Wisdom from a med school graduate:
Check out this article from a physician who has practiced more than 30 years, giving advice to his younger self.
Patients are real, not mechanisms. You don’t have to be the hero (emphasized by Dr Drummond of happymd.com). Patients heal themselves (Voltaire). Doctors make mistakes. You can change the world – hint: choose to love your work. Thanks to Karan Chavis for this recommendation!
Human Creativity:
EO Wilson has written another concise but powerful book. The Origins of Creativity makes several hopeful arguments for the reconciliation of science and the humanities. One cool pearl was the idea that prehistory is the story of genetic evolution, and history is the story of cultural evolution. Wilson highlights the importance, the beauty even, of metaphor in the humanities. And then points out that professional science writing is sadly devoid of metaphor. Doesn’t this limit the creativity that could be employed by scientists? Powerful ideas from a brilliant man.
Ideal Human Meal:
In 2003, the “Polypill” was proposed to combine several heart-healthy medications into one pill. This article argues for the “Polymeal” instead. Eat a handful of the most healthy foods, drop your risk of cardiovascular disease more effectively, with far fewer side effects. The components are fish, dark chocolate, wine, fruits, vegetables, garlic and almonds. According to Table 1, cumulative reduction if additive would be 76% decrease in CV disease events! Try to eat some or all of these every day.
Move:
More studies showing the tangible benefit of walking during the day. I like the 90 seconds of walking for every 30 minutes of sitting. Similar to Kelly Starrett’s rule from a prior newsletter. The more walking you do the better. And again, walk after you eat!
Metabolism:
Ok its time for another major secret to healthy metabolism: apple cider vinegar. Many studies now support the use of “ACV” for decreasing the insulin response to a meal, ie you don’t store as much fat when eating the meal. One theory relates to favorable changes in your gut bacteria. Whatever the mechanism, add a splash of ACV to your water, especially before a big meal. I like to add stevia and cinnamon as well (both of these have positive effects on blood glucose). Bragg or Trader Joe’s are the brands I prefer.
Quote:
“We learn how to love by being loved … tenderness of another person allows the audacity to love in return.”
-Jonah Lehrer in Book About Love
