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Professor Luke O’Neill is one of the most influential international names in science who came to prominence through Covid-19. As one of the top 1% of immunologists in the world, he has studied the toll of inflammatory disease on the human body. He was a reassuring voice of reason, explaining the science behind the pandemic and helping the public navigate a trying and terrifying time. In 2008 Professor O’Neill was seated as the Chair of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin and appointed Chair of the Immunity and Infection panel of the European Research Council. Since then, he has published nearly 400 scientific papers as well as best-selling books, including Keep Calm and Trust the Science, Humanology, and Never Mind the B#ll*cks, Here’s the Science.
Today, Luke joins me to discuss his work around immunity and how high-stress levels have catastrophic effects on your immune system, leaving you vulnerable to illness. We look back at the Covid-19 pandemic and the pathogen Luke thought may be responsible for the next pandemic. He shares his experience with depression, some of the tactics he used to feel joy again, and his mission to normalise mental health issues. We discuss how research has confirmed the benefits of ancient wellness practices like herbal medicine and meditation and how you can incorporate them into your wellness routine. We also discuss the importance of spending time in nature, how it’s an easy way to boost your immune system naturally, and the value of having a support system.
“Stress is the big modern crisis.” – Professor Luke O’Neill
This week on In the Doctor’s Chair:
- Encouraging young people’s interest in science
- The main takeaways from the COVID-19 pandemic
- How Luke was prepared for a pandemic and how he was surprised by the emergence of a coronavirus
- How the EU is preparing for the next pandemic
- Luke’s top tips for boosting your immune system
- My recommended weekly dose of nature for natural immunity
- Luke’s experience with depression and the treatments that worked for him
- Luke’s mission to normalise mental health issues and how he stays healthy
- Emerging scientific evidence for ancient practices
- How gratitude increases feel-good hormones
- The power of strong support systems
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Professor Luke O’Neill:
- Professor Luke O’Neill’s Public Speaking Profile
- Professor Luke O’Neill’s Trinity College CV
- Book: Nevermind The B#ll*cks, Here’s The Science: A Scientist’s Guide to the Biggest Challenges Facing Our Species Today
In the Doctor’s Chair
Thanks for listening to In the Doctor’s Chair, the show where you’ll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality.
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