Treelet Health provides the latest health news, disease prevention, nutrition and diet, and other professional health knowledge to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) can lead to liver fibrosis, which can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. Past studies also show there are some environmental risk factors that might increase a person’s risk for liver disease. A new study reports that a common chemical used in dry cleaning and for certain consumer products may triple a person’s risk for liver fibrosis.
Researchers have known for some time now that cardiovascular health can impact a person’s risk for dementia. Past studies show that certain heart-related conditions may increase a person’s risk of developing dementia. A new study found that people with signs of heart damage during middle age — detected through a specific protein — are at a higher risk of developing dementia later in life.
Experts are interested in how microorganisms in the gut impact heart health. A recent study has identified possible bacterial species associated with coronary artery disease, as well as critical metabolic pathways, metabolic products, genes, and functional differences of specific bacteria. This research could pave the way towards using gut-related strategies to address coronary artery disease.
A new study from researchers with Intermountain Health in Salt Lake City examined the effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on people who previously had heart attacks. The researchers did not give everyone the same vitamin D3 dosage but instead adjusted the amount based on the needs of each participant. The researchers found that vitamin D3 may drastically reduced the risk of having a second heart attack.
About 16% of the world’s population lives with insomnia. There are a number of different methods a person may use to help them improve their sleep quality, such as taking melatonin supplements. Past studies show there are some potential risks to taking melatonin supplements. A new study reports that long-term use of melatonin supplements may be linked to a greater risk for heart failure.
Researchers have uncovered striking sex-based differences in how diet influences metabolism with age, revealing that plant proteins and whole grains enhance men’s insulin sensitivity, while moderate wine consumption benefits women.
Written by Keynote Contributor Dr. Balachundhar Subramaniam, Director of the Sadhguru Centre for a Conscious Planet at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Professor of Anaesthesiology at Harvard Medical School.
Past studies have shown that certain healthy lifestyle choices, such as being physically active, may help individuals lower their risk of Alzheimer’s disease. A new study found that older adults may be able to lower their risk of Alzheimer’s disease by taking as few as 3,000 steps a day. Scientists reported this benefit was also seen in older adults with high levels of amyloid-beta in their brains.
Modern lifestyles mean that people spend an increasing amount of time sitting, whether working at a desk, watching TV, or travelling by car, train or plane. Prolonged sitting can adversely affect the function of the blood vessels. A new study has found that foods high in flavanols — antioxidants found in plant foods, such as cocoa, tea, and some fruits and vegetables — may improve vascular function during sitting or being sedentary.
Scientists have known for some time now that the eyes can also help doctors see signs of non-eye-related health conditions. Through the blood vessels in the retina, eye doctors can detect signs of conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. A new study found that the retina’s blood vessels may also be used to help predict a person’s heart disease risk and see how fast they are biologically aging.
While strength training is important for building muscle, so is consuming the right amount of protein. There has been continuous research and controversy about how much protein is needed to optimize muscle growth. In this Honest Nutrition feature, we discuss current research evaluating the role of protein in muscle growth and how much a person should consume each day. This series of Special Features takes an in-depth look at the science behind some of the most debated nutrition-related topics, weighing in on the facts and debunking the myths.
The gut microbiome, comprising bacteria, fungi, and yeasts, plays a crucial role in human health. Disruption of the microbiome is associated with numerous chronic health conditions. It has long been known that antibiotics affect the gut microbiome, killing both beneficial and pathogenic bacteria. Now, a study has found that other prescription medications also negatively impact the microbiome, and their effects can last for some years after stopping the medication.
Key takeaways Walking for just 30 minutes a day can help lower your blood pressure. Getting more exercise helps reduce it even further. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich in potassium, can help lower blood pressure. Be sure to discuss a potassium-rich diet with your doctor before starting, especially if you are taking blood pressure medication. Both meditation and deep breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps slow your heart rate and lower blood pressure.
A person with a menstrual cycle lasting between 26 and 32 days will be most fertile between days 8 and 19 of their cycle. Ovulation, which is when the ovaries release an egg, is the most fertile period.
Daily step counts have become a popular way to track physical activity levels. A recent study sought to identify the benefits of walking for longer periods in participants who were walking 8,000 steps a day or less. The study found that walking for longer stretches was associated with a lower risk of death and cardiovascular disease than walking for shorter stretches.
Many people experience headaches only on one side of their head. Possible causes of a headache on the right-hand side include medication use, allergies, migraine, and neurological problems. Headaches are the most commonTrusted Source type of pain people experience. They can vary in duration, frequency, and the area they affect. Read on to learn more about headaches on the right side of the head and remedies to help manage the pain.
As the popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss continues to grow, researchers continue to examine how these medications might impact other areas of a person’s health. In 2023, published research findings reported that semaglutide could potentially reduce a person’s risk for heart attack, stroke, and major cardiac events by 20%. Building off this research, a new study offers further evidence of semaglutide and lowered major cardiac event risk, regardless of how much weight a person loses while taking the GLP-1 medication.
A number of home remedies, such as honey and saltwater, may help manage cough symptoms. If home remedies do not help, over-the-counter and prescription medications are available.
A research team from Puerto Rico carried out a literature review to compile findings on how menopause may reshape the brain. They reviewed studies published from 2020 to 2025 to get a better understanding of neuroanatomical changes during menopause. The researchers identified consistent patterns that may help explain the changes in thinking, mood, and overall health that often occur during the menopause transition.
The ‘glymphatic system’ — the flow of cerebrospinal fluid during sleep to flush out toxins and waste materials from the brain — plays an essential role in keeping the brain healthy. A new study, using MRI scans, found that people with cardiovascular risk factors that impaired the function of the glymphatic system had an increased risk of dementia. The researchers suggest that improving sleep patterns to enhance glymphatic system function and treating cardiovascular risks could both help reduce dementia risk.
Osteoarthritis, a condition that affects the joints, is growing increasingly common. Although exercise is a useful lifestyle intervention to ease pain, experts are unsure of the best type of exercise to prescribe. A recent analysis concludes that in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, aerobic exercise is likely the most beneficial.
Past studies show that older women, especially those over the age of 55, have an increased risk of developing heart disease when they enter menopause. Previous research has reported a number of modifiable life changes that people can make to help lower their cardiovascular disease risk, including being more physically active. A new study found that older women who took 4,000 steps on only one or two days during the week reduced their risk for cardiovascular disease and death compared to those who took fewer steps.
Several home remedies can help resolve stomach and abdominal pain, such as drinking water and avoiding spicy foods. If these do not help, over-the-counter and prescription medications are available. Stomach pain, also known as abdominal pain, belly ache, or stomach ache, describes discomfort that a person feels anywhere between their chest and groin. This pain can vary in intensity and affect different areas of the abdomen, such as the stomach, appendix, liver, bowel, and more. Stomach pain can also occur alongside other symptoms such as heartburn, bloating, and nausea. The correct remedy for a person’s stomach pain will depend on its cause. This article looks at 12 of the most popular home remedies for an upset stomach and indigestion.
Metabolic syndrome is a collection of health problems, like high blood pressure, that increase the risk for even worse outcomes, like stroke. Multiple factors can impact metabolic syndrome, and experts are seeking to understand the best strategies for preventing metabolic syndrome. A review and meta-analysis of nine studies found that skipping breakfast was linked to an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and its individual components.
Many diets, supplements, and meal replacement plans claim to ensure rapid weight loss but lack any scientific evidence. People may see better results with lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise.
There were more than 55 million people around the world living with dementia in 2020. Previous research shows there are a number of risk factors that can increase a person’s risk for dementia, such as high cholesterol. A new study discovered that people with genetic variants that naturally cause them to have lower cholesterol also have a lower risk of dementia. Researchers found that for those without these genetic variants, use of cholesterol-lowering drugs might achieve the same result.
The British Dietetic Association (BDA) recently released guidelines for managing chronic constipation. The BDA included 59 recommendation statements that included both food and supplements. Among foods included in the guidelines, both kiwifruit and rye bread showed effectiveness at helping with chronic constipation.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is the most common chronic liver disease, affecting almost 40% of adults worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer, but there are few drugs available to treat the early stages. Now, a study in animal models has found that, in combination, two commonly used heart drugs reverse fat accumulation in the liver. The researchers suggest that, if further research confirms their findings, this may be a promising treatment for MASLD.
While it is normal for people to experience mild cognitive impairment as we age, severe cognitive decline is not a healthy part of aging. Past research shows that making healthy lifestyle choices, such as not smoking, can help decrease a person’s risk of developing severe cognitive decline. A new study found that quitting smoking during midlife or later can still help in slowing down age-related cognitive decline.
Past studies show that depression can increase a person’s risk for several health conditions, including chronic pain and heart disease. A new study has found that different types of depression are correlated with an increased risk of different cardiometabolic diseases. Among these cardiometabolic conditions were type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, such as a heart attack or stroke.
Individuals with prediabetes, which involves elevated blood glucose (sugar) levels that do not meet the criteria for a diabetes diagnosis, are at a very high risk of progressing to diabetes. Clinical guidelines for delaying and preventing type 2 diabetes in individuals with prediabetes emphasize the importance of weight loss using lifestyle interventions or medications. A recent study showed that lifestyle interventions could lead to the normalization of glucose regulation in the absence of weight loss, and such a reversal of prediabetes was sufficient to reduce future risk of type 2 diabetes. These results suggest that clinical guidelines for type 2 diabetes prevention should also focus on normalizing blood glucose control in addition to achieving weight loss targets.
Getting enough high-quality sleep is essential for health and wellbeing but how do we know whether the sleep we are getting is meeting our needs? Now, a study has identified five distinct sleep profiles, linking brain activity and sleep quality with a number of different health and lifestyle outcomes. The researchers suggest that sleep profiles are linked to not only health and behavior, but also to the wiring and activity of the brain.
Many older women take calcium supplements to help with bone health. Previous research has raised concerns about calcium supplementation and risk for dementia. A recent post-hoc analysis suggests that calcium supplementation does not increase the risk of dementia, demonstrating the safety of its use.
Aerobic exercise reduces the risk of many health conditions, ranging from heart disease to dementia. Although all forms of physical activity provide some benefits, aerobic exercise is particularly effective because it causes the heart and lungs to work harder than usual.
Getting enough exercise is an essential part of keeping healthy and active, particularly as you get older, but many people struggle to fit exercise into their daily routines. Now, researchers have found that ‘exercise snacks’ — short bursts of physical activity — may be an effective way for less active people to enhance their cardiorespiratory fitness. Because exercise is taken in short bursts of around 5 minutes at least twice a day, people are more likely to stick to this exercise regime than other more time-consuming exercise plans.
Walking and running are both suitable forms of exercise for weight loss and heart health. The benefits and risks depend on a person’s goals and current level of health and fitness. While both activities allow a person to burn calories, lose weight, and lower their risk of heart disease, there is much debate over which is better. Read on to learn more about the benefits and risks.
Diet versions of beverages are often hailed as healthier than the sugar-sweetened original versions. Research is ongoing regarding the potential dangers of sugar-sweetened and artificially sweetened drinks. Recent study results identified a link between drinking higher amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages and low or non-sugar-sweetened beverages and an increased risk for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).
In a recent study, mangoes more effectively improved prediabetes risk factors in a new study than low-sugar granola bars. The key to mangoes’ better results likely lies in their being a whole food with natural fiber, vitamins, and nutrients. However, experts agree that the best way to avoid type 2 diabetes is to eat a balanced, healthy diet and be physically active, rather than to depend on a single ‘superfood’ to prevent the condition.
A new study concludes that the speed at which the human brain evolved may help explain why our species experiences autism. According to the authors, certain genes associated with autism are downregulated in humans compared with other species. They argue that autism in humans may be a byproduct of the rapid evolution of human cognitive traits.
Researchers studied a group of adults to learn more about the connection between sleep quality and brain aging. The scientists used MRI scans to determine each person’s ‘brain age’ and compared that to sleep patterns. They learned that participants with poor sleep had brain ages that were an average of 1 year older than their chronological age. This finding was more pronounced in men than in women.
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, so people are advised to drink plenty of water each day. However, a new study suggests that incorporating coffee and tea into your daily drink intake may give additional health benefits. The study found that, provided overall liquid intake was adequate, a balanced intake of coffee and tea was associated with a lower risk of death from all causes.
A new study suggests that moderate consumption of coffee and caffeine on a regular basis could be beneficial to prevent diseases like type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke. Compared with people who did not consume caffeine at all or very little per day, people who drank 3 coffee drinks per day or 200 to 300 milligrams (mg) of caffeine a day had a 48.1% or 40.7% reduced risk for new-onset cardiometabolic multimorbidity. Experts tout many of the other beneficial properties in tea and coffee but warn that other caffeinated beverages may not have the same benefits — and that there is no causal relationship between prevention of cardiometabolic multimorbidity and caffeine.
Staying up-to-date with yearly flu shots is an important step in maintaining day-to-day health. However, some people may be worried about some of the more common side effects, like mild fever, or about feeling faint while getting the vaccine. Medical News Today spoke to experts about what foods and drinks might help mitigate or prevent any short-term side effects from getting a flu shot.
Overweight and obesity are known risk factors for several types of cancer, including those affecting the breast, bowel and liver. But new research suggests that, for some obesity-related cancers, where fat is carried on the body may be as important as how much of it there is. The researchers propose that a better understanding of how fat distribution across the body affects cancer risk could help identify those most at risk of developing many cancers.
Cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure, heart attack, and stroke, are the leading causes of death around the world. Previous research shows there are a number of modifiable lifestyle factors that can help a person lower their risk for heart disease. A new study reports that more than 99% of people who experienced a heart attack, heart failure, or stroke had at least one of four major cardiovascular risk factors above healthy levels beforehand. Scientists also found that of the four major cardiovascular disease risk factors studied, high blood pressure was the most common issue.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that cannot be cured but can be treated to prevent its progression. Individuals at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis can be identified 3-5 years prior to symptom onset based on autoantibody levels, but only 30-60% of individuals expressing these autoantibodies develop this condition. A recent study has identified changes in the immune profile or signature of individuals at risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis as they progress in the disease. These findings could help with detecting rheumatoid arthritis early and developing more effective preemptive therapies.
Coffee can promote liver health, according to a new analysis of decades of existing data. In addition to affirming proposed connections between coffee and a healthier liver, the new review identifies the molecular pathways through which such connections may occur. As a result of the compounds it contains, coffee can support liver health in at least five different and significant ways. The effects of coffee are dose-dependent, says the review, and the ability to tolerate its consumption is highly individualized.
There is ongoing research on how food relates to mental well-being and mental health conditions such as depression. An area of study is how foods impact aspects like happiness and life satisfaction. A recent study suggests that certain foods, like fish and vegetables, may be linked to positive psychological well-being.
Alcohol consumption, particularly heavy alcohol use, is linked to many health conditions, including an increased risk of dementia. However, studies have suggested that consuming small amounts of alcohol might actually decrease the risk of developing dementia. Now, a study has found that low alcohol consumption may not have the suggested protective effect. The study, which used both observational and genetic analysis, suggests that any alcohol consumption may increase a person’s risk of dementia, with the risk increasing as alcohol intake increases.
The global population of older adults ages 60 and over is expected to jump from 12% in 2015 to 22% by 2050. Past studies show there are several lifestyle factors that can have a negative impact on how healthy older adults may age. A new study says that it may be possible for older adults to regain their optimal well-being by making healthy lifestyle choices, even at age 60 and older.
While it’s not uncommon for people to experience problems with thinking and remembering with aging, moderate to severe cognitive decline is not a common aging experience. While not all cases of mild cognitive impairment lead to dementia, about 10-20% of cases do. For this reason, clinicians emphasize the importance of following a healthy lifestyle to help keep one’s brain healthy as one ages. Among these interventions are following the MIND diet, a moderate to high-intensity exercise program, and engaging socially.
Metabolic syndrome is associated with memory deficits. A new animal study identifies a mechanism that might underpin this effect. Researchers show how a high-fat diet affects specific neural circuitry, thereby hindering memory formation.
In a new study, researchers examined whether cocoa extract supplements have an impact on age-related inflammation, which is linked to heart disease and other chronic illnesses. The researchers found that 500 mg of daily cocoa extract supplements slowed increases in a key marker of inflammation. These benefits were strongest in individuals with higher baseline or existing inflammation at the start.
Ketogenic diets that provide most of the daily calorie intake from fats have gained considerable attention as a lifestyle intervention for managing obesity and diabetes. Despite its popularity and effectiveness in promoting short-term weight loss, some human and animal studies suggest an adverse impact of a keto diet on metabolic health. A new long-term study conducted in mice now shows that a keto diet causes an increase in blood lipid (fat) levels, excessive fat storage in the liver, and impaired glucose regulation. These results raise concerns about the use of a keto diet for the management of obesity and diabetes and underscore the need for a cautionary approach.
Researchers estimate that about 1.8 billion people around the world live with presbyopia, a farsightedness condition that can appear as a person grows older. More recent treatment options for presbyopia are eye drops such as Vuity, which uses pilocarpine hydrochloride. A new study found that a new eye drop using both pilocarpine plus diclofenac helped study participants improve their ability to read up close.
Long COVID or post-COVID-19 condition is the long-term symptoms that can develop after experiencing COVID-19. One study found that starting metformin within three months of SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosis may decrease the risk of long COVID in people who have obesity or overweight. Metformin is a medication used to treat high blood sugar levels caused by type 2 diabetes.
Past studies show that there are a number of lifestyle factors that may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, such as smoking. There are different subtypes of type 2 diabetes, which can be related to age, insulin resistance, and obesity. A new study reconfirms smoking as a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and says this risk occurs across all four subtypes of the condition. It also finds that smoke-free tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, can also heighten diabetes risk.
Each year about 25 million women around the world experience menopause. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment sometimes prescribed to people going through menopause, which has some potential complications, including blood clots and stroke. New research says that women with type 2 diabetes using HRT skin patches are not at a higher risk for blood clots or stroke. However, the study did find that women with type 2 diabetes taking oral HRT may increase their risk for pulmonary embolism and heart disease overall.
Mild cognitive impairment can involve cognitive struggles and can increase someone’s chances of developing dementia. Exergaming involves technology that requires physical activity and has possible cognitive benefits. One recent study found that serious exergaming may positively impact gray matter and white matter in the brain, and that these brain changes may be linked to cognitive improvements.
Researchers from the Medical University of Lodz in Poland investigated how diet can affect the severity of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which can cause severe gastrointestinal problems. A study of participants with IBD showed that those with diets deemed anti-inflammatory were more likely to be in remission or have mild disease. People whose diets tended towards being pro-inflammatory, however, were up to three times more likely to have moderate-to-severe IBD.
In 2022, about 19.8 million people globally died from heart disease, with about 85% of these deaths attributed to stroke and heart attack. Previous research has linked bacterial infections as a risk factor for heart disease. Past studies have also linked bacterial infections to an increased risk of arterial plaque buildup. A new study has now identified specific bacteria typically found in the mouth and throat, which researchers believe may be a trigger for a heart attack.
Insomnia is a sleep disorder where a person has trouble falling and staying asleep. Past studies have linked insomnia to an increased risk for a number of health concerns, including cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. A new study found that people with chronic insomnia may be at a greater risk of developing dementia or mild cognitive impairment than those with non-chronic insomnia, associated with faster brain aging.
An integrated digital health system involving a mobile device app and a blood pressure monitor proved effective in lowering participants’ blood pressure in a new study. The digital intervention was particularly effective for women, including women of perimenopausal and menopausal age, who had high blood pressure. Menopause is a time of heightened cardiovascular risk, so interventions such as this are a welcome innovation. Such digital health systems appear to be more effective for women due to their greater engagement with the systems, compared to men.
Past research has linked certain mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, to an increased risk for dementia. A new study has found that people who have multiple mental health conditions have a higher risk of developing dementia than those with one. Coexisting mood and anxiety disorders correlated with increased dementia odds of up to 90%. Researchers report that this risk percentage increases with each additional concurrent mental health disorder.
About 4% of the global population lives with an anxiety disorder, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). While there are currently treatment options available for GAD, past studies show that about 50% of people will not respond to first-line treatments like antidepressant therapy. A new study reports the results of a phase 2b clinical trial of an LSD medication that shows promise in treating anxiety. The drug, called MM120, is an oral pharmaceutical form of LSD, the hallucinogenic drug also known as acid.
A new study in mice found that a ketogenic diet did not accelerate the aging of females, although it did cause males to age more rapidly. The authors of the study found that the presence of estrogen in the female mice blocked the aging effect of the diet. When males were treated with estrogen, estradiol, and antioxidants, the rapid-aging effects of the diets decreased. Further study is required to determine if these effects translate to humans.
Past studies show that certain healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a nutritional diet, can help people live longer and healthier. A new study found the time of day people eat their meals — especially breakfast — may also affect longevity. Eating breakfast later in the day, for example, was linked to depression and oral health issues.
A new trial investigating high-normal serum potassium levels for people at high risk of ventricular arrhythmias delivered promising results. Compared to a control group, people with these elevated potassium levels fared better over the approximately 3 years of the trial. Too little potassium is bad for the heart, and so is too much. The trial suggested a new sweet spot for at-risk heart patients.
Low-calorie sweeteners and sugar substitutes such as aspartame, saccharin, and xylitol have been used since the early 1900s. Past studies show there may be potential health risks to using sugar substitutes, including cognitive issues. A new study provides more evidence suggesting a correlation between sugar substitute use and cognitive decline.
Beta-blockers are a type of medication used after heart attacks. A recent study suggests that using beta-blockers does not improve certain outcomes after heart attacks where the left ventricular ejection fraction is preserved. Further analysis suggests that beta-blocker use may be harmful for women, especially for those who take beta-blockers at higher doses and for women who have preserved left ventricular ejection fraction.
One way scientists think Alzheimer’s disease may be detected early is through eye health. Specifically, scientists have been looking into the retina and its blood vessels in hopes that they could help identify changes that are also occurring in the brain. Results of a recent mouse study suggest distinct vascular changes in the eyes and brain occur at the same time, and that closer eye examination could ultimately help doctors detect Alzheimer’s and related dementias sooner.
Currently, neurodegenerative conditions, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, are challenging to preempt. A large-scale, innovative new study investigates how hormonal, dietary, metabolic, and digestive issues may help predict these conditions years before they begin. The study identifies several conditions that are associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Importantly, the findings also hint at ways to help reduce the risk of developing these disorders.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world. Colon cancer diagnoses under the age of 50 are on the rise for a number of reasons, including eating a diet high in processed foods. Past studies show that focusing on certain types of foods may help lower a person’s colon cancer risk. A new study says consumption of cruciferous vegetables may help decrease colon cancer risk.
Previous studies have identified specific genetic variants that may increase a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease, such as the APOE4 variant. A new study found that following a Mediterranean diet may help lower a person’s risk of developing dementia and decelerate cognitive decline. Scientists discovered that this protective effect was strongest in high risk participants with two copies of the APOE4 gene variant.
About one in every nine adults around the world lives with diabetes, with 90% of them having type 2 diabetes. Past studies show that certain lifestyle factors can help lower a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes, such as exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet. A new study has found that a combination of following a calorie-restricted Mediterranean-style diet, plus moderate exercise and following a weight-loss program, is a more effective way to lower type 2 diabetes risk compared to only following the Mediterranean diet.
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet studied how dietary patterns influence the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease, dementia, and diabetes in older adults. Older adults who regularly ate healthier diets that included vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats experienced a slower buildup of chronic illnesses. Those who consumed more red meat, processed foods, and sugary beverages were more likely to develop multiple chronic conditions over time.
A recent review gives an overview of coffee’s health benefits, considering the most recent data. For most, moderate coffee intake offers health benefits, including decreased mortality and decreased risk for some diseases like cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. There are still factors to consider, such as caffeine intake during pregnancy, decaffeinated drinks, and more research is needed.
As much as 31% of the world’s population has metabolic syndrome. Past research shows that metabolic syndrome can lead to diseases like Parkinson’s disease. A new study provides further evidence of a correlation between metabolic syndrome and Parkinson’s disease risk. Researchers found that people with metabolic syndrome were about 40% more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than those without the condition.
A person’s oxidative health refers to their body’s ability to keep a good balance of free radicals and antioxidants that when imbalanced, could damage body cells. Oxidative stress can be caused by a number of lifestyle factors, including eating an unhealthy diet. Past studies show that eating certain foods high in antioxidants, like nuts, may help lower a person’s risk for oxidative stress. Now a new study says that eating about 2 ounces of almonds a day may help lower oxidative stress and improve oxidative health, thus prolonging health span.
Type 2 diabetes is a major global health concern — in 2017, around 6.28% of the world’s population lived with the condition, a proportion that is expected to rise to 7% by 2030. There are several treatments for the condition, but the global cost of treating type 2 diabetes is projected to be more than $1 trillion by 2030. A new study has found that turmeric, or its active component curcumin, may help people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes lose weight, potentially reducing their need for costly medications.
Since the start of the COVID pandemic in January 2020, about 768 million people globally have been infected by COVID-19. While COVID affects the respiratory system, past studies show that it can also lead to issues in other parts of the body, including the cardiovascular system. A new study has found that people who have had COVID have stiffer arteries compared to people who never had this viral infection. Scientists believe this arterial stiffening may cause early vascular aging of as much as five years.
About 5% of the world’s adult population lives with depression. Past research shows that people can help lower their risk for depression by following healthy lifestyle guidelines, such as eating a nutritious diet. A new study has identified specific minerals — including potassium and zinc — that may also help in reducing a person’s depression risk.
As the popularity of GLP-1 medications used for weight loss continues to increase, more research is being done to further examine potential side effects of these medications. One such side effect is possible eye issues and vision loss, for which there is currently a great deal of conflicting information. Some studies link GLP-1 use to an increased risk for ocular diseases such as nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), diabetic retinopathy, papillitis, and optic nerve disorders. A new study reports that using semaglutide is not associated with an increased risk for eye disorders or diabetic retinopathy. While this new study found a connection between semaglutide use and NAION, researchers say that the current evidence is insufficient to establish a definitive connection between the two.
People whose diet contained fewer processed foods lost more weight than people who ate more ultra-processed foods, a recent study confirmed. While both groups lost weight, those eating less in the way of processed foods shed twice as many pounds. The key to weight loss in both groups was likely that they both consumed a well-balanced diet, with the only difference being the amount of ultraprocessed foods they consumed.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic, degenerative condition of the joints that most commonly occurs in people over the age of 40. The condition can affect any joint in the body, but is most common in the knees, hands and hips. Although there is no cure, the condition can be managed by staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medications to relieve pain. Now, a study has found that modifying your walking style may relieve the pain and slow the progression of knee osteoarthritis as effectively as commonly used medications.
Parkinson’s disease negatively impacts the body’s central nervous system, which includes the brain. A new study has found that cycling helps restore neural connections damaged by Parkinson’s disease. This benefit was seen in as little as 12 cycling sessions over a four-week period.
Research is ongoing about what components contribute to healthier brains as people age. Recent research identified some unique brain features of ‘superagers,’ people at least 80 years old who perform cognitively similarly to people decades younger. The research also identified that superagers tended to be more sociable than their peers. More research into superagers could lead to interventions that help protect cognition.
Lithium is a mineral that can be found in nature, with small amounts also found in the human body. Past research has also shown that lithium seems to have a neuroprotective effect on the brain. A new study shows that lithium occurs naturally in the brain and plays a major role in normal brain function. Scientists also discovered that a loss of lithium in the brain may be an early warning sign for Alzheimer’s disease because it binds to beta-amyloid plaques.
Non-sugar, or artificial, sweeteners are widely used to reduce the energy in sweetened foods and drinks, particularly those marketed as diet, or low or no sugar. However, concerns about their possible health effects include links to gastrointestinal problems, metabolic effects, and even increased cancer risk. Now, a study has found that one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners, sucralose, could adversely affect cancer immunotherapy. The researchers suggest that by changing the gut microbiome, sucralose decreases the effectiveness of immunotherapy for several cancers.
Increasing daily step counts and walking faster may reduce risk of cardiovascular events in people with hypertension, a recent study has found. Walking more than 3,000 steps each day reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events by 17%. The benefits of walking also reduced risk of cardiovascular events in people without hypertension.
A person’s “heart age” may not always be the same as their chronological age, which can raise a person’s risk for heart disease. A team of researchers has developed a free online tool to help people calculate their heart age to determine their cardiovascular disease risk. The research team tested the new online tool on thousands of American adults and found most adults have a heart that is several years older than their chronological age.
Past studies show that human aging doesn’t necessarily happen at the same pace throughout our life. There is still much to discover about the aging process, especially when it comes to how it impacts the body’s organs. A new study found that by focusing on aging-related protein changes in the body, there is an acceleration in aging of organs and tissues around the age of 50. And of these proteins, scientists found that expressions of 48 of them linked to diseases increased with age, such as cardiovascular and liver disease.
A lot of people focus on getting 10,000 steps a day for its purported health benefits. A new study says that walking for only 7,000 steps a day can help reduce a person’s risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia, cancer, depression, and all-cause mortality. Scientists also discovered that walking around 4,000 steps a day still offers more health benefits than people with very low activity and about 2,000 steps a day.
Several lifestyle changes can help lower the risk for heart disease, including being physically active. A new study found that adults who developed heart disease later in life experienced a decline in their physical activity about 12 years before their cardiovascular event. Scientists also discovered that Black male participants had a more continuous decline in physical activity from young adulthood to middle age, and Black female participants consistently reported the lowest physical activity throughout adulthood, highlighting disparity.
Can you eat your way to a longer, healthier life? And if so, what diet might best foster longevity? Over the past decade or so, a long string of studies has added to the evidence that a Mediterranean-type diet may do wonders for the body and mind. In this podcast episode, we look at what this type of diet can and cannot do for our health and lifespan.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions that damage the intestines and can cause uncomfortable symptoms. Preventing IBD remains a challenge, and research is underway to minimize this risk. A recent systematic review and meta-analyses identified dietary choices that may affect risk for Crohn’s disease, a major type of IBD. The study saw benefits from a Mediterranean-style diet and increased risk from diets containing inflammatory and ultraprocessed foods.
As the proportion of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in the Western diet increases, concerns are growing about their health effects. Studies have linked UPFs with many health conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and several types of cancer. Now, a study suggests that high consumption of UPFs could increase a person’s chance of developing lung cancer. While observing a link, the study cannot prove that UPFs cause lung cancer, but highlights a need for further studies.
A program of exercise, nutrition, cognitive and social challenges, and health coaching resulted in improved cognition scores for people at risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The two-year trial involved lifestyle changes only, without added medications. Some participants followed the program self-guided, but those receiving the program in a structured format improved more, though all participants’ cognitive scores improved.
Although the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, doctors consider it an immune-mediated inflammatory disease. This means that inflammation is at the root of this condition.
Physical activity like walking is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Research is ongoing regarding the benefits of physical activity in various populations. One study focusing on low-income and Black participants found that fast walking may decrease mortality risk by almost 20%.
Increasing age is the greatest risk factor for all types of cancer, with most cases being diagnosed in people over the age of 60. However, in people under 50, there has been a rapid, worldwide increase in cancers of the digestive system, or gastrointestinal cancers. Although still far less common than in older people, early-onset colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men, and the second in women, in the United States. The exact cause is unknown, but the authors of a new review published in the British Journal of Surgery suggest that obesity, a Western-style diet, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and even exposure to microplastics, may all be contributing to the rise. Another study, published in Nature Medicine, has further estimated that, without early intervention, as many as 15.6 million gastric cancer cases may occur in the next few decades, most of which, are attributable to infection with a common bacterium, Helicobacter pylori.
There were about 589 million adults around the world living with diabetes in 2024, with 90% having type 2 diabetes. Past studies have shown that people who have type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing dementia. A new study has found that when it comes to the neuroprotective abilities of diabetes medications, people taking GLP-1 agonists had a significantly lower cumulative risk of developing dementia, when compared to metformin users.
When it comes to weight loss, many people track their macros — i.e., their proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. However, as a humble nutrient, fiber is often overlooked. But what if this is the missing ingredient to weight loss success? Can fiber supplements replace whole foods? In this podcast, a nutritionist answers readers’ questions about fiber and more.
A team of researchers has developed a genetic risk score for six common diseases, which could assist doctors and patients when making medical decisions.
When you think about progressive brain disorders that cause dementia, you usually think of memory problems. But sometimes language problems — also known as aphasia — are the first symptom.
Inside brain cells, errors in DNA can accumulate as we age. But in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, these errors — known as somatic mutations — may build up at a faster rate.
A new study finds that women who had experienced infertility had a 16 percent increased risk of heart failure compared with women who did not have an infertility history.
What’s your blood pressure? For most people, this is an easy question, a fundamental measurement taken at every doctor’s visit. Many supermarkets have free stations to check it. Even smart watches can gather this metric anywhere, anytime.
People who consume high amounts of olive oil may lower their risk of premature death overall and from specific causes, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease, according to a new study led by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The researchers also found that people who consumed olive oil instead of animal fat had a lower risk of total and cause-specific mortality.
A diagnostic blood test may provide early detection of lung cancer in asymptomatic patients, according to a new study.
People who eat two or more servings of avocado each week may lower their risk of cardiovascular disease compared to people who rarely eat avocado, according to a new study led by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
了解如何通过健康的生活方式来改善您的身体状况，预防疾病，提高生活质量。
掌握科学的血压管理方法，预防心血管疾病，保护心脏健康。
了解营养饮食对健康的重要性，学习如何通过合理的饮食来改善身体状况。