Ep 2. Junk-Food Monkeys

Being Human: Life Lessons from the Frontiers of Science season 1 episode 2, titled "Junk-Food Monkeys," explores the impact of processed foods on primate societies and the implications for human health. With rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related diseases, researchers are turning to primates to understand the effects of a Western diet on the body and mind.

The episode follows a team of researchers studying macaque monkeys in Singapore, who have become addicted to junk food. The monkeys, who once subsisted on a diet of fruits, leaves, and insects, now rely on human food scraps, including sugary drinks, potato chips, and candy. Over time, their bodies have adapted to the high calorie, low-nutrient diet, leading to weight gain, insulin resistance, and other health problems.

The researchers use a combination of behavioral observations, metabolic testing, and brain imaging to understand how the monkeys' bodies and brains have changed in response to the Western diet. They find that the monkeys' microbiomes, the trillions of bacteria that live in the gut and play a crucial role in digestion and immunity, have shifted to favor the growth of harmful bacteria. As a result, the monkeys are more susceptible to infections and inflammation.

The researchers also find that the monkeys' brains have undergone changes in response to the high-sugar diet. Using MRI imaging, they observe alterations in the size and connectivity of brain regions involved in reward, motivation, and impulse control. These changes are similar to those seen in drug addicts and suggest that the monkeys have developed an addiction to junk food.

As the episode unfolds, the researchers discuss the implications of their findings for human health. They note that the rise of processed foods and sugary drinks has led to a global epidemic of obesity and diabetes, which are now among the leading causes of death worldwide. Moreover, they argue that the Western diet is not only harmful to the body, but also to the mind, as it can lead to changes in brain function and mood.

The episode ends with a call to action, urging viewers to make healthier food choices and to support policies that promote access to healthy food. The researchers note that while the effects of a Western diet are concerning, they are also reversible. By adopting a diet rich in whole foods and low in processed foods, individuals can improve their health and well-being. Moreover, they argue that by addressing the root causes of the obesity and diabetes epidemic, such as food insecurity and poverty, we can create a healthier, more equitable world for all.

Overall, "Junk-Food Monkeys" is a thought-provoking and timely exploration of the impact of the Western diet on primate societies and human health. Through a combination of cutting-edge science and compelling storytelling, the episode offers valuable insights into the consequences of our food choices and the steps we can take to create a healthier future.