The one-earth balance sheet (We must track ‘nature capital’)–NOEMA, July 22, 2021
All the major problems of our time—energy, the environment, climate change, food security, financial security—cannot be understood in isolation: They are systemic problems, which means they are all interconnected and interdependent. This seminal article argues that we must consider Earth as a living being, and therefore amend the current accounting measurement frameworks to take into consideration human interactions with nature. Only by associating governments, academia and civil society to track “natural capital” can we work toward solving shared problems like the climate crisis.
Unlocking the ‘gut microbiome’ – and its massive significance to our health–Guardian, July 11, 2021
Scientists are only just discovering the enormous impact of our gut health and how it could hold the key to everything from tackling obesity to overcoming anxiety and boosting immunity. According to one scientist: “The gut microbiome is the most important scientific discovery for human healthcare in recent decades…We don’t really know how it works.” In the words of Tim Spector, an epidemiologist who specializes in the microbiome: “It’s a vital organ in your body, and you need to look after it. If you do that, it will look after you.” Read the tips at the end.
Wellness resorts eye long Covid treatments as new moneymaker–Bloomberg, July 13, 2021
More than 23 million people are likely experiencing long COVID symptoms globally, and this article looks at how more wellness resorts (from Thailand’s RAKXa to Germany’s Lanserhof Tegernsee) are using all kinds of approaches from brain modulation to nutrient-rich IV drips to treat what can be debilitating symptoms. It can be expensive, and some approaches may not be proven, but they’re also focusing on pillars of wellness, such as healthy food, personalized care and exercise programs, that people can’t find in hospitals.
The pandemic has made mental well-being a public health must–World Economic Forum, July 23, 2021
With mental health symptoms surging during the pandemic, nurturing mental wellness has become a collective social responsibility. Early diagnosis and self-care can help manage the progression of mental illnesses and reduce healthcare costs. Greater self-care means expanding the range of mental health services available to the public.
A Striking Stat: COVID & Calories
In the UK, people are consuming 10% more calories during the pandemic, with 90% of households increasing calorie intake.
Source: Institute of Fiscal Studies, July 2021 (data on millions of food/beverage purchases from stores and restaurants).
