Dopamine is often associated with helping us feel pleasure, though its role in the body is far more complex. The neurotransmitter is essential for memory and learning, as well as reward-related behaviours. But some of those behaviours can be problematic. Patricia Di Ciano, a scientist with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, breaks down how dopamine functions, and whether dopamine fasting actually works.

Dopamine fasting: What should I know?

A weekly look at the health news that matters to you. Dr. Brian Goldman brings you the best science from top experts in plain language. He cuts through the BS and confusion to give you a dose of smart advice that you won’t find anywhere else. New episodes every Thursday.

Health & Fitness

We’re all looking for ways to avoid cognitive decline, whether it’s by doing word puzzles or staying fit. So what actually helps keep our brains healthy? Dr. Steven Laureys, neurologist and Canada Excellence Research Chair in neuroplasticity at Laval University, shares what you need to know.  
 For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

How can I keep my brain sharp as I age?

For the millions of Canadians who suffer from migraines, new medications approved in Canada over the last five years have changed the game. Neurologist Dr. Elizabeth Leroux shares what you need to know about how to prevent and treat migraines.  
 For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

How should I treat migraine attacks?

Canadians on average consume nearly half of their calories from ultra-processed foods. These are foods with added textures, colours and flavours that often contain high levels of salt, sugar and fat. Université de Montréal associate professor Jean-Claude Moubarac explains how ultra-processed foods can affect our physical and mental health, and how we can better tailor our diets. 
 For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

How do ultra-processed foods affect my health?

While we tend to think rest is the key to recovering from an injury, physicians recommend keeping the body moving, if possible, but at a lower intensity. Sport medicine physician Dr. Laura Cruz explains why "motion is lotion" and provides some low-impact exercises that can help our bodies more easily recover.

How can I safely stay active while injured?

Amie Archibald-Varley and Sara Fung are registered nurses who advocate for better healthcare on The Gritty Nurse podcast. Now they’ve published a book called The Wisdom of Nurses: Stories of Grit from the Front Lines. They join host Dr. Brian Goldman for a chat about why nurses make incredible leaders, and how healthcare can improve when we listen to nurses.

Dopamine fasting: What should I know?

Download our free app to listen on your phone