Good morning. In today’s edition:

• Richest Source of Protein for a Vegetarian Person?

• The Long-Term Effects of GLP-1 Drugs Are Unknown

• Older Adults (Over 70 Years Old) Who Walked for Transportation at Least Once a Week Instead of Driving a Car Had a Lower All-cause Mortality Rate of Up to 27%, Resulting in a Longer Lifespan Compared to Those Who Did Not Walk

• New Study Reveals That the Use of Photobiomodulation — a Technique Based on the Use of Low-intensity Laser Light or LED Light — Applied to the Brain-gut Axis is Effective in Recovering Some Cognitive Alterations and Sequelae Caused by Chronic Stress and for Treatment-resistant Subtype of Depression

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Richest Source of Protein for a Vegetarian Person?

Looking for tasty ways to boost your protein intake? Check out these nutrient-rich veggies:

1. Green Peas: These little guys are not just tasty but also loaded with 8.6 grams of protein per cup, along with fiber and vitamins.

2. Spinach: Spinach is a superhero veggie, offering 5 grams of protein per cup and lots of vitamins for your immune system and eyesight.

3. Artichokes: With nearly 5 grams of protein per cup, artichokes are great for your heart and digestion.

4. Sweet Corn: Don't underestimate sweet corn! It has 4.7 grams of protein per cup and lots of antioxidants for fighting off diseases.

5. Avocado: Creamy and delicious, avocados provide nearly 5 grams of protein per cup, along with healthy fats and vitamins.

6. Asparagus: Low in carbs but high in protein, asparagus offers nearly 5 grams per cup and plenty of folate and vitamin A.

7. Brussels Sprouts: Despite their small size, Brussels sprouts pack a punch with 4 grams of protein per cup, plus fiber and antioxidants.

8. Mushrooms: These fungi are a protein source too, packed with antioxidants and B vitamins.

9. Kale: Love it or hate it, kale has 4 grams of protein per cup, along with vitamins and antioxidants.

10. Potatoes: When prepared right, potatoes offer 3 grams of protein per serving, plus potassium and vitamin C.

11. Broccoli: Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse with 2.5 grams of protein per cup, and lots of vitamins and minerals.

Incorporate these veggies into your meals for a healthy, protein-packed diet!

Source: Bestie Health

WEIGHT LOSS

The Long-Term Effects of GLP-1 Drugs Are Unknown

In recent years, GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic have become game-changers. They help manage diabetes and obesity. Yet, despite their promise, there's a lingering question: What happens after long-term use?

GLP-1 agonists have been celebrated for their potential. They are like insulin in its early days, when its effects transformed the lives of diabetes sufferers. These drugs, with names like Ozempic and Wegovy, offer hope for better management of chronic conditions.

However, just as with any medication, there are unknowns. The long-term effects of GLP-1 drugs remain a mystery. They've been great for controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss. But, we don't know how they may impact the body over decades.

Consider Leonard Thompson. He was the first patient to receive insulin, almost a century ago. His dramatic recovery offered hope where there was once despair. Today, GLP-1 drugs evoke a similar sense of optimism. But like the early days of insulin, it will take time to fully understand their implications.

We must navigate modern medicine. We must approach new treatments with cautious hope. While GLP-1 agonists hold tremendous promise, their long-term effects are yet to be revealed. Until then, patients and healthcare providers must tread carefully. They must balance the benefits of these drugs with the uncertainty of their prolonged use.

Source: theatlantic.com

HEALTH

Older Adults (Over 70 Years Old) Who Walked for Transportation at Least Once a Week Instead of Driving a Car Had a Lower All-cause Mortality Rate of Up to 27%, Resulting in a Longer Lifespan Compared to Those Who Did Not Walk

Recent research shows that merely walking, instead of driving, could greatly lengthen the lives of older adults. Monash University did the study. It was published in BMJ Public Health. The study focused on how walking for transport—like going to appointments or shopping—affects lifespan.

For adults around 75 years old, walking for transport once a week was linked to a 25% lower risk of death. This is compared to not walking at all. This emphasizes the importance of creating communities where walking is safe and encouraged.

The study involved over 11,000 initially healthy Australians aged 70 and up. Participants reported their walking habits, with nearly half walking daily. Surprisingly, those who walked rarely or once a week had a 27% lower risk of death. They had this risk compared to non-walkers.

The research adjusted for factors like age, chronic conditions, and physical activity. This makes the results relevant to many older adults.

Associate Professor Danijela Gasevic stresses the need for supportive infrastructure. It promotes walking, which she emphasizes is simple, accessible, and affordable. Professor David Dunstan highlights the importance of staying physically active for overall health.

In conclusion, trading a car ride for a weekly walk could be a small step. It could lead to a longer and healthier life for older adults. So, why not lace up those walking shoes and hit the pavement? Your health might just thank you for it.

Source: monash.edu

New Study Reveals That the Use of Photobiomodulation — a Technique Based on the Use of Low-intensity Laser Light or LED Light — Applied to the Brain-gut Axis is Effective in Recovering Some Cognitive Alterations and Sequelae Caused by Chronic Stress and for Treatment-resistant Subtype of Depression

A new study from the University of Barcelona suggests a unique therapy. It uses low-intensity light. It may offer relief from cognitive issues due to chronic stress. This therapy is called photobiomodulation. It involves directing light at both the brain and the gut at the same time. Researchers found that this approach effectively reversed some cognitive impairments linked to stress.

Photobiomodulation is a non-invasive technique. It uses low-power light to stimulate specific body functions. In this study, researchers targeted the brain-gut axis. It is a connection between the brain and the gut. By applying light to this axis, they observed improvements in cognitive function.

Professor Albert Giralt is the lead researcher. He emphasized the importance of both stimulating the brain and the gut at the same time. This taps into the new gut-brain axis. It explores how the gut affects brain health.

One key finding of the study was the role of the SIRT1 pathway. It reverses the cognitive effects of stress. This pathway, associated with cell health, was restored through photobiomodulation therapy.

Additionally, researchers noted changes in the gut microbiota. The microbiota play a role in neuroinflammation. The findings suggest that light therapy could help. It could be an extra treatment for conditions like treatment-resistant depression.

More research is needed. But, these findings offer hope for people with stress-related cognitive issues. Photobiomodulation therapy could be a safe and helpful option. It could improve mental health.

Source: web.ub.edu

✢ 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.