#Health

A groundbreaking new study has highlighted a surprising and troubling effect of regularly consuming sugary beverages like soda. Conducted by researchers at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, the research found that sweet drinks provoke an alarming adaptation in the body, prioritizing the absorption of sugar over essential nutrients. This “molecular addiction,” as dubbed by researchers, suggests our dietary habits could be reshaping our metabolisms, with significant implications for our health.

A recent study published in the journal Nature Metabolism has shed new light on how non-caloric sweeteners impact the brain’s regulation of appetite in individuals with varying body weights. The research, led by Sandhya P and her team, investigates the neurological effects of artificial sweeteners, which are often heralded as a calorie-free alternative to sugar. This study has significant implications for weight management strategies, particularly in contexts where obesity is a growing concern.

New findings in Nature Metabolism show that non-caloric sweeteners may influence appetite signals in the brain, and responses vary by body weight. This adds depth to the idea that sugar substitutes are not a universal fix for weight management or diet-related health issues.

The study matters for Thailand, where sweetened beverages and snacks are common. Many people use zero- or low-calorie sweeteners to cut calories, but brain responses to these substitutes appear different among lean, overweight, and obese individuals. Practically, this could mean varying feelings of hunger or fullness after consuming these products, depending on weight status.

The recent measles outbreak affecting West Texas and New Mexico has taken an unexpected turn with several patients suffering from vitamin A toxicity, raising alarm over health misinformation. At Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock—close to the outbreak’s center—some of the unvaccinated children hospitalized for measles exhibited signs of abnormal liver function, a likely indication of excessive vitamin A intake, explained Dr. Lara Johnson, pediatric hospitalist and chief medical officer for Covenant Health-Lubbock Service Area source.

In recent years, creatine has gained attention beyond the typical weightlifting community, now attracting interest from women, particularly those in midlife, looking for its manifold benefits. Traditionally known for its muscle-enhancing properties, creatine supplementation is now being explored for its cognitive and overall health benefits, making it a potentially valuable addition for Thai women navigating the complexities of aging.

Creatine, a compound naturally produced in the body, plays a crucial role in creating ATP, the primary energy molecule utilized by muscle and brain tissues. While the body synthesizes creatine, the amount is often insufficient for individuals engaging in rigorous physical activity or experiencing age-related muscle decline. Thus, many are turning to supplements to bridge this gap, especially as creatine is mainly found in animal products like red meat, which may not be consumed in sufficient quantities to harness its full benefits. Recent research supports creatine’s ability to enhance muscle mass by allowing individuals to exert more energy during physical activities, thereby promoting better muscle growth and faster recovery. However, the benefits of creatine extend beyond the gym.

Creatine is gaining attention among midlife women in Thailand who want to protect muscle, support brain function, and enhance overall health. Once primarily associated with athletic performance, creatine is now being explored for cognitive support, energy production, and age-related changes, making it a relevant option for Thai readers navigating midlife.

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that helps produce ATP, the energy currency used by muscles and the brain. The body makes some creatine, but amounts may be low for those who exercise regularly or experience age-related muscle loss. Many people turn to supplements, particularly when dietary intake from animal products like red meat is limited. Studies indicate creatine can boost muscle strength and recovery, enabling longer activity with less fatigue. Its benefits also extend beyond physical performance.

The spread of the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to classify it as an “urgent antimicrobial resistance threat,” according to a recent hospital study. Identified in the U.S. in 2016 and rapidly escalating since, the fungus has been spreading in Georgia and within Miami’s Jackson Health System, raising significant concerns. It is known to predominantly affect vulnerable patients in healthcare settings, especially those using medical devices like catheters or breathing tubes, as the pathogen can enter the body through these devices.

A measles outbreak across West Texas and parts of New Mexico has raised concerns beyond the virus itself. At a major pediatric hospital in Lubbock, clinicians report abnormal liver function in unvaccinated children treated for measles, prompting questions about vitamin A. Authorities caution against unverified health tips circulating online.

Experts warn that false claims about vitamin A preventing measles have circulated widely, fueling confusion among families. Public health leaders reiterate that vaccination remains the strongest, evidence-based defense. Two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine are about 97% effective, making immunization the most reliable protection. Supplements cannot substitute proven vaccination.

A team of researchers is advancing brain health insights by linking brain stiffness to aging and neurodegenerative risk. Led by a biomedical engineering associate professor and an electrical engineering assistant professor, the group uses magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) together with artificial intelligence to estimate the brain’s biological age. This approach could improve early detection and intervention for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other neurodegenerative disorders, with potential relevance for Thailand’s aging population.

A major study from the University of Chicago rethinks how memories form, offering fresh insights into neurological conditions like dementia. Published in Nature Neuroscience, the work examines how synaptic plasticity—the brain’s ability to strengthen connections between neurons—works in real life, not just in classic theories. The researchers highlight a shift from traditional Hebbian ideas to Behavioral Timescale Synaptic Plasticity (BTSP), a model that better explains how memory representations change over time.

In a groundbreaking study published this week in Nature Metabolism, researchers have unveiled novel insights into how non-caloric sweeteners influence appetite regulation in the brain across individuals with varying body weights ^1^. This research is notable as it bridges existing gaps in understanding the neural mechanisms underlying the use of these ubiquitous sugar alternatives, especially in the context of global health trends towards combating obesity and diet-related maladies.

Understanding how non-caloric sweeteners affect appetite and food intake regulation is crucial, especially considering the escalating prevalence of obesity in Thailand and globally. For many people, these sweeteners are part of daily consumption as they attempt to reduce caloric intake without sacrificing taste. However, findings from this study suggest that the effects of non-caloric sweeteners are complex and vary significantly depending on an individual’s body weight. The implications of these findings are particularly relevant to Thai society, where dietary habits are changing and the prevalence of obesity is notably rising.

A new study spotlights nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of vitamin B3, as a promising option to support brain health and slow Alzheimer’s progression. Researchers from the University of Delaware College of Health Sciences and the National Institute on Aging found that NR can cross the blood-brain barrier and may help preserve neurons and brain energy metabolism as people age.

Alzheimer’s disease remains a major health challenge worldwide, including Thailand, where an aging population increases demand for prevention and treatment strategies. Current therapies primarily address symptoms rather than the disease itself. The latest findings align with a broader interest in NAD+ precursors like NR as potential neuroprotective options because they help maintain cellular energy in the brain. Data from leading research institutions suggests NR could offer protective benefits against neurodegeneration.

A new assessment reveals a widening gap in protein intake between Thailand’s younger and older generations. While many younger adults gravitate toward high-protein diets, a substantial portion of older Thais do not meet recommended levels, which may impact muscle health and overall well-being. The finding underscores the need for nutrition strategies that fit Thai culture and communities.

Protein remains essential for muscle maintenance and energy. Among younger people, protein from tofu, eggs, seafood, and dairy is popular, with some turning to supplements and protein-rich snacks. In contrast, studies show older adults often consume far less protein than guidelines suggest. Research from leading universities in the United Kingdom emphasizes that middle-aged and older individuals require higher protein intake to counteract age-related muscle loss and the body’s reduced ability to synthesize protein, a condition known as anabolic resistance.

A drug-resistant fungus, Candida auris, is prompting renewed warnings from global health authorities. A U.S. hospital study shows the pathogen, first identified in 2016, has spread within healthcare settings and is proving difficult to treat with standard antifungal drugs. The spread is most evident in Georgia and within Miami’s hospital network, where vulnerable patients with medical devices face heightened risk.

Candida auris presents a major treatment challenge because many antifungal medications are ineffective against it. A health expert notes that patients with weakened immune systems may rely on their own defenses when therapies fail, underscoring the stakes for high-risk groups.

The nutritional value of fruits and vegetables has been declining over the past several decades, creating a situation that is raising concern among nutritionists and public health experts worldwide. According to multiple studies, the nutritional content of these essential foods has decreased significantly, particularly affecting key nutrients like riboflavin, calcium, and iron. This trend, which has persisted for more than 70 years, highlights a critical issue: the fruit and vegetables we consume today are not providing the same health benefits as those in the past. For Thailand, a nation where agriculture and cuisine are deeply intertwined, understanding and addressing this decline is crucial for both public health and cultural heritage.

Recent coverage highlights calcium as essential not only for bones but also for cardiovascular health, pregnancy, and cancer prevention. In Thailand, where cuisine is diverse and flavors are abundant, the question remains: are daily diets delivering enough calcium?

Calcium helps prevent bone-weakening conditions such as osteoporosis and rickets. But its benefits extend beyond bones, influencing overall health and reducing risks for several serious conditions. With shifting dietary patterns in Thailand, it’s important to assess whether current eating habits meet daily calcium needs.

Creatine, once mainly associated with bodybuilding, is gaining attention among middle-aged women in Thailand for physical and cognitive well-being. A recent feature in mainstream media highlighted how this supplement is reaching a broader audience, including women who report stronger muscles and clearer thinking. The narrative resonates with Thai women approaching menopause, who often seek practical strategies to maintain energy and vitality during this life phase.

Creatine is naturally produced in the body and helps generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells. However, natural production may fall short for individuals with active lifestyles or age-related metabolic changes. Medical experts note that supplementation can help bridge this gap, supporting muscle performance and brain energy, particularly during periods of stress or increased cognitive demand.

A new beverage category has surged into markets worldwide: prebiotic gut sodas. Bright packaging and simple flavors like Cherry Cola and Crisp Apple have grabbed attention, presenting a healthier twist on traditional sodas while claiming gut benefits. This trend mirrors a broader push in food and beverage toward accessibility-friendly health improvements in everyday products.

In the United States, gut soda sales are booming. Brands such as Olipop and Poppi reportedly reached hundreds of millions in revenue within a year, drawing interest from major players. Coca-Cola projects billions in sales from prebiotic offerings by the end of the decade, while PepsiCo’s acquisition of Poppi signals a strategic pivot toward healthier options. These shifts suggest a growing appetite for wellness-forward choices in mainstream markets.

A long-standing mystery in neuroscience centers on how cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) moves through the brain and whether this flow helps clear metabolic waste. New research strengthens the link between sleep and CSF activity, suggesting that restful states may enhance brain waste removal. Yet, the ideas are hotly debated, underscoring the need for rigorous evidence before drawing firm conclusions.

The core question asks how CSF travels in the brain and whether it serves as a waste-removal system. This topic resonates with Thai readers, where sleep quality and overall wellness are central concerns. The emerging view is that CSF flow increases during sleep, potentially helping clear byproducts that accumulate during wakefulness. This aligns with the Thai saying that quality rest is a form of medicine, reflecting cultural emphasis on restorative sleep.

New research suggests meal speed matters as much as meal content. Consuming a typical meal in under 20 minutes may be linked to digestion issues, gut health concerns, and broader health risks. In Thailand, where busy lifestyles and fast food are common, mindful eating resonates with local values of shared meals and sensory appreciation.

Experts say rapid eating tends to lead to higher calorie intake before fullness is felt. A renowned dietitian and health commentator notes that fast eating can disrupt digestion, causing bloating and indigestion, and may contribute to metabolic problems over time. He emphasizes that slowing down supports a natural digestive rhythm and healthier gut function, aligning with recent scientific observations.

Recent insights suggest that the speed at which we consume our meals could be just as significant as what we eat. A series of studies and expert opinions have highlighted that devouring a meal in under 20 minutes may lead to various health issues, including potential impacts on metabolism, gut health, and overall well-being. This trend is particularly pertinent in Thailand, where busy lifestyles and fast food culture are increasingly common. The research emphasizes the importance of mindful eating, a practice that aligns well with Thailand’s culinary traditions of shared meals and sensory engagement.

A small, cutting-edge study suggests the brain may temporarily convert its own myelin into fuel during extreme endurance events like marathons. This unexpected mechanism could help protect overall brain function when glucose supply drops during intense exercise.

Researchers in Spain followed 10 marathon runners, scanning their brains with MRI before and after the races. They found that 24 to 48 hours after finishing a grueling 42-kilometer run, myelin levels in key brain regions—those governing movement, coordination, sensation, and emotion—decreased noticeably. Importantly, these changes were not permanent. By two weeks post-race, myelin began to recover, and most participants returned to baseline within about two months.

Recent findings highlighted in USA TODAY have shed light on the significance of calcium not only for bone health but also for its broader impacts on cardiovascular health, pregnancy, and cancer prevention. This dietary element is indispensable for maintaining a robust and healthy lifestyle. Yet, as dietary preferences shift, are we ensuring adequate intake?

Calcium is crucial in preventing conditions such as osteoporosis and rickets, which are caused by deficiencies that weaken bones and increase the likelihood of fractures. The role of calcium in our health extends beyond just our bones; it is implicated in reducing the risk of several severe health conditions, making it essential for overall well-being. In Thailand, where dietary habits are rich in variety, the question remains—are these habits providing enough of this essential nutrient?

A new wave of research shows meat allergy linked to tick bites may involve more tick species than previously thought. In the United States, health officials indicate that not only the lone star tick but also other widespread species could trigger alpha-gal syndrome, a delayed allergic reaction to red meat.

Alpha-gal syndrome occurs after certain ticks transmit a carbohydrate called alpha-gal into the skin. Reactions typically appear hours after eating meat, which can delay diagnosis and complicate treatment. While it has been most associated with the lone star tick, recent findings suggest western black-legged ticks and deer ticks may also play a role. This broader risk could affect more people and influence dietary choices in areas once deemed safe.