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A recent study has found that yoga is as effective as muscle-strengthening exercises for alleviating knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. Conducted in Tasmania, the randomized clinical trial involved 117 participants, predominantly women, with an average age of 62.5. Over 12 weeks, both groups experienced significant improvements in pain and function, with yoga also contributing to enhanced quality of life and reduced depression at the 24-week mark. Experts emphasize that while neither yoga nor strength training alone is a complete solution, both modalities can be beneficial as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy. Minimal adverse effects were reported for both practices. Medical professionals advocate for a multimodal approach to therapy, suggesting that combining yoga’s benefits for mobility and mindfulness with strength training can effectively support those suffering from knee osteoarthritis. 
Published: May 06 2025, 9 pmeznews.inNew research highlights the potential of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the functional age of the heart, offering a critical tool for early intervention in cardiac health. The study found that unhealthy lifestyles and chronic conditions, such as obesity and atrial fibrillation (AFIB), can accelerate the heart's aging process, with some participants exhibiting heart ages up to 45 years older than their chronological age. Researchers analyzed data from over 500 participants across multiple countries, noting significant differences in heart function between healthy and unhealthy groups. While the findings suggest that monitoring functional heart age could motivate lifestyle changes and improve patient outcomes, experts caution about the study's limitations, including the need for long-term data and further validation. This innovative approach may enhance communication between clinicians and patients, encouraging proactive measures to mitigate heart health decline. 
Published: May 08 2025, 8 pmeznews.inA recent study has revealed that as little as five minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can significantly enhance brain health in older adults. Conducted by researchers at the AdventHealth Research Institute, the study analyzed data from 585 participants aged 65 to 80, demonstrating that those who engaged in brief bursts of exercise exhibited better cognitive functions, including processing speed, working memory, and executive function. The findings suggest that even minimal physical activity can counteract cognitive decline associated with aging. Co-lead author Audrey M. Collins emphasized the need for further research to explore the relationship between daily activities and cognitive health. Experts in the field, including neuropsychologist Raphael Wald and psychiatrist Gary Small, echoed the study's conclusions, highlighting the importance of regular physical activity for maintaining brain function as people age. They noted that even short exercise sessions are beneficial, urging older adults to incorporate more vigorous activities into their daily routines. 
Published: May 07 2025, 7 pmeznews.inRecent studies have highlighted several health factors that may influence dementia risk, which currently affects approximately 57 million people globally, a number projected to triple in the coming decades. Key findings suggest that vaccination against shingles can significantly lower dementia risk, particularly among women, while maintaining low LDL cholesterol levels is associated with a reduced likelihood of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Research also indicates that insufficient deep sleep, especially during REM and slow-wave phases, could heighten dementia risk by affecting brain regions vulnerable to Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, individuals with atrial fibrillation (AFib) face a 21% increased risk of dementia if diagnosed before age 70, with implications that earlier AFib diagnosis correlates with a stronger dementia association. Experts emphasize the need for further research to confirm these findings and explore the efficacy of newer shingles vaccines, as well as the complex interplay of various health factors in dementia development. 
Published: May 06 2025, 8 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *npj Mental Health Research* suggests that probiotics may enhance daily mood and reduce negative feelings, echoing previous findings on their potential mental health benefits. Involving 88 participants without prior mental health diagnoses, the study found that those taking probiotics reported improved moods within two weeks, a timeframe comparable to that of antidepressants. Researchers noted a significant reduction in negative mood through daily mood tracking, although standard psychological assessments did not reflect these changes. Katerina Johnson, a co-lead author, emphasized the importance of monitoring emotional fluctuations over time. Experts like Nathan Caroll highlighted the study's implications for holistic mental health approaches, while dietitian Monique Richard advised caution in choosing probiotic supplements and encouraged incorporating fermented foods like kimchi and kefir into diets for their potential benefits. The study opens avenues for future research into probiotics as a preventive measure against mood disorders. 
Published: May 06 2025, 9 pmeznews.inAs measles outbreaks escalate in the U.S., public health officials are responding with heightened measures, prompting questions about the efficacy and longevity of the MMR vaccine. U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., previously known for his vaccine skepticism, recently endorsed the MMR vaccine, asserting that its protection wanes quickly. However, experts, including Dr. David Cutler and Dr. Gina Posner, counter this claim, stating that two doses provide lifelong immunity for the majority of individuals. They emphasize that measles has not mutated significantly, unlike other viruses, making the vaccine consistently effective. While vitamin A can mitigate symptoms post-infection, it does not prevent measles. Experts highlight the necessity of herd immunity, noting that approximately 95% vaccination coverage is required to halt outbreaks, and stress the importance of accurate public health communication to combat misinformation surrounding vaccines. 
Published: May 06 2025, 9 pmeznews.inA recent study from the University of Glasgow reveals that brisk walking for just a few minutes daily can significantly reduce the risk of heart rhythm abnormalities, including atrial fibrillation, by up to 43%. The research, involving over 420,000 participants with a median follow-up of 13.7 years, indicates that walking at a pace greater than 4 miles per hour is particularly beneficial. Heart rhythm abnormalities affect around 5% of the population, with risk factors including age, obesity, and family history. The findings suggest that even modest increases in walking speed can lead to substantial health benefits, particularly for younger individuals and those without obesity. Experts emphasize that brisk walking is an accessible, low-cost exercise option that can improve heart health and reduce the likelihood of developing serious cardiovascular conditions. Regular physical activity, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, remains crucial for maintaining heart health. 
Published: May 06 2025, 9 pmeznews.inA recent study presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Malaga has confirmed that a once-weekly dose of tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro, can facilitate significant weight loss over three years for adults with overweight or obesity who do not have diabetes. Building on earlier findings from the SURMOUNT-1 trial, researchers from the University of Padova noted that individual responses to the treatment varied, particularly among women and those without obesity-related health issues. The analysis, involving 700 participants, identified three distinct weight loss patterns, with some achieving an average reduction of 31%. Despite the natural occurrence of weight loss plateaus, most participants maintained clinically significant reductions in weight, which can substantially lower the risk of diabetes and improve heart health. Experts emphasized the need for ongoing support and education to sustain weight loss after treatment and highlighted the potential for more personalized weight management strategies. 
Published: May 06 2025, 10 pmeznews.inNew research has highlighted the potential cognitive risks associated with low levels of vitamin K, suggesting that deficiencies may adversely affect memory and learning capabilities. A study published in *The Journal of Nutrition* found that mice on a low vitamin K diet exhibited significantly poorer cognitive functions compared to those with adequate vitamin K intake. Specifically, these mice demonstrated reduced neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a brain region critical for memory, and showed signs of increased neuroinflammation. Behavioral tests indicated that low vitamin K mice were less exploratory and took longer to navigate learning tasks. While the findings underscore the importance of vitamin K in cognitive health, researchers caution that these results, derived from animal models, may not directly translate to humans. Experts advocate for a diet rich in vitamin K—found in leafy greens, certain fruits, and other foods—as a proactive measure for cognitive well-being, particularly for those with a family history of dementia. 
Published: May 06 2025, 10 pmeznews.inA recent study published in *Nature Human Behaviour* suggests that the use of digital technology may significantly lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. Analyzing data from over 136 studies involving more than 400,000 participants, researchers found that engaging with digital devices is associated with a 58% reduction in the risk of cognitive impairment. This counters previous concerns about "digital dementia," with 90% of the studies indicating positive cognitive outcomes linked to technology use. Experts, including study co-author Michael K. Scullin, emphasize that digital tools provide essential cognitive stimulation and help maintain social connections, which are crucial for mental health. While moderate use of technology is beneficial, experts advise against overuse to prevent mental fatigue. This research highlights the potential of digital engagement as a valuable tool in managing brain health amid increasing life expectancy and the rising prevalence of dementia. 
Published: May 06 2025, 10 pmFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
