Depression Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Inflammation May Be the Link Between Chronic Pain and Depression

The AHA! Team — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 05:18:17 +0000

Yale School of Medicine via Newswise – A new study published in Science Advances shows that a person’s risk of depression increases alongside the number of places in the body in which they experience pain. Chronic pain—or pain that lasts at least three months—is closely intertwined with depression. Individuals living with pain’s persistent symptoms may be up to four times more likely to experience depression, research shows. Almost 30% of people worldwide suffer from a chronic pain condition such as low back pain and migraines, and one in three of these patients also report co-existing pain conditions. A new study published in Science Advances Now, a new study published in Science Advances shows that a person’s risk of depression increases alongside the number of places in the body in which they experience pain. Furthermore, inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation) help explain the association between pain and depression. This finding suggests that the mechanisms underlying chronic pain and depression may be driven by systemic inflammation, the researchers say. “Pain isn’t only physical,” says Dustin Scheinost, PhD, associate professor of radiology and biomedical imaging at Yale School of Medicine (YSM), and the study’s principal investigator. “Our study adds to the evidence that physical conditions can have mental health consequences.” Inflammatory markers may explain depression risk The Yale team analyzed data from the UK Biobank—a long-term study in the United Kingdom that has collected extensive health information from more than 400,000 individuals over 14 years. UK Biobank participants reported whether they were experiencing pain that interfered with daily life and identified the sites and duration of their pain. The categories for pain sites included head, face, neck, back, stomach, hip, knee, and general pain. The dataset also included if and when the participants were diagnosed with depression. The researchers analyzed data from participants with both chronic and acute (lasting less than three months) pain. They found that both types of pain from all body sites were associated with depression, and that chronic pain was more strongly associated than acute pain. Furthermore, having chronic pain in multiple parts of the body was linked to a greater risk of depression than having pain at a single site. The UK Biobank also included assessments of participants’ blood. The Yale researchers used these data to look for inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive proteins, platelets, and white blood cells. They found that several of these inflammatory markers helped explain the relationship between pain and depression—and C-reactive proteins in particular were the strongest variable. “This gives us some preliminary evidence about the inflammatory mechanisms underlying the association between pain and depression,” says Rongtao Jiang, PhD, postdoctoral associate at YSM and the study’s first author. Illuminating the brain-body connection The study adds to growing evidence highlighting the significance of the brain-body connection, the authors say. “We often think of brain health or mental health as separate from cardiac health or liver health, for instance,” says Scheinost. “But all of these body systems influence each other.” Further research into the underlying drivers of pain and depression could help scientists develop new intervention strategies, he adds. Most of the participants studied were of European ancestry. In future studies, Jiang says he is interested in studying whether these findings also apply to individuals of other ethnicities. Scheinost’s team is also studying the association between chronic pain and opioid use disorder. “This is another disorder that goes hand-in-hand with the experience of chronic pain,” Scheinost says. To read the original article click here.

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Antidepressants Linked to Faster Cognitive Decline in Dementia

The AHA! Team — Fri, 23 May 2025 05:21:22 +0000

Karolinska Institutet via EurekAlert! – New research suggests that antidepressants can accelerate cognitive decline in people with dementia. At the same time, some drugs appear to be less harmful than others, which can help doctors make better treatment decisions, according to the study published in BMC Medicine. Antidepressants are often used to relieve symptoms such as anxiety, depression, aggressiveness, and sleep disturbances in dementia sufferers. However, a new observational study based on data from the Swedish Dementia Registry (SveDem) shows that patients with dementia who are treated with antidepressants experience an increased cognitive decline compared to patients who do not receive this medication. The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of registry data from 18,740 patients, of whom approximately 23 percent were treated with antidepressants. During the course of the study, a total of 11,912 prescriptions of antidepressants were registered, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) accounting for 65 percent. Depressive symptoms “Depressive symptoms can both worsen cognitive decline and impair quality of life, so it is important to treat them. Our results can help doctors and other healthcare professionals choose antidepressants that are better adapted for patients with dementia,” says Sara Garcia Ptacek, researcher at the Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, and the study’s last author. The researchers from Karolinska Institutet and Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg have followed the patients’ cognitive development over time and compared both medicated and non-medicated groups as well as different types of antidepressants. Although it is not currently possible to determine whether the cognitive impairment is due to the drugs or to the depressive symptoms themselves, the researchers were able to see that antidepressants were associated with increased cognitive decline. Differences between drugs The study also points to differences between different drugs. The SSRI escitalopram was associated with the fastest cognitive decline, followed by the SSRIs citalopram and sertraline. Mirtazapine, which has a different mechanism of action, had less negative cognitive impact than escitalopram. The researchers now want to investigate whether certain patient groups, such as people with specific dementia types or biomarkers, respond better or worse to different antidepressants. “The goal is to find these subgroups to create more individualised care,” says Sara Garcia Ptacek. The study has been funded by the Swedish Research Council, Region Stockholm, the Swedish Dementia Research Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Foundation and New Innovative Roads Call – a private initiative from the Leif Lundblad family and others. The researchers report no conflicts of interest. Publication: “Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study”, Minjia Mo, Tamar Abzhandadze, Minh Tuan Hoang, Simona Sacuiu, Pol Grau Jurado, Joana B. Pereira, Luana Naia, Julianna Kele, Silvia Maioli, Hong Xu, Maria Eriksdotter, Sara Garcia Ptacek. BMC Medicine, online February 25, 2025, doi: 10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3. Journal BMC Medicine DOI 10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3. To read the original article click here.

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RFK Jr. Takes on Big Pharma: How Diet Could End the Antidepressant Era

The AHA! Team — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 05:09:23 +0000

Cassie B. via Natural News – In a bold move that could upend the $15 billion antidepressant industry, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is spotlighting groundbreaking research linking poor diet to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Linking poor diets to mental health disorders Robert F. Kennedy Jr. highlights research linking poor diets to mental health disorders, challenging the $15 billion antidepressant industry. Studies show diets high in sugar and saturated fats alter brain chemistry, reducing grey matter and disrupting neurotransmitters tied to depression and anxiety. Kennedy argues that toxic food ingredients fuel mental health crises, while Big Pharma profits from treating the fallout with medications. A growing movement for cleaner food is emerging, with restaurants replacing harmful ingredients in response to consumer demand. Upend a $15 billion antidepressant industry? In a bold move that could upend the $15 billion antidepressant industry, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is spotlighting groundbreaking research linking poor diet to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Drawing on studies from Stanford, Harvard, and other institutions, Kennedy argues that the toxic ingredients in America’s food supply are fueling a mental health crisis—and that Big Pharma is profiting from the fallout. With 40% of U.S. teenagers now struggling with anxiety or depression, Kennedy’s message is resonating: food is medicine, and changing what we eat could be the key to healing. The science behind the connection Recent studies reveal that a poor-quality diet—high in sugar, saturated fats, and ultra-processed foods—can alter brain chemistry and structure, leading to mental health issues. Research from the University of Reading found that unhealthy diets reduce grey matter volume and disrupt neurotransmitter levels in the brain, particularly gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. These changes are associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety, including rumination, a hallmark of mental health disorders. We can eat ourselves well! Dr. Piril Hepsomali, a lead researcher on the study, explained, “We can eat ourselves well! Ultimately, we see that people who have an unhealthy diet – high in sugar and saturated fat – have imbalanced excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, as well as reduced volume of grey matter in the frontal part of the brain.” Kennedy has been vocal about these findings, telling Fox News, “There are studies coming out of Stanford and Harvard that show a lot of mental illness, including anxiety and depression, are related to food… Food is medicine. By changing your diet, you can lose some of those diagnoses.” Threatening Big Pharma profits The implications of this research are seismic. If diet is a primary driver of mental health issues, the demand for antidepressants—a cornerstone of Big Pharma’s profits—could plummet. Kennedy has criticized the pharmaceutical industry for perpetuating the narrative that mental health problems are solely a matter of brain chemistry, requiring medication. “We are letting down these kids. And there is a moral issue here… it’s a financial issue. Health care costs are going to sink us. And the only way that we’re going to solve it is by changing what we eat,” he said. The stakes are high. In the U.S., 40% of adults are obese, compared to just 5% in Japan, where life expectancy is seven years longer on average. Over 1,000 ingredients banned in Europe are still allowed in America’s food supply, contributing to a toxic diet that Kennedy argues is making people sick—and Big Pharma rich. A growing movement for cleaner food Kennedy’s campaign is already sparking change. Restaurant chains like Steak ’n Shake and Sweetgreen are ditching harmful seed oils in favor of healthier alternatives like beef tallow and avocado oil. Outback Steakhouse is also reportedly reevaluating its ingredients in response to consumer demand for cleaner food. A shift reflects a broader awakening This shift reflects a broader awakening to the connection between diet and mental health. Many people think antidepressants are the solution to depression, but it’s time to shine a spotlight on the significant role diet plays in mental health. RFK Jr.’s crusade against Big Pharma and toxic food is more than a critique—it’s a call to action. By highlighting the link between diet and mental health, he is challenging Americans to rethink their relationship with food and demand accountability from corporations that prioritize profits over public health. As the science continues to mount, it is becoming increasingly clear that the path to better mental health may start on our plates, not in a pill bottle. Sources for this article include: Modernity.news NeuroscienceNews.com NYPost.com Health.Harvard.edu To read the original article, click here

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Can AI Recognize the Signs of Depression in People’s Voices?

The AHA! Team — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 05:07:05 +0000

Dr. Chinta Sidharthan via News-Medical – A machine learning tool successfully identified vocal markers of depression in over 70% of cases within 25 seconds, highlighting its potential for improving mental health screening in primary care and virtual healthcare settings. In a recent article in The Annals of Family Medicine, researchers evaluated the effectiveness of a machine learning (ML) tool for detecting vocal signs linked to severe or moderate depression. The tool successfully detected vocal markers of depression in just 25 seconds, correctly identifying cases of depression in more than 70% of samples, highlighting its utility for mental health screening. Background Depression is a major health issue, affecting about 18 million Americans annually, with nearly 30% experiencing it at some point in their lives. Despite guidelines recommending universal screening, depression screening in primary care remains very low (

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Study Links Common Antidepressants to Weight Gain

The AHA! Team — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 06:09:50 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – Depression and anxiety affect more Americans than ever before, with millions of people taking antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, and various hybrid courses of therapy every day. While these medications may work for some people (temporarily), they are not without unwanted side effects, including weight gain, reduced positive feelings and suicidal thoughts! While gaining weight over the course of antidepressant treatment is relatively common, the amount of weight gain varies between the first-line medications used in most doctors’ offices. Researchers set out to quantify the expected weight gain associated with antidepressant use and compare the differences among major prescriptions. Although depression and anxiety are widespread in today’s society, numerous treatment options exist, many of which are holistic and do not involve medication. This article will examine a recent study on antidepressant-related weight gain and its findings and explore alternative approaches to managing depression and anxiety beyond prescription medications. What’s fueling the rise in depression? There is no shortage of stressors in the world today to be depressed about; a combination of unstable geopolitics, inflation, and any number of personal issues can weigh heavily on a person’s mental health. Our society is so breakneck that we are expected to work ourselves to the bone while not displaying weakness, and this can easily lead to burnout and depression. There are other factors at play, however – the unnatural and highly processed diets that we almost all partake in are key factors in depression development. There is a profound link between bodily inflammatory states and the development of depression in all age groups. It is reasonable to look at the world around us and assume that mental health crises abound because of the state of everything, but one of the biggest contributors could be living right within your body. Researchers explore the impact of antidepressants on weight gain Antidepressants like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) work by preventing the reabsorption (or reuptake) of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, back into neurons. This allows serotonin to remain available longer in the brain, improving mood regulation. While the exact mechanism of how this alleviates anxiety and depression isn’t fully understood, the ability of SSRIs to enhance serotonin signaling has shown enough efficacy in treating these conditions to warrant their widespread medical use. In addition to a variety of other side effects, some mild, some less so, weight gain is a well-known side effect of most antidepressants. The researchers of the study above assessed the health records of over 180,000 mental health patients over 24 months in the United States. They examined the baseline weight and BMI of each individual at the time their course of antidepressants began, at the midpoint of 12 months, and the end. The main antidepressants, often referred to as ‘first-line’ medications, include bupropion (Wellbutrin), escitalopram (Lexapro), paroxetine (Paxil), duloxetine (Cymbalta), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), and venlafaxine (Effexor). Each of these medications has its own profile of potential side effects, but some may also provide additional benefits for comorbid mental health conditions alongside depression. As a result, the choice of medication is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. The analysis of over 180,000 patients showed a clear line of weight gain in an overwhelming majority. Of those examined, Zoloft and Lexapro showed the most significant weight gain. The difference between each medication was not extremely high, and bupropion showed the least weight gain. The researchers, however, did admit that they could not control for medication adherence – their data indicated only that the patients were prescribed these medications for the 24 months of the observation, but there was no way to know if they were taking them regularly or not. Tips to combat depression naturally Research increasingly supports the idea that what we eat can significantly impact our mood and mental well-being. A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience found that adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet supplemented with fish oil was associated with lower rates of depression and improved overall mental health. We, at NaturalHealth365, consistently advocate for a natural diet rich in organic, whole foods as a powerful tool to combat many chronic health issues. While depression is a complex condition that may not always respond solely to dietary changes, adopting a whole-food diet can play a crucial role in supporting mental health. In addition, we know that the pharmaceutical industry would like all of us believe that depression or anxiety is best treated by taking their drugs. Conversely, we would like to see more doctors giving out lifestyle advice to their patients to improve the quality of their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. For example, consistent daily exercise offers multiple benefits for mental health. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, which in turn reduces systemic inflammation. Additionally, exercise has been shown to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Quality sleep is crucial for overall health, with mental well-being particularly vulnerable to sleep disturbances. Many modern health issues can be significantly improved through a combination of regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep. Bottom line: do everything you can to improve the quality of your sleep, starting tonight. Remember, addressing sleep, exercise, and diet is fundamental to managing any health condition, including mental health disorders. By focusing on these areas, you’re taking proactive steps toward better mental and physical well-being. Sources for this article include: Acpjournals.org Medicalnewstoday.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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How to Care for a Loved One with Dementia

The AHA! Team — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:37:37 +0000

University of Miami via Newswise – More than 11 million Americans are tasked with the responsibility of taking care of someone with cognitive decline. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD) for an aging loved one can be devastating for a family. In 2023, it was estimated that 6.7 million Americans of all ages had the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. More than 11 million people care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and about 80 percent of those patients are cared for in the home. Dr. Elizabeth Crocco is a geriatric psychiatrist and the medical director of the Memory Disorders Clinic Center for Cognitive Neuroscience and Aging at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Over the course of her career, she has seen thousands of patients and their families. She reports that for some families, the diagnosis of ADRD can be helpful because it ultimately can explain that the illness is not just due to normal aging. For others, a diagnosis can be scary. “It can be frightening because they know that it is irreversible and that it progresses,” she said. “The idea that the person will lose part of who they are, not just cognitively, but part of their essential personality, brings up a lot of feelings.” Cognitive impairment is the hallmark feature of ADRD, but these illnesses can also have behavioral changes. These include agitation, irritability, depression, and anxiety. It is important for care providers to learn how to handle these situations while also maintaining their own mental health, she said. In her clinic, Crocco and her team work with care providers so that they understand the condition and can better manage its symptoms. This includes how to communicate with the loved one. “The memory issue is not the only problem that is making one’s loved one suffer, and a family member can have a difficult time,” she said. “It is the psychiatric and behavioral symptoms that are often the most difficult to deal with: depression, anxiety, anger issues, agitation, along with resistance to care and help.” Medications, of course, can help, but effective and consistent caregiving is paramount in coping with a patient with ADRD. Crocco offered some helpful tips that can make taking care of an individual with ADRD easier: Establish a routine Consistency is key. Chaotic home situations are not kind to people with cognitive impairment. Traveling is a change of routine that can lead to more behavioral problems and confusion. If they resist a task, try not to force them to do it. Wait an hour or more as their attitude may change later. Keep calm Keeping calm and composed is important when dealing with a loved one with ADRD. Also, remember that your reality might not be theirs, and you need to be respectful. Crocco’s mother had dementia. She tells this story: “One time I was at my mother’s house, and I had left a piece of pizza on the stove. My mother began screaming and cursing because there was a piece of pizza on the stove, and it upset her. I took the pizza off the stove, washed the area down, and I said: ‘I am so sorry, Mom, that I upset you.’ She calmed down immediately.” Sundowning It can happen earlier than expected, in the late afternoon. During this time, for both biological and situational reasons, an ADRD individual may become more confused, disoriented, agitated, and paranoid, as well as anxious and fearful. It is important for loved ones to predict patterns to minimize problems behaviorally without always opting for medications. Therapeutic fibbing Cognitive decline often leaves the person with memories of the past. If a loved one has forgotten that someone is deceased, they may repeatedly ask about them. At times, it might be better to let them believe that they are still alive. “What is the alternative?” asked Crocco. “Letting them relive the death over and over again?” Often arguing with a loved one with Alzheimer’s is a losing proposition and only leads to agitation and discord. “You argue and you lose,” said Crocco. Use music and pets Often introducing preferred music from the loved ones’ era can assist in preventing behavioral problems and be very entertaining and enjoyable. Bringing in pets for ADRD individuals to interact with can also assist. It is well known that having animal or pet interactions can lower ones’ stress level as well as blood pressure, said Crocco. Seek help An adult day care center is a good alternative to help a care provider with the help of a loved one with ADRD, said Crocco. Besides providing social interaction and dementia care during the day, it also affords the caretaker time to work or rest, said Crocco. Learn more about the Memory Disorders Clinic at the University of Miami Health System. To read the original article click here.

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Are Gender and Sexual Identity Linked to Brain Health?

The AHA! Team — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 06:51:50 +0000

American Academy of Neurology (AAN) via Newswise – LGBTQ+ people may be more likely to have negative brain health outcomes, including a higher risk of dementia and late-life depression, than people who are straight, according to a recent study published in the online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. LGBTQ+ people may be more likely to have negative brain health outcomes, including a higher risk of dementia and late-life depression MINNEAPOLIS – LGBTQ+ people may be more likely to have negative brain health outcomes, including a higher risk of dementia and late-life depression, than people who are cisgender and straight, according to a study published in the September 25, 2024, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. These results do not prove that sexual or gender diversity causes neurological diseases, they only show an association. LGBTQ+ refers to people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and nonbinary, plus other people who are sexually or gender diverse. Sexual diversity refers to individuals whose sexual orientation is different from straight, including lesbian, gay or bisexual people. Gender diversity refers to individuals whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth, which includes transgender and nonbinary people. Cisgender refers to individuals whose gender identity matches their sex assigned at birth. “In a world that increasingly recognizes the crucial role of equitable health care, it remains concerning how little is known about the health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ people,” said study author Shufan Huo, MD, PhD at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. “Our study looked at this group, which has been historically underrepresented in neurological research, and found that they had an increased risk of adverse brain health outcomes.” For the study, researchers evaluated data from 393,041 people with an average age of 51. Of the total group, 353,409 were cisgender and straight people, and 39,632 were LGBTQ+ people. Researchers evaluated electronic health records and self-reported data to identify a composite score of the following neurological conditions: dementia, late-life depression and stroke. They then evaluated each disease separately and looked at all subgroups of the LGBTQ+ participants. A total of 21,091 people had a neurological disease. Of those, 11,553 people had late-life depression, 6,605 people had strokes and 2,933 people had dementia. After adjusting for factors that could affect the risk of these three neurological conditions, such as age, smoking or high blood pressure, researchers found that LGBTQ+ people were 15% more likely to develop negative brain health outcomes in these conditions when compared to people who identified as cisgender and straight. Researchers also found that LGBTQ+ people had a higher risk of dementia and late-life depression, 14% and 27% respectively, than people who were cisgender and straight. “Our findings underscore the need for further research focusing on the health care disparities affecting the LGBTQ+ community,” Huo said. “Possible reasons for these disparities could include discrimination, stress, access to health care and policy and legal factors.” When looking at stroke, researchers found a higher risk only for transgender women, who were 68% more likely to have a stroke than cisgender people. A limitation of the study was that it did not look at the causes and mechanisms behind the inequities faced by LGBTQ+ people. For example, the study did not look at gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender people, which could play a role in increased stroke risks in transgender women. The study was supported by the German Research Foundation. To read the original article click here.

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The Wrong Kind of Food Linked to Increased Depression Risk

The AHA! Team — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 08:06:35 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Technology and social isolation are frequently cited as major factors in the rising depression epidemic both in the United States and around the world. While many people do feel increasingly disconnected from their communities, the surge in depression cannot be solely attributed to these tech-driven issues. Recent research published in Clinical Nutrition points to another significant factor: the consumption of ultra-processed foods. With an estimated 280 million people globally experiencing depression, it’s clear that multiple factors contribute to this widespread issue. Research reveals link between ultra-processed foods and depression Recent research highlights a significant connection between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of depression. While this study focused on Brazilian residents, it’s worth noting that Brazilians actually consume fewer ultra-processed foods on average than people in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other developed nations. The study, part of the “NutriNet Brasil” initiative, aimed to investigate chronic diseases and dietary patterns among Brazilians aged 18 and older. Participants completed online questionnaires on their health and dietary habits, initially enrolling in the winter of 2020. The researchers used Nova24h, an innovative online dietary recall tool to assess dietary intake. This technology categorizes foods based on their level of processing and monitors consumption patterns at six and twelve-month intervals. How processed foods might be affecting your mood A Patient Health Questionnaire was employed at the 14-month mark to evaluate symptoms of depression. Participants without a previous depression diagnosis who scored in the depressive range were assessed further with additional questionnaires every six months. This ongoing analysis aimed to track changes in depression symptoms over time. The data analysis uncovered a strong link between the consumption of highly processed foods and the onset of depression. Even after adjusting for factors like diet quality, lifestyle, and demographics, the study found that increased consumption of highly processed foods was associated with a higher risk of developing depression. Specifically, the risk increased by 42% for those consuming higher levels of processed foods compared to those with the lowest intake. Additionally, for every 10% increase in highly processed food consumption, there was a corresponding 10% rise in depression risk. Simple tips to cut down on processed foods and boost your well-being Transitioning to a healthier diet begins with mindful grocery shopping. Here are some practical tips to help you reduce your intake of processed foods and enhance your well-being: Plan your meals: Create a weekly meal plan that includes a variety of whole foods such as organic fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This helps ensure you’re not relying on processed foods for convenience. Make a shopping list: Before heading to the store, prepare a list of nutritious groceries based on your meal plan. Stick to this list to avoid the temptation of picking up processed snacks or convenience foods. Read labels carefully: When buying packaged foods, check the ingredient list for artificial additives, preservatives, and high levels of sugar or sodium. Opt for products with fewer ingredients and recognizable names. Cook at home: Prepare meals from scratch as much as possible. Home-cooked meals allow you to control the ingredients and avoid hidden additives found in processed foods. Incorporate fresh produce: Focus on buying fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. Choose a variety of colors and types to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients. Opt for lean proteins: Choose lean protein sources such as pasture raised (organic) chicken, wild-caught fish, and organic beans. These options are less processed and provide essential nutrients without added fats or preservatives. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of clean (filtered) water throughout the day. Sometimes, cravings for processed foods can be mistaken for thirst. Find healthy substitutes: Replace processed snacks with healthier alternatives like fresh fruit, nuts, or homemade popcorn. Experiment with recipes to find satisfying, nutritious options. Grow your own produce: If possible, start a small organic garden at home. Growing your own vegetables and herbs can be a rewarding way to ensure you have access to fresh, unprocessed ingredients. Explore local markets: Shop at local farmers’ markets or organic stores. These venues often offer fresh, seasonal produce and can be a great way to support local agriculture. By following these tips, you’ll reduce your intake of processed foods and boost your mental and physical health, leading to a happier and healthier you. Sources for this article include: Clinicalnutritionjournal.com Psypost.org WHO.int To read the original article click here.

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Loneliness: Greater Negative Impact on Memory Than Social Isolation?

The AHA! Team — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 08:21:45 +0000

University of Waterloo via News-Medical – About a third of Canadians feel lonely, and a study from the University of Waterloo shows it has a greater negative impact on memory than even social isolation, though both present a significant risk to the aging population. Loneliness is a subjective emotion that people might feel even while engaging in social activities. It is often associated with depression and an increase in stress hormones that may contribute to impaired memory. Waterloo researchers examined four combinations of social isolation and loneliness and their effect on memory in middle-aged and older adults over a six-year period. These combinations include being socially isolated and lonely, being only socially isolated, being only lonely and being neither. “As we expected, people who were both socially isolated and lonely had the greatest decline in memory, which intensified over the six years. But we were surprised to find that loneliness alone had the second-greatest impact on memory, even though so many studies report on the dangers of social isolation without considering loneliness.” Ji Won Kang, lead author on the paper and PhD candidate in the School of Public Health Sciences at Waterloo Those who aren’t lonely but are socially isolated may be stimulating their mental capacity with solo activities, such as reading, playing games and engaging in hobbies that improve memory and stimulate the brain, despite not engaging in social activities. Loneliness alone had the second-greatest impact on memory Kang hopes the findings of this research will highlight the need for community programs, especially for the combined group of older adults who are both socially isolated and lonely, and therefore at the highest risk of memory impairment. “Older adults in the lonely category often have lower incomes than the other groups and may have structural barriers and health conditions preventing them from connecting to their communities,” she said. “A solution could be to implement transportation or home-visit programs-; something to address the societal issues that lead to them being more isolated.” The group who is just lonely is the next priority, requiring a different approach. “We would need to know what is causing their loneliness,” Kang said. “They may be connected socially and have close relationships, but for example, maybe their marriage is falling apart and they would benefit from counselling.” The study was an interdisciplinary project between the School of Public Health Sciences and the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science at Waterloo. Exploring the differential impacts of social isolation, loneliness, and their combination on the memory of an aging population: A 6-year longitudinal study of the CLSA appears in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics. Source: University of Waterloo Journal reference: Kang, J. W., et al. (2024). Exploring the Differential Impacts of Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Their Combination on the Memory of Aging Population: A 6-Year Longitudinal Study by the CLSA. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics. doi.org/10.1016/j.archger.2024.105483. To read the original article click here.

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