04/24/25 - #376

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Good morning. In today’s edition:

  • Fruits and Vegetables Aren’t as Nutritious as They Used to Be. What Happened?

  • Over Half of Adults Could Be Overweight by 2050. Why Weight Loss Drugs Aren't a Cure

  • ‘Amazing’ Reduction in Alzheimer’s Risk Verified by Blood Markers, Study Says

  • Study: Scrolling on Your Phone in Bed Could Raise Insomnia Risk by Nearly 60%

…and lots more. Have a great day!

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Fruits and Vegetables Aren’t as Nutritious as They Used to Be. What Happened?

Fruits and vegetables are still good for your health—but they don’t pack the same nutritional punch they once did. Studies show that since the 1950s, key nutrients like protein, calcium, iron, and riboflavin have dropped in many types of produce.

Why is this happening? Experts say modern farming is a big reason. Today’s crops are grown faster and in larger amounts than before. This focus on speed and size means the plants may not absorb as many nutrients from the soil. Over time, farming practices like growing the same crop in the same field and using synthetic fertilizers have worn down soil quality. Poor soil leads to less nutritious plants.

Rising levels of carbon dioxide in the air may also play a role. Some research shows that this can cause plants to make more sugars but fewer nutrients.

Produce that grows quickly—like spinach, lettuce, corn, and wheat—seems to lose the most nutrients. On the other hand, slower-growing fruits and root vegetables may be affected less.

But don’t give up on fruits and vegetables! You can still get a lot of benefits by eating a wide variety and aiming for seven to ten servings a day. Choose local, seasonal, and organic when possible. Try to eat more raw or lightly cooked veggies, and support farms that use soil-friendly methods.

Even with lower nutrient levels, fruits and veggies remain essential for staying healthy as you age.

WEIGHT LOSS

Over Half of Adults Could Be Overweight by 2050. Why Weight Loss Drugs Aren't a Cure

A new global study warns that by 2050, more than half of all adults could be overweight or obese. That includes 57% of men and 60% of women. Even young people are affected — one in three people ages 5 to 24 may face the same risk.

This rise in weight issues is tied to more serious health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. While new weight loss drugs such as Wegovy and Zepbound are growing in popularity, experts say these medications alone won’t solve the problem.

There are several reasons why. First, these drugs don’t work the same for everyone. Second, they’re hard to get, especially in countries with fewer resources. In 2023, the World Health Organization chose not to add these drugs to its list of essential medicines due to concerns about long-term safety.

The biggest increases in overweight and obesity are expected in countries like China, India, and parts of Africa. But these areas aren’t the biggest users of weight loss medications. In fact, the U.S. accounts for most sales.

Experts say that while these drugs can help some people, we can’t rely on them alone. Lasting change will require better public health programs, more access to healthy foods, and support for active lifestyles.

The bottom line? Pills aren’t a cure. Preventing obesity will take a worldwide effort focused on healthier habits for everyone.

HEALTH

‘Amazing’ Reduction in Alzheimer’s Risk Verified by Blood Markers, Study Says

A new study shows that blood tests may help spot Alzheimer’s risk early—and track how lifestyle changes can slow it down. This could be a game-changer for people in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.

Penny Ashford, 61, feared she was showing signs of early Alzheimer’s like her father. She had trouble finding words and felt lost in conversation. But after joining a study and changing her lifestyle, her brain health improved. Blood tests showed big drops in key Alzheimer’s markers—some by over 70%.

These tests measure proteins like amyloid and tau, which build up in the brain and are linked to memory loss. They also check for brain inflammation. Until now, doctors needed spinal taps or brain scans to see these changes. Blood tests make it easier and cheaper to track brain health.

The study included 54 people who followed personalized advice on diet, sleep, exercise, and stress. People who stuck with the plan saw the best results.

Researchers believe these blood tests could one day be used like cholesterol tests—common, easy, and useful for tracking risk. They’re still being tested, but early results are exciting.

Penny quit sugar, exercised regularly, and followed a plant-based diet. She lost weight, built muscle, and feels much better. Her story shows that hard work can lead to real brain health improvements.

“I’m so proud of myself,” she said. “Each step I take makes me want to keep going.”

This study offers hope for fighting Alzheimer’s—one healthy habit at a time.

Study: Scrolling on Your Phone in Bed Could Raise Insomnia Risk by Nearly 60%

Using your phone in bed might be costing you sleep. A new study from Norway found that every hour of screen time in bed is linked to 24 fewer minutes of sleep—and a 59% higher risk of insomnia.

Researchers looked at over 45,000 people and found a clear link between screen use and poor sleep. This included watching shows, scrolling social media, or even reading on a device. It didn’t matter what people were doing—more screen time meant worse sleep.

Why does this happen? Experts believe screens keep the brain too active, making it hard to wind down. Bright light and emotional content can also delay sleep.

Poor sleep isn't just annoying—it can raise the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and depression over time. Even losing 30 minutes a night can add up.

To sleep better, experts recommend keeping screens out of the bedroom. Try reading a book, listening to music, or drinking a cup of herbal tea instead. Some suggest charging your phone in another room and using a basic alarm clock.

If you can’t fall asleep, don’t stay in bed scrolling. Get up, do something relaxing, then try again.

While this study focused on young adults, experts believe the results likely apply to older adults too. The takeaway is simple: limit screen use before bed—and keep your bed for sleeping. Your mind and body will thank you.

✢ A Note From Hem Hero

The information in this health newsletter is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. The publishers are not responsible for any actions taken by the reader based on the information provided.