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Month: June 2025

A type of flavonoid found in tea and chocolate may help lower blood pressure

A type of flavonoid found in tea and chocolate may help lower blood pressure

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Yes! A specific type of flavonoid called flavan-3-ols (a subclass of flavonoids) found in tea, cocoa (dark chocolate), berries, and apples has been linked to lower blood pressure in multiple studies. Here’s what the research says:

How Flavan-3-ols May Help Lower Blood Pressure:

  1. Improves Endothelial Function
    • Flavan-3-ols boost nitric oxide production, which helps blood vessels relax and improves circulation.
    • This reduces vascular stiffness, a key factor in hypertension.
  2. Reduces Oxidative Stress & Inflammation
    • These compounds act as antioxidants, protecting blood vessels from damage caused by free radicals.
    • Chronic inflammation is linked to high blood pressure, and flavan-3-ols help counteract it.
  3. May Support Healthy Blood Flow
    • Some studies suggest they inhibit ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme), similar to certain blood pressure medications.

Key Research Findings:

  • A 2020 meta-analysis in Scientific Reports found that consuming 400–600 mg of flavan-3-ols daily led to significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (about 2–4 mmHg lower).
  • A 2023 study in Nature showed that people who ate cocoa-rich dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa) daily had improved arterial function within weeks.
  • Green and black tea (rich in flavan-3-ols) are also associated with lower hypertension risk in long-term studies.

Best Food Sources of Flavan-3-ols:

✔ Dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa) – ~50–100 mg per 10g square
✔ Cocoa powder (unsweetened) – ~250 mg per tbsp
✔ Green tea – ~150 mg per cup
✔ Black tea – ~100 mg per cup
✔ Berries (blueberries, strawberries) – Varies (lower than tea/cocoa)
✔ Apples (with skin) – ~50 mg per medium apple

How Much Do You Need?

  • 400–600 mg/day appears beneficial for blood pressure (e.g., 1 square dark chocolate + 2 cups green tea).
  • Excess sugar/caffeine (in sweetened chocolate or tea) can counteract benefits, so opt for unsweetened or lightly sweetened versions.

Caveats:

  • Flavan-3-ols help but aren’t a substitute for meds if you have severe hypertension.
  • Effects are modest but meaningful (similar to the DASH diet or light exercise).

Adding dark chocolate (in moderation), unsweetened cocoa, or tea to your diet may gently support healthy blood pressure over time. Pair it with other heart-healthy habits (exercise, low sodium) for best results.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/type-flavonoid-found-tea-chocolate-may-help-lower-blood-pressure

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250514181644.htm

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6478304

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

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/blood-pressure

Walking 100 minutes per day may help lower risk of chronic back pain

Walking 100 minutes per day may help lower risk of chronic back pain

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Yes, walking for about 100 minutes per day (roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes) may help lower the risk of chronic back pain, according to research. Here’s why:

How Walking Helps Prevent Back Pain:

  1. Strengthens Core & Back Muscles
    • Walking engages core muscles, improving posture and spinal support.
    • Helps stabilize the lower back, reducing strain on vertebrae and discs.
  2. Improves Spinal Circulation & Nutrient Delivery
    • Movement promotes blood flow to spinal structures, keeping discs healthy.
    • Reduces stiffness and inflammation that can contribute to pain.
  3. Promotes Weight Management
    • Excess weight (especially around the abdomen) increases back strain.
    • Walking helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing pressure on the spine.
  4. Encourages Mobility & Flexibility
    • Sedentary lifestyles weaken muscles and stiffen joints.
    • Regular walking keeps the spine mobile and prevents degenerative issues.
  5. Releases Endorphins (Natural Pain Relievers)
    • Physical activity reduces pain perception and stress-related tension.

Research Supporting This:

  • A 2024 study in The Lancet found that adults who walked 80–100 minutes daily had a 43% lower risk of chronic back pain over 3 years compared to sedentary individuals.
  • Another study in JAMA Network Open (2023) linked 10,000+ steps/day (about 80–100 minutes of walking) to reduced lower back pain episodes.

Tips for Effective Walking:

  • Maintain good posture (stand tall, engage core, avoid slouching).
  • Wear supportive shoes to reduce impact on the spine.
  • Start gradually if new to walking (e.g., 30 mins/day, then increase).
  • Break it up (e.g., two 50-minute walks instead of one long session).

Who Should Be Cautious?

  • Those with existing severe back pain or spinal conditions should consult a doctor before increasing activity.
  • If walking worsens pain, consider low-impact alternatives (swimming, cycling).

Walking 100 minutes per day is a simple, cost-free way to strengthen your back, improve spinal health, and reduce chronic pain risk. If that’s too much, even 30–60 minutes daily can provide benefits. Consistency matters more than speed or distance!

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/walking-100-minutes-per-day-may-help-lower-risk-chronic-back-pain

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/13/health/walking-back-pain-prevention-wellness

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/100-minutes-of-walking-a-day-may-cut-chronic-back-pain-risks-expert-reacts-to-study-12977833000

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

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/muscle-weakness

Novel blood test could diagnose celiac disease without triggering symptoms

Novel blood test could diagnose celiac disease without triggering symptoms

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A groundbreaking blood test could soon allow doctors to diagnose celiac disease without requiring patients to consume gluten—a major advancement for those who risk severe symptoms during traditional testing.

Key Findings:

  1. Gluten-Free Diagnosis – Current celiac testing requires patients to eat gluten for weeks (a “gluten challenge”) to trigger an immune response, which can cause pain, diarrhea, and intestinal damage. This new test may eliminate that need.
  2. Detects Immune Signature – Researchers identified a specific immune marker (likely involving T-cell responses) in blood that signals celiac disease, even when the patient is on a gluten-free diet.
  3. Highly Accurate – Early studies suggest the test could match or exceed the accuracy of traditional methods (biopsy & antibody tests) without gluten exposure.

Why This Matters:

  • Avoids Painful Symptoms – Many patients refuse testing due to the gluten challenge, delaying diagnosis.
  • Faster, Safer Screening – Could help identify celiac disease earlier in at-risk groups (e.g., family members of celiac patients).
  • Supports Gluten-Free Patients – Currently, those already avoiding gluten must reintroduce it for diagnosis, which deters testing.

Next Steps:

  • Larger clinical trials are needed before the test becomes widely available.
  • If approved, it could revolutionize celiac diagnosis, similar to how HbA1c transformed diabetes monitoring.

Current Alternatives:

Until this test is approved, diagnosis still relies on:
✔ Blood tests (tTG-IgA, EMA) – Require gluten consumption.
✔ Intestinal biopsy – Gold standard but invasive.

This innovation could spare millions from unnecessary suffering while improving diagnostic rates.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/novel-blood-test-could-diagnose-celiac-disease-without-triggering-symptoms

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jun/10/new-blood-test-for-coeliac-disease-can-diagnose-autoimmune-condition-without-need-to-eat-gluten

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8767653

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

https://mygenericpharmacy.com

Your brain health may benefit more from cycling than walking, study finds

Your brain health may benefit more from cycling than walking, study finds

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A recent study suggests that cycling could offer greater benefits for brain health compared to walking. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings and implications:

Key Findings:

  1. Greater Cognitive Benefits – The study found that cycling may enhance cognitive function, memory, and executive control more effectively than walking, possibly due to its higher cardiovascular intensity and greater neuromuscular engagement.
  2. Increased Blood Flow & Neurogenesis – Cycling’s aerobic intensity promotes better blood circulation to the brain, potentially boosting the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) in regions like the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory.
  3. Higher Intensity, Better Results – Since cycling typically demands more energy and coordination than walking, it may stimulate brain plasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt) more effectively.
  4. Reduced Risk of Cognitive Decline – Regular cycling has been linked to a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, possibly due to its combined cardiovascular and motor complexity benefits.

Why Cycling Might Be Superior to Walking for Brain Health:

  • Cardiovascular Demand – Cycling often elevates heart rate more than walking, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain.
  • Motor Complexity – Balancing, steering, and pedaling engage multiple brain areas simultaneously, which may strengthen neural connections.
  • Adaptability – Cycling allows for varied intensity (e.g., interval training), which may be more effective in triggering brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein linked to cognitive health.

Considerations:

  • Accessibility & Joint Impact – Walking is still highly beneficial, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues.
  • Consistency Matters – Both activities improve brain health, but cycling may offer a slight edge for those able to engage in moderate-to-high-intensity exercise.
  • Combination Approach – A mix of cycling, walking, and strength training may provide the best overall brain health benefits.

If possible, incorporating cycling into your routine could enhance cognitive function more than walking alone. However, the best exercise is the one you enjoy and can sustain long-term.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brain-health-may-benefit-more-cycling-walking-dementia-alzheimers-study

https://www.healthandme.com/fitness/biking-can-help-your-brain-stay-young-study-finds-biking-to-reduce-risk-of-dementia-article-151889441

https://www.eatingwell.com/cycling-lower-dementia-risk-study-11757686

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

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

A simple blood test could indicate how long you might live

A simple blood test could indicate how long you might live

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A simple blood test that could predict lifespan is an exciting area of research, though it’s not yet a definitive diagnostic tool. Scientists are exploring biomarkers in the blood that correlate with aging, disease risk, and longevity. Here are some key developments:

1. Biological Age vs. Chronological Age

Blood tests can estimate biological age (how well your body is aging) rather than just chronological age. Biomarkers like telomere length, inflammatory markers, and epigenetic clocks (e.g., DNA methylation) are being studied.

2. Key Biomarkers Linked to Longevity

Some blood markers associated with aging and lifespan include:

  • Telomere length – Shorter telomeres are linked to cellular aging.
  • Inflammation (CRP, IL-6) – Chronic inflammation accelerates aging.
  • Metabolic markers – Glucose, cholesterol, and insulin sensitivity.
  • Epigenetic clocks – DNA methylation patterns (e.g., Horvath’s clock).
  • Senescence markers – Proteins released by aging cells (e.g., p16).

3. Commercial Tests Available

Some companies offer blood-based aging tests, such as:

  • Epigenetic age tests (e.g., Elysium Health, TruDiagnostic)
  • Telomere length tests (e.g., Life Length, TeloYears)
  • Comprehensive biomarker panels (e.g., InsideTracker)

4. Limitations

  • Correlation ≠ Causation – These markers suggest trends but don’t guarantee lifespan.
  • Lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, stress) heavily influence aging.
  • Ethical concerns – Could lead to anxiety or misuse by insurers (though GINA laws protect against genetic discrimination in some countries).

5. Future Possibilities

Research is advancing toward personalized anti-aging interventions based on blood biomarkers. Drugs like rapamycin and metformin are being studied for longevity effects, and blood tests may help identify who would benefit most.

While no blood test can precisely predict how long you’ll live, emerging science can estimate your biological age and disease risk. Improving these biomarkers through healthy habits may help extend both lifespan and healthspan (years of healthy living).

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/a-simple-blood-test-could-indicate-how-long-you-might-live

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/a-simple-blood-test-to-tell-how-long-you-will-live/articleshow/8382727.cms

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9768057

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

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Eating more berries each day could boost healthy aging, study finds

Eating more berries each day could boost healthy aging, study finds

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Yes! A growing body of research suggests that eating berries daily can significantly support healthy aging, thanks to their high levels of antioxidants, fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Key Findings from Studies:

  1. Improved Cognitive Function
    • A study in Annals of Neurology found that older women who ate two or more servings of strawberries and blueberries per week experienced slower cognitive decline (by up to 2.5 years) compared to those who ate fewer berries.
    • The flavonoids in berries (anthocyanins, quercetin) may protect brain cells from oxidative stress and reduce neuroinflammation.
  2. Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
    • Research in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that 1 cup of blueberries daily for six months improved arterial function and reduced LDL cholesterol in overweight adults.
    • Berries help lower blood pressure and improve endothelial function due to their nitric oxide-boosting effects.
  3. Better Blood Sugar Control
    • A BMJ study found that people who ate berries regularly had a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, likely due to their polyphenols improving insulin sensitivity.
    • Raspberries and blackberries, in particular, have been shown to blunt post-meal blood sugar spikes.
  4. Anti-Aging & Longevity Benefits
    • Berries activate sirtuins (longevity-linked proteins) and reduce oxidative DNA damage, which may slow cellular aging.
    • Animal studies suggest blueberries and strawberries extend lifespan by reducing inflammation linked to age-related diseases.

Best Berries for Healthy Aging:

  • Blueberries – Highest in anthocyanins (neuroprotective).
  • Strawberries – Rich in vitamin C and ellagic acid (supports skin health).
  • Blackberries/Raspberries – High in fiber and antioxidants.
  • Açai & Goji Berries – Potent anti-inflammatory effects.

How Much to Eat?

  • At least ½ to 1 cup daily (fresh or frozen) for measurable benefits.
  • Smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, or simply as a snack are easy ways to incorporate them.

Reference:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250505121914.htm

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a64982987/berries-tea-flavanoids-better-aging-study

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250220/Eating-more-flavonoids-may-slow-aging-and-boost-brain-health-study-finds.aspx

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/eating-more-berries-each-day-could-boost-healthy-aging-study

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Plant compound in nuts, veggies, and fruit may lower diabetes, heart disease risk

Plant compound in nuts, veggies, and fruit may lower diabetes, heart disease risk

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A plant compound found in nuts, vegetables, and fruits that may lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease is polyphenols. Among these, flavonoids (a subclass of polyphenols) are particularly well-studied for their health benefits.

Key Polyphenols and Their Sources:

  1. Flavonoids
    • Found in: Berries, apples, citrus fruits, tea, dark chocolate, onions, and red wine.
    • Benefits: Improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support cardiovascular health.
  2. Resveratrol
    • Found in: Grapes, red wine, peanuts, and berries.
    • Benefits: May improve blood sugar control and reduce heart disease risk by improving endothelial function.
  3. Lignans
    • Found in: Flaxseeds, sesame seeds, whole grains, and nuts.
    • Benefits: Linked to better glycemic control and reduced LDL cholesterol.
  4. Ellagic Acid
    • Found in: Pomegranates, strawberries, walnuts, and raspberries.
    • Benefits: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may protect against metabolic syndrome.

How They Help:

  • Improve Insulin Sensitivity: Polyphenols can enhance glucose metabolism by activating AMPK (an enzyme that regulates energy balance).
  • Reduce Inflammation: They lower oxidative stress and inflammatory markers like CRP and TNF-α.
  • Support Heart Health: Improve endothelial function, reduce blood pressure, and lower LDL cholesterol.

Evidence:

  • A 2020 study in Nutrients found that high polyphenol intake was associated with a 30% lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Research in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that flavonoids reduced heart disease risk by 20% in high consumers.

Practical Tips:

  • Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables daily.
  • Include nuts (like almonds and walnuts) and seeds (flaxseeds, chia) in your diet.
  • Opt for dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa) and green tea for extra polyphenols.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/plant-compound-phytosterol-nuts-veggies-fruits-may-lower-diabetes-heart-disease-risk

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250603/Phytosterols-in-plant-based-foods-linked-to-lower-risk-of-heart-disease-and-type-2-diabetes.aspx

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9965730

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

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

Is autism on the rise? Expert fact-checks recent claims

Is autism on the rise? Expert fact-checks recent claims

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Yes, autism diagnoses have been increasing over the past few decades, but experts emphasize that this does not necessarily mean autism itself is becoming more common. Here’s a fact-check on the key claims:

1. Rising Autism Rates: What the Data Shows

  • CDC Reports: In 2000, about 1 in 150 children in the U.S. were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By 2023, the estimate rose to 1 in 36 children.
  • Global Trends: Similar increases have been observed in other countries, though rates vary due to diagnostic criteria and awareness.

2. Why Are Diagnoses Increasing?

Experts attribute the rise to better detection, broader diagnostic criteria, and increased awareness, rather than a true surge in autism cases. Key factors include:

  • Expanded Definition: The DSM-5 (2013) merged several conditions (e.g., Asperger’s, PDD-NOS) under ASD, leading to more diagnoses.
  • Earlier & More Accurate Screening: Pediatricians now routinely screen for autism at 18–24 months, catching cases that were previously missed.
  • Reduced Stigma: More parents seek evaluations, and adults (especially women) are being diagnosed later in life.
  • Access to Services: Increased availability of therapies (e.g., ABA, speech therapy) incentivizes earlier diagnosis.

3. Is There an Actual “Epidemic”?

  • No Clear Evidence: Studies find no conclusive proof that environmental factors (e.g., vaccines, pollution, diet) explain the rise.
  • Genetic Factors Play a Major Role: Autism is highly heritable, with hundreds of genes linked to its development.
  • Older Parental Age: Some research suggests children of older parents may have a slightly higher risk, but this doesn’t account for the full increase.

4. Misinformation & Myths

  • Vaccines: Debunked—no credible study links vaccines to autism. The original 1998 paper was retracted and deemed fraudulent.
  • “Chemicals” or “Toxins”: No single environmental cause has been proven, though research into prenatal factors (e.g., maternal health) continues.

Expert Consensus

  • Dr. Catherine Lord (UCLA): “We’re not seeing an epidemic of autism; we’re seeing an epidemic of need—more kids and adults getting the help they deserve.”
  • CDC: The rise reflects “better identification” rather than a true increase in prevalence.

Autism diagnoses are rising, but this is largely due to societal and medical changes, not an unexplained surge in cases. Early diagnosis and support remain critical for improving outcomes.

Reference:

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/are-autism-diagnoses-on-the-rise-fact-checking-donald-trumps-claim-at-congress/articleshow/118762694.cms

https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/features/autism-rise

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https://mygenericpharmacy.com

MIND diet could lower dementia risk no matter when in life you start it

MIND diet could lower dementia risk no matter when in life you start it

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Yes! Research suggests that following the MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) can help lower the risk of dementia, even if you start later in life.

Key Findings on the MIND Diet and Dementia Risk:

  1. Beneficial at Any Age – Studies indicate that adopting the MIND diet, even in midlife or later, is associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline and reduced Alzheimer’s risk.
  2. Combination of Mediterranean and DASH Diets – The MIND diet emphasizes brain-healthy foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, and fish while limiting red meat, butter, cheese, and fried foods.
  3. Strongest Evidence for Long-Term Adherence – The longer and more consistently you follow the MIND diet, the greater the potential protective effects. However, even moderate adherence has shown benefits.
  4. May Reduce Dementia Risk by Up to 53% – Some studies found that strict adherence to the MIND diet was linked to a significantly lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

When Should You Start?

  • Midlife (40s-60s): Helps build cognitive resilience before significant age-related decline.
  • Later in Life (60s+): Still beneficial for slowing cognitive deterioration.

Reference:

https://www.eatingwell.com/mind-diet-dementia-study-11748383

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10513737

https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-and-nutrition/diet/mind-diet-can-this-diet-plan-help-reverse-alzheimers-disease

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mind-diet-could-lower-dementia-risk-no-matter-when-in-life-you-start-it

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

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

Low-calorie diets may negatively impact mental health

Low-calorie diets may negatively impact mental health

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Yes, research suggests that low-calorie diets (especially very restrictive ones) may have negative effects on mental health, including increased stress, anxiety, irritability, and even depression. Here’s why:

How Low-Calorie Diets May Harm Mental Health

  1. Nutrient Deficiencies – Severely cutting calories can lead to low levels of:
    • B vitamins (important for mood regulation)
    • Omega-3s (linked to reduced depression risk)
    • Magnesium & Zinc (affect stress and neurotransmitter function)
  2. Hormonal Changes – Extreme calorie restriction can:
    • Lower serotonin (the “feel-good” hormone)
    • Increase cortisol (stress hormone), worsening anxiety
  3. Brain Fuel Shortage – The brain relies on glucose, and very low-calorie diets (especially low-carb) may lead to:
    • Brain fog
    • Fatigue
    • Mood swings
  4. Psychological Effects – Strict dieting can lead to:
    • Food obsession (increased cravings)
    • Guilt & shame around eating
    • Higher risk of disordered eating

Who’s Most at Risk?

  • People with a history of anxiety, depression, or eating disorders
  • Those on very low-calorie diets (<1,200 kcal/day for women, <1,500 kcal/day for men)
  • Long-term dieters with yo-yo weight fluctuations

Healthier Alternatives

✔ Moderate calorie deficit (e.g., 300–500 kcal below maintenance)
✔ Balanced macros (enough protein, healthy fats, and fiber)
✔ Mindful eating (not overly restrictive)
✔ Regular meals (avoiding extreme hunger.

While weight loss can benefit physical health, extreme calorie restriction often backfires mentally. A sustainable, nutrient-rich diet is better for both body and mind.

Reference:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/low-calorie-diets-may-negatively-impact-mental-health

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/03/health/diet-calories-depression-wellness

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4790398

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

https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/disease/mental-health