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What to eat and drink before and after a flu shot

What to eat and drink before and after a flu shot

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During the Flu: The Most Critical Phase

When you are actively sick, your appetite will likely be low. The primary focus should be on hydration and getting calories in whatever form you can tolerate.

What to DRINK (Hydration is Key):

  • Water: Essential. Sip consistently throughout the day.
  • Electrolyte Solutions: Pedialyte, Liquid IV, or even diluted sports drinks can help replenish sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes lost through sweat and fever.
  • Broth and Bone Broth: Savory, hydrating, and provides electrolytes like sodium. Bone broth adds the benefit of collagen and some protein, which can be soothing and supportive.
  • Herbal Teas: Ginger tea (settles nausea), peppermint tea (clears sinuses, soothes stomach), or chamomile tea (promotes rest). Add honey and lemon for extra soothing properties and a calorie boost.
  • Diluted Juice: Mix 50/50 with water to provide some sugar for energy without overloading your system.

What to EAT (When You Can):

Focus on the “BRAT” diet if your stomach is upset, but don’t stay on it long-term.

  • Bananas: Easy to digest, provide potassium, and provide energy.
  • Rice (White): Plain white rice is bland and binding, which can help with diarrhea.
  • Applesauce: Provides pectin, which can help with diarrhea, and easy calories.
  • Toast (White): Plain, dry toast is easy on the stomach.
  • Other Good Options:
    • Plain Crackers or Pretzels
    • Boiled Potatoes (without butter)
    • Plain Oatmeal or Cream of Wheat
    • Chicken Noodle Soup: The classic for a reason—it provides fluids, electrolytes, and easy-to-digest protein and carbs.

🍎 After the Flu: The Recovery Phase

Once your appetite returns and symptoms subside, your body needs to rebuild and repair. Focus on nutrient-dense foods.

What to DRINK (Continue Replenishing):

  • Water: Keep hydration a priority.
  • Smoothies: An excellent way to pack nutrients. Blend greens (spinach), fruit (berries, banana), protein (Greek yogurt, protein powder), and a healthy fat (avocado, chia seeds).
  • Milk or Fortified Plant-Based Milks: Provides protein, calories, and nutrients like Vitamin D.

What to EAT (Nutrient-Dense Foods):

Prioritize protein, healthy fats, and colorful fruits and vegetables to replenish vitamin and mineral stores.

  • Lean Protein: Your body uses protein to repair tissues and make new immune cells.
    • Examples: Grilled chicken, fish (like salmon, which also has anti-inflammatory omega-3s), eggs, tofu, and lentils.
  • Fruits and Vegetables: To restock on vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
    • Examples: Citrus fruits (Vitamin C), berries (antioxidants), leafy greens (iron, folate), and sweet potatoes (Vitamin A, beta-carotene).
  • Probiotics: To replenish the healthy gut bacteria that can be disrupted by illness.
    • Examples: Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha.
  • Healthy Fats and Complex Carbs: For sustained energy.
    • Examples: Avocado, nuts, seeds, whole-grain bread, brown rice, and quinoa.

🛡️ Before the Flu: The Prevention Phase

A strong, well-nourished body is better equipped to fight off viruses. There’s no single “magic” food, but a consistent, balanced diet is your best defense.

What to EAT & DRINK for a Resilient Immune System:

  • Colorful Fruits & Vegetables: Aim for a “rainbow” to get a wide array of vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Lean Proteins: Essential for building immune cells. Zinc, found in seafood, poultry, beans, and nuts, is particularly important for immune function.
  • Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Supports various cellular functions of the immune system.
    • Examples: Citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, and broccoli.
  • Vitamin D Sources: Crucial for immune health.
    • Examples: Fatty fish (salmon, tuna), fortified milk, and eggs. Sunlight is the primary source.
  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for all bodily functions, including the circulation of immune cells.

✅ Quick Summary Table

PhasePriorityTop Food & Drink Choices
Before (Prevention)Immune SupportColorful fruits & veggies, lean protein, citrus, nuts, seeds, plenty of water.
During (Illness)Hydration & Easy CaloriesBroth, electrolyte drinks, herbal tea, bananas, toast, applesauce, plain rice, crackers.
After (Recovery)Rebuilding & ReplenishingLean protein (chicken, fish, eggs), probiotics (yogurt), fruits & vegetables, whole grains, smoothies.

Listen to Your Body: This is the most important rule. If you’re not hungry, don’t force yourself to eat. Focus on fluids. As your appetite returns, start with bland, easy foods and gradually work your way back to your normal, healthy diet. If you have specific health conditions or severe symptoms, always consult a doctor or a registered dietitian.

Reference:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-eat-drink-before-after-flu-shot-vaccine-questions
https://jacksonhealth.org/what-to-eat-or-drink-after-getting-the-flu-shot/
https://www.eatingwell.com/what-to-eat-and-drink-before-and-after-the-flu-shot-11815468
https://www.adventisthealth.org/blog/what-to-do-before-and-after-your-flu-shot

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on the link below
https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/products/disease/vitamins-enzymes

Pee-Less Multivitamins: Can Supplements Really Reduce Frequent Urination?

Pee-Less Multivitamins: Can Supplements Really Reduce Frequent Urination?

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Frequent urination can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and disruptive to daily life. While doctors usually check for medical causes first, many people also look for natural solutions to support bladder control. This is where “pee-less multivitamins” or bladder-support supplements come in. These products are not typical multivitamins; they contain a blend of vitamins, minerals, and herbal ingredients that support bladder strength, reduce urgency, and help you pee less frequently.
In this blog, we explore how these supplements work, their key ingredients, and the best options available in India.

What Are Pee-Less Multivitamins?

“Pee-less multivitamins” are supplements designed to support:
Bladder muscle strength
Urinary control
Reduced frequency and urgency
Better nighttime bladder function (less waking up to pee)
They are not a replacement for medical treatment but may help people with overactive bladder, mild incontinence, weak bladder muscles, or post-aging urinary issues.
How Do Pee-Less Multivitamins Work?

These supplements work through a combination of:
✔️ Bladder muscle support

Ingredients like pumpkin seed extract strengthen the pelvic and bladder muscles.
✔️ Hormonal & tissue support

Soy isoflavones and magnesium help improve bladder elasticity and reduce irritation.
✔️ Anti-inflammatory action

Many herbal ingredients calm bladder inflammation.
✔️ Urinary tract cleansing

Cranberry and D-mannose help reduce irritation caused by bacteria.
Key Ingredients Found in Pee-Less Multivitamins
Most bladder-support multivitamins contain scientifically studied ingredients:

  1. Pumpkin Seed Extract
    One of the most powerful natural ingredients for bladder control.
    Helps reduce:
    Frequent urination
    Nighttime urination
    Urine leakage
  2. Soy Isoflavones
    Supports bladder lining and muscle tone, especially effective for women.
  3. Magnesium
    Calms bladder muscle spasms and reduces urgency.
  4. Cranberry Extract
    Helps maintain a clean and healthy urinary tract.
  5. Vitamin D
    Low Vitamin D is linked to higher urgency and incontinence.
  6. D-Mannose
    Helps flush bacteria and supports urinary tract health.
    Best Pee-Less / Bladder-Support Multivitamins Available in India
    Here are popular and effective options you can find in India or get delivered easily:
  7. Vestige U-Control
    Indian product
    Pumpkin seed + soy isoflavones
    Supports bladder control and reduces leakage
  8. Urenin Urine Incontinence Capsules
    Contains vitamins + minerals + bladder herbs
    Helps reduce urgency and frequency
  9. Pumpkin Seed Extract Supplements (Inlife, Vedagen, etc.)
    Pure and effective
    Strengthens bladder muscles
  10. Happee Bladder Control (Imported)
    Pumpkin seed + soy + saw palmetto + cranberry
    4-in-1 advanced bladder support
  11. Bladdergenix (with Urox Blend)
    Clinically studied formula
    Reduces urgency and nighttime peeing
    Who Should Consider Pee-Less Multivitamins?
    These supplements may help people who experience:
    Frequent urination
    Urgency to urinate
    Weak bladder control
    Stress incontinence (leakage when coughing/laughing)
    Age-related bladder weakness
    Nighttime urination (nocturia)
    If symptoms are new, sudden, or severe, always consult a doctor first.

Benefits of Pee-Less Multivitamins
✔️ Reduce frequency of urination
✔️ Strengthen bladder muscles
✔️ Reduce leakage and urgency
✔️ Improve sleep by reducing nighttime trips to the bathroom
✔️ Support urinary tract health
✔️ Natural and safe when used properly

Do They Really Work?
Pee-less multivitamins are supportive, not miracle cures.
They work best when:
Taken consistently
Combined with pelvic floor exercises
Paired with reduced caffeine and alcohol intake
Medical conditions are ruled out
Most people notice improvements in 3–8 weeks.

Safety & Precautions
Not for pregnant or breastfeeding women unless the doctor approves
People with prostate enlargement, diabetes, and kidney issues should consult a doctor
Supplements should not replace medical treatment for UTIs
Choose reputable brands only

Final Thoughts
Pee-less multivitamins are becoming a popular natural option for managing bladder issues. While not a replacement for medical care, they can help reduce frequent urination, strengthen bladder muscles, and improve overall urinary health.
If you struggle with urgency, leakage, or nighttime urination, adding a high-quality bladder-support multivitamin to your routine may offer real relief.

Reference:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3085565/
https://nafc.org/bhealth-blog/3-vitamins-that-may-help-with-bladder-control/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/supplements-for-overactive-bladder

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on the link below
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3 ways vitamin D may boost longevity, according to research

3 ways vitamin D may boost longevity, according to research

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While the direct link between vitamin D supplementation and increased lifespan is still an active area of research, studies consistently show strong associations between adequate vitamin D levels and a lower risk of diseases that are major drivers of mortality.

Here are 3 ways vitamin D may boost longevity, according to research:

1. By Slowing Cellular Aging: Protecting Your Telomeres

One of the most fascinating theories connecting vitamin D to longevity involves its effect on telomeres.

  • What are Telomeres? Think of telomeres as the protective plastic caps at the ends of your shoelaces (your chromosomes). Each time a cell divides, these telomeres get slightly shorter. When they become too short, the cell can no longer divide and becomes senescent (aged) or dies. Shorter telomere length is a hallmark of biological aging and is linked to a higher risk of age-related diseases and earlier death.
  • Vitamin D’s Role: Research has found that people with higher vitamin D levels tend to have longer telomeres.
  • The Mechanism: Vitamin D has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are two major forces that accelerate telomere shortening. By mitigating this damage, vitamin D may help preserve telomere length, effectively slowing the cellular aging process and promoting longer healthspan.

The Bottom Line: By protecting your telomeres from premature shortening, vitamin D may help you age more slowly at a cellular level.

2. By Fortifying Your Defenses: Reducing the Risk of Major Diseases

Vitamin D’s most well-established role is in regulating calcium for bone health, but its influence extends to nearly every system in the body. Adequate levels are linked to a significantly lower risk of the leading causes of death.

  • Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin D helps regulate blood pressure, reduce arterial stiffness, and control inflammation in the blood vessels. Numerous observational studies have found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
  • Cancer Prevention: Research, including a large meta-analysis published in the BMJ, suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may lower the overall risk of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. Vitamin D is believed to play a role in cell differentiation, slowing the proliferation of cancerous cells, and promoting their self-destruction (apoptosis).
  • Immune Function & Infection: Vitamin D is crucial for activating the immune system’s defenses. It helps your body produce proteins that fight off bacteria and viruses. Studies have shown that adequate vitamin D levels can reduce the risk of acute respiratory infections, which are a significant cause of mortality, especially in older adults.

The Bottom Line: By supporting heart health, potentially staving off certain cancers, and bolstering the immune system, vitamin D directly reduces the risk of dying from the world’s most common fatal diseases.

3. By Preserving Physical Function: Supporting Muscles and Cognition

Longevity isn’t just about living longer; it’s about living well longer. Vitamin D is critical for maintaining the physical and mental function that defines a healthy, independent life.

  • Muscle Strength & Sarcopenia: Age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) is a major predictor of frailty, falls, and loss of independence. Vitamin D receptors are present in muscle tissue, and the vitamin is essential for muscle protein synthesis and strength. Deficiency is strongly linked to muscle weakness, pain, and a higher risk of debilitating falls.
  • Brain Health & Cognitive Decline: The brain is rich with vitamin D receptors. Research suggests that sufficient vitamin D may protect against cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects are thought to help clear the amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s and protect neurons from damage.

The Bottom Line: By helping you maintain muscle mass, strength, and cognitive function as you age, vitamin D directly contributes to your “healthspan”—the number of years you live in good health.

Important Caveats and Recommendations

  • Correlation vs. Causation: Much of the evidence is observational, meaning it shows a link but doesn’t prove that vitamin D *causes_ longer life. People with higher levels may also be healthier in other ways (e.g., more outdoor activity, better overall diet).
  • The “Sweet Spot”: More is not always better. The goal is sufficiency, not megadosing. Research has indicated a U-shaped curve, where both deficiency and very high levels can be harmful.
  • What to Do: The best approach is to:
    1. Get Tested: Ask your doctor for a 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test to know your level.
    2. Sensible Sun Exposure: 10-15 minutes of midday sun on arms and legs a few times a week can help (depending on skin tone and location).
    3. Diet & Supplementation: Eat vitamin D-rich foods (fatty fish, fortified milk, eggs) and consider a supplement if recommended by your doctor, especially during winter months or if you have limited sun exposure.

In summary, research suggests vitamin D may boost longevity not through one magic bullet, but by supporting the fundamental health of your cells, your major organs, and your physical and mental capabilities as you age.

Reference:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/3-ways-vitamin-d-may-boost-longevity-according-to-research-edited
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/vitamin-d-and-your-health-breaking-old-rules-raising-new-hopes
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/
https://www.nature.com/articles/s43587-024-00793-y

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on the link below
https://mygenericpharmacy.com/category/products/disease/vitamins-enzymes

Vitamin D supplements may help improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin

Vitamin D supplements may help improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin

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A recent meta-analysis found that a daily average of 3,320 IU of supplemental vitamin D is linked to lower levels of hemoglobin A1C, total cholesterol, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and insulin. The conclusion is based on a recent meta-analysis of 99 international randomized controlled trials that looked into the advantages of vitamin D for cardiometabolic health. The meta-analysis makes an effort to clarify and summarize the results of occasionally contradictory studies on vitamin D.

A fresh perspective on the importance of vitamin D supplementation in preserving cardiometabolic health is extracted from a recent, thorough review of the body of existing, frequently contradictory, research on the subject. A median daily intake of 3,320 International Units (IU) of vitamin D, or about 83 micrograms, was linked to some noteworthy cardiometabolic advantages, according to the meta-study’s authors. Among these advantages were decreases in insulin, fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, a sign of type 2 diabetes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and total cholesterol.

Researchers from the United States and China analyzed data from 99 RCTs (randomized, controlled trials) that were released up until March 26, 2024. 17,656 people took part in the trials, which were conducted in a variety of global locations with widely disparate populations. A crucial element of the meta-analysis involved enumerating the variations among the RCTs that could potentially account for the disparities in their findings. The authors of the meta-study were able to reassess and compare the RTCs’ data more fairly and comparably after those differences were recognized.

Conflicts had less of an impact on the final conclusions, and a few unique cases about particular populations surfaced. The groups that benefited most from vitamin D supplementation, according to the researchers, were non-Westerners, those with lower blood levels of the nutrient, those with a BMI under 30, and those 50 years of age and above.

Why previous findings on vitamin D have been inconsistent
Professor of epidemiology, surgery, and medicine at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, Simin Liu, MD, ScD, the corresponding author of the meta-study, outlined some of the ways that the RCTs varied from one another and led to differing conclusions. According to him, some primary causes of heterogeneity in past research that produced contradictory results about supplementation and cardiometabolic risk factors included age, body weight, ethnic background, and the circulating 25[OH]D levels of study participants at enrollment.

The amount of vitamin D, specifically in the form of 25[OH]D, present in one’s bloodstream serves as the most dependable measure of the body’s entire vitamin D reserve, encompassing both naturally produced vitamin D from the skin and vitamin D obtained through dietary supplements. (Citing Trusted Source) Dr. Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist and the Executive Director of Health and Community Education at the Piedmont Healthcare Corporation in Atlanta, GA, who was not associated with the meta-study, pointed out another factor contributing to the medical community’s less than complete confidence in vitamin D.

Although numerous studies show a connection between vitamin D supplementation and a decreased risk of heart disease, a clear cause-and-effect relationship is still missing. Furthermore, it is still unknown if low serum vitamin D levels are a cause or contributing factor to heart disease, or if they are a result of heart disease itself. Low serum vitamin D levels are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

However, the data is leaning in this direction, and as of right now, there is no conclusive information on cardiovascular endpoints. According to Morgan, although the data does not meet the criteria for evidence-based information, it does meet the criteria for evidence-informed information. Benefits include improved muscle function, decreased inflammation, and bone health. She went on to say that it may have beneficial effects on lipids, diabetes, and hypertension.

Some benefit more, some need more vitamin D
According to Liu, non-Westerners are more likely to benefit from vitamin D supplementation because they have comparatively lower circulating vitamin D levels. Similarly, serum vitamin D levels tend to decline with age, which could account for the greater cardiometabolic improving effect of vitamin D supplementation seen in individuals 50 years of age and older, he continued. This also applies to those with BMIs under 30 kg. According to Morgan, all of this suggests that the catch-up might be a crucial component of the puzzle.

Individuals with initial vitamin D levels that were not low, and who only managed to increase these levels, had a lesser impact and moved the scale less than those who significantly elevated their vitamin D levels due to their initially low levels. They demonstrated a more substantial shift, as she put it.

A personalized approach to vitamin D
According to Liu, there is undoubtedly validity to the adage One size does not fit all, even in light of the positive associations found for 3,320 IU of vitamin D per day for many individuals and the ethnographic differences noted in the meta-study. Careful assessment of each person’s ethnocultural background and biological features would be necessary to implement personalized intervention strategies to achieve optimal levels of vitamin D for cardiometabolic health, according to Liu.

He pointed out that those with obesity and low 25 OHD levels would probably require higher doses of vitamin D and longer durations of treatment, based on the findings of the meta-study. According to Liu, we might have to investigate the effects of longer intervention periods and higher vitamin D doses on cardiometabolic health outcomes in different populations. These variables include age, body weight, ethnic background, and the circulating 25 OHD levels of study participants at the time of enrollment.

References:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vitamin-d-supplements-may-help-improve-blood-pressure-cholesterol-insulin#A-personalized-approach-to-vitamin-D

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Can protein predict mental decline before Alzhiemer’s sign?

Can protein predict mental decline before Alzhiemer’s sign?

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A protein called NPTX2 that is present in the cerebrospinal fluid may be able to forecast the onset of memory and cognitive issues, according to recent research.

Researchers evaluated people who had initially been in normal mental health but later experienced dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

According to the study, the quicker start of MCI symptoms was linked to lower levels of NPTX2. The results also demonstrated that NPTX2 levels, like other Alzheimer’s disease-related indicators, appear to fluctuate over time.

Findings from a recent study could be useful for understanding cognitive decline and early Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis.

The levels of a protein called NPTX2 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or more simply put, the fluid surrounding the brain, were evaluated by the researchers in order to better understand the brain changes connected to moderate cognitive impairment and dementia.

Lower levels of NPTX2 were discovered to be associated with a more rapid beginning of cognitive deterioration. Along with other Alzheimer’s disease-related indicators, NPTX2 levels evolved with time.

Alzheimer’s disease indicators in cerebrospinal fluid measurement

The 269 participants in the BIOCARD Study who were initially in good mental health had their brain fluid (CSF) taken by the research team.

These patients were followed for an average of 16.3 years, and their average age at the start of the study was roughly 57.7 years.

Out of these people, 77 subsequently experienced dementia or Moderate cognitive impairment (MCI).

Quantitative parallel reaction monitoring mass spectrometry was used by the researchers to evaluate three similar peptides that make up the NPTX2 protein.

Three other markers—A42/A40, p-tau181, and t-tau—that are frequently linked to Alzheimer’s disease were also measured. These measurements were made using a Lumipulse automated electrochemiluminescence test on the identical CSF samples.

The goal of this data analysis was to help the researchers better understand how these indicators changed over time and whether they might be related to the onset of MCI and dementia in the patients under study.

NPTX2 levels and cognitive issues over time

They discovered that people with lower NPTX2 protein levels in their brain fluid (CSF) exhibited cognitive issues and memory deterioration (MCI) earlier than people with higher NPTX2 protein levels.

Both those who acquired MCI within seven years of the study’s beginning and those who did so later found this link to be substantial.

Even after accounting for other well-known Alzheimer’s disease markers detected in the CSF, the researchers observed that the baseline levels of NPTX2 were able to predict when the symptoms of MCI would manifest.

This implies that the amounts of these markers may be associated with modifications in NPTX2 and may contribute to the emergence of cognitive issues.

According to the study’s first author, Anja Soldan, Ph.D., an associate professor of neurology at Johns Hopkins University, “our study shows that low levels of the protein ‘neuropentraxin 2’ (or NPTX2) measured in the cerebrospinal fluid among cognitively healthy middle-aged and older adults may predict later onset of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).”

“[NPTX2] has been connected to learning and memory in mice in the past. Our findings add to the mounting evidence that low levels of this protein in individuals could signal MCI years before symptoms manifest. Notably, our results demonstrate that low levels of the protein enhance the prediction of cognitive impairment even when traditional Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers (such as those linked to amyloid plaques and tau tangles) and well-established genetic risk factors for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease are taken into account,” according to Dr. Anja Soldan.

According to Dr. Soldan, NPTX2 is “predictive of subsequent symptoms of MCI both within and beyond seven years before symptoms occurred.”

Limitations

The study does have a few drawbacks.

Namely that the majority of the participants were white, educated people with a history of dementia in their families. Therefore, it is uncertain whether the results apply to other populations, according to Dr. Soldan.

Without taking part in the study, Santosh Kesari, Ph.D., a neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Centre in Santa Monica, California, and the regional medical director for the Research Clinical Institute of Providence Southern California, told that “identifying blood or CSF biomarkers that predict developing dementia is critical to intervene earlier by preventative approaches or treat at the earliest onset of cognitive issues or even before when patients are aware they have dementia.”

Could this indicate new Alzheimer’s medications?

There is now just one FDA-approved treatment on the market that is known to even slightly reduce the signs of Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages, and there are no known therapies or strategies to avoid the disease, according to Dr. Soldan.

Our research demonstrates that reduced NPTX2 levels exist for many years before MCI or dementia brought on by Alzheimer’s disease, which increases the prospect of creating therapies that specifically target NPTX2.

Additionally, Dr. Soldan added, “Our findings may be relevant to other neurodegenerative diseases since this protein does not appear to be a specific marker for Alzheimer’s disease.”

Although significant work is being done to create sensitive methods of testing NPTX2 in blood rather than cerebrospinal fluid, we are not yet able to routinely measure brain levels of the substance in clinic settings. Another crucial area of research, according to Dr. Anja Soldan, is the factors that affect the levels of NPTX2 in the brain. However, we know very little about these factors.

Dr. Kesari concurred, stating that “NPTX2 may turn out to be a good target of drug development to prevent cognitive decline and will need to be further tested and validated in future studies.”

Future research will examine NPTX2 in more detail. In the end, additional study is required.

REFERENCES:

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Discover the best sources of prebiotics for our body.

Discover the best sources of prebiotics for our body.

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Prebiotics are fibers that your body cannot digest but which can promote the development of healthy bacteria in your stomach. These plant fibers enter your lower digestive tract where they serve as food for the good bacteria in your gut because your body cannot digest them. Though both probiotics and prebiotics are beneficial microorganisms, your digestive system benefits more from probiotics.

Dietary fibres are not all considered prebiotics. Inulin, fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are examples of well-known prebiotics. Prebiotics can help maintain a healthy digestive system, strengthen your immune system, and encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in your stomach if you include them in your diet regularly.

Why Prebiotics Are Important?

Although more research is required to fully understand all the ways prebiotics can benefit your body, they are crucial to your health. Prebiotics are occasionally added to diets, but they are naturally present in several high-fiber foods. Additionally, they are offered as dietary supplements.

The amount of food that should be consumed daily is not officially suggested. According to studies, consuming 3 to 5 grammes of prebiotics daily may improve intestinal health. You can probably be confident you’re receiving enough dietary fibre if you consume the required amount.

Leading five prebiotic foods

Researchers examined the prebiotic data of 8,690 distinct food categories in the Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies for this investigation.

According to researchers, prebiotics were present in 37% of the foods in the database. The five items with the highest prebiotic content ranged in concentration from 79 to 243 milligrammes per gramme of food and included:

  • Green dandelion
  • Artichokes of Jerusalem
  • garlic
  • leeks
  • onions

“We weren’t surprised to find that these foods ‘packed the greatest prebiotic punch,’ per se, given that our prior literature review had shown these foods to be high in prebiotics,” said Cassandra Boyd, a master’s student and the study’s presenting author. This research was done in collaboration with Dr. John Gieng, an assistant professor of nutritional sciences in the Department of Nutrition, Food Science & Packaging.

“Having said that, we were astonished to find that relatively small quantities of these meals contained the 5 grams of prebiotics that the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) recommends consuming daily. For instance, if a small onion weighs around 4 ounces, eating about half of one would provide the recommended 5 grams of prebiotics per day,” according to Boyd.

The study also identified onion rings, creamed onions, cowpeas (commonly known as black-eyed peas), asparagus, and Kellogg’s All-Bran cereal as probiotic-rich foods. Prebiotics are present in all of these foods in amounts of 50–60 milligrams per gram.

Researchers discovered that diets containing wheat had a low prebiotic content. Additionally, the prebiotic content of dairy, eggs, oils, and meat was minimal at best.

What distinguishes prebiotics from probiotics?

Probiotics are microorganisms that are applied to or consumed by humans. They are supposed to provide health benefits such as aiding in the digestion of food and maintaining the balance of your entire body because they are frequently the same “good” bacteria that reside in your gut microbiome.

Alcohol and various drugs, such as antibiotics, can occasionally destroy healthy bacteria, leaving the person with an imbalanced stomach. The microbiota can be brought back into equilibrium by consuming probiotic-rich fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, and kimchi or by adding probiotics back into the body through supplements.

The probiotic bacteria one consumes as well as the “good” bacteria found in the gut microbiome both require food in order to survive. Prebiotics can help with that.

Prebiotics are types of dietary fibre that the body cannot digest. Probiotics consume them as they pass through the digestive tract in order to survive and develop.

“Prebiotics are healthy precisely because they have been indicated to improve the microbiome,” asserted Boyd. “They are substrates that beneficial bacteria can directly use to confer health benefits on the host, as these bacteria perform functions that are advantageous to human health.”

Prebiotics are known to assist with the following in addition to supporting probiotics:

Prebiotics may aid people with specific conditions including obesity and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as prevent some cancers like colorectal cancer, according to ongoing research.

Additional health advantages of prebiotics

It is not surprising that the five items listed are high in prebiotics, according to Allison Tallman, a registered dietitian and the founder of Nourished Routes, who reviewed this research.

She continued, “These foods are also high in fiber, which is good for gut health as well. Given that these delicacies might not be as well known to the average consumer, I believe people will be interested in learning more about dandelion and Jerusalem artichokes.”

The chief of the gastroenterology division at Hackensack University Medical Centre, Dr. Rosario Ligresti, concurred.

“I was not surprised at all because each of these foods (has) been shown to have many health benefits, so it would make sense they are also good for our gut and our digestion,” the man said.

“Many of these foods, especially Jerusalem artichokes, are high in the indigestible dietary fibre inulin that, when broken down in the gut, release the healthy prebiotic nutrients that get to work to support our digestive health in so many different ways,” explained Dr. Rosario Ligresti.

Can eating prebiotics reduce depression?

The next stage in this research, according to Boyd, is to determine whether there is a connection between prebiotic use and depression as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9), a validated instrument.

Tallman stated that she would like to see further research on the effects of consuming these particular meals and other foods that are high in prebiotics on the human microbiota.

“Some randomized controlled trials should be conducted to determine the actual health benefits of prebiotics on the human microbiota and to determine its relationship with different disease states. Additionally, there is still a tonne of research to be done on prebiotic use and the relationship between the gut and the brain,” according to registered dietitian Allison Tallman.

And while there is a tonne of existing evidence to suggest that these foods are excellent providers of prebiotics, Dr. Ligresti noted that there can never be enough significant studies conducted over extensive time periods to confirm what we may already suspect.

He continued, “More research into the advantages of a healthy microbiome fostered by these nutrients are also necessary, particularly how changing the microbiota can help cancer patients and those with autoimmune illnesses.”

REFERENCES:

For more prebiotic medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?therapy=83

Pregnancy: Low fiber may cause neurodevelopmental delays.

Pregnancy: Low fiber may cause neurodevelopmental delays.

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Low fiber intake during pregnancy may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental impairments in offspring, according to a recent study.

An essential part of a nutritious, well-balanced diet, particularly while pregnant, is fiber. With the right advice from nutritionists, pregnant women can increase their fiber consumption as necessary.

The complex period of pregnancy can have an impact on a variety of health consequences.

Researchers are still trying to figure out how behaviors and the environment during pregnancy affect the offspring’s later years.

The baby’s health and growth can be impacted by nutrition throughout pregnancy, but researchers are still trying to determine how various dietary details will affect the baby’s development.

Fiber intake during pregnancy was the subject of a recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

According to the study’s findings, consuming less fiber during pregnancy increases the likelihood of neurodevelopmental impairments in the progeny.

Low fibre during pregnancy slows brain development

Researchers for the study observed that earlier research on animals had connected a reduced fiber diet during pregnancy to delayed brain development in children.

The data from 76,207 mother-infant pairs were evaluated by the researchers using information from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study.

They examined participants’ fiber consumption while pregnant and divided them into one of five groups according to how much fiber they consumed.

They then evaluated three-year-olds for developmental impairments. Parents or other primary carers were asked to complete questionnaires that measured children’s communication, fine and gross motor abilities, problem-solving, and personal-social skills to achieve this. With a lower score, there was more developmental delay.

In contrast to the group of moms who consumed the most total dietary fiber, the researchers discovered that those with the lowest fiber intake had the highest linked risk of having children with neurodevelopmental delays.

They discovered four crucial regions linked to slowed newborn brain development as a result of inadequate fibre intake:

  • communication
  • problem-solving
  • personal-social
  • small-motor abilities

The group with the lowest consumption of dietary fibre still carried significant risks for developmental delays, even when taking folic acid intake into consideration.

According to research author Kunio Miyake, Ph.D., of the University of Yamanashi, “most pregnant women in Japan consume far less dietary fiber than what is recommended intake; thus, this maternal nutritional imbalance during pregnancy may adversely affect the neurodevelopment of their offspring.”

Therefore, providing nutritional advice to expectant moms is essential to lowering the likelihood that their offspring would experience future health issues.

The authors of the study hypothesize that the results are due to the interaction of fiber with the brain’s microbiome and the gut microbiota.

“Dietary fiber is known to affect the regulation of gut microbiota and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs),” Dr. Miyake said.

Recommendations for fibre during pregnancy

Fibre is a crucial part of a balanced diet and is especially necessary during pregnancy. Dr. Brian Power, Ph.D., an author of a non-study and nutritionist at Atlantic Technological University in Sligo, Ireland, explained to us:

Numerous studies show that increasing dietary fiber intake during pregnancy benefits many women by lowering the risk of insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and uncontrollable weight gain.

The current USDA recommendation is for people to consume 14 grammes of fibre for every 1,000 calories they consume.

Therefore, with 2,000 calories per day, consumers should have roughly 28 grammes of fibre daily. A “low residue diet” or “low fibre diet” typically contains 10 to 15 grammes of fibre per day.

Only 8.4% of study participants exceeded the recommended daily intake of 18 grammes of fibre in Japan, where the recommendations range somewhat. The study’s findings may potentially indicate a risk from consuming too much fibre after accounting for folic acid.

It’s crucial to have open lines of communication with your medical team during your pregnancy in order to identify any potential nutritional deficits and how to make up for them.

How to increase your intake of fiber?

Your doctor might advise boosting your intake by eating more fiber-rich foods or taking supplements if your diet is lacking in the substance. High-fiber dietary examples come in the form of:

  • whole-grain cereal with kernels
  • artichokes
  • beans
  • a few fruits (such as raspberries, blackberries, and apples)

Dr. Al-Shaer stated, “Increasing fibre can be done simply by integrating more whole meals throughout the day, such as vegetables, legumes, nuts [and] seeds, and fruit.

“Many fruits, such as berries or bananas, are excellent sources of fibre, and all nuts and seeds are high in fibre. Try to fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables at each meal, which is a generally good rule of thumb I suggest to my patients. Except for potatoes, corn and peas, practically all vegetables are non-starchy. We can get enough fibre this way throughout the day. And a simple method to enhance our fibre intake is to sprinkle sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, flax seeds, or beans on salads or breakfast bowls,” according to registered dietician Abrar Al-Shaer, PhD.

REFERENCES:

For Pregnancy related medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?cPath=24

Hearing loss: Can Omega-3 fatty acid prevent it?

Hearing loss: Can Omega-3 fatty acid prevent it?

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Hearing declines with age; in the US, 50% of persons 75 and older have a debilitating hearing loss. There is presently no cure for hearing loss brought on by ageing.

Increased blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids and a reduction in age-related hearing problems have been found by researchers from Tufts University and the University of Guelph.

Some of our senses, such as vision, hearing, and taste can become less effective as we become older.

In fact, studies have shown that hearing loss occurs more frequently as people age. In the United States, about half of seniors 75 and older and around 25% of people in the 65 to 74 age range have hearing loss that is disabling.

Although there is currently no cure for age-related hearing loss, people can take precautions to protect their hearing, such as avoiding loud noises and wearing hearing protection in noisy environments.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, is associated with hearing health. Now, researchers from the University of Guelph and Tufts University/Fatty Acid Research Institute have discovered that middle-aged and older adults with higher levels of DHA were 8–20% less likely to report age-related hearing issues than those with lower DHA levels.

What are Omega-3 fatty acid?

The body requires omega-3 fatty acids as a sort of “good” fat for a number of purposes, making them “essential” fats.

Omega-3 fatty acids come in three primary categories:

  • ALA (alpha-linolenic acid)
  • EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid
  • DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid

Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for the organism to:

  • construct and maintain healthy cell membranes
  • start the process of producing the hormones necessary for blood clotting and maintaining the function of the arterial walls.
  • help regulate genetic activity

The effects of omega-3 fatty acids on other aspects of bodily health, such as lowering inflammation, enhancing eye health, and preventing age-related neurodegeneration, have been the subject of extensive research over the past several years.

Additionally, prior research suggests omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial for treating a variety of illnesses, including depression, autoimmune disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and even some cancers.

The body cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids on its own, despite the fact that it needs them. It must instead rely on taking supplements and eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids to get them.

Omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods include:

  • fatty, oily fish such as tuna, sardines, anchovies, salmon, and mackerel
  • walnuts
  • flaxseed
  • the chia seed
  • Algae and seaweed
  • edamame
  • a few oils, like soybean and canola

Is there a connection between Omega-3s and hearing loss?

The lead author of this study, Dr. Michael I. McBurney, a senior scientist with the Fatty Acid Research Institute and an adjunct professor in the Department of Human Health & Nutritional Sciences at the University of Guelph and the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, explained that they chose to investigate the impact of omega-3s on age-related hearing issues because they were intrigued by findings that hearing develops in offspring in animals.

Furthermore, he added, “omega-3s affected animal cochlear metabolism.” Finally, increased fish and omega-3 dietary intake was negatively correlated with age-related hearing loss in people.

So, Dr. McBurney continued, “we chose to investigate the association between plasma omega-3 levels and self-reported hearing loss in the UK Biobank cohort a very large cross-sectional study.”

DHA and age-related hearing loss research

More than 100,000 participants aged 40 to 69 from the UK Biobank’s self-reported hearing status and blood DHA levels were used in this study by Dr. McBurney and his team.

Following examination, scientists discovered that people with blood DHA levels in the highest quintile were 16% less likely to respond “yes” to the question “Do you have difficulty hearing?” compared to people with DHA levels in the bottom quintile.

Participants in the highest quintile were also 11% less likely to say “yes” in response to the question, “Do you find it difficult to follow conversations when there is background noise?” weighed against the bottom quintile.

Researchers discovered that middle-aged and older persons with greater DHA levels were between 8 and 20 percent less likely to report age-related hearing problems than those with lower DHA levels.

In relation to age- and sex-adjusted hearing loss, “we had hypothesised that there would be an inverse relationship between plasma omega-3 concentrations and hearing loss,” Dr. McBurney remarked. Even after further adjusting for socioeconomic deprivation (Townsend Deprivation Index), behavioural traits (BMI, smoking, and alcohol intake), and inflammation biomarkers (C-reactive protein, neutrophil: lymphocyte ratio), it was satisfying to find support for this theory.

Research on EPA, DHA, and omega-3 to move forward

According to Dr. McBurney, this study did not establish a link between poor omega-3 status and hearing loss.

“This determination will require randomized, placebo-controlled, omega-3 intervention trials in humans,” he added. “However, there is strong evidence linking high omega-3 status low EPA+DHA concentrations to benefits for cardiovascular, brain, and visual health. Low omega-3 intake and status are linked to an increased risk of several chronic illnesses, preterm delivery, and all-cause death.”

“It is important to eat foods rich in EPA+DHA and/or use an omega-3 supplement,” Dr. McBurney continued. “I recommend measuring blood EPA+DHA levels, then following dietary advice and making changes as necessary to reach recommended EPA+DHA status.”

Further research on this subject is required, according to Dr. Eliott Kozin, a hearing loss specialist at Mass Eye and Ear who was not involved in this study.

He said, “The current study investigated whether there may be a relationship between blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids and subjective hearing complaints.” Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce hearing loss, although the current study only demonstrates a probable link. The results may be explained by additional, untested causes. For instance, people with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids might be more health-conscious, and other factors might be directly related to hearing health.

Dr. Kozin continued, “Future high-prospective research is needed to better understand the effect diet has on our hearing health. This kind of excellent nutrition-focused research is supported by the current study.”

Findings on the benefits of omega-3

Dr. Courtney Voelker, a board-certified neurotologist and director of the Adult & Paediatric Cochlear Implant Programme at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California, was among the experts who discussed this study with him.

The research was encouraging to Dr. Voelker since omega-3 fatty acids “strike again.”

“We know that omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have an effect on the heart, brain development in utero with babies, as well as when we get older with cognitive impairments,” she said. And currently, a connection with better hearing or at least halting hearing loss appears to exist.

Dr. Voelker continued, “The strength of this study is that it is a large population. The study’s flaws include the fact that participants only self-reported their hearing loss. Therefore, it is uncertain if there is a direct connection or not.”

Dr. Voelker claimed that increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids through diet is the best way to reap the potential health advantages of these fats.

“Fish, such as mackerel or salmon, as well as other seafood, like oysters, are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids,” she explained. If you don’t eat a lot of seafood, flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, and soybeans are all excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Dr. Voelker continued, “There needs to be a randomised control trial utilising omega-3 fatty acids to look at long-term hearing loss in very large populations in order to identify if there is a strong link (between) omega-3 fatty acids and hearing loss.”

REFERENCES:

For Omega-3 fatty acid medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?therapy=83

A large study links vitamin D to the severity of psoriasis.

A large study links vitamin D to the severity of psoriasis.

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An inflammatory skin condition called psoriasis is characterized by elevated, irritated, scaly areas of skin that can also be unpleasant and itchy.

From person to person, psoriasis severity varies widely. According to recent studies, having more severe psoriasis may be linked to having low vitamin D levels.

In the US, psoriasis is a disorder that affects more than 7.5 million people. Low vitamin D levels may be linked to more severe psoriasis, according to recent research from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University.

Scientists believe that psoriasis is an autoimmune illness, which means that it results from the immune system mistakenly attacking your body instead of protecting it. The specific etiology of psoriasis is still unknown. In psoriasis, this immunological activity speeds up the production of new skin cells, which leads to the development of thick, scaly patches on the skin’s surface.

Psoriasis symptoms can range from minor to severe. The National Psoriasis Foundation reports:

  • Less than 3% of the body is affected with moderate psoriasis.
  • 3–10% of the body is affected by mild psoriasis.
  • More than 10% of the body is affected by severe psoriasis.

The connection between psoriasis and vitamin D

Experts enquired as to the biological relationship between vitamin D and psoriasis from Eunyoung Cho, ScD, research team head and associate professor of dermatology and epidemiology at Brown University.

Your skin’s keratinocytes, which are cells, have vitamin D receptors. Currently, topical vitamin D analogs are used to treat psoriasis because they bind to vitamin D receptors on keratinocytes and stop their proliferation. These analogs replicate the effects of vitamin D. Dr. Eunyoung Cho explained that this multiplication causes the thick plaques that are typical of psoriasis.

Italian, Brazilian, and Nepalese researchers found that psoriasis patients have significantly lower serum levels of vitamin D, and that these levels are correlated with the severity of the condition.

Dr. Cho and her associates wanted to determine whether this association would hold true in a sizable, nationally representative US population because the majority of earlier investigations have been carried out outside of the US.

Vitamin D deficiency associated with more severe psoriasis

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were utilised by Dr. Cho’s team to determine the number of psoriasis cases between 2003 and 2006 and between 2011 and 2014. Out of the 40,401 people that were evaluated, they discovered 491 cases, including 162 from 2003 to 2006 and 329 from 2011 to 2014.

The amount of vitamin D in the blood, the body surface area affected by psoriasis (a measurement of the severity of psoriasis on the body), and other details including age, gender, race, body mass index, and smoking habits were also recorded.

The researchers employed a mathematical technique known as “multivariate linear regression” to evaluate the connection between low vitamin D levels and the severity of psoriasis.

They discovered that the severity of psoriasis increased as blood levels of vitamin D declined. The mean serum vitamin D levels of those with the least amount of psoriasis-affected body surface area were highest (67 nmol/L), whereas those with the most amount of psoriasis-affected body surface area had the lowest levels (56 nmol/L).

When they separated the population into groups based on the body surface area affected by psoriasis and examined the proportion of individuals with vitamin D deficiency in each group, the researchers observed a similar trend. Vitamin D deficiency affected 39% of the group with the most severe psoriasis compared to 25% of the group with the least severe psoriasis.

The new study adds to our understanding of psoriasis.

Lim was reported in a press release as saying, “Only one prior study, published in 2013, used NHANES data to analyse the relationship between vitamin D and psoriasis.” Our results are more current and statistically significant than those obtained from previously accessible data because we were able to include more recent data, which more than tripled the number of psoriasis cases analysed.

The University of California, San Francisco’s Dr. Tina Bhutani, an associate professor of dermatology, co-director of the Psoriasis and Skin Treatment Centre, and head of the dermatology clinical research unit, noted that these findings are not new because “similar associations have been reported in the past.”

Nevertheless, “the advantage of NHANES is that it is likely to be more representative of the US population vs. other prior studies,” Dr. Bhutani noted.

The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine’s James J. Leyden Professor of Dermatology and Epidemiology, Dr. Joel M. Gelfand, stated that the study “shows a modest association between vitamin D levels and psoriasis severity” but cautioned that it cannot be used to establish a causal relationship.

According to this study, “We cannot say whether slightly lower vitamin D levels cause more severe psoriasis or whether slightly higher vitamin D levels cause less severe psoriasis,” stated Dr. Gelfand.

What does this signify for those who have psoriasis?

Dr. Cho stated that even though “topical vitamin D analogs are already used to treat psoriasis, further research, such as large randomized clinical trials of oral vitamin D supplementation, is warranted before any firm medical recommendations are made on the use of oral vitamin D supplementation among psoriasis patients.”

Despite this, Dr. Cho advised that persons with psoriasis and vitamin D insufficiency “discuss this with their clinicians and treat the deficiency.”

Despite the correlation between vitamin D levels and the severity of psoriasis revealed by these data, Dr. Bhutani concurred that “we do not have enough information here to recommend the use of vitamin D supplementation in our psoriasis patients.”

Dr. Gelfand further stated that monitoring or augmenting vitamin D levels in psoriasis patients to treat or prevent psoriatic illness is not currently supported by sufficient levels or quality of data.

Drs. Bhutani and Gelfand both emphasised in their remarks that there have been conflicting outcomes from earlier research testing vitamin D supplementation for psoriasis.

According to Dr. Gelfand, a clinical trial that was conducted in 2022 “showed some evidence that vitamin D supplementation may marginally prevent the development of autoimmune diseases, with some evidence, though not statistically significant, that this includes prevention of psoriasis.”

However, a clinical trial that was released in 2023 revealed that vitamin D supplementation had no impact on the severity of psoriasis.

“A cautionary tale is the experience of vitamin D and prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease – after many years of intense investigation, large RCTs involving >25,000 patients showed no benefit of Vitamin D supplementation for preventing these major health outcomes,” noted Dr. Gelfand.

REFERENCES:

For Skin disease medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?therapy=27

Resist age-related cognitive decline with daily probiotics.

Resist age-related cognitive decline with daily probiotics.

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According to the outcomes of a scientific experiment, those with mild cognitive impairment who took a probiotic for 30 days performed better on cognitive tests.

After the trial, those who took probiotics had lower levels of a type of bacteria linked to cognitive impairment in their gut microbiomes.

According to the research, altering gut flora may be a promising strategy for treating chronic illnesses like cognitive impairment.

Probiotic therapy may help persons with moderate cognitive impairment (MCI) regain cognitive function, according to a clinical investigation.

There is an urgent need for more research,” declared Mashael R. Aljumaah, the primary study author and a doctorate candidate in microbiology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, in light of the global rise in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

People with cognitive impairment were given daily probiotics of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG during the double-blind randomised study. Also, after three months, their cognitive test results improved.

The researchers examined the participants’ stool samples and discovered significant quantities of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, or LGG, as well as a decrease in the quantity of Prevotella, a different family of bacteria frequently detected in individuals with cognitive deterioration.

These alterations imply a favourable change in the microbiota makeup of the subjects.

“Numerous earlier animal investigations, which showed LGG’s beneficial effects on several physiological situations, led to its development as a possible therapeutic probiotic. As a probiotic, LGG is also well-known for its capacity to withstand acidity and stick to intestinal walls,” according to lead researcher Michael R. Aljumaah.

Probiotic’s effects on mild cognitive impairment

To conduct the study, researchers contrasted those who had minor cognitive impairment with those who did not.

They aimed to spot, comprehend, and try to sway the early phases of cognitive deterioration. Finding biomarkers that could indicate the onset of cognitive decline was a part of that endeavor.

The age range of the 169 participants in the clinical trial ranged from 52 to 75 years old. As a control group, those without cognitive disorders were assigned to one group. People with cognitive problems were assigned to another group.

For three months, either LGG or a placebo was given to both groups. There were no negative effects in either group.

Prevotella, one such biomarker, was discovered in adults with cognitive impairment by Aljumaah and her coworkers. The fact that receiving LGG seemed to lessen its presence points to a potential future for microbiome re-balancing.

Aljumaah added, “By developing microbiome-targeted therapies, we may be able to delay the onset of cognitive impairment.”

Prevotella bacteria and long-term illnesses

Aljumaah clarified that while the Prevotella family of bacteria is present in persons with cognitive loss, it is not totally evident that their effect is solely detrimental.

For instance, the bacteria Prevotella has been linked to autoimmune, inflammatory, and cognitive disorders. According to Aljumaah, it is frequently discovered in persons who have Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disorders such rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Additionally, because it originates from plant-based diets, Prevotella bacteria may aid in the processing of fiber and is linked to metabolites that are crucial for maintaining gut health.

This raises the question of whether specific Prevotella species or strains may contribute to these illnesses, or whether a particular genetic characteristic or mechanism may be to blame, Aljumaah observed.

Greater research with LGG bacteria is required.

Board-certified neurologist Dr. Santosh Kesari, director of neuro-oncology at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California, who was not involved in the study, told MNT that he considered the participants’ receiving cognitive advantages “intriguing.”

However, Dr. Kesari urged further investigations to confirm their findings and make sure that adding LGG bacteria doesn’t have any negative side effects.

He also raised concern that an attempt to treat a condition by adding a probiotic to the gut microbiome would upset the bacterial equilibrium, leading to negative effects.

“Focusing on a positive effect on brain health could have a counterproductive effect in another organ system,” Dr. Kesari warned.

Health effects of the gut-brain relationship

It’s crucial to keep in mind that our knowledge of the precise pathways tying the gut microbiome to cognitive function is still in its infancy, according to Aljumaah.

According to Aljumaah, “more specifically, our understanding about which members of the gut [microbiome] are involved remains limited.”

Aljumaah also suggested a number of potential routes for communication between the two dispersed bodily regions, including the vagus nerve and the immune system.

Additionally, metabolites like short-chain fatty acids and even neurotransmitters made by the gut flora may be implicated.

Dr. Kesari proposed that the microbiome’s influence on brain function might be more indirect.

The microbiome is really the doorway for nutrition, nutrients, and how things are metabolized, according to Dr. Kesari, therefore it has a huge impact on overall body health, including brain function. “You are what you eat, as the saying goes, and this is really the scientific proof of that,” said Dr. Kesari.

Improving health outcomes by changing the microbiome

Undoubtedly, the microbiome is medicine’s most challenging and exciting frontier in terms of human health. Prevotella serves as an illustration of how the microbiome is likewise a challenging field of research.

Whether or not researchers can ever fully comprehend the microbiome to control or rebalance its residents, Dr. Kesari said, “I think it has to get there.”

We are aware that nutrition and obesity are the main causes of morbidities in the United States. Many of these conditions are preventable, and the microbiome plays a role in some of them. There is no chance that our eating patterns will change very soon. So, in my opinion, the only solution to lessen the cost pressures of healthcare is if we can obtain a probiotic that may help us stay healthier, said neurologist Dr. Santosh Kesari.

REFERENCES;

For Mental disease medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?cPath=77_478