The component in dark chocolate—theobromine—slows down biological aging. This is stated in research published in Aging.
Researchers from King’s College London reviewed data from over 1600 people across two European cohorts. It was discovered that those whose blood contained more theobromine had a biological age lower than their chronological age.
Biological aging was assessed using two metrics:
DNA methylation (alterations in the genome that reduce the activity or entirely “switch off” a gene);
Telomere length—the protective “caps” on chromosome ends that shorten with age.
The investigators surmise that theobromine thus regulates gene function, thereby impacting aging processes.
The authors emphasize that the findings do not mean people should consume more chocolate (this product contains high amounts of sugar and fats). Further studies are needed to demonstrate precisely how theobromine slows aging and what quantity of chocolate would be adequate for this purpose.
Health maintenance begins with a conscious lifestyle—and continues with future planning. Fiscal solvency provides assurance that you can undergo examinations, receive treatment, or simply take a break for recovery.
Residence Location and Diabetes
Where one lives affects the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is indicated in a major study published in JAMA Network Open.
Scientists analyzed data from over a million adults in Houston and correlated it with the Climate Vulnerability Index (CVI). This index quantifies how often an area is exposed to intense heat, storms, air pollution, as well as social factors (poverty, housing quality, infrastructure, access to medical care).
It turned out that individuals residing in the most vulnerable locales had a 23% greater diabetes risk over seven years compared to residents of more advantaged areas. This remained true even after accounting for age, gender, race, body mass index, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Quitting smoking before surgery might temporarily increase sensitivity to pain. This is noted in research published in JNeurosci. Former smokers retained heightened sensitivity for at least three months, necessitating higher doses of analgesics post-operation.
Sixty men participated in the study, undergoing scheduled procedures to remove a portion of the liver. Half of the patients had recently stopped smoking (on doctor’s recommendation), while the rest had never smoked. Before the surgery, the group who recently quit exhibited a lower pain threshold, and afterward, an increased requirement for pain relief.
The authors stress that their findings certainly do not imply that smokers should avoid quitting. The data gathered will assist in better caring for patients who cease smoking before elective procedures.
Bronchitis, Cancer, and Three Other Lung Ailments in Smokers
Filter Coffee and Microbiota
A new study by Chinese scientists revealed that consuming filtered coffee is linked to lower levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The work is featured in npj Science of Food.
The researchers analyzed genome data from the UK Biobank and MiBioGen databases. They found that only filtered coffee correlated with improved glycemic regulation. Neither instant coffee nor coffee with sugar, milk, or sweeteners showed this effect.
Gut microbiota appeared to be the crucial link. Individuals drinking filtered coffee showed a significantly higher count of Veillonella bacteria. These microorganisms generate propionate—a short-chain fatty acid that enhances insulin sensitivity.
Protection Against Cancer, Dementia, and Four More Reasons to Drink Coffee Now
mRNA Vaccines and Myocarditis
Scientists from Stanford determined why a small fraction of young men and adolescents develop myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) following mRNA vaccines for COVID-19. The study is in Science Translational Medicine.
Analysis of blood samples and cell experiments indicated that the vaccine might trigger a chain reaction of immune inflammation. Against this backdrop, there is an increased influx of inflammatory cells into the heart, leading to cellular damage.
The authors underscore that instances of post-vaccination myocarditis are uncommon and typically mild, whereas COVID-19 causes myocarditis approximately 10 times more often.
Main Points from This Week’s Scientific News
Dark chocolate, filtered coffee, and even one’s area of residence might influence lifespan and the risk of chronic ailments. Scientists also explained a rare mechanism behind the development of myocarditis subsequent to mRNA vaccines and showed that ceasing smoking may temporarily elevate pain sensitivity.
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