Cannabis as a Treatment For COVID-19?

Cannabis as a Treatment For COVID-19?

Cannabis as a treatment for COVID-19?

For full disclosure, this certainly isn’t to say that smoking marijuana will protect you from COVID-19. It’s not the reason why a person gets COVID either. Generally, it doesn’t have anything to do with cannabis. Regardless of your view on cannabis, the results are intriguing. But can cannabis be used as a treatment for Covid-19?

SARS-CoV-2

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) or the COVID-19 pandemic includes at least 272 million cases worldwide. It has resulted in 5.3 million deaths, and over 600 000 new cases daily as of December 2021. Its crown-like protrusions on its outer surface characterize it. 

SARS-CoV-2 features RNA strands that encode its four main structural proteins. It has a spike, envelope, membrane, nucleocapsid, 16 nonstructural proteins, and several “accessory” proteins. 

These proteins bind to the host cell by recognizing the receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). ACE2 is a homolog of ACE. It then converts angiotensin I to angiotensin 1–9. The ACE2 is distributed mainly in the lung, intestine, heart, and kidney, and alveolar epithelial type II cells are the principal expressing cells. 

ACE2 is also a known receptor for SARS-CoV. The S1 subunit of the SARS-CoV S protein binds with ACE2 to promote the formation of endosomes, which triggers viral fusion activity under low pH [1].

Is it possible to use cannabis as a treatment for COVID-19? 

This study was published in the Journal of Natural products. The Oregon State University (OSU) research shows hemp compounds prevent coronavirus. It shows that it prevents it from entering human cells. 
 
Findings of the study led by Richard van Breemen at OSU found a pair of cannabinoid acids. It binds to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. It is blocking a critical step in the virus’s process to infect people [2]. 
 
The compounds are cannabigerolic acid, or CBGA, and cannabidiolic acid, CBDA, which inhibit the same spike protein
 
This compound is the drug target used in COVID-19 vaccines and antibody therapy. These cannabinoid acids are abundant in hemp and many hemp extracts. But, it doesn’t have any controlled substances like THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana
 
Richard van Breemen demonstrated through research that they were effective against variants of SARS-CoV-2. It also includes variant B.1.1.7. It was first detected in the United Kingdom, and variant B.1.351 was first seen in South Africa.”
 
When researchers created antiviral interventions, any part of the infection and replication cycle is a potential target. It targets the spike protein means cell entry inhibitor. It blocks and shortens infection by preventing virus particles from infecting human cells. In addition to that, binding to spike proteins will prevent the spike from binding to ACE2 enzymes

The Research Method

Van Breemen’s team used affinity selection–mass spectrometric (AS-MS). It is a discovery of natural ligands to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. It ranked these cannabinoid ligands by affinity to the spike protein. As two CBDA and CGBA have the highest relationships and proves to block infection.
 
AS-MS involves incubating an important receptor like the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. This protein with a mixture of possible ligands such as a botanical extract. 
 
The ligand-receptor complexes separate from nonbinding molecules using one of several methods. These are ultrafiltration, size exclusion, or magnetic microbeads. The ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) was used to characterize the affinity-extracted ligands.
 
“Our earlier research reported on discovering another compound, one from licorice, that binds to the spike protein too,” he said. “However, we did not test that compound, licochalcone A, for activity against the live virus. We need new funding for that.” Licorice is an herb that grows in parts of Europe and Asia.
 
Fun fact: In November 2017, The World Health Organization announced that CBD showed no evidence of abuse or dependence potential in humans. There is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with using pure CBD. 

In January 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed CBD from its prohibited list, no longer banning its use by athletes.

Cannabis and the Cytokine Storm

One of the main events that occur in patients with COVID-19 is a “cytokine storm.” A cytokine storm is when your body releases pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to increased inflammation. 

Cytokines are small proteins released by many different cells in the body. This includes those of the immune system, which coordinates the body’s response to infection.

Unfortunately, excessive or uncontrolled levels of cytokines are released in some patients. Similarly, it activates more immune cells, resulting in hyperinflammation. It can seriously harm or even kill the patient.

What happens is COVID patients suffer from lung fibrosis. It is an untreatable condition that leaves lung tissue scarred. This makes it more difficult for them to breathe. 

C.Sativa is a type of cannabis in a cytokine storm study to reduce multiple cytokines and pathways related to inflammation and fibrosis.

Two of the cytokines that C.Sativa facilitated were TNFa and IL-6. These are the main targets when trying to block a COVID-19 cytokine storm.

A 2020 mouse-model study found that CBD, an active cannabinoid compound found in cannabis, the results suggests a potential protective role for CBD during ARDS.

It can extend CBD as part of the treatment of COVID-19 by reducing the cytokine storm, protecting pulmonary tissues, and re-establishing inflammatory homeostasis [3].

How Else Could Cannabis Benefit COVID-19 Patients?

The symptoms of COVID-19 include body aches, sore throat, headaches, and pain. Research shows that Cannabis can help treat these symptoms.
 
In a study in 2018, 2,032 medical cannabis users have examined. These ranging from 21 illnesses treated with Cannabis showed promising results. It has shown significant potential as a pain reliever. Its potency showed its ability to increase serotonin effects, a neurotransmitter that can induce pain relief [4].
 
The endocannabinoid system distributes throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. It is a part of the inflammatory and pain processing. It also plays physiological regulatory roles across every organ system. 
 
This system interacts within its pathways and major endogenous pain pathways. It includes inflammatory, endorphin/enkephalin. THC is 20 times more anti-inflammatory than aspirin. It is also twice as anti-inflammatory as hydrocortisone. It has well-documented analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits. This includes arthritic and inflammatory conditions.

The CB1 and CB2 Receptors

The CB1 receptor is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor in the brain. It is also one of the most productive in peripheral and central nervous systems.
 
CB1 receptors connect to the presynaptic peripheral and central nerve terminals. They’re found through the anatomical pain pathways. These receptors are also present in other neurological central and peripheral locations. The CB1 receptor with the “high” felt with some cannabis strains.
 
These receptors are within the peripheral tissues and immune cells. It helps the release cytokines, chemokines, and cell migration, including neutrophils and macrophages. Some are present in the central nervous system. It may also contribute to pain relief by dopamine release modulation.

Anxiety 

For many COVID-19 Patients and patients in general, hospitalization can be stressful. As WHO stated, there aren’t any physical dependencies associated with CBD. They believe that the compound could help reduce the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Besides that, CBD can increase serotonin activity and lower cortisol levels.
 
Reducing these chemicals is helpful for anxiety management as serotonin reduces anxiety. Cortisol is a stress hormone at higher levels in patients with anxiety and depression [5]. In a 2019 Double-blinded placebo trial with CBD. They took 37 18-19 Japanese teenagers with social anxiety disorder.
 
One group (N=17) took 300mg of CBD for four weeks, the other group took a placebo (N=20). The results state that CBD could be a practical option to treat social anxiety.

Watch the full Episode 86 and learn more about how CBD can help Covid by clicking here 👇

TIME STAMPS:

0:00 Introduction
0:52 Sponsor Ads
2:01 Cup of Nurses Introduction
3:35 Episode Introduction
10:29 SARS Cov-2 Update
13:38 Is it possible to use cannabis as a treatment for COVID-19?
14:57 The Research Method by Van Breemen’s Team
21:23 How We Should Deal with C19 Vaccines
24:34 Fun Fact About the Use of CBD
25:08 Cannabis and the Cytokine Storm
31:48 What is C. Sativa? The compound in the Cytokine storm.
33:03 Mouse-Model Study of CBD
33:54 How else could Cannabis benefit COVID-19 Patients?
42:12 The CB1 and CB2 Receptors

 

 

The Power of Your Mitochondria

The Power of Your Mitochondria

The Powerhouse of the Body – Mitochondria

The power of your mitochondria plays an important role in your body. You have memorized what a mitochondrion is, but do you know about the power of your mitochondria? Has anyone ever asked you, “How are you taking care of your mitochondria?” 
 
You may remember from high school biology that all human cells have a nucleus. And nucleus contains our genetic blueprint (DNA). But do you remember much about mitochondria? 
 
We can say that Humans generate and use electricity. These so-called power stations of the cell convert nutrients into energy. They are the foundational generators that provide every living cell, and ourselves. It is the energy we need to move, adapt and evolve. 
 
Chemical energy produced by the mitochondria is stored in a small molecule. These are called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Mitochondria contain their small chromosomes.
 
Generally, mitochondria, and thus mitochondrial DNA, are inherited only from the mother.
 
Where did the mitochondria derive from? One theory behind where this small but mighty organelle came from was no further than the bacteria in our environment [1]
 
Unlike the microbes that thrive in our gut, scientists believe that we evolved a close companionship with bacteria. This bacteria could tap into a far more efficient energy production model than our far-off microscopic ancestors.
 
 
 

Facts and Functions of Mitochondria

Fun fact: 

Mitochondria is the only other organelle in the cell (outside the nucleus) to contain a copy of your genetic code. 

Scientists have been inspired to improve their knowledge about mitochondria. They have also studied its function outside energy production using that knowledge. It turns out that mitochondria are multifunctioning organelles. 

Functions:

  • ​​Play a vital role in the aging process, and most age-related diseases
  • Are vital to cell health, including regulating how nutrients get into individual cells
  • Help maintain the integrity of a cell – The energy it produces is used for growth and cell functions but is also targeted to help heal and recycle other outdated parts.
  • They help in the immune function – help activate various antiviral and anti-inflammatory pathways to help fight pathogens.
  • Regulating cell death – is an essential system designed to help destroy infected or damaged cells.

Clearly, without a healthy set of mitochondria, your ability to lead a healthy life can be significantly reduced. It is why establishing a healthy, resilient line of mitochondria is so important to optimize your well-being.

Here are a few tips you can take away to improve the power of your mitochondria [2]

1. Get active

Fun fact, you can increase the number of mitochondria within you simply through regular exercise. When your body notices a new routine in your fitness, it works to generate more energy and helps your body to adapt to changes in stress and the environment.

Abundance in the power of your mitochondria means more stamina and the more remarkable ability to allocate resources to healing after a heavy workout. 

2. Eat the right foods

Your diet is so crucial to mitochondrial health. The key is to eat enough nutrient-rich foods. Think about it this way; you’re gathering and improving natural resources used to create energy.

It provides access to antioxidants that help neutralize the toxic by-products associated with normal energy production. 

3. Decrease inflammation

Inflammation can have a very destructive effect on your mitochondria. Inflammation issues may stem from gut dysbiosis that can promote an inflamed state within your body.
 
Changing your diet can help balance your gut and adjust the inflammatory levels inside you [2]
 
Scientists found out that the mitochondria change their role during the inflammatory state. Enzymes change as the production of reactive oxygen species increases. In return, this damages the cell structures.

4. Focus on Quality Sleep

The mitochondria are such incredible organelles. They are essential in establishing healthy sleep habits. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep and learn more about practicing good sleep hygiene. ​​
 
Less than seven hours of sleep a night can reduce so-called mitochondrial DNA copies in the participants’ blood cells. Mitochondria are like the power source of a blood cell.
 
Cells function much better when more mitochondrial DNA copies are available [3].
 
A new study based on 30 pairs of twins suggests that less than seven hours of sleep is bad for our health and leads to poor cell function.
 
 

Viome Results on Mitochondrial Health 

In May of 2021, I was able to analyze my gut and cellular health to see what is my mitochondria health. My score was 50/100. 

Reference ranges: 

  • Not Optimal
    • 0 to 40, which represents 19.0% of the Viome population
  • Average
    • 41 to 65, which means 79.0% of the Viome population
  • Good
    • 66 to 100, which represents 2.0% of the Viome population

How are the scores calculated? 

Mitochondrial Biogenesis Pathways – Mitochondrial Biogenesis Pathways score assesses the activity levels of molecular pathways needed to biologically generate and maintain the cellular functions of your mitochondria to meet your body’s energy and metabolic demands. 

It includes PGC1-alpha signaling – known as the master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis.

If the score is not optimal, it implies insufficient activity in the mitochondria support functions. It could be due to excessive oxidative stress or a deficiency in specific nutrients.

This deficiency serves as cofactors needed for the mitochondria biogenesis pathways. 

Energy Production Pathways – The Energy Production Pathways score evaluates the efficiency of your cell’s ability to convert carbohydrates (glucose) into energy molecules that fuel our cells (otherwise known as ATP). 

If the score is low, your mitochondrial metabolic activity is sluggish. It could use a little boost from the molecular targets and vitamins. It can also come from a cofactor or coenzyme supplements like:

  • CoQ1, 
  • NAD+ precursors
  • L-Carnitine
  • Various activators of AMPK (an activator of metabolic pathways, which stimulates mitochondrial ATP production).

My Personalized Supplements to Support Mitochondrial Health 

Ashwagandha Root & Leaf Extract (263 mg/day) – these extracts can be seen in-vitro to enhance cellular energy production. It is done by increasing Succinate Dehydrogenase (SDH) levels. These levels are essential enzymes in mitochondrial energy production.
 
Curcumin (550 mg/day) – increases the translocation of Nrf2 to the cell nucleus. This enhances mitochondrial biogenesis and health via PGC-1α and p-AMPK pathways.
 
Magnesium (604 mg/day) – Magnesium is essential for all ATPase activity. It is a class of enzymes that catalyze the phosphate bond in ATP. This results in a release of energy used for other cellular reactions. It includes the movement of calcium across and within the cell membrane of cardiac and vascular tissues.
 
L-Theanine (140 mg/day) – includes neurological and cardiovascular protective effects. Through enhanced cellular antioxidant activity and mitochondrial function, these effects are mediated.
 
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) (35 mg/day) – In the body, B3 is converted into (NAD). NAD is a coenzyme found in glycolysis. It is also located in the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. The citric acid, or TCA cycle, is seen in energy production pathways. 
 
The TCA cycle is also known as the Krebs cycle. It produces Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which provides energy to cells. 
 
NAD also exhibited antioxidant activity and increased NAD biosynthesis. It offers protection against DNA damage during oxidative stress.
 
 

To watch the full Episode 84, check out our video below! Let’s all learn about mitochondria here 👇

TIME STAMPS:

0:00 Introduction
0:49 Cup of Nurses Introduction
2:42 Episode Introduction
2:55 The Powerhouse of the Body – Mitochondria
9:21 What are the functions of the Mitochondria?
11:58 Improve Your Mitochondria: Get Active
14:55 Improve Your Mitochondria: Eat the right foods
15:43 Improve Your Mitochondria: Decrease Inflammation
17:18 Improve Your Mitochondria: Focus on Quality Sleep
20:57 Viome Results on Mitochondrial Health
22:58 How Viome Scores are Calculated
29:20 Personalized Supplements to Support Mitochondrial Health
29:34 Supplement: Ashwagandha Root & Leaf Extract
29:47 Supplement: Curcumin
30:12 Supplement: Magnesium
31:14 Supplement: L-Theanine
33:48 Supplement: Vitamin B3

 

Importance of Sunlight and How Light Affects the Eyes

Importance of Sunlight and How Light Affects the Eyes

Importance of Sunlight and the Negative Effects of Artificial Light

The importance of sunlight plays a crucial part in human health and well-being. Among the benefits associated with sunlight are Vitamin D production, promoting sleep, and bone formation. It also helps with depression and anxiety.
 
Artificial light is something that has become a growing concern. Light from our phones, lamps, and TVs also has an impact on us. Some research has been showing blue light in particular has a harmful effect on the eyes and brain.

 

Benefits and Importance of Sunlight

There are many benefits of sunlight that your body can use. The main ones are vitamin D production which promotes sleep, helps with bone formation, and treats anxiety, and depression.

We can all say getting your skin hit by the sun is a simple pleasure we’ve all experienced. It’s interesting to note that almost all animals on this planet need sunlight. 

Vitamin D production

Vitamin D is a little different than the rest of the fat-soluble vitamins. Unlike the other four vitamins, Vitamin D is actually produced in the body. It is also available in small amounts in egg yolks and fish. But for it to be useful, it is first converted by the body. Sunlight’s ultraviolet B energy converts the precursor to Vitamin D3 in the body [1]

How the body converts vitamin D precursor to useable vitamin D:

  • Sun gives off UVB radiation that hits the skin and converts cutaneous 7-dehydrocholesterol to pre-vitamin D3.
  • It is converted in the liver and kidneys to vitamin D3.
  • The type of vitamin D3 that is able to be used by the body is 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3. 

Fun fact: Vitamin D is one of the oldest hormones. It was the earliest life form for over 750 million years. Plants and animals that are often exposed to sunlight have the capacity to produce vitamin D.

It is why this is critically important for the development, growth, and maintenance of a healthy skeleton from birth until death. The major function of vitamin D is to maintain calcium homeostasis [2]. 

It accomplishes this by increasing the efficiency of the intestine to absorb dietary calcium. 1,25(OH)2D receptors (VDR) are present not only in the intestine and bone.

However, it is also found in a wide variety of other tissues, including the brain, heart, stomach, pancreas, activated T and B lymphocytes, skin, gonads, etc. 1,25(OH)2D is one of the most potent substances to inhibit the proliferation of both normal and hyperproliferative cells and induce them to mature.

Sleep Promotion

Once light enters the eye, it is then sensed by a particular group of cells on the retina. It is then carried to the brain and interpreted as information about the time of the day.
 
The brain will then send signals throughout the body. This is to control organs and systems according to that time of day.
 
Natural sunlight affects your circadian rhythm. Sunlight regulates the circadian rhythm. It helps the body know when to decrease or increase melatonin levels.
 
During the day, daylight lessens your melatonin. At night when there is no sunlight, melatonin is higher. It also prepares your body for sleep. It is also why you feel tired once the sun goes down.
 

Bone formation

Another importance of sunlight is bone formation. Vitamin D allows your body to absorb calcium. Calcium is necessary for building strong, healthy bones.

Without these, bones cannot form in childhood. It can also lose mass, becomes weak, and break during adulthood. Even if you get enough calcium in your diet, your body will not absorb that calcium if you don’t get enough vitamin D:

  • Osteoclast: large multinucleated cell responsible for the dissolution and absorption of bone.
    • Take calcium out of the bone and release it into the bloodstream.
    • If there is not enough calcium in the blood, there will be a problem with:
      • Nerve function
      • Muscle contraction
      • Blood clotting
      • Cardiac function
  • Osteoblasts: large cells responsible for the synthesis and mineralization of bone during both initial bone formation and later bone remodeling.

One study looked at the importance of sunlight in the production of Vitamin D on bone, muscle, and cartilage health.

The study looked at all the receptors that are associated with vitamin D and the connection to certain vitamin D-deficient diseases. It concluded

“Understanding the relative contributions of direct and indirect actions of vitamin D on bone is complex. The cells in bone and cartilage contributing to skeletal formation and maintenance have both VDR and CYP27B1 and respond directly to both circulating 25OHD and 1,25(OH)2D (circulating and endogenously produced).”

Dietary Calcium and Phosphate

However, these cells are also responsive to blood levels of calcium and phosphate, elements required for bone formation.

Dietary calcium and phosphate can, to some extent, compensate for deficient vitamin D signaling, and vitamin D can compensate to some extent for deficiencies in calcium and phosphate. But all are involved.

Defining the optimal level of vitamin D to maintain bone health remains under debate. But achieving a level of 25OHD around 30 ng/mL is both safe and effective. Additional research will be necessary to determine whether this is the optimal level” [3].

The second study said, Vitamin D is a secosteroid hormone essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization, which is positively associated with bone mineral density [BMD].

It is well-established that prolonged and severe vitamin D deficiency leads to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.” [4].

Anxiety and Depression

The importance of sunlight and darkness triggers the release of hormones in your brain. Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused.

When sunlight enters your eyes, it stimulates the parts of your retina that then cue your brain to produce serotonin. Serotonin appears to play a role in regulating mood, emotions, appetite, and digestion.

The body uses serotonin to send messages between nerve cells, but it cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, which means that the brain has to produce any serotonin it needs to use [5].

Scientists don’t know exactly what causes depression, but one theory is that it’s due to an imbalance of neurotransmitters, like serotonin, in the body. 

Evidence Supports a Causal Role for Vitamin D Status in COVID-19 Outcomes

Analyzed global daily reports of fatalities and recoveries from 239 locations from 22nd Jan 2020 to 9th April 2020. This is a previous study we mentioned from Cup of News EP 10.

We present historical evidence that vitamin D supplementation prevented past respiratory virus pandemics. There is a discussion on how molecular mechanisms of vitamin D action can prevent respiratory viral infections and protect against ARDS.

In the study, they highlight vitamin D’s direct effect on the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS), which in concert with additional effects, can modify host responses, thus preventing a cytokine storm and SARS-CoV-2-induced pathological changes.

Unfortunately, about 42% of the US population is vitamin D deficient, with some populations having even higher levels of deficiency, including premenopausal women, those with poor nutrition habits, people over age 65, and Caucasians who avoid even minimal sun exposure, and those who take prescription medication long term.

*Note that screening for Vitamin D deficiency is not part of the standard protocol in the US

Study on Sunlight

The present study examined the influence of simulated sunlight and relative humidity on the stability of SARS-CoV-2 in aerosols generated from viruses suspended in either simulated saliva or a culture medium at 20°C (68F).

Simulated sunlight rapidly inactivated the virus in aerosols in either suspension matrix, with half-lives of less than 6 minutes, and 90% of the virus inactivated in less than 20 minutes for all simulated sunlight levels tested. 

Harmful effects of artificial light

Our bodies are evolved to the rhythms of the natural light-dark cycle day and night. The spread of artificial lighting means most people never experience truly dark nights anymore, which can cause problems with sleep patterns as humans’ circadian rhythm regulates core functions such as sleeping or waking up on an internal clock that depends upon darkness for validating information received through our eyes—such us noticing whether it’s daytime by judging how much brighter things appear than during “nighttime”.

Research suggests that artificial light at night can negatively affect human health, increasing risks for obesity, depression, sleep disorders, diabetes, breast cancer, and more.

Exposure to blue light at night is particularly harmful. Unfortunately, most LEDs used for outdoor lighting — as well as computer screens, TVs, and other electronic displays — create abundant blue light.

Blue Light

Nighttime exposure to blue light is particularly harmful [6]. LEDs used for outdoor lighting, computer screens, and TVs all emit a lot of that troublesome color which makes it hard for your body’s sight receptors to adjust accordingly- this causes insomnia as well as issues with hormonal regulation!

Maintaining an indoor ambiance during daylight hours can help you get better sleep at night time by giving those tired eyes something else other than bright displays or harsh florescent lights nearby so they don’t have any choice but close themselves off from the world due to lack of fatigue.

Experts think digital eye strain, or computer vision syndrome, affects about 50% of computer users. Symptoms include dry, irritated eyes and blurred vision.

Blue light may also damage your retinas. That’s called phototoxicity. The amount of damage depends on the wavelength and exposure time.

Animal studies show even short exposure (a few minutes to several hours) may be harmful. A filter that cuts 94% of blue light has been shown to lessen the damage.

There’s evidence blue light could lead to permanent vision changes. Almost all blue light passes straight through to the back of your retina. Some research has shown blue light may increase the risk of macular degeneration, a disease of the retina.

Research shows blue light exposure may lead to age-related macular degeneration or AMD. One study found blue light triggered the release of toxic molecules in photoreceptor cells. This causes damage that may lead to AMD.

Blue Light and Sleep

Screen time, especially at night, is linked to poor sleep. The blue light from electronic devices messes with your circadian rhythm or sleep cycle. It signals your brain to wake up when it should be winding down.

In one study, as little as 2 hours of exposure to blue light at night slowed or stopped the release of the sleep hormone melatonin [7]. Powering down your digital devices at least 3 hours before bedtime can help.

Blue Light and Cancer

Blue light exposure might raise your risk for certain cancers. One study found that people who work the night shift are at greater risk for breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers.

  • Study participants subjected to higher levels of blue light (lights on during sleep cycles) had a 1.5 times higher risk for developing breast cancer and a two-fold higher risk of developing prostate cancer compared to people who had less exposure to artificial light, the study researchers say [8].

Blue Light and Mental Health

Nighttime exposure to blue light was linked to depressive symptoms in animal studies [9]. But exposure to blue light during the day may have the opposite effect.

It’s been used to treat seasonal affective disorder or SAD. That’s a form of depression related to the changing of the seasons. Research shows 20 minutes of blue light exposure in the morning helps ease SAD symptoms. 

  • One study found that blue light deprivation (BLD) induced depression-like behavior in gerbils. Melatonin lost its rhythm, and corticosterone (CORT) levels decreased in the morning in the BLD group [10]

Learn more about the importance of sunlight by watching the full Episode 77 here 👇

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 Cup of Nurses Introduction
2:22 Episode Introduction
7:32 Benefits of Sunlight
7:59 Vitamin D Production
13:20 Sleep Promotion
13:45 Bone Formation
19:20 Anxiety and Depression
​​22:16 Evidence Supports a Causal Role for Vitamin D Status in COVID-19 Outcomes
26:55 Harmful Effects of Artificial Light
27:50 Blue Light
35:00 Blue Light and Mental Health

 

EP 123: How to Improve Nurse-Physician Relationships

EP 123: How to Improve Nurse-Physician Relationships

EP 123: How to Improve Nurse-Physician Relationships

It is a fact that sometimes, nurse-physician relationships are strained. In this episode, we will talk about how to strengthen your relationship with your doctor as a nurse.

Developing a dynamic and grounded relationship with your physician will have an enormously positive impact on patient safety, quality of care, and overall job satisfaction.

Nurses have often seen themselves as a secondary provider who takes orders from the medical staff, even outside of healthcare. Strong nurse-physician relationships can help nursing professionals regain their identity.

By working closely with your physician, you will feel more confident about nursing in general. Nurses need to gain more authority and knowledge to achieve mastery-level nursing (Urden et al., 2011).

How to Improve Nurse-Physician Relationships

Take pride in being a nurse

I know nursing is not as high in status as physicians, but you should take pride and be very proud of your nursing career. You are an essential part of the healthcare team. You save lives, promote health and prevent disease through your nursing practice.

 If you are serious about your career, show up on time, pay attention to details, and do your best every shift. Are you aware of your patient’s medical condition? What is the trajectory of the patient’s status?

Take time to learn and read progress notes.

Be confident

As advocates, we want our patients to receive the best care possible, which means being assertive and speaking up for them. If you have concerns about your patient, don’t be afraid to address those with the physician.

Don’t let the physician’s status intimidate you. You are in control of your nursing practice, and you have the right to address any concern you may have about a physician or colleague.

Ask questions if needed

If there is something that you do not understand or cannot remember, ask. If you are unsure of a medication order, clarify it with the physician before giving it to the patient. Always double-check.

Even if you disagree with the physicians’ decision, you’ll notice physicians appreciate you taking the initiative and will respect your opinion more in the future.

Speak up when you notice a problem or a potential error

Be assertive, calm, and, most importantly, speak up. If the physician is trying to order an unneeded test, recommend a better medication or is being too aggressive about treating pain, speak up and suggest a different approach.

It might take some time for the physician to get used to nursing input.

Communicate effectively

Communication with your doctor is vital for a successful partnership. Research has shown that some physicians expressed frustration with unorganized nurses who did not communicate clearly or concisely.

Learn to communicate information clearly and efficiently, without a lot of extraneous detail, especially in emergency situations. Yes, the SBAR works, but doctors like it when you’re concise and direct. What do you need? Be prepared to read the chart when speaking with a physician.

It’s a physician’s pet peeve calling and asking for something without having the background information.

Rounds with the Physician

For this to work, it takes effort from both parties to tango. Regardless of your setting, find a way to stay involved on the floor and in communication with physicians and other coworkers.

Ensure the physician grabs you into the room or comes in during the consultation with the patient. It is important to make sure the physician is made aware of the most recent events and update the plan of care.

Think Like a Team

Everyone on your team, not just the physician, has an important role to play. Think of the nurse-physician relationship as patient care as a collaboration, one in which you are just as responsible for the patient as the physician.

Instead of “your patient,” say “our patient.” This can help new graduate nurses, most younger nurses feel intimidated interacting with older adults.

Show Respect for the Physician’s Time

If you are in a hurry or have things to do, say so when asking a question. If you’re short on time, ask if it is possible to speak over the phone (this shows your nursing professionalism).

Always be respectful and polite with physicians. We want to present nursing as a mature practice that takes nursing seriously and is worthy of respect.

Avoid Negative Behavior

If you want to be respected, you must act worthy of that respect. Avoid nursing behaviors that are frowned upon, such as nursing gossiping, nursing violations, or nursing rudeness.

Avoid nursing drama; don’t take your frustrations out on your physician colleagues. Acting like an oppressed professional will not encourage others to respect the “trusted nurse.”

Organizational Response

The nurse-physician relationship should be strengthened on an individual level and by healthcare organization’s leaders. Organizations should encourage nurses to speak up about potential errors or problems if the culture allows physicians to react however they want.

We advise working for a hospital that will back you up. 

Concluding thoughts

Whether you’re working on a one-to-one relationship or part of a larger team, the first step is to get to know your work colleagues and begin to cultivate strong relationships.

You are an essential part of the healthcare team. You save lives, promote health and prevent disease through your nursing practice. Never forget you are just as important as the physician. 

We can improve our nurse-physician relationships; here’s how we can do that 👇👇

TIME STAMPS:

0:00 Introduction of Hosts
0:12 AFFILIATES/UPDATES
0:58 Nurse and Physician relationship
1:53 Take pride in being a nurse
4:19 Be confident
7:52 Communicate effectively
10:41 Round with the physician
12:56 Think like a team
17:34 Avoid negative behavior
20:05 Organizational Response
22:05 Concluding thoughts

EP 124: Why People Become Nurses

EP 124: Why People Become Nurses

EP 124: Why People Become Nurses

There are many reasons why people become nurses, from good pay to job satisfaction. A career in nursing is an unselfish one, to say the least.

Nursing allows for a wide variety of opportunities inside and outside of work.

Growth opportunities through education combined will allow flexible hours to pursue multiple ventures. 

5 Reasons to Become a Nurse

1. Competitive compensation in a growing industry

The healthcare field is always growing and changing, it is also one of the reasons why people become nurses. The beauty of it is that it will forever be growing because we always want to improve our health as a species.

We want to live longer,  more efficiently combat disease, and improve our well-being. That is why most careers in the healthcare industry are safe and consistent careers.

It is a forever-evolving industry, some jobs will be weeded out but new ones will always arise. 

Medical professionals are in high demand to care for an aging population that is increasingly aware of the importance of preventative healthcare.

It is also another good reason why people become nurses.

The increased need and awareness have made registered nurses one of the top five occupations expected to add jobs from 2019-2029.*

As a result, job opportunities in this sector have never been greater!

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates that the employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

Growth will occur for a number of reasons, including an increased emphasis on preventive care; increasing rates of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity; and demand for healthcare services from the baby-boom population, as this group leads longer and more active lives [1].

2. A job that makes a difference

Nurses are often looked at as the “rock star” profession of healthcare which is why people become nurses. They’re always there for you, night and day with warm smiles on their face to comfort you when life might be rough.

They dispense comfort, compassion, and caring without even being asked.

It’s true that Nurses do more than give medicine or treat wounds they care about patients by helping them improve not only their acute hospital outcomes but their lives [2]

Every day as nurses, we get to leave our mark on someone’s life by providing them with that extra little bit of love and understanding when they need it most.

There are not many careers with the potential to change or save a life every day.

As a nurse, you will constantly have new patients with different interactions. It is an interesting career because there is always an equal opportunity to teach and to learn. 

Most surveyed nurses (81%) reported satisfaction with their career choices, according to a 2019 survey conducted by AMN Healthcare and The Center for Advancement of Healthcare Professionals.

According to a 2018 survey of nurses by Medscape, 94% of registered nurses answered “yes” when asked whether they were glad they became a nurse or advanced practice nurses. 

3. Active and exciting work

If you’re the type of person who likes to be on their feet all day, then nursing might just be for you.

Unlike many desk jobs where employees sit at a computer screen staring aimlessly into space until they get bored and go watch cat videos on YouTube.

Nurses are always busy doing something—even if that thing is not as fun or exciting as other tasks.

Believe it or not, it is also another good reason why people become nurses. 

True, there will often come parts in your job which may seem mundane but don’t let them discourage you–because with every task comes an opportunity to learn new things!

Nurses are the backbone of healthcare. From meeting new patients to dealing with various health concerns, nurses tackle different challenge every time they step into work.

For many nurses, this can feel like an adrenaline rush as their day is full of surprises and mystery!

That’s why most embrace these challenges that come with being in such a demanding profession according to AMN Healthcare’s nursing survey. 

4. Flexible schedule and variety of specialties

It doesn’t matter when you’re a nurse, as long as you have the right shift for your needs.

You can work evenings if mornings don’t agree with your sleep schedule or take on longer shifts over fewer days so that family time is yours to spend in large chunks.

Or stick to what feels more traditional and find someplace where they give their employees regular schedules without too many changes.

While there are nursing jobs out there that fit the normal eight-hour day, five days per week, the average workday for nurses in long-term health facilities or hospitals is twelve-hour shifts, three days per week.

Nursing offers a unique benefit that most professional careers don’t: job flexibility, a good reason why people become nurses.

Depending on where you choose to work as a nurse, oftentimes, you have a say when it comes to working full-time, part-time, or on-call [3].

Flexibility in location is another perk of becoming a nurse.

Nurses can work anywhere from traditional locations, such as hospitals and doctor’s offices to less-obvious ones like home health care or schools. And some nurses even choose an exciting career as a flight nurse!

If you’re ready to get away from home but not too far away; if you crave variety while still being near friends and family – then I have just what you need:

Meet “travel nurses” who literally live out fantasies by moving between hospitals around America due to a lack of staffing needs at each location. This high-in-demand job oftentimes offers lucrative paychecks. 

Bedside nurses serve at the frontline, giving direct patient care. You can find them working in settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

As a bedside nurse with a BSN degree, you can pursue certification in the following specific areas of practice:

  • Emergency care: this nurse cares for patients who require urgent treatment.
  • Oncology and hematology care: this nurse cares for patients who have (or are at risk for) cancer or blood diseases or blood disorders.
  • Transplant care: this nurse cares for patients donating or receiving an organ.
  • Pediatric care: this nurse cares for primarily children and patients under the age of 18.
  • Labor and delivery care: this nurse cares for women and babies at all stages of childbirth.
  • Nephrology care: this nurse cares for patients with kidney disease or abnormal kidney function.

Another benefit of earning a BSN degree? You’re not pigeonholed into working inside of the hospital.

You can choose to apply your skills and knowledge beyond the bedside in settings such as:

  • Airplanes
  • Correctional facilities
  • Courts of law
  • Health insurance companies
  • Medical disaster teams
  • Laboratories

Alternative nursing careers can also be those that don’t involve direct patient care at all.

These job titles, which often require educational training outside of a BSN, include:

  • Legal nurse consultant: this nurse works as a medical expert in legal cases.
  • Nurse attorney: this nurse represents medical professionals in the courtroom.
  • Informatics nurse: this nurse develops communication and information technologies.
  • Nurse writer: this nurse writes educational materials, articles, blogs, and even Hollywood scripts.
  • Nurse entrepreneur: this nurse owns his or her own healthcare business venture.

5. Professional developmental opportunities 

You can explore a variety of careers by earning your Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.

The BSN opens the door to new, exciting roles with higher salaries and more opportunities for career growth than ever before! 

The power of education cannot be overstated–the higher your level of certification, the greater potential there is for opportunity within your profession.

When seeking out further specialization after earning a Bachelor’s degree from one school system (a “BS”), many nurses opt instead to earn their Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) from another institution (“MS”).

This postgraduate coursework provides them with valuable skills which can then translate into careers like:

  • Nurse practitioner: this nurse has similar responsibilities to that of a doctor. However, it’s important to note that every state has different rules that determine the scope of practice for nurse practitioners.
  • Clinical nurse specialist: this nurse brings leadership to practice settings.
  • Nurse anesthetist: this nurse delivers anesthesia to patients.
  • Clinical Nurse Manager: this nurse supervises the nursing staff.

Advances in technology are allowing nurses to use data analysis for the purposes of treatment and care.

It would be very surprising if this new field didn’t lead to a whole new career path, but informatics has already created one that is accessible now through nursing programs across America.

Informatics deals with measuring all sorts of things related to healthcare, including how it can help diagnose patients’ conditions or provide them access to tailored treatments at their bedside when they need it most.

Nurses who specialize in data analysis will become leaders as we forge into our future, where there’s no telling what kind of medical advances could happen next!

Becoming a nurse has many positives. It is credited with being part of an ever-evolving industry, healthcare.

Career stability and high incomes are nice benefits to have in a career.

Nursing also brings respect and ample room for growth through education and clinical skills.

Due to its flexible schedules and varying specialties, nursing is a great career path for many. 

Why do people become nurses? Watch the full episodes here 👇👇👇

TIME STAMPS:

0:00 Introduction of Affiliates
0:50 Introduction of Hosts
1:58 Benefits of Becoming a Nurse
5:40 5 Reasons to Become a Nurse
5:50 1. Competitive compensation in a growing industry
9:10 2.A job that makes a difference
14:15 3. Active and exciting work
15:15 4. Flexible schedule and variety of specialties
17:24 5.Professional developmental opportunities
31:40 Hosts’ Concluding Statement