Revisionist History Rodents and Red Wine with Maria Konnikova
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Mar 9, 2023 
Maria Konnikova, an author, psychologist, and professional poker player, takes on the role of ombudsman and dives into fascinating ethical discussions. She challenges Malcolm on the Minnesota starvation experiments and the evolving guidelines around drinking alcohol. They also explore the impact of iodized salt, the controversial addition of fluoride, and the ethics of human experimentation. Konnikova sheds light on the dilemmas researchers face with informed consent and the importance of inclusive studies that reflect diverse populations.
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Iodine and Thyroid Health
- A listener switched to kosher and fancy salts, then developed a thyroid nodule requiring a biopsy.
- After using iodized salt again, the nodule shrunk, avoiding surgery, highlighting the importance of iodine.
Goiters and Iodine Deficiency
- Goiters were commonplace 100 years ago in iodine-deficient regions like the Swiss Alps and the Great Lakes.
- This historical context highlights the impact of iodine deficiency on public health.
Nutrition's Complexity
- Nutritional science is complex, leading to frequent changes in advice.
- The human body's complexity makes definitive recommendations challenging.