10 myths about depression

10 myths about depression

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There are many misconceptions regarding depression, such as the idea that it only affects specific individuals or that it is not a real illness. These misconceptions not only deter people from getting treatment but also add to the stigma associated with the illness. In the year 2020, approximately 8 percent of adult Americans had at least one major depressive episode. It is therefore among the most prevalent mental health issues in the U.S. S. Even so, there are still a lot of misconceptions about depression. The main causes of this are misconceptions in society and culture regarding the illness, as well as out-of-date science. This article breaks down popular misconceptions about depression, explains why they are untrue, and distinguishes fact from fiction.

Some attempt to discredit depression by asserting that it is a choice made by the individual or the outcome of a personality trait, and thus not a legitimate medical condition. Additionally, depression used to be seen by some as a form of self-pity or sadness rather than as a diagnosable and treatable mental illness. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) lists depression as a mental illness. There are symptoms that are both physical and emotional. To be diagnosed with depression, an individual must meet the requirements listed in the handbook. These include experiencing symptoms that can drastically alter a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior and last for at least two weeks. As a result, depression is not the same as being depressed or self-pitying. Medical professionals have connected a number of biological, environmental, and psychological variables to depression. Over 8 out of 100 adults in the U.S. S. suffered from at least one major depressive episode in 2020 that left them seriously handicapped.

Antidepressants are frequently prescribed by doctors to help treat depression because they can enhance how the brain uses chemicals that regulate mood and stress. Antidepressant medication is thought by some to be the best or most efficient way to treat depression. It’s also a widely held misconception that a person cannot avoid depressive symptoms if they take antidepressants for the rest of their lives. Antidepressants do not always work for everyone or in all circumstances, nor are they a panacea for depression. Actually, antidepressants are typically prescribed by doctors in addition to psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications.

Furthermore, although it is true that some depressed individuals will use antidepressants for years to help them manage their symptoms, doctors hardly ever recommend antidepressants for life. Antidepressants usually take a few weeks to start working. It is important to note that it is not safe for people taking antidepressants to suddenly stop taking them. This is because stopping some medications suddenly can have negative effects. Most people schedule a gradual reduction in their dosage with their physician or mental health specialist. It is standard procedure to gradually reduce the dosage once the patient’s symptoms have subsided. This usually happens after taking the drug for a minimum of six months.

Some people think that a traumatic event is always the cause of depression. Trauma may contribute to depression or act as a trigger for it. Depression does not have a single cause; rather, it frequently results from a confluence of various factors. Furthermore, not every person who goes through a traumatic event will become depressed. The illness can also appear in people whose lives appear to be going well.

Adolescence can be a challenging time physiologically, socially, and emotionally. Adolescent effects and depression symptoms can sometimes be confused. These include Anxiety, pessimism, irritability, and oversleeping. This could lead some individuals to conclude that depression is merely a natural part of growing up. There is a high prevalence of depression among adolescents. An approximate of 17% of U. S. In 2020, 12 to 17-year-olds went through at least one major depressive episode.

But typical teenage sadness is not the same as depression, as is the case in adulthood. A doctor may suspect that a teen is depressed if they experience sadness, annoyance, and a lack of enjoyment in activities they used to enjoy for an extended period of time. This implies that not all moody teenagers experience depression, and that depression is neither a biological event or a rite of passage that a person must go through in order to reach adulthood. Teens who do exhibit symptoms, such as a persistently low mood and difficulty managing the rigors of school, should, nevertheless, seek assistance as soon as possible by speaking with a doctor or other trusted adult.

Stereotypes rooted in culture and society have perpetuated the idea that men shouldn’t or shouldn’t experience depression. Because of this, a lot of people have long ignored male depression. Depression can strike anyone at any time. However, the symptoms of depression can differ in men and women, and different variables can make depressive episodes more likely in each sex.


Depression in males:
According to some research, men who are depressed may show signs of anger and substance abuse disorders more frequently than women. They might also be less willing to ask for assistance since they are less willing to discuss their emotions. The stigma that society places on masculinity and masculine behavior may be the cause of this. In order to avoid major complications, males who exhibit symptoms of depression should consult a physician or Mental health professional as soon as possible. This is significant because, when depression is present, research indicates that men are more likely than women to commit suicide.

Depression in females:
However, depression is more prevalent in women. After giving birth, women may also suffer from a form of depression known as postpartum depression. This typically has the following effects: weariness, anxiety, and a lingeringly depressed mood. Researchers think that abrupt changes in hormone levels are one of the many reasons why postpartum depression arises. It can be difficult for people suffering from postpartum depression to take care of both themselves and their infants due to their extreme sadness and exhaustion. A specialist in this kind of depression should provide professional assistance to those who display these symptoms.

Heart conditions may cause brain changes that increase the risk of stroke, dementia

Heart conditions may cause brain changes that increase the risk of stroke, dementia

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Subtle changes to blood vessels in the brain, common among people with certain heart conditions, can increase the risk of stroke and dementia, a new study reports. The review of more than 220 previously published studies found that changes to blood vessels known as silent brain infarction (SBI) and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) both detectable only via brain imaging are more common among people with atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, heart failure or cardiomyopathy, heart valve disease, and patent foramen ovale (a hole in the heart).

When the tiny blood vessels in your brain become narrow and blocked, it can prevent blood from reaching certain areas of your brain, Dr. Michael Ross MacDonald, said this damage can accumulate and result in symptoms of vascular cognitive impairment, eventually progressing to vascular dementia, said MacDonald, who was not involved in the study.

The meta-analysis, published in the journal Neurology, concluded that SBI was detectable in about one in three people with heart disease. Two-thirds of the people studied had white matter lesions (damage to the protective coating around nerve fibers), a quarter had evidence of asymptomatic microbleeds in the brain, and more than half had brain atrophy, defined as a shrinkage due to loss of neurons or connections between neurons.

Generally speaking, what is bad for the heart is bad for the brain, so various cardiac conditions [like SBI and CSVD] contributing to cerebrovascular injury… makes complete sense, said Dr. Gregory Bix, SBI and CSVD are overlooked cardiovascular health conditions, to some degree, as they are chronic conditions with insidious onset of cognitive symptoms that are often missed in early stages, Bix, who was not involved in the study, told Medical News Today. However, CSVD is a major cause of vascular dementia, the second leading cause of dementia behind Alzheimer’s disease.

The prevalence of these changes in the brain’s vascular system, which usually don’t cause obvious neurological symptoms, was elevated regardless of whether the people studied had previously had a stroke, researchers reported. Although people with heart disease are two to three times more likely than the general population to have changes in their brain’s vascular system, they’re often overlooked, because these patients don’t routinely undergo brain imaging unless they have suffered a stroke, said Dr. Zien Zhou, in a press statement. However, it can make them more susceptible to the risk of brain bleeds from medications commonly used to treat or prevent blood clots intracranial hemorrhage is a life-threatening complication with no proven treatment and a survival rate of less than 50 percent.

Zhou said that aging, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking are among the likely causes of these hidden changes to blood vessels in the brain. A gradual decline in cardiac output in some patients with heart disease might affect how much blood reaches the brain tissue, contributing to vascular changes and cognitive dysfunction in these patients, he said. It’s also possible that hidden brain changes and cognitive dysfunction result from tiny blood clots traveling to the brain through the arterial circulation after forming in the heart.

Zhou said that further study is needed to determine whether routine brain imaging for patients undergoing anticoagulation therapy (which includes most people with heart disease) could reduce risks such as bleeding in the brain. These findings suggest that all individuals with atrial defibrillation, coronary artery disease, heart failure or cardiomyopathy, and heart valve disease should have brain scanning, said Bix. This study shows a clear correlation between heart disease and SBI and CSVD, he added. However, whether one causes the other remains to be determined.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/heart-conditions-may-cause-brain-changes-that-increase-the-risk-of-stroke-dementia
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/03/240326170112.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3641811/

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https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?therapy=47

Lack of fiber may be a trigger for inflammatory bowel disease

Lack of fiber may be a trigger for inflammatory bowel disease

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Irritable bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by inflammation in the gut or digestive tract, which can cause a variety of occasionally painful digestive problems. It can also present as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Although the underlying cause of this illness has not yet been found, a recent study points to a potential link between diet, genetics, and gut microbiota and the development of IBD. Fiber reduces inflammation and encourages the formation of a healthy mucus layer. When interleukin-10, a cytokine linked to inflammatory bowel disease, is absent at birth, IBD usually manifests in the early stages of the infant or childhood. The current study demonstrates that fiber deprivation contributes to the deterioration of the colonic mucus lining in mice deficient in interleukin-10, which results in fatal colitis. This implies that diets high in fiber could be beneficial for people with IBD.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 3 million people in the United States and 6 million people worldwide suffer from IBD. S. who possesses it. The majority of cases of IBD are found in industrialized countries, and the new study suggests that those who migrate to more industrialized societies and start consuming highly processed foods may be at risk for the condition. According to a study published in Gastroenterology, the official journal of the American Gastroenterological Association, last year, some dietary fibers may actually exacerbate the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease. In that investigation, scientists discovered that soluble fibers from fruits and vegetables, known as unfermented dietary β-fructan fibers, triggered an inflammatory reaction in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) whose bodies could not process them.

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN), a formula-based, low-fiber diet, is recommended for some individuals with IBD, especially children. This method is effective in lowering gut inflammation. In the current study, which employed mice devoid of interleukin-10, the researchers found that diets devoid of fiber significantly increased inflammation. It has been demonstrated that a diet devoid of fiber promotes the development of bacteria that break down mucus, consuming the mucus layer in the digestive system and lessening the barrier that mucus provides for the gut lining. A high-fiber diet markedly reduced inflammation in the mice. Nonetheless, mice given the EEN diet formula by researchers showed reduced inflammation compared to mice fed a diet devoid of fiber.

Researchers came to the conclusion that the mice exhibited elevated levels of isobutyrate, a fatty acid generated by “good” bacteria through fermentation in the gut. Medical News Today was informed by Dr. Rudolph Bedford, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, who was not involved in the study, that there is not enough data to support a general approach to lower-fiber diets for patients with IBD among medical professionals. The lack of research data to inform clinical practice has led to a great deal of variability in dietary recommendations for patients with inflammatory bowel disease. However, to reduce gastrointestinal distress during an active flare-up, especially if intestinal strictures are suspected, patients with IBD are frequently advised to restrict their intake of fiber or residue.

Not involved in the study, the director of communications for the nutrition company Prolon and a dietitian nutritionist told MNT that while a high-fiber diet can be advised in the worst phases of IBD, it’s important to consider the long-term effects. When an IBD patient’s gut inflammation gets worse during an acute (active) flare-up, a low-fiber diet may be advised. Since fiber can be difficult to digest, it may worsen pre-existing gut or gut lining irritation, which may lead to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, stomach pain, rectal bleeding, or even fever. It is advisable to stay away from anything that could exacerbate the gut inflammation that already exists during flare-ups. However, over time, high-fiber diets have demonstrated encouraging outcomes in the management (and even reversal) of IBD in patients. This means that high-fiber foods are advised to help diversify the composition of the gut, which can positively benefit a person’s gut pH, permeability, and ability to produce short-chain fatty acids, even in the absence of acute symptoms or flare-ups.

In addition to supporting both our digestive and immune systems, good gut flora are essential. The integrity of our intestinal barrier is strengthened by certain good bacteria that live in our stomach. The lining of our stomach plays a crucial role in preventing harmful substances from entering our body. A leaky gut, also known as intestinal permeability, is the result of the weakening of the gut lining’s junctures brought on by inflammation or other pathogenic bacteria that can break down the lining. Patients with IBD and IBS frequently have leaky guts, which may be the underlying cause of inflammation or a sign of other digestive disorders. Richter noted that there may be a direct correlation between gut and mental health.

Neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin are produced in part by certain gut bacteria and are essential for healthy brain function, regular sleep cycles, and the reduction of anxiety and depression. Mental and emotional disorders may result from the disruption of gut-brain signaling caused by the absence of these beneficial bacteria. The gut lining’s lack of diversity can significantly weaken immune systems. When your gut is dysbiotic, it is more susceptible to illness. The various organisms in your gut may not be present in the proper amounts, which could lead to changes in your gut microbiome. Your chance of developing a chronic illness may rise if the diversity of bacteria in your gut microbiome declines.

The intestinal tract is affected by immune-mediated, chronic, progressive diseases known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). IBDs primarily include ulcerative colitis (UC) and Chron’s disease (CD) subtypes. Although the exact cause of these illnesses is unknown, host-related, environmental, and genetic factors all play a role in their development. According to recent research, nutritional therapy is the mainstay of IBD treatment for managing symptoms, preventing relapses, and treating the underlying pathology. Patients with IBD demonstrate how diet, particularly dietary fiber, and microbiota dysbiosis can alter its composition. Compared to the general population, these patients are more vulnerable to energy protein malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. There is currently no known dietary factor that causes IBD, and there is no special therapeutic diet for the condition. This review aims to assist medical professionals in managing the nutritional aspects of CD and UC by assessing the role that dietary fibers play in these conditions. The right kind and quantity of fiber to recommend in the event of IBD patients improving their psychosocial circumstances and overall quality of life will require more research.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lack-of-fiber-may-be-trigger-inflammatory-bowel-disease
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9696206/
https://www.uhhospitals.org/services/Digestive-health-services/Conditions-and-treatments/small-and-large-intestine/inflammatory-bowel-disease/diet-guide
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/dietary-fiber-linked-to-flare-ups-in-inflammatory-bowel-disease

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https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?cPath=77_191

New weight loss pill Amycretin is more effective than Semaglutide

New weight loss pill Amycretin is more effective than Semaglutide

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The Danish company Novo Nordisk recently revealed the preliminary results of a phase 1 clinical trial, which suggests that amycretin, an experimental medication they developed to treat obesity, may significantly improve weight loss compared to Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide). The business has not yet disclosed when to publish the data in a peer-reviewed publication. Given that adults with type 2 diabetes are primarily prescribed Ozempic and Wegovy to help control their blood sugar levels, this may not come as a surprise. Even though all semaglutide medications seem to be linked to weight loss, only Wegovy has received FDA approval for long-term weight management in adults.

These drugs, which are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, function by imitating the actions of a hormone that aids in controlling hunger and blood sugar levels. According to preliminary findings, taking amycretin for three months reduced body weight by 13%. According to earlier studies, semaglutide reduced body weight by about 6% over a comparable period. Experts, however, have stressed the need for more comprehensive research to verify the long-term benefits and safety profile of amycretin. Despite these cautions, Novo Nordisk’s stock value surged by over 8% following the drug’s presentation at an investor meeting on March 7, 2024.

The surging interest in a new class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists has propelled Novo Nordisk to become the most valuable company in Europe, despite facing significant supply shortages due to high demand. Amycretin differentiates itself from semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, and from Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro and Zepbound (tirazepide) by being administered orally as a pill rather than through a weekly injection.

The limited information available suggests this method could be quite promising, but it is important to note that much more data are required. This is because amycretin has yet to be evaluated against other medications in a direct comparison trial. At a recent investor event, a senior development executive from Novo Nordisk highlighted the potential for amycretin to match the effectiveness and safety profile of CagriSema, another GLP-1 agonist drug by the company, targeting amylin. The company anticipates the results of a study on an injectable version of amycretin to be released next year. Based on these findings, Novo Nordisk intends to initiate a comprehensive development program.

In an amycretin trial with sixteen subjects weighing an average of eighty-nine kilograms, the placebo group lost one percent of their body weight over twelve weeks. Research shows that GLP-1 agonist drugs can lower the risk of obesity-related cardiovascular diseases, but they also raise the risk of gastrointestinal problems. Patients must know that studies indicate most people who stop taking these medications end up gaining back most of the weight they have lost.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/new-weight-loss-pill-amycretin-more-effective-than-semaglutide-in-early-trial
https://qz.com/ozempic-weight-loss-pill-amycretin-novo-nordisk-1851326591
https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthart/2024/03/07/novo-nordisks-new-obesity-pill-beats-wegovy-in-early-trial/?sh=1bfdece9456e
https://www.sciencealert.com/experimental-weight-loss-pill-twice-as-effective-as-ozempic-trial-shows

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Early sips to adult slips: How sweet drinks in childhood fatten future

Early sips to adult slips: How sweet drinks in childhood fatten future

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A recent study evaluating the connection between childhood consumption of sweet drinks and adult obesity was published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Their findings have consequences for dietary interventions for young children since they show that early consumption of sweet beverages is linked to increased adiposity and less healthful eating habits in adulthood. Consuming sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) as a child has been linked to an increased risk of obesity. Nonetheless, a lot of research treats fruit juices without added sugar, carbonated beverages, and all other sweetened beverages equally. To improve dietary interventions to lower adult obesity, it is important to look at SSBs and fruit juices separately to determine which are linked to negative outcomes. Consuming SSBs might also be a sign of a diet high in calories, in which case cutting them out of the diet wouldn’t result in a noticeable decrease in energy intake.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that, in terms of how they affect adiposity outcomes, sugary drinks are all in the same category. They also investigated whether gender differences exist in the way people react to different types of beverages and whether their influence should be viewed in the context of a larger dietary pattern. Children born in Bristol, United Kingdom, between April 1991 and December 1992 made up the study sample. When the kids were two, three, four, seven, eleven, and thirteen years old, their diet was graded at six points. When the children were two years old, their caregivers were questioned about whether or not they had eaten fruit juices, such as squash and apple juice, and carbonated drinks like cola between the ages of 15 months and 2 years. They characterized drinking before the age of two as early exposure to alcohol.

To provide information about dietary patterns, their carers completed a food frequency questionnaire during the subsequent dietary assessment. They noted the consumption of fatty foods, sweet-tasting foods, fruits, and vegetables, as well as other foods like pizza, meat, and fish. When the kids were four and seven years old, caregivers filled out three-day food diaries; at eleven and thirteen, the kids filled out the diaries themselves. To determine their BMI, their weight and height were recorded. The amount of abdominal fat surrounding the organs was used to calculate the Android fat mass. Their total fat mass at 24 years old was the other main result. The mother’s prenatal weight, her age at childbirth, her partner’s education and BMI, the mother’s and her partner’s occupation, and deprivation in terms of income, health deprivation, disability, employment, housing, education, training, and skills were all taken into account when analyzing the data using hierarchical regression equations. Groups of men and women were examined independently.

Cola consumption was linked to increased adiposity in men; on average, those who abstained from apple juice had a higher BMI. Female adiposity was found to be higher when fruit squash was consumed, as opposed to pure fruit juice. Next, the researchers investigated whether the relationships they observed were caused by the dietary pattern as a whole or just the sweet drinks. At three years old, children who drank cola, fruit squash, or fizzy drinks consumed less non-starch polysaccharides but more energy, protein, carbohydrates, and non-milk extrinsic sugars. Apple juice drinkers consumed less fat and more healthy sugars and proteins. These correlations suggest that since SSBs don’t contain fat or protein, overall dietary patterns must be different.

In addition to eating more pizza, French fries, sausages, burgers, chocolate, candies, and fruit, boys who drank fruit squash, carbonated drinks, and cola also ate more meat and less fruit. Apple juice drinkers consumed more salad, fish, fruits, and green veggies. For girls, comparable trends were observed. An additional intriguing discovery revealed that boys who drank cola before turning two also drank more energy between the ages of four and nine. At four years old, girls who drank apple juice had lower energy intake. According to regression analysis, a man’s diet at the age of 24 could predict his body fat; eating root vegetables, burgers, sausages, and French fries when he was three years old had a significant impact. Female participants showed similar results; additionally, their fat mass was higher in those who did not eat fresh fruit or biscuits. Children who experience greater levels of social deprivation are more likely to drink cola and less likely to drink fruit juice.

These results suggest a significant relationship between early consumption of sweet beverages and health outcomes well into adulthood. Children’s beverage choices are influenced by the socioeconomic and demographic makeup of their family; children from more disadvantaged homes are more likely to be given unhealthy drinks like cola and less likely to be given relatively healthier drinks like pure fruit juice. The study adds to the increasing amount of evidence showing early childhood dietary habits have a major impact on adult obesity risk. Controlling energy intake during infancy and early childhood through nutritional interventions may help reduce adult obesity.

REFERENCES:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38491133/
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240318/Early-sips-to-adult-slips-How-sweet-drinks-in-childhood-fatten-future.aspx.

How Semaglutide and similar drugs act on the brain and body to reduce appetite

How Semaglutide and similar drugs act on the brain and body to reduce appetite

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GLP-1 analogues that were first approved to treat type 2 diabetes, like semaglutide (brand names Ozempic, Wegovy), have gained a lot of attention recently, largely because of their capacity to aid in weight loss. Thus far, research has indicated that GLP-1 analogues function by imitating the actions of glucagon-like peptide, a molecule with a similar shape that the intestines naturally release shortly after a meal. Because this peptide binds to a particular receptor on the surface of the pancreatic beta cells, it causes them to release insulin. For a very long time, researchers believed that GLP-1 analogues only had an effect on insulin release, which is why type 2 diabetes patients were prescribed them. Nonetheless, the impact these medications had on weight was soon recognized because reducing body fat can improve blood sugar regulation and even induce remission in type 2 diabetics. Recent research has shown that GLP-1 analogues contribute to weight loss in several ways, such as by delaying the emptying of the stomach and enhancing the feeling of fullness experienced after eating.

The other possible advantages of GLP-1 analogues have been the subject of extensive research in recent years, many of which may be related to their effects on obesity and body mass index (BMI). Individuals who use GLP-1 analogues may be at a lower risk of both cancer and cardiovascular disease, two conditions that are more common in obese people. Whether this is because of weight loss or other side effects of the medications is still unknown. More research is required to determine the primary causes of the weight gain, as there are still concerns about weight gain after stopping these medications. As these medications become more widely used and popular, we should expect to see more side effects as people meet their weight loss objectives.
Right now, research is being done to try and learn more about how these medications function. A recent review that was published in the International Journal of ObesityTrusted Source examined the body of research that has already been done on the subject, the methodology used in those studies, and the methods used to gather data on the use of GLP-1 analogs. The terms obesity, semaglutide, ligarglutide, and GLP-1 analog were searched for in PubMed by the authors to conduct the review. Liraglutide, also known as Saxenda, is a GLP-1 analog, just like semaglutide.

Researchers discovered that rather than focusing on the maintenance phase, which is when weight loss plateaus after this, most studies on the impact of GLP-1 analogs on weight loss focused on the initial weight loss phase of action, which typically lasts 12–18 months for semaglutide users. As of right now, scientists know that side effects like nausea and upset stomach usually start early in the course of treatment. However, a survey of the literature revealed that weight loss during the first few weeks of medication use did not appear to be associated with nausea. During the so-called maintenance phase that followed, users’ calorie intake was still found to be more restricted than baseline, even though the drug’s effect on reducing eating decreased after 12 to 18 months.

Researchers examined studies in which subjects taking the drug were questioned about their dietary preferences and cravings. They found that subjects wanted fewer foods overall, especially high-fat, non-sweet foods, and less dairy, starchy, salty, and spicy foods. The macronutrient profiles of the food consumed by the subjects did not change, though, either before or after the drug was started. Whether GLP-1 analogs increase the desire for sweeter foods—especially those that contain sucralose—is still unclear. The authors discovered that prior studies had demonstrated a reduction in the neuronal responses to food images in regions of the brain controlling reward and appetite in people taking exenatide (brand name Byetta), another GLP-1 analog. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, this response was quantified (fMRI). Additionally, studies have demonstrated that semaglutide is not able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which shields the brain from outside influences. Rather, this medication blocks signals in areas of the central nervous system outside the blood-brain barrier that may influence appetite.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-semaglutide-and-similar-drugs-act-on-the-brain-and-body-to-reduce-appetite
https://www.leeds.ac.uk/news-health/news/article/4122/anti-obesity-drug-acts-on-brain-s-appetite-control-system
https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/semaglutide-work-weight-loss-3573689/

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How the Diabetes drug Metformin can suppress hunger and help with weight loss

How the Diabetes drug Metformin can suppress hunger and help with weight loss

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The body produces more of an appetite-suppressive molecule when taking the diabetes drug metformin, according to research from Stanford University in California that was just published in Nature Metabolism. Researchers at Stanford University and Baylor University in Texas found two years ago that the same molecule is also produced during and after intense exercise. Called the anti-hunger molecule, scientists think the lac-phe molecule accounts for the modest effects of metformin, the world’s most prescribed diabetes drug, on weight loss. It was unclear up until now how the blood sugar-controlling medication metformin also caused weight loss, but it turns out that it works by decreasing hunger in the same way as intense exercise. Knowing how these pathways are regulated may help develop practical methods to reduce body mass and enhance millions of people’s health.

Researchers examined blood plasma samples from patients with type 2 diabetes both before and after they took metformin for 12 weeks, following trials conducted on obese mice. The starting dose for each participant was 500 mg, which was progressively increased to 2,000 mg. According to research, the participants’ lac-phe levels considerably rose during this time. Additionally, in a larger study involving 79 individuals with diabetes and heart disease, the researchers examined blood samples. The participants who were taking metformin exhibited significantly higher levels of lac-phe in comparison to the non-medication group.

Conversely, Long and colleagues discovered that inhibiting mice’s production of lac-phe reversed appetite suppression and led to weight gain. It’s strange and intriguing that metformin and sprint training have the same effect on body weight through the same pathway. He went on to say that these discoveries might inspire the creation of novel drugs for weight loss. Within the first few months of starting the medication, there has been evidence of a slight reduction in body weight for those who take metformin, also known by the brand names Fortamet and Glumetza. The Food and Drug Administration has not yet granted metformin approval for use in managing weight loss.

The advantages of metformin for weight loss and overall health go beyond the lac-phe molecule, according to experts in the care of diabetic patients. According to the Diabetes Care Nurse, a virtual diabetes educator who was not involved in the new study, metformin is an incredible medication. Jose has lived with type 1 diabetes for 42 years and has supported others with type 1 and type 2 diabetes for more than 15 years. Jose claimed that during her career, she has worked with thousands of individuals who have type 2 diabetes and has personally witnessed the effects of metformin. It’s among the most economical, safest, and efficient diabetes treatments available. For those with type 2 diabetes who receive a new diagnosis, it remains the standard of care. That will always remain the same.

Although metformin isn’t a medication for weight loss, all providers are aware that it will cause some weight loss. Jose continued, It’s just a positive side effect. Nevertheless, it is generally advised that people with diabetes or obesity lose 7 to 10 percent of their body weight. If metformin is used in conjunction with healthy lifestyle choices, this can definitely be accomplished. Jose emphasized that you have to make a commitment to making significant changes in your daily diet and exercise routine, just like Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications are making headlines. If you stop taking these medications, your weight will return to its initial level if you don’t make those adjustments.

The importance of physical activity is further highlighted by the fact that this medication increases the production of the same molecule that suppresses your appetite after exercise. Exercise enhances every bodily function, not just the burning of calories. It is so important and so underappreciated. Every aspect of your health is impacted by daily exercise, including your mental and physical well-being, your heart and lungs, your metabolism, your energy, and the quality of your sleep. Diabetes management and weight loss necessitate a multifaceted strategy that takes into account all factors. Medication is but one component. You also need to make use of realistic, sustainable eating practices and physical activity.

Since metformin doesn’t garner as much media attention as Ozempic, many people are hesitant to even begin using it. Alternatively, they are adamant about controlling their type 2 diabetes naturally due to the social stigma associated with taking medicine, which implies that you have failed on your own. Metformin, however, improves your body’s performance if your entire metabolic system is lacking. Jose asked people to recognize the advantages of GLP-1 drugs, although their effects are more pronounced and almost instantaneous than those of metformin. Most people with type 2 diabetes who receive a new diagnosis don’t routinely check their blood glucose levels. You will not experience the gradual effects of metformin if those numbers are not visible to you.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-diabetes-drug-metformin-can-suppress-hunger-and-help-with-weight-loss
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9526970/
https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/metformin-weight-loss
https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/metformin-cause-weight-loss

Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here
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How a wrist-worn device may pick up on early signs of Alzheimer’s disease

How a wrist-worn device may pick up on early signs of Alzheimer’s disease

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According to research, 22% of adults worldwide who are 50 years of age or older have Alzheimer’s disease at some point. Researchers are working to identify new markers for the early warning signs of this kind of dementia because it is anticipated that the number will rise. Alzheimer’s disease presently has no known cure, but some drugs can help delay the disease’s progression in its early stages.

Most people follow a certain pattern or routine of behaviors, including activity, every day. For instance, some people might move more in the evening and others might be more active in the morning. This is referred to as an individual’s daily activity pattern. A consistently high level of daily activity has been associated in previous research with a better cardiometabolic profile, which may help reduce an individual’s risk of cardiovascular disease. Regular daily activity patterns have also been connected by researchers to enhanced mental and physical health as well as better cognition in older adults. According to a May 2018 study, older men’s daily activity patterns may serve as predictive biomarkers for changes in sleep and cognitive function as well as clinically significant mortality outcomes. An increased mortality risk in older adults was linked to a more fragmented daily activity pattern, according to research published in October 2019.

In this investigation, scientists examined the information generated by an actigraph, a wristwatch-like gadget worn by eighty-two cognitively sound senior citizens who were a part of the long-running Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Actigraphs worn on the wrist have been the tool of choice for sleep researchers studying older adults’ sleep for decades, as stated. He pointed out that the accelerometer technology is generally the same as that found in widely used, commercial fitness trackers. My coworkers and I submitted an application for a grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) to investigate the relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and poor sleep, including the use of wrist actigraphs, because there is mounting evidence that sleep disturbances may raise the risk of the disease. This work is directly related to the grant that we were awarded.

There were discernible levels of the protein beta-amyloidTrusted Source in the brains of 82 research participants, whose average age was 76. Alzheimer’s disease is thought to be characterized by amyloid plaquesTrusted Source. The 25 amyloid-positive and 57 amyloid-negative participant groups differed significantly in terms of average afternoon activity and variability in activity throughout a larger time window, according to the researchers’ analysis of the actigraph device data. In the early afternoon, the scientists found that the average activity was higher in the amyloid-positive group.

Our findings are significant because, according to Dr. Spira, they demonstrated that, among individuals with cognitively normal brains, those with detectable levels of beta-amyloid exhibited distinct patterns of activity at specific times of the day compared to those without the protein. This is a new discovery. According to him, it will be crucial to monitor individuals who display activity patterns similar to those that we connected to the presence of beta-amyloid to determine whether they are more likely to experience cognitive decline in the future. It would be interesting to investigate if these 24-hour patterns can be used to predict the development of beta-amyloid in people without the condition.

In the future, I don’t see the clinical application of wearable recording technology, or “wrist actigraphy,” for the diagnosis of memory loss disorders such as Alzheimer’s dementia. It is common for people to become less active as they age, but other medical conditions like heart disease, neuropathies, or other medical issues are more concerning than dementia. Parkinson’s disease is a neurological movement disorder, and I would love to see this methodology used in its diagnosis.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mounjaro-zepbound-can-help-with-weight-loss-in-people-with-long-term-obesity
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/zepbound-weight-loss-questions-answered
https://agetechworld.co.uk/technology/wearable-device-could-provide-early-warning-of-alzheimers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wearable-device-could-provide-early-warning-of-alzheimers&amp=1

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Mounjaro, Zepbound can help with weight loss in people with long-term obesity

Mounjaro, Zepbound can help with weight loss in people with long-term obesity

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No matter how long a person has struggled with obesity or weight issues, weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Zepbound, which contain the ingredient trizepatide, can help them lose weight and decrease their waist circumference. Research on this topic will be presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Venice, Italy, in May of this year. The results have not yet been released in a peer-reviewed publication. The U.S.A. The FDA approved Mounjaro in 2022 to treat type 2 diabetes, and Zepbound in 2023 to help adults who have a body mass index (BMI) of over 30 or over 27 and at least one weight-related comorbidity manage their weight.

A bariatric surgeon and the medical director of the MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in California, who was not involved in the study, stated that the results are not shocking. These drugs are made to help you lose weight by interacting with your hormones. Throughout the study, they performed as intended. Although providing patients with a non-surgical option is a good idea, tirzepatide has certain drawbacks. According to Ali, Medical News Today, people need to take the medication consistently for it to be effective. If they haven’t taken the time to examine and alter their eating and lifestyle habits while taking the medication, the weight may return when they stop taking it. According to a 2023 study, after taking medication for 36 weeks, those who were switched to a placebo gained 14% of their original weight back. Five percent more of their body weight was lost by those who continued taking the medication.

In addition, insurance frequently does not cover the medication. The medication does have some side effects, but they are limited to mild nausea, vomiting, and constipation. To minimize side effects, we start patients on a low dose and work our way up. The figures show comparable rates of weight loss, regardless of the patient’s length of obesity. Regardless of their starting BMI, the second abstract shows comparable weight loss of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25% of initial baseline weight, according to Lofton, who spoke with Medical News Today. Regardless of the patient’s starting BMI or length of obesity, I think this information can help prescribers decide that it’s never too late to treat an obese patient and that we have scientific proof to extrapolate the significant weight loss shown in the trials to our patients in a reasonable manner. Nevertheless, since each patient is unique, we must utilize our clinical judgment to identify the most appropriate course of treatment.

The companies that make Zepbound and Mounjaro, Eli Lilly and Company, provided funding for both the 2023 study and this new investigation. There’s always a chance of biases in studies that are sponsored by manufacturers, according to Ali. Still, I believe the results are reliable because multiple other studies have reached the same conclusion. As these studies are being reviewed by the FDA, I do not think that funding from Lilly has influenced these results because this subset analysis of a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial,” Lofton stated. “Data safety monitoring boards are also tasked with reviewing the studies, which were conducted by medical peers who are independent of the company.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mounjaro-zepbound-can-help-with-weight-loss-in-people-with-long-term-obesity
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/zepbound-weight-loss-questions-answered
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ariannajohnson/2024/02/05/lillys-weight-loss-drug-tirzepatide-may-significantly-reduce-blood-pressure-study-finds/?sh=5dbb7f98230b

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Weight loss drug Wegovy gains FDA approval to reduce heart disease risk

Weight loss drug Wegovy gains FDA approval to reduce heart disease risk

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The semaglutide drug Wegovy was approved by the FDA on March 8 to help lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in adults with heart disease who are obese or overweight. According to the indication, semaglutide should be used in conjunction with a lower-calorie diet and more exercise. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first authorized semaglutide in 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. The FDA approved Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide drug Wegovy in 2021 for the treatment of obesity and overweight adults who also have at least one weight-related condition.

Medication classified as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists includes semaglutide, which was first created to treat type 2 diabetes. Since then, the use of GLP-1 medications to treat weight loss has skyrocketed. Researchers have looked into the effects of semaglutide on cardiovascular health in recent years. For example, a 2021 study discovered a link between semaglutide and anti-atherosclerotic benefits. According to a 2023 study, semaglutide may help adults with obesity who do not have diabetes by improving cardiometabolic risk factors and lowering the usage of high blood pressure and high cholesterol medications.

This class of medications may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, two risk factors for cardiovascular disease, by promoting weight loss and weight control. By addressing one component of the metabolic syndrome, you can also improve the other heart disease risk factors, which will ultimately lead to better cardiovascular outcomes. The short answer is that everything is interconnected, and managing weight and blood sugar levels is a major factor in many cases of heart disease. Based on the findings of the SELECT cardiovascular outcomes clinical trial, the FDA has granted a new approval. According to the study, adults with established cardiovascular disease who are overweight or obese and take Wegovy have a 20 percent lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, such as cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attack, or non-fatal stroke. Furthermore, the trial discovered that, in comparison to individuals who took a placebo, semaglutide use decreased a person’s risk of dying from cardiovascular disease by 15% and death from all causes by 19%.

It is well known that obesity raises the risk of cardiovascular disease on its own. Additionally, patients can lower that risk by losing weight. This study was intriguing because it suggests that these weight-loss drugs have an impact beyond only assisting patients in losing weight. Regretfully, they were unable to address that in this study; however, further research in that field is required. Despite all of our efforts over the past few decades, cardiovascular disease continues to be the leading cause of death worldwide. As a result, we need to keep looking for new strategies to lower the morbidity and mortality rate from this illness. Heart failure and advanced vascular disease, for example, carry a higher death risk than many types of cancer. Cardiovascular disease is a public health emergency, especially when it is linked to obesity. As such, any safe treatment that lowers the risk of death or complications will be highly sought after. When it comes to treating these ailments, there is still a great deal we don’t know.

The way semaglutide medications function is by mimicking the body’s natural release of the GLP-1 hormone during meals by the gastrointestinal tract. This hormone lowers blood sugar levels by instructing the body to produce more insulin. Semaglutide is a prescription drug that is administered intravenously by the patient. It works by increasing the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas and lowering the amount of glucagon produced by the liver. These drugs directly lessen appetite and cravings by acting on the hypothalamus, a region of the brain.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fda-approves-wegovy-to-reduce-heart-disease-risk
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-reduce-risk-serious-heart-problems-specifically-adults-obesity-or
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/08/novo-nordisks-wegovy-wins-fda-approval-for-heart-health-benefits-in-move-that-could-expand-insurance-coverage.html
https://www.npr.org/2024/03/08/1237133257/fda-approves-wegovy-heart-attack-stroke-risk

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