Health Journal Online

Category: Diseases & Conditions

  • The Best Ways To Deal With Hairloss

    The Best Ways To Deal With Hairloss

    If there is one evident physical condition many of us would experience due to ageing, it would be hair loss. The natural ageing process, combined with repeated stress and anxiety as well as an unhealthy diet, speeds up hair loss. While it will start at a minimal level, the loss will become more prominent as the hairline gets thinner as time passes. Understanding these causes can empower you to take control of your hair health.

    Thankfully, there are many supplements and remedies out there that you can routinely follow to treat your hair loss. With men and women having different reasons and factors that affect their own hair loss cases, it’s essential to the right solution to promote healthier hair moving forward. This variety of solutions should give you hope and reassurance that there is a solution for your specific case.

    Healthy Hair Supplement For Men

    Hims products help men get thicker, healthier hair

    When discussing hair loss in men, it’s always important to begin by discussing what causes balding, even in younger men who haven’t aged. Numerous medical diseases can also result in hair loss, such as trichotillomania, telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, fungal infections, iron insufficiency, certain thyroid problems, and even abrupt weight loss. The body’s immune system targets the hair follicles in itself when alopecia areata occurs. elogen effluvium is yet another transient hair loss syndrome that can be brought on by stress.

    For men, FDA-approved medications like Minoxidil, the generic for Rogaine®, offer a safe and effective solution for hair loss. This topical treatment, applied directly to the scalp, stimulates new hair growth, making it the most effective treatment for mild to moderate baldness and new hair loss. Minoxidil, available through Hims as part of a hair loss treatment suite, can help restore hair density in men with thinning hair.

    Meanwhile, finasteride, an oral drug that addresses hair loss by preventing the hormones that prevent hair growth, is an additional treatment option for male pattern baldness. This can both stimulate hair growth and assist in stopping further baldness.

    Regrowing Thicker Hair For Women Through Rejuvenation

    Hers Hair Blends help women achieve the mane of their dreams

    For the women out there, hair loss is influenced by a wide range of factors, from lifestyle decisions to genetic predispositions. While nutritional deficiencies, stress, and specific medical diseases like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can also be significant contributing factors, hormonal imbalances, particularly those related to thyroid function or menopause, often play a major impact.

    Furthermore, using specific drugs and hair treatments may aggravate or cause hair loss and thinning. For women experiencing hair loss, a proper diagnosis and course of therapy requires understanding the intricate interactions between these factors. The Hairblends Postmeno Serum, a safe and effective choice for women dealing with hair loss, especially after coming from a post menstrual cycle, featuring the finasteride and minoxidil medications, provides reassurance and confidence in your hair care decisions.

    When growing back natural hair, you want to promote the health of your hair and scalp. Nobody likes dandruff, frizz, split ends, a dry scalp, or too-dry hair. Combining various hair care products with clinically established active components prescribed by a healthcare professional can be beneficial.

    To prevent product buildup, start small by selecting the appropriate shampoo and conditioner for your hair type. The Hers Triple Threat Shampoo is a great choice, a natural thickening shampoo with saw palmetto, Biotin, and pumpkin seed oil. It can help strengthen, nourish, and volumise women’s hair, and it’s vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, sulphate-free, and gluten-free formula provides confidence in your hair care choices, making you feel informed and knowledgeable about your hair care routine.

    Moreover, by creating a daily hair care regimen that fits your hair’s demands, you can also incorporate hair care products such as collagen peptides, scalp therapy, and vitamins like Biotin, much like how the Hers Detox Scalp Scrub hydrates your dry scalp and exfoliates to remove buildup. This personalised approach to hair care empowers you to take control of your hair health.

    Additionally, lessening the number of hairstyles that break the hair (tight ponytails are one way to do this) will encourage dense, healthy hair growth. Hers offers a personalised approach to hair care should make you feel valued and catered to. Women can opt for the Hair Vitamins + Minoxidil and Biotin + Minoxidil chewables, which give them an easier supplement to take to cope with hair loss as they also contain the much-needed minoxidil for aiding in your hair health journey.

    With these solutions, women can regrow hair in 3-6 months (*disclaimer: Based on studies of topical and oral minoxidil), and you can say hello to thicker, fuller hair. This lineup of hair treatment solutions gives you assurance that the journey for thicker and fuller hair starts when you take your appropriate choice of hair supplement.

    *Hair Hybrids are compounded products not yet approved by the FDA. The FDA does not verify the safety or effectiveness of compounded drugs. Prescription products also require an online consultation with a healthcare provider who will determine if a prescription is appropriate. Restrictions apply for both Hair Hybrids and Prescription products.

    See website for full details and important safety information.

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  • Discovering Diabetes: Unveiling the Lesser-Known Symptoms You Need to Know

    Discovering Diabetes: Unveiling the Lesser-Known Symptoms You Need to Know

    Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions worldwide, characterized by the body’s inability to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. While common symptoms like frequent urination, increased thirst, and unexplained weight loss are well-known, there are numerous lesser-known symptoms that can significantly impact a diabetic individual’s quality of life. Understanding these hidden symptoms is crucial for early detection and management of diabetes. This article delves into some of the more obscure symptoms that are not commonly discussed but are vital for comprehensive diabetes care.

    Discovering Diabetes: Unveiling the Lesser-Known Symptoms You Need to Know

    Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline

    One of the lesser-known impacts of diabetes is on cognitive function. Both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can impair brain function, leading to issues with memory and concentration. Short-term memory loss is particularly common among diabetics. Some studies have suggested a link between chronic hyperglycemia and an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. The exact mechanisms are still under investigation, but it is believed that high blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the brain, leading to cognitive decline.

    Foot Injuries and Nerve Damage

    Peripheral neuropathy, a condition caused by nerve damage, is a common complication of diabetes, especially affecting the feet. This nerve damage can lead to a loss of sensation, making it difficult for individuals to notice injuries like cuts, blisters, or sores. Due to impaired blood circulation and slower healing processes in diabetics, these minor injuries can develop into serious infections or ulcers. Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy include tingling, burning sensations, and eventually numbness in the feet. In severe cases, this can lead to the need for amputation.

    Persistent Itching

    Itching is another symptom often overlooked in diabetes care. This can be particularly pronounced if the individual has diabetic kidney disease, which can cause a build-up of waste products in the blood, leading to itchy skin. This type of itching is usually localized and can be intense, causing significant discomfort and potential skin damage from scratching. Managing blood sugar levels and maintaining good skin care routines are essential to alleviate this symptom.

    Chronic Fatigue and Low Energy

    Diabetes can lead to chronic fatigue, a state of persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest. This fatigue is often due to the body’s inefficient use of glucose, the primary energy source for cells. Factors such as nocturia (frequent nighttime urination) and episodes of hypoglycemia can disrupt sleep, further exacerbating tiredness and low energy levels during the day. Additionally, the emotional and physical burden of managing diabetes can contribute to a feeling of constant exhaustion.

    Skin Conditions

    Diabetics are prone to a variety of skin conditions due to high blood sugar levels, which can affect the skin’s ability to heal and fight off infections. Common skin issues include:

    • Dry Skin: High blood sugar levels can lead to dehydration, causing dry and cracked skin.
    • Fungal Infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot and yeast infections are more prevalent among diabetics due to a weakened immune system.
    • Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum (NLD): This condition is characterized by shiny, red-brown patches on the skin, often on the lower legs. These patches can become itchy and painful, sometimes leading to open sores.

    Brittle Nails

    Nail health can also be affected by diabetes. Many diabetics experience changes in their nails, such as increased brittleness or susceptibility to fungal infections. Poor circulation and elevated blood sugar levels can hinder the delivery of essential nutrients to the nails, impacting their growth and overall health. Monitoring and maintaining nail health is an important aspect of diabetes care to prevent further complications.

    Discovering Diabetes: Unveiling the Lesser-Known Symptoms You Need to Know

    Emotional and Mental Health Effects

    Living with diabetes can take a toll on mental health. The constant management of the disease, including monitoring blood sugar levels, adhering to a strict diet, and coping with physical symptoms, can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. It is not uncommon for diabetics to feel overwhelmed by the demands of their condition. Mental health issues can further complicate diabetes management, creating a vicious cycle. Support from healthcare professionals, counseling, and support groups can be beneficial in managing the emotional challenges associated with diabetes.

    The Complexity of Diabetes Management

    The wide range of symptoms associated with diabetes underscores the complexity of the condition. Effective diabetes management requires a holistic approach that addresses not only blood sugar control but also the various physical and mental health challenges that can arise. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental health support are all critical components of comprehensive diabetes care.

    Uncommon Symptoms: A Closer Look

    To further understand the breadth of symptoms that can affect diabetics, let’s explore a few more that are not commonly discussed:

    Blurred Vision

    While temporary blurred vision is a known symptom of high blood sugar, persistent vision problems can indicate diabetic retinopathy, a condition where the blood vessels in the retina are damaged. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and prevention of serious vision impairment.

    Discovering Diabetes: Unveiling the Lesser-Known Symptoms You Need to Know

    Slow Healing of Wounds

    High blood sugar levels can impair the body’s natural healing processes. This means that cuts, scrapes, and other wounds may take significantly longer to heal in diabetics. This can increase the risk of infections and other complications, making proper wound care essential.

    Digestive Issues

    Diabetes can affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying). Gastroparesis, in particular, can cause nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount of food.

    Hearing Impairment

    Hearing loss is twice as common in people with diabetes compared to those without. The exact cause is not clear, but it is believed that high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear.

    Gum Disease

    Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is more prevalent in diabetics due to high blood sugar levels promoting the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Symptoms include red, swollen gums, bleeding during brushing, and receding gums. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are vital for preventing gum disease.

    The Importance of Early Detection and Comprehensive Care

    Recognizing and addressing the wide array of symptoms associated with diabetes is essential for effective management and improving quality of life. Early detection of these symptoms can prevent complications and promote better health outcomes. Individuals with diabetes should be proactive in monitoring their health and seek medical advice if they experience any unusual symptoms.

    Conclusion

    Diabetes is a multifaceted disease that affects nearly every part of the body. Beyond the commonly known symptoms, there are numerous lesser-known signs that can indicate the presence of diabetes or signal complications. From cognitive decline and nerve damage to skin conditions and emotional health challenges, the impact of diabetes is far-reaching. Comprehensive diabetes care involves a proactive approach to monitoring and managing all aspects of the disease. By staying informed about the full spectrum of symptoms and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals with diabetes can achieve better control over their condition and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

  • Weight Loss Drugs With Semaglutide May Help Quit Smoking: Study

    Weight Loss Drugs With Semaglutide May Help Quit Smoking: Study

    Popular weight loss and diabetic medications with semaglutide could help tobacco smokers quit smoking, a recent study revealed.

    The researchers made the interesting finding after examining medical records of more than 200,000 new users of antidiabetes medications, including around 6000 people who started semaglutide drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy.

    Apart from semaglutide drugs, other antidiabetic medications studied were insulin, metformin, dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 inhibitors, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, and other GLP-1RAs.

    During the study, researchers investigated whether individuals with tobacco use disorder who were on any of these antidiabetic medications received prescriptions for smoking cessation or were referred to counseling during their medical visits. After a follow-up for a year, researchers noticed a reduction in both medication prescriptions and counseling referrals in those who used semaglutide drugs.

    The results published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine indicate that the smoking cessation effect was strongest within 30 days of starting semaglutide. However, the effect continued for about 180 days before it leveled off.

    “Semaglutide was associated with lower risks for tobacco use disorder-related health care measures in patients with comorbid type 2 diabetes mellitus and tobacco use disorders compared with other antidiabetes medications, including other GLP-1Ras, primarily within 30 days of prescription,” the researchers wrote in the study.

    Although the study was observational and did not track factors such as actual tobacco use, cravings, or smoking cessation, the researchers consider their findings significant. They point out that cigarette smoking remains the top cause of preventable disease and death, and making any progress toward effective prevention is a hopeful step forward.

    However, the researchers caution that their findings are too preliminary to suggest prescribing semaglutide drugs for smoking cessation, and more research is required to estimate the effects of semaglutide in the treatment of tobacco use disorder.

    The study has not evaluated the exact mechanism by which semaglutide helps curb smoking. However, earlier studies suggest that it has to do with the drug’s effect on the brain’s reward system.

    A similar recent study published in the journal Nature Communications has established a link between the use of semaglutide drugs and a reduction in alcohol use disorder. The study shows around 50%-56% reduced risk for both the incidence and recurrence of alcohol use disorder in semaglutide users during a 12-month follow-up.

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  • Cutting Out This Item From Your Diet Could Reverse Aging, New Study Finds

    Cutting Out This Item From Your Diet Could Reverse Aging, New Study Finds

    Your health isn’t solely influenced by what you eat but also by what you cut off from your diet. Researchers have now identified a specific item in your daily diet that, when reduced, could potentially reverse the signs of aging.

    Fruits, veggies, and a diet rich in vitamins and minerals are all essential for healthy aging. However, a recent study identified that even when people ate healthy diets, each gram of added sugar could increase their biological age.

    The study published in Jama Network Open examined the link between added sugar and epigenetic aging, which assesses an individual’s aging through DNA methylation patterns. The findings revealed that cutting back on sugar had a profound effect, potentially reversing biological aging at the cellular level.

    “We knew that high levels of added sugars are linked to worsened metabolic health and early disease, possibly more than any other dietary factor. Now we know that accelerated epigenetic aging is underlying this relationship, and this is likely one of many ways that excessive sugar intake limits healthy longevity,” said study co-senior author Elissa Epel in a news release.

    Co-senior author Barbara Laraia said, “Given that epigenetic patterns appear to be reversible, it may be that eliminating 10 grams of added sugar per day is akin to turning back the biological clock by 2.4 months, if sustained over time. Focusing on foods that are high in key nutrients and low in added sugars may be a new way to help motivate people to eat well for longevity.”

    The study examined dietary records of 342 Black and white women with a mean age of 39 years in Northern California. To understand their epigenetic scores, they assessed the saliva samples of the participants, which were then compared against the dietary records.

    The researchers also compared the diet scores of the participants against a Mediterranean-style diet rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant foods and a diet linked to reduced risk for chronic disease.

    Finally, they evaluated the diets using the “Epigenetic Nutrient Index (ENI),” which measured nutrients linked to anti-oxidative or anti-inflammatory processes and DNA maintenance and repair. The results suggest that adherence to all diets rich in Vitamins A, C, B12, and E, folate, selenium, magnesium, dietary fiber, and isoflavones was associated with a lower epigenetic age. However, the strongest association was seen with the Mediterranean diet.

    The researchers came across a key finding: consuming foods with added sugar was linked to accelerated biological aging, even if the rest of the diet was healthy.

    “The diets we examined align with existing recommendations for preventing disease and promoting health, and they highlight the potency of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients in particular. From a lifestyle medicine standpoint, it is empowering to see how heeding these recommendations may promote a younger cellular age relative to chronological age,” said Dorothy Chiu, the first author of the study.

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  • Know About Rare Illness, Life-Threatening Complications

    Know About Rare Illness, Life-Threatening Complications

    Brazil has reported the first-ever deaths from Oropouche Virus, a relatively unknown illness with no specific vaccines or medications for prevention and treatment.

    Two women in Bahia, a northeastern Brazilian state, have died of forest Oropuche virus, which has already infected 7,236 people this year in Brazil, the country’s health ministry reported last week. The Oropouche virus primarily spreads to people through the bite of infected midges, though some mosquitoes can also transmit the virus.

    According to reports, both the victims were under 30 years old, with no history of comorbidities, but had developed symptoms similar to dengue, another mosquito-borne illness.

    The Oropouche virus was first identified in a Caribbean forest worker in 1955. Since then, many countries in the Amazon region, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, and Peru, have reported cases of infection. Currently, there is no evidence of disease transmission in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    Know Signs and Complications:

    The symptoms typically start abruptly with severe fever, headache, fatigue, and muscular and joint pain within a week after being bitten by the infected midges or mosquito. These symptoms can last a week and may return after a few days or weeks.

    The patients with mild illness recover within days or weeks. However, more serious cases (up to 4% of cases) develop neurologic symptoms. Patients may develop neuroinvasive diseases such as meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), or experience bleeding. Since the symptoms of the Oropouche disease are similar to those of dengue, chikungunya, Zika, or malaria, it can be often misdiagnosed.

    Treatment:

    For those with mild Oropouche infection, supportive care that typically includes rest, plenty of fluids, and the use of analgesics and antipyretics is recommended. In case of severe symptoms, patients require hospitalization for close observation and more intensive supportive treatment.

    Prevention tips:

    Since there are no effective vaccinations and drugs for Oropouche, the best way to protect from the infection is to prevent bites from midges and mosquitoes. Like all vector-borne viral infections, effective strategies for vector control can also reduce disease transmission.

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  • Pesticide Use In Farms Poses Cancer Risk Similar To Smoking: Study

    Pesticide Use In Farms Poses Cancer Risk Similar To Smoking: Study

    Pesticides are vital for achieving high crop yields and ensuring food security, but what is the cost to human health? A study adds to the growing concern, revealing that the cancer risk associated with pesticide use in agriculture is similar to that of smoking.

    The cancer risk from smoking is well-known, but researchers are now drawing a stark comparison with the dangers posed by agricultural use of pesticides. Their findings reveal significant links between pesticide exposure and several forms of cancer, including leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, as well as bladder, lung, and pancreatic cancers.

    “In our study, we found that for some cancers, the effect of agricultural pesticide usage is comparable in magnitude to the effect of smoking,” Dr. Isain Zapata, the study’s senior author from the College of Osteopathic Medicine, Colorado, said in a news release.

    “It is difficult to explain the magnitude of an issue without presenting any context, so we incorporated smoking data. We were surprised to see estimates in similar ranges,” Zapata said.

    To explore potential connections between pesticide exposure and cancer rates, the researchers analyzed data on 69 different pesticides from the United States Geological Survey. In a population-based, nationwide study, they examined county-wide agricultural pesticide use alongside cancer incidence and found that the impact of pesticides on cancer rates might rival that of smoking. The results of the study were published in the journal Frontiers.

    Since pesticides are rarely used in isolation, pinpointing a single culprit is difficult. Although some pesticides may be more frequently discussed in connection with cancer, it is the combination of several pesticides that often makes the impact, the researchers explained.

    “In the real world, it is not likely that people are exposed to a single pesticide, but more to a cocktail of pesticides within their region,” Zapata said.

    “Geographic trends showed that counties with higher agricultural productivity, such as the leading corn-producing states of the Midwest, also have increased cancer risk due to pesticide exposure. Our results highlight the relevance of comprehensive assessments for the development of policy considerations and the implementation of preventive measures to mitigate the risks for vulnerable communities. Our study pioneers and lays a holistic vision foundation for future pesticide-related cancer risk assessments,” the researchers wrote.

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  • A List Of Options To Support Your Exercise And Recovery Needs

    A List Of Options To Support Your Exercise And Recovery Needs

    Think creatine supplements are just another fleeting fitness fad? Think again! They’ve certainly made waves in the gym world, but there’s a fascinating backstory. Your body actually produces creatine naturally, and it plays a crucial role in nearly every bodily function.

    What Is Creatine?

    Creatine is a compound produced in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Once formed, it converts into phosphocreatine, which is stored in muscles. Phosphocreatine helps generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy source. ATP is vital for every activity, from opening your eyes to intense workouts. During high-intensity exercise, your muscle cells use these phosphocreatine stores to produce ATP, providing the necessary energy boost. Apart from natural production, creatine can be obtained from animal products and some seafood.

    Creatine Supplements: What’s the Deal?

    Creatine supplements come in various forms, such as pills and drinks, but are most commonly found as powders, similar to whey protein or pre-workout supplements. Sports dietitians recommend creatine monohydrate, the most studied and 100% bioavailable form, ensuring full absorption and utilization by the body.

    The Big Benefits of Creatine

    Creatine provides numerous benefits, especially related to exercise. It aids the pathway from phosphocreatine to ATP, giving a vital energy boost crucial for performance, recovery, and muscle growth.

    Exercise Performance

    The primary benefit of creatine supplements is enhancing the effectiveness and intensity of workouts. By increasing phosphocreatine and ATP levels, your muscles receive an extra boost during intense exercise. This can lead to improvements in reps, time, distance, or weight lifted, helping to avoid fitness plateaus and progress through progressive overload.

    Workout Recovery

    Exercise depletes energy and creates micro-tears in muscle fibers. Creatine supplementation aids in faster recovery by improving ATP resynthesis post-exercise. The quicker your body can produce energy, the faster you can recover. While creatine aids recovery, it does not replace the essential role of protein in muscle repair and growth.

    Muscle Growth

    Creatine can increase muscle mass by boosting osmotic pressure in muscle tissues, causing muscle cells to swell and trigger repair and growth. Combined with consistent exercise, this process contributes to increased muscle growth over time.

    What Research Says

    According to Mayo Clinic, creatine shows promising outcomes across various areas. It enhances workout capacity, leading to gains in strength, muscle mass, and performance, particularly in high-intensity activities. Creatine may also reduce the risk of dehydration, muscle cramping, and injuries to muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves.

    In children with specific creatine deficiency syndromes, oral creatine supplements might improve symptoms. Additionally, creatine supplementation could boost cognitive performance, especially in older adults, and help counteract age-related declines in muscle and bone density. While there is insufficient evidence to recommend creatine for heart failure treatment, preliminary research suggests that creatine creams might reduce skin sagging and wrinkles, especially when combined with folic acid.

    Individuals with low creatine levels—such as vegetarians—benefit the most from creatine supplements.

    Are Creatine Supplements Safe?

    Creatine is generally safe for most healthy individuals, including pregnant women. However, those with kidney or liver disease, or high blood pressure, should avoid it due to the risk of excess creatine buildup. Side effects are rare but can include muscle cramping and gastrointestinal discomfort. Some might experience slight weight gain initially due to water retention, but this typically subsides. Always consult a primary care physician before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for your health and goals.

    Do You Need to Supplement Creatine?

    Your body produces about one gram of creatine daily, according to the Mayo Clinic. The recommended daily dose of supplemental creatine is three to five grams or 0.1 gram per kilogram of body weight. Healthy adults aiming for this range could consider adding creatine to their diet. However, most people create enough within their bodies, and whatever they’re lacking, they get through their diet.

    Who Should Consider Creatine Supplements?

    Vegans, vegetarians, and those with specific fitness goals may benefit from creatine supplementation. While plant-based eaters naturally produce creatine, they miss out on dietary sources. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts might seek the energy and performance boost creatine offers. Remember, supplements should complement a balanced diet and regular exercise. You cannot out-supplement a bad diet. Plus, creatine supplementation should be just one piece of your fitness toolkit. You need to do the work to see the results that come with it.

    Best Creatine Supplement According to Reviews

    1. Thorne Research Creatine

    Thorne’s Creatine Monohydrate Powder boosts muscle performance, endurance, power output, and lean body mass, while also supporting cognitive function and efficient cellular energy production. It helps reduce dehydration, muscle cramps, and injuries, making it ideal for athletes and individuals with increased dietary needs or insufficient creatine intake. NSF Certified for Sport®, this micronized creatine powder is easy to mix, colorless, odorless, and highly soluble. Each batch is rigorously tested to ensure compliance with label claims and the absence of over 200 banned substances, ensuring it is a reliable and effective supplement for fitness enthusiasts.

    Bodytech

    2. BodyTech Creatine Monohydrate

    To truly excel in your fitness journey, preparation is key. BodyTech® 100% Creatine Monohydrate powder is crafted to boost endurance, muscle strength, and overall exercise performance, catering to both casual fitness enthusiasts and serious athletes. Delivering 5 grams of pure creatine monohydrate per serving, this supplement helps optimize energy use during weight training and high-intensity interval workouts, pushing you to reach your peak performance and smash your personal records. Its clean formula, free from gluten, sugar, salt, preservatives, and artificial additives, ensures you receive all the benefits of creatine without any unwanted extras. Proudly made in the USA with a blend of foreign and domestic ingredients, BodyTech Creatine Monohydrate stands out as a reliable and potent choice for enhancing workout results and promoting muscle growth. Simply mix one scoop with your preferred beverage to experience improved muscle strength, endurance, and recovery.

    Bulk Supplements

    3. BulkSupplements Creatine Monohydrate

    BulkSupplements Creatine Monohydrate Powder is a top choice for those looking to boost muscle mass, energy, and endurance. As one of the most widely-used workout supplements, our creatine monohydrate powder supports lean muscle growth and enhances workout performance. Micronized for better absorption, this pure and unflavored powder mixes easily into any pre-workout shake. Each serving delivers 5 grams of creatine and is free from gluten, dairy, and soy, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Manufactured to cGMP standards and third-party tested for quality and consistency, BulkSupplements Creatine Monohydrate Powder ensures you get a clean and effective supplement to maximize your fitness results.

    Muscletech

    4. MuscleTech Platinum 100% Creatine

    MuscleTech Platinum 100% Creatine features 5 grams of pure micronized creatine monohydrate per serving. This supplement is designed to increase muscle strength, size, and performance by providing a highly absorbable form of creatine. MuscleTech ensures that their creatine is free from impurities and easy to mix, making it a reliable choice for athletes.

    Optimum Nutrition

    5. Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Powder

    Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Powder provides 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving, designed for improved mixability and absorption. This supplement supports muscle strength, power, and recovery, making it a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts. Its micronized form ensures that the creatine dissolves easily in liquids, providing a convenient and effective way to enhance your workouts.

    GNC Pro

    6. GNC Pro Performance Creatine Monohydrate

    GNC Pro Performance Creatine Monohydrate delivers 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving, supporting muscle strength, endurance, and recovery. This powder is formulated to help athletes and fitness enthusiasts improve their workout performance and achieve better results. GNC’s commitment to quality ensures that this creatine supplement is both effective and pure.

    Muscle Feast

    7. Muscle Feast Creapure Creatine Monohydrate Powder

    Monohydrate Powder boasts 99.9% pure vegan creatine monohydrate, free from gluten and artificial additives like erythritol. Each of the 55 servings contains 5400mg of premium German creatine, recognized as the top creatine by Labdoor for quality. This supplement aids in muscle growth, enhances recovery, and minimizes soreness, making it perfect for high-intensity workouts. Ideal for vegans and keto dieters, it helps replenish muscle creatine stores often lower in vegetarian diets.

    MyProtein

    8. Myprotein Creatine Monohydrate

    Myprotein Creatine Monohydrate offers 100% pure creatine monohydrate powder to improve physical performance and support muscle growth. Each serving contains 5 grams of creatine, designed to increase strength, power, and endurance during high-intensity workouts. Myprotein ensures a high-quality product that is free from additives and contaminants.

    RSP

    9. RSP Creatine Monohydrate

    RSP Nutrition Creatine offers 5g of 100% pure micronized creatine monohydrate per serving, a well-researched supplement known to enhance muscle growth, strength, endurance, and cell volumization. This pharmaceutical-grade creatine supports strength and recovery with minimal water retention, making it a popular choice for both pre and post-workout supplementation. Suitable for all ages, it also supports cognitive function and helps prevent muscle loss. Unflavored and easily mixable, RSP Creatine can be seamlessly added to your favorite pre-workout, post-workout, and amino recovery products for improved results.

    Evlution

    10. Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder

    Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Micronized Powder offers 5 grams of high-quality, micronized creatine monohydrate per serving. This supplement supports muscle energy, strength, and mass, making it an ideal choice for enhancing workout performance. The micronized form ensures better absorption and mixability, providing a more efficient way to boost your physical capabilities and recovery post-exercise.

    Evlution

    11. Evlution Nutrition Creatine5000

    Evlution Pure Creatine Monohydrate Powder offers a powerful 5 grams of creatine per serving to elevate your training regimen. Ideal for both pre-workout and post-workout use, this supplement boosts stamina, muscle growth, and recovery. As a pre-workout powder, it enhances energy and power, helping you achieve greater gains, while its post-workout benefits include improved nutrient absorption for faster muscle recovery when combined with protein. Created in cGMP-certified facilities, this versatile supplement supports all your fitness goals and stands out from generic options. Join the Evlution and push your performance boundaries with our premium creatine formula.

    Kaged

    12. Kaged Creatine Monohydrate Elite

    Kaged Creatine Monohydrate Elite is designed to elevate your performance with its advanced MAXCatalyst technology, featuring Piper nigrum fruit extract to significantly enhance creatine absorption—up to 40% more effective than traditional supplements. Formulated with pure Creatine Monohydrate, the gold standard in creatine, this supplement helps replenish ATP energy stores, boosting your strength, lean muscle mass, and overall athletic performance. The unflavored powder blends seamlessly into any drink, making it easy to incorporate into your pre-workout, smoothie, or post-workout regimen. Experience the Kaged advantage with our premium, patented ingredients and comprehensive range of supplements designed to help you achieve peak fitness and health.

    Beast Sports

    13. Beast Sports Nutrition Creature Creatine Complex

    Beast Sports Nutrition’s Creature Creatine Complex is a high-performance formula designed to fuel muscle growth and enhance strength. This potent blend features 2 grams of five cutting-edge forms of creatine, each chosen for their ability to significantly boost muscle volume and expedite recovery. The sophisticated mix stimulates lean muscle development, allowing for more intense workouts and improved results. Additionally, Creature aids in reducing muscle breakdown and speeds up recovery time. Note that during warmer months, products may arrive warm, but Amazon ensures they are stored and shipped according to manufacturer guidelines.

    BPI Sports

    14. BPI Sports Micronized Creatine

    BPI Sports Best CREATINE combines six advanced forms of creatine into a single potent formula, enhancing muscle growth, strength, and power while accelerating recovery. This comprehensive blend supports superior performance in the gym, on the field, or on the court. Creatine acts as a natural energy source, reducing fatigue during intense physical activity. Included in the formula is Creatine AKG, bonded with Alpha-Ketoglutarate, which aids in muscle growth and recovery by supporting glutamine levels. Additionally, the formula features Betaine, a beet extract known for boosting raw power and strength. Designed to eliminate water retention and avoid the need for a loading phase, Best CREATINE ensures effective results without bloating. BPI Sports delivers a high-quality supplement, consistently maintaining its standards even with varying packaging.

    Maxler

    15. Maxler 100% Golden Creatine

    Maxler 100% Golden Creatine delivers pure micronized creatine monohydrate, providing 5 grams of high-quality creatine per serving. Essential for athletes, this supplement enhances power output and muscle volume by stimulating protein synthesis. It also boosts endurance and aids in recovery by reducing muscle damage after intense workouts. Thanks to its micronized particle size, Golden Creatine is rapidly absorbed and converted into energy more efficiently than traditional creatine pills or capsules. Manufactured to meet GMP standards, this product ensures superior quality and effectiveness for your fitness needs.

    Amazing

    16. Amazing Formulas Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Supplement

    Amazing Formulas Micronized Creatine Monohydrate 100% Pure Powder is designed to elevate your fitness regime by boosting muscle size, strength, and power. Each serving delivers 5000 mg of pure, non-GMO, and gluten-free creatine monohydrate to enhance energy production and support the development of lean muscle mass. This third-party tested supplement ensures superior quality and effectiveness, with its micronized form providing excellent solubility and absorption. Maximize the benefits of your workouts with Amazing Formulas’ creatine powder, a reliable choice for achieving optimal muscle growth and performance.

    Now Food

    17. Now Foods Kre-Alkalyn® Creatine

    Now Foods Kre-Alkalyn® delivers advanced creatine with a pH-buffered formula that maintains maximum potency and purity through digestion. This unique approach minimizes common issues like stomach discomfort and bloating found with other creatine supplements. Each 1500 mg serving supports muscle growth, energy production, and performance, enhancing endurance and mental clarity. Free from the need for loading or cycling, Kre-Alkalyn® ensures effective results while upholding the high-quality standards of All American Pharmaceutical & Natural Foods Corporation.

    scietec nutrition

    18. Scitec Nutrition 100% Creatine Monohydrate

    Scitec 100% Creatine Monohydrate offers pure, high-quality creatine monohydrate, a proven and legal performance enhancer. This potent supplement is based on extensive research and is safe for regular use. A one-pound container provides a generous supply that can last over six months with consistent use. For optimal results, continuous use is recommended—there’s no need to cycle your intake. Backed by scientifically validated benefits and approved claims from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Scitec Creatine Monohydrate ensures reliable support for enhancing performance and muscle growth.

    Cellucor

    19. Cellucor Pre Workout & Creatine Bundle

    Cellucor C4 is America’s leading pre-workout supplement, renowned for its exceptional energy and performance benefits. At the core of this powerhouse formula is COR-Performance Creatine, featuring micronized creatine monohydrate, which significantly boosts strength and supports lean muscle growth. This premium ingredient enhances absorption, ensuring that your workouts are fueled with optimal energy and endurance. Whether you’re looking to increase muscle mass or improve performance, the high-quality creatine in C4 is designed to help you reach your fitness goals. Backed by a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, Cellucor C4 combines effective, patented ingredients to deliver results you can trust.

    Weevit

    20. Weevit Creatine Monohydrate Gummies

    WEevit Creatine Monohydrate Gummies deliver 5000mg per serving to support muscle strength and endurance. Each serving includes four gummies enriched with Vitamin B12 and L-Taurine, ideal for both pre and post-workout. These vegan, natural gummies are non-GMO, gluten-free, sugar-free, and gelatin-free, featuring a delightful natural lemon flavor without artificial additives. Enjoy a tasty alternative to traditional creatine supplements with these chewable gummies. Manufactured in a third-party tested facility, WEevit ensures the highest quality and consistency in every bottle. Each package provides a 30-day supply to enhance your workout regimen.

    Now Sports

    21. NOW Sports Nutrition, Creatine Monohydrate Powder

    NOW Sports Creatine Monohydrate is rigorously tested to ensure purity and effectiveness for athletes at all levels. This additive-free supplement fuels muscles, supporting energy production and lean mass growth. Research shows that creatine helps maintain muscle tissue and enhances performance during intense, short-duration exercises. With NPA A-rated GMP certification, NOW Sports guarantees the stability, potency, and quality of their product, packaged by a family-owned company in the USA since 1968.

    Betancourt

    22. Betancourt Nutrition Creatine Monohydrate Powder Supplement

    Betancourt Nutrition Creatine Monohydrate Powder supports muscle growth and strength enhancement by stimulating satellite cells and increasing intramuscular creatine stores for better hydration and volume. It elevates creatine phosphate levels to boost ATP formation, improving strength and exercise performance. Additionally, it aids in recovery by preventing muscle glycogen depletion, reducing fatigue, and maintaining energy levels during intense training. Each raw material undergoes identity testing, and all finished products go through rigorous quality control, ensuring top-tier quality and safety.

    Nutrex

    23. Nutrex Research Creatine Monohydrate Powder

    Nutrex Research Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Powder offers a high-potency formula with 5 grams per serving, designed to optimize muscle mass, strength, power output, energy levels, athletic performance and recovery. This creatine monohydrate enhances lifting capacity, allowing for greater strength gains and improved workout performance. Easily mixable into any drink, it seamlessly integrates into your pre, during, or post-workout routine. The advanced formula promotes rapid muscle recovery, reducing downtime and accelerating progress. Manufactured in a cGMP certified facility in the U.S., it guarantees purity and effectiveness without any fillers or additives.

    San Performance

    24. SAN Performance Creatine

    SAN’s Micronized Performance Creatine, featuring CreaSolv micronization technology, offers superior absorption and mixing capabilities with 20 times more surface area than regular creatine monohydrate. Each 5-gram serving dissolves quickly and completely, minimizing gastrointestinal discomfort by leaving the gut faster. This ensures users can fully benefit from enhanced muscle strength and volume. Designed for rapid and thorough absorption, Performance Creatine maximizes the effectiveness of every gram, providing a more comfortable and efficient way to boost muscle power and size.

    Liposomal

    25. Codeage Liposomal Creatine Monohydrate Powder Supplement

    Discover the advanced absorption of Codeage Liposomal Creatine Monohydrate Powder, featuring a patent-pending liposomal formula that outperforms traditional creatine supplements. Each unflavored serving delivers 5000 mg of pure, micronized creatine monohydrate from non-GMO sunflower oil for optimal quality. Known for boosting strength, power, and muscle mass, creatine also enhances recovery from intense workouts. This 3-month supply is perfect for both men and women and is made in a cGMP-certified facility in the USA. It’s vegan, non-GMO, and free from dairy, gluten, soy, and artificial additives, offering a premium addition to your supplement regimen.

    (Disclaimer: This article is meant for informational and educational use only and is not a replacement for professional medical advice. For any health-related concerns or questions, please consult a licensed healthcare provider. Additionally, Medical Daily suggests opting for products that have been verified by independent third-party testing to ensure their quality and effectiveness.)

    Published by Medicaldaily.com

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  • New drug shows promise in clearing HIV from brain

    New drug shows promise in clearing HIV from brain

    An experimental drug originally developed to treat cancer may help clear HIV from infected cells in the brain, according to a new Tulane University study.

    For the first time, researchers at Tulane National Primate Research Center found that a cancer drug significantly reduced levels of SIV, the nonhuman primate equivalent of HIV, in the brain by targeting and depleting certain immune cells that harbor the virus.

    Published in the journal Brain, this discovery marks a significant step toward eliminating HIV from hard-to-reach reservoirs where the virus evades otherwise effective treatment.

    “This research is an important step in tackling brain-related issues caused by HIV, which still affect people even when they are on effective HIV medication,” said lead study author Woong-Ki Kim, PhD, associate director for research at Tulane National Primate Research Center. “By specifically targeting the infected cells in the brain, we may be able to clear the virus from these hidden areas, which has been a major challenge in HIV treatment.”

    Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an essential component of successful HIV treatment, maintaining the virus at undetectable levels in the blood and transforming HIV from a terminal illness into a manageable condition. However, ART does not completely eradicate HIV, necessitating lifelong treatment. The virus persists in “viral reservoirs” in the brain, liver, and lymph nodes, where it remains out of reach of ART.

    The brain has been a particularly challenging area for treatment due to the blood-brain barrier — a protective membrane that shields it from harmful substances but also blocks treatments, allowing the virus to persist. In addition, cells in the brain known as macrophages are extremely long-lived, making them difficult to eradicate once they become infected.

    Infection of macrophages is thought to contribute to neurocognitive dysfunction, experienced by nearly half of those living with HIV. Eradicating the virus from the brain is critical for comprehensive HIV treatment and could significantly improve the quality of life for those with HIV-related neurocognitive problems.

    Researchers focused on macrophages, a type of white blood cell that harbors HIV in the brain. By using a small molecule inhibitor to block a receptor that increases in HIV-infected macrophages, the team successfully reduced the viral load in the brain. This approach essentially cleared the virus from brain tissue, providing a potential new treatment avenue for HIV.

    The small molecule inhibitor used, BLZ945, has previously been studied for therapeutic use in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and brain cancer, but never before in the context of clearing HIV from the brain.

    The study, which took place at the Tulane National Primate Research Center, utilized three groups to model human HIV infection and treatment: an untreated control group, and two groups treated with either a low or high dose of the small molecule inhibitor for 30 days. The high-dose treatment lead to a notable reduction in cells expressing HIV receptor sites, as well as a 95-99% decrease in viral DNA loads in the brain .

    In addition to reducing viral loads, the treatment did not significantly impact microglia, the brain’s resident immune cells, which are essential for maintaining a healthy neuroimmune environment. It also did not show signs of liver toxicity at the doses tested.

    The next step for the research team is to test this therapy in conjunction with ART to assess its efficacy in a combined treatment approach. This could pave the way for more comprehensive strategies to eradicate HIV from the body entirely.

    This research was funded by the National Institutes of Health, including grants from the National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, and was supported with resources from the Tulane National Primate Research Center base grant of the National Institutes of Health, P51 OD011104.

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  • New gene therapy approach shows promise for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

    New gene therapy approach shows promise for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

    Indiana University School of Medicine researchers have made a significant breakthrough in developing a new gene therapy approach that restores full-length dystrophin protein, which could lead to new treatments for people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

    The study, recently published in Nature Communications, demonstrates the effectiveness of their novel gene therapy technology in improving muscle tissue and overall strength in mice models with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

    Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the DMD gene, resulting in a lack of the protein dystrophin. This deficiency leads to progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle tissue over time. Patients with the disease experience impaired mobility, heart and lung problems, and ultimately a shortened life expectancy.

    “Current gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy utilizes a truncated version of dystrophin,” said Renzhi Han, PhD, senior author of the study and professor of pediatrics at the IU School of Medicine. “Unfortunately, this option doesn’t fully protect the muscles because it lacks many important functional domains of full-length dystrophin.”

    While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved a micro-dystrophin gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Han said the therapeutic outcomes have been less satisfactory than expected.

    Building on their experience using adeno-associated virus methods to deliver extra-large therapeutic genes into cells, Han and his team at the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research developed a triple-adeno-associated virus vector system to deliver a complete version of the dystrophin protein into the muscles.

    “We optimized and tested our new three-vector system to make sure it produced and assembled the full-length dystrophin protein effectively,” Han said. “Our data confirmed we successfully restored full-length dystrophin in both the skeletal and heart muscles of mice with DMD, leading to significant improvements in their muscle health, strength and function.”

    Han has filed a provisional patent application for his triple-adeno-associated virus vector system and is collaborating with the IU Innovation and Commercialization Office to advance the treatment toward market availability. He is also seeking additional funding so patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy have access to promising new treatment options.

    “I believe this new gene therapy approach offers significant advantages to patients compared to what they currently have available, and I’m eager to get it into further clinical development,” he said.

    Other IU School of Medicine study authors include Yuan Zhou, Chen Zhang, Weidong Xiao and Roland W. Herzog.

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  • Warehousing industry increases health-harming pollutants, research shows

    Warehousing industry increases health-harming pollutants, research shows

    America’s demand for products delivered to the doorstep has led to a dramatic increase in e-commerce and the warehousing industry.

    A first-of-a-kind study now shows that people living in communities located next to these large warehouses are exposed to 20% more of a traffic-related air pollutant that can lead to asthma and other life-threatening health conditions.

    “Increased truck traffic to and from these recently built large warehouses means people living downwind are inhaling an increased amount of harmful nitrogen dioxide pollution,” said Gaige Kerr, lead author of the study and an assistant research professor of environmental and occupational health at the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health. “Communities of color are disproportionately affected because they often live in close proximity to warehouses, especially dense clusters of warehouses.”

    Kerr and his colleagues measured a traffic-related pollutant called nitrogen dioxide by using a satellite instrument from the European Space Agency to zero in from space on the nearly 150,000 large warehouses located across the United States. Trucks and other vehicles traveling to and from these large warehouses spew out nitrogen dioxide, particulates, and other harmful pollutants.

    The researchers also looked at traffic information from the Federal Highway Administration and demographic data from the US Census Bureau.

    Additional key findings of the study:

    • Although the average spike of nitrogen dioxide associated with warehouses was 20%, nitrogen dioxide levels near warehouses were even larger when there was greater heavy duty vehicle activity near these facilities.
    • Warehouses with more loading docks and parking spaces attract the most traffic and are associated with the highest nitrogen dioxide levels.
    • Communities with large racial and ethnic minority populations are often located near warehouses and thus are inhaling more nitrogen dioxide and other pollutants. For example, this study found that the proportion of Hispanic and Asian people living close to the largest clusters of warehouses is about 250% higher than the average nationwide.
    • Although warehouses are located all over the US, 20% are concentrated in just 10 counties: Los Angeles, California; Harris, Texas; Cook, Illinois; Miami-Dade, Florida; Maricopa, Arizona; San Bernardino, California; Orange, California; Dallas, Texas; Alameda, California; and Cuyahoga, Ohio.

    The pandemic fueled the explosion of the e-commerce industry and warehouses that receive and sort consumer goods. The transportation infrastructure needed to ship goods to warehouses and then onto consumers is enormous, according to the researchers. For example, Amazon, an industry leader in e-commerce operated 175,000 delivery vans and more than 37,000 semi trailers in 2021 alone.

    Earlier studies have looked at warehouses and pollution in specific neighborhoods around the country, but this is the first nationwide study to show that people living near these warehouses are exposed to higher than average levels of damaging pollutants. And while other research has shown that communities of color are exposed to more nitrogen dioxide pollution than predominantly non-Hispanic white communities, this is the first study linking the warehousing industry to the exposure inequities faced by these overburdened populations, Kerr says.

    Previous research by the GW team found that communities of color in the US face a growing burden from polluted air. That study showed that such communities endure nearly 8 times higher rates of pediatric asthma from exposure to nitrogen dioxide and 30% higher rates of dying prematurely from exposure to fine particulate matter, both of which are emitted by cars, trucks and other vehicles.

    The authors say the new study underscores the need for regulations that drive zero-emission vehicle use in logistics, particularly to protect vulnerable communities located near industrial hubs. They also say that industry leaders and utilities have crucial roles in planning and implementing this transition.

    “Such measures would mean people living near warehouses could breathe cleaner air,” said Kerr. “In addition to a reduced risk of pollutant-related diseases, such measures would also reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with climate change.”

    The study, “Air pollution impacts from warehousing in the United States uncovered with satellite data,” was published July 24, 2024 in Nature Communications. In addition to Kerr, Susan Anenberg, professor and chair of the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at GW, and Daniel Goldberg, assistant research professor in the same department, contributed to this paper alongside researchers from the International Council on Clean Transportation.

    The research was funded by NASA.

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