Good morning. In today’s edition:

• Eating More Fruits and Vegetables May Help Reduce Depression in Adults Over 45, Suggests New Study of 3,483 Twins Across 4 Countries, a Discovery That Emphasizes the Power of Diet, Particularly Fiber and Micronutrients, in Boosting Mental Health

• I Lose 50 Pounds!

• Bird Flu Detected in Second Lot of Raw Milk Sold in California, Health Officials Say

• Stress and Inflammation May Help Trigger Parkinson’s Disease: Study

…and lots more. Have a great day!

FOOD & NUTRITION

Eating More Fruits and Vegetables May Help Reduce Depression in Adults Over 45, Suggests New Study of 3,483 Twins Across 4 Countries, a Discovery That Emphasizes the Power of Diet, Particularly Fiber and Micronutrients, in Boosting Mental Health

A study of 3,483 twins from four countries shows that adults over 45 who eat more fruits and vegetables may feel less depressed. CHeBA's research shows that a fiber-rich, nutritious diet is vital for mental health.

Researchers looked at twins' eating habits and mental health over 11 years. They found that those who ate more fruits and vegetables had fewer signs of depression. Dr. Annabel Matison, the lead researcher, said to eat more fruits and vegetables. They can help fight depression in those over 45.

Depression is a major health issue for those over 55. It affects them from mild to severe levels. This study shows a good diet might help. It could reduce inflammation and stress, which are higher in depressed people.

Studying twins is useful because twins have similar genes and often live in similar environments. This helps researchers see the true effects of diet on depression without other factors getting in the way.

The study also found that even those who ate a lot of fruits and vegetables often didn't eat enough according to daily recommendations. Especially in Scandinavian countries, the amounts were very low.

Dr. Matison suggests that doctors should watch their patients' diets. They should advise them to eat more fruits and vegetables to help reduce depression risks. This study supports the idea that what we eat affects not just our body but also our mental health.

Source: scimex.org

WEIGHT LOSS

I Lose 50 Pounds!

Have you thought about losing weight without drastically changing your diet or counting calories? Intermittent fasting might be the answer. This approach focuses not just on what you eat, but also on when you eat. By cycling between eating and fasting periods, it helps you eat fewer calories, which can lead to weight loss.

Intermittent fasting comes in different forms. One popular method is the 16/8 plan, where you eat only during an 8-hour window each day and fast for the remaining 16 hours. Another option is to eat normally for four days and fast for three days each week. You can choose the method that fits your life best.

Take the story of Sumaya Kazi, for example. Struggling with weight gain and unsuccessful diets, Sumaya discovered intermittent fasting and lost 50 pounds. Initially, it was tough, especially during the first few weeks. However, as she continued, it became a lifestyle she enjoyed.

Sumaya’s success inspired many. She shared her journey online, gaining followers who were eager to learn from her experience. Today, she continues to promote the benefits of intermittent fasting and encourages others to try it.

Before starting any new diet, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider. If you're looking for a flexible way to lose weight and improve your health, intermittent fasting could be worth considering.

Source: TODAY

HEALTH

Bird Flu Detected in Second Lot of Raw Milk Sold in California, Health Officials Say

California health officials are warning the public. They found bird flu in a new batch of raw milk. This discovery was made in cream top, whole raw milk from Raw Farm LLC, prompting an immediate voluntary recall. The affected milk has a “best by” date of December 7.

This announcement follows a similar issue last week with a different lot of milk. It indicates a concerning pattern. Health authorities are urging people to avoid drinking raw milk due to potential health risks. Raw milk does not undergo pasteurization, a heating process that kills harmful germs and viruses. This makes unpasteurized milk more likely to carry diseases.

Despite these findings, the California Department of Public Health confirmed that none of the cows at Raw Farm appear sick or show any bird flu symptoms. However, there is a chance that some cows might carry the virus without showing signs. As a precaution, Raw Farm tests all its milk daily to ensure it is free of pathogens.

Consumers are advised to return any remaining milk from the recalled lots to the place of purchase. Pasteurized milk is still safe to drink and is not affected by this issue.

The state continues to monitor the situation closely. So far, there have been 29 human cases of bird flu linked to contact with infected dairy cows, all mild and not requiring hospitalization. Health officials are working hard to prevent further spread and ensure the safety of all dairy products.

Source: nbcnews.com

Stress and Inflammation May Help Trigger Parkinson’s Disease: Study

A study from Canada says that stress, chronic inflammation, and harmful chemicals might cause Parkinson's disease. This can happen even if people don't have genes that make them likely to get it. Researchers at McGill University found that our immune system, which fights off sickness, plays a big part in creating harmful protein clumps called Lewy bodies in the brain. These clumps make the disease worse.

Professor Peter McPherson said, "Our study shows that anyone could get Parkinson’s from certain environments, not just people with certain genes." This helps us better understand Parkinson’s and other brain diseases.

Parkinson’s disease makes it hard for people to move smoothly. It starts with shaking, stiffness, and trouble with balance. Right now, there is no cure, but there is a treatment that helps with some symptoms. The disease is becoming more common, especially as people get older.

The McGill researchers also made a new discovery about Lewy bodies. They were able to create these protein clumps in a lab and study them for the first time. This could lead to new ways to slow down the disease.

Knowing more about how body swelling and the immune system are linked to Parkinson's is key. It could help doctors find better ways to treat or even slow down the disease in the future.

Source: globalnews.ca

✢ 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.