Can a pill replace exercise? Swigging this molecule gives mice benefits of working out
“A molecule made by the kidneys and found in some foods can reproduce some of the myriad benefits of exercise — and slow some signs of ageing — when fed to mice. Betaine is a modified amino acid that plays an important role in metabolism. Results published on 25 June in Cell show that consistent exercise raises levels of the compound, at least in young men. The study also found that feeding betaine to aged mice boosts their immune health and grip strength.”
Acupuncture Can Make IVF More Comfortable, Study Says
“Key Takeaways: Acupuncture may help IVF treatments. The practice significantly reduced pain, stress and anxiety among women undergoing IVF. Other treatments like acupressure and light therapy also appeared to help.”
Mindfulness and Tai Chi Improve Mood in Cancer Survivors
“Both Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery (MBCR) and Tai Chi/Qigong (TCQ) significantly improved mood in survivors of cancer, whether participants selected their preferred program or were randomly assigned to either type of program. MBCR had greater benefits in reducing tension and anger, while TCQ was particularly effective in reducing depression and boosting vigor.”
People who keep their cell phones on ‘silent mode’ share similar psychological traits
“A new study from Kyung Hee University explores how phones in “silent mode” may hold the key to healthier minds at work. Researchers examined whether a mobile mindfulness training (MMT) program could improve stress, burnout, and work engagement among office workers.”
Researchers uncover rare gene variants contributing to systemic sclerosis risk
“Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a severe autoimmune disease with complex genetic causes. Some genetic contributors have been identified, but others remain unknown, which has impeded development of targeted treatments. In a new study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and collaborating institutions used complementary approaches that integrate exome sequencing and evolutionary action machine learning to identify protein changes and their associated mechanisms in SSc.”
The High Cost of Healthy: How Grocery Prices Shape America Diets and Health
“Key Takeaways: Rising costs of healthy foods are pushing Americans towards ultraprocessed alternatives, worsening health disparities and diet quality. Lower-income individuals face greater challenges in maintaining a healthy diet due to the increased cost of nutritious foods. Ultraprocessed foods are linked to higher risks of mortality, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers, necessitating policy interventions. Policy changes, including SNAP benefit updates and improved access to fresh foods, are crucial for addressing food insecurity and health disparities.”
Food insecurity linked to elevated mortality risk among cancer survivors
“Lack of access to healthy food is a threat to the lives of cancer survivors—a significant and often overlooked factor affecting their long-term health outcomes. A new study shows that those experiencing food insecurity had a 28 percent relative increase in risk of death as compared to those who were food secure.”
Finding Calm in the Chaos: Strategies for Mental Resilience
“Research consistently shows that prolonged exposure to crisis-oriented media can elevate stress, worsen anxiety, and erode emotional resilience. For healthcare workers, students, and the broader public alike, it can feel impossible to catch our breath. But evidence also shows that even small shifts in behavior can help buffer our minds from the weight of the world.”
