“Insulin-like growth factor-1, or IGF-1 for short, is a protein that plays critical roles in major growth pathways in the human body. It influences nearly every tissue in the body, especially developmental growth, skeletal muscle and neurons.”
“As for this last point in particular, but also all conversations surrounding severe life-altering diagnosis like cancer, these clips are not meant to serve as a substitute for medical advice.”
“Recent discoveries in the field of epigenetics suggest we might be able to slow aging, based on the realization that not everyone ages at the same rate. Evidence suggests that drugs or other medical procedures can slow epigenetic aging, but other factors, such as diet and disease states influence it too.”
“And one potential strategy for mitigating our risk for Alzheimer's disease as we age is a "cognoscopy" – a battery of assessments that measures some of the key biomarkers associated with the disease and can inform the trajectory of treatment.”
“Poor sleep reduces the body's insulin sensitivity and changes a person's appetite, increasing the preference for high carbohydrate foods like pizza, pasta, and sweets. Lack of sleep also alters the gut microbiota and impairs immunity, putting us at risk for developing acute illnesses like colds and flu.”
“The decline of deep sleep begins early in life, nearly disappears by age 80, increasing the risk for Alzheimer's disease. These Aliquot segments feature Dr. Charles Raison, a professor of psychiatry, and Dr. Matthew Walker, a professor of neuroscience and psychology.”
“Statins can reduce the risk of heart disease by 30 to 40 percent due to their ability to increase LDL receptor activity and reduce blood cholesterol levels. Whether the drugs are overprescribed (or perhaps under-prescribed) is a matter of great debate.”
“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.”
“Zinc is an essential nutrient that participates in many biological processes and plays critical roles in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, cell division, and brain health.”