TED Health

Narrator Alexandra Panzer shares insights on decision fatigue, its impact on choices in high-pressure environments like medical residency, and strategies to overcome mental exhaustion. The podcast explores the psychology of decision fatigue, using a study on parole boards as an example, and offers tips for making smarter decisions in daily life.

Sasha Winkler, an expert on the science of laughter, delves into the origins and effects of laughter in human social interactions, including its impact on health and the contagious nature of this unique behavior. The podcast explores why we laugh and the significant role it plays in bonding and overall well-being.

Biomedical researcher Hani Goodarzi discusses the discovery of a new class of RNAs for early cancer detection. He explores the challenges of spotting cancer cells in a healthy body and the potential of using AI tools for precise detection through routine blood work. The discussion sheds light on how cancer cells manipulate genomic machinery to create oncarnas, revolutionizing cancer detection and personalized care.

Dan Kwartler, expert in disease-causing pathogens, delves into humanity's deadliest diseases. He explores how human progress exposed us to new maladies. The podcast covers historical impacts of diseases, from pre-agricultural era to modern challenges like global health disparities.

Social activist Ananya Grover discusses her 'Pravahkriti' campaign promoting period positivity, breaking taboos, and raising menstrual health awareness. OB/GYN Dr. Jen Gunter debunks myths and misconceptions around menstruation, highlighting the importance of education and empowerment for better health choices.

Biologist Kathleen McAuliffe discusses how gut microbes influence human personality, behaviors, and neurological disorders. She explores the link between gut bacteria and mood, weight, and mental health, as well as their impact on neuropsychiatric conditions like ADHD, OCD, and Parkinson's disease. The ongoing research in this field highlights the potential for microbiota-based treatments and the promising future of gut bacteria research.

Researcher and physician Amy Baxter discusses practical neuroscience hacks to block pain signals, offering alternatives to opioids. Topics include reframing pain perception, innovative pain management techniques using vibration and ice, the impact of fear and control on pain, and exploring opioid risks and alternative options.

Have we lost the practical wisdom of what happens as people die? With lessons from a career witnessing thousands of people's final breaths, palliative care expert Kathryn Mannix urges us to demystify the experience of death, sharing how a better understanding of what actually happens can reduce fear in the final days, for you and your loved ones. After the talk, Shoshana shares how one patient changed her life forever and led her to found endwellproject.org, a platform dedicated to making end-of-life PART of life.Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey!Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring the impact of alternative proteins in China, the podcast discusses the cultural significance of meat, challenges faced by plant-based products, and successful strategies to drive acceptance in the market. It also delves into the efforts of local government to promote sustainable food choices and the importance of protein diversification to combat climate challenges globally.

The podcast delves into the long-term impacts of denying abortions on women's health, well-being, and socioeconomic status. It challenges misconceptions about abortion's effects and emphasizes the importance of empowering women to make decisions that shape their futures.