Radiolab
Our Little Stupid Bodies
Jan 12, 2024
Molly Webster, a former intern turned reporter, and Becca Bressler, a Radiolab producer with a quirky take on mosquito bites, dive into the fascinating world of human anatomy. They tackle humorous misconceptions about our bodies, like 'butt breathing,' and explore serious topics like the evolutionary quirks of our respiratory system. Listeners will enjoy insights into the bizarre fate of lotion on our skin and an unexpected remedy for mosquito bites, blending lighthearted banter with intriguing science.
55:39
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Quick takeaways
- Our bodies have evolved in a way that makes humans more prone to choking than other animals, due to the overlap between our breathing and eating systems.
- Lotions applied to the skin are generally not absorbed into the body, they rest on the surface of the skin and are cleared out by our body's filtration systems if necessary.
Deep dives
Why do we choke?
Our bodies are designed in a way that we can choke, unlike fish who have separate tubes for food and breathing. Through the process of evolution, our lungs developed from the digestive tract, resulting in an overlap between our breathing and eating systems. The placement of our larynx in the throat also plays a role in choking, as it lowered and shifted, making it easier for food to enter the wrong passage. While other animals can also choke, humans have become the worst breathers in the animal kingdom. Despite the potential risks, our unique anatomy allows us to produce sophisticated sounds and communicate effectively.
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