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A recent Phase 2 trial led by researchers at Imperial College London has revealed that a single intravenous dose of the psychedelic drug dimethyltryptamine (DMT), combined with psychotherapy, can significantly alleviate severe depressive symptoms for up to six months in adults suffering from major depressive disorder. The study, published in *Nature Medicine*, involved 34 participants, who showed an average reduction in depression scores shortly after treatment. While the findings are promising, experts caution that further research is essential to confirm these results and assess potential side effects. Notably, the trial's limitations included a lack of ethnic diversity and the exclusion of individuals with serious suicide attempts. Researchers advocate for larger, longer trials to better evaluate DMT’s efficacy and safety compared to existing treatments. Despite the encouraging results, experts emphasize the need for caution, given the intensity of the DMT experience and its implications for therapy. 
Published: Feb 21 2026, 12 ameznews.inA recent study published in the journal *Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology* highlights the potential benefits of overnight fasting for improving cardiometabolic health. Researchers found that aligning fasting periods with the body's natural circadian rhythms can enhance cardiovascular and metabolic markers. The study involved 39 adults aged 36 to 75, who were divided into two groups: one that extended overnight fasting to 13-16 hours and a control group with 11-13 hours. Participants who finished eating at least three hours before bedtime showed a 3.5% reduction in nighttime blood pressure and a 5% drop in heart rate, indicating healthier sleep patterns. Experts emphasize that such straightforward dietary adjustments could significantly reduce risks associated with conditions like high blood pressure and obesity. Future research is needed to confirm these findings across larger populations, but the study adds to growing evidence that meal timing plays a crucial role in metabolic health.
Published: Feb 20 2026, 10 pmeznews.inA recent study published in the journal *RMD Open* has raised questions about the effectiveness of exercise as a primary treatment for osteoarthritis, a condition affecting approximately 595 million people globally. While low-impact exercise is commonly recommended to manage symptoms, researchers, led by Tim Schleimer from Bochum University, found that the relief it provides may be minor and short-lived, particularly for knee and hip osteoarthritis. The study analyzed data from 28 clinical trials and concluded that alternative treatments could offer similar benefits for those unable to exercise. Experts, including Dr. Nora Tossounian, emphasize the importance of a personalized treatment plan that integrates exercise with other strategies such as weight management and physical therapy. While some practitioners, like Dr. Bert Mandelbaum, argue for the crucial role of exercise in maintaining overall health, the study highlights the need for a nuanced approach to managing osteoarthritis effectively.
Published: Feb 20 2026, 2 ameznews.inThe growing interest in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) supplements for longevity has sparked debate among experts regarding their efficacy in combating aging. NAD, a molecule derived from vitamin B3, plays crucial roles in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and stress regulation. Research indicates that NAD levels decline with age, contributing to impaired mitochondrial function and increased cellular stress, both linked to aging. While supplements such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) can elevate NAD levels, Şebnem Ünlüişler, Chief Longevity Officer at the London Regenerative Institute, cautions that there is currently no definitive clinical evidence proving that these supplements can slow aging or extend lifespan in humans. She suggests that NAD supplementation should be viewed as part of a broader metabolic support strategy rather than a standalone solution for anti-aging.
Published: Feb 19 2026, 6 pmeznews.inRecent research highlights a concerning link between lifetime lead exposure and an increased risk of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. A study from the University of Michigan found that individuals with the highest bone lead levels faced nearly three times the risk of Alzheimer's and more than double the risk of all-cause dementia compared to those with the lowest levels. This suggests that cumulative lead exposure, rather than current blood levels, plays a crucial role in cognitive decline. Additionally, prenatal lead exposure was associated with lower cognitive performance in later life, particularly among females. Experts emphasize that historical environmental exposures, such as lead from gasoline and paint, continue to impact brain health. As efforts to reduce lead exposure progress, researchers advocate for targeted public health policies, especially in underserved communities, to mitigate the risk of dementia linked to this neurotoxin. Addressing legacy sources of lead could prevent a significant portion of future dementia cases.
Published: Feb 19 2026, 6 ameznews.inA new perspective article published in *Cell Systems* advocates for a transformative approach to preventive healthcare, emphasizing the need to identify chronic disease risks before symptoms manifest. Lead author Noa Rappaport highlights that conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes stem from a complex interplay of factors over decades, rather than single causes. Current medical practices often diagnose diseases only after significant damage occurs, underscoring the importance of early detection. The authors propose leveraging advanced technologies, such as blood assays and AI-driven analysis, to monitor subtle biological changes indicative of health deterioration. While promising, these innovations remain costly and inaccessible for many. Experts suggest simpler, cost-effective methods for assessing biological aging, including grip strength tests and monitoring physical activity. Overall, while the future of health technology appears promising, lifestyle changes remain the most accessible and effective means of enhancing longevity and health.
Published: Feb 18 2026, 10 pmeznews.inA recent study published in the *British Journal of Nutrition* suggests that a hearty breakfast may aid weight loss, particularly for individuals with overweight and obesity. The research involved 19 participants who consumed 45% of their daily calories at breakfast, with diets either high in protein or fiber. Results indicated that both groups lost weight, but those on the high-fiber diet lost slightly more and experienced improved gut microbiome diversity, while the high-protein group reported reduced hunger, potentially aiding long-term weight management. Experts emphasized that meal timing is crucial, as eating later in the evening is linked to weight gain. However, the study's small sample size and short duration limit broader applicability. Researchers advocate for personalized dietary approaches, suggesting combinations of protein and fiber-rich foods for optimal health benefits. Further long-term studies are needed to explore these findings and their implications for weight management strategies.
Published: Feb 18 2026, 11 pmeznews.inA recent study published in JAMA Network OPEN has revealed a significant link between muscle strength and lower all-cause mortality among older females, highlighting the importance of physical fitness in promoting longevity. The research, which followed nearly 2,000 women aged 63 to 99 over an average of 8.3 years, found that those with higher grip strength had a 33% lower risk of death compared to their weaker counterparts. Notably, this association persisted regardless of adherence to recommended aerobic exercise guidelines. The findings underscore the potential for muscle strength, particularly grip strength, to serve as a key indicator of healthy aging. While the study was observational and cannot definitively establish causation, it supports current health recommendations advocating for muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. Experts suggest that maintaining muscle strength is crucial for overall health, independence, and reducing inflammation as individuals age.
Published: Feb 17 2026, 8 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *Gut* highlights the potential of routine stool tests to predict inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flares, even when patients are symptom-free. The research, involving over 2,600 participants with IBD from 47 NHS centres in the UK, found that elevated levels of fecal calprotectin—a marker for gut inflammation—were strongly associated with future flares, particularly in ulcerative colitis. Notably, those with high meat consumption had nearly double the risk of experiencing a flare compared to those with lower intake, a correlation not observed in Crohn’s disease. While the study offers insights into the relationship between diet and IBD management, researchers caution that it is observational, meaning direct causation cannot be established. The findings support a proactive approach to IBD management, combining biomarker monitoring with dietary adjustments to potentially mitigate flare risks.
Published: Feb 17 2026, 5 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *eNeuro* has identified a potential biological link between age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, and cognitive decline. Researchers found that specific structural and functional changes in the brain, particularly in areas associated with sound processing and memory, correlate with worsening hearing abilities and cognitive impairment. The study introduced a new measurement called the functional-structural ratio (FSR), which may serve as a biomarker for assessing dementia risk in individuals with hearing loss. With presbycusis affecting approximately two-thirds of Americans aged 70 and older, the findings suggest that preserving hearing health could be vital for maintaining cognitive integrity. Experts not involved in the study emphasized the importance of early intervention for hearing loss, noting that it could enhance cognitive function and reduce the risk of social isolation and depression, ultimately contributing to better dementia care.
Published: Feb 17 2026, 3 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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