Should You Use ChatGPT for Health Information?

 

There are many uses of artificial intelligence (AI). For example, using generative models, AI can produce text, images, videos, audio, software code or other forms of data. These models learn the underlying patterns and structures of their training data and use them to produce new data based on prompts.

The major generative AI tools include conversational chatbots such as ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, Claude, Grok and DeepSeek. They generate responses to questions you ask it using language model processing. 

Using one of these chatbots for medical purposes may have several benefits:

** Accessibility, free cost, and convenience - If you have an internet connection, you can use chatbot to gather health information about symptoms, treatments and prevention strategies for health conditions quickly at low cost without waiting for an appointment. Thus it is an educational tool.

** Provides a sense of anonymity and privacy that you might not feel when interacting with a doctor. This can make you feel more at ease speaking about personal health information if you usually feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. 

** Help translate complex health information into simpler terms, such as explaining possible reasons for symptoms in plain language. This can make it particularly useful if you have received a diagnosis for a health condition and want to learn more about possible treatment options and any warning signs to watch for. 

** Supporting you between doctor visits because it may: 

Ø   Help monitor symptoms and treatment progression.

Ø   Provide emotional support, coping strategies, self-help techniques and prevention advice. Thus it may be an effective tool for managing feelings of stress and anxiety.

Ø   Set up medication and appointment reminders.

Ø   Can also translate medical information from one language to another. This may be useful if you do not fully understand an aspect of your management plan or want to formulate questions for your next doctor’s appointment. 

** It may play a role in summarizing medical records. 2025 research found that it helped reduce administrative time to complete medical summaries by around 70%.

However, healthcare professionals do not recommend using AI chatbot as a self-diagnosis tool because it does not always provide accurate, reliable and personalized information, and precise diagnosis. While it may provide general health information, this may not be useful for your personal situation.

And so it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Along with possible medical inaccuracies, this may be due to the following reasons:

@  It does not provide reliable, up-to-date, consistent answers to the same queries.

@  It cannot process visual data.

@  It has limited emotional intelligence, so it may not be able to engage with you to “understand” your health history and personal circumstances.

@  Chatbots are not a human. They often lack the empathy, compassion and assurance that you might get from a human.  

@  It may have potential biases due to the information it has been trained on. AI chatbots generate responses by scraping through the sources they have been trained on. But they are not always trained with reputable medical journals, so the information they use may come from sources that have not been reviewed by certified medical professionals. 

@  They can also create false information or sources that do not exist, known as “hallucinations.” These false claims are hard to spot. While it can make responses appear more authoritative, it can actually mask deficits in the content and create a false sense of knowledge, confidence and reliability.

Research from 2025 found that ChatGPT’s medical accuracy ranges between 20% and 95% in relatively general situations. The researchers concluded that ChatGPT should not be used alone to make a medical diagnosis.

Here are some tips to help optimize your prompt for health information:

@  Be specific: Providing clear, concise, and specific information or questions will help the language model answer your question.

@  Give context: Provide as much context as possible, including how you feel, any symptoms you experience, medications you take, lifestyle and dietary habits, and so on.

@  Set the tone: You can ask AI chatbots to provide answers in a specific tone to help you better understand complexities.

@  Validate sources: Ask for reputable medical journal sources, the date on the information they provide and double-check their validity on trusted sources.

In most cases, you will have to refine your initial prompt based on the bot’s reply to get the best response possible.

If you have any concerns about your healthcare, it is crucial to connect with a medical professional. They can fully assess your personal, family, and medical history, and perform a physical examination to help determine whether you need further testing. According to a 2024 research review, trust in healthcare contexts is often built in face-to-face conversations with doctors, medical specialists and nurses.

Cycling for Brain Health against Dementia

More than 55 million people worldwide have dementia, a number expected to nearly triple by 2050.

 

Physical activity has long been associated with lower dementia risk in multiple studies. The 2024 Lancet Commission identified it as one of 14 factors responsible for preventing or delaying approximately 45% of dementia cases. According to the World Health Organization, adults need at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise per week,

 

A recent study published in the journal JAMA Network Open found that cycling is not just good for the planet, for your wallet and your fitness, choosing this form of transportation for your errands instead of driving or taking the train may also help you prevent cognitive decline.

 

It was found that riding a bike was associated with a 19% lower risk of all-cause dementia and a 22% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, compared with taking nonactive travel modes such as a car, bus or train,

Cycling and mixed cycling (a combination of cycling and other modes of transportation) were also most associated with greater hippocampal volumes, the region of the brain responsible for memory and learning.

“This study is the first to show that cycling is linked not only to a lower risk of dementia but also to a larger hippocampus,” said Dr. Joe Verghese, professor and chair of neurology at Stony Brook University in New York.

 

Verghese said. “Cycling may reduce dementia risk by improving cardiovascular fitness, increasing blood flow to the brain, supporting neuroplasticity and improving metabolism.”

 

Cycling also requires more effort and different types of engagement from the brain, which may also contribute to any potential boost in protection against dementia, the authors wrote.

 

However, Dr. Sanjula Singh, principal investigator at the Brain Care Labs at Massachusetts General Hospital, said, “And, perhaps most importantly, because this is an observational study, it cannot prove that cycling directly prevents dementia.”

 

Singh added, “It merely shows a found association.”

 

Moreover, cycling and mixed-cycling groups, specifically, were more often men and those who had healthier lifestyles and physical conditions than their peers.

 

Older adults who cycle regularly are also likely a healthier subgroup, and cycling may also serve as a marker of favorable genetics, with risk lowest among those without genetic susceptibility to dementia, Verghese said.

 

But cycling even just once or a few times per week can make a difference, Singh added, and indoor stationary cycling — though not included in the study — is an option for those concerned about safety from traffic.

 

“Begin with short, safe routes on dedicated bike paths before moving into traffic,” Singh said. “Always wear a helmet, use reflective gear, and add lights if biking or walking at night. Stick to well-lit routes and, if possible, travel with a partner.”

 

If you are typically sedentary and want to start cycling, discuss with your doctor whether you are healthy enough to begin immediately or whether you need to work up to it, Verghese said.

 

Meanwhile, in the same study, walking and mixed walking were linked with a 6% lower risk of dementia and, interestingly, a 14% higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

 

The link between greater Alzheimer’s disease risk and the preference for walking could be explained by those participants potentially already having issues with balance or driving, said Dr. Glen Finney, a behavioral neurologist and director of the Memory and Cognition Program at Geisinger Health System in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.

 

Walking pace also matters, Finney added. Leisurely walking, especially for short distances, may not be enough to get the full potential benefit compared with walking longer distances at a brisker pace. The study did not report on the frequency, pace or duration of participants’ walking or cycling habits.

 

For walking, aim for brisk, purposeful treks, and build up your distance over time, Singh suggested. That could mean walking for at least 30 minutes daily, ideally at a level of intensity that makes talking a little difficult, Verghese said. 

 

The research team also discovered that the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s — the APOE ε4 gene — also had an influence. Participants without APOE ε4 had a 26% lower risk of dementia, while those with the genetic variant had a 12% lower risk.

Ultra-Processed Foods May Harm Male Reproductive Health

 

A new study reported that ultra-processed foods may be linked to a decline in male reproductive health, including sperm quality. When the study participants were on an ultra-processed diet, it was found that sperm quality trended toward impairment.

 

Those on the ultra-processed diet also saw decreases in their testosterone levels and follicle-stimulating hormones, which are crucial for sperm production.

 

Researchers noted that the subjects on the ultra-processed diet experienced an increase in the phthalate cxMINP, a substance found in plastic packaging used for ultra-processed foods and can disrupt hormonal systems in the body. 

 

The researchers said some of the endocrine-disrupting substances may come from the plastic packaging used for ultra-processed foods.

 

They also noted that the introduction of ultra-processed foods in the 1970s seems to fall in line with a 60% decline worldwide in sperm count.

 

Kristin Kirkpatrick, president of KAK Consulting and a dietitian at Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Wellness & Preventive Medicine, said, “The study found that endocrine disrupters and other components altered hormone levels in men, even if the men were healthy. This means, even if you’re healthy based on other parameters, yet consume a diet higher in ultra-processed foods, you still are at risk for increases in chronic conditions.”

 

Philip Werthman, a urologist and director of the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Vasectomy Reversal in Los Angeles, added that a man’s general health can also affect their reproductive system. For example, a person who has gained weight, developed type 2 diabetes, or experienced a rise in cholesterol levels may see a decline in reproductive health measures such as sperm quality.

 

“The reproductive system is a function of your overall health,” Werthman explained. “The reproductive system is quite sensitive.”

 

Experts said there are lifestyle habits that can help improve and maintain male reproductive health.

 

“In general, good diet (whole grains, fruits, vegetables), exercise, and maintaining a good body weight will help overall and reproductive health,” said Michael Eisenberg, a professor of urology at Stanford University.

 

Werthman said a healthy diet is “a big component” of that equation, but noted that men, especially those in the process of trying to have children, should exercise regularly as well as avoid alcohol and tobacco.

 

Kirkpatrick agreed.

 

“Eating a diet high in nutrient density, such as the Mediterranean diet, as well as regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, maintaining a healthy weight, and abstaining from tobacco and alcohol, may all play a role in better reproductive health,” she said.

 

“Consuming ultra-processed foods means that other foods, which are found to help in the prevention of heart disease (like fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy fats, and fiber) are not being consumed,” Kirkpatrick said.

 

Werthman noted that heat sources such as saunas and hot tubs can also temporarily impact sperm quality and quantity.

 

“All these things affect the reproductive system,” he said. “The body is an integrated system.”

 

In fact, past studies already revealed that ultra-processed foods are a major contributing factor to obesity as well as increasing a person’s for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea. In one study, it was found that the risk of stroke and cognitive decline, were linked to 124,000 preventable deaths in the United States during a two-year period. These include higher cholesterol levels and increased body weight. The amount of fat mass in their bodies also increased.

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US reported that ultra-processed foods account for an average of 55% of total calories consumed by people in the United States.

 

The CDC said ultra-processed foods tend to be “hyperpalatable, energy-dense, low in dietary fiber, and contain little or no whole foods, while having high amounts of salt, sweeteners, and unhealthy fats.”

 

Excess sugar and sodium consumption has been found in multiple studies to pose a significant risk to heart health.

 

“This study provides evidence that consumption of ultra-processed food is detrimental for cardiometabolic and reproductive outcomes, regardless of excessive caloric intake,” the study authors wrote.

Are you suffering from "Smartphone Dementia"?

 

Smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives. However, excessive smartphone use can lead to decreased memory and concentration, resulting in symptoms similar to dementia. This is when an excess of online time causes your brain to forget more relevant information and is known as "smartphone dementia" or “digital dementia”.

Excessive smartphone use can lead to information overload in the brain, making it difficult to effectively organize and store memories. As a result, important memories can become "drowned" in a cluttered mental space.

In other words, your frontal lobe becomes a mess of trivial information, making it hard to access the important things in life. As a result, the smartphone dementia sufferer experiences symptoms similar to an actual dementia sufferer, with the exception that a person with smartphone dementia still retains the cognitive ability to be aware of it. The other main differences are that smartphone dementia can affect people of all ages and can be reversible with the right treatment. 

The Kanamachi Station Neurology Clinic in Tokyo in June this year opened the first "Smartphone Dementia Outpatient Service" in Japan. This service specifically targets patients who experience significant declines in memory and concentration due to prolonged smartphone usage. This is the first clinic to offer a smartphone dementia program to help people use their devices in ways that do not diminish their quality of life. 

Dr. Katsuyuki Uchino, the director of the clinic, noted that the outpatient service sees about 10 patients daily, primarily aged between 30 and 40.

Most come in with concerns about memory loss, forgetting appointments or work tasks, having trouble recalling people’s names quickly, having to take photos of things to remember them, always feeling sleep deprived, lacking motivation, and poor organizational skills for everyday tasks and difficulties writing kanji characters (akin to forgetting how to spell in English).

Uchino stated, "Endlessly scrolling through a smartphone has the greatest impact on the brain. Even spending just one hour on your phone before bed can make some individuals feel anxious about their declining memory."

He recommends actively limiting aimless smartphone use to no more than one hour per day and avoiding bringing phones into the bedroom, suggesting the use of an alarm clock instead. 

Uchino also pointed out that over-reliance on smartphones not only affects memory but can also lead to autonomic nervous system disorders and depression, ultimately progressing to true dementia.

“When you mindlessly scroll through your smartphone, your brain becomes overloaded with information. Time spent zoning out is important for organizing memory, but with no time for that, the brain becomes cluttered with random information, making it difficult to retrieve memories. It’s like your brain turns into a messy house, leading to things like forgetting names or appointments.” 

Treatment depends on a patient’s current smartphone usage habits and mental condition, based on an interview and dementia tests if necessary. It can vary from simple lifestyle alterations to medication as needed.

Whether you require the help of medical professionals or not, the key lesson to stave off smartphone dementia is to take enough time away from your phone or other devices to savor the finer things in life. If the smartphone is never put down, memories can never be properly "reset".

Then, how about if people use computers and smartphones for work all day? 

“If the information is gathered with a clear purpose and intention, it can be processed by the user. So there’s no need to worry when using devices for work.”

Top Superfoods of 2025

 

Goodhousekeeping.com revealed the top superfoods of 2025 based on the views of nutritionists and health experts:

Leafy greens

Leafy greens such as dandelion greens, escarole, collards and chicory are excellent leafy picks that deliver fiber and a variety of essential vitamins, minerals and anti-inflammatory antioxidants.

In particular, watercress is a powerhouse green that is loaded with vitamins C, A and K — making it a superfood for boosting immunity and promoting strong bones and healthy skin.

Eat the rainbow

“You truly should ‘eat the rainbow’ by filling your plate with lots of colorful fruits and veggies,” says Joy Bauer, author of Joy Bauer’s Superfood!

 “It looks so darn pretty, and it also provides a slew of health rewards thanks to ensuring you get a diverse mixture of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.”

Red produce, like watermelon and tomatoes, contain the antioxidant lycopene; blue and purple picks like eggplant and blueberries are rich in anthocyanins; and orange fruits and veggies like carrots, sweet potato and pumpkin are loaded with beta carotene, says Bauer — who particularly loves packages of mixed colored peppers and multi-hued cherry tomatoes for being tasty, appealing and convenient all at once.

“Pinkglow pineapple is native to Costa Rica and high in lycopene, which is responsible for its color. And finger limes, aka citrus caviar, are packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants; they add fun flavor and aesthetics to any dish,” Jaclyn London, a nutrition consultant, adds.

Fonio

Whole grains tend to have more fiber and protein than refined ones like white rice. They help provide satiety and supply a greater array of vitamins and minerals.

Fonio, an ancient grain, is native to West Africa and provides fiber, an essential for digestion and blood sugar balancing, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. It is light, versatile and can be cooked up quickly.

Other great ancient grains to explore: sorghum (chewy texture, mild flavor and perfect base for a grain bowl), farro (nutty and hearty) and amaranth, a gluten-free option that is ideal as a creamy porridge or in baked treats.

Lentils

Plant-based protein has benefits to cardiovascular health and chronic disease risk, contributing fiber and various vitamins and minerals.

For example, black (or beluga) lentils are rich in anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant for taming inflammation and lowering the risk for certain chronic conditions such as heart disease. They stay firm when cooked, making them perfect for meal prep and cold or warm salads.

Red and yellow lentils are quick-cooking and wonderful in soups, sauces and curries, while brown and green lentils are pantry staples for hearty stews, chili or plant-based bakes.

Mixed mushrooms

Eating more mushrooms is associated with a lower risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer, according to a review of studies.

Mushrooms are also rich in antioxidants, including a particularly powerful one called ergothioneine, which has been studied for its potential to help protect against disease. Shiitake, oyster, maitake and king oyster mushrooms tend to have more ergothioneine than white button, crimini and portabella mushrooms.

Shiitake mushrooms in particular are a nutritional powerhouse packed with B vitamins, selenium and copper. They also contain beta glucans and lentinans, two plant compounds that help support the immune system and fight inflammation. Shiitakes also add a rich umami flavor to dishes, making them a perfect substitute for meat in plant-based recipes.

Trout

Trout is a fellow fatty fish that provides those all-important omega-3 fatty acids, which support cognitive function and the immune system, help dial back inflammation and are associated with a reduced risk for chronic diseases, London says.

“Eating 12 ounces of seafood a week — both fish and other options like shrimp, squid and mussels — is one way to increase your intake of omega-3s from whole, real food sources,” London adds.

If you cannot or do not eat seafood, nuts and seeds are another great way to get omega-3s (walnuts contain the highest level amongst nuts).

Canned sardines

Sardines are packed with heart-healthy omega-3s; skeleton-supporting vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus and 23 grams of protein per serving to help keep you satisfied and energize, London says.

Canned sardines are also convenient and tend to be inexpensive, coming packed in oil, a flavored sauce, or water, and they have a long shelf life.

“Sardines have a rich, umami flavor with a tender, meaty texture,” says Bauer.

“You can find them boneless and skinless, but these won’t offer as many health perks.” The bones and skin are edible and contain important nutrients.

Labneh

Probiotics are key for maintaining good gut health, which supports just about every bodily function.

Sources of probiotic foods include labneh, yogurt and kefir.

Labneh is a Middle Eastern staple nutrient-packed alternative to traditional yogurt, and it has slightly more protein and fat. The straining process reduces labneh's lactose content, which can make it easier to digest than yogurt or kefir. And it has a thick, creamy texture that lends itself to both savory and sweet

Meanwhile, kefir tends to offer a wider variety and number of probiotics than yogurt, while Greek yogurt has double the protein of regular yogurt.

Peanuts

“Peanuts offer plant-based protein and fiber. In fact, they contain more protein per serving than any other nut,” says Bauer.

“That papery peanut skin that’s revealed beneath the shell is a rich source of fiber and antioxidants such as resveratrol — some in as high levels as you’ll find in green tea and grape skins!” Bauer adds.

Peanuts also provide vitamin E and magnesium, as well as heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

The fiber in peanuts helps foster beneficial bacteria in the gut, and “peanuts can help support a healthy weight thanks to the protein and fiber that helps keep you full for longer; they have also been shown to support healthy cholesterol levels and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and these are all factors in heart disease risk,” London says.

Freeze-dried fruit

Eating more fruits and vegetables is a powerful way to help prevent chronic disease.

“The freeze-drying process uses lower temperatures than traditional drying methods, which helps the fruit retain a higher percentage of vitamins, antioxidants and polyphenols,” explains Londont.

Besides being a flavor- and vitamin-packed snack, freeze-dried fruit is also a sneaky way to cut back on added sugar in baked goods and breakfast recipes.

Garnish

Garnishes can provide your meal with a sneaky boost of nutrition,

Whenever possible, try to incorporate an aromatic garnish into your meals. For instance: “Chives are rich in antioxidants and vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting. Green onions provide vitamin C and fiber. Sprouts are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus minerals like iron,” says Valerie Agyeman, a women’s health dietitian and founder of Flourish Heights.

Moreover, pea shoots are sweetly nutritious, while microgreens are super young, tender leafy greens that most vegetables, grains and herbs produce — they are shown to have higher concentrations of phytochemicals and other antioxidants like beta-carotene than leaves harvested from mature plants.

Mushroom of Life - Agaricus blazei Murrill

 

Agaricus blazei Murrill,  popularly known as 'Cogumelo do Sol' in Brazil, or 'Himematsutake' in Japan, also called ‘The Sun Mushroom of Aztecs’, is a mushroom native to Brazil, and widely cultivated in Japan for its medicinal uses. It is now considered as one of the most important edible and culinary-medicinal biotechnological species.

Agaricus blazei Murill has been utilized in alternative drug to anticipate cardiac disease, diabetes, arthritis, increased cholesterol, hepatitis and cancers.

Agaricus contains, among other substances, over 18 different amino acids, 10 different minerals, 16 different vitamins, 46 enzymes, ergosterol, linoleic acid and polysaccharides: 1-3/1-6 beta-glucans.

Immune system

Studies have found that immune boosting properties of Agaricus blazei come from the various beneficial polysaccharides in the form of highly structured beta-glucans they contain. These compounds are known for their amazing ability to modulate the body’s immune response and provide protection against disease. The polysaccharides found in this mushroom regulate the production of antibodies and work as "biological response modifiers".

Data from in vitro and animal studies indicate that Agaricus activates white blood cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, granulocytes and natural killer cells in the innate immune system, which is an important evolutionary first-line defence system. It detects danger patterns and reacts, destroying the hostile elements (for example viruses or bacteria).

Agaricus is an immune modulator and educator, which means it works intelligently.  If the immune system is over-stimulated (as can happen with auto-immune disorders) the immune system attacks everything in sight including the body’s own tissues. In this case, Agaricus will down regulate the immune system and retrain it so that the response to invaders becomes more selective and efficient.

On the other hand, if the immune system is compromised, Agaricus will stimulate and up regulate it to deal with genuine threats appropriately.

The Agaricus blazei Murrill species has proven antitumor activity for some types of cancer. This is because besides contributing to decreasing blood sugar in-vivo, the β-glucan it contains also acts against cancer. Thus the use of this natural product can improve health and increase the patients' immunity.

Digestive system

Agaricus stimulates the digestive system, containing the digestive enzymes amylase, trypsin, maltase and protease. These enzymes assist the body in breaking down protein, carbohydrates and fats.

Various studies have shown this mushroom to be effective against many digestive disorders including gastric ulcers, chronic gastritis, duodenal ulcers, viral enteritis, chronic stomatitis, pyorrhea, constipation and loss of appetite.

Liver Health

Agaricus has shown the abilities to improve the functioning of the liver, even in people who suffer liver damage from hepatitis B. This disease has long been considered as among the most difficult to treat and can produce extensive liver damage.

One recent year-long study found that extracts of the mushroom can return liver function to normal. Also, extracts have been shown to be able to help protect the liver from further damage, specifically against the damaging effects of oxidative stress on the tissues of the liver.

However, other research suggests that Agaricus may be linked to liver damage, especially in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or when taken in conjunction with certain medications. Therefore, while it may offer some benefits for liver health, it is crucial to be aware of potential risks and consult with a healthcare professional before using, especially if you have any liver issues.

Diabetes

Agaricus contains polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which are hypothesized to interact with cell receptors involved in insulin signaling. By modulating these signaling pathways, it may help cells respond better to insulin, thereby reducing blood glucose levels.

Studies suggest that this mushroom may help lower blood sugar, improve glucose metabolism, and enhance insulin sensitivity. Thus it helps in regulating blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with diabetes.

Longevity

One study examining 90 to 100 year old indigenous inhabitants in the village of Piedade in Brazil (they were regularly consuming Agaricus Blazei) showed that their biological age was much lower than their real one. Researchers found that their body cells’ division rate was much lower than normal, which slows down aging processes.

Precautions

Agaricus blazei is considered a relatively safe non-toxic mushroom species that can be consumed for culinary purposes or as a dietary supplement and used in therapeutic amounts for an extended period of time.

However, avoid consumption if you have allergies to mushrooms, which may cause digestive upset. It is important to seek the advice of your health care provider if you have serious medical conditions, are undergoing chemotherapy treatment or taking prescribed medications.

Exercise can improve colon cancer survival

 

An exercise programme for colon cancer patients can cut the risk of dying by a third.

The researchers said it was "not a large amount" of exercise and any type of workout from swimming to salsa classes counted.

In this trial, the three-year exercise programme started soon after chemotherapy. The aim was to get the survey participants doing at least double the amount of exercise set out in the guidelines for the general population.

That could be three-to-four sessions of brisk walking a week, lasting 45-60 minutes, Prof Vicky Coyle from Queen's University Belfast said. 

Exercising besides can reduce fatigue, lift people's mood and boost their physical strength, it was found that 80% of respondents exercising remained cancer-free, meaning a 28% reduction in the risk of the cancer coming back, or a new one forming, after five years.

While eight years after the initial cancer treatment, 10% of respondents on the exercise programme died, compared with 17% in the group given only health advice, marking a 37% lower risk of death.

Exactly why exercise has this beneficial effect is unknown, but ideas include the impact on growth hormones, inflammation levels in the body and how the immune system functions - which patrols the body for cancer.

Dr Joe Henson, from the University of Leicester, said the results were "exciting".

He added: "We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact."

In fact, scientists are already investigating whether similar exercise regimes could improve survival for people with other diseases, such as breast cancer.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's and Dementia

 

Dementia is a general term describing a decline in cognitive abilities that affect a person's ability to think, remember and perform everyday tasks.

Alzheimer's is a specific type of dementia characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline. It is a disease in the brain that causes cognitive decline, eventually leading to dementia. It is characterized by the build-up of abnormal proteins (amyloid plaques and tau tangles) in the brain.

Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia.

Early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's and Dementia include:

Memory loss that disrupts daily life

One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the early stage, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events, asking the same questions over and over, and increasingly needing to rely on memory aids (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own.

Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

Challenges in planning or solving problems

Some people living with changes in their memory due to Alzheimer's or other dementia may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may also have difficulty in concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before.

Difficulty completing familiar tasks

Often, they find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes they may have trouble driving to a familiar location, organizing a grocery list or remembering the rules of a favorite game.

Confusion with time or place

They can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

They could experience vision changes. This may lead to difficulty with balance or trouble reading. They may also have problems judging distance and determining color or contrast, causing issues with driving. 

Problems in speaking or writing

They may have trouble following or joining a conversation, may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves.

As a result of experiencing changes in the ability to hold or follow a conversation, they may withdraw from hobbies, social activities or other engagements. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite team or activity.

Also, they may struggle with vocabulary, have trouble naming a familiar object or use the wrong name (e.g., calling a "watch" a "hand-clock").

Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

They may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. He or she may accuse others of stealing, especially as the disease progresses.

Decreased or poor judgment

May experience changes in judgment or decision-making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money or pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean.

Changes in mood and personality

May experience mood and personality changes. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, with friends or when out of their comfort zone.

Overall, if you notice one or more signs in yourself or another person, get checked. Early detection matters.

Your Face Wrinkles appear at the Age of 44

 

44 is the average age that people begin to notice the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Before the age of 44, the most common skin issues are spots and breakouts, dry skin and blackheads. Once we reach 44, wrinkles, fine lines and signs of ageing becoming the primary skin concerns.

According to the customer survey of over 300 women and men, the average age we start to notice fine lines, wrinkles and signs of ageing is 44. Our body ages most rapidly between 44 and 60

“We’re not just changing gradually over time. There are some really dramatic changes,” said Prof Michael Snyder, a geneticist and director of the Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine at Stanford University and senior author of the study.

“It turns out the mid-40s is a time of dramatic change, as is the early 60s – and that’s true no matter what class of molecules you look at.”

Researchers assessed the changes of 135,000 different molecules (RNA, proteins and metabolites) and microbes (the bacteria, viruses and fungi living in the guts and on the skin of the participants).

The abundance of most molecules and microbes did not shift in a gradual, chronological fashion. The transformations tended to occur when people were in their mid-40s and early 60s in both women and men.

“This suggests that while menopause or perimenopause may contribute to the changes observed in women in their mid-40s, there are likely other, more significant factors influencing these changes in both men and women,” said Dr Xiaotao Shen, a former postdoctoral scholar at Stanford medical school and first author of the study.

The first wave of changes included molecules linked to cardiovascular disease and the ability to metabolise caffeine, alcohol and lipids. The second wave of changes included molecules involved in immune regulation, carbohydrate metabolism and kidney function. Molecules linked to skin and muscle ageing changed at both time points.

The pattern fits with previous evidence that the risk of many age-related diseases does not increase incrementally, with Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular disease risk showing a steep uptick after 60. It is also possible that some of the changes could be linked to lifestyle or behavioural factors. For instance, the change in alcohol metabolism could result from an uptick in consumption in people’s mid-40s, which can be a stressful period of life.

The findings could help target interventions, such as increasing exercise during periods of more rapid muscle loss, the authors said. 

“I’m a big believer that we should try to adjust our lifestyles while we’re still healthy,” Snyder said.

Boosting Potassium, Not Just Cutting Sodium - Best Way to Lower Blood Pressure

 

Adding more potassium to the diet could be an easier, more effective way to lower blood pressure than cutting salt alone. The study was published in the American Journal of Physiology–Renal Physiology.

“Usually, when we have high blood pressure, we are advised to eat less sodium,” study author Anita Layton, professor of applied mathematics, computer science, pharmacy and biology at the University of Waterloo in Canada, said.

The new research, however, “suggests that adding more potassium-rich foods to your diet, such as bananas or broccoli, might have a greater positive impact on your blood pressure than just cutting sodium,” Layton said.

Ultimately, researchers found more dietary potassium helped lower blood pressure, even with “high” or “normal” levels of sodium intake—whenever potassium went up, regardless of sodium levels, blood pressure went down.

Men were more likely to have a greater reduction in blood pressure after increasing their potassium-to-sodium ratio than premenopausal women.

As a matter of fact, when you consume too much sodium, more water gets drawn into the blood vessels, swelling the blood volume. This makes your blood pressure increase, which can damage the vessels’ walls and lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries. This stunts healthy blood flow and stresses your heart over time.

Potassium has the opposite effect: It relaxes the walls of the blood vessels, reducing the tension in your arteries so blood can circulate more easily, said Michelle Routhenstein, a preventive cardiology dietitian.

“One of the ways sodium and potassium work in tandem is through the kidneys,” Routhenstein said.

The kidneys have specialized proteins, called transporters, that use potassium to funnel sodium out of the body through your urine. Basically, the more potassium you eat, the less sodium you retain.

Thus potassium helps by relaxing blood vessels and assisting the kidneys in flushing out excess sodium. And boosting potassium lowers blood pressure more effectively than cutting sodium alone.

Good sources of potassium include apricots, bananas, lentils, potatoes, spinach, salmon and yogurt.

Bananas get all the glory, with one medium fruit serving up 422 milligrams of potassium.

The American Heart Association recommends a daily intake of 3,500 to 5,000 milligrams of potassium to treat high blood pressure.

Most adults do not get anywhere close to that amount, said Routhenstein. (At a minimum, men should aim for at least 3,400 milligrams of potassium per day, while women should shoot for at least 2,600 milligrams.)

Increase your potassium intake slowly as many potassium-rich foods are also high in fiber. Too much of that too quickly can cause GI distress like gas and bloating, and maybe even dramatic shifts in your blood pressure.

The American Heart Association, on the other hand, suggests limiting daily sodium intake to 1,500 to 2,300 milligrams, especially if you have high blood pressure. And also do your best to spread your intake throughout the day, rather than eating it all at once.

Although pairing that with 4,700 milligrams of potassium, the potassium to sodium ratio is 2:1, Routhenstein said there is no “golden” potassium-to-sodium ratio that is recommended for everyone. Your health history, lifestyle and dietary needs all play a role in how much of each mineral you should eat per day.

When Men to have Enlarged Prostate

 

An enlarged prostate – a disorder known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH for short – is a highly common health issue for males over 50 (about 50% of men experience BPH symptoms when they are 51-60 years old, 70% in their 60s, 80% in 70s and 90% when older than 80).

The prostate is a small gland that helps make semen. It is found just below the bladder. And it often gets bigger as a man ages.

While BPH is the leading cause of prostate disorders, infections can also cause an enlarged prostate.

Urinary changes are the main enlarged prostate symptoms. BPH symptoms primarily include the following:

Frequent Urination

This is the most commonly seen symptom of an enlarged prostate. Frequent urination in men is often a sign of a prostate disorder. This symptom occurs because the enlarged prostate stresses the urethra, making it harder for urine to flow freely.

Weak Urine Flow

BPH can also cause a weak urine flow, where the stream of urine is not as strong as it used to be. This weakness can be attributed to the narrowing of the urethra caused by the enlarged prostate.

Difficulty Starting and Stopping Urination

Another symptom of BPH is difficulty initiating and stopping the flow of urine. The inability to fully manage urination can be frustrating and may require additional effort to fully empty the bladder.

Incomplete Emptying of the Bladder

The enlarged prostate can restrict urine flow, leading to a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder even after urination.

Dribbling at the End of Urination

BPH can also cause dribbling or leakage of urine at the end of urination. The inability to fully cease urine flow occurs because the enlarged prostate obstructs the urethra, preventing the bladder from fully emptying.

Less common symptoms might involve the following issues:

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

In some cases, BPH can increase the risk of UTIs. The stagnant urine in the bladder, caused by the obstruction, provides a breeding ground for bacteria.

Blood in Urine

Although a rare symptom of an enlarged prostate, blood in urine (hematuria) can occur due to BPH. But blood in the urine might also be due to an infection or a potentially serious disorder like kidney disease or cancer.

Kidney Damage

If left untreated, BPH can lead to kidney damage. The stagnant urine in the bladder can back up into the kidneys, causing potential complications.

Sexual Dysfunction

BPH can also contribute to sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and decreased libido. This occurs because the enlarged prostate can compromise the normal functioning of the reproductive system.

It is critical to note that not all individuals with BPH will experience all of these symptoms. The intensity and combination of symptoms can also vary from person to person.

We can manage BPH with lifestyle measures:

Ø Including certain foods, while removing others, may help improve symptoms:

• Avoid high fat foods, incorporate more lean proteins like fish and poultry
• Eat more and many different vegetables, citrus and other fruits

Ø Make sure to lose weight if you are above a healthy number.

Ø Regardless of your weight, try exercising regularly at a moderate to vigorous level, most days of the week.

Ø Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, particularly at night, since both increase the need to urinate.

Ø Avoid drinking anything within a few hours of bedtime to reduce middle of the night wakings.

Ø Reducing or managing stress.

Besides, we can use herbal remedies to get relief from symptoms. For example, pygeum bark contains chemicals that might help shrink the enlarged prostate. It can be used with saw palmetto, stinging nettle root and/or bee pollen to treat BPH. Pygeum bark comes from the bark of a tree native to Africa called Prunus africana. 

Enlarged prostate symptoms are often mistaken for signs of prostate cancer (which is a malignant growth that develops in the prostate gland). While prostate cancer and BPH share symptom similarities, they have distinct differences that can help differentiate between the two.

Some common symptoms of prostate cancer are the same as BPH. These include the following:

• Difficulty urinating
• Frequent urination (particularly at night)
• Weak urine flow
• Blood in urine

However, some symptoms are not related to BPH but are related to prostate cancer. Please seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

• Blood in semen
• Painful ejaculation
• Persistent pelvic, lower back or hip pain