Northwest LifeBeat

Before heading to the snack closet, consider how your food choices affect your mind. Growing evidence published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that reducing ultra-processed foods can improve symptoms of depression. Researchers point to "leaky gut syndrome," where a damaged intestinal lining triggers chronic bodily inflammation that ultimately impacts the brain. Furthermore, a review in the Annual Review of Nutrition warns that the colorings, additives, and preservatives in these foods are linked to poorer cognitive outcomes as we age. Conversely, switching to a Mediterranean diet does more than just help your heart. According to Medical News Today, this diet directly enhances the brain’s white matter, strengthening the vital networks that allow different brain regions to communicate. As science continues to map the connection between nutrition and neurology, protecting your mental health may be as simple as choosing whole foods over processed snacks.

New research is shedding light on three very different health and behavioral issues, from the causes of fibromyalgia to the effects of unstructured time among adolescents and the potential role of coffee in breast cancer survival. Fibromyalgia, which can cause widespread pain, severe fatigue and sleep problems, has long been viewed by some as an autoimmune condition and treated accordingly. However, research published in Nature Medicine suggests the disorder may instead have a neurological origin involving the nervous system. Researchers say understanding fibromyalgia as a nervous system disorder could help guide the development of more targeted treatments. Meanwhile, a study published in PLOS One examined the relationship between unstructured free time and violent behavior among adolescents. Researchers in Brazil found that young people between the ages of 13 and 17 who had more unsupervised free time were more likely to report involvement in violent or criminal activities. The researchers also pointed to unmonitored online activity as a related concern, emphasizing the potential importance of supervision during adolescence. In another study, researchers found a possible association between higher consumption of polyphenols and a lower risk of death from breast cancer. Published in the British Journal of Nutrition, the study looked at polyphenols found in foods and beverages including coffee, berries, dark chocolate and spinach. Coffee was the largest contributor to participants’ overall polyphenol intake. The findings suggest a potential connection between polyphenol-rich diets and breast cancer outcomes, although they do not establish that coffee itself prevents breast cancer deaths. Together, the studies highlight how ongoing research is providing new perspectives on chronic illness, adolescent behavior and the relationship between diet and cancer outcomes.

Eyelash extensions may enhance the look of your eyes, but new research suggests they can also come with some potential eye-health concerns. Research presented at an international meeting of ophthalmologists found that regular use of eyelash extensions was associated with eye-surface problems, including irritation, dry-eye symptoms and dysfunction of the glands that help keep the eyes lubricated. In the small study of 25 women, all but one had skin mites-tiny organisms that naturally live around hair follicles-in their eyelashes. So, are false eyelashes a safer alternative? For the most part, they can be, but there are still precautions to keep in mind: reusing the same lashes repeatedly without proper cleaning may allow bacteria to build up, potentially increasing the risk of an eye infection. The adhesive used to apply false lashes can also contain ingredients such as formaldehyde, which may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. And it may not be just the extensions themselves that matter-the length of your lashes could play a role, too. Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have found that natural eyelashes help regulate airflow around the eye, helping keep dust and other particles away from the eye's surface. When lashes become significantly longer, they can alter that airflow and potentially allow more particles to reach the eye. The takeaway? Beautiful lashes don't necessarily have to come at the expense of healthy eyes, but moderation, good hygiene and paying attention to irritation are important.

Smoking cannabis may have effects on heart health beyond the effects of the drug itself. Researchers at the University of South Florida say that inhaling cannabis smoke may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. They also point to another potential concern: the eating habits that can accompany cannabis use. Frequently consuming highly processed snack foods may add to those risks, creating a possible “double-whammy” for heart health. Researchers say the combination may also affect the immune system, potentially increasing the risk of cardiac problems. What do honey bees and cocoa beans have in common? Researchers in São Paulo, Brazil, have found an unexpected answer. They have developed a new food product made from honey produced by native bees and cocoa bean shells. The product can be eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in foods and even cosmetics. According to the researchers, it has a flavor reminiscent of chocolate, offering a creative way to make use of cocoa byproducts. For many older adults, loneliness can include eating meals alone on a regular basis—and that may have consequences for health. Researchers at Flinders University found that older adults who frequently eat alone tend to have poorer nutrition and health outcomes than those who share meals with others. Eating alone was associated with lower consumption of important food groups, including fruits, vegetables and meat, as well as a greater risk of weight changes and frailty. The findings suggest that sharing meals may provide not only social connection, but also important nutritional benefits.

Even as summer wanes,  its still important to protect your skin First, don’t underestimate the importance of sunscreen. With the FDA’s approval of the new sunscreen ingredient bemotrizinol (pronounced bee-moh-TRY-zin-all), which helps protect against both ultraviolet A and B rays, it’s a timely reminder that many of us simply don’t use enough sunscreen. For the average adult, experts recommend applying about one ounce - roughly the amount that would fill a shot glass - to cover the entire body. And remember to reapply about every two hours, especially when spending time outdoors. There’s certainly a “cool” factor to wearing sunglasses, but shades are also essential for protecting your eyes. Ophthalmologists warn that the sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage the retina. When choosing sunglasses, make sure they provide 100 percent UV protection. And many of us trade sneakers for flip-flops and sandals, even as we say good bye to summer. But podiatrists say to be careful. Open footwear can make it easier to sprain an ankle or stub your toes, while thin soles offer little protection if you happen to step on a sharp rock, piece of glass or other debris. A little extra protection can go a long way toward enjoying the sunshine safely.

Protein has been one of the biggest nutrition buzzwords of the past few years, but dietary advice is increasingly emphasizing a broader approach to healthy eating. The American Heart Association recommends getting more protein from plants. Choosing plant-based sources can also mean more fiber and other beneficial nutrients, while potentially lowering the risk of certain cancers, reducing inflammation and supporting a healthier gut. Dietitians recommend foods such as beans, tofu, edamame, nuts, seeds, quinoa and tempeh, along with plant-based milks such as soy, almond and oat. Meanwhile, cottage cheese is having a major moment on social media. Viral recipes are turning the protein-rich dairy food into pancakes, smoothies, desserts and more. Nutrition experts at the Cleveland Clinic note that cottage cheese is a healthy source of protein and contains beneficial bacteria that may support the gut microbiome. One drawback: some varieties can be relatively high in sodium. And while protein remains important, dietitians say the next big nutrition trend may be fiber. That doesn't mean replacing protein with fiber, but rather making sure both have a place in the diet. Higher fiber intake is associated with a lower risk of serious conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. The takeaway: rather than focusing on one nutritional superstar, experts increasingly recommend a balanced plate-combining adequate protein with plenty of plant foods and fiber.

Osteoarthritis can cause significant joint pain, but researchers are exploring new ways to manage its symptoms. Researchers at Peking University say exercise may be one of the best ways to improve symptoms. They believe part of the benefit may come from extracellular vesicles, or EVs, released from red blood cells. These tiny particles contain hemoglobin and oxygen, which may help relieve pain in areas such as the knee, where cartilage and the meniscus have limited blood and oxygen supply. Researchers at the University at Buffalo are also developing a new injectable gel designed to stay in damaged joints and keep them lubricated for weeks. The treatment could address limitations of earlier injections that may not deliver a high enough dose or remain in the joint long enough. And what about KT tape, commonly seen on athletes? Research published in the journal Evidence-Based Medicine found it provides only marginal benefits compared with no taping-and it can cause skin irritation. The research suggests exercise remains a promising option, while new treatments such as injectable gels could offer additional relief in the future.

New research is highlighting several unexpected factors that may be linked to a lower risk of dementia in older adults. A study from Brown University found that older people who received the Shingrix shingles vaccine had a 24 percent lower risk of being diagnosed with dementia over four years. The findings add to growing interest in the potential benefits of shingles vaccination beyond preventing the painful viral infection. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may also play a role in protecting brain health. Research published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that HRT was associated with a lower risk of dementia, particularly among postmenopausal women. Women with lower lifetime exposure to estrogen, such as those who experienced later first periods or earlier menopause, appeared to benefit most, with a 16 percent lower risk of dementia. Perhaps most surprisingly, another study published in Neurology suggests that eating high-fat dairy products may be associated with better brain health. Researchers found that people who ate 50 grams or more of high-fat cheese per day had a 13 percent lower risk of developing dementia compared with those who ate less than 15 grams daily. While these findings are promising, researchers stress that associations do not necessarily prove cause and effect. More research is needed to understand whether vaccines, hormone therapy or specific foods can directly reduce dementia risk.

There’s nothing quite like that first cup of coffee in the morning-and maybe a second or third. But while coffee can offer some health benefits, it may also pose a risk to your teeth. Coffee is acidic, and dentists warn that frequent exposure can contribute to erosion of the outer layer of tooth enamel. Over time, weakened enamel can leave teeth more sensitive and potentially more prone to chipping or breaking. One simple way to protect your teeth is to enjoy coffee with food. Eating can stimulate saliva production, which helps buffer acids in the mouth. Dentists also recommend rinsing your mouth with tap water containing fluoride after drinking coffee. Still, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy your daily brew. Registered dietitians point to coffee’s antioxidants and polyphenols, which may support health and help regulate blood sugar. Coffee can also improve cognitive functions such as focus, memory and alertness. Just be mindful of adding too much sugar, flavored creamer or other sweeteners. And could coffee even help you live longer? Research from Queen Mary University of London suggests caffeine may activate a cellular “fuel gauge” known as AMPK, which is associated with longevity. AMPK helps regulate processes involved in cell growth, DNA repair and the body’s response to stress—all of which play a role in aging and disease. So, go ahead and enjoy your coffee. Just remember: protecting your teeth and keeping added sugar in check can help make that daily ritual a healthier one.

From birdsong to bats and butterflies, researchers are finding new clues in nature that could benefit human health and everyday life. Birdsong may soothe us — if traffic stays out of the picture. Researchers at the University of Surrey found that natural soundscapes featuring birdsong can improve mood and promote feelings of relaxation. But introducing traffic noise can interfere with those benefits, increasing stress and annoyance. The findings highlight how important quieter natural environments may be for our well-being. Bats may hold clues to longer, healthier lives. A study published in Nature found that bats are unusual among mammals: many species live remarkably long lives and have unusually low rates of cancer. Researchers say their DNA links traits such as pathogen adaptation, longevity and cancer resistance. Understanding these biological mechanisms could eventually offer new insights into human disease and aging. Butterflies could inspire better colors. Seeking longer-lasting and safer colors for cosmetics, food coatings and paints, researchers with the American Chemical Society are studying the molecular structures behind butterfly colors. Unlike traditional pigments, which rely on absorbing light and can fade over time, these structures can produce vibrant colors while offering greater durability. Together, the findings show that nature is more than something to admire. It can also serve as a source of ideas for improving our health, understanding disease and developing more durable materials.