📰 Alzheimer’s researchers say targeting brain sugar could help protect against dementia
New research suggests that breaking down glycogen in the brain could help in treating neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s by reducing toxic protein buildup. The study, led by Dr. Pankaj Kapahi, focused on glycogen’s influence on brain health and disease, particularly in relation to tauopathy. The researchers found increased levels of glycogen in both fruit fly and human models with Alzheimer’s-like conditions, indicating a potential link to disease progression. Boosting an enzyme called glycogen phosphorylase showed promise in reducing nerve cell damage caused by glycogen buildup. Dietary changes and a drug mimicking dietary restriction also demonstrated positive effects on brain health in the study. However, further research is needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of targeting glycogen breakdown in human patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
📰 Christian bodybuilder reveals how fitness honors God: ‘Your body is a temple’
Regular exercise is generally beneficial for physical and mental health, but there is a debate on whether focusing on physical improvement could conflict with Christian principles, as it might lead to idol worship. Author Tim Keller defines an idol as anything more important than God, which could include exercise. Christian bodybuilder Hunter Sprague believes physical health is a form of spiritual stewardship, citing 1 Corinthians. He emphasizes the importance of balancing faith and fitness, rejecting the Gnostic belief that the physical body doesn’t matter. Sprague views exercise as a way to steward the body and embrace the control given by the Lord. He recommends a mix of strength training and cardio, emphasizing the importance of setting goals and making a plan for success.
📰 Trick your brain into staying motivated with one simple psychology hack
The article discusses the concept of “dopamine anchoring” as a psychology hack to trick the brain into viewing a chore as a reward. By associating pleasant stimuli with less enjoyable tasks, individuals can train their brains to release dopamine in advance, boosting motivation. This technique works through the brain’s dopamine pathway, which is associated with pleasure. It can be beneficial for conditions like ADHD or depression by helping regulate the dopamine system. However, experts caution that dopamine anchoring should be used mindfully to avoid reliance on external rewards and potential negative consequences like burnout. The key is to keep the rewards simple and non-addictive to strengthen the association between tasks and pleasure over time.
📰 Common sweetener could hold untapped potential to fight aggressive cancer, study finds
New research from Hiroshima University in Japan suggests that stevia leaf extract could potentially be used as an anti-cancer treatment for pancreatic cancer cells. The study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, found that fermented stevia extract showed enhanced antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity against pancreatic cancer cells. Medical oncologist Paul E. Oberstein expressed interest in the study’s findings but cautioned about the need for further research to determine potential side effects and efficacy in humans. Surgical oncologist Kristen Arnold also acknowledged the need for more research but expressed optimism about the study’s early positive results in combating pancreatic cancer. Both experts emphasized the importance of clinical trials in advancing cancer treatment options.
📰 Popular weight-loss medication could relieve painful arthritis symptoms, doctors report
GLP-1 medications, originally used for diabetes control and weight loss, are now being explored for their potential benefits in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Studies have shown a link between obesity and the development of RA. Medical experts, including Dr. Sue Decotiis, have observed significant relief in arthritis symptoms in patients taking GLP-1s, possibly due to weight loss. These medications may help reduce inflammation by targeting substances produced by fat cells that can impact the immune system. While more research is needed, Decotiis recommends caution in using GLP-1s for conditions beyond diabetes and weight loss, emphasizing the importance of physician supervision.
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