078 - Panpsychism, Unleashing Joy, and Dream Teams - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

NCCIH on Mindfulness and Meditation

I wanted to remind you about the terrific National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health resources. Here is their fact sheet on Mindfulness and Meditation: Meditation and Mindfulness: What You Need To Know | NCCIH

The Dream Team

I thought I'd feature an article on the importance of sleep and athletics with the Super Bowl approaching. The significance of a good night's sleep is often overlooked. However, sleep is vital in enhancing athletes' performance, from boosting muscle repair to strengthening the immune system. This article highlights the crucial connection between quality sleep and athletic success. It explains the different stages of sleep and their impact on physical and cognitive health. Athletes prioritizing sleep can improve speed, accuracy, cognitive skills, and pain tolerance, ultimately gaining a competitive edge. The article also provides practical tips for athletes to optimize their sleep routines, emphasizing that sleep is a performance enhancer. Sleep can give athletes an edge over competitors − but few recognize how fundamental sleep is to performance.

+And if you're curious how exceptionally talented professional athletes are compared to the Average Joe, listen to this podcast (where a journalist went through the NFL combine and was rated against NFL players): People I (Mostly) Admire: 123. Walt Hickey Wants to Track Your Eyeballs.

A Fitness Folly

In The Apple Watch May Have a Calorie Problem, The Atlantic explores the complex relationship between users and their fitness trackers, particularly the notorious red "Move" ring on the Apple Watch. The article delves into the challenges users face in trying to meet daily activity goals set by these devices, revealing the potential pitfalls of relying on them too heavily. The piece highlights the inaccuracy of calorie measurements on fitness trackers and how these devices can sometimes lead users to prioritize external motivation over the intrinsic joy of staying active. Ultimately, it raises thought-provoking questions about the role of technology in shaping our fitness routines.

Edibles vs. Smoking Cannabis

As the popularity of cannabis-infused edibles surges, people are questioning whether they offer a safer alternative to traditional smoking methods. While the answer is not straightforward, experts weigh in on the pros and cons of each. Edibles take longer to kick in, making it easier to overconsume, potentially leading to adverse effects. They can also produce more intense highs. On the other hand, smoking poses respiratory risks due to harmful chemicals in the smoke, though conclusive evidence on lung cancer is lacking. Regardless of the method, cannabis use has some short and long-term health risks, emphasizing the importance of moderation and informed choices. Are Cannabis Edibles Safer Than Smoking? - The New York Times (gift article).

Panpsychism: Is Consciousness Woven into the Universe?

"Somehow, the water of the physical brain is turned into the wine of consciousness." In a thought-provoking article, Dan Falk explores the age-old question of consciousness and its place in the Universe. The article delves into the theory of panpsychism, which suggests that consciousness is an intrinsic component of reality, akin to mass or electrical charge. Scholars gathered at a recent workshop to discuss the idea, highlighting its appeal as a solution to the enigmatic "hard problem" of consciousness. However, critics argue that panpsychism faces challenges, such as the "combination problem" and the dilemma of explaining the consciousness of other beings. The article offers a captivating glimpse into the ongoing debate between panpsychism and alternative views, shedding light on the profound philosophical implications of our understanding of consciousness. Is Consciousness Part of the Fabric of the Universe? | Scientific American.

Nature's Wegovy / Ozempic

The article, A Gastroenterologist Reveals How To Tap Into Your Body's Natural Processes That Inspired Ozempic explores the role of natural gut hormones and healthy food in metabolism and weight loss. It delves into how drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro, designed for weight loss and diabetes, mimic natural incretin hormones found in the gut. Specialized gut bacteria help transform undigestible components of food into molecules that regulate appetite and metabolism, emphasizing the importance of a diverse, healthy gut microbiome. These drugs reinvigorate the body's natural systems, making them effective for weight loss and blood sugar control, but lifestyle changes and whole foods are still vital for long-term health.

Snooze Control: How Your Diet Affects Your Sleep Quality

Research suggests that our dietary choices can significantly impact the quality of our sleep. Nutritional epidemiologist Erica Jansen explores the intricate relationship between diet and sleep, highlighting that adherence to nutritional guidelines, such as consuming fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, can lead to longer and better sleep—furthermore, healthier diets like the Mediterranean and anti-inflammatory are associated with improved sleep quality. While specific foods and nutrients like fatty fish, dairy, and melatonin-rich fruits play a role, the complexity of this relationship remains challenging to unravel. The article also cautions against consuming certain foods and substances that can disrupt sleep, emphasizing the importance of overall dietary patterns and good sleep hygiene practices. One Simple Change to Your Diet Could Help You Sleep Better, Study Finds.

Unleash the Joy

In A Pet Psychologist Reveals How To Give Your Dog The Best Walk of Its Life, , a pet psychologist shares valuable insights into the art of dog walking. Rather than focusing on steps, it emphasizes the importance of time spent outdoors, allowing dogs to engage in their favorite activity: sniffing. Sniffing and marking territory are crucial to a dog's experience, making it a mental exercise as much as a physical one. Rushing through walks or encouraging dogs to hurry up with their business can be detrimental, potentially leading to behavioral problems. By customizing walks to suit each dog's preferences and reframing the experience, dogs and owners can enjoy the best walks of their lives.

Awe

Here is a balanced critique and interview with the author of the book Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life.. I'm adding this book to my queue.

064 - AI Lucid Dreams, Long Covid, and Glowing Guts - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Getting Gold through Crowdfunding

Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton joined the ranks of countless Americans, turning to crowdfunding to cover her substantial medical expenses incurred during a battle with rare pneumonia. Her daughter launched a fundraising campaign on Spotfund, and the public rallied, astonishingly raising $350,000 in under two days, surpassing the $50,000 goal. This peculiar juxtaposition highlights the harsh reality of healthcare costs in the U.S., where a quarter million Americans initiate crowdfunding campaigns yearly. Sadly, most don't reach their targets; studies show that 16% receive no donations. This underscores the stark inequalities within the American healthcare system. Mary Lou Retton Crowdfunded Her Medical Debt, Like Many Thousands of Others - The New York Times. (gift article)

Scientists Unearth New Clues to Long Covid

In an unexpected twist in Long Covid, researchers suggest that the villain might be lurking in the gut. In a study published in the journal Cell, scientists from the University of Pennsylvania propose that the remnants of the coronavirus residing in the digestive tract could be suppressing serotonin production, the brain's feel-good neurotransmitter. This serotonin shortage could explain the cognitive and neurological symptoms experienced by many Long Covid sufferers. The research offers a fresh perspective on the condition and potential treatment avenues, proving that sometimes the gut feeling isn't just a metaphor. Scientists Offer a New Explanation for Long Covid - The New York Times. (gift article)

FDA Sounds Alarm on Ketamine Misuse

The FDA is raising eyebrows about the reckless use of ketamine, the anesthetic pharmaceutical (and sometimes party drug) that's been rebranded as a depression and anxiety remedy. They're concerned about the growing trend of online marketers doling out ketamine prescriptions via telemedicine, sidelining the need for medical supervision. While ketamine therapy for mental health shows promise, the regulatory haze around it has spurred abuse. The FDA warns that unsupervised use could lead to serious health problems despite its "off-label" legality. Before you consider a virtual consultation for ketamine, think twice. FDA Issues Warning Over Misuse of Ketamine Therapy - The New York Times. (gift article)

How Not To Age

I'm a big fan of Michael Greger and NutritionFacts. Dr. Gregor's new book, How Not to Age, is coming out this December. He has a few previews of the information here: anti-aging | Health Topics | NutritionFacts.org.

Emotional Costs of Sleepless Nights

A Psychology Today article highlights the emotional toll of sleep deprivation. Beyond the evident fatigue, insufficient sleep can destabilize our delicate equilibrium, leading to intensified negative emotions and unpredictable mood swings. It's a poignant reminder that sleep doesn't merely rejuvenate our bodies but also plays a pivotal role in mental well-being. In essence, to remain emotionally balanced, it's imperative to count the hours and make them count. 4 Ways That Sleep Deprivation Can Harm Your Emotional Health | Psychology Today.

Ear's a Thought: Brainwave Buds

Researchers from the University of California, San Diego, have unveiled innovative earbuds to monitor brainwaves and assess health via ear sweat metabolites. Unlike traditional bulky EEG machines, these compact "neuro-buds" offer a non-invasive peek into cognitive states, potentially aiding early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases and even providing neurofeedback. The earbuds, embedded with minute electrodes, detect neural electrical activity during various tasks. Additionally, they can gauge stress levels, predict seizure risks, and measure vital metabolites like glucose. As a bonus, they're designed to play calming sounds based on detected neural patterns, offering users real-time mind management. New Brain-Earbuds Can Listen to Brainwaves, Improve Mood, Decrease Stress, and Possibly Predict Stroke and Neurodegenerative Diseases. ^

NCCIH on Rheumatoid Arthritis

NCCIH has a page on the science behind complementary approaches to Rheumatoid Arthritis: 6 Things To Know About Complementary Health Approaches for Rheumatoid Arthritis | NCCIH.

+And a page on paying for Integrative and Complementary Medicine (including insurance coverage): Paying for Complementary and Integrative Health Approaches | NCCIH.

Mediterranean Diet and Exercise Melt Visceral Fat

A recent study revealed that a combination of a reduced-calorie Mediterranean diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce total fat mass and dangerous visceral belly fat. Older participants following this regime gained muscle and lost considerable body fat within a year, with benefits lasting up to three years. Notably, this wasn't merely about weight loss; the program reshaped body composition from fat to muscle. The study underscores the health risks of visceral fat, linked to diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, and emphasizes the transformative potential of diet and exercise on metabolic health. Mediterranean diet and exercise reduce dangerous belly fat, study says | CNN.

Glowing Guts for IBD

An MIT team designed a pill filled with genetically engineered E. coli bacteria that emit light when detecting gut inflammation. The new device was built to aid in treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Photodiodes inside the pill capture this glow, while a radio chip broadcasts it externally. Merging moist microbes with dry electronics was tricky, solved with a clever adhesive barrier. After promising tests in pigs, the next step is human trials. As some pursue a "pill cam" for visual diagnostics, this pill offers a luminescent alternative. This microbe-filled pill could track inflammation in the gut | MIT Technology Review.

Sobering Stories: Physicians and Their Mental Health

The Guardian had an article on the physical and mental toll of medicine and medical training, told through the experience of a Harvard Endocrine Surgeon. U.S. surgeons are killing themselves at an alarming rate. One decided to speak out.

Lucid Dreaming with the Help of AI

Eric Wollberg and Wesley Berry have embarked on a futuristic quest with their startup, Prophetic. Taking inspiration from ancient prophets, their "Halo" device pledges to induce lucid dreams through the wonders of generative A.I. After a whirlwind fundraising season garnering over $1 million and support from tech bigwigs like Apple's neurotech team and Elon Musk's Neuralink, the buzz is palpable. But there's a hiccup: Prophetic hasn't triggered lucid dreams yet. Science suggests that inducing such dreams is feasible, but consistently doing so remains unproven, especially with Prophetic's unique method. Prophetic says its Halo device can cause lucid dreams using generative A.I. Can it?

060 - CRISPR, Wellness Tech Warnings, and the Brain's Fountain of Youth - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

More on the Impact of AI on Science

More on how AI is revolutionizing science in the Economist: How scientists are using artificial intelligence (gift article) and Could AI transform science itself? (gift article).

CRISPR and the Microbiome

CRISPR pioneer and Nobel Prize winner Jennifer Doudna is focusing on the microbiome: Crispr Pioneer Jennifer Doudna Has the Guts to Take On the Microbiome | WIRED. I highly recommend Walter Isaacson's biography on Doudna: The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race.

Big Tobacco Stains the Food Industry

"In a broader and much less restricting sense," an executive wrote, "R.J. Reynolds is in the flavor business." Although Big Tobacco is no longer in the food business, they left a terrible legacy: Many junk foods today were made and marketed by Big Tobacco - The Washington Post. (gift article)

Is Junk Food Addictive?

Recent studies suggest highly processed foods may have addictive qualities akin to drugs. Rats opt for sugar over cocaine, even enduring electric shocks for the sweet treat. Humans display similar behavior, consuming processed foods to the point of vomiting and diarrhea post-bariatric surgery. Daily snacking on these foods can rewire our brain's reward circuits, mirroring the cravings induced by cocaine. "In 2022, scientists published an opinion piece in the journal Addiction arguing that highly processed foods should be classified as addictive based on a 1988 Surgeon General report on tobacco products." Food Can Be Literally Addictive, New Evidence Suggests - Scientific American.

Healthy Diet Lowers Dementia Risk

Wapo had an article on the importance of diet in staving off dementia. Recent studies suggest the benefits occur even when started later in life: Eating heart-healthy foods also helps lower your dementia risk - The Washington Post. (gift article)

PANDA-monium: Infections Unmask Childhood Psychiatric Illnesses

Many doctors remain unaware PANDAS (Paediatric Autoimmune-Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcus and its counterpart, PANS (Paediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome), or dismiss them as fictitious. This ignorance results in misdiagnoses, inappropriate treatments, and even parental accusations. Recent research suggests these disorders stem from an autoimmune reaction post-infection. The changing perception may have broader implications for understanding infections' roles in psychiatric conditions (for both children and adults), offering hope for early intervention and effective treatment. How common infections can spark psychiatric illnesses in children. (gift article)

Plasma, Platelets, and PF4: Searching for the Brain's Fountain of Youth

Groundbreaking research in mice may have revealed a key to rejuvenating aging brains. Neuroscientists have uncovered that platelets, specifically a group of molecules called Platelet Factor 4 (PF4), play a vital role in the age-reversal process. Three interventions—transfusions of young blood, the hormone klotho, and physical exercise—all harness PF4 to deliver their benefits to the brain. When 22-month-old mice were injected with young blood plasma or PF4, their cognitive age reversed dramatically. These findings, independently discovered by three research teams, offer new hope for combating age-related cognitive decline and unlocking the secrets of brain rejuvenation. Scientists uncover how young blood rejuvenates aging brains | BBC Science Focus Magazine.

Animal Communication Unveils Surprising Parallels to Human Language

Researchers are uncovering fascinating connections between animal communication and human language. For years, the belief in an unbridgeable gap between human language and animal communication prevailed. However, recent studies challenge this notion, revealing that various species possess intricate vocal learning abilities, from mice to dolphins. These findings suggest that language-related capacities may exist on a continuum across the animal kingdom. Scientists are now delving deeper into deciphering the meanings and intricacies of animal communication, shedding light on the evolution of language and our shared cognitive landscapes with other creatures. The Animals Are Talking. What Does It Mean? - The New York Times. (gift article)

+How AI is being leveraged to decode animal communication: Can We Talk to Whales? | The New Yorker and ‎Unexplainable: Can we talk to animals? on Apple Podcasts.

When the CIA, Artificial Intelligence, and Healthcare Collide

Palantir's Reputation Stalks Its Bid for the UK's National Health Data | WIRED is an interesting article about how Peter Thiel's big data analytics company (and surveillance government contractor), Palantir, is courting Britain's National Health Service for access to their data. What possibly could go wrong?

Big Tech Knows Your Most Intimate Health Details

Your most intimate health details have become data points in the digital realm. Tech giants, often unbeknownst to users, accumulate a treasure trove of personal health information through online interactions, from therapy sessions to fitness apps. Recent cases, like BetterHelp's data-sharing debacle, have exposed the extent of this information harvesting, raising concerns about privacy violations and potential harm. While some believe federal laws like HIPAA shield health data, the truth is more complicated. A fragmented regulatory landscape, limited enforcement resources, and the rapid evolution of technology call for comprehensive data privacy legislation to keep pace with the digital age. What Big Tech Knows About Your Body - The Atlantic.

Build a Real Music Collection

This author cites why she owns her music collection and eschews streaming: Want to Enjoy Music More? Stop Streaming It. - The New York Times. (gift article)

054 - Cheating Death, Ultralearning, and Harmonious Disputes - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Cheating Death

In the article How Old Can Humans Get? - Scientific American, scientist João Pedro de Magalhães speculates on extending human lifespans to 1,000 years through genetic alterations. By studying the genomes of long-lived animals, Magalhães envisions reprogramming aging at the cellular level, envisioning a future where humans could defy their genetic "software" to delay or reverse aging. Though practical challenges remain, Magalhães' geroscience insights prompt consideration of profound interventions that might extend human lifespans far beyond the present norm.

Books to Enhance Creativity

The Economist published a list of books on fostering creativity: What to read to become more creative

Ultralearning

On my quest to learn to play the guitar, I came across multiple mentions of the book Ultralearning: Master Hard Skills, Outsmart the Competition, and Accelerate Your Career. Although I bought the book in 2019, I have yet to dig in. Ultralearning is now on top of my "to read" pile.

Scentinel Health

Smell's connection to memory and emotion is being recognized anew, as studies reveal its crucial role in detecting brain diseases early. Loss of smell, or hyposmia, has emerged as an indicator of neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, even including conditions like Huntington's disease and multiple sclerosis. Researchers propose that olfactory bulb neurons, responsible for smell processing, could play a role in the early stages of brain diseases. Beyond disease prediction, smell also correlates with overall health and mortality risk, making the nose a potential health "scentinel." Why Loss of Smell Can Be an Early Sign of Brain Diseases Like Alzheimer's.

Constipation Linked to Cognitive Decline

New research from AAIC 2023 suggests chronic constipation, infrequent bowel movements, may indicate cognitive decline. Individuals facing such constipation exhibit cognitive aging equivalent to three years, with a 73% higher likelihood of subjective cognitive decline. This groundbreaking study highlights the interconnectedness of gut health and brain function, encouraging discussions about constipation and its management to mitigate dementia risks potentially. Studies exploring the relationship between gut bacteria and Alzheimer's biomarkers reveal intriguing connections, paving the way for novel therapeutic avenues. Constipation Associated with Cognitive Aging & Decline | alz.org

Unraveling Traveler's Constipation

Why do trips lead to constipation? The phenomenon is "traveler's constipation," which affects approximately one in three individuals, disrupting regular bathroom habits. Dehydration, immobility during flights, changes in sleep routines, and shifts in eating habits contribute to the issue. Scientists suggest staying hydrated, exercising, and incorporating fiber-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to prevent constipation. Hydrating foods, adjusting sleep schedules, and managing alcohol intake can also help. Why Do I Get Constipated When I Travel? - The New York Times

AI Enabled (Travel) Lists? Yes, Please

A new app, Soka, caught my attention. I spent the morning generating automated local and international lists of things I'd like to do, see, and eat. Söka: An AI Assisted App to Track Your Bucket Lists

Obesity Drug Reduces Heart Risks

The obesity drug Wegovy has demonstrated a 20% reduction in serious heart problems in a recent clinical trial, potentially pressuring insurers to cover the treatment. This trial marks the first to reveal that obesity drugs like Wegovy can enhance heart health, reinforcing the link between obesity and medical risks. The findings, as yet unpublished in a peer-reviewed journal, may encourage insurers to support the treatment, despite its high cost. Wegovy's capacity to improve patients' lives and medical outcomes could change the perspective on treating obesity, emphasizing aggressive intervention. Wegovy Cuts Risk of Heart Problems, Novo Nordisk Trial Says - The New York Times

The Healthy Info Pitfall

While HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) covers medical institutions' data security, personal health data collected at home isn't protected. Wearable trackers and health-related apps fall outside HIPAA's umbrella, putting users at risk. Patients must remember that individual-generated data isn't secure under HIPAA. What Doctors Wish You Knew About HIPAA and Data Security | WIRED

Grain Brain (mice)

A study by University of Otago researchers reveals that wheat gluten consumption triggers brain inflammation in mice, with potential implications for humans. While prior research linked gluten to weight gain and inflammation in the digestive system, this study identifies the first-ever connection between gluten and brain inflammation in the hypothalamic region, which regulates metabolism. Though the exact mechanism remains uncertain, this discovery raises concerns about long-term effects, including weight gain, blood sugar disruption, and memory impairment. While not advocating a blanket gluten-free diet, the findings suggest avenues for future research in human health. Wheat Gluten Spurs Brain Inflammation - Neuroscience News

Colonic Sensation (mice)

In a groundbreaking study, Harvard researchers have distinguished five distinct sensory neuron types in the colon, shedding light on the gut-brain connection. These neurons transmit diverse signals to the brain, with some responding to gentle movements and others to intense sensations like pain. Mimicking neurons found in the skin, this discovery in mice suggests potential cross-organ function conservation. If confirmed in humans, the findings could revolutionize gastrointestinal treatments by targeting specific neurons and understanding how mechanical forces translate into nervous system signals. Untangling Gut Feelings: Revealing the Colon's Sensory Neurons - Neuroscience News

Harmonious Disputes

When disagreements arise between partners, unfounded assumptions can intensify arguments. Termed "unconscious storytelling," this phenomenon involves imagining what the other person is thinking or feeling. Instead, renowned family therapist Terrence Real suggests using "the feedback wheel," a concise four-sentence method for sharing perceived slights. The phrases include describing facts of the situation, sharing your perspective, expressing emotions, and stating what would help. Shifting from anger to vulnerability fosters effective communication and promotes relationship repair. Fighting With Your Partner? Use These 4 Phrases - The New York Times

What Are Functional Foods

Here is an excellent article on functional foods: Does an apple a day keep the doctor away? A nutritionist explains the science behind 'functional' foods

042 - Quantum Biology, Wearables, and Birdsong - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Quantum Biology

This scientist believes nature has harnessed "quantumness" and that our current beliefs about biology are sorely incomplete: Quantum physics proposes a new way to study biology – and the results could revolutionize our understanding of how life works.

Pushing Our Kids to Achieve

Do we do our kids a disservice by pushing them to achieve? This author thinks so: Opinion | What We Lose When We Push Our Kids to 'Achieve' - The New York Times (gift article)

The Newest College Admission Scam: Publish a "Scholarly" Paper

An emerging industry of research services is helping high school students produce and publish research papers to boost their college applications. Online programs, such as Scholar Launch, charge thousands of dollars to connect students with mentors who guide them in writing articles, which are then published in journals of questionable quality. The Newest Way to Buy an Advantage in College Admissions.

Resisting Alzheimer's

Patients whose health doesn't conform to expectations can offer new insight into a possible disease treatment. Such is the case with a man who, based on his D.N.A., "should of" developed Alzheimer's in his 40s but showed resilience to the disease. Mutation Protected Man From Alzheimer's Disease, Hinting at Treatment. (gift article)

WHO Says "No" to Non-Nutritive Sweeteners

The World Health Organization (W.H.O.) has cautioned against using artificial sweeteners for weight control and reducing the risk of noncommunicable diseases. The W.H.O. stated that these alternatives to sugar do not effectively reduce body fat in adults or children and could potentially increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. This recommendation contradicts previous studies that suggested no harm from sweeteners. Based on a comprehensive review, the W.H.O.'s advice emphasizes the importance of reducing overall sugar intake and relying on naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and unsweetened foods and beverages. World Health Organization Warns Against Using Artificial Sweeteners (gift article)

Therapy Unpacked

Therapy once stigmatized as a luxury for the neurotic, has gained acceptance and popularity over the years. This article explores the effectiveness of talk therapy in improving mental health. While studies suggest that therapy indeed works and yields positive results, there are ongoing debates and challenges in the field. Researchers are trying to determine the best types of therapy for different individuals and understand the impact of the therapist-patient relationship. Some argue for a shift toward more innovative strategies, while others believe therapy's potential hasn't been fully unlocked. Ultimately, the therapist's skills and the bond formed with the patient are crucial to therapy's success. Does Therapy Work? Let’s Unpack That. (gift article)

New Manuscript Defines Frequency of Chronic Pain

"New cases of chronic pain occur more often among U.S. adults than new cases of several other common conditions, including diabetes, depression, and high blood pressure." A new analysis points to the high disease burden of chronic pain in the U.S. U.S. National Survey Data Show High Rates of New Cases and Persistence of Chronic Pain.

The Slumbering Successes of Innovation in Nature and Culture

In his book "Sleeping Beauties: The Mystery of Dormant Innovations in Nature and Culture,", biologist Andreas Wagner discusses how many brilliant ideas and innovations fail immediately but instead emerge and persist in the shadows until the right time arrives for them to step into the limelight. Wagner argues that the success of an innovative product, whether it's a new form of life or a work of art, depends not only on its inner qualities but also on the right environment and timing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding delayed success and empathizing with oneself in the creative process. Why Many Brilliant Ideas Don't Succeed Immediately.

Patients Hack Wearables to Monitor Chronic Illness

"What we have right now is a health and wellness industry that provides data-driven insights and data-driven advice, so long as their physiology is typical." How Chronic Illness Patients Are 'Hacking' Their Wearables describes how patients are using consumer electronics, such as the Oura Ring, Fitbit, and Apple Watch to monitor less common chronic illnesses.

Burned-Out on Burnout

How to address physician burnout. discusses the issue of physician burnout and challenges the prevailing approach to addressing it by embracing the humanities. I think the article misses the point or at least gives only a partial solution. Rather than implying burnout is a personal failing, it should be considered a healthcare system failure. One of my favorite papers on this subject was written by Tait Shanafelt before the pandemic: Executive Leadership and Physician Well-being: Nine Organizational Strategies to Promote Engagement and Reduce Burnout.

Birdsong and Mental Health

Research has consistently demonstrated that more contact and interaction with nature improves physical and mental well-being. Scientists are examining whether birdsong contributes to nature's positive effects: Why birds and their songs are good for our mental health. (gift article)

Banning Food Dyes

"They have no known nutritional benefits and potentially carry several health risks." The Atlantic had a story on efforts around the world to ban artificial food coloring: The True Danger of Food Dye.

011 - CVS, Amazon, and the Disruption of Primary Care, Anxiety Inoculants, Wabi Sabi, and AI. - HealthHippieMD Week In Review

Wabi Sabi - An Inoculant for Perfectionism

Perfectionism can have a devastating effect on mental health. The Japanese concept of wabi-sabi can help: Escape the perfectionist trap with the philosophy of "wabi-sabi"

CVS, Amazon, and the Disruption of Traditional Primary Care

Traditional primary care practices and healthcare systems should be quaking in their boots. The article CVS, Amazon Deals Might Be Good for Patients, Bad for Primary Care, gives the good and bad of the disruption of healthcare. We are in the early days of this transformation that will include technology and place a much greater emphasis on preventative care/wellness. Exciting times!

+For some of the challenges, see this article extracted from a recent Harvard Business Review: Amazon's Foray into Primary Care Won't Be Easy "....a fundamental question looms: Can profit-driven entrepreneurship and bottom-up innovation make the U.S. health care system work anywhere nearly as well as those in places like France, Sweden, Norway, Australia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Germany, and Switzerland? They may be relatively dull, but they keep people healthy at an affordable cost.".

How to be Bold

Anxiety short-circuits many decision-making processes for a wide range of the population. The article How to Be Bold discusses the implications and how to overcome anxiety inertia. Thanks, Laura!

Fasting and Cancer

I am interested in extending lifespan and health span, so I have read many papers on caloric restriction. Fasting to combat cancer is somewhat controversial but gaining momentum. Dr. Michael Gregor over at NutritionFacts has a great series of introductory videos for you:

• Fasting for Cancer: What About Cachexia?
• Fasting Before and After Chemotherapy and Radiation - mostly in vitro (test tube) and pre-clinical (mice).
• A third video, yet to be released, looks at the literature on humans...

+For a decent scientific review on caloric restriction and cancer, see this 2018 paper from Valter Longo's Lab: Starvation, Stress Resistance, and Cancer

Immersive Rights in the Metaverse

The Metaverse, "a broad societal shift in how we engage digital content, going from flat media viewed in the 3rd person to immersive experiences engaged in the 1st person," is coming, ready or not. As with all powerful technologies, we must consider their use and implications. The article The case for demanding "immersive rights" in the Metaverse touches on many of the potential issues. This article reminded me of some of the early warnings on the use and potential abuse of social media.

Immersive Virtual Environments Eases Pain During Hand Surgery

The article, Gaming tech could ease pain during surgery, reports the findings of a recent preliminary study looking at the effects of immersive VR on surgical pain: Virtual reality immersion compared to monitored anesthesia care for hand surgery. Adding this to my reading list.

Life Lessons Gleaned from Free Soloing El Capitan

The advice and life lessons came rapidly in the podcast, How free solo climber Alex Honnold faces fear. The interviewer, Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist at Penn, was positively giddy during the interview. This episode is well worth your time.

Rethinking Alzheimers

Last week I mentioned the re-examination of a foundational paper whose findings have been questioned. That re-examination, coupled with the little to no progress in the prevention or treatment of the disease, has led to renewed interest in alternate theories. The article Alzheimer's Might Not Be Primarily a Brain Disease, examines some of the leading alternate views.

Anxiety Screening Recommended for all Adults

A panel of experts gathered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued a draft guidance this week recommending all adults 65 and younger are screened for anxiety: Health Panel Recommends Anxiety Screening for All Adults Under 65. One of the issues mentioned is what the U.S. will do with the increased volume of newly diagnosed anxious adults. The mental health infrastructure was inadequate before the pandemic. During the pandemic, the existing volume of patients struggled to find licensed mental health providers. It is unlikely the system will be able to keep up with all the newly diagnosed patients in need of services.

Stool Banking - Your Poop May Hold the Secret to Longevity

As we learn more about the microbiome and the aging process, the two are intertwined--especially around inflammation. Ten years ago, when trying to convince my chairman about the importance of this emerging area, I remember telling him that as we learn how important the microbiome is to health and wellbeing, the inevitable outcome would be the prevalence of personal stool banking. The article Your Poop May Hold the Secret to Long Life focuses on the logistical and ethical questions surrounding storing your stool.

Eric Topol

Eric Topol is constantly tweeting out fantastic resources. My favorite finds from this week:

• Long covid—an update for primary care | The BMJ features a great infographic.
• SARS-CoV-2 infection drives an inflammatory response in human adipose tissue through infection of adipocytes and macrophages | Science Translational Medicine investigates why obesity is a risk factor for severe Covid.
• Multimodal biomedical AI | Nature Medicine covers the promise of artificial intelligence in medicine.

Humans Evolved with their Microbiomes

The gut microbiome plays many vital roles in health and well-being. Humans evolved with their microbiomes, and like genes, gut microbes pass from one generation to the next discusses the co-evolution of humans and their microbial passengers.

The Search for New Pain Medication

The Economist had a great article on the search for new analgesics: Better medicines are needed to relieve pain

Quote of the Week

"Blind belief in authority is the greatest enemy of truth." - Albert Einstein.