The Peter Attia Drive

Ryan Hall, the fastest American marathon and half-marathon runner and author of "Run the Mile You're In," shares insights from his remarkable running journey. He discusses the mental resilience needed to overcome challenges, emphasizing the importance of reframing negative thoughts. Hall reveals training techniques, the benefits of altitude training, and keys to maintaining optimal performance. He also recounts his incredible feat of running seven marathons in seven days as he transitioned from competitive running to coaching, celebrating both success and setbacks.

Dr. Steven Dell, an ophthalmologist and Medical Director of Dell Laser Consultants, shares his expertise in eye health and corrective procedures. He discusses why he chose ophthalmology and covers the anatomy of the eye, age-related vision changes, and common vision loss types. Listeners will learn about innovations like eye drops to improve vision, the rise of myopia in children, and the importance of protecting eye health through outdoor activity. Delving into cataract surgeries and the evolution of laser techniques, he emphasizes the critical need for regular eye screenings.

David Allison, Dean of the Indiana University School of Public Health and a leading obesity researcher, dives deep into the complexities of obesity science. He discusses the origins of the obesity crisis and the pitfalls of nutritional epidemiology. Allison highlights the intriguing 'obesity paradox' and reviews twin studies that shed light on genetic influences. He questions the effectiveness of obesity surgical procedures and emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodologies to rebuild trust in public health data.

In this enlightening discussion, the host reveals his workout routine, emphasizing the synergy of cardio and strength training. He delves into blood flow restriction (BFR) techniques, explaining how they can amplify workout benefits. The conversation shifts to essential lifts like squats and deadlifts, which are crucial for longevity. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is examined for its implications on health, with insights into risks and benefits. Additionally, the host touches on muscle size versus strength and fasting's effect on muscle mass.

Sebastian Junger, an award-winning journalist and bestselling author known for his examinations of war and community, shares profound insights in this engaging talk. He discusses the psychological scars of combat and the vital role of community in healing PTSD. Junger reflects on his near-death experience and its impact on his understanding of life and death. He also critiques modern parenting methods through an evolutionary lens and addresses societal challenges linked to isolation and mental health, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

Rick Johnson, Professor of Nephrology at the University of Colorado, dives into the intriguing world of fructose metabolism and its ties to metabolic diseases. He explains how our ancestors’ survival mechanisms now pose health risks, revealing how glucose can convert to fructose. The conversation highlights the significant decline in metabolic flexibility with age, the impacts of sugar and dietary habits on our health, and strategies for preventing metabolic illnesses, including dietary modifications and innovative pharmaceutical approaches.

This AMA tackles the intriguing concept of heart rate variability (HRV) and its implications for health. Learn what HRV means, how to measure it, and why high HRV is sought after, especially by athletes. The discussion shifts to alcohol, weighing its potential benefits against the negative impacts on sleep and overall health. Listeners will gain insights into how moderate versus heavy drinking affects the liver and risks for conditions like Alzheimer’s. It’s an engaging exploration of wellness and habits!

Marty Makary, a Johns Hopkins health policy expert, Zubin Damania, aka ZDoggMD, a physician commentator, and Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at UCSF, discuss crucial COVID-19 topics. They dive into the milder nature of the Omicron variant and its implications for public health. The trio addresses vaccine efficacy, the complexities of vaccination mandates, and the social dynamics shaping public perception during the pandemic. They also debunk prevalent myths and share insights on navigating long COVID and recent treatment options.

Karl Deisseroth, a leading psychiatrist and neuroscientist from Stanford, shares his groundbreaking work on optogenetics, a method that uses light to control neurons. He details how this technology helps unravel mental illnesses like depression and autism. Karl reflects on his unique medical journey, the evolution of psychiatric treatments, and the critical role of neuroscience in understanding emotional behaviors. He also delves into the genetic underpinnings of bipolar disorder and the evolutionary significance of human emotional tears.

Paul Conti, a practicing psychiatrist and author of "Trauma: The Invisible Epidemic," shares his insights on trauma's significant impact on mental health. He discusses how personal experiences shape understanding and how shame often hinders healing. Conti critiques the current mental health system's focus on symptoms rather than root causes, advocating for a more compassionate approach. He also explores innovative treatments, including the potential of psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA, to transform recovery from trauma.