05/07/25 - #385

Good morning. In today’s edition:

  • Is 90% Dark Chocolate Healthy?

  • GLP-1s Can Help Employers Lower Medical Costs in 2 Years, New Study Finds

  • Shingles Vaccine Lowers the Risk of Heart Disease for Up to Eight Years. People Who Are Given a Vaccine for Shingles Have a 23% Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Events, Including Stroke, Heart Failure, and Coronary Heart Disease, According to a Study of More Than a Million People

  • Sleep Disorders Associated With Higher Risk of Dementia, Study Finds. Specifically, Those With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Had a 45% Higher Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, While Individuals With Insomnia Had a 59% Increased Risk of Vascular Dementia and a 49% Higher Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Is 90% Dark Chocolate Healthy?

Yes—90% dark chocolate can be healthy if you eat the right kind and don’t eat too much.

This type of chocolate is made mostly from cacao beans, which are full of healthy plant nutrients called flavonols and polyphenols. These antioxidants help protect your heart and fight damage in the body. Dark chocolate actually has more of these nutrients than blueberries or acai berries.

Some studies show that dark chocolate may lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. It can also raise “good” cholesterol (HDL) and lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL). These benefits come from the chocolate’s high levels of magnesium, iron, and potassium.

Dark chocolate may also help lower stress and improve your mood. This could be from its theobromine, a mild stimulant, or from helping your brain make more serotonin, a feel-good chemical. Some people say it helps with energy, skin health, and even lowers the risk of stroke and certain cancers.

However, dark chocolate does contain oxalates, which can raise the risk of kidney stones for some people. It also has a little caffeine, so it might keep you awake if eaten late at night.

To get the most benefits, choose organic chocolate with no added sugar. Look for brands that use natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. A small square each day is enough.

Dark chocolate is more than just a tasty treat—it can be a smart choice for your heart and overall health.

WEIGHT LOSS

GLP-1s Can Help Employers Lower Medical Costs in 2 Years, New Study Finds

A new study shows that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro may help lower health care costs for employers within two years. These drugs are used to treat Type 2 diabetes and support weight loss. They cost more than $1,000 per dose, but the health benefits may be worth it.

Researchers at Aon looked at data from 139,000 U.S. workers who took GLP-1 drugs between 2022 and 2024. At first, medical costs went up because patients needed more doctor visits to manage side effects and other health issues like acid reflux and sleep problems. But after two years, costs grew more slowly.

People taking GLP-1s saw big health improvements. Heart attacks and strokes dropped by over 40%. New cases of diabetes were also lower. The growth in health care costs was cut in half. For people not taking GLP-1s, medical costs went up by 14%. For those taking the drugs, costs only rose by 7%.

This shows that even though GLP-1s are expensive, they may save money over time by keeping people healthier. Aon says this gives employers a better idea of when they might see savings. The company has started its own GLP-1 program for workers. It includes virtual check-ins and home tests to help employees stay on track with treatment.

HEALTH

Shingles Vaccine Lowers the Risk of Heart Disease for Up to Eight Years. People Who Are Given a Vaccine for Shingles Have a 23% Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Events, Including Stroke, Heart Failure, and Coronary Heart Disease, According to a Study of More Than a Million People

Getting the shingles vaccine may protect more than just your skin. A new study found it may also lower your risk of heart disease for up to eight years.

The study looked at health records from over 1 million people age 50 and older. Those who got the vaccine had a 23% lower chance of having serious heart problems. This includes stroke, heart failure, and heart disease.

The biggest benefit was seen in men, people under 60, and those who smoke, drink, or are not very active. Experts think the vaccine helps because shingles can cause swelling and damage in the blood vessels. Stopping shingles may help stop this damage.

The study focused on an older shingles vaccine called Zostavax. It is not used in the U.S. anymore. Today, most people get a newer two-dose vaccine called Shingrix. It is over 90% effective. Early reports suggest Shingrix may also help protect the heart.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get the shingles vaccine starting at age 50. The vaccine also seems to lower the risk of memory loss diseases, like dementia.

Experts say this study shows how infections can lead to other health problems over time. Preventing shingles may help prevent heart problems and more.

If you're 50 or older and haven’t had your shingles shot yet, now may be a good time to ask your doctor about it.

Sleep Disorders Associated With Higher Risk of Dementia, Study Finds. Specifically, Those With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Had a 45% Higher Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, While Individuals With Insomnia Had a 59% Increased Risk of Vascular Dementia and a 49% Higher Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

A new study found that sleep problems may raise your risk of dementia. Dementia is a loss of memory and thinking skills. It gets worse over time. The two most common types are Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

Researchers looked at 60 past studies. People with sleep apnea had a 45% higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Sleep apnea is when your breathing stops and starts during sleep. People with insomnia had a 59% higher risk of vascular dementia and a 49% higher risk of Alzheimer’s. Insomnia means you have trouble falling or staying asleep.

Other sleep problems, like restless legs or daytime sleepiness, also raised the risk of dementia. The study found that poor sleep may hurt brain health over time.

Sleep problems are common, especially in older adults. They can be caused by stress, illness, or mental health issues. These problems can lead to tiredness, memory issues, and even depression.

The researchers say sleep is very important for brain health. Finding and treating sleep problems early may help lower the risk of dementia. Many sleep issues can be managed with lifestyle changes or medical help.

If you often feel tired, snore loudly, or can’t sleep well, talk to your doctor. Getting better sleep might protect your memory and health as you age.

The takeaway: Good sleep is more than rest. It may help keep your brain sharp and lower your chance of dementia.

Always take sleep problems seriously.

✢ 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.