Good morning. In today’s edition:

• A Diet Rich in Fruits and Vegetables, Whole Grains and Unsaturated Fats in Midlife Can Improve the Chances of Good Mental, Physical and Cognitive Health Decades Later, a New Report Shows

• Ozempic "Baby Boom" Explained by Doctor

• No Cardiologists for 22 Million US Residents in 1,454 Counties | New Research From the American College of Cardiology Indicates That Lower-income Communities Need Better Access to Cardiologists

• Lowering Systolic Blood Pressure to Less Than 120 mm Hg Versus Less Than 140 mm Hg in Patients With High Cardiovascular Risk With and Without Diabetes or Previous Stroke: an Open-label, Blinded-outcome, Randomized Trial

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

A Diet Rich in Fruits and Vegetables, Whole Grains and Unsaturated Fats in Midlife Can Improve the Chances of Good Mental, Physical and Cognitive Health Decades Later, a New Report Shows

What you eat in your 40s could make a big difference in how healthy you are in your 70s. A big study followed over 100,000 people for 30 years. It shows that a diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and unsaturated fats in your middle years can help you stay mentally, physically, and cognitively healthy as you get older.

Researchers at Harvard University looked at a lot of data from two large studies. They checked what the participants ate and compared it to healthy eating plans. These plans include the DASH diet and the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI). The DASH diet helps lower blood pressure. It doesn’t cut any food groups. The AHEI encourages eating more vegetables and nuts and less red meat.

The study found that people who followed these healthy diets closely had a much better chance of aging well. "Aging well" means turning 70 or older while still having good mental, physical, and thinking skills, and being free of major illnesses.

The study is observational, which means it can’t prove that eating healthy directly causes better aging. But, the strong link between good midlife eating habits and later health was clear. This was true even when considering other factors, like exercise and smoking.

Overall, the research suggests that eating well in your 40s can really pay off as you get older. Making the choice to eat healthier foods now might help you have a better quality of life in the future.

Source: nbcnews.com

WEIGHT LOSS

Ozempic "Baby Boom" Explained by Doctor

Ozempic was made to manage diabetes. It's in the news for a surprising reason: it's linked to a surge in pregnancies. This phenomenon, known as the "Ozempic baby boom," is capturing attention across social media platforms.

Doctors usually prescribe Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes and weight loss. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar. However, many women are reporting pregnancies shortly after starting birth control, even if they are taking it. A notable story comes from a TikTok couple. They struggled with infertility but successfully conceived. They attribute their success to Ozempic.

Doctors say Ozempic could affect the absorption of birth control pills. This would make them less effective. Jamie Winn from Universal Drugstore advises people using Ozempic and birth control pills to take extra care. They should use condoms or switch to a long-acting contraceptive like an IUD.

Weight loss from Ozempic may boost fertility by restoring ovulation. But, there are precautions to consider. If you get pregnant on Ozempic, stop the drug right away. There is not enough data on its safety during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown risks. So, it's critical for users to consult healthcare providers if they plan to conceive or find they are pregnant while on Ozempic.

The trend has grown with the drug's popularity. Celebrities and social media drove it. These pregnancy reports are anecdotal. They link Ozempic to higher fertility. This link is gaining scientific interest. It's prompting more investigation into this surprise side effect.

Source: newsweek.com

HEALTH

No Cardiologists for 22 Million US Residents in 1,454 Counties | New Research From the American College of Cardiology Indicates That Lower-income Communities Need Better Access to Cardiologists

A new study from the American College of Cardiology shows that almost half of the U.S. counties do not have a cardiologist. This affects about 22 million people. They live in rural and poor areas and are at higher risk for heart problems.

The research was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC). It points out that these areas not only lack heart doctors but also have higher rates of heart disease. They also have shorter lives, by about a year, compared to other regions.

These counties have no cardiologists. They are mostly rural and have low incomes. They often lack proper health insurance. They also have limited access to healthy food and primary care. Native Americans are the most affected. They have the highest chance of living in these underserved areas.

Dr. Haider J. Warraich, the lead researcher, emphasizes the need for new policies and the use of telemedicine to help fill this gap in healthcare. Suggestions include: improving internet access and teaching digital skills. Also, providing better health insurance and focusing on preventable health risks. These steps will improve heart health outcomes.

The American College of Cardiology is working to ensure everyone has equal access to heart care. They are doing this through various programs and tools, like the Health Equity Heat Map. This tool helps health workers understand heart health challenges. It also helps them tackle these challenges in different communities. They aim to improve heart care for all Americans, especially those in hard-to-reach areas.

Source: eurekalert.org

Lowering Systolic Blood Pressure to Less Than 120 mm Hg Versus Less Than 140 mm Hg in Patients With High Cardiovascular Risk With and Without Diabetes or Previous Stroke: an Open-label, Blinded-outcome, Randomized Trial

For people at high risk of heart problems, aiming for a lower blood pressure target could save lives. A major study from China has shown that keeping systolic blood pressure (the top number) below 120 mm Hg is safer. This is safer than the commonly recommended target of below 140 mm Hg. This research included over 11,000 adults, average age around 65, many of whom had diabetes or had experienced a stroke.

The study found that people who kept their blood pressure below 120 had fewer severe heart issues. These issues include heart attacks and strokes. This was compared to those who kept it below 140. After about three and a half years, 9.7% in the lower target group faced serious heart events, versus 11.1% in the higher target group.

However, aiming for such a low blood pressure wasn't without risks. Cases of fainting were slightly more common in the lower blood pressure group. Still, the benefits of fewer major heart problems might outweigh these risks for many people.

This study suggests that with careful management and regular doctor visits, aiming for a lower blood pressure goal could be good. This is true for those at high risk of heart disease. Patients should closely with their doctors. They will find the best target for their health.

Source: thelancet.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.