Health

A large French study, the NutriNet-Santé cohort, suggests that mixtures of common food additives in processed foods may be linked to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research analyzed dietary data from more than 100,000 volunteers and tracked health outcomes over several years, focusing on how additive combinations could influence metabolic health.

The study examined intake of hundreds of additives and identified two mixtures associated with increased diabetes risk. These additives include common ingredients like artificial sweeteners, emulsifiers, and colorants found in sodas, sauces, and various snacks. Importantly, the researchers emphasize that it is the combination and regular consumption of these additives—not any single additive alone—that may drive potential health effects.

In a surprising turn that challenges long-standing public health directives, a study by the Cleveland Clinic has revealed that the influenza vaccine meant to combat the 2024-2025 flu season may have inadvertently increased the risk of infection among recipients. Conducted under the leadership of Dr. Nabin Shrestha, the research analyzed the health records of over 53,000 employees from the clinic’s Ohio locations, finding a 27% higher infection risk for those vaccinated compared to their unvaccinated counterparts source.

As plastic pollution continues to be a global environmental scourge, the effects of microplastics on human health remain a pressing question. Research in this area is accelerating, with a prominent study from the University of New Mexico revealing alarming insights. Led by toxicologist Matthew Campen, the team has identified a significant increase in microplastics present in human brain samples from 2024 compared to those from 2016. This research indicates microplastics are steadily accumulating in our bodies, casting uncertainty over potential health impacts.

A new analysis from the Cleveland Clinic has sparked debate about influenza vaccines for the 2024-2025 season. Led by a senior researcher, the study examined health records of more than 53,000 employees in Ohio and found that those who received the flu shot had a higher observed rate of infection than those who were not vaccinated. The researchers report a 27% increased risk of flu among vaccinated individuals in this cohort, with the vaccine effectiveness estimated at negative 26.9%.

Aging doesn’t have to mean losing independence. New insights from a prominent physical therapy expert emphasize simple, daily strategies to preserve and even improve mobility. The discussion, highlighted by CNN, focuses on practical steps that older adults can adopt to maintain flexibility and quality of life.

The expert rejects the idea that reduced range of motion is an inevitable part of aging. Instead, the focus should be on preserving one’s natural movement range. The accompanying book, Built To Move, coauthored with a partner, outlines easy practices that fit into everyday life without demanding major time commitments.

Recent findings from the NutriNet-Santé prospective cohort study, detailed in PLOS Medicine, have shed light on a potentially concerning link between food additive mixtures and the incidence of type 2 diabetes. Conducted by French researchers, this large-scale study presents the first significant evidence connecting common food additives—frequently found in processed foods—to a heightened risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a condition that continues to rise globally, including in Thailand.

The NutriNet-Santé study is a comprehensive investigation into the dietary habits and health outcomes of over 100,000 volunteers, meticulously analyzing their intake of over 269 food additives. By tracking these participants’ health over several years and linking their dietary data to national health records, researchers have identified two particular mixtures of food additives that are associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. These mixtures include common food additives such as artificial sweeteners, emulsifiers, and colorants, ingredients often found in sodas, sauces, and various processed snacks.

As Thailand grapples with the increasing incidence of chronic kidney disease, a new wave of information brings attention to the early symptoms that diabetics cannot afford to overlook. According to a recent article originally published by the Hindustan Times source, symptoms such as swollen feet and persistent nausea are being highlighted as potential warning signs of kidney failure, especially in individuals managing diabetes. Recognizing these symptoms early could be pivotal in averting dire health outcomes like dialysis or kidney transplants.

Recent research sheds light on brain fog, a cluster of cognitive symptoms often linked to chronic illnesses and conditions. While the term surged during the COVID-19 era, many people with long COVID report persistent brain fog. Data suggests a wide range of prevalence among long COVID patients, highlighting the substantial impact on daily life. Beyond COVID, brain fog also appears in conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and lupus, drawing attention from clinicians and patients worldwide.

Psyllium husk, often marketed as the “poor man’s Ozempic”, is garnering attention as a potential alternative to the popular Type 2 diabetes medication known for its weight loss benefits. Ozempic has become a well-recognized name, especially on social media, where users have vouched for its dramatic weight loss effects. As the medication faces shortages and complexities around insurance coverage for off-label use, many are eyeing more accessible substitutes like psyllium husk to aid in weight management.

Recent research unveiled in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences highlights the profound impact that early-life adversity has on the brain’s structural development, specifically targeting white matter connectivity. White matter, often dubbed as the brain’s “communication highways,” forms the intricate network necessary for tasks like language processing and mental arithmetic. The study, spearheaded by experts from Mass General Brigham, involves an in-depth analysis of brain imaging data from over 9,000 children aged around 9.5 years, all part of the comprehensive Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study.

Regular physical activity benefits health for everyone, regardless of body weight. Health experts emphasize that exercise is essential for cardiovascular health, mental well-being, and sustained vitality. In Thailand, where lifestyle changes have led to more sedentary routines, making movement a daily habit could significantly improve public health outcomes.

Even with weight-loss medications gaining attention, upholding a balanced diet and consistent exercise remains crucial. Research from trusted health institutions shows that activity needs are universal, and benefits accrue across ages and fitness levels. This challenges the notion that fitness must reach a certain level before taking part in activity, a message that resonates with families and communities in Bangkok and beyond.

Recent research has highlighted potential heart risks associated with the use of marijuana and other THC-containing products. This warning comes as the popularity of cannabis continues to rise globally, including in parts of Asia, where regulatory discussions and policy shifts are increasingly advocating for medical and recreational access. Understanding these health implications is crucial, especially for a nation like Thailand, which recently made significant changes to its cannabis policies with the decriminalization of the plant.

A new study points to omega-3 fatty acids as a potential tool to support longevity and overall health in seniors. The DO-HEALTH trial, conducted in Switzerland, explored whether daily omega-3 intake could slow biological aging in adults aged 70 to 85. Participants received a 1-gram omega-3 supplement daily alongside vitamin D, while others followed an at-home exercise program.

Over three years, researchers found that those taking omega-3 showed slower progression of aging markers. The results suggested a rejuvenation effect of about three to four months. Additionally, the data indicated a reduced risk of cancer by about 61 percent and a lower chance of pre-frailty by 39 percent—conditions that often precede frailty in later life.

In a compelling development for those seeking to extend their lifespan, recent research has highlighted the potential of a common supplement to improve longevity and overall health. Omega-3 fatty acids, widely known for their benefits to brain and heart health, may also play a significant role in slowing down the biological aging process. This discovery comes from a comprehensive study conducted in Switzerland, known as the DO-HEALTH trial, which investigated the effects of omega-3 on individuals between the ages of 70 and 85.

A growing buzz around psyllium husk positions it as a potential, more accessible option for people seeking support in weight management. Comparisons to Ozempic have circulated online, but experts warn that psyllium husk is not a substitute for prescription diabetes medications. Shortages and insurance hurdles around Ozempic have spurred interest in natural alternatives, yet clarity about what psyllium can and cannot do remains essential.

Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber sourced from the Plantago ovata plant, widely cultivated in India. Its health benefits are well documented: it can ease constipation, help regulate blood sugar, and lower cholesterol. For weight control, psyllium husk may promote a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overeating. This effect is noted by nutrition professionals, who emphasize it works best when combined with balanced meals and physical activity.

A striking health incident from the United States highlights the hidden risks of over-the-counter supplements marketed for hair, skin, and nails. A Fort Worth mother, Jenny Ramirez, faced acute liver failure after starting a supplement containing methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). Her case underscores why informed choices and medical guidance matter before adding supplements to daily routines.

Ramirez, a mother of four, began a weight-loss journey and later developed jaundice and liver concerns. Doctors linked her liver failure to MSM, a compound often cited for skin, hair, and nail benefits. While MSM is generally considered safe, experts note that individuals with existing health issues may experience different effects. In this instance, the doses involved were small by typical safety standards, yet the outcome was severe, prompting a closer look at supplement safety.

Emerging research reveals intriguing insights into the often-debilitating phenomenon known as brain fog, a symptom linked with various chronic illnesses and conditions. As COVID-19 swept the globe, the term “brain fog” gained prominence, particularly among those suffering from long COVID, with estimates suggesting that 20 to 65 percent of these individuals experience it ¹. Beyond its association with COVID, brain fog is also recognized in communities dealing with chronic illnesses such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and lupus, attracting interest and concern among healthcare professionals and patients alike.

New findings from the ABCD study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, show that early-life hardship can affect the brain’s white matter—the brain’s communication highways that support language and math skills. The research analyzed brain scans from more than 9,000 children around 9.5 years old, providing a large-scale view of how adversity shapes development.

The study reveals that children who face hardship early in life often have lower white matter integrity, which links to weaker cognitive performance in adolescence. Using diffusion imaging, researchers connected various adversities—prenatal risks, family poverty, and neighborhood stress—to changes in white matter quality. Yet the message is not only about risk. The data also highlight how positive environments can counterbalance these effects. Stable homes and supportive, cohesive communities helped buffer against cognitive declines associated with reduced brain connectivity.

New studies suggest potential heart risks from using marijuana and other THC-containing products. As cannabis policies evolve globally, including in parts of Asia, Thai readers should understand how these findings may relate to personal health and public policy. Thailand recently relaxed cannabis rules for medical and economic reasons, making clear, balanced information even more important.

Research indicates that THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis, may raise the risk of cardiovascular events such as irregular heart rhythms, heart attacks, and strokes. This aligns with broader evidence that cannabis can influence heart rate, blood pressure, and overall heart health. Given that heart disease remains a leading cause of death in Thailand, these insights carry particular relevance for local audiences.

In a dramatic turn of events, a Texas mother, Jenny Ramirez, found herself facing a severe health crisis after using a common over-the-counter vitamin intended to enhance her hair, skin, and nail health. This alarming incident sheds light on potential risks associated with dietary supplements, which are often perceived as benign and beneficial. As Ms. Ramirez’s story unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant oversight and informed choices regarding dietary supplements.

A major international analysis published in The Lancet Psychiatry finds that ADHD medications generally cause only minor cardiovascular effects, mainly small increases in heart rate and blood pressure. The study, led by researchers from the University of Southampton, reviewed data from 102 clinical trials involving more than 22,700 participants worldwide. It compared stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD treatments, concluding that while small heart-related changes occur, the overall benefits of these medicines often surpass the risks.

A comprehensive new analysis, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, underscores that medications prescribed for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) generally induce minor impacts on cardiovascular health, mostly characterized by slight elevations in heart rate and blood pressure. Conducted by an international team led by the University of Southampton, this large study evaluated data from 102 clinical trials involving over 22,702 participants globally, comparing both stimulant and non-stimulant medications used to treat ADHD. The news from this research provides a balanced view, suggesting that while there are small cardiovascular effects, the broader benefits of these medications often outweigh such risks.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into skin cancer detection is gaining momentum, heralding a potentially transformative shift in medical diagnostics. However, experts emphasize that while AI technologies are advancing, human expertise remains irreplaceable. Ivy Lee, a dermatologist in Los Angeles and chair of the Augmented Intelligence Committee at the American Academy of Dermatology, reflects this sentiment, noting that the industry’s maturity moves beyond previous media hype towards practical applications of AI in healthcare.

AI is accelerating skin cancer detection, offering new ways to improve access to care. Yet experts warn that human clinicians remain essential. A leading dermatologist in Los Angeles and chair of the Augmented Intelligence Committee at the American Academy of Dermatology notes that AI’s maturity is shifting from hype to practical medical use, while doctors oversee care and patient interactions that machines cannot replace.

A landmark Nature study from 2017 showed AI models analyzing more than 129,000 clinical images could outperform several dermatologists in diagnosing skin cancer. Critics, however, remind us that real diagnosis blends image analysis with patient history, physical examination, and interpersonal care. As a senior clinician at a major U.S. cancer center emphasizes, photos alone cannot capture the full clinical picture.