09/25/25 - #486

Good morning. In today’s edition:

• Intake of Processed Red Meat May Have an Adverse Effect on Neurodegenerative Diseases

• Semaglutide: Half of Users Stop Drug Within Year in 'Concerning' Drop Off

• Study Finds Side Effects of Drinking From Plastic Water Bottles Grossly Underestimated: 'Not Something That Should Be Used in Daily Life'

• Type 2 Diabetes Prevented With Adherence to Mediterranean Diet and Exercise, Study Finds

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Intake of Processed Red Meat May Have an Adverse Effect on Neurodegenerative Diseases

New research shows that eating too much processed red meat—like bacon, sausage, or ham—may raise the risk of brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

These illnesses, called neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), slowly damage the brain and nerves. They can lead to memory loss, shaking, muscle weakness, and trouble thinking clearly.

A review from researchers in China found that some ingredients in processed red meat may be harmful to the brain. These include:

• Methionine, an amino acid that can create harmful byproducts in the body.

• Iron, which in large amounts may damage brain cells.

• Sodium, which may affect blood flow in the brain.

• Nitrites and nitrates, chemicals that can lead to brain inflammation.

• Phosphatidylcholine, a fat that may affect memory and brain function through gut bacteria.

These substances may cause stress, damage, and inflammation in the brain over time. This damage can raise the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, and Huntington’s disease.

You don’t need to cut out red meat completely, but eating less processed meat may help protect your brain as you get older. Health experts often recommend diets like the Mediterranean or MIND diet, which focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Eating well may help support memory, movement, and mental sharpness later in life.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before making changes to your diet.

Source: frontiersin.org

WEIGHT LOSS

Semaglutide: Half of Users Stop Drug Within Year in 'Concerning' Drop Off

Semaglutide, sold under names like Ozempic and Wegovy, has helped many people lose weight and manage type 2 diabetes. But new research shows that about half of the people who start taking the drug stop within a year.

Experts are calling this a “concerning” drop-off. These medications work best when taken regularly over time. If people stop too soon, they may regain weight or see their blood sugar rise again.

Why are people quitting? Some say it’s due to side effects like nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. Others stop because of the high cost, especially if insurance doesn’t cover it. Some people may feel better after losing weight and think they don’t need it anymore.

Doctors warn that stopping without a plan may not be safe. Semaglutide changes how your body processes hunger and blood sugar. Suddenly quitting can undo progress and make it harder to restart later.

If you or someone you know is taking this medication, talk to your doctor before making any changes. They can help manage side effects, explore lower-cost options, or discuss long-term plans.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any medication.

Source: newsweek.com

HEALTH

Study Finds Side Effects of Drinking From Plastic Water Bottles Grossly Underestimated: 'Not Something That Should Be Used in Daily Life'

A new study says drinking from plastic water bottles may be more harmful than people think. While bottled water is easy to use, it may carry health risks over time.

Researcher Sarah Sajedi looked at over 140 studies on tiny plastic particles called microplastics and nanoplastics. These particles can break off from plastic bottles and get into the water we drink. The study found that people who drink bottled water may swallow up to 90,000 plastic particles each year—much more than those who drink tap water.

The problem isn’t about getting sick right away. The real danger is chronic toxicity, which means small amounts of harm build up over time. The plastic particles have been linked to breathing problems, nerve damage, reproductive issues, and even cancer.

Sajedi says using plastic bottles during emergencies is okay, but they shouldn’t be used every day. She urges people to switch to safer options like stainless steel or glass bottles.

Plastic is now found almost everywhere—in oceans, soil, and even the air. Companies that sell bottled water say it’s a healthy choice, but experts warn the plastic it comes in may be a hidden risk.

Water is still the best drink for health. But how we store it matters. Making small changes, like using reusable bottles, can help protect both your body and the planet.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about your health.

Source: yahoo.com

Type 2 Diabetes Prevented With Adherence to Mediterranean Diet and Exercise, Study Finds

A new study shows that people between ages 55 and 75 can lower their risk of type 2 diabetes by eating better and moving more.

The study followed nearly 7,000 overweight or obese adults. None had diabetes, but all had signs of poor health like high blood pressure and belly fat. Half the group followed a Mediterranean diet, which focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and olive oil. They also cut about 600 calories a day, exercised 45 minutes daily, and met with dietitians for support.

After six years, people in this group had a 31% lower risk of getting type 2 diabetes than those who only got general advice.

Experts say this success comes from doing several things at once—eating well, moving more, and losing some weight. People didn’t lose much—just 3% to 4% of their body weight—but they lost dangerous belly fat and gained more muscle. This helped lower their risk.

What made this study special is that people stuck with the changes for years. That’s not common. The group got regular help to stay on track. This made the difference.

The Mediterranean diet has other health benefits too. It may protect the heart, brain, and memory. It’s about simple meals, healthy fats, and less sugar and red meat.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your diet or exercise routine.

Source: edition.cnn.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.