Our metabolism is a complex system responsible for converting the food we eat into energy or storing it as weight. Many of us blame a “slow” or “sluggish” metabolism for our struggles with weight loss. In response, a multi-billion-dollar industry offers countless products that promise to speed up our metabolic rate for quick weight loss.
Health
Over the years, researchers have invested a significant amount of time and resources into studying Alzheimer’s disease, an ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite these efforts, the disease remains shrouded in mystery. However, recent research conducted by Stanford University neuroscientist Andy Tsai and his team sheds light on the biological mechanisms of immune
Oral nasal decongestants have long been a go-to remedy for those seeking relief from stuffiness caused by colds and allergies. However, an expert panel appointed by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cast doubt on the effectiveness of these drugs. After a thorough evaluation of clinical trial data, the panel concluded that
If you’ve ever experienced a night of restless sleep and felt mentally drained the following day, it’s not just a passing sensation. Recent research reveals that sleep deprivation not only dampens your mood but also harms your brain, increasing the risk of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Scientists studying this phenomenon have made a significant
Lead pollution has long been acknowledged as a serious health concern, but new research suggests that its impact on global health is far greater than previously thought. In fact, lead poisoning may contribute to over five million deaths each year, making it a similar threat to air pollution. This groundbreaking study, published in the Lancet
A groundbreaking study has uncovered a surprising link between a gene variation and protection against two debilitating neurological diseases: Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The gene variant, known as DR4, belongs to a family of genes that typically aid the immune system in identifying and eliminating foreign intruders like bacteria and viruses. Led by Stanford University, the
The recent tragic death of a 14-year-old boy from Massachusetts has raised concerns about the safety of a popular spicy snack. Harris Wolobah lost his life just hours after consuming a tortilla chip dusted with a spice made from two of the world’s hottest peppers, the Carolina Reaper and the Naga Viper. Marketed as the
Scientists at the University of Rhode Island have conducted a groundbreaking experiment on mice to investigate the potential health impacts of microplastics. The study revealed alarming results, with traces of pollutants accumulating in every organ of the rodents’ bodies, including the brain. Furthermore, the presence of these microplastics led to behavioral changes reminiscent of dementia
Kidney failure is a debilitating condition that currently requires either hours spent on a dialysis machine or the non-guaranteed option of a donor transplant. However, there might be a glimmer of hope on the horizon: an artificial kidney implant. Scientists at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) have developed a bioreactor device that utilizes
Chinese scientists have achieved a groundbreaking feat by successfully growing kidneys that contain human cells in pig embryos. This landmark achievement has the potential to address the critical shortage of organs for transplantation. However, this development raises significant ethical concerns, particularly since some human cells were found in the brains of the pigs involved in
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has long been associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. However, a recent study led by Purdue University has provided some valuable insights into this connection. By creating a ‘mini-brain’ containing clusters of cultured mouse neurons, the researchers were able to simulate
Our bodies are host to a complex dance of atoms and molecules that power the processes essential for our survival. This intricate symphony of metabolism is the driving force behind the creation, distribution, and utilization of substances vital to our lives. However, recent research has shown that this dance is not uniform across all species.
In recent decades, our relationship with pets has transformed significantly. Nowadays, pet ownership has soared to unprecedented levels. According to a recent survey, a staggering 69% of Australian households have at least one pet. As a nation, we allocate an estimated A$33 billion each year to care for our beloved fur babies. While owning a
Obesity is a global health epidemic that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite efforts to combat this condition, traditional treatments often focus on reducing appetite or avoiding fats, which can be challenging to maintain in the long term. However, recent Phase 1 clinical trials have shown promising results for a new drug that effectively reduces
The implementation of “food is medicine” programs has shown promising results in improving the health outcomes of individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. These programs provide patients with free fruits and vegetables upon receiving a prescription from their healthcare providers. In a recent study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, researchers observed notable improvements