The People's Scientist

Today in Episode 108, I dive into the details of a paper published this month in Nature that details how the gut microbiome may assist with weight loss. Stools samples taken from women who recently lost weight were transplanted into mice, and guess what? The mice lost weight. Tune in to find out how this happened and what this might mean for those of us trying to maintain a healthy body weight. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode (I am most active on IG):IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 107 I nerd out all about lipid metabolism, in other words the fats we eat. I provide a ton of analogies to help explain how a rare fatty acid called gamma linolenic acid found in evening primrose oil and borage oil, may be of benefit in conditions like menopause, pre-menstrual syndrome, arthritis, psoriasis, and eczema. Make sure to tune in for these fun details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 106 of The People's Scientist podcast, I share some scientific evidence on what our eyes can say about us. Eye contact isa powerful non-verbal communication tool that appears to be regulated by our limbic mirroring system. So eye contact seems to induce empathy and mirroring of someone else. Scientists have also dedicated their careers to understand the size of the inner dark circle of our eye, called the pupil. What does the size of our pupils say about us? Tune in to find out!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 105, I talk about the Neuroscience of Jealousy. Jealousy is the least understood and studied human emotion. It is thought that jealousy is the result of a threat to our self-esteem and social bonds. Often the secondary emotions related to jealousy include physical aggression, social aggression, anger, sadness and reduced self-esteem. But I offer a more positive outlook on jealousy. Tune in to find out what I mean. I'll be back for Episode 106 on July 11!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 104 of The People's Scientist podcast, I share the most recent data on intermittent fasting. For decades, we were taught to eat every few hours to keep our metabolism "going". However, data in the last 5-10 has challenged this notion. Rather, the data supports extended periods of fasting so that the body may go into a "recycling mode". Tune in to hear all the recent details. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 103, I cover some scientific evidence on a highly requested topic, creatine. We make creatine in our body from a few amino acids, and creatine plays an essential role in energy production, via the ATP pathway. Hundreds of clinical trials have investigated if supplementing with creatine could enhance energy, exercise performance, mental functioning, and mental health. Tune in for all these details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 102, I share some scientific evidence on psychedelics or hallucinogens in the context of mood disorders and mental health. In the 1960s and 1970s, a psychedelic, LSD, was studied for its ability to improve mood in patients diagnosed with a terminal illness. However, regulatory laws stopped this type of research until recently when it was granted a status of Breakthrough Therapy Designation allowing it to be studied in clinical populations again. Are there benefits in depression and anxiety? Tune in to find out!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 101, I share some scientific evidence on ASMR, Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. This entails a tingling like sensation starting at the scalp and perhaps moving down the spine towards other body parts, a positive mood and relaxation. This may be brought on by listening to whispering, a low voice, tapping sounds, or tactile stimuli like having our hair brushed. What is the neuroscience of ASMR? Can we use ASMR stimuli to our benefit? Tune in to find out!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on The People's Scientist podcast, in honor of Episode 100, I am dedicating today's topic to Centenarians, those who have reached the age of 100. Scientists have investigated the lifestyle choices of centenarians in order to gain an insight into longevity and successful aging. Make sure to tune in to find what those traits are!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 99, I discuss the content of antioxidant compounds in matcha green tea and the potential effect on cancer, heart disease, dementia, inflammation, symptoms of inflammatory conditions, skin health, weight loss, and more. Tune in for details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 98, I talk about the neuroscience of cuteness. Cuteness seems to be defined by the baby schema: large eyes, round small face, and a sense of vulnerability. Cuteness seems to recruit the nucleus accumbens of the brain to reinforce caregiving and protective actions. But, on the spectrum of cuteness, to the far right, it can lead to monstrous aesthetics and ethics. Think of violence being tolerated because it is done by cute cartoon characters. But, the scary thing is, this may also be used to reduce the salience of violence of negative information in other realms. Interested? Tune in for details. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Epsidoe 97 on The People's Scientist podcast I cover some scientific evidence on a rapidly emerging topic in longevity and successful aging, Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ plays a role in nearly 500 reactions in our body; levels decline in obesity and aging and are thought to contribute to reduced energy and increased risk of chronic disease. So can we raise NAD+? Yes we can and I will detail all of that in this episode. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 96, I answer a listener request and share some scientific evidence on the most studied diet, the Mediterranean diet, in the context of inflammation. The Mediterranean Diet is characterized by being mostly plant based, rich in vegetables, beans, seeds, nuts, olives, olive oil, fish, and a moderate amount of whole grains, fruits, and red wine. What benefits might this way of eating have on our health? Tune in to find out!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 95 of The People's Scientist podcast, I cover a listener request and discuss some scientific evidence on fasting to reduce inflammation and promote intestinal health. There are many protocols of fasting, do you think all are of benefit? Tune in to find out all those details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 94, I talk about us scrolling and swiping through social media content. What impact does social media have on our brain? Does it impact our attention control, our mental well-being? Is social media addiction a valid disorder? Tune in to find out all these details. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For Episode 93, I bring back the Vitamin Miniseries! Today, I talk about the fat-soluble vitamin A. Vitamin A has a narrow therapeutic range; but has a very important role in our night vision, immune system and ability to fight infections, skin health, wound healing, and more. Tune in to find out the highest food sources of vitamin A, the health effects of taking too much, and so much more!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 92, I dive into some clinical trials that investigate if one night of sleep deprivation can reduce symptoms of depression in major depressive disorder or biopolar depression. I give an example of a sleep deprivation protocol that scientists used that resulted in 7 weeks of lasting benefit in individuals. How does sleep deprivation have these benefits? Tune in to find out!The evidence I share here is only for educational and entertainment purposes. Please always seek the advice of your physician. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 91 of The People's Scientist podcast, I do a special Valentine's Day episode and talk about the neuroscience of love. Love is a complex phenomenon that can be our greatest muse and motivation. Can something this complex be characterized scientifically? Well in today's episode I talk about the role of different brain regions, molecules, and clinical trials involving oxytocin nasal sprays to enhance romantic feelings. Tune in for all these details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see some of the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 90 on The People's Scientist podcast, I talk about how mental health is no longer viewed as involving just our brain, but now our whole body. In particular, the influence of our intestines on our brain is discussed. I speak about the concept of "leaky gut", what it means, who is at risk, and what we can do to promote our intestinal health and therefore mental health. Tune in for all the details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 89 of The People's Scientist podcast, I share some scientific evidence on carbonated water. When we drink carbonated water, it acts on certain taste receptors to signal to regions of our brain that are involved in satisfaction and fullness. So can carbonated water help us feel satisfied, can it hydrate us just as regular still water, is it safe for our bone health? Tune in for all these details. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 88 I share some scientific evidence on a listener request, Melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in our brain from serotonin. Melatonin production is inhibited in bright light and is highest during the night at dark. It is an important hormone involved in sleep onset and sleep quality. Some individuals are at risk for low melatonin levels. Can supplemental melatonin or dietary sources be safe and effective? Tune in for all those important details!Relaxing sounds to promote relaxation (sine sound waves talked about in Ep 84): Sigur Ros Liminal Sleephttps://open.spotify.com/album/5PaswxzYNOAdQtfjXMcyjc?si=3EEPhGc8SsuFVq8ayII4YwWant to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below. Thanks so much!Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 87, I share some neuroscience based strategies to help us achieve our New Year's goals. Whether that be to break an old habit like smoking, eating junk food, or forming a new habit like exercising or meditating, I give suggestions for all of these. Tune in for all the details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's year end episode, I talk about my favorite topics of 2020 and the top 5 most listened episodes on The People's Scientist podcast. Can you guess the top 5? As with last year, this year's most listened to episode was a big surprise to me! Tune in to hear all the highlights.  Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 85 of The People's Scientist podcast, I do a timely topic on holiday flavors! Peppermint and Ginger! Peppermint oil and ginger may exert positive effects on irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, inflammation, arthritis, and blood glucose. So there may be some extra reason to enjoy these flavors this holiday season or any day in fact! Tune in to find out all the details. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? Thank you so much! You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 84 of The People's Scientist podcast, I talk about how sounds may impact our brain frequencies and therefore mood, sleep, and memory. In particular, oscillating sinus wave sounds like the OM chant during yoga or meditative practice, or the sound of waves crashing on the ocean shore, may indeed mimic our slow delta waves that are important during deep sleep and relaxation. I also talk about monaural and binaural beats in clinical trials that investigated these different sounds on wellbeing. Tune in for all the details!OM chant example in episode by Meditative Mind: https://youtu.be/8sYK7lm3UKgWant to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 83, I prepared a Happy Thanksgiving episode and dive into the scientific evidence on if turkey can promote sleepiness. Turkey is rich in an amino acid called tryptophan. For decades, scientists have studied tryptophan in the promotion of mental wellbeing and sleep quality. Why? Because in our brain, tryptophan is converted into serotonin and then melatonin; both very important molecules required for positive mood and sleep. Tune in to hear all the clinical trial details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 82 of The People's Scientist podcast, I share one of my favorite topics and that is taste receptors! It was only about 10 years ago that scientists realized the bitter taste receptors are expressed outside the mouth, and indeed are expressed in the airways and lungs. But, the lungs are not coming into contact with food, so what is their role here? Scientists provide evidence that suggests the bitter taste receptors exist as the gatekeepers or bodyguards that detect potentially harmful compounds and bacteria and thus are essential for our respiratory health and immune system. So if were are more sensitive to bitter tastes, what does this mean for our immune system? Can bitter compounds be a new treatment strategy? Tune in to find out!Want to look up clinical trials? www.clinicaltrials.govWant to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 81, I share some scientific evidence on one gut-brain pathway involved in feeling satisfied and full. There are many ways that eating signals to our brain that we are satisfied, for example, the taste receptors, the volume of food, the macronutrients, and in today's episode, the act of chewing. I go into clinical trial evidence on how longer periods of chewing can increase gut satiety hormone release, recruit satiety brain regions, and more. This is the science behind mindful eating. Tune in for all the details. Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Episode 80 where I share the most recent clinical evidence on apple cider vinegar in individuals living with type 2 diabetes. Scientists provide data that suggests 1-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar diluted in water may impart some benefits. Tune in to find out more!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 79, I continue with the Halloween/October themes and dive into the clinical research on pumpkin fruit, pumpkin seeds, and pumpkin seed oil. Pumpkins offer many nutrients like vitamin A, beta-carotene, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. But interestingly, the pumpkin seeds are very rich in terpenes, phytosterols, and lignans. It is these less recognized components that seem to offer some potential benefit for our health. Tune in for all the details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? You can do so via Venmo or Patreon below.Venmo ID: Steph-CalPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuriFollow me on social media to see the papers I cite in this week's episode:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in episode 78 of The People's Scientist podcast, I continue our October Halloween topics. I discuss the scientific analysis of psychopathy and serial killers. This information is important to determine who may be at risk for enacting serious crimes and to intervene early for prevention. I discuss exams that are provided to people for diagnosis of psychopathy, the difference between male and female serial killers and how this may give insight to prevent future crimes. Tune in for all the details!IG: Dr.ScaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuriWant to buy me a coffee to say thank you for the episode?Venmo ID: @Steph-CalPatreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/join/DrSCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 77, I stay on topic with some October/Halloween themes and talk about some new research on how our fear/stress response originates from our skeleton. For many years we thought our fear/stress response originated from our adrenal glands, noradrenaline, and the locus coeruleus of our brain. In this study for the first time, scientists show that our bones respond to stress by releasing a protein called osteocalcin in order to facilitate the physiological response to stress. Why is this information important? Because now it gives us a brand new target, our skeleton, in order to develop new treatments for anxiety and stress related disorders. Tune in for the details!Venmo ID: @Steph-CalPatreon Link: www.patreon.com/DrSCaligiuriIG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.Scaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on The People's Scientist podcast, I am starting off the month of October with some Fall themes. A commonly consumed spice during the Fall? Cinnamon! Many clinical trials have been conducted investigating the potential effects of cinnamon on human health; the majority of clinical trials in participants with type 2 diabetes. Tune in to find out the details!Want to buy me a coffee to say thank you for the episode? I would be so grateful! Venmo ID: @Steph-CalPatreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/DrSCaligiuriIG: Dr.SCaligiuriTwitter: DrSCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.Scaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today in Episode 75 of the People's Scientist podcast, I decided to share some of my own research on the health benefits of a tiny seed, flaxseed. Flaxseed has an usually high content of omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidant ligans, and fiber. We conducted a few clinical trials that indicate flaxseed may have benefit for heart health, brain health, inflammation, breast cancer risk, skin health, and more. Tune in for details!Would you like to buy me a coffee to say thanks for the episode? If you have Venmo, Venmo ID: @Steph-Cal Or you can visit: https://www.patreon.com/DrSCaligiuriSocial Media: IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 74 of The People's Scientist podcast, I discuss a recent clinical trial published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in which dietary advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the diet were correlated with glycation build up in the skin, an indication of overall body glycation accumulation. AGEs have been implicated in inflammation and therefore arthritis, diabetes, skin aging, heart disease, and more. How can we reduce our exposure to AGEs? It's quite simple actually. Tune in for the details. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 73 of The People's Scientist podcast, I cover some very recent clinical evidence that connects our sense of smell with our memory and emotion. Have you ever smelled a scent of your past and been transported back in time to an emotional memory? I bet it is a memory from when you were in childhood. The reason for that is rooted in neuroscience. The regions in our brain that are activated upon smelling a scent are directly linked to brain regions that regulate our memory and emotions. As a result, our sense of smell has been linked to cognitive decline and dementia. Can we use our sense of smell as a unique strategy to promote memory recall, new memory formation, and performance? Tune in to find out!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriTwitter: DrSCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 72 of The People's Scientist podcast, I cover the evidence from a large observational study published this month in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition on flavonoid rich foods and the risk for Alzheimer's and Related Dementia. Both observational studies and intervention clinical trials indicate improvements in cognition, blood vessel health, and reduced risk of dementia with flavonoid rich foods. What are flavonoids and how might they have such a benefit? Tune in for details!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the last year, many clinical trials have been published on the neuroscience and health effects of meditation. It appears that meditation recruits the higher order brain regions in order to aid in attention control, emotion regulation, memory, and thought processing. As a result, meditation has the potential to benefit anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep quality, stress, blood pressure, and more. Tune in for all the details!UCLA mindfulness meditation: https://www.uclahealth.org/marc/default.cfmSocial Media:IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aspirin and Advil are like the fire trucks that put out the fire of inflammation, GABApentin is the librarian quieting down the pain, and the opioids are like our pain being on a see-saw. These are my analogies to help explain the effect of certain classes of pain medications on us. I get into the science on opioid withdrawal, risk for dependence, and addiction to which we may unknowingly be at risk for. There is indeed a dark side to opioids which has resulted in an opioid crisis. I hope this episode will be informative in order to safe guard all of us against opioid dependence. Tune in for more details.IG: Dr.SCaligiuriTwitter: DrSCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 69, I dive into the scientific evidence on milk thistle and its active compound, silymarin. Supplementation with milk thistle/silymarin may improve liver health, blood sugar levels, blood insulin level, inflammation, antioxidant enzyme levels, and more. However, the results were often variable. Tune in to find out why. IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedin: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode of The People's Scientist podcast, I cover the scientific evidence of why some people enjoy spicy food and others do not. In addition, I go into some fascinating cutting edge research on how capsaicin found in spicy food may be a treatment for pain, migraines, depression, anxiety, drug withdrawal, and dementia. The results are surprising!Follow me on social media to see some of the clinical trials I mention in the episode and for more tidbits of information on the week's topic. I am most active on IG. IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In continuation with the Vitamin Miniseries, I share some scientific evidence on Vitamin B12: cobalamin. Vitamin B12 deficiency is hallmarked by fatigue, shortness of breath, feelings of depression, poor sleep, tingling of the hands and feet, a sore tongue, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), and if progressed, difficulty walking, using limbs, or paralysis. On average, 15% of us are vitamin B12 deficient. Tune in to find out who is most at risk, how to get vitamin B12, and if supplementation can promote mental health, heart health, and more. Make sure to follow me on social media to see some of the scientific papers and for more info. IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pain unfortunately can have a large impact on our health and well-being. One of the most common causes of chronic pain is arthritis. In today's episode, I cover the clinical evidence to determine if omega 3 fatty acids can improve pain and arthritis symptoms. Omega 6 fatty acids and Omega 3 fatty acids are both essential. We need them in our diet to stay healthy. But a common issue is we get too much omega 6 and not enough omega 3. I also give practical suggestions on how we can reduce omega 6 fatty acids intake, reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and how to best incorporate omega 3s into our routine. IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 65, I go into the physiology of hydration. Water is thought to be the most important nutrient in our diet. Some reports show that up to 71% of people are mildly dehydrated. This can have huge effects on our mental acuity, performance, and long term risk for chronic disease. So what puts us at risk for dehydration? How much water do we actually need? How does dehydration impact our health? What is the best way to stay hydrated? Tune in for all the details!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode of The People's Scientist podcast, I answer the following questions: 1. Is poor sleep a cause of obesity? 2. How does our brain change when we don't sleep well? 3. What can we do to reduce food cravings when we don't sleep well? I dive into the neuroscience and clinical trials to give you some unique ideas on how we can "brain hack" our way out of unhealthy junk food cravings. Tune in for all the details!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriTwitter: DrSCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on The People's Scientist podcast, I share a fun hypothesis that heat may be able to reduce our appetite and food cravings. The hypothalamus of our brain regulates both our body temperature and our appetite/eating behavior. When we are hot, our hypothalamus may become inhibited to reduce our appetite. The reason being? When we eat, we produce heat. So we don't want to produce more heat by eating when we are already hot. Whereas, the opposite holds true. When we are cold, our hypothalamus may become activated to increase appetite and food craving so that we can eat to generate heat. Can we leverage this knowledge to help us curb our appetite and eat healthier? Tune in to hear my ideas!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The People's Scientist podcast, I cover the scientific evidence on sunscreen. I cover the protective effects of different sunscreens against UV damage. I will go into details on exposure to UV indoors, use of antioxidants on the skin, synthetic vs mineral sunscreens, safety of sunscreen, other means of sun protection and more. Tune in for all the details!Follow me on social media for extra tidbits of information and to see some of the studies I talk about in the episode.IG: Dr.SCaligiuriTwitter: DrSCaligiuriFacebook: ThePeoplesScientistLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on the People's Scientist podcast, I cover the findings of the study by Eichenlaub et al. Replay of Learned Neural Firing Sequences during Rest in Human Motor Cortex. Cell Reports. 2020; 31, 107581. I discuss how neuroplasticity is an important process by the neurons of our brain. Neuroplasticity involves learning and adapting to new situations and environments. Our brain is very neuroplastic up until the age of about 25 years. After this age, our neuroplasticity may become less and less. I dive into how we may be able to retain and enhance our learning and neuroplasticity. Tune in for all the details!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 60, I continue the Vitamin Miniseries and talk about the functions of Vitamin B6. Deficiency of this vitamin may be a lot more common than you think. In some populations, 50% have had detected deficiency levels. This vitamin plays a very important role in mental health, heart health, energy levels, and skin health. I will give you information on signs of deficiency and how to obtain optimum levels. Tune in for all the details!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on The People's Scientist podcast, I answer your questions on the neuroscience of food craving. I think there is a lot of power in understanding why we may feel the way we do. Understanding which brain regions are involved in food craving gives us a target to which we can generate healthy strategies. In this episode I talk the neurobiological impact of junk food, exercise, bitter tasting foods, sour foods, stomach distention, social interaction, music, and more. Tune in for all the details!IG: Dr.SCaligiuriFB: ThePeoplesScientistTwitter: DrSCaligiuriLinkedIn: Dr. Stephanie CaligiuriTikTok: Dr.SCaligiuri Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.