Health

Study shows potential dangers of artificial sweeteners

Study shows potential dangers of artificial sweeteners

By Nancy Clanton, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT Numerous studies have been done on artificial sweeteners, with some showing they can alter the number and type of bacteria in the gut. A new study, however, led by academics from Anglia Ruskin University, has demonstrated that sweeteners can also make the bacteria pathogenic, or causing disease. The researchers suggest common artificial sweeteners can cause previously healthy gut bacteria to become diseased and invade the gut wall, potentially leading to serious health issues. The study, according to the research team, is the first to show the pathogenic effects of saccharin, sucralose…
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Autopsy: COVID brains similar to those with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s

Autopsy: COVID brains similar to those with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s

By Nancy Clanton, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT Studies have shown COVID-19 can cause brain complications in some patients’ brains, from memory problems to strokes. A new study has found the brains of people who died from COVID-19 were remarkably similar to the brains of people who die from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, showing inflammation and disrupted circuitry, researchers reported. “The brains of patients who died from severe COVID-19 showed profound molecular markers of inflammation, even though those patients didn’t have any reported clinical signs of neurological impairment,” study co-senior author Tony Wyss-Coray, a professor of neurology and neurological sciences…
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Fountain of youth doesn’t exist — study says aging is inevitable

Fountain of youth doesn’t exist — study says aging is inevitable

By Kiersten Willis, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT A recent study has confirmed that you cannot stop aging or death. Researchers at Duke University and the University of Southern Denmark led the study. It offers new insights into the idea that all species have a relatively fixed aging rate. The findings were published in Nature Communications. Fernando Colchero is an associate professor at the University of Southern Denmark’s Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. He says no matter how much we exercise or the vitamins we take, we can’t outrun aging or death. “We were able to shed light on…
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Best dog breeds for older people

Best dog breeds for older people

By Nancy Clanton, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT A canine can provide companionship to senior citizens, but it’s important to adopt the right one Having a pet can do more than just keep you company. Pets might also decrease stress, improve heart health, and even help children with their emotional and social skills. The National Institutes of Health says studies have found animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support and boost your mood — all of which are important for senior citizens. If you’re looking to share your home with a dog, be sure to do your…
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How some high blood pressure drugs can lead to less memory decline

How some high blood pressure drugs can lead to less memory decline

By Kiersten Willis, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT A new study has shown how certain high blood pressure medications can lead to better memory recall. The findings were published in the American Heart Association journal Hypertension. “Research has been mixed on which medicines have the most benefit to cognition,” said study author Daniel A. Nation, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychological science in the Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders at the University of California, Irvine. “Studies of angiotensin II receptor blockers and angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have suggested these medicines may confer the greatest benefit to long-term cognition, while…
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CDC: Delta variant will become predominant COVID strain

CDC: Delta variant will become predominant COVID strain

By Tim Darnell, Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT States with highest unvaccinated numbers will be most at risk: ex-FDA executive Despite a recent White House victory lap over 300 million vaccine shots administered in President Joe Biden’s first 150 days, the highly contagious delta variant continues threatening the U.S., especially in states with the lowest vaccination numbers. On Sunday, Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, told CBS’ “Face the Nation” the Biden administration needs a new vaccine strategy. “Connecticut, for example where I am, shows no upsurge of infection, but Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Missouri, show…
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Study shows emotions key in improving heart health in people with obesity

Study shows emotions key in improving heart health in people with obesity

By Kiersten Willis, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT A non-judgemental approach can play an important role in boosting heart health in people with obesity. The European Society of Cardiology concluded people who have obesity improved their heart and mental health in 10 weeks. They attended a non-judgemental, personalized lifestyle modification program during this period. Participants lost weight and saw improvements in anxiety, depression and blood pressure. Researchers presented the findings at EuroHeartCare – ACNAP Congress 2021. “We focus on changing behaviors and improving people’s relationship with food,” study author Aisling Harris, cardiac and weight management dietitian, Croi Heart and…
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Why you might want to stop taking fish oil supplements

Why you might want to stop taking fish oil supplements

By Nancy Clanton, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT   Although Omega-3 fatty acids have shown benefits for some, they could be harmful to others Omega-3 supplements have been used in clinical practice to reduce cardiovascular disease risk in patients with elevated plasma triglycerides, but a recent meta-analysis has found fish oil pills might not be a good alternative for many. Some clinical trials have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may be associated with an increased risk for atrial fibrillation. People with the disorder have a five times greater likelihood of having a stroke. “Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent sustained…
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Pile on the pepper: Study says spices are good for your heart

Pile on the pepper: Study says spices are good for your heart

By Kiersten Willis, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Troy Warren for CNT It turns out seasoning your food can benefit more than just the taste. Two new studies show consuming herbs and spices can benefit cardiovascular health. Healthline reported researchers from Penn State University and Clemson University presented the findings at Nutrition 2021 Live Online last week. One study found that seasoning meals could help lower blood pressure in people with a risk of heart disease. The other found a link between spice supplements and decreased cholesterol in people who have Type 2 diabetes. The first study followed 71 participants who had obesity and other heart disease risk…
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