This article explores the role of free radicals and oxidative stress in health and wellness. Free radicals are unstable molecules produced naturally in the body but can increase due to environmental and lifestyle factors such as pollution, smoking, and poor diet. These molecules cause cellular damage by stealing electrons from other cells, triggering oxidative stress—a state where antioxidants are insufficient to neutralize free radicals. The detrimental effects of oxidative stress include accelerated aging, chronic inflammation, neurological disorders, and an increased risk of cancer. Symptoms associated with high free radical levels range from fatigue, muscle pain, and cognitive decline to weakened immunity and premature aging.

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a growing global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite advances in behavioral and pharmacological treatments, many individuals struggle to overcome addiction. However, a recent systematic review published in Frontiers in Psychiatry

In recent years, ketamine has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment for depression, particularly for individuals suffering from treatment-resistant forms of the disorder. One of the key mechanisms behind ketamine’s efficacy is its impact on the brain’s default mode network (DMN)—a brain system involved in self-referential thinking and the generation of negative thought loops. In this article, we will explore the relationship between ketamine infusions and the default mode network, and how disrupting these harmful cognitive patterns can bring relief to those with depression.