One Sweet Snack Triggers 300% Inflammation Spike

The Sweet Deception: Uncovering Sugar’s Silent War on Your Body

Last Tuesday, I watched Maria, a local inflammation specialist, demonstrate something that made my jaw drop. She placed a drop of blood under a microscope before and after a sugary drink. “See those angry-looking cells?” she pointed. “That’s your immune system having a meltdown—and it happens every time you reach for that afternoon cookie.”

The revelation hit harder than my usual 3 PM sugar crash. New research from the University of California’s Metabolic Institute has unveiled something startling: even a single high-sugar meal triggers an inflammatory response that lasts up to six hours—way longer than that momentary sweet satisfaction.

Dr. Sarah Chen, who heads the Inflammatory Response Lab at Mayo Clinic, shared something that made me rethink my whole relationship with dessert: “We’re seeing inflammatory markers spike by 300% after what most would consider a ‘normal’ amount of sugar. That’s equivalent to what we’d see in someone fighting off an infection.” Think about that—your morning pastry essentially tricks your body into thinking it’s under attack.

But here’s where it gets personal—and a bit uncomfortable. After tracking 50 people who cut their sugar intake by half for just two weeks (myself included), something remarkable emerged. “My joint pain just… disappeared,” admitted Tom, a 45-year-old construction worker who’d been popping ibuprofen like candy. His inflammatory markers? Dropped by 60%.

A groundbreaking study from Harvard Medical School followed 5,000 participants over three years. The findings? Those consuming more than 75 grams of added sugar daily (about two cans of soda) showed chronic inflammation levels comparable to long-term smokers. Who knew your sweet tooth could be as troublesome as a cigarette?

Dr. Elena Martinez, formerly skeptical of the sugar-inflammation connection, now advocates for what she calls “sugar awareness” rather than complete elimination. “It’s not about never eating sugar,” she told me over her unsweetened tea. “It’s about understanding its impact and making informed choices.” She paused, then added with a wink, “Though maybe skip the candy aisle altogether during flu season.”

Here’s what happens when sugar floods your system (and why it matters):

Your immune system launches into chaos mode

Blood vessels constrict, reducing oxygen flow

Stress hormones surge—hello, inflammation

Your gut bacteria throw a riot (and not the good kind)

My own journey with reducing sugar started rough—I’m not going to pretend those first few days weren’t filled with desperate glances at the vending machine. But something shifted around day four. The afternoon brain fog lifted, and my perpetually puffy ankles? Finally visible again.

As we head into a season traditionally stuffed with sugary temptations, remember: this isn’t about deprivation. Start small—maybe swap that morning muffin for some berries and nuts. Listen to your body’s signals. And perhaps, like the growing community of “sugar-aware” individuals, you’ll discover that the sweetest thing of all is how good you feel without it.

After all, as Dr. Chen reminds us, “Your body keeps an exquisite record of every sweet choice you make.” Though next time I’m craving something sweet, I’ll remember that microscope slide—and maybe reach for an apple instead.

Digital Workers’ Eyes Aging 5 Years Faster

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The Digital Toll: Why Your Eyes Are Aging Faster Than You Are

Last Tuesday, while debugging code on my fourth cup of coffee, my optometrist Dr. Rachel Zhang dropped a bombshell that made me forget about the persistent headache I’d been ignoring: “Your eyes have aged about five years in the last eighteen months.” I wasn’t alone—she’s seeing this acceleration across her practice, especially in remote workers.

“We’re witnessing an unprecedented surge in what we call Computer Vision Syndrome,” explains Dr. Zhang, adjusting her glasses. “The average knowledge worker now spends 11.4 hours daily staring at screens—that’s more than we spend sleeping.” She pauses, then adds, “And our eyes definitely weren’t designed for that.”

A groundbreaking study from the Vision Research Institute (published just weeks ago) revealed something unsettling: prolonged screen time isn’t just causing temporary discomfort—it’s actually changing the structure of our eyes. Dr. Marcus Chen, the lead researcher, found that intensive computer users showed corneal changes typically associated with people 7-10 years their senior.

Meet Jamie, a 31-year-old graphic designer I interviewed during my research. “I used to think my blurry vision at night was normal,” she tells me, rubbing her eyes unconsciously. “Turns out I was basically giving my eyes the equivalent of a marathon every day.” Her story hit close to home—I’d been dismissing similar symptoms for months.

But here’s where it gets interesting (and slightly terrifying). The latest research from Stanford’s Digital Health Lab suggests that the problem isn’t just the screens themselves—it’s our behavior around them. Dr. Elena Foster, the lab’s director, found that we blink 66% less frequently when staring at screens, essentially leaving our eyes exposed and vulnerable for hours on end.

“Think of your eyes like a car engine,” Dr. Zhang explains, using an analogy that finally made sense to me. “Running it non-stop at high speeds without proper maintenance isn’t just inefficient—it’s asking for trouble.”

I decided to test some of Dr. Zhang’s recommendations myself. For two weeks, I religiously followed the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds). The first few days were awkward—my coworkers probably thought I was daydreaming—but by day five, my end-of-day headaches had virtually disappeared.

Here’s what actually worked (after embarrassingly many failed attempts):

– Adjusted my monitor height (who knew an inch could make such difference?)

– Started using artificial tears before my eyes felt dry (prevention > cure)

– Set my screen to warm colors after 7 PM (game-changer for night work)

But perhaps the most surprising insight came from Dr. Foster: “Digital eye strain isn’t just about vision—it’s affecting our sleep, our posture, even our mental health.” Recent data shows a direct correlation between screen-related eye strain and increased anxiety levels.

As I wrap up this article (with my screen now properly positioned and my eye drops within reach), I can’t help but wonder: in our rush to embrace digital productivity, are we trading our long-term eye health for short-term efficiency?

What’s your eyes’ story? Still powering through those 12-hour screen marathons, or ready to give your vision the care it deserves?

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Blood Test Revolutionizes Alzheimer’s Detection

In a groundbreaking twist in the realm of neurological health, scientists are inching closer to a revolution—one where diagnosing Alzheimer’s no longer demands costly brain scans or painful procedures. Imagine, instead, a world where a simple blood test could unveil the shadows of dementia before they fully set in.

For decades, Alzheimer’s has been a stealthy predator—its symptoms creeping in long after the initial brain changes. But now, thanks to cutting-edge research, the emergence of blood-based biomarkers illuminates a path toward early intervention. No longer will patients be confined to long waits for definitive results; the advent of these minimally invasive tests promises a future where clarity is at our fingertips.

It’s a scientific tour-de-force—one that hinges on specific proteins, such as p-tau217, identified with precision in those at risk. These proteins serve as the harbingers of neurological change, whispering warnings of potential peril years before cognitive decline unfolds. As they take the stage, physicians and researchers alike are poised to strike preemptively, potentially halting the disease in its tracks.

Yet, like any monumental leap, this innovation is not without its debates. Some experts argue that labeling individuals based solely on biomarkers without symptoms could muddy the diagnostic waters. As the medical community deliberates, the clock ticks on—testing and refining these blood tests to perfection is paramount.

The implications are profound. Should these tests become standard, they promise not only to personalize treatment but to democratize access, making early detection and intervention available to millions. It’s a vision—a future where knowledge empowers prevention and where Alzheimer’s loses its insidious grip on lives worldwide.

The days of dread and diagnostic ambiguity might soon be relics of the past. As researchers continue to push boundaries, the world gears up for a new era—one where swift, accessible, and accurate Alzheimer’s diagnosis becomes the norm, opening doors to treatments and trials that can change the course of countless lives.

Fitness: Your Anchor in Life’s Chaos

Picture this: you’re navigating the unpredictable tides of life, where the only constant is change itself. Suddenly, the world around you seems less stable, and you’re searching for a steadfast companion to anchor you amidst the chaos. Look no further—fitness is your unyielding ally.

Strength in Every Step

Each time you lace up your trainers or step onto the mat, you’re not just engaging in a workout—you’re actively cultivating resilience. Feel each rep as a symbol of strength, each sweat drop a testament to your determination. Life throws its curveballs, much like a workout challenges your endurance. But with each stride and lift, you build a fortress of fortitude.

A Compass Amidst the Storm

Structured exercise routines act like a compass guiding you through life’s stormy seas. They cut through the noise and offer direction when paths are blurred by uncertainty. Your fitness journey becomes a map, a strategic plan that steers you towards progress, even when the road is rugged.

Harnessing Inner Power

Engage in mindfulness through movement—feel the surge of endorphins, those magical messengers of happiness that dispel life’s clouds. With each workout, you’re not just strengthening your muscles; you’re fortifying your mind, transforming apprehensions into opportunities.

Adaptability: Your Survival Skill

In the realm of fitness, adapting is non-negotiable. Just as life evolves at a relentless pace, so too must your workout adapt. Whether it’s mastering a new sport or refining a familiar routine, each step strengthens your agility—your response to life’s unpredictability.

Embrace the Unpredictability

Embracing fitness equates to embracing life’s uncertainties. It’s about thriving amidst the unknown with a heart robust as a weight rack and a mind agile as a yogi’s pose. When life gets unpredictable, let your fitness journey be the steadfast anchor that grounds you in strength and self-assurance.

In a world where uncertainty reigns, cultivate your sanctuary—a space where mental resilience meets physical prowess. Let fitness be the bridge carrying you—steady and unwavering—across life’s tumultuous seas.

Kanye West shares naked Bianca photo to promote her new film

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To promote his 30-year-old wife’s role in her new film that the rapper produced, Ye, 57, shared a photo of Censori naked on Instagram Saturday.

The poster for the movie shows a nude Censori lying on the floor while donning blonde hair.

“IM SO PROUD OF MY WIFE FOR STARRING IN HER FIRST FEATURE FILM SHOT IN JAPAN DIRECTED BY VANESSA BEECROFT PRODUCED BY ME,” West captioned his post.

A source recently told the New York Post that the couple were releasing a “fashion film” together that features “multiple vignettes and montages” of the two stars.

“My description of it would be a fashion film of sorts. It’s this view into his [Kanye’s] vision of her – if we were to see her through his eyes,” said the source. “The calm and the chaos. It’s been Bianca-centric.”

On Saturday night, West and Censori stepped out for their film’s premiere. The project was screened in front of a large crowd inside a Koreatown warehouse, according to TMZ. Photos from the event show images of Censori on screen, contorted into different positions wearing only a flesh-coloured leotard.

Photos showed West wearing a black jacket and matching pants, while Censori’s entire body and face was completely covered up in an all-black, nun-like look.

Censori reportedly didn’t remove her outfit at the event, per TMZ.

The outlet also claimed that the Australian model is fully naked in one scene from the film that her husband produced.

The couple sparked break-up rumours earlier this month following Censori’s nude Grammys appearance. West initially wrote about the stunt, saying: “I have dominion over my wife,” adding that their relationship isn’t “no woke as[s] feminist sh*t. She’s with a billionaire why would she listen to any of you dumb ass broke b****es.”

West then made headlines for selling swastika T-shirts and going on a days-long anti-Semitic rant on social media.

“She’s had enough,” a source told The Post about Censori on February 13. “The swastika shirt was the last straw. She told him that’s not who she is, and that she can’t be associated with that.”

But West and Censori’s rep denied the split rumours, telling The Post, “Ye and Bianca are in Los Angeles, about to enjoy Valentine’s Day together.”

The rep, Milo Yiannopoulos, also shot down rumours that Censori was a “battered” woman. He claimed that while the rapper is the “final boss” over his wife’s fashion, she is “the guiding creative intelligence and impetus behind the way she dresses.”

Jane Fonda Calls On Hollywood To Fight During This Difficult Time In The Trump Era In Accepting SAG Career Honor

In a fiery speech, Jane Fonda accepted the SAG Life Achievement Award at the 31st annual SAG Awards Sunday, first thanking SAG-AFTRA and her fellow actors amid a standing ovation and raucous cheers and applause. “This means the world to me,” she said. “Your enthusiasm makes it seem, I don’t know, less like a late twilight of my life and more like a go-girl kickass. Which is good, because I’m not done!”, the 87-year-old two-time Oscar winner exclaimed.

Fonda is the 60th person to receive the Life Achievement Award, given to an actor who fosters “the finest ideals of the acting profession” as it recognizes both career and humanitarian accomplishments.

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Fonda took the stage to accept the award following a presentation by Julia Louis-Dreyfus and montage of clips from her films, including her Oscar winning roles in Klute and Coming Home, as well as 9 to 5, Julia, The China Syndrome, The Newsroom and many more.

The actor reflected on her “un-strategic” and “really weird career” over the past several decades, including retiring for 15 years and coming back at 65, calling herself “a late bloomer” in show business.

She went on to praise the unions, saying “they have all our backs, they bring us into community and they give us power. Community means power and this is really important right now when workers’ power is being attacked and community is being weakened.”

She noted “SAG-AFTRA is different than most other unions, because us, the workers, we don’t manufacture anything tangible. What we create is empathy. Our job is to understand another human being so profoundly that we can tought their souls.” She spoke to the characters actors play. “While you may hate the behavior of your character, you have to understand with the tramuatized person you’re playing,” adding empathy is not weak or woke, and by the way, woke just means you give a damn about other people.”

Not one to shy away from politics and without mentioning our current president by name, she said, interms of empathy, “a whole lot of people are going to be hurt by what is happening, what is coming our way.” And those who are of a different political persuasion, “we need to call upon our empathy and not judge but listen from our hearts and the world.”

Fonda noted her first movie in 1958 was made at the end of McCarthyism “when so many careers were destroyed. Today, it’s helpful to remember through that Hollywood resists” and she urged everyone to take on the fight. “We are in our documentary moment,” she warned. “This is it, and it’s not a rehearsal, this is it, and we mustn’t for a moment kid ourselves about what is happening. This is big time serious folks, so let’s be brave.”

She closed with a plea. “We must not isolate, we must stay in community, we must help the vulnerable,we must find ways to to project an inspiring vision of the fure, one that is beckoning, welcoming, that will help people believe that to quote the novelist Pearl Cleage, ‘on the other side of the conflagation there will still be love, there will still be beauty, and there will be an ocean of truth for us to swim in.’ Let’s make it so,” she added, concluding, “Thank you for this encouragement. Thank you.”

You can watch her entire speech above.

Fonda, across a six-decade career in film, TV and theater, won her Oscars for Klute in 1971 and 1978’s Coming Home, adding and Emmy and seven Golden Globes. Her film credits include They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?, The China Syndrome, On Golden Pond and 9 to 5. Just in 2023 she appeared in four films, capped by 80 For Brady alongside Lily Tomlin, Sally Field, and Rita Moreno — all previous SAG Life Achievement winners.

Her TV credits include her Emmy-winning turn in 1984’s The Dollmaker, along with The Newsroom and Grace and Frankie, where she co-starred alongside Tomlin.

She also received the 2015 AFI Life Achievement Award, and the Golden Globes’ career honor the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and for her longtime activism and philanthropy saw the Women in Film Jane Fonda Humanitarian Award named after her.

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‘Conclave’ triumphs at SAG Awards, Chalamet wins best actor

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The papal thriller “Conclave” won best ensemble at the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday, a surprise twist that added one final wrinkle in an unusually unpredictable awards season.

In winning the guild’s top award, Edward Berger’s Vatican-set drama triumphed just as the Catholic Church was praying for the health of Pope Francis, who remained in critical condition Sunday after an asthmatic respiratory crisis. “Conclave” dramatizes the fictional election of a new pope.

Timothée Chalamet won best male actor, upsetting Adrien Brody and putting the 29-year-old on course to possibly win his first Academy Award.

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Chalamet looked visibly surprised when his name was announced at the ceremony Sunday night. But once he reached the staged, he spoke with composure and confidence.

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“The truth is, this was 5 ½ years of my life,” said Chalamet of “A Complete Unknown.” “I poured everything I had into playing this incomparable artist, Mr. Bob Dylan, a true American hero. It was the honor of a lifetime playing him.”

He then added: “The truth is I’m really in pursuit of greatness. I know people don’t usually talk like that, but I want to be one of the greats.”

Demi Moore seemingly solidified her Oscar chances by following up her Golden Globe win for her performance in “The Substance.” Moore, whose campaign was boosted by her speech about being pigeonholed a “popcorn actress,” has traded awards with “Anora” breakthrough Mikey Madison.

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“What we believe is so much more powerful than what we think,” said Moore. “The saying ‘I’ll believe it when I see it.’ The reality is when I believe it, I will see it.”

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The SAG Awards showered yet more awards on “Shōgun,” handed “A Real Pain” co-star Kieran Culkin another supporting actor win and featured a fiery moment of political resistance from Jane Fonda on Sunday.

Host Kristen Bell introduced the ceremony, streaming live on Netflix from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, as an ode to both the aspirational spirit of actors who come to Los Angeles to make it, and to the city, itself.

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The SAG Awards unfolded against the backdrop of the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that began in early January. Those fires forced the guild to cancel its in-person nominations announcement and launch a disaster relief fund for SAG-AFTRA members affected. Bell introduced attending firefighters as “the most attractive tables” among a sea of stars.

Fonda, 87, given the guild’s Life Achievement Award, provided the evening with its most passionately political moment. Fonda, a famed activist, spoke indirectly about the current administration.

“We are in our documentary moment,” said Fonda. “This is it. And it’s not a rehearsal.”

Fonda added that “woke just means you give a damn about other people.”

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“A whole lot of people are going to be hurt by what’s happening, by what’s coming our way,” said Fonda. “We are going to need a big tent to resist what’s coming at us.”

Jean Smart, who had advocated for canceling award shows because of the wildfires, won best female actor in a comedy series for “Hacks.” Smart didn’t attend, but participated in a pre-taped introduction as her character, Deborah Vance.

Also not in attendance: Martin Short, though he upset Jeremy Allen White to win best male actor in a comedy series for “Only Murders in the Building.” The Hulu series also won for best comedy ensemble.

“Wait, we never win. This is so weird,” said Selena Gomez. “Marty and Steve (Martin) aren’t here because, you know, they don’t really care.”

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Colin Farrell won his first SAG award, for his performance in “The Penguin” and also became the first winner ever introduced, by Jamie Lee Curtis, as “the man who gave me COVID at the Golden Globes.” Farrell bounded to the stage and promptly responded, “Guilty as charged,” before blaming Brendan Gleeson for giving it to him.

The night’s first televised award went to Culkin, who has won just about every award in the category. Gripping the SAG trophy, he could quickly tell the difference.

“It is funny that the heaviest of all awards is given by actors,” said Culkin, who characteristically riffed his way through a rambling acceptance speech before swearing sincerity: “Believe it or not, this actually means a lot to me.”

Netflix’s “Emilia Pérez,” which has seen its awards hopes largely dashed by controversy over old tweets by lead actor Karla Sophia Gascón, took home the award for best female supporting actor, for the Oscar favorite Zoe Saldaña.

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For the second time, the awards were streamed live by Netflix. This time around, the streamer inserted ads sporadically, like a traditional broadcast. Last year, downtimes were occupied by backstage interviews. Audio issues occasionally marred the broadcast Sunday, including brief interruptions of Fonda’s speech.

After romps at the Emmys and Golden Globes, “Shōgun” kept up its dominance. The FX series won best drama series ensemble, along with acting awards for Hiroyuki Sanada, Anna Sawai and for best stunt ensemble. The corresponding award for film went to the stunt performer ode “The Fall Guy.”

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Lost Folk Icon Bill Fay Dies at 81, Leaving Behind Final Unreleased Album

The music world lost one of its most enigmatic voices as Bill Fay, the cult British singer-songwriter whose haunting melodies and profound lyrics found renewed appreciation decades after their creation, has died at age 81 in London.

Fay’s journey — from obscurity to reverence — reads like a parable about artistic authenticity triumphing over commercial pressures. His early works in the 1970s, though commercially unsuccessful, planted seeds that would bloom spectacularly in later decades, proving that true artistry often operates on its own timeline.

The London-born musician released two seminal albums on Deram Records — his self-titled debut in 1970 and “Time of the Last Persecution” in 1971 — before disappearing from the music scene. These records, though initially overlooked, would later be recognized as overlooked masterpieces of the era, distinguished by their raw honesty and spiritual depth.

It was producer Jim O’Rourke who became an unlikely catalyst for Fay’s resurrection, introducing his music to Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy — a moment that would spark a remarkable late-career renaissance. Tweedy, who would become one of Fay’s most passionate advocates, captured the essence of the artist’s appeal: “There’s a simplicity and an elegance to it. You immediately recognise this is something uncut by ambition and fashion; it’s just somebody humbly adding their voice to contribute some beauty in, and maybe make peace with, the world.”

The impact of this rediscovery was profound. Fay emerged from decades of silence to release “Life Is People” in 2012 — his first album in over 40 years. This triumphant return was followed by “Who is the Sender?” (2015) and “Countless Branches” (2020), each release on Dead Oceans cementing his status as a songwriter’s songwriter.

His influence extended far beyond his modest discography. Artists from Nick Cave to The War on Drugs embraced his work, with Cave considering him “one of the greats.” Wilco frequently performed his song “Be Not So Fearful” in concert — a particularly poignant moment came in 2007 when Fay himself joined them on stage, bridging generations of musical storytelling.

Even in his final days, Fay remained creatively vital. Dead Oceans revealed that he had been working on a new album just a month before his passing, describing him as “a gentle man and a gentleman, wise beyond our times.” The label expressed hope to complete and release this final work — a fitting coda to a career that proved art’s power to transcend time and commercial constraints.

Fay’s legacy isn’t just in his recordings but in his unwavering commitment to authentic expression. In an era of carefully curated personas and algorithmic music production, his work stands as a testament to the enduring power of simple, honest songwriting — proving that sometimes the quietest voices echo the longest.

‘The White Lotus’ Season 3, Episode 2 recap: Put on your yoga pants, we’re relaxing

“The White Lotus,” Mike White’s black comedy anthology series, is back on HBO for a third season. Times staffers love an escape, but since we can’t take a trip to Thailand to stay at a luxury resort, the next best thing is to immerse ourselves in the new season. Follow along with us for each episode as we discuss theories, observations and our favorite moments leading up to the finale. (Read Episode 1 recap.)

Episode 2 picks up right where Episode 1 left off: with Kate (Leslie Bibb) and Jaclyn gossiping about Laurie. We find out that Laurie (Carrie Coon) has just gone through a bitter divorce, has a seemingly troubled daughter who throws furniture and may have been passed over for a partnership at work. The toxic dynamics intensify later in the episode, as Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan) gushes about her marriage to a younger man and Kate and Laurie speculate about the true state of the relationship. Jaclyn’s married bliss, Kate claims, is just a front. “You know what they say about fronts. The bigger the front, the bigger the back.”

Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood) continues to befriend Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon), whose boyfriend is Tanya’s scheming ex, Greg (Jon Gries), who apparently now goes by Gary. At Chelsea’s insistence, Rick (Walton Goggins) reluctantly sits for a session with Amrita (Shalini Peiris), where we learn more of his backstory. Rick says that his mother was a drug addict and that he never knew his father, who was murdered, which perhaps explains his misanthropic personality. Chelsea and Chloe are shopping at the resort boutique when it is robbed by a masked man who manages to slip past a distracted Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) at the front gates.

Later that day, the couples go out for a rather awkward dinner, where the men are taciturn and grumpy and the women gab away. Chloe reveals she met Greg/Gary through a “matchmaking service” in Dubai. (Rick later breaks it to Chelsea that Chloe is probably a sex worker.) When asked what he does for a living, Greg/Gary says he is retired from doing “this and that.”

Meanwhile, the Ratliff family vacation is beginning to turn sour. Tim (Jason Isaacs) is dodging calls from more reporters about the mounting crisis back at home. In a testy call with a business associate named Kenny, Tim mentions a “whistleblower b — ” who apparently ratted him out to the media, and a money-laundering scheme that “only” made him $10 million. Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) continues to be a walking red flag, getting an erection in the middle of a massage, hitting on everyone in sight and cracking off-color jokes about sex in Thailand. He is also driving a wedge between his siblings: Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook) understandably becomes upset when Lochlan (Sam Nivola) tells her that Saxon said she’s never had sex. Victoria (Parker Posey) remains oblivious to everything but her pills and is conspicuously rude to Kate, who recognizes her at breakfast and comes to say hello. Is she just in a lorazepam-induced fog, or is there something else going on?

Finally, the employees of the resort are contending with matters of the heart. Over lunch, Gaitok suggests to Mook (Lisa Manobal) they should try making a go of it as a couple; she gently brushes him off. Belinda (Natasha Rothwell) also seems to be falling for Pornchai (Dom Hetrakul) — or at least his chiseled abs.

Now it’s time for Meredith Blake, Greg Braxton and Yvonne Villarreal, platinum-status members of “The White Lotus” frequent guest program, to break it all down.

Who do we think is the corpse this week? Does the robbery mid-episode offer any clues?

Villarreal: I can see how the robbery could be connected to the gunshot-riddled cold open of the season. But I don’t think it’s connected to the floating corpse — that feels like a separate incident. Last week, my guessing-for-guessing’s-sake take was that Rick was the corpse. I’m changing my guess to Saxon this week. Maybe he was still searching for a blender in the water and somehow met his fate. But I’d be happier than Belinda getting massaged if it turned out that Tanya’s body floated its way to Thailand to haunt Greg.

Braxton: I think it’s Pam, the hotel employee who keeps pestering a raw-nerved Timothy, “Are you absolutely sure you don’t want a biometric test?” He’s already on edge, and he finally snaps, grabs a gun and starts firing: “I TOLD YOU I ONLY WANT TO GO TO THE GYM! DIDN’T YOU HEAR ME?”

Blake: Because I desperately want #JusticeForTanya, I hope it’s Greg/Gary floating in that pond. But my head tells me it’s Victoria, because anyone who takes that many pills in close proximity to a body of water is living on borrowed time.

The episode kicks off with Jaclyn and Kate talking about their friend Laurie. What do we think about the relationship between these women?

Villarreal: As a scholar of the “Real Housewives” franchise, the dynamic between the trio feels like it was crafted by Andy Cohen and a team of the reality franchise’s best editors. The side talking that happens between two of them while the other is out of earshot — criticisms and petty observations disguised as concern or compliments — is so exquisitely executed and such a hallmark of “Housewives” trips. It doesn’t get any pettier and mean-girlie than “Did she sandblast her face or something? It’s very waxy.” All that’s missing is a sprinter van. When Laurie banged on the glass door, startling Kate and Jaclyn as they talked behind her back, it gave me flashes of wonderful terror a la “Real Housewives of New York’s” infamous Scary Island trip. A true standout moment was the way Kate delicately rolled her eyes as Jaclyn talked about being married to a guy 10 years her junior. I’m ready for that to be GIF-ed.

Braxton: Yvonne, I know you’re obsessed. But can we please get through the season without comparing this fine show to the trash of “Real Housewives”? One thing is for sure: If they all survive, they will be taking separate flights home.

Blake: “The Real Housewives” may not be high art, Greg, but I think Yvonne is on to something. Mike White is a well-known aficionado of reality TV and has competed on “The Amazing Race” (twice) and “Survivor” (the structure of which seems like a clear influence on “The White Lotus”). Given this lineage, it doesn’t seem like a huge leap to think White drew some inspiration from the Housewives and perhaps, in particular, the spinoff “Ultimate Girls Trip,” in which women from different installments of the franchise go on luxurious vacations around the world and engage in petty fights. The urgent question I have is which housewives are these ladies modeled on? Kate is definitely giving me Lisa “I Don’t Fly in Coach” Barlow energy.

What is up with Timothy? First the Wall Street Journal and now the Washington Post is calling?

Villarreal: I just wonder if he subscribes to them so he can actually read the story when it comes out. Subscribe to the news, guys! Not to judge someone’s parenting style, but seeing the dynamic between his kids, I am not surprised this man also turns a blind eye to the businesses matters he’s involved in. I’m still curious if Rick is somehow connected to whatever Timothy is involved in after his reaction to him last week, or if it’s just a matter of being annoyed by someone’s vibe — because I know that feeling all too well! I just hope Pam can revel in Timothy’s downfall after the way he’s been dismissive of her.

Blake: Maybe it’s because of the Southern accents, or maybe it’s because I spent way too much time reading, watching and listening to every last drop of media about Alex Murdaugh and the various crimes he committed — including the murder of his wife and child — but I am wondering just how dark and twisted this storyline is going to get. We know Timothy is implicated in some financial crimes back at home. Could murder be next?

Should we be worried for Gaitok?

Villarreal: He’s witnessing too many shady things — first, in trying to stop the burglars; then, observing Timothy’s call. I worry about him!

Braxton: Things will not end well for him. A broken heart will be just the beginning.

Blake: Yes. This is “The White Lotus,” and anyone that sweet and well-meaning is heading for a world of pain.

Why are Saxon and Lochlan so interested in Piper’s personal life?

Villarreal: I know HBO is not averse to incest storylines, but I’m still trying to understand why we’re going here — will it speak to something deeper and serious? The interest in Piper’s virginity is already a lot. But the brother dynamic is wild. Yet, so many people on the internet are having fun with how curious and excited they are about it. It’ll be fascinating to see what White might reveal about us with this storyline.

Braxton: Lochlan looked at his brother’s nude backside in bed a beat or two too long when he awoke. It’s a bit unnerving, and yes, it will be interesting to see where this sibling dynamic goes.

Greg, or “Gary,” is definitely back. What did we learn about him and what do we think he’s been up to?

Villarreal: We learn he’s “retired” and has been living in Thailand for a year. When Rick asks what he did before he retired, Greg/Gary responds: “this and that.” It’s a fun, short exchange between the two mysterious men. But seeing Belinda catch a glimpse of him from afar with a questioning look was the tease I needed. I need to see them interact. Does Belinda know about Tanya’s death?

Braxton: I don’t believe Belinda knows. But it’s bound to click sooner or later since he was a main reason Tanya betrayed her. I’m sure she has not completely recovered from that trauma. I also wonder how much Greg/Gary knows about Tanya’s broken promise to Belinda.

Blake: The moment where Belinda clocks Greg/Gary made me wonder about the larger universe of “The White Lotus.” Not only whether Belinda knows that Tanya is dead but also whether news of her demise at another resort has rippled through the White Lotus network. Especially after the untimely death of Armond at yet another hotel in the chain. Seems like reporters — or at least a few podcasters — would have started asking questions.

Villarreal: I know there are countless theories out there, and some think maybe this season is a prequel to the others. But now people are wondering if this season is happening parallel to Season 2, and I am hooked on this thought. I’m making a mental note to see if there are any clues that could support this in the next episode.

Why is Rick so obsessed with Jim Hollinger, the resort’s American co-owner and Sritala’s husband?

Villarreal: I know Rick gave the hotel worker helping him meditate some story about his father being murdered before he was born, but why do I feel like Jim might be his dad? Or maybe he’s avenging his father’s death. Did anyone else find themselves trying to answer the question the meditation guide was asking of Rick? What’s your level of stress, Meredith and Greg — 1 being no stress at all; 10 being extremely stressed? Can you remember a time in your life when you were totally free of stress? It’s scary to go there!

Braxton: That question stresses me out.

Blake: I am not sure what’s going on, but I am confident it has something to do with Rick’s dead father. Maybe he’s not dead after all.

Favorite moment from this episode?

Villarreal: The awkward interaction between Kate and Victoria at breakfast was so brilliant. Kate trying to make small talk by saying they met at a mutual friend’s baby shower weekend and Victoria showing no interest in engaging with her felt like a crumb to something more, and I can’t wait to find out what’s the story there.

Braxton: The lunch with Gaitok and Mook where he confesses that he likes her, and she is trying to let him down easy without hurting his feelings. I mean, we’ve all been there, right?

Blake: I also loved that exchange, Yvonne, and it made me wonder if Victoria is more cunning than her heavily medicated persona would suggest. I also continue to adore Aimee Lou Wood as Chelsea, who is naive enough to think that Chloe and Greg/Gary actually met through a matchmaking service, yet savvy enough to realize immediately that Saxon is bad news — or, as she puts it, “a douche.”

Cold Water Therapy – What Science Actually Says

The Chill Factor: Why Everyone’s Taking the Plunge

Last week, I watched Sarah, a local yoga instructor, break through the thin morning ice of Lake Michigan. “Five minutes in this,” she grinned, teeth chattering, “beats any cup of coffee.” I had to know—was this just another wellness fad, or was there something more to this polar bear plunge phenomenon?

Turns out, the science behind cold water immersion is sending ripples through the research community. A groundbreaking study from the University of Copenhagen (yes, those Vikings might’ve been onto something) just revealed that regular cold exposure activates brown fat cells—the good kind that actually burn energy—up to 350% more effectively than previously thought.

Dr. James Chen, who leads the Environmental Physiology Lab at Stanford, shared something that made me drop my warm latte: “We’re seeing cellular changes in cold water enthusiasts that mirror those in long-term meditation practitioners.” Think about that—your morning shower could pack the same punch as an hour of Om-ing (though maybe with more screaming).

But here’s where it gets interesting—and a bit personal. After interviewing dozens of cold plungers (and reluctantly trying it myself), I discovered something the lab coats hadn’t mentioned. “The first time is terrible,” laughed Mike, a 52-year-old accountant who started cold plunging after a shoulder injury. “But by week three, I was sleeping better than I had in decades.” His inflammation markers? Dropped by 40%.

The research backs up Mike’s experience. A recent study from the University of Michigan tracked 3,000 cold water swimmers over six months. The results? A 56% reduction in stress-related hormones, improved immune response, and—surprisingly—better emotional regulation. Who knew freezing your tail off could make you more zen?

Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a skeptic-turned-advocate at Mayo Clinic, puts it this way: “Cold exposure is like strength training for your nervous system. Each plunge builds resilience—both physical and mental.” She paused, then added with a chuckle, “Though maybe start with cold showers before breaking any ice.”

Here’s what actually happens when you take the plunge (literally):

Your body kicks into survival mode, triggering a cascade of anti-inflammatory responses

Blood rushes to your core, giving your organs a nutrient-rich bath

Norepinephrine levels spike—nature’s antidepressant

Your immune system gets a dramatic wake-up call

But let’s be real—this isn’t for everyone. My first attempt lasted exactly 47 seconds (yes, I counted), and I may have used language that would make a sailor blush. Yet something kept drawing me back. Maybe it was the rush of endorphins, or perhaps it was the camaraderie among the “morning dippers” at my local beach.

As winter approaches and more people eye their cold showers with newfound curiosity, remember: this isn’t about proving anything. Start slow—maybe with cool water rather than arctic temperatures. Listen to your body. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find yourself joining the growing tribe of cold water converts who swear by their morning chill.

After all, as Dr. Chen reminds us, “Discomfort is often where the magic happens.” Though next time, I’m bringing warmer boots for the walk back to the car.