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Your Napping Habits: A Window into Your Health

A recent study presented at the Sleep 2025 conference has raised concerns about the implications of daytime napping for middle-aged and older adults. Researchers found a correlation between increased daytime napping and a higher risk of all-cause mortality, suggesting that napping may indicate underlying health issues rather than being a direct cause of mortality. The study, which analyzed data from over 86,000 participants in the UK Biobank, revealed that those who napped longer and more irregularly had a greater likelihood of death during an eight-year follow-up. Experts emphasize the importance of considering daytime sleep patterns as potential markers of health decline, advocating for further research into the relationship between napping and mortality. They recommend strategies for improving nighttime sleep quality, such as establishing consistent sleep schedules and managing medical conditions, to reduce the need for daytime naps. sources

Published:
Jun 25 2025, 11 pm

Study Links Instant Coffee to Higher Vision Problem Risk

A recent study has linked the consumption of instant coffee to an increased risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss affecting approximately 200 million people worldwide. Conducted by researchers from Hubei University of Medicine, the study analyzed data from over 500,000 participants, identifying a genetic correlation between instant coffee consumption and dry AMD risk, which was found to be sevenfold higher compared to other coffee types. While AMD primarily occurs due to aging and genetic factors, modifiable lifestyle choices like diet can influence its progression. The findings suggest potential biological pathways connecting instant coffee consumption to AMD, raising questions about dietary impacts on eye health. Experts emphasize the need for further research to validate these associations and explore the broader implications of processed foods on health. Current recommendations remain cautious, pending more direct evidence linking instant coffee to AMD. sources

Published:
Jun 26 2025, 12 pm

Can Ozempic Reduce Dementia Risk?

A recent study suggests that semaglutide, the active ingredient in the diabetes medications Ozempic and Wegovy, may help reduce the risk of dementia, particularly vascular dementia, among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Researchers analyzed health records of over 1.7 million adults, finding that semaglutide effectively targets multiple dementia risk factors, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties that could mitigate dementia progression. Although the findings indicate a protective association, they do not establish causation. Experts emphasize the importance of targeting modifiable risk factors, as around 50% of dementia cases are preventable. The study's lead author, Dr. Rong Xu, noted that further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of semaglutide and other GLP-1 medications. This research could potentially inform treatment options for diabetes that also address cognitive health, highlighting the interconnectedness of metabolic and brain health. sources

Published:
Jun 24 2025, 9 pm

Scientists Discover Method to Slow and Reverse Heart Aging

Researchers have developed a novel hybrid biomaterial that may slow or reverse heart aging by focusing on the extracellular matrix (ECM), a crucial component that supports cell structure and function. A study published in *Nature Materials* highlights the ECM's role in age-related cardiac dysfunction, revealing that changes in its mechanics and composition contribute to the stiffening of heart muscles. The team created a high-tech model, DECIPHER, which allows for independent control of ECM stiffness and biochemical signals, demonstrating that the biochemical environment significantly influences heart cell function. While promising, these findings, based on rat cells, require further validation before potential human applications. Experts suggest lifestyle changes, such as regular aerobic exercise, a healthy diet, smoking cessation, adequate sleep, weight management, and stress reduction, to support heart health as one ages. Reducing alcohol intake is also recommended to mitigate risks associated with heart disease. sources

Published:
Jun 24 2025, 5 pm

Rapamycin Could Match Dietary Restrictions in Lifespan Extension

Research into longevity has gained momentum, particularly with a meta-analysis published in *Aging Cell* revealing that the drug rapamycin may extend lifespan in various vertebrate species, comparable to dietary restrictions. The study, which synthesized data from 167 papers involving animals such as mice and monkeys, found that while dietary restriction consistently promotes longevity, metformin showed minimal effects. Rapamycin, originally an immunosuppressant, demonstrated significant potential for life extension, but its efficacy in humans remains untested. Researchers caution against premature use of rapamycin until human trials confirm safety and efficacy, particularly given its side effects. Future studies may refine rapamycin into safer derivatives, known as rapalogs, to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. Despite the promising findings, experts emphasize the need for comprehensive human trials to better understand the implications of these medications on human lifespan. sources

Published:
Jun 24 2025, 12 am

GLP-1 Drugs Cut Chronic Migraine Days by Half, Study Shows

A recent study presented at the European Academy of Neurology Congress suggests that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, may significantly reduce migraine days for patients suffering from chronic migraines. Led by Dr. Simone Braca from the University of Naples, the pilot study involved 31 participants who took liraglutide, a GLP-1 medication, and reported an average decrease of nine migraine days per month. Participants also experienced a 32-point reduction in their Migraine Disability Assessment Test scores, indicating improved quality of life. Researchers hypothesize that GLP-1 agonists may help by regulating intracranial pressure, a key factor in migraine pathophysiology. While the findings are promising, experts urge caution, highlighting the need for larger, randomized studies to confirm these results and explore the potential of other GLP-1 drugs in migraine treatment. sources

Published:
Jun 23 2025, 6 pm

Walking 100 Minutes Daily May Reduce Chronic Back Pain Risk

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has highlighted a significant link between walking duration and intensity and the risk of chronic low back pain. Chronic low back pain affects many individuals, often for at least three months, making it a leading cause of disability globally. Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology analyzed data from over 11,000 adults, finding that those who walked more than 100 minutes daily had a 23% lower risk of developing chronic low back pain compared to those walking less than 78 minutes. While increased walking intensity also correlated with reduced pain risk, the effect was less pronounced. Experts emphasize that while physical activity, including walking, is beneficial for managing back pain, it does not guarantee prevention. Neel Anand, a spine surgeon, cautioned against the notion that walking alone can prevent back pain, underscoring the complexity of the condition. sources

Published:
Jun 22 2025, 6 pm

Modified DASH Diet Lowers Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetes

A study has found that a modified version of the DASH diet, tailored for individuals with type 2 diabetes, may significantly reduce high blood pressure, particularly when combined with lower sodium intake. The research, which included 102 adults averaging 66 years old, revealed that participants on the low-sodium DASH4D diet experienced an average decrease of 4.6 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 2.3 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure compared to those on a higher sodium diet. The study highlights the importance of dietary changes in managing hypertension, especially among those already on multiple medications. While the findings are promising, researchers noted limitations, including a small sample size and the need for long-term studies. Experts emphasized the potential of accessible, low-sodium diets to improve health outcomes, suggesting that dietary sodium reduction should be a key focus for clinicians treating patients with diabetes. sources

Published:
Jun 21 2025, 7 pm

Diabetes, Hypertension, Smoking Raise Dementia Risk

A recent study published in JAMA Neurology has identified a significant correlation between midlife vascular health risk factors—namely high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking—and an increased risk of dementia. Researchers analyzed data from approximately 7,700 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, revealing that 22-44% of dementia cases reported by age 80 could be linked to these risk factors. Notably, the attributable risk was higher among self-identified female and Black participants, as well as those not carrying the APOE ε4 gene, associated with Alzheimer's disease. Experts stress the importance of addressing these modifiable risk factors early, suggesting that interventions starting in midlife could significantly reduce dementia risk. The findings underscore the critical link between vascular health and brain health, with calls for more inclusive research and proactive health measures to mitigate dementia's impact across diverse populations. sources

Published:
Jun 20 2025, 1 pm

Cycling Boosts Brain Health More Than Walking, Study Reveals

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that regular cycling may significantly reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 480,000 participants in the U.K. Biobank, focusing on their primary modes of transportation over a median follow-up of 13 years. The findings revealed that individuals who primarily cycled or combined cycling with other transport modes had a 19% lower overall dementia risk and a 22% lower risk of Alzheimer's compared to those using non-active transport. Lead author Liangkai Chen noted that cycling's higher aerobic intensity and cognitive engagement likely enhance neuroplasticity more than walking. Furthermore, cyclists showed greater hippocampal volume, crucial for memory formation. Experts emphasize that promoting cycling as a daily transport option could be a practical strategy for improving cognitive health, particularly for older adults. However, safety and gradual progression are vital for those new to cycling. sources

Published:
Jun 19 2025, 7 pm

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