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THIS DOES MORE THAN ALLIEVE PAIN

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

In today’s newsletter, we ask if the addiction to ultra-processed foods is deeper than that of nicotine, get possible life-saving news for expectant mothers, consider a sober summer ... and go out of this world for the latest Nat Geo quiz.

The gloved hands of a doctor carefully inserting an epidural catheter into an exposed portion of a patient’s back.

PHOTOGRAPH BY CASARSAGURU, GETTY IMAGES

When the pain gets intense, nearly three-quarters of expectant American mothers get a shot in their lower spine.

Now we find that epidurals provide significant benefits to these new moms beyond pain relief, according to a new study. And who knows? It may have done so for generations of moms before them. What can it do?

COULD IT SAVE YOUR LIFE?

STORIES WE’RE FOLLOWING

A close up view of a red, fizzy soda.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAN KITWOOD, GETTY IMAGES

Can ultra-processed foods (like soda, above) be as addictive as cigarettes?

Want to keep your memory sharp? Here’s what science recommends.

What is ‘Ozempic Face’? What you need to know about sudden and rapid weight loss.

They have plenty to eat. Why are these pelicans starving to death?

Why this ancient sport is the ultimate cardiovascular workout

Why is the world’s biggest fish vanishing without a trace?

Sober summer? What quitting alcohol can do for your body?

This toad can get you high—very high. Poachers have taken notice.

The science of ‘superbolts,’ the world's strongest lightning strikes

How to compost at home—a guide for beginners

LAST GLIMPSE

At the centre of the image is a nebula on the black background of space. The nebula is composed of clumpy, red, filamentary clouds.

PHOTOGRAPH BY NASA, ESA, CSA, STScl

What if extraterrestrial life is hiding from us? Humanity’s attempt to communicate with life outside of Earth has been ringing throughout time and space, only to be met with radio silence. Perhaps there’s no one else out there. We examine a chilling hypothesis depicted in a famous sci-fi trilogy-turned TV series that suggests the possibility of a hostile presence. What is the theory called?

A. The 3-Body Problem
B. The Dark Forest Theory
C. The Theory of Extraterrestrial Existence
D. The Fermi Paradox

CLICK FOR THE ANSWER

WHAT IN THE WORLD?

A pair of aged and wrinkled hands are seen close up.

PHOTOGRAPH BY GIANLUCA COLLA, NAT GEO IMAGE COLLECTION

Should you take a collagen supplement? More importantly, do they actually work? While collagen is essential to hair, aging skin (pictured above), nails, and even your joints, the data may not be so promising. Are the pills and powders worth your money?

Today’s soundtrack: Stranger in a Strange Land, Leon Russell

Today’s newsletter was curated and edited by David Beard, Nancy San Martín, and Nishita Naga. Were you forwarded this email or know someone who might want our newsletter? Here’s the signup. See you tomorrow!

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