A new Canadian study suggests fluoride exposure may be associated with sleeping fewer hours than recommended for optimal health. Key findings include: Higher levels of fluoride in tap water were associated with a 34% increased risk of sleeping less than recommended. The association remained after adjusting for factors like age, BMI, income, ethnicity, and health …
A new systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that swapping out sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) for low- and no-calorie sweetened beverages (LNCSBs) may support modest weight loss and improve certain cardiometabolic factors. The study found that LNCSBs offer similar benefits to water, the standard substitution recommended by health authorities. Key findings: Replacing SSBs with LNCSBs was linked …
Genetically modified (GM) foods have been around since the 1990s and are becoming increasingly common in our food supply. While proponents point to the agricultural and nutritional benefits of GM crops, concerns remain about their safety and environmental impact. What are GMO Foods? Genetically modified (GM) foods have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering …
Microplastics and nanoplastics are increasingly prevalent in our environment and food system, raising concerns about their impact on human health. A new review of the scientific literature explores the potential for these tiny plastic particles to negatively affect brain health. Key facts: Microplastics are 0.1-5mm in size, nanoplastics are smaller than 0.1mm. They come from …
Brain serotonin is crucially involved in regulating mood, social behavior, and physical health. While medications that alter serotonin levels have revolutionized psychiatry, non-drug approaches may provide safer, sustainable ways to optimize serotonin and promote wellbeing. Key Facts: Brain serotonin influences mood, sociability, and health in animals and humans. Higher serotonin is linked to positive mood, …
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Scientific Reports evaluated the potential association between chronic fluoride exposure and neurological damage. The study aimed to analyze the impact of fluoride from different sources on neurological disorders in humans. After a thorough literature search, the authors included 27 observational studies in the qualitative analysis. The results showed …
Suicide is a major global public health problem, accounting for over 800,000 deaths worldwide each year. Lithium, a mood stabilizing medication, has been proposed as a novel population-level suicide prevention strategy through supplementation of trace doses into the public drinking water supply. This controversial idea has sparked much debate around its ethics, risks, benefits and …
A new review of research finds strong evidence that fluoride exposure, especially during fetal development and infancy, can lead to decreased IQ and other neurotoxic effects. While fluoride may help prevent dental cavities when applied topically, ingesting elevated levels early in life appears to pose risks to long-term brain health. Key facts: Multiple recent studies …
Microplastics, the tiny plastic fragments less than 5mm in size, are increasingly being found everywhere – in the oceans, freshwater systems, soil, air, and even in our food. As these tiny plastic pieces spread unabated into the environment, scientists are concerned about their effects on human health. Key facts: Over 6,000,000 tons of microplastics are …
A new systematic review published in BMC Geriatrics suggests that supplementing with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) may provide cognitive benefits for older adults without dementia. MCTs are a type of fatty acid found in foods like coconut oil and palm kernel oil that may help provide the brain with an alternative energy source. Key Facts: MCT …
