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A global panel of experts has proposed a new framework for diagnosing and treating obesity, arguing that the traditional reliance on Body Mass Index (BMI) is inadequate. Published in *The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology* and backed by over 75 medical organizations, this approach distinguishes between clinical obesity, where excess fat affects organ function, and preclinical obesity, where individuals are at risk but do not yet show health issues. The framework emphasizes the need for more comprehensive measures of body fat and individual health, aiming to improve outcomes for over one billion people living with obesity worldwide. By promoting personalized care and reducing stigma, the proposal seeks to ensure fair access to effective treatments while addressing the complexities of obesity. Experts advocate for healthcare professionals to adopt these refined criteria to enhance diagnosis and management, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing societal stigma associated with obesity. 
Published: Jan 18 2025, 12 ameznews.inResearch suggests that combining intermittent fasting, specifically time-restricted eating (TRE), with exercise may enhance weight management more effectively than exercise alone. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the *International Journal of Obesity* examined data from 15 studies involving 338 participants. It found that TRE, which typically involves fasting for 12 to 20 hours daily, was associated with significant reductions in fat mass and body fat percentage. Participants engaging in TRE alongside exercise experienced an estimated 1.3 kg decrease in fat mass and a 1.3% reduction in body fat percentage compared to those who exercised without restricting eating times. However, the studies had limitations, including short durations, self-reported dietary adherence, and a lack of diversity among participants. Experts emphasize the need for further research to confirm these findings and evaluate the long-term effects of TRE on various populations.
Published: Jan 19 2025, 2 pmeznews.inResearchers are exploring xenon gas as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease, the most prevalent form of dementia affecting millions globally. Current Alzheimer’s medications primarily address symptoms rather than underlying causes, but recent studies indicate that xenon may offer a new therapeutic avenue. In a mouse model, inhalation of xenon gas was found to suppress neuroinflammation and reduce brain shrinkage, prompting scientists from Mass General Brigham and Washington University to initiate a clinical trial in humans. The gas, known for its safety in anesthesia, can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and alter the behavior of microglia, immune cells implicated in Alzheimer's progression. While the findings are promising, experts caution that further research is needed to validate these results in human populations. If successful, xenon gas could pave the way for innovative treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, enhancing the existing landscape of Alzheimer's therapies.
Published: Jan 17 2025, 11 pmeznews.inResearchers have identified 29 vascular health indicators in the retina that could significantly enhance stroke risk prediction, according to a new study published in the journal *Heart*. This innovative approach, described as a retinal vascular "fingerprint," offers a less invasive alternative to traditional methods, which often involve blood tests and imaging techniques. The study analyzed retinal images from over 45,000 participants in the U.K. Biobank, revealing that changes in these indicators correlate with a 10-19% increased risk of stroke. Experts believe that this noninvasive method could improve early detection and management of stroke risk, particularly in primary care settings. The findings highlight the potential of integrating ophthalmology and technology in preventive medicine, paving the way for broader applications in assessing risks for other conditions, such as heart disease and dementia.
Published: Jan 17 2025, 1 ameznews.inA recent study from Japan suggests that regular consumption of green tea may help preserve brain health and reduce the risk of dementia in older adults. The research, published in *npj Science of Food*, found that participants who drank green tea had fewer cerebral white matter lesions, which are often associated with cognitive decline. While the study highlights green tea's potential neuroprotective properties, including its high levels of antioxidants and catechins, experts caution that the results should be interpreted carefully due to possible confounding factors like lifestyle and dietary habits. Notably, the benefits were not observed in individuals with the APOE e4 allele or those suffering from depression, indicating that genetic predispositions and chronic inflammation may limit green tea's effectiveness. Researchers advocate for further studies across diverse populations to better understand these dynamics and recommend moderation in consumption to avoid potential side effects.
Published: Jan 16 2025, 6 pmeznews.inA recent study conducted by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston has established a significant link between high consumption of processed red meat and an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline. The research, published in *Neurology*, analyzed data from over 133,000 participants over an average of 43 years, revealing that those consuming 0.25 servings or more of processed red meat daily had a 13% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those consuming less. Notably, substituting processed meat with healthier protein sources such as nuts, legumes, fish, or chicken was associated with reduced dementia risk, with fish linked to a 28% lower risk. The findings underscore the importance of dietary choices in brain health, suggesting that modifications in diet could serve as a preventive strategy against cognitive decline, as emphasized by lead researcher Yuhan Lee. Experts advocate for further research to clarify the mechanisms behind these dietary impacts on brain health.
Published: Jan 16 2025, 4 ameznews.inA recent pooled analysis published in the journal *Cancer* suggests that consuming certain amounts of coffee and tea may lower the risk of head and neck cancer. The study, which examined data from over 9,500 cancer cases and 15,700 controls, found that drinking more than four cups of caffeinated coffee daily was linked to a reduced risk of various head and neck cancers, including oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers. Conversely, drinking more than one cup of tea daily was associated with an increased risk for laryngeal cancer. While the findings indicate potential benefits of moderate coffee and tea consumption, researchers caution against drastic increases in intake and stress the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before making dietary changes. Limitations in the study, such as reliance on participant reporting and lack of data on beverage preparation, highlight the need for further research to clarify these associations and their implications for overall health.
Published: Jan 16 2025, 1 ameznews.inA recent meta-analysis of 116 clinical trials involving 6,880 participants reveals that engaging in 150 to 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise weekly significantly improves body weight, waist circumference, and body fat composition. While even 30 minutes of exercise per week can yield modest benefits, clinically meaningful results are achieved only with more extensive activity. Experts recommend incorporating regular muscle-strengthening exercises alongside aerobic workouts. The study highlights the importance of exercise intensity, indicating that higher intensity leads to greater calorie burn and health benefits. Despite these encouraging findings, researchers noted a lack of strong evidence linking exercise to improved quality of life or reduced medication use. Health professionals suggest breaking exercise into smaller sessions throughout the day and finding enjoyable activities to make fitness more manageable, emphasizing that even simple actions like walking can lead to significant health improvements.
Published: Jan 14 2025, 11 pmeznews.inA recent study highlights potential risks associated with sleep aids, particularly zolpidem, commonly known as Ambien, which may disrupt the brain's natural waste removal system during sleep. Conducted on mice, the research reveals that synchronized oscillations of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine are crucial for the glymphatic system, which clears waste linked to neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers found that zolpidem appears to suppress these oscillations, potentially impairing this essential process. With around 70 million Americans experiencing sleep issues, experts emphasize the importance of understanding the long-term effects of sleep medications, especially as dementia risk has reportedly doubled for those over 55. While some neurologists caution against overemphasizing these findings, they acknowledge the need for further research to explore the implications of sleep aids on human brain health. The study underscores the critical role of quality sleep in maintaining cognitive function and overall health.
Published: Jan 15 2025, 12 ameznews.inA recent study highlights the potential anti-cancer benefits of dietary fiber, suggesting that increased consumption of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, may significantly impact gut health and cancer prevention. Despite fiber being essential for a balanced diet, less than 10% of Americans meet the recommended intake of 14g per 1,000 kcal daily. Researchers found that when gut bacteria digest fiber, they produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like propionate and butyrate, which can alter gene expression and reduce cancer risk by influencing cell differentiation and apoptosis. Experts emphasize the need for further research, including large-scale observational studies and randomized controlled trials, to validate these findings in real-life scenarios. Nevertheless, the study reinforces the importance of fiber in promoting gut health and potentially preventing colorectal cancer, underscoring the connection between diet and health.
Published: Jan 14 2025, 12 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
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