Author: bogdancaliniuc

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced its intention to ban the use of the synthetic food coloring FD&C Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, in foods, candies, and drinks by the year 2027. This decision is a response to a petition from 2022 that highlighted studies demonstrating a link between the dye and cancer in rats. Although the FDA clarifies that there is no scientific proof of Red No. 3 causing cancer in humans, they have decided to remove this controversial additive as a precautionary measure. In addition to the ban on food and drink products…

A study by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs highlights a concerning rise in overtreatment of prostate cancer. This trend persists even as “watchful waiting” becomes more common. This approach involves closely monitoring a patient’s condition and opting for treatment only if symptoms worsen. From 2000 to 2019, data showed a decline in treatments for low-risk prostate cancer from 37.4% to 14.7%. Unfortunately, treatments for those with intermediate-risk and high-risk cancers and a limited life expectancy have increased. Experts suggest this pattern extends beyond the VA system to a broader context. Importance of Life Expectancy and Decision-Making The study underscores…

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plans to require nutritional information on the front of packaged foods. This initiative aims to simplify health choices by spotlighting key nutrients like saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars. Labels will show if these components are present in low, medium, or high amounts based on recommended daily intake. These changes target public health concerns since cutting down on these nutrients can lessen the risk of type 2 diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. The proposed labels will mirror the current black-and-white design of detailed nutrition facts, offering a quick summary instead. Brands with annual…

As 2025 begins, there has been a noticeable rise in cases of flu, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and norovirus across the United States. Recent data from the CDC highlights this trend even as COVID-19 rates decline compared to last year. Health officials remain vigilant due to the risk of multiple viruses surging simultaneously, often referred to as a “tripledemic” or “quad-demic.” According to the CDC, approximately 5.3 million Americans have contracted the flu this season. This increase has resulted in 63,000 hospitalizations and 2,700 deaths, including 11 fatalities among children. Currently, nearly 19% of influenza tests return positive results. RSV…

A study published in the European Heart Journal highlights that the timing of when you drink your coffee might affect its health benefits, especially concerning heart health. The research analyzed data from over 40,000 U.S. adults, revealing that those who consumed coffee exclusively in the morning had a 16% lower risk of death from all causes and a 31% lower risk of death from heart-related issues compared to non-coffee drinkers. Conversely, individuals who drank coffee throughout the day did not experience the same benefits. This study implies a potential link between morning coffee consumption and improved heart health. According to…

A recent study published in the journal Metabolites has compared the **ketogenic (keto)** and **Mediterranean diets** to assess their effects on metabolic health, particularly for those newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Conducted by researchers from Italy and Brazil, the study found that the keto diet resulted in better short-term improvements in **blood sugar control**, **gut microbiota balance**, **body mass index (BMI)**, and waist size when compared to the Mediterranean diet. The study involved a small group of participants aged 45 to 65 years dealing with obesity and who were not yet on diabetes medication. Initially, participants were placed on…

To reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, enhancing your dietary fiber intake can play a crucial role. A study published in Nature Metabolism sheds light on how gut bacteria transform fiber into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), like propionate and butyrate, which could impact gene activity associated with cancer. These SCFAs emerge during the digestion of plant fibers. They may modify gene expression related to cell growth and death, critical aspects of cancer prevention. Butyrate shows promise for inhibiting certain enzymes, potentially slowing or inducing the death of cancer cells. While these findings are promising, experts like Dr. Eamon Laird and…

The United States is currently experiencing a notable increase in flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus activity as the winter season progresses. This rise occurs while COVID-19 cases remain relatively steady. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 5.3 million flu cases this year, leading to 63,000 hospitalizations and 2,700 deaths, including 11 among children. Currently, almost 19% of flu tests are returning positive. RSV tests show a 13% positivity rate, whereas COVID-19 tests have decreased to 7%, which is a significant drop from the previous year. Additionally, COVID-19 hospitalizations have…

A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine highlights that regular exercise prior to a cancer diagnosis may significantly reduce the risk of cancer progression and mortality. The research analyzed data from over 28,000 stage 1 cancer patients in South Africa. Findings indicate that individuals engaging in moderate to high levels of physical activity were 27% less likely to experience cancer advancement and had a 47% lower risk of death from any cause compared to those who were inactive. The study utilized data from the Discovery Health Medical Scheme and the Vitality program, leveraging wearable devices to…

A recent study highlights the cognitive benefits of the Mediterranean diet, suggesting that this way of eating might improve memory and learning by altering the gut microbiota. Conducted on young rats, the research shows that a diet rich in plants, whole grains, and healthy fats led to significant changes in the gut, which were linked to enhanced cognitive flexibility and spatial memory in the animals. This study adds to the growing evidence connecting diet quality to both physical and mental health. While further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans, adopting a Mediterranean-style diet early in life may…