The RP’s Weekly Web Gems: The Politics of Wellness

Take a deep breath. A new study shows that stress actually shrinks the parts of the brain dealing with metabolism and emotions. [Time]

In the United States, the average binge drinker takes in eight drinks at a time. [Wall Street Journal]

Instead of concentrating on social media’s negative effects, more doctors are using the Web to interact with teens. [NY Times]

Newsweek provides tips from experts on how to get a bigger brain. Hint: sleep has a lot to do with it! [Newsweek]

New research in Sweden reveals an alternative pain management system for premature babies, who are often too small for traditional painkillers: sugar water, and the human touch. [NPR]