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  • 5 Surprising Truths About Fasting That Could Change How You Eat

    5 Surprising Truths About Fasting That Could Change How You Eat
    Nov 14 2025
    Have you ever worried that skipping a meal might leave you irritable, distracted, and less productive at work? The idea that “you’re not you when you’re hungry” is deeply woven into our culture, reinforcing the belief that we need a constant supply of food to keep our brains sharp and our bodies running.Yet, practices like intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating have grown immensely popular, with millions adopting them for long-term benefits ranging from weight management to improved metabolic health. This raises a pressing question: Can we gain the health rewards of fasting without sacrificing our mental edge and overall well-being in the process?But what if our fear of an empty stomach is fundamentally misplaced? A deep dive into recent research and expert analysis reveals that fasting isn’t a state of deprivation to be endured, but a powerful metabolic switch that our bodies are hardwired to use for profound self-repair and optimisation.1. Fasting Doesn’t Dull Your Brain—It Stabilizes ItContrary to the popular fear of “brain fog,” a comprehensive meta-analysis spanning nearly seven decades of research found a clear conclusion: for healthy adults, there was no meaningful difference in cognitive performance between fasted and fed states. People performed just as well on tests measuring attention, memory, and executive function whether they had eaten recently or not.This finding is powerfully explained by the body’s metabolic adaptability. Dr. Alan Goldhammer, a physician who has spent 40 years studying fasting, notes that eating refined carbohydrates can trap us on a “sugar roller coaster,” where blood sugar fluctuations interfere with cognitive function. Fasting breaks this cycle. When glucose runs out, the brain switches to a stable, efficient energy supply from ketones. This metabolic switch is so effective that the meta-analysis found longer fasts were associated with a smaller performance gap, suggesting the brain doesn’t just cope; it actively adapts and stabilizes on its new fuel source.Of course, this comes with important caveats. The analysis showed fasting did negatively affect the cognitive performance of children and adolescents, whose developing brains appear more sensitive to energy fluctuations. Furthermore, it revealed that fasted individuals tended to perform worse on tests conducted later in the day, suggesting that fasting might amplify the natural dips in our circadian rhythms.2. It’s Not Just for Weight Loss—It Targets the Most Dangerous “Hidden” FatWhile many people begin fasting to lose weight, its most powerful effect may be on a type of fat you can’t see: visceral fat. This is the “hidden” fat that accumulates around the belly and internal organs, and it is far from harmless. As Dr. Goldhammer explains, it is metabolically active in a dangerous way.“...it’s pro-inflammatory hyper metabolic hypertrophic it acts like a tumor...”This visceral fat is now understood to be a primary driver of modern chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, because of the inflammatory products it releases. Studies from his clinic using DEXA scanners to analyze body composition changes have shown that fasting is exceptionally effective at targeting this specific fat. A typical two-week fast could lead to a 10% loss of total body weight, but a staggering 40% loss of visceral fat. During that same period, participants lost only 6% of their lean tissue, which was fully recovered six weeks after the fast ended.3. It Can “Reboot” Your Gut MicrobiomeYour gut is home to trillions of organisms, collectively known as the microbiome, which are crucial for everything from digestion to your immune response. Dr. Goldhammer uses a simple analogy to explain fasting’s effect on this complex internal ecosystem: it’s like turning a corrupted computer off and on again to “reboot” the system.This isn’t just a metaphor. A 2024 study found that after just a 7-day water-only fast, levels of harmful Fusobacteria in the gut dropped by more than 80% as the entire microbiome shifted toward a healthier balance. By temporarily reducing the total number of organisms, fasting creates an opportunity during the refeeding phase to repopulate the gut with beneficial bacteria. This “reboot” may be why fasting has been shown to produce positive responses for people with GI-related conditions as well as for those experiencing depression and anxiety, as the gut produces a significant amount of the body’s serotonin and dopamine. This gut-brain connection helps explain why an intervention in the digestive system can have such a noticeable impact on mood and mental clarity.4. Fasting Can Rewire Your Cravings and Your Relationship with FoodOne of the most profound, though less quantifiable, benefits of fasting is its ability to recalibrate your palate through a process called “taste neuro-adaptation.” Dr. Goldhammer explains that after a ...
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    6 min
  • Beyond Ukraine: Four Shocking Ways Europe's Security Crisis Just Hit Home

    Beyond Ukraine: Four Shocking Ways Europe's Security Crisis Just Hit Home
    Oct 2 2025
    An overview of a European Union summit in Copenhagen focused on defence against Russian aggression and the future of Ukraine’s EU accession. The meetings were set against a backdrop of heightened security concerns, prompting Denmark to ban civil drone flights following mysterious drone sightings, which leaders like Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen labeled as hybrid warfare tactics by Russia. A major point of friction was Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s opposition to both fast-tracking Ukraine’s membership and plans to use frozen Russian assets for aid, leading to a clash with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Despite Orbán’s resistance, EU leaders broadly supported proposals to strengthen defenses, including a “drone wall,” and plan to revisit a detailed defense roadmap at a later summit.

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    15 min
  • How to Build a Morning Routine That Lasts

    How to Build a Morning Routine That Lasts
    May 24 2025
    The podcast episode offers a personal account of the author's journey to establish a consistent morning routine over 30 days after previous attempts failed. It outlines the catalyst for this experiment and the lessons learned each week, emphasising the importance of starting small, personalising the routine, incorporating rewards, and embracing flexibility. The piece also touches upon the science behind why this particular routine stuck, such as using micro-habits and aligning with chronotype, and provides a flexible framework for the author's current morning ritual. Ultimately, the author encourages readers to audit their current habits, begin with a single keystone habit, experiment to find what works for them, design their environment for success, and celebrate small wins to create their own sustainable routine.

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    18 min
  • Welcome to the UK and Goodbye

    Welcome to the UK and Goodbye
    Apr 30 2025
    The podcast it’s based , the article titled "Welcome to the UK and Goodbye: Where the Grass Was Greener, Once" from The INFORMER, discusses the reasons behind the increasing departure of Romanian and Polish migrants from the United Kingdom. The author points to a decline in the quality of life, citing factors such as a third of the population living below a minimum socially acceptable standard and stagnating wages. The piece also highlights significant issues within the National Health Service (NHS), including extended waiting times and soaring negligence claims. Furthermore, the article argues that racism and xenophobia against Eastern Europeans have risen significantly since Brexit, and it notes a surge in crime rates, particularly shoplifting. Ultimately, the source suggests that these combined factors create an environment where remaining in the UK becomes increasingly challenging and undesirable for these migrant groups.

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    10 min
  • The Rise of Artisanal Candles in the UK

    The Rise of Artisanal Candles in the UK
    Apr 27 2025
    There’s something magical about lighting a candle. The gentle flicker, the subtle aroma, the way a room seems instantly warmer and more welcoming. In the UK, this simple pleasure has sparked a booming market for artisanal candles-handcrafted, sustainable, and brimming with personality.A Market That’s Glowing Brighter Than EverCandles have always been a staple in British homes, but the last few years have seen a real shift. The UK candle market is now worth hundreds of millions, with some estimates placing it at over £1.9 billion. What’s truly remarkable is how much of this growth is driven by small, independent makers. In fact, nearly a third of all candles sold in the UK come from regional and handmade brands.This isn’t just a trend among hobbyists. Many of these businesses have grown from kitchen-table ventures to thriving companies. Take Candle Shack, for example-a business that started small and now supports nearly 10,000 aspiring candle entrepreneurs, with a turnover of £15 million.Why Are Artisanal Candles So Popular?It’s not just about the scent. British shoppers are looking for more from their candles:* Sustainability: Eco-friendly materials and refillable containers are now the norm, not the exception.* Natural Ingredients: Soy, rapeseed, and coconut waxes are replacing paraffin, offering a cleaner burn.* Unique Design: Sculptural candles and creative packaging turn these products into statement pieces.* Wellness and Ambiance: Candles are no longer just for special occasions. They’re part of everyday routines-helping people unwind, focus, or simply make their homes feel more inviting.During the pandemic, this desire for comfort and relaxation saw candle sales soar by nearly 30%. People wanted to make their homes cozier, and candles offered an affordable way to do just that.Meet the MakersFrom luxury names like Jo Malone London and Neom Organics to independent brands such as Hazel & Blue, Giorgio Luca and Cotswold Candle Co., the UK is home to a diverse community of candle makers. Many focus on small-batch production, hand-pouring each candle, and experimenting with new scents inspired by the British countryside.What sets these makers apart is their attention to detail. They use high-quality essential oils, natural wicks (sometimes even wooden ones that crackle like a fireplace), and recyclable packaging. The result? Candles that look, smell, and feel special.What’s Next for the UK Candle Scene?Looking ahead, the future is bright for artisanal candles. Here are a few trends to watch:* Refillable Candles: More brands are designing containers that can be reused, cutting down on waste.* Complex Fragrances: Expect to see more layered scents-think cedar and citrus, or sandalwood and sage.* Sculptural Shapes: Candles are becoming art objects in their own right, with bold shapes and colors.* Subscription Boxes: Monthly deliveries of new scents and styles are gaining popularity.* DIY Kits: With more people interested in making their own candles at home, kits and workshops are on the rise.The TakeawayArtisanal candles in the UK are more than just a passing fad. They’re a reflection of changing tastes-towards sustainability, craftsmanship, and the simple joys of home. Whether you’re a candle lover or thinking about starting your own business, there’s never been a better time to join the glow.Want to discover more about the world of British candle making? Explore your local makers, try a new scent, or even pour your own. The possibilities are endless-and the future looks bright.

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    10 min
  • The Cybertruck Bomber: Matthew Livelsberger’s Cryptic Manifesto and Explosive Secrets

    The Cybertruck Bomber: Matthew Livelsberger’s Cryptic Manifesto and Explosive Secrets
    Jan 5 2025
    The dawn of 2025 came with a bang quite literally. On January 1, outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded, injuring seven. Inside the futuristic vehicle was the body of Matthew Alan Livelsberger, a decorated Green Beret. But the explosion was no accident, and the aftermath has raised more questions than answers.What unfolded wasn’t just a tragic spectacle; it was a calculated act, accompanied by cryptic emails, claims of global conspiracies, and allegations of war crimes. Was Livelsberger a man broken by personal and professional turmoil, or was he a whistleblower silenced by forces larger than himself? Let’s unravel the threads.

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    11 min
  • Romania’s Democracy Died Today: Vote Until the "Right" Candidate Wins

    Romania’s Democracy Died Today: Vote Until the "Right" Candidate Wins
    Dec 7 2024
    The discussion details the annulment of Romania's first round of presidential elections by the Constitutional Court due to alleged irregularities and external interference. The author contends this decision, made on St. Nicholas Day, undermines democracy, suggesting it was orchestrated to prevent the victory of a candidate deemed "not controlled by the system." The piece explores accusations of foreign influence and alleges the move was a power play to ensure a preferred candidate's win. Ultimately, the author calls for Romanians to unite and defend their democratic principles against this perceived assault.The INFORMER is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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    14 min
  • Tesla's recent stock surge

    Tesla's recent stock surge
    Dec 4 2024
    Our LinkedIn article analyses Tesla's recent stock surge, attributing it to increased production capacity from Gigafactory Berlin and Texas, innovative battery and autonomous driving technologies, and a strong commitment to sustainability, appealing to ESG investors. Analysts' raised price targets reflect confidence in Tesla's future, although market volatility and competition remain risks. The article highlights Tesla's disruptive influence on the automotive industry and its broader impact on the clean energy transition. The overall tone is optimistic about Tesla's long-term prospects.The INFORMER is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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    12 min