Red Light Therapy May Help Lower the Risk of Blood Clots

For many years, scientists have recognized the impact of light exposure on health. The type of light we encounter can influence our biological processes and, in turn, affect our well-being. For instance, the natural cycles of sunrise and sunset play crucial roles in regulating metabolism, hormone levels, and blood circulation. Moreover, there is a higher incidence of strokes and heart attacks in the early day compared to the evening.

A study was conducted to explore the potential effects of lighting on blood clots, which are often precursors to serious conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The research revealed that exposure to long-wavelength red light resulted in reduced rates of blood clotting in both mice and humans, potentially lowering the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and lung damage.

The research was conducted by subjecting mice to 12 hours of either blue, red, or white light, followed by another 12 hours without light, over a three-day period. Subsequently, they assessed the frequency of blood clots in each group. The results indicated that mice under red light conditions experienced a significantly lower rate of blood clotting, up to five times less, compared to those under white or blue light conditions.

The researchers further examined data from over 10,000 patients who underwent cataract surgery and were fitted with either traditional lenses, which allow the full spectrum of visible light, or lenses that filter out about 50% of blue light. It was found that patients with cancer who were using lenses that filtered blue light had a lower chance of blood clots compared to those who received conventional lenses. This finding is particularly significant given that cancer patients are nine times more likely to develop blood clots than individuals without cancer.

The research team noted that exposure to red light correlated with reduced inflammation and a less active immune response. Additionally, mice exposed to red light showed heightened production of fatty acids, which in turn diminishes platelet activation. Given that platelets are critical for clot formation, this process naturally results in fewer clots.

Understanding the process by which red light reduces clotting risks could lead scientists to develop more effective and convenient treatments or medications for patients, potentially offering alternatives to continuous exposure to red light.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Alterations in visible light exposure modulate platelet function and regulate thrombus formation

Your Daily Chocolate Habit Could Be Speeding Up Aging

Do you like to eat a chocolate bar or a bag of chips daily? A recent study has shown that by doing so you would be adding several months to your biological age. The findings indicate that when ultra-processed foods constitute just 10% of a typical 2000-calorie diet for adults, it can accelerate the biological clock by up to 2.4 months.

Ultra-processed foods encompass a variety of items such as chips, sodas, ice cream, chocolates, pre-prepared meals, sausages, burgers, and nuggets made from chicken or fish, along with both sweet and savory energy bars and packaged snacks.

Consuming an additional 200 calories from ultra-processed foods, which is equivalent to a small chocolate bar, could accelerate the biological aging process. Biological age differs from chronological age as it reflects how well your body functions and is influenced by lifestyle choices and genetics. Chronological age is the number of years a person has lived since birth.

The cross-sectional study analyzed data from 16,055 Americans aged between 20 and 79, aiming to investigate the relationship between ultra-processed food consumption and biological aging.

For every 10% increase in energy intake from ultra-processed foods (UPFs), participants were found to be 0.21 years older biologically. Those who consumed the most ultra-processed foods were biologically 0.86 years older. This link between UPF consumption and accelerated biological aging persisted even after adjustments were made for diet quality and overall energy intake.

The results suggest that cutting back on ultra-processed foods could decelerate the biological aging process, providing additional motivation to reduce these foods in dietary strategies designed to support healthy aging.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Association between ultra-processed food intake and biological ageing in US adults: findings from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2010

Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Slow Biological Aging?

Many people strive to slow down aging, and recent research points to omega-3 supplements as a potential aid in this endeavor. Could these essential fatty acids, abundant in oily fish and readily available as supplements, help maintain youthful cells for an extended period? Research has shown that vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids can slow biological aging in animals, but it was uncertain whether these benefits would extend to humans as well.

A recent study indicates that combining omega-3 and vitamin D supplements with regular exercise could slow biological aging by several months over three years. This conclusion comes from analyzing data from the DO-HEALTH trial, which assessed the effects of supplements and exercise on older adults from 2012 to 2014 in five European countries.

Omega-3 fatty acids are widely recognized for their benefits to brain, heart, and joint health. However, these recent findings suggest that they may also play a role in slowing down the biological aging process, potentially reducing the risk of conditions like heart disease, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.

The study analyzed data from more than 700 participants, all aged 70 or older. They consumed daily supplements of 2,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D and/or 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids sourced from algae or a placebo. Additionally, they engaged in 30 minutes of home-based strength training three times a week. To evaluate biological aging, researchers collected blood samples from participants at the start and end of the study. These samples were analyzed using four different biological clocks.

Upon analyzing the blood samples, researchers discovered that consuming omega-3 fatty acids decelerated biological aging by up to four months across various epigenetic clocks, and this effect was consistent regardless of the subjects’ age, gender, or body mass index. Moreover, the trio of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and strength training showed even greater effectiveness, according to one of the four epigenetic clocks utilized.

The results strongly indicate that omega-3 fatty acids can slow biological aging in humans, and that combining them with vitamin D and exercise may enhance this effect even further. While additional research is necessary, these well-established strategies can still be adopted.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Individual and additive effects of vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise on DNA methylation clocks of biological aging in older adults from the DO-HEALTH trial

How Flossing Daily Could Guard Against Stroke

Recent studies have found a strong correlation between regular flossing and a notably reduced risk of specific types of stroke and atrial fibrillation. Oral hygiene practices are connected to inflammation and the hardening of arteries. By minimizing oral infections and inflammation, flossing could lower the risk of stroke and promote other beneficial health behaviors.

Flossing is a critical component of standard oral care practices, but it might also offer substantial benefits for heart and brain health. Research indicates that dental flossing can lower the risk of stroke, with more frequent flossing resulting in an even greater reduction in risk.

The researchers examined data from more than 6,000 participants who had no prior history of stroke or atrial fibrillation, using a detailed questionnaire. The focus of the study was to explore the relationship between flossing, apart from other oral care practices like brushing and routine dentist visits, and its effects on cardiovascular disease results.

During a 25-year follow-up period, of those who reported flossing at least once a week, 65% remained free from stroke diagnoses, although 434 individuals did experience a stroke. Compared to non-flossers, those who flossed regularly had a 22% reduced risk of ischemic stroke and a 44% reduced risk of cardioembolic stroke. Additionally, flossing was linked to a 12% decreased risk of atrial fibrillation, the most prevalent type of irregular heartbeat.

Similar to other types of inflammation, there is evidence indicating a connection between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. This association also implies that maintaining good oral hygiene through habits like brushing and flossing could be a viable lifestyle approach to lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Increased frequency of flossing was associated with greater reductions in risk, and these reductions occurred independently of regular brushing and dental visits. Flossing is a beneficial habit that is simple to incorporate, cost-effective, and widely available.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Abstract 19: Dental flossing may lower the risk for incident ischemic stroke, cardioembolic stroke subtype and AF

Microplastics in Tea Bags and Their Impact on Gut Health

Recent studies reveal that popular tea brands might be a source of extensive microplastic exposure. Researchers have discovered that tea bags release millions of micro- and nanoplastics into your cup, potentially leading to significant ingestion of these particles with every sip of tea. The discovery of numerous micro- and nanoplastics in a consumable product like tea is particularly alarming.

Certain plastics are absorbed more easily by digestive system cells and could potentially damage DNA. Tea bags that have an uneven surface tend to release more microplastic particles. Researchers conducted tests on three different tea bag brands to assess the presence of microplastics, small plastic fragments that do not decompose.

The study revealed that tea brewed using polypropylene tea bags, a widely used material, can release billions of particles per milliliter of tea. In comparison, tea bags consisting of cellulose paper and mesh nylon also released millions of plastic particles per milliliter.

In their experiment, the researchers replicated normal tea-brewing practices by steeping and stirring tea bags in water. They observed that all three types of tea bag materials shed microparticles during this simulated tea-making process. Polypropylene bags released the highest number of microparticles, while nylon bags released the fewest.

Upon isolating the plastic particles from the tea, they introduced them to bodily intestinal cells. The plastic particles were absorbed by the cells, indicating that microplastics might stay in the body following tea consumption. Once ingested, microplastics may accumulate in the tissues and organs of the gastrointestinal tract. From there, they could enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body, potentially reaching various other tissues and organs.

While research has associated chemicals used in plastic manufacturing with severe issues like endocrine disruption and cancer, the full health effects of consuming microplastics remain unclear to scientists.

Tea enthusiasts are advised to opt for products made from natural materials or consider using loose-leaf teas. Alternatives to traditional tea bags include employing a metal tea ball filled with loose leaves or using a French press.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Teabag-derived micro/nanoplastics (true-to-life MNPLs) as a surrogate for real-life exposure scenarios

New Study Raises Alarms Over Common Sleeping Pills

Achieving quality sleep is essential for maintaining our biological rhythm and contributes to improved brain function, a strong immune system, and heart health. Sleep disturbances such as insomnia and sleep apnea can greatly affect one’s health and overall well-being. Often, inadequate sleep is an early indicator of neurodegenerative diseases and can signal the potential onset of dementia. Some individuals turn to sleep aids to help them fall and remain asleep.

Recent research indicates that a widely used sleep aid, often sold under the brand name Ambien, might interfere with the brain’s natural “cleansing” process during sleep. This disruption could increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s and other neurological conditions.

The mechanisms that promote brain clearance during sleep remain unclear. However, scientists have gained additional understanding of the glymphatic system, which facilitates the removal of toxic substances from the brain during sleep.

The study has identified that the molecule norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, is crucial in the brain-cleaning process observed in mice studied. Serving both as a hormone and a neurotransmitter, norepinephrine facilitates the transmission of nerve signals to nerve, muscle, and gland cells. Additionally, the molecule contributes to the regulation of memory, mood, and the sleep-wake cycle.

The research examined whether sleep aids mimic the natural oscillations essential for glymphatic function, with a particular focus on Ambien, commonly used to manage insomnia. Although Ambien was successful in inducing sleep in mice, it also inhibited norepinephrine oscillations. This disruption to the glymphatic system hindered the brain’s ability to clear waste, raising concerns about the long-term effects of using this medication.

As the use of sleep medications increases, it’s crucial to understand whether these drugs provide healthy sleep. It’s important for individuals to recognize if they’re missing out on the full advantages of sleep, enabling them to make more educated decisions.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Norepinephrine-mediated slow vasomotion drives glymphatic clearance during sleep

Sleep Apnea’s Impact on Cognitive Decline

Obstructive sleep apnea affects approximately 936 million adults globally, and is increasingly recognized not only for its numerous health risks but also for its detrimental effects on cognitive ability. New research suggests that sleep apnea can impair cognitive functions such as memory, reasoning, reaction times, and emotional regulation and could also alter the brain’s structure.

Studies have discovered that individuals with sleep apnea often have an enlarged hippocampus, the brain region involved in memory and learning. Additionally, those with reduced oxygen levels during sleep show changes in the brain’s white matter, typically associated with aging-related brain conditions. Previous research also indicates that sleep apnea may elevate the risk of various conditions, including neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.

In this study, approximately 2,600 Latino individuals with an average age of 68 were recruited. Latinos have a high prevalence of sleep apnea and are substantially affected by Alzheimer’s disease for reasons that are not entirely clear. Therefore, assessing brain health markers in this group helps researchers identify early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease risk and brain health.

Participants completed a night of unsupervised home testing using a sleep apnea device, which recorded the number of times their breathing paused. The test also monitored episodes of shallow breathing and measured oxygen levels in their blood.

Ten years later, researchers conducted follow-ups with the study participants, all of whom underwent brain scans to assess their brain volume and detect any damage to their white matter. The analysis revealed that participants experiencing the most sleep issues exhibited increased brain volume in the hippocampus compared to those without sleep problems. An increased hippocampal size was interpreted as swelling due to inflammation or overall damage. Further analysis showed that lower oxygen levels during sleep correlated with both higher hippocampal volume and greater white matter damage in the brain.

The erratic and low-quality sleep associated with sleep disorders contributes to both immediate and long-term detrimental changes in the brain. Sleep acts as a protective element or a risk factor for cognitive health. Therefore, diagnosing and treating sleep apnea should be integral to strategies aimed at preserving optimal brain health.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Sleep Disordered Breathing and Subsequent Neuroimaging Markers of Brain Health in Hispanic/Latino Adults

The Role of Diet in Managing Chronic Pain

Did you know that what we eat significantly influences how our bodies manage inflammation and pain? Recent research indicates that the quality of our diet has a direct effect on pain intensity and physical functionality. It’s crucial to recognize the connection between chronic pain and diet. A balanced diet should be a key component of any chronic pain management strategy.

Studies have shown that a diet high in whole, nutrient-packed foods may be associated with lower pain levels, especially in women. The results suggest that the amount of body fat in participants doesn’t markedly affect this correlation, pointing to a direct and independent role of a healthy diet in controlling chronic pain.

In a study of 654 Australian adults aged between 18 and 89, of whom 57% were female, researchers sought to investigate whether indicators of body fat like BMI, waist size, or percentage of body fat could influence the relationship between the quality of diet and factors such as pain intensity or physical function. Diet information was gathered using a 12-month food frequency questionnaire, and diet quality was evaluated based on the Australian Dietary Guideline Index, which rates how well an individual’s eating habits conform to national dietary recommendations.

Pain intensity was gauged using a survey scale, and physical function was measured by testing hand grip strength. After processing the data and considering factors such as age and daily calorie intake, the study found that body fat did not play a role in linking diet quality to pain outcomes.

The connection between diet and pain is rooted in inflammation, a key factor in many chronic pain disorders. Foods that are processed, along with those high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats, can aggravate inflammation. On the other hand, a diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and sources of healthy fats like olive oil can help to mitigate inflammation.

Although additional research is needed, the findings provide promising evidence that improving diet quality could significantly reduce pain and enhance physical function, particularly in women, regardless of their body fat percentage.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Better diet quality is associated with reduced body pain in adults regardless of adiposity: Findings from the Whyalla Intergenerational Study of Health

Cellular Memory Influences Health Outcomes

Memory plays a pivotal role in shaping our health and identity. It forms the foundation of our individuality, our interactions, and our ability to make safe and healthy decisions. New research is beginning to reveal that human memory might be far more intricate than previously understood.

Research has discovered that cells in kidney and nerve tissues can store memories similar to brain cells. These findings may enhance our understanding of memory-related disorders and improve treatment strategies. The researchers are investigating whether various body parts can create and retain their own forms of memory, and examining how these memories could influence and be affected by our health.

Previous studies focused on sea slugs due to their capacity to form basic memories, simplifying the understanding of memory formation. The current research has identified an even more fundamental type of memory, common not only among various animals but across all cell types.

In laboratory experiments, the research team studied memory formation in two types of human non-brain cells: nerve tissue cells and kidney tissue cells. They exposed these cells to chemical signals in a pattern that emulates how brain cells learn from neurotransmitters, the brain’s chemical messengers.

The study revealed that these non-brain cells responded to chemical stimuli by activating a gene connected to memory storage. This indicates that, similar to brain cells, various cells in the human body may also have the ability to store memories. Every cell records its own experiences. The memories held in non-brain cells elsewhere in the body are directly linked to the specific functions those cells perform in maintaining human health.

The recent study provides initial evidence, yet other recent investigations more definitively illustrate how memories stored in body parts other than the brain might influence health outcomes. For example, research has shown that cells in adipose (fat) tissue retain a memory of obesity even following weight loss, which may contribute to the rapid regain of lost weight, known as the yo-yo effect.

The hope is that future research will provide answers and solutions.

To view the original scientific study click below:
The massed-spaced learning effect in non-neural human cells

How Regular Exercise Can Combat Cancer

Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. A new study from South Africa examined the effects of physical activity prior to cancer diagnosis on both the advancement of cancer and mortality rates. Physical inactivity is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide, with alarmingly high levels now being reported. One third of adults globally do not engage in sufficient physical activity.

Researchers in the recent study observed that physical activity can prevent cancer and lower death rates, supported by current evidence. Their goal was to investigate the impact of physical activity on the advancement of cancer.

All participants were enrolled in a program named Vitality, designed to boost physical activity. The program enables tracking of physical activity via wearable devices and monitoring gym attendance. The participants all had stage 1 cancer and had been in this program for at least one year before their cancer diagnosis. The test focused primarily on breast, skin and prostate cancer.

The participants were put into one of three groups according to their physical level activity, which was accessed a year before the cancer diagnosis. These groups of physical activity levels were none, low, or moderate to high, with the activity level at moderate intensity. Over half of the participants were in the no physical activity group.

People engaging in moderate to high levels of physical activity had a 27% lower risk of cancer progression and a 47% reduced risk of death from any cause, compared to those who were inactive. Similarly, individuals with low physical activity levels saw a 16% decrease in the likelihood of cancer progression and a 33% decrease in the risk of death from any cause, when compared to the inactive group.

The study continued to show the positive effects of physical activity on survival and cancer control. For example, two years after being diagnosed, those who had maintained moderate to high levels of physical activity the year before diagnosis had an 80% likelihood of survival without their cancer worsening.

The findings emphasize the benefits of exercise over a sedentary lifestyle in reducing cancer progression and mortality. The data also suggest that even minimal physical activity such as 1 hour a week can be advantageous.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Association between recorded physical activity and cancer progression or mortality in individuals diagnosed with cancer in South Africa