Browsed by
Month: April 2025

Certain combos of common food additives may raise type 2 diabetes risk

Certain combos of common food additives may raise type 2 diabetes risk

Common Food Additive Mixtures Linked to Increased Type 2 Diabetes Risk

Recent research suggests that certain combinations of food additives commonly found in ultra-processed foods may contribute to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the findings:

  1. Key Additive Mixtures Identified

A 2025 French study (NutriNet-Santé cohort, PLOS Medicine) analyzed dietary data from 108,643 adults over 7.7 years and identified two high-risk additive mixtures:

Mixture 2: Contains emulsifiers and thickeners like carrageenan, modified starches, guar gum, xanthan gum, and potassium sorbate (found in dairy desserts, sauces, and broths). Associated with an 8% increased T2D risk.
Mixture 5: Includes artificial sweeteners (aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame-K), acidifiers (citric acid, phosphoric acid), and dyes (common in diet sodas and artificially sweetened drinks). Linked to a 13% higher T2D risk.
  1. Why Are These Mixtures Risky? Synergistic Effects: Additives may interact in ways that disrupt metabolism, gut microbiota, or insulin sensitivity more than individual ingredients. Emulsifiers & Gut Health: Some (e.g., carrageenan) may promote inflammation and leaky gut, contributing to metabolic dysfunction. Artificial Sweeteners: Despite being calorie-free, they may alter glucose metabolism and hunger signals, potentially leading to overeating.
  2. Study Limitations & Industry Pushback Observational Design: Cannot prove causation, only association. Industry Criticism: Beverage associations argue additives are “safe individually” and call the study “misleading”. Residual Confounding: Diet quality (e.g., high sugar/saturated fat intake) may play a role.
  3. Practical Recommendations Limit Ultra-Processed Foods: Opt for whole, minimally processed foods (fruits, vegetables, nuts, lean proteins). Check Labels: Avoid products with long lists of emulsifiers, sweeteners, or artificial additives. Cook at Home: Reduces reliance on pre-packaged foods with additive blends.
  4. Future Research & Policy Implications Calls for reevaluating additive safety testing, currently done one-by-one rather than assessing mixtures. Some U.S. states (e.g., California) have banned specific additives (e.g., Red Dye No. 3), but not yet those in these mixtures.

Conclusion

While more research is needed, the study highlights potential risks of additive combinations in processed foods. Reducing intake of ultra-processed products and advocating for stricter additive regulations may help lower diabetes risk.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/certain-combos-common-food-additives-may-raise-type-2-diabetes-risk

https://www.sciencealert.com/common-additive-combos-in-food-and-drinks-may-raise-risk-of-type-2-diabetes

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11977966

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com

According to new research, atrial fibrillation raises the risk of dementia.

According to new research, atrial fibrillation raises the risk of dementia.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Linked to Increased Dementia Risk, Especially in Younger Adults

Recent studies highlight a concerning connection between atrial fibrillation (AFib) and dementia, with younger individuals facing a significantly higher risk. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings:

  1. Stronger Risk for Younger Adults A 2025 Spanish study involving 2.5 million adults found that AFib increases dementia risk by 21% in those under 70, and the risk jumps to 36% for early-onset dementia (diagnosed before age 65)12. For participants without prior stroke, the risk of early-onset dementia was even higher (52% increase), suggesting mechanisms beyond stroke-related damage28. In contrast, no significant risk increase was observed in adults over 70, likely because age-related neurodegeneration outweighs AFib’s contribution13.
  2. Potential Mechanisms Beyond Stroke

While AFib is a known stroke risk factor, the study found the dementia link persists even after excluding stroke patients, pointing to other pathways28:

Silent strokes (undetected brain infarcts)
Microbleeds and microinfarcts due to blood flow irregularities
Chronic inflammation and vascular dysfunction damaging small brain vessels
Hemodynamic instability (irregular blood flow to the brain)
  1. Clinical Implications Early AFib detection and management (e.g., anticoagulants, rhythm control) may help mitigate dementia risk, particularly in younger patients8. Proactive cognitive monitoring is advised for AFib patients under 7018. Lifestyle interventions (managing hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea) could reduce both AFib and dementia risk8.
  2. Study Limitations Observational design: The research identifies association, not causation17. Population bias: Data came from Spain; broader studies are needed1. Diagnostic accuracy: Dementia cases were identified via medical codes, possibly missing mild cases1.
  3. Expert Recommendations Dr. Julián Rodriguez-García (study author) emphasizes aggressive AFib treatment in younger patients to potentially delay cognitive decline28. Dr. Paul Drury (cardiologist) calls for more research on whether AFib treatments (e.g., ablation, anticoagulants) can directly lower dementia risk17.

Conclusion

AFib, particularly when diagnosed before age 70, is a notable independent risk factor for dementia. While more research is needed to confirm causality, these findings underscore the importance of early intervention and cardiovascular health management to protect long-term brain function.

Reference:

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250331/Atrial-fibrillation-elevates-early-onset-dementia-risk-in-younger-adults.aspx

https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/JAHA.122.025653

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/atrial-fibrillation-increases-dementia-risk-new-research-warns

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4988519

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com

By increasing hunger, popular sweeteners may contribute to weight gain.

By increasing hunger, popular sweeteners may contribute to weight gain.

The claim that certain popular sweeteners, particularly sucralose, may increase weight gain by boosting hunger is supported by recent research. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the findings and their implications:

1. Sucralose and Brain Activity

A 2025 study published in Nature Metabolism found that sucralose, a non-caloric artificial sweetener, increases blood flow in the hypothalamus—the brain region regulating hunger—more than sugar or water. This heightened activity suggests stronger hunger signals, potentially leading to overeating 136.

  • Mechanism: Sucralose’s sweetness without calories may confuse the brain, which expects energy from sweet tastes. When calories aren’t delivered, the brain may trigger cravings to compensate 38.
  • Sex and Weight Differences: Women and individuals with obesity showed stronger hypothalamic responses to sucralose, indicating these groups might be more susceptible to its appetite-stimulating effects 17.

2. Hormonal Impact

Unlike sugar, sucralose does not trigger insulin or glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), hormones that signal fullness. This lack of satiety hormones may prolong hunger after consumption 38.

3. Behavioral Effects

Participants reported feeling hungrier after consuming sucralose compared to sugar, though not versus water. Functional MRI scans also revealed increased connectivity between the hypothalamus and brain regions involved in reward processing (e.g., anterior cingulate cortex), which could intensify food cravings 168.

4. Contradictory Weight-Loss Claims

While artificial sweeteners are marketed as weight-loss aids, observational studies link them to higher BMI over time. For example, a 2023 WHO advisory recommended against using sugar substitutes for weight control, citing insufficient long-term benefits 38. However, some clinical trials show modest weight loss when sugary drinks are replaced with artificially sweetened alternatives, suggesting context matters 25.

5. Expert Recommendations

  • Avoid Overreliance: Dr. Katie Page, the study’s lead author, advises reducing overall sweetener intake rather than substituting sugar with sucralose 36.
  • Natural Alternatives: Experts like Dr. Susan Spratt recommend water, unsweetened tea, or fruit-infused beverages instead of diet sodas 8.

Key Takeaway

Sucralose may disrupt appetite regulation, especially in women and individuals with obesity, by activating hunger pathways without providing satiating calories. While more research is needed, current evidence suggests caution in using artificial sweeteners for weight management

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/popular-sweetener-may-increase-weight-gain-by-boosting-hunger

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2892765

https://www.contemporaryhealth.co.uk/obesity-and-the-brain/popular-sweetener-sucralose-may-intensify-hunger-signals-and-contribute-to-weight-gain-new-study-suggests

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com

Do antidepressants raise the risk of sudden cardiac death ?

Do antidepressants raise the risk of sudden cardiac death ?

Recent research suggests a potential link between long-term antidepressant use and an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD), though the relationship is complex and influenced by factors such as duration of use, age, and underlying health conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings:

1. Increased Risk with Longer Duration of Use

  • A 2025 Danish study analyzing 4.3 million adults found that those taking antidepressants for 1–5 years had a 56% higher risk of SCD, while those using them for 6+ years faced more than double the risk compared to the general population 259.
  • The risk was most pronounced in middle-aged adults (30–59 years), with those aged 30–39 showing 3x higher risk at 1–5 years and 5x higher risk at 6+ years of use 27.

2. Possible Mechanisms

  • Some antidepressants (e.g., tricyclics, SSRIs like citalopram) may prolong the QT interval, increasing the risk of dangerous arrhythmias like torsades de pointes 10.
  • Depression itself is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, making it difficult to isolate medication effects from the disease’s impact 58.
  • Long-term antidepressant use may also correlate with poorer lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, inactivity) that contribute to heart disease 78.

3. Age and Risk Variability

  • The heightened risk was not statistically significant in adults under 30, possibly due to shorter exposure times 37.
  • Older adults (70+ years) still faced elevated risk, but the increase was less dramatic than in middle-aged groups 29.

4. Expert Caution Against Overinterpretation

  • Researchers emphasize that depression untreated carries its own cardiovascular risks, and abruptly stopping medication could be harmful 58.
  • Dr. Jasmin Mujkanovic, lead author of the Danish study, noted: “Longer exposure might reflect more severe depression, which itself contributes to cardiovascular risk” 57.

5. Recommendations for Patients

  • Do not stop antidepressants without consulting a doctor—untreated depression poses greater risks 58.
  • Regular cardiac monitoring (e.g., ECGs) may be advised for high-risk patients, especially those on long-term treatment 10.
  • Lifestyle interventions (exercise, smoking cessation) can mitigate cardiovascular risks 8.

Conclusion

While long-term antidepressant use is associated with increased SCD risk, the relationship is likely influenced by underlying depression severity and other health factors. Patients should not discontinue medication without medical guidance but may benefit from heart-health monitoring if on prolonged treatment. Further research is needed to clarify causation

Reference:

https://www.tctmd.com/news/sudden-cardiac-death-risk-linked-long-term-antidepressant-use

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-antidepressants-increase-sudden-cardiac-death-risk

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/antidepressants-linked-sudden-cardiac-death-risk-early-2025a10007wn?form=fpf

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com

Diabetes medications such as Jardiance or Ozempic may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s

Diabetes medications such as Jardiance or Ozempic may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s

A new study, posted in JAMA NeurologyTrusted Source, reveals that humans with kind 2 diabetes who take not unusualplace anti-diabetes medicines had a discounted danger of Alzheimer`s and related dementias.

The pills in query have been glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), like Ozempic and Wegovy, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), like Jardiance.

Specifically, GLP-1RA changed into related to a 33% decrease danger of dementia, and SGLT2i changed into related to a 43% decrease danger. Other diabetes medicines, however, have been now no longer related to a alternate in danger.

As the common age of the populace progressively rises, the range of dementia instances rises in step. Despite many years of extensive research, a therapy stays elusive. Although a few remedies can sluggish progress, we’re a ways from a breakthrough.

Adding to those challenges, if an powerful drug have been found, it’d take a few years to accumulate a enough proof base and tens of thousands and thousands of bucks to deliver it to market.

Some current studies has recommended that kind 2 diabetes and dementia might also additionally percentage a few physiological similarities, such as irritation and impaired insulin signalling withinside the brain. People with diabetes even have a better threat of growing dementia.

This increases an thrilling question: If a drug reduces the effect of kind 2 diabetes, would possibly it additionally lessen the threat of dementia? Scientists have now investigated this question, and a few proof does endorse that diabetes remedy might also additionally lessen dementia threat.

However, because the authors of the cutting-edge take a look at explain, we want extra proof. To construct the clearest photo to date, they used “a extra rigorous methodological method and strong adjustment for confounding factors.”

To investigate, the scientists accessed information from Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. In total, this amounted to 92,a hundred and sixty humans elderly 50 or older with kind 2 diabetes.

Participants had been accompanied till they died or evolved dementia, such as Alzheimer`s, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy frame dementia.

They centered on 3 comparisons:

GLP-1RA as opposed to different second-line glucose-reducing drugs
SGLT2i as opposed to different second-line glucose-reducing drugs
GLP-1RA as opposed to SGLT2i.

The scientists concluded that GLP-1RAs and SGLT2is have been related to a discounted threat of growing dementias in comparison with second-line diabetes drugs.

“GLP-1RA use turned into related to a 33% decrease threat of [dementia], at the same time as SGLT2i use turned into related to a 43% decrease threat in comparison with other [glucose-lowering drugs],” the authors write.

Medical News Today contacted William Kapp, MD, a toughness professional and CEO of Fountain Life, now no longer worried in tis study.

Kapp shared his mind at the findings, saying:

“The effects didn`t surprise me however they did provide greater credence to what we`ve been observing. Brain and frame don`t age separately. Metabolic troubles inclusive of insulin resistance are connected to inflammation, oxidative stress, and adjusted blood waft all of which effect mind health.”

Although scientists do now no longer realize for certain how GLP-1RA and SGLT2i may also lessen dementia threat in humans with kind 2 diabetes, the authors propose a few capability mechanisms.

For instance, GLP-1RAs had been proven to:

lessen neuroinflammation
enhance insulin Trusted Sourcesignalling withinside the mind
sell the increase of recent nerve cells (neurogenesis).

Similarly, SGLT2is may also guard the mind by:

enhancing cerebral blood waft
lowering oxidative stress
improving mitochondrial activity.

The scientists additionally provide an explanation for that each capsules are related to advanced metabolic and vascular fitness, each of which may also aid healthful mind function.

Additionally, there’s a few proof that those capsules can lessen stages of amyloid-beta and tau proteins withinside the mind the hallmarks of Alzheimer`s disease.

Speaking with the Science Media Center, Prof. David Strain,MD, FRCP, accomplice professor of cardiometabolic fitness on the University of Exeter Medical School withinside the United Kingdom, further now no longer concerned withinside the study, defined that:

“GLP-1 receptor antagonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors had been confirmed to manipulate the sugar, and additionally lessen the inflammation (a key motive force of Alzheimer`s disease) and decrease vascular hazard (a key motive force of vascular dementia) greater than could be predicted with the aid of using the sugar manipulate alone.”

“It is consequently no wonder that those facts display a decrease hazard of dementia in folks that get hold of them as a part of her ordinary care,” Strain continued.

This study, which analyzed facts from nearly 100,000 human beings is supported with the aid of using some of preceding studies. However, a paper posted withinside the identical magazine and at the identical day casts a small part of doubt at the results.

The paper in question, additionally posted in JAMA NeurologyTrusted Source, is a scientific evaluation and meta-evaluation of 26 medical trials which include facts from 164,531 participants.

According to its authors, “glucose-decreasing remedy with GLP1-RAs, however now no longer SGLT2is, become related to a statistically enormous discount in dementia or cognitive impairment.”

So, their conclusions on GLP1-RAs reflect the ones from the unique paper, however they did now no longer locate the equal impact for SGLT2is. This can be in part because of the quick length of follow-up. The common examine follow-up withinside the meta-evaluation and the follow-up withinside the unique examine have been beneathneath five years.

As dementia takes a few years to develop, this will now no longer be lengthy enough.

“Its nevertheless early, and were nevertheless now no longer seeing all of the lengthy-time period data,” Kapp advised MNT. But what we`re seeing is that regulating insulin and irritation can also additionally additionally gradual down a number of the adjustments withinside the mind tied to dementia.”

The inevitable subsequent query is: Will those tablets lessen dementia chance in human beings with out diabetes?

“If the advantage is from decreasing insulin resistance or irritation, it`s viable that those tablets may be properly for human beings with out diabetes,” Kapp advised MNT earlier than injecting a few caution.

“Just due to the fact some thing is ideal for one organization doesn`t imply it’s far for others. And there are constantly dangers to lengthy-time period use,” he warned.

For now, the jury is as a minimum in element out. We can also additionally need to watch for longer research earlier than we are able to draw strong conclusions. Still, it’s far searching more and more more possibly that GLP1-RAs would possibly lessen the chance of dementia for human beings with kind 2 diabetes, that is genuinely a effective finding.

Reference:

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/ozempic-alzheimers-risk-diabetes

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diabetes-drugs-like-ozempic-or-jardiance-may-slash-alzheimers-risk#Do-we-have-enough-data-to-draw-strong-conclusions

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com

Alcohol consumption can cause dementia by harming the brain.

Alcohol consumption can cause dementia by harming the brain.

This study, published in Neurology, provides compelling evidence of the negative impact of alcohol consumption on brain health, particularly in relation to vascular damage, brain atrophy, and dementia-related pathologies. Here’s a concise breakdown of the findings and their implications:


Key Findings:

  1. Alcohol Consumption & Brain Vascular Damage:
    • Moderate, heavy, and former heavy drinkers had a higher risk of hyaline arteriolosclerosis (thickening/narrowing of small brain blood vessels).
    • Heavy drinkers had a 133% increased risk of this condition.
  2. Brain Atrophy & Cognitive Decline:
    • Former heavy drinkers had lower brain weight and poorer cognitive function compared to never-drinkers.
    • Heavy drinking was linked to more neurofibrillary tangles (a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease).
  3. Indirect Cognitive Impact:
    • Alcohol did not directly impair cognition but appeared to damage blood vessels first, which then contributed to cognitive decline.

Study Details:

  • Participants: 1,781 deceased adults (avg. age 75) from Brazil, with brain autopsies.
  • Alcohol Categories:
    • Never drinkers (965 people).
    • Moderate drinkers (≤7 drinks/week).
    • Heavy drinkers (≥8 drinks/week).
    • Former heavy drinkers (quit ≤3 months before death).
  • Limitations:
    • Relied on family-reported alcohol use (potential inaccuracy).
    • Cross-sectional (cannot prove causation).
    • No long-term follow-up data.

Expert Takeaways:

  1. Even Moderate Drinking May Harm the Brain:
    • Vascular changes (hyaline arteriolosclerosis) were seen in all drinking groups, suggesting no safe threshold for alcohol regarding brain health.
  2. Former Heavy Drinkers Still at Risk:
    • Brain shrinkage and cognitive deficits persisted even after quitting, indicating long-term damage.
  3. Alcohol’s Role in Dementia Risk:
    • Heavy drinking may accelerate vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s pathology (neurofibrillary tangles).

Practical Implications:

  • Public Health Messaging:
    • No amount of alcohol is “safe” for brain health even moderate intake may contribute to vascular damage.
    • Heavy drinkers should be warned about irreversible brain atrophy and dementia risk.
  • Clinical Practice:
    • Screen for alcohol use in older patients with cognitive decline.
    • Encourage early reduction/cessation to mitigate vascular damage.
  • Future Research Needed:
    • Longitudinal studies to confirm causality.
    • Investigation into vitamin deficiencies (e.g., B1/thiamine) that may worsen alcohol-related brain damage.

Bottom Line:

This study adds to growing evidence that alcohol even in moderation harms brain structure and function, primarily through vascular damage. While more research is needed, the findings support limiting or avoiding alcohol to preserve long-term cognitive health.

Reference:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia/alcohol-related-brain-damage-arbd

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/alcohol-related-dementia

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6957093

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/alcohol-use-could-contribute-to-dementia-by-damaging-the-brain

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/alzheimer-disease

Consuming fermented foods and a diet rich in fiber may help prevent inflammatory disorders.

Consuming fermented foods and a diet rich in fiber may help prevent inflammatory disorders.

This study, published in Nature Medicine, provides compelling evidence of how quickly dietary changes can influence immune and metabolic health. Here’s a concise breakdown of the key findings and implications:

Key Findings:

  1. Western Diet (2 Weeks) → Harmful Effects:
    • Increased inflammation (elevated inflammatory markers, altered gene expression).
    • Weakened immune response (reduced ability to fight pathogens).
    • Disrupted metabolic pathways linked to lifestyle diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease).
  2. Traditional African Diet (2 Weeks) → Benefits:
    • Anti-inflammatory effects (reduced inflammatory markers).
    • Improved immune and metabolic health.
  3. Fermented Beverage (Mbege, 1 Week) → Additional Benefits:
    • Enhanced immune function, likely due to probiotics and bioactive compounds (e.g., flavonoids).

Dietary Comparisons:

  • Traditional African Diet: High in fiber, polyphenols, and whole foods (legumes, leafy greens, tubers, millet, sorghum). Supports gut health and reduces inflammation.
  • Western Diet: High in processed foods, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats. Promotes inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.

Limitations:

  • Short study duration (2 weeks).
  • Small, male-only sample.
  • Unrestricted food intake may have influenced results.

Broader Implications:

  • Global Relevance: Even short-term dietary shifts can have lasting effects, reinforcing the importance of whole-food, plant-based diets (e.g., Mediterranean, Latin American, African diets) in preventing chronic diseases.
  • Cultural Preservation: Traditional diets offer health benefits while maintaining cultural heritage.
  • Public Health: Governments and health organizations should promote minimally processed, fiber-rich diets to combat rising lifestyle-related diseases.

Expert Takeaway:

As Dr. Holland noted, “Diet has a rapid and lasting impact on health.” Switching to heritage diets even temporarily could be a powerful tool for disease prevention.

References:

https://www.earlytimes.in/newsdet.aspx?q=383041

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9915096

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diet-high-in-fiber-fermented-foods-could-keep-inflammatory-diseases-at-bay#Study-limitations-and-implications

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anti-inflammatory-diet

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/inflammation