06/06/25 - #407

Good morning. In today’s edition:

• Eating More Fiber Could Lower Levels of PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’: Study

• I Lost Over 100lbs. Here’s What Helped Me

• Younger Men Are Less Likely to Seek Professional Help for Their Health | Men Aged 18-29 Were the Least Likely, Often Seeking Help From Online Sources or Their Own Networks. Barriers Include Cost and Logistics, Stigma Around Mental Health, and a Fear of Compromising Independence by Asking for Help

• Former Surgeon General Says Negative Impacts From Loneliness Comparable to Smoking, Obesity

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Eating More Fiber Could Lower Levels of PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’: Study

A new study shows that eating more fiber may help lower harmful “forever chemicals” in the body. These chemicals, called PFAS, are found in products like nonstick pans, waterproof clothes, and food wrappers. They stay in the body for years and can cause serious health problems, such as cancer, kidney disease, high cholesterol, and weak immune systems.

The study looked at two common PFAS chemicals: PFOS and PFOA. Researchers found that people who eat more fiber—especially from fruits, vegetables, and oats—have lower levels of these chemicals in their blood.

They believe this happens because some kinds of fiber form a gel in the gut. This gel may block the body from absorbing PFAS. Instead, the chemicals pass through the body and are removed in waste.

Both soluble and insoluble fiber are helpful. One special type of fiber, called oat beta glucan, worked best when eaten with a meal. That’s because the body makes bile during meals, and bile may help move PFAS out of the body.

PFAS have been found in the blood of almost everyone. There is no safe level of these chemicals in drinking water, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Researchers say adding more fiber to your diet is a simple and low-cost way to help lower PFAS levels. They plan to do more research, but early results are promising.

Talk to your doctor before making changes to your diet. Fiber may help protect your health.

Source: ecowatch.com

WEIGHT LOSS

I Lost Over 100lbs. Here’s What Helped Me

Jamie Wooldridge, a retiree from Southlake, Texas, lost over 100 pounds in just six months—without surgery or medication. At 285 pounds, Jamie knew something had to change after seeing an unflattering photo of himself taken at church. That moment pushed him to take control of his health.

He began by tracking how much he was eating. To his surprise, he had been consuming 4,000 to 5,000 calories a day. With help from a calorie-counting app, he cut back to about 2,200 calories daily. He didn’t give up his favorite foods like pizza—he simply planned for them and stayed within his calorie limit.

Jamie also became more active. He was already walking regularly but eventually added running to his routine. He shared his progress on TikTok to encourage others and hold himself accountable.

To make healthier meals, Jamie made small changes. He used low-fat mayo, cut back on sugar, and cooked with an air fryer to avoid extra fat from frying. Instead of fast food, he made turkey burgers at home, sometimes wrapped in lettuce.

Doctors say not everyone will lose weight as fast as Jamie did. Still, small steps—like portion control, planning ahead, and moving more—can make a big difference. Jamie's advice? “Make your resolution your routine.”

Before starting any weight loss plan, it's best to talk to your doctor. But as Jamie says, “If I can do it, you can do it too.”

Source: Good Morning America

HEALTH

Younger Men Are Less Likely to Seek Professional Help for Their Health | Men Aged 18-29 Were the Least Likely, Often Seeking Help From Online Sources or Their Own Networks. Barriers Include Cost and Logistics, Stigma Around Mental Health, and a Fear of Compromising Independence by Asking for Help

A new study from Australia found that younger men, especially those aged 18 to 29, are less likely to get professional help for their health. This includes both physical and mental health problems. Instead of seeing a doctor, many young men go online or talk to friends or family when they need advice.

Researchers asked 1,282 men how they take care of their health and what stops them from getting help. They found that younger men face more barriers than older men. Some of the main reasons include cost, finding time, and long travel distances. But there are also emotional reasons. Many young men feel embarrassed to talk about mental health. Others worry that asking for help makes them seem weak or not in control.

Even though older men usually have more health issues, they are more likely to go to a doctor. The study shows that age plays a big role in how men deal with health problems.

Experts say it’s important to make it easier for young men to get help. This could include cheaper care, easier appointment times, and spreading the message that asking for help is okay.

These findings may apply in other countries too, not just in Australia. If you or someone you know is having a hard time, don’t wait. Talking to a doctor or counselor can help.

Getting help is not a weakness. It’s a smart and strong choice—for any age.

Source: scimex.org

Former Surgeon General Says Negative Impacts From Loneliness Comparable to Smoking, Obesity

Feeling lonely isn’t just sad—it can hurt your health. Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy says loneliness can be as harmful as smoking or being very overweight. It can raise your risk of dying early.

In a recent interview, Dr. Murthy said being alone too often can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, heart disease, stroke, and even memory loss. He said the health effects of loneliness are like smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

“We need connection like we need food and water,” he said. Without it, the body stays in a stressed state. This stress can lead to inflammation, which makes many health problems worse.

Dr. Murthy also worries about how young people use social media. Many people think social media helps kids stay connected. But he said online friendships are not the same as real-life ones. Many young people compare themselves to others online, which hurts their self-esteem. They also have fewer close friends in real life.

A new Gallup study found that 1 in 4 American men under age 35 felt lonely the day before they were surveyed. That shows how serious this problem has become.

Loneliness affects people of all ages. Making time for friends, joining a group, or simply talking to someone can help. Real connection is important—not just for your mind, but for your body too. Staying connected helps you stay healthier and live longer.

Make connection a part of your daily life.

Source: thehill.com

✢ 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.