Oct 31, 2026 · 5 min listen · Last updated October 31, 2026
From storyflo. This is your daily audio brief. It's Chloe, October 31st. Ten stories — evidence-led, no fluff, small inputs compound. Let's get into it. First, from The Habit Healers. How to Check How Well You're Aging in 15 Minutes Without a Lab Test or a Longevity Clinic.
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Daily Health & Wellness Brief · October 31st
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How to Check How Well You're Aging in 15 Minutes Without a Lab Test or a Longevity Clinic
In a recent study, scientists examined the health of Maria Branyas Morera, a 116-year-old woman, to understand how some people age differently. They found that while some of her biological markers showed signs of aging, like shortened telomeres and clonal hematopoiesis, other aspects suggested she was healthier than her age would imply. Her cholesterol levels were excellent, and she maintained a gut microbiome typical of younger individuals, possibly linked to her yogurt consumption.
This research highlights the difference between lifespan—how long we live—and healthspan—how well we live during those years. In the U.S., there's a growing gap between these two, with many spending years in poor health. Interestingly, studies show that biological age can vary significantly among individuals of the same chronological age, suggesting that lifestyle choices can impact how we age.
For instance, a study of over 1,000 people found biological ages ranging from 28 to 61 among 38-year-olds. Another trial indicated that calorie restriction might slow aging markers, but more research is needed to confirm these findings. Overall, while Maria's case is unique, it reminds us that aging is complex, and we might have more control over our health than we think.
Anthropic’s one-person biotech buy; Jake Van Naarden’s dealmaking strategy; and more
Anthropic, the AI company, has made a notable move by acquiring a one-person biotech firm, signaling a shift in their strategy to integrate more biological insights into their technology. This acquisition reflects a growing trend where tech companies are increasingly looking to biotech for innovative solutions, blending the two fields in ways we haven’t seen before.
Jake Van Naarden, known for his strategic deal-making, is at the forefront of this trend. His approach emphasizes collaboration and partnerships, focusing on how combining resources can lead to more impactful outcomes. This strategy is particularly relevant as the biotech landscape continues to evolve, with companies seeking to leverage AI to enhance research and development.
In other news, the ongoing discussions around regulatory frameworks for AI in healthcare are heating up. Policymakers are grappling with how to ensure safety and efficacy while fostering innovation. This balancing act is crucial as more AI-driven solutions enter the market, aiming to improve patient outcomes.
As we head into the end of the year, keep an eye on these developments. The intersection of AI and biotech is likely to shape the future of both industries, and understanding these dynamics will be key for anyone following the space.
The actual process of cooking dried beans is pretty straightforward. The main thing to watch out for is using old beans – they might just never soften, so it’s worth getting a fresh bag. The author mentions that different beans cook at different rates, but the same basic method works for most dried beans and even some dried peas. If you soak them overnight, you have a lot of flexibility to swap out different types, like cannellini for kidney beans or chickpeas. If you're in a real rush and want to skip the soaking, your only option is smaller beans like black-eyed peas or split peas.
It's also interesting how beans can have different names depending on where you shop. What one place calls cannellini, another might call alubia. The point the author makes is not to get too hung up on the exact name or brand. It's more about embracing the bean you have and working with it. They absorb liquid differently, so you might end up with a soupier result or beans that are still a bit firm. You just adjust by simmering longer or draining off excess liquid. The key is to just watch the pot and taste as you go.
Now, if you *really* don't have the time for the from-scratch method, the author still has you covered. They use tinned beans for things like stews and pasta sauces where they'll soften further. For dishes where the beans are the star, like salads, they prefer jarred beans because they tend to be firmer and hold their shape better. There's even a quick recipe for a creamy butter bean base that takes about 20 minutes, using tinned beans simmered in their own liquid. It’s a good option for a fast meal or a versatile store-cupboard base.
You’ve been walking outside every single day since November 1 2025—except for four sick days in August—so you’ve hit 364 days of stepping out in all kinds of weather, even on a colonoscopy day and during holidays. That consistency feels like a quiet win, and you’re proud of it and planning to keep it up.
Today you tried celery root for the first time, figuring out how to peel its fuzzy skin and discovering a new, surprising flavor. Cooking something unfamiliar gave you a little spark of delight.
You see this routine as a grounding practice, a way to bring your attention back to the simple, good things that surround you daily.
Now you’re inviting others to share three good things of their own. Xo.
They also touched on genetics, which we all know plays a role, but this analysis highlighted that even without a strong family history, lifestyle factors can still significantly increase the risk. It's a reminder that it's not just about what you're born with, but also about the choices we make day-to-day.
The study did point out that more research is needed to pinpoint exact mechanisms and to see if these links hold true across different populations. So, it's not like they've found the magic bullet, but it's a solid step in understanding these trends better. It makes you think, right?
STAT+: What are the health stakes of the midterms? Policymakers, lobbyists, and experts weigh in
The midterm elections are shaping up to have a significant impact on American health care, regardless of the outcome. If Democrats retain control of Congress, we might see a slowdown in policymaking, with a focus on investigations into health issues. Conversely, if Republicans hold the majority, we could see a more aggressive push for their legislative agenda.
Interviews with over two dozen experts, including government officials and lobbyists, reveal key areas of concern. These include essential health policies and the overall political climate surrounding health care. The results of the elections will likely influence everything from funding to regulations in the health sector, making it a pivotal moment for U.S. health care.
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