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A recent study conducted by Japanese researchers has explored the cognitive benefits of matcha green tea in older adults, particularly those experiencing mild cognitive decline. While the study, published in *PLOS ONE*, found no significant improvements in broader cognitive functions like memory, participants consuming matcha reported enhancements in social cognition and sleep quality. The study involved 99 participants aged 60 to 85, who were monitored over 12 months, with those in the matcha group taking daily capsules containing high levels of catechins and theanine. Researchers noted that improved social acuity—specifically in recognizing facial expressions—could be linked to the anti-inflammatory properties of catechins. Experts emphasize the need for further research to understand matcha's effects more thoroughly, particularly regarding its potential role in improving sleep and mood, while cautioning against viewing it as a standalone intervention for dementia prevention. 
Published: Sep 07 2024, 12 pmeznews.inRecent research led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has highlighted a significant link between gastrointestinal health and Parkinson's disease, suggesting that damage to the upper gastrointestinal tract may increase the risk of developing the condition by 76%. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from over 9,000 participants who underwent endoscopy and found that those with mucosal disease were more likely to develop Parkinson's compared to those without. While the exact cause of Parkinson's remains unclear, it is believed to involve both genetic and environmental factors. Experts suggest that gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and acid reflux may precede Parkinson's symptoms, supporting the gut-first hypothesis of the disease. Researchers emphasize the importance of maintaining gut health through lifestyle changes, including reducing NSAID use and managing stress, to potentially lower the risk of Parkinson's.
Published: Sep 11 2024, 10 pmeznews.inRecent advancements in Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis are shifting from traditional cognitive symptom assessments to promising ultra-sensitive blood-based biomarkers. While brain imaging and cerebrospinal fluid tests are accurate, they are often costly and invasive, limiting accessibility for many patients. With approximately 7 million individuals in the U.S. affected by Alzheimer’s, early detection is crucial for effective management and treatment, especially as new disease-modifying therapies have emerged. Blood tests could streamline clinical trials and routine assessments, enabling earlier identification of preclinical Alzheimer’s. However, these biomarkers require further validation and standardization before widespread clinical use. Current studies show high diagnostic accuracy for blood-based assays, yet challenges remain, such as the need for diverse population testing and insurance coverage. Experts emphasize the importance of developing guidelines and training for healthcare providers to ensure reliable interpretation of these new diagnostic tools.
Published: Sep 11 2024, 11 pmeznews.inA recent study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2024 has suggested a potential link between sleeping on one's back, or supine sleeping, and an increased risk of neurodegeneration, including conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Researchers, utilizing the Sleep Profiler device developed by Advanced Brain Monitoring, found that participants with neurodegenerative disorders spent more than two hours a night in a supine position compared to a control group. While the findings indicate that supine sleeping may hinder the brain's ability to flush out neurotoxins, experts caution that the study does not establish causation. Neurologist Daniel Truong emphasized the need for more research and encouraged individuals to focus on overall sleep quality and lifestyle factors rather than solely on sleep position. The study highlights the importance of discussing sleep habits as part of broader brain health management strategies.
Published: Sep 11 2024, 10 pmeznews.inResearchers at the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares in Spain have identified clonal hematopoiesis as a new risk factor for atherosclerosis, a condition that leads to cardiovascular diseases. Clonal hematopoiesis occurs when blood-forming stem cells acquire mutations, leading to an increased number of mutated blood cells, which can raise the risk of heart-related issues. Two recent studies published in *Nature Medicine* and the *European Heart Journal* suggest a direct link between these mutations and the development of atherosclerosis, with colchicine, an anti-inflammatory drug, showing potential in personalized treatment plans. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, it is hypothesized that these mutated cells may produce inflammatory mediators that contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. Experts emphasize the need for further research but acknowledge that understanding this relationship could lead to new preventive strategies and therapies for cardiovascular disease.
Published: Sep 11 2024, 12 ameznews.inNew research from Qilu Hospital of Shandong University has established a connection between plant-based diets and improved long-term health outcomes, particularly regarding obesity and heart disease risk. The study reviewed 24 trials involving 2,223 participants and found that increased consumption of raw vegetables significantly contributes to weight control and better diet quality, which can help prevent metabolic disorders. While strictly vegan diets showed the most weight loss, even moderate increases in vegetable intake were beneficial. The analysis employed Mendelian randomization to suggest that raw vegetables may directly influence weight loss, rather than genetic factors. Experts emphasize that while adopting a fully vegan lifestyle is not essential, incorporating more plant-based foods can lead to lower cholesterol, reduced obesity risk, and better overall health. They recommend consulting a registered dietitian to ensure nutrient needs are met while transitioning to a more vegetable-rich diet.
Published: Sep 10 2024, 6 pmeznews.inResearchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital have identified three blood biomarkers that could significantly enhance the prediction of heart attack and stroke risks in women. Historically, cardiovascular disease has been under-diagnosed in women, partly due to differing symptoms compared to men. The study, published in the *New England Journal of Medicine*, analyzed data from the Women’s Health Study, revealing that women with elevated levels of hsCRP, LDL-C, and Lp(a) face a substantially higher risk of major cardiovascular events over the next 30 years. Specifically, those with all three biomarkers elevated were 2.6 times more likely to experience adverse events. Lead author Dr. Paul Ridker emphasized the need for early screening and intervention, advocating for a shift in guidelines to include these biomarkers in routine assessments for women in their 30s and 40s, similar to practices already adopted in Europe.
Published: Sep 10 2024, 6 pmeznews.inResearchers at the University of Melbourne have identified a new blood biomarker that could facilitate earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia with no current cure. The study, published in the journal *Metallomics*, utilized innovative geochemistry techniques to analyze blood samples from individuals with and without Alzheimer’s. Lead researcher Dr. Brandon Mahan explained that the Alzheimer’s-afflicted brain appears to flush out lighter potassium isotopes into the bloodstream, which can be detected through a specialized mass spectrometry method. While the pilot study involved a small sample size, preliminary results suggest that this new biomarker performs comparably to established organic-based markers. Experts, including Dr. Verna Porter, have expressed enthusiasm over the potential for this noninvasive method to improve early detection, allowing for timely interventions that could enhance patient care and management. Future research aims to expand the study to larger populations and explore additional metals as potential biomarkers.
Published: Sep 10 2024, 7 pmeznews.inA comprehensive review by the World Health Organization (WHO) has concluded that there is no evidence linking mobile phone use to an increased risk of brain cancer. This meta-analysis, which examined 63 studies from 22 countries conducted between 1994 and 2022, found no correlation between mobile phone usage, workplace radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), or cell towers and various types of brain and pituitary cancers, as well as leukemia in both adults and children. The findings challenge previous concerns, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer's classification of mobile phones as "possibly carcinogenic." While the review acknowledges the low-to-moderate certainty of its conclusions due to the observational nature of the studies, it emphasizes the need for ongoing research to monitor the health impacts of evolving technologies. Experts stress that current evidence does not support a significant association between RF-EMF exposure and brain cancer.
Published: Sep 09 2024, 9 pmeznews.inA recent review published in *Nutrients* highlights the significant role of dietary patterns in promoting healthy aging and extending healthspan, defined as the period free from chronic diseases. The study examined four diets—caloric restriction, intermittent fasting, the Mediterranean diet, and the ketogenic diet—finding that each may influence key metabolic pathways related to cellular repair and inflammation. Caloric restriction aids in weight management and reduces inflammation, while intermittent fasting enhances insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular health. The Mediterranean diet, rich in plant-based foods, supports cognitive function and gut health, and offers metabolic benefits akin to caloric restriction. Although the ketogenic diet may improve triglyceride levels, its long-term safety remains uncertain. Experts recommend combining these dietary strategies for optimal health benefits, emphasizing that individual preferences and health goals should guide dietary choices. Overall, a holistic approach, including diet, exercise, and social connections, is crucial for fostering healthy aging.
Published: Sep 09 2024, 10 pmeznews.inRecent studies have highlighted the significant link between type 2 diabetes and increased dementia risk, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Research published in August indicates that stable hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels can predict a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias among older adults. A large study involving 374,021 veterans revealed that those with at least 60% of their HbA1c readings in the target range had a reduced dementia risk. Meanwhile, another study analyzed MRI scans of over 31,000 individuals, finding that diabetes could age the brain by approximately 2.3 years compared to chronological age. However, engaging in healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise and avoiding smoking, may mitigate this risk. Experts stress the need for lifestyle interventions to protect brain health, particularly for those living with diabetes, as the prevalence of the condition continues to rise globally.
Published: Sep 08 2024, 1 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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