Ellen DeGeneres has osteoporosis: Here's what to know about the painful bone condition

Longtime talk show host Ellen DeGeneres announced last week that she has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, as well as OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder).

During her final Netflix special "For Your Consideration," DeGeneres, 66, opened up about her triple diagnosis, noting that she took a bone density test recommended by her doctor and learned she had "full-on osteoporosis."

"I don’t even know how I’m standing up right now. I’m like a human sandcastle. I could disintegrate in the shower," she told the audience.

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DeGeneres went on to admit that "it's hard to be honest about aging and seem cool." 

"I had excruciating pain one day and I thought I tore a ligament or something, and I got an MRI, and they said, ‘No, it’s just arthritis.’ I said, ‘How did I get that?’ And he said, ‘Oh it just happens at your age,'" she said.

Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, board-certified spine surgeon at The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care in New Jersey, weighed in on DeGeneres' diagnosis.

"Ellen still appears to have great posture and appears to be very active and healthy," he told Fox News Digital. 

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"Depending on the degree of osteoporosis she was diagnosed with, she has a great chance to have a normal life," he went on. 

"It's important for her to be well-educated about the treatments and lifestyle modifications recommended by her doctor, and be a great patient by following those instructions."

Osteoporosis is a "bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the structure and strength of bone changes," according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. 

The disease can lead to a decrease in bone strength, which can increase the risk of broken bones.

"Osteoporosis occurs when the body loses too much bone mass or doesn't produce enough bone to maintain healthy density," Okubadejo said.

This causes the bone to become weak or brittle.

"Although certain populations are more vulnerable to osteoporosis, it’s often associated with aging, hormonal changes associated with age, lifestyle factors or mineral/vitamin deficiencies," added Okubadejo.

Osteoporosis can cause the bones to become so weak and brittle that a fall or even mild stress like coughing can cause a break, Mayo Clinic reported.

Nearly 20% of women aged 50 and older have osteoporosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Early-stage bone loss typically does not show any symptoms, according to Mayo Clinic.

Once bones are weakened, that can lead to back pain, loss of height, stooped posture and easy bone breakage.

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Osteoporosis can occur in men and women alike, but Mayo Clinic specified that older white and Asian women who are past menopause have the highest risk.

Men and women with small body frames tend to be more susceptible, as they have "less bone mass to draw from as they age," the clinic noted.

The condition is also more likely to occur in people who have hormone imbalances, have undergone gastrointestinal surgery, have low calcium intake or experience disordered eating, according to the same source.

Those with a family history of osteoporosis may also face a higher risk.

People who have taken corticosteroid medicines for conditions like seizures, gastric reflux, cancer and transplant rejection are more susceptible, as are those with celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney or liver disease, multiple myeloma and rheumatoid arthritis.

The condition can be diagnosed by a bone density test or DEXA scan, according to Okubadejo.

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"Patients with osteoporosis have 'thin' bones, so are more vulnerable to suffering from fractures from falls or low-intensity trauma," Okubadejo told Fox News Digital.

"Some patients have back pain, while others may have subclinical 'microfractures' in the spine, with changes in posture causing them to appear kyphotic (stooped in the upper back)."

Osteoporosis can be caused by lifestyle choices such as being sedentary, consuming excessive alcohol consumption and using tobacco.

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"People who spend a lot of time sitting have a higher risk of osteoporosis than do those who are more active," Mayo Clinic reported.

Exercise is critical for prevention, according to Okubadejo, as bone density can be reinforced through regular strength training activities. 

"It's also important to minimize environmental and lifestyle risk factors that weaken bone, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption," he added.

Good nutrition is also essential for promoting healthy bones, specifically calcium intake, experts advise.

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Men and women between the ages of 18 and 50 need 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day, according to Mayo Clinic. That increases to 1,200 milligrams when women hit 50 and men reach 70.

Good sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products, leafy green vegetables, soy products like tofu, calcium-fortified cereals and orange juice.

Sufficient levels of vitamin D — which can be found in some foods like milk and fish, as well as sunlight — can boost the body’s ability to absorb calcium and improve bone health, according to the clinic.

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Too much calcium, especially in supplements, can cause complications like kidney stones and heart disease, the same source warned.

Various medications can help treat osteoporosis by strengthening and protecting bone mass.

"In addition to vitamin D and calcium, other medications to treat osteoporosis include bisphosphonates, hormone therapy and selective estrogen receptor modulators," Okubadejo told Fox News Digital. 

"These medications protect bone or help to build it back up, in an effort to maximize bone density and lower the risk of bone injury overall."

Fox News Digital reached out to DeGeneres for comment.

Fox News Digital’s Ashley Hume contributed to this report.

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COVID lockdowns led to spike in kids’ vision problems, 1 in 3 now nearsighted, study finds

As many as 30% of children and teens across the world were nearsighted in 2023, a new study has revealed.

Diagnoses of nearsightedness (myopia) are expected to worsen over the next two decades, according to the findings, which were published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

By 2050, nearly 740 million young individuals worldwide are expected to have the condition, lead study author Dr. Yajun Chen, a professor at Sun Yat-sen University in China, told Fox News Digital.

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"The study also highlights significant disparities in myopia rates across different regions, suggesting that factors such as gender, ethnicity and culture play a crucial role," he said.

"Understanding these variations is crucial for tailoring prevention and intervention strategies to specific at-risk populations."

In the study, researchers analyzed 276 studies that included more than 5.4 million participants from 50 countries across all six continents. 

Rates of nearsightedness were highest in East Asia (35.22%), in urban areas (28.55%), among females (33.57%), among adolescents (47%) and among high school students (45.71%), the study found.

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Myopia can progress rapidly during critical growth periods, particularly in children and adolescents, Chen noted.

There was a significant spike in myopia after the COVID-19 pandemic, research has shown.

"During the pandemic, many countries implemented nationwide lockdowns to curb the spread of the virus," he said.

"Prolonged indoor living reduced outdoor activity for children and adolescents while increasing screen time, potentially exacerbating the ocular burden on this population and worsening the myopia crisis."

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Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, was not involved in the study but commented on the findings.

"Diet may play a role, but I think the greatest reason for the increase, especially coming out of the pandemic, is due to lockdowns and being indoors more," he told Fox News Digital.

With increased screen time, kids and teens have fewer opportunities for the eye muscles to have to adapt, Siegel said.

"For example, going back and forth from looking close to looking far, and accommodating to light by going from indoors to outdoors, and talking to people in person — all of those exercise the small eye muscles that keep you from getting nearsighted," he added.

Dr. Jesse Willingham, an optometrist at Brighter Outlook Vision in North Charleston, South Carolina, warned that unaddressed vision problems can have several significant consequences for children, including academic problems, social and emotional struggles, behavioral issues and long-term eye health issues. 

"We all understand that being able to see clearly is important for school, but there are many different visual skills we need for learning," Willingham, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

"Nearsightedness is the most common developmental vision problem, but early vision problems can start with tracking difficulties, poor ability to adapt the focus of the eyes or use the two eyes as a team, or other functional problems that arise from too much stress on the visual system at an early age," he added.

The study did have some limitations, Chen acknowledged.

"The major limitation of the included studies is the disparity in the designs and methods utilized," he said.

"The quality of included epidemiologic studies varied significantly within and among the reviews, ranging from high to low risk of bias."

There is also a possibility of "uneven distribution of data" among countries within any given continent, Chen said.

"As a result, our reported findings might be biased because they were mainly influenced by data from a limited number of countries."

Studies included in the analysis also varied in terms of criteria and procedures for assessing nearsightedness, Chen noted.

Creating a supportive environment at home and in schools can encourage children to adopt healthy habits that protect their vision, the researchers said.

Experts offered the following interventions to help reduce the prevalence of myopia among youth.

Families should prioritize outdoor playtime, Chen recommended.

"Schools can organize outdoor activities and encourage sports, creating a culture that values physical engagement and natural light exposure," he said.

For very young children who haven't started school yet, Willingham recommends only allowing screen time when video-chatting with friends and family. 

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"For school-aged children, matching screen time one-to-one with outdoor time and limiting screen sessions to no more than 20 minutes at a time are good rules of thumb," he told Fox News Digital. 

"Also make sure screen time is done ergonomically, with screens held at least 12 inches away and done while maintaining good posture."

Parents should ensure that their children receive regular eye examinations starting at a young age, Chen recommended. 

"Early detection and intervention is crucial, as untreated myopia can lead to more severe vision problems later in life," he said. 

"It's also beneficial to stay informed about new treatments and technologies aimed at slowing myopia progression, such as specialized contact lenses and eye drops."

It's important to choose an eye care provider who understands visual development, according to Willingham. 

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"Developmental optometrists have more training and experience in this area, and are typically affiliated with OVDRA, the Optometric Vision Development and Rehabilitation Association," he said.

"If your child is at high risk of developing nearsightedness or is already nearsighted, consider finding a myopia management specialist through organizations like TreeHouse Eyes."

Engaging with community programs aimed at preventing myopia, such as vision screening events or educational outreach, can help reduce the prevalence, according to Chen.

Integrating vision education into school curricula and supporting public health campaigns focused on myopia prevention can also be effective, he added.

"By taking these proactive steps, everyone can contribute to reducing the prevalence of myopia and promoting healthier vision for children and adolescents," Chen said.

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Veteran and author Jack Carr on finding 'mission and passion' when navigating key life transitions

Bestselling author Jack Carr, a former Navy SEAL sniper and military leader, is right now traveling the country to discuss his new nonfiction book, "Targeted: The 1983 Beirut Barracks Bombing," the first in a new series about key terror events around the globe.

For him, the new book — a nonfiction work of military history — is the result of the highly focused new mission he took on after leaving the world of U.S. Special Forces and matching this new mission in life with a longtime passion for writing.

Carr spent 20 years on SEAL teams.

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The veteran's turn to literary endeavors produced novels featuring James Reece, his protagonist, first in "The Terminal List" and then in such New York Times bestselling novels as "True Believer," "Savage Son," "The Devil’s Hand," "In the Blood," "Only the Dead" and more.  

But none of this was a snap. It took mental focus, a key set of decisions and perseverance, he shared. (See the video at the top of this article.)  

With Veterans Day already on the horizon this fall, Carr spoke to Fox News Digial in an on-camera interview about the importance for anyone moving from the military world to the civilian to chart a new course — and how he was able to carve his own meaningful path. 

As a Navy SEAL Task Unit commander and sniper, Carr had deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq.

"I can only talk from my own experience," he said. "But I recognized as I was getting ready to leave the SEAL teams that it was a hard place to leave."

He said, "Meaning, someone has put in their papers to [move] out [of Special Forces] or move into the private sector. And they can have a hard time leaving this foundation." 

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"It was almost like a foundation of cement and their feet were on it and it was drying all around them — and they couldn't move forward," he said. "They couldn't build on that foundation because they were stuck in it because it was just so powerful."

Carr said, "This was five years or 10 years or 15 or 20 — however long they'd spent in the military in Special Operations. It was a very powerful few years, and it's hard to move on from something like that."

The bestselling author noted, "I think people in professional sports deal with it. People in amateur sports deal with it. College athletes, too. You know, anybody making a transition in life, [after the] death of a loved one, divorce, a new job — it can be anything." 

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He added, "But my experience just happens to be in the SEAL teams. So for me, it was important to identify a mission going forward and a purpose going forward."

Said Carr, "For me, my mission is taking care of my family."

He told Fox News Digital, "We have a middle child with really severe special needs. He needs 24/7 full-time care forever. So my mission was kind of handed to me."

He continued, "I knew that I loved writing. I loved telling stories. I'd trained myself from an early age, inadvertently, just from the fan perspective, by reading David Morrell and Nelson de Mille and Tom Clancy and ... all these guys who were essentially giants in the thriller space back when I was growing up in my formative years." 

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He said that he'd given himself "this education, and those were my professors in the art of storytelling." 

It was critical, Carr said, to "identify that mission and identify a passion — [for me], writing and then the mission, taking care of the family, and then combining those two."

So "that passion, that mission, can give you purpose going forward." 

He said, "It's going to be different for everyone. But for me, it was very important, too, because I recognized how difficult it was to leave this organization that I was in and turn that page."

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And so "for me, mission and passion combined — for me, anyway. I'm not saying it's going to work for everybody."

But "that was a very natural thing for me to do."

"And it has given me purpose in life going forward."

Brittany Kasko of Fox News Digital contributed reporting. 

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'For better sleep, how can I reduce nighttime bathroom trips?': Ask a doctor

One in three Americans over 30 wake up at least twice each night to use the restroom, studies show.

These frequent interruptions can wreak havoc on your sleep, but there are some practical ways to manage them.

Dr. Hana Patel, resident sleep expert at Mattress Online, who is based in London, provides the following tips to cut down on nightly bathroom trips to improve your rest.

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Patel recommends doing Kegel exercises — also known as pelvic floor muscle training — as a means of strengthening the muscles that support the bladder.

"When done right, Kegels can strengthen pelvic muscles, cutting down on the urge to go at night," she told Fox News Digital.

The doctor also emphasized the importance of staying active overall.

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"Simple preventive measures, like regular exercise, can significantly lower the need for nighttime bathroom visits," she said. 

Exercises that involve the lower abdomen are particularly effective, the expert noted.

Cutting back on certain drinks can help reduce the need for nighttime bathroom trips. 

"Caffeine, alcohol, artificially sweetened and fizzy drinks are diuretics, meaning they’ll increase urine production, so I advise avoiding them where you can," Patel said.

To reduce nighttime disruptions, she recommends either enjoying these beverages earlier in the day or switching to less irritating alternatives, like decaffeinated or non-alcoholic drinks.

Adjusting your meal timing and composition can help reduce the need to visit the bathroom overnight, Patel said. 

"Salty and protein-rich meals can boost urine production, especially close to bedtime," she told Fox News Digital.

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Eating these types of meals earlier in the evening or at lunch instead of dinner can prevent increased nighttime trips to the bathroom without having to give up those foods entirely, the doctor added.

A recent study found that adults who spend five or more hours a day watching TV or videos are 48% more likely to experience nocturia (frequent urination at night) compared to those with less than an hour of screen time. 

"While the exact cause is unclear, one idea suggests that sitting for long periods causes fluid retention in your legs, and increased beverage intake may also play a role," said Patel.

For those who spend long periods of time in front of the TV, the doctor suggests setting limits and elevating the legs when possible to help reduce the likelihood of nighttime bathroom trips.

Maintaining proper hydration during the day while avoiding fluid intake in the evening can help to reduce the urge to use the bathroom at night, according to the doctor.

Patel recommends drinking between 48 and 64 ounces of hydrating fluids in the morning and afternoon to avoid dehydration in the evenings.

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"If you need to drink later, try to do so at least two hours before bedtime to minimize interruptions during sleep," she said.

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Drinking alcohol is linked to six types of cancer, experts say: ‘It’s toxic’

It's long been known that no amount of alcohol is good for the body — and now new research spotlights the potential harm it can cause.

More than 5% of all cancer cases are caused by drinking alcohol, according to the Cancer Progress Report 2024 from the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR).

Among the modifiable risk factors for cancer, alcohol is the third biggest, behind obesity (7.6% of cases) and cigarette smoking (19.3%).

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"Excessive levels of alcohol consumption increase the risk for six different types of cancer, including certain types of head and neck cancer, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and breast, colorectal, liver and stomach cancers," said Rajarshi Sengupta, PhD, lead author of the AACR Cancer Progress Report 2024, in a statement sent to Fox News Digital.

"Further, research shows that alcohol intake at an early age can increase the risk of cancer later in life."

Based on these findings, limiting or eliminating alcohol can reduce the risk of developing alcohol-related cancers by 8% and the risk of all cancers by 4%, the report noted.

There has been a "roller coaster of information" about whether alcohol is harmful, according to addiction psychiatrist Dr. Adam Scioli of Caron Treatment Centers in Pennsylvania.

"There have even been reports for years that it could be beneficial for one's health — but we know now that alcohol ingestion is one of the modifiable risk factors for cancer," Scioli, who is not affiliated with AACR, told Fox News Digital.

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Around 75,000 Americans each year are diagnosed with a cancer that is linked in some way to alcohol use, according to Scioli. 

The more someone drinks — both in volume and frequency — the higher the risk, he warned.

"Alcohol is a toxin," Scioli said. 

"We've long known that it impacts any number of organs, essentially starting with the brain and working its way down to the colorectal system."

Moderate alcohol use is defined as one drink or less in one day for women. 

For men, it is two drinks or fewer per day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"Drinking alcohol in moderation may increase your overall risks of death and chronic disease," the agency stated on its website.

"Even low levels of alcohol use (less than one drink per day) can raise the risk of certain cancers."

Scioli agreed, emphasizing that "we can definitely say there's no added health benefit to ingestion of alcohol."

"The line between safety and danger is debatable, and is different for each person."

While risk factors like tobacco use are widely known, public awareness about the link between alcohol and cancer is still low, according to Sengupta.

Most Americans (51%) are not aware that alcohol increases cancer risk, per AACR data.

"It's been flying under the radar for far too long — especially given the number of Americans who have met the criteria for alcohol use disorder, which is around 29 million Americans in 2023," said Scioli.

The good news, according to Scioli, is that with modifiable risk factors like alcohol, reducing the intake decreases the risk. 

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As the report stated, those who are successful in decreasing their drinking or abstaining below those moderate risk levels will see a risk reduction in overall cancers, he noted.

"We need to do a much better job of making the public aware of the risks inherent in drinking — particularly moderate to heavy drinking," Scioli said. 

"And we need to make the public aware that there are mechanisms by which they can access help if they are unable to moderate their drinking or quit on their own."

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To help raise awareness, Sengupta of the AACR called for public messaging campaigns, "such as cancer-specific warning labels displayed on alcoholic beverages."

Along with that, she told Fox News Digital, "effective clinical strategies that reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption must be considered to reduce the burden of alcohol-related cancers."

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New schizophrenia drug gets FDA approval, taking novel approach to treating brain disorder

A new drug has been approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults.

On Thursday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved COBENFY (xanomeline and trospium chloride), an oral medication that is manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb in New Jersey.

This marks the first new class of medications for the brain disorder in several decades, according to a press release.

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COBENFY is expected to be available in the U.S. in late October, the company noted.

"Today’s landmark approval of our first-in-class treatment for schizophrenia marks an important milestone for the community, where after more than 30 years, there is now an entirely new pharmacological approach for schizophrenia — one that has the potential to change the treatment paradigm," said Chris Boerner, PhD, board chair and chief executive officer at Bristol Myers Squibb, in the press release.

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Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors.

It often causes hallucinations, delusions, disordered speech and loss of touch with reality, Mayo Clinic states on its website.

The disorder can also lead to lack of emotional expression, lack of motivation, cognitive dysfunction and social withdrawal.

Approximately 2.8 million people in the U.S. and 24 million people globally are living with schizophrenia.

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The disorder has traditionally been treated with antipsychotic medications, but around 40% of patients do not respond to treatments and 60% experience "inadequate improvement" in symptoms or "intolerable side effects," studies have shown.

COBENFY works differently than the currently available schizophrenia medications.

"Due to its heterogeneous nature, schizophrenia is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and people often find themselves in a cycle of discontinuing and switching therapies," said Rishi Kakar, MD, chief scientific officer and medical director at Segal Trials and investigator in the drug's clinical trials, in the release. 

"The approval of COBENFY is a transformative moment in the treatment of schizophrenia because, historically, medicines approved to treat schizophrenia have relied on the same primary pathways in the brain."

"By leveraging a novel pathway, COBENFY offers a new option to manage this challenging condition."

Sam Clark, founder and CEO at Terran Biosciences — a biotech company that develops treatments and technologies for neurological and psychiatric diseases in New York City — commented on the new approval in a statement sent to Fox News Digital.

"I am excited that the FDA has just approved [COBENFY] as a treatment for patients with schizophrenia, marking a big leap forward in the psychiatry space," he said. 

"These patients live with a difficult disease, and this drug with a novel mechanism of action will surely make a significant impact," Clark continued. 

"We look forward to seeing the renaissance continue as this approval paves the way for future breakthroughs and novel patient-focused therapeutics."

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The approval follows three phases of clinical trials in which COBENFY was shown to result in a "statistically significant improvement in illness."

In terms of safety, the medication’s most common side effects during clinical trials were nausea, indigestion, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, hypertension, abdominal pain, accelerated heart rate, dizziness and gastroesophageal reflux disease, the release stated.

Patients with certain existing medical conditions may experience other, more serious risks.

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People should discuss potential complications with a doctor before starting the medication.

Fox News Digital reached out to Bristol Myers Squibb and the Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance requesting comment.

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To improve your sleep, do this activity before bed, experts suggest

Restful sleep could be a few squats away.

Participating in evening exercise could help promote better rest at night, according to new research published in the journal BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine.

In particular, short bouts of resistance or strength training at night — including exercises like squats, calf raises and standing knee raises — were found to have a positive impact on sleep quality and quantity.

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In the randomized trial, 28 participants each completed one of two four-hour sessions. 

One consisted of prolonged sitting. In the other session, the participants sat but took breaks every half-hour to complete three minutes of bodyweight resistance exercises.

The regular activity breaks were shown to increase average sleep period time and time spent asleep by nearly 30 minutes.

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The New Zealand-based researchers did not note a significant effect on mean sleep efficiency (the ratio of total sleep time to total time in bed), wake after sleep onset (the total amount of time that a person is awake after having initially fallen asleep) or the number of awakenings during the night.

"Performing bodyweight resistance exercise activity breaks in the evening has the potential to improve sleep period and total sleep time, and does not disrupt other aspects of sleep quality or subsequent 24-hour physical activity," the researchers concluded.

Sleep expert Dr. Wendy Troxel, a senior behavioral and social scientist at the Rand Corporation in Utah, called this study "really exciting" in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Troxel considered the findings "particularly notable," as there has been "controversy" surrounding the optimal timing and intensity of exercise in relation to sleep.

"These are very short bouts of relatively low-intensity physical activity that anyone could do in their evening hours," she said. "And I think it really speaks to the potential harms of extended periods of sedentary activity."

Being excessively sedentary comes with a "number of health consequences," the expert warned, including a 30% increased mortality risk.

"So, this suggests that just little bouts of physical activity in the evening hours, to get you off the couch and moving … could have benefits for your sleep and your health more globally," Troxel added.

Celebrity personal trainer Kollins Ezekh in Los Angeles confirmed that evening exercise can help promote better sleep by reducing stress and anxiety.

"Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin, which naturally helps to calm the mind and body," he told Fox News Digital.

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Exercising before bedtime can also lower the body’s core temperature, signaling that it’s time for rest, according to the fitness expert.

"Plus, the natural fatigue from a good workout makes it easier to fall asleep," he added.

In addition to improving sleep, evening exercise can also reduce stress levels, boost metabolism and improve digestion, according to Ezekh.

Troxel agreed that engaging in small exercise breaks can tire out the body without causing pain or overstimulation.

"It helps to prepare your body and your brain by reducing stress and expending some energy for a good night's sleep," she said.

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Small bouts of activity will also help the brain separate pre-bedtime activities from actual bedtime, she added.

"If you're just sitting on the couch doing nothing for hours prior to bedtime, it's hard for the brain to distinguish, ‘OK, bed is the time for real rest and restoration," she said.

To avoid overstimulation, Ezekh recommends choosing low- to moderate-intensity exercises in the evening.

These might include yoga or Pilates that focus on mindful breathing, stretching and relaxation, "which can help you unwind before bed," he said, as well as light cardio.

"A brisk walk or easy cycling can help burn off energy without making you too energized before sleep," the trainer added.

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Bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges or push-ups are also a great option, Ezekh said.

Dr. Tina Sadarangani, nurse practitioner and assistant professor at the NYU College of Nursing, told Fox News Digital that everyone should engage in low-impact exercise, like brisk walks, after the last meal of the day.

"Whether you're old or young, we see benefits of exercise after dinner in particular," she said. 

"We get steadier blood sugar, smoother digestion and a happier mood, and I can't think of a single population that wouldn't benefit from that."

In addition to movement before bed, Sadarangani recommends avoiding screen exposure before bedtime, along with stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco and nicotine products.

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It's also important to create an environment that's conducive to slumber, she added. 

"We have to give our bodies the signal that it's time to sleep."

Fox News Digital reached out to the study researchers for comment.

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Harvard medical student ate 720 eggs in a month, then shared the 'fascinating' results

A Harvard medical student recently completed an "egg-citing" experiment.

Nick Norwitz, 25, decided to eat 720 eggs in one month to see what the effect would be on his cholesterol.

At the end of the month, the Boston man found that his cholesterol levels had dipped by 20%.

ASK A DOCTOR: 'HOW CAN I PREVENT HIGH CHOLESTEROL?'

Norwitz — a self-described "academician" with a PhD in metabolic health, who is currently finishing his medical degree at Harvard — said he has always had a passion for sharing his "joy and interest" in science.

"My colleagues and I come up with creative ways to try to translate our awe and love for physiology and biology into something that is interesting and accessible to the public," he told Fox News Digital.

"The goal is to provoke conversation and bring people to the table so we can talk about human metabolism, which I find utterly fascinating."

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During his egg-eating month, Norwitz consumed 24 eggs per day.

He ate them in "all the ways," he said — scrambled, fried, omelets, deviled.

"Eggs are a pretty versatile food, so making them in different ways made for a pretty pleasant experiment — it wasn't that difficult."

For the first two weeks, it was against the backdrop of an otherwise very low-carbohydrate diet, he said, and then he added carbs for the second two weeks.

"The purpose of this whole experiment was a metabolic demonstration to discuss the ‘levers’ that can affect cholesterol in different individuals."

"I expected my cholesterol levels not to change by just adding the eggs — and that is indeed what happened."

It was when he added the carbs that his cholesterol levels dropped, due to a metabolic shift after having adapted to the low-carb diet — a phenomenon that he explains in more detail in the video at the top of the article.

One key thing Norwitz has learned — from this experiment and others he’s done — is that there's not one "best" human diet.

"When evaluating what is a good diet for a person, you need to consider their baseline metabolic health, and also what their goals are," he told Fox News Digital. 

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Some people, for example, might be optimizing for longevity, while others might be focused on cardiovascular health or looking to keep inflammatory bowel disease in remission. 

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Norwitz said he has many more experiments planned to spark awareness and knowledge of how foods affect the body's functions and overall health.

"I am passionate about making metabolic health mainstream," he said. "This is only the tip of the iceberg."

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Apple Watch could help you uncover hidden sleep apnea

Do you often wake up feeling exhausted, even after a full night's sleep? You might be one of the millions of people unknowingly living with sleep apnea. But here's some great news. Apple has just introduced a game-changing feature that could help you identify this hidden health issue right from your wrist.

If you own an Apple Watch Series 10, 9 or Ultra 2, you'll soon have a personal sleep detective on your arm. This new feature uses the watch's built-in technology to monitor your breathing patterns while you sleep, looking for signs that could indicate sleep apnea. 

No more need for complicated sleep studies or expensive equipment; your everyday smartwatch could be the key to uncovering this common but often undiagnosed condition.

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The sleep apnea detection feature utilizes the watch's built-in accelerometer to monitor a new metric called "breathing disturbances" during sleep. By analyzing these disturbances over time, the watch can identify patterns consistent with moderate to severe sleep apnea.

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for this sleep apnea feature, marking a significant milestone in wearable health technology. Apple plans to roll out the functionality to more than 150 countries and regions this month, including the United States, Europe and Japan.

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You can view your nightly breathing disturbance data in the Health app on your iPhone, where it will be categorized as either "elevated" or "not elevated." The watch analyzes this data over a 30-day period and notifies users if it detects consistent signs of sleep apnea.

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In clinical validation studies, the notification performance achieved a sensitivity of 66.3% and specificity of 98.5%. This means that while the algorithm is effective at identifying those with moderate to severe sleep apnea, it also minimizes false positives, ensuring that you can trust the notifications you receive.

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Dr. Sumbul Desai, Apple's vice president of health, emphasized the rigorous development process behind this feature. The detection algorithm was created using advanced machine learning with extensive datasets from clinical-grade sleep apnea tests. The studies included diverse participants across various demographics and evaluated both at-home and in-lab sleeping environments.

This new feature has the potential to significantly impact public health by helping identify undiagnosed cases of sleep apnea. Research suggests that up to 80% of sleep apnea cases remain undiagnosed, making this tool invaluable for many people who may not exhibit obvious symptoms.

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To use the new sleep apnea detection feature on your Apple Watch, follow these steps:

Ensure your Apple Watch is running the latest version of watchOS. Here are the steps:

Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version. Here are the steps:

Remember, this feature is designed for users 18 years or older who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea. If you receive a notification suggesting signs of sleep apnea, it's important to consult with your health care provider for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

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It’s incredible how technology can empower us to take charge of our health, and the new sleep apnea detection feature on the Apple Watch 10, 9 and Ultra 2 is a perfect example. With this tool, you can monitor your breathing patterns while you sleep, potentially uncovering issues that have gone unnoticed for far too long. Just remember, while this feature is a fantastic step toward better health, it’s essential to consult with a health care provider if you receive a notification about possible sleep apnea. Embracing these advancements could lead to a more restful night and a healthier life.

How do you feel about using wearable technology like the Apple Watch for health monitoring? Are you excited about these advancements, or do you have concerns about privacy and accuracy? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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More than half of Americans with STDs were infected by cheating partners, survey finds

A new study has exposed the sexual health habits of some Americans.

The research, conducted by DatingNews.com, analyzed data from the U.S. Census Bureau to determine how and where Americans have been contracting and spreading STIs (sexually transmitted infections), also known as STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).

Among the findings was the fact that 55% of people with an STI contracted it from a cheating partner.

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Thirteen percent of the nearly 1,000 respondents said their partner has lied to them about their STI status, while 45% did not discuss testing with their partner before becoming sexually active.

Nearly one in five (18%) of respondents said they have been diagnosed with an STI, with the most common diagnosis, chlamydia, making up 36% of the cases.

The survey participants ranged in age from 18 to 79, DatingNews.com spokesperson Emily Fanous told Fox News Digital.

Given that 81% of Americans over 18 are sexually active, Fanous emphasized the importance of knowing your risk and how getting testing can aid in prevention.

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One in three Americans in the study said they have never been tested for an STI.

The largest number of untested individuals were baby boomers (51%), followed by millennials (33%) and Gen Z and Gen X (both 29%).

The main reasons respondents refrain from testing are embarrassment (25%), lack of time (22%) and cost (19%).

Dr. Gabe Gaviola, MD, senior medical director at Everlywell in New York — an at-home STD testing and treatment platform — noted that there are more than 20 million new cases of STIs reported in the U.S. each year.

"The real surprise from these findings is the lack of STI testing that could prevent new cases," Gaviola, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital during an on-camera interview.

"As a doctor and public health advocate, I wish more people knew that there are affordable at-home STI lab testing options that provide quick, reliable results with the privacy and convenience of collection at home."

The study also found that only 34% of people get annual STI testing, while fewer than 25% get tested before entering a new relationship.

"Those numbers aren’t high enough," Gaviola said. "Many STIs don’t present any symptoms, which means you shouldn’t wait for symptoms to get tested." 

The research also revealed which U.S. states have the most STI and STD cases.

Mississippi has the highest rate, at 1,187 diagnoses per 100,000 people, followed by Louisiana at 1,145, Alaska at 1,066, South Dakota at 993 and Georgia at 975.

Fanous encourages those in states with high rates to consider being tested if they are sexually active.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

"These findings show that too many people are not prioritizing their sexual health," Gaviola said. 

"Whether it’s because of stigma, access or education, millions of Americans who are at high risk of getting or transmitting an STI are not getting tested."

"We need to advance the conversation around sexual health and increase education about the importance of STI testing."

Everlywell is teaming up with the American Sexual Health Association for the first-ever National Get Tested Day on Sept. 30.

"Our goal is to educate and break down barriers to accessing this essential health care," Gaviola said. 

"Testing is the first step in empowering people with important information about their sexual health."

Gaviola added that even people in long-term, monogamous relationships should stay up to date on STI testing.

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"Many STIs don’t present any symptoms, but if left undetected and untreated, they can lead to serious long-term health issues, such as infertility," he cautioned.

The expert encouraged Americans to have open conversations with their partners before entering a sexual relationship and to "keep checking in."

"This helps establish trust that they are taking their sexual health as seriously as you are by getting tested regularly," he said.

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Mom issues warning after health scare, plus 'therapy ponies' and a new COVID strain

‘LISTEN TO YOUR BODY’ – After suffering a heart attack on the treadmill, a young Utah mother issues a warning to other women. Continue reading…

UNEASY SLUMBER – A new survey reveals the top 5 worries — and 5 worst sleep habits — that are keeping Americans up at night. Continue reading…

CONCUSSION CONNECTION – Amid NFL legend Brett Favre's Parkinson's diagnosis, a neurologist discusses whether football injuries increase the risk. Continue reading…

‘FORM OF LOVE’ – As part of a special therapy program, pint-sized ponies are bringing boosts of joy and humor to those in need. Continue reading…

CHILDHOOD TRAUMA – Kids who were released from Hamas captivity fight for normalcy as their therapists and family members reveal challenges. Continue reading…

PREGNANCY BRAIN – New research reveals the physical changes that happen to a woman's brain before and after giving birth. Continue reading…

‘HUGE WARNING’ – The growing health care crisis in the U.K. should be a "huge warning sign" for the United States, says Dr. Marc Siegel. Continue reading…

DRINKING FOR WEIGHT LOSS? – A common beverage could help people drop extra pounds, some research has shown. Continue reading…

SLEEP EASY – These 5 viral bedroom finds could bring restful nights within reach. Continue reading…

VIRAL SPREAD – The latest COVID variant, XEC, has spread to half of U.S. states, reports say. An infectious disease expert weighs in. Continue reading…

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New York resident dies from mosquito-borne disease as experts warn of widening risk

New York has reported the state’s first death from Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), a disease that spreads through bites from mosquitoes.

The patient was the first person to contract EEE in New York since 2015, according to a press release issued by the state on Monday.

"Keeping New Yorkers safe is my top priority," Governor Hochul said in a statement.

WHAT IS EEE, THE MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASE THAT KILLED A NEW HAMPSHIRE MAN?

"Following the first confirmed human case of EEE, my administration took statewide action to help protect communities – and with today’s declaration, we’re making more state resources available to local departments to support their public health response."

"We’ve been informed this patient has passed away from EEE; we extend our sympathies and our hearts go out to their family."

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald has declared EEE an imminent threat to public health, which will make more resources available for prevention measures, such as spraying to reduce mosquitoes.

NORTHEASTERN TOWNS ISSUE VOLUNTARY LOCKDOWN TO PREVENT SPREAD OF MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASE

The state has announced plans to expand access to insect repellent in parks and campgrounds, and is encouraging New York residents to take steps to protect against mosquito-borne illness.

Eastern equine encephalitis is caused by a virus that is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which describes EEE as a "rare but serious disease."

Only a few cases are reported in the U.S. each year, most in the Eastern or Gulf Coast states, the agency states on its website.

Humans and other animals that contract the virus are considered "dead-end hosts," the CDC states, which means they can’t spread it to mosquitoes that bite them.

"EEE is only spread to humans via a mosquito bite, and cannot be transmitted directly by other humans or horses," Dr. Kurt Vandock, PhD, a public health expert and VP of strategic growth for Mosquito Squad in Maryland, told Fox News Digital.

Common symptoms of EEE include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, seizures, behavioral changes and drowsiness.

These usually appear five to 10 days after being bitten.

"Most people have no symptoms; others get only a mild, flu-like illness with fever, headache and sore throat," Vandock said. 

"For people with an infection of the central nervous system, a sudden fever (103º to 106º), severe headache and stiff neck can be followed quickly by seizures and coma."

The disease can be deadly, resulting in fatalities for 30% of infected people. It can also lead to chronic neurological deficiencies, per the CDC.

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"The best way to confirm any illness is with an approved and accurate test administered by a medical professional," said Vandock.

"Eastern equine encephalitis is a serious disease with symptoms occurring fast," he warned.

"If you live in an area with noted EEE activity and have flu-like symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito, you should seek medical care immediately."

In addition to New York, other states that have reported human EEE cases include Massachusetts, Vermont, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin and New Hampshire.

"Anytime life is put at risk by vector-borne disease, we are concerned," Vandock said.

"As viral loads increase and transmission rates follow this trend, it is a sign that interventions are necessary to help reduce the risk of transmission," he went on. 

"One case of any vector-borne disease is one too many."

As far as why cases have been more prevalent in northeastern states, Vandock said there’s no simple answer.

"Conducive weather patterns, high population density, the heavy presence of the primary vector and seasonality — coinciding with increased outdoor activity — can create the perfect storm for rapid transmission," he said. 

The black-tailed mosquito (Culiseta melanura), the primary vector of EEE, can be found in large numbers in the Northeastern United States, according to Vandock. 

"It is known to feed mainly on birds, but does not typically feed on humans," he said. "As a result, the transmission of EEE to humans and horses is generally thought to occur via ‘bridge vectors,’ which contract the virus from infected birds and can then pass the virus on to other hosts."

The mosquitoes that act as "bridge vectors" can be found in the Northeast areas where transmission is occurring, the expert noted. 

The risk of contracting the EEE virus is highest during the summer months — especially toward the end of summer, when people go back outdoors as temperatures cool, Vandock said. 

"Anyone who lives or works close to wetlands and swamps is also at an increased risk," he said. 

The Midwest saw a similar outbreak of EEE in 2019 in Michigan, Vandock noted, as many schools canceled after-school activities after numerous fatalities from the disease. 

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"Current trends suggest that with increasing globalization, population densities, ranges of competent hosts and a favorable climate, the occurrence of EEE and other vector-borne diseases will increase," he added.

Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, said he is not concerned by the increase in cases.

"It is still a very slight uptick, and it is confined to mosquito transmission," he told Fox News Digital, adding that he only anticipates "sparse cases" in other parts of the country.

There is currently no vaccine for Eastern equine encephalitis, and supportive care is the only means of treating symptoms. 

Educating the public about the risk, encouraging mosquito repellent use, and spraying to control the mosquito population are the best ways to prevent infection, according to experts.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

The state of New York issued the following recommendations for prevention.

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Amid Brett Favre’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, neurologist discusses how concussions impact risk

Football legend Brett Favre, 54, announced on Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

The NFL Hall of Famer referenced the diagnosis while speaking at a congressional hearing on federal welfare reform, during which he mentioned his investment in a company making a "breakthrough concussion drug."

Favre, who spent 16 of his 20 NFL seasons with the Green Bay Packers, has openly discussed experiencing "thousands" of concussions over the course of his football career.

NFL LEGEND BRETT FAVRE ANNOUNCES HE HAS PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, leading to tremors, stiffness, slow gait, balance issues and other symptoms. 

Non-motor symptoms can include depression, anxiety, hallucinations, apathy, sleep disorders, loss of smell, digestive issues and orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up), according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Nearly one million people are living with the disease in the U.S., and a projected 1.2 million will have received diagnoses by 2030.

PARKINSON’S DISEASE RISK IS LINKED TO GUT HEALTH, RESEARCHERS SAY

There is no one known cause of Parkinson's disease, but there are factors that could increase risk. For most cases of the disease, the cause is unknown. 

A person who is diagnosed without cause has what is called idiopathic Parkinson's disease, according to Healthline. 

The risk increases with age, but about 4% of patients are diagnosed before turning 50. 

Men are at a higher risk, and are 1.5 times more likely to be diagnosed than women, per the Foundation. 

While there is no cure for PD, patients can sometimes manage their symptoms with medications, surgery and lifestyle changes.

THE EFFECTS OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE ON THE BRAIN AND COMMON WAYS THOSE IMPACTED SUBDUE SYMPTOMS

The main medication used to relieve Parkinson's symptoms is levodopa, which helps to replenish dopamine in the brain, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Some people are also prescribed dopamine agonists, enzyme inhibitors, amantadine and anticholinergic drugs, the source stated.

A healthy diet, exercise, massage therapy and physical, occupational and speech therapies can also help with symptoms related to Parkinson's disease.

While Parkinson’s is not directly fatal, complications of the disease are rated as the 14th cause of death in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Dr. Joey Gee, a neurologist with Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California, said it is well-established that many neurological disorders — predominantly neurodegenerative disorders — can worsen or develop as a result of numerous head traumas and injuries over time. 

"This can include everything from Alzheimer's disease to Lou Gehrig's disease, but a lot of emphasis has been on the development of Parkinson's disease," Gee told Fox News Digital. 

"We know that persistent trauma to the brain can cause inflammatory changes and vascular disturbances."

In relation to Parkinson's disease, it can cause a disruption of an inflammatory protein called alpha-synuclein, he said. 

In people with Parkinson’s, that protein forms into clumps in the spinal fluid called Lewy bodies, which is a marker of the disease.

"And then you may see early signs or symptoms related to Parkinson's disease," the neurologist noted.

Symptoms or progression of the disease can be worse for athletes who have experienced concussions or other head injuries, Gee confirmed.

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"A number of scientific reports show that patients who have acquired Parkinson's-related features from trauma may present earlier and may have more significant symptoms than those with Parkinson's disease who did not have a head injury," he told Fox News Digital. 

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

"So there is a significant potential for earlier development in symptoms and inflammation of the brain."

Fox News Digital reached out to Favre’s representatives for comment.

Fox News’ Ryan Morik and Ashlyn Messier contributed reporting.

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Best and worst bedtimes for various generations

How much sleep is enough sleep? 

It depends on multiple factors. One of the biggest is age. 

In general, as you age, less sleep is required. While that may be true, the amount of sleep people need is an individualized experience, and not everyone requires the same amount of rest to properly function throughout the day. 

LACK OF SLEEP COULD BE A FACTOR IN ‘SILENT EPIDEMIC,’ EXPERTS WARN

How much sleep a person needs may also not be consistent. For example, if you have a poor night's sleep one night, you may require more hours of rest the next. 

Pregnancy can also affect sleep. Pregnancy can affect quality sleep through physical discomfort, hormone shifts and anxiety, according to the Sleep Foundation. 

While there are a number of factors that play into a good night's sleep, here are some general guidelines for how much sleep different generations should get and tips for sleeping soundly. 

Newborns require a lot of sleep. A newborn's sleep schedule requires flexibility from parents because their hours of slumber are often far from consistent. 

In general, newborns up to the age of 3 months need between 14 and 17 hours of sleep a day, according to the National Sleep Foundation. This includes naps throughout the day. 

Infants from 4 to 11 months old still need between 12 and 15 hours every day. 

LACK OF SLEEP POSES CONCERNING RISK FOR KIDS, STUDY FINDS: ‘CRUCIAL ROLE’

Newborns only sleep for an hour or two at a time, so establishing a schedule can be tricky. 

Even though it will take time to establish a steady routine with your baby, it's never too soon to start incorporating healthy habits. 

For example, establishing a calming routine, putting babies to bed once they begin to get drowsy and giving them time to settle down all contribute to good sleep, according to Mayo Clinic. 

Also, remember it's never too early to begin reading to your baby — which can also become a bedtime routine staple. 

Toddlers need between 11 and 14 hours of sleep every night, according to the National Sleep Foundation. 

6 EXPERT TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME MOMS DURING THE INITIAL FEW MONTHS OF MOTHERHOOD THAT ARE CRITICAL TO HEALTH

At this age, you can really start to establish a bedtime routine with your child through actions like picking out pajamas, brushing teeth and reading a book together. 

The time that toddlers go to bed varies for families, but anywhere from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. is a good time to begin thinking about getting to bed, according to Parents.com.

Children between 3 and 5 years old should get 10 to 13 hours of sleep per night, according to the National Sleep Foundation — while kids 6 to 13 years old should get nine to 11 hours of sleep every night. 

Starting school will help children establish a daily routine. 

When kids start school, it's important to ensure they get to bed at an hour that allows them to get proper sleep before a busy day of learning. 

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For school-age children, a bedtime between 7:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. is generally a good idea, per Parents.com. 

Teenagers don't need as much sleep as children do. 

For teenagers between the ages of 14 and 17, eight to 10 hours of sleep is ideal, according to the National Sleep Foundation. 

Many teenagers are busy with extracurricular activities during the school year, which can affect their sleep. 

They could be eating dinner later than normal or may spend time before bed scrolling through their phones, preventing them from getting good sleep. 

Trying to limit screen time and going to bed around the same time on a nightly basis can help teenagers get optimal sleep. 

Adults need the least sleep of any age group. 

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

Adults between ages 18 and 64 should get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, according to the National Sleep Foundation's guidance, while those over 65 should get between seven and eight hours of sleep. 

If you're having trouble falling asleep, try to adjust your bedtime routine to include relaxing activities, like listening to calming music or reading a book. 

Also, "white noise" could help you to fall asleep, according to the National Sleep Foundation. 

You can get "white noise" through a fan or by using a sound machine or a noise app on your phone. 

A cool room is another contributor to quality sleep, according to the National Sleep Foundation, with an ideal temperature of between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. 

You can also limit caffeine intake and meals too close to bedtime to prepare your body for a restful sleep. 

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What is ‘rhabdo,’ the life-threatening muscle injury that affected 12 college lacrosse players?

After a college lacrosse team reported that several players experienced a severe muscle injury, experts are speaking about the condition. 

Tufts University in Massachusetts has launched an investigation after 12 members of the men’s lacrosse team were diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis — a rare, life-threatening muscle injury — following a 45-minute "voluntary, supervised" workout on Sept. 16.

A total of 50 athletes participated in the workout, which was led by a Tufts graduate who had recently completed Navy SEAL training, according to a statement sent to Fox News Digital on Monday.

'DEAD BUTT SYNDROME' COULD HAPPEN AFTER SITTING TOO LONG, HERE'S HOW TO AVOID THE CONDITION

Nine were hospitalized for the condition.

As of Monday, three of the student athletes remained in the hospital and are "responding to treatment," Tufts Spokesperson Patrick Collins said in the statement.

Rhabdomyolysis — often referred to as "rhabdo" — is a rare injury that causes the muscles to break down and disintegrate, according to Cleveland Clinic.

It usually happens after a prolonged period of "excessive exercise," trauma (injury), certain medications or an underlying health condition, the clinic noted.

The condition can be life-threatening because the muscle fibers can make their way into the bloodstream and kidneys, potentially causing kidney damage.

Typical symptoms include muscle weakness, stiffness or pain, as well as changes in urine color, per Cleveland Clinic.

OZEMPIC AND WEGOVY COULD LEAD TO MUSCLE LOSS, EXPERTS SAY, BUT PREVENTION IS POSSIBLE

"Rhabdomyolysis can lead to severe organ failure, cardiac arrhythmia or compartment syndrome, which could be fatal," warned certified personal trainer Regis Pagett, the founder and owner of R Personal Fitness in New York City.

IV therapy can be used to flush out toxins from the bloodstream, the expert said, but physical therapy and strength training would be needed to regain the lost muscle.

"It could take anywhere from a few weeks to months depending on the severity of symptoms," he added.

In the statement provided to Fox News Digital, Collins (the Tufts spokesperson) stated that the university is "addressing this matter with the utmost seriousness."

"The university continues to closely monitor the condition of the team, and some individual team members have been medically cleared to resume training," Collins said. 

"However, all team practices continue to be postponed until university medical personnel authorize their resumption."

The university will appoint an independent investigator to "determine exactly what happened before, during and after the workout; assess the university’s response; and review its procedures and policies to determine what changes it should make to prevent this from happening again," Collins added.

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"Meanwhile, we are closely monitoring the condition of the rest of the team and have postponed all team practice activities until each team member has been evaluated and medically cleared to return to participation."

The university is unable to provide additional details until the investigation is complete, the statement said.

As the condition is not contagious, the fact that several of the Tufts lacrosse players were diagnosed "absolutely" suggests that the workout was too strenuous, according to Pagett.

"This is rare in athletes — overall, rhabdomyolysis is something more commonly seen in victims of physical trauma," he told Fox News Digital.

It is also a "high possibility" that the affected team members were not properly hydrated, Pagett noted.

"Anyone leading a group or individual into strenuous training should be aware of the signs of dehydration and overexertion," he said.

"Sometimes a competitive athlete will push themselves to finish through just about anything, but you have to know when to save the athletes from themselves."

To prevent rhabdomyolysis, Pagett emphasized the importance of a "sound workout plan," adequate hydration and proper post-workout care (nutrition, rest and supplementation).

"Having qualified coaches oversee intense training is necessary," he added.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

"Leveraging people who have completed a training regimen, such as what happened in this case, doesn’t necessarily give them the knowledge needed to properly train others."

Anyone experiencing symptoms of rhabdomyolysis should seek medical attention immediately.

Fox News’ Paulina Dedaj contributed reporting.

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Therapy ponies in special program bring boosts of joy and humor to those in need

Pint-sized ponies — as part of a therapy team — are visiting hospitals, schools and care homes, and providing therapeutic cuddles for those in need.

Owner Sarah Woodland, 42, received two mini Shetland ponies in the summer of 2022 from a friend, as SWNS, the British news service, reported. Poppy, 16, and Tinks, 17, stand just 30 inches tall and enjoy being fussed over, the outlet noted.

Woodland started doing private one-on-one enrichment sessions with the pair before deciding to visit a local care home with the animals to encourage residents to connect for a mental health boost. 

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The session went so well, Woodland decided to make them both therapy ponies.

Providing comfort and interaction for those who need it, she now takes the animals into special schools, hospitals and care homes.  

Woodland runs Dinky Ponies from Oxfordshire.

"It's the touch and the communication. Seeing and interacting with the ponies is a form of communication for people who may have difficulty talking," she told SWNS. 

"It's almost like a form of love and it gets people up and moving."

Before this venture, she worked in human resources in London, and spent years raising her two children, ages 15 and 10, with her husband, Nick, 50, a retired military veteran. 

As her children grew older, Woodland found herself with more time and a desire to reconnect with her love for horses, SWNS noted. 

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She turned to freelance enrichment sessions before stumbling upon the idea of therapeutic pony visits.  

Demand for her one-to-one riding lessons dipped during the winter months, so she decided to try a different approach.

Said Woodland, "You'll find people say animals are their best friends and [these animals] have a sense of knowing who needs to be comforted — that's part of the reason I decided to set things up."

When she reached out to the first care home with her idea in the summer of 2022, the response was "overwhelming," she said. 

"From day one, it went absolute bonkers," she told SWNS. 

"It's totally taken off, and it’s lovely to see the amazing impact the animals have on people. I think it was partially the lingering effects of lockdowns when care homes had limited visitors — so the experience of having the animals in was even more valuable."

While Dinky Ponies still does the occasional party, Woodland said her focus has shifted primarily to therapy sessions. 

During a visit, people get to meet and stroke the horses.

It's the "profound, often unspoken connection between the ponies and the people they visit" that fuels her passion to keep doing it, Woodland said.

"Animals have a special way about them. It's lots of different things — it's the empathy and communication," she told SWNS. "I really do believe they have a sixth sense and an ability to know who needs extra attention."

During a recent visit, she said one care home resident was initially very skeptical of the ponies and had a table positioned protectively in front of him in bed.  

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Despite his reluctance, he agreed to meet Poppy — and gradually, his barriers dropped.

"It was really lovely to see it from start to finish. That's the effect the animals have on people," she said. 

Woodland has expanded and currently has seven ponies — each one with its niche.

Aside from the ponies Poppy and Tinks, she also has Abby, 13, Georgie, 12, Gracie, five, Charm, 12, and Evie, 15. 

She admitted, though, that Poppy is "the superstar."

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Woodland said, "She just has a natural way of relaxing people and falling asleep in people's laps!"

She'll choose which pony to take to specific events depending on the needs at each venue. 

When visiting a new facility, Woodland typically goes to the venue with one pony to assess the setup. 

The ponies usually work one day a week, which ensures they're not overburdened or over-petted.

Now, they're so accustomed to the visits that they are even able to travel up and down in elevators, enabling them to visit children's wards at hospitals, SWNS reported.

"I want to keep doing it for as long as I can as the ponies have such a positive impact on people," Woodland said, according to the outlet. 

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/O9sluaM

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