11/24/25 - #528

Author

Health Horizon. Herald Staff
November 24, 2025

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Good morning. In today’s edition:

  • Study Finds Adults Who Consumed More Ultra-Processed Foods Had Higher Rates of Precursors of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer

  • Ozempic, Wegovy: Why Some Lose Hair on GLP-1s

  • Ultra-processed Food Consumption Increases the Risk for Prediabetes in Young Adults. Research Found From Baseline to Follow-up, a 10% Increase in UPF Consumption Was Associated With a 64% Higher Risk for Prediabetes and a 56% Higher Risk for Problems With Glucose Regulation

  • Low Vitamin D Levels Strongly Linked to Depression

…and lots more. Have a great day!

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Study Finds Adults Who Consumed More Ultra-Processed Foods Had Higher Rates of Precursors of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer

A new study found that eating a lot of ultra-processed foods may raise the risk of getting colon polyps, which can lead to colon cancer. The study looked at nearly 30,000 women under age 50. Those who ate the most ultra-processed foods had a 45% higher chance of getting these early warning signs of cancer.

Ultra-processed foods are packaged foods that are high in sugar, salt, bad fats, and additives. Examples include chips, frozen meals, soda, and processed meats. On average, the women in the study got about 35% of their daily calories from these foods.

Doctors say that early-onset colon cancer—cancer found in people younger than 50—is becoming more common. This study helps explain one reason why. Even after the researchers looked at other health risks like body weight, diabetes, and low fiber intake, the link between processed foods and polyps stayed strong.

The study used data from the Nurses’ Health Study II, a long-term health study that follows female nurses over time. The women filled out food surveys and had two or more colon exams before age 50.

Doctors say this doesn’t mean food is the only cause of colon cancer, but it’s an important piece of the puzzle. Cutting back on processed foods and eating more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains may help lower your risk.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. Talk to your doctor for advice on cancer risk and healthy eating.

WEIGHT LOSS

Ozempic, Wegovy: Why Some Lose Hair on GLP-1s

Some people taking GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy notice they’re losing more hair than usual. This side effect isn’t as common as nausea or constipation, but it’s still important.

Experts say the main reason is a condition called telogen effluvium. This happens when your body is stressed—such as after losing a lot of weight quickly. The hair cycle changes, and more hairs enter the “shedding” phase. The result? Thinner hair.

Some doctors also think poor nutrition may play a role. These medications lower your appetite, so you might eat less protein, iron, and vitamins like B12 and D. Your body needs these to grow healthy hair.

In some cases, the drugs may also worsen a common condition called pattern hair loss, especially in people already at risk.

The good news? Hair loss from GLP-1s is usually not permanent. Once your body adjusts or your nutrition improves, hair often grows back. Some doctors may suggest treatments like oral minoxidil, a medication that can help speed up regrowth.

If you notice more hair shedding than normal, talk to your doctor. You may need blood tests to check for vitamin or hormone problems. It’s also smart to track your weight changes and how much you’re eating.

GLP-1 drugs can be helpful for many people, but they do come with side effects. Hair loss might seem small, but it can be upsetting. Make sure to talk to your provider if it happens to you.

HEALTH

Ultra-processed Food Consumption Increases the Risk for Prediabetes in Young Adults. Research Found From Baseline to Follow-up, a 10% Increase in UPF Consumption Was Associated With a 64% Higher Risk for Prediabetes and a 56% Higher Risk for Problems With Glucose Regulation

A new study from the University of Southern California (USC) shows that eating more ultra-processed foods (UPFs) may raise the risk of prediabetes in young adults.

UPFs include fast food, packaged snacks, candy, soda, sweetened yogurt, and many frozen or ready-to-eat meals. These foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.

Researchers tracked 85 people, ages 17 to 22, for four years. They looked at what the participants ate and how their bodies handled sugar. They found that even a 10% increase in UPFs led to a 64% higher risk for prediabetes and a 56% higher risk of problems with blood sugar.

Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not high enough to be called diabetes. It can lead to type 2 diabetes if not managed.

The study also found that people who ate more UPFs were more likely to have insulin resistance. This means the body has trouble using insulin, which is needed to control blood sugar.

Experts say young adulthood is an important time to build healthy habits. Choosing fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower your risk of diabetes later in life.

The study shows that small diet changes can make a big difference. Cutting back on UPFs could be a smart step toward better health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before making health changes.

Low Vitamin D Levels Strongly Linked to Depression

New research shows a link between low vitamin D and depression. People with very low levels—below 30 nmol/L—were more likely to feel depressed. This doesn’t prove that low vitamin D causes depression, but it may play a role.

Vitamin D helps the brain work better. It lowers brain inflammation, supports brain cells, and keeps your nerves healthy. Some parts of the brain that control mood have lots of vitamin D receptors.

In the study, people with low vitamin D often had worse symptoms of depression. Some research found the link was stronger in women. But not all studies agreed. In a few long-term studies, low vitamin D did not always lead to depression. Other things, like age, weight, sunlight, and other health problems, may also affect the results.

Still, checking your vitamin D levels is a smart idea—especially if you feel down or tired often. Fixing a clear vitamin D deficiency may help improve your overall health and might help your mood too.

You can get vitamin D from sunlight, certain foods (like fish, eggs, and fortified milk), or supplements. Talk to your doctor before starting a vitamin D supplement, especially if you take other medications.

Low vitamin D doesn’t always cause depression, but having enough may help protect your mental and physical health as you age.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It is not medical advice. Always speak with your doctor about your health.

✢ 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.