Researchers have also determined dietary guidelines for women to preserve memory. A novel medication shows promise for individuals struggling with high cholesterol. The mystery behind involuntary twitches while watching action films has been solved.
Kimchi Cabbage Boosts Immunity
South Korean scientists have discovered that consuming fermented kimchi cabbage enhances immune defense. This was reported in a study published in the journal npj Science of Food.
The clinical trial involved overweight volunteers. Over a 12-week period, participants were given either a placebo or kimchi powder. Analysis of immune cells indicated that those who ate kimchi experienced strengthened activity in antigen-presenting cells. These cells engulf foreign microorganism fragments (like bacteria) and present them to other immune system cells (so they can “recognize” the threat).
The researchers point out that in addition to its protective effects, kimchi also dampens excessively strong inflammatory responses. This suggests the activation of regulatory mechanisms safeguarding the immune system from overactivity.
New Drug Lowers “Bad” Cholesterol by 60%
Enlicitid is an experimental medication that significantly reduces levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL, or “bad” cholesterol). The findings of the study appeared in JAMA.
The investigation included 303 participants who maintained elevated “bad” cholesterol levels despite taking statins. Over 52 weeks, some volunteers took enlicitid daily, while others received a placebo. After 24 weeks, the LDL level in the experimental group decreased by an average of 58%, whereas it slightly increased in the placebo group. This effect persisted even after a year.
The drug also improved other aspects of the lipid profile—reducing total cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, and lipoprotein(a)—which are markers of cardiovascular risk.
The effect was comparable to existing injectable medications. Researchers emphasize that the results are encouraging, but larger studies are necessary for confirmation.
Why People Flinch at Others’ Pain
It turns out the brain projects witnessed pain onto one’s own body. This is the conclusion of a study published in Nature.
Researchers from the University of Reading analyzed the brain activity of 174 individuals while they watched film clips. They found that the visual processing areas of the brain contain distinct “body maps”—structures typically associated with regions responsible for tactile sensations.
When a person observes someone on screen being hit or tickled, these maps activate following the same patterns as they would during actual contact. For instance, areas linked to the hands react during scenes involving hands. Consequently, the brain simulates the touch, even though no physical contact is occurring.
The authors believe this discovery could aid in diagnosing sensory disorders, such as autism.
Tattoos Diminish Immunity and Vaccine Efficacy
A portion of tattoo pigment migrates to lymph nodes, causing prolonged inflammation and altering the immune system’s response to vaccinations. This was detailed in a study published in the journal PNAS.
Scientists demonstrated that macrophages sequester the pigment within nearby lymph nodes. These cells frequently die off, leading to inflammation that can last for months. In an experiment involving mice, this resulted in noticeable changes in the immune response.
When an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine was administered to the same area where a tattoo was present, antibody production decreased. The authors hypothesize that the sustained pigment accumulation and macrophage death might weaken local immune defenses. While results are currently only from animals, tissue samples obtained via human lymph node biopsies show a comparable pigment distribution.
How Tattoos End Up in Immune Detention and Why They Are Too Much for Scavenger Cells
Mediterranean Diet Improves Memory in Women Over 50
This concerns a stricter version of the Mediterranean diet (AnMED), which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties. It prioritizes plant-based foods, using olive oil, avocados, and nuts as primary fat sources. Spanish scientists found that this eating regimen enhances memory. The research outcomes were published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
The researchers analyzed data from 348 women. They compared the influence of both the classic Mediterranean diet and its AnMED variant on self-reported memory impairment complaints. It was revealed that adherence to the AnMED diet correlated with women reporting memory issues almost ten times less frequently.
Key Takeaways
Korean researchers have provided evidence that kimchi strengthens immunity. Tattoos have the opposite effect, also reducing the effectiveness of certain vaccines. When you see someone being struck on screen, your brain initiates a simulation, causing you to flinch. The experimental drug enlicitid lowers “bad” cholesterol by nearly 60%, and a rigorous, anti-inflammatory Mediterranean diet helps women over 50 experience memory problems less often.
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