Author: Ben Carlson

Omega-3 fatty acids may protect brain health

Recent studies highlight the potential role of omega-3 fatty acids in protecting brain health, especially among older adults. These essential fats, found in fatty fish like salmon, offer benefits for heart health, inflammation, and brain function. Now, two studies suggest they may also benefit individuals at higher risk for cognitive decline, such as carriers of the ε4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE4).

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Shingles vaccine may lower dementia risk

The recombinant zoster vaccine known as SHINGRIX may also lower the risk of developing dementia, according to a new study. The vaccine prevents shingles, a painful viral infection, and is typically recommended for those 50 and older. Researchers in the U.K. published a study in Nature Medicine on July 25 that showed that among people diagnosed with dementia, those who received the recombinant zoster vaccine had more diagnosis-free time compared with those who received a different vaccine.

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Ultra-processed foods affect brain health

Recent research has revealed that eating ultra-processed foods affects brain health. Studies suggest that diets high in these foods could increase the risk of cognitive impairment and stroke. Ultra-processed foods include industrially prepared items like packaged snacks, ready-made meals, and sugary drinks. These foods are often convenient, but they carry hidden health dangers.

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The spread of dangerous medical misinformation

You may have heard that vaccines cause autism, but are you unsure where this idea came from? Are you — or someone you know — suspicious of the U.S. government response to COVID-19? If so, you’ll be interested in a two-part series of articles that John Parkinson wrote about the challenges of communicating medical information to the public and the ease with which medical misinformation spreads.

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Targeting 14 risk factors can cut dementia cases by nearly half

As life expectancy increases worldwide, more people are living with dementia. Even though the age-specific rate of dementia is falling in some high-income countries, the overall number of cases is still rising. This highlights the need for effective prevention strategies. The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention, and care recently updated its findings, revealing 14 modifiable risk factors that can help reduce dementia cases. Their latest report emphasizes that targeting 14 risk factors can cut dementia cases by nearly half.

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Links Between Sleep, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Sex Differences as shown by a couple sleeping in bed

Links between sleep, Alzheimer’s disease, and sex differences

Did you know that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than men? In fact, about two-thirds of Alzheimer’s cases in the U.S. affect women. One key factor that might help explain this disparity is the connection between sleep disruptions, Alzheimer’s disease, and sex differences. As a recent study shows, it’s becoming clear that sleep problems, especially during and after menopause, may play a significant role in women’s increased risk for Alzheimer’s.

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German shorthair pointers benefit from delaying spay/neuter

Additional support for delaying spay/neuter in large-breed dogs

When it comes to spaying or neutering your dog, the timing of the procedure can significantly impact their long-term health. Traditionally, veterinarians have recommended spaying or neutering before six months of age. However, recent studies, including an update to the comprehensive studies by Drs. Benjamin and Lynette Hart from the University of California, Davis, have added to growing evidence that delaying these procedures can reduce the risk of cancer and joint disorders in certain breeds. Pet owners should also consider hormone-sparing sterilization as an alternative to traditional spay/neuter.

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We’re sorry, you are not eligible for the nationwide COVID-OUT or ACTIV-6 studies, but you may be eligible for other federal trials:

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