Latest news with #NatalieMackenzie
Daily Mirror
16-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Stroke risk could be cut by common vaccine already offered by NHS
The shingles vaccine could protect against a lot more than we thought The shingles vaccine could protect against a range of serious health issues including strokes, heart attacks, heart failure and atrial fibrillation, according to an astonishing new study. Analysing over a million South Korean adults aged 50 and older, researchers made remarkable discoveries that could revolutionise preventative healthcare practices for these conditions. Brain injury specialist Natalie Mackenzie explained the significance to Reach: "These findings are exciting. They indicate that the shingles vaccine doesn't just prevent a painful rash; it can also lower the risk of strokes and heart attacks. "This study shows how powerful interventions can be - not only does it stop shingles but also protects your heart and brain. For those who qualify, it's well worth doing your research on these findings to fully understand how it may benefit you. "This is a major health win for anyone eligible for the jab and has an increased risk. As a brain expert, the efficacy noted in this research is certainly meaningful and could be a great tool for reducing the risk of stroke." Mackenzie pointed out that this investigation adds to existing evidence that preventive measures against certain illnesses can yield "unexpected benefits for your overall health". She also said the results also offer "the potential for clinical consideration". This means that people at a higher risk of strokes, such as those with high blood pressure or diabetes, could potentially be considered for the jab. As a preventative measure against strokes rather than just shingles. Currently, the vaccine is available on the NHS for adults turning 65, those in their 70s and people aged 50 with weakened immune systems. The study, published in the European Heart Journal, discovered that individuals vaccinated against shingles were 23% less likely to experience cardiovascular issues, such as strokes or heart attacks, compared to those who didn't receive the jab. Specifically, it reduced the risk of: Stroke by 26% Heart attacks by 35% Heart failure by 26% Heart rhythm disorders like atrial fibrillation by 29% Overall, men and people under the age of 60 experienced the most significant reductions in risk. The protective effects could last up to eight years, although the risk of these conditions decreased the most two to three years after receiving the jab. However, the study did have some limitations, namely that the results could vary among different ethnic groups and between the two types of shingles vaccines currently in use. Nonetheless, it does align with previous studies that indicated individuals who contracted shingles faced higher risks of stroke, cardiac events and heart disease.
Scotsman
12-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
New research finds Shingles vaccine could lower your stroke risk-stroke expert Natalie Mackenzie explains
A new research study into strokes, which are a leading cause of death in Scotland, found that a simple vaccine currently used for the inexpensive shingles virus, could actually reduce your risk of getting a stroke for years into the future. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... With one stroke happening every five minutes across the UK, many health experts are keen to find a potential solution for what is still one of the biggest cause of deaths for Scots. A new study in Heart Journal, which involved investigators looking at data of more than a million adults over 50, found that those who were given a shingles vaccine were actually 26% less likely to experience a stroke, and were also less likely to experience heart disease than those who didn't get the vaccine. It was found this protective factor could last up to eight years and was particularly strong in men, although women did benefit too. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad "These findings indicate that the shingles vaccine doesn't just prevent a painful rash; it can also lower the risk of strokes and heart attacks. That's a major health win for anyone eligible for the jab. This study shows how powerful interventions can be—not only does it stop shingles but also protects your heart and brain, " explains brain injury expert Natalie Mackenzie, founder of BIS Services, the UK's leading provider of cognitive rehabilitation services for individuals with brain injury such as strokes. Natalie Mackenzie praises the recent study showing the shingles vaccine could lower your stroke risk. Mackenzie has high hopes this research could have a real impact for those at risk of strokes: "The findings that the shingles vaccines can reduce stroke risks is a big step forward for preventative measures. The efficacy noted in this research is certainly meaningful and could be a great tool for reducing the risk of stroke. Further evidence here that protecting yourself from certain illness can bring unexpected benefits for your overall health," she adds.
The Independent
05-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Eight things you can do first thing in the morning to boost your happiness
New research suggests mornings are peak times for wellbeing, offering a potential antidote to the winter blues. A study by University College London (UCL), analyzing data from over 49,000 adults between March 2020 and March 2022, found most people experience their highest levels of wellbeing upon waking. The study, published in the BMJ Mental Health journal, tracked participants' responses to questions about happiness, life satisfaction, and feelings of purpose. The data revealed a clear pattern: wellbeing peaked in the morning and dipped to its lowest point around midnight. Researchers believe this fluctuation may be tied to the body's natural rhythms and hormonal shifts, citing cortisol, a mood-regulating hormone, which peaks after waking and declines throughout the day. Reinforcing established patterns, the study also confirmed that wellbeing tends to be higher in summer than in winter. While the research doesn't offer specific solutions to combatting seasonal mood changes, it highlights the importance of maximizing morning wellbeing, particularly during the colder months. 1. Don't hit snooze 'When you hit snooze, you disrupt your sleep cycle, which can lead to grogginess,' says E.M. Austen, author of Smarter, 10 Lessons For A More Productive And Less Stressed Life. 'Instead, place your alarm out of reach to encourage yourself to get out of bed immediately. 'You could also set your alarm for the latest possible time you need to rise, allowing yourself to wake up feeling more refreshed. This minor adjustment can transform your mornings and set a more energised tone for the day ahead.' 2. Do a crossword 'Crosswords are enjoyable and a relaxing activity, bringing a sense of achievement and goal attainment – boosting our mood and the much-needed neurochemical release for wellbeing,' says Natalie Mackenzie, cognitive rehabilitation therapist. 3. Try mindfulness 'Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and spend 5-10 minutes in meditation or mindfulness,' recommends Nicci Roscoe, holistic health and wellbeing practitioner, and author of Micro Meditation: Moments Of Calm For A Happier, Healthier Life. 'Focus on your breath or follow a short guided meditation. This is the time to just be present and calm your mind before you dive into the day's tasks.' 4. Take a laughter break 'If you are feeling low, laughter is a brilliant tonic,' says Sarah Campus, personal trainer and founder of holistic wellness platform LDN MUMS FITNESS. 'Try listening to a funny podcast as you're getting ready, sometimes all we need is a good old chuckle to help us feel happier.' 5. Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast Fuel your body and your mind. 'I recommend eggs, avocado, seeds, tomato and spinach on rye toast first thing,' advises Chloe Thomas, personal trainer, and nutrition and mindset coach. 'If you reach for sugary and starchy cereals you will get a sugar slump and crash later that morning. 'The cleaner you eat, the better you feel, so take the time to enjoy your food.' 6. Integrate arts, culture and heritage into morning rituals 'Starting the day with a cultural ritual, such as listening to music, engaging in mindful sketching or reading poetry, fosters a sense of identity, continuity and joy,' suggests Jody Findlay, founder of Mindseta. ' Research has highlighted that engaging with the arts – whether through music, storytelling or creative expression – improves mental and physical health, reducing stress and increasing emotional resilience.' 7. Have a little morning dance 'Dance is amazing as a form of cardio, but it's also brilliant to raise the endorphins and serotonin that make us happy,' says Dominika Blonska, personal trainer and founder of Define By Dom. 'Pop on tunes that make you feel happy and dance like no one is watching. 'The more you can shake the stagnancy out of your body, the more the happy hormones will flow. You do not have to be any good, don't overthink it… just move!' 8. Smile in the mirror So simple, yet so effective. 'Did you know that smiling can trick your brain into happiness? The act of smiling activates pathways in your brain that influence your emotional state,' says Alison Goolnik, an integrative psychotherapist at Therapy Here. 'So, try smiling at yourself in the mirror, smile at your colleagues and family and see how it makes you feel.'
The Independent
05-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
8 simple morning habits to boost your happiness
New research has found that mornings are when people generally feel their best, and report the greatest feelings of wellbeing. Researchers analysed data from more than 49,000 adults as part of the University College London (UCL) Covid-19 Social Study, which tracked participants from March 2020 to March 2022. Participants answered questions such as: 'In the past week, how happy did you feel?', 'How satisfied have you been with your life?', and 'To what extent have you felt the things you are doing in your life are worthwhile?' Published in BMJ Mental Health journal, the findings revealed that people generally woke up 'feeling best' but, by midnight, they were 'feeling worst'. The researchers suggested that this shift in mood may be linked to physiological changes associated with the body clock. 'For example, cortisol (a hormone that regulates mood, motivation and fear) peaks shortly after waking and reaches its lowest levels around bedtime,' commented the researchers. The findings also reinforced that people tend to feel happier in the summer months compared to the winter months. So, how can we overcome winter's impact on our mood? Here are 8 simple habits to incorporate into your morning routine to boost your wellbeing, whatever the weather… 1. Don't hit snooze 'When you hit snooze, you disrupt your sleep cycle, which can lead to grogginess,' says E.M. Austen, author of Smarter, 10 Lessons For A More Productive And Less Stressed Life. 'Instead, place your alarm out of reach to encourage yourself to get out of bed immediately. 'You could also set your alarm for the latest possible time you need to rise, allowing yourself to wake up feeling more refreshed. This minor adjustment can transform your mornings and set a more energised tone for the day ahead.' 2. Do a crossword 'Crosswords are enjoyable and a relaxing activity, bringing a sense of achievement and goal attainment – boosting our mood and the much-needed neurochemical release for wellbeing,' says Natalie Mackenzie, cognitive rehabilitation therapist. 3. Try mindfulness 'Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and spend 5-10 minutes in meditation or mindfulness,' recommends Nicci Roscoe, holistic health and wellbeing practitioner, and author of Micro Meditation: Moments Of Calm For A Happier, Healthier Life. ' Focus on your breath or follow a short guided meditation. This is the time to just be present and calm your mind before you dive into the day's tasks.' 4. Take a laughter break 'If you are feeling low, laughter is a brilliant tonic,' says Sarah Campus, personal trainer and founder of holistic wellness platform LDN MUMS FITNESS. 'Try listening to a funny podcast as you're getting ready, sometimes all we need is a good old chuckle to help us feel happier.' 5. Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast Fuel your body and your mind. 'I recommend eggs, avocado, seeds, tomato and spinach on rye toast first thing,' advises Chloe Thomas, personal trainer, and nutrition and mindset coach. 'If you reach for sugary and starchy cereals you will get a sugar slump and crash later that morning. 'The cleaner you eat, the better you feel, so take the time to enjoy your food.' 6. Integrate arts, culture and heritage into morning rituals 'Starting the day with a cultural ritual, such as listening to music, engaging in mindful sketching or reading poetry, fosters a sense of identity, continuity and joy,' suggests Jody Findlay, founder of Mindseta. ' Research has highlighted that engaging with the arts – whether through music, storytelling or creative expression – improves mental and physical health, reducing stress and increasing emotional resilience.' 7. Have a little morning dance ' Dance is amazing as a form of cardio, but it's also brilliant to raise the endorphins and serotonin that make us happy,' says Dominika Blonska, personal trainer and founder of Define By Dom. 'Pop on tunes that make you feel happy and dance like no one is watching. 'The more you can shake the stagnancy out of your body, the more the happy hormones will flow. You do not have to be any good, don't overthink it… just move!' 8. Smile in the mirror So simple, yet so effective. 'Did you know that smiling can trick your brain into happiness? The act of smiling activates pathways in your brain that influence your emotional state,' says Alison Goolnik, an integrative psychotherapist at Therapy Here. 'So, try smiling at yourself in the mirror, smile at your colleagues and family and see how it makes you feel.'
