Latest news with #vitaminA
Man of Many
a day ago
- Health
- Man of Many
Male Birth Control Pill Passes Safety Trial in US
By Ben McKimm - News Published: 29 Jul 2025 Share Copy Link 0 Readtime: 3 min Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more. For more information on how we test products, click here. YCT‑529 male pill passes U.S. safety trial, no major side effects reported Non‑hormonal drug blocks vitamin‑A receptor, stopping sperm production initiation Study doses up to 180 mg showed unchanged hormones, mood, heart rate Requires three months of daily use to start or restore fertility Other male contraceptives coming: NES/T gel, ADAM reversible vas‑block implant Lads, the time has come. There's a male birth control pill on its way, and if we ask the ladies in the room, it's about damn time. It's been a great run for the rubber industry, and the vasectomy boys need a shoutout, too, but the ladies in our lives have been holding it down for too long with hormonal birth control pills and painful IUDs. It's our turn to carry some of the birth control burden, and with the new pill passing a safety trial in the US, it's just around the corner. Created by YourChoice Therapeutics, a single ascending dose study showed that up to 180mg of YCT-529 had no effects on heart rate, hormone (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone), sex hormone-binding globulin or inflammatory biomarker levels, sexual desire or mood, which is a substantial requirement in contraceptive development. We don't know how effective the pill will be at reducing sperm yet, but when you consider nearly half of all pregnancies worldwide are unintended, that information couldn't come sooner. Image: Unsplash The first non-hormonal oral contraceptive for men, YCT-529, blocks a vitamin A metabolite from binding to its receptor in the testes, preventing the chain of gene-expression changes required to start the sperm-making process. Sounds complicated, but Stephanie Page, an endocrinologist at the University of Washington School of Medicine, who wasn't involved in the study and spoke to says, 'We really need more reversible contraceptive methods for men.' However, Page doesn't go quite so far as to say that the large claim of no side-effects on a small 16-person human trial should be taken so literally. 'I think it would be overstating the data to say they know much about side effects yet,' she told the website. 'Every medication on the market has side effects.' It takes three months for the body to produce mature sperm cells. That means the pills would take three months to become effective, and three months to resume normal sperm production. YCT-529 is not the only reversible male birth control method being developed. There's a gel called NES/T in the clinical trial pipeline in the US, which is applied daily to the shoulders and upper arms before being absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. There's also a hydrogel implant called ADAM, which acts as a reversible vasectomy by blocking the vas deferens.
Irish Independent
2 days ago
- Health
- Irish Independent
Contraceptive pill for men that doesn't alter hormones is safe to take, study suggests
Oral female contraceptive tablets have been available for 60 years but there has never been an authorised male version. Female tablets work by altering hormone levels to reduce the risk of conception but this approach has proven difficult in men because of severe side effects such as infertility and mood swings. These side effects are common in female versions. YourChoice Therapeutics has developed the first non-hormonal contraceptive for men which works by blocking the production of a protein, which is needed to produce sperm, and not meddling with hormones. The drug stops production of retinoic acid receptor alpha (RAR-alpha) in the body and this prevents it binding to vitamin A compounds and subsequently prevents sperm production. Animal studies showed this mechanism to be 99pc effective and also found that sperm levels returned to normal after the medication was stopped, showing the contraceptive to be temporary and reversible. Human trials began in 2023 when 16 healthy men who had already had a vasectomy were recruited to test the safety of the drug in people. Data, published this week, show it to be safe and well-tolerated with no clinically relevant side effects in a significant step forward for the prospects of the drug, known as YCT-529. The trial of 16 British men gave participants either the tablet or a placebo and conducted analysis on the participants to measure their blood, urine, mood and overall health. Four different dosages were tested and all were found to be well-tolerated. The highest dose was the same as what was shown to be effective as a contraceptive in animal trials. There was no reduction in testosterone levels, sex drive or any other hormonal imbalance, the scientists found. 'The positive results from this first clinical trial laid the groundwork for a second trial, where men receive YCT-529 for 28 days and 90 days, to study safety and changes in sperm parameters,' the study authors write in their peer-reviewed study in the journal Communications Medicine.
Time Business News
7 days ago
- Health
- Time Business News
15 Habitat Foods to Boost Your Child's Eyesight from an Early Age
Good eyesight is critical for a child's development, impacting learning, physical activity, and overall quality of life. Early nutrition plays a vital role in supporting and protecting vision, particularly through foods rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. By incorporating ingredients from California's diverse habitat, parents can provide their children with a diet that promotes healthy eyes from a young age. Below are 15 nutrient-dense foods, recommended by specialists in Urgent Care Torrance, to support children's eye health and foster lifelong vision wellness. Why Habitat Foods Matter for Eye Health California's agricultural abundance offers fresh, nutrient-rich foods ideal for supporting children's vision. Nutrients like vitamin A, C, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for retinal health, lens clarity, and protection against oxidative damage. Starting these foods early helps kids develop a taste for healthy eating while supporting eye development and reducing the risk of vision issues later in life. 15 Habitat Foods for Kids' Eye Health Here are 15 foods from California's habitat, packed with nutrients to boost eyesight and support overall health in children. 1. Carrots Nutrients: Beta-carotene, vitamin A. Benefits: Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A, essential for retinal function and night vision. How to Serve: Grate raw carrots into salads or blend into smoothies for a kid-friendly snack. 2. Spinach Nutrients: Lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C. Benefits: Lutein and zeaxanthin protect the retina from blue light damage, while vitamin C supports eye tissue health. How to Serve: Add chopped spinach to pasta sauces or blend into a mild green smoothie. 3. Wild-Caught Salmon Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D. Benefits: Omega-3s reduce inflammation in the eyes and support retinal health. How to Serve: Serve grilled salmon bites with a side of veggies for a fun, nutritious meal. 4. Sweet Potatoes Nutrients: Beta-carotene, vitamin E. Benefits: Beta-carotene supports vision in low light, and vitamin E protects eye cells from oxidative stress. How to Serve: Bake sweet potato fries or mash into a creamy side dish. 5. Blueberries Nutrients: Anthocyanins, vitamin C. Benefits: Anthocyanins improve blood flow to the eyes, enhancing night vision and reducing eye fatigue. How to Serve: Mix fresh blueberries into yogurt or serve as a snack. 6. Almonds Nutrients: Vitamin E, healthy fats. Benefits: Vitamin E protects against cataracts and macular degeneration. How to Serve: Offer almond butter on whole-grain toast or sprinkle chopped almonds on cereal. 7. Bell Peppers Nutrients: Vitamin C, beta-carotene. Benefits: Vitamin C supports blood vessels in the eyes, reducing the risk of cataracts. How to Serve: Slice red or yellow bell peppers for a crunchy, colorful snack with hummus. 8. Eggs Nutrients: Lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc. Benefits: Lutein and zeaxanthin shield the retina, while zinc supports vitamin A absorption. How to Serve: Make scrambled eggs or a veggie omelet for breakfast. 9. Kale Nutrients: Lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin A. Benefits: High levels of lutein and zeaxanthin protect against UV damage and support retinal health. How to Serve: Bake kale chips or blend into a fruit smoothie to mask the flavor for kids. 10. Avocado Nutrients: Vitamin E, healthy fats. Benefits: Healthy fats enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins critical for eye health. How to Serve: Spread avocado on sandwiches or blend into a creamy dip. 11. Broccoli Nutrients: Vitamin C, lutein, zeaxanthin. Benefits: These nutrients protect against oxidative damage and support overall eye function. How to Serve: Steam broccoli and toss with a light cheese sauce for kid appeal. 12. Grass-Fed Beef Nutrients: Zinc, protein. Benefits: Zinc aids in vitamin A transport to the retina, supporting clear vision. How to Serve: Prepare small beef meatballs or strips for a protein-packed meal. 13. Strawberries Nutrients: Vitamin C, antioxidants. Benefits: Vitamin C strengthens eye blood vessels and reduces inflammation. How to Serve: Serve fresh strawberries as a snack or blend into a smoothie. 14. Pumpkin Seeds Nutrients: Zinc, Zinc supports retinal health, and magnesium promotes blood flow to the eyes. How to Serve: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on soups or offer as a crunchy snack. 15. Oranges Nutrients: Vitamin C, flavonoids. Benefits: Vitamin C protects against cataracts, and flavonoids reduce oxidative stress in the eyes. How to Serve: Offer orange slices or freshly squeezed juice for a refreshing treat. Tips for Incorporating These Foods Make It Fun: Use colorful plates or cut food into fun shapes to engage kids. Start Small: Introduce one new food at a time to avoid overwhelming picky eaters. Blend In: Incorporate nutrient-rich ingredients into familiar dishes like smoothies, soups, or casseroles. Involve Kids: Let children help with simple tasks like washing vegetables or mixing ingredients to spark interest. Why California Habitat Foods? California's habitat provides access to fresh, high-quality produce and meats, ensuring maximum nutrient density. Locally sourced foods like kale, salmon, and almonds are grown or raised in optimal conditions, enhancing their benefits for eye health. Choosing these foods also supports sustainable farming practices, aligning with health-conscious parenting. Consult Experts for Pediatric Nutrition Life Saver Urgent Care offers personalized recommendations to ensure your child's diet supports their vision and overall health. Contact Life Saver Urgent Care in Torrance for professional support in crafting a nutrition plan that promotes lifelong wellness. Conclusion Supporting your child's eyesight starts with a nutrient-rich diet featuring foods from California's vibrant habitat. These 15 foods, packed with essential vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, provide the building blocks for healthy vision and overall growth. By introducing these foods early, parents can help their children develop strong eyes and a love for healthy eating. Consult with experts in Urgent Care Torrance to create a personalized plan that ensures your child's vision thrives for years to come. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Scientific American
22-07-2025
- Health
- Scientific American
First Hormone-Free Male Birth Control Pill Shown Safe in Early Human Trial
When it comes to birth control, the market has long been skewed: female contraception comes in a variety of pills, implants, injections and devices, all approved by U.S. regulators. Condoms and vasectomies are the only male contraceptives available. Researchers have been chipping away at this problem for decades, and progress is finally ramping up. Now a male birth control pill with an entirely new kind of contraceptive mechanism has been tested for the first time in humans. In the first clinical trial of its kind, a nonhormonal oral contraceptive that reversibly stops sperm production has just been deemed safe for human use. The daily pill, called YCT-529, blocks a vitamin A metabolite from binding to its receptor in the testes; this prevents the chain of gene-expression changes that are required to start the sperm-making process. Safety results from the early phase 1 clinical trial were published on Tuesday in Communications Medicine. The trial did not assess the pill's efficacy in reducing sperm, and the drug's developer, YourChoice Therapeutics, is currently running trials to collect that data. But the safety finding is a crucial milestone, says Stephanie Page, an endocrinologist at the University of Washington School of Medicine, who wasn't involved in the study and has worked on other male hormonal contraceptives for more than 20 years. 'We really need more reversible contraceptive methods for men,' she says. On supporting science journalism If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today. The small trial included 16 healthy men aged 32 to 59, all of whom had undergone a vasectomy—a common surgery to prevent the release of sperm by snipping the vas deferens ducts in the scrotum. Enrolling only such participants was an extra precaution to avoid the risk of permanently affecting participants' fertility; no one has clinically trialed a nonhormonal male contraceptive pill before, says Nadja Mannowetz, co-founder and chief science officer of YourChoice Therapeutics, who oversaw the new trial. Using nonfertile participants worked for the trial because the team wasn't yet evaluating the drug's effectiveness but rather its tolerability and bioavailability (active levels that build up in the body), Mannowetz says. Participants were split into two groups. In the first, people either received an initial dose of 10 milligrams (mg) of YCT-529 and then a second, 30-mg dose two weeks later or got a placebo each time. Participants in the second cohort either received a first dose of 90 mg and then a second dose of 180 mg two weeks later or always received a placebo. All participants took the pills after fasting. Four from each cohort were selected to return and take a third, 30-mg dose after a high-fat, high-calorie breakfast to see whether food might affect the drug's tolerability. Across dosages 'we saw good and quick bioavailability,' meaning the drug didn't rapidly break down in the body, Mannowetz says. On average, it took two to three days for the drug availability levels in the blood to reduce by half—a promising result that suggests the pill might only be needed once daily if it later proves effective at reducing sperm. Mannowetz anticipates the final dosage that will hit stores if the drug is eventually approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will probably be closer to the higher amount tested, 180 mg, though follow-up trials will help discern the exact optimal dose. The research team didn't note any adverse side effects related to the drug. An advantage of a nonhormonal contraceptive medication is that, in theory, there's a smaller chance of certain side effects such as changes to sexual function, libido or mood, Mannowetz says. The results are exciting and important, Page says—but she points out that this was just one small trial. 'I think it would be overstating the data to say they know much about side effects yet,' she says. ' Every medication on the market has side effects.' Several other reversible male birth control methods are now in the clinical trial pipeline as well. The furthest along is NES/T, a combination of the progestin Nestorone and testosterone. Applied daily as a gel to the shoulders and upper arms, it is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin. Like the YCT-529 pill, the gel targets sperm production, but it does so by circulating testosterone and progestin—hormones that tell the brain to halt the production process. Researchers have just completed a larger, longer phase 2 clinical trial of NES/T to show effectiveness and will hopefully start a phase 3 trial soon, says Page, who has been involved in the gel's clinical research. Users of a male contraceptive that targeted sperm production, such as NES/T or YCT-529, would need to take it for about three months daily before it would take effect because that's how long it takes the body to produce mature sperm cells. Sperm production would resume about three months after a user stopped taking the medication. A couple of other candidates for hormonally acting daily male contraceptive pills are in early development. A hydrogel implant called ADAM is also being tested in early clinical trials. ADAM acts as a reversible vasectomy, physically blocking off the vas deferens to prevent sperm release until the implant is removed. And studies show growing interest. One paper published in 2023 found that 75 percent of more than 2,000 men surveyed in the U.S. and Canada were willing to try novel contraceptives. And a report in 2019 found nearly 50 percent of U.S. men aged 18 to 49 who had sex with women, did not have a vascectomy or beliefs that prevented the use of contraception and did not wish to parent a pregnancy were 'very interested.' These stats line up with Page's experience in the field: 'Men are very eager to have more reproductive agency and to participate in contraception,' she says, and all these contraceptives in the pipeline could elevate individuals' and couples' agency over their sexual and reproductive lifestyles.
Vogue
10-07-2025
- Health
- Vogue
14 Beta-Carotene-Rich Foods for Glowing Skin and Eyes
When temperatures rise, all we want to eat are light, fresh foods. Luckily, many of those foods—like raw fruits and veggies—are hydrating, detoxifying, and delicious. The best of them contain beta-carotene, which has the added bonus of benefiting the skin. Carrot salad, anyone? 'Numerous studies have shown that a diet rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and specific minerals can prevent premature aging of the skin, improve its luminosity and texture, and reduce the appearance of inflammatory diseases,' explains nutritionist Carmen Mera. 'Amongst the most relevant nutrients is beta-carotene.' What is beta-carotene? Beta-carotene is the naturally-occurring, orange-yellow pigment found in many fruits and vegetables. As the name suggests, it is a type of carotenoid, which is a type of antioxidant. Beta-carotene is responsible for the intense warm hues of many fruits and vegetables. Think: carrots, sweet potatoes, mangoes, and red bell peppers. According to Mera, the nutrient stands out for 'acting as a precursor of vitamin A.' When consumed, your body converts beta-carotene into retinol, essential for eye health, the immune system, mucous membranes, and cell reproduction and development. And, as we all know, retinol is incredibly beneficial to the skin. This is because beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals, the unstable molecules that damage cells that cause inflammation. Beta-carotene prevents oxidative cell damage and supports the skin's photoprotective properties to slow aging. 'The regular consumption of beta-carotene contributes to preventing sunburn, dryness, and the formation of wrinkles,' adds Mera. Foods high in beta-carotene It's easy to spot fruits and veggies that contain beta-carotene: They often have orange or red flesh or skin. But don't let color limit your options; leafy green vegetables also contain large amounts of beta-carotene. The usual tell-tale orange pigment is just camouflaged by the dark green color of chlorophyll. Carrot Sweet potato Pumpkin Mango Apricot Tomato Papaya Cantaloupe Persimmon Spinach Swiss chard Broccoli Kale Oranges How to improve the absorption of beta-carotene? Beta-carotene is fat-soluble and is thus better absorbed when fat is present, so to make the most of the beta-carotene you consume, eat it with healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, oily fish, and eggs. This is important: If there is no fat in the diet, your body cannot absorb carotenoids, including beta-carotene.
