Unbiased Science

Latest Episodes:

Cholester-all In! The Role of Cholesterol in Heart Health May 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Christopher Labos (again!) to examine cholesterol and the growing phenomenon of cholesterol denialism. The scientists explore the historical development of cholesterol research and how treatment approaches have evolved over time. They address the impact of scientific skepticism on public understanding of cholesterol's role in cardiovascular disease, discussing both dietary interventions and pharmaceutical treatments like statins. Dr. Labos provides insights into current controversies surrounding cholesterol management while emphasizing evidence-based approaches to heart disease prevention. The conversation offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of cholesterol science and the importance of separating legitimate scientific debate from unfounded skepticism in cardiovascular health.

(00:00) Intro

(05:09) Understanding Cholesterol and Its Importance

(07:07) Defining Cholesterol Denialism

(08:37) The Spectrum of Cholesterol Denialism

(10:27) Historical Context of Cholesterol Research

(13:10) Evolution of Cholesterol Understanding

(15:10) The Role of Skepticism in Science

(19:48) The Impact of Chronic Diseases on Cholesterol Research

(20:47) The Evolution of Cholesterol Understanding

(25:59) The Rise of Cholesterol Denialism

(30:25) The Intersection of Cholesterol and Vaccine Skepticism

(34:51) The Future of Cholesterol Management

(41:24) Dietary Recommendations and Cholesterol Myths

https://montrealgazette.com/author/christopher-labos-special-to-montreal-gazette

https://twitter.com/drlabos

https://bsky.app/profile/drlabos.bsky.social

https://www.skeptic.org.uk/2024/02/how-cholesterol-denialism-went-from-reasonable-skepticism-to-pseudoscience/

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PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional.

Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers.

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Heavy Menstruation: A Bloody Big Problem May 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Jackie Maybin to explore the often overlooked issue of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and its significant impact on women's health. The scientists examine the prevalence of this condition, the persistent societal stigma that prevents open discussion, and the challenges in diagnosis and treatment. They highlight the innovative Missed Vital Sign program, which aims to standardize assessment of menstrual health as a vital clinical indicator. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize the critical need for comprehensive data collection, increased awareness, and personalized treatment approaches to address menstrual health disorders. The discussion underscores the importance of advancing research and advocacy in a field that affects a substantial portion of the population but has historically received inadequate attention.

(00:00) Intro

(03:07) Understanding Problematic Menstrual Bleeding

(06:19) The Historical Context of Menstrual Health

(09:21) Current Understanding of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

(12:21) The Mis Vital Sign Program

(18:09) Innovative Approaches to Diagnosis and Treatment

(21:17) The Importance of Data Collection in Menstrual Health

(25:18) Advocating for Women's Health

(30:12) Conclusion and Future Directions

https://wellcomeleap.org/the-missed-vital-sign/

https://theunbiasedscipod.substack.com/p/bleeding-out-loud-breaking-the-silence

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Food Dyes, Seed Oils and Nutrition, Oh MAHA! May 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Kevin Klatt to explore the multifaceted world of nutrition science and dietetics. The scientists examine the essential role of registered dietitians in providing evidence-based nutritional guidance and discuss the impact of the Maha movement on public health discourse. Dr. Klatt offers insights into the controversies surrounding food dyes and the regulatory challenges faced by the FDA in food safety oversight. The conversation extends to discussions about ultra-processed foods, highlighting the complexities of reformulating products without artificial ingredients while maintaining safety and accessibility. Throughout the episode, the experts emphasize the importance of nuanced, individualized dietary recommendations and call for meaningful action in addressing public health nutrition challenges.

(00:00) Intro

(02:45) Understanding the Role of Registered Dietitians

(09:31) The Maha Movement and Its Impact on Nutrition

(16:55) Controversies Surrounding Food Dyes

(28:33) The Complexity of Food Dyes

(33:34) Rethinking Ultra-Processed Foods

(44:03) Navigating Dietary Recommendations

(54:54) The Role of Dietitians in Nutrition

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Shot Callers: Vaccines Gone Viral May 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Michael Mina to explore the nuanced realities of COVID-19 vaccines and public health communication. The scientists examine the limitations of current vaccines in preventing transmission and how this has affected public trust. Dr. Mina introduces the critical concept of immune amnesia, particularly in relation to measles, explaining its profound implications for understanding immunity. The conversation places current vaccine challenges in historical context while discussing the ongoing pursuit of universal vaccines. Throughout the episode, the experts emphasize the importance of transparent, accurate scientific communication in building and maintaining public trust in vaccination programs.

(00:00) Intro

(04:34) The Role of COVID-19 Vaccines in Transmission

(11:55) Understanding Vaccine Efficacy and Mistrust

(18:11) Comparing Vaccines: COVID-19 vs. Measles

(18:30) The Future of Vaccines: Universal Protection

(23:21) Communication Challenges in Public Health Messaging

(25:07) Navigating Scientific Terminology and Public Perception

(28:11) Understanding Measles: Historical Context and Public Misconceptions

(32:24) The Efficacy of the MMR Vaccine: New Insights

(38:11) Immune Amnesia: The Hidden Dangers of Measles

(48:18) Conclusion: The Importance of Vaccination and Public Health Awareness

https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2025/03/measles-immune-amnesia

https://www-webflow.emed.com/team-member/michael-mina

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/c2sense-welcomes-dr-michael-mina-md-phd-chief-scientific-officer-of-emed-digital-healthcare-to-board-of-directors-302156846.html

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If I Could Turn Back Time: COVID-19 Lessons Learned Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Paul Offit to discuss the evolution of COVID-19 from pandemic to endemic status, the challenges of misinformation and public health messaging, and the importance of rebuilding trust in science. The scientists explore the challenges of effective public health communication amid widespread misinformation, examining how trust in scientific institutions has been affected. Dr. Offit shares insights on mRNA vaccine technology and addresses the evidence surrounding SARS-CoV-2's origins, emphasizing the scientific consensus supporting natural emergence rather than laboratory origin. The conversation also tackles the persistent vaccine-autism controversy, with Dr. Offit debunking common myths while providing context on autism research. Throughout the episode, the experts highlight the complex relationship between pharmaceutical development, public health, and the critical importance of evidence-based approaches to combat misinformation.

(00:00) Intro

(02:22) Understanding the Transition from Pandemic to Endemic

(05:18) Misinformation and Public Health Messaging

(10:21) Rebuilding Trust in Science

(12:29) The Role of mRNA Technology in Vaccines

(18:20) Comparing COVID-19 and Influenza

(24:18) The Origins of SARS-CoV-2

(26:49) Investigating the Origins of SARS-CoV-2

(32:11) The Autism and Vaccine Controversy

(37:25) Pharmaceutical Industry and Vaccine Trust

(43:20) Natural Immunity vs. Vaccination

(46:12) The Current State of Public Health and Vaccination

https://www.paul-offit.com/

https://pauloffit.substack.com/

Dr. Offit's book:

Tell Me When It's Over: An Insider's Guide to Deciphering Covid Myths and Navigating Our Post-Pandemic World

https://amzn.to/3YSCDwq

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Oils Well That Ends Well: Seed Oil Myths Dispelled Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Christopher Labos to examine the controversial topic of seed oils in nutrition. The scientists explore common misconceptions surrounding dietary fats, clarifying the differences between saturated and unsaturated fats and addressing the ongoing omega-3 versus omega-6 debate. They investigate how seed oils became demonized in contemporary diet culture, analyzing claims about their alleged inflammatory properties and health impacts. The conversation extends to broader nutritional misconceptions, food processing methods, and the polarization of dietary choices. Throughout the episode, the experts emphasize evidence-based approaches to nutrition, advocating for moderation and balanced dietary patterns over fear-based elimination of specific ingredients.

(00:00) Intro

(03:20) The Science of Seed Oils: Myths and Facts

(06:24) Understanding Epidemiology and Research in Medicine

(09:16) Defining Seed Oils and Their Impact on Health

(12:16) The Complexity of Fats: Saturated vs. Unsaturated

(15:21) The Omega Debate: Omega-3 vs. Omega-6

(18:06) Demonization of Seed Oils: A Balanced Perspective

(21:13) Moderation and the Role of Seed Oils in Diet

(26:04) Understanding Nutrition Complexity

(29:11) The Role of Processing in Food

(31:11) Debunking Myths: Seed Oils and Health

(34:15) The Inflammation Debate

(39:13) Diet Trends: Carnivore and Beyond

(43:21) The Politics of Food Choices

https://montrealgazette.com/author/christopher-labos-special-to-montreal-gazette

https://twitter.com/drlabos (@DrLabos)

https://www.skeptic.org.uk/2024/02/how-cholesterol-denialism-went-from-reasonable-skepticism-to-pseudoscience/

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2831265

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28752873/

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2831265

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39475012/

https://www.massgeneral.org/news/article/seed-oils-facts-myths

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Fluoride & Fossils - A Science News Roundup Apr 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman explore a diverse range of current scientific developments and health topics. The scientists examine recent advancements in Alzheimer's diagnostics, providing insights into emerging tools for early detection. They revisit the ongoing fluoride debate, discussing its public health implications. The conversation covers new research on alcohol's impact on brain health and delves into the nuanced field of autism research. Dr. Steier and Dr. Scheinman also investigate cutting-edge brain-computer interface technologies and fascinating discoveries about human ancestry. Throughout the episode, the experts emphasize the critical importance of scientific literacy and clear communication in translating research into effective health policies.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/07/health/alzheimer-risk-blood-biomarkers-wellness/index.html

https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/09/health/heavy-drinking-alcohol-wellness/index.html

https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/stroke-survivor-speaks-experimental-brain-computer-implant-120334355

https://www.npr.org/2025/04/10/g-s1-59452/hhs-rfk-fluoride-drinking-water-epa

https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/04/11/rfk-autism-study-causes-research/

https://apnews.com/article/denisovan-human-ancestor-taiwan-bea8556942c2d73370e2c2a6406e66f5

https://arstechnica.com/science/2020/01/after-3000-years-we-can-hear-the-voice-of-a-mummified-egyptian-priest

(00:00) Intro

(02:19) Alzheimer's Diagnostic Advancements

(09:19) Fluoride in Drinking Water: A Policy Update

(13:17) The Impact of Heavy Drinking on Brain Health

(19:18) The Complexity of Autism Research

(26:15) Innovations in Brain-Computer Interfaces

(33:30) Discoveries in Human Ancestry

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Immunity Mutiny: Demystifying Autoimmunity Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome Dr. Aimee Pugh Bernard to explore the intricate world of autoimmunity. The scientists examine the fundamental nature of autoimmune disorders, explaining how these conditions develop when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. They discuss the challenges in diagnosing these diverse conditions, the critical interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, and focus on specific examples like celiac disease. The conversation addresses common misconceptions surrounding autoimmune conditions and emphasizes evidence-based approaches to management, while clarifying important questions about the relationship between vaccinations and autoimmune diseases.

(00:00) Intro

(02:35) Understanding Autoimmunity

(08:51) Types of Autoimmune Disorders

(11:34) Diagnosis and Testing for Autoimmunity

(19:21) Causes and Risk Factors of Autoimmunity

(24:25) The Role of Genetics and Environment

(25:30) Celiac Disease and Its Unique Aspects

(27:23) The Dangers of Misinformation in Autoimmunity

(33:23) Understanding Autoimmune Disease Management

(40:18) Debunking Myths About Autoimmunity

(44:19) Vaccination and Autoimmunity: Facts vs. Fiction

https://nationalhealthcouncil.org/blog/a-major-health-crisis-the-alarming-rise-of-autoimmune-disease

https://theconversation.com/immune-health-is-all-about-balance-an-immunologist-explains-why-both-too-strong-and-too-weak-an-immune-response-can-lead-to-illness-215217

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Running On Empty: Addressing Healthcare Provider Burnout Apr 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman explore the critical issue of healthcare provider burnout with guests Claire Knapp and Dr. Tapas Mukherjee. The scientists discuss the Healing the Healers campaign, examining the widespread distress among healthcare professionals and the complex factors contributing to burnout. They investigate the multifaceted challenges facing medical workers, including administrative burdens, emotional stress, and increasing complexity of patient care. The conversation highlights the alarming rates of professionals leaving the healthcare field and emphasizes the need for systemic changes to support and retain medical workers. Throughout the episode, the experts discuss innovative solutions and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing burnout, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this pressing healthcare challenge.

https://havaslynx.com/thought-leadership/healing-the-healers/

(00:00) Intro

(04:34) The Healing the Healers Campaign

(09:36) Research Insights on Burnout

(12:24) Specialty Trends in Burnout

(17:36) Defining Burnout in Healthcare

(19:24) The Emotional Toll on Healthcare Providers

(21:24) The Burden of Medical Knowledge

(24:35) The Catch-22 of Patient Care

(27:03) The Human Cost of Healthcare

(29:31) The Exodus of Healthcare Professionals

(33:10) Innovations in Medical Education

(34:40) Raising Awareness and Advocacy

(37:38) Hope and Healing the Healers

(42:44) Community Support and Gratitude

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I've Been Lost In The High... Naloxone, Bring Me To Life Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, hosts Dr. Jess Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman engage with Suhanee Mitragotri, a Harvard undergraduate and co-founder of the Naloxone Education Initiative, to discuss the opioid crisis in the United States. They explore the scale of the crisis, the importance of naloxone in reversing overdoses, and the gaps in education regarding opioids and harm reduction. The conversation emphasizes the need for increased awareness and education, particularly among youth, to combat the ongoing epidemic.

Email Suhanee: suhaneemitragotri@college.harvard.edu

https://steppingstrong.bwh.harvard.edu/naloxone-administration-program/

https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/how-fda-failures-contributed-opioid-crisis/2020-08

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8154745/

https://www.fcc.gov/reports-research/maps/connect2health/focus-on-opioids.html

https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/about/understanding-the-opioid-overdose-epidemic.html

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