Dr. John Schoonbee, the Global Chief Medical Officer at Swiss Re, is a distinguished expert in the field of medical science and insurance. With over two decades of experience in life insurance, including product development, risk assessment, and claims management, Dr. Schoonbee has made significant contributions to understanding and improving global health, particularly in the areas of metabolic health and aging. John was one of our keynote speakers at our HAPPY HEALTHY LIFE FOREVER event. Read below his key findings.
Summary of Main Health Research and Findings:
Global Health Overview:
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- Dr. Schoonbee has a comprehensive understanding of global health trends and issues. His work involves analyzing extensive health data to identify patterns and emerging challenges in public health. This global perspective allows him to develop strategies that address widespread health concerns effectively.
Metabolic Health and Insulin Resistance:
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- A focal point of Dr. Schoonbee’s research is metabolic health, with a particular emphasis on insulin resistance. He has extensively studied how insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, is a precursor to many non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome.
- Dr. Schoonbee has highlighted the critical link between insulin resistance and aging, demonstrating that improving insulin sensitivity is key to preventing and managing age-related diseases.
Lifestyle and Nutrition in Improving Insulin Sensitivity:
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- Dr. Schoonbee advocates for lifestyle modifications, particularly in nutrition, to enhance insulin sensitivity. His research suggests that dietary changes, regular physical activity, and weight management can significantly reduce the risk of insulin resistance and its associated complications.
- He emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet rich in whole foods, low in processed sugars and refined carbohydrates, to maintain metabolic health and promote longevity.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT):
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- Another innovative area is the role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) in maintaining and improving metabolic health. HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, which can enhance oxygen delivery to tissues and stimulate various physiological processes.
- Dr. Schoonbee has explored how HBOT can improve insulin sensitivity and support metabolic health, offering an additional potential therapeutic avenue for individuals with metabolic disorders.
Granular Cardiometabolic Calculator:
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- Dr. Schoonbee played a pivotal role in the development of Swiss Re’s granular cardiometabolic calculator within LifeGuide. This tool incorporates lifestyle factors and provides guidance for diabetes remission, offering a more nuanced approach to assessing and managing cardiometabolic risk.
Dr. John Schoonbee’s work at the intersection of medical science and insurance has provided valuable insights into the prevention and management of metabolic health issues. His research underscores the importance of addressing insulin resistance through lifestyle and dietary interventions, and the innovative approach with HBOT and advanced health assessment tools reflects his commitment to enhancing global health outcomes. Dr. Schoonbee’s contributions continue to shape strategies for healthier aging and improved metabolic health, benefiting individuals and healthcare systems worldwide.
LABO Spa Tip For You: Follow a Balanced Diet
Prefer foods that have a low glycemic index to avoid glucose spikes in blood sugar levels which increase the harmful release of insulin. These include whole grains, vegetables, legumes, and most fruits. Incorporate healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, which can improve insulin sensitivity. And ensure adequate protein intake from lean meats, fish, dairy, beans, and legumes to help stabilize blood sugar levels.
