Podcast
Northwest LifeBeat
Hosted by Northwest Newsradio · EN
Lifebeat is a sixty-second look at health and wellness related topics. It’s a daily feature on Northwest Newsradio in Seattle, hosted by Marina Rockinger.
12episodes
Episodes
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New Research Highlights Early Detection, Risk Factors, and Prevention Strategies for Dementia
2w ago00:01:00Tap to summarizeAbout 7 million Americans over age 65 are currently living with dementia, and women are disproportionately affected, making up nearly two-thirds of all Alzheimer’s cases in the United States, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. In new research from the University of California, San Diego, scientists have identified a blood-based biomarker in women that may be able to predict the risk of developing dementia up to 25 years before symptoms appear. The finding could open the door to earlier intervention strategies long before cognitive decline begins. Other studies are also reshaping understanding of dementia risk. Long-recognized links between smoking and dementia are being reexamined in light of research published in Science Advances, which suggests nicotine may disrupt communication between the lungs and brain, potentially contributing to cognitive decline beyond the effects of reduced oxygen flow through the vascular system. Meanwhile, promising findings in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health suggest that cooking at home at least once a week may reduce the risk of dementia in older adults by about 30 percent. Researchers note that meal preparation engages both physical and cognitive skills, highlighting everyday activities like cooking as potential tools for supporting brain health in aging populations.
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Simple Wellness Habits That May Improve Your Health
2w ago00:01:01Tap to summarizeStaying healthy can sometimes come down to simple daily habits. In the Pacific Northwest and other cloudy regions of the U.S., getting enough Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin”, can be a challenge. Vitamin D plays an important role in bone health and mood regulation, and low levels have been linked to fractures and other health concerns, according to the Cleveland Clinic. When sunlight is limited, experts recommend adding more Vitamin D-rich foods to your diet, including fatty fish, eggs, mushrooms, and fortified dairy products. Another healthy staple that continues to earn praise is oatmeal. Many people remember commercials promoting oats as a way to lower cholesterol, and research published in Nature Communications suggests those claims still hold true. The study found that cholesterol levels dropped in people who regularly consumed oats, and even six weeks later, the positive effects remained noticeable. For those dealing with sore muscles after a workout or a long day of heavy lifting, Epsom salts remain a popular home remedy. While researchers say there is limited scientific evidence proving their effectiveness, many people report relief after soaking in an Epsom salt bath. Supporters claim the baths may help reduce inflammation, soothe sore muscles, and even ease symptoms associated with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
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New Studies Highlight Cancer Risks, Treatment Advances, and Survivorship Differences
2w ago00:01:01Tap to summarizeNew research is shedding light on several important developments in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. A study published in the journal Cancer found that heavy alcohol consumption may significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer, which is typically diagnosed around age 66. Researchers reported that people who averaged more than 14 alcoholic drinks per week over their lifetime faced a 25% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer and a 95% higher risk of rectal cancer compared to light drinkers. Meanwhile, scientists have identified a potential new use for a common asthma medication. Research published in Nature Cancer suggests that drugs such as montelukast may help treat difficult cancers like triple-negative breast cancer by reversing resistance to certain immunotherapies. Another recent study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, examined cancer survivorship outcomes between men and women. While women were found to have a lower overall risk of death after cancer treatment, they also experienced higher rates of serious side effects from therapies including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Researchers say additional studies are needed to better understand the reasons behind these differences.
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The Promise -- and potential risks of GLP-1 Drugs
2w ago00:01:01Tap to summarizeGLP-1 medications have surged in popularity as powerful tools for weight loss, but new research suggests these drugs may come with both important health benefits and notable risks. A new study published in Cell Metabolism found that semaglutide - the active ingredient in several leading GLP-1 medications - may significantly improve liver health beyond its effects on weight loss. Researchers discovered semaglutide reduced liver inflammation and scarring while improving overall liver function. Scientists say the findings could influence future treatment decisions for patients suffering from liver disease, even in cases where weight loss is not the primary goal. At the same time, another study is raising concerns about potential vision-related side effects. Research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that Wegovy may carry a higher risk of “eye stroke,” or sudden vision loss caused by reduced blood flow to the optic nerve. According to the study, the risk was nearly five times higher in Wegovy users compared to those taking Ozempic, with men facing roughly three times the risk seen in women. Researchers are also uncovering possible mental health benefits linked to GLP-1 drugs. A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that GLP-1 medications used to treat obesity and diabetes were associated with fewer hospital visits for psychiatric conditions such as anxiety and depression. The researchers also reported a lower risk of substance misuse among patients taking the medications. As use of GLP-1 drugs continues to expand, experts say ongoing research will be critical to better understanding both the benefits and long-term risks of these widely used treatments.
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Health Tips: Smart Sweet Choices, Tooth Sensitivity Care, and Sustainable Weight Loss
3w ago00:01:01Tap to summarizeIf you’re craving something sweet but still want to stay on the healthier side, there are plenty of simple options that satisfy without the added sugar overload. Frozen grapes are a great example-they often taste even sweeter after being chilled. A spoonful of natural peanut butter mixed with a few dark chocolate chips can also hit the spot, while apple chips offer a naturally sweet flavor with a satisfying crunch. Tooth sensitivity is another common issue that can often be managed with small daily changes. Some mouthwashes can be quite acidic, and overuse may actually make sensitivity worse over time. Acidic foods and drinks—like tomatoes, citrus fruits, and fruit juices-can also contribute to enamel erosion. Even brushing too aggressively can harm gums and wear down enamel, increasing discomfort. When it comes to losing weight, especially with summer approaching, fad diets circulating on social media may seem tempting but are often unsustainable. Nutrition experts generally recommend focusing instead on nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, seafood, eggs, nuts, and beans. These foods tend to be more filling, which can naturally reduce overall calorie intake without the need for restrictive dieting.
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New Studies Highlight Strong Links Between Metabolic Health, Gut Bacteria and Dementia Risk
3w ago00:01:00Tap to summarizeNew research is shedding light on how conditions such as diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure may significantly increase the risk of developing dementia, while scientists are also uncovering a surprising connection between gut health and brain deterioration. A study from the American Academy of Neurology found people with diabetes face a much greater risk of dementia than those without the disease. Published in the journal Neurology, the research showed people with Type 1 diabetes were nearly three times more likely to develop dementia, while those with Type 2 diabetes were about twice as likely. Another study, published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, found obesity and high blood pressure may also raise dementia risk. Researchers say some weight-loss medications could help prevent cognitive decline, particularly vascular dementia linked to reduced blood flow to the brain. Meanwhile, researchers at Case Western Reserve University say they have identified a possible link between harmful gut bacteria and brain damage. Their findings suggest certain bacteria produce inflammatory forms of glycogen that trigger immune responses capable of harming the brain. Scientists believe the discovery could eventually lead to new treatments aimed at breaking down those harmful sugars in the gut and improving long-term brain health.
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New Research Links Brain Chemistry, Depression, and Stress Relief
3w ago00:01:00Tap to summarizeMillions of people struggle with anxiety and may not understand what causes it. Now, a new study points to a possible clue in brain chemistry. Scientists at the University of California found that people with anxiety disorders tend to have lower levels of choline, a nutrient that supports healthy brain function. Researchers say this is the first clear chemical brain pattern linked to anxiety and could eventually lead to nutrition-based treatments. Depression can also affect much more than a person’s mood. Mental health experts say it often takes a physical toll on the body. People with depression may experience too little or too much sleep, constant fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, and changes in appetite or weight. Even everyday tasks can become exhausting. Experts also say there may be simple ways to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies show that watching fish swim in a home aquarium can help people feel calmer. Researchers found that aquariums may lower blood pressure and heart rates, which is one reason fish tanks are often placed in doctor and dentist offices.
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New Research Highlights ADHD’s Complex Impact on Health and Creativity
3w ago00:01:01Tap to summarizeResearchers are uncovering new evidence that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may influence far more than attention and behavior - affecting physical health, pain perception and even creative problem-solving. A study from University of Tokyo has found a connection between ADHD traits and chronic pain. According to the researchers, people with ADHD may experience pain differently because of higher levels of anxiety, depression and negative thinking patterns. The findings suggest that understanding these psychological factors could help doctors develop more tailored treatments and rehabilitation programs for patients dealing with both ADHD and chronic pain. In separate research conducted in London and published in JAMA, scientists found that children showing ADHD traits at age 10 were more likely to face physical health problems by their mid-40s. Participants reported increased rates of migraines, back problems, epilepsy, diabetes and even cancer, along with greater physical-health-related disabilities compared with people without ADHD symptoms. But researchers also say ADHD traits may offer unexpected advantages. A study by Drexel University found that people with strong ADHD symptoms - including hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention - often solved problems through sudden insight rather than step-by-step analysis. The findings suggest that some individuals with ADHD may excel in creative problem-solving situations where unconventional thinking is an advantage.
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New Research Highlights Serious Health Risks Linked to Sleep Apnea
4w ago00:01:00Tap to summarizeGetting enough quality sleep is essential for overall health, according to healthcare professionals. New research is shedding more light on the serious health risks associated with obstructive sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder that disrupts breathing during sleep. A new study published in the journal Sleep and Breathing found a significant link between obstructive sleep apnea and lower skeletal muscle density. Researchers say the findings suggest the disorder could negatively affect muscle health over time. Another study, published in the journal SLEEP, found that people whose sleep apnea symptoms fluctuate dramatically from night to night are 30 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. Researchers say it’s not just the severity of sleep apnea that matters, but also how much the condition varies from one night to the next. Meanwhile, new research led by Vanderbilt Health uncovered a strong connection between sleep apnea and football players. The study, published in Neurology, examined 1,000 former and current players and found that while 32 percent had already been diagnosed with sleep apnea, the true number may be closer to 69 percent when accounting for undiagnosed cases. Researchers say football players may be more susceptible because of higher body mass indexes and thicker necks, both known risk factors for the disorder.
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Simple Daily Choices May Boost Brain, Mood and Eye Health
4w ago00:01:01Tap to summarizeSmall everyday choices - from the foods you eat to the color of your walls - may have a bigger impact on your health than you think. If you’re looking to improve your eyesight, carrots aren’t the only food worth adding to your plate. According to WebMD, red bell peppers are packed with vitamin C, which supports the blood vessels in your eyes. Sunflower seeds and almonds provide about half the daily recommended amount of vitamin E, which may help slow age-related macular degeneration. Dark leafy greens also offer a healthy mix of vitamins C and E, making them another smart choice for eye health. Your surroundings may also influence how you feel. A study published in Science Direct found that blue bedroom walls can support your circadian rhythm and positively affect physical, mental and behavioral patterns. Researchers also noted that green, white and pink shades may help encourage positive emotions. And in surprising news for cheese lovers, a study published in the journal Neurology suggests that high-fat cheese and cream may actually help lower the risk of dementia. Researchers found that people who ate 50 grams or more of high-fat cheese daily reduced their chances of developing dementia by 13 percent compared to those who consumed less than 15 grams per day.
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