Friday Favorites

Hi, Everyone,

Here are my picks for this week!

Edible mushrooms for depression

A recent review explored studies on the antidepressant effects of 3 mushrooms (reishi, cordyceps, and lion’s mane) and found that they have significant potential for supporting mental health. I’ve been prescribing mushrooms to patients with anxiety, depression, and other cognitive and mood disorders for many years and have seen phenomenal results. This is one of the many reasons why I included a mushroom product (Bio-Avail Myco, a blend of 8 edible mushrooms) in the Adapt Naturals Core Plus bundle. It’s a natural, food-based way to stabilize your mood and improve your mental health!

Environmental toxins contribute to preterm birth

It’s always tough for me to share studies like this because there is already so much stress around conception and pregnancy. But this is so important for women to know about. A new study found that chemicals that accumulate in the vagina—likely from cosmetics and personal hygiene products—may contribute to preterm birth. See my series Are Your Skincare Products Toxic? for safer alternatives. This is vital not just for women of childbearing age, but for everyone.

Just 6 minutes of high-intensity activity could delay Alzheimer’s disease

Now for some good news! Researchers found that a short but intense bout of exercise (cycling, in this case, but it would apply to other forms of exercise, too) increased the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that protects brain cells and promotes learning and memory. Previous studies have shown that higher BDNF levels are associated with a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a great way to give your brain a boost.

More evidence for a gut–heart connection

A new study found that people with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) were much more likely to have arterial plaque than people without SIBO. This aligns with previous research indicating a strong connection between gut health and cardiovascular function. Check out my free eBook on Gut Health for some ideas on how to improve your gut health.

The Creative Act: A Way of Being

My friend Rick Rubin, the legendary music producer who helped introduce acts like the Beastie Boys, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, and LL Cool J, just released a new book called The Creative Act: A Way of Being. Rick is a master of the creative process. He’s known for creating a space where artists of all different genres and traditions can home in on who they really are and what they really offer—and he offers that same deep wisdom to all of us in this book. Rick will be joining me on my podcast to discuss the book and the creative process shortly. Stay tuned!

In health,
Chris