People I (Mostly) Admire 8. Peter Attia: “I Definitely Lost a Lot of IQ Points That Day”
Nov 28, 2020
Peter Attia, a physician specializing in longevity and a former surgeon, dives deep into intriguing health insights with Steve Levitt. They discuss the contentious notion of immortality and what the COVID-19 response lacked. Attia challenges nicotine’s negative reputation, sharing its cognitive benefits, while also emphasizing the critical role of sleep. Their engaging conversation includes personal lessons learned from pandemics, dietary choices regarding sugar and ketosis, and how unexpected events can affect cognitive function.
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Boxing Concussion
- Peter Attia's boxing career ended after a severe concussion at age 18.
- He experienced debilitating headaches for three months and believes he lost cognitive function.
Intense Work Ethic
- Attia's intense work ethic stemmed from insecurity and a fear of inadequacy.
- In med school, he practiced suturing all night to prepare for surgery.
Leaving Surgery
- Attia left surgery due to frustrations with the lack of meritocracy and conflicts with colleagues.
- His mathematical model for an ICU problem was rejected, leading him to McKinsey.