Health Journal Online

Tag: Brain

  • Multiple Nurses From Same Unit in Massachusetts Hospital Diagnosed With Brain Tumors

    Multiple Nurses From Same Unit in Massachusetts Hospital Diagnosed With Brain Tumors

    An alarming outbreak of brain tumor diagnoses among labor and delivery nurses at a Massachusetts hospital has sparked internal and independent investigations.

    At least 11 staff members with ties to Newton-Wellesley Hospital’s fifth-floor labor and delivery unit have reported serious health concerns — including five benign brain tumors — according to a report by 25 Investigates.

    The hospital says its review, conducted in coordination with the Department of Occupational Health and Safety and third-party consultants, found no environmental risk factors linked to the tumor cases. Tests for air and water quality, radiation, and pharmaceutical safety reportedly yielded no red flags.

    However, the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) is challenging those findings, calling the hospital’s investigation inadequate. The union has launched its own survey, which has already drawn responses from over 300 current and former staff. The MNA is now reaching out to individuals who requested follow-ups and consented to share medical records for further review.

    “The hospital cannot make this issue go away by attempting to provide a pre-determined conclusion,” the MNA stated.

    In response, hospital officials say they’ve held multiple staff forums and remain confident in the safety of their facility.

    “We can confidently reassure our dedicated team members…and all our patients that there is no environmental risk at our facility,” Newton-Wellesley said in a statement, emphasizing that the health of staff and patients remains a top priority.

    The investigation continues as staff and advocates seek more transparency and answers about the troubling health pattern.

    Originally published on Latin Times

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  • Simple Supplement May Boost Brain Function And Memory In Elderly

    Simple Supplement May Boost Brain Function And Memory In Elderly

    Experiencing memory issues and declining brain function is often seen as a natural part of aging, and it can also be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. But what if boosting memory was not as complicated as it seems? Research suggests that the key may lie in an unexpected place—the gut.

    Adding more evidence to the fascinating connection between gut health and brain function, a recent study published in Nature Communications, suggests that a daily prebiotic supplement could sharpen memory and boost cognitive performance in adults over 60.

    To investigate whether two inexpensive and widely available plant fiber supplements: inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), could enhance brain function, researchers conducted a rigorous double-blind trial involving 36 pairs of twins over the age of 60. Since genetics play a significant role in cognitive health, using twins allowed the researchers to control for inherited differences, ensuring that any observed improvements in memory and brain function were more likely due to the supplements rather than genetic factors.

    During the trial, the participants either received a placebo or the supplement daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the trial, researchers observed significant changes in the gut microbiome of participants who took the fiber supplement, particularly an increase in Bifidobacterium, a beneficial bacteria linked to gut and brain health.

    By comparing the cognitive abilities of identical siblings using questionnaires and cognitive tests, the researchers found that after the end of the trial, the participants who took inulin or FOS consistently outperformed their sibling.

    “We are excited to see these changes in just 12 weeks. This holds huge promise for enhancing brain health and memory in our aging population. Unlocking the secrets of the gut-brain axis could offer new approaches for living more healthily for longer,” said first author Dr. Mary Ni Lochlainn from the Department of Twin Research in a news release.

    “These plant fibers, which are cheap and available over the counter, could benefit a wide group of people in these cash-strapped times. They are safe and acceptable too. Our next task is to see whether these effects are sustained over longer periods and in larger groups of people,” added senior author Professor Claire Steves, professor of aging and health.

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  • Teen Dies From Rare Brain Tumor After Unusual Symptoms; Heartbroken Mom Urges Others To Recognize Signs

    Teen Dies From Rare Brain Tumor After Unusual Symptoms; Heartbroken Mom Urges Others To Recognize Signs

    When 12-year-old Jody tripped and fell multiple times, had trouble walking straight, and struggled to fasten her shirt buttons, her mother never suspected it could be a sign of something serious—until doctors delivered the devastating news of a rare brain tumor.

    After years of battling the disease, Jody passed away in 2022, at the age of 16, and her heartbroken mother, Sarah Levett, from Surrey in South East England, now raises awareness about the condition, hoping that parents could spot the signs as soon as possible.

    Levett, who is organizing a fundraiser next month for the Brain Tumor Charity in her daughter’s memory, says she does it so no other parent or child has to endure the unimaginable heartbreak they experienced.

    When Jody first experienced symptoms like migraines, difficulty with balance, and frustration that led to screaming fits, Levett thought it might be related to her autism. But during a check-up, doctors discovered that Jody was in the advanced stages of a rare brain tumor.

    “It was absolutely terrifying. As the doctor spoke about how big the tumor was, I couldn’t take it all in,” Levett recollected the moments following the diagnosis.

    “I just wanted it gone. But I tried as hard as I could to hide how scared I was, as Jody was so young. I didn’t want her to worry – in fact, she was more bothered about the fact she was unable to go to school. She started bumping into things, like a wheelie bin on the pavement, only a few months before the diagnosis,” she said.

    Jody underwent treatment for around 10 months, including a surgery that removed 80% of the tumor, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy until she was stable. However, a year later, a follow-up scan revealed that the tumor had returned.

    As Jody’s condition rapidly declined, she underwent four more surgeries and doctors discovered a brain bleed before she tragically died.

    “The main aim [of the fundraiser] is to continue the awareness of brain tumors and changes needed, and the lack of mental health support for bereaved parents. I know there’s a lot of strain on healthcare at the moment, but I really don’t want any other parents or children to have to go through the unimaginable heartbreak like we have done,” Levett said.

    Brain tumors may present with symptoms such as seizures, balance issues, behavioral changes, slurred speech, fatigue, weakness, headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

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  • Dad Dies Year After Brain Tumor Diagnosis, Doctor Initially Dismissed Symptoms As Stress, Accused Him Of Faking

    Dad Dies Year After Brain Tumor Diagnosis, Doctor Initially Dismissed Symptoms As Stress, Accused Him Of Faking

    A 53-year-old U.K. man with troubling signs, including headaches and jumbled speech, was initially dismissed as stressed. His doctor even accused him of faking symptoms before being diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor. A year later, he died. Now, his daughter is running a marathon to raise awareness and money for cancer research.

    Stephen Blakeston, from Hull, England, started experiencing massive headaches and was jumbling up sentences when his wife noticed the symptoms and took him to a doctor in October 2010.

    “I couldn’t believe it when we visited the GP, who dismissed his symptoms as stress-related and even said he was faking, something I know my dad wouldn’t do,” Blakeston’s daughter Hollie Rhodes recollected.

    Blakeston later got a CT scan done and realized that a tumor was growing on the left side of his brain, which was affecting his speech. He underwent surgery soon, and a biopsy confirmed that the tumor was a glioblastoma, a fast-growing, incurable cancer, leaving him with just 12-18 months to live.

    After the surgery, Blakeston underwent intensive radiotherapy and two rounds of chemotherapy to halt the growth of the tumor and scans showed no signs of further regrowth.

    However, around 9 months later, Blakeston suddenly collapsed and died after a blood clot, believed to be related to his treatment, or the tumor traveled to his heart.

    “It was horrible for us to lose him so suddenly, but there is some comfort in knowing it was quick and likely the way he would have wanted to go. I’ll always miss hearing his laugh,” Rhodes said.

    Glioblastoma is a fairly common form of brain tumor, with more than 13,000 Americans are diagnosed with it every year. The symptoms vary but often include persistent headaches, nausea, confusion, memory loss, and personality changes. Other signs to watch out for include vision problems, speech difficulties, muscle weakness, and seizures, especially in those without a history of them.

    “It’s the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40, so it should absolutely be a priority to stop these deaths. It almost feels like people view brain tumors as a final prognosis. That whole narrative needs to change because more funding in research would bring hope to those impacted,” said Rhodes, who is running the London Marathon to raise money for Brain Tumor Research.

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  • 5 Simple Ways to Boost Your Brain Health as You Age

    5 Simple Ways to Boost Your Brain Health as You Age

    5 Simple Ways to Boost Your Brain Health as You Age

    As we age, our brains undergo natural changes that can affect our cognitive abilities, memory, and overall brain health. However, with simple lifestyle changes and habits, you can boost your brain health and maintain a sharp mind as you age. In this article, we’ll explore five simple ways to do just that.

    1. Exercise Your Way to Better Brain Health

    Exercise is one of the most effective ways to boost your brain health. Physical activity has been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, which can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, exercise has been linked to the growth of new brain cells, which can help to improve memory and learning.

    Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. You can also incorporate strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your routine to challenge your brain and body.

    2. Eat a Brain-Healthy Diet

    A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help to support brain health. Foods that are high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.

    Additionally, foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, can help to support brain function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Aim to include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet, and limit your intake of processed and sugary foods.

    3. Get Enough Sleep

    Sleep is essential for brain health, and getting enough sleep can help to improve cognitive function and memory. During sleep, your brain is able to clear out toxins and waste products that can build up and contribute to cognitive decline.

    Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and establish a consistent sleep routine to help regulate your body’s internal clock. Avoid screens and electronic devices before bedtime, and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down.

    4. Challenge Your Brain

    Challenging your brain through mental stimulation can help to build cognitive reserve and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as:

    • Learning a new language or skill

    • Reading and solving puzzles

    • Playing strategy games or chess

    • Practicing mindfulness and meditation

    Aim to challenge your brain at least 30 minutes per day, and mix it up to keep things interesting and prevent boredom.

    5. Manage Stress

    Chronic stress can have a negative impact on brain health, and can contribute to cognitive decline and memory loss. Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as:

    • Yoga or tai chi

    • Meditation and deep breathing

    • Journaling or writing

    • Spending time in nature

    Aim to manage your stress levels by taking regular breaks and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

    Conclusion

    Boosting your brain health as you age is easier than you think. By incorporating simple lifestyle changes and habits into your daily routine, you can improve cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health. Remember to exercise regularly, eat a brain-healthy diet, get enough sleep, challenge your brain, and manage stress. With these simple tips, you can maintain a sharp mind and live a healthy, happy life.

    FAQs

    Q: How can I get started with exercising for brain health?
    A: Start by incorporating short, 10-15 minute walks into your daily routine. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts as you become more comfortable.

    Q: What are some brain-healthy foods I can add to my diet?
    A: Try incorporating foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, into your diet. Also, include foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts.

    Q: How much sleep do I need to get for brain health?
    A: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Establish a consistent sleep routine and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help regulate your body’s internal clock.

    Q: What are some stress-reducing activities I can try?
    A: Try yoga or tai chi, meditation and deep breathing, journaling or writing, or spending time in nature. Experiment with different activities to find what works best for you.

    Q: How often should I challenge my brain?
    A: Aim to challenge your brain at least 30 minutes per day. Mix it up and try new activities to keep things interesting and prevent boredom.

  • Obesity’s Impacts on Our Brain, Dementia, and Fertility 

    Obesity’s Impacts on Our Brain, Dementia, and Fertility 

    Weight loss can decrease dementia risk and improve mental performance and fertility.

    As I’ve discussed previously, in the ABCs of the health consequences of obesity, A is for Arthritis, B is for Back Pain and Blood Pressure, C is for Cancer, and D is for Diabetes. That brings us to E, which is for Encephalopathy.

    Encephalopathy means brain disease. There are consistent data linking obesity in middle age to a higher risk of dementia later in life. Researchers found that individuals who are overweight have about a one-third higher risk of dementia and those who are obese in mid-life have about 90 percent greater risk. The risk isn’t limited only to future dysfunction, though. People with excess body weight don’t appear to think as clearly at any age.

    “It was found that obese participants showed broad impairments on executive functions” of the brain, including working memory, decision-making, planning, cognitive flexibility, and verbal fluency. “From resisting temptation to keeping long-term goals in mind, executive functions play a critical role in everyday life,” noted a meta-analysis and review of 72 studies on the issue.

    According to researchers, people may think about their obesity and the resulting stigma they experience as much as five times an hour, but the cognitive deficits do not appear to arise just from distraction; there are structural brain differences between individuals who are at an ideal weight versus overweight.

    A review entitled “Does the Brain Shrink as the Waist Expands?” noted gray matter atrophy across all ages among those carrying excess body fat. It’s this reduced brain volume that has been correlated with lower executive function. As you can see below and at 1:42 in my video The Effects of Obesity on Dementia, Brain Function, and Fertility, compromised integrity of the rest of the brain—the white matter—suggests accelerated brain aging, even in young adults and children with obesity. 

    Cognitive deficits in younger populations suggest there’s something about obesity itself that is affecting brain function, rather than a later clinical consequence, such as high blood pressure. Purported mechanisms for this executive dysfunction include obesity-related inflammation and oxidative stress.

    So, does weight loss improve cognitive function? Based on a meta-analysis of 20 studies, researchers found that mental performance across a variety of domains can be significantly improved with even modest weight loss. However, no studies have yet to be done to determine if this then translates into a normalization of Alzheimer’s disease risk.

    Back to the ABCs of obesity’s health consequences, F is for Fertility—or rather failed fertility. “Overweight and obese persons seeking fertility should be educated on the detrimental effects of fatness and the benefits of weight reduction, including improvement in pregnancy rates,” one meta-analysis concluded. Men also may suffer impaired fertility. The heavier a man is, the greater his risk of having a low sperm count or being completely sterile, as you can see below and at 3:01 in my video. This may be due in part to the effects of excess body fat on testosterone levels. 

    Fat isn’t the primary site of estrogen production in only postmenopausal women, but in men, too. An enzyme in body fat converts testosterone into estrogen. Men losing weight and going from obese to overweight could potentially raise the testosterone levels in their blood by 13 percent.

    A more dramatic cause of infertility in obese men is called a “hidden penis.” The condition, which is also described in the medical literature as a “hidden, buried, concealed, trapped, and inconspicuous” penis, occurs when excess fat in the pubic area subsumes the penis (since its base is attached internally to the pubic bone). The moist enfolding skin surfaces can result in chronic inflammatory dermatitis leading to scarring and requiring a surgical intervention.

    If you missed the previous blog posts, I covered The Best Knee Replacement Alternative for Osteoarthritis Treatment and The Effects of Obesity on Back Pain, Blood Pressure, Cancer, and Diabetes.

    I continue the topic of obesity and weight with videos in the related posts below.

    I cover all of this and more at length in my book How Not to Diet, and its culinary companion, The How Not to Diet Cookbook, has more than 100 delicious, weight-conscious recipes. Request them from your local library. 

    For more on the health conditions discussed in this video, see the Alzheimer’s disease, cognition, and fertility topic pages.  



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  • Here Are Activities Beneficial For Brain Health

    Prolonged sitting has long been linked to negative effects on both physical and mental health. However, new research reveals a surprising twist: not all sitting activities are harmful to your brain. In fact, some might even offer cognitive benefits.

    Researchers of the latest study explored the daily activity patterns of 397 adults, aged above the age of 60 to understand how different types of activities affect memory and thinking abilities. The findings published in the Journal of Gerontology Series A revealed that the effects of sedentary behavior on brain health depend largely on the type of activity.

    For instance, mentally engaging activities such as reading, listening to music, crafting, praying, or chatting with friends were linked to improved memory and cognitive function. However, activities that do not require active participation such as watching television for a long time or playing video games, were associated with poorer cognitive outcomes.

    “We found that the type of activity significantly alters its impact on brain health. Social and mentally engaging activities stimulate the brain, while passive activities, like excessive TV viewing, can have a detrimental effect,” Dr Maddison Mellow, a lead researcher of the study said.

    For best results for all aspects of health, Mellow suggests that people should aim at being physically active, prioritize movement that is enjoyable, and get the heart rate up.

    However, if your day involves a lot of sitting, there’s no need to worry. Small adjustments can still benefit your brain health. Swapping just five minutes of TV time for a mentally stimulating activity like solving a puzzle, reading, or having a phone conversation with a friend can make a meaningful difference to your brain health, suggests Dr. Mellow.

    “And, while the ‘move more, sit less’ message certainly holds true for cardiometabolic and brain health, our research shows that a more nuanced approach is needed when it comes to thinking about the link between sedentary behaviors and cognitive function,” Dr. Mellow said.

    Previous studies have shown that engaging in mentally stimulating leisure activities, such as reading and playing board games, can help older adults maintain cognitive sharpness. A paper published in the PMC journal indicates that individuals aged 75 and older who participate in such activities had a reduced risk of developing dementia compared to those who did not.

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  • Woman’s Migraines, Motion Sickness Thought To Be From Phone Use Revealed Rare Brain Disorder

    Woman’s Migraines, Motion Sickness Thought To Be From Phone Use Revealed Rare Brain Disorder

    For years, 44-year-old Charlie Rolstone from the U.K. brushed off her migraines, motion sickness, and occasional blackouts as the side effects of spending too much time on her phone. But a medical emergency three years ago revealed a chilling truth that her symptoms stemmed from a rare brain disorder from her skull pushing against the brain.

    An MRI taken during the emergency visit revealed that Rolstone had epilepsy and a Chiari malformation, a condition caused by an abnormal skull structure that forces the brain to extend downward into the spinal canal.

    “I’ve had it my whole life, but my symptoms have only been getting worse as I’ve got older,” said Rolstone, SWNS reported.

    “I’ve suffered with migraines since I was a teen. Whenever I cough, I also get a very piercing pain in my head, covering the back of my skull. It only lasts for, maybe, 30 seconds — but it’s enough to make me grab my head. I can’t even shout or raise my voice without getting a headache. These were symptoms I knew to be there, but I thought they were normal,” she added.

    Rolstone thought she would grow out of the symptoms until she received the diagnosis while she was taken to the hospital after collapsing from a seizure. The doctors also found out that she had brain lesions and an aneurysm.

    “I don’t know the full extent of the damage the condition has done, but I’m glad we’ve caught it now. That seizure saved my life — it revealed my Chiari malformation,” she said.

    Rolstone now manages her migraines with painkillers and limits her phone use to reduce motion sickness. With medications for epilepsy, she has been seizure-free for 21 months.

    Chiari malformation can be present with or without symptoms, and the signs depend on the type of condition. In Chiari malformation type 1, symptoms such as headaches, particularly while coughing or sneezing, neck pain, poor hand coordination, numbness in the hands and feet, and difficulty swallowing, typically begin in late childhood or adulthood, though the condition is often congenital.

    In rare cases, individuals with Chiari malformation type 1 may experience additional symptoms, including ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus), muscle weakness, a slow heart rhythm, curvature of the spine (scoliosis) linked to spinal cord impairment, and breathing difficulties.

    Type 2 Chiari malformation is typically associated with a myelomeningocele, a form of spina bifida where the spinal canal and backbone fail to close properly before birth. The symptoms include difficulty swallowing, changes in breathing pattern, sudden downward eye movements and weakness in arms.

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  • Poor Sleep In 40s May Add Years To Your Brain Age: Study Finds

    Poor Sleep In 40s May Add Years To Your Brain Age: Study Finds

    Missing out on sleep not only makes you feel groggy the next day, but the effects can be long-lasting. Adding to the growing body of evidence, researchers have now found that poor sleep in the middle ages is linked to accelerated brain aging in the next ten years.

    The latest study that evaluated participants’ brain health using brain scans revealed that having poor sleep quality in the 40s might add more years to the brain age.

    “Sleep problems have been linked in previous research to poor thinking and memory skills later in life, putting people at higher risk for dementia. Our study which used brain scans to determine participants’ brain age, suggests that poor sleep is linked to nearly three years of additional brain aging as early as middle age,” said study author, Clémence Cavaillès from the University of California San Francisco in a news release.

    The researchers evaluated the sleep patterns of 589 participants with an average age of 40 using questionnaires at the start of the study and five years later. After 15 years, the researchers evaluated the brain shrinkage of the participants using brain scans.

    The questionnaires evaluated participants based on six sleep issues: difficulty falling asleep, waking up in between sleep, waking up too early, short sleep duration, bad sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness.

    Based on the results, participants were divided into three groups according to their sleep quality. Those in the low group had just one poor sleep characteristic and 70% belonged to this group. However, the middle group, comprising 22% of participants, had two to three poor sleep features, while the high group, with more than three poor sleep characteristics, made up 8% of the population.

    After analyzing brain scans alongside sleep patterns, researchers found that participants in the middle group had an average brain age of 1.6 years older than those in the low group. Meanwhile, those in the high group showed an average brain age of 2.6 years older than the low group.

    Out of the six poor sleep characteristics studied, bad sleep quality, difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep and early morning awakening were linked to greater brain age. This was particularly strong when the participants consistently had it for over five years.

    “Our findings highlight the importance of addressing sleep problems earlier in life to preserve brain health, including maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, exercising, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before going to bed and using relaxation techniques,” said author Dr. Kristine Yaffe, from the University of California San Francisco.

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  • AAP Recommends Shared Reading To Strengthen Bonds, Boost Brain Development

    AAP Recommends Shared Reading To Strengthen Bonds, Boost Brain Development

    Do you read aloud to your kids? This simple yet meaningful bonding experience between parents and caregivers can have lasting benefits. A recent recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that reading together not only strengthens familial connections but also boosts brain development in young minds.

    The latest updated policy statement from the AAP suggests “literacy promotion as a universal primary prevention strategy to strengthen families and support healthy development.”

    The policy statement published in Pediatrics recommends that parents and caregivers read with their children from birth, continuing at least through kindergarten, including in the NICU. This practice supports language, cognitive, and social-emotional development in early childhood. The evidence shows it improves school readiness and helps with early brain development. Reading with kids also helps with positive childhood experiences that enhance early relational health.

    “Reading together with young children weaves joyful language and rich interactive moments into the fabric of daily life. As a pediatrician and parent, I suggest making books your bedtime routine, using them to connect and wind down after a busy day, and generally building them into life with a young child. It will strengthen the bonds that hold you together, and build your child’s developing brain,” said Dr. Perri Klass, the lead author of the policy statement.

    “Research tells us that reading proficiency by third grade is a significant predictor of high school graduation and career success. Children who first encounter books in the arms of their parents, when they are very young, arrive at school associating books and reading with lap-time, a sense of security, interactions, stories, rhymes, and entertainment, and above all with the beloved voices of the adults with whom they have those all-important early relationships.”

    Experts particularly stress the importance of reading books, especially as children are increasingly exposed to screen time and electronic devices become more popular in their daily lives. According to pediatric experts, digital books do not encourage the same level of parent-child interaction as traditional books. If screen-based reading or audiobooks are used, parents should engage in reciprocal interactions with their children during these activities to strengthen relational bonds and enhance learning.

    “Turning the pages of a high-quality, print book filled with colorful pictures and rich, expressive language is best. While touchscreens and other electronic devices may be popular, they are typically passive or solitary experiences for children and do not offer the same benefits of interactivity and relationship-building,” said Dr. Dipesh Navsaria, a co-author of the technical report and chair of the Council on Early Childhood.

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