Related Episodes for Sauna use, depression and addiction — the dynorphin thermoregulatory connection | Roland Griffiths

“In Dr. Raison’s randomized, double-blind study published in JAMA in 2016, it was shown that a single session of whole-body hyperthermia (core body temperature was elevated to 38.5 C) produced a significant antidepressant effect in people with major depressive disorder compared to those who received a sham control.”

“In the segment featuring the conversation with Dr. Griffiths, he explains that adherence to this protocol, which involves close participant monitoring, a dose methodically determined to reduce the likelihood of a challenging experience while maximizing therapeutic effects, and the provision of a safe physical environment and interpersonal support, is crucial for participant safety.”

In this clip, Dr. Patrick explains how intense exercise beneficially alters tryptophan and kynurenine metabolism in a way that may benefit depression.

“In Aliquot #131, The Muscle and Bone Benefits of Creatine, creatine expert Dr. Darren Candow and I discussed how creatine supplementation affects muscle quality, physical function, and even skeletal health, particularly in older adults.”

“Physical activity, sleep, light exposure, heat, and certain nutrients may all affect systems involved in mood regulation, including inflammation, circadian rhythms, neuroplasticity, and brain energy metabolism. In this Aliquot, Drs.”

“Scientists have also identified interesting links between depression and obesity – likely mediated by elevated inflammation, since fat cells produce a wide array of inflammatory factors. In this Aliquot segment, psychiatrist Dr. Charles Raison describes the links between inflammation and depression.”

“Online resources that combine healthful practices and feedback may be beneficial for some people with depression but tapping into the benefits of less modern practices may be beneficial, too. Ancient practices, such as heat exposure, long-distance running, and fasting may promote mental well-being.”

“Acute activation of the immune system (from exercise or sauna use for example) can temporarily reduce inflammation and the depression that can come with it. The segments brought to you by this episode of The Aliquot feature professor of psychiatry Dr. Charles Raison.”

“Whether the medical community will embrace these lifestyle interventions remains to be seen. Available pharmaceutical treatments have their advantages and disadvantages, and while they are helpful for a subset of depressed people, a quarter of patients taking antidepressants may get worse.”

“- Arthur Brooks, Ph.D. The episode closes with a framework from Brooks's work on the second half of life: jump, serve, worship, and connect, a framework he outlines in one of his earlier books, From Strength to Strength: "Jump" means proactively building the next thing, especially during liminal periods or unwelcome change, which Brooks sees as fertile ground for creativity.”