https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/alternative_medicine/ From yoga to acupuncture and herbal supplements, learn all about alternative therapies, medicines and nutrition. en-us Wed, 11 Mar 2026 06:30:48 EDT Wed, 11 Mar 2026 06:30:48 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/alternative_medicine/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260308201618.htm Pre-workout supplements promising extra energy for workouts may come with a hidden cost: severely reduced sleep. A study of people aged 16–30 found users were more than twice as likely to sleep five hours or less per night. Many of these products pack huge doses of caffeine and stimulants that can linger for hours. Researchers say the findings raise concerns about the impact on young people’s health and development. Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:02:26 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260308201618.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260307213228.htm A Yale study found that lowering parent stress can help protect young children from obesity. When parents practiced mindfulness and stress-management skills, their kids showed healthier eating patterns and avoided the weight gain seen in families that only focused on diet and exercise. Sun, 08 Mar 2026 20:28:48 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260307213228.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306224229.htm Scientists studying 1,300 golden retrievers have uncovered genetic clues explaining why some dogs are more anxious, energetic, or aggressive than others. Remarkably, several of the same genes linked to canine behavior are also tied to human traits like anxiety, depression, and intelligence. The discovery suggests dogs and humans share biological roots for emotions and behavior. Understanding these links could help owners better interpret their pets’ reactions and even improve training and veterinary care. Sat, 07 Mar 2026 15:54:22 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260306224229.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260228093502.htm That photogenic cup of bubble tea may come with hidden downsides. Tapioca pearls made from cassava can absorb heavy metals like lead, and in large amounts they may slow digestion or even cause blockages. The drink is often loaded with sugar—sometimes more than soda—raising risks for cavities, obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. There are even reports linking frequent consumption to kidney stones and poorer mental health. Sun, 01 Mar 2026 09:45:49 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260228093502.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260213020412.htm A sweeping review of global research suggests that exercise—especially aerobic activities like running, swimming, and dancing—can be one of the most powerful ways to ease depression and anxiety. Across tens of thousands of people aged 10 to 90, exercise consistently reduced symptoms, often matching or even outperforming medication and talk therapy. Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:58:04 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260213020412.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260212234216.htm Fish oil’s cancer-fighting reputation may hinge on a little-known gene. Researchers discovered that omega-3s like EPA and DHA help curb colorectal cancer only when the enzyme ALOX15 is present. Without it, fish oil sometimes increased tumor growth in mice—especially DHA. The results suggest that not all supplements work the same way, and genetics could determine who truly benefits. Fri, 13 Feb 2026 09:20:25 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260212234216.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260208233839.htm A centuries-old Chinese medicinal root is getting new scientific attention as a potential game-changer for common hair loss. Polygonum multiflorum, long believed to restore dark, healthy hair, appears to work on multiple fronts at once—blocking hair-shrinking hormones, protecting follicles from damage, activating natural regrowth signals, and boosting blood flow to the scalp. Mon, 09 Feb 2026 03:18:01 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260208233839.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260208011015.htm Researchers have found a surprising way to turn sunflower oil waste into a powerful bread upgrade. By replacing part of wheat flour with partially defatted sunflower seed flour, breads became dramatically richer in protein, fiber, and antioxidants—while also offering potential benefits for blood sugar and fat digestion. Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:27:47 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260208011015.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260131082433.htm Lowering salt in everyday foods could quietly save lives. Researchers found that modest sodium reductions in bread, packaged foods, and takeout meals could significantly reduce heart disease and stroke rates in France and the U.K. The key advantage is that people would not need to alter their eating habits at all. Small changes to the food supply could deliver large, long-term health benefits. Sat, 31 Jan 2026 09:27:42 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260131082433.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260129080443.htm Collagen pills sound like a shortcut to younger skin, but solid evidence doesn’t back them up. Higher-quality studies show little benefit, and your body doesn’t absorb collagen in the way ads suggest. Some supplements may even pose safety concerns and lack proper testing. Experts recommend focusing on proven habits like sunscreen, retinoids, and a nutrient-rich diet instead. Thu, 29 Jan 2026 23:30:21 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260129080443.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127112132.htm Drinking tea, particularly green tea, is linked to better heart health, improved metabolism, and lower risks of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. It may also help protect the brain and preserve muscle strength as people age. However, processed teas—such as bottled and bubble varieties—often contain sugars and additives that may cancel out these benefits. Moderation and choosing freshly brewed tea appear key. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:59:07 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127112132.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260120000328.htm Researchers report that vagus nerve stimulation helped many people with long-standing, treatment-resistant depression feel better—and stay better—for at least two years. Most participants had lived with depression for decades and had exhausted nearly every other option. Those who improved at one year were very likely to maintain or increase their gains over time. Even some patients who didn’t respond initially improved after longer treatment. Tue, 20 Jan 2026 23:44:34 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260120000328.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260118233547.htm Cannabis-based medicines have been widely promoted as a potential answer for people living with chronic nerve pain—but a major new review finds the evidence just isn’t there yet. After analyzing more than 20 clinical trials involving over 2,100 adults, researchers found no strong proof that cannabis products outperform placebos in relieving neuropathic pain. Even when small improvements were reported, especially with THC-CBD combinations, they weren’t large enough to make a real difference in daily life. Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:11:47 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260118233547.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260117053528.htm Thyme extract is packed with health-promoting compounds, but it is difficult to control and easy to waste. Researchers created a new technique that traps tiny amounts of the extract inside microscopic capsules, preventing evaporation and irritation. The method delivers consistent nanodoses and could eventually be used in medicines or food products. It may also work for many other natural extracts. Sat, 17 Jan 2026 09:48:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260117053528.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260115022808.htm A vitamin A byproduct has been found to quietly disarm the immune system, allowing tumors to evade attack and weakening cancer vaccines. Scientists have now developed a drug that shuts down this pathway, dramatically boosting immune responses and slowing cancer growth in preclinical studies. Fri, 16 Jan 2026 06:06:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260115022808.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260108231330.htm A new study finds that TikTok videos about gout frequently spread confusing or inaccurate advice. Most clips focus on diet changes and supplements, while barely mentioning the long-term treatments doctors say are essential for controlling the disease. Many videos also frame gout as a lifestyle problem, rather than a condition driven largely by genetics and underlying health factors. Researchers say the platform has huge potential—but only if accurate medical voices step in. Fri, 09 Jan 2026 02:21:43 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260108231330.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260107225532.htm Long COVID affects an estimated 65 million people worldwide and can damage the brain, heart, blood vessels, and immune system long after infection. Researchers now link symptoms to lingering virus, inflammation, micro-clots, and disrupted energy metabolism. While structured rehab and pacing can improve quality of life, a growing list of experimental treatments—from antivirals and metformin to microbiome therapies and biologics—shows early promise. Clear answers, however, are still limited by small studies and the lack of large, definitive trials. Thu, 08 Jan 2026 19:57:41 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260107225532.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251228020010.htm A randomized trial from Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center reveals that magnesium may be the missing key to keeping vitamin D levels in balance. The study found that magnesium raised vitamin D in people who were deficient while dialing it down in those with overly high levels—suggesting a powerful regulating effect. This could help explain why vitamin D supplements don’t work the same way for everyone and why past studies linking vitamin D to cancer and heart disease have produced mixed results. Sun, 28 Dec 2025 02:00:10 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251228020010.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251227082722.htm A major new review has put hundreds of alternative autism treatments under the microscope—and most didn’t hold up. Scientists analyzed decades of research and found little reliable evidence that popular approaches like probiotics, acupuncture, or music therapy truly work. Alarmingly, safety was often ignored, with many treatments never properly evaluated for side effects. The researchers stress that looking at the full body of evidence matters far more than trusting a single hopeful study. Sun, 28 Dec 2025 01:32:17 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251227082722.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251224032354.htm Alzheimer’s has long been considered irreversible, but new research challenges that assumption. Scientists discovered that severe drops in the brain’s energy supply help drive the disease—and restoring that balance can reverse damage, even in advanced cases. In mouse models, treatment repaired brain pathology, restored cognitive function, and normalized Alzheimer’s biomarkers. The results offer fresh hope that recovery may be possible. Wed, 24 Dec 2025 10:14:26 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251224032354.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213032615.htm Researchers used a deep learning AI model to uncover the first imaging-based biomarker of chronic stress by measuring adrenal gland volume on routine CT scans. This new metric, the Adrenal Volume Index, correlates strongly with cortisol levels, allostatic load, perceived stress, and even long-term cardiovascular outcomes, including heart failure risk. Sun, 14 Dec 2025 09:27:30 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213032615.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213032613.htm A decade-long study of older women found that tea drinkers had slightly stronger bones, while moderate coffee drinking caused no harm. Heavy coffee intake—over five cups a day—was linked to lower bone density, especially in women who consumed more alcohol. Tea’s benefits may stem from catechins that support bone formation. The researchers say small daily habits could make a meaningful difference over time. Sat, 13 Dec 2025 11:49:28 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213032613.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031338.htm Garlic extract is emerging as a surprisingly powerful contender to chlorhexidine, the long-standing “gold standard” in antimicrobial mouthwashes. A systematic review of clinical studies shows that higher-concentration garlic mouthwash can rival chlorhexidine in killing bacteria—sometimes outperforming it—while offering a more natural alternative. Mon, 08 Dec 2025 01:16:29 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031338.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031329.htm Researchers have found scientific support for the viral claim that rosemary can improve wound healing. Carnosic acid, a natural antioxidant in rosemary, promoted scar-free healing in mice by activating a nerve sensor tied to regenerative repair. Rosemary proved more potent and gentler than other herbs or compounds that target the same pathway. The work hints at a low-cost future option for reducing scarring in humans. Sun, 07 Dec 2025 10:16:23 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031329.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251129044503.htm Researchers at UC Riverside have uncovered why soybean oil, one of America's most widely consumed ingredients, drives significant weight gain—at least in mice. The findings point not to the oil itself but to the fat-derived molecules it produces inside the body, called oxylipins, which can trigger inflammation, alter liver function, and influence genes tied to metabolism. Sun, 30 Nov 2025 10:46:22 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251129044503.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251117095639.htm Chronic pain might quietly push people toward developing high blood pressure—and the more widespread the pain, the greater the danger. A massive analysis of over 200,000 adults uncovered strong links between long-lasting pain, depression, inflammation, and rising hypertension risk. Mon, 17 Nov 2025 22:42:19 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251117095639.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251110021041.htm Scientists have discovered that most chronic fatigue patients experience dysfunctional breathing, which may worsen their symptoms. The likely culprit is dysautonomia, a disruption in how the body controls blood vessels and muscles. Breathing retraining, yoga, or biofeedback could help restore proper breathing rhythm and ease fatigue. The findings open a promising new path for managing this long-misunderstood illness. Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:47:39 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251110021041.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251108083910.htm Sertraline (Zoloft) may relieve emotional symptoms of depression and anxiety within two weeks, while physical side effects stabilize later. The research highlights how antidepressants can act on specific symptom networks rather than uniformly across all aspects of depression. Sat, 08 Nov 2025 23:51:50 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251108083910.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010302.htm An extract from a desert berry used in traditional Chinese medicine restored insulin function and stabilized metabolism in diabetic mice. The findings hint at a powerful natural alternative for holistic diabetes treatment. Fri, 07 Nov 2025 01:03:02 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010302.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251104012959.htm Long-term melatonin use for sleep problems may come with unexpected heart dangers. Researchers found that chronic users were almost twice as likely to die and 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure. Though melatonin is widely regarded as harmless, experts now urge caution with extended use. Tue, 04 Nov 2025 03:48:52 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251104012959.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251025084601.htm Researchers found that combining regular exercise with omega-3 supplements can make a big difference for oral health. The duo helps the immune system fight off chronic tooth root infections and reduces bone loss around the teeth. In animal studies, those that both exercised and took omega-3s had much lower inflammation and healthier bone structure. Sun, 26 Oct 2025 02:16:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251025084601.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251022023127.htm Researchers at King’s College London have created the first evidence-based dietary guidelines for chronic constipation, finding real relief may come from kiwifruit, rye bread, and mineral water. Psyllium, probiotics, and magnesium oxide also showed benefits, while common fiber and senna advice fell short. The guidelines emphasize self-management and high-quality evidence, offering practical tools for patients and clinicians alike. Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:05:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251022023127.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251016223108.htm A long-term Australian study found that calcium supplements do not raise dementia risk in older women, countering previous fears. The research followed more than 1,400 participants for nearly 15 years and revealed no harmful cognitive effects. Scientists say these results should reassure those using calcium to prevent osteoporosis, though more research is needed across broader populations. Sat, 18 Oct 2025 02:44:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251016223108.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251014014307.htm Scientists at UC Irvine have found a way to potentially reverse age-related vision loss by targeting the ELOVL2 “aging gene” and restoring vital fatty acids in the retina. Their experiments in mice show that supplementing with specific polyunsaturated fatty acids, not just DHA, can restore visual function and even reverse cellular aging signs. Tue, 14 Oct 2025 09:07:15 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251014014307.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251008030951.htm New research shows green tea may help the body burn fat and balance blood sugar. In a study with obese mice, it improved metabolism and muscle health without harming lean animals. Scientists say its powerful plant compounds work together to regulate fat and energy use. The findings hint that green tea could be a natural support for healthy weight management. Wed, 08 Oct 2025 16:09:03 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251008030951.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251008030947.htm A new pill called baxdrostat may offer hope for people whose blood pressure stays high even after taking standard medications. In a recent study, the drug lowered blood pressure and also seemed to protect the kidneys by reducing signs of damage. Doctors say this could help millions of people with chronic kidney disease, a condition that often makes blood pressure harder to control. Wed, 08 Oct 2025 23:01:32 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251008030947.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092917.htm Scientists discovered that lifelong social support can slow biological aging. Using DNA-based “epigenetic clocks,” they found that people with richer, more sustained relationships showed younger biological profiles and lower inflammation. The effect wasn’t about single friendships but about consistent connections across decades. Sat, 04 Oct 2025 09:29:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092917.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092911.htm Scientists discovered that vitamin D2 supplements can lower levels of vitamin D3, the form the body uses most effectively. Unlike D2, vitamin D3 enhances the immune system’s first line of defense against infections. This raises questions about which type of supplement should be prioritized. Sat, 04 Oct 2025 11:34:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092911.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250930034240.htm A comprehensive review shows that yoga doesn’t match up to traditional exercise for improving vascular health. Activities like Pilates, Tai Chi, and interval training prove more effective in keeping arteries resilient, especially in sedentary adults. While yoga remains valuable for accessibility and cultural significance, experts say it should be supplemented with more vigorous activity to fully protect heart health. Tue, 30 Sep 2025 23:42:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250930034240.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031227.htm Living with a sense of purpose may not just enrich life, it could also guard against dementia. A UC Davis study tracking over 13,000 adults for up to 15 years found that people with higher purpose were about 28% less likely to develop cognitive impairment. Purpose was linked to resilience across ethnicities, even in those with genetic risks for Alzheimer’s, and activities like relationships, volunteering, spirituality, and personal goals can help nurture it. Sun, 28 Sep 2025 04:06:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031227.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031221.htm Daily cocoa extract supplements reduced key inflammation markers in older adults, pointing to a role in protecting the heart. The findings reinforce the value of flavanol-rich, plant-based foods for healthier aging. Sat, 27 Sep 2025 12:21:54 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250927031221.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250924012257.htm For decades, scientists believed Alzheimer’s was driven mainly by sticky protein plaques and tangles in the brain. Now Purdue researchers have revealed a hidden culprit: fat. They found that brain immune cells can become clogged with fat, leaving them too weak to fight off disease. By clearing out this fat and restoring the cells’ defenses, researchers may have uncovered an entirely new way to combat Alzheimer’s — shifting the focus from plaques alone to how the brain handles fat. Wed, 24 Sep 2025 23:56:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250924012257.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250924012232.htm A new wearable device, a-Heal, combines AI, imaging, and bioelectronics to speed up wound recovery. It continuously monitors wounds, diagnoses healing stages, and applies personalized treatments like medicine or electric fields. Preclinical tests showed healing about 25% faster than standard care, highlighting potential for chronic wound therapy. Wed, 24 Sep 2025 10:37:47 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250924012232.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250921090902.htm Researchers have shown that a green-Mediterranean diet can help slow brain aging. By analyzing data from the DIRECT PLUS trial, scientists found reduced levels of proteins tied to faster brain decline among those consuming green tea and Mankai. The results point to anti-inflammatory compounds as key protectors of brain health. This diet may be a powerful tool for preserving cognitive function. Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:20:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250921090902.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250918225020.htm Mayo Clinic scientists uncovered how excessive drinking triggers fatty liver disease by disrupting the enzyme VCP, which normally prevents harmful protein buildup on fat droplets in the liver. Alcohol blocks this protective process, allowing fat to accumulate and damage liver cells. Fri, 19 Sep 2025 08:53:11 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250918225020.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250915202834.htm Researchers from the University of Waterloo discovered that measuring long-term stress through children’s hair samples can reveal early signs of mental health risks in those living with chronic physical illnesses. Children with persistently high cortisol were more likely to struggle with anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges, while those whose stress markers declined showed fewer problems. Tue, 16 Sep 2025 02:47:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250915202834.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250907172653.htm Researchers studying over 1,000 children found that omega-3 fatty acids may help protect against myopia, while saturated fats may increase risk. Kids with more omega-3 in their diet had healthier eye measurements linked to slower vision deterioration. In contrast, those with high saturated fat intake showed worse outcomes. Mon, 08 Sep 2025 06:53:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250907172653.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104656.htm High-ventilation breathwork with music can evoke psychedelic-like states, shifting blood flow in the brain and reducing negative emotions. Participants experienced unity and bliss, pointing to a natural therapeutic tool with powerful potential. Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:24:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104656.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250822073820.htm Researchers have created plant-based microbeads that trap fat in the gut, helping rats lose weight without side effects. Unlike current drugs, the beads are safe, tasteless, and easy to mix into everyday foods. Human trials are now underway. Sun, 24 Aug 2025 01:27:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250822073820.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250821094533.htm Researchers discovered that women with Alzheimer’s show a sharp loss of omega fatty acids, unlike men, pointing to sex-specific differences in the disease. The study suggests omega-rich diets could be key, but clinical trials are needed. Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:19:07 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250821094533.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250809101024.htm Sunniva Kwapeng struggled with lipoedema, a painful condition causing disproportionate fat accumulation, until finally being diagnosed in her 40s. An NTNU study found that a low-carb diet helped alleviate pain and resulted in more weight loss than a low-fat diet. Though compression garments provided relief, the overall treatment options for this poorly understood condition remain scarce. Sun, 10 Aug 2025 01:57:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250809101024.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250730030356.htm Potent statins are the best-proven weapon against heart disease, especially when paired with lifestyle changes. Most people aren’t active enough—and many are underdiagnosed—so starting treatment strong is key. Wed, 30 Jul 2025 23:57:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250730030356.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250729001208.htm A mysterious gut hormone may be behind many cases of chronic diarrhea, especially in people with undiagnosed bile acid malabsorption, a condition often mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome. Researchers from the University of Cambridge identified that the hormone INSL5 spikes when bile acid reaches the colon, triggering intense diarrhea. Their discovery not only sheds light on the biological cause of symptoms but opens the door to a diagnostic blood test and new treatment options, including a surprising existing drug that blocks this hormone’s effects. Tue, 29 Jul 2025 01:33:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250729001208.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250727235825.htm Over-the-counter (OTC) products like St John’s Wort and omega-3s have long been touted for helping with depression, but new research reveals that 64 different OTC products have been tested in clinical trials, with varying levels of evidence. Some well-known options like St John’s Wort, saffron, and probiotics showed encouraging results, sometimes comparable to antidepressants. Others like folic acid, lavender, and lemon balm show emerging promise. Although few safety concerns were reported, researchers stress the need for better safety reporting and more studies, especially on commonly used but understudied herbal remedies. Mon, 28 Jul 2025 03:42:32 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250727235825.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250722044704.htm Fermenting stevia with a banana leaf-derived probiotic turns it into a powerful cancer-fighting agent that kills pancreatic cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. The secret lies in a metabolite called CAME, produced through microbial transformation. Fri, 25 Jul 2025 22:30:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250722044704.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250718031201.htm President Trump s diagnosis of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) has brought renewed attention to a frequently overlooked yet dangerous condition. CVI affects the ability of veins especially in the legs to return blood to the heart, often leading to swelling, pain, skin changes, and ulcers. The American Heart Association warns that CVI isn t just a cosmetic issue; it's strongly linked to cardiovascular disease and increased mortality, even when other risk factors are accounted for. Seniors, smokers, those with sedentary lifestyles, and people with obesity are particularly at risk. Fri, 18 Jul 2025 03:12:01 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250718031201.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250716000856.htm Yoga, Tai Chi, walking, and jogging may be some of the best natural remedies for improving sleep and tackling insomnia, according to a large analysis comparing various treatments. While cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) remains effective, exercise-based approaches—especially Tai Chi—were shown to deliver significant improvements in total sleep time, efficiency, and reducing how long people stay awake after falling asleep. Yoga stood out for boosting overall restfulness, and jogging helped ease insomnia symptoms. Thu, 17 Jul 2025 03:46:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250716000856.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250716000836.htm Medieval medicine is undergoing a reputation makeover. New research reveals that far from being stuck in superstition, early Europeans actively explored healing practices based on nature, observation, and practical experience—some of which uncannily echo today’s wellness trends on TikTok. Wed, 16 Jul 2025 09:44:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250716000836.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250710113151.htm What if your brain is the reason some pain feels unbearable? Scientists at the Salk Institute have discovered a hidden brain circuit that gives pain its emotional punch—essentially transforming ordinary discomfort into lasting misery. This breakthrough sheds light on why some people suffer more intensely than others from conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and PTSD. By identifying the exact group of neurons that link physical pain to emotional suffering, the researchers may have found a new target for treating chronic pain—without relying on addictive medications. Thu, 10 Jul 2025 23:37:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250710113151.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250626081532.htm Swap steaks for spinach and you might watch the scale plummet. In a 16-week crossover study, overweight adults who ditched animal products for a low-fat vegan menu saw their bodies become less acidic and dropped an average of 13 pounds—while the Mediterranean diet left weight unchanged. Researchers link the shift to lower “dietary acid load,” a hidden inflammation trigger driven by meat, eggs, and cheese. Thu, 26 Jun 2025 11:15:35 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250626081532.htm