E136: Pediatrician Explains How to Raise Healthy Kids in our Modern World

Dr. Paul Turke, a pediatrician and anthropologist, discusses his book Bringing Up Baby, exploring evolutionary insights on child health, grandparent roles, and the social aspects of aging, with a focus on how early life and kinship networks impact development. Guest Bio: Dr. Paul Turke is a pediatrician and anthropologist with expertise in child development, evolutionary health, and pediatrics. He is the author of Bringing Up Baby, which explores child health through an evolutionary lens, with a particular focus on grandparent involvement, autism, and mental well-being. Topics Discussed: The evolutionary role of grandparents in human lifespan and health Autism and the potential link to vision disorders in infants The importance of exercise and purpose in preventing anxiety and depression The influence of kinship networks on parenting in modern society The impact of diet and exercise on aging and long-term health The role of parents and grandparents in child development Key Points: Grandparents are evolutionary assets, contributing to human longevity through indirect reproduction and support of grandchildren, helping to maintain strong natural selection. Autism may be linked to vision issues in infants, where early correction of visual impairments could potentially reduce the risk of developmental disorders. Anxiety is an evolved guidance system, and mental well-being can be better supported by exercise, outdoor activities, and social engagement rather than relying solely on medication. Top 3 Quotes: "Live long and be helpful" "Anxiety serves a purpose. We need to learn how to deal with it, not eliminate it." "The planet will benefit if our children are the ones who solve the problems of the future." 🎙 The Pod is hosted by Jesse Wright 💬 For guest suggestions, questions, or media inquiries, reach out at https://elpodcast.media/ 📬 Never miss an episode – subscribe and follow wherever you get your podcasts. ⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show. It helps others find us. Thanks for listening!