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Recent 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 pmeznews.inNew research from the University of California, Santa Barbara, has revealed significant changes in the brain during pregnancy, primarily driven by hormonal shifts. This study, which involved extensive MRI scans of a 38-year-old woman from three weeks preconception to two years postpartum, found a notable reduction in cortical gray matter volume, which is essential for processing information and regulating emotions. Conversely, there was an increase in white matter, peaking in the second trimester, which aids in communication between different brain areas. Lead researcher Dr. Emily G. Jacobs emphasized that these changes reflect a "fine-tuning" of neural circuits, akin to the developmental processes seen in puberty. Experts highlight the need for further research to understand the implications of these brain alterations, particularly regarding postpartum mental health issues, as current knowledge remains limited despite the significance of women's health in biomedical studies.
Published: Sep 20 2024, 10 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *Neurology* has highlighted the cognitive benefits of the MIND diet, which combines elements of the Mediterranean and DASH diets. The research indicates that closely following this diet is linked to a reduced risk of cognitive impairment and slower cognitive decline, particularly in women. While men also showed slower cognitive decline associated with the diet, the effects were less pronounced. The study involved 14,145 participants, primarily white and Black adults, and revealed that adherence to the MIND diet correlated with slower cognitive decline for both racial groups, though it was more significant among Black participants. Experts emphasize the importance of consuming whole foods, such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, and berries, while limiting processed foods and red meat. The findings suggest that dietary choices may play a crucial role in maintaining brain health and potentially lowering the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Published: Sep 20 2024, 11 pmeznews.inA recent study from the University of Michigan highlights the benefits of regular endurance exercise for individuals with overweight or obesity, revealing that such exercise can enhance the health of subcutaneous adipose tissue, which lies just beneath the skin. Published in *Nature Metabolism*, the research found that adipose tissue from those who exercised for over two years exhibited increased blood vessel formation and a greater capacity for fat storage compared to non-exercisers. This healthier fat storage is crucial, as metabolic abnormalities in adipose tissue can lead to serious health issues, including insulin resistance. The study involved 52 adults, revealing that regular exercise promotes beneficial changes in fat cells, potentially providing a healthier environment for fat storage as individuals age. Experts emphasize that while fat distribution is largely genetic, maintaining an active lifestyle can mitigate some health risks associated with excess weight.
Published: Sep 17 2024, 5 pmeznews.inA recent small study from Manchester Metropolitan and Newcastle Universities suggests that time-restricted eating (TRE) could enhance blood sugar control, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Participants, who were predominantly overweight adults, followed an 8-hour eating window, alternating between early and late TRE schedules. Findings indicated a 3.3% increase in the time spent within normal blood glucose levels compared to habitual eating, along with reduced glycemic variability. However, experts, including public health professor Jagdish Khubchandani, cautioned about the small sample size and questioned whether the benefits stemmed solely from TRE or a reduction in overall calorie intake. While TRE may aid weight loss and improve metabolic health, it is not recommended for individuals with type 1 diabetes or those with certain health conditions without professional guidance. Further research is needed to explore the long-term implications and effectiveness of TRE across diverse populations.
Published: Sep 17 2024, 6 pmeznews.inResearch from the University of Oxford suggests that statins, medications used to lower "bad" LDL cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular disease risk, may also benefit older adults over the age of 70. Despite their higher risk for heart disease, fewer seniors are prescribed statins compared to middle-aged individuals. The study, published in the journal *Heart*, analyzed data from over 20,000 older adults and found that statin therapy is both cost-effective and linked to improved health outcomes, regardless of previous cardiovascular issues. Participants on standard statin treatment saw a quality-adjusted life year increase of up to 0.70, while higher-intensity therapy provided additional benefits. Researchers concluded that more individuals aged 70 and above should be considered for statin treatment, reinforcing the notion that these medications can continue to offer significant health advantages as patients age.
Published: Sep 17 2024, 11 pmeznews.inA recent study published in the *Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism* indicates that moderate coffee consumption may significantly reduce the risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. Analyzing data from over 360,000 participants in the UK Biobank, researchers found that individuals consuming three cups of coffee daily or 200-300 mg of caffeine experienced a 48.1% and 40.7% lower risk of new-onset cardiometabolic multimorbidity, respectively. While experts emphasize that this correlation does not imply causation, they suggest that moderate caffeine intake could be beneficial for heart health. However, caution is advised as excessive caffeine may lead to negative effects, particularly in certain populations. The findings underscore the potential health benefits of coffee, which contains numerous bioactive compounds beyond caffeine, while highlighting that not all caffeinated beverages offer the same advantages.
Published: Sep 18 2024, 9 pmeznews.inNew research from the University of Cincinnati challenges the prevailing theory that the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques causes Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting instead that a decline in a specific form of the protein, Aβ42, may drive cognitive decline. Lead researcher Dr. Alberto Espay noted that many individuals with amyloid plaques do not develop Alzheimer’s; by age 85, only 20% of those with plaques progress to the disease. The study, published in the journal *Brain*, analyzed data from approximately 26,000 participants in clinical trials of monoclonal antibody treatments, revealing that increased levels of Aβ42 were linked to slower cognitive impairment. Experts, including Dr. David Merrill, advocate for exploring modifiable health factors that influence amyloid processing and cognitive health. This research could reshape the understanding of Alzheimer’s and prompt discussions within the neuroscience community about new therapeutic approaches aimed at boosting Aβ42 levels.
Published: Sep 18 2024, 11 pmeznews.inA new study from McLean Hospital has revealed that high doses of prescription amphetamines, commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), significantly increase the risk of developing psychosis or mania. Researchers analyzed medical data from over 3,000 adults aged 16 to 35, finding that those on high-dose amphetamines (30 mg or more) had an 81% higher risk of these psychiatric conditions, compared to a 63% risk in those taking any amphetamines. The study indicates that a substantial number of psychosis cases could be avoided by reducing amphetamine dosages. Experts stress the importance of careful patient selection and monitoring, particularly for individuals with a history of mental health issues. The findings also highlight the need for further research to explore the mechanisms linking amphetamines to psychosis and the potential benefits of alternative treatments.
Published: Sep 18 2024, 10 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *BMC Medicine* has highlighted the potential benefits of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and kale, in managing blood pressure. Conducted with 18 Australian participants aged 56 to 72 who had mild hypertension, the research found that consuming four servings of these vegetables daily over two weeks resulted in a significant reduction in 24-hour brachial systolic blood pressure by an average of 2.5 mmHg. This decrease could lower the risk of major cardiovascular events by approximately 5%. While the study's small sample size and limited diversity pose challenges to generalizing the findings, researchers emphasized the importance of incorporating more cruciferous vegetables into diets as a manageable way to improve cardiovascular health. Experts suggest that dietary changes should be gradual and sustainable, with recommendations for easy ways to add these nutritious vegetables to meals.
Published: Sep 19 2024, 7 ameznews.inA recent study from South Korea published in *Neurology* suggests that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, may also lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The research analyzed data from over 358,000 participants, revealing a 21% reduction in the risk of all-cause dementia and a 20% decrease in Parkinson’s incidence among those taking SGLT2 inhibitors. Additionally, the risk of Alzheimer’s disease was found to be 19% lower, with vascular dementia risk decreasing by 31%. Experts believe the drugs' multifaceted effects on cardiovascular and metabolic health may contribute to these protective benefits. However, researchers caution that while the findings are promising, further investigation is needed to understand the long-term implications and mechanisms behind these effects. The study underscores the importance of early intervention for individuals with type 2 diabetes, who are at heightened risk for neurological conditions.
Published: Sep 19 2024, 8 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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