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Intermittent fasting, particularly an "early" time-restricted eating pattern, is gaining attention for its potential health benefits, including weight loss and improved metabolic health. A recent study published in *Nature Medicine* involved nearly 200 participants aged 30 to 60 with a BMI over 32, who were assigned to different fasting groups. Those in the early fasting group, consuming food between 9:45 AM and 5:30 PM, experienced greater reductions in abdominal fat and improved blood sugar levels compared to other groups. Lead researcher Jonatan R. Ruiz emphasized that aligning eating with the body’s circadian rhythms may enhance metabolic efficiency. While all fasting groups lost an average of 3-4 kg, the early group showed the most significant benefits. Experts suggest further research to explore the long-term effects of this dietary approach and its integration with exercise for optimal health outcomes. 
Published: Jan 24 2025, 1 ameznews.inA recent systematic review published in *PLOS One* has revealed that while cold-water immersion—commonly known as cold plunges—may provide short-term benefits such as reduced stress, improved sleep quality, and decreased sick days, the long-term effects remain uncertain. The analysis, which included eleven studies with 3,177 participants, found that cold-water exposure can temporarily lower stress levels for up to 12 hours post-immersion. However, it also noted an initial increase in inflammation, suggesting a complex relationship between cold exposure and health. Researchers emphasized the need for further studies to explore the long-term impacts and ideal conditions for cold-water therapy, particularly among diverse populations. Experts highlight that while users report feeling invigorated immediately after cold plunges, more rigorous research is essential to determine whether these effects lead to sustained improvements in mental health and overall well-being.
Published: Feb 09 2025, 6 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *MDPI Nutrients* has raised concerns about the health effects of short juice cleanses, which typically involve consuming only fruit and vegetable juices for three to seven days. The research found that even a three-day juice fast can significantly alter the oral microbiome, increasing inflammatory bacteria while reducing beneficial strains. Although juice cleanses are popular for purported detoxification and weight loss benefits, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. The study's small sample size and short duration prompted caution from experts like UK Registered Dietitian Megan Mehnert, who noted that such diets may not provide adequate nutrients and could be particularly harmful to individuals with eating disorders. Overall, the findings suggest that while fruit and vegetable juices can be part of a balanced diet, juice cleanses are unlikely to offer significant health benefits and may pose risks.
Published: Feb 08 2025, 4 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *Nature Aging* suggests that daily supplementation with omega-3 and vitamin D, combined with regular exercise, may slow biological aging by three to four months over three years. Researchers analyzed data from the DO-HEALTH trial, which involved over 700 older adults across Europe, finding that those who adhered to this regimen experienced measurable molecular benefits. Although the reduction in biological aging may seem modest, researchers argue it could significantly impact public health by lowering the risk of age-related conditions. The study utilized multiple biological clocks to assess aging at the molecular level, revealing that the combination of omega-3, vitamin D, and exercise had a more substantial effect than any single intervention alone. Experts caution that while the findings are promising, further research is necessary to confirm these results and their implications for longevity and health.
Published: Feb 08 2025, 3 ameznews.inRecent research has revealed that microplastics accumulate in human brains at higher concentrations than in any other organ, including the liver and kidneys. An estimated 78,000 to 211,000 microplastic particles are ingested by the average person annually through contaminated food, water, and air. Notably, individuals diagnosed with dementia exhibit up to ten times more microplastics in their brains compared to those without the condition. This study, published in *Nature Medicine*, analyzed post-mortem brain tissue and identified twelve different polymers, predominantly polyethylene. While the findings raise concerns about the potential health risks of microplastics, particularly regarding neurological health, researchers urge caution in interpreting the link between microplastics and dementia, suggesting further investigation is necessary. Experts recommend reducing plastic use and opting for natural fibers to mitigate exposure, as the increasing prevalence of microplastics poses significant questions for public health and environmental policy.
Published: Feb 08 2025, 12 ameznews.inA recent study has revealed a surprising link between cholesterol levels and glaucoma risk among older adults. Researchers found that higher levels of "good" HDL cholesterol were associated with an increased risk of developing glaucoma, with participants exhibiting the highest HDL levels being 10% more likely to face the eye condition. Conversely, those with elevated levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol showed a reduced risk, with the highest LDL levels correlating to an 8% lower likelihood of developing glaucoma. The study, which analyzed data from over 400,000 participants aged 40 to 69 in the U.K. Biobank, highlights the complexity of cholesterol's role in health. Experts caution against drawing definitive conclusions, emphasizing the need for more rigorous studies involving clinical trials and ophthalmologist-confirmed diagnoses to better understand these associations and their implications for glaucoma screening and treatment.
Published: Feb 06 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA recent analysis of 601 trials has highlighted the cardiovascular benefits of diabetes medications, particularly SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists, for individuals with type 2 diabetes. The condition, affecting over 537 million adults globally, often requires medication when lifestyle changes are insufficient for blood glucose control. The study revealed that while both drug classes reduce major cardiovascular event risks, their effectiveness varies by age and sex. SGLT2 inhibitors were found to provide greater cardiovascular protection in older patients, whereas GLP-1 agonists were more beneficial for younger individuals, especially women. Researchers emphasized the importance of considering a patient's age when prescribing these medications, as older patients may experience significant cardiovascular benefits despite lesser blood sugar control. This nuanced understanding could guide clinicians in tailoring diabetes treatment to enhance patient outcomes.
Published: Feb 06 2025, 1 pmeznews.inA recent study involving 826 young adults has revealed a significant link between diet quality and biological aging, suggesting that unhealthy eating habits can accelerate aging even in individuals as young as 21 to 25. Researchers utilized advanced "epigenetic clocks" to measure biological age, finding that diets high in fast food, processed meats, and sugary beverages, but low in fruits and vegetables, were associated with faster biological aging. Conversely, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables appeared to slow the aging process. While the study highlights the importance of dietary choices in health outcomes, it also notes that factors such as physical activity and body mass index may influence these relationships. Experts emphasize the need for further research to better understand how dietary modifications can impact biological aging and to refine the accuracy of epigenetic clocks in different populations. The findings underscore the critical role of nutrition in long-term health, particularly in young adults.
Published: Feb 06 2025, 1 ameznews.inIn an era where health misinformation spreads rapidly through social media, experts emphasize the importance of discerning reliable health information. A recent survey revealed that over half of U.S. respondents rely on social media for health advice, yet many express skepticism about its accuracy. Dawn Holford, a behavioral scientist at the University of Bristol, highlights how “attitude roots” — ingrained beliefs and emotions — can lead individuals to accept misinformation that aligns with their fears or biases. She advocates for "jiu-jitsu interventions," which leverage misinformation tactics to build resilience against false claims. Holford advises checking the credibility of health sources through lateral reading and corroboration while also encouraging individuals to consult trusted healthcare providers for accurate information. She underscores that while governmental health organizations are often reliable, global entities like the World Health Organization can also serve as trustworthy resources in navigating health information.
Published: Feb 05 2025, 8 pmeznews.inResearchers at the Institute of Cancer Research in London have developed a groundbreaking test that predicts colorectal cancer risk in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with over 90% accuracy. IBD patients are already screened for colorectal cancer every one to three years through colonoscopies, but detecting pre-cancerous cells can be challenging. The new test, detailed in the journal *Gut*, analyzes genetic changes in biopsy samples to determine cancer risk. Professor Trevor Graham, the study's senior author, emphasized that this test could help identify patients who require surgery to remove their bowel, thus preventing unnecessary procedures for those at low risk. Experts in the field have praised the study's potential to enhance patient care by reducing invasive procedures and anxiety surrounding cancer risk. Future clinical trials aim to validate the test's effectiveness, with hopes of integrating it into NHS practices.
Published: Feb 04 2025, 10 pmeznews.inRecent research has revealed a potential link between oral bacteria and cognitive decline, including conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A study published in *PNAS Nexus* analyzed the oral microbiomes of 115 individuals, discovering that certain bacteria, such as *Neisseria*, were associated with better cognitive function, while *Porphyromonas* was linked to mild cognitive impairment. The findings suggest that maintaining oral health could be crucial for brain health, as harmful bacteria may enter the bloodstream through damaged gums and potentially affect brain function. Experts emphasize the importance of a nitrate-rich diet, like the Mediterranean or DASH diets, in promoting beneficial oral bacteria. This research underscores the need for good oral hygiene not only for dental health but also for protecting cognitive function as we age, offering new avenues for mitigating neuroinflammation and sustaining cognitive abilities.
Published: Feb 03 2025, 6 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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