Using Mouthwash Could Be Dangerous to your Health

You may want to think twice before reaching for that bottle of mouthwash in your bathroom. A new study has revealed that the risks associated with these minty antimicrobials can have serious consequences for more than just your teeth. From skin irritation to cancer, certain ingredients have been linked to a wide range of side effects.

In a comprehensive study conducted in Istanbul, Turkey, researchers analyzed 45 mouthwash formulas from 17 popular brands. The results were alarming: over 68% of the tested formulas contained glycerin, a substance known to cause kidney and liver deterioration. Even more concerning, 64% of the formulas included sodium saccharin, a known carcinogen. Additionally, 62% of the mouthwashes contained propylene glycol, a chemical linked to organ failure in high doses. These findings raise serious concerns about the safety of everyday oral care products.

Out of 45 different formulas, a shocking 7 contain the tooth decay culprit, chlorhexidine gluconate. Other ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride and acid orange 7 dye can lead to unsightly tooth discoloration and stains. With a limited range of options available in stores, our oral and public health is at risk.

When it comes to mouthwash, not all options are created equal. The two main types – therapeutic and cosmetic – offer different benefits for your oral health. Therapeutic mouth rinses, available over-the-counter or by prescription, pack a punch by combating plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth decay. They’re the real deal. On the other hand, cosmetic mouthwashes offer a quick fix for bad breath, but they don’t tackle the underlying issues of plaque, gingivitis, or tooth decay. They’re more like a temporary band-aid.

But wait, there’s more. Over the past decade, warnings and recalls have shed light on the potential dangers of mouthwash. In fact, a study linked frequent mouthwash use to an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes. The results showed that those who used mouthwash twice or more daily faced a significantly greater risk of pre-diabetes or diabetes compared to those who used it less frequently.

Discovering the true impact of commonly used mouthwash ingredients was the main objective of this study. The aim was to uncover any potential adverse effects, as well as understand how these ingredients are intended to be used. Previous research has shown that harmful compounds found in toothpaste can also be consumed through mouthwash, leading to a higher concentration within the body. It is crucial that dental care products containing these hazardous chemicals are eliminated to prioritize consumer safety. Additional research in this field is recommended to ensure we are fully informed.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Ingredients in Commercially Available Mouthwashes

Artificial Sweeteners Affect Gut Microbiome

You may think non-nutritive sweeteners are harmless, but new research suggests otherwise. A team of scientists conducted a groundbreaking study to investigate the effects of popular sugar substitutes on our bodies and microbiomes. Their findings reveal that these seemingly innocent additives actually have the power to mess with our blood sugar levels.

The study revealed that non-nutritive sweeteners can affect the human microbiome and influence glycemic responses. Contrary to previous assumptions, these sugar substitutes, including aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, and stevia sachets, do not have an inert nature. The study’s findings indicate that certain non-nutritive sweeteners have the potential to modify the composition of human microbiomes, resulting in changes to blood sugar levels.

A group of 1,300 people were screened to find those who strictly abstain from using non-nutritive sweeteners in their daily lives. From this group, 120 individuals were selected. These participants were divided into six groups – two control groups and four groups who consumed very little of FDA-approved sweeteners. When the participants consumed these sweeteners, notable changes were observed in the composition and function of their gut microbes, as well as the substances those microbes released into the bloodstream. This indicates that gut microbes are highly responsive to each of these sweeteners in the human body.

The results found that sucralose and saccharin had a significant impact. Surprisingly, these effects were closely linked to changes in the participants’ gut microbes, which also influenced their glycemic responses. To solidify the cause-and-effect relationship, they conducted an innovative experiment by transferring microbial samples from the study participants to germ-free mice.

Discoveries were made that had a profound impact. When they introduced the gut bacteria of people who responded very well to non-nutritive sweeteners into mice, the mice developed significant changes in their blood sugar levels. However, this effect was not seen in mice that received gut bacteria from people who did not respond well to these sweeteners. This suggests that changes in the gut bacteria from consuming non-nutritive sweeteners can have personalized effects on blood sugar levels.

The effects of sweeteners vary from person to person due to the unique composition of our microbiome. It is important to note that non-nutritive sweeteners are not inert to our bodies, contrary to previous beliefs. However, the long-term health implications of these effects are still unknown and require further study.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Personalized microbiome-driven effects of non-nutritive sweeteners on human glucose tolerance

The Dangers of Recreational Noise Exposure

New study reveals alarming prevalence of dangerous listening practices and potential hearing loss risk for billions of people worldwide. Dangerous listening habits, both from personal listening devices and attending noisy entertainment venues, are widespread. About 23.81% of people engage in unsafe listening practices, while 48.20% are exposed to high noise levels in these venues. Shockingly, these habits could potentially put 1.35 billion individuals at risk of hearing loss globally.

This alarming issue of hearing loss deserves urgent attention and global recognition. The World Health Organization warns that currently, over 430 million individuals globally suffer from harmful hearing loss. If we fail to prioritize hearing loss prevention, this number could double in the near future.

Hearing loss risk depends on factors such as the loudness, frequency, and duration of noise exposure. To put things into perspective, acceptable levels of loud noise exposure are usually based on occupational noise exposure limits. For example, the limit is usually set for 40 hours a week at 80 decibels. However, these limits can vary slightly depending on your region or regulatory agencies.

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina conducted a comprehensive study to assess the extent of unsafe listening practices among young adults. Their findings urge immediate action to protect aural health on a global scale.

By analyzing data from 33 studies involving over 19,000 participants, the research team revealed the prevalence of hazardous listening habits. The study specifically looked at the output levels and duration of exposure using objectively measured devices.

Shocking results unveiled concerning patterns in two areas: personal listening device (PLD) use and attendance at noisy entertainment venues. With 17 records dedicated to PLD use and 18 dedicated to entertainment venues, it is clear that urgent measures are needed to safeguard the hearing of our youth.

By analyzing data on the estimated world population of people aged from 12-34 years old in 2022 (2.8 billion) and their exposure to noisy entertainment venues and personal listening devices, researchers found that 24%-48% of young people, engage in these risky behaviors. The study suggests that anywhere from 0.67 to 1.35 billion young adults could potentially experience hearing loss due to these listening practices.

This groundbreaking research serves as a call to action for evidence-based policies aimed at mitigating the risks of hearing loss in this vulnerable population. The time to prioritize aural health and protect our future generations is now.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Prevalence and global estimates of unsafe listening practices in adolescents and young adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis/a>

The Power of Aromatherapy Essential Oils for Cognition

In the quest to combat cognitive decline, a groundbreaking study has discovered a simple and cost-effective treatment: aromatherapy essential oils. Scientists investigated the potential of nightly aromatherapy to enhance cognitive abilities in aging individuals. By incorporating scents like lavender and rose into nightly routines, researchers witnessed an astounding 226% improvement in word recall. Additionally, the fascinating impact of aromatherapy oils on the left uncinate fasciculus, a crucial part of the brain, has been revealed and showed marked enhancement.

These findings have profound implications for neurological impairment in older adults. By engaging in olfactory enrichment, individuals may be able to stave off cognitive decline and reduce the risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. Previous research has demonstrated a strong link between the loss of sense of smell and these neurological disorders, making olfactory enrichment a potential game-changer.

In the study, 43 participants between the ages of 60 and 85, who were in good general health and had healthy cognition, were recruited. They were subjected to a series of assessments before and after a 6-month intervention. These assessments covered various aspects, including cognitive abilities, mental well-being, olfactory performance, and brain structure. The interventions included a pattern separation test, which measures the ability to differentiate between similar stimuli, as well as questionnaires on depression and quality of life. To further investigate changes in the brain, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to examine both brain structures and connectivity.

The participants were divided into two groups randomly. The experimental group consisted of 20 participants who were exposed to essential oils every night, while the control group included 23 participants who were exposed to trace amounts. Over a period of six months, both groups were exposed to different concentrations of essential oils for two hours each night as they prepared to sleep, using a nebulizing fragrance diffuser.

Research results reveal that participants in the olfactory-enrichment group experienced a noteworthy 226% enhancement in performance on the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test. This test gauges verbal learning and memory through word list recall. Furthermore, the study identified a positive impact on the functioning of the left uncinate fasciculus, which is a vital pathway in the brain related to learning and memory. The degeneration of this pathway is associated with aging and Alzheimer’s disease.

The researchers concluded that even minimal olfactory enrichment, achieved through an odorant diffuser at night, can greatly enhance verbal memory and the integrity of this specific brain pathway.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Overnight olfactory enrichment using an odorant diffuser improves memory and modifies the uncinate fasciculus in older adults

Stay Active As You Age for a Better Quality of Life

A groundbreaking study of nearly 1,500 adults has uncovered a startling link between reduced physical activity and a decline in quality of life among individuals aged 60 and above. Similarly, the study showed that an increase in sedentary behavior, such as watching TV or reading, further compounds this decline. These compelling findings emphasize the urgency of promoting and supporting an active lifestyle among older adults.

Engaging in physical activity, specifically of moderate intensity that increases your heart rate, has been proven to lower the likelihood of developing various diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and cancer. To maintain good health, the National Health Service advises adults to dedicate a minimum of 150 minutes per week to moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes to vigorous-intensity activity. Additionally, older adults are encouraged to break up long periods of sitting with light activity or at least standing.

The study from the Univ. of Cambridge was conducted on 1,433 individuals aged 60 and older. The team measured their activity levels using accelerometers and also assessed their health-related quality of life. This measure includes factors like pain, self-care ability, and anxiety/mood. Participants filled out a questionnaire and were assigned a score that ranged from 0 (poor quality of life) to 1 (excellent). Lower scores are linked with a higher likelihood of hospitalization, poor outcomes post-hospitalization, and early death.

In a follow-up study conducted after nearly 6 years, changes in behavior and quality of life were observed in the participants. On average, both women and men experienced a decrease in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity by 24 minutes per day, while their sedentary time was higher for women by 38 minutes and men 33 minutes. Interestingly, individuals who were more physically activity and had less time being sedentary during the initial assessment had a increased quality of life later on. Specifically, every additional hour of daily activity was associated with a 0.02 increased quality of life score. Likewise, for every minute of decreased moderate-to-vigorous physical activity measured six years later, quality of life scores decreased by 0.03. This implies that individuals who reduced their activity level by 15 minutes a day would have seen their score drop by 0.45.

In order to understand the significance of the findings, it is important to consider the context of clinical outcomes. Previous studies have shown that even a small 0.1 point increase in quality of life scores is associated with a noteworthy 6.9% decrease in early death and a 4.2% decrease in the risk of being hospitalized. The research team is confident in establishing a causal relationship between quality of life and physical activity as they were able to measure these variables at different time points. This means that continued physical activity leads to improved quality of life.

Improving physical behaviors can greatly enhance our quality of life. Engaging in more physical activity, for instance, has shown to alleviate pain in conditions like osteoarthritis. Furthermore, increased physical activity contributes to improved muscle strength, enabling older adults to maintain their independence. Similarly, addressing depression and anxiety, which have a significant impact on quality of life, can be achieved by adopting a more active and less sedentary lifestyle.

By embracing an active lifestyle, older individuals can significantly enhance their overall well-being and maintain a high quality of life.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Bidirectional associations of accelerometer-assessed physical activity and sedentary time with physical function among older English adults: the EPIC-Norfolk cohort study

Surprising Link Between Constipation and Cognitive Decline

New research indicates that constipation may play a significant role in cognitive decline. This groundbreaking study highlights the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and the potential consequences when one system malfunctions. Although the study has not yet been published, the results were recently presented at a prestigious conference on Alzheimer’s disease. These findings shed light on the complex relationship between gut health and brain function.

Constipation, a common gastrointestinal problem, leads to 2.5 million doctor visits annually. Chronic constipation is characterized by bowel movements occurring every three days or less. This condition has been linked to several long-term health concerns, which can include inflammation, hormonal problems, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. A survey conducted in 2012 revealed that constipation affects one-third of individuals over 60 years old and approximately 16 percent of the overall population.

A comprehensive analysis of three large studies involving more than 110,000 indiviuduals was conducted to explore the potential impact of constipation on cognitive health. Data on bowel movement frequency were collected between 2012 and 2013, and cognitive function assessments were carried out from 2014 to 2018 on nearly 13,000 participants. The results unveiled a significant association between infrequent bowel movements and poorer cognitive function, encompassing vital mental processes like information reception, processing, storage, and action.

The impact of constipation on cognitive function is significant, with constipated individuals experiencing cognitive decline comparable to aging 3 or more years beyond their actual age. Additionally, constipation is linked to a 73% increased risk of subjective cognitive issues. However, it is not only infrequent bowel movements that contribute to cognitive decline; even those who have more than two bowel movements a day face a slightly higher risk. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing bowel health in maintaining optimal cognitive function.

A possible explanation suggests that the bacteria present in our gut might be involved in the link between constipation and brain health. Individuals with lower levels of microbes, which support the gut barrier and assist in fiber digestion, were found to have more constipation and poorer cognitive abilities. Although these findings indicate a connection between chronic constipation and cognitive decline, it is important to note that correlation does not imply causation.

Changes in Brain Activity and Oxygenation in Older Adults

In a recent study, scientists have discovered that the coordination between neuronal activity and the brain’s oxygenation is disrupted in older people. This finding sheds light on the crucial relationship between the brain and the cardiovascular system, as the brain relies on a significant portion of the body’s energy used – up to 20%. To meet the brain’s energy needs, specialized “neurovascular units” play a vital role in delivering enough energy supply to the neurons. This research provides new insights into the complex workings of the aging brain.

The activity of neurovascular units in humans has been recorded non-invasively for the first time, due to innovative measurement techniques and analysis processes performed at Lancaster Univ., UK. Infrared light was used to measure blood oxygenation in the brain, penetrating the skull effortlessly. At the same time, the scalp surface measured the brain’s electrical activity, which is related to neuronal activity.

The human body operates on various rhythms – the heartbeat being the most recognized one. These rhythms also include brain waves, respiration and the control of blood flow and blood pressure through the adjustment of blood vessel diameter. By measuring oxygenation, respiration, and electrical brain activity, and heart electric activity simultaneously, researchers are able to study these rhythms and their timing. By computing their “phase coherence,” researchers can study the strength and timing of these rhythms.

The findings demonstrate that both brain vasculature oscillations and brain waves are significantly changed in older individuals. However, the most notable difference lies in the coherence between these two factors, indicating that the communication and synchronization between energy supply and demand in the aging brain are considerably impaired.

This approach is potentially valuable for assessing the deterioration of neurovascular function in typical aging and for tracking the effectiveness of treatment or lifestyle adjustments in various neurodegenerative diseases. The findings offer a straightforward and non-intrusive way to evaluate the brain’s condition in healthy aging and in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Aging affects the phase coherence between spontaneous oscillations in brain oxygenation and neural activity

Living in a Cold Weather Climate Can Increase Longevity

Warm weather and beautiful beaches may attract retirees to Florida, but scientists say it might not be the best place to live a long life. Recent research suggests that moderate cold temperatures can increase longevity and decrease the risk of age-related illnesses. This is due to the prevention of harmful protein clumping, which can lead to diseases like ALS and Huntington’s.

These findings were discovered through the use of both human cells and a non-vertebrate organism, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, providing valuable insight into the effects of temperature on aging.

Through their research, German scientists discovered an intriguing way to combat protein build-up in cells by simply dropping the temperature. By exposing two different models to cold temperatures, the researchers found that the activity of proteasomes was significantly impacted. These cellular mechanisms are responsible for removing damaged proteins from cells, and with a moderate decrease in temperature, proteasome activity was actually stimulated.

Further research revealed that a specific proteasome activator called PA28y/PSME3 has promising potential for reducing the negative effects of aging in both nematode and human cells. This exciting discovery opens up new possibilities for improving cellular health and may have implications for various fields of medicine.

The study reveals that cold temperatures have an enduring impact on the regulation of proteasomes throughout evolution, which could potentially aid in the treatment of aging-related diseases. It is well-established that aging increases the risk of neurodegenerative diseases marked by protein accumulation, such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, ALS, and Alzheimer’s. These findings have promising implications not only for understanding these specific conditions but also for exploring how they develop in other animals and with other age-related ailments.

While warm-blooded mammals maintain a constant body temperature regardless of environmental conditions, recent research shows that even a small drop in temperature can have big benefits. Scientists found that lowering the body temperature of mice by just half a degree increased their lifespan significantly. Similar effects were observed in nematodes when their temperature was lowered by a few degrees. These findings suggest that manipulating body temperature could be a promising strategy for improving human health and longevity.

Scientists have recently discovered a correlation between body temperature and how long humans can live. Typically, a normal human temperature ranges from 97°F to 99°F, but it can drop to as low as 96.8°F during sleep. If it drops below 95 degrees, it can trigger hypothermia. What’s fascinating is that human body temperature has been declining since the Industrial Revolution, which might be one of the reasons why we’re living longer nowadays. It’s mind-boggling to think about how a simple physiological change can impact our health and lifespan over time.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Cold temperature extends longevity and prevents disease-related protein aggregation through PA28-induced proteasomes

Muscle Fat Level Related to Cognitive Decline

New research published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society suggests that the amount of fat present in a person’s muscle tissue could be a valuable predictor of cognitive decline in older adults. The study revealed a noteworthy connection between an accumulation of fat in the thigh muscle over a period of 5 years and an increased likelihood of cognitive decline. This association persisted even after considering important factors such as body weight, other fat deposits, muscle traits, and typical dementia risk factors.

In the study, muscle fat levels were examined in 1,634 individuals between the ages of 69 and 79. Muscle fat was measured at the start of the study, after one year, and again after six years. Additionally, cognitive function was evaluated at the beginning of the study, as well as at years 1, 3, 5, 8, and 10.

The findings indicate that individuals who experienced increases in muscle fat from year one to year six showed a faster decline in cognitive function over time.

The findings of the study indicate that muscle adiposity has a distinct and significant impact on cognitive decline, separate from the effects of other types of fat or muscle traits. This suggests that further investigation is needed to explore the communication between muscle fat and the brain, and whether decreasing muscle adiposity can potentially decrease the risk of dementia.

The search for a cure for dementia continues, but now the focus is on preventative lifestyle interventions. It is predicted that the number of people affected by dementia could triple by 2050, affecting over 150 million people worldwide.

The importance of body composition in preventative healthcare cannot be overstated, as individuals with the same BMI may have varying levels of health risks and associated conditions. It is evident that there is an increasing demand for regular assessments of muscle fatness in medical settings, as these assessments could potentially provide valuable insights into the risk of dementia and improve overall outcomes.

This suggests that monitoring muscle adipose levels could be a useful indicator of cognitive health in older adults.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Increase in skeletal muscular adiposity and cognitive decline in a biracial cohort of older men and women

Discovery of Link Between the Gut and Autism

In a groundbreaking study conducted by 43 dedicated researchers, a significant breakthrough has been made in understanding and unraveling the mysteries of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By examining the complex world of the gut microbiome, these findings shed light on the role of environmental factors in the exponential increase of this neurological syndrome.

Contrary to prevalent beliefs that attribute autism solely to genetics, this data-driven research challenges the notion and highlights the importance of environmental influences. By identifying a distinct microbial signature associated with ASD, this study paves the way for a deeper understanding of how the gut microbiota impacts this profound condition.

The gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These microorganisms play a crucial role in shaping our health. Recent studies have highlighted the link between a higher number and diversity of microbes in the gut and better overall health, as well as lower risk of disease. Additionally, the gut bacteria aid in the breakdown of fiber and produce metabolites that support digestion and brain function, among other important tasks.

In a recent study conducted by the Simons Foundation’s Autism Research Initiative (SFARI), 25 previously published datasets were reanalyzed to identify specific metabolic pathways related to autism. These pathways were found to be linked to certain gut microbes. The study supports the findings of a recent long-term study that focused on microbiome-based treatment for autism. This treatment resulted in improvements in both gut and brain symptoms. The research emphasizes that the microbiome is altered in individuals with autism, and these alterations can impact biochemistry, gastrointestinal functioning, and neurological functioning.

Autism spectrum disorder remains a complex and diverse condition with no identified singular cause. It is characterized by a combination of genetic, physiological, and behavioral factors. It primarily manifests in childhood and now affects a higher number of children than before. The challenges in studying autism include assessing severely affected children and identifying its neurological nature. Additionally, the vastness of the microbiome further complicates the investigation into the role of gastrointestinal issues in autism, leading to differences in opinion.

Researchers made a surprising discovery while analyzing data by using an algorithm. By comparing individuals with autism and those without, they examined various factors such as gene expression, diet and immune system response. The robustness of the findings was highly surprising. The results of the analysis unmistakably stood out from the raw data. This type of evident correlation between gut microbial and human metabolic pathways in autism had never been observed before.

The latest findings provided by researchers open up opportunities for targeted research on manipulating the microbiome. The utilization of stool analysis to monitor patients’ responses to specific interventions over time can greatly influence future studies and improve clinical care.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Multi-level analysis of the gut–brain axis shows autism spectrum disorder-associated molecular and microbial profiles

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