Today, I am blessed to have here with me Alastair Bostwick. He is a New York City Journalist with a multifaceted career that spans various media outlets and industries. With a passion for video production, Alastair has made a significant mark in the world of journalism, capturing attention with his engaging and insightful content.
In this episode, Alastair dives into the intricate interplay between UV light and opioid receptors. Alastair takes us through the nuanced connections between light exposure and mood disorders, shedding light on the intriguing parallels between sunlight and opioid experiences. We address opioid addiction and the dualities surrounding tanning beds, challenging conventional approaches with the potential of UV light as a substitute. Lastly, we cover the controversy surrounding sunblocks, navigating discussions involving dermatologists, and emphasizing a balanced perspective on skin cancer prevention and vitamin D synthesis.
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[06:15] Exploring the Impact of UV Light on Opioid Receptors
- Alastair based his hypothesis on research papers he uncovered, particularly focusing on UV light's effects on opioid receptors in the brain.
- He spoke to a doctor at Mass General who was conducting research on this topic, primarily with mice. The hypothesis suggested that UV light could affect opioid receptors in human brains.
- Alastair took a proactive approach to test his hypothesis by exposing himself aggressively to UV light. Living in New York City, he deliberately spent two hours in the sun every day during the summer, in addition to using a tanning bed vigorously. The goal was to maximize exposure to UV light.
- Alastair was strategic about the timing of UV exposure, going out between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., which is considered the highest UV index. He aimed to expose himself during the peak hours of UV intensity to enhance the effectiveness of the experiment.
[08:30] Narcan's Swift Action and Alastair's UV Light Experiment
- Narcan rapidly detaches substances that bind to opioid receptors in the brain. It acts quickly, causing not only a reversal of the respiratory effects but also inducing withdrawal symptoms if the person is not breathing. This mechanism serves as the basis for Alastair's experiment.
- Alastair hypothesized that if there is a correlation between UV light and the opioid effect in the brain, Narcan, known to work on normal opioid usage, should have a similar effect in the presence of UV light. This led him to experiment by exposing himself to UV light and then taking Narcan, resulting in a full withdrawal experience.
- According to him, the consistent results indicated that UV light does indeed affect opioid receptors in the brain.
- Alastair's experience lends support to the notion that UV light has a significant and consistent impact on opioid receptors in the brain.
[12:30] An Exploration of Light, Mood, and the Subtle Opioid Influence of UV Rays
- Alastair decided to dig deeper into the connection between light exposure, particularly visible light, and mood disorders like SAD.
- He discovered that, separate from the positive effects of visible light seen in SAD treatment, there's another aspect involving UV light, which is not visible to the human eye.
- UV light, distinct from visible light, has effects on the body, including replenishing vitamin D levels and influencing opioid receptors.
- Alastair explained that UV light, over time, subtly affects human opioid receptors, similar to substances like heroin, morphine, fentanyl, and Vicodin.
- While the response is not as strong, prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to feelings of tiredness or reinvigoration, akin to experiencing a mild opioid stimulation. This sheds light on why people may enjoy spending a day at the beach or using tanning beds to achieve a subtle opioid effect.
[19:20] Addressing Opioid Addiction and Tanning Bed Dualities
- Alastair suggests that one approach to address opioid addiction is to ensure individuals receive enough sunlight and vitamin D throughout their lives. By maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D, the brain may be less likely to respond to prescription painkillers in an addictive manner, potentially preventing addiction from the outset.
- Researchers are exploring an alternative approach for individuals already abusing or dependent on opioids. Instead of traditional methods like methadone clinics, where individuals are gradually tapered off opioids, there is evidence suggesting that ultraviolet (UV) light could serve as a substitute.
- Alastair discusses the dual nature of tanning beds. While he initially doubted the concept of tanning bed addiction, he acknowledges that there is compelling evidence from esteemed researchers suggesting that tanning beds, with their potent UVA light, can be as addictive as synthetic opioids like Vicodin or Oxycodone.
- However, he also highlights the potential use of tanning beds as a tool to help individuals transition off synthetic opioids.
[23:45] Sunblock Controversies: Balancing Skin Cancer Prevention and Vitamin D Synthesis
- The use of sunblock is a controversial subject, particularly in discussions involving dermatologists who often focus on skin cancer prevention.
- Overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, especially from the sun, is known to cause skin cancer. While some doctors recommend avoiding UV light and using vitamin D supplements, Alastair suggests a more relaxed approach, emphasizing the benefits of an active lifestyle and time spent outdoors.
- Some doctors advocate for sunblock as a means to prevent skin cancer, while others, like Alastair, express concerns about its potential negative impact on vitamin D synthesis.
- Alastair expresses skepticism about the marketing behind sunblocks, suggesting that it may not always be honest.
[48:00] A Journey through Mood Changes and Tanning Bed Seeking Behavior
- As the seasons changed, Alastair noticed a shift in his mood and described feeling a compulsion in the back of his mind. This compulsion led to what he referred to as "tanning bed seeking behavior."
- He experienced a sense of low-level gloom and a compulsion to seek out tanning, akin to textbook drug-seeking behavior.
- Alastair was mindful of the behavioral changes he observed in himself, characterized by a compulsion to seek out tanning beds.
- He noted that the compulsion to seek out tanning eventually went away. While he initially felt the urge to address the low mood through tanning, with time, the compulsion subsided.
AND MUCH MORE!
Resources from this episode:
● Website: https://www.bostwiki.com/
● Watch the Opiod Documentary: here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHh3qU5XYsw&t
● Follow Alastair Bostwick
● X: https://twitter.com/BostWiki
● YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bostwiki
● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alastairbostwick/
● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostwiki/
Free Detox Masterclass. Reserve Your Spot Here: http://www.toxinsmasterclass.com
/ / E P I S O D E S P ON S O R S
Wild Pastures: $20 OFF per Box for Life + Free Shipping for Life + $15 OFF your 1st Box! https://wildpastures.com/promos/save-20-for-life-lf?oid=6&affid=132&source_id=podcast&sub1=ad
BonCharge: Blue light Blocking Glasses, Red Light Therapy, Sauna Blankets & More. Visit https://boncharge.com/pages/ketokamp and use the coupon code KETOKAMP for 15% off your order.
Beam Minerals: BEAM Minerals products are the perfect support for the keto/carnivore/fasting way of living as they won’t break your fast, PLUS they taste just like water and will help you keep carb cravings at bay as you move into a fat-adapted state. Give BEAM Minerals a try today for an enhanced keto experience. Head to http://www.beamminerals.com and use the coupon code AZADI for a sweet discount!
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