Q&A #54 with Dr. Rhonda Patrick (12/2/23)
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In this Q&A, Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses melatonin's antioxidant properties, mineral vs. chemical sunscreens, curcumin for brain health, and the safety of hair dyes. Timestamps include:
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How leafy greens and beets support cardiovascular function
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Does melatonin lower blood pressure?
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What controlled-release melatonin does to systolic and diastolic blood pressure
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Why melatonin may be especially helpful for people with metabolic syndrome
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Can glycine supplementation reduce blood pressure?
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Are hair dyes carcinogenic or toxic?
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Can curcumin supplements benefit the brain despite their low systemic bioavailability?
Does melatonin have antioxidant properties and possess therapeutic potential extending beyond its role in promoting sleep?
Antioxidant effects of melatonin
Melatonin supplementation is commonly recognized for its role in promoting sleep, but a growing body of research explores its broader impact on health, particularly through its potent antioxidant effects.
Early in-vitro studies (conducted outside living organisms) even suggest melatonin may be about twice as effective as α-tocopherol (vitamin E) in neutralizing free radicals under certain conditions. Its antioxidant function hinges directly upon the aromatic indole ring structure, which effectively neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Through these direct interactions, melatonin generates metabolites that themselves participate in a cascade of antioxidative reactions, greatly amplifying its protective benefits.[1]
Beyond direct interactions, melatonin indirectly enhances the body's antioxidant defenses through receptor-mediated pathways. Activation of melatonin receptors MT1 and MT2 stimulates increased production and activity of critical antioxidant enzymes, notably superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. Melatonin also exerts epigenetic effects by activating the transcription factor Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which subsequently binds antioxidant response elements in the regulatory regions of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes, thereby bolstering cellular antioxidant defenses.[1]
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Q: Beginning of Q&A
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Q: Can reheat leafy greens generate nitrosamines? 1
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Q: Do foods like oatmeal contain antinutrients? 1
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Q: Does drinking water with meals dilute digestive enzymes? 1
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Q: Are hair dyes carcinogenic or toxic? 1
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Q: Can curcumin supplements benefit the brain despite their low systemic bioavailability? 1
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Q: What are selective androgen receptors (SARMs) and peptides – potential dangers? 1
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Q: Does PQQ blunt the positive effects of exercise? 1
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Q: Is ergothioneine heat stable? 1
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Q: How accurate are sleep tracker in measuring deep sleep? 1
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Q: Is the Berkey water filter hard to clean?
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Q: What is the best time of day to take berberine? 1
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Q: Should children take melatonin? 1
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Watch previously recorded Q&As with Dr. Rhonda Patrick
Q&A #69 with Dr. Rhonda Patrick (4/5/25)
Dr. Rhonda Patrick covers lithium microdosing, reducing homocysteine, aluminum's link to cancer, and beta-alanine and alpha-lipoic acid supplements.
Q&A #68 with Dr. Rhonda Patrick (3/1/25)
Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses saturated fats and LDL, luteolin's benefits, glyphosate risks, natural vs. artificial flavors, and black cumin seed effects.
Q&A #67 with Dr. Rhonda Patrick (2/8/25)
Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses microdosing nicotine, GlyNac benefits, intermittent fasting and hair loss, and cold & flu relief.
Q&A #66 with Dr. Rhonda Patrick (1/4/25)
Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses GLP-1 agonists, alpha-lipoic acid, ubiquinone vs. ubiquinol, calcium needs, and liquid biopsy cancer screening.
Q&A #65 with Dr. Rhonda Patrick (12/7/24)
Dr. Rhonda Patrick discusses _Akkermansia muciniphila_, vitamin B1's effect on blood sugar, emulsifiers in food, and electrolyte supplements.