Elite Americans shell out for 'boat-tox' and other on-demand personal care services

A new trend has emerged that is taking self-care to the next level – for those who can afford it. 

"Boat-tox" has people ordering Botox injectables and other personal care services and treatments directly to their locations aboard yachts or private boats. 

New York-based Dr. Alexander Golberg, who specializes in functional and aesthetic medicine, told Fox News Digital that "boat-tox" is part of a larger concierge aesthetic trend. 

NOT DRINKING ENOUGH WATER FLOODS YOUR BODY WITH HARMFUL STRESS HORMONES

It's "luxury care that meets patients wherever they are," he said. "If someone is planning a boat day with friends, they can also fit in their Botox treatment at the same time."

Golberg said he started "Dr. Hamptons," a service that delivers treatments directly to patients’ homes. It caters to celebrities, CEOs, frequent travelers and younger professionals.

Other treatments such as lip enhancements, IV and wellness drips are also available.

As a result of the coronavirus, when many doctors' offices were closed, on-demand medical and cosmetic services grew. "People [were] still want[ing] to look good and feel their best," said Golberg.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

His concierge members pay a yearly fee to have access to house and yacht calls; the service handles "every visit with complete discretion."

Sheila Nazarian, a California board-certified plastic surgeon and the star of Netflix's "Skin Decision: Before and After," told Fox News Digital the trend embraces "house-call exclusivity."

"Pricing reflects the VIP nature of the service," she said. "Patients are paying not just for a treatment, but for the privacy, the house-call exclusivity, and the peace of mind of having an expert show up wherever they are."

Nazarian added, "In Los Angeles, that might mean a penthouse, a private jet, or yes, even the deck of a yacht."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

She said administering injectables to people on yachts does pose extra considerations such as lighting, sterility, and the movement of the vessel. 

Golberg said injections are only done when the boat is docked and anchored.

"That way, patients get the same safety and precision as they would in the office," he said. 

Only very experienced providers should attempt it, said Nazarian.

"Patients should understand that complications, though rare, can be more difficult to address in a non-clinical setting."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/Oq5wlUk

Read More

How ‘clear protein’ is reshaping diets in the battle against belly fat

Protein is popping up in everything from popcorn and tortilla chips to coffee and ice cream, and now a new form is flexing for attention.

High-protein grocery items have surged in popularity over the past year, with shoppers seeking products that support muscle repair, immune function and metabolism. Long a staple in fitness circles, protein shakes — typically made from whey concentrate and coming in flavors like chocolate, vanilla and peanut butter — offer a creamy, milkshake-like way to pack in the nutrients.

Now muscling its way into the supplement spotlight is clear protein, which is made from whey protein isolate and comes in ready-to-drink bottles or powders that turn water into brightly colored, juice-like beverages.

TRYING TO EAT MORE PROTEIN? DON'T OVERLOOK THIS SWEET SURPRISE

Searches for "clear protein" on The Vitamin Shoppe’s website were up 11% in July, according to the company, marking the seventh straight month it has been ranked as a top search term.

Ready-to-drink brands like Isopure Protein Water, Premier Protein Clear and Ryse already line store shelves, and flavored isolate powders from Alani Nu, Ghost and Transparent Labs offer mix options in lemonade, tropical punch and other fruit-forward varieties.

CUTTING OUT ONE FOOD TYPE COULD NEARLY DOUBLE WEIGHT LOSS, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS

"It addresses a gap in the market for consumers who want high protein without the heaviness," registered dietitian-nutritionist Lauren Manaker recently told Vogue magazine. "It’s also visually appealing … and fits well with the push for lighter, on-the-go health products."

Whey protein isolate tends to be lower in fat, carbohydrates, calories and lactose compared to concentrate, making it a strong option for those with digestive issues. It also boasts a higher concentration of protein by weight.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Yet both isolate and concentrate typically deliver 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving, according to Lena Beal, a cardiovascular dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Both forms are quickly absorbed compared to slower-digesting proteins like casein or plant-based blends, though some experts say isolate offers a slight edge in post-workout absorption due to its purity.

"Clear protein isn’t necessarily healthier by default," Beal told Today.com. "It’s the same protein just in a lighter format."

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

And the product itself isn’t new, she said. Isolate-based clear protein has been used in hospitals for years, especially to help patients meet their nutritional needs when food intake is limited.

Despite the trend, experts warn that clear protein often contains added artificial flavorings and sweeteners, since it lacks the fats and sugars that help flavor traditional powders. It can also be more expensive.

"Until we have more data to prove otherwise, neither is inherently better," Manaker said. "It’s all about what fits your goals and lifestyle."

The recommended dietary allowance for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for healthy adults. Many experts, however, recommend more for athletes, older adults and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Because both provide essential amino acids, Manaker said they can be great options for those looking to increase their protein intake. 

"It’s all about what fits your goals and lifestyle," she said.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/Jo1gzWt

Read More

'Selective hearing' isn't a choice, scientists reveal — it's a real neurological process

You may think your spouse’s "selective hearing" is a choice — but science argues otherwise.

The phenomenon of selective hearing is more than choosing when or when not to listen, according to a recent article by Dr. Stella Fulman at Audiology Island in New York.

"Selective hearing is the brain’s ability to prioritize and process certain auditory stimuli over others," she wrote. "It enables individuals to concentrate on particular sounds while ignoring or minimizing the impact of competing noises."

6 SIMPLE WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR HEARING NOW BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

"This process occurs seamlessly and is often automatic, allowing individuals to maintain focus on relevant information even in challenging environments."

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Jorge Rey, a Miami Beach-based audiologist at HearUSA, confirmed that selective hearing "isn’t just a matter of people tuning others out or ignoring them."

"It’s a real neurological process rooted in how the brain processes sound."

Scientifically, selective hearing is known as "auditory selective attention," in which the brain’s built-in filter focuses on "important sounds" and separates meaningful speech from background noise.

STUDY REVEALS WHY ‘SUPER AGERS’ MAINTAIN ‘OUTSTANDING MEMORY’ INTO THEIR 80S

"It’s important to note that selective hearing isn’t just distraction or disinterest — it’s the result of an increased cognitive load and fatigue," Rey said.

"In essence, selective hearing happens because the brain prioritizes certain sounds over others, with the goal of helping us function in noisy environments."

One classic example is hearing a friend’s voice in a crowded restaurant, a phenomenon known as the "cocktail party effect."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The process involves two key parts of the brain — the auditory cortex, which processes sounds, and the prefrontal cortex, which controls attention and decision-making.

Working memory also latches onto the selected stream of information at the same time, allowing a person to follow a conversation.

Selective hearing could become a concern if it begins to interfere with daily life or relationships, but occasional moments of "zoning out in noisy environments are expected," Rey suggested.

As hearing loss worsens, especially with age, it can cause this process to break down, causing all sounds to "compete for attention."

This can result in "listening fatigue," which makes it harder for the brain to process sound properly, Rey said.

"Over time, untreated hearing loss can impact memory and cognitive health, negatively impacting quality of life."

Even mild hearing loss can make the brain work harder to fill in missing sounds, according to the expert.

Signs of hearing loss include struggling to follow conversations in loud environments or large group settings, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, leaning in toward the speaker, providing answers that are irrelevant to the conversation or seeming disengaged when listening.

There may also be a recognizable increase in frustration, fatigue, irritability or a tendency to withdraw from social situations due to the act of listening feeling "overwhelming."

"If these issues happen often and others around you notice the pattern, it may be time to check in with an audiologist or hearing care professional to determine whether selective hearing is masking a deeper issue," Rey advised.

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

Hearing aids and other modern hearing devices use technology that enhances speech and filters noise, he noted. They can also stream audio from smartphones, which can be helpful for some.

For friends and family of those with hearing complications, Ray recommends facing the person while speaking in noisy or busy places, using clear facial expressions and speech, and reducing background noise where possible.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/l0SW7Dn

Read More

New 'clear protein' hack muscles in as latest trend in the battle of the bulge

Protein is popping up in everything from popcorn and tortilla chips to coffee and ice cream, and now a new form is flexing for attention.

High-protein grocery items have surged in popularity over the past year, with shoppers seeking products that support muscle repair, immune function and metabolism. Long a staple in fitness circles, protein shakes — typically made from whey concentrate and coming in flavors like chocolate, vanilla and peanut butter — offer a creamy, milkshake-like way to pack in the nutrient.

Now muscling its way into the supplement spotlight is clear protein, which is made from whey protein isolate and comes in ready-to-drink bottles or powders that turn water into brightly colored, juice-like beverages.

TRYING TO EAT MORE PROTEIN? DON'T OVERLOOK THIS SWEET SURPRISE

Searches for "clear protein" on The Vitamin Shoppe’s website were up 11% in July, according to the company, marking the seventh straight month it ranked as a top search term.

Ready-to-drink brands like Isopure Protein Water, Premier Protein Clear and Ryse already line store shelves, and flavored isolate powders from Alani Nu, Ghost and Transparent Labs offer mix options in lemonade, tropical punch and other fruit-forward varieties.

CUTTING OUT ONE FOOD TYPE COULD NEARLY DOUBLE WEIGHT LOSS, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS

"It addresses a gap in the market for consumers who want high protein without the heaviness," registered dietitian nutritionist Lauren Manaker recently told Vogue magazine. "It’s also visually appealing … and fits well with the push for lighter, on-the-go health products."

Whey protein isolate tends to be lower in fat, carbohydrates, calories and lactose compared to concentrate, making it a strong option for those with digestive issues. It also boasts a higher concentration of protein by weight.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Yet both isolate and concentrate typically deliver 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving, according to Lena Beal, a cardiovascular dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Both forms are quickly absorbed compared to slower-digesting proteins like casein or plant-based blends, though some experts say isolate offers a slight edge in post-workout absorption due to its purity.

"Clear protein isn’t necessarily healthier by default," Beal told TODAY.com. "It’s the same protein just in a lighter format."

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

And the product itself isn’t new, she said. Isolate-based clear protein has been used in hospitals for years, especially to help patients meet their nutritional needs when food intake is limited.

Despite the trend, experts warn that clear protein often contains added artificial flavorings and sweeteners, since it lacks the fats and sugars that help flavor traditional powders. It can also be more expensive.

"Until we have more data to prove otherwise, neither is inherently better," Manaker said. "It’s all about what fits your goals and lifestyle."

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for healthy adults. Many experts, however, recommend more for athletes, older adults and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Because both provide essential amino acids, Manaker said they can be great options for those looking to increase their protein intake. "It’s all about what fits your goals and lifestyle," she said.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/E0sdXIV

Read More

Military workout tactic goes viral as new fitness craze anyone can do

A fresh fitness craze is once again sweeping social media, though the practice borrows from time-tested military training methods, and experts urge caution before strapping in.

On social media, influencers are hyping weighted vests as one of the "best-kept secrets" in fitness, claiming they can help you lose 30 pounds and become "unrecognizable" when used during walks and workouts. TikTok searches for #weightedvest have garnered more than 30 million views.

But the vests are far from new, according to Dr. Mark Kovacs, a sports scientist and longevity expert based in Atlanta. 

"They’ve been used for decades in athletic and military training, but social media has helped reintroduce them to mainstream fitness," he told Fox News Digital.

SIMPLE JAPANESE FITNESS TREND COULD ADD 7 YEARS TO LIFE EXPECTANCY, EXPERTS SAY

"The appeal is simple: You turn everyday walking into a slightly more demanding workout without changing the movement," Kovacs said.

While soldiers have marched with heavy backpacks for more than a century — a practice known as rucking — to build stamina and toughness, weighted vests have also long been used by athletes and firefighters. Now, the gear is available on Amazon for as little as $30 and from Equinox, which also incorporates it into classes, for as much as $375. Kovacs said the sleeker, more comfortable modern vests are likely to fuel a longer-lasting trend.

Part of the appeal is that the vests look "hardcore" but are simple to use, said Sarah Fuhrmann, a certified trainer and functional aging specialist in Michigan. 

PEOPLE ARE USING VIBRATION PLATES FOR WEIGHT LOSS: DO THEY WORK?

"Just strap on and walk, and fitness ensues," she told Fox News Digital, adding that social media often "makes old tools look new." 

In a recent episode of Andrew Huberman's "Huberman Lab" podcast, Michael Easter, a Las Vegas-based researcher and author of "The Comfort Crisis," argued that humans are built to carry heavy things long distances. 

"Humans are the only mammals that can pick up weight and carry it long distances," Easter said. "For most of human history, we carried everything — food, tools, even babies. Technology has stripped carrying out of our lives, but we were literally born to do it."

SPORTS DOCTOR WEIGHS IN ON MAMDANI'S VIRAL 135-POUND BENCH PRESS FAIL: 'TRUMP COULD LIFT MORE'

He praised rucking as a "two-in-one workout" that combines cardio through long-distance walking and strength training by loading the skeletal and muscular systems.

Experts caution, however, that more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of weighted vests. 

While studies show that weighted vests can increase calorie burn, cardiovascular demand and even help with certain strength exercises like squats, the science remains inconclusive on long-term outcomes such as bone density. One recent study found that obese adults who wore weighted vests lost about 10% of their body weight but saw no reduction in hip bone loss.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"This study’s findings are counter to some research and consistent with others," Dr. Colin Haines, a board-certified spine surgeon and director of research at the Virginia Spine Institute, told Health.com. "What’s clear is that the broader body of evidence includes both neutral and positive results."

Research dating back to the 1990s has shown more promising signs of improved bone growth, particularly in postmenopausal women. A 2015 study similarly showed improvements in quadriceps strength and femur bone density.

Women in this stage of life may benefit most from the trend, Kovacs said, while people with joint or back issues should be cautious and consult a medical professional before starting.

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

For people interested in trying weighted walks or hikes, experts recommend starting with the lightest option available — about 5 to 10 pounds, or less than 10% of your body weight — and choosing a vest with evenly distributed weight and adjustable straps. Start at 15 to 30 minutes, two to three times a week, they add.

"Focus on posture and slowly add weight over time," Kovacs advised. "Always listen to your body. Discomfort is a sign to back off."

He added that weighted-vest walking should not replace heavier strength training or higher-intensity cardio entirely but can be an "excellent supplement."

"It offers a low-impact way to increase training volume, especially for individuals who may not tolerate running or high-intensity workouts," he added.

Fuhrmann agreed that traditional strength training is the "proven gold standard" for protecting bones and muscle, and noted that weighted vests can intensify traditional exercises like squatting. 

"Weighted vests can add a little spice to your walks, but they’re not a shortcut to fitness," she added. "If they help you get more daily movement in, that's great. But if the choice is between a vest and a solid strength program, choose the weights in the gym every time."

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

Read More

CDC warns of 'enhanced' virus risk for travelers amid outbreak spread by mosquitoes

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning that travelers to China face an "enhanced" risk of contracting a virus spread by mosquitoes. 

There has been an outbreak of chikungunya in Guangdong Province, which can cause fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, and rash.

Recently, the CDC raised the warning related to chikungunya in China from Level 1: "Practice Usual Precautions" to Level 2: "Practice Enhanced Precautions."

The CDC says there are no medicines to treat chikungunya, and recommends preventing it by wearing insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, or staying in places that have air conditioning or screens on the windows and doors. 

KANSAS TRACKS 5 SERIOUS WEST NILE VIRUS CASES AS MOSQUITO SEASON PEAKS ACROSS THE STATE

The department also recommends travelers heading to an area with an outbreak get the chikungunya vaccine, except for pregnant women. 

Pregnant women are urged to reconsider traveling to areas with an outbreak "particularly if you are close to delivering your baby." 

Mothers-to-be can pass the virus onto their children, especially if they’re near full-term, and infected newborns face the risk of "severe illness, including poor long-term outcomes."

MOSQUITO-BORN DENGUE FEVER CASES SURGE AT POPULAR US VACATION DESTINATION

Newborns can be infected via the womb or by a mosquito bite after they’re born. 

"In general, vaccination against chikungunya should be deferred until after delivery, the CDC said in its release. "However, when the risk of infection is high and exposure cannot be avoided, pregnant travelers should discuss with their healthcare provider the potential risks (to themselves and their babies) of chikungunya virus infection and the potential benefits and risks of vaccination so that vaccination can be considered."

Travelers are advised to seek medical attention if they develop fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. 

Centered in Foshan City in Guangdong, officials have responded aggressively to the outbreak, a response that some have compared to COVId-19 mitigation efforts in China. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Joint pain caused by the virus can be "severe" and "debilitating and may be prolonged," according to the World Health Organization. 

Severe symptoms and death are rare and usually occur in babies, the elderly and people with underlying conditions. 

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/srQtw1v

Read More

Human plague case reported, patient likely exposed while camping

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has reported the first case of human plague in 2025.

New Mexico health officials confirmed the infectious disease in a 43-year-old man from Valencia County, who was hospitalized and has been discharged since the Aug. 25 press release.

The man recently spent time camping in Rio Arriba County, where officials believe he may have been exposed.

FIVE DEATHS REPORTED AMID BACTERIAL INFECTION OUTBREAK IN MAJOR CITY

Plague is known to "circulate among wildlife" throughout the western U.S., the release stated.

Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for NMDOH, commented in a statement that this case is a reminder of the "severe threat that can be posed by this ancient disease."

"It also emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and for taking measures to prevent further spread," she said.

The last human plague case in New Mexico was recorded in a Lincoln County resident in 2024.

Plague is a bacterial disease of rodents, which is generally transmitted to humans through infected flea bites, according to NMDOH.

The disease can also be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals, including wildlife and even pets.

Symptoms can include fever, chills, headache and weakness, as well as a "painful swelling of the lymph node" in areas of the body like the groin, armpit and neck.

In cats and dogs, symptoms can include fever, lethargy and loss of appetite, in addition to lymph node swelling under the jaw.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Plague can be treated with antibiotic medications, which can "greatly reduce" the fatality rate in people and pets following "prompt diagnosis," NMDOH reports.

The best ways to prevent plague infection are to avoid sick or dead rodents and rabbits, clean up areas where rodents may nest, and store hay, wood and compost piles far away from the home.

Using insect repellent while camping, hiking or working outdoors can also help to prevent plague exposure.

For those with pets, NMDOH recommends using an appropriate flea repellent and having sick pets examined by a veterinarian.

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

Any unexpected illness involving a sudden, severe fever should be checked out by a doctor.

Fox News Digital reached out to NMDOH for comment.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/iyJM7KC

Read More

Parents file lawsuit alleging ChatGPT helped their teenage son plan suicide

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Two California parents are suing OpenAI for its alleged role after their son committed suicide.

Adam Raine, 16, took his own life in April 2025 after consulting ChatGPT for mental health support.

In an appearance on "Fox & Friends" on Friday morning, Raine family attorney Jay Edelson shared more details about the lawsuit and the interaction between the teen and ChatGPT. 

OPENAI LIMITS CHATGPT’S ROLE IN MENTAL HEALTH HELP

"At one point, Adam says to ChatGPT, ‘I want to leave a noose in my room, so my parents find it.’ And Chat GPTs says, 'Don't do that,'" he said. 

"On the night that he died, ChatGPT gives him a pep talk explaining that he's not weak for wanting to die, and then offering to write a suicide note for him." (See the video at the top of this article.)

Amid warnings by 44 attorneys general across the U.S. to various companies that run AI chatbots of repercussions in cases in which children are harmed, Edelson projected a "legal reckoning," naming in particular Sam Altman, founder of OpenAI.

"In America, you can't assist [in] the suicide of a 16-year-old and get away with it," he said.

Adam Raine's suicide led his parents, Matt and Maria Raine, to search for clues on his phone.

"We thought we were looking for Snapchat discussions or internet search history or some weird cult, I don’t know," Matt Raine said in a recent interview with NBC News.

Instead, the Raines discovered their son had been engaged in a dialogue with ChatGPT, the artificial intelligence chatbot.

On Aug. 26, the Raines filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, maker of ChatGPT, claiming that "ChatGPT actively helped Adam explore suicide methods." 

"He would be here but for ChatGPT. I 100% believe that," Matt Raine said in the interview.

Adam Raine started using the chatbot in Sept. 2024 to help with homework, but eventually that extended to exploring his hobbies, planning for medical school and even preparing for his driver’s test.

"Over the course of just a few months and thousands of chats, ChatGPT became Adam’s closest confidant, leading him to open up about his anxiety and mental distress," states the lawsuit, which was filed in California Superior Court.

CHATGPT DIETARY ADVICE SENDS MAN TO HOSPITAL WITH DANGEROUS CHEMICAL POISONING

As the teen's mental health declined, ChatGPT began discussing specific suicide methods in Jan. 2025, according to the suit. 

"By April, ChatGPT was helping Adam plan a ‘beautiful suicide,’ analyzing the aesthetics of different methods and validating his plans," the lawsuit states.

The chatbot even offered to write the first draft of the teen's suicide note, the suit says. 

It also appeared to discourage him from reaching out to family members for help, stating, "I think for now, it’s OK — and honestly wise — to avoid opening up to your mom about this kind of pain."

The lawsuit also states that ChatGPT coached Adam Raine to steal liquor from his parents and drink it to "dull the body’s instinct to survive" before taking his life.

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

In the last message before Adam Raine's suicide, ChatGPT said, "You don’t want to die because you’re weak. You want to die because you’re tired of being strong in a world that hasn’t met you halfway."

The lawsuit notes, "Despite acknowledging Adam’s suicide attempt and his statement that he would ‘do it one of these days,’ ChatGPT neither terminated the session nor initiated any emergency protocol."

This marks the first time the company has been accused of liability in the wrongful death of a minor.

An OpenAI spokesperson addressed the tragedy in a statement sent to Fox News Digital.

"We are deeply saddened by Mr. Raine’s passing, and our thoughts are with his family," the statement said. 

"ChatGPT includes safeguards such as directing people to crisis helplines and referring them to real-world resources."

It went on, "While these safeguards work best in common, short exchanges, we’ve learned over time that they can sometimes become less reliable in long interactions where parts of the model’s safety training may degrade. Safeguards are strongest when every element works as intended, and we will continually improve on them, guided by experts."  

Regarding the lawsuit, the OpenAI spokesperson said, "We extend our deepest sympathies to the Raine family during this difficult time and are reviewing the filing."

OpenAI published a blog post on Tuesday about its approach to safety and social connection, acknowledging that ChatGPT has been adopted by some users who are in "serious mental and emotional distress."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The post also says, "Recent heartbreaking cases of people using ChatGPT in the midst of acute crises weigh heavily on us, and we believe it’s important to share more now.

"Our goal is for our tools to be as helpful as possible to people — and as a part of this, we’re continuing to improve how our models recognize and respond to signs of mental and emotional distress and connect people with care, guided by expert input."

Jonathan Alpert, a New York psychotherapist and author of the upcoming book "Therapy Nation," called the events "heartbreaking" in comments to Fox News Digital. 

"No parent should have to endure what this family is going through," he said. "When someone turns to a chatbot in a moment of crisis, it is not just words they need. It is intervention, direction and human connection."

Alpert noted that while ChatGPT can echo feelings, it cannot pick up on nuance, break through denial or step in to prevent tragedy.

"That is why this lawsuit is so significant," he said. "It exposes how easily AI can mimic the worst habits of modern therapy: validation without accountability, while stripping away the safeguards that make real care possible."

Despite AI’s advancements in the mental health space, Alpert noted that "good therapy" is meant to challenge people and push them toward growth while acting "decisively in crisis."

"AI cannot do that," he said. "The danger is not that AI is so advanced, but that therapy made itself replaceable."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/4iV0zUe

Read More

Parents allege ChatGPT helped their teenage son plan suicide, file lawsuit

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Two California parents are suing OpenAI for its alleged role after their son committed suicide.

Adam Raine, 16, took his own life in April 2025 after consulting ChatGPT for mental health support.

In an appearance on "Fox & Friends" on Friday morning, Raine family attorney Jay Edelson shared more details about the lawsuit and the interaction between the teen and ChatGPT. 

OPENAI LIMITS CHATGPT’S ROLE IN MENTAL HEALTH HELP

"At one point, Adam says to ChatGPT, ‘I want to leave a noose in my room, so my parents find it.’ And Chat GPTs says, 'Don't do that,'" he said. 

"On the night that he died, ChatGPT gives him a pep talk explaining that he's not weak for wanting to die, and then offering to write a suicide note for him." (See the video at the top of this article.)

Amid warnings by 44 attorneys general across the U.S. to various companies that run AI chatbots of repercussions in cases in which children are harmed, Edelson projected a "legal reckoning," naming in particular Sam Altman, founder of OpenAI.

"In America, you can't assist [in] the suicide of a 16-year-old and get away with it," he said.

Adam Raine's suicide led his parents, Matt and Maria Raine, to search for clues on his phone.

"We thought we were looking for Snapchat discussions or internet search history or some weird cult, I don’t know," Matt Raine said in a recent interview with NBC News.

Instead, the Raines discovered their son had been engaged in a dialogue with ChatGPT, the artificial intelligence chatbot.

On Aug. 26, the Raines filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, maker of ChatGPT, claiming that "ChatGPT actively helped Adam explore suicide methods." 

"He would be here but for ChatGPT. I 100% believe that," Matt Raine said in the interview.

Adam Raine started using the chatbot in Sept. 2024 to help with homework, but eventually that extended to exploring his hobbies, planning for medical school and even preparing for his driver’s test.

"Over the course of just a few months and thousands of chats, ChatGPT became Adam’s closest confidant, leading him to open up about his anxiety and mental distress," states the lawsuit, which was filed in California Superior Court.

CHATGPT DIETARY ADVICE SENDS MAN TO HOSPITAL WITH DANGEROUS CHEMICAL POISONING

As the teen's mental health declined, ChatGPT began discussing specific suicide methods in Jan. 2025, according to the suit. 

"By April, ChatGPT was helping Adam plan a ‘beautiful suicide,’ analyzing the aesthetics of different methods and validating his plans," the lawsuit states.

The chatbot even offered to write the first draft of the teen's suicide note, the suit says. 

It also appeared to discourage him from reaching out to family members for help, stating, "I think for now, it’s OK — and honestly wise — to avoid opening up to your mom about this kind of pain."

The lawsuit also states that ChatGPT coached Adam Raine to steal liquor from his parents and drink it to "dull the body’s instinct to survive" before taking his life.

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

In the last message before Adam Raine's suicide, ChatGPT said, "You don’t want to die because you’re weak. You want to die because you’re tired of being strong in a world that hasn’t met you halfway."

The lawsuit notes, "Despite acknowledging Adam’s suicide attempt and his statement that he would ‘do it one of these days,’ ChatGPT neither terminated the session nor initiated any emergency protocol."

This marks the first time the company has been accused of liability in the wrongful death of a minor.

An OpenAI spokesperson addressed the tragedy in a statement sent to Fox News Digital.

"We are deeply saddened by Mr. Raine’s passing, and our thoughts are with his family," the statement said. 

"ChatGPT includes safeguards such as directing people to crisis helplines and referring them to real-world resources."

It went on, "While these safeguards work best in common, short exchanges, we’ve learned over time that they can sometimes become less reliable in long interactions where parts of the model’s safety training may degrade. Safeguards are strongest when every element works as intended, and we will continually improve on them, guided by experts."  

Regarding the lawsuit, the OpenAI spokesperson said, "We extend our deepest sympathies to the Raine family during this difficult time and are reviewing the filing."

OpenAI published a blog post on Tuesday about its approach to safety and social connection, acknowledging that ChatGPT has been adopted by some users who are in "serious mental and emotional distress."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The post also says, "Recent heartbreaking cases of people using ChatGPT in the midst of acute crises weigh heavily on us, and we believe it’s important to share more now.

"Our goal is for our tools to be as helpful as possible to people — and as a part of this, we’re continuing to improve how our models recognize and respond to signs of mental and emotional distress and connect people with care, guided by expert input."

Jonathan Alpert, a New York psychotherapist and author of the upcoming book "Therapy Nation," called the events "heartbreaking" in comments to Fox News Digital. 

"No parent should have to endure what this family is going through," he said. "When someone turns to a chatbot in a moment of crisis, it is not just words they need. It is intervention, direction and human connection."

Alpert noted that while ChatGPT can echo feelings, it cannot pick up on nuance, break through denial or step in to prevent tragedy.

"That is why this lawsuit is so significant," he said. "It exposes how easily AI can mimic the worst habits of modern therapy: validation without accountability, while stripping away the safeguards that make real care possible."

Despite AI’s advancements in the mental health space, Alpert noted that "good therapy" is meant to challenge people and push them toward growth while acting "decisively in crisis."

"AI cannot do that," he said. "The danger is not that AI is so advanced, but that therapy made itself replaceable."

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

Read More

Common daily vitamin shown to slow aging process over four-year period

Previous research has linked a common vitamin to a slowdown in aging — and now a new Harvard study appears to confirm those findings.

The study, which was published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that taking a daily vitamin D pill prevented telomeres from shortening, a hallmark of aging.

Telomeres, which are often compared to the plastic tips on the ends of shoelaces, act as "protective ends" on chromosome strands, according to a Harvard press release.

COMMON DAILY VITAMIN COULD SLOW BIOLOGICAL AGING, MAJOR STUDY SUGGESTS

As people age, telomeres get shorter, which can increase the likelihood of poor health and mortality, prior studies have shown.

Research has also suggested that higher levels of vitamin D in the blood is linked to longer telomeres.

In this latest randomized trial, approximately 1,000 people aged 50 and older were divided into two groups — one group took 2,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D pills each day, and the other group took placebo pills.

After a four-year period, the people taking vitamin D showed less than half of the telomere shortening than the placebo group.

The vitamin D group also had fewer autoimmune diseases and reduced inflammation markers.

COMMON VITAMIN SHOWN TO REDUCE AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE

Lead study author JoAnn Manson, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, said the findings "suggest a promising role for vitamin D in slowing a pathway for biological aging and age-related chronic disease."

While the researchers were surprised that vitamin D was linked to such substantial protection against telomere shortening, Manson told Fox News Digital, the findings are consistent with previous evidence.

"Vitamin D tamps down inflammation, a major cause of telomere shortening and chronic diseases of aging," she said. 

The question of what constitutes an "adequate" blood level of vitamin D is a "controversial topic," according to Manson. 

In the study, the team found that 2000 IU per day was "very safe," without side effects or adverse events. 

TO STAY HEALTHY, EAT MORE FOODS WITH VITAMIN D, NUTRITION EXPERT ADVISES

"Blood levels for deficiency and recommended blood levels vary across organizations, labs and countries, which is one of the reasons for doubt about the test’s usefulness," Manson said. 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and most professional societies in the U.S. do not recommend universal screening for vitamin D blood levels or routine use of vitamin D supplements, the researcher pointed out. 

"The National Academy of Medicine recommends 600 IU of vitamin D per day for adults up to age 70 and 800 IU above age 70, stating that these intakes will meet the requirements of the large majority of adults in the population," she said. 

"However, recent guidelines from the Endocrine Society suggest that vitamin D supplements may be helpful for adults aged 75 and older, infants and children, pregnant women, and those with a diagnosis of prediabetes, but they don’t specify a specific dose."

For anyone who has concerns about getting adequate vitamin D from their diet and/or time outdoors, Manson said that supplementation with 1000 to 2000 IU/day of vitamin D would be "very reasonable."

"In the U.S., foods such as dairy products, cereal and orange juice are often fortified with vitamin D, so checking nutrition labels can help you make better decisions about which foods to purchase," she advised. 

"Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines and tuna, and wild mushrooms are other sources."

Groups at high risk for vitamin D deficiency include those living in nursing homes, people with malabsorption conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease, those being treated for osteoporosis or other bone health problems, and those with major dietary restrictions, such as severe lactose intolerance, according to Manson. 

"[People in these groups] should talk with their doctors about being tested for vitamin D blood levels and taking a vitamin D supplement," she recommended.

The doctor noted that people need only small to moderate amounts of vitamin D for good health, as the vitamin’s metabolism is "tightly regulated" in the body. 

"More is not necessarily better, and very high doses — such as more than 10,000 IU/d — may be associated with high blood or urine calcium levels and toxicity," she cautioned. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Manson emphasized that taking a supplement is not a substitute for a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle. 

"Although it’s much easier to pop a pill than to be physically active outdoors and eat healthfully, these lifestyle factors will do more to keep you healthy and lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases of aging," she said.

Going out for a 15-minute walk a few times a week at midday will typically provide enough sunlight exposure for the skin to synthesize vitamin D, Manson added.

"Even more important for your health would be to exercise outdoors, such as brisk walking, jogging or playing sports."

"Although the results are exciting, we believe that replication of these results in a separate randomized trial will be important before changing general guidelines for vitamin D intake," said Manson.

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

The study was supported in part by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the National Cancer Institute and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/wc8PBRY

Read More

Contaminated oysters spread fatal flesh-eating bacteria in two states

Two people have died after eating oysters contaminated with flesh-eating bacteria, health officials confirmed, and others have been infected. 

Both of the fatal cases were traced to Louisiana-harvested oysters that ended up on plates in restaurants in Louisiana and Florida.

The bacterium, Vibrio vulnificus, has now been linked to six deaths in Louisiana and five deaths in Florida, according to the states' health departments.

BRAIN EATING AMOEBA-INFECTED PATIENT DIES, MISSOURI HEALTH OFFICIALS CONFIRM

The rising number of outbreaks prompted the Louisiana Department of Health to issue a statement July 31, urging residents to take precautions against vibriosis, the infection caused by Vibrio vulnificus.

Vibrio vulnificus is part of a wider group of Vibrio bacteria, which are found in coastal waters, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states.

Vibrio has the potential to cause severe infections, according to Dr. Andrew Handel, pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Stony Brook Children's Hospital in New York. 

These include invasive soft tissue infections (sometimes called "necrotizing fasciitis" or "flesh-eating bacteria") and bloodstream infections.

MORE CASES OF DEADLY ‘FLESH-EATING’ BACTERIAL INFECTION IN POPULAR VACATION DESTINATION

Most people get vibriosis by eating raw or under-cooked shellfish, particularly oysters, according to the CDC. 

In some cases, it can also enter open wounds while people are swimming.

Prior to this incident, health officials reported 17 cases of Vibrio vulnificus among Louisiana residents in 2025. All patients were hospitalized, and four of those illnesses resulted in death. 

Over the previous 10 years, an average of seven Vibrio vulnificus cases and one death were reported each year in Louisiana.

DEATH CONFIRMED FROM RARE AND DEADLY 'BRAIN-EATING AMOEBA' IN SOUTHERN LAKE

"It’s just prolific right now," Jennifer Armentor, the molluscan shellfish program administrator at the Louisiana Department of Health, told the Louisiana Oyster Task Force Tuesday at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport.

Vibriosis symptoms depend on the type of infection, according to Handel. 

"The symptoms of skin infections can progress quickly and become life-threatening in a short time," he previously told Fox News Digital. "Thankfully, those infections are rare."

People who have eaten contaminated shellfish will have severe vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration, the doctor warned.

While healthy people generally experience only mild symptoms, those who are immunocompromised or have chronic liver disease can face serious health risks.

If Vibrio vulnificus enters the bloodstream, it can cause severe illness marked by fever, chills, septic shock and blistering skin lesions, according to Florida Health. About half of these bloodstream infections are fatal.

Some severe cases can cause necrotizing fasciitis, which is when the flesh around an open wound dies, the CDC cautions. 

The bacterial infection is diagnosed by testing cultures obtained from stool, wounds or blood, according to health officials.

Groups at highest risk include older adults and people who are immunocompromised or have chronic liver disease, Handel cautioned. 

For mild infections, the CDC recommends increasing fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

Those with severe or prolonged infections should receive antibiotics to improve survival rates. For people with infected wounds, surgery may be necessary to remove dead tissue.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

About one in five people will die from the infection, sometimes within a day or two of the illness, the CDC states.

"To prevent Vibrio food poisoning, avoid eating raw shellfish, especially if you are immunocompromised or have chronic liver disease," Handel advised. 

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

The doctor noted that Vibrio infections are rare and "should not be a major cause of alarm."

"If you do eat shellfish, make sure it has not been sitting out for a long time and comes from a hygienic source."

Fox News Digital's Melissa Rudy contributed reporting.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/Mbsd8Lc

Read More

Common painkillers may fuel deadly superbugs that resist antibiotics, study warns

A startling new study warns that two of America’s most common over-the-counter painkillers, ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), may have an unexpected role in one of the world's most urgent public health crises.

The everyday painkillers were found to fuel the superbugs that contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Researchers at the University of South Australia conducted lab tests with E. coli and ciprofloxacin, a common antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections.

TWO CANCER DRUGS SHOW PROMISE IN REVERSING ALZHEIMER'S DEVASTATING EFFECTS

They found that ibuprofen and paracetamol (the generic name for Tylenol in Australia) not only drive antibiotic resistance when used individually, but amplify it when used together.

"It is well-known that overuse of antibiotics leads to resistance," Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

It has previously been shown that the use of common pain relievers (NSAIDs) and antidepressants can lead to antibiotic resistance.

In the new research, when E. coli was exposed to ciprofloxacin alongside ibuprofen and paracetamol – both alone and especially when combined – the painkillers significantly increased genetic mutations in the bacteria.

NSAIDS VS. ACETAMINOPHEN: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR NEXT HEADACHE

These mutations made E. coli highly resistant to ciprofloxacin and other types of antibiotics.

"Antibiotic resistance isn’t just about antibiotics anymore," Associate Professor Rietie Venter, the study’s lead author, stated in a press release, highlighting the impact of medications beyond antibiotics. 

The study highlights a concern in settings where it's common to administer multiple medications, like elder care facilities.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Residents often receive combinations of painkillers, sleeping aids, decongestants and other drugs, many of which were included in the study. In this kind of environment, there is a heightened risk of resistant superbugs, experts warn.

The World Health Organization designates antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as one of the top global public health threats. 

In 2019, drug-resistant bacteria were directly responsible for 1.27 million deaths and were associated with nearly five million deaths.

If the current trend continues, projections suggest that AMR-related deaths could climb to nearly 40 million over the next 25 years. 

"This doesn’t mean we should stop using these medications, but we do need to be more mindful about how they interact with antibiotics — and that includes looking beyond just two-drug combinations," Venter said in the press release.

In high-risk settings like elder care, healthcare providers may want to re-examine medication schedules and consider safer alternatives, he suggests.

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

To help curb AMR, experts recommend avoiding unnecessary prescriptions and completing full courses when needed.

Fox News Digital reached out to the makers of Tylenol and Advil for comment.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/diwu96P

Read More

Weight-loss drugs could reduce symptoms of painful skin condition, study finds

GLP-1 weight loss and diabetes drugs, like Ozempic and Wegovy, have been shown to reduce the symptoms of a painful skin condition.

Hidradenitis suppurativa, also known as acne inversa, is a condition that causes small, painful lumps to develop under the skin, according to Mayo Clinic.

These lumps typically develop in areas of the body where the skin rubs together, and can be recurrent.

POPULAR WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATION COULD RELIEVE PAINFUL ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS, DOCTORS REPORT

Hidradenitis suppurativa tends to start after puberty and before age 40, persisting for many years and potentially worsening over time, according to Mayo Clinic. Women are three times more likely to develop the condition.

Medical and surgical therapy can help manage the condition and prevent complications.

A new study, published in the journal JAMA Dermatology, analyzed how GLP-1 medication could impact this skin condition.

The French researchers noted that hidradenitis suppurativa is typically associated with overweight and obesity, affecting 50% of those patients.

WHO SHOULD BE TAKING WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS? DOCTORS SHARE BEST CANDIDATES

The experts noted that weight loss, whether through diet or obesity surgery, has a "beneficial effect" on the skin condition for most patients.

As GLP-1s have demonstrated "major efficacy" in weight loss, the researchers hypothesized that the medications could also have anti-inflammatory properties that may help with skin symptoms.

The study evaluated 66 patients with hidradenitis suppurativa who were taking a GLP-1 drug, following up at an average of 18.5 months later.

Nearly 90% of the study participants had diabetes, and their average BMI was 39.4. Treatment for the skin condition was initiated for 53% of the patients.

IS OZEMPIC RUINING YOUR TEETH? WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT IMPACT ON DENTAL HEALTH

After six months, 54% of patients had a reduction in symptoms. 

By the last consultation, 67% of the participants reported reductions and 60% had decreased pain.

Dr. Brendan Camp, a dermatologist in New York, reacted to these study findings with "cautious optimism."

"It is impressive that, over a median of 18.5 months of follow-up, GLP-1 receptor agonists led to significant reductions in HS severity, flares and pain in patients, most of whom were obese and had diabetes," he said in an interview with Fox News Digital.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Camp confirmed how GLP-1-aided weight loss can reduce "mechanical friction" and "adipose-driven inflammation in susceptible areas" where skin conditions can occur. 

GLP-1s also appear to have anti-inflammatory effects, which could potentially enhance skin healing and reduce the frequency of inflammatory skin disease flares, he said.

Camp pointed out that while the study represents a "promising therapeutic signal," its retrospective design "limits causal conclusions."

"Solid confirmation via randomized clinical trials is critically needed," he said.

Additionally, most participants in the study were obese and diabetic, which means the results may not be applicable to all patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. 

"Future randomized trials are required to determine who will benefit most and to establish safety and effectiveness in the wider HS population," Camp said.

The dermatologist does not currently recommend GLP-1s solely for hidradenitis suppurativa or other skin conditions.

"Patients with HS should know that while these findings are hopeful — showing improvements in severity, flare frequency, pain and quality of life over months of treatment — GLP-1 therapies remain investigational for HS and are not an approved indication," he noted.

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

Those who qualify for GLP-1 treatment for diabetes or obesity, however, may find that these drugs offer the "added potential benefit of HS symptom improvement."

"Off-label initiation without a clear indication should be approached with caution — weighing cost, side effects and lack of definitive trial evidence — and only under the guidance of both a dermatologist and prescribing provider," Camp added.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/3df1qgj

Read More

FDA limits new COVID vaccine boosters to high-risk Americans only

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized COVID-19 vaccines for the fall — but only for high-risk groups.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy announced the FDA’s most recent actions on Wednesday in a post on X.

"I promised 4 things," Kennedy wrote. "1. to end covid vaccine mandates; 2. to keep vaccines available to people who want them, especially the vulnerable; 3. to demand placebo-controlled trials from companies; 4. to end the emergency."

LARGEST MEASLES OUTBREAK IN US IS OFFICIALLY OVER, HEALTH OFFICIALS SAY

"In a series of FDA actions today we accomplished all four goals."

In the post, RFK stated that the FDA has issued "marketing authorization" for high-risk groups for the following vaccines: Moderna (6 months and older), Pfizer (5 years and older) and Novavax (12 and up). 

"These vaccines are available for all patients who choose them after consulting with their doctors," RFK wrote.

High-risk groups include older adults over 65 and those who are more likely to develop severe COVID illness. 

MEDICAL GROUP GOES AGAINST CDC, RECOMMENDS COVID SHOTS FOR YOUNG KIDS

On its website, the CDC lists conditions that may increase the risk of severe COVID, including asthma, cancer, heart conditions, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, dementia, mood disorders, obesity, Parkinson’s, and chronic disease of the lungs, liver or kidneys, among many others.

RFK also announced that the emergency use authorizations for COVID vaccines have been rescinded.

"The American people demanded science, safety, and common sense," RFK went on. "This framework delivers all three."

Before this change, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had recommended the vaccine for all Americans 6 months and older.

In May 2025, Kennedy announced that COVID-19 vaccines would be removed from the CDC’s routine immunization schedule for healthy children and pregnant women. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Instead of a universal recommendation, the CDC’s updated guidance calls for "shared clinical decision-making," in which parents and doctors discuss the benefits and risks of vaccination for each individual case.

However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) still includes it in its annual immunization schedule, as Fox News Digital previously reported.

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

"It should be a conversation between the pediatrician, patient and parent, and should depend on the child’s health as well as the current state of COVID," Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, previously told Fox News Digital.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/go8qTac

Read More

Mediterranean diet paired with other lifestyle changes slashes diabetes risk

Eating a Mediterranean diet — including lots of produce, whole grains and healthy fats — while also adding a few healthy lifestyle behaviors could lower your diabetes risk by almost a third.

That's according to research published Aug. 25 in Annals of Internal Medicine, which found that following a Mediterranean-style diet along with calorie control, regular activity and professional support cut the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D) by 31%. 

The findings come from the PREDIMED-Plus trial, a six-year study of nearly 4,800 older adults in Spain who were overweight or obese and at risk of diabetes.

FRENCH FRIES TIED TO DIABETES RISK, BUT NOT ALL POTATOES 'CREATED EQUAL,' STUDY FINDS

"In practical terms, adding calorie control and physical activity to the Mediterranean diet prevented around three out of every 100 people from developing diabetes," co-author Miguel Martínez-González, professor at the University of Navarra in Spain, said in a press release.

"That’s a clear, measurable benefit for public health."

"We’re facing a global epidemic of diabetes," co-author Frank Hu, Fredrick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, said in the release.

Type 2 diabetes is one of the world's fastest-growing health conditions, affecting nearly 16% of U.S. adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Experts say simple lifestyle changes could help prevent millions of new cases.

YOUR DNA COULD BE STOPPING YOU FROM LOSING WEIGHT, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS

The Mediterranean diet primarily consists of the following ingredients.

This way of eating has been linked to better heart health, improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation.

Registered dietitian and food blogger Lauren Harris-Pincus, based in New Jersey, previously spoke to Fox News Digital about the benefits of whole-food diets like this one.

"Fiber-rich carbohydrates like fruit, veggies, beans/legumes, nuts and whole grains are beneficial to meeting fiber goals, supporting gut health and helping to prevent lifestyle diseases," she said. 

The study looked at nearly 4,800 people in Spain who were overweight or obese and at risk of diabetes.

Half of the group followed a Mediterranean diet while also incorporating additional lifestyle changes, including cutting about 600 calories a day, adding moderate exercise (like brisk walking or light strength training), and receiving professional weight-loss support.

The other half followed a Mediterranean diet without calorie restriction, exercise guidance or extra support.

After six years, the first group had a 31% lower risk of developing diabetes. On average, they also lost 3.3 kilograms (about 7 pounds) and trimmed 3.6 centimeters (about 1.4 inches) from their waistlines.

The control group lost significantly less, only 0.6 kilograms (1.3 pounds), and had almost no change in waist size.

"The best lifestyle strategy to reduce the risk of diabetes is to lose weight by adhering to a healthy, energy-reduced diet and increasing physical activity," co-author Jordi Salas-Salvadó, M.D., PhD, professor at the University of Rovira i Virgili in Spain, told Fox News Digital.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

While the Mediterranean diet isn’t the only eating plan that could help prevent diabetes, it offers a "highly sustainable, long-term weight-loss option," he added.

Salas-Salvadó noted that no previous trial has assessed the effect of reducing calories in the context of a healthy, relatively high-fat diet.

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and Fox News senior medical analyst, was not involved in the study but has previously spoken about the effects of the Mediterranean diet.

"The alternative — saturated fats, salts and sugars — are not heart-healthy and increase the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer, all of which increase mortality risks," he told Fox News Digital.

The study’s approach of monitoring diet, physical activity and weight loss makes it difficult to gauge which factor had the most impact, according to Salas-Salvadó.

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

He also pointed out that because the participants were older adults in Spain, further studies are needed to assess outcomes in other populations, like younger people and non-Mediterranean populations.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/iU3T4zK

Read More

Man receives world's first pig lung transplant in groundbreaking medical procedure

A man in China became the first recipient of a pig lung.

The genetically modified pig organ was transplanted into the 39-year-old, according to an Aug. 26 report by the journal Nature.

The procedure took place last year, performed by researchers at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangshou Medical University in China.

GIRL WITH HEART FAILURE CALLS DAD WITH LIFE-CHANGING MESSAGE AFTER 200-DAY HOSPITAL STAY

Although the man was brain-dead after experiencing a cerebral hemorrhage, the lung survived for nine days.

The left lung came from a pig with six genomic edits, created by research firm Chengdu Clonorgan Biotechnology in China.

Pig organs have been successfully transplanted into humans in the past, and clinical trials for pig liver and kidney transplants in humans were green-lighted in the U.S. this year.

In this first trial, the researchers and doctors aimed to determine how a lung would hold up against the human immune response and the possibility of "hyperacute rejection."

In the Nature journal article, the researchers reported the success of this recent transplant, noting no signs of rejection or infection within the 216-hour monitoring period.

In the first 24 hours, the team observed lung swelling and tissue damage during the procedure.

On days three and six, the team noticed damage caused by antibodies attacking the organ, but this was reduced by day nine.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The study was then ended at the request of the patient’s family on the ninth day, the report stated.

"Although this study demonstrates the feasibility of pig-to-human lung xenotransplantation, substantial challenges relating to organ rejection and infection remain," the researchers concluded.

"Further preclinical studies are necessary before clinical translation of this procedure."

Muhammad Mohiuddin, a surgeon and researcher at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, who led the first pig–heart transplant into a living person in 2022, told Nature that lungs are the "most difficult organ to transplant," as they’re more prone to being attacked by the immune system.

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

Mohiuddin applauded the researchers’ effort and called it a "first step" toward lung xenotransplantation, or the use of organs from other species into humans.

Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for comment.

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/z5YP0Gg

Read More

Eating meat could protect against cancer-related death, study suggests

Eating more meat could be beneficial for the body, a new study suggests.

Recent research from Canada’s McMaster University revealed that animal-sourced foods are not linked to a higher risk of death.

The study discovered that animal proteins could also offer protective benefits against cancer-related mortality, according to a press release from the university.

RED MEAT CAN HELP YOUR MOOD IF PART OF A HEALTHY, BALANCED DIET, STUDY SUGGESTS

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 16,000 adults, aged 19 and older, considering how much animal and plant protein they typically consumed.

They also examined whether these diet patterns were associated with a risk of dying from causes such as heart disease and cancer.

The results revealed no increased risk of death in association with eating more animal protein.

The data also showed a "modest but significant reduction" in cancer-related mortality.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

No associations were found between total protein, animal protein or plant protein and the risk of death from any cause, according to the study.

But when plant and animal protein were analyzed, the results "remained consistent," which suggests that plant protein has a "minimal impact on cancer mortality, while animal protein may offer a small protective effect."

The findings were published in the journal Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism.

"Combined with decades of clinical trial evidence, the findings support the inclusion of animal proteins as part of a healthy dietary pattern," the press release stated.

Research supervisor Stuart Phillips, professor and chair of the Department of Kinesiology at McMaster University, commented in the same release that there is "a lot of confusion around protein," including how much and what kind to eat, and what it implies for long-term health.

"This study adds clarity, which is important for anyone trying to make informed, evidence-based decisions about what they eat," Phillips wrote.

"It was imperative that our analysis used the most rigorous, gold standard methods to assess usual intake and mortality risk," he continued.

"These methods allowed us to account for fluctuations in daily protein intake and provide a more accurate picture of long-term eating habits."

Lead researcher Yanni Papanikolaou, president of Nutritional Strategies, also commented that when both observational data and clinical research are considered, "it’s clear that both animal and plant protein foods promote health and longevity."

For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health

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

This research was funded by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), although the researchers noted that NCBA was "not involved in the study design, data collection and analysis or publication of the findings."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/Q073SXb

Read More

Cannabis gummy poisonings surge among vulnerable group, experts warn

Cannabis gummies have grown in popularity in recent years, as more people turn to them to relieve pain, inflammation, anxiety and sleep issues, among other uses.

There is also a growing concern, however, about the THC-containing gummies getting into children’s hands — and mouths.

Reports of cannabis poisoning among children soared from 930 in 2009 to more than 22,000 in 2024 — and last year, more than 75% of all cannabis poisonings involved minors, according to America’s Poison Centers.

HERE'S WHAT MARIJUANA REALLY DOES TO THE DEVELOPING BRAIN, ACCORDING TO A PSYCHIATRIST

Melissa Johnson, a licensed clinical social worker and the senior clinical director at Victory Starts Now in Los Angeles, said she is not surprised by the uptick in gummy cannabis poisonings among children.

"Companies are advertising gummy cannabis the same way they would sell candy to children," she told Fox News Digital.

Dr. Darria Long, M.D., an emergency physician in Atlanta, Georgia, and a member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board, confirmed that she’s aware of multiple children per week seeking medical attention for this issue.

"Gummies are particularly dangerous because kids don't just eat one — they can eat an entire bag," she told Fox News Digital. "So they’re ingesting somewhere around 10 adult servings in the body of a 30-pound child."

Long said she has seen instances where someone bought cannabis gummies and unintentionally gave them to a child, not realizing they contained THC. 

"Some parents think, ‘but it’s natural, it can't be dangerous,’ or ‘it’s just a little pot, it can't be dangerous.’"

A child who has consumed cannabis gummies could come in lethargic or not breathing, and may have experienced seizures, Long told Fox News Digital.

In many cases, the child’s heart rate drops, and they may even go into cardiac arrest and require CPR. 

Treatment for gummy overdoses depends on how severe the situation is, according to Long. 

"Sometimes children need to be intubated and put on a respiratory machine, and sometimes they need electrical pacing of their heart because their heart rate is too slow," she said.

They may also need IV medication, including epinephrine to keep them from going into cardiac arrest or other drugs to stop seizure activity.

CANNABIS USE RAISES RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE MORE THAN COCAINE, OTHER DRUGS, MAJOR REVIEW SUGGESTS

In severe cases, cannabis gummy poisoning can cause coma, death or long-term side effects, including problems with memory, attention and problem-solving skills, experts agree.

"Especially if they have periods during which their brain is not getting enough oxygen, they could have hypoxic brain injury, among other potential complications," Long warned.

Dr. Margret Chang, a pediatrician at UMass Memorial Health’s Tri-River Family Health Center in Uxbridge, Massachusetts, said it would be "highly unlikely" for these severe effects to develop in a child after just one exposure, as long as they get appropriate medical monitoring and care.

"However, if a child were to come in contact with a cannabis gummy from an illicit source that just happened to contain fentanyl or cocaine, the consequences of consuming that gummy would be far more deadly, and the long-term effects far more powerful," she told Fox News Digital.

MORE SENIORS ARE USING CANNABIS THAN EVER BEFORE DESPITE HEALTH RISKS, RESEARCH SHOWS

THC can stay in a child's system much longer than an adult’s, experts agree.

"It depends on what they have taken and how large a quantity was ingested, but I’m aware of cases where children took 24 to 36 hours or more just to become stable," Long said.

Parents should watch out for symptoms such as sedation, difficulty breathing and confusion, Johnson advised.

"Parents should make sure to educate themselves on signs that their child may have ingested THC, so care can be administered as soon as possible," she said. "If you think your child has ingested THC, get them to the nearest hospital or call 911 for immediate care."

To keep children safe from toxic ingestion, experts agree that it’s best not to keep THC-containing products in the home.

"If you do keep these in the home, they need to be treated the exact same way you would treat all prescription medications, which could be life-threatening if a child ingests them," Long said.

"That would include using a baby-proof or child-proof container, and keeping them out of reach and out of sight."

She added, "If parents do use these types of products, they should avoid having them in forms that are at all tempting to children, like gummies, candy, brownies or cookies."

People should only use sources of cannabis gummies that come from registered dispensaries, Chang added.

"Failure to do so can lead to the acquisition of cannabis supplies that are contaminated with illicit substances such as fentanyl, cocaine and benzodiazepenes, which are added to products to make them more appealing to consumers."

Riana Durrett, director of the Cannabis Policy Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said that while it’s "chilling" to hear stories about children seeking medical attention for cannabis gummy poisoning, "it doesn't seem like the whole story."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"Data is showing that youth use is going down in states where cannabis legalization is occurring cannabis legalization is occurring — so in order to properly react and address increases in accidental consumption, I think we need to know more about where the product is coming from and why it wasn't kept away from a child," she told Fox News Digital.

"For example, if it is a product from an unlicensed source (which is likely if it is marked ‘kid-friendly’), then turning our attention to the licensed cannabis industry fails to address the actual problem and would fail to increase protections for children."

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

According to Durrett, connecting these incidents of child poisonings with cannabis legalization seems like an "insufficient explanation." 

"I think more details about the source of the products and how the child accessed the product would be helpful in identifying more effective responses or policy changes," she added. 

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/tGD83z6

Read More