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Lancet study flags cholesterol, untreated vision loss as new risk factors for dementia: What does this mean for the 40 plus?

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Researchers say regular screening should be a priority for older adults

Back in 2020, the Lancet Commission had identified 12 risk factors for dementia: lower levels of education, hearing impairment, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, traumatic brain injury [TBI], air pollution and social isolation…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

Now you have another reason to watch your cholesterol. A new Lancet Commission report has flagged it along with untreated vision loss as significant new risk factors for dementia, a condition characterised by memory problems and disruptions in thinking and social skills. Its most prevalent form is Alzheimer’s Disease, which accounts for about 60-70 per cent of dementia cases.

In fact, both these factors have been found to be a trigger for nine per cent of all dementia cases. Seven per cent of cases can be linked to high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly known as bad cholesterol, which develops midlife around age 40. Two per cent of dementia cases are linked to untreated vision loss in later life.

WHY IS THE STUDY IMPORTANT

The report, authored by 27 leading dementia experts, highlights the crucial importance of managing cholesterol levels and addressing vision issues to potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks dementia as the seventh leading cause of death globally. Suvarna Alladi, professor of neurology at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, and among the key authors, says the new findings are significant for India as the prevalence of dementia for people older than 60 years is 7.4 per cent with an estimated 8.8 million living with dementia. “Age is the strongest and best-known risk factor for dementia. The new evidence shows why screening for and treating vision loss and managing cholesterol levels should now be prioritised in older adults to potentially reduce the incidence of dementia,” she explains.

Back in 2020, the Lancet Commission had identified 12 risk factors for dementia: lower levels of education, hearing impairment, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, traumatic brain injury [TBI], air pollution and social isolation.

ROLE OF BAD CHOLESTEROL

A meta-analysis of three UK studies with over 1.1 million participants under 65 showed that each 1 mmol/L increase in LDL cholesterol raised dementia risk by eight per cent. Another study with 1.2 million participants found that having LDL cholesterol over 3 mmol/L increased dementia risk by 33 per cent. Additionally, a large UK study of 1.8 million people followed for 7.4 years confirmed that higher LDL cholesterol levels were associated with a greater risk of dementia.

Researchers explain that the link between bad cholesterol and dementia stems from excess cholesterol raising stroke risk and triggering the buildup of two proteins —amyloid β and tau — that disrupt functioning of brain cells. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

High levels of LDL cholesterol have been associated with greater amyloid burden in the brain. “Several mechanisms that explain the link between high LDL cholesterol (levels more than 100mg/dl) and brain amyloid deposition include the increased activity of amyloid-producing enzymes like secretases, decreased clearance of amyloid from the brain, adverse effects on neuron cells and damage to the blood brain barrier via inflammatory mechanisms,” says Dr Faheem Arshad, assistant professor of neurology, NIMHANS.

That’s why the researchers emphasise that “individual counselling about diet and exercise has a small effect in reducing LDL cholesterol. Statins have become a focus of research in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and have potential benefits due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties besides reducing cholesterol.”

DON’T IGNORE VISION LOSS

So what’s the link between dementia and untreated vision loss? The study says that the mechanism could be related to illnesses such as diabetes, which is a known risk factor for dementia. Additionally, there could be an underlying problem, affecting both the retina of the eye and brain.

Dr Arshad feels that correcting vision issues, like refractive errors, can slow down cognitive decline by improving sensory inputs. “This is a bidirectional relationship as cognitive factors influence visual processing. Regions of the brain involved in memory and semantics impact how we perceive and interpret visual information. So sensory deprivation can accelerate cognitive decline. Age-related sensory impairments are complex and involve both biological and environmental factors,” he says.

Dr Arshad explains that both cognitive and sensory dysfunctions are triggered by ageing, external factors (alcohol, smoking), neurodegenerative disorders, and biological factors. “Sensory and cognitive impairments are interrelated, with each affecting the other in various ways. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that considers their complex interplay,” he adds.

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

These Mistakes Rapidly Increase Uric Acid: Avoid Them Today

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Uric acid is a waste product that is naturally present in the blood, formed from the breakdown of purines, substances found in certain foods and produced by the body. Normally, uric acid is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted through urine. However, when uric acid levels become elevated, it can lead to various health issues, including joint pain and more severe conditions such as gout. Managing uric acid levels effectively is crucial for maintaining overall health…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

Understanding Uric Acid and Its Impact
Uric acid levels typically range from 3.5 to 7.2 mg/dL, though these values can vary between individuals. When the body produces excessive uric acid or the kidneys are unable to eliminate it efficiently, uric acid can accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to a condition known as hyperuricemia. This condition often results in symptoms like severe pain in the joints, particularly in the fingers and toes, redness in the soles of the feet, increased thirst, and sometimes even fever.

Common Dietary Mistakes Leading to Elevated Uric Acid Levels
Excessive Consumption of Oil and Spices: In many diets, especially in certain cuisines, oil and spices are used liberally. Excessive intake of these ingredients can contribute to higher uric acid levels. For instance, dishes that are deep-fried or heavily spiced can elevate uric acid, leading to health complications. Preserved foods, which are often high in additives and oils, can also contribute to increased uric acid levels.

High Protein Foods: Foods high in protein, such as legumes, are known to raise uric acid levels. While legumes are a valuable source of protein, overconsumption or improperly stored legumes (e.g., those left out at room temperature for extended periods) can exacerbate uric acid issues. It is crucial to store legumes properly, preferably in the refrigerator if they are not consumed immediately, to prevent a rapid increase in uric acid.

Consumption of Sour Foods: Certain sour foods, including amchur (dried mango powder), tamarind, raw tomatoes, and raw mango drinks, can increase uric acid levels. While these foods add flavor, they can exacerbate uric acid problems, particularly if consumed in large amounts. Opting for alternatives like lemon or amla (Indian gooseberry) can be beneficial, as these can help in reducing elevated uric acid levels.

Eating Outside Food: Many people enjoy eating out, but external food items such as kachoris, samosas, and non-vegetarian dishes often contain excessive amounts of oil and spices. These can lead to an increase in uric acid levels. Furthermore, non-vegetarian dishes often contain higher levels of purines, which can further contribute to elevated uric acid. Limiting the intake of such foods and focusing on homemade, balanced meals can help in managing uric acid levels. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Uric Acid Levels
Adopt a Physically Active Lifestyle: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and managing uric acid levels. Incorporate activities such as walking, jogging, or other forms of exercise into your daily routine. Physical activity helps in maintaining a healthy weight and supports the effective elimination of uric acid from the body.

Balanced Diet: Include fiber-rich foods in your diet, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Opt for low-fat dairy products like yogurt and buttermilk, which can aid in managing uric acid levels. Eating balanced meals at regular intervals helps in maintaining metabolic stability and preventing excessive uric acid buildup.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial. Water helps in flushing out excess uric acid through urine and prevents dehydration, which can worsen uric acid levels. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.

Avoid Irregular Eating Patterns: Stick to a regular eating schedule and avoid overeating or skipping meals. Irregular eating habits can disrupt metabolic processes and contribute to increased uric acid levels.

Managing uric acid levels requires a combination of dietary awareness and lifestyle modifications. By avoiding common dietary mistakes, such as excessive consumption of high-protein foods, sour foods, and external food items, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, individuals can effectively control their uric acid levels and reduce the risk of associated health issues. Making these changes today can lead to long-term health benefits and improved quality of life.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

4 Fruits To Eat To Make Blood Flow Very Well In Your Body

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These 4 Fruits to Improve Your Circulation Today!

The first step in ensuring that sufficient blood is able to circulate throughout your body is to ensure that your blood arteries are not blocked. As a direct consequence of this, the elasticity and suppleness of your blood vessels will be restored.

Because the blood arteries are going to be freed up, the blood flow is going to become more unrestricted. According to Healthline, the heart does not need to work particularly hard in order for blood to be pumped through the veins…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

The body can clean out its arteries by utilizing certain fruit components, which can be found in fruits. As a direct consequence of receiving this treatment, the blood vessels will not grow inflamed, brittle, or burst.

Both the unclogging and strengthening of blood vessels can be helped along by the use of specific minerals, nutrients that are present in plants (called phytonutrients), and proteolytic enzymes. The results of your hard work are presented in the following list.

Rutin is a type of bioflavonoid that can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines. Taking these bioflavonoids regularly can assist in the strengthening of your blood vessels.

Rutin is frequently isolated by scientists and included into various dietary supplements. When peeling an orange, you should take care to remove only the outer layer of skin that is green or yellow. Consume the entire orange, including the white covering that sits on top of it. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Rutin, which has medicinal properties that strengthen your blood vessels, can be tasted, despite the fact that the bitterness is highly medicinal and helpful to both your health and your health specifically.

If you haven’t done so already, peel the pineapple. There is something in the core of your pineapple that you should look for. This is a challenging part of the process to go through. There is a particular region of the pineapple that is particularly rich in bromelin. If you consume it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, it may help unclog your arteries and protect you from developing heart disease.

Another trace element that helps strengthen the blood arteries is copper, which can be found in bananas and avocados.

Copper is required in our diets in only trace amounts; yet, over consumption of this mineral can be detrimental to the health of our blood vessels.

Your delicate blood arteries will not burst into an aneurysm, and you will not have any internal bleeding as a result of this.

Getting your hands on an unripe pawpaw is the fourth possible course of action. Peel it and eat it in this form first thing in the morning when your stomach is empty. This dish has a significant amount of papain, which is an effective enzyme for cleaning out the arteries.

The proteolytic enzyme found in pawpaw contributes to the unclogging of blood vessels, which in turn improves the flow of blood to the organs in the body.

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

What typically Happens To Your Body if You Have Not Eaten For a While

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Not eaten for a week can have significant effect on your body. The body Will initially rely on glycogen store for energy, but after 24 to 48 hours, it begins to break down fat and muscle tissue for fuel.

1. Muscles loss: Since the body needs protein for a certain essential functions, prolonged fasting can lead to muscles breakdown as protein is used as alternative energy source…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

2. Energy depletion: Glycogen, the stored form of glucose in the liver and muscles, get depleted within the first 24 to 48 hours. The body starts using fat stores for energy through a process called ketosis.

3. Immune system and Suppression: A lack of nutrients over time can weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.

4. Metal and emotional changes: As energy reserves deplete, metal clarity and mood can be affected, potentially leading to irritability, confusion or mood swings. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

5. Dehydration risk: Since food contains water, not eating can increase the risk of dehydration which can worsen the symptoms of weakness and fatigue.

6. Fatigue and weakness: Without food, blood sugar levels drop, leading to extreme fatigue, dizziness and difficult Concentrating.

 

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