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University of Birmingham Study Finds Flavanol-Rich Foods Mitigate Sitting-Related Vascular Risks

University of Birmingham Study Finds Flavanol-Rich Foods Mitigate Sitting-Related Vascular Risks

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered that consuming foods high in flavanols, such as tea, berries, apples, and cocoa, can help maintain vascular health during prolonged periods of sitting. The study, published in the Journal of Physiology, involved 40 healthy young men who were divided into two groups based on their fitness levels. Participants consumed either a high-flavanol cocoa drink or a low-flavanol cocoa drink before a two-hour sitting trial. The study found that those who consumed the high-flavanol drink did not experience declines in vascular function, unlike those who consumed the low-flavanol drink. This suggests that flavanols can prevent sitting-induced vascular dysfunction, regardless of the individual's fitness level.
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Cardiologist Recommends Heart-Healthy Dinner with Salmon and Chickpeas

Cardiologist Recommends Heart-Healthy Dinner with Salmon and Chickpeas

Cardiologist Recommends Heart-Healthy Dinner with Salmon and Chickpeas
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Global Study Reveals Widespread Omega-3 Deficiency Affecting Health

Global Study Reveals Widespread Omega-3 Deficiency Affecting Health

A recent analysis conducted by researchers from the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton, and health retailer Holland & Barrett has revealed that 76% of the global population is not meeting the recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids. The study, published in the Nutrition Research Reviews journal, highlights the health benefits of omega-3s, such as EPA and DHA, which include supporting infant development, reducing the risk of preterm birth, improving heart health, and lowering the risk of depression and cognitive decline. Despite these benefits, there is a significant gap between public health guidelines and actual consumption. The study suggests that inconsistent and confusing recommendations worldwide contribute to this issue. To address the deficiency, researchers recommend easier and sustainable ways to increase omega-3 intake, such as consuming foods enriched with omega-3s or taking supplements.
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Global Omega-3 Deficiency Highlighted by New Study

Global Omega-3 Deficiency Highlighted by New Study

A recent analysis conducted by researchers from the University of East Anglia and the University of Southampton reveals that 76% of the global population is not meeting the recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids. The study, which is the first to compile national and international guidelines for omega-3 intake, highlights the health benefits of these nutrients, including improved heart health and reduced risk of depression. Despite these benefits, there is a significant gap between public health recommendations and actual consumption. The researchers suggest that more accessible and sustainable sources of omega-3, such as enriched foods or supplements, are needed to address this deficiency.
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Consistent Bedtime Linked to Improved Heart Health and Blood Pressure

Consistent Bedtime Linked to Improved Heart Health and Blood Pressure

Consistent Bedtime Linked to Improved Heart Health and Blood Pressure
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Energy Drink Consumption Linked to Stroke and Long-term Health Effects

Energy Drink Consumption Linked to Stroke and Long-term Health Effects

A 54-year-old man suffered a stroke and permanent health issues after consuming large quantities of energy drinks. Despite being healthy and fit, the man experienced severe symptoms such as left-sided weakness and speech difficulties, leading to a diagnosis of a stroke. The case, reported by Dr. Sunil Munshi from Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, highlights the dangers of excessive energy drink consumption, which can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues. The man consumed eight energy drinks daily, significantly exceeding the recommended caffeine intake, which contributed to his health crisis.
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Global Omega-3 Deficiency: New Study Highlights Public Health Gap

Global Omega-3 Deficiency: New Study Highlights Public Health Gap

A new study reveals that more than three-quarters of the global population are not meeting recommended intakes of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA. Conducted by the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton, and Holland & Barrett, the study highlights a significant public health gap. Omega-3s are essential for health, supporting cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and reducing the risk of depression. The study calls for easier, sustainable ways to increase omega-3 intake, such as enriched foods or supplements, to help more people enjoy the associated health benefits.
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Book Explores Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods on Health and Obesity

Book Explores Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods on Health and Obesity

A new book titled 'Food Intelligence: The Science of How Food Both Nourishes and Harms Us' by Julia Belluz and Kevin Hall explores the impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on health and obesity. The book builds on Hall's 2019 study, which found that UPFs can lead to overeating and weight gain. The authors argue that the harms of processed foods extend beyond their fat, sugar, or salt content, and criticize the current regulatory framework in the U.S. for its lax control over food additives and supplements. They advocate for tighter regulations and greater transparency to address the 'toxic food environment' that promotes overconsumption.
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University of Surrey Study Highlights Flavan-3-ols' Role in Lowering Blood Pressure Among Americans

University of Surrey Study Highlights Flavan-3-ols' Role in Lowering Blood Pressure Among Americans

A recent study conducted by the University of Surrey has found that flavan-3-ols, compounds found in foods such as tea, cocoa, apples, and grapes, can significantly lower blood pressure. This research, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, analyzed data from 145 randomized controlled studies. The findings suggest that incorporating flavan-3-ol-rich foods into a balanced diet may improve blood vessel function and support cardiovascular health. The study highlights that nearly half of Americans suffer from hypertension, with many unaware of their condition. The research indicates that the blood pressure-lowering effects of these compounds can be comparable to some medications, offering a natural dietary approach to managing high blood pressure.
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NHS Campaign Highlights Importance of Organ Donation Through Heart Transplant Success Story

NHS Campaign Highlights Importance of Organ Donation Through Heart Transplant Success Story

Elodie Gray, a 12-year-old girl from Kingswood in Bristol, is sharing her story of survival and normalcy following a life-saving heart transplant she received as a baby. Diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle disease, Elodie underwent surgery just months after her birth. Now, a decade later, she is part of the NHS's 'Hope Takes Flight' campaign, which aims to raise awareness about the critical need for organ donations. Elodie and her family are advocating for more discussions around organ donation, emphasizing its potential to save lives. The campaign comes at a time when a record 8,000 people in the UK are waiting for organ transplants, including 50 in Bristol alone. In the past year, 463 patients died while on the waiting list, highlighting the urgent need for more donors.
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Pharmacist Warns Against Mixing Energy Drinks and Sugary Beverages for Those on Blood Pressure Medication

Pharmacist Warns Against Mixing Energy Drinks and Sugary Beverages for Those on Blood Pressure Medication

A pharmacist has issued a warning regarding the consumption of energy drinks combined with sugary beverages for individuals taking medication for high blood pressure. Dr. Taylor Clark, a clinical assistant professor of pharmacy practice, highlights that high-caffeine drinks can elevate blood pressure by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system. This effect can counteract the benefits of blood pressure-lowering medications. Additionally, sugary drinks, including fruit juices, are linked to increased blood pressure and a higher risk of cardiometabolic diseases. The 2025 hypertension guidelines recommend limiting caffeine intake to less than 300 milligrams per day for those with hypertension. Dr. Clark advises that patients with severe hypertension should avoid consuming more than one caffeinated beverage daily.
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Research Suggests Coffee May Slow Down Biological Ageing Through Antioxidant Properties

Research Suggests Coffee May Slow Down Biological Ageing Through Antioxidant Properties

Research Suggests Coffee May Slow Down Biological Ageing Through Antioxidant Properties