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The Sun
a day ago
- Health
- The Sun
The popular drink that ‘helps women age better' – but it's a fine line between age-defying and damaging, warn experts
SIPPING on a popular drink daily may help women age better, a new study suggests. Researchers found that women who enjoy three small cups of coffee a day in middle age stay sharp, strong and mentally well as they get older. 1 But downing more than that on the daily may not be healthy for some, they warned - and not all sources of caffeine offer benefits. Meanwhile, tea and decaffeinated coffee didn't show the same protective benefits as regular caffeinated brews. And colas were "strongly associated" with less healthy ageing, the study - which followed thousands of women for 30 years - also found. Study author Dr Sara Mahdavi said: "While past studies have linked coffee to individual health outcomes, our study is the first to assess coffee's impact across multiple domains of ageing over three decades. "The findings suggest that caffeinated coffee - not tea or decaf - may uniquely support ageing trajectories that preserve both mental and physical function." Dr Mahdavi, a post-doctoral fellow at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in the US, and an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto, Canada, said: "Our study has several key strengths. "In addition to the large sample size and 30 years of follow-up, we assessed several different aspects of longevity and healthy ageing as well as very comprehensive information on nutritional and lifestyle habits that were collected every four years after the initiation of the study." Dr Mahdavi presented the study's findings at the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition in Orlando, Florida. The study included 47,513 women whose dietary and health data was collected over a 30 years from 1984. Researchers used questionnaires to assess how much caffeine the women consumed through drinks such as coffee, tea, cola and decaffeinated coffee. They defined healthy ageing as living to the age of 70 or older, being free from 11 major chronic diseases, maintaining physical function, having good mental health, and showing no cognitive impairment or memory complaints. After 30 years, the research team estimated how much every 80mg of caffeine - equivalent to a single espresso shot - study participants consumed per day changed their likelihood of healthy ageing. They also looked into how specific drinks - such as an eight-ounce cup of coffee, tea or decaffeinated coffee, or a 12-ounce glass of cola - might affect ageing. The analysis accounted for other factors that might influence healthy ageing, including body weight, smoking, alcohol use, exercise, education level and the amount of protein eaten. By 2016, 3,706 of the women in the study met all the requirements to be deemed healthy agers. These women typically consumed an average of 315 mg of caffeine per day - about the amount in three small cups of coffee or 1.5 large cups - during middle age, from the ages of 45 to 60. More than 80 per cent of that caffeine came from regular coffee consumption. For women in the healthy agers group, each extra cup of coffee per day was tied to a 2 to 5 per cent higher chance of doing well later in life. Coffee health benefits and drawbacks Studies regularly find that drinking coffee can be good for your health – here are some of its reported benefits: A longer life: It helps us stay awake and could also keep us alive, according to science. Southern Medical University in China found coffee drinkers were a third less likely to die young. A healthier heart: Semmelweis University in Hungary found average coffee drinkers had a 21 per cent lower chance of having a stroke and a 17 per cent lower risk of dying of heart disease. A mighty memory: Research by the University of Verona found regularly drinking espresso coffee can reduce your risk of dementia-causing Alzheimer's disease. A curb on cancer: Studies suggest drinking moderate amounts of coffee can reduce the risk of cancers of the bowel and womb. But the brew can also have some health drawbacks, usually associated with its caffeine content. A case of the jitters: Too much caffeine can cause anxiety, headache or faster heart rate. Acidic aftereffects: Caffeinated coffee can increase heartburn symptoms. Bathroom troubles: Caffeine can make you need to go to the loo more frequently and urgently. Heart risk: Coffee that's made without a filter, such as using French press or office machines, has been linked to a small rise in cholesterol levels. Women saw benefits from up to five small cups per day, or about 2.5 large cups. The research team didn't find any significant links between drinking decaffeinated coffee or tea and an increased likelihood of healthy ageing. And each additional small glass of fizzy pop - another major source of caffeine - was associated with a 20 to 26 per cent lower likelihood of healthy ageing. The researchers say the findings indicate that not all sources of caffeine offer health benefits. Dr Mahdavi said: "These results, while preliminary, suggest that small, consistent habits can shape long-term health. "Moderate coffee intake may offer some protective benefits when combined with other healthy behaviours such as regular exercise, a healthy diet and avoiding smoking. "While this study adds to prior evidence suggesting coffee intake may be linked with healthy ageing, the benefits from coffee are relatively modest compared to the impact of overall healthy lifestyle habits and warrant further investigation." The researchers note that, in general, up to two cups of coffee per day should be safe and potentially beneficial for most people. Beyond that, drinking more may offer additional benefits for some - but may not be healthy for others. Dr Mahdavi and her colleagues have shown in a previous study that genetic variations can influence the relationship between caffeine intake and health outcomes. This means that more caffeine isn't always better - particularly for people with lower caffeine tolerance or specific genetic susceptibility. The team now plan to investigate how specific bioactive compounds in coffee interact with genetic and metabolic ageing markers, especially in women. Understanding those mechanisms could help develop personalised diets that support healthy ageing, they said.
The Sun
a day ago
- General
- The Sun
Urgent holiday warning over new Covid variant that's ‘more infectious' as cases surge in popular hotspots
HEALTH authorities in popular holiday hotspots have issued warnings over a new Covid variant that's feared to be more infectious. Travellers were urged to don masks and wash their hands as the new variant drives up cases. 1 The strain - called NB.1.8.1 - has been spotted in spots popular for British travellers, such as Egypt, the Maldives and Thailand. It's also seen a rapid rise in Ireland in recent weeks and has been found in the US, Australia and the UK. Health authorities in Thailand issued a warning about the variant, after recording Covid 257,280 cases and 52 deaths. The country's capital Bangkok is seeing the worst of the outbreak, as well as the Chonburi Province. Deputy government spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak said international travel and the oncoming rainy season, could accelerate the outbreaks and the Ministry of Public Health will monitor the situation closely. He urged people to "limit activities that increase the risk of infection, wash their hands regularly, wear masks in crowded places, get booster vaccinations when due, and seek medical attention promptly if experiencing symptoms". It comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a warning over NB.1.8.1, designating it as a "variant under monitoring" due to its global spread and key mutations. 'Despite a concurrent increase in cases and hospitalisations in some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation,' the WHO said. But while it may not be particularly severe, may infect people more easily than previous variants, with some evidence suggesting that the variant binds more tightly to human cells. "Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants, although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily," Subhash Verma, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, told CBS News last week. "In other words, it is more transmissible."
Medical News Today
2 days ago
- Health
- Medical News Today
Seed oils: Omega-6 fatty acids may lower diabetes, heart disease risk
Higher linoleic acid levels may help lower heart disease and diabetes risk, a new study finds. JavierCardiometabolic health is a gauge of the fitness of the body's cardiovascular and metabolic systems. Poor cardiometabolic health may increase a person's risk for cardiometabolic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes . . Lifestyle factors such as diet can also impact a person's cardiometabolic health. Two new studies recently presented report that consuming a diet higher in linoleic acid, or omega-6 fatty acids, may help support cardiometabolic health, and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. 'Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases — mainly heart attack and stroke — are the leading cause of death in the U.S.,' Kevin C. Maki, PhD, adjunct professor in the School of Public Health-Bloomington at Indiana University and chief scientist at Midwest Biomedical Research told Medical News Today . 'Type 2 diabetes is very common — about 10% of the adult population — and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as well as other issues such as kidney failure.' 'It is well accepted that lifestyle — diet, physical activity, smoking, sleep , etc. — is important for the development of these cardiometabolic disorders,' Maki continued. 'Lifestyle modification is the cornerstone of efforts to minimize cardiometabolic risks. We have a large body of evidence to demonstrate that lifestyle interventions can improve risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.' Maki is the lead author of two new studies recently presented at the American Society for Nutrition's annual meeting, NUTRITION 2025, which has found that consuming a diet higher in the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid may help support cardiometabolic health, and lower a person's risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease. For these studies, researchers analyzed medical data from 1,894 adult participants of an observational study focused on COVID-19. Study participants had an average age of 50, an average body mass index (BMI) of 29, and more than half identified as female and non-Hispanic White. Scientists focused on the amount of linoleic acid found in the serum in the blood of all participants. Are seed oils bad? 'Linoleic acid is found mainly in vegetable oils that are used in cooking and are ingredients in many food products. Recently, there has been a great deal of controversy surrounding 'seed oils' such as corn oil and soybean oil. Some have claimed that these seed oils, which are rich in linoleic acid, cause inflammation.' — Kevin C. Maki, PhD 'The level of linoleic acid in the blood is influenced by how much is consumed in the diet — higher intake leading to a higher level in the blood,' Maki continued. 'We were interested in looking at the level of linoleic acid in the blood to see if it would be associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, specifically biomarkers of inflammation and blood glucose (sugar) regulation.' Upon analysis, Maki and his team found that study participants with a higher concentration of linoleic acid in their blood serum were linked to lower levels of the inflammation biomarkers high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and glycoprotein acetyls. 'Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases,' Maki explained. 'In particular, many studies have shown that a higher level of C-reactive protein is associated with increased risks for heart attack and stroke. There are also studies showing that drugs that reduce inflammation lower risks for heart attack and stroke.' Are omega-6 fatty acids inflammatory? 'Our findings do not support the view that higher linoleic acid intake is associated with more inflammation. In fact, they are more consistent with the opposite view because higher linoleic acid was associated with lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers.' — Kevin C. Maki, PhD 'Some caution is needed because this was not an intervention study, so we cannot say that this association is cause and effect,' Maki added. 'We can only say that we found the opposite of what would be predicted if linoleic acid was having a pro-inflammatory effect.' Additionally, researchers found these same participants with more linoleic acid in their serum also experienced more favorable levels of BMI and biomarkers of glucose homeostasis, or even blood sugar levels. 'Higher BMI, along with higher fasting levels of glucose and insulin are risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Previous studies have shown that a higher circulating level of linoleic acid is associated with lower risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Our results are consistent with those, since they show lower levels of risk factors for type 2 diabetes in those with higher levels of linoleic acid in the blood.' — Kevin C. Maki, PhD 'While we have to be cautious about interpretation of the results, our findings are consistent with favorable effects of linoleic acid consumption on cardiometabolic risk factors and not with unfavorable effects, as has been claimed by some online influencers,' Maki said. 'Intervention studies will be needed to further investigate the influence of changing intake of linoleic acid on the risk factors we studied,' he added. MNT had the opportunity to speak with Cheng-Han Chen, MD, a board certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA, about these studies. 'This research found that increased blood levels of linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) were associated with lower blood glucose levels and lower levels of inflammatory markers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and glycoprotein acetyls,' Chen commented. 'These findings are in line with our understanding of linoleic acid — found in vegetable oil, nuts, and seeds — as likely being beneficial to cardiometabolic health.' 'Heart disease continues to be one of the major disease burdens in our society. Lifestyle modifications such as diet improvements are essential in helping us improve cardiometabolic health in our patients and are a necessary part of improving health outcomes,' he said. 'Future research should prospectively study the impact of increased linoleic intake in the diet on the development of cardiovascular disease,' he added. For readers who are now thinking about increasing their linoleic acid intake to possibly improve their cardiometabolic health, Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Nutrition-In-Sight, urged them to remember that the biomarkers measured in the studies are influenced by a variety of factors and nutrition science is complex. Why nutrition is more than one 'magic' ingredient 'Nutrition science is rarely about one nutrient in isolation — context is everything. Nutrition is about patterns, not just parts. Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 fatty acid, and like all nutrients, its benefit depends on the company it keeps. Foods that naturally contain linoleic acid — like sunflower seeds, walnuts, tofu, eggs, and fish — come packaged with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, not just isolated fats.' — Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN 'Consider linoleic and other fatty acids to be an accessory or an assistant in helping bring out the food's flavor, such as in a saute, marinade, sauce, or a vehicle to add spice, herbs, or enhance mouthfeel and moisture,' she continued. 'Chronic low-grade inflammation can be exacerbated from poor dietary sources of linoleic acid, so those that have conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome do need to be aware of overall patterns, quality of ingredients, and amounts,' Richard added. Omega-3 vs. omega-6 ratio important 'It is important to note the necessary and optimal balance of the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids (is) something a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can assist in assessing.' — Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN Diabetes Type 2 Heart Disease Cardiovascular / Cardiology Nutrition / Diet
Times of Oman
2 days ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Be'ah showcases sustainable healthcare waste management solutions in North Al Batinah
Sohar: Oman Environmental Services Holding Company "be'ah", represented by its Healthcare Waste Management Department, participated in a forum titled "Investment in Private Healthcare Sector: Opportunities and Challenges" organised by Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry's North Al Batinah branch. The company presented a technical working paper titled "Healthcare Waste Management and Sustainability Challenges." The paper detailed Oman's healthcare waste management system, highlighting the modern infrastructure developed by "be'ah" to serve this vital sector. It showcased the latest treatment technologies being utilised, including thermal treatment and sterilisation technologies, to ensure safe and effective disposal of this specialised waste stream. According to "be'ah"'s 2024 Sustainability Report, the company's healthcare waste treatment facilities successfully processed more than 4,000 metric tonnes of healthcare waste during 2023. This achievement has directly contributed to supporting public health initiatives and environmental protection efforts. The presentation also emphasised the challenges facing the sector, particularly in light of the rapid expansion of private healthcare services. The paper stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships between public and private sectors to ensure efficient and sustainable management of this hazardous waste category. This participation forms part of "be'ah"'s ongoing efforts to promote circular economy principles in the healthcare sector and reaffirms its commitment to Oman Vision 2040 and Sustainable Development Goals through advanced solutions that protect both human health and the environment. The event provided an important platform for discussing best practices and innovative approaches in healthcare waste management, with "be'ah" sharing its expertise gained through years of operational experience in this specialised field. The company's presentation was well-received by attendees, which included healthcare investors, facility operators, and environmental specialists.
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- General
- Globe and Mail
What should I know about ticks and Lyme disease?
Ask a Doctor is new series of physician-authored columns offering insights and advice on common health topics. It is not a substitute for seeking medical care. Spending time outdoors after our long winter is one of the best parts of warmer days in Canada. But spring is also when we start to see a rise in tick bites and Lyme disease. Cases have increased dramatically in recent years. In 2024, a record 5,239 cases of Lyme disease were reported across the country, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada – up from 522 cases in 2014. Whether you're camping, gardening, hiking or out with your dog, it's important to know how to protect yourself from tick bites – and what to do if you find one. Here are six key things I want you to know. What causes Lyme disease? Lyme disease can occur when a human is bitten by an infected blacklegged tick (also called a deer tick) or western blacklegged tick. Ticks can typically be found in brushy, grassy or wooded areas, but in recent years they've appeared in urban settings as well. (I recently had a patient come in with three ticks after walking through a city ravine.) Ticks can be active any time the weather is above 4 degrees, not just in the summer months. Young ticks can be as small as a poppy seed and easy to miss. The good news? To spread Lyme disease a tick usually needs to be attached for at least 24 hours – so early detection can make a big difference. What are the early signs of Lyme disease? Lyme disease can be difficult to diagnose as it causes myriad symptoms and not everyone gets the same ones. The classic early sign is a round rash, known as a bull's-eye rash because of its characteristic appearance. But it doesn't always happen, and it can look different on darker skin. Flu-like symptoms such as chills, body aches, fever and fatigue can develop anywhere from three to 30 days after the bite. If the infection is untreated, it can cause more severe symptoms weeks or months later, including facial paralysis, joint pain, nerve pain or abnormal heartbeat. What should I do if I'm bitten by a tick? Stay calm and try to remove the tick carefully. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible using fine-tip tweezers and pull it straight out (or get help from a health care provider). Clean the area with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer. Consider uploading a photo of the tick to a free Canadian tool that helps identify tick species to assess your risk. If the tick was attached for more than 24 hours, or you're unsure of the timing of the bite, contact your health care provider as you may be eligible for a preventive dose of antibiotics to stop an infection before it starts. What if I suspect I've been bitten, but I'm not sure? Ticks are tiny, and their bites are often painless. If you've spent time outdoors, especially in areas where blacklegged ticks are common, and you start feeling unwell (flu-like symptoms, fatigue or that telltale rash), it's worth checking in with your health care provider. Early Lyme disease is diagnosed based on your symptoms and exposure history, not just a blood test. In the first few weeks after a bite, testing may not show anything, since the body hasn't had time to produce enough antibodies. That's why your doctor may still recommend treatment even if the test is negative. Why is Lyme disease important to treat and prevent? While most people who get Lyme disease and start treatment early will recover fully, some people may experience persistent symptoms. This can include difficulty concentrating, joint pain and fatigue that can severely impair function and daily activities. It is not clear why this happens, but it is very real for the people who experience it. These patients should not be dismissed as they deserve care, support and follow-ups. How can I prevent tick bites? The best defence against Lyme disease is prevention. Start by sharing this article with loved ones and follow the next steps to ensure you stay safe when outdoors: As we head into warmer weather, I'm looking forward to enjoying the outdoors alongside you, but let's do so safely. Being aware of Lyme disease and how to prevent it is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones. Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe is a menopause-certified family physician practising at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, and the medical director of primary care outreach at Women's College Hospital. She is also the resident health expert on CTV's The Social, and co-host of The Doc Talk Podcast.
