How Vegetable Oils Affect the Brain-Gut Axis

The gut and brain communicate through a network known as the gut-brain axis. This is a system of physical and biochemical connections that allows them to influence each other’s function and overall health. Emerging research indicates that regularly consuming vegetable oils may negatively impact both gut and brain health. The word “vegetable” on a label often signals something healthy, but that’s not always the case with oils and fats.

Frequent consumption of certain vegetable oils, especially those high in omega-6 fatty acids like soybean oil, may harm both gut and brain health. Disruption of the blood-brain barrier and the resulting brain inflammation have been associated with a range of neurological and neurodegenerative conditions, including depression, sleep disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Despite the name, most vegetable oils are actually extracted from seeds. When a label lists “vegetable oil” as an ingredient, it’s typically made from pure soybean oil or, in some cases, mixed with other seed oils like corn or canola. These oils have been linked to increased inflammation, alterations in brain chemistry, and a higher risk of neurological and digestive disorders

A recent study found that mice fed soybean oil showed significantly more neuroinflammation and gut damage than those fed lard. Over the 20-week period, researchers observed disruptions in both the blood-brain barrier and the intestinal lining in the soybean oil group.

These mice showed a decline in beneficial gut bacteria and a rise in harmful microbes, which contributed to inflammation and damage in the brain. The loss of beneficial bacteria combined with the overgrowth of harmful strains made the gut more vulnerable to inflammation and its ripple effects throughout the body. Additionally, linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid abundant in soybean oil, has been shown to weaken the intestinal barrier, increasing permeability and driving chronic inflammation linked to numerous human diseases.

Your body and brain rely on healthy fats, so eliminating fats and oils entirely isn’t the answer. Research shows that extra-virgin olive oil and avocado oil can support both gut and brain health. For a healthier choice, it’s best to opt for foods made with butter, coconut oil, or whole-food fat sources like nuts, rather than seed oils.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Soybean oil induces neuroinflammatory response through brain-gut axis under high-fat diet

Strength Training Could Lower Your Dementia Risk

Dementia is a growing global health challenge that takes a significant toll on both individuals and society. With no cure yet available, finding ways to slow its progression or reduce the risk of developing it is critical for supporting healthy aging. Now, new research points to weight training as a potential way to help protect the brain from dementia.

Regular physical activity is a well-established lifestyle factor that can help reduce the risk of dementia. Interestingly, the benefits of weight training have also been seen in individuals already experiencing mild cognitive impairment. Researchers focused on resistance training because it primarily aims to boost muscle strength, a key priority for aging adults.

In this study, researchers enrolled 44 adults aged 55 and older, all diagnosed with mild cognitive decline. Participants were split into two groups: one group took part in a resistance training program, performing moderate- to high-intensity weightlifting sessions twice a week. The workouts used progressive loading, gradually increasing weight or repetitions as participants gained strength. The control group, in contrast, did not engage in any exercise throughout the study.

After six months, those in the strength training group showed signs of preserved brain volume in key regions tied to Alzheimer’s disease, including the hippocampus and precuneus. They also exhibited positive changes in measures linked to neuron function and brain health.

This study is the first to reveal how weight training influences the structure and health of brain white matter in individuals with mild cognitive decline. Encouragingly, the findings suggest that resistance exercise can be a powerful tool in the fight against dementia, even among those already at elevated risk. As a non-drug intervention, weight training not only helps lower the risk of dementia but also supports improvements in early cognitive decline.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Resistance training protects the hippocampus and precuneus against atrophy and benefits white matter integrity in older adults with mild cognitive impairment

Aging Reversed / ABC News

Now researchers have found a way not just to stop, but, reverse the aging process. The key is something called a telomere. We all have them. They are the tips or caps of your chromosomes. They are long and stable in young adults, but, as we age they become shorter, damaged and frayed. When they stop working we start aging and experience things like hearing and memory loss.

In a recent study published in the peer reviewed journal Nature scientists took mice that were prematurely aged to the equivalent of 80-year-old humans, added an enzyme and essentially turned their telomeres back on. After the treatment they were the physiological equivalent of young adults. You can see the before and after pictures in the videos above. Brain function improved, their fertility was restored it was a remarkable reversal of the aging process. In the top video the untreated mouse shows bad skin, gray hair and it is balding. The mouse with it’s telomeres switched back on has a dark coat color, the hair is restored and the coat has a nice healthy sheen to it. Even more dramatic is the change in brain size. Before treatment the aged mice had 75% of a normal size brain like a patient with severe Alzheimers. After the telomeres were reactivated the brain returned to normal size. As for humans while it is just one factor scientists say the longer the telomeres the better the chances for a more graceful aging.

The formal study Telomere dysfunction induces metabolic and mitochondrial compromise was published in Nature.

Additional information published by Harvard can be found in the following articles.

Scientists Find Root Molecular Cause of Declining Health in the Old

Decoding Immortality – Smithsonian Channel Video about the Discovery of Telomerase

While scientists are not yet able to accomplish the same results in humans we believe we have developed a nutraceutical to help prolong youth and possibly extend life until age reversal therapy for humans becomes available.

Stem Cell Secret’s of 115 Year Old Woman

New evidence that adult stem cells are critical to human aging has recently been published on a study done on a super-centenarian woman that lived to be 115 years. At death, her circulating stem cell pool had declined to just two active stem cells from stem cell counts that are typically more than a thousand in younger adults. Super-centenarians have survived all the normal diseases that kill 99.9% of us before 100 years of age, so it has been a mystery as to what actually kills these hardy individuals. This recent data suggest that stem cell decline may be the main contributor to aging. If so, stabilizing stem cells may be the best thing one can do to slow your rate of aging.

There are many theories of aging that have been proposed. For example, damage to cells and tissues from oxidative stress has been one of the most popular fundamental theories of aging for more than half a century. Yet antioxidant substances or genes that code antioxidant enzymes have proven largely ineffective in slowing aging when tested in model animals. Thus, interest by scientists has shifted to other hypotheses that might provide a better explanation for the slow declines in function with age.

Stem cells provide one such promising mechanism of aging. Of course, we all know that babies are young and vigorous, independent of the age of their parents. This is because adults have embryonic stem cells that can generate young new cells needed to form a complete young baby. Indeed, these embryonic stem cells are the product of continuously evolving stem cell populations that go back to the beginning of life on earth over 3.5 billion years ago!

In adults, the mostly immortal embryonic stem cells give rise to mortal adult stem cells in all the tissues of the body. These adult stem cells can regenerate your cells and tissues as they wear out and need replacement. Unfortunate, adult stem cells also age, which leads to fewer cells and/or loss of function in cell replacement. As functional stem cells decline, skin and organs decline with age.

Blood from world’s oldest woman suggests life limit

Time Magazine: Long-Life Secrets From The 115-Year-Old Woman

Somatic mutations found in the healthy blood compartment of a 115-yr-old woman demonstrate oligoclonal hematopoiesis

Abstract
The somatic mutation burden in healthy white blood cells (WBCs) is not well known. Based on deep whole-genome sequencing, we estimate that approximately 450 somatic mutations accumulated in the nonrepetitive genome within the healthy blood compartment of a 115-yr-old woman. The detected mutations appear to have been harmless passenger mutations: They were enriched in noncoding, AT-rich regions that are not evolutionarily conserved, and they were depleted for genomic elements where mutations might have favorable or adverse effects on cellular fitness, such as regions with actively transcribed genes. The distribution of variant allele frequencies of these mutations suggests that the majority of the peripheral white blood cells were offspring of two related hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) clones. Moreover, telomere lengths of the WBCs were significantly shorter than telomere lengths from other tissues. Together, this suggests that the finite lifespan of HSCs, rather than somatic mutation effects, may lead to hematopoietic clonal evolution at extreme ages.

Microplastics Found in Saliva After Chewing Gum

You might want to add chewing gum to your list of unexpected microplastic sources. A new preliminary study reveals that just one piece can release up to thousands of microplastic particles directly into your saliva.

Analysis showed that just one gram of chewing gum released an average of around 100 microplastic bits, and some samples releasing as many as 637 microparticles per gram. Since a single stick of gum often weighs between one and several grams, the total exposure could be significantly higher.

On average, someone who regularly chews gum could end up ingesting around 30,000 of the particles annually. The researchers set out to determine how much microplastic exposure might result from chewing both natural and synthetic gums. The researchers examined five different brands of synthetic gum and five varieties of natural gum.

The test consisted of one participant chewing each gum for four minutes, with researchers collecting saliva samples every 30 seconds using lab tubes. After chewing, the participant thoroughly rinsed their mouth several times with highly purified water. These rinses were then combined with the saliva samples to capture any remaining microplastics. The full process was repeated seven times for each gum variety.

Additionally, some gum samples were chewed for a full 20 minutes, with collection of the saliva every two minutes. This allowed researchers to assess how chewing duration affected the amount of microplastics released.

Interestingly, 94% of microplastics were emitted during the first eight minutes of chewing, suggesting most of the release happens early on. The researchers discovered that natural gums offered little advantage. On average, one gram of synthetic gum contained 104 microplastic particles, while natural gum wasn’t far behind, with 96 particles per gram.

To help limit microplastic exposure from gum, the researchers suggest chewing a single piece for a longer period rather than frequently switching to a new one. The study was only able to detect microplastics 20 micrometers or larger due to the limitations of the equipment and methods used. As a result, smaller particles, such as nanoplastics, may have gone undetected, highlighting the need for further research into the potential release of these tiny plastics during chewing.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Chewing gum can shed microplastics into saliva, pilot study finds

How Your Diet Can Impact Tinnitus

Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing noise when no external sound is present. This often includes ringing, buzzing, or other phantom sounds in the ears or head, and, in most cases, it’s a personal experience, only the person affected can hear it. Turns out what you eat might help with tinnitus. Recent research shows that healthy foods like fruits and fiber-rich meals could actually cut down your risk.

Researchers analyzed data from eight different studies, covering more than 300,000 people, to find out whether what we eat might influence the chances of developing tinnitus. The foods examined were plant-based, animal based and nutrients and substances such as fats, proteins, carbohydrates, sugars and caffeine.

The analysis showed that people who consumed more fruit, dairy, caffeine, and dietary fiber had a lower risk of developing tinnitus. Specifically, fruit intake was linked to a 35% reduction in risk, dairy to 17%, caffeine to 10%, and fiber to 9%. People who consumed more calcium, iron, and fat were more likely to experience tinnitus, while those with higher intakes of vitamin B12 and a high-protein diet had lower odds of developing it.

Fruits and vegetables may help improve blood flow around the ears, which can ease tinnitus symptoms. Fiber-rich foods might also help by improving insulin sensitivity. When insulin levels get too high, it can affect the inner ear’s balance. In addition, fiber and dairy products may promote healthier blood vessels. While caffeine might help lower the risk of tinnitus by easing anxiety, some researchers believe it could also make symptoms worse, possibly by disrupting sleep. Staying well-hydrated is also important, since dehydration can make tinnitus symptoms worse and contribute to issues like ear infections or high blood pressure.

If you think certain foods might be making your tinnitus worse, try keeping a food diary. Tracking what you eat alongside your symptoms can help reveal patterns over time. Just keep in mind that everyone’s body is different, and, what affects one person may have no impact on another.

Eating well and keeping up good daily habits can boost your overall well-being, which may also help you manage tinnitus more effectively.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Association of 15 common dietary factors with tinnitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

Diets Low in Processed and Animal Foods Enhance Longevity

With worldwide population growing older, identifying dietary patterns that not only prevent chronic diseases but also effectively support healthy aging becomes increasingly important. Researchers define healthy aging as the ability to reach the age of 70 without major chronic illnesses, and with maintained cognitive, physical, and mental well-being.

Nearly four out of five older adults in the U.S. live with at least one chronic condition, reflecting the serious and widespread health challenges of aging. Poor diet is the top behavioral contributor to noncommunicable diseases and premature death worldwide and ranks second only to tobacco use among older adults in the U.S.

A recent study indicates that eating mostly plant-based foods, limiting ultra-processed products, and consuming minimal amounts of animal-based foods may improve our odds of reaching age 70 without chronic illnesses.

Over a span of 30 years, researchers tracked the eating habits and health outcomes of more than 105,000 adults, ages 39 to 69, as they entered midlife. The study focused on how closely participants followed eight primarily plant-based dietary patterns and how these diets influenced their long-term health.

Only about 10% of participants were classified as healthy agers, and they tended to follow one of the eight plant-focused diets. Among them, the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) stood out as especially effective. Originally designed to lower the risk of chronic diseases, the AHEI prioritizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats, while cutting back on red meat and refined sugars.

Those who scored highest on the AHEI diet were 86% more likely to reach age 70 in good health, and more than twice as likely to do so by age 75, compared to those with the lowest scores. Another diet, the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI), also showed benefits, encouraging a plant-centered approach while limiting animal-based foods.

The results found that sticking to a diet packed with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, nuts, and legumes during midlife is strongly linked to better odds of aging well with sharper cognition, stronger physical health, and better mental well-being. Whereas, diets high in ultra-processed foods, especially processed meats and sugary drinks, were tied to a lower chance of healthy aging.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Optimal dietary patterns for healthy aging

Artificial Sweeteners Influence Heart Health

Receptors typically associated with detecting flavors on the tongue have been identified in areas of the body, including the intestines, stomach, airways, and pancreas. A recent study has found that when these taste receptors are activated by sweet substances, they can significantly influence the contraction of heart muscles.

These sweet taste receptors (STRs) are also active in the heart. When human and mouse heart cells were exposed to aspartame, a widely used artificial sweetener, there was a notable enhancement in heart muscle contractions and calcium management, essential for generating a heartbeat.

The control of calcium iron release and uptake in the heart muscle, referred to as calcium handling, is a critical process for contraction and relaxation. Any disturbances in this mechanism can result in various cardiac issues. The study found that STRs are more abundant in the hearts of patients with heart failure, suggesting a potential link to the disease.

It has been observed that heart rate and blood pressure rise after eating. Previously, this increase was attributed to neural signaling. However, new insights suggest a more direct effect that a post-meal spike in blood sugar may activate sweet taste receptors on heart muscle cells, leading to changes in heart rhythm.

The study revealed that sweet taste receptors, especially when stimulated by artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, can cause arrhythmic-like activities in the heart. This overstimulation might explain the association between excessive consumption of artificially sweetened drinks and the occurrence of irregular heartbeats.

This study proposes a possible connection between the intake of artificial sweeteners and a heightened risk of cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmias and heart failure. However, the precise mechanisms remain uncertain, and further research is required to clarify these findings.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Sweet Taste Receptors in the Heart: A New Pathway for Cardiac Regulation

The Critical Role of Sleep in Healthy Aging

Adequate sleep is vital for maintaining good health, equally as important as a nutritious diet and consistent exercise. It enhances cognitive function, elevates mood, and promotes overall wellness. A lack of sufficient, high-quality sleep on a regular basis can lead to an increased risk of several serious health conditions, including stroke, heart disease, dementia, and obesity.

A recent study has found that alterations in sleep patterns with age are linked to decreased chances of aging successfully in seniors. Variability in sleep duration or consistently short sleep periods are key indicators affecting healthy aging. The study highlights that both increased and reduced sleep patterns correlate with reduced likelihood of aging well, stressing the importance of keeping track of sleep changes in middle-aged and older adults.

Researchers examined 3,306 individuals who, as of 2011, were free from significant chronic illnesses and were aged 60 or more by 2020. Sleep duration was evaluated in 2011, 2013, and 2015 by totaling hours of night sleep and daytime napping to determine overall daily sleep time.

Participants showing either increasing or persistently short sleep durations had significantly lower chances of aging successfully. In fact, only 13.8% of the group met the criteria for successful aging by the year 2020. The research indicates that maintaining a consistent and normal sleep pattern is optimal for aging well. Additionally, chronic insufficient sleep may trigger higher levels of stress hormones and inflammation, which are factors that could contribute to the development of age-related health conditions.

Keeping stable and sufficient sleep durations might be a frequently underestimated aspect of encouraging healthy aging. Notably, these results uphold the idea that regularity in sleep is just as crucial as the length of sleep for favorable aging outcomes.

To view the original scientific study click below:
The association between sleep duration trajectories and successful aging: a population-based cohort study

The Connection Between the Western Diet and Lung Cancer

Lung cancer has not typically been considered linked to diet. Yet, recent research has revealed an unexpected factor contributing to lung cancer risk. The mix of sugar and fat in our diets. A diet high in sugar and fat could cause glycogen, a form of stored sugar, to build up in lung tissues. Researchers believe this buildup could potentially set the stage for cancer development.

Glycogen accumulation is key in lung adenocarcinoma, a prevalent and aggressive form of lung cancer. This study reshapes our understanding of the relationship between diet and cancer. Cancer cells alter their energy metabolism to support rapid growth. However, the specific impact of glycogen, which is glucose stored for energy, has been largely overlooked until this research.

The Western diet, which is rich in fats and carbohydrates, seems to prompt a significant accumulation of glycogen in lung tissue. According to researchers, this glycogen acts as a readily available energy source for cancer cells. Lung adenocarcinoma makes up 40% of lung cancer cases globally.

Researchers found that higher glycogen levels in cancer cells correlate with more extensive and aggressive tumor growth. In experiments where mice were fed a diet high in fat and fructose, typical of Western eating habits, glycogen levels increased in the bloodstream and lung tumors started growing. Conversely, reducing glycogen levels led to slower tumor growth. This demonstrates compelling evidence that glycogen production is crucial for the development of tumors in lung adenocarcinoma.

This breakthrough paves the way for innovative approaches in cancer prevention and treatment. Modifying diets or developing medications that target glycogen metabolism may help slow tumor growth in patients with lung adenocarcinoma or those at elevated risk.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Glycogen drives tumour initiation and progression in lung adenocarcinoma