Good morning. In today’s edition:

• Almost Six in 10 Americans Have Pro-inflammatory Diets, Increasing the Risk of Health Problems Including Heart Disease and Cancer. Certain Spices and Elements of a Mediterranean Diet Have Anti-inflammatory Properties

• Lost Weight Too Fast

• Despite Legislation in 19 US States Requiring Insurers to Cover a 12-month Supply of Contraception, Patients Aren’t Receiving a Year’s Worth of Their Prescription; Most Receive Just Three Months or Less. This Leaves Many Patients at an Increased Risk for Unintended Pregnancy

• Inflammation and Immune System Activation Are Linked to Major Depressive Disorder, Especially in Those Not Responding to Standard Antidepressants. Such Individuals Could Benefit From Immune-targeting Treatments Like Anti-inflammatories

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Almost Six in 10 Americans Have Pro-inflammatory Diets, Increasing the Risk of Health Problems Including Heart Disease and Cancer. Certain Spices and Elements of a Mediterranean Diet Have Anti-inflammatory Properties

A recent study from The Ohio State University found that 57% of American adults eat inflammatory foods. This raises their risk of heart disease and cancer. This study used a special tool called the dietary inflammatory index to learn about people's eating habits.

The research showed that some groups are more likely to eat inflammatory foods. These groups are Black Americans, men, and those with less money. About 34% of people in the study ate foods that reduce inflammation, while 9% ate a mix that doesn't really affect inflammation.

Rachel Meadows, who led the study, says it's essential to balance what you eat. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables is good, but not if you also eat too much alcohol or red meat. Instead of saying some foods are "bad," Meadows suggests using foods that fight inflammation to improve health. Foods like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and teas are good choices.

Anti-inflammatory foods also include whole grains, spinach, beans, salmon, and berries. However, Meadows notes challenges. Healthier foods are often harder to access and more expensive. This is tough for people with less money.

A balanced diet fights inflammation. It can reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and mental health issues.

Source: news.osu.edu

WEIGHT LOSS

Lost Weight Too Fast

Losing weight too quickly can be risky. It's usually safe to lose about 1-2 pounds per week. Losing more than this can cause problems like not getting enough nutrients, losing muscle, and slowing down your metabolism. It’s important to make sure your diet is well-rounded and something you can stick to.

The Keto Diet: The ketogenic diet focuses on eating more fats and fewer carbs. This makes your body burn fat for energy. While it can help with weight loss, you must be careful to eat the right nutrients.

Healthy Weight Loss Tips:

1. Eat Balanced: Keep an eye on your carbs, proteins, and fats. Make sure you're eating plenty of vegetables and not too much protein or fat.

2. Watch Portions: It’s easy to eat too much on keto. Keep your meal sizes right for your needs.

3. Stay Hydrated and Take Supplements: On keto, you might lose important minerals. Make sure to get enough magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins.

4. Listen to Your Body: If you feel weak or tired, your diet might not be balanced. You might need to eat more or talk to a nutritionist.

5. Keep It Realistic: If the diet feels too hard, it might not be right for you long-term.

Talk to a Doctor: If you lose weight really fast, see a doctor to make sure your diet is safe.

The goal is to lose weight in a healthy way. Don’t rush it and risk your health.

Source: Dr. Eric Berg DC

HEALTH

Despite Legislation in 19 US States Requiring Insurers to Cover a 12-month Supply of Contraception, Patients Aren’t Receiving a Year’s Worth of Their Prescription; Most Receive Just Three Months or Less. This Leaves Many Patients at an Increased Risk for Unintended Pregnancy

A study at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) shows a big problem. Laws in 19 states require insurers to cover a year's worth of birth control. But, most people only get three months or less. This issue affects 4.8 million people on Medicaid and increases the risk of unintended pregnancies.

The research, shared in the JAMA Health Forum, reveals that the laws aren’t being followed well. Many don’t get the full year’s supply they’re supposed to, which can lead to missed doses if they run out or can’t get a refill on time.

Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading researcher at OHSU, says managing birth control should be simple and private. "People shouldn’t have to worry about running out of birth control," she explains, stressing the importance of easy access.

The study found only slight improvements in how doctors and pharmacies handle prescriptions, even in states with the new law. Dr. Rodriguez believes that for real change, insurers must follow the rules. Doctors must write prescriptions for longer supplies. Pharmacies should give out the full amount.

She urges everyone to ask for the best birth control. It's vital to choose wisely about family planning, as reproductive rights are often challenged.

Dr. Rodriguez hopes this study will push for better access to birth control, making it easier for people to get the supplies they need for a whole year.

Source: news.ohsu.edu

Inflammation and Immune System Activation Are Linked to Major Depressive Disorder, Especially in Those Not Responding to Standard Antidepressants. Such Individuals Could Benefit From Immune-targeting Treatments Like Anti-inflammatories

A study by UK and Italian scientists links inflammation in our immune system to major depressive disorder (MDD). It is groundbreaking. This may impact those with MDD who don't find relief from standard antidepressants.

When our body faces threats, like infections, our immune system kicks in. It often causes inflammation. Chronic stress, like that in depression, can also trigger this response. This study shows that about one-third of depressed people have high inflammation.

Researchers found that people with depression and high inflammation often do not respond well to standard antidepressants. This finding could lead to better treatments, like anti-inflammatory drugs. They might work better for these patients.

The team used mRNA sequencing to analyze gene expression. This is how our genetic instructions are activated. They wanted to see how it affects body functions. They noted increased activity in immune and metabolic genes in those with high inflammation. This increased activity can affect energy use. It could be linked to health issues like diabetes and heart disease.

A better understanding of depression's biology could lead to personalized treatments. This would make psychiatry more tailored. The research shows that depression is complex. One treatment does not fit all. Insights like these are key in the ongoing quest to better understand and treat depression effectively.

Source: kcl.ac.uk

✢ 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.