behind this transformation, highlighting environmental concerns, health consciousness, and a growing appetite for plant-based alternatives. As boomers increasingly embrace greener diets, the meat industry adapts to changing consumer preferences. With captivating insights and statistics, this piece sheds light on the evolving landscape of food consumption and its implications for the beef industry's future. A Demographic Time Bomb Is About to Hit the Beef Industry | WIRED.

Misled to Misread

In the article Health misinformation is rampant on social media – here's what it does, why it spreads and what people can do about it the author delves into the pervasive issue of false health information circulating on social media platforms. The piece explores the damaging consequences of this misinformation, including the amplification of public health risks and the erosion of trust in medical experts. The article also sheds light on the mechanisms behind the rapid dissemination of such content and offers valuable insights into how individuals can combat this problem by promoting accurate information and critical thinking.

055 - Forever Chemicals, Prebunking Misinformation, and Chronic Pain - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Fiber Up

Fiber deficiency is a widespread issue, despite its numerous health benefits. Research suggests that fiber-rich diets promote healthier digestion, longer lives, and reduced risks of chronic conditions. Modern diets often fall short of recommended fiber intake, potentially due to processing that strips food of its fiber content. Experts advocate for gradually increasing fiber consumption through whole plant-based foods, such as legumes, whole grains, and fruits. These dietary adjustments can help prevent various health issues and support a well-balanced gut microbiome. Why is Fiber Good For You? And How to Eat More of It - The New York Times (gift article)

+and an article on the growing popularity of psyllium....Psyllium Husks Entice the Ozempic Generation - The New York Times

AI Transforming Music

3 ways AI is transforming music is an interesting article that mentions several sites I plan to explore.

Insurers' Unexpected Fees

As if insurers weren't making enough money, The Hidden Fee Costing Doctors Millions Every Year — ProPublicadiscusses how a powerful lobbyist's influence led to a federal agency allowing health insurers to charge fees on payments to doctors. The shift went largely unnoticed but financially impacted medical professionals. Doctors must now pay up to 5% in fees for electronic payments, creating an extra burden in an already strained healthcare system. As large insurers profit, doctors are left grappling with additional costs, potentially forcing some practices to close and increasing patient healthcare expenses.

+And more alleged shameless behavior by Cigna, one of the biggest U.S. healthcare insurers: Cigna Accused of Using AI, Not Doctors, to Deny Claims "The lawsuit says that Cigna relies on an algorithm, PxDx, to review and frequently deny medically necessary claims. According to court records, the system allows Cigna's doctors to "instantly reject claims on medical grounds without ever opening patient files." Using the system, the average claims processing time is 1.2 seconds."

Aristotle's Virtues for a Good Life

The Greek philosopher Aristotle offered a recipe for happiness, focusing not on seeking happiness but cultivating virtues to attract it. He identified ten virtues, including courage, temperance, liberality, magnificence, and more, which modern research indicates can lead to a happier life. These virtues encompass qualities like self-control, kindness, truthfulness, and forgiveness. By following this ancient wisdom and turning these virtues into habits, individuals can open the door to a life of well-being and contentment. Aristotle's 10 Rules for a Happy Life - The Atlantic

How Genes Shape Your Palate

New research has revealed 481 genome regions connected to dietary patterns and preferences for specific foods. These findings highlight the influence of genetics on our taste preferences, ranging from fruit to alcohol. Based on a large-scale genomics study, this comprehensive analysis is a significant advancement in understanding how genes impact our eating habits. The research could offer insights into nutritional needs and disease risks and guide interventions for healthier eating patterns. Your Genes May Influence What You Like to Eat - Scientific American

How to Say You're Sorry

How to Apologize Like a Pro - The Atlantic gives tips and tricks for life's inevitable disagreements and misunderstandings.

Academic M-AI-lfeasance

Academic journals struggle to spot the infiltration of generative AI in submitted papers. The use of AI to craft scholarly articles, like a recent fossil fuel efficiency study, is difficult to discern. Although some efforts have been made to enforce disclosure, many cases have slipped through. The evolving technology poses both benefits and risks. While AI can enhance non-native writers' language skills, undisclosed AI-written content could mislead, harm credibility, and even propagate AI-generated misinformation. The challenge of identifying AI-generated submissions grows as language models become more sophisticated, prompting researchers to advocate for improved detection tools and more transparent disclosure protocols. Use of AI Is Seeping Into Academic Journals—and It's Proving Difficult to Detect | WIRED

"Prebunking" Misinformation

Sander van der Linden, a University of Cambridge psychologist, pioneers a method to immunize people against fake news. Inspired by the concept of vaccines, van der Linden's approach involves exposing individuals to weakened misinformation to build cognitive defenses. His work began by countering climate change denial and evolved into collaborating with social media platforms like YouTube to display pre-video warnings about misinformation tactics. By partnering with technology giants and disseminating his ideas, van der Linden aims to empower individuals to prebunk false narratives and protect themselves against deceptive content. This Psychologist Wants To Vaccinate You Against Fake News | WIRED

Wegovy Origin Story

The article Where Ozempic, Wegovy and New Weight Loss Drugs Came From - The New York Times (gift article) explores the origin and enigmatic effectiveness of groundbreaking weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications offer hope for combating obesity, which affects a significant portion of the population. Unlike previous approaches, developing these drugs was not straightforward; researchers stumbled upon unexpected ways to induce weight loss. The drugs' mechanisms remain mysterious, exposing the brain to hormone levels never seen in nature. Despite this uncertainty, the drugs offer a new era of potential treatments for obesity.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches to Pain

The NCCIH has a page devoted to the efficacy of non-pharmacological approaches to pain relief: Chronic Pain: What You Need To Know | NCCIH

Forever Chemicals

The NY Times had an excellent (and sobering) article on "Forever chemicals: "'Forever Chemicals' Are Everywhere. What Are They Doing to Us? - The New York Times (gift article)

050 - Metformin for Long-Covid, Aging Gracefully, and Loneliness - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Metformin and Long Covid

A recent study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases reveals that metformin, a commonly used diabetes drug, may reduce the risk of developing long COVID by 41 percent for individuals who are overweight or have obesity. Long COVID, a condition characterized by persistent symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, has no approved treatment. The study's findings offer hope, but further research is needed to validate the results and explore how metformin prevents long COVID. Although the mechanism is unclear, unlike the authors, who opine that metformin may interfere with viral replication, I think a more likely explanation is that it modulates the immune system through its influence on the microbiome. A Common Diabetes Drug May Prevent Long COVID in Some People - Scientific American

Covid and the Introversion - Extroversion Dynamic

An interesting piece in WaPo about how Covid (permanently?) flipped the script in social dynamics: Opinion | The world has become more introverted. And I hate it. - The Washington Post (gift article)

How to Age Gracefully

A new study suggests that learning new skills can have significant cognitive benefits for older adults. The authors hypothesize that cognitive slowing as a senior is akin to the "summer slide" that schoolchildren experience (every year, teachers and parents observe how summer vacations lead some children's academic progress to backslide). What if the elderly experience a similar phenomenon? The research found that a three-month intervention program involving classes on various skills, such as singing, drawing, and language learning, improved participants' memory and attention. Surprisingly, the cognitive gains continued even after the program ended, with participants' abilities resembling those of individuals 30 years younger. Encouraging lifelong learning and creating enriched environments for older adults could enhance their cognitive skills and support healthy aging. To Stay Sharp as You Age, Learn New Skills - Scientific American

Consciousness Conundrum: Animal Awareness and Neural Correlates

Here is another story from the 26th meeting of the Association for the Scientific Study of Consciousness (mentioned last week). The article discusses the potential consciousness of vertebrates, cephalopods, and arthropods, with debates on their complex behaviors and brain structures. Additionally, the possibility of achieving conscious artificial intelligence and its ethical concerns were discussed. Thousands of species of animals probably have consciousness

How Susceptible are you to Misinformation?

A new test designed to measure susceptibility to misinformation reveals that younger Americans struggle more with identifying fake news than older generations. Researchers developed the "misinformation susceptibility test" (MIST) at the University of Cambridge in collaboration with YouGov. Participants were presented with authentic and AI-generated false headlines and had to differentiate between them. The study found that individuals who spent more time online and relied on social media platforms for news were more prone to falling for misinformation. Age and personality traits also played a role in susceptibility. While the test has some limitations, it underscores the importance of media literacy in navigating the information landscape. How Susceptible Are You to Misinformation? There's a Test You Can Take - Scientific American

Can Math and Physics Save an Arrhythmic Heart?

"Abnormal waves of electrical activity can cause a heart's muscle cells to beat out of sync."_ In Can Math and Physics Save an Arrhythmic Heart?, Flavio Fenton, an expert in cardiac dynamics, discusses ways to treat heart arrhythmias without resorting to painful defibrillators.

Weighing In: The Hidden Costs of Dieting

In the article Why You Don't Just Lose Fat When You're on a Diet Adam Collins explores the consequences of dieting beyond fat loss. While being in a calorie deficit helps shed weight, it also results in the loss of muscle mass. The depletion of glycogen stores leads to the release of water weight. Moreover, the body turns to metabolizing muscle tissue for energy, impacting metabolism and potentially causing weight regain. The article emphasizes the importance of exercise, protein intake, and sustainable lifestyle changes for maintaining muscle mass and preventing metabolic shifts during weight loss.

Ozempic: A Treatment for Addictive Behaviors?

This week, Scientific American published an article on a phenomenon I first mentioned in Newsletter 43. A surprising side effect of Ozempic, a diabetes drug that aids weight loss, has emerged: users report a reduction in cravings for addictive substances such as nicotine, alcohol, and gambling. Scientists are now investigating whether these weight-loss drugs, including Ozempic, can be used to treat addiction. Ozempic targets a hormone that regulates appetite and weakens the brain's Association between food and pleasure. Animal studies have shown promising results, but human trials are still limited. Researchers are initiating their studies to determine the safety and effectiveness of these drugs in addiction treatment. Could New Weight-Loss Drugs like Ozempic Treat Addiction? - Scientific American (Thanks Dave Pell, NextDraft)

The Epidemic of Loneliness

"Research has shown that a lonely brain is transformed. Neurotransmitters important for bonding and social connection go haywire. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, responsible for modulating stress, is hyperactive. The amygdala, which triggers our fight-or-flight response and helps process emotional reactions, is in overdrive: In previous studies, Dr. Cacioppo found that lonely people detect negative or threatening pictures and words in under 400 milliseconds. The neuroscience might explain the sadness that accompanies loneliness and the palpable sense of danger." The New York Times had an insightful piece on loneliness: Opinion | How to Treat Loneliness With Medicine. (gift article)

Psychedelics in the U.S. Defense Funding Bill

Lawmakers included funding in the National Defense Authorization Act to look at psychedelics' role in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Psychedelics like MDMA play a part in US defense funding bill

047 - Quiet Cravings, Post-Truth World, and Microbiome/Melanoma - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Aging Time Warp

In I'm 53 years old. I'm 36 in my head, Jennifer Senior delves into the mysterious phenomenon of feeling younger than one's actual age. Drawing from various studies, Senior reveals that adults over 40 tend to perceive themselves as approximately 20 percent younger. The discrepancy between chronological and internal age can be attributed to various factors, including a sense of optimism and the reminiscence bump. Senior highlights the cultural and societal influences on subjective age, ultimately suggesting that feeling younger can positively affect health and well-being.

Countering Amygdala Hijacking

Conflict is inevitable in human relationships, but it doesn't have to be destructive. In the article, 6 steps to manage conflict with emotional intelligence,, the importance of emotional intelligence in handling conflict is highlighted. The author explains the concept of "amygdala hijacking," where our emotional responses take over during disputes, and offers strategies to counteract this effect. The six methods include:

• Understanding your conflict style.
• Identifying the core issues.
• Practicing self-regulation and calmness.
• Avoiding destructive communication habits.
• Fostering appreciation and empathy.
• Developing these skills through practice.

By employing these strategies, individuals can transform conflicts into opportunities for growth and deeper connections.

Beyond B.M.I.

The American Medical Association (A.M.A.) has acknowledged the limitations and potential harm of relying solely on body mass index (B.M.I.) to measure weight and health. The A.M.A. recognizes the historical exclusion and racial bias associated with B.M.I in a new policy. The recommendation encourages doctors to consider additional factors such as visceral fat, body adiposity index, body composition, and genetic/metabolic factors when assessing a patient's health. While B.M.I. may have its uses at a population level, the policy signifies a shift towards a more holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing the need to move beyond B.M.I. as a sole determinant of health. B.M.I. Alone Is Not Enough to Assess Health, American Medical Association says - The New York Times (gift article)

A.I. and a "Post-Truth" World

"A.I. will make it easier to produce disinformation—from fake images to deepfakes to fake news. That will affect people's trust as they're scrolling on social media" Wired had an interesting (dystopian) article on how A.I. might influence humanity. It's not pretty. Humans Aren't Mentally Ready for an AI-Saturated' Post-Truth World' | WIRED

Combatting Chemo Brain

"Chemo brain," a condition characterized by cognitive impairment and memory loss, affects many cancer patients during and after treatment. The causes and persistence of symptoms remain unclear. A multi-pronged approach is recommended to alleviate the chemo brain, including exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, prioritizing sleep, practicing mindfulness, and potentially exploring psychostimulant medications. While no FDA-approved medicines for chemobrain exist yet, promising research on repurposing drugs initially used for other conditions offers hope for future solutions. Cognitive behavioral therapy may help ease 'chemo brain' - The Washington Post (gift article)

Anxiety Screening During Routine Healthcare

In response to the growing mental health crisis, primary care providers in the United States are encouraged to incorporate anxiety screenings into routine checkups. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has published new guidelines recommending that asymptomatic adults, including pregnant and postpartum individuals aged 19 to 64, be screened for anxiety disorders. The aim is to identify and treat anxiety disorders earlier, improving patient outcomes. However, concerns about the burden on an already overburdened mental healthcare system and the potential overdiagnosis of anxiety disorders in communities of color have been raised. Anxiety screening for adults under 65 now recommended at health checkups - The Washington Post (gift article)

Quieting the Cravings

In the article, What Is 'Food Noise'? How Ozempic Quiets Obsessive Thinking About Food - The New York Times (gift article) the New York Times explores the intriguing phenomenon of individuals experiencing diminished "food noise" after taking medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. "Food noise" refers to the constant preoccupation with food and cravings that some people struggle with. The active ingredient in these drugs, semaglutide, affects appetite-regulating areas in the brain and promotes a feeling of fullness. Through interviews and social media stories, the article highlights the relief and freedom reported by individuals who have successfully silenced their "food noise" with these medications.

100 Places to See AFTER You Die

The book 100 Places to See After You Die: A Travel Guide to the Afterlife "surveys ideas from around the world about what happens to us after we die. It's written as a travel guide, with an eclectic mix of 100 accounts, ranging from mythology and religion to ideas floated in books, movies, and T.V. shows." I'm going to check this one out. Ken Jennings visits the afterlife in '100 Places to See After You Die' - The Washington Post (gift article)

Melanoma and the Microbiome

Jamie Rettinger, the first person to undergo a fecal transplant to treat melanoma, shares his remarkable journey. Jamie's cancer spread after being misdiagnosed and mistreated, leaving him with limited treatment options. The experimental approach of fecal transplant, aimed at restoring beneficial bacteria in the gut, showed promising results. The transplant engrafted successfully, and Jamie's body responded to subsequent immunotherapy treatment, leading to the shrinking of melanoma signs. This groundbreaking research offers hope for improved melanoma treatments and emphasizes the potential role of the gut microbiome in shaping immune responses in cancer therapy and beyond. Man who got the first fecal transplant to cure melanoma shares his experience.

017 - Ganzflicker, Misinformation, Canine Cognition, and Happiness

What Your Dog Wants

+Dogs understand our behavior better than we do theirs. The article What Your Dog's Behavior Means (gift article) gives insight into what your canine companion might be thinking.

+An article that resonated for me (and Theodore and many of his pals): The Pet-Name Trend People Can't Resist.

Ganzflicker and Hallucinations

For millennia, humans have sought alternate states of consciousness. Most of us are aware of the effect of psychedelic drugs on consciousness. Here is an article about using light to achieve altered states: What is ganzflicker? The strange history of hallucinating without drugs. Although ganzflicker sounds risky for those prone to light-induced seizures, (and perhaps seizures are the reason for the hallucinations), I'm increasingly fascinated by the effect of repetitive light and sound on human physiology: Alzheimer's Disease and Gamma Waves.

How to Help Someone you Love With Their Depression

An estimated 21 million adults in the United States have suffered at least one bout of depression. How to Help Someone With Depression (gift article) has some tips on how to recognize the illness with others and some things to do to help.

Tips to Improve your Sleep

The NY Times published the article, How to Get Better Rest, According to a Sleep Expert (gift article) with helpful tips to combat sleep disruption and insomnia. If you're interested in the topic, read Matthew Walker's book, Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams

Prebiotic Primer

I often find myself explaining the difference between prebiotics and probiotics. Now I may refer folks to the N.Y. Times article: What Are Prebiotics And How Do They Work? (gift article)

Resilience First, Then Happiness

+For whatever reason, my inbox has recently overflowed with stories about happiness. Parents: Don't focus on happiness, help build resilience instead argues that to cultivate happiness in our children (and ourselves), we should focus on resilience. After all, cultivating happiness depends on one's ability to regulate distress.

+The happiness paradox, explained in 7 minutes is from a different source with an identical message.

Fermented and Fibrous Foods May Lessen Stress

+John Cryan is a prolific scientist who has published a great deal on food, the microbiome, and how they likely influence cognitive and mental health (for an overview, see his Tedx talk and his list of publications: ). This week, he published a brief overview of his most recent paper on how eating particular foods may lower perceived stress levels: Fermented foods and fiber may lower stress levels.

+Here's a story on foods to improve gut health: Best Foods For Gut Health

Cultivating Levity

Humor and levity are essential for well-being. Why Humor and Levity Are Important, According to Experts (gift article) has tips to cultivate more.

The Evolution of Laughter

+Why do we laugh? And why is laughter contagious? Why Is That Funny, describes the phenomenon and evolution of laughter. ^a2a14a

Understanding the Science Behind Complementary Health Approaches

If you are using (or thinking about using) a complementary approach to your health, read these fact sheets from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Know the Science of Complementary Health Approaches.

Triskaidekaphobia

Everything you might want to know about the number 13: Why is 13 considered unlucky? The power behind this notorious number.

What Makes a Song Great, Beato, and Dylan

+Music plays an integral part in my well-being. Bob Dylan wrote a book, The Philosophy of Modern Song. Here is a summary article in The Atlantic: Bob Dylan Reveals Himself Through 66 Songs.

+Although quite a different animal, the premise of Dylan's book reminded me of Rick Beato's YouTube Channel. My favorite feature of Beato's channel is "What Makes This Song Great," where he dissects classic rock songs. If you'd like to see a list of the songs he's covered, see: Rick Beato - What Makes This Song Great Playlist

How to Make Life More Transcendent

People traditionally turned to religious and spiritual behaviors to gain a sense of meaning in a confusing world. Religious belief correlates with searching for and finding purpose in life. Although, as a whole, our society is less religious than previous generations, it is still possible to infuse transcendence into your life: What Transcendent Experiences Do to Your Brain.

SuperForecasting

I enjoyed reading the book Superforecasting: The Art and Science of Prediction, as mentioned in my newsletter 016 - Vampire Hormones, Zombie Fungi, Micromorts, and Bugs in Space. IARPA, the U.S. government's Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity heavily influenced the subject matter. IARPA is to the intelligence community what DARPA is to the Department of Defense. The book offered a fascinating integration of math, history, economics, psychology, positive psychology, and a whole host of other domains. I'm always a sucker for a Dark Horseand Philip E. Tetlock is one.

Why do We Believe Misinformation

WaPo had a good article on the psychology of misinformation entitled Why do we believe misinformation? I learned the concepts of the "illusionary truth effect" and the "continued influence effect." The article is well worth a read especially since political misinformation is so abundant these days.

Quote of the Week

"It is only possible to live happily ever after on a daily basis." —Margaret Bonanno

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