New research suggests MDMA could be used to treat alcoholism

Yet another study shows the potential efficacy of psychedelics in treating addiction.

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  • MDMA could help alcoholics break their addiction (and not relapse) suggests a new study in the UK.
  • Ketamine became the first FDA-sanctioned psychedelic for use in treating depression earlier this year.
  • The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) organization hopes to have legally prescribed MDMA on the shelves by 2021.
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Yet another American divide: 'crunk' vs 'bible studies'

How deep are America's cultural fault lines? Depends on which data you crunch.

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  • America is a divided nation, but perhaps its divisions are as much in the eye of the beholder.
  • This map charts the geographic fault lines between 'crazy drunk' America and 'bible study' America.
  • Strangely, Las Vegas falls in the latter category – and Salt Lake City in the former.
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New study details the results of tech-free vacations

A new study highlights the effects of a "digital detox" while traveling.

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  • A new study highlights what happens when travelers do not use technology while visiting foreign destinations.
  • Participants initially reported withdrawal symptoms, only to enjoy the experience more as the day progressed.
  • "Digital detox" retreats are growing in popularity, though the cost of many can be prohibitive.
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What we know about the dangers of e-cigarettes

Compared to traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes are extremely understudied. There is, however, some evidence on their negative effects on your health.

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  • Traditional cigarettes have the benefit of decades' worth of research on their harmful effects. E-cigarettes are relatively new, and our understanding of their long-term effects is limited.
  • To fill this gap, researchers are conducting studies to identify exactly how e-cigarettes effect our bodies.
  • To date, it appears that e-cigarettes are better for you than traditional cigarettes, but that doesn't make them harmless.
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The impact of diet on brain and body health

Part Two of an interview with Dr. John Ratey.

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  • Harvard Medical School professor John Ratey says diet and exercise are both needed for optimal brain and body health.
  • Ratey believes meat alternatives will be helpful in the future, but the science is not there yet.
  • He also advises exercise as a necessary component of addiction recovery.
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