Category: Health and Lifestyle

A recent study indicates that a combination of kefir and prebiotic fiber may be more effective in reducing inflammation than omega-3 supplements alone, highlighting the importance of gut health.

A new study from the University of Nottingham has revealed that a simple dietary combination could provide greater immune benefits than omega-3 supplements on their own. Researchers found that pairing kefir, a fermented milk drink, with a mix of prebiotic fibers led to more significant reductions in inflammation markers compared to omega-3 supplements or fiber alone.

The findings, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, underscore the potential role of gut bacteria in supporting immune and metabolic functions. Kefir, which is similar to yogurt and contains live bacteria and yeast, appears to enhance the effects of prebiotic fiber. This type of fiber nourishes healthy gut bacteria, enabling them to grow and function more effectively.

As these beneficial bacteria flourish, they produce natural substances that help to alleviate inflammation in the body. In a six-week study, participants who consumed the kefir and fiber combination experienced the most significant decrease in markers associated with whole-body inflammation. While those taking omega-3 supplements or fiber alone also saw improvements, the results were not as pronounced.

“Our study shows that while all three dietary approaches reduced inflammation, the synbiotic — combining fermented kefir with a diverse prebiotic fiber mix — had the most powerful and wide-ranging effects,” said Amrita Vijay, a gut microbiome scientist who led the research.

The researchers focused on measuring systemic inflammatory markers, which indicate inflammation occurring throughout the body. While inflammation is a normal immune response, chronic low-level inflammation that persists over time has been linked to various health issues, including heart disease and metabolic disorders, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The study’s findings suggest that combining probiotics and prebiotics may offer broader support for health than relying on a single supplement. “This suggests that the interaction between gut microbes and dietary fiber may be key to supporting immune balance and metabolic health,” Vijay noted.

Looking ahead, the research team plans to further investigate how synbiotic supplementation could impact individuals with chronic inflammatory disorders, potentially paving the way for new dietary strategies in managing inflammation.

These insights into the benefits of kefir and prebiotic fiber highlight the importance of gut health in overall well-being, suggesting that dietary choices can play a crucial role in managing inflammation and supporting immune function.

According to Fox News, the implications of this research could lead to more effective dietary recommendations for those seeking to reduce inflammation and improve their health.

A recent study suggests that spending time near windows may help individuals with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels by enhancing glucose regulation through natural light exposure.

A new study published in *Cell Metabolism* indicates that spending time near windows can assist people with type 2 diabetes in managing their blood sugar levels. The research links exposure to natural light with improved glucose regulation.

According to the study, sitting next to a window may positively influence insulin levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that natural light, even when experienced indoors, alters how the body processes glucose and utilizes energy. In Western societies, people typically spend 80% to 90% of their time under artificial lighting, which is often dimmer and less dynamic than sunlight. Natural daylight serves as a powerful cue for the body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm.

The body’s internal clock plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including digestion, hormone release, and metabolism. When this clock becomes misaligned, it can exacerbate insulin resistance and blood sugar control issues, which are significant challenges for those with type 2 diabetes.

To investigate the effects of daylight on blood sugar management, scientists recruited 13 adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Each participant spent two separate 4.5-day periods in a controlled office environment. During one period, they worked in front of large windows with natural light streaming in. In the other period, they worked in the same room, but with the windows covered, relying solely on typical indoor lighting.

Throughout both conditions, participants consumed similar meals, adhered to the same schedule, and maintained their usual diabetes medications. While average blood sugar levels did not show significant differences between the two settings, the findings revealed that individuals spent more time within a healthy glucose range when exposed to natural daylight. Their blood sugar levels fluctuated less and remained within a desirable range for a more extended period during the daylight exposure.

The study also noted that exposure to natural light positively impacted metabolism. Participants burned more fat and fewer carbohydrates for energy when they were in daylight conditions. Muscle biopsies and laboratory tests indicated that the genes responsible for regulating the body’s cellular clocks were more synchronized under natural light, which can enhance nutrient processing and improve cellular responses to insulin.

However, the researchers emphasized that natural daylight should not replace medication or traditional management strategies such as diet and exercise. They acknowledged some limitations in the study, including the small sample size, and called for larger studies to confirm these results and determine the optimal amount of natural light exposure needed for effective blood sugar management.

The study also highlights the often-overlooked impact of the built environment on health and raises concerns about the prevalence of office settings with inadequate access to natural daylight.

According to the researchers, “This study also highlights the often unnoticed impact of the built environment on our health, and raises further concerns about the prevalence of office environments with poor (natural) daylight access.”

As awareness of the benefits of natural light grows, individuals with type 2 diabetes may find that simple changes to their environments could contribute to better health outcomes.

For more information, refer to the original study published in *Cell Metabolism*.

Amy Schumer’s recent 50-pound weight loss is attributed to Cushing’s syndrome, a serious hormonal disorder that can have life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Comedian Amy Schumer, 44, has opened up about her battle with Cushing’s syndrome, a condition that has led to her significant weight loss. Schumer’s transformation has ignited discussions online, prompting her to clarify the situation in a now-deleted Instagram post. She emphasized, “I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” while also denying any use of cosmetic procedures such as Botox or fillers.

Schumer stressed that her weight loss was not motivated by a desire to enhance her appearance but rather a necessity for her health. “Not to look hot, which does feel fun and temporary,” she explained. “I did it to survive. I had a disease that makes your face extremely puffy that can kill you, but the internet caught it and that disease has cleared.” She added, “Sorry for whatever feeling it’s giving you that I lost that weight.” Schumer also mentioned her past experiences with plastic surgery and her use of the medication Mounjaro, stating, “I’m pain free. I can [play] tag with my son.”

In her post, Schumer also touched on her hormonal changes, expressing her willingness to share more about her experiences with perimenopause. Previously, she had disclosed her diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder that can lead to severe swelling, fatigue, and potentially fatal complications.

Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight loss specialist based in New Jersey, provided insights into Cushing’s syndrome in an interview with Fox News Digital. He explained that the condition arises from prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. This excess cortisol is often a result of long-term steroid use, commonly seen in patients with autoimmune disorders.

Dr. Balazs noted that Cushing’s syndrome is characterized not only by weight gain but also by a specific redistribution of fat due to elevated cortisol levels. This can lead to fat accumulation in the abdomen, chest, upper back—often referred to as a “buffalo hump”—and the face, which may appear swollen, a condition known as “moon face.” Additionally, cortisol contributes to the breakdown of protein, resulting in thinning of the arms and legs.

Weight gain associated with Cushing’s syndrome can be involuntary and challenging to manage. Cortisol also stimulates hunger, raises blood sugar levels, and promotes fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area. Other complications of the syndrome may include high blood pressure, bone loss, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, as noted by the Mayo Clinic.

In addition to weight gain, individuals with Cushing’s syndrome may experience a variety of symptoms, including pink or purple stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts, and underarms, as well as acne, slow wound healing, and fragile skin that bruises easily. Women may notice thick, dark hair growth on the face and body, along with irregular menstrual cycles. Men may experience reduced libido, fertility issues, and erectile dysfunction.

Other symptoms can include extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, headaches, insomnia, skin darkening, and stunted growth in children. Those exhibiting symptoms are advised to consult their healthcare provider, especially if they are on steroid medications for conditions such as asthma, arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease, as these can worsen the syndrome.

The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that early intervention is crucial for recovery, stating, “the sooner treatment starts, the better the chances for recovery.” For patients like Schumer, weight loss is not the primary objective; rather, it serves as a critical indicator of effective treatment. Dr. Balazs explained, “The primary goal is to normalize your high cortisol levels.” He believes that Schumer received treatment for her underlying condition first, and once her cortisol levels were stabilized, adjunct medications could assist with weight management.

Among these adjunct medications, Mounjaro is highlighted as an effective option for reducing deep abdominal fat and improving insulin sensitivity in cells. Schumer’s journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of hormonal disorders and the importance of addressing health issues promptly.

Fox News Digital’s Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.

For further information on Cushing’s syndrome and its management, consult healthcare professionals or trusted medical resources.

A recent study suggests that maintaining a consistent bedtime can lead to lower blood pressure, highlighting the importance of sleep timing in cardiovascular health.

New research indicates that adhering to a consistent bedtime may significantly contribute to lowering blood pressure, even without extending sleep duration. Experts emphasize that adjustments in sleep timing can play a crucial role in reducing cardiovascular risk.

Dr. William Lu, the medical director at Dreem Health in San Francisco, explained to Fox News Digital that both sleep duration and timing are essential for heart health, with consistency being a vital factor in promoting cardiovascular wellness.

“Both matter, but growing evidence shows regularity—going to sleep and waking at roughly the same times night-to-night—is an independent predictor of cardiovascular risk, even after accounting for total sleep time,” Dr. Lu stated.

Recent findings published in the journal Sleep Advances support this connection. The study revealed that adults with high blood pressure who maintained a consistent bedtime over two weeks experienced modest yet significant improvements in their blood pressure readings, despite not sleeping for longer periods.

Participants in the study managed to reduce their night-to-night bedtime variability from approximately 30 minutes to just a few minutes. Researchers noted that this simple adjustment contributed to healthier overnight blood pressure levels.

Experts assert that even a slight decrease in systolic pressure can lower cardiovascular risk. This concept aligns with research on circadian rhythms and the body’s natural blood pressure patterns.

“Consistent bed and wake times keep your internal circadian clock synchronized to Earth’s day-night cycle,” Dr. Lu explained. A regular sleep schedule aids the body in releasing essential hormones, such as melatonin and cortisol, at appropriate times, which supports the natural fluctuations of blood pressure throughout the day and night.

Dr. Lu cautioned that disruptions in sleep timing can affect blood pressure more rapidly than many individuals may realize. While some may believe that shifting their bedtime on weekends or occasionally staying up late has minimal impact, he noted that the body responds almost immediately to these changes.

For those looking to establish a more consistent sleep routine, Dr. Lu recommends starting with a fixed morning wake-up time. “Begin with a consistent wake time every day, including weekends, and anchor the schedule with morning light exposure—then set a consistent bedtime that allows for adequate sleep before that wake time,” he advised. “Choose a wake time you can maintain and aim for 30 minutes of morning light after waking up.”

Additionally, he suggests incorporating a brief wind-down routine before bed and reducing the intake of stimulants and screen time in the evening. Dr. Lu emphasizes that improving sleep timing is a low-risk change that may assist in lowering blood pressure, but it should complement, not replace, anti-hypertensive medications.

The study, however, did have some limitations. The sample size was relatively small, consisting of only 11 middle-aged adults with obesity and hypertension, and it was conducted over a two-week period, which limited the ability to measure long-term changes.

Furthermore, the study lacked a control group or randomization, making it impossible to definitively conclude that the improvements in blood pressure were solely due to more consistent bedtimes rather than other lifestyle factors, such as diet, stress, or medication changes. Larger and longer-term studies are necessary to validate these findings.

Anyone considering adjustments to their sleep schedule for potential blood pressure benefits should consult with a healthcare professional first, according to Dr. Lu.

For more information, see the report by Fox News Digital.

Dr. Mark Shachner offers expert advice on preventing heartburn during the holiday season, highlighting common mistakes and effective strategies for managing reflux during festive meals.

The holiday season is often synonymous with family gatherings, festive cheer, and, unfortunately, heartburn for many individuals. As people indulge in larger portions, richer foods, and more sweets and alcohol than usual, cases of reflux tend to increase, according to Dr. Mark Shachner, medical director of the Broward Health Coral Springs Heartburn Center in South Florida.

“Heartburn tends to flare up during the holidays because we often eat larger portions, enjoy richer foods, and indulge in more sweets and alcohol than usual,” Dr. Shachner told Fox News Digital.

Combining these rich holiday foods and drinks with overeating, late-night meals, and lying down too soon after eating creates what Dr. Shachner describes as “a recipe for reflux.” To help mitigate this issue, he shares five common mistakes that can trigger heartburn, applicable during the holidays and throughout the year.

One of the primary recommendations is to eat smaller portions. Dr. Shachner advises chewing food slowly and resisting the urge to return for seconds until sufficient time has passed for digestion. Staying upright for at least two to three hours after eating can also facilitate efficient stomach emptying and keep acid where it belongs.

“Moderation and timing make the biggest difference,” he emphasized.

While it may be tempting to indulge in one last cookie or slice of pie before bed, Dr. Shachner suggests allowing a gap of two to three hours between the last meal and bedtime. Going to bed too soon after eating is a significant contributor to reflux, as lying flat can make it easier for stomach acid to rise.

Engaging in light physical activity, such as a gentle walk after meals, can also aid digestion and reduce the likelihood of heartburn. “A gentle walk after meals helps digestion and reduces reflux,” he noted. He cautions against the post-feast nap, which can exacerbate heartburn symptoms.

Certain foods and beverages are more likely to trigger heartburn. Common culprits include fatty or fried dishes, tomato sauces, citrus fruits, chocolate, peppermint, alcohol, coffee, and carbonated drinks. Dr. Shachner points out that individual triggers can vary, making it essential for people to pay attention to which foods cause them discomfort.

While an occasional episode of heartburn is typically not a cause for concern, Dr. Shachner warns that experiencing symptoms two or more times a week, or finding that over-the-counter remedies are no longer effective, warrants a visit to a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

“Chronic reflux can signal gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can cause long-term damage if left untreated,” he explained.

Dr. Shachner also advises against relying too heavily on antacids or acid reducers. “It’s best to use them under the guidance of a healthcare professional who can identify and treat the root cause rather than just the symptoms,” he said.

For individuals with chronic reflux, there are now minimally invasive, FDA-approved treatments available that provide lasting relief without the need for traditional surgery. One such option is the LINX® procedure, which employs a small ring of magnetic beads to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter. Another option is transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF), which restores the natural barrier between the stomach and esophagus through the mouth, eliminating the need for external incisions.

By following these expert tips and being mindful of dietary choices, individuals can enjoy their holiday festivities while minimizing the risk of heartburn.

Source: Original article

Creatine, often linked to muscle building, is gaining recognition for its potential cognitive and heart health benefits, according to registered dietitian nutritionist Sam McKinney.

Creatine is widely recognized for its role in enhancing athletic performance and muscle growth. However, recent discussions have highlighted its broader applications, including cognitive and heart health benefits. This shift in perception is supported by insights from registered dietitian nutritionist Sam McKinney of Life Time Fitness in Minneapolis.

Traditionally associated with gym-goers, creatine is available in powder or capsule form. Celebrities like singer Ciara and actor Mark Wahlberg have embraced the supplement, citing its benefits beyond muscle enhancement. Ciara recently shared with Business Insider that she uses creatine to maintain energy levels throughout the day. Wahlberg has even launched his own creatine monohydrate product, further popularizing its use.

Creatine is a natural compound primarily stored in muscles, with smaller amounts found in the brain, liver, and kidneys. McKinney explains that the body requires adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for energy, especially during high-intensity exercise. Creatine aids this process by donating a phosphate group, which helps produce additional ATP. This function is crucial for increasing power output and force during workouts, ultimately impacting muscle growth and athletic performance.

Recently, creatine has garnered attention for its potential cognitive benefits. McKinney notes that women typically have 70% to 80% lower creatine stores than men, making supplementation particularly beneficial during hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. While research on creatine’s effects on cognitive health has yielded mixed results, some studies indicate promising outcomes. For instance, a small study found that individuals with depression experienced improvements when taking 3 to 5 grams of daily creatine, although those with bipolar disorder reported worsening symptoms.

Another study suggested that creatine could support recovery from traumatic brain injuries, showing improvements in symptoms such as amnesia, headaches, and fatigue. McKinney emphasizes that cognitive health benefits may be more pronounced in individuals at risk for lower phosphocreatine stores, including vegetarians, vegans, and the elderly.

Stanford neuroscientist Andrew Huberman has referred to creatine as the “Michael Jordan” of supplements, highlighting its potential as a fuel source for the brain. He suggests that creatine may connect with areas involved in mood regulation and motivation, further underscoring its cognitive benefits.

In addition to its cognitive advantages, creatine may also support heart health. McKinney explains that the heart, like other muscles, requires ATP for energy. Creatine plays a significant role in the heart’s contraction and energy supply, which is essential during periods of increased workload, such as exercise. Research indicates that creatine supplementation can improve outcomes following heart bypass surgery and enhance oxygen balance in the heart.

Combining creatine with nutrients like vitamin B12 may further promote overall energy and heart function. McKinney notes that since creatine aids muscle building, it can also contribute to increased lifespan, as muscle mass tends to decrease with age. “Using creatine can help mitigate these losses and help us to stay strong, mobile, and independent,” she explains. The positive impacts of creatine are most significant when combined with a resistance training routine.

Specific benefits of creatine include improved grip strength and lower body endurance, both of which are indicators of mobility and health in older adults. McKinney references a study suggesting that creatine may help maintain bone strength when paired with a strength training program. The benefits may stem from creatine’s ability to enhance workout effectiveness or from increased muscle mass, which adds tension to the bone and supports its strength.

Daily creatine doses typically range from 2 to 10 grams, with most individuals experiencing benefits from a daily intake of 5 grams. McKinney recommends creatine monohydrate, the most common and well-researched form, as the best option for supplementation.

Despite common misconceptions, McKinney assures that creatine is one of the safest and most effective supplements available for most individuals. It is important to clarify that creatine is not a steroid and does not negatively impact kidney function in healthy people. However, those with preexisting kidney issues should exercise caution when considering supplementation.

The Mayo Clinic states that when taken orally at appropriate doses, creatine is likely safe for use up to five years. As with any dietary supplement, it is crucial to select a product that adheres to recommended manufacturing practices and undergoes third-party testing to ensure quality. Before starting creatine supplementation, experts recommend consulting with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate individualized approach.

Source: Original article