“A sweetener’s not-so-sweet effects” – corn syrup in soft drinks enhances tumour growth
(Siobhán Dunphy/ European Scientist) —Obesity is known to increase the risk of developing cancer, including colorectal cancer. Now, a new study published on 22 March in Science suggests high-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener used in many soft drinks, might actually speed up tumour growth in the colon, independent of obesity.
Drinking …
Kale placed 3rd on ‘dirty dozen’ produce pesticide list
(Andria Borba/ CBS KPIX-5) —Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that kale is one of the top crops affected by pesticides. The leafy green vegetable has been placed at the number three spot on the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list.
“Studies link pesticides to a host of human health problems including brain …
Compounds in coffee could slow prostate cancer growth
(Dr. Ananya Mandal/ Medical Life Sciences News) — Researchers from Japan have noted that certain compounds in coffee could slow and even stop the progress of prostate cancer.
The team of researchers were looking at the effect of Kahweol acetate and cafestol – two compounds found in coffee, on the growth of tumours in mice. They were conducting …
‘Broken heart’ syndrome linked to brain’s reaction to stress, research finds
(Ann W. Schmidt/ Fox News) — “Broken heart” syndrome, a disease that causes the heart to temporarily weaken, has been linked to the brain’s reaction to stress, new research has found.
In an article published in the European Heart Journal on Tuesday, Swiss researchers said they found a connection between the way the brain communicates …
Groundbreaking blood test detects fibromyalgia
(Ana Sandoiu/ Medical News Today)— New research finds an accurate way of diagnosing fibromyalgia and differentiating it from other related conditions. Using blood samples and innovative techniques, scientists have detected a “molecular fingerprint” that is unique to the condition.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition …
Are eggs the cholesterol enemy again?
(Brenda Goodman, WebMD) — Eggs, a staple of the American diet, have been cast once again as a villain. It’s not specifically the eggs, but the cholesterol in eggs that seems to be the problem, according to a new study.
Wait, what? Yes, it’s true. Even the researchers who worked on the study aren’t happy about it.
“It’s sad news to everyone,” …
Can an eye exam detect Alzheimer’s?
(Samiha Khanna-Duke/ Futurity) — The loss of blood vessels in the retina could signal Alzheimer’s disease, a new study suggests. That means a quick eye exam might flag the disease before symptoms appear.
In people with healthy brains, microscopic blood vessels form a dense web at the back of the eye inside the retina, as seen in 133 participants …
Napping may be as good as drugs for lowering blood pressure
(Marie Cohut/ Medical News Today) — When the afternoon slump hits in the middle of a busy workday, many of us may feel tempted to catch some shut-eye in a quiet corner.
Daytime napping can definitely help boost our energy levels and productivity for the rest of the workday, but does it bring any other health benefits?
A new study that investigators …
CBD oil is everywhere, but is it really safe and healthy?
(Tara Law/ Time) — You might have seen it in your neighborhood health store, your local spa or your corner coffee shop. CBD, aka cannabidiol, is getting mixed into cocktails, lotions and drinks.
But what is CBD, exactly? Does it have real health benefits? Is it even safe?
To get a better understanding of the compound, TIME spoke to two scientists …