Latest news with #ScientificReports
Daily Mirror
16 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Common food swap linked to 'aggressive' cancer, study finds
Experts found a worrying link when looking at the effects on mice A recent study from China has raised alarm bells over the link between aspartame, a common artificial sweetener, and glioblastoma, the deadliest type of primary brain tumour, reports News Medical. The sweetener is often used in place of sugar, and research published in Scientific Reports, used mouse models to examine into the specific changes aspartame induces in gut bacteria and its subsequent effect on glioblastoma progression. The study suggests that aspartame consumption could foster conditions in the gut conducive to tumour growth. Notably, increased intake of aspartame was associated with a decrease in Rikenellaceae family bacteria levels in the gut, which have been implicated in various health problems including obesity, Parkinson's disease, and HIV. Furthermore, the research identified a link between aspartame use and gene regulation within glioblastoma tumours. Researchers said: "Our findings not only provide critical evidence for evaluating the safety of artificial sweeteners but also offer a comprehensive assessment of their impact on tumour progression. "These insights open new avenues for GBM treatment strategies, including gene-targeted therapies and microbial-based interventions, among others." The team plans to extend their research to further understand the effects of aspartame-induced changes on metabolism and the tumour microenvironment. A previous collaborative report, involving bodies like the International Agency for Research on Cancer, has tagged aspartame as 'possibly carcinogenic'. This categorisation suggests that it might have the potential to cause cancer in humans, although definitive proof is lacking. The report has set the acceptable daily intake of aspartame at 40mg per kilogram of body weight. So a person weighing 80kg should not exceed a daily aspartame consumption of 3.2g. Although this may appear to be a generous limit, aspartame is present in many common products, particularly those branded as 'diet' or sugar-free. For instance, a single can of certain fizzy drinks could contain as much as 200mg of aspartame. Aspartame is also an ingredient in various other products, such as some medications and chewable vitamins. According to experts at ZOE, it's around 200 times sweeter than traditional sugar. Despite assurances of its safety from international regulatory authorities, researchers have been voicing their concerns about aspartame through numerous studies over the years. Yet, a 2019 BMJ review analysing these studies concluded that there were no significant health risks or benefits linked to artificial sweeteners, mainly due to the fact that most studies involved too few participants, were short-term, or were not of high quality. In line with this, a 2022 World Health Organisation review also remarked: "There is (a) suggestion of negative health effects with long-term use, but the evidence is ultimately inconclusive." The 'adverse health impacts' highlighted in the review encompassed issues such as obesity, type two diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even mortality. However, experts from ZOE offered a glimmer of hope: "Entirely avoiding aspartame would be incredibly challenging, and it might not be necessary. A diet with a wide variety of plant-based foods is the healthiest choice. "And it's less healthy to consume high amounts of ultra-processed foods, which are more likely to contain aspartame. So, whenever you can, opt for fresh ingredients, fruits and vegetables, pulses, nuts, seeds, and the like. "Aim to have 30 different plant foods each week. That way, your intake of ultra-processed foods, and therefore aspartame, will naturally decline."
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
This common nutrient could be the secret weapon against dementia-and you can add it to your diet for just 24p
We've all heard that 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away'—and now a new study has found that the same can be said of potatoes, too. Researchers found that eating a diet rich in copper can help the body stave off dementia, and the mineral is naturally found in the patchy light brown skins of the pantry stalwart, which you can pick up for just pennies at a local greengrocer. A new study published in medical journal Scientific Reports found that people who added copper to their daily diet experienced better cognitive function than those who ate relatively low levels. The researchers, from the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China, found that 1.22mg of copper per day—approximately two medium sized potatoes—significantly boosted brain health and helped ward off disease. Speaking of the findings, lead author Professor Weiai Jia urged those who have a history of stroke in particular to add copper to their daily diet—and it can be in the form of potatoes, or other foods naturally packed with it, like wholegrains and beans. 'Dietary copper is crucial for brain health', he said. This is because copper—a naturally occurring trace element—triggers the release of iron which helps carry oxygen around the body—and protects the brain against cognitive decline. According to the NHS, the essential nutrient is also thought to be important for infant growth, brain development, the immune system and bone health, and recommends adults aged 19 to 64 try to consume 1.2mg of it a day. The scientists believe that copper-rich foods may help regulate the release of neurotransmitters in the brain that are closely related to learning and memory. Dementia affects an estimated one million people in the UK and has a variety of causes, such as Alzheimer's disease and reduced blood flow to the brain following a stroke, known as vascular dementia. The team said that the links between dietary copper intake and cognitive function are complex, but highlighted energy metabolism and neurotransmission as potential reasons why copper can help protect brain function. It is thought that a lack of copper may accelerate the cognitive collapse that is associated with dementia—for instance memory loss, language difficulties and problems with thinking and reasoning. However, the researchers warned that whilst copper is essential for optimal brain functioning, too much copper can be toxic. In the longitudinal study, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2420 American adults were analysed to see how dietary copper intake affected cognitive function, especially in participants with a history of stroke. According to the American Heart Association, having a stroke may triple someone's risk for developing dementia within the following year. Participants' were tracked for for four years and dietary copper intake was determined by averaging two 24 hour dietary recalls. Cognitive function was also assessed by a range of golden metrics. Researchers concluded that those who consumed the most copper had the highest cognitive scores—after accounting for various confounding factors such as age, sex, alcohol intake and heart disease. The researchers concluded: 'Our findings indicate a potential association between dietary copper intake and enhanced cognitive function in American older adults, particularly among those with a history of stroke.' However, the researchers noted that further research is needed to confirm these findings, with a major drawback of the study being that they used self-reported dietary reviews. Alzheimer's Research UK analysis found 74,261 people died from dementia in 2022 compared with 69,178 a year earlier, making it the country's biggest killer. It comes as new research warns that millions of people could be up to a third more likely to develop the memory robbing disease because of their tap water. A groundbreaking study suggested earlier this year that people who live in 'softer water' areas of the UK may be at an increased risk of dementia because their water contains lower levels of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and copper. Scientists suggest that these minerals may have a protective effect on the brain with low levels of magnesium linked with a 25 per cent higher risk of Alzheimer's.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Neanderthals made a ‘Swiss Army knife' from cave lion bone
A famous prehistoric cave site in Belgium has yielded the oldest multifunctional tool of its kind. This Ice Age 'Swiss Army knife' wasn't crafted by early Homo sapiens, however. Instead, the handy accessory came from our evolutionary cousin, the Neanderthal. The findings are detailed in a study published in Scientific Reports. Neanderthals often get a bad rap. Despite mounting evidence to the contrary, many present-day Homo sapiens still believe that the archaic lineage died out largely because they were essentially dumber than their Cro-Magnon competitors. But while their cognitive abilities may have played a part in the larger story, Neanderthals simply weren't as less-evolved as they're depicted. For example, in 2024 researchers discovered what appear to be tchotchkes collected by Neanderthals at the Prado Vargas Cave system in Burgos, Spain. More recently,a team conducting ongoing excavations at Scaldina Cave archeological trove in central Belgium found an animal bone with clear indications of intentional shaping. Further analysis showed it to be a tibia bone from a cave lion (Panthera spelaea), a species of extinct panther that roamed present-day Europe until roughly 13,000 years ago. Additional tests also indicated the bone is around 130,000-years-old, dating back to the end of the Saalian glaciation period. Archeologists at Belgium's University of Ghent were particularly intrigued by multiple intentional markings carved into the bone. In all, the team determined that the tibia featured four separate tools, as well as signs of repurposing. The study's authors theorize that some of the tools were initially utilized for jobs like chiseling. Later, Neanderthal artisans broke the bone and reused it for crafting flint tools—a process known as retouching. While the multitool's additional uses remain unknown, the team argues it offers decisive evidence of Neanderthal ingenuity. 'The intentional transformation of lion bones into functional tools highlights Neanderthals' cognitive skills, adaptability, and capacity for resource utilization beyond their immediate survival needs,' they explained in the study. Beyond its direct usage, the bone tool also helps contextualize Neanderthal's relationship to cave lions, which coexisted alongside them for hundreds of thousands of years. Other archeological sites have yielded evidence of lion skinning and butchering, but the Scaldina discovery is the first time experts have found a tool made from one of the animal's bones. Additionally, the methods Neanderthals used to make the lion multitool are identical to those found on other items in the cave, including some made from bear bones. Because of this, the study's authors argue it's possible Neanderthals didn't attach much symbolic meaning to the animals—or, at least, no more than they did for the bears. Instead, they likely hunted these animals out of practicality. The researchers hope to continue studying the latest find to potentially determine its additional uses. Meanwhile, the tool offers other archeologists an example to search for at other dig sites. In any case, one thing is clear: it's time to give long-maligned Neanderthals the credit they deserve.
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Eating more COPPER could help protect against dementia, say scientists – the 5 cheapest ways to get more in your diet
Plus other dietary sources of copper to know about BRAIN GAME Eating more COPPER could help protect against dementia, say scientists – the 5 cheapest ways to get more in your diet Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WITH 152.8 million people estimated to have dementia by 2050, it's vital people do what they can to prevent cognitive impairment. And eating plenty of foods from a specific food group could be part of that, say researchers. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Copper is vital for several physiological functions within the human body - including brain health, according to new findings Credit: Getty Dietary choices can influence the risk of developing dementia. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, like those found in a Mediterranean-style diet, is generally associated with a reduced dementia risk. While diets high in processed foods and certain types of meat may increase a person's likelihood of developing the disease. But now a new study has suggested specifically boosting copper in the diet could support sharper thinking in later life. Copper is vital for several physiological functions within the human body. It's essential for energy production, connective tissue formation, and maintaining healthy blood vessels, nerves, and the immune system. But until now, the relationship between cognition and copper remains poorly understood. The study published in Scientific Reports involved 2,420 participants with a mean age of 69.3 years and a BMI of 29.2. Dietary copper intake was positively associated with cognitive test scores. And test scores increased with an increase in copper intake. Signs of dementia that might be missed These associations remained significant after adjusting for various covariates, such as age, gender, race-ethnicity, smoking status, alcohol status, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease history. Copper's potential brain benefits may stem from its role in making acetylcholine - a key neurotransmitter for learning and memory. However, the researchers noted further analyses would need to be carried out to corroborate these findings. Find out the most affordable sources of dietary copper below... Cheapest sources of dietary copper Legumes - lentils, chickpeas, adzuki beans, baked beans, and kidney beans Dark leafy greens - spinach, kale, and Swiss chard Potatoes and sweet potatoes Whole grains - quinoa, oats, whole wheat spaghetti, wholemeal bread, and brown basmati rice Nuts and seeds- almonds, cashews, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds Other dietary sources of copper: Shellfish Organ meats Dark chocolate Adults aged 19 to 64 need 1.2mg of copper a day. You should be able to get all the copper you need from your daily diet. Other studies have suggested more potential benefits of copper, like improved cardiovascular health and bone density. Copper is involved in the function of enzymes that help reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease. Some studies suggest higher dietary copper intake may be associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease. But other studies have found mixed results. And a 2015 study found post-menopausal women with low bone density had low copper levels, and that copper supplementation might be beneficial.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Eating more COPPER could help protect against dementia, say scientists – the 5 cheapest ways to get more in your diet
WITH 152.8 million people estimated to have dementia by 2050, it's vital people do what they can to prevent cognitive impairment. And eating plenty of foods from a specific food group could be part of that, say researchers. 1 Dietary choices can influence the risk of developing dementia. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, like those found in a Mediterranean-style diet, is generally associated with a reduced dementia risk. While diets high in processed foods and certain types of meat may increase a person's likelihood of developing the disease. But now a new study has suggested specifically boosting copper in the diet could support sharper thinking in later life. Copper is vital for several physiological functions within the human body. It's essential for energy production, connective tissue formation, and maintaining healthy blood vessels, nerves, and the immune system. But until now, the relationship between cognition and copper remains poorly understood. The study published in Scientific Reports involved 2,420 participants with a mean age of 69.3 years and a BMI of 29.2. Dietary copper intake was positively associated with cognitive test scores. And test scores increased with an increase in copper intake. Signs of dementia that might be missed These associations remained significant after adjusting for various covariates, such as age, gender, race-ethnicity, smoking status, alcohol status, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease history. Copper's potential brain benefits may stem from its role in making acetylcholine - a key neurotransmitter for learning and memory. However, the researchers noted further analyses would need to be carried out to corroborate these findings. Find out the most affordable sources of dietary copper below... Cheapest sources of dietary copper Legumes - lentils, chickpeas, adzuki beans, baked beans, and kidney beans Dark leafy greens - spinach, kale, and Swiss chard Potatoes and sweet potatoes Whole grains - quinoa, oats, whole wheat spaghetti, wholemeal bread, and brown basmati rice Nuts and seeds- almonds, cashews, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds Other dietary sources of copper: Shellfish Organ meats Dark chocolate Adults aged 19 to 64 need 1.2mg of copper a day. You should be able to get all the copper you need from your daily diet. Other studies have suggested more potential benefits of copper, like improved cardiovascular health and bone density. Copper is involved in the function of enzymes that help reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease. Some studies suggest higher dietary copper intake may be associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease. But other studies have found mixed results. And a 2015 study found post- menopausal women with low bone density had low copper levels, and that copper supplementation might be beneficial.
