08/12/24 - #193

Good morning. In today’s edition:

  • Eating Processed Red Meat Could Increase Risk of Dementia, Study Finds | US Researchers Say They Have Uncovered Potential Link After Tracking 130,000 People Over Four Decades

  • Weight Loss Drugs Like Wegovy May Trigger Eating Disorders in Some Patients, Doctors Warn

  • Lowering the Nicotine Concentration in Vapes Can Lead to Users Taking Longer, Bigger Puffs, Increasing Exposure to Other Toxic Substances in the Vapes in the Short Term | the Study Found Reducing From 5% Nicotine to 3% or 2.4%, Their Puffing Time, Duration and Total Inhaled Volume Were Larger

  • A Review of Serious Adverse Events Linked With GLP-1 Agonists in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity Treatment

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Eating Processed Red Meat Could Increase Risk of Dementia, Study Finds | US Researchers Say They Have Uncovered Potential Link After Tracking 130,000 People Over Four Decades

A recent US study suggests that processed red meat, like bacon, hot dogs, and salami, may raise the risk of dementia. The study tracked the health and diet of 130,000 nurses and health workers for over 40 years.

The findings showed that eating processed red meat twice a week increases the risk of dementia. This is compared to those who eat it less often. In fact, the risk could go up by 14% compared to those who eat such meats about three times a month.

However, the study also found that making a small change in what you eat could help. By replacing one serving of processed meat with healthier foods like nuts, beans, or tofu each day, you could lower your risk of dementia by 23%.

Dr. Yuhan Li, who led the study, pointed out that these meats can increase the risk of serious diseases like cancer and heart disease. They might also harm the brain due to harmful substances like nitrites and sodium.

The research shows a clear link between eating processed red meat and a higher risk of dementia. But, it doesn't prove that the meat directly causes the disease. It might be that people who avoid processed meat also live healthier lifestyles in other ways.

This study was presented at the Alzheimer's Association conference. It encourages eating less processed food to keep the brain healthy.

WEIGHT LOSS

Weight Loss Drugs Like Wegovy May Trigger Eating Disorders in Some Patients, Doctors Warn

Weight loss drugs like Wegovy are popular. They help people with diabetes and obesity lose weight. However, doctors are starting to worry. These drugs might cause eating disorders in some users.

These medications are part of a group called GLP-1s. They work by copying a hormone that controls hunger and blood sugar. They help people lose weight quickly. But, the body may misinterpret this as starvation, leading to unhealthy eating habits.

Dr. Tom Hildebrandt, from Mount Sinai's Center of Excellence in Eating and Weight Disorders, has noticed a troubling pattern. "Patients begin using the drug for weight management and end up showing signs of anorexia," he said. This issue isn't just from misuse; it can happen even when the drug is taken as directed.

Doctors are now suggesting that patients be checked for eating disorders before starting these drugs. They want to make sure that patients don't have any unhealthy eating habits that could get worse with these medications.

Although these drugs can be helpful, they can also be risky if not managed carefully. Experts and patient groups want updated safety warnings on these drugs. They want users to know the potential dangers.

As this discussion continues, there is pressure on drug companies and regulators to ensure patient safety.

HEALTH

Lowering the Nicotine Concentration in Vapes Can Lead to Users Taking Longer, Bigger Puffs, Increasing Exposure to Other Toxic Substances in the Vapes in the Short Term | the Study Found Reducing From 5% Nicotine to 3% or 2.4%, Their Puffing Time, Duration and Total Inhaled Volume Were Larger

Recent US research found that lowering nicotine in vapes could lead to longer, bigger puffs. This study shows that, when vapers switch from a 5% to a 3% or 2.4% nicotine vape, they try to inhale more deeply to get the same nicotine effect.

This change means they end up breathing in more of the harmful substances found in the vapor. The goal is to reduce e-cigarettes' nicotine to make them less addictive. However, this study suggests that people might still be exposed to other dangerous chemicals in the short term.

Researchers observed users who typically vape with 5% nicotine. When given vapes with only 3% or 2.4% nicotine, these users took longer puffs, and the total amount of vapor they inhaled increased significantly.

This finding is important. It shows that lowering nicotine doesn't make vaping safer right away. People might still be putting themselves at risk by trying to compensate for the lower nicotine levels.

For those who use vapes or are considering switching to ones with less nicotine, this study highlights the need to be aware of the potential risks. It's also vital for policymakers crafting vaping regulations. It shows that reducing nicotine may not lower vaping's short-term health risks.

A Review of Serious Adverse Events Linked With GLP-1 Agonists in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity Treatment

GLP-1 agonists are medicines used to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity. They help control blood sugar and aid in weight loss. These drugs are popular for their benefits. But, there are concerns about serious side effects. They need attention.

Researchers have conducted extensive reviews to check the safety of these drugs. They looked at 22 different studies, including data from real patients and clinical trials. These studies aimed to see if GLP-1 agonists can cause serious side effects. These include severe allergies, heart problems, stomach issues, mental health issues, and thyroid disorders.

The results from these studies have been mixed. Some reports say these drugs might raise the risk of serious side effects, like anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Other studies did not find these drugs to significantly raise the risk of any serious side effects.

These differing results suggest a need for more research. We must fully understand the risks of GLP-1 agonists. Doctors and patients must know these potential side effects. It will help them choose the best treatments for diabetes and obesity.

It is crucial that research continues to monitor the safety of these drugs. This will help ensure that they provide a good balance of benefits and risks. Patients must know the risks. They should also understand how these drugs can improve their health. This helps everyone make safer, more informed healthcare decisions.

✢ 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.