Alzheimer’s Symptoms Helped by Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Recent data indicate that intensive lifestyle changes can be an effective strategy for early-stage Alzheimer’s, potentially slowing some aspects of cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s disease has a profound impact, bringing about not only memory loss but also a range of other symptoms. These include episodes of confusion and challenges in completing tasks. Moreover, patients may become prone to feelings of irritability and bouts of depression.

Research has shown that an integrated approach that includes a whole food, plant-based vegan diet can help. When combined with regular physical activity, managing stress techniques, support group participation, and dietary supplements the early stages of Alzheimer’s can significantly decelerate, and in some cases, reverse.

The trial, conducted by Dr. Dean Ornish, was relatively small, involving only 51 participants that were between the ages of 45 and 90 who were experiencing early Alzheimer’s disease at the level of mild cognitive impairment. These individuals were randomly selected to receive either an intensive lifestyle intervention or standard care, and their progress was assessed through cognitive and functional assessments, along with biomarkers.

In just 20 weeks, the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in outcomes compared to the control group, who either remained the same or deteriorated. Ten patients in the intervention group showed improved symptoms according to physician assessments, while no patients in the control group did.

While the small scale of the study means the results should be considered preliminary, they are nonetheless very positive, given the clear improvement in many patients’ symptoms. However, it remains unknown which aspect of the intervention was most effective; whether the diet, exercise, supplements, support groups, or a combination of all these elements. Further research with larger groups is necessary to determine this.

Changing long-established eating habits can be challenging. Many people resist shifting from the basic American Diet, which is rich in calories and ultra-processed foods but low in essential nutrients, despite its appealing taste. Similarly, incorporating regular physical activity can prove difficult. For patients with Alzheimer’s and mild cognitive impairment, it may be beneficial to consider incorporating lifestyle changes into their treatment plan, in consultation with a healthcare professional.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Effects of intensive lifestyle changes on the progression of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease: a randomized, controlled clinical trial

The Hidden Health Benefits of Carrots

Recent research has shown that consuming a portion of baby carrots three times weekly can markedly raise skin carotenoid levels. Elevated skin carotenoids are linked to enhanced antioxidant defenses and a reduced likelihood of chronic conditions such as heart disease and various cancers. This indicator also suggests better skin health and enhanced immune system function.

Carotenoids are pigments that enhance many fruits and vegetables with their vibrant orange, red and yellow hues. As diet is the main source of these compounds, skin measurements can be taken to assess the intake of fruits and vegetables. When paired with a multivitamin that includes beta-carotene, another carotenoid, the levels of these beneficial phytonutrients in the body increased even further.

In the study, a serving of baby carrots (defined as 8-12 carrots) chopped into smaller pieces to equal 100 grams or half a cup were used. This unpublished research involved 60 young adults divided into four groups. One group ate the specified serving of carrots three times a week, another took a multivitamin supplement without eating any carrots, a third group consumed both the carrots and the multivitamin, and a fourth group, serving as the control, did not consume either the carrots or the supplement.

The study revealed that skin carotenoid levels increased by 10.8% in the group consuming baby carrots alone, and by 21.6% in the group that combined baby carrots with a multivitamin supplement containing beta carotene, compared to their levels before the study started. There were no changes in skin carotenoid levels in the control group or the group that took only the supplement.

Many might assume that simply taking a multivitamin supplement would suffice, but it alone did not enhance carotenoid accumulation. Instead, it was the combination that appeared effective. The research demonstrated that pairing baby carrots with a multivitamin supplement containing beta carotene can boost skin carotenoid levels.

For optimal benefits, it is recommended to select a multivitamin with beta carotene and to consume baby carrots at least three times a week.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Trying to eat more vegetables? Snacking on carrots might help

Can the Right Diet Add a Decade to Your Life?

Healthy eating provides multiple benefits, such as better overall well-being and a more efficient cardiovascular system. According to recent research, consuming the appropriate foods could extend life expectancy by up to ten years.

In previous studies, it was assessed how dietary modifications could improve life expectancy without accounting for factors like weight, height, or physical activity. This study adjusts for these variables and analyzes a diverse group of participants from seven different countries.

The research utilized dietary patterns specific to each country, with participants switching to one of three diets aimed at testing different health outcomes. These diets were an optimized longevity diet, a more practical diet, and an optimized vegan diet. The focus was on the consumption of fifteen food groups. Notably, the diet designed for maximum longevity recommends daily intakes of seven servings of whole grains, five servings of vegetables, and five servings of fruits. Additionally, the researchers highlighted the importance of reducing the intake of red and processed meats, sugars, and sugary drinks.

The increase in life expectancy, reflecting additional years of life, spanned from 4-11.3 years among participants. This range was influenced by the participant’s age and the particular dietary approach they followed from the three options provided in the study.

The participants who adopted the more practical dietary changes consumed a diet that was a midpoint between a typical Western diet and one optimized for longevity. These moderate adjustments still positively impacted life expectancy, potentially adding as much as five years for individuals starting at 40 years old.

The study conclusively demonstrated that boosting consumption of whole grains and legumes while reducing red and processed meats, sugary foods and sugar-sweetened beverages can enhance life expectancy. Sustaining these dietary changes could potentially extend some individuals’ lives by up to a decade. Additionally, a healthier diet is linked to numerous beneficial health outcomes.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Life expectancy gains from dietary modifications: a comparative modeling study in 7 countries

Exercise Intensely for 20% Less Risk of Early Mortality

Regular aerobic activities such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing can enhance everyone’s cardiorespiratory health. Recent research reveals that improved cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) can reduce the risk of premature death, chronic illnesses, and health-related complications by an impressive 20%.

Cardiorespiratory fitness evaluates the combined efficiency of your heart, lungs, and muscles in delivering oxygen to your body during prolonged physical exertion. It is commonly assessed using VO2 max, which represents the maximum volume of oxygen your body can utilize during high-intensity exercise. Enhanced CRF levels enable your body to transport and utilize oxygen more effectively.

The team of international researchers analyzed data from 199 studies, investigating the link between cardiorespiratory fitness and future health results. The conclusions were very significant in that those with higher fitness levels saw their risk of early death from any cause drop by 41-53% compared to individuals with lower levels of fitness.

Elevated fitness levels were associated with a significant decrease in the risk of developing chronic diseases, ranging from 37-69%. Furthermore, for each incremental MET (a unit measuring exercise intensity), there was a reduction in mortality risk between 7-51%, varying by the specific reason for mortality.

This study offers a clearer picture of the correlation between fitness levels and specific health outcomes. As individuals enhance their fitness levels, their likelihood of disease and premature death decreases. Nearly everyone can enhance their cardiorespiratory health through consistent aerobic workouts. Conversely, neglecting physical activity could negatively impact your health.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Cardiorespiratory fitness is a strong and consistent predictor of morbidity and mortality among adults: an overview of meta-analyses representing over 20.9 million observations from 199 unique cohort studies

Do Your Band-Aids Contain Carcinogenic ‘Forever Chemicals’?

A new study has shown that the bandages you use might be harmful, containing a measurable amount of chemicals linked to cancer. It has revealed that major medical bandage brands, such as Band-Aid and Curad, contain hazardous ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAS) associated with cancer risks. The presence of fluorine, a key chemical, was detected in more than twenty-five different bandage products.

Once in the bloodstream, PFAS can embed themselves in healthy tissues, where they can begin to damage the immune system, liver, kidneys and other organs.

Investigators have found that PFAS chemicals, which are often employed in the production of adhesives, likely enter products through standard manufacturing procedures. Fluorine, a component also utilized in rocket fuel production, can cause skin burns and damage to the eyes, posing a significant risk primarily when inhaled. When PFAS chemicals enter the bloodstream, they can accumulate in healthy body tissues, potentially harming the immune system, liver, kidneys, and various other organs.

An EPA-certified laboratory tested 40 bandages from 18 different brands and found that 26 contained measurable amounts of fluorine. This research aimed to identify the presence of PFAS chemicals in both the absorbent parts and adhesive sections of bandages available at major retail stores, including Rite Aid, Walmart, CVS, among others. Bandages branded under Band-Aid, Care Science, Curad, CVS Health, Equate, First Honey, Rite Aid, Solimo (an Amazon brand), and Up & Up (a Target brand) were discovered to have fluorine concentrations exceeding 100 parts per million.

The fact that bandages, which are applied directly to open wounds, could also be a source of PFAS exposure for both children and adults is concerning. The evidence clearly indicates that PFAS are unnecessary for effective wound care, highlighting the urgency for manufacturers to eliminate these chemicals and switch to PFAS-free alternatives to safeguard public health.

PFAS compounds are characterized by their carbon-fluorine bonds, forming an extremely durable chemical capable of persisting in the environment for extensive periods, ranging from years to decades.

A report from the CDC reveals that PFAS chemicals are present in the bloodstream of 97% of the American population.

To view the original scientific study click below:
“Band-Aids” & Bandages with Indications of PFAS “Forever Chemicals” Report

Using Reheated Cooking Oil Can Lead to Brain Damage

Although high-temperature deep-frying is already associated with metabolic health concerns, comprehensive studies on the effects of consuming such oils are scarce. Recent research conducted on rats indicates that the repeated use of the same oil for deep-frying may heighten the risk of neurological disorders, including conditions like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, and autism.

Harmful chemicals generated when oil is heated to extreme temperatures may disrupt the critical signaling pathways between the brain, liver, and gut. This has the potential to lead to significant neural damage that could be passed down to future generations.

This study marks the first to illustrate that long-term consumption of deep-fried oils can worsen neurological outcomes. The reuse of oil influences the two-way communication pathways connecting the liver, gut, and brain, thereby enhancing neurodegeneration. The liver-gut-brain axis is vital for controlling various bodily functions, and its impairment has been connected to neurological conditions.

The research revealed that rats fed on reheated oils exhibited heightened oxidative stress, damage to the colon and liver inflammation. These conditions triggered changes in the metabolism of liver lipids and reduced the transportation of vital fatty acids to the brain. Additionally, the study indicated that the offspring of rats that consumed reheated oils suffered greater neuronal damage compared to those in the control group.

The study emphasized that reused frying oil not only depletes its natural antioxidants and beneficial properties but also accumulates hazardous substances like trans fats and acrylamide, a compound notorious for harming both the neurological and reproductive functions. Additionally, repeatedly heating any unsaturated oil, such as olive oil, to high temperatures leads to the formation of compounds that exhibit carcinogenic effects in rat studies.

For optimal safety and quality when frying foods, it is best to always use fresh cooking oil, with avocado oil being the top choice due to its high smoke point. Refined coconut oil is also a strong alternative. Oils that are considered toxic are corn, canola, soybean, cottonseed, safflower, sunflower, rice bran and grapeseed. These oils are exposed to extremely high temperatures, which oxidize their fatty acids and result in the production of detrimental byproducts. Overconsumption of omega-6 fatty acids, prevalent in these seed oils, can also lead the body to generate pro-inflammatory substances.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Study reveals neurological effects of reused frying oils

New Research Uncovers Mechanisms of Aging

Researchers in Australia believe they have identified the master regulator of aging. Their study has uncovered the genetic mechanisms that control how individuals mature and age. Previously, the changes in gene activity from birth through adulthood to old age were largely unknown. This groundbreaking discovery could pave the way for enhancing the quality of life as people grow older.

They studied humans and mice in various age groups over a period of time which gave them the opportunity to investigate the gene activity associated with development and aging. Each of our cells are switched on or off by a master controller gene which makes sure that each cell carries out its unique function.

The master regulator, which is called Activator Protein (AP-1) was discovered to gradually activate adult genes, while reducing the process in the development of early-life genes

The study revealed that this cellular process was consistent across a person’s life stages as they mature. It continued into adulthood, presumably because AP-1 can be activated by various stress and inflammatory mechanisms and also by a blood protein that increases as we age. This then suppresses the genes most active when we are young, potentially driving many of the predictable changes associated with aging.

Addressing age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s, metabolic liver disorders, and stroke requires a deep understanding of the aging process. By identifying AP-1 as a key regulator influencing aging across various cell types, researchers are now positioned to test drugs that diminish its activity, potentially enhancing life quality. The objective is to halt the progression or onset of aging-related diseases by targeting the core mechanisms of aging, thus promoting healthier aging.

To view the original scientific study click below:
The activity of early-life gene regulatory elements is hijacked in aging through pervasive AP-1-linked chromatin opening

How The Mediterranean Diet Supports Brain Health

A groundbreaking study on the Mediterranean diet has provided the most compelling evidence to date that it is linked to healthy brain aging. Following the Mediterranean diet in later years seems to decrease the risk of cognitive decline.

This study carried out one of the largest and most comprehensive nutrient biomarker analyses, examining multimodal neuroimaging measures of brain health in a sample of 100 older adults in conjunction with cognitive tests. They discovered that a diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, which is high in antioxidants, carotenoids, fatty acids, vitamin E, and choline can significantly enhance brain aging and cognitive function.

The study’s findings revealed distinct aging patterns: one indicating accelerated aging and the other showing slower-than-expected aging. An analysis of dietary biomarkers affecting these patterns identified a nutrient profile with higher levels of certain fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. Participants with this nutrient profile exhibited better cognitive scores and delayed brain aging. It is significant to note that participant characteristics like demographics, level of fitness, and measurements did not explain the observed differences in brain aging. Thus, the nutrient pattern identified in this study encourages the development of dietary interventions to support healthy brain aging.

Two significant contributors to brain aging are oxidative stress and inflammation. The Mediterranean diet combats these issues by preserving cell membrane structure, boosting brain function, and increasing the brain’s blood flow. It improves cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart disease through omega-3 fatty acids. It strengthens immune function with antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. Additionally, it lowers inflammation, aiding in the management of arthritis and metabolic syndrome.

Individuals who adopt a Mediterranean diet should focus on consuming fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, olive oil, beans, and whole grains. They should also aim for two servings of fish each week and maintain an active lifestyle. The nutrients in these foods help protect against damage to cells, suppress free radicals, and enhance memory.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Investigating nutrient biomarkers of healthy brain aging: a multimodal brain imaging study

New Research Shows Intermittent Fasting Beats Diabetes Drugs

Approximately 10% of Americans have type 2 diabetes, a condition characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, or blood sugar. This disease can result in significant health complications, including heart disease, nerve impairment, and vision problems. A recent study indicates that intermittent fasting can be more effective at controlling blood sugar in individuals that have type 2 diabetes than commonly used diabetes medications.

Intermittent fasting is time-restricted eating and has gained popularity as an alternative weight loss strategy. This method restricts the window of time during which food is consumed, without imposing limits on the quantity or variety of food.

The study, carried out at 9 centers in China, was a randomized clinical trial, aimed at evaluating the impact of an intermittent fasting diet on blood sugar control in people that have type 2 diabetes. There were 405 participants who were divided into 3 groups. The first group followed an intermittent fasting diet plan of 5:2 and had meal replacements, while the remaining two groups took medications for treating type 2 diabetes, either empagliflozin or metformin.

The group that adhered to the intermittent fasting diet of 5:2 also had two fasting days that were non-consecutive per week. During these days they consumed a meal replacement product with calories set at 600 for men and 500 for women. During the other 5 days, participants consumed their normal breakfast and lunch and then changed the dinner meal replacement selection, while keeping track of their overall calorie consumption. During the study, research physicians and nutritionists provided the participants with guidance on diet and exercise and information on diabetes

Over the 16-week trial period, the participants that had followed the 5:2 intermittent fasting diet saw a substantial decrease in hemoglobin levels, an important indicator control of blood sugar. They averaged a loss of 1.9%, which contrasted to 1.5% on empagliflozin and 1.6% on metformin. The study noted substantial weight loss among those that adhered to the fasting diet. An average weight loss of 21 pounds resulted in the 5:2 group, while those in the metformin and empagliflozin groups lost on average 12 pounds and 13 pounds, respectively.

In conclusion, the 5:2 meal replacement approach could be used as a viable tool for people that have type 2 diabetes, possibly serving as an alternative to antidiabetic medications. This method is promising due to its manageable structure, which lets people maintain their regular lifestyle for most of the week while still benefiting from fasting.

The study underscores the potential of intermittent fasting as a practical, non-pharmaceutical approach to controlling type 2 diabetes, providing a flexible method for patients seeking a lifestyle-based approach.

To view the original scientific study click below:
A 5:2 Intermittent Fasting Meal Replacement Diet and Glycemic Control for Adults With Diabetes

Could Losing Your Sense of Smell Signal Heart Trouble?

According to recent research, older adults who experience partial or complete loss of their sense of smell are 30% more likely to suffer from congestive heart failure compared to those with an intact sense of smell. Age-related decline in olfactory function typically starts around the age of 60, with previous studies indicating that smell impairment becomes more prevalent at this stage. Approximately one in four older adults suffers from some form of smell loss or impairment. Unfortunately, only around 30% of those experiencing loss of smell are aware of their condition.

It should be recognized that a decline in smell and taste often occurs naturally with aging. Given that this study primarily involved participants in their 70s, it’s expected that many exhibited symptoms of or were vulnerable to heart failure and loss of smell. Additionally, a weakened sense of smell is associated with cognitive decline, evidenced by reduced memory and language skills, and serves as an early sign of neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

In this research, data from approximately 2,500 individuals participating in the National Institute on Aging’s Health ABC Study was analyzed. The participants, who initially joined the study in 1997 and 1998, were healthy older adults aged 70 to 79. The study followed them from their clinic visit in 1999 or 2000 for up to 12 years, or until they suffered a cardiovascular event or passed away. They examined the data to determine whether there was a correlation between olfactory loss and cardiovascular issues such as strokes, heart attacks, angina, congestive heart failure, or deaths resulting from coronary heart disease.

Upon concluding the study and adjusting for demographic factors, researchers discovered that participants with a loss of smell faced around a 30% risk of congestive heart failure, compared to individuals with normal olfactory function. The authors of the study also noted that they found no association between loss of smell and either heart disease or stroke.

The researchers indicated that these initial results imply a potential connection between diminished sense of smell and cardiovascular health in older adults, suggesting it could act as an early warning sign or predictor. The next phase involves expanding the research to include a more diverse range of participants. Should these results be validated, it will be crucial to explore the underlying mechanisms that associate olfactory loss with cardiovascular health.

To view the original scientific study click below:Olfactory Impairment and the Risk of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Older Adults