National Geographic | Mind, Body, Wonder

This week, we learn about hazards of processed corn—and how the humble soybean took over the world. Also, what is this rare disorder called stiff person syndrome affecting mostly women, including pop legend Celine Dion? Plus, does the moon really influence human health?

Large pile of dry, yellow, corn kernels, which appear as yellow hills filling the foreground.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ROBERT CLARK, NAT GEO IMAGE COLLECTION

IT HURTS YOU. IT’S ALSO HARD TO ESCAPE.

Why are we being practically force-fed processed corn, such as high fructose corn syrup? Whole corn, in moderation, is good for you, but not the more than 2,000 pounds of corn grown annually for each American. What does it do to you?

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How the humble soybean took over the world

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Extreme drought threatens Italy’s rice crops—and its beloved risotto

A doctor administers an EKG to a patient at home

PHOTOGRAPH BY ED KASHI, VII/REDUX

WHAT IS STIFF PERSON SYNDROME?

Celine Dion recently made an inspiring Olympics appearance after her diagnosis. But what exactly is stiff person syndrome? The neurological and autoimmune disorder is thought to affect just one or two people out of a million—two thirds of the diagnoses population being women. We are on a journey to better understand what this rare disorder means.

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Scientists are finally studying women’s bodies, and here’s what they’re learning

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These are the biggest health challenges women will face in their lifetimes

STORIES WE’RE FOLLOWING

There are 6 forms of depression, a new study shows. Here’s how they’re different.

A hydrothermal blast rocked Yellowstone. It won’t be the last.

Why do you have all of your best ideas in the shower?

The human fascination with deadly storms, explained

How warming weather may affect your next trip

The new hybrid animals being created in the Arctic

What we can learn from Rwanda’s mental health strategy 30 years following the genocide

Why did body odor start grossing us out?

Yesterday’s most popular: Can boredom be good for you?

WATCH THE TRAILER

A star-filled sky and bright moon shine over dozens of tents set up at a rocky and icy campsite on Everest.

PHOTOGRAPH BY CORY RICHARDS, NAT GEO IMAGE COLLECTION

THE MYTHS OF THE MOON

Does it really influence human health? For centuries, people worldwide have believed that the full moon (pictured above, from Mount Everest) can alter the state of one’s mind and body. Modern science has previously approached the subject with skepticism. New research suggests that the belief might be legitimate.

Today’s soundtrack: In Lightning, Feist

Today’s newsletter was curated by Nishita Naga, Nancy San Martín, and David Beard. Want to make sure you get it next Tuesday? Sign up here.

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