Over 200 Children Hospitalized in China After School Serves Lead-Tainted Food
The police in Tianshui, a city in Gansu Province, have detained eight officials and employees of the privately owned kindergarten, including the principal and an investor. They found that school cooks used inedible pigments bought online to decorate buns and cakes that were served to the children, Chinese state media reported on Tuesday.
The head of the Tianshui police, Guo Qingxiang, said that an investigation showed that the school sought to use photos of the colorful food for marketing purposes, to try to increase enrollment, according to the state broadcaster CCTV. The food included sausage buns made to look like bright yellow corn on the cob and red date cakes with layers of teal and pink.
Security camera footage posted by state media taken from the school, Peixin Kindergarten, appeared to show kitchen workers adding bright yellow powdered pigments to a bowl of flour.
Investigators found that samples of the sausage buns and the red date cakes contained traces of lead that were more than 2,000 times higher than the national food safety standard of 0.5 milligrams per kilogram for any contaminant.
There also appeared to be skepticism over whether local officials were willing to confront the scandal. Reports of the poisoning first emerged on July 1, but some parents complained that local clinics in Tianshui did not properly test and diagnose their children, state media reported. That prompted some families to travel more than 200 miles east to the city of Xi'an to have their children tested and confirmed for lead poisoning.
By Monday, all 251 children at the school had been tested (though state media did not say where). Of them, 233 children were found to have abnormally high levels of lead in their blood, state media reported. Some remain hospitalized.
Investigators raided the school last Thursday and seized the school's stock of powdered pigments.
Peixin Kindergarten received its school qualification certificate in June 2022 and began enrolling students in late August of that year, state media reported.
Food safety remains a sensitive subject in China. But conditions have improved from more than a decade ago, when scandals like milk powder contaminated with melamine and recycled cooking oil regularly made headlines.
Tianshui was the site of another lead poisoning incident in 2006 when more than 200 people were found to have high levels of the toxin in their blood. No official cause was ever announced, though a nearby lead and zinc smelter plant was accused of illegally releasing waste into the area.
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Associated Press
5 hours ago
- Associated Press
Shanghai Healthcare M&A Fund Takes Strategic Stake in MicroPort Scientific Corporation
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Adaptogens: What are they? And are they actually effective?
Feeling frazzled? Can't quite kick that midmorning slump? Enter adaptogens, a group of stress-fighting herbs and mushrooms that have started popping up in just about everything, from beverages to chocolate bars. Even though these compounds have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, they've become increasingly popular in the mainstream wellness world thanks to their potential to help your body naturally adapt to stress. In fact, the global adaptogens market is projected to surge to nearly $9 billion in 2025 and reach over $12 billion by 2035. In today's hectic world, it's clear that people are craving more natural ways to stay calm and balanced, and adaptogens are stepping into the spotlight. But despite all the buzz, there's still plenty of confusion about what adaptogens actually do, how they work and whether or not there's any science to back up their claims. Using my experience as a registered dietitian, I dove into the latest research and spoke with two integrative medicine physicians to better understand what adaptogens are and whether they're worth trying. Table of contents What are adaptogens? How they're thought to work What the science says Are adaptogens safe? Are adaptogens worth trying? Supplements to consider Meet our experts A note on supplements The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine. What are adaptogens? Adaptogens are natural substances found in various herbs, roots and mushrooms that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are believed to help the body adapt to all kinds of stress, including physical, mental and environmental stressors. They're thought to support the body's ability to maintain balance (known as homeostasis), helping you function more effectively under pressure. Some adaptogens have also been proposed to enhance endurance. In fact, they were first introduced into professional sports a little over 50 years ago as a way to boost physical performance and increase athletes' resilience to stress. Today, adaptogens are frequently featured in capsules, powders, teas, coffee and tinctures aimed at promoting relaxation, focus, endurance and immune health. Common adaptogens you might see on supplement or food labels include: Ginseng: Ginseng has been used as a calming agent in traditional Chinese medicine and has been promoted for stress, fatigue, anxiety and brain function. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is a shrub that grows in certain parts of Asia and Africa. It's typically used to help reduce stress and contains a group of substances called withanolides, which may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Rhodiola: Rhodiola is a plant native to cold regions in Europe, Asia and North America. It's been used to support athletic performance (although studies are small and results are mixed), increase energy levels and boost mood. Reishi: Reishi is a type of mushroom with anti-inflammatory properties. It's most commonly used to support the immune system, though it's thought to be potentially protective against certain chronic diseases, like heart disease. That said, most studies have been performed in labs and on animals, not on humans, making it hard to determine the extent of these potential benefits. Cordyceps: This genus of parasitic fungi may support energy and athletic performance, although studies are small and limited. It has also been studied for its potential to stimulate the immune system and reduce chronic inflammation. Lion's mane: Another mushroom in the lineup, lion's mane has long been used to support brain and gut health, as well as to help the body respond to anxiety, stress and fatigue. Holy basil: Also sometimes called tulsi, holy basil is an herb that's believed to support general well-being and may support immune health, blood sugar management and mood, says Dr. Tokunbo Akandé, pediatrician, integrative medicine physician and founder of Harmony 360 Health. Eleuthero: Formerly known as Siberian ginseng, this herb has been purported to enhance endurance and reduce fatigue. It's important to note that while some adaptogens have more research than others to support their proposed benefits, overall research remains limited, but we'll get to that more in a bit. (back to top) How they're thought to work A 2025 review published in Applied Sciences indicates that adaptogens support your body's stress response system — especially the nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a key role in regulating stress hormones like cortisol. "By modulating cortisol production and stress signaling, adaptogens may improve resilience, mental focus, energy and immune function," says Dr. Shad Marvasti, board-certified physician and medical director at HonorHealth Integrative Medicine. This may also help your body stay steady under pressure, whether you're short on sleep, dealing with a demanding job or even recovering from a red-eye flight. 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According to the review, taking ashwagandha supplements for 56 to 60 days was associated with reduced stress and lower cortisol levels compared with a placebo. Another review reported that short-term use led to a 32% drop in cortisol levels among healthy individuals. Though ashwagandha may offer short-term benefits, its long-term safety and effectiveness remain uncertain. Ginseng is another adaptogen with some evidence supporting its stress-relieving effects, though much of the research is older or based on small sample sizes. A 2023 study in the Journal of Ginseng Research, for example, found that 43 participants who took Korean red ginseng (also known as Asian or Panax ginseng) daily for eight weeks maintained more stable levels of serotonin and epinephrine — neurotransmitters involved in mood and stress regulation — compared with those in the placebo group, who experienced significant declines. Among participants with higher self-reported stress, those taking ginseng also showed smaller increases in cortisol and a milder drop in serotonin. As for other adaptogens, such as holy basil, lion's mane, rhodiola and eleuthero, human research on their stress-relieving effects remains limited or lacking altogether. Overall, while the stress-relief claims of adaptogens are enticing, it's important to take them with a grain of salt. They may help with short-term memory and other cognitive tasks Emerging research suggests that adaptogens may offer some brain-boosting benefits. A 2025 review in Nutrients reported that several small studies found daily ashwagandha extract may improve memory and attention and reduce fatigue in both healthy adults and individuals with cognitive impairment. Lion's mane also shows promise, with one review suggesting potential cognitive benefits in middle-aged and older adults. Meanwhile, a 2024 meta-analysis published in Phytotherapy Research found that ginseng had a significant effect on memory, although it did not produce meaningful improvements in overall cognition or attention. Overall, while early findings are encouraging, the evidence for adaptogens in supporting memory and cognitive function remains inconclusive. Larger, well-controlled human trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness and identify optimal dosages. They may fight fatigue, though research is mixed Another draw of adaptogens is their potential to combat fatigue. However, according to the 2023 meta-analysis in the Journal of Functional Foods mentioned earlier, research on various adaptogens for fatigue is mixed and more data is needed before conclusions can be made. They may help boost athletic performance Although adaptogens have a longer history of use by competitive athletes, they've more recently gained popularity among everyday gym-goers. Their appeal stems from their reputation for enhancing stamina, performance and recovery. Scientifically, the idea has some logic: Exercise is a form of physical stress, so if certain plant compounds help the body adapt to stress, they might also support greater endurance or performance under physical strain. A 2021 review found that ashwagandha may benefit strength, power, VO2 max, fatigue and recovery in both trained and untrained healthy men and women. However, many of the included studies were small and carried a potential risk of funding bias. Ginseng, cordyceps and rhodiola also show some evidence of supporting athletic performance and recovery — particularly in trained individuals — but as with ashwagandha, larger and more rigorous studies are needed to help strengthen these results. They may help bolster your immune system Preliminary test tube and animal studies suggest that adaptogens may support immune function, likely due to their anti-inflammatory properties. A 2020 review in Pharmaceuticals concluded that certain adaptogenic herbs, including ashwagandha, rhodiola and schisandra, could be a useful addition to the management and prevention of viral respiratory infections. But more research is needed to determine the immune-supporting effects of specific adaptogens and define optimal dosages. (back to top) Are adaptogens safe? Adaptogens are generally well tolerated and considered safe for healthy adults, but they're not without risk. "Most adaptogens are safe when used appropriately, but they are not one-size-fits-all," says Akandé. "People with autoimmune conditions, thyroid disorders or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a health care provider first," he explains. Additionally, adaptogens may interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications, so it's important to check with your doctor or a registered dietitian before adding them to your routine. According to Cleveland Clinic, common side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals, although this varies by the plant in question. It's important to keep in mind that some adaptogens, like ashwagandha, have been linked to rare but serious health issues, including liver injury and thyroid problems. While these cases have typically been in people who consumed very high doses, had an underlying health condition or took supplements containing other ingredients, it's still important to exercise caution and to always consult your doctor before adding a supplement to your diet. The Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate supplements in the same way it does medications. For this reason, it's important to purchase adaptogen supplements from reputable brands that test their products for label accuracy, ideally by a third-party organization. When taking adaptogens, start at a lower dose to assess your tolerance and never exceed the listed dosing recommendations, unless doing so under the specific supervision of a health care professional. (back to top) Are adaptogens worth trying? Adaptogens aren't a magic bullet for better health, and there's simply not enough research to definitively say they're worth the money. That said, if you're curious about whether these plant-based compounds could help your body better cope with stress, these products are generally safe to try — just talk with a health care professional first for personalized advice on safety and product recommendations. According to Marvasti, adaptogen supplements may be particularly helpful for individuals experiencing chronic stress, low energy or trouble focusing. It's important, however, to keep expectations in check. The effects of adaptogens are intended to be subtle and gradual — more of a gentle nudge than a dramatic shift. They may also offer a slight boost to your workouts. That said, competitive athletes should exercise caution. While adaptogens themselves are not banned substances, the products they appear in may contain ingredients that could lead to disqualification. For peace of mind, look for adaptogen products certified safe for sport by organizations like Informed Sport and NSF. Beyond capsules and tinctures, adaptogens have found their way into everything from coffee and tea to protein bars, nonalcoholic drinks and even chocolate. These products can be a fun (and tasty) way to dip your toes into the world of adaptogens, but keep in mind that they often contain minimal, if any, effective dose — especially when added for marketing appeal. If you're targeting a specific health concern, third-party tested supplements that clearly state the type and quantity of adaptogens are a more reliable choice. Lastly, keep in mind that these products shouldn't be your only tool for managing stress. After all, adaptogens are just one piece of a broader wellness picture. "Adaptogens are a good complement to foundational wellness practices through healthy lifestyles including sleep, nutrition, movement and stress management," says Marvasti. (back to top) Supplements to consider We probably sound like a broken record, but it's important to first talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before adding any new supplements — including adaptogens — to your wellness routine. Once you get the go-ahead, here are a few brands and products worth looking into. (back to top) Meet our experts Tokunbo Akandé, MD, board-certified pediatrician, fellowship-trained integrative medicine physician and founder of Harmony 360 Health Shad Marvasti, MD, board-certified physician and medical director at HonorHealth Integrative Medicine (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Health Line
8 hours ago
- Health Line
Are Vegetable and Seed Oils Bad for Your Health?
While these oils can be a healthy source of fat, some varieties are better choices than others. That said, the often-mentioned adverse effects of omega-6 fats may not be as clear as previously believed. The consumption of vegetable oils has increased dramatically in the past century. Most mainstream health professionals consider them healthy, but vegetable oils may cause health problems. Their health effects vary depending on what fatty acids they contain, what plants they are extracted from, and how they are processed. This article examines the evidence to determine whether vegetable and seed oils harm your health. What are they and how are they made? Edible oils extracted from plants are commonly known as vegetable oils. In addition to their use in cooking and baking, they're found in processed foods, including salad dressings, margarine, mayonnaise, and cookies. Common vegetable oils include safflower oil, soybean oil, and canola oil. Refined vegetable oils were not available until the 20th century, when the technology to extract them became available. These are extracted from plants using either a chemical solvent or an oil mill. Then they are often purified, refined, and sometimes chemically altered. Health-conscious consumers prefer oils made by crushing or pressing plants or seeds rather than those produced using chemicals. Consumption has increased drastically In the past century, vegetable oil consumption has increased at the expense of other fats like butter. They are often labeled 'heart-healthy' and recommended as an alternative to sources of saturated fat, such as butter, lard, and tallow. Vegetable oils are considered heart-healthy because studies consistently link polyunsaturated fat to a reduced risk of heart problems compared with saturated fat. Despite their potential health benefits, some scientists worry about how much of these oils people consume. As explained in the next chapter, these concerns mainly apply to oils that contain a high amount of omega-6 fats. What do we know about omega-6? It's important to note that not all plant oils are bad for your health. For example, avocado oil and olive oil are both excellent choices. Both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, meaning that you need some of them in your diet because your body can't produce them. Throughout evolution, humans got omega-6 and omega-3 in a certain ratio. While this ratio differed between populations, it's estimated to have been about 1:1. However, in the past century or so, this ratio in the Western diet has shifted dramatically and may be as high as 20:1. Older research has hypothesized that too much omega-6 relative to omega-3 may contribute to chronic inflammation. On the other hand, a more recent study from 2025 did not show a connection between higher omega-6 consumption and inflammation. Chronic inflammation is an underlying factor in some of the most common Western diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Observational studies have also associated a high intake of omega-6 fat with an increased risk of heart disease. However, these associations don't necessarily imply a causal relationship. In fact, the evidence for omega-6 being detrimental to human health is mixed. Some studies investigating the effects of omega-6 fat consumption generally do not support the idea that these fats increase inflammation. For instance, eating a lot of linoleic acid, which is the most common omega-6 fat, doesn't appear to affect blood levels of inflammatory markers. Consider limiting plant oils high in omega-6, as well as processed foods that contain these plant oils, which include: soybean oil corn oil cottonseed oil sunflower oil peanut oil sesame oil rice bran oil Scientists do not fully understand the effects of omega-6 fats on the body, and more human studies are needed. However, if you are concerned, it is more important to limit processed foods high in omega-6 fats, such as baked treats, chips, deep-fried fast foods, or takeout meals, as these have a more direct and proven effect on health. Current studies remain inconclusive about the actual impact of avoiding vegetable oils when cooking at home on health. These oils are easily oxidized Saturated, monounsaturated, or polyunsaturated fats differ by the number of double bonds their chemical structures contain: Saturated fats: no double bonds Monounsaturated fats: one double bond Polyunsaturated fats: two or more double bonds The problem with polyunsaturated fats is that all these double bonds make them susceptible to oxidation. The fatty acids react with oxygen in the atmosphere and start deteriorating. The fat you eat isn't only stored as fat tissue or burned for energy ; it is also incorporated into cell membranes. If your body contains a lot of polyunsaturated fatty acids, your cell membranes are more sensitive to oxidation. In short, you have a very high level of fragile fatty acids that can easily be degraded to form harmful compounds called free radicals, which can cause cell damage. For this reason, it may be best to eat polyunsaturated fats in moderation. Vary your diet by eating a mix of healthy saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. The USDA 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend aiming for 20-35% of total daily calories from fats, with no more than 10% of these calories coming from saturated fat. They are sometimes high in trans fats Commercial vegetable oils may also contain trans fats, which form when the oils are hydrogenated. Food producers use hydrogenation to harden vegetable oils, making them solid like butter at room temperature. Margarines are no longer full of trans fats since the FDA ban on trans fats in 2015, which went into effect in 2018, with an extended deadline of 2020 for some food manufacturers. However, some margarines may still contain a small amount of trans fat, so it's important to read the nutrition label. However, non-hydrogenated vegetable oils may also contain some trans fats. However, it's important to note that naturally occurring trans fats found in non-hydrogenated oils are less detrimental to health than industrial trans fats. Also, natural trans fats are found in very small amounts compared to hydrogenated oils. One 2015 study found extremely low amounts of trans fats (less than a quarter of 1%) in vegetable cooking oils. A high intake of trans fats is associated with all sorts of chronic diseases, including heart disease, obesity, cancer, and diabetes. If a product lists hydrogenated oil or partially hydrogenated oil as an ingredient, it likely contains trans fats. For optimal health, avoid these products, although with the trans fat ban, they are likely to be present only in very small amounts now. Vegetable oils and heart disease The reason is that vegetable oils are generally low in saturated fat and high in polyunsaturated fat. The benefits of reduced saturated fat intake are controversial. However, studies show that reducing saturated fat intake for at least 2 years reduces the risk of heart problems by 21%, but it has no significant effects on the risk of death from heart disease. Furthermore, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids appear to have a greater benefit than omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The omega-6 linoleic acid has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease. However, it is important to be vigilant about avoiding highly refined vegetable oils and processed foods that contain these oils. Our food environment makes it very easy for us to get more than enough omega-6-rich vegetable oils. We can control how we prepare food at home, so in an effort to practice moderation, it may be a good idea to choose other oils that are lower in omega-6 content, like olive oil or avocado oil. There is a lot of evidence on the benefits of olive oil on heart health.
