COVID-19’s Impact on Women’s Libido
Discover how COVID-19 has impacted women’s libido and intimate experiences, with a significant drop in sex drive reported after the infection. Researchers at Boston University delve into the physiological and psychological factors at play, shedding light on the lasting effects of the pandemic on physical health and intimacy.
Popular Food Trends to Improve Heart Health
Discover the best heart-healthy diets for 2024, including the Mediterranean Diet and the DASH diet. Learn how these popular food trends can help improve your heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Plus, find convenient meal delivery services to make sticking to these diets easier than ever.
Dark Chocolate and Champagne May Improve Heart Health
Discover the surprising health benefits of dark chocolate and champagne just in time for Valentine’s Day. Learn how these indulgent treats, in moderation, can actually improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and strokes. Find out how the natural compounds in dark chocolate and the polyphenols in champagne can have a positive effect on cardiovascular health, making them the perfect treats for your loved one this Valentine’s Day.
The Complexities of the Plant-Based Diet: Key Concerns and Considerations
Is a plant-based diet truly a healthy lifestyle choice, or is it merely a passing trend? Joel Bikman, co-founder of a pioneering health and weight loss company, delves into the complexities of the plant-based diet and highlights key concerns to be mindful of. From poor quality protein to anti-nutrients in plant proteins and potential nutrient deficiencies, Bikman’s insights shed light on crucial considerations for individuals embracing or contemplating a plant-based lifestyle.
Antarctica’s Penguins Could Be Devastated by Avian Influenza
Antarctica’s penguins face a new threat as avian influenza, including a deadly strain of H5N1, looms closer to the continent. Scientists fear the devastating impact it could have on marine mammals and birds, with outbreaks already seen on islands near the Antarctic Peninsula. The interconnectedness of species in the Southern Ocean makes it likely that the virus will reach Antarctica, posing a significant risk to the continent’s wildlife.
CDC Considering Change to COVID-19 Isolation Guidance
The CDC is considering changing its isolation guidance for COVID-19, potentially advising people to rely on symptoms instead of a specific isolation period. This shift could allow individuals with mild or resolving symptoms to return to school or work. While the CDC has not officially confirmed the report, several states have already adopted similar guidelines. However, experts emphasize that testing positive for the virus still poses a risk of contagion, and caution should be exercised. The potential change reflects the evolving impact of COVID-19 and the challenges of isolation for many individuals.
The Dangers of Prolonged Sitting and How to Counteract Them
Sitting for prolonged periods of time is linked to numerous health issues, including an increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, digestive diseases, and Alzheimer’s disease. New research has found that individuals who spend most of their workday sitting have a 16% higher risk of dying for any reason and are 34% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. Experts recommend taking a break from sitting every 30 minutes and engaging in exercises such as hip flexor stretches, squats, lunges, and glute bridges to counteract the harmful effects of prolonged sitting.
New Study Suggests Link Between Long COVID and Chronic Pain Conditions
A new study from the University of Michigan suggests that long COVID may be linked to chronic pain conditions, offering potential insights into the management of these lingering symptoms. The research, published in the journal Pain, found that individuals with chronic pain conditions were at an increased risk of experiencing long COVID features, even without a prior infection. Dr. Bergmans highlighted the potential role of nociplastic pain in contributing to the findings, emphasizing that previous pain experiences could serve as predictors of future pain.
Five Cases of Whooping Cough Confirmed in Hawaii
The Hawaii Health Department has confirmed five cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, among unvaccinated members of one household visiting from the U.S. mainland. The family stayed at a hotel on Oahu, and the Health Department is coordinating with the CDC and other states to notify travelers who were exposed. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to serious complications, especially in infants. The best way to protect individuals and their loved ones is to stay up to date with recommended whooping cough vaccines.
Australian Scientists Make Major Discovery in RNA-Based Therapeutics
Australian scientists make groundbreaking discovery in RNA-based therapeutics, paving the way for more potent and durable drugs. The new pathway could overcome the instability of mRNA, leading to exciting potential applications for diseases like cancer. The discovery of how circular RNAs are transported within cells is a major step towards harnessing circRNA for therapeutic purposes.