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Daily Mail
11 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
The 49p food that can slash cholesterol, preventing heart attacks, according to study
Eating a tin of chickpeas a day could be key to beating dangerous high cholesterol—a leading cause of heart disease and stroke. An intriguing new study found those who added the tinned favourite to their daily diet for a period of three months saw their originally high levels of the harmful fat drop to within the normal range. The researchers, from the Illinois Institute of Technology, also found another type of tinned pulse—black beans— had a similar cholesterol-lowering effect. Speaking of the findings, lead author Professor Morganne Smith urged those with high cholesterol to replace 'less healthy' options with beans—whether canned, dried or frozen. 'There are a lot of ways to incorporate beans into your regular diet as a cost-effective way to support overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases,' she said. 'You can blend them to add some thickness to a soup base, add them as a salad topping, or pair them with other grains like rice.' The scientists believe pulses like chickpeas and beans may boost the levels of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which are thought to be helpful in clearing harmful cholesterol from the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is essential for various bodily functions. There are two types—HDL, the good kind, and LDL, too much of which is considered unhealthy. An excess of bad cholesterol has long been linked with serious health problems including heart attacks and strokes. This is because LDL can form plaques that build up and block arteries, limiting the supply of blood to and from the heart. An estimated 6.3 million people in the UK are thought to suffer from the condition, which left untreated can develop into type 2 diabetes as well as heart conditions. In the 12-week study, the results of which were presented at the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition in Orlando, 72 prediabetics were analysed to see how introducing beans to daily diets affected their health. According to the Heart Foundation, diabetics are around twice as likely to suffer a stroke or develop heart disease. Studies estimate that around three quarters of people with diabetes also suffer high cholesterol. Participants were randomly assigned to eat either one cup of black beans, chickpeas, or rice—which was the control group—every day for 12 weeks. Blood samples were taken at the start of the study, half-way through and again six weeks later to track cholesterol, blood sugar levels and inflammation. Researchers also carried out a glucose tolerance test at the start and end of the study—measuring participants' response to sugar. At the end of the study those who ate chickpeas daily experienced a significant decrease in cholesterol levels, from 200.4mg per deciliter of blood at the start of the study, to 185.8mg at the end. Total cholesterol levels above 200mg/dl are considered high, while figures below this are normal. Those eating black beans were also found to have lower levels of inflammation after 12 weeks. The researchers concluded: 'Our study found that bean consumption helped significantly lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation in people with prediabetes.' Critically, Prof Smith advised people who want to introduce beans into their daily diets to be cautious of any additional ingredients commonly found in the products—such as salt or sugar, both of which have been linked with heart disease. Almost six million people in the UK have diabetes, of which 90 pre cent is type 2, but charities estimate there 1.2million people are living with disease undiagnosed.
Daily Mail
15 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Truth about 'whole-body' deodorant: Doctors reveal what really makes you smell, where to spray - and the best ways to truly beat body odour
Applying deodorant to the armpits is a morning routine for many – but is a squirt under the arms enough? There is an increasing number of 'whole body' deodorants on the market, designed not only to be applied to the armpits but also the feet, belly and 'underboobs' – even the genital area.
Medscape
16 hours ago
- Business
- Medscape
Nutritional Counseling May Be Free for Your Obesity Patients
As part of treating the overall well-being of your patients, it may be beneficial to recommend nutritional counseling. More insurance carriers are providing this service as a benefit. When patients have conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or obesity, suggesting nutritional counseling could help your patients become more informed about making healthier choices. More health insurance plans cover nutritional counseling, although some may only provide coverage for specific conditions. 'Integrating nutritional counseling into routine clinical practice is essential and necessary to achieving optimal health outcomes,' said Scott Isaacs, MD, adjunct assistant professor of medicine, Emory University, and president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, who is based in Atlanta. 'By ensuring that nutritional counseling is accessible, personalized, and supported by insurance, we empower our patients to prevent disease, effectively manage chronic conditions, and improve both quality of live and longevity.' What Exactly Is Nutritional Counseling? Nutritional counseling is a collaborative, patient-centered process led by registered dietitians or nutritionists, and it involves a comprehensive assessment of a patient's dietary habits (dietary history), medical history, cultural/ethnic preferences, and health goals, followed by personalized education and support, said Isaacs. Scott Isaacs, MD 'Think of nutritional counseling as a way to translate medical advice into a meal plan that is realistic and achievable for an individual's life situation. Nutritional knowledge with practical tips helps patients make gradual, sustainable dietary changes,' he said. 'This isn't about quick fixes, it's about building lifelong skills, making permanent lifestyle changes for better health.' Most Insurance Plans Will Cover It According to Isaacs, most health insurance plans, including those under the Affordable Care Act, cover nutritional counseling for preventive care and for patients with conditions like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease. 'One of the most underused benefits is insurance-covered nutritional counseling,' he said. 'I encourage clinicians to proactively inform patients that these services are likely included in their health plan.' Although most insurance plans grant patients the self-refer option to a registered dietitian, some require a physician's referral, especially for specific diagnoses such as diabetes, obesity, or hypertension, said Isaacs. If a referral is needed, physicians should reassure patients that this is a routine process. How Does This Affect Treatment Plans? Nutrition counselling services are integral to holistic comprehensive care. Nutritional counseling can include: Comprehensive weight management programs Bariatric pre- and post-surgery Diabetes management Lowering cholesterol Irritable bowel syndrome Food allergies (including gluten) Personalized meal planning Medical nutrition therapy for chronic illnesses, including cancer Mindful eating techniques to address emotional and behavioral eating patterns Nutrition guidance during pregnancy and for sports performance Furthermore, medical specialists say that nutritional counseling can particularly be a win for those with specific health conditions. 'My perspective is that medical nutrition therapy is vital to overall patient care plans, especially in the setting such as celiac disease or short bowel syndrome,' said Lindsey Russell, MD, a gastroenterologist with the Center for Human Nutrition at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland. 'At Cleveland Clinic, we practice a multidisciplinary approach to treating chronic diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, which includes registered dietitians as part of the treatment plan.' Why Patients Benefit From Nutritional Counseling? Isaacs at Emory University said nutritional counseling is a proven, evidence-based approach for managing and preventing chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. 'Nutritional counseling is not just about diet, it's about giving patients practical, sustainable strategies to improve their health,' he said. Lindsey Russell, MD Among the benefits of personalized dietary guidance, Isaacs said, is helping patients with weight management, blood glucose control, lipid management, reduce cardiovascular risk, and support long-term health and vitality. Why Do Patients Trust Your Guidance? Patients appreciate nutrition advice they receive from their physicians, and studies show that when doctors introduce such conversations, patients are more likely to adopt meaningful lifestyle tweaks. 'By recommending nutritional counseling, we're not just treating disease, we're helping patients improve their health and quality of life,' Isaacs told Medscape Medical News . Encouraging Patients to Try Nutrition Counseling Once a doctor encourages a patient to use their insurance coverage to see a registered dietician, follow-through should be part of the plan. 'I encourage my patients to be open about their experiences — what they have tried, what has worked, what hasn't, and most importantly, their motivation for change,' said Christopher Scuderi, DO, a family physician who practices at Millennium Physician Group in Jacksonville, Florida, 'Having a clear 'why' behind their goals makes a significant difference in maintaining long-term commitment.' In his experience as a family physician, Scuderi noted that patients struggling with weight loss often consult with him after trying multiple approaches on their own. 'They frequently bring a wealth of questions, many stemming from misinformation found on social media. I have found that consulting a nutritionist can be especially helpful in addressing these concerns, providing sound guidance, and ensuring close follow-up,' he said. Christopher Scuderi, DO In addition, during the last 2 years, Scuderi said he's noticed an uptick in patient interest in glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) medications. Due to this, it has been easier to approach the topic of nutrition counseling. 'I have found it increasingly easier to discuss weight management with patients. Many are particularly interested in GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy and Zepbound,' he said. 'However, insurance coverage for these medications can be a significant barrier for many individuals.' In conclusion, Isaacs at Emory University said 'when nutrition is a routine part of medical care, it empowers patients to take charge of their health through the foods they eat every day.' To facilitate the incorporation of nutritional counseling for a patient's care plan he recommends the following steps:
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Sue Cleaver and Coleen Nolan lock horns as weight loss debate turns personal - swiping 'did I look like a dog before?!' live on Loose Women
Sue Cleaver and Coleen Nolan locked horns as the Loose Women panel discussed weight loss during Monday's episode of the ITV show. The latest instalment of the lunch time programme saw Coleen, 60, Sue, 61, Jane Moore, 63, and Gloria Huniford, 85, return to the studio. The panel discussed a number of topics this afternoon (2 June 2025), including if someone should admit to taking a weight loss injection. Anchor Coleen explained that chef Rosemary Shrager recently shredded three stone after exercising more, eating healthy and with help from Ozempic. When Coleen asked Sue if you should be honest if you have used one, Sue - who showed off her incredible three stone weight loss last year - said: 'I have really strong feelings about this because as a person who has been every size under the sun, after I got on the scales the other day, I am going that way again. 'I've always had a real issue about the whole society's complete obsession about what every body looks like. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Sue Cleaver (pictured) and Coleen Nolan locked horns as a weight loss debate turned personal on the ITV show on Monday The latest instalment of the lunch time programme saw Coleen, 60 (pictured), Sue, 61, Jane Moore , 63, and Gloria Huniford, 85, return to the studio. 'Especially women to other women. 'I don't know if you've ever experienced this, having been different shapes and different sizes, I hate it when I've gone into a room and someone has gone "Oh my God! You look amazing, you've lost so much weight!" 'What? I looked like a dog before?' But Coleen chimed in: 'I'm for that! I'm for that! Because probably, I did! 'If I'd gone to the trouble of losing three stone I want somebody to notice.' Sue, who left her role as Eileen Grimshaw on Coronation Street last week, hit back: 'I'm sorry but that is exactly the problem. 'The problem is, rather than headlines "Who has done this, who has done that", it's no one's business. 'Everyone is critiqued towards the culture that makes people think and feel unworthy in the first place that they have to do this sort of stuff.' Sue chimed in later on in the discussion: 'I think there is a real judgement about it, it's ok for everyone to be conflicted about should you take it, shouldn't you take it' Coleen replied: 'I think it's a personal thing?' Jane explained: 'I love the fact she's [Rosie] being honest about taking Ozempic. 'But what she's also doing, cycling, eating healthily, if you combine those things together, you're going to cost the NHS a lot less money.' Sue chimed in later on in the discussion: 'I think there is a real judgement about it, it's okay for everyone to be conflicted about should you take it, shouldn't you take it. 'It's not okay to shame people for doing something they need to do in a fatphobic society.' Coleen added that she doesn't think anyone is being shamed, to which Sue explained that one of her friends has been and he wished that he never told anyone he had taken them. Jane said: 'He needs to get new friends.' Coleen explained: 'If I was using it, I would tell people. Just for people who are struggling. I met people in the past who were losing weight and I was on this mad diet and exercise and it was like two pounds a week. 'I was bumping into a friend of mine who was losing a stone a week, who said "No no, I am just eating healthy," and then eight months down the line I found out she'd had gastric surgery - which is fine. 'But I was so frustrated. I thought I'm doing it all wrong. Gloria then said to Sue: 'Sue, you said, you hate people mentioning it, I have read articles about you in magazines when you lost the weight and you were looking amazing in the pictures, quoted you were saying how much better you were feeling... 'Why be ashamed of it?' Sue told her co-star: 'I'm not ashamed of that. 'What I don't like is this constant obsession is what size people are. There is an obsession. 'I know having been at the other end, how painful it can be and what it feels like. I don't like that.'
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Myleene Klass shows off her figure in a white boob tube as she enjoys London sunshine outside Smooth radio studios
Myleene Klass showed off her incredible figure in a white boob tube as she enjoyed the London sunshine on Sunday. The singer-turned-presenter, 47, looked amazing in her stylish outfit after work at the Smooth Radio studios. She paired the boob tube with a pair of oversized brown trousers, a Chanel black belt, pink bag and matching white sunglasses. The look was completed by a pair of gold statement earrings and Myleene's choice of a glamorous red lip. Myleene kept it cool and casual by letting her long brown hair flow freely and wearing a pair of black, open-toed sandals. The star presents the popular weekly Smooth Classics show at the station on the weekends. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Myleene previously said the key to her slim physique is eating the right kinds of foods. She explained that when she is hungry, she resists the urge to eat junk food and opts for ample healthier options instead. However, Myleene admits that she still allows herself the occasional sweet treat to avoid going 'mental'. Myleene explained that when her old band Hear'Say split up, she developed a 'chaotic eating routine' that saw her become a size 16. She told Women's Health: 'I'm not naturally slim. I'm 5ft 5in and I'm not a model. 'I used to do that whole thing of, "I'm not going to go near chocolate" and all that happens is that three days later it's all I'm craving and I just go mental.' The star also has a stringent workout routine that consists of Pilates, boxing, and core work.
