The Gist Ezekiel Emanuel: "Don't Be a Schmuck"—and Yes, Eat Your Ice Cream.
Jan 9, 2026
Ezekiel Emanuel, a physician and health-policy expert, shares his insights on achieving a long, healthy life through six simple rules. He emphasizes moderation over perfection in wellness advice, encouraging social interactions and sensible routines. Emanuel dives into fascinating comparisons of risk in activities like Everest climbing versus skydiving, while underscoring the importance of dairy, particularly ice cream, in a balanced diet. He also critiques the wellness industry’s failings and discusses political missteps from the Trump administration surrounding recent events.
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Follow A Simple Daily Routine
- Build a daily routine that includes movement, a good breakfast, and regular exercise sessions.
- Ezekiel Emanuel practices 20 minutes of yoga each morning and vigorous exercise three to four times weekly.
Don't Take Unnecessary Risks
- Avoid risky, needless behavior and plan for safety in everyday choices like alcohol and travel.
- Emanuel advises against binge drinking, drinking alone, and taking extreme risks like climbing Everest.
Use Alcohol Sparingly And Socially
- Limit alcohol to low-risk levels and use it socially rather than alone.
- Aim for about one drink a day or three drinks a week and avoid binge drinking.
