Latest news with #MayoClinic
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
How long does it take weight loss drugs to work?
(NewsNation) — Weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have become increasingly popular over the past few years. For those who are looking into using a weight loss drug, how fast they work often comes into question. While the timeline for noticeable changes varies from person to person, people have often noticed changes in their appetite and weight within the first few weeks of use. According to the Mayo Clinic, most weight loss occurs within the first four to five months of use. Long-term use of weight loss drugs can lead to sustained weight loss and improvements in overall metabolic health but must be paired with healthy eating and exercise. HHS cancels funding for Moderna vaccines to fight pandemic flu There are a few factors that can contribute to how quickly weight loss drugs can work for each individual, like metabolism and following the treatment plan. People with a higher metabolism are more likely to see results faster from weight loss drugs compared to those with a lower metabolic rate. Lifestyle factors like dietary habits, exercise routines, adequate sleep and stress management also play a role in the speed at which weight loss drugs work. Since the drugs can suppress your appetite, it can be challenging to get proper nutrition and possibly lead to side effects. Doctors say to manage any side effects, you should follow a nutritionally balanced diet and drink enough fluids. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Epoch Times
4 hours ago
- Health
- Epoch Times
‘Babe' Actress Magda Szubanski Reveals Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis
Magda Szubanski warmed hearts with her layered and endearing performance in the award-winning 1995 film 'Babe.' Today, the Australian comedic actress sports a shaved head, a far cry from the grey-haired updo she wore when playing the farmer's wife in the wholesome pig-led comedy-drama. Szubanski was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer—a very rare and very aggressive type of blood disease known as mantle cell lymphoma. Affecting roughly 1 in 200,000 people each year, there is currently no cure for this form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but treatments may help manage symptoms, the Mayo Clinic
CNA
6 hours ago
- Health
- CNA
How to manage your blood sugar with exercise through strength and interval training
These days, more and more of us have to worry about our blood sugar. Some 38 million Americans have diabetes, and more than two times that number have pre-diabetes. Many millions more have some form of insulin resistance, which can make you tired, irritable and even dizzy. And all of these conditions become more common as we age. The good news is that exercise can help. It's at least as important as your diet for preventing and treating insulin resistance and diabetes. It can also help you lose weight, which is often the most important step in levelling out blood sugar. Exercise has several unique ways to help your body process glucose, said Dr Donald Hensrud, a specialist in preventive medicine and nutrition and medical editor of The Mayo Clinic Diet. And while any exercise is good for you, the type of movement you choose and when you do it can play a big role in how much it helps. Here are some things you should think about when planning workouts, according to experts. EXERCISE IS ESSENTIAL TO MANAGING BLOOD SUGAR The causes of diabetes are complex. Family history, genetics, weight and diet certainly play a role. But it's clear that exercise can dramatically lower your blood glucose, regardless of your diagnosis, and improve how well your body uses insulin. In fact, research has shown that exercise is generally more effective at preventing diabetes than medication (though it is important to use all types of treatment). During exercise, your muscle cells can more easily use the glucose in your blood. This lowers blood sugar directly and can also reduce the fat around your organs, an important risk factor for diabetes and insulin resistance, said Dr Gerald I Shulman, a professor of medicine and physiology at the Yale School of Medicine. In particular, studies show that regular high-intensity interval training or moderate continuous exercise can make a difference, reversing pre-diabetes in almost 40 percent of the participants – although it could take months or even years for many people to see long-lasting changes. PRIORITISE STRENGTH TRAINING AND INTENSITY Any movement is better than none, and simply going for a walk can have benefits. But according to research, the two most effective ways to lower your blood sugar through exercises are high intensity workouts and strength training. A recent study found strength training was significantly more effective for controlling blood sugar levels than aerobic exercise for people with Type 2 diabetes, and this likely holds true for other people worried about their blood su g ar, Dr Shulman said. Also, both aerobic exercise and strength training create more mitochondria, which can help fight Type 2 diabetes, but weight lifting appears to be slightly more effective than aerobic exercise, assuming you are pushing yourself, Dr Shulman said. Strength training is especially important for older people, since insulin resistance and Type 2 di abetes accelerate the normal loss of muscle and strength that comes with age, particularly for women. And while walking is good exercise for the heart, it generally won't build much muscle, said Michael Joseph Gross, author of Stronger: The Untold Story of Muscles in Our Lives. The way you strength train is also important, he added. To be most effective, the weights should feel heavy. A systematic review of the research found lifting challenging weights helped lower blood sugar more effectively than low-intensity strength training. Consider alternating your strength training session with high-intensity interval training, which has been shown to be especially effective in man ageingblood sugar for people with pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes, consult a doctor before radically changing your fitness regimen. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO WORK OUT? If you do not have insulin resistance, the time of day you work out doesn't matter much. But for people with pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes, studies suggest that afternoon exercise tends to help reduce blood sugar levels. This is because blood sugar rises and falls in regular patterns over the course of the day, and as the day goes on, the body becomes less insulin sensitive. Thus afternoon exercise is typically less likely to cause dangerous glucose spikes. Experts recommend working out at least three days per week with no more than two days in a row without activity. For people with insulin resistance, including diabetes, the best time to exercise is about 30 minutes after starting a meal to prevent blood sugar spikes. If morning workouts fit better with your schedule, try not to eat too many carbohydrates beforehand and start the day with a small meal of protein and healthy carbohydrates like fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Pre-diabetes and new-onset diabetes are much more responsive to lifestyle changes like diet and exercise than longer-term cases, Dr Hensrud said, so it's important to address insulin resistance as soon as possible. 'I tell people with new diabetes they're in control,' he said, 'and the most important thing to do is decrease weight through dietary changes and exercise.'
India.com
a day ago
- Health
- India.com
Dipika Kakar Diagnosed With Stage 2 Liver Cancer: Crucial Signs You Cant Afford To Miss, What Are The Red Flags
New Delhi: Popular television actress Dipika Kakar recently shared an update about her health on Instagram. She has been diagnosed with Stage 2 Liver Cancer, leaving her family, close friends and fans heartbroken. Dr Srujan Kumar Dasyam, consultant medical gastroenterologist, hepatologist and therapeutic, KIMS Hospital Hyderabad shared his insights on understanding the causes and symptoms of liver cancer is so vital. Catching it early dramatically improves treatment success, a truth underscored by recent cases, including public figures. Liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) — the most common type — typically emerges in livers already compromised. Experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Mayo Clinic consistently point to chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B and C) as a primary culprit. These viruses spark ongoing inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and eventually, a higher risk of cancerous changes. But they're not the only risk factors: * Cirrhosis, no matter the cause: Whether it's from heavy alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or other conditions, cirrhosis creates a breeding ground for cancer. NAFLD, now more common with rising rates of obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes, is a growing concern. * Heavy drinking: Too much alcohol directly harms liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring that can progress to cirrhosis and cancer. * Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: These conditions are strongly linked to NAFLD, which can escalate to severe liver disease and, ultimately, cancer. * Certain inherited liver conditions: Diseases like hemochromatosis can also elevate your risk. * Exposure to specific toxins: For instance, aflatoxins, a mold byproduct found in improperly stored crops, are known carcinogens. The tricky part about liver cancer is its sneaky nature; symptoms often don't show up until the disease has advanced. This makes staying vigilant incredibly important. Here are some critical red flags, highlighted by Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine, that you should never brush aside: * Unexplained weight loss and poor appetite: Losing a significant amount of weight without trying, along with a lack of hunger, can be a major warning sign. * Upper abdominal pain or discomfort: A dull ache or discomfort, often in the upper right side of your belly, needs attention. * Persistent nausea and vomiting: If you're constantly feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up, it's a symptom to address. * Constant weakness and fatigue: Feeling unusually drained and lacking energy could signal an underlying issue. * Abdominal swelling (ascites): Fluid buildup in your belly causing noticeable distension is a serious indicator. * Jaundice: A yellowish tint to your skin and the whites of your eyes points to problems with liver function. * Changes in stool or urine color: If your stools become pale or chalky, or your urine turns unusually dark, it could indicate a bile duct issue. * Unrelenting itching: This can occur when bile salts accumulate under the skin. Liver Cancer in India: The Shifting Landscape In India, liver cancer presents a significant public health challenge, with its incidence showing an upward trend over the last decade. From 2004 to 2014, the overall hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence rate in India saw an 11% increase, rising from an age-standardized rate of 3.0 to 3.3 per 100,000 persons. While still lower than in some global regions, this rise is a cause for concern. Demographically, liver cancer disproportionately affects males, with a male-to-female ratio often cited around 4:1. The age of presentation typically varies, but a significant number of cases are seen between 40 to 70 years, with some studies indicating peaks around 40-55 years and again above 60 years. This bimodal distribution is often linked to the timing of hepatitis B infection acquisition. While Hepatitis B remains a dominant cause, the increasing prevalence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), driven by rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the Indian population, is swiftly becoming a major contributor to the climbing HCC incidence. This demographic shift highlights the urgent need for public health strategies focusing on lifestyle interventions to prevent NAFLD. What Patients Need to Know: Spotting Red Flags and Getting Screened If you notice any of these persistent symptoms, particularly if you have known risk factors for liver disease, don't wait — reach out to your doctor immediately. Getting evaluated quickly is essential. Your doctor might order blood tests (including liver function tests and AFP, a tumor marker), imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs, and in some cases, a liver biopsy for a definitive diagnosis. If you have chronic Hepatitis B or C, or cirrhosis, talk to your doctor about regular screening protocols. The Horizon of Hope: Advances in Liver Cancer Research While the path to managing liver cancer can be challenging, groundbreaking research is continually offering new hope. Scientists are making strides in several key areas: * Immunotherapy and Combination Treatments: A major breakthrough has been the integration of immunotherapy drugs with targeted therapies or localized treatments like transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). These combinations are showing significant promise in extending lives and improving outcomes, even in advanced stages of the disease, by harnessing the body's own immune system to fight cancer. * Non-Invasive Therapies: Innovative procedures like Histotripsy are emerging, using focused ultrasound waves to destroy tumors without the need for incisions, leading to fewer complications and faster recovery for eligible patients. * Smarter Diagnostics: Beyond traditional imaging, new blood tests (some combining multiple markers with demographic data) are being developed to detect liver cancer earlier, even before symptoms appear. The use of liquid biopsies, which analyze cancer cells or DNA fragments in blood, offers a less invasive way to diagnose and monitor the disease. Furthermore, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being integrated into imaging to enhance the accuracy and speed of detection. These advancements represent a dynamic shift in how liver cancer is treated and diagnosed, offering more personalized and effective options for patients. Boosting Your Liver Health: Practical Advice for Everyone Beyond early detection, actively protecting your liver is a powerful preventive step. Here's what you can do: * Go easy on alcohol, or cut it out entirely: This is fundamental to preventing liver damage. * Maintain a healthy weight: Combat obesity with a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent and manage NAFLD. * Eat smart: Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. * Get vaccinated: Make sure you're protected against Hepatitis A and B if you're at risk. * Practice safe habits: Use safe sex practices and avoid shared needles to significantly lower your risk of Hepatitis B and C. * Be careful with meds and supplements: Always follow dosage instructions and tell your doctor about everything you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as some can harm your liver. * Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your liver with its crucial detoxification work. By understanding what causes liver cancer, recognizing its warning signs, and taking proactive steps for liver health, we can all contribute to reducing its impact and embracing a future with more effective treatments.
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
What is short bowel syndrome? How serious is it?
When 4-year-old S.G.V. appeared at a recent press conference in Los Angeles, she seemed like any other preschooler—quietly coloring and playing cards. But the backpack strapped to her shoulders told a different story. Inside it was the equipment delivering life-sustaining nutrition directly into her bloodstream, a treatment known as Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN). S.G.V. lives with short bowel syndrome (SBS), a rare but serious condition that makes her unable to absorb nutrients from food. Without the nightly intravenous nutrition she receives in the U.S., doctors say she would not survive more than a few days. Her case recently drew national attention because of a change to her family's immigration status, which threatens to interrupt the care that keeps her alive. But beyond the legal battle is a far more urgent medical issue: What exactly is short bowel syndrome, and why is it so dangerous? What is Short Bowel Syndrome? According to the Mayo Clinic, short bowel syndrome is a condition in which the body cannot absorb enough nutrients from the food you eat because part of the small intestine is missing or damaged. The small intestine is where most nutrients are absorbed during digestion. When a large portion of it is removed or doesn't function properly, the body can't get enough protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, or minerals to survive. SBS can happen in two ways: A person is born with part of the intestine missing or damaged. A person has to have large sections of the small intestine surgically removed due to conditions like Crohn's disease, cancer, trauma, or blood clots in the intestinal arteries. How does it affect the body? The Cleveland Clinic explains that while the body has some ability to adapt to small intestinal changes, losing too much—especially the jejunum or ileum—makes it very difficult to absorb nutrients. In many cases, the ileum (the final portion of the small intestine) can take over some of the roles of the missing segments. But when too much of the intestine is gone, even that adaptation isn't enough. In infants like S.G.V., this can lead to severe malnutrition, dehydration, and growth failure. Symptoms in children Signs of short bowel syndrome in children include: Chronic diarrhea or loose, watery stool Bloating and excessive gas Fatigue Foul-smelling stool Poor weight gain or failure to grow These symptoms come from the body's inability to digest and absorb essential nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes. How is Short Bowel Syndrome treated? Dietary Changes Children with milder forms of SBS may benefit from frequent small meals, high-calorie foods, and supplements of vitamins and minerals. They may need to avoid certain foods that are hard to digest, such as those high in fat, sugar, or fiber. However, in more severe cases—like S.G.V.'s—diet alone is not enough. Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) TPN is a method of delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a special IV catheter, bypassing the digestive system entirely. The fluid contains carbohydrates, protein, fats, electrolytes, and vitamins. This is the primary treatment for children with severe SBS. It is often given overnight for 12–16 hours to allow children to be mobile during the day. As in S.G.V.'s case, some children use portable TPN backpacks, which allow them to attend school or go outside while still receiving nutrition. 'If her treatment is interrupted, she will die within days,' said Gina Amato, the family's attorney, to NBC News. However, long-term use of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) can lead to several serious complications. These include bacterial infections, issues with the intravenous catheter, and blood clots. Over time, TPN may also reduce the body's ability to absorb calcium into the bones, increasing the risk of bone weakening. It can contribute to gallbladder disease, kidney damage, and liver problems. In severe cases, these complications may progress to kidney or liver failure. Enteral feeding (Tube Feeding) Some children also need a feeding tube inserted into the stomach or intestines to get liquid nutrition. This may be used in combination with TPN to encourage the intestines to function as much as possible. Complications of Short Bowel Syndrome Because the body can't absorb nutrients the usual way, SBS comes with serious health risks: Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies Electrolyte imbalance (sodium, potassium, magnesium) Dehydration Gallstones Kidney stones Liver disease from long-term TPN Infections related to central IV lines In infants, complications like cholestasis (bile backup in the liver) and intestinal failure-associated liver disease are particularly dangerous. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
