Twin Doctors Discuss Flu Shots, Matcha Hair Loss, and Running's Effect on Brain Health

Flu Shot Timing

• ❌ August is too soon to get your flu shot, as flu season typically begins in late September or early October and peaks in December, January, and February.
• 💡 Getting the shot too early can cause your immunity to wane by the time the season is at its peak, as immunity lasts about six months.
• ✅ The ideal time to get vaccinated is in late September or early October for optimal protection throughout the flu season.

Matcha and Hair Loss

• ⚠️ Drinking matcha can contribute to hair thinning and hair loss indirectly.
• 🍵 Matcha contains polyphenols called tannins, which, in large quantities, can prevent or slow the absorption of iron from food.
• 🩸 This can lead to iron deficiency anemia, a leading cause of hair loss, especially for individuals already at risk or with conditions like heavy menstrual cycles.

Running and Brain Health

• 🧠 While physical activity is generally beneficial for the brain, excessive running can negatively impact brain health.
• ⚖️ Moderate physical activity is associated with a lower brain age than chronological age, indicating better brain cell health and plasticity.
• ⚠️ Over-exercising can lead to inflammation, which can negatively affect brain health, similar to its effects on heart health.

Pregnancy and Birth

• 👶 Second babies tend to come earlier and labor more quickly than first babies.
• ✅ Full term is considered 37 weeks of gestation, so a due date of September 20th means the baby could arrive around September 1st and still be full term.
• ✨ Postpartum recovery is also often better with subsequent pregnancies.