Posted on: August 15, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

29 million-person study finds 3 ways air pollution fuels dementia

For years, there’s been a debate about what role, if any, air pollution plays in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. While numerous studies have found a link between the toxic particles we breathe and cognitive decline, many weren’t large enough to be considered definitive, and some studies disagreed with their findings entirely. Now, however, the debate has been settled for good, and science has shown that air pollution is a…

Posted on: August 14, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

The breakthrough that reversed skin aging in 28 days

Like most people, I’m interested in anything that can help keep me looking and feeling younger, especially if it’s safe, natural — and has sound science behind it. So, when I heard that a particular compound already known for supporting healthy blood vessels and blood pressure was making waves in anti-aging skincare — I had to tell you about it. Pterostilbene is an antioxidant produced by plants to protect themselves…

Posted on: August 14, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Low-cal sweetener linked to brain cell damage and blood clots

At first, the discovery of artificial sweeteners was thought to be a good thing, especially for people looking for ways to lose weight. Artificial sweeteners provided the sweetness of sugar without the calorie burden. Plus, people with diabetes were able to safely consume these sweeteners without spiking their blood sugar. But in recent years, the dark side of artificial sweeteners has emerged. Research has shown these sweeteners can actually make…

Posted on: August 12, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

The food that won’t let you ‘outrun’ obesity

Diet and exercise (or lack of) are two major factors that contribute to obesity, right? Most people know that when they’ve been eating poorly, there’s a good chance they’ll put on some weight. No big deal. To outrun the effects of a bad diet and lose those extra pounds, just ramp up the exercise. Burn those extra calories, and you can avoid gaining or take off any extra weight that…

Posted on: August 12, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

The link between the vitamin D gene and cancer

Vitamin D is quite the multitasker. Not only is it significantly important in helping the body absorb calcium to build and maintain healthy bones, but it also regulates cell growth and the proper function of muscles, nerve cells and the immune system. Unfortunately, too many of us aren’t getting enough vitamin D. In the U.S. alone, about 35% of adults have a vitamin D deficiency. That can result in bone…

Posted on: August 9, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

The Parkinson’s clues found in ear wax

“The long goodbye” is often used to describe Alzheimer’s disease. But I can tell you from personal experience that this same term can describe Parkinson’s disease. My father died of Parkinson’s when he was 83. We spent ten long years watching him slip away from us, first physically, then mentally. There is no cure for Parkinson’s. But early detection allows for treatments that may slow the progression of the disease…

Posted on: August 9, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Could we actually poop out ‘forever chemicals’?

These days, there is no escaping “forever chemicals.” These per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are present in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the soil under our feet and even the food we eat. And, like their nickname implies, they don’t disappear over time. Despite efforts to find alternatives, PFAS are still present in all kinds of products we use and consume — new clothes, takeout containers, cosmetics,…

Posted on: August 8, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Gabapentin linked to dementia and cognitive risks

Gabapentin is a seizure medication that many doctors prescribe off-label for low back pain. It’s seen as a much safer, nonaddictive alternative to the addictive opioids that have wreaked havoc on so many lives and communities. However, as is so often the case with medications, the truth is somewhat murkier. The gabapentinoid class of drugs, which includes gabapentin, has been associated with a 30 percent higher risk of hip fracture.…

Posted on: August 7, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

7+ reasons tai chi is the movement your body needs

I remember the first time I came across a group of people in a park practicing tai chi. The slow and graceful movements were beautiful to watch. But it was the mindful concentration and peaceful expressions on the faces of those participating that really pulled me in. I remember yearning for that kind of community and connection. I found it in my love for choir, but I’ve had tai chi…

Posted on: August 7, 2025 Posted by: Michele Lee Comments: 0

Why poor sleep is a ticking time bomb for women over 45

As women get older, they need to pay closer attention to their heart health. After all, heart disease is the leading killer of women who have completed menopause. One reason for this spike is plummeting estrogen levels. Estrogen is more than a female hormone. It affects factors that regulate vascular wall elasticity, impacting blood pressure and circulation. Without it, blood vessels begin to constrict, making it easier for cholesterol to…