Chemistry For Your Life

#193 In this episode of Chemistry for Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam delve into the chemistry of milk, focusing on the differences between raw and pasteurized milk. They discuss the processes of pasteurization and homogenization, how they affect the nutritional content of milk, and answer listener questions about raw milk's spoilage, nutritional values, and bacteria. The episode also highlights important safety considerations associated with consuming raw milk and addresses common misconceptions. The hosts also shout out their Patreon supporters and encourage others to join their community. 00:00 Introduction to Milk and Pasteurization 00:53 Listener Questions and Raw Milk Discussion 01:53 Shoutout to Patreon Member Scott B 02:38 Deep Dive into Pasteurization 05:29 Chemistry Lesson: Proteins and Pasteurization 22:27 Heating Milk at Home 23:30 Raw Milk: Myths and Facts 25:02 Pasteurization and Nutritional Content 29:22 Risks of Drinking Raw Milk 32:21 Homogenization Explained 38:18 Milk Hot Takes and Fun Facts 43:14 Conclusion and Community Shoutouts References from this episode: https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/as/as-612-w.pdf https://winnebago.extension.wisc.edu/2020/12/08/the-dangers-of-raw-milk/ https://realrawmilkfacts.com/raw-milk-news/sdsu-extension-raw-milk-and-home-pasteurization https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/pasteurization https://pubmed-ncbi-nlm-nih-gov.libproxy.library.unt.edu/22054181/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X22128449?via%3Dihub https://pubsapp.acs.org/cen/whatstuff/stuff/7945sci2.html https://youtu.be/LFKVKshX5tQ https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/updates-highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-hpai We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Scott B Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#071 Rebroadcast It's time to crack into one of life's great mysteries: eggs. So what happens when we cook them?! How do they go from clear goo to white jiggle? This is a question we received long ago, and with topics this serious, we don't yoke around. So we waited until we could bring in an eggsperienced egg chef, Jason Cress, to figure out this topic with us. In Jam's opinion, Jason's insight on the topic of eggs just can't be beat. We know many of you guys may be busy with some (hopefully safe) version of Thanksgiving, but despite the holiday we couldn't pass on the chance to shell out another episode for you guys, especially for our friends around the world, who are just experiencing a regular ol' Thursday today. Well without further ado, let's ap-poach this mystery together. References from this episode Biochemistry  Garret & Grisham Fourth Edition https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/acs.jchemed.6b00319 https://www.nature.com/scitable/blog/scibytes/why_do_eggs_hardboil/ https://askabiologist.asu.edu/activities/breaking-proteins https://chicagoacs.org/articles/126   Thanks to our monthly supporters Scott B Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife  

In this bonus game edition of 'Chemistry For Your Life', host Melissa, co-host Jam, and guest Claire embark on an entertaining journey of debunking or verifying popular 'fun facts' submitted by their listeners. The game, titled 'Fun Fact or Fake Factoid', involves dissecting quirky trivia ranging from the pollination of tomatoes to the weight of all ants versus humans, and the smell of old books. The episode blends humor, friendly competition, and scientific inquiry, including surprising personal anecdotes and genuine compliments. Special thanks are given to the show's Patreon supporters who contributed the intriguing facts for this episode. 00:00 Introduction and Game Setup 03:32 First Fun Fact: Tomato Pollination 07:15 Second Fun Fact: Ants vs. Humans 11:52 Third Fun Fact: The Smell of Old Books 13:49 The Smell of Old Books Explained 14:47 Vanilla and Dopamine Connection 15:26 Fun Fact: Glacial Ice and Freshwater 18:34 Longest Word Typed with Left Hand 22:12 The Egg Inside Your Grandma 25:13 Wrapping Up and Thank Yous References from this episode: https://nenativeplants.psla.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/3415/2021/11/Constructing-Bee-Habitats-for-Crops-Benefiting-Buzz-Pollinators.pdf https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/ent-0092 https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2201550119 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/ac9016049 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10818928/ https://www.rd.com/article/longest-word-type-left-hand/ https://www.rogelcancercenter.org/fertility-preservation/for-female-patients/normal-ovarian-function#:~:text=Current%20knowledge%20indicates%20that%20females,number%20of%20eggs%20each%20month. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK26842/ We want to give a VERY special thanks to Claire for sharing her knowledge with us and for her most pleasant company! We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Scott B Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

Question and Response 58 In this bonus episode of Chemistry For Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam are joined by Claire, an expert in pharmacology and neuroscience, to discuss the inner workings of antidepressants and answer additional questions from the previous episode. Claire shares her grad school experiences, highlighting the challenges and unique aspects of her biomedical sciences PhD program. They also delve into the complexities of drug side effects, withdrawal symptoms, and whether Adderall is addictive, offering nuanced insights throughout. The episode concludes with each sharing fun facts that live rent-free in their heads and an engaging community-inspired segment. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:36 Meet Claire: Grad School Experiences 03:10 Navigating Grad School Challenges 05:26 The Importance of Support Systems 06:25 Exploring Pharmacology and Neuroscience 09:52 Fun with Tattoos and Science 11:40 Understanding Drug Side Effects 17:00 Withdrawal Symptoms Explained 18:44 No Parents Allowed 19:19 Is Adderall Addictive? 19:53 Dopamine and ADHD 21:38 Adderall's Effects on the Body 28:32 Fun Facts and Listener Contributions 35:30 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements   References from this episode: Rope around the earth   We want to give a VERY special thanks to Claire for sharing her knowledge with us and for her most pleasant company! We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Scott B Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#192 In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam introduce special guest Claire Caballero, a pharmacology and neuroscience PhD student, to discuss how antidepressants work. Claire explains the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA in mental health, the mechanisms of various antidepressants such as SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and touches on the effects and side effects of drugs like Wellbutrin. The episode provides an insightful look at the chemistry and neuroscience behind how these medications help manage depression and anxiety. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:52 Meet Claire: Our Expert in Pharmacology and Neuroscience 01:32 Understanding Pharmacology and Neurotransmission 05:16 The Role of Neurotransmitters in Anxiety and Depression 14:16 Deep Dive into Neurotransmitters: GABA, Dopamine, and Serotonin 17:10 Exploring the Mechanisms of Depression and Anxiety 22:21 Ready to Learn About Antidepressant Drugs? 33:20 Understanding SSRIs and Their Uses 34:14 How SSRIs Work in the Brain 36:23 Challenges and Side Effects of SSRIs 43:08 Exploring Tricyclic Antidepressants 48:35 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: The First Antidepressants 54:59 Benzodiazepines: Uses and Risks 01:00:01 Other Notable Drugs: Bupropion and Beta Blockers 01:05:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   References from this episode: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557791/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539848/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470159/#:~:text=Benzodiazepines%20are%20effective%20for%20sedation,potential%20to%20develop%20physical%20dependence. https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/anxiety-disorders/#:~:text=Anxiety%20disorders%20are%20the%20most,develop%20symptoms%20before%20age%2021. https://mhanational.org/conditions/depression#:~:text=Major%20depression%20is%20one%20of,are%20affected%20by%20major%20depression. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db377.htm https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470212/ https://www.jneurosci.org/content/28/28/7040 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4303399/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551683/#:~:text=Anxiety%20disorders%20such%20as%20panic,with%20decreased%20levels%20of%20GABA. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3684250/#:~:text=Neuroendocrine%20and%20Neurotransmitter%20Pathways&text=Well%2Ddocumented%20anxiolytic%20and%20antidepressant,of%20mood%20and%20anxiety%20disorders. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2950973/#:~:text=The%20monoamine%2Ddeficiency%20theory%20posits,in%20the%20central%20nervous%20system. https://www.health.harvard.edu/depression/depression-chemicals-and-communication https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539894/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1476179306700246?via%3Dihub https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4610616/ We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Scott B Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#191 In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam delve into captivating and practical fun facts about vitamin C. They discuss the recommended daily intake, its role in preventing scurvy, the surprising regulations on food labels, and the common foods that are rich in vitamin C. Furthermore, they explore its use as a preservative and potential benefits in skincare, emphasizing the essential need for a varied diet to maintain optimal health. They also share personal anecdotes and considerations for supplementing vitamin C through diet and topical applications. 00:00 Introduction to Fun Facts About Vitamin C 01:12 Daily Vitamin C Requirements and Deficiency 02:30 Vitamin C in Foods and Supplements 03:16 Personal Vitamin C Intake Stories 06:54 High Vitamin C Foods 12:49 Vitamin C Needs for Different Lifestyles 15:12 Challenges in Vitamin C Research 15:58 Vitamin C as a Preservative 17:09 Topical Application of Vitamin C 18:07 Vitamin C and Wound Healing 19:10 Vitamin C in Skincare 20:38 Vitamin C Supplements: Do You Need Them? 22:56 Personal Experiences with Vitamin C 25:46 Favorite Vitamins and Their Impact 27:57 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts on Vitamins 29:00 Credits and Acknowledgements   References from this episode: Biochemistry, 4th edition Garrett & Grisham https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18505499/ https://youtu.be/3e2JYMNS_W4?t=477s https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/ob/c9ob01646e https://thispodcastwillkillyou.com/2019/02/05/episode-19-scurvy-thanks-a-lot-evolution/ We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#035 Rebroadcast Do you like apples? Ever wonder why they turn brown when you cut them? This week, Melissa and Jam explore this very question. What's going on in these apples? Where does the brown come from? Is it a good or bad thing? Does it taste different? Is the brown actually apple tears from the pain of being cut? And how do you like them apples?   References from this episode Science Experiment: The Brown Apple Project - 4-H Purification and Characterization of Polyphenol Oxidase from Banana (Musa sapientum L.) Pulp - Chang-Peng YangShuji FujitaMD AshrafuzzamanNaoko NakamuraNobuyuki Hayashi Nonbrowning GM apple cleared for market - Emily Waltz, Nature Biotechnology Why Do Avocados Turn Brown? – The Chemistry of Avocados - Compound Chemistry Browning Inhibition in Fresh-cut ‘Fuji’ Apple Slices by Natural Anti-browning Agents Inhibition of Apple-Slice Browning by 4-Hexylresorcinol - Yaguang LuoGustavo and Barbosa-Cánovas Department Of Agriculture Approves First Genetically Modified Apple, Which Resists Turning Brown - Britt E. Erickson, Chemical & Engineering News Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife. Email us at chemforyourlife@gmail.com And check out our chill, simple little website at https://chemforyourlife.transistor.fm/ Thanks to our monthly supporters Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Nelly Silva Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy cool chemistry merch! ★

#190 In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam delve into the role of vitamin C in the immune system and examine whether taking mega doses of the vitamin can help with common colds. Melissa, a seasoned chemist, explains the chemistry behind oxidation, reduction, and free radicals, and how vitamin C's properties make it crucial for immune function. The discussion also covers historical context, including Linus Pauling's theories, and recent scientific findings on vitamin C's effectiveness. Throughout the episode, Melissa and Jam use analogies and discuss various studies while also previewing future episodes on vitamin C's other benefits and common questions. 00:00 Introduction to Vitamin C and Collagen 00:57 Meet the Hosts: Melissa and Jim 01:43 Podcast Background and Corrections 04:01 Vitamin C Part Two: Immune System and Megadoses 07:56 Chemistry Lesson: Oxidation and Reduction 15:57 Vitamin C's Role in the Immune System 22:18 The Bat Signal Analogy 23:51 Vitamin C and Immune Cells 24:27 Oxidative Stress and Damage 27:02 Vitamin C Deficiency and Cold Symptoms 28:24 Vitamin C and Physical Stress 33:12 Elderberry and Cold Symptoms 36:08 Upcoming Vitamin C Topics 37:14 Summer Plans and Wrap-Up   References from this episode: Biochemistry, 4th edition Garrett & Grisham https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18505499/ https://youtu.be/3e2JYMNS_W4?t=477s https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/ob/c9ob01646e https://thispodcastwillkillyou.com/2019/02/05/episode-19-scurvy-thanks-a-lot-evolution/ We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

Question and Response 57 In this bonus episode of 'Chemistry For Your Life,' hosts Melissa Collini and Jam Robinson answer listener-submitted questions about various chemistry topics. They discuss the distinction between 'chemical' and 'natural' smells, plant poisons, and the mechanisms behind face scrubs and soaps. The episode also features insights from a listener working in the beauty industry and addresses the challenges of avoiding fast food in the context of food deserts. Additionally, the hosts express gratitude for their supportive listeners and patrons. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:58 Listener Questions: Chemical Smells 06:02 Insights from the Beauty Industry 08:33 Plant Poisons and Refrigerants 12:01 Face Scrubs and Soap Science 14:33 Fast Food and Food Deserts 19:46 Listener Shoutouts and Reviews 22:31 Conclusion and Thank Yous   Thanks to our monthly supporters Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#189 In this episode, Melissa and Jam delve into the crucial role of Vitamin C in the body, focusing on its importance for collagen production. They discuss how collagen, a key structural protein found in tendons, cartilage, bones, teeth, skin, and blood vessels, relies on Vitamin C to form strong, functional structures. The conversation explores the process of how Vitamin C enables enzymes to add essential alcohol groups to collagen strands, allowing them to twist into strong triple helices, which then form a robust matrix in the body. The hosts also touch upon the connection between Vitamin C deficiency and scurvy, and tease further exploration of Vitamin C's role in the immune system and as a preservative in future episodes. The episode is dedicated to new community member Jesse, and acknowledges listener Nicole B. for inspiring the topic. 00:00 Introduction to Vitamin C Myths 00:13 Exploring Vitamin C in Skincare and Food Preservation 00:32 Vitamin C and Pets: A Curious Case 00:45 Diving into Scurvy and Vitamin C 01:28 Podcast Introduction and Dedication 01:38 Special Announcements and Episode Structure 06:02 The Chemistry of Collagen 10:27 Understanding Collagen Structure 13:30 The Role of Intermolecular Forces 18:02 Connecting Vitamin C to Collagen Formation 19:57 The Role of Hydroxylase in Collagen Formation 20:42 Vitamin C: The Essential Co-Factor 23:10 The Consequences of Vitamin C Deficiency 23:31 Debating Collagen Supplements 32:50 The Historical Struggle with Scurvy 37:53 Conclusion and Listener Engagement References from this episode: Biochemistry, 4th edition Garrett & Grisham https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18505499/ https://youtu.be/3e2JYMNS_W4?t=477s https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/ob/c9ob01646e https://thispodcastwillkillyou.com/2019/02/05/episode-19-scurvy-thanks-a-lot-evolution/   We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#099 Rebroadcast In this special re-release episode, Melissa and Jam dive deep into the world of Vitamin A (retinol) and its role in anti-aging skincare. They revisit a popular episode that explores whether anti-aging products genuinely work. The hosts break down the scientific functions of the skin, the impact of UV radiation, and the importance of sunscreen. They also discuss how retinoids (vitamin A) can help repair and maintain the skin's structure, backed by peer-reviewed studies. This episode is a blend of chemistry, practical skincare tips, and personal anecdotes. 00:00 Introduction to Vitamin A and Anti-Aging 00:10 Revisiting the Anti-Aging Episode 00:36 Personal Reflections on Skincare 02:06 Acknowledging Influences and Inspirations 04:57 Understanding Skin and Aging 07:55 The Role of Fibroblasts and Proteins 10:55 Impact of UV Rays on Skin Aging 14:10 Importance of Sunscreen 15:56 Retinoids: The Gold Standard in Anti-Aging 19:50 Retinoid Study Results 20:31 Retinoids: The Antidote to Sun Damage 21:34 The Importance of Sunscreen 23:45 Understanding Skin Structure 26:08 How Retinoids Work 29:44 Fun Facts and Warnings About Retinoids 34:02 Personal Stories and Reflections 38:33 Conclusion and Listener Engagement References from this episode https://www.jidonline.org/action/showPdf?pii=S0022-202X%2815%2940798-5 https://www.jidonline.org/article/S0022-202X(15)40798-5/fulltext https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6791161/#:~:text=Retinoids%20are%20also%20commonly%20known,and%20promotes%20angiogenesis%20%5B13%5D https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/molecule-of-the-week/archive/v/vitamin-a.html https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6791161/#:~:text=Firstly%2C%20retinol%20is%20converted%20to,to%20the%20retinoic%20acid%20receptors.&text=Retinol%20concentration%20in%20the%20cosmetic,the%20oxidized%20form%20of%20retinol https://youtu.be/grxmyM7EuDk https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.0c02102 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3790843/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583892/#R60 https://cen.acs.org/articles/95/i10/Periodic-graphics-anti-aging-creams.html https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/pressroom/reactions/videos/2017/are-anti-aging-creams-legit.html   Thanks to our monthly supporters Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife  

#188 In this episode, hosts Melissa and Jam dive into the basics of vitamins. They discuss the origins of vitamins, why they are labeled with letters, and the difference between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. The episode also touches on the history of vitamin regulation, the necessity of supplementing vitamins, and the impact of diet on vitamin intake. Finally, they challenge listeners to assess the variety of plant-based foods they consume in a week to promote a healthier diet. 00:00 Introduction to Vitamins 00:27 What Are Vitamins? 01:40 Types of Vitamins: Water Soluble vs Fat Soluble 07:10 Sources of Vitamins 10:19 The History and Naming of Vitamins 20:16 The Importance of Vitamins and Supplements 24:51 Optimal Vitamin Intake 25:10 The Role of Multivitamins 26:04 Diet Trends and Nutrient Deficiency 28:39 Understanding Vitamins 31:14 Fat-Soluble vs. Water-Soluble Vitamins 32:50 The Importance of Dietary Variety 36:57 Personal Diet Challenges 43:07 Engage with Us! References from this episode:   We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

Question and Response 56 In this bonus edition of Chemistry for Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam engage with their listeners by answering a variety of chemistry-related questions and addressing listener comments and reviews. They read and discuss both positive and constructive reviews, and provide important updates about joining a network for the podcast. They also talk about the introduction of advertisements, the benefits of becoming a patron for an ad-free experience, and some behind-the-scenes improvements to enhance the show. The episode includes shout-outs to long-time listeners and special mentions of devoted classes and followers. Key discussions cover effective materials for hot baths, making water drinkable in emergencies, and the process of making yogurt, among other chemistry inquiries. The show wraps up with a reminder about the importance of engaging in scientific and political processes to promote environmental safety. 00:00 Introduction and Listener Questions Teaser 00:49 Podcast Reviews: The Good, The Bad, and The Funny 02:31 Sponsorships and Exciting Updates 07:37 Shoutouts and Special Mentions 11:02 Chemistry Q&A: From Yogurt to Water Safety 20:02 Fun Chemistry Facts and Final Thoughts   Thanks to our monthly supporters Jessie Reder Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#187 This episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life' delves into the fascinating world of gray hair, exploring its chemistry and biological processes. Hosts Melissa and Jam share personal anecdotes about encountering gray hair before diving into a detailed explanation of how hair turns gray. They discuss the roles of melanin, melanocytes, and enzymes like tyrosinase in hair pigmentation, and how an imbalance in hydrogen peroxide levels within hair follicles can lead to gray hair. Additionally, the episode touches on the impact of genetics and the possible effects of stress and cigarette smoking on graying. They wrap up with some fun discussions on making pizzas and interacting with their community of listeners. 00:00 Opening Banter: Discovering Gray Hair 00:26 Diving Into the Science of Gray Hair 01:22 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts 02:49 Exploring the Chemistry of Hair Color 03:26 Understanding Melanin and Hair Pigmentation 07:07 The Process of Hair Coloration 09:59 Unraveling the Mystery of Gray Hair 11:27 A Deep Dive into the Molecular Mechanisms 19:18 Explaining the Gray Hair Phenomenon with an Analogy 26:28 Diving into Project Blueprint: A Self-Experimentation Journey 27:05 The Science of Reversing Gray Hair: An In-Depth Look 32:38 Exploring the Impact of Stress and Smoking on Hair Color 36:02 The Fascinating World of Hair Under a Microscope 39:59 Sharing Personal Stories and Tips for Outdoor Adventures 44:29 A Culinary Adventure: Making the Perfect Pizza 50:51 Supporting Chemistry Education: A Call to Action References from this episode: Hair under a microscope pics - https://www.pinterest.com/pin/hair-under-the-microscope-knots-and-splits-can-you-fix-them--99642210476262734/ https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1096/fj.08-125435 https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Simplified-pathways-of-tyrosine-derived-melanin-synthesis-showing-enzymatic-steps-subject_fig2_337820571 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8610071/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4033715/ https://cen.acs.org/articles/87/i10/Gray-Hair-Blame-Natural-Bleaching.html https://www.chemistryworld.com/podcasts/melanin/3008682.article https://youtu.be/oCtdFSAgKCY   We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!   Thanks to our monthly supporters Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckins Suzanne Phillips Nelly Silva Venus Rebholz Lyn Stubblefield Jacob Taber Brian Kimball Emerson Woodhall Kristina Gotfredsen Timothy Parker Steven Boyles Chris Skupien Chelsea B Bri McAllister Avishai Barnoy Hunter Reardon ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com Watch our episodes on YouTube Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife

#030 Rebroadcast Melissa and Jam continue to sniff out the chemistry of smell, focusing this week on bad smells. Why are we so good at smelling bad smells? Why do they haunt us at night? Why are some bad smells so strong and long lasting, while many great smells are subtle and temporary. What’s in a smell? "That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." I think that quote applies here right? References from this episode Aerosol generation by raindrop impact on soil - Young Soo Joung & Cullen R. Buie, Nature Communications 2 Americans Win Nobel for Demystifying Sense of Smell - Lawrence K. Altman, The New York Times The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2004 Press Release - Richard Axel & Linda B. Buck, The Nobel Prize A Novel Multigene Family May Encode Odorant Receptors: A Molecular Basis for Odor Recognition - Buck and Axel Chemists and bad smells (and sulfur): A productive pairing - Ashutosh Jogalekar, Scientific American Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife. Email us at chemforyourlife@gmail.com And check out our chill, simple little website at https://chemforyourlife.transistor.fm/