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Cannabis derivatives may lead to new treatments for ovarian cancer. Image Credit: Bloomberg Creative Photos/Getty Images Early lab research shows that two cannabis compounds, THC and CBD, have potent anti-ovarian cancer properties. The study found that CBD and THC work synergistically, reducing cancer cell growth, spread, and survival in multiple ways. The findings could one day pave the way for new adjunct therapies that support both treatment effectiveness and patient quality of life. Two compounds found in cannabis show potent anti-tumor effects when exposed to ovarian cancer cells, suggesting they could play a role in future therapeutic research. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the two most widely studied compounds found in cannabis. THC is the primary psychoactive compound, while CBD is a non-intoxicating compound. Cannabis is used therapeutically for conditions ranging from nausea to chronic pain. Both THC and CBD belong to a class of compounds known as cannabinoids, which work on the body’s endocannabinoid system. Cancer treatment is one of the most active areas of research for CBD, THC, and cannabis more broadly. These compounds are powerful antiemetics, particularly useful for easing chemotherapy-induced nausea. They have also demonstrated promising anticancer effects in laboratory studies across several cancer types, including brain, breast, lung, and prostate. One noticeable gap in research has been studies focused on gynecologic cancers, including ovarian cancer. However, new laboratory research, published in Frontiers, is beginning to address that gap and may help lay the groundwork for future therapies. Researchers found that, as in other laboratory cancer models, CBD and THC killed ovarian cancer cells and slowed markers of tumor growth. “Our findings are generally consistent with existing literature showing that CBD and THC can act as potential adjuncts to cancer therapy,” said Siyao Tong, MD, an attending obstetrician and gynecologist at First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, China, and first author of the study.  “Both CBD and THC demonstrated clear inhibitory effects on ovarian cancer cells, and their combination, particularly at a 1:1 ratio, showed the strongest anticancer activity,” Tong told Healthline. Other experts have hailed the research as a compelling step forward in the search for new cancer treatments. “This is a field that is very much looking for new approaches,” said Elena Ratner, MD, a professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at Yale School of Medicine, who wasn’t involved in the research. “This is all very early in the research, so we don’t know exactly what this will mean, but we are increasingly thinking of newer agents and newer ways of targeting cancer and understanding the biology of disease, so this absolutely has potential,” she told Healthline. Cannabis compounds targeted cancer cells Tong’s team conducted a variety of in vitro studies exposing ovarian cancer cells to CBD and THC in laboratory experiments.  Notably, they experimented with two different ovarian cancer cell lines — one platinum-resistant and one platinum-sensitive. Platinum sensitivity reflects how well a cancer cell responds to platinum-based chemotherapy drugs, such as cisplatin and carboplatin, which are standard treatments for ovarian cancer. Both lines respond to exposure to CBD and THC, though the platinum-resistant line responded better at higher doses. Both THC and CBD also demonstrated “selective cytotoxicity,” meaning they were able to kill ovarian cancer cells at significantly lower doses than those required to harm healthy cells. In other words, the compounds selectively targeted cancer cells while sparing normal ones. Such a finding is key to demonstrating their potential therapeutic viability. CBD and THC were also synergistic in the study. When used in a 1:1 ratio with each other, they were more effective than when used independently. This type of synergy between cannabinoids has been noted in other areas of medical research and is often referred to as the “entourage effect.” Prior to their work, the researchers noted that the exact mechanism through which THC and CBD elicited their anticancer effects was not clear, but their investigation identified several cellular effects that may help explain these findings, including: Reducing cancer cells’ “clonogenic potential,” or their ability to divide and regrow. Triggering apoptosis, programmed cell death, in roughly 25% of cancer cells. Decreasing metastatic potential, or the cancer cells’ ability to spread. Inhibiting key signaling pathways involved in cell growth. “CBD and THC appear to inhibit the expression of key proteins within one of these pathways, thereby slowing down or blocking the pathway’s activity. By suppressing this cancer-promoting signaling, CBD and THC help reduce the growth and survival of ovarian cancer cells,” Tong said. Implications for ovarian cancer treatment Though these findings are promising, researchers would need to conduct extensive studies in animals and, eventually, in humans before any therapy could be approved. Nonetheless, Tong asserts that these cannabis-derived compounds could one day make for promising adjunct therapies to treat ovarian cancer. “It is likely that CBD and THC would be used alongside standard chemotherapeutic agents. They may help reduce chemoresistance in difficult-to-treat cases while exerting their own anti-tumor effects. Additionally, because CBD and THC have known benefits such as anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and analgesic properties, they may also improve patients’ quality of life during treatment,” Tong said. Ovarian cancer is the second most common gynecological cancer in the United States and results in more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. Approximately 20,000 cases were estimated, and more than 12,000 deaths were attributed to it in 2025. This form of cancer can be difficult to diagnose, with individuals often presenting with non-specific symptoms, resulting in late-stage diagnosis and worse outcomes. For Ratner, a clinician who manages ovarian cancer patients and routinely utilizes medical marijuana for symptom relief, research into new therapeutic possibilities is exciting. “The key to treatment in oncology right now, at least in my hands, is to allow women to live their lives while I’m taking care of the cancer,” she said. “There is really almost no toxicity with cannabis, and it has great benefits for symptom management. So, if there are additional benefits in terms of cancer biology, that would be amazing.”

Many popular holiday beverages are high in sugar and may damage bone health. Image Credit: Tamara Evsiukova/Stocksy Many popular holiday drinks, such as hot chocolate, are high in sugar. Sugar can affect bone health by causing increased calcium loss. Having strong bones is important in preventing osteoporosis and fractures. Dietitians recommend limiting your sugar intake to protect your bone health. Each winter, as the holidays draw near, many people enjoy treating themselves to popular seasonal beverages, such as rich hot chocolate, spiced cider or wine, creamy eggnog, and frothy lattes. However, while these beverages may taste like tradition, comfort, and celebration, our festive favorites may not be doing our health any favors. Beyond the obvious effects they can have on weight management — the average American gains 5 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas — there may be some other not-so-sweet side effects to consider. For example, all that sugar that you’re consuming could, in the long run, actually be detrimental to your bone health. Excess sugar consumption affects bone health Your bones have several important functions, including acting as calcium storage depots, providing support to your body, protecting your organs, and housing your bone marrow. When your bones are weakened by osteoporosis, you become more prone to fractures and may develop changes in your posture, like a hunched back. This means it is essential to protect yourself from bone loss. Kezia Joy, RDN, medical advisor at Welzo, explained that consuming high levels of sugar can indirectly affect bone health by increasing the amount of calcium lost in urine. As a result, less calcium is available to maintain bone density. “Frequent spikes in blood sugar may disrupt the normal functioning of vitamin D,” she told Healthline, “making it less likely that the body will be able to effectively absorb calcium from the foods we eat.” Research is limited on how high blood sugar may affect vitamin D functioning. However, a 2022 animal study suggests that vitamin D deficiency may impact blood sugar levels. Joy said that frequent consumption of sugary drinks during the holidays could worsen this effect, especially if your overall diet is not good. Additionally, excess sugar in your diet may contribute to low-grade chronic inflammation. This might affect bone remodelling over time, she said. “Therefore, it is crucial to consume high calorie [and] high-sugar items in moderation throughout the holiday season.” How holiday drinks can impact bone health Hannah Anderson, a registered dietitian at WellTheory, noted that while sugar can impact bone health, each drink has its own unique profile due to its other ingredients. “Hot chocolate made with milk does provide calcium,” she told Healthline, “which can help offset some adverse effects of sugar, though the benefit depends on how much sugar is added; store-bought versions often contain 20 to 30 grams per serving.” Anderson added that eggnog is especially calorie-dense due to its sugar and saturated fat content, with a typical cup containing over 300 calories and more than 20 grams of sugar. However, its milk and eggs do provide beneficial calcium and protein. “Mulled wine and cider offer antioxidants from spices but contain alcohol (which impairs calcium absorption) and added sugars,” she said. “At the same time, popular seasonal coffee drinks like peppermint mochas or gingerbread lattes can pack 50 grams of sugar [or more] in a large size with minimal nutritional benefits beyond the small amount of milk used,” said Anderson. How much sugar is too much? While recommendations vary slightly by organization, the American Heart Association (AHA) advises consuming no more than 6% of your daily calories as added sugar. For males, this is equivalent to about 9 teaspoons (36 grams), while for females, it’s about 6 teaspoons (25 grams). Added sugar is the sugar that’s added to foods during their preparation. It differs from the sugars naturally found in sweet foods, such as fruit. Added sugars may be listed in ingredient lists as syrup, nectar, juice, sugar, sweetener, or honey. They often have names ending in “ose,” such as fructose, dextrose, or sucrose. Additionally, the nutrition label will clearly state the amount of added sugar present in a food. Healthier alternatives to sugary holiday drinks As tempting as those holiday beverages may be, they’re best consumed in moderation or swapped with healthier options. “For healthier hot chocolate alternatives that support bone health, try making hot chocolate with unsweetened cocoa powder, low fat milk, and a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or a non-nutritive sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, to control sugar content,” said Anderson. On the other hand, if you’re using a store-bought mix, pick one with less sugar. Or, you can add a chocolate-flavored bone broth or collagen powder to hot water or milk to create a high protein, low-sugar option, Anderson suggested. “Other healthy hot cocoa variations include functional mushroom blends for further health benefits without compromising taste,” said Anderson. If you enjoy the flavors of mulled apple cider, you can replicate the experience with apple cider tea blends that don’t contain added sugar, she said. Or try preparing your own using warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise along with lemon juice and apple cider vinegar. “When ordering coffee drinks, ask for your desired level of sweetness (‘one pump’ or ‘half sweet,’ etc.), ask for no whipped cream, choose non-fat or low fat milk for calcium without excess saturated fat, and consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for flavor without the sugar,” Anderson said. Joy added that eggnog can also be lightened by reducing the amount of added sugars. She further noted that fortified unsweetened plant-based milks, lower-sugar hot beverages, and herbal teas are all good options for experiencing the flavors of the season without harming bone density. “By choosing beverages containing proteins and minerals as opposed to beverages containing excessive amounts of sugar, you can help regulate your nutrient levels at a steady level and minimize excessive calcium loss,” said Joy. “Therefore, these alternatives can allow you to experience the festivities of the holiday season while maintaining overall bone health,” she said.

A new study found that a “beer belly” may be linked to harmful changes in the heart structure, especially in men. Image Credit: master1305/Getty Images A new study found that abdominal fat, or a “beer belly,” may be linked to harmful changes in heart structure, particularly in males.  The researchers say that a high waist-to-hip ratio may be associated with more concerning cardiac remodeling than BMI scores alone.  The study utilized advanced cardiac MRI imaging to identify subtle changes in heart tissue that wouldn’t otherwise be visible.  Abdominal obesity, often referred to as a “beer belly,”  is an accumulation of visceral fat that is stored around the internal organs. Visceral fat is a type of fat stored within the abdominal cavity that can accumulate in the arteries, contributing to the development of cardiovascular disease.  A new study found that abdominal obesity is not only linked to harmful changes in heart structure, but that these effects were more apparent among males. The researchers used advanced cardiac MRIs to detect beer belly-associated heart changes that could signal early heart stress before the onset of cardiovascular disease or symptoms. The study, however, did not examine beer consumption among the subjects. The findings were recently presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), held from November 29 to December 3, in Chicago, IL. The study has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. “Abdominal obesity, a high waist-to-hip ratio, is associated with more concerning cardiac remodeling patterns than high body mass index (BMI) alone,” lead study author Jennifer Erley, MD, a radiologist resident at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany, said in a press release. Abdominal obesity and cardiac remodeling For the study, researchers examined MRI scans of 2,244 adults ages 46 to 78. The study found that obesity, as measured by BMI scores, was more strongly associated with enlarged heart chambers across all participants, regardless of sex. Abdominal obesity, or “beer belly,” was more associated with a thickening of the heart muscle and smaller heart chambers. These abdominal obesity-related changes were more prominent in males, particularly in the right ventricle. The right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs.  The researchers suggested their findings may reflect early cardiac stress related to how abdominal fat affects breathing and lung pressure.  “It appears to lead to a potentially pathological form of cardiac remodeling, concentric hypertrophy, where the heart muscle thickens, but the overall size of the heart doesn’t increase, leading to smaller cardiac volumes,” Erley said in the press release. “In fact, the inner chambers become smaller, so the heart holds and pumps less blood. This pattern impairs the heart’s ability to relax properly, which eventually can lead to heart failure,” she continued. The researchers suggest that the more extensive heart damage seen in males may be an earlier onset of more severe abdominal obesity, but more research is needed ot confirm this theory. Mir Ali, MD, medical director at MemorialCare Weight Loss Center in Long Beach, CA, who was not involved in the study, said the study’s findings reaffirm that abdominal obesity has a negative impact on cardiovascular disease. Ali wasn’t involved in the study. “Though there is no one clear explanation for this, it is surmised that abdominal fat increases inflammation throughout the body, affects normal hormonal balance, and leads to insulin resistance, to name a few,” Ali told Healthline.  “All of these changes affect all organs, but the heart and blood vessels are particularly sensitive to these changes.” Kevin Shah, MD, program director at MemorialCare Heart Failure Outreach in Long Beach, CA, who wasn’t involved in the study, echoed these remarks. “Visceral fat drives inflammation, insulin resistance, and abnormal cholesterol patterns — all of which accelerate cardiovascular disease,” Shah told Healthline. Waist-to-hip ratio vs. BMI BMI is a calculation of a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters. For adults ages 20 and older, a BMI of 30 or more is considered obesity.  Your waist-to-hip ratio can be calculated by dividing the measurement of your waist circumference at its narrowest point by the measurement of your hips at their widest point. The World Health Organization (WHO) uses cut-off points, or maximum waist-to-hip ratios, to determine obesity. A ratio of 0.90 for males and 0.85 for females is an indicator of abdominal obesity and may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.  BMI does not account for fat distribution in the body. The waist-to-hip ratio can better indicate any increase in abdominal fat. It may also be easier to calculate than BMI.  “Waist-to-hip ratio — and even simple waist circumference — adds important information that BMI alone misses. BMI cannot distinguish between muscle and fat, and it doesn’t capture fat distribution,” Shah said. He added that the waist-to-hip ratio and waist circumference should be included in routine assessments. BMI, while useful, should not be the only measure guiding risk discussions.  Tips for preventing ‘beer belly’ Not only is visceral fat associated with cardiovascular disease, but it’s also linked to higher risks of other chronic conditions, including: type 2 diabetes heart disease stroke  Alzheimer’s disease certain cancers (i.e., breast and colorectal) While it can be difficult to target abdominal obesity, there are some strategies that may help you lose weight and lower your risk of other chronic diseases. “Doing abdominal exercises does not necessarily lead to weight loss in the abdomen,” Ali said. “Losing weight overall, whether it’s with diet, medications, or surgery, can lead to a reduction in abdominal fat.” Shah emphasized the importance of nutrition quality, resistance training, and overall physical activity. He offered the following tips and suggestions:  strength training 2 to 3 times per week adding 20–30 minutes of daily walking reducing refined carbohydrates and increasing protein intake “Small, consistent lifestyle changes have a measurable impact on waist size and long-term heart health,” Shah said.

According to research, most people may not be getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. Image Credit: Tanja Ivanova/Getty Images A new research review reports that most people do not consume the recommended amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. These acids are considered beneficial for brain, skin, and heart health. Experts say it’s preferable for a person to obtain omega-3s through foods, but supplements can be considered if a person’s diet doesn’t contain enough fatty acids. The majority of people worldwide are not consuming a sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids, according to new research. Researchers report that 76% of the global population is not consuming the daily recommended levels of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). They said the health benefits from these fatty acids are “too important to ignore.” They recommend that health officials develop official policies on omega-3 consumption and advise the public on how to best obtain these fatty acids through diet, as well as through supplements such as fish oil. “We hope this work will help inform nutritional scientists, clinicians, food and supplement industries, policy makers, and consumer communities,” said Anne-Marie Minihane, a nutrigenomics professor at the Norwich Medical School at the University of East Anglia in England, in a statement. The researchers emphasized that the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are important at every stage of life, particularly for pregnant individuals, infants, and young children. The researchers reached their conclusions after reviewing the recommended daily levels of omega-3 fatty acids in over 100 countries. They noted that the recommendations vary significantly from country to country, creating confusion among the public and highlighting the importance of consistent, evidence-based guidance. They reported that the most frequently recommended intake for adults is 250 mg per day of combined EPA and DHA, with an additional 100 to 200 mg of DHA advised for pregnant people. They said these levels can be achieved by eating more oily fish, such as salmon or mackerel, or through supplementation where needed. The researchers recently shared their findings in Nutrition Research Reviews, a publication of Cambridge University Press. The authors also acknowledged they have ties to companies such as Holland & Barrett that are involved in the supplement industry. Experts not involved in the research said the review sheds light on an important issue. “It highlights the inconsistencies in how much fatty acid intake is necessary,” said Cheng-Han Chen, MD, an interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA. “The overall message is clear that people should incorporate fatty acids in their diet,” Chen told Healthline. “It’s a good overview of some of the challenges with getting enough omega 3s through diet alone as well as a look into how various age groups are doing with getting enough omega 3s, recommendations for amount, and unique deficiency risk factors based on age,” added Kristin Kirkpatrick, RD, the president of KAK Consulting as well as a dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic Department of Wellness & Preventive Medicine in Ohio. Health benefits from omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3s are a family of essential fatty acids. In addition to EPA and DHA types, there is also alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).   These acids are not produced by the human body, so they must be absorbed through diet or supplementation. David Cutler, MD, a family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains that fats, such as omega-3s, are important because they help our bodies absorb other fat-soluble nutrients, including vitamins A, E, D, and K. Cutler wasn’t involved in the new review. Omega-3s, in particular the DHA type, are considered essential for brain, skin, and eye health. Research has been mixed on what other health benefits are provided by adequate levels of omega-3 fatty acids. However, past research has reported that these fatty acids can improve heart health by lowering triglyceride levels and increasing HDL, or “good cholesterol,” levels. “The benefits of these omega-3 fatty acids are mostly attributed to lowering triglyceride levels in the bloodstream,” Cutler told Healthline. “This is important if you have abnormally high triglycerides and probably not so important if your triglyceride levels are normal.” There has been other research that reported that omega-3 fatty acids may help improve blood sugar levels and lower inflammation. Experts say omega-3s are particularly important for pregnant and nursing women as these fatty acids are vital for the brain health of fetuses as well as infants. “Fatty acids are important,” Chen said. “In particular, they’re important for infant health.” “In pregnancy, [omega-3] deficiency may have an impact on overall cognitive and neurological health of the baby,” added Kilpatrick. Chen adds that omega-3s may be more important for older adults simply because they are at higher risk of some of the health problems that fatty acids can help prevent. “They’re susceptible to the same issues as people with omega-3 deficiencies,” he said. There are some symptoms that indicate a low level of omega-3 fatty acids in the body. They include: skin irritation and dryness dry eyes joint pain changes in hair texture Omega-3 fatty acids: Diet vs. supplements Health and nutrition experts agree that the most effective way to absorb omega-3 fatty acids is through a balanced diet. Some foods that contain omega-3 acids are: fatty fish (i.e., salmon, herring, oysters) fish oils (i.e., cod liver oil) flax seeds chia seeds flaxseed oil soybeans walnuts The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends two servings of fatty fish per week. Those who are unable to consume sufficient omega-3 acids through their diet may wish to consider omega-3 supplements that include fish oil and algal oil. Cutler offered a word of caution about fish oil capsules. He noted that supplements are not regulated by government agencies like medications and other products. He also said there can be side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Additionally, fish oil supplements may increase the risk of bleeding. He noted that it’s particularly important for anyone taking blood-thinning medications. “Any benefits to omega-3 supplements should be weighed against potential side effects and risks,” Cutler said. Chen doesn’t generally recommend supplements to boost omega-3 counts. He says the research doesn’t support the notion that supplements effectively boost fatty acid levels. “In general, the recommendation is to get fatty acids through diet,” Chen said. “All supplements affect is your wallet.” How to know if you’re getting enough omega-3 The total recommended daily allotment of omega-3 fatty acids for adults in the United States for females is 1,100 milligrams (mg). For males, the recommended dosage is 1,600 mg. During pregnancy, it’s recommended a person absorb an extra 300 mg combined EPA and DHA per day. The recommendation for infants is 500 mg per day. This can be gradually increased annually until age 14, when an adult dosage is recommended. What dosage of supplement you take will depend on how much omega-3 fatty acids you consume in your regular diet. While some experts may not recommend supplements for fatty acids, Kilpatrick told Healthline: “Due to low intake of fatty fish consumption, as well as high intake of omega-6 fats, supplementation is often warranted in most populations.” However, she noted that there are several factors to consider. They include: Is the supplement truly needed given a person’s diet, risk factors, and health goals? Is supplementation safe for this particular individual? What dosage is needed, given a person’s circulatory levels? What type of supplement works best for this individual? Can the person’s diet be changed to increase omega-3 levels?

New cervical cancer screening guidelines endorse self-collection methods for HPV testing for average-risk individuals in clinical settings. Svetlana Repnitskaya/Getty Images New guidelines from the American Cancer Society endorse self-collection of vaginal specimens for HPV testing in clinical settings. Females must be between 25 and 65 and have an average risk to be eligible for self-collection. Changes have also been made in the exit criteria for older females. More stringent cancer screening is now required for females to cease testing. The goal is to improve screening access and reduce high cancer rates over age 65. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has updated its cervical cancer screening guidelines to endorse self-collected vaginal specimens for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, marking a major shift in U.S. screening practices. Over 90% of cervical cancer cases are caused by this virus, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Almost all cases of the disease can be prevented by HPV vaccination. The changes allow average-risk individuals ages 25 to 65 to collect their own samples in clinical settings — or, in limited cases, at home — using FDA-approved kits.  The update aims to improve screening access and equity by removing barriers for underserved populations, while also revising exit criteria to require HPV testing at ages 60 and 65 to address persistently high cancer rates in people over 65. The guidelines were published on December 4 in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, ACS’s flagship journal. This follows recent Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals of several HPV tests and collection devices for use in clinical settings, as well as one option for at-home collection. Self-collection improves cervical cancer screening rates Historically, cervical cancer screening relied on clinician-collected samples obtained during a pelvic exam, either for a Pap smear alone, HPV testing, or a combination of both.  While effective, this approach can be a barrier for those who face discomfort, limited access to care, or other obstacles to in-person screening. HPV testing using self-collected vaginal specimens has now been shown to have sensitivity and specificity comparable to clinician-collected samples when PCR-based assays are used.  Multiple studies and meta-analyses reviewed by the ACS Guideline Development Group (GDG) found high agreement between the two methods, particularly for detecting high risk HPV types linked to cervical precancer. Under the new ACS guidance, average-risk individuals may self-collect vaginal specimens for HPV testing using FDA-approved kits. These widely available kits are currently designed for use within healthcare settings under the guidance of a primary care physician or gynecologist, according to the ACS guidelines. The only FDA-approved option for at-home self-collection is currently the Teal Wand, which has limited availability and is only offered through a proprietary telehealth service. If the result is negative, repeat screening is advised in three years, which is a shorter interval than the five years recommended for clinician-collected HPV tests. The ACS refers to this as a “margin of safety” while awaiting more long-term U.S. data on self-collection performance. Approved options include: Roche cobas HPV test with FLOQSwab or Evalyn Brush BD Onclarity HPV test with FLOQSwab Abbott Alinity m with Evalyn Brush or Qvintip swab Teal Wand for at-home use with the Roche cobas HPV test (through a proprietary telehealth service) Self-collection cannot replace clinician collection for certain higher-risk groups, however, such as those with HIV, immunosuppression, prior cervical cancer, or in utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES). These patients require both HPV and cytology testing, and cytology cannot be performed on self-collected specimens. Clearer rules for cervical cancer screening The guideline update also addresses another long-standing issue: unclear and hard-to-implement criteria for exiting screening at age 65 and beyond.  About one-quarter of cervical cancers in the U.S. occur in females over 65, with mortality twice that of younger females — a problem linked to inadequate screening in the years before stopping. Previously, the ACS advised ending screening at age 65 if an individual had a documented history of adequate negative tests in the prior 10 years. In practice, this proved difficult because medical records were often incomplete, leading to missed screenings. The new recommendation takes a forward-looking approach: average-risk individuals should have negative primary HPV tests (preferred) or negative co-tests at both ages 60 and 65 before stopping screening.  If these are not available, three consecutive negative Pap tests at the recommended interval, with the last test administered at age 65, are also acceptable. For those using self-collected HPV testing, the three-year interval applies. Screening should continue past age 65 for anyone with certain risk factors, including HIV, immunosuppression, abnormal results in the past 10 years, cervical precancer in the past 25 years, or any history of cervical cancer. By adding self-collection as an evidence-based option and simplifying exit criteria, the ACS aims to make cervical cancer screening more flexible, accessible, and effective, while maintaining safety through clear follow-up protocols and risk-based decision making. What at-risk individuals need to know Ryan Kahn, MD, a gynecologic oncologist at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, said that those with an average risk for cervical cancer should begin screening at age 25 and continue until at least age 65. Kahn wasn’t affiliated with the ACS guidelines. After this, screening can be done every three to five years, depending on the test used. “Patients need to understand that they now have the option to collect their own vaginal specimen for HPV testing at home or in a clinical setting,” Kahn told Healthline, “but this requires more frequent screening than traditional clinician-collected samples.” Ryan added that while self-collection using FDA-approved devices and HPV assays is acceptable, clinician-collected cervical specimens are still preferred. “Additionally, patients should know that the criteria for stopping screening have changed — they now need negative HPV tests at both ages 60 and 65 years to safely exit screening, rather than the previous less stringent requirements,” he said. Improvements to care and access Jennifer Lincoln, MD, an author, women’s health advocate, and board certified OB-GYN, said that the ACS’s updates represent progress in cervical cancer screening, especially when it comes to reducing barriers to care. Lincoln wasn’t involved in the new guidelines. Speaking about the allowance for self-collected samples for HPV testing, she said, “This is significant because over 1 in 4 U.S. females are behind on screening, with 32% citing discomfort as a barrier.” Lincoln further noted that several groups of females, including those in rural areas, those without easy healthcare access, trauma survivors, and anyone who feels uncomfortable with speculum exams, can benefit from these changes. This is especially noteworthy, she added, because females in rural areas face higher cervical cancer mortality. “Multiple testing options also increase the likelihood that patients will actually get screened by meeting them where they are,” said Lincoln.

Cases of “winter vomiting disease,” also known as norovirus, are rising ahead of schedule this year. Alexey Kuzma/Stocksy “Winter vomiting disease” is on the rise across the United States, with norovirus cases surging since mid-October. Wastewater surveillance and CDC testing indicate that norovirus is spreading earlier and faster than usual, particularly in Louisiana, Michigan, and Indiana. The virus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, hands, and surfaces, and symptoms can appear within a short period. Preventing infection from norovirus includes proper handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, avoiding shared food or utensils, and staying home and hydrated if you become sick. Rising norovirus cases across the United States have many people wary of contracting the so-called “winter vomiting disease.” Data from WastewaterSCAN, a national monitoring program run by Stanford and Emory University, shows that norovirus levels have been rising since mid-October, with notable increases detected in Louisiana, Michigan, and Indiana. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show 153 norovirus outbreaks reported from August to mid-November. The surge is considered ahead of schedule for the season, which typically peaks from November to April. Despite this increase, norovirus outbreak trends are currently lower than last year, with 235 norovirus outbreaks reported during the same time period in 2024. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that spreads rapidly through contaminated food, water, hands, and surfaces.  With holiday travel and crowded indoor gatherings underway, conditions are ideal for the rapid transmission of this infectious disease, known to cause unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects. Here’s what you need to know about the winter surge in norovirus cases and how to protect yourself. Why are norovirus cases rising? The time of year plays a significant role in the current surge in norovirus cases.  “Norovirus usually increases during the cold months when individuals have more indoor time and are in proximity to each other at places like school or work; this allows the virus to be easily passed from individual to individual,” Blen Tesfu, MD, physician and medical advisor at Welzo, told Healthline.  Holiday travel and an increase in social gatherings can also contribute to the spread of norovirus.  “Close quarters and sharing food or being on crowded buses and trains, as well as touching so many things, create an environment that will allow Norovirus to spread before you even realise you’ve come into contact with someone who has it,” Tesfu said. Cold weather can also affect how well our immune system defends us. Lower vitamin D levels in winter and drier air can weaken natural immune barriers, making it easier for viruses like norovirus to spread. Colder temps play a part, too. “The virus survives better in cool, dry air,” Paria Sanaty Zadeh, PharmD, clinical pharmacist at Drugwatch, told Healthline.  What is norovirus?  Many people associate norovirus outbreaks with cruise ships, but the virus can also present in various other settings, including schools and nursing homes. Norovirus infection may lead to telltale symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, as the virus primarily affects the gut. “Unlike the flu, norovirus targets the gut,” Zadeh said. “It’s a viral gastroenteritis, [or] what people call a ‘stomach bug,’ even though the virus affects the small intestine more than the stomach.”  Norovirus typically has an abrupt onset, manifesting as vomiting and diarrhea, and is highly contagious. “Getting it from contaminated hands or food is most common, either touching something contaminated and then touching your mouth, or eating something contaminated,” Zadeh said. “You can get it from touching a surface that wasn’t cleaned well after someone was sick, then touching your mouth. And you only need a tiny amount of the virus to get infected. It moves and spreads easily.”  Norovirus symptoms to look out for  The incubation time for norovirus infection is fairly short. Symptoms typically begin 12–48 hours after exposure and usually develop rapidly. “Common symptoms that are easily identifiable include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea, but you may also experience other symptoms like headaches, general fatigue, slight fever, or generalised body aching,” Tesfu said. Zadeh said that vomiting and diarrhea are often the first symptoms, followed by stomach cramps, nausea, and sometimes a low grade fever within a day or two of exposure.  Most norovirus symptoms usually resolve within 1 to 3 days.  Norovirus treatment and prevention  There are several ways to protect yourself from norovirus, particularly when you are in close proximity to others.  Proper hand hygiene is the most effective way to prevent norovirus. Washing with soap and water is essential, as alcohol-based sanitizers are less effective against this virus.  It’s also a good idea to avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils, and to disinfect high-touch surfaces with a bleach-based cleaner, since norovirus can survive on surfaces for several days.  If someone in your home is sick, ensure that you wash any affected clothing and bedding on a hot cycle and handle the items carefully to prevent the spread of viral particles.  If you contract norovirus, prioritize hydration and rest. There are currently no medications that can eliminate the infection, but some over-the-counter options, such as electrolytes, can be helpful. “Drink small amounts of fluid (for example, 1–2 tablespoons) at a time, to replace what is lost in stool as well as limit the risk of vomiting when trying to drink larger volumes of liquid; drinking such small amounts may also reduce nausea symptoms,” Tesfu said. Try to rest when you feel tired and avoid activities that require physical exertion, such as work or exercise. Most people need to rest for the first 24 to 48 hours while symptoms are at their worst, and can then gradually resume normal activity as their energy returns.  Prioritizing sleep, keeping activity to a minimum, and giving your body uninterrupted downtime will help prevent dehydration and support recovery. If you experience worsening symptoms, such as severe weakness or dehydration, or have a serious preexisting medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention.

A new study found that a 4-week alternate-day fasting protocol showed significant reductions in body fat, but also muscle mass. Lumina/Stocksy Researchers report that alternate-day fasting can help reduce body mass and fat mass. However, they added that this type of eating plan can also lower a person’s muscle mass. Experts say alternate-day fasting can reduce overall calorie intake and help a person lose weight, but they emphasize that daily exercise is important under such a regimen. A type of intermittent fasting is effective in helping improve body composition, according to a new study. Researchers report that a small group of study participants who adhered to alternate-day fasting for four weeks showed significant reductions in body mass and fat mass. However, the fasting did not have a significant impact on blood pressure or blood glucose levels. The regimen also resulted in a loss of muscle mass, even for participants who took protein supplements. The researchers recently reported their findings in the journal Nutrients. Dana Hunnes, PhD, a senior clinical dietitian at UCLA Health in Los Angeles, said the results of the study were not surprising. “A calorie deficit will [almost] always result in weight loss and frequently in muscle loss as well. It is not at all surprising to me that in this study, this occurred,” she told Healthline. Hunnes wasn’t involved in the study. Mir Ali, MD, a general surgeon, bariatric surgeon, and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in California, said the study demonstrated the nuances of weight loss programs. “Alternate-day fasting is a viable weight loss strategy,” Ali, who wasn’t involved in the study, told Healthline. “However, like all weight loss methods, the effectiveness and feasibility will vary greatly.” Effects of alternate-day fasting on weight loss To reach their findings, the researchers set up two study groups. The first contingent consisted of 20 Asian males, ages 21 to 35. The subjects all had a body mass index (BMI) greater than 23. They also didn’t smoke, use tobacco, take any long-term medications, or have a health condition that could be exacerbated by fasting. These participants, who were studied in February and March 2017, were assigned to a four-week alternate-day fasting protocol. They fasted every other day, drinking only water or zero-calorie beverages while consuming one small meal of 400 to 600 calories. On non-fasting days, they were allowed to eat and drink what they chose. A second contingent, which was studied from January 2018 to March 2018, consisted of 26 Asian males with similar characteristics to the first group. They participated in the same alternate-day fasting regimen. However, some subjects in the second group were given a 25-gram whey protein supplement on the days they fasted to determine if this extra protein would help reduce muscle mass loss. The researchers combined the results of the two groups for their analysis. During the follow-up period, nine participants were excluded for various reasons. That left researchers with a total of 37 subjects with an average age of 25 and an average BMI of 26. The researchers reported that 35 of the 37 participants showed reductions in body mass by an average of 2.4 kilograms. In addition, 33 participants exhibited losses in fat mass by an average of 1.6 kilograms. However, 28 participants also showed a decline in muscle mass, averaging 0.8 kilograms. The researchers stated that the ingestion of whey protein did not prevent muscle mass loss in the subjects who took the supplement. Researchers also reported little change in blood pressure and blood glucose readings. They also noted that physical activity levels declined during the second and third weeks. Ali said the results revealed the effectiveness of fasting for weight loss, as well as its implications for muscle mass. “This study showed that alternate-day fasting is helpful for weight loss, but there is more to preserving muscle mass then just protein intake,” he said. “In order to preserve muscle, adequate protein intake is important, but also regular exercise. A combination of both resistance and aerobic exercise on a consistent basis will help minimize muscle loss.” Hunnes agreed with this assessment. “It is not surprising to me that 25 grams of protein on fasting days did not attenuate the muscle loss since in a calorie deficit, it honestly doesn’t matter if you’re consuming protein, because you’re still at an overall energy deficit and the weight loss comes from all areas of the body, including muscle,” she explained. What to know about the different types of fasting Alternate-day fasting is a type of intermittent fasting (IF). The basic format is you fast every other day and then eat whatever you want on the other days. A modified version of this plan allows for 500 calories on fasting days. Some experts have said that alternate-day fasting can be easier for people to follow. However, a 2017 study concluded that alternate-day fasting wasn’t superior to calorie-restriction diet plans. Nonetheless, that study also reported that alternate-day fasting plans can help a person lose 3–7% of their body weight after 2- to 3-month alternate-day fasting periods. A 2019 study indicated that alternate-day fasting can help reduce insulin levels and therefore lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Intermittent fasting is slightly different than alternate-day fasting. In intermittent fasting, a person restricts their eating to certain parts of the day. A common pattern is to have an 8-hour eating window with 16 hours of fasting. There is also an “eat-stop-rest” version in which a person fasts for one day once or twice a week and eats normally on other days. There is also a 5:2 diet where a person consumes 500 to 600 calories on two nonconsecutive days of the week but eats as usual the other five days. Some early research has shown that intermittent fasting can help with weight loss, insulin resistance, inflammation reduction, and brain health. A 2025 study concluded that intermittent fasting can be as effective as daily calorie restriction in terms of weight loss. Another 2025 study reported that intermittent fasting does not appear to impair mental performance during the periods when a person isn’t eating. Intermittent fasting is not recommended for people who have diabetes, problems with blood sugar regulation, low blood pressure, or a history of eating disorders. It’s also not recommended for people who are underweight. There is conflicting research on whether intermittent fasting increases or decreasing the risk of heart disease. Hunnes has some cautions for people contemplating an intermittent fasting plan. “In the long term, it does not seem very sustainable as you’re walking or sitting around hungry every other day,” she said. “In fact, this might actually (in uncontrolled environments) lead to binge-eating and/or overcompensation on eating days, depending on the individual.” “For many people, engaging in physical activity and a mild calorie-deficit, leading to slow but steady weight loss, is often far more sustainable in the long term than this type of fasting dieting,” Hunnes added. How to manage an alternate-day fasting protocol If you want to try an alternate-day fasting routine, there are some suggestions on how to manage it effectively. For starters, try to consume the allowed 500 calories at one meal with a focus on nutritious, high protein foods and low-calorie vegetables. Suggested foods include soup eggs vegetables yogurt with berries grilled fish lean meat salad “The main concern is that patients maintain good hydration and adequate nutrition during the fasting period,” Ali said. He added it’s best to ease into an intermittent fasting program and also make sure to get regular exercise and adequate sleep. “I advise people to first consult their physician to make sure they do not have any medical issues that may make fasting for periods of time problematic for them,” Ali said.  “Next, start gradually and then increase the interval of the fasting period to allow the body and mind to adapt to this way of eating. Nutritional intake should emphasize primarily protein and vegetables and minimize carbohydrates and sugars to maximize fat loss. Finally, regular consistent exercise (5 days/week, 30 minutes/day) combining both aerobic and resistance exercises is important to preserve muscle,” Ali concluded.

According to the latest research, plant-based diets may help prevent a range of chronic conditions, including diabetes. Image credit: Monica Bertolazzi/Getty Images Research shows there are various benefits associated with following a plant-based diet.  Studies have shown that a plant-based diet may be better for preventing diabetes than a low carb diet.  A 30-year study published in 2024 notes that a diet with a higher ratio of plant to animal protein may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A 2025 study found that a plant-based diet may have the same nutritional quality as a Mediterranean-style omnivorous diet pattern. A plant-based diet means that your meals consist mostly of plants, such as:  vegetables fruits whole grains beans nuts and seeds. While both vegetarian and vegan diets are types of plant-based diets, you do not have to fully cut out meat. You may still include meat in your diet, it just typically is not the main feature of meals.  Healthy plant-based diets center fresh, whole foods, and do not to replace meat with highly processed meat substitutes. For a healthy plant-based diet, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends choosing high-quality, nutrient-dense plant-based foods.  Over the years, many studies have suggested that a plant-based diet can benefit health in various ways. Here are some of the recent study findings and expert insights on the benefits of a plant-based diet and how it compares to a Mediterranean diet, another contender for the “top healthiest diet” title. Diabetes prevention: Is plant-based or low-carb better? In October 2025, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult conducted a poll and found that 65% of adults in the United States would consider adopting a plant-based, low-fat diet if their doctor recommended it.  Many people are aware that eating more fruits and vegetables may help lower the risk of diabetes. However, only one in five respondents to the poll recognized the connection between a plant-based diet and the prevention or reversal of type 2 diabetes.  The research cited by the Physicians Committee notes that a low carb diet that is based in animal products may be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.  One paper they cited referred to a 22-week study, where 99 participants followed either the standard recommended diet by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) or a low-fat vegan diet with no calorie or unprocessed carbohydrate limits. The results of this study showed that only 26% of the ADA diet group were able to reduce or discontinue their diabetes medications, compared with 43% of the vegan diet group.  Dawn Menning, MS, RD, CDCES, a registered dietitian and a certified diabetes care and education specialist with Nutu, a healthy lifestyle app, recommends starting slowly by trying Meatless Monday each week to introduce more plant-based foods into your diet. Then you can begin to gradually add more days.  “Search for vegetarian recipes that are easy to prepare and sound appealing to you and others in your household,” Menning said. “Gradually shift away from animal foods and make plants the star of the meal.” Plant-based diet can help cut cardiovascular disease risk Research has shown that a higher ratio of plant to animal protein may be beneficial for cardiovascular health.  A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2024 found that people who ate the highest percentage of plant-based protein to animal protein had a 19% lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and a 27% lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) when compared to people who ate the lowest rate of plant-based protein to animal protein.  Andrea Glenn, RD, PhD, lead author of the study and a visiting scientist in the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, said in a press statement: “The average American eats a 1:3 plant-to-animal protein ratio. Our findings suggest a ratio of at least 1:2 is much more effective in preventing CVD. For CHD prevention, a ratio of 1:1.3 or higher should come from plants.” The study authors noted that the reduction in risk of these conditions may be due at least in part to replacing red or processed meat with plant-based proteins, such as nuts and legumes. These proteins are often associated with higher amounts of fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. They may also help improve cardiometabolic risk factors, such as inflammatory biomarkers, blood lipids, and blood pressure.  Plant-based diet vs Mediterranean diet: Is there a ‘winner’? A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition in November 2025 suggests that a plant-based diet can offer similar nutritional benefits to those of a Mediterranean diet. The findings also suggest that a plant-based diet may help reduce your environmental footprint.  The researchers who conducted the study note that choosing a plant-based diet should be done strategically in order to make sure you are still getting enough of key nutrients.  For this research, the authors — from the University of Granada and the Spanish National Research Council — used four different week-long menus. Each provided about 2,000 calories a day. These included:  Mediterranean omnivorous diet pesco-vegetarian diet (which includes fish) lacto-ovo–vegetarian diet (with eggs and dairy) fully vegan diet. They found that a carefully designed plant-based diet can meet most of the same nutritional targets as a typical Mediterranean-style omnivorous diet.  Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian and founder of Entirely Nourished, who was not involved in the study, said that it’s essential to examine your overall diet and lifestyle comprehensively to address potential nutritional gaps.  She told Heathline, that: “Careful planning is important to identify alternative sources that provide the key nutrients found in the foods they avoid. Working with a registered dietitian can make this process easier and more reliable, so you can confidently maintain nutritional adequacy while aligning with your dietary choices.” It’s important to keep in mind, however, that this was a modeling study, not a trial involving real people. That means the results show what could work under ideal conditions, not necessarily what will happen in everyday life. Factors such as cost, taste preferences, cooking skills, and access to fortified foods can influence these eating plans. However, the findings provide encouraging evidence for those considering a shift toward a plant-based diet. With some planning, it’s possible to maintain good nutrition while also making choices that may benefit the planet. The key takeaway is that you do not have to go fully plant-based to make a difference. You can make small changes that incorporate more plant-based meals that can help you maintain optimal nutrition and still reduce your carbon footprint.

Doctors are raising concerns that the move to delay the hepatitis B shot for newborns upends decades of vaccination policy without evidence and will likely increase risks of chronic conditions for children. San Francisco Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers/Getty Images A CDC advisory committee voted today to alter the hepatitis B childhood vaccine schedule. The vote has upended more than 3 decades of vaccination policy in the United States. Experts claim that the change is not based on scientific evidence and will result in more cases of hepatitis B and downstream effects, including cancer and cirrhosis. A vaccine advisory group to the CDC voted today, in an unprecedented move, to alter the childhood vaccine schedule for hepatitis B. The vote is contrary to evidence that the vaccine is both safe and highly effective, experts say, and would potentially upend decades of progress in eliminating a highly contagious and incurable infection. The vote, initially planned for an ACIP meeting in September, was tabled at that time. It was again delayed on Thursday after committee members stated that they had not been given sufficient time to review the changes made to the language in the recommendation. “I consider that this fourth iteration of votes in 96 hours is still incredibly problematic,” said ACIP member Dr. Joseph Hibbeln, as reported by CNN. “We really need to know what we’re voting on,” a voice could be heard saying over the livestream on Thursday, in a meeting apparently fraught with confusion. On Friday, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted 8-3 to no longer recommend universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns, reversing its stance on the at-birth hepatitis B vaccine, which had been recommended since 1991. No new evidence, such as updated safety data, was presented to support the decision. No other country in the world with an established birth dose has ever retreated from that recommendation. America is now the first. “There’s no scientific rationale for this,” said Jake Scott, MD, clinical associate professor of infectious diseases at Stanford Medicine. “They are taking away the safety net, guaranteeing that more babies will become chronically infected, and years later, some will die of liver disease that could have been prevented. John Schieffelin, MD, associate professor of pediatrics and section chief of pediatric infectious disease at Tulane University School of Medicine, said the decision “undermines the community’s trust in the scientific process.” “It was based on a misunderstanding or a misrepresentation of all the science that’s been put in for over 30 years on how safe this vaccine is and how effective it is giving this dose within the first 24 hours of life,” he said. Hepatitis B is a viral infection transmitted through bodily fluids that is incurable. It is the leading cause of liver cancer worldwide. In the United States, up to 2.4 million people are estimated to have hepatitis B, but only half are aware of their infection. Perinatal transmission from mother to infant, which can occur at or around birth, is a major driver of hepatitis B, resulting in up to 50% of all cases, by some estimates. About 90% of newborns infected perinatally will develop a chronic infection, and one in four will die prematurely from liver disease, including cirrhosis and cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). A universal birth dose has been one of the great success stories of American public health, William Schaffner, MD, a professor of preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University, told Healthline. “That program has been extraordinarily successful. The success of this program has been beyond what we could’ve imagined at the time.  It essentially eliminated infant, childhood, and adolescent acute hepatitis B,” he said. Schaffner laments that the vote “is turning back the clock to the bad old days.” In the US, hepatitis B cases have fallen by 99% since 1991, when the birth dose was implemented. The vaccine is a three-shot series, with the first dose administered at birth, the second 1-2 months later, and the third between 6 and 18 months of age. The ACIP vote represents a marked shift toward embracing the vaccine skepticism of HHS Secretary RFK Jr., who has consistently and publicly cast doubt on the safety of childhood vaccinations. However, it is not surprising. In June, Kennedy fired all 17 members of ACIP and subsequently hand-picked new members, many of whom have espoused distrust in vaccinations. Public health and infectious disease experts have expressed concerns that the new recommendations will undermine trust in childhood vaccines and create gaps in immunity that will allow for the recurrence of preventable diseases.  “Any alteration, especially delaying of vaccination, really increases the risk that we’re going to see more Hepatitis B infections in children,” said Schieffelin. What the new recommendations say The new ACIP recommendation incorporates language consistent with its shared clinical decision-making framework for vaccinations. The new recommendation states: “For infants born to HBsAg-negative women: ACIP recommends individual-based decision making, in consultation with a health care provider, for parents deciding when or if to give the HBV vaccine, including the birth dose. Parents and health care providers should consider vaccine benefits, vaccine risks, and infection risks. For those not receiving the HBV birth dose, it is suggested that the initial dose is administered no earlier than 2 months of age.” Dr. Cody Meissner, one of the three ACIP members who voted “no,” stated, “We are doing harm by changing the wording.”  The committee also voted in favor (6 yes, 4 no, 1 abstention) of recommending that parents consider using blood tests to check infants’ immunity to hepatitis B before deciding whether additional shots are needed. The recommendations are not yet official, as the CDC director must approve them before they become policy. Questions about vaccine safety  The universal hepatitis B vaccination at birth is considered both safe and effective for infants, even when given within the recommended window of 24 hours after birth.  In the days leading up to the ACIP meeting, the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) issued a comprehensive review of the vaccine as part of its Vaccine Integrity Project. The review found that the at birth hepatitis B vaccine “has consistently been demonstrated to be safe” based on consistent, far-reaching evidence from randomized controlled trials, large cohort studies, and safety monitoring systems. Short-term reactions such as localized redness, swelling, and low grade fever have been reported, but not any increased incidence of vaccine-related serious adverse effects. Furthermore, it found no increased risk of adverse events in infants administered the vaccine at birth compared to those receiving a delayed shot. And what about those niggling concerns about thimerosal in childhood vaccines? They just aren’t used anymore. All routinely recommended vaccines for US children ages 6 and younger are available in formulations without thimerosal. Hepatitis B vaccines containing thimerosal were recommended for removal from the market in 1999, following an FDA review. Notably, that review found “no evidence of harm” besides localized reactions.  Thimerosal was removed from childhood vaccines in 2001. Current hepatitis B vaccines do contain small amounts of aluminum, which is added to boost the immune response. Why hepatitis B testing alone hasn’t worked Proponents for the change in recommendation claim that a birth dose is unnecessary, arguing that it is predominantly spread through sexual activity and drug use. While it is true that the virus can be spread this way, the argument doesn’t sufficiently address perinatal infection. “They underestimate the importance of mother-to-infant transmission,” Schaffner said. In fact, perinatal transmission is the most common way the disease is spread worldwide, with an estimated 50% of cases acquired perinatally or in early childhood. Under RFK Jr., administration officials have pushed for increased hepatitis B screening initiatives for pregnant women, which would support a selective approach to vaccination. The strategy would shift away from universal vaccination to a model in which only high risk infants, such as those born to mothers who are injection drug users or with confirmed hepatitis B. But screening alone is insufficient, according to experts. “We tried that before 1991, and it did not work. Yes, it reduced neonatal transmission a little, but not comprehensively,” said Schaffner. The CIDRAP review came to the same conclusion. After attempting different screening and prevention strategies throughout the 1980s, ACIP eventually settled on the universal model that has existed for more than thirty years. A return to a selective approach through screening alone is fraught with risk and logistical hurdles. “This selective vaccination system sounds sensible, right? But the data are very clear: there are a lot of missed cases,” Scott said. Barriers to an effective and comprehensive screening strategy are diverse, according to Schaffner. Some women simply don’t get tested. Some may get tested early during pregnancy, but not later on, so if an infection occurs after the initial test it can be transmitted. Tests may also produce false negatives.  There may also simply be a disconnect — lost records or miscommunication — between the facility that does the testing and where the mother gives birth. “There is a whole series of very practical, down-to-earth reasons that indicate that if you are really interested in having mother to infant transmission be zero, or as close to it as we can get, you can’t do it on an individual basis,” Schaffner said.

A nationwide recall of shredded cheese products that may contain metal fragments raises concern over the possible risks of intestinal injury or illness. Luciano Spinelli/Stocksy The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall for over 1 million bags of shredded cheese due to the possible presence of metal particles or Listeria.  The recalled products were sold at national retailers, including Walmart, Aldi, Publix, Target, and Ambriola, among others.  The recall affects 64 different cheese products and spans 32 states and regions. The Food and Drug Administration issued an active recall for over 1.5 million bags of shredded cheese products due to the potential presence of metal fragments or Listeria contamination. On December 1, the FDA elevated the recall to a Class II, meaning “a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.” The cheeses affected by the recall may have metal fragments from the suppliers’ raw materials. This may pose a risk of intestinal injury or illness to consumers; however, no illnesses or deaths have been reported to date. According to the FDA, the shredded cheese products were distributed to major retail stores, including Walmart, Aldi, Publix, and Target, as well as other distributors, between November 3 and 20. Great Lakes Cheese issued a recall of roughly half a dozen types of shredded cheeses in early October due to the possibility of containing metal fragments. The Ambriola Company announced a recall on November 25 for some of its products after routine testing confirmed the presence of Listeria, which can lead to potentially life threatening infections. “We take food safety very seriously and immediately alerted stores and distributors to remove the affected products from shelves,” Ambriola CEO Phil Marfuggi said in a statement. “We are working closely with the FDA and continuing to test our products and facilities to fully understand the situation.” Healthline reached out to various retailers, such as Walmart, Aldi, and Target, but the companies couldn’t be reached for comment.  All affected products can be identified by the UPC and batch code. If you have any shredded cheese that matches this information, it’s recommended that you either dispose of it or return it to the retailer where you purchased it for a potential refund.  Which shredded cheese products are being recalled? The following is a list of the 64 products that are affected by this recall:  Always Save Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Borden Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Borden Thick Cut Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Brookshire’s Finely Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Brookshire’s Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese  Brookshire’s Thick Cut Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Brookshire’s Italian Six-Cheese Finely Shredded Cache Valley Creamery Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Cache Valley Creamery Six-Cheese Italian Finely Shredded Chestnut Hill Fancy Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Coburn Farms Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese  Coburn Farms Italian-Style Finely Shredded Econo Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Econo Pizza Shredded Food Club Finely Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Food Club Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Food Club Finely Shredded Pizza Style Four Cheese Blend Food Club Pizza Style Two Cheese Blend Finely Shredded Food Club Pizza Style Two Cheese Blend Shredded Food Lion Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Freedom’s Choice Pizza Blend Fine-Cut Gold Rush Creamery Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Gold Rush Creamery Pizza Blend Shredded Good & Gather Fine Cut Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Good & Gather Classic Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Good & Gather Mozzarella & Provolone Classic Good & Gather Mozzarella & Parmesan Shredded Cheese Blend Great Lakes Cheese Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Great Lakes Cheese Finely Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Great Lakes Cheese Mozzarella & Provolone Shredded Great Value Italian Style Finely Shredded Great Value Pizza Blend Shredded Great Value Provolone & Mozzarella Blend Shredded Happy Farms by Aldi Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Happy Farms by Aldi Italian-Style Shredded Cheese H-E-B Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese H-E-B Thick Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese H-E-B Shredded/Fancy Finamente Rallado Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Hill Country Fare Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Know & Love Fine Cut Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Know & Love Classic Cut Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Know & Love Thick Cut Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Know & Love Italian Style Fine Cut Laura Lynn Finely Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Laura Lynn Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Laura Lynn Thick Cut Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Laura Lynn Italian Blend Finely Shredded Laura Lynn Pizza Blend Finely Shredded Lucerne Dairy Farms Finely Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Lucerne Dairy Farms Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Lucerne Dairy Farms Rustic Cut Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Nu Farm Fancy Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Publix Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Publix Italian Six Cheese Blend Fancy Shredded Schuck’s Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Simply Go Classic Cut Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Simply Go Rustic Cut Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Simply Go Italian Style Six Cheese Blend Fine Cut Shredded Simply Go Pizza Blend Two Cheese Mix Classic Cut Shredded Sprouts Farmers Market Finely Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Sprouts Farmers Market Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Stater Bros. Markets Finely Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Stater Bros. Markets Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese Sunnyside Farms Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese These products were sold in the following states and regions:  Alabama Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Nebraska Nevada New Mexico New York North Carolina Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Puerto Rico South Carolina Tennessee Texas Utah Virgina Washington Wisconsin Dangers of ingesting metal particles According to the FDA, metal fragments or particles in food can cause injury when ingested. This may include dental damage, lacerations of the mouth or throat, or lacerations or perforation of the intestine.  Michelle Routhenstein, a cardiology dietitian and registered nutritionist with Entirely Nourished, echoed the FDA’s warnings. “Ingesting metal particles can cause immediate physical injury,” she told Healthline. “Larger or sharp fragments may chip teeth, damage dental work, or cut the mouth, throat, esophagus, or gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing pain, bleeding, infection, or even a perforation.” What to know about Listeria Some of the cheese products impacted by the recall may be contaminated with Listeria. Listeria symptoms are generally mild. However, some people with an intestinal illness may develop an invasive form of the disease. This means the infection spreads beyond the gut to other parts of the body. Symptoms of a listeria infection (listeriosis) in the intestine include: diarrhea vomiting If the infection becomes invasive, symptoms may include: fever flu-like symptoms headache stiff neck confusion loss of balance seizures You should speak with a healthcare professional if both of the following apply to you: You have ingested food that has been recalled or linked to an outbreak. You are experiencing fever or other symptoms of listeria infection. Let the healthcare professional know if you have possibly eaten contaminated food. This is especially important if you are pregnant, over 65 years old, or have a weakened immune system. What to do if you purchased recalled cheese? If you have recently purchased shredded cheese products, check if your product has been recalled. If it has, avoid consuming any recalled items and follow the disposal or return instructions.  Routhenstein noted that if you have already consumed the cheese products, the risk from a single small fragment is fairly low. However, you should seek urgent medical attention if you experience sudden, sharp pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, or severe abdominal pain.

The risk of “scromiting” increases with chronic cannabis use, especially daily use. Maskot/Getty Images A vomiting disorder linked to chronic cannabis use, known colloquially as “scromiting,” is rising sharply across the United States. A new national analysis reveals that cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) cases increased fivefold from 2016 to 2022, particularly among young adults. The trend raises urgent questions for patients and caregivers about recognizing early symptoms and reducing risk as cannabis use becomes more common. A serious vomiting disorder associated with chronic cannabis use is on the rise across the United States. In a large, retrospective analysis of emergency department visits, researchers found that cases of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) rose dramatically between 2016 and 2022, peaking during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings were recently published in JAMA Network Open.  CHS is a form of cannabis-induced cyclical vomiting characterized by nausea, abdominal pain, and bouts of recurrent vomiting that can last hours or even days. The disorder has earned the graphic nickname “scromiting,” a portmanteau of “screaming” and “vomiting.” The disorder is also frequently linked to excessive hot bathing and showering, which reportedly eases the symptoms. The risk of CHS diagnosis increases with chronic cannabis use, especially daily use.  Although CHS is uncommon, it appears to be becoming more frequent as cannabis legalization expands in the US. Greater access to cannabis products, an ever-expanding variety of products, and higher-potency all likely play a role. However, experts note that the exact cause of CHS remains unclear. CHS was first documented in Australia in 2004, but has largely remained something of a fringe diagnosis over the past twenty years. Due to this status, its true prevalence is still largely unknown, with the syndrome likely being misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. James A. Swartz, PhD, a professor and interim associate dean for research at the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago, and the study’s primary investigator, has been studying the effects of cannabis legalization in Illinois for several years and became interested in CHS after seeing reports of mysterious, uncontrollable vomiting linked to cannabis use. “We wanted to determine how common this is and whether it was changing over time,” he told Healthline. “AND We found that it sharply increased during the COVID epidemic and has declined some since then, but it has remained well elevated above COVID levels.” Sharp increase in cannabis induced vomiting cases The study used a nationally representative sample of emergency department data, analyzing more than 188 million visits and capturing roughly 85% of all U.S. emergency department visits. Since CHS did not have its own ICD code, a system for classifying diseases and symptoms, at that time (it was only granted its own code in 2025), Swartz had to utilize a proxy diagnosis by combining a simultaneous cannabis use disorder (CUD) with cyclical vomiting. “We tried to be as careful as possible to divide out people who likely had CHS from other people who probably didn’t because there was no cannabis use reflected in any of the diagnoses in their record, but they had cyclic vomiting,” Swartz said. Using this proxy definition, the study identified rising rates of CHS in emergency departments, with cases climbing from 4.4 per 100,000 visits in 2016 to 22.3 per 100,000 visits in 2022. Rates of CHS peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 at 33.1 per 100,000 visits, before declining. Swartz told Healthline that the CHS spike during the pandemic is in line with other trends, including increased alcohol use disorder (AUD) and drug overdoses during that time. CHS has predominantly affected young adults between the ages of 18 and 25, with those individuals 3.5 fold more likely to receive a CHS diagnosis than older adults.  “We’ve seen in Illinois that this group has been most affected by legalization in terms of increased use and greater frequency of use. So, it makes sense to me that they would also be the group that would show up as being the most affected in terms of CHS,” Swartz said.  Notably, CHS cases increased while cases of cyclical vomiting declined, suggesting that the CHS reflects cannabis-specific symptoms rather than a general rise in vomiting disorders. One major caveat of the study however is that it does not answer the questions of whether there are in fact more cases of CHS or if healthcare providers have simply gotten better at identifying it. “Either there’s an actual increase in the number of people experiencing this disorder, or there’s just a growing recognition of it,” Swartz said. “I think it’s probably a little bit of both, but we won’t really know that until there are more detailed studies.” How to identify, treat cannabis induced vomiting Before developing CHS, users typically experience what’s known as the prodromal phase, which can last months or even years. During this phase, the user may experience increased nausea, abdominal discomfort, and fear of vomiting, though vomiting itself is absent. “If you are starting to experience more nausea, if it’s becoming more frequent or noticeable, that’s a flashing warning sign that maybe they need to cut back a bit on the cannabis use,” Swartz said. CHS is fully developed in the next phase, known as the hyperemetic phase. At this point, the individual experiences the full range of CHS symptoms, including: recurring bouts of nausea and vomiting compulsive bathing with hot water (to ease symptoms) weight loss abdominal pain While there are ways to treat symptoms of CHS in the short term, the only true cure is to stop using marijuana completely. In an accompanying editorial, Michael Gottlieb, MD, vice chair of research and professor of emergency medicine at Rush University Medical Center, calls quitting marijuana “the cornerstone” of prevention. “We wanted to inform readers, including those who see patients with CHS and those who are experiencing or are at risk for CHS, that reducing or completely stopping use of cannabis is the best option to prevent it before it occurs,” Gottlieb told Healthline. It is unclear if anything less than full cessation of cannabis will prevent a recurrence of CHS. “If a person has developed CHS and they go back to even moderate use, will it recur? I don’t know the answer to that. I don’t know if that’s ever been studied,” Swartz said. “Certainly, if you don’t want to experience CHS again, the safest way is to not use cannabis again.” For individuals who regularly use cannabis but want to cut down their risk, Sherry Yafai, MD, an emergency medicine physician and medical director and founder of The ReLeaf Institute, recommended avoiding high-potency products as a place to start. “Avoid wax, dab, and shatter. Be aware of how much THC is in the product you are using,” Yafai told Healthline. “Most people don’t need more than [around] 25% in a smoked product. Decrease the potency of THC and/or decrease your total daily intake of THC,” she said. Taking a break, especially if nausea or other notable symptoms have begun to appear, is also advisable. “If you’re starting to experience those warning signs, do an easy self-test and cut back to see if the nausea remits some,” Swartz said.

The WHO recommended GLP-1s as a treatment for obesity alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise. Milles Team/Stocksy New guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend using GLP-1 medications to help manage obesity. The agency said the weight-loss drugs should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Experts say the official recommendation reemphasizes the game-changing ability of GLP-1 medications, but stress that diet and exercise are integral to an effective treatment plan for obesity. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the use of GLP-1 medications as part of treatment programs to help people manage obesity. In a new guideline published in JAMA, WHO officials said that these weight loss drugs can be part of long-term treatment programs that also include counseling on healthy diets and regular exercise. “Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease affecting over 1 billion people worldwide, driving substantial morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Glucagon-like peptide-1 therapies (GLP-1 therapies) provide clinically meaningful weight loss and broad metabolic benefits,” the WHO officials wrote. WHO encouraged countries to develop comprehensive programs that tackle the obesity crisis in a multi-factorial way. “Medication alone cannot solve the global obesity burden. The availability of GLP-1 therapies should galvanize the global community to build a fair, integrated, and sustainable obesity ecosystem,” the officials wrote. In September, the organization added GLP-1 drugs to its list of essential medications for diabetes treatment. In previous recommendations on obesity treatment, WHO officials had focused on only diet and exercise. The agency’s new guidelines are “conditional,” meaning the benefits likely outweigh the downsides. WHO officials emphasized the need for more long-term data on the drugs’ safety and efficacy, as well as lower prices to facilitate broader access. Obesity recognized as a global health concern Mir Ali, MD, a general surgeon, bariatric surgeon, and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in California, said that the new guidelines send a strong message. “The WHO announcement is important as it is recognizing obesity as a worldwide health concern and addressing it as a chronic disease with treatment options that include medications,” Ali told Healthline. “The hopes are that this announcement may spur pharmaceutical companies to make this drug less expensive and available to a larger patient population.” Kristin Kirkpatrick, the president of KAK Consulting LLC and a dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic Department of Wellness & Preventive Medicine in Ohio, said the WHO guidelines bring a noted change in the approach to weight management. “This marks a shift in suggesting that diet/exercise alone is appropriate for everyone who is attempting to lose weight,” she told Healthline. “It recognizes that medication and, in this case, a GLP-1 (alongside dietary and other lifestyle changes) can be a more sustainable solution.” Anil Makam, MD, an associate professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, agreed that GLP-1 drugs are game changers. “GLP-1 medications are the first truly effective class of drugs we’ve ever had to treat obesity,” he told Healthline. However, Makam said the WHO guidelines may have actually undersold the benefits of these weight loss drugs. “Clinical trials show GLP-1s produce powerful and consistent weight loss and major improvements in obesity-related illnesses — especially for people at high cardiovascular risk,” he said. “That evidence is strong, not ‘conditional.’” However, Dan Azagury, MD, an associate professor of surgery at Stanford University in California, said the guidelines are useful but not earth-shattering. “Any WHO guideline is important, in particular internationally, and this one is a welcome and important one,” he told Healthline. “That being said, the recommendation itself does not introduce any groundbreaking or substantial new information.” David Cutler, MD, a family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, said he feels the most important emphasis from the guidelines is not necessarily the GLP-1 medications. “The most important thing is it sends a message about obesity and its harmful effects on health,” Cutler told Healthline. Access, cost remain barriers to obesity treatment Kirkpatrick says there is no question that GLP-1 drugs can help some people manage their weight. “These drugs are shown to help in reduction of food intake, modification of cravings that may lead to healthier food choices (less sugar, less ultra-processed foods, less alcohol), and what my patients tell me – ‘quieting the food noise,’” she said. Experts, however, say cost and lack of access to these medications are also important topics. “High costs, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints remain major barriers to universal access to GLP-1 therapies,” said Azagury. “Access to treatment is a significant challenge for patients in many countries, constituting the primary obstacle to delivering high-quality care for this underserved condition.” Ali agreed. “Many challenges remain, especially in developing countries where access to care can be even more difficult. Cost, availability, access to counseling and other treatments are still hurdles to overcome,” he said. Makam added that access is a key issue, but he says the potential is enormous if the drugs become more available. “If these medications become affordable and widely available, they can meaningfully reduce obesity rates,” he said. “We’re already seeing obesity rates decline in the U.S. for the first time in decades. These drugs are that effective — if access and cost barriers come down.” What to know about GLP-1 drugs There are two types of medications among the newer GLP-1 drugs. One type is medications that contain the active ingredient tirzepatide. These include drugs with the brand names Mounjaro and Zepbound. The other type is medications that contain the active ingredient semaglutide. These include drugs with the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy. They all work by mimicking a hormone that sends fullness signals to the brain. Makam said he believes WHO officials made a mistake when they lumped all GLP-1 drugs together in their guidance. “They treated all GLP-1 medications as the same. They’re not. Dual-action drugs like tirzepatide are clearly the most effective — and, yes, also the most expensive. Grouping all GLP-1s together blurs an important difference for policymakers,” he said. Research has shown that the weight loss achieved with these medications, combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, can result in a range of health benefits. A 2023 study reported that GLP-1 drugs may help reduce cancer risks. An August study reported that the weight loss medications can reduce the risk of hospitalization as well as early death in people with a common type of heart failure. Other recent research suggests that GLP-1s could potentially be used to even treat addiction and curb alcohol use. Health dangers from obesity The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 40% of adults in the United States can be classified as obese. The CDC states that obesity is a “chronic condition that increases the risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.” Obesity is also associated with higher risks of elevated blood pressure, sleep apnea, liver disease, gallbladder disease, pregnancy complications, and depression. One of the primary causes of obesity is an unhealthy diet, specifically consuming more calories than the body burns. Other factors include: genetics lack of sleep stress older age In addition, ultra-processed foods have been linked to the rise in obesity prevalence. Expert advice on weight loss Makam said the foundation of any weight loss program should be a balanced diet with a heavy emphasis on plant-based foods and smaller portions. He added that weight-loss drugs can only do so much. “For people with morbid obesity, GLP-1 medications can be transformative,” he said. “But it’s crucial to know that the weight often comes back when you stop. These medications work with slow and careful dosing adjustments, but they require long-term use.” Cutler noted that although GLP-1 drugs are “the safest and most effective medications available” to treat obesity, they do come with side effects. He said it’s better for people to try to lose weight through diet and exercise and only utilize the medications if those efforts don’t succeed. “You should try to do it without medications and if you can’t do it, then try the medications,” Cutler said. “Losing weight through diet and exercise isn’t easy. It takes some work and it takes some time.” Azagury added that professional help is another important ingredient. “Treatments exist, and multidisciplinary longitudinal care is essential for managing a lifelong chronic condition,” he said. “Being treated in a center that offers multimodal therapy —including behavioral and nutritional therapy, medications, and surgery — is the best way for patients to receive the comprehensive support they need.” Kirkpatrick agreed. “Working with someone can ensure that you are going beyond just taking the drug and working on your dietary pattern, supplements, exercise, etc., as well as monitoring dose and any associated risk factors,” she said. “I tell patients, whether they are having surgical weight loss, medications, counseling or a combination of these therapies, these are all tools to help someone change to a healthier diet and lifestyle,” added Ali. “It does require effort and compliance on the part of the patient. If the patient does not follow diet and lifestyle recommendations, long-term success is typically much lower.” Learn more about how to get GLP-1 medications from vetted and trusted online sources here: Where to Buy Zepbound Online Where to Buy Ozempic Online Where to Buy Ozempic Online How to Get Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Where to Buy Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Online How to Get Wegovy for Weight Loss In Person and Online How to Get a Wegovy Prescription Online How to Get Zepbound: What We Know So Far

New research suggests that stopping GLP-1 drugs before pregnancy is linked to complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Tatsiana Volkava/Getty Images A recent study suggests that stopping GLP-1s before pregnancy may be linked to higher rates of complications and excessive gestational weight gain. Experts caution that the findings don’t necessarily prove causation and that underlying obesity and metabolic conditions are likely contributing factors. GLP-1 medications prescribed for weight loss are not recommended during pregnancy. Experts advise focusing on balanced nutrition, gentle physical activity, and other strategies to support healthy pregnancy weight gain.  New research has found that using GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic before pregnancy could influence certain pregnancy outcomes. However, more research is needed.  A recent study published in JAMA reviewed several hundred singleton pregnancies delivered within the Mass General Brigham system from 2016 to 2025.  Within that group, researchers identified roughly 450 pregnancies in which the parent had used a GLP-1 medication at some point between the three years leading up to conception and the first 90 days afterward.  About half of the female participants had their last GLP-1 medication order within six months of conceiving, around one-third had their last order earlier than that, and about 17 percent had their last GLP-1 medication order beyond conception. On average, these participants had a prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) of about 36, which falls in the obesity range.  To assess outcomes, the researchers compared them with a second group of individuals who had never taken a GLP-1 medication but had similar prepregnancy BMIs.  In both groups, BMI values spanned from healthy to severely obese, and the proportion of people in each BMI category was comparable. The analysis showed that people who had previously used and then stopped GLP-1s faced higher rates of preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and hypertensive conditions of pregnancy, including high blood pressure and preeclampsia.  They also gained more weight during pregnancy, averaging about 30 pounds (13.7 kilograms), compared with roughly 23 pounds (10.5 kilograms) in the comparison group. Importantly, a greater share of the GLP-1-exposed group experienced what is considered excessive gestational weight gain, a pattern linked with health risks for both parent and baby. GLP-1 drugs and pregnancy outcomes Andrea Braden MD, board certified OB-GYN, told Healthline it’s important to note the limitations of this research.  “This study raises important questions, but it does not prove that GLP-1 medications directly cause harm in pregnancy. The people who need these drugs often have obesity or diabetes, which already increases the risk of complications,” she explained.  “It’s a classic case of confounding by indication, and we need much better, pregnancy-specific research before drawing firm conclusions.” Shyamala Vishnumohan, PhD, a prenatal dietitian at The Pregnancy Dietitian, told Healthline that the results of this study don’t surprise her.  “Those who need GLP-1s usually have significant obesity and insulin resistance, and when the medication is withdrawn, it’s common to see appetite and blood sugars surge,” she said. “The message is clear: we can’t just pull away a powerful weight-loss tool right before pregnancy without a transition plan.”  Benefits, risks of stopping GLP-1s before pregnancy  If you are planning to get pregnant, weighing the potential benefits and risks of GLP-1s on pregnancy outcomes is essential.  “These medications stay in the body for weeks, which is why current guidance suggests stopping GLP-1s at least two months before trying to conceive,” Braden explained.  “Stopping suddenly can lead to rebound weight gain or worse blood sugar control, both of which matter for pregnancy outcomes.”  In theory, better weight and blood sugar management could improve pregnancy outcomes and lower the risk of problems like preeclampsia, cesarean birth, or very large babies. “GLP-1s clearly help metabolic health outside of pregnancy, and preconception use may set some patients up for a healthier pregnancy,” Braden noted.  “However, we do not have strong, prospective trials of GLP-1 therapy started or continued during pregnancy that show clear benefit and safety,” she warned.  We currently know much more about the potential risks of GLP-1 drugs on pregnancy outcomes.  “Most of our concern comes from animal data, where high-dose GLP-1 exposure has been linked to fetal growth restriction, structural abnormalities, and pregnancy loss, often alongside significant maternal weight loss,” Braden noted.  “That is why the drug labels tell us not to use these medications in pregnancy.” Human data is more limited and mixed. “So far, we do not see a clear pattern of major birth defects, which is somewhat reassuring, but we lack robust information on more subtle outcomes and long-term effects on children,” Braden said.  “The biggest risk in my view is that we simply do not know enough, and families are being asked to make decisions in that uncertainty.”  Vishnumohan added that GLP-1 use could cause side effects like nausea and poor appetite that could drive under-nutrition in a period of higher nutrient needs. Risks of overweight, obesity during pregnancy  Weighing the pros and cons of GLP-1 use before pregnancy can be tricky when you consider that overweight and obesity can also negatively impact pregnancy outcomes.  In this context, do experts believe the benefits of taking GLP-1 drugs outweigh the risks? “I wouldn’t frame this as ‘GLP-1s versus obesity’,” Vishnumohan said. “Obesity and metabolic disease are still the main drivers of pregnancy risk, and GLP-1 use plus abrupt discontinuation may simply add an extra layer of risk or instability on top.”  Vishnumohan said that obesity and metabolic health ought to be treated before pregnancy. She said that better systems are needed to support those stopping these weight loss medications so that one risk is not exchanged for another. In Braden’s view, we currently know far more about the risks of obesity in pregnancy than we do about the risks of GLP-1 exposure. “Prepregnancy obesity and excess gestational weight gain are consistently linked to gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, cesarean birth, and long-term metabolic risks for the child,” she said. GLP-1-related risks are much less defined. “Some of the higher risk seen in recent studies likely reflects the underlying obesity and metabolic disease that led to the medication in the first place, along with rebound weight gain after stopping,” Braden noted.  “I do not think the potential benefits of taking GLP-1 medications during pregnancy outweigh the unknowns right now, especially when we have alternatives like insulin that have a much longer safety track record,” she said.  Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy  GLP-1 drugs are not recommended during pregnancy, and there are other, safer ways to maintain a healthy weight. “When you’re pregnant, the goal is nourishment and to focus on gaining the appropriate amount of weight from your starting BMI, not zero weight gain,” Vishnumohan said. “Focus on regular meals and snacks, building plates with proteins, high fiber carbs, color from vegetables and fruits, and a little healthy fat,” she added. Exercise can be incredibly beneficial, too. “Add ‘movement snacks’ to your day; short bouts of gentle activity like walking after meals, climbing a few stairs, or completing simple resistance moves spread throughout the day, if medically appropriate,” Vishnumohan continued. “Just as important is looking after your stress, sleep, and nausea because they can drive our eating behaviour,” she said. Professional support can also be helpful.  “We have good evidence that structured behavioral counseling in pregnancy, focused on nutrition and physical activity, can reduce excess gestational weight gain and lower the risk of gestational diabetes, emergency cesarean birth, and very large infants,” Braden explained.  Bottom line, Vishnumohan said that there’s no such thing as a “perfect” pregnancy diet or “perfect” exercise routine. Rather, she recommended aiming for nutrition and lifestyle habits that are healthy and practical.

Some experts say that taking an ‘invisible day’ could help us cope with stress during busy periods. Image credit: Jessie Casson/Getty Images An ‘invisible day’ is a new self-care trend that encourages people to take time to destress and decompress.  Some experts suggest that invisible days may have mental health benefits, such as giving your nervous system a break and increasing your self-worth.  Stress levels have been on the rise among adults in the United States.  It’s all too common to feel like you’re being pulled in various directions by texts, emails, and to-do lists, especially during the holiday season. This constant pull, combined with social media feeds and 24-hour news cycles, can increase stress levels and lead to feelings of overwhelm, which can take a toll on your mental health. The long-term effects of stress can contribute to anxiety, rumination, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Surveys conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA) have shown that not only are the rates of stress increasing across the United States, but the reasons people feel the most stressed are also changing.  According to its 2024 survey, the APA reported that 84% of people experience stress during the holiday season. Most individuals who do experience stress this time of year have various ways of coping with those feelings.  While the holidays are generally a stressful time, there are other reasons people report feeling stressed in 2025. The APA reports that 76% of people are concerned about the nation’s future and cite this as a source of stress. Another key stressor for many people is the rapid advance of technology. For 69% of these individuals, the spread of inaccurate or misleading information is a major stressor, and 57% stated that the rise of AI causes them stress.  Enter the “invisible day,” a rising self-care trend that can help counteract overwhelming feelings of stress. While the idea of an invisible day has been around for a while, the term is relatively new. An invisible day is a day to unplug, rather than distancing yourself from friends, family, or nonnegotiable obligations, such as parenting or work. Here’s how it works. What is an invisible day? Think of an invisible day as a structured pause that allows the body and mind to reset by reducing the noise of external demands. You can think of it as time spent outside of your typical routine. When taking an invisible day, you set aside as many of your usual roles and responsibilities as possible, acting as though you are invisible.  For many people, it may begin simply by setting boundaries with their smartphones.  “Phones are contributing heavily to the high stress levels… giving each of us more access to information than we need,” said Menije Boduryan-Turner, PsyD, a licensed psychologist and founder of Embracing You Therapy. “Unfortunately, not all information is useful. The underlying issue is access to the information and how that information is landing on us [or is] being processed in our minds,” she told Healthline. Georgina Sturmer, MBACP, a licensed online counsellor in the United Kingdom, agreed, saying: “Our busy, overwhelming lives can often leave us feeling as if we are stuck in a loop, and battling to keep up. Answering messages, responding to requests, working hard, and keeping ourselves up to date with what’s been going on in the world. And that’s all before the endless minutes and hours that we spend mindlessly scrolling.” Sturmer told us that invisible days can be an antidote to this. They are an opportunity to step back from the demands on our lives, allowing us to reset, retreat, and reconnect with what truly matters.   The idea behind an invisible day is to go completely “off grid” for up to 24 hours to help offset some of these symptoms and rest your mind. This means that no one can reach you unless it’s an emergency, and you don’t need to respond to anyone during your pause unless absolutely necessary. You simply “disappear” for a day.  What are the benefits? There are various ways invisible days can be beneficial, including:  giving your nervous system a break resetting your thoughts and identity improving creativity increasing self-worth. “Taking time out like this is likely to help us to feel more grounded, regulated, and content, and less anxious and overwhelmed,” said Sturmer. An invisible day goes beyond setting boundaries in personal and even professional relationships. It’s also about setting boundaries with your devices. “We live in an age where we have to set boundaries with objects, such as phones, tablets, and screen time,” said Boduryan-Turner.   “However, this isn’t about the phone itself. By removing phones or tablets from our day for a few hours or a whole day, we are redirecting our attention to our internal world.” Boduryan-Turner offered a few questions you can ask yourself while practicing an invisible day: “What can I do to be more grounded?” “What can I do to catch my breath? “Do I have needs that aren’t being met? “Is it time to sleep, move my body, be in nature, or laugh with a friend?” Tips for practicing an invisible day  Invisible days may not be suitable or even doable for everyone. For example, people experiencing depression may find invisible days difficult. This is because the concept of being invisible without any connection or support can exacerbate some mental health symptoms.  Other people, such as parents or caregivers, may not have the luxury to go entirely “invisible” for a day, but perhaps they could lean on other loved ones or members of their community for support to go invisible in smaller chunks. Boduryan-Turner said that it may not be about who should or should not take invisible days. Sturmer explained that invisible days may be “particularly helpful for those of us who struggle to put boundaries in place, in particular those with a tendency towards ‘people-pleasing’.”   “On an everyday basis, they might struggle to say no to others and put themselves first. Having a framework like an ‘invisible day’ might be exactly what they need, in order to give themselves permission to take time out,” she added. Boduryan-Turner further noted that individuals should be more intentional by taking a good look at their needs, asking themselves questions like “How many hours do I need off?” and “What should I be doing?” Some people may only need a 2-hour break, while others may require a longer break, even 48 hours.  “I would highly recommend self-compassion because there are many things that are out of our control, and, unfortunately, turning our phone or tablet off doesn’t make them go away,” she said. “They will still be there when you ‘return’ to your phone and/or tablet. Hence, when dealing with stress and overwhelm, the best thing we can do is be kind and graceful to ourselves. It is truly a very powerful mantra to say, ‘I am doing the best I can with what I am going through’.” Mark Hoelterhoff, PhD, a senior lecturer in clinical psychology at the University of Edinburgh, in the U.K. offered the following tips for those considering taking an invisible day: Be clear about what you want the time to serve. Frame the day around a value or strength, such as steadiness or curiosity, to give it direction without turning it into another task. Reduce digital noise and set gentle boundaries to allow the day to feel genuinely autonomous. Small restorative activities tend to work better than long stretches of unstructured time. Even a short walk or a simple routine can support the sense of recharging rather than numbing. Even though the aim is to step back from demands, some light form of connection usually helps, whether through time in nature or a mindful practice. Finally, Helterhoff noted that it can be useful to set a plan for the following day, “Before the day ends, it can be useful to decide on one small action for the following morning, which makes the return to ordinary life feel manageable.”

When consumed in moderation as part of a Mediterranean diet, lean, unprocessed beef may not increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. OksanaKiian/Getty Images Previous research has suggested a link between beef consumption and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, especially in Western-style eating plans. A recent study indicates that moderate consumption of lean, unprocessed beef as part of a Mediterranean diet may not worsen risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However, health experts note that further research is necessary in older adults or anyone with elevated cardiovascular disease risk. For many years, we’ve heard that eating red meat, particularly beef, might increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. But that doesn’t mean all beef has the same effect. Many large-scale studies suggesting a link between beef and heart health often fail to distinguish between fatty cuts and lean ones, or between unprocessed products and processed ones. Lean beef generally refers to cuts under 10% fat, while extra-lean cuts have less than 5%. These leaner options still provide high quality protein and important micronutrients, but with much less saturated fat. When consumed in moderation as part of a nutrient-rich, Mediterranean-style diet, lean, unprocessed beef may not increase cardiovascular disease risk. Now, a recent study has investigated the impact of incorporating lean beef into a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern on specific biomarkers. One of these markers was trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a gut metabolite linked to cardiovascular risk. The results were published in the Journal of the American Heart Association (AHA). “This study will contribute to understanding the diet‐related modulation of TMAO and the influence of the gut microbiota composition on interindividual variability in TMAO production,” the study authors wrote. Impacts of lean beef on heart health The randomized controlled trial included 30 healthy adults who followed four different eating plans for four weeks each, with a one-week break in between. One plan reflected the average American or Western diet, with about 2.5 ounces (oz) of non-lean beef daily. The other three dietary patterns were Mediterranean-style, differing in lean beef intake, with either 0.5 oz, 2.5 oz, or 5.5 oz of lean beef per day. The researchers found that blood levels of TMAO were significantly lower with the Mediterranean plans, including the smaller amounts of beef (0.5 oz and 2.5 oz), compared to the Western diet. Urinary TMAO levels also dropped after all the Mediterranean diets, including the highest-beef version. Overall, the results suggest that about 2.5 oz of lean, unprocessed beef per day, as part of a Mediterranean-style dietary plan, does not increase this heart-related marker and may even reduce it compared with a more typical American diet. Lean beef as part of a balanced diet These findings highlight how important overall eating patterns are for heart health. Lean, unprocessed red meat eaten alongside plenty of vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats doesn’t seem to carry the same risks that some past studies imply. An earlier study using the same data also found that including lean beef as part of a Mediterranean-style dietary plan could also help lower blood pressure when compared to a typical Western dietary plan. However, this doesn’t mean unlimited red meat is fine. People should still be mindful of how much they eat. A review of previous studies and trials reveals that TMAO research is mixed, with roughly half of the studies finding that red meat increases TMAO, while the rest show no increase in TMAO associated with beef consumption. Additionally, the trial involved relatively young, healthy adults, so it’s not clear whether the same results would apply to older adults or those with existing cardiovascular disease. Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian and founder of EntirelyNourished, who was not involved in the study, told Healthline that diet is just one factor for managing heart health. “When aiming to reduce the risk of heart disease, it’s important to focus on all aspects of cardiovascular health, including gut health, cardiometabolic markers such as cholesterol, insulin resistance, blood pressure, inflammation, and vascular function, by emphasizing a nutrient-adequate, whole-diet approach along with lifestyle factors like stress management, sleep, and regular exercise,” she said. How to include lean beef in a heart-healthy diet Those interested in incorporating red meat into a heart-healthy diet should choose lean cuts. Usually, food labels indicate whether a product is lean (with less than 10% fat) or extra-lean (with less than 5% fat). It’s also a good idea to limit processed red meats, such as salami, sausage, or cured cuts. It is also important to consider portion sizes. This study suggested that approximately 2.5 oz per day may be an effective amount. However, this doesn’t mean you can eat an entire week’s worth of beef, such as a 17.5-oz steak, in one sitting and expect the same benefits. To replicate a Mediterranean-style pattern, you can try pairing lean beef with other nutrient-dense foods, such as: vegetables whole grains legumes healthy fats Routhenstein suggested a few different ways to add lean beef to your diet. “If you choose to add beef in your diet, choose lean cuts as sirloin tip, tenderloin, eye of round, or 90% lean ground beef, keep portions small (about 2 to 3 oz cooked) and incorporate them into mixed dishes, like stir fries, tacos, grain bowls, or vegetable rich sauces, so the lean beef complements higher-fiber, polyphenol-rich foods,” she said.

New research suggests that a plant-based diet can offer similar nutritional benefits to the Mediterranean diet. Nadine Greeff/Stocksy A new study suggests that well-designed plant-based dietary plans could match the nutritional quality of a Mediterranean-style omnivorous dietary pattern. Researchers compared four 7-day meal plans for different dietary plans, which offered similar amounts of macronutrients. The findings suggest that adopting a plant-forward lifestyle can help maintain optimal nutrition while reducing environmental impact. Health experts often praise the Mediterranean diet as one of the healthiest ways to eat, thanks to its focus on whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and its limit on processed foods. However, a recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition suggests that plant-based eating can offer similar nutritional benefits. As a bonus, the findings suggest that plant-based eating can also help reduce a person’s environmental footprint. Researchers from the University of Granada and the Spanish National Research Council modeled four different week-long menus, each providing about 2,000 calories a day. These included a Mediterranean omnivorous diet, a pesco-vegetarian diet (which includes fish), a lacto-ovo–vegetarian diet (with eggs and dairy), and a fully vegan diet. Although the menus were theoretical and didn’t account for real-life variables such as personal food choices or cooking habits, the study demonstrates that plant-based diets can be nutritionally adequate and environmentally conscious. Still, the researchers emphasize that anyone choosing a plant-based approach should be strategic to ensure they’re getting enough key nutrients. Plant-based, Mediterranean diets have similar nutritional profiles The study found that carefully designed plant-based dietary plans could meet most of the same nutritional targets as a typical Mediterranean-style omnivorous diet. All four menus offered similar macronutrient profiles (proteins, carbs, and fats), staying within nutritional guidelines, such as the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Ranges. Macronutrients play major roles in energy levels, hormone production, and overall body function, which is why getting the right balance is so important. However, the study also acknowledges some gaps in meeting micronutrient targets. These refer to vitamins and minerals, where a deficiency could cause severe and even life threatening conditions. All four diets fell short on vitamin D and iodine, and the vegan dietary plan was particularly low in vitamin B12. None of the dietary patterns met the recommended levels of omega-3. This means that people following a plant-based dietary pattern may need to pay special to certain nutrients. For example, those considering a vegan dietary plan may need to supplement their diet with fortified foods or supplements and periodically monitor their vitamin B12 levels. Noelia Rodríguez, PhD, a researcher at the Spanish National Research Council, who was involved in the study, advised “sun, salt, and supplements” to help meet these nutritional needs. This refers to getting safe amounts of sunshine and using iodized salt, fortified foods, and a vitamin B12 supplement. Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian and founder of Entirely Nourished, said that it’s essential to examine your overall diet and lifestyle comprehensively to address potential nutritional gaps. Routhenstein wasn’t involved in the study. “Careful planning is important to identify alternative sources that provide the key nutrients found in the foods they avoid. Working with a registered dietitian can make this process easier and more reliable, so you can confidently maintain nutritional adequacy while aligning with your dietary choices,” Routhenstein told Healthline. On the other hand, the vegan menu provided more vitamin B1 and iron than the eating plans that included animal products. Environmental benefits of plant-based eating Beyond nutrition, the study highlights how shifting from a typical Western dietary plan to a plant-based one could significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions by 54 to 87%. Making this switch also supports global sustainability goals tied to well-being and responsible food consumption. Using a life cycle assessment, the researchers estimate that a vegan dietary plan could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 46%, use 33% less land, and decrease water deprivation by approximately 6.6% compared to the omnivorous Mediterranean diet. Plant-based dietary patterns may also benefits other environmental areas, like ecosystem health and reductions in human-related toxic impacts. Interestingly, the study even suggests that the vegan model could lower daily disease incidence by 56% compared with the omnivorous baseline. Even plant-forward ‘flexitarian’ diets benefit health It’s important to remember that this was a modeling study, not a trial involving real people. That means the results show what could work under ideal conditions, not necessarily what will happen in everyday life. Factors such as cost, taste preferences, cooking skills, and access to fortified foods can influence these eating plans. The study also assumes that people can consistently make careful food substitutions, which can be tough without guidance or planning. Still, the findings provide encouraging evidence for those considering a shift toward a plant-based diet. With some planning, it’s possible to maintain good nutrition while also making choices that benefit the planet. Rodríguez suggested making small and easy changes to include more plant-based foods. “Start small and make it tasty,” she told Healthline. “Swap half the meat in bolognese for lentils, try a quick tofu or tempeh stir-fry, keep canned beans, frozen veggies, and pre-cooked grains on hand, top meals with nuts and seeds, aim for half the plate fruit/veg, and batch-cook once a week so the plant-rich choice is the easy choice.” However, it’s also worth noting that plant-based meat alternatives can vary widely in their nutritional quality, so they’re not always healthier by default. The key takeaway is that you do not need to go fully plant-based to make a difference. Making small changes that incorporate more plant-based meals can help you maintain optimal nutrition and still reduce your carbon footprint.

How do ultra-processed foods affect diabetes? Here’s the latest evidence. Image credit: Maskot/Getty Images Research shows that around 70% of the food supply chain in the United States consists of ultra-processed foods.  A recent study shows that around one in 10 new cases of type 2 diabetes and around 3% of new cardiovascular disease cases could be linked back to sugary drinks.  A 2024 study found an association between eating processed red meats and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.  Another study from 2024 found that replacing ultra-processed foods in your diet can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.  Research published in Nature Communications in 2023 estimates that around 70% of the food supply chain in the United States consists of ultra-processed foods.  While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are working together to officially define ultra-processed foods, many other experts and agencies commonly use the definition set out by NOVA.  NOVA defines ultra-processed foods as those that contain “formulations of ingredients, mostly of exclusive industrial use, typically created by a series of industrial techniques and processes.” Another way of thinking about ultra-processed foods is foods that contain ingredients that are generally not found in a kitchen cupboard, such as types of additives, emulsifiers, or stabilizers.  Researchers have been studying the health risks of consuming ultra-processed foods. A study published in Nutrition & Metabolism in November 2025 looked at a potential association between ultra-processed foods and prediabetes in young adults. The researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC studied a group of 85 young adults ages 17 to 22 over a 4-year period. They found that an increased intake of ultra-processed foods was linked to a higher risk of prediabetes.   Yiping Li, one of the study authors and a doctoral researcher in quantitative biomedical sciences at Dartmouth College, stated in a press release that: “These findings indicate that ultra-processed food consumption increases the risk for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes among young adults—and that limiting consumption of those foods can help prevent disease.” Sodas may increase diabetes risk A study published in Nature Medicine in January 2025 charted the metabolic and cardiovascular complications that may be associated with sugar-sweetened beverages, like soda. The researchers found that around one in 10 new cases of type 2 diabetes and over 3% of cardiovascular disease cases are associated with sugary drinks.  The researchers also estimated that sugary drinks were linked to 80,278 deaths from type 2 diabetes and 257,962 deaths from cardiovascular disease.  Maddie Gallivan, a registered dietitian who was not involved in the study, said that “there is really no benefit to drinking sugary drinks.” She advised that swapping sugary drinks for healthier options can make a difference to sugar intake while also offering additional benefits like probiotics and polyphenols. Some health swaps include:  fruit-infused water herbal tea low-sugar kombucha. Processed and red meat can affect type 2 diabetes risk Research published in the Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology in September 2024 found that eating red meat and processed meat can lead to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.  This research found that people who ate around 50 grams (g) of processed meat (the equivalent of 2 slices of ham) each day were at a 15% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes within the next 10 years. Eating 100 g of unprocessed red meat (the equivalent of a small steak) every day can increase the risk by 10%.  There are various reasons these meats may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Silvana Obici, MD, Chief of the Division of Endocrinology at Stony Brook Medicine, not involved in this study, cautioned that statistical association does not necessarily imply causation.  “Also, the cooking methods such as frying in fat/oil or charring meats at high temperature can generate byproducts well known to affect glucose metabolism (e.g., advanced glycation end products),” she added. Jennifer Pallian, a registered dietitian and owner of Foodess, not involved in the study, noted that there are various substitutes for red and processed meats that may help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. These substitutes include plant-based proteins and fish, especially salmon, mackerel, and sardines.  Most dangerous ultra-processed foods and how to replace them A study published in The Lancet Regional Health: Europe in November 2024 examined the relationship between the degree of food processing and type 2 diabetes risk. This included which ultra-processed foods were the highest risk.  The researchers of this study found that for every 10% increase in the amount of ultra-processed foods in your diet, your risk of type 2 diabetes increases by 17%. However, this risk can be lowered by consuming fewer ultra-processed foods and replacing them with healthier options.  The highest risk groups of ultra-processed foods were:  artificially-sweetened beverages savory snacks ready meals animal-based products, such as processed meats. Nichola Ludlam-Raine, a specialist dietitian and the author of How Not to Eat Ultra-Processed, who was not involved in the study, noted that “replacing UPFs with whole, minimally processed foods can help with weight management, stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and provide more nutrients and fiber, which are protective against type 2 diabetes.” Ludlam-Raine also stated that small swaps are the way to go. She gave the following tips for swapping ultra-processed foods for healthier options:  replace sugary snacks with whole fruits or nuts instead of sweetened yogurt, opt for plain yogurt and add your own fruit and honey for sweetness cooking from scratch is a great way to limit ultra-processed foods in your diet.

A new study found that smoking cannabis before drinking led participants to drink less. Aaron McCoy/Getty Images Smoking cannabis before drinking can significantly curb how much people choose to drink, according to new research. It’s unclear how the findings would translate to real-world scenarios outside of a lab environment. The long-term risks and benefits of replacing alcohol with cannabis, a trend known as “California sober,” are not yet clear. Can smoking weed help you cut down on drinking alcohol? A new study say yes — at least within the rigorous confines of a laboratory experiment. While it remains to be seen how those findings apply to people who use cannabis and alcohol in everyday life, another question looms: Is replacing one intoxicating substance with another even a good idea? The answer isn’t clear, not yet, anyway, but the timing of the question is relevant as more Americans experiment with being “California sober,” replacing alcohol with cannabis. While the harmful effects of alcohol are well established — about 178,000 people in the U.S. die each year from excessive consumption — the risks associated with rising cannabis use in the era of legalization are less well understood. The study, which used a simulated bar environment as its laboratory, examined how smoking cannabis before drinking alcohol affected participants’ alcohol consumption. Researchers found that, compared with a placebo, smoking a joint before drinking led participants to drink less and, in some cases, to report less desire to drink. The findings were published on November 18 in The American Journal of Psychiatry. “Cannabis can reduce drinking in the short term, but it also carries its own risks. Our study is a first step, and we need more long-term research before drawing conclusions for public health,” said Jane Metrik, PhD, a professor of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Psychiatry at Brown University, and first author of the study. “We do not yet know whether cannabis reduces drinking in daily life, where people encounter stress, social pressures, and varied environments,” she told Healthline. Metrik and her coauthors are careful to point out that their study does not provide evidence that substituting marijuana for alcohol is good for your health.  Still, some experts not involved in the study worry that findings like these could encourage such behavior. “I’d hate to see these findings interpreted as getting intoxicated on cannabis is better than getting intoxicated on alcohol,” said George Singletary, MD, an assistant professor of addiction medicine at the Tulane University School of Medicine. Smoking cannabis lowered alcohol use by 27% The study employed an intricate experimental design designed to simulate a setting where people would be more likely to drink. The bar lab at Brown University includes beers on tap, a selection of spirits, playful lighting, and a couch to lounge on. .The study participants included 138 subjects, most of whom were non-Hispanic white and in their mid-20s. They were also already regular consumers of both cannabis and alcohol. Roughly 3 in 4 participants met the criteria for cannabis use disorder, and just under half (43%) had alcohol use disorder. Participants smoked cannabis with three different potencies during three separate visits: 7.2% THC, 3.1% THC, and 0.03% THC (the placebo). They then spent two hours in the bar lab with the option of consuming up to eight “mini-drinks” of their choice that would raise blood alcohol levels to 0.10g/dL in total. For every drink they did not consume, they would receive $3 as a monetary incentive.  Compared with the placebo joint, participants who smoked the higher-THC marijuana consumed 27% less alcohol. The lower-THC marijuana led to a smaller but still meaningful reduction of 19%. Participants also tended to wait longer before having their first drink after smoking. The higher-THC marijuana produced a 48% longer wait — about 11 minutes — before the first drink, while the lower-THC marijuana did not differ significantly from the placebo. Results were less clear when it came to how cannabis affected alcohol cravings. The higher-THC marijuana appeared to suppress cravings immediately after smoking, but the lower dose did not. And when participants were shown visual cues intended to trigger cravings, such as a glass of water followed by their preferred alcoholic drink, marijuana did not appear to have an effect. The findings are generally consistent with a similar study published earlier this month that also investigated how cannabis affected alcohol consumption, though with a slightly different experimental design. Participants drank about 25% less alcohol and also reported lower levels of alcohol cravings after smoking cannabis, compared to when they solely consumed alcohol. “The fact that both studies converged on basically the same finding (that cannabis is associated with reduced alcohol self-administration in the laboratory) is encouraging,” said Hollis Karoly, PhD, an associate professor of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, and senior author of that study. Still, experts remain cautious about overinterpreting the results. “We still don’t have sufficient data to fully understand the long-term effects of using cannabis as an alcohol substitute. The relationship between alcohol and cannabis may be different for different people and in different contexts, and much more research on this topic is necessary,” Karoly told Healthline. Is ‘California Sober’ a better alternative to alcohol? For people who are trying to cut down on their drinking, is going “California sober” a better option? Cannabis may seem, at least anecdotally, as the “lesser of two evils.” “Given the well-established first-hand and even second-hand harms associated with alcohol intoxication and dependence, it is hardly surprising that a growing number of consumers are gravitating toward an objectively less harmful alternative,” Paul Armentano, deputy director of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). However, there’s little in the way of hard evidence to support substituting cannabis for alcohol, especially in individuals who are attempting to treat alcohol use disorder. In fact, observational studies have found that cannabis usage is frequently associated with alcohol consumption and worse treatment outcomes for alcohol use disorder. Co-use of the two substances is also linked with heavy drinking, impaired driving, and greater intoxication. In other words, cannabis may reduce alcohol consumption in a lab environment, but in the real world, the interconnected usage patterns of cannabis and alcohol are far more complex.  “I would not recommend using cannabis to cut down on alcohol use. That type of recommendation would be premature and potentially risky,” said Metrik. Singletary also points out that “California sober” is a vague term that may simply help conceal cannabis use disorder under the guise of a supposedly healthier lifestyle. “The definition of sobriety is getting used in so many different ways, it muddies the water,” Singletary said. “‘California sober’ might apply to someone who drinks a single low-THC beverage per day or someone that’s smoking a high-potency marijuana cigarette five times per day. Those aren’t going to be the same type of patient.” Whether being “California sober” is the right choice will likely depend on the individual. “It does seem that cannabis can help some people to reduce their alcohol consumption, [but] cannabis is by no means a ‘risk-free’ substitute for alcohol,” Karoly said. “There is currently very little scientific evidence to speak to whether the ‘California sober’ approach is likely to be helpful or harmful in the long run.”

A regular bedtime may be a simple, low risk, adjunctive strategy for blood pressure management. DragonImages/Getty Images Researchers report that a regular bedtime schedule can help lower a person’s blood pressure. High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, vision loss, and kidney disease. Quality sleep can be attained with a consistent bedtime, avoidance of caffeine and alcohol in the evening, and increasing exposure to sunlight during the day. Going to bed at the same time every night can help lower your blood pressure, a new study suggests. Researchers report that participants in a small study experienced significant decreases in their overall blood pressure, as well as their nighttime readings, after adjusting their schedules to go to bed at approximately the same time every evening. “This [regular bedtime] may be a simple, yet low-risk, adjunctive strategy to control [blood pressure] in many people with hypertension,” the study authors wrote. The researchers recently published their findings in the journal Sleep Advances. The researchers noted their study involved only 11 people and was done over a two-week period with no control group as a contrast. They acknowledged their hypothesis needs to be tested in larger randomized controlled trials. Experts not involved in the study say that despite the limited size of this study, the results were significant enough to warrant attention. “This is a useful study in that such a simple intervention can have such a significant impact,” said Cheng-Han Chen, MD, an interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA. “While limited by its non-randomized design and small study cohort, the trial’s results highlight potential for improving hypertension control through a low-cost, easily scalable intervention, and should encourage further investigation through randomized clinical trials,” added Brian Brady, MD, a nephrologist and a clinical associate professor of medicine at Stanford University. Quality sleep may lower blood pressure To reach their conclusions, the researchers recruited 11 people with hypertension to participate in their study. Seven of the subjects were female, and four were male. Their age range was 45 to 62 years, with a mean age of 53 years. The participants all had body mass index (BMI) readings that classified them as obese. They had no other chronic health issues. Before the study, the participants’ bedtimes varied nightly by an average of 30 minutes. During the two-week study, that variability decreased to seven minutes. Participants were instructed to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, sleeping for approximately the same amount of time each evening, without taking any daytime naps. Their blood pressure was constantly measured for 48 hours in a process known as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. The researchers reported that the regular bedtime schedule reduced the participants’ 24-hour systolic blood pressure reading (the top number) by an average of 4 points. Their diastolic blood pressure reading (the bottom number) dropped by an average of 3 points. The researchers said the decreases were mainly due to lower nighttime systolic blood pressure readings and overall diastolic blood pressure measurements. They added that more than half of the participants recorded significant reductions in blood pressure readings. The researchers noted that a 5-point reduction in nighttime blood pressure can lower cardiovascular event risks by more than 10%. The researchers theorize that irregular bedtimes disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, which regulates both sleep-wake cycles and cardiovascular function. They explained that blood pressure normally decreases during nighttime sleep, and people whose blood pressure doesn’t dip adequately face higher cardiovascular risks. “This is a good proof-of-concept study… [but] for it to be validated it will need to be tested out in larger randomized control studies and for longer periods of time to gauge the true effects on blood pressure reduction,” Nissi Suppogu, MD, a cardiologist and the medical director of the Women’s Heart Center at MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center in California. Kin Yuen, MD, a sleep medicine specialist at the University of California San Francisco, expressed some caution about the study. “It is an interesting concept. However, blood pressure is affected by so many factors such as evening activities, care-giving responsibilities, medications and biological rhythm proclivities, it is hard to generalize,” she told Healthline. “For those with insomnia tendencies, the heightened awareness of ‘sleep schedule’ may actually worsen blood pressure due to bedtime anxieties.” How high blood pressure affects your health The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 48% of adults in the United States (nearly 120 million people) have high blood pressure, which is described as a blood pressure reading of higher than 130 on the top number or higher than 80 on the lower number. The agency notes that high blood pressure was a contributing factor in more than 660,000 deaths in the United States in 2023. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can develop over several years before symptoms emerge. It occurs when the force of blood pushing through vessels is consistently too high. Many times, this is caused because arteries have narrowed. There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of hypertension. Here are some of them. Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to high blood pressure. Age: People more than 65 years old are more at risk for hypertension. Race: Black people have a higher incidence of hypertension in the United States. Weight:  Obesity can lead to a few cardiovascular issues, including hypertension. Alcohol: Research concludes that even one drink per day can increase your risk of hypertension. Sedentary lifestyle: A lack of exercise has been linked to several cardiovascular issues, including hypertension. Sodium: There’s a close link between daily high sodium intake (more than 5 grams a day) and hypertension. Since high blood pressure can go undetected for years, it can cause serious complications if left untreated. Among the potential issues: stroke heart failure arrhythmia kidney disease or failure vision loss cognitive issues, including dementia “High blood pressure is known to cause many serious complications,” Chen told Healthline. Suppogu emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy blood pressure, which cannot be overstated. “High blood pressure is one of the important modifiable risk factors for cardiac outcomes,” she told Healthline. “It is important to understand that hypertension can damage the arteries and if untreated causes a lot of end organ damage including stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney failure.” Certain lifestyle factors can help reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure. These include: Eating 4 servings of fruit and 5 servings of vegetables each day Limiting your amount of refined sugar Reducing your daily sodium intake Setting weight loss goals if you have weight management issues “Blood pressure control is among the most well-accepted strategies for reducing patients’ risk of developing kidney disease, heart disease, or suffering a stroke,” Brady told Healthline. Health benefits of quality sleep The American Heart Association (AHA) now includes quality sleep as one of the components in its Life’s Essential 8 health guide. There are various ways that consistent quality sleep can improve your health. Among them: improve heart health help maintain or lose weight improve concentration and productivity maximize athletic performance help manage emotions “The quality and quantity of sleep impact not only one’s mental health through mood regulation and cognitive function, but also one’s physical health through cardiovascular and metabolic disease pathways,” said Brady. How to get a good night’s sleep It’s recommended that adults obtain between 7–9 hours of sleep each night. However, it’s estimated that 50 to 70 million people in the United States have some sort of sleep disorder. In addition, surveys indicate that 1 in 3 U.S. adults doesn’t get the recommended amount of uninterrupted sleep on a regular basis. There are a variety of methods you can employ to help you sleep more soundly at night. Here are some of recommendations: increase sunlight exposure during the day reduce blue light exposure during the evening hours no caffeine late in the day avoid alcohol in the evening go to sleep and wake up at about the same time each day avoid long naps have a comfortable bed and pillow The darkness of your sleeping quarters can also be a factor. A study published earlier this month reported that sleeping in total darkness can improve the quality of your slumber. “There are simple things you can do that can likely be quite helpful for sleep,” said Chen. “Sleep experts recommend simple steps to improving sleep quality, such as getting regular exercise, establishing a regular bedtime routine that emphasizes calm, and putting electronic screens away at least 30 minutes before falling asleep,” added Brady. Suppogu agreed with this advice and offered additional tips. “It is very important to have good sleep hygiene to achieve good sleep,” she said. “You can start off by having set routines. Have alarms to remind you to start winding down to go to bed 20–30 minutes before having to sleep. Going to bed at the same time every day and waking up at the same time also helps train your circadian rhythm,” Suppogu said. Yuen noted that everyone’s body clock is different. “Be mindful of the individual’s internal clock preference, such as morning or evening tendencies, and rest and sleep consistent to that preference,” she said.

Even occasional smoking can significantly raise heart disease risk. Mal de Ojo Studio/Stocksy Researchers say that smoking as few as two cigarettes a day can significantly increase a person’s risk of heart disease. Experts say there is no safe level of smoking, and the best preventive strategy is to never start the unhealthy habit. They say quitting smoking can be a challenge, but medical aids such as nicotine patches, as well as support from friends, can help. Even an occasional cigarette can endanger a person’s health and increase their risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a new study. Researchers report that people who smoke as few as two cigarettes per day have a 57% higher risk of heart failure and a 60% higher risk of death from any cause. They add that a person’s health risks decline significantly in the decade after quitting smoking. However, the researchers note that a former smoker can still have increased health risks three decades after giving up tobacco. They say the main message from their research is for people to quit smoking as early as possible. “Lower-intensity smoking is associated with cardiovascular risk and the primary public health message for current smokers should be early cessation, rather than reducing the amount of smoking,” the study authors wrote. The researchers published their findings on November 18 in PLOS Medicine. Experts not involved in the study say the research spotlights an important health issue facing the United States. “This is a robust and important study,” said Kevin Shah, MD, a cardiologist and program director of Heart Failure Outreach at MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Long Beach Medical Center in California. “It provides compelling evidence that cigarette smoking — even at low levels — substantially increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death,” Shah told Healthline. “These results highlight the tremendous continued negative impact that smoking has on public health,” added Cheng-Han Chen, MD, an interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA. How cigarettes impact heart health To reach their findings, the researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland analyzed data from more than 300,000 adults who participated in 22 longitudinal studies. Some of the study participants were followed for almost 20 years. During that time, the researchers documented 125,000 deaths and 54,000 cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. The researchers defined “low-intensity smoking” as two to five cigarettes per day. They reported that this level of smoking was associated with a 57% higher risk of heart failure and a 60% higher risk of death from any cause when compared to people who have never smoked. They noted that a person’s risk of cardiovascular events drops substantially in the first decade after quitting smoking and continues to decrease over time. However, they said that even after three decades, former smokers can still exhibit higher risk than people who have never smoked. The researchers said they embarked on this study because of a trend of people smoking fewer cigarettes rather than quitting. The American Lung Association reports that adult smoking in the United States decreased from about 42% in 1965 to 12% in 2022. That’s a decline of more than 70%. However, the association states that the number of people smoking fewer than 15 cigarettes per day increased 85% during the same period.  “In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people who still smoke, but smoke less,” said Michael Blaha, MD, MPH, a study author and a lead investigator for the American Heart Association’s Tobacco Center for Regulatory Science grant-funded research initiatives, in a statement. “As smoking patterns shift with more people smoking fewer cigarettes, it’s important to understand the cardiovascular risks of low-intensity smoking and the long-term benefits of quitting,” Blaha continued. Experts say this message is important for occasional smokers to understand. “This [study] reinforces the message that there is no safe level of smoking. Cutting down is not enough,” said Shah. Jayne Morgan, MD, a cardiologist and vice president of medical affairs at Hello Heart who specializes in women’s health and cardiovascular research, said the first few cigarettes can in fact do the most damage. “There is no safe level of smoking for the cardiovascular system and the risk is not linear. The first few cigarettes cause a disproportionately large amount of damage,” Morgan told Healthline. “This is because cardiovascular risk from smoking is driven by platelet activation, endothelial dysfunction, and vasospasm, which occur even at very low exposure, i.e., just one to two cigarettes,” she explained. Chen said this message is particularly important for younger people. “Younger adults need to understand that no amount of smoking is safe and that even occasional smoking will greatly increase your risk of death or heart disease,” he told Healthline. “The most important thing [young adults] can do for their health at that stage is to quit smoking,” Chen added. Other health effects from smoking The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke can affect every organ in the body as well as causing inflammation and weakening the immune system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 16 million people in the United States have a smoking-related disease. Besides affecting heart health, smoking can also cause other diseases and conditions. They include: more than 10 types of cancer lung disease COPD asthma type 2 diabetes eye-related diseases The CDC notes that cigarette smoking and secondhand smoke exposure cause more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States. This accounts for nearly one in five deaths. “Cigarette smoking is well known to harm almost every part of the body,” said Chen. “This study makes it clear that even as ‘few’ as two cigarettes a day can significantly increase your risk of death or disease.” Effective ways to quit smoking The CDC reports that nearly 50 million adults in the United States use tobacco products. The agency notes that despite the decline in use, tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. In addition, there are groups where cigarette smoking is higher than the rest of the population. They include: people 45 years to 64 years old non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native adults. people with disabilities. people with severe generalized anxiety disorder. people with severe depression Adults 18 years to 24 years of age have the highest prevalence of e-cigarette use. A 2022 survey reported that about two-thirds of people who smoke want to quit. More than half of smokers said they had tried to quit during the previous year. The American Lung Association lists a number of effective ways to quit smoking. They include: focus on your motivation build up confidence in quitting stress management medications such as nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and nasal spray don’t try to do it alone Morgan said it’s also helpful for a person to set a “quit date,” identify their triggers for smoking, create a replacement plan, and clean up their home and work environments to remove any traces of cigarettes and other tobacco products. Chen added that seeking outside professional help is also crucial. “To help you quit smoking, you should talk to your doctor about medications that can reduce the craving for nicotine,” he said. “You can also talk to a therapist or counselor about behavioral strategies that can help.” Shah said the most effective strategies usually combine behavioral support with medical aids such as nicotine gum. He added that this is a tough road that people should realize may take a long time. “What’s important to emphasize is that quitting often takes multiple attempts and relapse is not failure — it’s part of the journey toward success,” Shah said. “People who use a combination of approaches, tailored to their own needs, are the most likely to quit for good.” There are a number of ways a person can help a family member or friend quit smoking. They include: being patient with a person trying to quit understanding their triggers for smoking coming up with distractions finding the appropriate level of encouragement Resources to help you quit Quitlines like 1-800-QUIT-NOW can help you quit smoking and vaping for good. Other quit resources include: Quit For Life Smokefree.gov We Are Truth Become an Ex Live Vape Free