Why self-awareness? “I think, therefore I am,” said Descartes. Here are some questions: Who are we? Why are we here? What is the purpose of our lives? How many people are self-aware? What does being self-aware translate to? The two connections to our mind and body are: 1. Metacognition – being aware of our thoughts and […]
Did you know that lifestyle factors have an impact on major diseases? Studies show that Lifestyle is the most powerful tool in preventing chronic diseases. Lifestyle factors, primarily not smoking, maintaining a healthy body weight (BMI 18.5–25), regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week), healthy diet (e.g., Mediterranean-style, rich in […]
Below is a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of the neurological and endocrine effects of meditation (mindfulness, focused attention, loving-kindness, transcendental, etc.). Effects are dose-dependent (stronger with daily practice ≥20 min, long-term ≥8 weeks). Data come from fMRI, EEG, salivary/blood assays, and longitudinal RCTs. Neurological Effects of Meditation Neuroplasticity & Brain Structure ↑ Gray matter in the […]
Melatonin promotes longevity through multiple, synergistic mechanisms that target the hallmarks of aging (genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic drift, loss of proteostasis, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, altered intercellular communication, and disabled macroautophagy). Below is a structured, evidence-based overview of its anti-aging actions, lifespan data, and translational implications 1. Core […]
The sun’s effect on the retina in the morning or daytime does not directly stimulate melatonin secretion—instead, it strongly suppresses it. However, this morning light exposure is essential for regulating the timing and amplitude of nighttime melatonin secretion later that day. Here’s how it works. Morning Sunlight Resets the Circadian Clock (Phase Advance) Mechanism: Bright […]
Normal melatonin secretion in humans is primarily regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the hypothalamus, which acts as the body’s master circadian clock. Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in response to signals from the SCN via the sympathetic nervous system. The key stimulus for its release is darkness, with secretion typically beginning […]
Potential risks associated with long-term melatonin use among adults with chronic insomnia were highlighted in a recent preliminary study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025 Led by Dr. Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, a chief resident at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, the observational analysis examined over 130,000 patients, half of whom had documented chronic […]
Plant-derived antioxidants and those produced internally serve as our defenders, exhibiting an anti-aging effect. Learning about the importance of antioxidant fruits and plants is vital. The human body obtains antioxidants from vegetables, fruits, herbs, and other plants, while also producing its own antioxidants internally. Did you know that, of all mammals, humans and porcupines cannot […]
FOLATE-RICH DESSERT SMTX-Friendly Treats Print & Enjoy! 50–150 mcg folate per serving | No added sugar overload | <15 min prep 1. Avocado-Chocolate Mousse (~90 mcg folate) Serves 2 | 5 min Ingredient Amount Ripe avocado 1 medium Cocoa powder (unsweetened) 2 tbsp Maple syrup or honey 1–2 tbsp Vanilla ½ tsp Milk (any) 2–3 […]
Top Dietary Folate Sources Patient Handout – Print & Use with Methotrexate MTX Goal: 400–600 mcg natural folate daily (in addition to folic acid supplement) 1 mcg food folate ≈ 0.6 mcg folic acid (less bioavailable) HIGH-FOLATE FOODS (>100 mcg per serving) Food Serving Folate (mcg) Notes Cooked lentils ½ cup 180 Cheap, versatile Cooked […]