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Huberman Lab

Journal Club with Dr. Peter Attia | Effects of Light & Dark on Mental Health & Treatments for Cancer

Jan 22, 2024
Dr. Peter Attia, a physician focusing on healthspan and lifespan, joins the podcast to discuss the effects of light and dark on mental health and treatments for cancer. They explore papers on bright light exposure improving mental health, immunotherapy treatments for cancer, and the safety of low-calorie sweeteners. The podcast offers science-supported ways to improve mental health and lifespan for listeners.
03:04:04

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Increased light exposure during the day improves mental health and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  • Excessive light exposure at night is associated with a higher risk of psychiatric disorders and self-harm.

Deep dives

Impact of Light Exposure on Mental Health

Increasing light exposure during the day has a positive effect on mental health, including reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is important to seek as much daylight as possible throughout the day, including morning sunlight and bright light in the eyes. On the other hand, excessive light exposure at night, especially in the highest quartile, is associated with a higher risk of psychiatric disorders, self-harm, and psychotic symptoms, independent of daytime light exposure. Seeking darkness and reducing nighttime light exposure is crucial for mental well-being, especially for individuals with bipolar disorder and PTSD.

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