Episode 26 Season 7: The Cold-COVID Connection and Chonky Dogs

Send us Fan Mail

Fascinating new research reveals how catching a common cold may provide surprising protection against COVID-19, reducing infection risk by 50% and viral load by tenfold. We explore the science behind this finding and why children might experience milder COVID symptoms thanks to their frequent colds.

• Recent study shows having a cold in the previous month led to 50% lower risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2
• Participants with recent colds showed tenfold lower COVID-19 viral loads
• Common colds trigger production of airway defense proteins that stay active and help fight other infections
• Children have higher activation of these defense proteins and catch colds more frequently
• "Cross protection" may explain why kids often had milder or asymptomatic COVID cases
• This was an observational study before vaccines were available

We also dive into canine obesity research, examining why 50% of US dogs are overweight and what pet parents can do about it:

• Overweight dogs may live 2.5 years less than dogs at ideal weight
• Retrievers and spaniels show 10% higher food motivation than average
• Labrador retrievers have a genetic mutation (POMC gene) that prevents feeling full
• Multi-dog households and urban environments increase food motivation
• Body condition scoring (BCS) is an underutilized clinical tool for monitoring weight
• Structured feeding times, measured portions, exercise, and food puzzles help manage weight

Our all links to social media and more!

Support the show

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.

All our social links are here!