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The Independent
2 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
This common over-the-counter drug could be linked to dementia
A commonly-used over-the-counter medication that can provide allergy and cold relief or serve as sleep aids may increase a person's risk of dementia. Antihistamines work to block the chemical histamine, which causes uncomfortable allergy symptoms. However, what kind of antihistamine you're taking can make a big difference to your long-term health. There are two main types of antihistamines on the market: first-generation and second-generation. Physicians say that these 'first-generation' antihistamines are less safe because they more easily cross your blood-brain barrier into the central nervous system, causing drowsiness. The second-generation antihistamines, meanwhile, do not. "People sometimes assume these medications must be harmless because they are sold over the counter, but if you use them too often or for too long, they can mess with your thinking, make you groggy during the day, and possibly lead to long-term problems," Dr. Pamela Tambini, an internal medicine physician and medical director at Engage Wellness, recently told Women's Health. The first-generation antihistamines specifically target a key brain chemical involved in memory that is called acetylcholine. Because of their design, they have a long-term impact on our brain's health. That negative impact has been documented for a few years — but may not be something on your mind when you need relief. Frequent use of these first-generation sleep medications has been tied to an increased risk of the chronic disease in older adults, according to a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease in 2023. A 2024 study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology also said there was some risk associated with second-generation antihistamines, but it was lower. A study published this year in the World Allergy Organization Journal suggests that people should avoid taking Benadryl. Although studies have found an association between the drugs — including Benadryl — and dementia, researchers say it doesn't prove that they do cause the condition, according to Harvard Medical School. However what is known is that the drugs that block acetylcholine, which can cause confusion and increase fall risks in older people. Furthermore, the body's production of acetylcholine dwindles with age. So, blocking that can be an even larger blow to older adults, who are at greater risk for dementia. Notably, many drugs have a stronger effect on older people, who also tend to take more medications. "If you are constantly dampening that system with these medications, your brain does not function as well," said Tambini. "Over time, that can lead to memory issues or even contribute to cognitive decline, particularly if you're already at risk." Instead, doctors recommend people turn to other, newer options, such as Claritin. Although, it is alright to occasionally use an over-the-counter sleep aid. "There are safer, more effective options out there — and talking to your doctor is a great first step in figuring out what's really going on and how to get your sleep back on track,' Tambini said.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'I made 1 change to my meals and lost weight, felt fuller and cut caffeine'
I tried out Sune's protein shakes for women for one week - the health benefits were immediate, from less bloating to more energy As someone who's never dipped a toe into the world of protein shakes, I wasn't sure what to expect when I decided to try Sune for a week. I've been looking for a quick and easy way to improve my overall health in recent months, and with a reported 75 health benefits, this daily drink felt like the ideal solution. My usual morning routine revolves around tea (and lots of it) and often skipping breakfast entirely - a habit that hasn't helped my gut health, especially after a bout of food poisoning last year that left me managing ongoing IBS symptoms. But after a week with Sune, I'm surprised at just how seamlessly it's slipped into my daily routine, not to mention how much better I feel for it. Sune describes itself as 'a premium protein shake formulated by women, for women '. The main question people then tend to ask is, what makes it different from any other protein shake on the market - what makes it so tailored to women's needs? Sune said: 'Amongst many differences, women are more likely to experience tiredness as a result of low iron status, are more likely to experience digestive conditions with more intense symptoms, and experience regular hormonal fluctuation. This creates unique nutritional needs that do not fit a one-size-fits-all approach.' As such, their protein shakes are specifically designed with a blend of plant-based protein, superfoods, and added vitamins and minerals that are designed to support hormone balance, energy, and digestion in women. Sune aren't the only brand to be offering female-centric protein shakes, though, with Free Soul offering a blend of pea protein isolate and white hemp protein from £19.99. Meanwhile, Women's Health rated the Foodspring Clear Whey Raspberry Mojito as the best clear whey protein powder in 2024. It's a low-fat, low-lactose protein powder from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows, offering 26g of protein per serving for £39 a tub. When trialling Sune, given my sensitive stomach and low energy levels, I was especially curious to see how it would perform. I used it over the course of seven days to see what results I might find - but truth be told, after one glass, I was sold. On the first day, I swapped my usual morning tea for a Sune protein shake. I got both the chocolate and salted caramel flavours to try, and on day one, decided to give the chocolate version a go. To make the shake, I added one 30g scoop of powder into my Protein Works shaker along with 300ml of semi-skimmed milk and gave it a shake for around 10 seconds. Each 30g serving provides 20g of plant-based protein, which is the equivalent of a 75g grilled rump steak, one cup of plain low-fat Greek yoghurt or three large eggs. The powder seemed to disperse into the milk really well with no lumps, and while the shake does have a mild powdery finish, as most do, my dad (who has tried over a dozen brands) reliably tells me, it's still incredibly silky and easy to drink straight from the shaker. However, if you don't drink it quickly, it can settle at the bottom, so you need to remember to keep giving it a little stir before sipping, if drinking more leisurely. I expected to miss the comfort of my morning cuppa, but to my surprise, Sune gave me the same kind of lift, and dare I say that, on a sunny May morning, it was perhaps even better than having a hot drink to start the day. As for any noticeable differences, the main thing was that I wasn't craving lunch by 11 am and spending the rest of my morning clockwatching for an appropriate time to make dinner. Throughout the week, I tried having the shake at different times to see what suited me best. I also alternated between the chocolate and salted caramel flavours and found the chocolate to be really rich, indulgent and almost dessert-like. It felt like a real treat, which helped me curb my usual chocolate cravings in the evenings. But my personal favourite - though it was a close choice - was the salted caramel. It was lighter and more refreshing, with a subtler flavour that was really drinkable. I particularly liked putting it in a glass with ice and a straw, which almost felt like a flavoured iced latte, but without the coffee. I do wish there was a little more variety in the flavours, because both of the current offerings are quite buttery and cake-like, so I'd be really keen to see them launch something fruity, like strawberry. As well as drinking the shake first thing in the morning, I also trialled a mid-afternoon shake at my usual 3pm slump, where I find myself rooting through the fridge for a pick-me-up. This really helped me cut down on my snacking, keeping me full until teatime, and focused for the rest of the working day, which makes sense, seeing as improved cognitive function is one of the 75 approved health benefits. Some days I'd drink the shake before going to the gym or working out at home, and I found I was able to do longer workouts before I started to get bored. When drinking it after the gym, it helped me refuel without bloating, which is something I've struggled with when trying to eat solid food after workouts. The combination of probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes means Sune helps reduce bloating and discomfort - perfect for someone like me with IBS symptoms. One thing that had previously put me off trying protein shakes was the suggestion that many formulas can cause flatulence. This is usually because they contain ingredients like lactose. Sune's formula is completely free from gluten, lactose, and soy, so it is not only easier to digest than whey-based alternatives, but it's also suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Other notable ingredients include B Vitamins and Iron, which I've previously taken supplements for, but I often forget to take them and give up on the habit. They're a powerful combination for fighting fatigue, and if I can ditch capsules and gummies in favour of a multitasking liquid, I absolutely will. After a week, the main changes I had noticed in myself were feeling fuller for longer and not craving snacks 24/7. I also found myself less bloated and more energised during training and generally less tired throughout the day, meaning I was reaching for the kettle less and was able to cut down on caffeine. I was hoping that I'd shed a few pounds during my trial, but the scales only shifted by 2lb (I blame the Bank Holiday) - but a loss is still a loss, right? I'm certainly going to stick it out and continue using the Sune protein shakes alongside a balanced diet and exercise to help me achieve my weight loss goals. So far on the Sune website, there are only three reviews from shoppers, but each of them is five stars. One read: 'I love the taste of this product and I feel much better.' 'I have lost so much weight thanks to PW and am nearly at my ideal BMI,' said another. 'I saw this the other day and thought I would try. It's super delicious and has all the right ingredients and makes me feel full afterwards.' A third added: 'Have tried both flavours and they taste amazing. Definitely feeling the benefit, better mood and energy levels.' Sune is usually £29.99 for a 600g tub, which lasts approximately three weeks. It's currently on offer for £26.99, which works out at £1.35 per shake. Alternatively, there are 1.2kg and 1.8kg options available, with the latter being the most cost effective. It was £87.99 but is reduced to £69.99, which will last two months at £1.17 per shake. Plus, readers can get 10% off with the code PW10, which would take the largest tub to £62.99, or £1.05 per shake. Shoppers can explore the range of Sune shakes here.
Miami Herald
5 days ago
- Health
- Miami Herald
This Workout Supplement May Help With Alzheimer's-New Pilot Study
A popular workout supplement could lead to better outcomes for Alzheimer's patients, according to the findings of a new study. Creatine is a popular fitness supplement that many people use to help build muscle. However, a new study published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions discovered it could also boost brain cognition in Alzheimer's patients. In the United States, roughly 7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's in 2025, according to the Alzheimer's Association. The chronic neurodegenerative disease can affect memory, thinking and behavior and is currently the most common form of dementia worldwide. In the study, patients with Alzheimer's disease took 20 grams of creatine monohydrate for eight weeks. They improved on cognitive function, scoring higher in sorting, reading and attention tests after the full eight weeks were over. Researchers said the study laid the groundwork of "preliminary evidence" to conduct further research. "We decided to do this study because there were a couple of recent studies in mice suggesting that, in a mouse model of Alzheimer's, creatine monohydrate supplementation may be beneficial," study co-author Matthew Taylor, Ph.D, RD, assistant professor and director of the KU Brain Nutrition Laboratory at University of Kansas Medical Center, told Women's Health. "Prior to this study, no work had been done in humans with Alzheimer's, so it was the right time to start looking at it as a potentially beneficial supplement for Alzheimer's." Since creatine helps create adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a primary energy source for the brain, researchers speculate that creatine is able to improve overall cognition in Alzheimer's patients. Creatine also may be able to reduce inflammation, improving the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Matthew Taylor, assistant professor and director of the KU Brain Nutrition Laboratory at University of Kansas Medical Center, told Women's Health: "The brain requires a lot of energy, but in Alzheimer's, brain energy metabolism drastically declines. Creatine is a very important substance for transporting energy produced by our mitochondria and increasing creatine levels may even encourage mitochondria to produce more energy." Further research is likely needed to understand the full impact of creatine on the body as well as the potential implications for Alzheimer's disease. "I would not advise the use of creatine with the goal of improving cognition," Amit Sachdev, MD, medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University told Women's Health, adding there's not "well-established data to support this use." Taylor echoed this sentiment. "Our study is far from a definitive study," he said. "Well-designed, placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to determine whether creatine is beneficial for Alzheimer's. I would suggest Alzheimer's patients and their families discuss taking any supplement with their neurologist." Related Articles The Good Life: A Tough, but Promising Path Ahead for College Grads'Important' Alzheimer's Treatment Breakthrough Gets FDA Approval'Remarkable' ALS Drug May Also Work on Alzheimer'sOzempic May Lower Risk of Alzheimer's and Dementia 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
This Workout Supplement May Help With Alzheimer's—New Pilot Study
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A popular workout supplement could lead to better outcomes for Alzheimer's patients, according to the findings of a new study. Creatine is a popular fitness supplement that many people use to help build muscle. However, a new study published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia Translational Research & Clinical Interventions discovered it could also boost brain cognition in Alzheimer's patients. Why It Matters In the United States, roughly 7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's in 2025, according to the Alzheimer's Association. The chronic neurodegenerative disease can affect memory, thinking and behavior and is currently the most common form of dementia worldwide. In this photo illustration, a model of a human brain is seen on February 16, 2024, in Cardiff, Wales. In this photo illustration, a model of a human brain is seen on February 16, 2024, in Cardiff, To Know In the study, patients with Alzheimer's disease took 20 grams of creatine monohydrate for eight weeks. They improved on cognitive function, scoring higher in sorting, reading and attention tests after the full eight weeks were over. Researchers said the study laid the groundwork of "preliminary evidence" to conduct further research. "We decided to do this study because there were a couple of recent studies in mice suggesting that, in a mouse model of Alzheimer's, creatine monohydrate supplementation may be beneficial," study co-author Matthew Taylor, Ph.D, RD, assistant professor and director of the KU Brain Nutrition Laboratory at University of Kansas Medical Center, told Women's Health. "Prior to this study, no work had been done in humans with Alzheimer's, so it was the right time to start looking at it as a potentially beneficial supplement for Alzheimer's." Since creatine helps create adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a primary energy source for the brain, researchers speculate that creatine is able to improve overall cognition in Alzheimer's patients. Creatine also may be able to reduce inflammation, improving the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. What People Are Saying Matthew Taylor, assistant professor and director of the KU Brain Nutrition Laboratory at University of Kansas Medical Center, told Women's Health: "The brain requires a lot of energy, but in Alzheimer's, brain energy metabolism drastically declines. Creatine is a very important substance for transporting energy produced by our mitochondria and increasing creatine levels may even encourage mitochondria to produce more energy." What Happens Next Further research is likely needed to understand the full impact of creatine on the body as well as the potential implications for Alzheimer's disease. "I would not advise the use of creatine with the goal of improving cognition," Amit Sachdev, MD, medical director in the Department of Neurology at Michigan State University told Women's Health, adding there's not "well-established data to support this use." Taylor echoed this sentiment. "Our study is far from a definitive study," he said. "Well-designed, placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to determine whether creatine is beneficial for Alzheimer's. I would suggest Alzheimer's patients and their families discuss taking any supplement with their neurologist."
Fox News
6 days ago
- Health
- Fox News
What is ketamine therapy? Mormon reality stars tout controversial treatment
Season 2 of the reality show "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" depicted one couple — Jen and Zac Affleck — as they went through ketamine therapy, which they claimed saved their marriage. What is ketamine, and can it really benefit relationships? An anesthetic used to induce sleep before and after surgery, according to Cleveland Clinic, ketamine is also used illegally as a recreational drug. The Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) describes ketamine as a "dissociative drug," meaning it causes people to feel "separated or detached" from their bodies or physical surroundings. In recent years, ketamine has been used as an alternative therapy for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). "It can be a party drug, and it can be abused, but I think if you have the right intention and you do it in the proper setting with a doctor, it can be super impactful," Zac Affleck said in an interview with Women's Health. As far as personal beliefs, "there's nothing in the Mormon guidelines that says you can't do ketamine, but it's in the gray area," Affleck added. In 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a derivative of ketamine in a nasal spray format (Spravato, or S-ketamine) for treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation. Some clinical studies have shown that ketamine therapy can be effective in treating severe depression in veterans. "Ketamine acts like an antidepressant that can help distract someone from negative thoughts and feelings in a relatively short amount of time," Rolando Larice, M.D., medical director at Sana Lake Recovery in Missouri, told Fox News Digital. The drug is believed to create more connections between brain cells, a process thought to ease depression and decrease suicidal thoughts, according to Mayo Clinic. Dr. Justin Gerstner, psychiatrist and chief medical officer at Ellie Mental Health in Minnesota, previously told Fox News Digital that he uses ketamine therapy in his own practice. "It's been quite transformative for a lot of our clients," he said. One practice administers ketamine to clients via IV injection, partnered with psychotherapy. Gerstner's practice usually administers ketamine to clients via IV injection in two- to three-hour sessions, partnered with psychotherapy before and after treatment. It is intended to be used in combination with antidepressant pills only under the supervision of a medical professional. At high doses, the drug can cause adverse health issues that affect cardiovascular, respiratory and neurologic function, which can be fatal, said the American Addiction Centers website. Some risks include elevated blood pressure, difficulty breathing, amnesia, seizures, addiction, problems with judgment and coordination, and a lower urinary tract irritation called ulcerative cystitis, according to the same source. "Common causes of overdose death include excess sedation, respiratory failure, low blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmia, coma and seizures," Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News' senior medical advisor, previously told Fox News Digital. Larice cautioned that ketamine does carry a risk of addiction or dependency. While ketamine IV therapy could be an alternative option if other treatments haven't been effective for mental health conditions, experts urge caution. "People may see celebrities like Jen Affleck make claims that ketamine therapy saved her marriage, but if it's shown as a quick fix to solve all of your problems rather than a step toward healing, that's when it can be dangerous," Larice cautioned. For more Health articles, visit It is important for the IV treatment to be monitored by medical professionals in case dangerous side effects occur, he said. Fox News Digital's Melissa Rudy contributed reporting.
