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Can those who are highly susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease benefit from fish oil?

August 3, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

The health benefits of fish oils have been the subject of numerous claims over the years. According to a new study, some people may be able to lower their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by taking fish oil supplements later in life. Fish oil supplements lowered the degeneration of brain nerve cells in older adults with a gene linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a small study. Larger clinical trials are recommended by experts to look into the advantages of omega-3 supplements for people who are at high risk of Alzheimer’s.

Since oily fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs), it should be included in a healthy diet. Fish oil supplements, which are frequently promoted as having some health benefits, such as Heart and cardiovascular benefits; protecting eye health; healthy fetal development; memory, and other mental health benefits, are an option for those whose diet does not include oily fish. However, some of the health benefits of fish oils are debatable, and for certain individuals, using supplements may pose health risks.

A recent small study has revealed that older individuals with the APOEε4 gene, which raises the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, may benefit from taking fish oil supplements. According to the research, which was published in JAMA Network OpenTrusted Source, giving fish oil to individuals with the gene resulted in less breakdown of nerve cells; however, those without the gene did not significantly benefit from the treatment.

The possibility of individualized dietary interventions based on genetic predisposition is highlighted by this study. Although the results are encouraging, a more thorough investigation is required to fully comprehend the implications and provide firm guidelines. It’s also critical to keep researching additional dietary and lifestyle choices that may support cognitive health in senior citizens. “.

The Alzheimer’s Association states that a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease may be raised by some factors. These include genetics and family history; age; smoking; an unhealthy diet and/or being overweight; and a lack of exercise. Alzheimer’s disease has been linked to several genes, the most well-known of which is the APOE gene. A particular variation of this, APOEε4, raises the likelihood of Alzheimer’s disease, especially in people who receive APOEε4 from both parents.

Three soft gel fish oil capsules per day:
102 participants 75 years of age and older with comparatively low omega-3 fatty acid levels were included in the study. All of the participants had some degree of white matter lesions (common changes in the nerve cells of the brain in older people), but overall health was good, with no dementia (as determined by MRI scans at the beginning and the mini-mental state examination). Every day, the participants received three soft gel capsules containing 1 point 65 grams of omega-3 from the researchers. Three soft gels with only soybean oil were given to the control group; these gels had the same texture, taste, and smell as the omega-3 capsules.

Who was getting which treatment was a secret to both the participants and the researchers? Using MRI scans, the researchers tracked the progression of white matter lesions in each participant throughout the three-year trial. They also evaluated cognitive function.

Positive effects only in people with the APOEε4 gene:
There were no serious side effects from the treatment, and all participants tolerated it well. The investigators observed no statistically significant variation in the overall group’s results between the omega-3 treatment and placebo groups. Nonetheless, a notable distinction existed in the advancement of white matter lesions between the cohorts for individuals harboring the APOEε4 gene.

In comparison to individuals in the placebo group, those with the APOEε4 allele in the omega-3 group exhibited noticeably less breakdown of nerve cells. According to Allder, “Omega-3] PUFAs may have a different metabolic or inflammatory response compared to non-carriers, and carriers of the APOEε4 gene may have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.” This is how the fish oils may have this effect. This gene is linked to oxidative stress and increased brain inflammation, both of which [Omega-3] PUFAs are known to reduce. “.

Fish oil may be a potential preventive treatment for some
The study’s authors suggest that while fish oil supplements may not be recommended for all older people, they may help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in those who carry the APOEε4 allele. They do, however, stress that additional clinical trials are required to confirm their findings because this was a small study.

Our findings showed that over three years, there was not a statistically significant difference between the placebo and the group that took fish oil,” said Lynne Shinto, ND, MPH, senior co-author of the study and professor of neurology at OHSU School of Medicine, in a news release. She said, “I wouldn’t say you need to take fish oil to prevent dementia, but I don’t think it would be harmful.

Fish oils are generally safe, but people should only take them under medical advice, according to Allder and Molly Rapozo, RDN, registered dietician nutritionist and senior nutrition and health educator at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, CA. “I always advise clients to consult with their medical team before adding supplements because contraindications are a serious concern. Although generally safe, there are effects based on age and dosage, particularly in individuals who have two copies of the APOE4 gene, Rapozo informed MNT. Increasing the amount of omega-3 in your diet is recommended, she continued, saying that you should “in the meantime, up your intake of small cold-water fish which are good sources of omega 3 fats.”.

REFERENCES:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fish-oil-benefit-people-high-risk-genes-alzheimers-disease
https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-08-02/fish-oil-might-help-high-risk-older-adults-avoid-alzheimers
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/08/240801121818.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4019002/

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Alzheimer’s: Managing sleep problems

August 3, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Sleep disturbances can be very taxing on both of you if you are providing care for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s. Here are some tips for encouraging restful sleep.
Alzheimer’s disease and sleep issues frequently coexist. Learn what causes sleep issues in individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementias, as well as what you can do to support them.

Common sleep problems related to dementia:
While many older adults have trouble falling asleep, those who have dementia frequently struggle more. Up to 25% of persons with mild to moderate dementia and 50% of those with severe dementia may experience sleep disturbances. The severity of sleep disturbances increases with dementia progression. Oversleeping during the day and insomnia, or trouble falling and staying asleep, are examples of potential sleep issues. Both early morning awakenings and frequent nighttime awakenings are typical. Sundowning is a phenomenon that people with dementia may also encounter in the evening or at night. They could experience confusion, agitation, anxiety, and aggression. In this kind of state of mind, night wandering can be dangerous. Alzheimer’s patients also have an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleeping with this potentially dangerous sleep disorder results in frequent stops and starts in breathing.

A need for less sleep, which is common among older adults, mental and physical exhaustion at the end of the day, changes in the body clock, disorientation, decreased lighting, and increased shadows, which can make people with dementia feel scared and confused, are some factors that may lead to sleep disturbances and sundowning.

Supporting a good night’s sleep:
Sleep disturbances can harm the dementia patient as well as you. To encourage improved sleep: Address underlying issues. Sleep issues can occasionally be brought on by illnesses like depression, sleep apnea, or restless legs syndrome. Make a schedule. Keep your eating, sleeping, and waking hours consistent. Steer clear of stimulants. Nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol can all disrupt your sleep. Use of these drugs should be restricted, particularly at night.

Additionally, avoid watching TV at night when you are awake. Promote exercise. Walking and other physical activity can help you get a better night’s sleep. Minimize sleep during the day. Prevent taking afternoon naps. Create a calm atmosphere in the evening. Read aloud to the person or play calming music to aid in their relaxation. A well-cooled bedroom can aid in the dementia patient’s quality of sleep. Control your drug intake.

Insomnia may result from taking certain antidepressants, including venlafaxine and bupropion. While cholinesterase inhibitors, like donepezil, can help with behavioral and cognitive symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients, they can also make them sleep-deprived. Speak with the doctor if the dementia patient is taking these kinds of drugs. It’s usually beneficial to take the medication no later than dinner. Think about melatonin. Melatonin may lessen sundowning and promote better sleep in dementia patients. Give enough light. People with dementia may have fewer disruptions in their sleep-wake cycles when receiving bright light therapy in the evening. Enough illumination at night.

Remain composed if the dementia sufferer wakes up in the middle of the night, despite your own exhaustion. Avoid arguing. Ask the person what they need instead. Anxiety or pain at night may be the source of agitation. Try to identify the cause of the issue, whether it’s constipation, a full bladder, or an uncomfortable temperature in the room. Remind him or her gently that it’s time to go to bed since it’s nighttime. Don’t hold the person back if they need to pace. Rather, let it happen under your watchful eye.

The doctor may suggest sleep aids if non-pharmacological methods aren’t producing the desired results. However, older people who are cognitively impaired are more likely to fall and become confused when taking sleep-inducing medications. Therefore, it is usually not advised to use sedative sleep aids for this group. If the doctor prescribes these drugs, he or she will probably advise trying to stop taking them as soon as a regular sleep schedule is established.

You may not have the patience and energy necessary to care for someone who has dementia if you’re not getting enough sleep. Additionally, the person may sense your stress and grow agitated. Try to arrange for friends or family to stay with you on alternate nights. Alternatively, to find out what support is offered in your area, speak with a local Alzheimer’s Association representative, a social worker, or a doctor.

REFERENCES:
https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/alzheimers-sleep-problems
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-health/alzheimers-disease-and-sleep
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/sleep-problems-treatments-dementia
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/alzheimers-and-sleep

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Treatments for Sleep Changes

August 3, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease frequently struggle to fall asleep or may notice alterations in their sleep routine. Researchers are still unsure of the exact cause of these sleep disruptions. Similar to modifications in behavior and memory, sleep abnormalities are inextricably linked to the brain damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease. It is always best to try non-drug coping mechanisms first when handling sleep changes.

Common sleep changes
Sleep patterns are altered in a large number of Alzheimer’s patients. The reason why this occurs is not fully understood by scientists. Similar to alterations in behavior and memory, sleep abnormalities are inextricably linked to the brain damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease. Sleep disturbances are also common in older adults without dementia, but they tend to be more severe and occur more frequently in those with Alzheimer’s. While some studies have found sleep abnormalities in the early stages of the disease, there is evidence that they are more common in later stages.

Sleep changes in Alzheimer’s may include: the inability to sleep. Many who have Alzheimer’s disease wake up more frequently and remain awake through the night more often. Reduces in dreaming and non-dreaming stages of sleep are observed in brain wave studies. People with trouble falling asleep may wander, be unable to stay still, or scream or call out, which can keep their carers awake. naps during the day and other changes to the sleep-wake cycle. People may experience extreme daytime sleepiness followed by difficulty falling asleep at night. In the late afternoon or early evening, they might become agitated or restless, a phenomenon known as “sundowning.”.

According to expert estimates, people with advanced Alzheimer’s disease sleep a large portion of the day and spend approximately 40% of the night awake in bed. Extreme situations may cause a person’s typical pattern of daytime wakefulness and nighttime sleep to completely reverse.

Contributing medical factors
A comprehensive medical examination should be performed on anyone having trouble sleeping to rule out any curable conditions that might be causing the issue. Depression, restless legs syndrome, which causes unpleasant “crawling” or “tingling” sensations in the legs and an overwhelming urge to move them, and sleep apnea, which is an abnormal breathing pattern in which people briefly stop breathing many times a night, leading to poor sleep quality, are a few conditions that can exacerbate sleep problems. Treatment options for sleep disorders primarily caused by Alzheimer’s disease include both non-drug and drug approaches.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the majority of experts strongly advise against using medication in favor of non-drug measures. Research has indicated that the general quality of older adults’ sleep is not enhanced by sleep medications. The risks of using sleep aids include an increased risk of falls and other problems that might offset any therapeutic advantages.

Non-drug treatments for sleep changes
Non-pharmacological therapies seek to lessen midday naps and enhance sleep hygiene and routine. It is always advisable to try non-drug coping strategies before taking medication because some sleep aids have serious side effects. Maintaining regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and wake-up times, seeking morning sunlight exposure, and regularly scheduled exercise, but no later than four hours before bedtime, avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine, treating any pain, making sure the bedroom temperature is comfortable, providing nightlights and security objects, discouraging the person from staying in bed while awake, and encouraging them to use the bed only for sleep, are all important ways to create a welcoming sleeping environment and promote rest for someone with Alzheimer’s disease.

Medications for sleep changes
Sometimes non-drug treatments don’t work as planned, or the sleep disruptions are accompanied by unruly behavior at night. Experts advise that treatment for those who do need medication “begin low and go slow.”. Using sleep aids when an older person has cognitive impairment carries a significant risk. These include a heightened risk of fractures and falls, disorientation, and a deterioration in self-care skills. When a regular sleep pattern has been established, an attempt should be made to stop using sleep medications.

The kinds of behaviors that may accompany sleep changes can have a significant impact on the type of medication that a doctor prescribes. Using an antipsychotic medication should only be decided very carefully. Studies have indicated that these medications raise the risk of stroke and death in elderly dementia patients. The U.S. S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has mandated that manufacturers label these medications with a disclaimer that states they are not authorized to treat symptoms of dementia and a “black box” warning about potential risks.

Reference:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/for-sleep-changes
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047832
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0197457218300466
https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/blog/detail/blog/2023/08/17/non-drug-options-for-dementia-related-sleep-problems

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Common diabetes drugs may desensitize people to dangerous drops in blood sugar:

July 31, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

A recent Taiwanese study found a link between the use of sulfonylurea type 2 diabetes medications and a higher long-term risk of impaired awareness of hypoglycemic episodes. The study indicates that sulfonylurea users become less sensitive to the occurrence of hypoglycemic symptoms after five years of use due to recurrent hypoglycemic episodes. The reduced awareness of hypoglycemia caused by sulfonylureas was contrasted with the gradual decrease in insulin use.

A recent study found that long-term use of sulfonylureas, a class of type 2 diabetes medications, is linked to a higher risk of impaired awareness of hypoglycemia.
The study discovered that although both were associated with short-term elevated risk of hypoglycemia (a dangerously low blood sugar level), individuals taking sulfonylureas after five or more years had a roughly three-fold increased risk of hypoglycemia awareness impairment. The term impaired hypoglycemia awareness, or IHA, describes a diminished ability to recognize when blood sugar levels are too low, or even dangerously low. Years of recurrent hypoglycemic episodes can cause psychological desensitization to the condition’s symptoms and an awareness of when it is happening, which can lead to IHA.

Sulfonylureas: Some of the oldest diabetes drugs in use
Among the most established diabetes treatments, sulfonylureas were first identified in 1946 and made available for clinical use in 1956. They function by activating the pancreatic beta cells, which increase the production of insulin. Drugs like Glipizide, Glipizide ER, Glimepiride, and Glyburide are examples of sulfonylureas and are available in the US. These are some of the most affordable drugs for diabetes. There were 898 type 2 diabetics in the new study, which was carried out in Tainan City, Taiwan. Of them, 41.0 percent were on insulin and 65.1% were taking sulfonylureas.

The Gold and Clarke questionnaires, two commonly used measures, were used by the researchers to evaluate IHA. Their results were about the same in both measures. Age, sex, education, marital status, place of residence, employment, and living arrangement were among the sociodemographic factors taken into consideration. Other factors included self-reported diabetes-related medical care, anti-hyperglycemic agent use, disease and treatment histories, and living arrangements. IHA was a common side effect of both insulin and sulfonylurea users in the early years of treatment. Regarding the former, sulfonylurea patients with IHA had a presence rate of 65.3% on the Gold questionnaire and 51.3% on the Clarke questionnaire. The incidence among insulin users was 28.2 percent (Clarke) and 41.0% (Gold).

Why prescribe sulfonylureas over other diabetes drugs?
When patients don’t produce enough endogenous insulin to help control their blood sugar, insulin acts by substituting it. Insulin is recommended to help patients with higher blood sugar levels significantly and fairly quickly lower their blood sugar levels.
But he added that if the patient has slightly elevated blood sugar, sulfonylureas may be more effective, and they might not want to take insulin injections every day.

“Sulfonylureas primarily stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin and improve the function of endogenous insulin,” Ng continued. However, according to Ng, people with type 2 diabetes now have access to more medications than just insulin and sulfonylureas. He stated, “Newer blood sugar control medications operate through different mechanisms than sulfonylureas.”. The more recent drugs do not cause the pancreas to produce more insulin, so there is less chance of insulin overstimulation and hypoglycemia as there was in the past. “

How to prevent low blood sugar
The best way to prevent the negative effects of diabetes medication is to visit your doctor regularly. First, Ng advised people to check their blood sugar levels “every three months if possible to ensure that the levels are coming down effectively based on the prescribed medication, and then every six to twelve months once the levels are stable and at goal.”. The study’s authors discovered that reduced rates of IHA in their subjects were linked to routine blood glucose checks and retinal scans. A retinal scan enables a physician to check the retina’s small blood vessels for damage caused by abnormally high blood sugar, a condition known as diabetic retinopathy.

REFERENCES:
https://www.aol.com/common-diabetes-drug-may-desensitize-161500417.html
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/two-popular-diabetes-drugs-outperformed-others-large-clinical-trial
https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/medications-list
https://www.drugs.com/condition/diabetes-mellitus-type-ii.html

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Managing chronic inflammation with psoriasis

July 31, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Despite not knowing the precise cause, medical professionals believe psoriasis to be an inflammatory immune-mediated condition. This indicates that the underlying cause of this illness is inflammation.

What causes inflammation in psoriasis?
The dermis, or middle layer of skin, becomes thicker with inflammatory cells in psoriasis sufferers due to immune system malfunction. In the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, the condition also accelerates skin cell proliferation. Skin cells develop and shed throughout a month. For those who have psoriasis, this process accelerates in a matter of days. Skin cell accumulation on the skin’s surface occurs when skin cells accumulate rather than shed, causing painful symptoms such as elevated plaques, scaling, swelling, redness, or discoloration. Despite being a skin illness, psoriasis causes inflammation that affects every body part. It may raise the chance of developing psoriatic arthritis, cancer, inflammatory bowel illness, and heart disease.

Is there a way to treat inflammation?
Although immune system dysregulation causes inflammation in psoriasis, research (Trusted Source) indicates that lifestyle and dietary modifications can help people with this inflammation. This may lessen symptoms and enhance one’s quality of life. By using these techniques, many psoriasis sufferers can sustain remission—a protracted period without having psoriasis symptoms. In addition, certain psoriasis treatments function by decreasing inflammation. These consist of injectable biologics, oral drugs, and topical corticosteroids. Every psoriasis sufferer is unique. More intensive treatment will be needed for certain persons than for others.

How to manage inflammation…
Although there isn’t a cure for psoriasis at this time, adopting these behaviors may help lower inflammation brought on by the condition and raise the likelihood of remission.

Consuming a balanced diet
Food has a big influence on systemic inflammation. Research indicates that some inflammatory eating habits may heighten the likelihood of developing psoriasis and exacerbate its symptoms. Everybody has a different idea of what a healthy diet entails. But the actions listed below could assist someone in creating one: Steer clear of inflammatory foods: Some foods and drinks have ingredients that promote inflammation, which can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. Soda and highly processed foods like candy, processed meat items, and salty snacks are two examples.

Eating a nutritious diet:
Taking into account an anti-inflammatory diet: Psoriasis symptoms are regularly reduced by diets high in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods.

Avoiding or giving up smoking: Smoking hurts one’s health and exacerbates inflammatory conditions like psoriasis. Cutting back on alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms and cause inflammation. Remaining active: Limiting extended sitting times may help lessen the symptoms of psoriasis. According to a review of the literature, psoriasis sufferers who lead sedentary lifestyles experience more severe symptoms than those who engage in regular exercise. Getting enough sleep:

Sleep deprivation can cause the body to go into a pro-inflammatory state. Research indicates that irregular and inadequate sleep patterns may elevate inflammatory markers in the bloodstream. For optimum health, experts advise adults to get 7–9 hours of sleep every night. Controlling stress: Extended periods of stress cause the immune system to become hyperactive and lead to a pro-inflammatory state. Stress is cited by up to 88% of psoriasis sufferers as a trigger for their symptoms. It could be beneficial to practice stress-reduction methods like yoga and meditation.

Maintaining a moderate weight
Obesity is a risk factor for psoriasis development. People with psoriasis who are overweight or obese may also experience more severe symptoms than people with a moderate weight. Weight loss may reduce inflammatory markers and help reduce psoriasis symptoms in people with excess body weight.

REFERENCES:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/taming-the-chronic-inflammation-of-psoriasis
https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis/facts-about-inflammation
https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/understanding-inflammation/
https://www.verywellhealth.com/psoriasis-and-inflammation-5202286

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Coffee consumption may reduce the risk of death from sedentary lifestyles.

June 25, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Getting plenty of exercise each day is a necessary component of living a healthy lifestyle. In order to keep their hearts healthy, adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of heart-pumping physical activity per week, according to the American Heart Association. Based on previous studies, leading a sedentary lifestyle can negatively impact one’s general health and raise the chance of several illnesses, such as high blood pressure, obesity, osteoporosis, cancer, and heart disease. Regular inactivity has also been connected to mortality from cardiovascular disease and other causes.

According to recent research that was published in the journal BMC Public Health, coffee consumption may be able to mitigate some of the negative consequences associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Researchers at Soochow University in Suzhou, China, have found that compared to sitting for less than four hours a day, sitting for more than eight hours a day was associated with a higher risk of mortality from heart disease and other causes. But compared to those who did not drink coffee, those who drank the most seemed to have a lower risk of dying. Researchers examined information regarding daily sitting time and coffee use from over 10,700 adults in the United States who took part in the 2007–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for this study.

The corresponding author of this study, Bingyan Li, PhD, professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene in the School of Public Health at the Medical College of Soochow University in Suzhou, China, told Medical News Today that “in recent years, increased TV viewing and computer use, as well as less physically demanding jobs, have led people to become more sedentary in their daily lives.” “Even if people meet recommended levels of physical activity, prolonged sitting might have a negative impact on metabolic health. The risk of cardiovascular disease, as well as all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, is linked to sedentary behavior, which is increasingly becoming recognized as a possible predictor of negative health consequences. Furthermore, the world is heavily financially burdened by these unfavorable health outcomes.

Li said, “Yet, due to the potent antioxidant qualities of coffee components, coffee is one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world and among Americans. Growing research also suggests that regular coffee consumption can reduce morbidity and mortality from chronic diseases.” “Therefore, coffee may have a significant impact on public health even if it has a small health-boosting effect.” Li and her research team found that compared to individuals who sat for less than four hours a day, sitting for more than eight hours a day was associated with a higher risk of mortality from cardiovascular disease as well as other causes.

As coffee intake was taken into account, researchers discovered that individuals who drank the most coffee had lower mortality rates from cardiovascular disease and all causes as compared to those who drank less. Additionally, those who did not drink coffee and sat for six hours or more a day had a 1.6-fold increased risk of dying from all causes compared to those who drank coffee and sat for less than six hours a day, according to research. According to one study, sitting for extended periods of time without breaks seems to worsen inflammation and affect glucose metabolism, Li added.

Because sedentary behavior increases proinflammatory markers while lowering anti-inflammatory markers, it is an important and independent predictor of inflammation. Furthermore, she noted that earlier research had demonstrated how sedentary behavior affects skeletal muscle metabolism and that metabolic risks rose by 39% for every hour spent sitting or lying prone during the waking hours. Compared to sedentary activity, coffee consumption has numerous advantages for boosting adult overall survival. Drinking coffee lowers the chance of developing metabolic syndrome, which exacerbates inflammation. Numerous studies have revealed an inverse connection between adult cardiovascular disease mortality and coffee consumption, both overall and by cause.

Yu-Ming Ni, MD, a board-certified cardiologist and lipidologist at MemorialCare Heart and Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, advised readers to use caution when interpreting the study’s results after reading it. Since this is an association research, our goal is to determine how coffee and cardiovascular disease are related. However, when examining correlations, it can be challenging to determine whether coffee use is the cause of the decline in heart disease or whether there are other factors that the coffee drinker is doing to lower their risk of cardiovascular death. That, then, is most likely the key lesson to be learned from this.

“I think it’s critical that we acknowledge that lifestyle decisions are the cornerstone of optimal health. The eight lifestyle decisions and medical treatments that are most strongly linked to excellent health are known as the “Essential 8,” according to the American Heart Association. Furthermore, only a very tiny percentage of Americans adhere to all eight criteria. Therefore, in my opinion, there is always room to research healthy habits and behavior modification as a means of maintaining your health and lowering your risk of heart disease. And one of the behaviors that we have been researching for a while is the intake of coffee. They also discussed this study with Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN, owner of Nutrition-In-Sight and registered dietitian nutritionist.

According to Richard, it’s critical to keep in mind that a variety of things can affect one’s ability to profit from coffee, tea, or any other beverage. “The bean’s origin, quality, processing method, additions (preservatives, cream, sugar), amount and frequency of consumption, and the person’s sensitivity to caffeine, present health (prescription drugs, high blood pressure, cardiac issues), and metabolic reaction to it,” she explained. “The current [recommended daily limit] is three to five 8-ounce cups per day, or approximately 400 mg of caffeine; however, tolerance may vary greatly among individuals.”

Looking at additional benefits of coffee consumption that people might find counteract the negative effects of being sedentary, Richard mentioned that caffeine from coffee may act on the central nervous system to increase alertness and may also have a feel-good, mood-boosting effect on an individual. She went on, “It might give mental acuteness and clarity.” But there are a few drawbacks to take into account as well. A few substances in coffee, particularly if unfiltered, have the potential to increase cholesterol, induce jitters, anxiety, GERD, GI problems, palpitations, or other cardio-metabolic markers including homocysteine levels. Richard offered the following advice to readers who might be thinking about consuming coffee for its possible health benefits: Consult a licensed dietitian nutritionist to determine whether or not coffee is right for you. If you’re not enjoying it already, don’t feel compelled to start adding it. The benefits of an unsweetened coffee with low-fat milk or no added sugar won’t come from a 32-ounce cold brew with extra vanilla and caramel syrup. Assess your intake and ask yourself, “If I am sedentary for six to eight hours, how can I move more every hour, every day?

https://www.sciencealert.com/drinking-coffee-may-lower-risk-of-death-from-too-much-sitting
https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-18515-9
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240423/US-study-links-extended-sitting-and-lack-of-coffee-to-higher-death-rates.aspx
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drinking-coffee-may-help-lower-death-risk-being-sedentary

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How a keto diet may improve mental and cognitive function as one ages

June 25, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

A plausible mechanism supporting the benefits observed in aging male mice on ketogenic diets, or “keto diets,” has been identified by researchers. It has been shown that switching between a control and a ketogenic diet for male mice leads to an enhancement in the communication between brain synapses. One of the paper’s authors, John Newman, MD, PhD, previously published a proof-of-concept study demonstrating that feeding male mice a cyclic ketogenic diet decreased their risk of dying in midlife and avoided the typical aging-related deterioration in memory.

The lead author of the new study on keto diets and aging, Christian Gonza lez-Billault, is a professor at the Universidad de Chile, the director of the Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), an adjunct professor at The Buck Institute for Research on Aging, and he said, “We decided to study the effect of the ketogenic diet after reading two seminal papers published in 2017 that showed its beneficial roles in the overall health of aged mice, including brain performance.” He went on, “The authors demonstrated improvement in these two [prior] works in particular behavioral tasks that are routinely used in animal experimentation to evaluate memory and learning.”

Gonza lez-Billault, who worked with Newman on the most recent study, continued, “Such an improvement convinced us to go deeper into the molecular mechanisms that explain that positive response on one side, but also prompted us to include several other assessments at different levels, ranging from the whole organism level to the molecular functions, to understand why the diet was beneficial in aged animals.” The team’s most recent findings are published in Cell Reports Medicine. In order to explore the earlier results more thoroughly, the researchers maintained 19 male mice, which are considered to be of “old age” in mice, for 20–23 months. They were either fed a control diet or a ketogenic diet that alternated with the control diet every other week.

The mice’s metabolic parameters were examined for the first twelve weeks, and then they were kept on their diets and had behavioral testing for five weeks. The findings showed that in older animals, the ketogenic diet was linked to reduced blood sugar, enhanced memory, and enhanced motor function. Researchers observed that the hippocampal area of aged mice’s brains had more flexibility. Subsequent investigation revealed that the enhanced plasticity observed in mice maintained on a ketogenic diet and alternated with a control diet was caused by a ketone body, a molecule generated when glucose levels are low, activating a signaling channel between the synapses.

We concentrate on older mice since prior research indicated that the influence of diet on juvenile animals was less pronounced and occasionally did not differ significantly from a control diet. These earlier findings imply that preserving resilience in elderly mice and enhancing their physiological processes as they age would be among the diet’s advantageous effects, according to Gonzá lez-Billault. The distinction between lifespan—which is our entire vital trajectory from the moment of our birth until the day of our death—and healthspan—which is the portion of our vital trajectory free from chronic diseases—makes this idea crucial to the study of aging, the speaker said.

Small human studies have also revealed that the ketogenic diet may improve cognition in addition to animal research, especially in older persons with dementia. The mechanisms, which include reduced inflammation, enhanced blood sugar regulation, and the potential for ketones to boost brain function, may be similar to those observed in animal research. To validate these possible advantages, larger clinical trials are necessary, although the research is still in its early phases. A drawback of ketogenic diets, aside from the paucity of solid human studies, is that many people find it difficult to maintain their diets without including carbohydrates.

Ketogenic diets are linked to lower intakes of plant-based foods because they drastically limit carbohydrate intake. This may lead to a reduction in the consumption of nutrients crucial for general health, such as fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Experts typically advise older persons to adhere to diets for good aging that are backed by more thorough human studies rather than the keto diet. Two of the most well-recommended and scientifically supported diets for good aging are the DASH and Mediterranean regimens.Trusted Source. To guarantee sufficient nutritional intake and the greatest possible health results, it is advisable for someone who is interested in trying a ketogenic diet to do so under the supervision of a doctor or qualified dietitian.

Both this investigation and earlier ones have focused exclusively on male mice. Because single-gender use improves the power of comparison and makes it difficult to examine the influence on the entire population—one of our study’s limitations—we chose to focus first on the intervention’s effects in male mice. Gonza lez-Billault clarified, “Yet, the results of this study call for additional analysis of the ketogenic diet’s effects on female mice. Given that women’s metabolisms digest fats differently than men’s, concerns have been raised in the past regarding the efficacy of ketogenic diets in this population. Research is now being done with this in mind.

But because the current research was done on mice, this means that the latest study is not only limited in its applicability to our understanding of ketogenic diets in humans, but it is also limited in terms of its applicability across biological sexes, as it was only conducted on males. Gonza lez-Billault concurred that more investigation into the findings is absolutely necessary.

“We plan to further investigate the molecular processes underlying the advantageous effects of food on elderly animals in our upcoming research. Our goal is to determine if the impacts we see in the brain are limited to the brain alone, or if some of the responses we assess are connected to broader systemic effects or the operation of other pertinent organs. Furthermore, we aim to gain a deeper comprehension of the metabolic alterations that enhance the brain’s cellular activities,” he informed us. While this study produced intriguing and surprising results, additional research in humans is necessary to validate these benefits, as other experts have also pointed out.

“This study suggests that repeatedly going on a short-term keto diet can have benefits to memory, motor function, and neuroplasticity, but doesn’t suggest any particular reason why,” said Catherine Rall, RDN, a registered dietitian based in Denver, CO, and a certified nutritionist at Happy V. Rall was not involved in the research. The fact that this study was conducted on male mice means that there is limited application of the findings to women and other human populations.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-keto-diets-may-help-boost-memory-brain-health-later-in-life
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/low-carb-ketogenic-diet-brain
https://neurosciencenews.com/keto-diet-memory-aging-26339/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9102882/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-keto-diets-may-help-boost-memory-brain-health-later-in-life

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The reason why people walk more slowly as they age is explained by new study.

June 24, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

It is well known that as we age, our bodies naturally get slower in moving. A slower metabolism, loss of muscular mass, and a gradual decrease in activity level are a few possible causes. According to University of Colorado Boulder experts, older persons may move more slowly than younger adults because it takes them more energy to move. Researchers think that this new study, which was just published in the Journal of Neuroscience, may contribute to the development of novel diagnostic instruments for conditions including multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. 84 healthy individuals were gathered for the study by the researchers, comprising older adults (66–87 years old) and younger adults (18–35 years old).

Participants in the study were required to use their right hand to grasp a robotic arm while reaching for a target on a screen. The robotic arm functioned like a mouse on a computer. Scientists discovered that, in contrast to younger adults, older adults altered their movements at specific moments to help conserve their more limited levels of energy by examining the patterns of how research participants conducted their reaches. Alaa A. Ahmed, PhD, professor in the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering in the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado Boulder and senior author of this study, told MNT that as we age, our muscle cells may become less effective at converting energy into muscle force and eventually movement.

We may also become less effective in our movement patterns as a means of making up for our diminished strength. Therefore, in order to complete the same tasks, we must use more muscles, which uses more energy. Since the body releases less dopamine as we age, Ahmed and her team were also interested in investigating potential effects of aging on the brain’s “reward circuitry.” The task of moving a cursor on a computer screen with the robotic arm was given to the participants once more. Reaching a particular target on the screen was the aim. A “bing” sound was used to notify participants when they reached the target. Researchers discovered that when adults knew they would hear the “bing,” both young and elderly reached the goals more quickly.

Scientists claim that older persons improved their reaction times and began their reach with the robotic arm an average of 17 milliseconds sooner than younger adults, who simply moved their arms faster. Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, expressed his agreement with the study’s recommendation to exercise as we age, even if it requires more energy to accomplish the same activity as when we were younger. “As a neurologist, I always tell my elderly patients, ‘If you don’t use it, you will lose it!'” Segil went on. “I concur with the authors of this article that encouraging elderly patients to move has numerous health benefits.”

He continued, “To support the author’s claims, I would like to see a concomitant EEG (electroencephalogram) running on these study participants to determine if their brain activity does slow down or increase during these activities.” I also discussed this study with Ryan Glatt, CPT, NBC-HWC, senior brain health coach and director of the FitBrain Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California. He said, “I think more research on how an elderly brain adapts to the challenges of aging and moving would be fascinating to read and helpful to my aging patients.” According to Glatt, “(This) study on why older adults move slower offers an intriguing hypothesis linking slower movements to reward processing and energy conservation.” But it’s important to understand the conceptual leap from observed behavior to underlying brain functions with caution. The findings are conjectural in the absence of concrete neurological data linking alterations in brain function brought on by aging to movement patterns.

REFERENCES:

https://www.colorado.edu/today/2024/04/23/why-do-we-move-slower-older-we-get-new-study-delivers-answers
https://megadoctornews.com/new-research-helps-explain-why-people-move-slower-as-they-get-older/
https://scienceblog.com/543935/why-old-people-move-slowly/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/why-do-people-move-slower-as-they-get-older-study

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A month following stent implantation, stopping aspirin may not raise the risk of blood clots.

April 15, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Following a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to treat a heart blockage, physicians typically prescribe two antiplatelet medications or blood thinners for one year. According to a recent study, those blood thinners could be safely reduced in half in just one month. Research indicates that patients can safely stop taking one blood thinner after taking two for a month, and there is no increased risk of clots forming on the hardware implanted during percutaneous coronary intervention.

Blood thinners can cause bleeding, make it difficult for scabs to form over wounds, and cause other negative side effects, even though they provide significant protection against the formation of clots. Dual antiplatelet therapy, or DAPT, combines antiplatelet medications used after surgery. It usually contains a stronger P2Y12 receptor inhibitor (there are several), along with aspirin. The medication ticagrelor was used in the study. DAPT is recommended for a full year because there is a decreased chance of clotting beyond that time.

The research examined treatment plans and results for 3,400 Acute Coronary Syndrome patients at 58 facilities in China, Italy, Pakistan, and the U.S. K., from October 2022 to August 2018. Every research participant had undergone PCI. Once stable for a month following the procedure, they were randomized into one of two groups. The new DAPT consisted of ticagrelor and placebo for 1,700 patients. For the entire year, the remaining people took aspirin and ticagrelor.

After one month, 78 participants taking ticagrelor-aspirin experienced major or minor bleeding events, while only 35 participants in the ticagrelor-placebo group experienced such events. This equates to a 55% decrease in bleeding incidents. Significant cardiovascular events were statistically comparable in the two groups, indicating that the ticagrelor-placebo group’s stop of aspirin did not lead to a rise in unfavorable cardiovascular outcomes. There are two ways to address the issue of blocked arteries. The only procedure available to us back then was bypass surgery, in which a surgeon physically enters the body and reroutes all blood flow around the blockages.

Over the past three decades, percutaneous coronary intervention has been used. This minimally invasive technique involves threading small catheters through the groin or wrist to the heart, where doctors use wires, balloons, and stents to open up blocked arteries. Blood clots can form around these devices, which is why patients are often prescribed dual antiplatelet therapy to prevent ischemic events. Compared to bypass surgery, percutaneous coronary intervention is a much less invasive and more common procedure now.

Every hospital performs percutaneous coronary interventions daily, according to Chen. The study tackles a balancing act that has long been a source of difficulty for cardiologists. The problem was explained by Jayne Morgan, MD, a cardiologist and the Executive Director of Health and Community Education at Piedmont Healthcare Corporation in Atlanta, Georgia. She was not involved in the study. The main goal of DAPT is to prevent ischemic events, but as the risk-benefit ratio is considered, there has been some discussion about DAPT after PCI in patients with both acute and chronic coronary syndromes..

She stated it is obvious that the risk of more ischemia needs to be decreased. Morgan called the results compelling and expressed her anticipation for more data on the subject, but at what cost to increased bleeding and its inherent morbidity on the patient as well? According to her, Single Action Platelet Therapy with ticagrelor alone between months one and twelve seems to have produced a comparable rate of MACCE [major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events] with fewer bleeding complications.

This study answers a question that we were all curious about. Even though it’s unquestionably a safer strategy than what we’re all doing right now, it demonstrates that this approach is effective. Furthermore, it demonstrated that things weren’t worse. You were giving the two blood thinners, but it wasn’t leading to more clots forming on the stent. We really need to know that information, Chen said. He stated that things won’t change right away because the protocol of administering two blood thinners after PCI has been in place for decades. The American Heart Association, American Cardiology College, and the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions are among the significant advisory bodies that update their recommendations yearly. Chen predicted that this would be a significant step toward future changes to these rules.

REFERENCES:
https://people.com/ozempic-like-drug-slowed-progression-parkinsons-disease-new-trial-8627473
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ozempic-like-drug-may-help-slow-progression-parkinsons-symptoms
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/04/drug-similar-to-ozempic-slowed-parkinsons-disease-in-small-trial.html

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Ozempic-like drug may help slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms

April 10, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Scientists have found that a drug commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes can help reduce the development of motor skills deterioration in people with early-stage Parkinson’s, according to the findings of a new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine. The study, which was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, followed 156 participants in France whose diagnosis of Parkinson’s had been within the last three years, were on a stable regime of medication to treat symptoms, and who did not yet have marked decline in motor skills. The participants were either given lixisenatide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that is used to treat diabetes, or a placebo.

After 12 months, the 78 people who had been given lixisenatide showed virtually no further deterioration of motor skills that is commonly seen with Parkinson’s disease, while those who were given a placebo saw a worsening of those symptoms. Nearly half of the group who took lixisenatide reported nausea and 13% experienced vomiting. It is a fascinating study that is proof of concept that this class of medications may have some protective effect and be of advantage to someday treat Parkinson’s. It will be interesting to see if the results hold true for other newer GLP-1 agents like Ozempic/Wegovy and Zepbound, Gabbay said.

Parkinson’s is a disorder characterized by significant neurological decline that can manifest in tremors, motor control problems, and dementia. There is no known cause, but it is associated with a lack of dopamine in the brain. It is the second most common neurological disease after Alzheimer’s in the U.S., and it is believed that at least 500,000 adults in the U.S. have it.

Daniel Truong, MD, neurologist and medical director of the Truong Neuroscience Institute at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, and editor-in-chief of the Journal of Clinical Parkinsonism and Related Disorders, told MNT that links between Parkinson’s and diabetes hinge on several common threads between the disorders: There is ongoing research exploring the potential links between diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. Several studies have suggested that individuals with diabetes may have a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, and vice versa, Truong said.

Chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress are common features of both diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. Research suggests that inflammatory processes in the brain may play a role in the progression of Parkinson’s disease, and there is evidence linking inflammation to insulin resistance in diabetes. Studies have shown that mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction in diabetes, while mitochondrial impairment is also a key feature of dopaminergic neuron degeneration in Parkinson’s disease.

Emerging evidence suggests that alpha-synuclein pathology may also be present in peripheral tissues, including pancreatic beta cells in individuals with diabetes. Further research could explore the role of alpha-synuclein aggregation in diabetes-related complications and its potential link to Parkinson’s disease. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are part of a treatment regimen for people with type 2 diabetes. They can help reproduce or enhance the effects of a naturally occurring gut hormone that assists in the control of blood sugar levels, and they can also reduce appetite by working on brain hunger centers; this is one of the reasons drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy have been associated with weight loss.

Truong said that a drug like lixisenatide has neuroprotective effects, which would clearly provide some assistance for people with a neurological disorder like Parkinson’s. But he also pointed out how common traits in both diabetes and Parkinson’s can provide some insight into GLP-1 receptor agonists as a way to reduce Parkinson’s symptoms.

There is emerging evidence suggesting shared pathophysiological mechanisms between diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. For example, insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism have been implicated in both conditions. Therefore, drugs that target these mechanisms, such as GLP-1 RAs, might have beneficial effects in both diseases.
In some studies, the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease was lower among patients with diabetes who were treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists or dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, which increase GLP-1 levels, than among patients who received other diabetes medications.

Truong said that the study’s limitations warrant further research to establish several aspects of long-term treatment of Parkinson’s with GLP-1 receptor agonists: dose optimization, combination therapies, safety and tolerability, and effects on the non-motor symptoms. Parkinson’s disease is associated with a wide range of non-motor symptoms, including cognitive impairment, autonomic dysfunction, and psychiatric symptoms. Future studies should investigate whether lixisenatide has beneficial effects on non-motor symptoms in addition to motor symptoms.

Although the study suggested a potential neuroprotective effect of lixisenatide, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific neuroprotective mechanisms of lixisenatide in Parkinson’s disease, including its effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and alpha-synuclein pathology.

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