Brad - Some people who practice science need to talk to people in precise, sometimes new terms. Mitochondria will be one of the most studied aspects of cellular health in the coming years. Should talk about it as we do "homeostasis" - oh just some general concept that means balance vs. the complexity of the ECS? Education involves change (i.e. learning new things) and if the public needs to elevate their vocabulary or knowledge, well that should be the science writer's goal. Good article but that first point comes off dismissive many writers I am sure.
Hi Chuck - thanks for the thoughtful tone here. Mitochondria have already been studied for years. They are the feature of a cell that generates the cell's energy. My point is not that we should never use scientific terms, but rather, a telltale sign of a grifter who someone who cloaks everything in super sciency sounding terms. For example, smoking is bad for mitochondrial health. Same with sleep deprivation. Same with drinking in excess. And on, and on, and on. Generally speaking, many behaviors change cell function in some way. But if someone starts telling me about their diet or exercise program or morning routine being good for mitochondrial health, unless that person is a scientist who studies mitochondria, my bullshit detector immediately goes up, and I think yours should too! Hope this helps to clarify a bit.
Brad - Some people who practice science need to talk to people in precise, sometimes new terms. Mitochondria will be one of the most studied aspects of cellular health in the coming years. Should talk about it as we do "homeostasis" - oh just some general concept that means balance vs. the complexity of the ECS? Education involves change (i.e. learning new things) and if the public needs to elevate their vocabulary or knowledge, well that should be the science writer's goal. Good article but that first point comes off dismissive many writers I am sure.
Hi Chuck - thanks for the thoughtful tone here. Mitochondria have already been studied for years. They are the feature of a cell that generates the cell's energy. My point is not that we should never use scientific terms, but rather, a telltale sign of a grifter who someone who cloaks everything in super sciency sounding terms. For example, smoking is bad for mitochondrial health. Same with sleep deprivation. Same with drinking in excess. And on, and on, and on. Generally speaking, many behaviors change cell function in some way. But if someone starts telling me about their diet or exercise program or morning routine being good for mitochondrial health, unless that person is a scientist who studies mitochondria, my bullshit detector immediately goes up, and I think yours should too! Hope this helps to clarify a bit.
Yep. My pet peeve is when getting my magnesium capsules at Wal-Mart, I see all the supplements that say "proprietary blend." Transparency is key!