Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer in men worldwide, yet approximately 70% of diagnoses occur in developed regions.1 In addition to the use of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening practices, one hypothesis to explain this global variation is differences in environmental and lifestyle factors. The established risk factors for prostate cancer are advanced age, ethnicity, and family history of the disease. Although some lifestyle factors, such as body weight, are thought to increase the risk of developing prostate cancer, the evidence for this theory is somewhat weak.

This study sought to determine if certain lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, are associated with prostate cancer using a method that is thought to effectively identify causal associations.1 Most epidemiological studies can identify associations, but they are typically considered hypothesis-generating and cannot support causal relationships due to unaccounted for or unknown confounders.2

Methods

The gold standard for identifying a causal association between an exposure and an outcome is a randomized, controlled trial; however, these types of studies are not always possible because they would be impractical, too costly, or unethical.2

The current study used Mendelian randomization (MR), which is an alternative method that was developed to identify causal relationships. MR uses genetic instrumental variables (GIVs) to enable randomization of subjects. A GIV is most commonly a genetic variant such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and must fulfill 3 core assumptions: 1) reproducibly and strongly associated with the exposure; 2) not associated with confounders; and 3) only associated with the outcome through the exposure. In this study, the GIVs were SNPs identified from genome-wide association studies of each risk factor for prostate cancer that was included the study.2

MR uses alleles of the GIVs, such as SNPs, to randomly allocate subjects into groups.2 This approach exploits the natural random assortment of alleles within a population, and are therefore not typically associated with confounders. 3 As a result, any association observed between the GIV and the outcome is considered supportive evidence that the exposure is causally related to the outcome.2,3 In this study, the exposure was certain lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, and the outcome was prostate cancer.1

There are limitations to MR that can affect the interpretability of the data.3 For example, the GIV may influence the outcome independent of the exposure, which is called pleiotropy. In addition, some MRs may lack statistical power to detect a correlation.

In this study, the authors noted that there were only 2 SNPs that they could use for their allocation of physical activity by average acceleration, which could weaken the causal inference of this association. In addition, there were no known GIVs that could be used for some other risk factors, such as some vitamins, and thus, could not be used for MR evaluation in this study.

Link:
Lifestyle Choices and Prostate Cancer - Cancer Therapy Advisor

Some clinics offer lipotropic injections for weight loss. However, researchers have not comprehensively studied the efficacy and safety of these.

Lipotropes in lipotropic injections include a mix of different vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that people report help them lose weight and fat.

Keep reading to learn more about lipotropic injections, including the ingredients, cost, dosage, and possible risks.

Some people use lipotropic injections because weight loss clinics market them as treatments that promote fat burning. In combination with a healthful diet and regular exercise, people who use lipotropic injections should lose fat more easily.

Each clinic has its own specific type of injection, so the components may differ from clinic to clinic.

Lipotropes are substances that promote the removal of fat from the liver and reduce the production of fat. Some of the more common lipotropes that clinics use include:

Vitamin B-12 and methionine are important nutrients required for reactions in the body that regulate fat and protein metabolism. That said, researchers have not confirmed that taking doses of vitamin B-12 or methionine above the recommended amount will actually help a person lose weight.

Researchers from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Louisiana found that restricting dietary methionine in people with metabolic syndrome caused an increase in fat digestion. In this study, people in the control group and those restricting methionine lost the same amount of weight.

Another study showed that a combination of diet, myoinositol, and D-chiroinositol may have accelerated weight and fat loss in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. However, researchers need to conduct further studies to confirm the effects of inositol.

The substances in lipotropic injections may not be effective in reducing a persons weight or fat. Although, theoretically, these substances may have important roles in fat metabolism, researchers are still unsure if higher doses are beneficial for weight and fat loss.

Other clinics may introduce additional vitamins and amino acids that some practitioners believe provide additional weight loss support.

Although research into lipotropic injections is limited, researchers have studied the effects of plant-based foods as a source of lipotropes in rats. The researchers state that the major plant lipotropes include:

Other substances in plant foods such as fatty acids, fiber, and flavonoids may also have lipotropic effects. This study only explored the effect of lipotropic substances in the diet. The researchers did not investigate the effect of lipotropic injections in the test rats.

Clinical trials that have studied lipotropic injections are scarce. For this reason, some doctors may not recommend using them for weight or fat loss.

Weight loss clinics will establish the price of lipotropic injections, so the cost will vary from one weight loss clinic to the next.

One of the factors that may influence the cost they settle on is the components included in the lipotropic injection.

Vitamin B-12 injections alone may be less costly, but there is no scientific evidence around the cost of these injections.

Some clinics offer packages of injections, or they may include the cost of the injection in the price of a weight loss program.

The dosage depends on the ingredients in the injection. Also, each clinic may follow a different protocol and scheduling of the injections.

In some clinics, people receive lipotropic injections once weekly, whereas other clinics suggest more frequent injections.

As with cost, there is no scientific data to back any dosage claims that weight loss clinics make.

In one study, researchers administered 1,000 micrograms of vitamin B-12 intramuscularly to explore the effects on weight loss. Other clinics may choose different strengths of vitamin B-12 and other ingredients in their injection formulations.

People who want to use lipotropic injections should choose a clinic with a registered physician. Some clinics may not have doctors on staff, whereas others may have weight loss specialists who are also medical doctors.

Some lipotropic injections may not be appropriate for everyone. Before receiving their first injection, a person should check if any of the ingredients can be harmful in combination with their medications or a medical condition they have.

Apart from pain at the injection site, one of the risks of using lipotropic injections is that they may not work. People cannot rely on these injections to promote fat loss, so they should also try to adopt more healthful habits, such as exercising regularly.

Researchers have not studied the side effects of lipotropic injections. Information on side effects comes from anecdotal evidence from people who have used the injections for weight loss. Side effects may also vary from person to person.

People who want to lose weight can speak with a doctor or other healthcare provider to create a safe, effective, and individualized weight loss plan.

Doctors can help people find healthful ways to meet their weight, body mass index (BMI), and hip-to-waist ratio goals, which can promote overall health.

Before planning a weight loss regimen, people may wish to consider their current eating and exercise habits. Some questions they should ask themselves include:

Doctors, dietitians, and weight loss specialists can help answer some of these questions.

To lose weight and maintain the loss, a person may need to change lifestyle habits other than eating and exercise.

For example, weight loss programs that are safe and effective should also include:

People should try to avoid weight loss programs that are scams. They should report these to the Federal Trade Commission.

Some simple changes a person can make to their diet to promote more healthful habits include:

The 20152020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide nutrition and exercise recommendations. People who want to lose weight can follow these recommended guidelines, along with suggestions from their doctor.

Read about some other scientifically backed weight loss tips here.

Some people use lipotropic injections to aid fat loss and lose weight.

The purpose of these injections is to speed up the metabolism of fat. However, in order to maintain a moderate weight, people should also try to eat more healthfully and adopt regular exercise habits. Lipotropic injections are not a substitute for these healthful habits.

Researchers have not confirmed that lipotropic injections are effective.

Individual ingredients include some vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that may be involved in fat metabolism. However, most data on the success of lipotropic injections come from anecdotal evidence. Therefore, researchers should continue to study their effectiveness.

To lose weight and fat, a person should try to focus on lifestyle and diet.

Read more:
Lipotropic injections: Cost, dosage, and risks - Medical News Today

Think your brain is destined to shrivel bit by bit as the years go by?

Think again, says John Randolph.

In his new book, The Brain Health Book, the Hanover neuropsychologist presents a sunny view of gray matter, making the case that our brains are not only able to withstand the forces of aging but capable of regeneration and even growth later in life.

We really do have a fair amount of control over our brain health, Randolph said in a recent telephone interview. What the science says is that the things that matter the most are the lifestyle choices that are free or inexpensive and available to all of us.

These choices range from intuitive techniques such as doing crossword puzzles and sudoku to strategies less obviously connected to cognition, such as exercising, maintaining social connections and even defining your core values. Randolph, who conducts research at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College and has his own practice as a brain health coach and consultant in Lebanon, also emphasizes preventive measures including proper nutrition, adequate sleep and stress management.

If such a regimen sounds a bit overwhelming, Randolph recommends tackling the techniques one at a time. Read just a few chapters and let those chapters simmer a bit, he said. Its important to be realistic. Making even a 10-15% change in one area of your life can make a huge difference.

The book offers a laypersons look at some of the latest research in neuroscience, along with checklists, quizzes and stories from Randolphs practice, where he treats people with cognitive challenges as well as those who are simply interested in improving and preserving their cognitive skills.

Randolph, who is scheduled to discuss his book at the Norwich Bookstore on Wednesday, believes that latter group is beginning to grow.

Its sort of like investing, he said. I think the wave of the future is to be thinking about how our brains are functioning right now and how that plots onto our future even decades down the road.

For that reason, the book may be most relevant not to people in their 70s and 80s although its never too late to think about brain health but to those in their 40s, 50s and 60s. Many of the studies presented in the book demonstrate how lifestyle factors in middle age affect brain function in the later years.

For example, one evidence-based study showed that women who were the most physically fit in middle age were 88% less likely to develop Alzheimers disease or other forms of dementia than women who were moderately fit.

The importance of exercise in maintaining brain health really cannot be overemphasized, Randolph writes. It reduces inflammation, which has been linked to Alzheimers; lowers stress, which affects a variety of cognitive functions; boosts neurochemicals that help us focus, learn and remember new things; and even promotes growth in the hippocampus and frontal cortex.

There is simply no better intervention to date that impacts the brain so profoundly and completely as exercise, he writes.

The book also shows how social connections are closely linked to brain health. The amount of time we spend socializing, the size of our social networks and the degree of support we feel in those networks all play a role in cognition as we age. Conversely, negative relationships and isolation hurt the brain. Studies found that cognitive skills declined 20% faster among people who described themselves as lonely and that particularly isolated people have a 60% higher risk of cognitive decline than people with a large social network.

The book also demonstrates how stimulating mental activities such as playing games, reading and playing instruments improve brain health. One particularly compelling study examined sets of twins in which one played a musical instrument and one didnt. The twins who played instruments were 64% less likely to develop dementia than those who didnt.

Randolph, who moved to the Upper Valley from the West Coast 18 years ago to complete clinical and research fellowships in neuropsychology and neuroimaging at Dartmouth, has applied much of the research to his own life. He tries to eat a mostly Mediterranean-style diet high in whole grains, fish, fruit, vegetables and legumes and stays active by running, playing racquetball, snowboarding, skiing and kayaking. At 48, hes in the prime age bracket to invest in his brain health.

And those investments arent limited to physical concerns like exercise and diet. Randolph also makes the case that our outlook and values have a profound effect on our brains, clearing out mental clutter and sharpening our focus on what matters.

When we have a stronger purpose in life, when we have a good sense of what drives us day to day, that improves how the brain works, he said. Gratitude would be another example. When people engage in gratitude exercises on a regular basis, their brain health tends to be stronger.

John Randolph will be at the Norwich Bookstore on Wednesday at 7 p.m. For information or to save a seat, call 802-649-1114 or email info@norwichbookstore.com.

Sarah Earle can be reached at searle@vnews.com or 603-727-3268.

Original post:
Hanover author urges us to give our brains a workout - Valley News

By Judith Graham February 21, 2020

Do I know Im at risk for developing dementia? You bet.

My father died of Alzheimers disease at age 72; my sister was felled by frontotemporal dementia at 58.

And thats not all: Two maternal uncles had Alzheimers, and my maternal grandfather may have had vascular dementia. (In his generation, it was called senility.)

So what happens when I misplace a pair of eyeglasses or cant remember the name of a movie I saw a week ago? Now comes my turn with dementia, I think.

Then I talk myself down from that emotional cliff.

Am I alone in this? Hardly. Many people, like me, whove watched this cruel illness destroy a family member, dread the prospect that they, too, might become demented.

The lack of a cure or effective treatments only adds to the anxiety. Just this week, news emerged that another study trying to stop Alzheimers in people at extremely high genetic risk had failed.

How do we cope as we face our fears and peer into our future?

Andrea Kline, whose mother, as well as her mothers sister and uncle, had Alzheimers disease, just turned 71 and lives in Boynton Beach, Florida. Shes a retired registered nurse who teaches yoga to seniors at community centers and assisted-living facilities.

I worry about dementia incessantly. Every little thing that goes wrong, Im convinced its the beginning, she told me.

Because Kline has had multiple family members with Alzheimers, shes more likely to have a genetic vulnerability than someone with a single occurrence in their family. But that doesnt mean this condition lies in her future. A risk is just that: Its not a guarantee.

The age of onset is also important. People with close relatives struck by dementia early before age 65 are more likely to be susceptible genetically.

Kline was the primary caregiver for her mother, Charlotte Kline, who received an Alzheimers diagnosis in 1999 and passed away in 2007 at age 80. I try to eat very healthy. I exercise. I have an advance directive, and Ive discussed what I want [in the way of care] with my son, she said.

Lately, Ive been thinking I should probably get a test for APOE4 [a gene variant that can raise the risk of developing Alzheimers], although Im not really sure if it would help, Kline added. Maybe it would add some intensity to my planning for the future.

I spoke to half a dozen experts for this column. None was in favor of genetic testing, except in unusual circumstances.

Having the APOE4 allele [gene variant] does not mean youll get Alzheimers disease. Plenty of people with Alzheimers dont have the allele, said Mark Mapstone, a professor of neurology at the University of California-Irvine. And conversely, plenty of people with the allele never develop Alzheimers.

Tamar Gefen, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Northwestern Universitys Feinberg School of Medicine, strongly suggests having an in-depth discussion with a genetic counselor if youre considering a test.

Before you say I have to know, really understand what youre dealing with, how your life might be affected, and what these tests can and cannot tell you, she advised.

Karen Larsen, 55, is a social worker in the Boston area. Her father, George Larsen, was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimers at age 84 and died within a year in 2014.

Larsen is firm: She doesnt want to investigate her risk of having memory or thinking problems.

Ive already planned for the future. I have a health care proxy and a living will and long-term care insurance. Ive assigned powers of attorney, and Ive saved my money, she said. Eating a healthy diet, getting exercise, remaining socially engaged I already do all that, and I plan to as long as I can.

What would I do if I learned some negative from a test sit around and worry? Larsen said.

Currently, the gold standard in cognitive testing consists of a comprehensive neuropsychological exam. Among the domains examined over three to four hours: memory, attention, language, intellectual functioning, problem-solving, visual-spatial orientation, perception and more.

Brain scans are another diagnostic tool. CT and MRI scans can show whether parts of the brain have structural abnormalities or arent functioning optimally. PET scans (not covered by Medicare) can demonstrate the buildup of amyloid proteins a marker of Alzheimers. Also, spinal taps can show whether amyloid and tau proteins are present in cerebrospinal fluid.

A note of caution: While amyloid and tau proteins in the brain are a signature characteristic of Alzheimers, not all people with these proteins develop cognitive impairment.

Several experts recommend that people concerned about their Alzheimers risk get a baseline set of neuropsychological tests, followed by repeat tests if and when they start experiencing worrisome symptoms.

When it comes to thinking and memory, everyone is different, said Frederick Schmitt, a neurology professor at the University of Kentucky. Having baseline results is very helpful and allows us to more carefully measure whether, in fact, significant changes have occurred over time, he said.

Nora Super, senior director of the Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging, watched her father, Bill Super, and all three of his siblings succumb to Alzheimers disease over the course of several years falling, she said, like a row of dominoes.

One of her sisters was tested for the APOE4 genetic variant; results were negative. This is no guarantee of a dementia-free future, however, since hundreds of genes are implicated in Alzheimers, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia and vascular dementia.

Rather than get genetic or neuropsychological tests, Super has focused on learning as much as she can about how to protect her brain. At the top of the list: managing her depression as well as stress. Both have been linked to dementia.

Also, Super exercises routinely and eats a MIND-style diet, rich in vegetables, berries, whole grains, nuts, fish and beans. She is learning French (a form of cognitive stimulation), meditates regularly and is socially and intellectually active.

According to a growing body of research, physical inactivity, hearing loss, depression, obesity, hypertension, smoking, social isolation, diabetes and low education levels raise the risk of dementia. All of these factors are modifiable.

What if Super started having memory problems? I fear I would get really depressed, she admitted. Alzheimers is such a horrible disease: To see what people you love go through, especially in the early stages, when theyre aware of whats happening but cant do anything about it, is excruciating. Im not sure I want to go through that.

Gefen of Northwestern said she tells patients that if [cognitive testing] is something thats going to stress you out, then dont do it.

Nigel Smith, 49, had a change of heart after caring for his mother, Nancy Smith, 81, whos in hospice care in the Boston area with Alzheimers. When he brought his mother in for a neuropsychological exam in early 2017 and she received a diagnosis of moderate Alzheimers, she was furious. At that point, Nancy was still living in the familys large home in Brookline, Massachusetts, which she refused to leave.

Eventually, after his mother ended up in the hospital, Smith was given legal authority over her affairs and he moved her to a memory care unit.

Now, shes deteriorated to the point where she has about 5% of her previous verbal skills, Nigel said. She smiles but she doesnt recognize me.

Does he want to know if something like this might lie in his future?

A couple of years ago, Smith said he was too afraid of Alzheimers to contemplate this question. Now hes determined to know as much as possible, not so much because Im curious but so I can help prepare myself and my family. I see the burden of what Im doing for my mother, and I want to do everything I can to ease that burden for them.

Kim Hall, 54, of Plymouth, Minnesota, feels a similar need for a plan. Her mother, Kathleen Peterson, 89, a registered nurse for over 50 years, was diagnosed with vascular dementia five years ago. Today, she resides in assisted living and doesnt recognize most of her large family, including dozens of nieces and nephews who grew up with Hall.

Hall knows her mother had medical issues that may have harmed her brain: a traumatic brain injury as a young adult, uncontrolled high blood pressure for many years, several operations with general anesthesia and an addiction to prescription painkillers. I dont share these, and that may work in my favor, she said.

Still, Hall is concerned. I guess I want to know if Im at risk for dementia and if there is anything I can do to slow it down, she said. I dont want what happened to my mother to happen to me. Probably, Hall speculated, shell arrange to take a neuropsychological exam at some point.

Several years ago, when I was grieving my sisters death from frontotemporal dementia, my doctor suggested that a baseline exam of this sort might be a good idea.

I knew then I wouldnt take him up on the offer. If and when my time with dementia comes, Ill have to deal with it. Until then, Id rather not know.

Kaiser Health News (KHN) is a national health policy news service. It is an editorially independent program of the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation which is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.

We encourage organizations to republish our content, free of charge. Heres what we ask:

You must credit us as the original publisher, with a hyperlink to our khn.org site. If possible, please include the original author(s) and Kaiser Health News in the byline. Please preserve the hyperlinks in the story.

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Have questions? Let us know at KHNHelp@kff.org

See the rest here:
Stalked by The Fear That Dementia Is Stalking You - Kaiser Health News

Find out about his favorite workouts, which foods he's been eating to stay in shape, and everything in between.

From working in an office to becoming a Navy SEAL named Jack Ryan, it took quite the transition for John Krasinski, who went from a 25% body fat to an outstanding 9% just in time for the film.

In this list, well take a look at the things he was doing not only to get in that shape but to maintain it. John admitted on the Jimmy Kimmel show that it really wasnt easy and most important of all, it took some serious commitment both in and out of the gym.

Well discuss some of his favorite workouts, which foods he was eating and everything in between. Enjoy the article and like always be sure to share it with a friend.

Here are 15 things John Krasinski does to stay in shape!

John admitted that prior to meeting his trainer, Jason Walsh, he wasnt even able to hit a single pull-up.

Well, his very same weakness turned into one of his strengths after months of serious training and dropping weight. That one tough pull up turned into 20 with absolute ease; he has some serious bodyweight power!

He sat down with Jimmy Kimmel, detailing some of the aspects of his rigorous diet.

John actually had dinner over at Jimmys during his body transformation; according to Jimmy, John was just pounding down waters all night while eating his usual foods which well detail a little later. Now thats some serious dedication!

It was a rude awakening for Krasinski, as he expected movements like the bench press when he first met his trainer. Playing the role of a Navy SEAL, Johns trainer incorporated lots of cardio drills.

Among the toughest, according to John himself, was the sled-pull, which is a grueling exercise both in terms of strength and endurance.

Now thats one way to keep things interesting, get in a workout with your fellow Hollywood peers. John did that a couple of times in the past with the likes of Dwayne Johnson and Chris Pratt.

It mustve been an honor for John to enter DJs gym, given that The Rock rarely allows anyone in there.

Related -15 Things Dwayne The Rock Johnson Does To Stay In Shape

According to Mens Health, John follows a three-day rotation, but well usually hit the gym 5-6 times per week.

During the three-day rotation, hell hit a push, pull and leg split. Push features chest, triceps and shoulders while the pull days feature back and biceps. And then, theres the dreaded leg day!

When asked on Jimmy Kimmel's show about how he burned so much fat and managed to turn it into muscle, The Office star pointed at salads as a big reason as to why, especially in terms of nutrition.

He was pounding down lots of greens, basically over and over again at a robotic pace.

Accompanying the salad on the norm was a chicken breast. Of course, a lean protein like chicken is part of any diet plan out there.

In order to fuel tough workouts, trainees like John must replenish, with lean protein sources like chicken, meant to build and repair.

As he detailed in his IG post with Chris Pratt, Krasinski doesnt shy away from training outdoors, neither does he shy away from going for a run. He detailed once of his rigorous Memorial Day sessions alongside Pratt;

1 mile, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups,300 air squats, and 1 mile. Who needs weight, right!?

According to Johns trainer via Mens Health, his workouts usually consist of different stages. One of them is dedicated to power, while the other works on Johns muscle endurance, which can be regarded as the fat burning stage of the workout.

Hell also mix in several bodyweight movements, including the previously mentioned pull-ups along with push-ups as well.

While getting shredded for 13 Hours, John hit the gas pedal when it came to his workouts.

He admitted to training twice a day at that point, one portion dedicated to weight training while the other session featured cardio only. All his hard work paid off not only for the film but with various magazines as well, such as Mens Health.

This is a personal preference for John, who loves the bench press. The actor stated that he loves the fact that the exercise constantly provides a challenge; hes always motivated to improve the lift.

Of course, he kept this exercise during his rigorous diet and training program on route to his performance as a Navy SEAL.

Unlike lots of trendy diets that feature no carbohydrates at all, John goes a different route by using them as a fuel source especially during his tough workouts.

Carbohydrates, if used properly, can be a great way to add gas to the engine during a grueling workout session.

Related -The Office: Every Prank Jim Pulled On Dwight, Officially Ranked

While getting in shape for the role, John was a regular at the gym, hitting up workout sessions between five and six times per week.

He usually had a rest day though it didnt involve much of a cheat meal and in truth, it was just hard work and consistency that caused the transformation.

As we stated earlier, a lot of Johns success in the weights room was all thanks to his bodyweight power which improved drastically over time.

Among his favorites included, of course, push-ups, which is a great chest builder. He also thrived on the pull-ups, and planks were used when sculpting his ripped abs.

John was a little embarrassed to reveal that he was once at 25% body fat, when starting off.

On the road to his role as Jack Ryan, the actor went all the way down to 9%. His secret? Flat out consistency. Staying consistent with both food and exercise, most of all.

Next -15 Ways Star-Lord Chris Pratt Stays In Shape

Sources Mens Health & YouTube

Next 20 Little Known Facts About Nicki Minaj's Husband, Kenneth Petty

Link:
15 Things John Krasinski Does To Stay In Shape | TheThings - TheThings

When the transition to menopause starts, women can be plagued by uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood swings, weight gain, and vaginal dryness. The pharmacological approach to controlling menopausal symptoms (which occur when levels of estrogen, progesterone, andtestosteronedrop off in midlife) is hormone therapy (HT), medications with female hormones that replace the ones the body no longer produces. Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, layered clothing, smoking cessation, and vaginal moisturizers and lubricants have also been shown to be effective in coping with symptoms related to menopause.

RELATED: What to Eat and Avoid on a Plant-Based Diet, and a 14-Day Sample Menu

Many studies have looked at the positive effects of the Mediterranean diet (a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and healthy fats) on these symptoms, especially hot flashes and weight gain. An Iranian study published in the journal of theNorth American Menopause Society (NAMS), Menopause, on February 19, 2020, looked at subgroups of fruits and vegetables to find which provide the biggest benefits. The study recruited 393 post-menopausal women between ages 40 and 76 years. Possible participants were excluded if they were overweight, smoked, had a medical history of cancer, diabetes, stroke, multiple sclerosis, dementia,hyper- or hypothyroidism, or had undergone hormone therapy in the previous six months.

Overall, participants who self-reported a higher intake of fruits and vegetables combined, total vegetables, or total fruits had more energy and physical activity compared with individuals who reported a lower intake. A previous study, published in June 2018 in Maturitas, looked at vegans, who do not eat animal products, and found that they report less bothersome vasomotor and physical menopausal symptoms than omnivores.

These results are consistent with other studies. The mechanism by which it works is not entirely clear, but we are assuming it is related to the antioxidant effects of the vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lycopene contained in the fruits and vegetables, said Neal Barnard, MD, author of Your Body in Balance.

RELATED: Coping With Hot Flashes and Other Menopausal Symptoms: What 9 Celebrities Said

The researchers also looked at specific subgroups of fruits and vegetables, including cruciferous vegetables, green leafy vegetables, dark yellow vegetables, berries, and citrus fruits.

In the results, the researchers found that in the vegetable groups, higher consumption of leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables led to a significant reduction in overall menopausal symptoms and specifically in physical symptoms.

Dr. Barnard, who is also the president of thePhysicians Committeefor Responsible Medicine, says, This study also fits a longer-term observation from years ago in Japan, when the diet was much lower in animal products and higher in rice and vegetables, and women rarely complained of menopausal symptoms. When the diet become more Westernized with more meat and dairy, menopausal symptoms were much more frequently reported.

RELATED: Vegetarian Diet Linked to Lowered Risk of Urinary Tract Infection

A higher intake of fruits across the board was found to have a slight impact on the psychological front, with high consumption respondents reporting somewhat less moodiness. Citrus fruits (oranges, limes, lemons, citrons, grapefruit, kumquats, ugli fruit) were also reported to help reduce overall menopause symptoms.

Acidic tomatoes and citrus fruits are known to act as bladder irritants. One concerning result from the study was that higher intakes of fruits and vegetable combined, total vegetables, green leafy vegetables, dark yellow vegetables, and citrus fruits were associated with higher urogenital issues, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, further investigation is warranted to confirm the findings, wrote the researchers in the published papers.

RELATED: Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Symptoms

The researchers caution that the nature of Iranian society and characteristics of diet and food preparation there may limit the ability to generalize results to women worldwide. For example, frying as a method for vegetable preparation in Iran is very popular. Therefore, confirming the findings of the present study in different sociocultural and dietary behavior contexts will better illuminate the relationship between fruit and vegetable consumption and menopausal symptoms, wrote the researchers.

RELATED: Fitness After 40:Midlife Exercise Needs

This small cross-sectional study provides some preliminary evidence regarding the influence of fruit and vegetable intake on menopause symptoms. There is ample evidence that a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables has a beneficial effect on health in a myriad of ways, but additional study is needed to determine whether various menopause symptoms may be affected by dietary choices, said Stephanie Faubion, MD, the medical director of NAMS, and the Penny and Bill George Director at the Mayo Clinic Center for Womens Health in Rochester, Minnesota, in a news release about the study.

Barnard adds, This was not a randomized trial this was self-reported food intake, which makes it more likely that there was a [confounding factor]. However, the study does seem to be rigorously done. It suggests that the next step is to conduct a randomized trial in which people would be given a certain amount of food or asked to consume a certain diet, and [which would include] the presence of a control group.

Read more:
Foods That Help Ease Menopausal Symptoms - Everyday Health

The photo received a large number of responses from fans on both Instagram and Twitter.

Prior to Super Bowl Sunday, Jennifer Lopez posted a selfie to Instagram showing off her toned body and abs.

The photo received a large number of responses from fans on both Instagram and Twitter. Many expressed their love and admiration for Lopez through heart and fire emojis.

RELATED:15 Things Jennifer Lopez Does To Stay In Shape

Earlier this year, Lopez expressed to HELLO! that exercise is essential to her life. "I am 100 percent convinced that working out is part of what makes me so happy," she said. "Dance has always been a huge part of my life and taking the time to move my body and do something that's so good for me is key to my happiness."

Lopezs personal trainer Dodd Romer told UsWeekly that the performer, stays away from processed foods and gets her nutrients from whole sources.

In an article published in People, another trainer named Tracy Anderson went more in-depth about Lopezs strict diet. I have her eating very clean because she needs really good fuel for all the things that shes doing, he told People. Its all organic and its all very well thought out, with the balance of very high-quality proteins and a lot of nutrient-dense food.

RELATED:Here's What It Takes To Get Jennifer Lopez And Shakira 'Super Bowl Ready'

Last summer, the trainer also gaveO Magazine a step-by-step breakdown of her ab workout. The routine consists of 3 sets.

Set 1: 50 ab raises, 50 rope crunches, 50 sit-ups with a 45-pound plate

Set 2: Set 1 + 35 reps

Set 3: Set 1 & 2 + 21 reps

According to an article published by People, Lopez shared what she ate in a day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lopez shared her secrets following the launch of a fitness competition that encouraged women to feel happier in their own skin back in 2015. The competition was titled #BeTheGirl Challenge, a 10-week fitness competition that encouraged women to be happier and healthier. Participants received healthy and easy recipes from Lopez, along with a fitness plan.

In the article, Lopez said, Throughout the years Ive learned the importance of maintaining a healthier diet. I still eat some of the foods I love, but in moderation. I dont deprive myself.

Breakfast: In the morning, Lopez will have a smoothie that consists of strawberries, blueberries, cup raspberries, greek yogurt, cinnamon, honey, fresh lemon juice, and ice cubes.

Lunch: For lunchtime, Lopez has a Kale salad with queso. To make this dish, the ingredients included 1 bunch of kale, large stems removed and leaves finely chopped, toasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled queso, fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, and a large shallot, minced.

Dinner: For dinner, the meal would consist of a boneless, skinless grilled chicken breast with sauted brussels sprouts and baked yams with sea salt.

RELATED:15 Photos of Jennifer Lopez That'll Make You Want To Hit The Gym

In 2019, along with fianc, A-Rod kicked off the No-Carb, No-Sugar Diet, where they completely cut out carbs and sugar. The diet went viral when Lopez announced the 10-Day challenge and encouraged other celebrities to join her. The challenge gained traction on the Today show. Lopez and A-Rod shared their meals for the day on Instagram.

According to CheatSheet, these foods were banned from her diet:

Here is the list of foods that are allowed while on the diet:

JLo is a superwoman... enough said.

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Jennifer Lopez Shows Off Her Insanely Toned Abs... Thanks To Her Workout Routine - TheThings

Save your life but harm your heart? Health experts are sounding a warning as potential side effects of a growing number of breast cancer treatments come to light.

In its first statement on the topic, the American Heart Association Thursday, Feb. 1, said women should consider carefully the risks and benefits of any therapies that may hurt hearts. Not all treatments carry these risks, and there may be ways to minimize or avoid some.

We want patients to get the best treatment for their breast cancer, Dr. Laxmi Mehta, a womens heart health expert at Ohio State University who led the panel that wrote the statement, said. Everyone should have a conversation with their doctor about what are the side effects.

There are more than 3 million breast cancer survivors and nearly 48 million women with heart disease in the United States.

Most people with breast cancer fear death from breast cancer. Even after they survive that, they still fear it, but heart disease is more likely to kill them, especially after age 65, Mehta said.

Some treatments for other types of cancer may pose heart risks, but they are growing more common for breast cancer patients and the statement addressed only that form of the disease.

Here are some questions and answers:

Q: What are the problems and which treatments can cause them?

A: Side effects can include abnormal rhythms, valve problems or heart failure, where the heart slowly weakens and cant pump effectively. Symptoms may not appear until long after treatment ends.

Herceptin and similar drugs for a specific type of breast cancer can cause heart failure. Sometimes its temporary and goes away if treatment is stopped, but it can be permanent.

Radiation can affect arteries and spur narrowing or blockages. Other drugs can lead to abnormal heart rhythms or artery spasms, which can cause chest pain and possibly lead to a heart attack. Still others can damage DNA.

Some research suggests that powerful new drugs that harness the immune system to fight cancer may, in rare cases, cause heart damage, especially when used together.

The problem is, no one has this on their radar, so patients are not routinely checked for it, Dr. Javid Moslehi, head of a Vanderbilt University clinic specializing in heart risks from cancer therapies, said when a study reported this problem about a year ago.

Q: What can be done to avoid harm?

A: If heart failure develops early during breast cancer treatment, sometimes therapy can be slowed down or altered.

Certain chemotherapies such as doxorubicin, sold as Adriamycin and in generic form, might be less risky if given more slowly, rather than all at once. Some research suggested that a drug called dexrazoxane may minimize damage if given to women with advanced breast cancer who are getting high doses of doxorubicin.

Q: What can patients do?

A: Women should make sure doctors are monitoring their heart before, during and after breast cancer treatment.

The diseases share many common risk factors such as obesity, smoking and too little exercise, so reducing these can help.

Make sure youre working on your diet, exercise, managing your weight, following up with your doctor on your blood pressure and cholesterol, Mehta said.

Marilynn Marchione can be followed on Twitter:@MMarchioneAP

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Doctors warn of heart risk from some breast cancer therapies - Valley News

Filiz Mustafa Freelance Writer

Filiz is a freelance film and TV journalist with a flair for everything related to reality soaps and showbiz. When she's not busy creating entertainment news content she loves spending time in nature, reading non-fiction books, eating comfort food and travelling.

ITV has brought series 2 of Save Money: Lose Weight with Dr Ranj Singh and Sian Williams this year.

The show focuses on people who want to achieve a healthier lifestyle by losing weight and saving money in the process.

In episode 5 (February 20th), viewers were introduced to the metabolism reset diet which helps people to rejuvenate their bodies in one month.

So what is the metabolism reset diet about? Heres everything you need to know about it, including cost and case study.

Save Money: Lose Weight, metabolism reset diet

The metabolism reset diet is based on physician Alan Christiansons book of the same name. Dr Christianson promises that the diet helps you to lose weight naturally and repair your liver.

This specific diet is a 4-week fasting plan which substitutes two of your three meals a day with a protein shake.

The fasting diet recommends regular and fresh meals cooked from scratch. The diet also encourages unlimited vegetable snacks during the day such as carrot or celery sticks.

On Save Money: Lose Weight, the 28-day diet cost around240.

Its certainly one of the cheapest fasting plans out there.

Peter on Save Money: Lose Weight, metabolism reset diet

In Thursdays episode (February 20th), the case study was health and safety consultant Peter. He is 63 years old and weighed 22 stones and 6 pounds (around 141 kg) at the start of the challenge.

He used to skip two of his regular meals, eating one main dish in the evenings. Using the metabolism reset diet, Peter started cooking more homemade meals and incorporating protein shakes as part of his diet.

Peter was also encouraged to do light exercise during the day such as walking the dog in the neighborhood.

By week 2, Peter was enjoying the metabolism reset diet as he didnt have any drastic cravings. He also added that hes had the lowest blood pressure for a long time.

By week 4, Peter managed to lose 30 pounds (13 kg) and came on the leaderboard for saving the most money per lost weight.

He managed to save 8.05 for every lost pound. Impressive!

WATCH SAVE MONEY: LOSE WEIGHT SERIES 2 THURSDAYS AT 8.30 PM ON ITV

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How to do the metabolism diet from Save Money: Lose Weight detox your body in 4 weeks! - Reality Titbit - Celebrity TV News

A diet rich in fruit and veg, olive oil and fish boosts bacteria in the gut linked to healthy ageing and reduces bacteria linked to inflammation, experts from five countries said. Photograph: PA/PA Wire

As the global population is projected to live longer, we need to find ways of helping people live healthier into old age. Exercise and diet are the best ways of maintaining good health as we age. But recent research has started to look at the role our gut specifically our microbiome plays in how we grow old. The gut microbiome is a complex community of millions of microbes that live in the intestines. These microbes help to break down dietary ingredients, such as resistant starch, that humans cannot digest. They also help prevent the growth of disease-causing bacteria.

Researchers from the APC Microbiome Institute at University College Cork, along with colleagues in Europe, set out to see if diet could alter the gut microbiome in a way that would promote healthy ageing. They looked at 612 people aged 65 to 79, asking half of them to change their normal diet to a Mediterranean diet for a full year. This involved eating more vegetables, legumes, fruits, nuts, olive oil and fish, and eating less red meat, dairy products and saturated fats. The other half did not change their diet.

Although there were minimal changes to the microbiome, those who followed the Mediterranean diet had better cognitive function and memory, less inflammation, and better bone strength. Many of the participants were also found to be pre-frail, meaning their bone strength and bone density were about to decrease, at the beginning of the study. Those who followed their regular diet became more frail over the course of the one-year study, while the Mediterranean diet group reversed this trend.

While the obesity crisis is considered the foremost public health issue in the west, malnutrition is a growing concern. Malnutrition occurs when a person is deficient in nutrients, such as protein, vitamins and minerals, or they are not eating enough calories. Under-nutrition is linked to increased frailty, delayed wound healing, and higher mortality. There is clearly a need for us to be proactive in dealing with dietary issues in older people.

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The Irish Times view on the Mediterranean diet: good for the gut - The Irish Times