Cancer-linked herbicide in the spotlight after controversial order: 'Toxic by design'

There has been a shake-up in the Make America Healthy Again movement regarding glyphosate, a widely used herbicide that has been the subject of significant controversy.

The debate follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump that ensures an adequate supply of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides related to national defense.

MAHA supporters have previously pushed a pesticide-free agenda, warning of potential health harms caused by glyphosate.

PESTICIDE IN FOOD THAT'S 'MAKING AMERICA SICK AGAIN' MAY GET FREE PASS

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, said he believes there is sufficient evidence linking glyphosate to neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis, to warrant limiting exposure.

"With Parkinson's, this association appears to be due to the gut, vagus nerve and brain axis, where the exposure affects the microbiome in the gut, which then ascends slowly up to the brain, causing the neurodegenerative disease years later," Siegel told Fox News Digital.

"There is also a growing association being found between high-dose glyphosate or occupational exposure and metabolic disorders, liver disease and some cancers, specifically lymphoma."

He added, "Growing research backs this. I favor limiting it."

Studies have shown that glyphosate, which is used in products such as Roundup, owned by Monsanto, could raise cancer risk.

In one University of Washington study published in the journal Mutation Research, researchers found that exposure to it increased the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma by 41%.

The nonprofit Investigate Midwest, which analyzed data from both the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Cancer Institute, also recently found that pesticides may contribute to cancer rates.

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Among the top 500 counties for per-square-mile pesticide use, more than 60% had cancer rates above the national average of 460 cases per 100,000 people, according to the report.

Investigate Midwest, which is based in Illinois, interviewed more than 100 farmers, environmentalists, lawmakers and scientists as part of a partnership with the Pulitzer Center’s StoryReach U.S. Fellowship.

Iowa, which used 53 million pounds of pesticides last year, holds the nation’s title for second-highest cancer rate.

Bill Billings, a resident of Red Oak, Iowa, was diagnosed with cancer in 2014. 

"The cancer specialist said, very directly, (my) cancer is a result of being exposed to chemicals," Billings said in the report.

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Kelly Ryerson, founder of Glyphosate Facts and owner of the Instagram account @glyphosategirl, told Fox News Digital her journey researching the herbicide began with her own health struggles.

Ryerson, who is based in California, previously struggled with chronic illness and autoimmune issues, which she said improved when she stopped eating gluten. 

After attending a medical conference at Columbia University’s Celiac Disease Center, Ryerson began to question modern farming practices rather than the gluten itself.

"A lot of times, farmers are spraying Roundup on our grains right before harvest to facilitate an easier harvest," she said. "After that easier harvest, because everything's dry at the same time, those crops go directly to the mill and may end up in our food supply, at alarmingly high levels."

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In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization framework, classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans."

The classification was based on limited evidence of cancer in humans (notably non-Hodgkin lymphoma in some studies) and sufficient evidence in experimental animals.

A spokesperson for Monsanto told Fox News Digital it will comply with Trump's order to produce glyphosate and elemental phosphorus.

"President Trump’s executive order reinforces the critical need for U.S. farmers to have access to essential, domestically produced crop protection tools, such as glyphosate," the spokesperson said.

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has long been a vocal critic of Roundup, working with his legal team in 2018 to award $289 million to a man who alleged the weed killer caused his non-Hodgkin lymphoma, according to reports.

Following backlash to Trump's executive order, Kennedy said he supports the order but acknowledged that "pesticides and herbicides are toxic by design, engineered to kill living organisms."

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"When we apply them across millions of acres and allow them into our food system, we put Americans at risk," he posted on X. "Chemical manufacturers have paid tens of billions of dollars to settle cancer claims linked to their products, and many agricultural communities report elevated cancer rates and chronic disease."

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for comment.

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'SuperAgers' stay mentally sharp well past 80, as scientists reveal the reason

→ Some 80-year-olds still have razor-sharp brains — and now scientists know why

→ One father's nightly bathroom habit was missed sign of common cancer

→ 5 ways to preserve vision as you age, according to an ophthalmologist

→ Heart disease threat projected to climb sharply for key demographic

→ Heavy snow is recipe for serious heart attack risk, experts say

→ Flu season could linger into spring as doctors warn of second wave

→ One type of olive oil has a surprising effect on brainpower in aging adults

→ Common vision issue linked to type of lighting used in homes

→ Some supplements may pose risks for people with diabetes, experts say

→ Alzheimer's symptoms could be predicted years in advance through one simple test

→ Combination nasal spray vaccine could protect against COVID, flu and pneumonia

→ Weight-loss medications could impact sexual health in unexpected ways

More than 59% of women may have high blood pressure by 2050, according to a new report from the American Heart Association.

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'SuperAger' seniors stay sharp well past 80, as scientists reveal the reason

→ Some 80-year-olds still have razor-sharp brains — and now scientists know why

→ One father's nightly bathroom habit was missed sign of common cancer

→ 5 ways to preserve vision as you age, according to an ophthalmologist

→ Heart disease threat projected to climb sharply for key demographic

→ Heavy snow is recipe for serious heart attack risk, experts say

→ Flu season could linger into spring as doctors warn of second wave

→ One type of olive oil has a surprising effect on brainpower in aging adults

→ Common vision issue linked to type of lighting used in homes

→ Some supplements may pose risks for people with diabetes, experts say

→ Alzheimer's symptoms could be predicted years in advance through one simple test

→ Combination nasal spray vaccine could protect against COVID, flu and pneumonia

→ Weight-loss medications could impact sexual health in unexpected ways

More than 59% of women may have high blood pressure by 2050, according to a new report from the American Heart Association.

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Heart disease threat projected to climb sharply for key demographic

A new report by the American Heart Association (AHA) included some troubling predictions for the future of women’s health.

The forecast, published in the journal Circulation on Wednesday, projected increases in various comorbidities in American females by 2050.

More than 59% of women were predicted to have high blood pressure, up from less than 49% currently.

3 SIMPLE LIFESTYLE CHANGES COULD ADD ALMOST A DECADE TO YOUR LIFE, RESEARCH SHOWS

The review also projected that more than 25% of women will have diabetes, compared to about 15% today, and more than 61% will have obesity, compared to 44% currently.

As a result of these risk factors, the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and stroke is expected to rise to 14.4% from 10.7%.

Not all trends were negative, as unhealthy cholesterol prevalence is expected to drop to about 22% from more than 42% today, the report stated.

Dr. Elizabeth Klodas, a cardiologist and founder of Step One Foods in Minnesota, commented on these "jarring findings."

"The fact that on our current trajectory, cardiometabolic disease is projected to explode in women within one generation should be a huge wake-up call," she told Fox News Digital.

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"Hypertension, diabetes, obesity — these are all major risk factors for heart disease, and we are already seeing what those risks are driving. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, eclipsing all other causes of death, including breast cancer."

Klodas warned that heart disease starts early, progresses "stealthily" and can present "out of the blue in devastating ways."

The AHA published another study on Thursday revealing one million hospitalizations, showing that heart attack deaths are climbing among adults below the age of 55.

The more alarming finding, according to Klodas, is that young women were found more likely to die after their first heart attack than men of the same age.

DOCTOR SHARES 3 SIMPLE CHANGES TO STAY HEALTHY AND INDEPENDENT AS YOU AGE

"This is all especially tragic since heart disease is almost entirely preventable," she said. "The earlier you start, the better."

Children can show early evidence of plaque deposition in their arteries, which can be reversed through lifestyle changes if "undertaken early enough and aggressively enough," according to the expert.

Klodas suggested that rising heart conditions are associated with traditional risk factors, like smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

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Doctors are also seeing higher rates of preeclampsia, or high blood pressure during pregnancy, as well as gestational diabetes. Klodas noted that these are sex-specific risk factors that don’t typically contribute to complications until after menopause.

The best way to protect a healthy heart is to "do the basics," Klodas recommended, including the following lifestyle habits.

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Klodas especially emphasized making improvements to diet, as the food people eat affects "every single risk factor that the AHA’s report highlights."

"High blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, excess weight — these are all conditions that are driven in part or in whole by food," she said. "We eat multiple times every single day, which means what we eat has profound cumulative effects over time."

"Even a small improvement in dietary intake, when maintained, can have a massive positive impact on health."

The doctor also recommends changing out a few snacks per day for healthier choices, which has been proven to "yield medication-level cholesterol reductions" in a month.

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"Keep up that small change and, over the course of a year, you could also lose 20 pounds and reduce your sodium intake enough to avoid blood pressure-lowering medications," Klodas added.

"Women should not view the AHA report as inevitable. We have power over our health destinies. We just need to use it."

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Weight-loss medications could impact sexual health in unexpected ways

Popular weight-loss medications may also affect aspects of sexual health, recent research has shown.

In obese and overweight men, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs increased total testosterone, optimized hormone levels and improved erectile-function scores, according to a 2025 review published by the National Institutes of Health.

Additional reviews found the same improvement in erectile dysfunction.

POPULAR WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS LINKED TO RARE 'PIRATE DISEASE,' RESEARCHERS WARN

Not all results have been positive, however. A study of women, published in Sage Journals in June, found that the drug’s impact on hormones could decrease sexual drive.

In a nationally representative survey led by the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University, about 52% of GLP-1 users reported that the medication had impacted their sex lives, both positively and negatively.

JELLY ROLL'S WIFE SAYS WEIGHT-LOSS DRUG SENT HER INTO ‘WORST SUICIDAL DEPRESSION’

Eighteen percent said their sexual desire increased, while 16% said it decreased. Another 16% noted that their sexual function improved and 14% noted it did not.

Sixteen percent also reported feeling more comfortable with their bodies, while 14% said they were less comfortable.

Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight-loss specialist in New York and New Jersey, said it’s difficult to determine whether improved sexual function is an effect of the medication or a benefit of improved self-perception after weight loss.

These outcomes also depend "heavily" on patient characteristics, the expert added.

"Individuals with severe obesity often experience meaningful hormonal improvements, whereas those with long-standing diabetic neuropathy may have irreversible neurovascular damage," he told Fox News Digital.

"Critically, when dysfunction is driven primarily by psychosocial factors, such as relationship distress, pharmacotherapy (medication) alone is unlikely to succeed."

In his own practice, Balazs reported seeing "both ends," although most of his patients have improved sex lives.

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Men under 30 were more likely to report decreased libido, which he attributed to the drug’s effects on the central nervous system rather than underlying health conditions, since younger men typically have fewer comorbidities.

GLP-1s can directly contribute to improved sexual function by improving vascular endothelial function — the inner lining of blood vessels — thereby supporting better blood flow, according to Balazs.

This function is important for cardiovascular health and, in men, can improve erectile function. In women, it can also increase pelvic blood flow, according to the expert.

Substantial weight loss reduces the function that converts testosterone to estrogen, which can help restore testosterone levels. This can improve libido, energy and overall sexual function, according to Balazs.

GLP-1s can also reduce inflammation in the brain, potentially improving peripheral nerve function, which is essential for physical sensation.

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Severe obesity can also present physical barriers during intimacy, as weight loss improves mobility and comfort.

Balazs also mentioned the psychological burden of obesity and diabetes, noting that weight-loss therapies can alleviate depression and anxiety, conditions that often contribute to sexual dysfunction.

"Improvements in physical health, body composition and self-image may indirectly reduce depression and anxiety, supporting sexual well-being," he said.

On the other hand, reduced sexual function while taking a GLP-1 drug could occur due to reward signaling in the brain, according to Balazs.

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"The [central reward] pathway contributes to pleasure associated with both food and sexual activity," he said. "Its modulation may reduce sexual desire in some patients."

"Common adverse effects, such as nausea, fatigue or malaise, as well as psychological adjustment to rapid weight loss, can indirectly decrease sexual desire."

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Common vision issue linked to type of lighting used in Americans' homes

Nearsightedness (myopia) is skyrocketing globally, with nearly half of the world’s population expected to be myopic by 2050, according to the World Health Organization.

Heavy use of smartphones and other devices is associated with an 80% higher risk of myopia when combined with excessive computer use, but a new study suggests that dim indoor lighting could also be a factor.

For years, scientists have been puzzled by the different ways myopia is triggered. In lab settings, it can be induced by blurring vision or using different lenses. Conversely, it can be slowed by something as simple as spending time outdoors, research suggests.

COMMON DIABETES DRUG MAY HELP PRESERVE EYESIGHT AS PEOPLE AGE

Nearsightedness occurs when the eyeball grows too long from front to back, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). This physical elongation causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it, making distant objects appear blurry.

Researchers at the State University of New York (SUNY) College of Optometry identified a potential specific trigger for this growth. When someone looks at a phone or a book up close, the pupil naturally constricts.

COMMON VISION ISSUE COULD LEAD TO MISSED CANCER WARNING, STUDY FINDS

"In bright outdoor light, the pupil constricts to protect the eye while still allowing ample light to reach the retina," Urusha Maharjan, a SUNY Optometry doctoral student who conducted the study, said in a press release.

"When people focus on close objects indoors, such as phones, tablets or books, the pupil can also constrict — not because of brightness, but to sharpen the image," she went on. "In dim lighting, this combination may significantly reduce retinal illumination."

The hypothesis suggests that when the retina is deprived of light during extended close-up work, it sends a signal for the eye to grow.

In a dim environment, the narrowed pupil allows so little light through that the retinal activity isn't strong enough to signal the eye to stop growing, the researchers found.

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In contrast, being outdoors provides light levels much brighter than indoors. This ensures that even when the pupil narrows to focus on a nearby object, the retina still receives a strong signal, maintaining healthy eye development.

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The team noted some limitations of the study, including the small subject group and the inability to directly measure internal lens changes, as the bright backgrounds used to mimic the outdoors made pupils too small for standard equipment.

"This is not a final answer," Jose-Manuel Alonso, MD, PhD, SUNY distinguished professor and senior author of the study, said in the release.

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"But the study offers a testable hypothesis that reframes how visual habits, lighting and eye focusing interact."

The study was published in the journal Cell Reports.

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Some 80-year-olds still have razor-sharp brains — and now scientists know why

Older adults classified as "SuperAgers" generate at least twice as many neurons in the hippocampus than their typical aging peers, a new study has revealed.

These findings, released on Wednesday by the University of Illinois Chicago and Northwestern University, could help explain why SuperAgers have exceptional memory and cognitive resilience even well past 80 years old.

Northwestern has been studying SuperAgers for decades, defining them as "extraordinary individuals aged 80 and above whose memory performance rivals that of people three decades younger." The researchers use special memory recall tests to make this determination.

ALZHEIMER'S SYMPTOMS COULD BE PREDICTED YEARS IN ADVANCE THROUGH ONE SIMPLE TEST

In this study, they analyzed post-mortem brain tissue — nearly 356,000 individual cell nuclei — with a focus on the hippocampus, which is essential for forming new memories and supporting learning and spatial navigation.

They compared tissue from SuperAgers, typical older adults, older adults with early dementia/Alzheimer’s and younger healthy adults.

The researchers found that SuperAgers produced at least twice as many new neurons compared to "cognitively normal" older adults and those with Alzheimer’s pathology.

They also found that changes in certain brain support cells (astrocytes) and key memory cells (CA1 neurons) are linked to preserved cognitive ability, helping to keep the brain sharp with age.

ALZHEIMER’S DECLINE COULD SLOW DRAMATICALLY WITH ONE SIMPLE DAILY HABIT, STUDY FINDS

The SuperAgers also had different genetic activity patterns in their brains compared to those in Alzheimer’s disease. 

"SuperAgers have more immature neurons and neuroblasts in the hippocampus, which is an indication of stronger neurogenesis when compared with other groups," study co-author Changiz Geula, research professor of cell and developmental biology and neuroscience at at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, told Fox News Digital.

"The study also showed that specific cells in the hippocampus show unique gene expression profiles that relate to neuronal function and transmission and are associated with superior cognitive function."

The findings were published in the journal Nature.

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"We’ve always said that SuperAgers show that the aging brain can be biologically active, adaptable and flexible, but we didn’t know why," said co-author Tamar Gefen, associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a neuropsychologist at Northwestern’s Mesulam Institute for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease, in the release. 

"This is biological proof that their brains are more plastic, and a real discovery that shows that neurogenesis of young neurons in the hippocampus may be a contributing factor."

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, commented that the study discovered signs of plasticity and regeneration in SuperAgers.

"It confirmed not only preservation of brain tissue in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and cognition, but also regeneration and increased development of brain cells in that area," Siegel, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

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"This is an important study because it may lead to certain cell gene treatments that could lead to more SuperAgers," the doctor said. "It may also lead to more advanced testing to determine who will be a SuperAger and guide clinical treatment and management."

The study did have some limitations, primarily that the research relied on tissue samples taken at one specific point, instead of tracking changes over time.

Geula noted that studies using human brain tissue typically involve fewer cases than animal research, which can be a limitation. However, he emphasized that each case in this study was analyzed thoroughly.

"While these findings are not directly translatable to changes in everyday life and activities, they suggest that cognitive resilience is associated with greater integrity of many brain systems," he told Fox News Digital. "This implies that attending to brain health is crucial for maintaining cognitive function in old age."

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"Thus, maintaining good overall health by keeping systemic diseases in check, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise, and ensuring the elderly remain mentally active assume more importance."

The study was funded by the National Institute on Aging, which is part of the National Institutes of Health.

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One type of olive oil has a surprising effect on brainpower during aging

Olive oil has long been shown to benefit heart health, but a new Spanish study from Universitat Rovira i Virgili revealed that extra virgin olive oil may also protect brain health.

The study found that people who consumed virgin olive oil — rather than refined olive oil — had improved cognitive function and greater diversity in the gut biome, which the researchers claim is an "important marker of intestinal and metabolic health."

"This is the first prospective study in humans to specifically analyze the role of olive oil in the interaction between gut microbiota and cognitive function," lead study author Jiaqi Ni, researcher at the URV’s Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology in Spain, said in a press release.

ALZHEIMER'S RISK COULD RISE WITH COMMON CONDITION AFFECTING MILLIONS, STUDY FINDS

The study used two years of data from more than 600 people between the ages of 55 and 75 who were overweight or obese and had metabolic syndrome, factors that increase the risk of heart disease.

The researchers tracked the participants’ consumption of both refined and virgin olive oil, as well as their gut microbiota (the entire collection of living microorganisms in the human gut).

ALZHEIMER’S RISK TIED TO HOW THE BODY HANDLES SUGAR AFTER EATING, STUDY FINDS

The findings suggest that the uptick in diverse gut bacteria is the reason that people consuming virgin olive oil have improved brain health, according to the researchers. Those who consumed refined olive oil had less diversity in their gut over time.

The main difference between refined and virgin olive oils is how they are processed, the researchers said.

Refined olive oil undergoes industrial treatments to remove impurities. These treatments degrade the oil, stripping it of the natural antioxidants and vitamins that are beneficial to human health.

The team also did a follow-up to identify any changes in participants’ cognitive function. Those who consumed extra virgin olive oil showed improved memory, attention and executive function over two years.

Refined olive oil did not show the same cognitive benefits. 

"Not all olive oils have benefits for cognitive function," Ni noted.

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This research reinforces the idea that the quality of fat people consume is as important as the quantity, according to Jordi Salas-Salvadó, principal investigator of the study.

"Extra virgin olive oil not only protects the heart but can also help preserve the brain during aging," he said in the press release.

Because this was an observational study focused on older Mediterranean adults with specific health risks, the findings may not apply to the public, and the study does not prove that olive oil alone caused the cognitive changes. 

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The researchers noted that factors like smoking and lower education levels were more common among those using refined oil, which could skew results despite their best efforts to adjust the data. 

Additionally, the study relied on self-reported diets, which could have some risk of inaccuracies.

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The study was published in the journal Microbiome.

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Diabetes risk could be lower for people who live in certain US regions, study finds

Living at high altitudes may lower the risk of diabetes, and scientists believe they have finally figured out why.

A new study from the Gladstone Institutes in San Francisco examined how red blood cells behave in low-oxygen environments. The findings, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, reveal that at high elevations, red blood cells begin absorbing large amounts of glucose from the bloodstream, acting as a "sponge" for sugar.

When oxygen levels drop, these cells then alter their metabolism to deliver oxygen more efficiently. 

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This shift also lowers circulating blood sugar, which researchers say explains the lower diabetes risk seen in mountain-dwelling populations.

A previous study of over 285,000 adults in the United States found that people living at high altitudes (1,500-3,500 meters) were significantly less likely to have diabetes than those living at sea level, even after adjusting for factors like diet, age and ethnicity.

"Red blood cells represent a hidden compartment of glucose metabolism that has not been appreciated until now," said senior author Isha Jain, a Gladstone investigator and professor of biochemistry at UC San Francisco, in the press release. "This discovery could open up entirely new ways to think about controlling blood sugar."

Previously, Jain’s team conducted experiments on mice to better understand hypoxia, or reduced oxygen levels in the blood.

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Mice exposed to thin air cleared sugar from their bloodstream almost instantly after eating, a trait typically linked to a lower risk of diabetes. Initially, however, researchers couldn't figure out where the sugar was going.

"We looked at muscle, brain, liver — all the usual suspects — but nothing in these organs could explain what was happening," said Yolanda Martí-Mateos, a postdoctoral scholar in Jain’s lab and the study’s first author.

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The team discovered the answer using an alternative imaging method: the red blood cells themselves were the missing "glucose sink."

By using a different type of imaging, the team found that the red blood cells were holding onto the glucose.

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Under hypoxic conditions, the mice produced more red blood cells, and each cell absorbed significantly more glucose than they did in normal conditions.

The researchers even developed a drug, HypoxyStat, that mimics this high-altitude effect. In laboratory tests, the drug completely reversed high blood sugar in diabetic mice.

The researchers acknowledged some limitations with the study. The research focused on one specific mouse strain known for its sensitivity to blood sugar. While humans show similar results, testing other strains would confirm that the findings are universal.

To ensure consistent results, the team only studied young male mice. Because age and sex significantly impact how red blood cells are produced, more research is needed to determine whether these findings hold true for females and older populations.

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"This is just the beginning," Jain said.

"There's still so much to learn about how the whole body adapts to changes in oxygen, and how we could leverage these mechanisms to treat a range of conditions."

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Flu season could linger into spring as doctors warn of second wave on the way

Health experts are warning that the 2025-2026 flu season isn't over yet. In fact, people should prepare for the virus to linger well into the warmer months, according to Dr. Michael Glazier, chief medical officer and pediatrician at Bluebird Kids Health in Florida.

The current season is tracking with historical trends, the doctor said, as influenza A typically strikes first and most aggressively.

"The 2025-2026 flu season has followed this pattern, with influenza A cases presenting earlier in the season and causing the majority of illnesses," Glazier told Fox News Digital.

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"Now, however, in the middle of February, we are seeing the emergence of influenza B cases, in addition to the continued predominant presence of influenza A, which is not unusual, and which will most likely continue into the spring months," he added.

While the timing of the waves is typical, the intensity is not. This year has been marked by a new influenza A H3N2 variant known as Subclade K. 

This strain has proven particularly difficult for several reasons, according to Glazier. Its newness means the population has very little defense built up from previous infections, and there has also been a decrease in vaccinations nationwide.

HOW LONG YOU’RE CONTAGIOUS WITH THE FLU — AND WHEN IT’S SAFE TO GO OUT

The current vaccine has also shown to have decreased effectiveness against this specific strain.

"Although this was anticipated to be a more moderate flu season compared to recent years, the severity assessment determined by the CDC now ranks this as a high severity season for children," Glazier cautioned, noting that approximately 60 pediatric deaths have already been attributed to the Subclade K strain this year.

Glazier said it is "absolutely" not too late in the season to get the flu shot.

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"Even if you experienced an earlier influenza A infection, you can still get an influenza B infection," he said.

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Vaccination remains the best tool to minimize the duration and severity of the illness, even if the vaccine isn't a perfect match for the circulating strain, experts say.

Symptoms of spring allergies can differ from signs of the flu, Glazier said.

The flu is characterized by high fever, chills, body aches, night sweats, headaches and stomachaches, symptoms that are not caused by seasonal allergies.

Glazier urges parents not to ignore persistent or recurrent fever, especially if it doesn't respond to acetaminophen or ibuprofen. He also emphasizes monitoring hydration in children.

"Children become dehydrated more easily when sick compared to adults, and this worsens symptoms," he said.

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Adequate rest, hand hygiene, hydration and nourishment help bolster the body’s immune system and defense against viruses, the doctor added.

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Combination nasal spray vaccine could protect against COVID, flu and pneumonia at once

A single spritz could eventually offer simultaneous protection against several infectious diseases.

Researchers at Stanford Medicine have developed a new vaccine that could prevent multiple viruses at once, including COVID-19, influenza and pneumonia.

The vaccine is administered "intranasally" through a nasal spray, which provides "broad protection in the lungs for several months," according to a Stanford Medicine press release.

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Researchers claim this is the closest science has gotten to creating a universal vaccine that protects against respiratory viruses, bacteria and allergens.

The study, published in the journal Science, examined the impact of the vaccine on mice. The animals were given a drop in the nose, some receiving multiple doses a week apart.

Every mouse was then exposed to a respiratory virus. While vaccinated mice saw protection for at least three months, unvaccinated mice experienced dramatic weight loss due to illness, lung inflammation and death. Every vaccinated mouse survived and had clear lungs, the release stated.

The vaccinated mice were also found to be protected against SARS-CoV02 and other coronaviruses, as well as Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii — which are common hospital-acquired infections — and house dust mites, a common allergen.

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The universal vaccine does not target a single virus, but instead trains the immune system in the lungs to "provide broad protection against many different respiratory viruses," senior study author Bali Pulendran, PhD, a professor of microbiology and immunology at Stanford, told Fox News Digital.

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"By reprogramming the innate immune cells that act within hours of infection, the vaccine prepares the lungs to fight off many different respiratory viruses, even new ones," he said.

If translated to humans, a vaccine like this could replace "multiple jabs every year for seasonal respiratory infections and be on hand should a new pandemic virus emerge," according to Pulendran.

"Imagine getting a nasal spray in the fall months that protects you from all respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and the common cold, as well as bacterial pneumonia and early spring allergens," the researcher said. "That would transform medical practice."

The results of the study suggest that the immune system can "be trained to mount a more generalized antiviral defense in the lungs," Pulendran added.

The researcher acknowledged that the study has some limitations. 

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It is a preclinical study conducted in animal models, making it an "important proof of concept rather than a finished human vaccine," Pulendran said.

"While the results are encouraging, additional studies are needed to determine safety, optimal dosing and effectiveness in people," he added.

This research should not change current medical advice, according to Pulendran, and the public should continue relying on approved vaccines and public health guidance.

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"Our goal is not to replace current vaccines, but to complement them by developing strategies that could provide an added layer of protection against a wide range of respiratory threats, including future pandemics," Pulendran added. "Translation to humans will require careful clinical testing."

The scientists' next step will be to test the vaccine in humans. With sufficient funding, Pulendran predicts that the vaccine could be available in five to seven years.

Dr. Robert H. Hopkins, Jr., the Arkansas-based medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, confirmed that there has "long been interest" in developing universal vaccines.

Hopkins, who was not involved in the study, cautioned that the immune responses in mice are not identical to those in humans.

"This process is a fascinating concept, and the study is very interesting, but many additional steps need to be completed successfully and safely before this could be considered in humans," he told Fox News Digital.

"It will likely take many years, require significant financial investment and involve multiple additional studies before we know whether this particular universal vaccine candidate can be safely given to humans and whether it will provide similar protection against respiratory bacteria and viruses."

The study received funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Violetta L. Horton Professor endowment, the Soffer Fund endowment and Open Philanthropy.

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Living at high altitudes could reduce risk of common disease, study suggests

Living at high altitudes may lower the risk of diabetes, and scientists believe they have finally figured out why.

A new study from the Gladstone Institutes in San Francisco examined how red blood cells behave in low-oxygen environments. The findings, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, reveal that at high elevations, red blood cells begin absorbing large amounts of glucose from the bloodstream, acting as a "sponge" for sugar.

When oxygen levels drop, these cells then alter their metabolism to deliver oxygen more efficiently. 

DIABETES PATIENTS EXPERIENCE LOWER DEATH RATE WITH COMMON MEDICATION

This shift also lowers circulating blood sugar, which researchers say explains the lower diabetes risk seen in mountain-dwelling populations.

A previous study of over 285,000 adults in the United States found that people living at high altitudes (1,500-3,500 meters) were significantly less likely to have diabetes than those living at sea level, even after adjusting for factors like diet, age and ethnicity.

"Red blood cells represent a hidden compartment of glucose metabolism that has not been appreciated until now," said senior author Isha Jain, a Gladstone investigator and professor of biochemistry at UC San Francisco, in the press release. "This discovery could open up entirely new ways to think about controlling blood sugar."

Previously, Jain’s team conducted experiments on mice to better understand hypoxia, or reduced oxygen levels in the blood.

WHAT YOUR BUTT SHAPE COULD REVEAL ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, ACCORDING TO SCIENTISTS

Mice exposed to thin air cleared sugar from their bloodstream almost instantly after eating, a trait typically linked to a lower risk of diabetes. Initially, however, researchers couldn't figure out where the sugar was going.

"We looked at muscle, brain, liver — all the usual suspects — but nothing in these organs could explain what was happening," said Yolanda Martí-Mateos, a postdoctoral scholar in Jain’s lab and the study’s first author.

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The team discovered the answer using an alternative imaging method: the red blood cells themselves were the missing "glucose sink."

By using a different type of imaging, the team found that the red blood cells were holding onto the glucose.

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Under hypoxic conditions, the mice produced more red blood cells, and each cell absorbed significantly more glucose than they did in normal conditions.

The researchers even developed a drug, HypoxyStat, that mimics this high-altitude effect. In laboratory tests, the drug completely reversed high blood sugar in diabetic mice.

The researchers acknowledged some limitations with the study. The research focused on one specific mouse strain known for its sensitivity to blood sugar. While humans show similar results, testing other strains would confirm that the findings are universal.

To ensure consistent results, the team only studied young male mice. Because age and sex significantly impact how red blood cells are produced, more research is needed to determine whether these findings hold true for females and older populations.

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"This is just the beginning," Jain said.

"There's still so much to learn about how the whole body adapts to changes in oxygen, and how we could leverage these mechanisms to treat a range of conditions."

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5 ways to preserve your vision as you age, according to an ophthalmologist

As people age, vision naturally declines and the risk of eye conditions increases. That includes age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that typically occurs in patients older than 50.

AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss among adults over 60 and impacts millions of Americans, according to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation.

The condition degrades the ability to read, drive and recognize faces. AMD has no cure, so experts advocate for early detection and prevention.

DOCTOR WARNS OF 2 SIMPLE FOOD MISTAKES THAT INCREASE CHRONIC DISEASE RISK

In more advanced stages of AMD, patients may notice wavy straight lines, dark spots in their vision, or blurred central vision, according to ophthalmologist Dr. Vaidehi Dedania at NYU Langone Health.

Vision loss can be particularly difficult for seniors, as impaired eyesight can lead to more falls, decreased mobility and loss of independence, the doctor told Fox News Digital.

"We are moving toward a world where we don't just react to vision loss — we can intercept it and take measures to delay what used to be inevitable for many patients," Dedania said.

While the main risk factors for age-related macular degeneration are genetics and aging, the expert shared the following five lifestyle changes that could decrease the risk and severity of the disease.

DOCTOR SHARES 3 SIMPLE CHANGES TO STAY HEALTHY AND INDEPENDENT AS YOU AGE

Smoking is a major risk factor of AMD and can "significantly impact" the risk of vision loss, according to Dedania.

"The oxidative stress from smoking can really affect the retinal cells, and this is what increases someone's risk of macular deterioration," she told Fox News Digital. The habit can also speed up AMD's progression and reduce the effectiveness of treatments.

"We really encourage people who smoke to stop smoking, especially if they have family members with this condition," the expert told Fox News Digital. 

People who stopped smoking 20 years ago may have a risk level similar to those whose risk is based primarily on age and genetics, she noted. "That’s why quitting as early as possible is so important."

Eating a healthy diet can impact the advancement of any disease, including AMD.

Diets high in processed foods, sugar and fat are associated with macular degeneration due to an imbalance of the gut microbiome, according to a recent study by researchers at the University of California, Davis.

COMMON DIABETES DRUG MAY HELP PRESERVE EYESIGHT AS PEOPLE AGE

"These are things that are currently still being explored, but we definitely know that our diet affects our risk of macular degeneration and how advanced it's going to be," Dedania told Fox News Digital.

She recommends adding more leafy greens and maintaining a balanced diet to support a healthy gut microbiome. In particular, she is a big advocate of the Mediterranean diet.

Certain supplements can decrease the risk of AMD. In particular, AREDS2 is a specific combination of vitamins and minerals used in the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2.

In clinical trials, the AREDS2 formula was shown to help slow progression of AMD in people with intermediate or late stages of the disease, according to the National Eye Institute.

"While patients can take these supplements early on, we really only have data to show that it helps after they've already reached the intermediate stage," Dedania noted.

While taking the supplement very early on may not significantly impact risk, it is safe to start anytime as long as patients aren't doubling up on their vitamins, according to the doctor.

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Dedania noted that earlier formulations of AREDS — without the "2" — included beta-carotene, which has since been removed due to its link to lung cancer in smokers.

"Make sure that you're finding the supplement that has AREDS2 on it and use that one," she advised.

Regular movement is another core pillar of health that can help slow the progression of disease.

"Exercise falls into the overall balance of a healthy lifestyle," Dedania said.

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"We know that exercise also diminishes oxidative stress, and these are things that we aim to do just for overall well-being — but there are studies that show that it also benefits patients with macular degeneration in terms of their risk of advanced disease."

Seeing your eye doctor for routine screenings could be the key to spotting an issue before it’s too late.

With AMD, patients are not typically symptomatic until they’ve reached intermediate or advanced stages of the disease. "Patients may have macular degeneration and they don't know," Dedania said.

The ophthalmologist reiterated that the disease is not frequently seen in patients under 50, and signs often go undetected in patients over 60.

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"It is important for patients 50 and above to have a general eye exam and come equipped with the knowledge of whether they have family members with macular degeneration," she advised.

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Alzheimer's symptoms could be predicted years in advance through one simple test

A simple blood test could predict not only a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but also the year symptoms will begin.

Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis set out to determine if levels of a specific protein in the blood could be used as a "biological clock" to predict when signs of the disease will emerge.

The specific protein, known as p-tau217, forms "tangles" in the brain that disrupt communication between nerve cells. In a healthy brain, tau helps to stabilize the structure of nerve cells.

HIDDEN BRAIN CONDITION MAY QUADRUPLE DEMENTIA RISK IN OLDER ADULTS, STUDY SUGGESTS

In some cases, brain scans can be used to detect these tangles when diagnosing Alzheimer’s. Preliminary studies have suggested that the same method could be used to determine a progression timeline.

As these imaging tests are often complex and expensive, the research team wanted to explore whether a blood test could monitor the same proteins and produce similar results.

The study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, analyzed data from more than 600 older adults enrolled in two long-term Alzheimer’s research projects.

ALZHEIMER’S RISK TIED TO HOW THE BODY HANDLES SUGAR AFTER EATING, STUDY FINDS

By comparing blood samples with participants’ cognitive performance over several years, the team found that p-tau217 levels rise in a "remarkably consistent" pattern long before memory loss begins, according to a press release.

The team then created a model that uses a patient's age and protein levels to estimate when symptoms will appear, with a margin of error of three to four years.

"We show that a single blood test measuring p-tau217 can provide a rough estimate of when an individual is likely to develop symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease," lead author Kellen K. Petersen, PhD, instructor of neurology at Washington University in St. Louis, told Fox News Digital.

The researchers found that older adults developed symptoms much more rapidly after p-tau217 became abnormal, he noted.

LOWER DEMENTIA RISK LINKED TO ROUTINE VACCINATION IN MAJOR NEW ANALYSIS

"For example, people who first had abnormal p-tau217 levels around age 60 didn’t develop Alzheimer’s symptoms for about 20 years, whereas those who first had abnormal p-tau217 levels around age 80 developed symptoms after only about 10 years," Petersen said. 

This suggests that age and disease-related changes in the brain can influence how quickly Alzheimer’s symptoms become apparent, the researcher concluded.

"This could transform how researchers design clinical trials and, eventually, how clinicians identify people at highest risk for cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s years before decline begins," Chicago-based Rebecca M. Edelmayer, PhD, vice president of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, told Fox News Digital.

"A blood test is generally much less expensive and easier to administer than a brain scan or spinal‑fluid test. In the future, it could help doctors and researchers identify people who may benefit from early treatments," added Edelmayer, who was not involved in the study.

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The study did have some limitations and caveats.

"We were only able to make predictions for individuals whose p-tau217 levels fell within a certain range, although it was a fairly wide range," Petersen shared. "The models were developed in relatively healthy and well-educated research cohorts that were not diverse, so the results may not apply well to the broader population."

While the researchers referenced in-home blood tests in this study, they cautioned against people seeking out and taking these tests themselves.

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"At this point, we do not recommend that any cognitively unimpaired individuals have any Alzheimer’s disease biomarker test," Dr. Suzanne Schindler, a neurologist at Washington University who was a co-author of the study, said in the press release.

Peterson acknowledged that these results are still experimental and ripe for improvement.

"The current estimate is not yet accurate enough for clinical use or personal medical decision-making, but we expect that it will be possible to create more accurate models," he told Fox News Digital.

Looking ahead, the team hopes to refine the test by researching other Alzheimer’s-linked proteins to narrow the margin of error, Schindler said. More diverse participants are also needed to confirm the results.

Two large clinical trials are now in progress, aiming to determine whether people with high levels of this protein can benefit from treatment with one of two Alzheimer’s drugs before symptoms appear.

Lecanemab and donanemab are the only approved drugs designed to reduce levels of plaques in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers hope that treating people earlier may boost the drugs’ effectiveness.

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"There are many other blood and imaging biomarkers, as well as cognitive tests, that we can combine with plasma p-tau217 to improve the accuracy of predicting symptom onset," Petersen said. "We hope this work will lead to even better models that will be useful to individuals."

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Heavy snow is recipe for serious heart attack risk, experts say: What to know

In addition to travel and logistical challenges, heavy snowfall  can be detrimental to people's health.

As the northeast faces historic snow accumulation this week, experts are warning of the physical risks of shoveling heavy snow, particularly for those who do not exercise regularly or have pre-existing health conditions.

"The combination of the wet, heavy snow and the heavy winds make it more of a health risk because it’s much harder to get around," Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel told Fox News Digital.

SHOVELING SNOW COULD POSE DANGEROUS HEALTH RISK FOR ONE GROUP

"In the aftermath of the storm, as the temperatures drop, the heavy, wet snow forms ice, which makes walking and driving treacherous."

Heavy, wet snow can get inside clothes and cause "more of a chill," potentially leading to hypothermia in severe cases, according to Siegel.

In a Monday appearance on "Fox & Friends," the doctor stressed the importance of being properly dressed in these conditions.

"I saw this morning people who weren't covered properly … weren't wearing gloves, didn't have the full hat, or the kind of overcoat they needed," he said.

"They also weren't looking out for each other. You need to look out for each other. With this kind of wind, you get really easily discombobulated."

Siegel urged people to stay indoors unless it’s absolutely necessary to leave their home.

"Watch out if you are outside for brief periods — for fallen power lines or for trees that are down. That's very, very dangerous as well," he cautioned. "That's where a lot of the injuries come from."

There’s also an increased risk of falling, as well as electrocution from power lines being weighed down by heavy snow. Going without power poses its own health risks, Siegel mentioned.

Dr. Joshua Latzman, cardiologist at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates in White Plains, New York, shared with the American Heart Association (AMA) that research has shown heavy snow shoveling can put "significant stress on the heart."

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"In frigid temperatures, that added strain can increase the risk of a heart-related event," he said. "This can be especially dangerous for people who are out of shape or not used to strenuous activity."

Shoveling in the wind can also increase the risk of a health event, since exposure to colder air can raise blood pressure and constrict the coronary arteries, according to the AMA.

"Many heart-related events occur in people who are usually inactive," Latzman went on. "When someone who is sedentary suddenly takes on heavy shoveling after a storm, that unexpected strain can unfortunately lead to a serious emergency."

Straining to lift something heavy can have the same effect if normal breathing is impacted.

Other at-risk groups include people who are obese, those who smoke or have smoked in the past, people with diabetes, and those with high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Anyone who has previously had a heart attack or stroke is also at greater risk, the AMA reported.

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"Anyone with these characteristics, including people who have undergone bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty, should not be shoveling snow," Latzman concluded.

Siegel urged those who may be at risk to avoid going out with their shovels and "being a hero."

"It's about the most cardiac expenditure of energy that you can have," he said. "So if you've been sedentary, don't go and shovel. Get a younger person or somebody who's in much better shape to do it."

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If shoveling is unavoidable, experts advise doing it gradually and at a comfortable pace. The AMA also suggests covering your mouth and nose and dressing in layers, including a hat and gloves.

Pushing or sweeping the snow is safer than lifting and throwing, as it requires less energy.

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Scientists discover 5,000-year-old bacterium resistant to modern antibiotics

Scientists have discovered that a bacterium trapped in an ice cave for 5,000 years is resistant to several modern antibiotics.

The bacterium was found in Scarisoara Ice Cave in Romania, where researchers drilled a 25-meter ice core representing about 13,000 years of frozen history.

The research was published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology.

ANCIENT PLAGUE MYSTERY CRACKED AFTER DNA FOUND IN 4,000-YEAR-OLD ANIMAL REMAINS

To prevent contamination, the ice samples were carefully stored and transported to the lab while still frozen. From the ice, scientists isolated a strain of bacteria called Psychrobacter SC65A.3. 

Although it is thousands of years old, the strain was found to resist 10 antibiotics that are commonly used today to treat serious infections.

These include medications such as rifampicin, vancomycin and ciprofloxacin, the study found.

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"The 10 antibiotics we found resistance to are widely used in oral and injectable therapies used to treat a range of serious bacterial infections in clinical practice," said Cristina Purcarea, senior scientist at the Institute of Biology Bucharest of the Romanian Academy, in a press release.

Researchers tested the ancient strain against 28 antibiotics from 10 drug classes and identified more than 100 genes linked to antibiotic resistance.

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"Studying microbes such as Psychrobacter SC65A.3 retrieved from millennia-old ice cave deposits reveals how antibiotic resistance evolved naturally in the environment, long before modern antibiotics were ever used," Purcarea said.

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The findings suggest that antibiotic resistance existed in nature long before the development of modern medicines, according to the researchers.

The strain also showed resistance to medications including trimethoprim, clindamycin and metronidazole, which are used to treat infections of the lungs, urinary tract, skin and reproductive system.

The study examined just one bacterial strain from one cave sample, and there is no evidence that the ancient microbe is currently infecting people or spreading, the researchers noted.

Experts also pointed out that Psychrobacter is an environmental bacterium that doesn't have clinical antibiotic "breakpoints," which are clear cut-off numbers that tell doctors whether a bacterium is officially "resistant" to an antibiotic.

Because this environmental bacterium doesn’t have established clinical testing standards, its lab-measured resistance can’t be interpreted the same way doctors classify dangerous hospital superbugs.

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Blood test could predict when Alzheimer's symptoms will start years in advance

A simple blood test could predict not only a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but also the year symptoms will begin.

Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis set out to determine if levels of a specific protein in the blood could be used as a "biological clock" to predict when signs of the disease will emerge.

The specific protein, known as p-tau217, forms "tangles" in the brain that disrupt communication between nerve cells. In a healthy brain, tau helps to stabilize the structure of nerve cells.

HIDDEN BRAIN CONDITION MAY QUADRUPLE DEMENTIA RISK IN OLDER ADULTS, STUDY SUGGESTS

In some cases, brain scans can be used to detect these tangles when diagnosing Alzheimer’s. Preliminary studies have suggested that the same method could be used to determine a progression timeline.

As these imaging tests are often complex and expensive, the research team wanted to explore whether a blood test could monitor the same proteins and produce similar results.

The study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, analyzed data from more than 600 older adults enrolled in two long-term Alzheimer’s research projects.

ALZHEIMER’S RISK TIED TO HOW THE BODY HANDLES SUGAR AFTER EATING, STUDY FINDS

By comparing blood samples with participants’ cognitive performance over several years, the team found that p-tau217 levels rise in a "remarkably consistent" pattern long before memory loss begins, according to a press release.

The team then created a model that uses a patient's age and protein levels to estimate when symptoms will appear, with a margin of error of three to four years.

"We show that a single blood test measuring p-tau217 can provide a rough estimate of when an individual is likely to develop symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease," lead author Kellen K. Petersen, PhD, instructor of neurology at Washington University in St. Louis, told Fox News Digital.

The researchers found that older adults developed symptoms much more rapidly after p-tau217 became abnormal, he noted.

LOWER DEMENTIA RISK LINKED TO ROUTINE VACCINATION IN MAJOR NEW ANALYSIS

"For example, people who first had abnormal p-tau217 levels around age 60 didn’t develop Alzheimer’s symptoms for about 20 years, whereas those who first had abnormal p-tau217 levels around age 80 developed symptoms after only about 10 years," Petersen said. 

This suggests that age and disease-related changes in the brain can influence how quickly Alzheimer’s symptoms become apparent, the researcher concluded.

"This could transform how researchers design clinical trials and, eventually, how clinicians identify people at highest risk for cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s years before decline begins," Chicago-based Rebecca M. Edelmayer, PhD, vice president of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, told Fox News Digital.

"A blood test is generally much less expensive and easier to administer than a brain scan or spinal‑fluid test. In the future, it could help doctors and researchers identify people who may benefit from early treatments," added Edelmayer, who was not involved in the study.

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The study did have some limitations and caveats.

"We were only able to make predictions for individuals whose p-tau217 levels fell within a certain range, although it was a fairly wide range," Petersen shared. "The models were developed in relatively healthy and well-educated research cohorts that were not diverse, so the results may not apply well to the broader population."

While the researchers referenced in-home blood tests in this study, they cautioned against people seeking out and taking these tests themselves.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

"At this point, we do not recommend that any cognitively unimpaired individuals have any Alzheimer’s disease biomarker test," Dr. Suzanne Schindler, a neurologist at Washington University who was a co-author of the study, said in the press release.

Peterson acknowledged that these results are still experimental and ripe for improvement.

"The current estimate is not yet accurate enough for clinical use or personal medical decision-making, but we expect that it will be possible to create more accurate models," he told Fox News Digital.

Looking ahead, the team hopes to refine the test by researching other Alzheimer’s-linked proteins to narrow the margin of error, Schindler said. More diverse participants are also needed to confirm the results.

Two large clinical trials are now in progress, aiming to determine whether people with high levels of this protein can benefit from treatment with one of two Alzheimer’s drugs before symptoms appear.

Lecanemab and donanemab are the only approved drugs designed to reduce levels of plaques in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers hope that treating people earlier may boost the drugs’ effectiveness.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"There are many other blood and imaging biomarkers, as well as cognitive tests, that we can combine with plasma p-tau217 to improve the accuracy of predicting symptom onset," Petersen said. "We hope this work will lead to even better models that will be useful to individuals."

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Some supplements may pose risks for people with diabetes, experts say

Some surveys find that about 75% of U.S. adults have used supplements, while federal survey data shows that 58% used one in the past 30 days — but some groups should exercise caution, experts say.

There are many different supplements — including vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids and probiotics — designed to fill nutrient gaps and support overall wellness. Some target specific functions, such as immune support, muscle recovery and bone health, according to multiple medical sources.

Unlike prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications, supplements usually aren’t FDA-approved before they are marketed, but the FDA does regulate them and can take action against unsafe or misbranded products.

POPULAR WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS LINKED TO RARE 'PIRATE DISEASE,' RESEARCHERS WARN

For people with diabetes, the following supplements could pose serious health risks, as they can affect blood glucose levels or interact with medications, per the National Institutes of Health.

Dawn Menning, a California-based registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist with Nutu, a healthy lifestyle app, says people with diabetes should avoid taking St. John's Wort as a supplement. 

Primarily touted as a natural remedy for mild to moderate depression, St. John’s Wort could have additional benefits for anxiety, sleep issues, and menopausal or PMS-related symptoms.

THE ZERO-CALORIE SUGAR SUBSTITUTE YOU'RE USING MAY DO MORE THAN SWEETEN FOOD, STUDY SAYS

"This herbal remedy can interfere with many diabetes medications by affecting the way the body breaks them down," Menning told Fox News Digital. "This can make medications less effective and blood sugar management more difficult."

This supplement is often marketed for its ability to improve blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes, Menning noted, but there is limited evidence and the research is "mixed."

"Taking this supplement with insulin or oral diabetes medications may increase the risk of hypoglycemia," she cautioned. This condition can increase the risk of dizziness, fatigue and fainting, according to Healthline.

These are often taken to help with reducing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, Menning noted.

GLP-1 WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATIONS LINKED TO IMPROVED CANCER SURVIVAL IN CERTAIN PATIENTS

"It contains compounds such as polypeptide-p, which may act like insulin," she said. "Taking this with diabetes medications could increase the risk of hypoglycemia."

This supplement is sometimes used to help manage cholesterol levels — but in people with diabetes, it may also raise blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

SIMPLE DAILY HABIT COULD HELP PEOPLE WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MANAGE BLOOD SUGAR

"I would caution against using high-dose niacin supplements because it can noticeably raise blood sugar levels and make it harder to keep A1c in an optimal range," Michelle Routhenstein, preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com in New York, told Fox News Digital.

Asian ginseng has been linked to a boost in energy, focus and immune system health. It also contains antioxidants, which can provide cellular protection, according to Cleveland Clinic.

While it has also been linked to improved cardiometabolic factors for those with prediabetes and diabetes, some evidence suggests that ginseng could lower blood sugar levels when combined with diabetes medications.

This supplement is primarily used as an antioxidant and a source of vitamin A to support vision, immune function, and overall eye and skin health.

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"The American Diabetes Association recommends against β-carotene supplementation for people with diabetes because of its association with increased lung cancer and cardiovascular mortality risk," Jordan Hill, a registered dietitian with Top Nutrition Coaching in Colorado, told Fox News Digital. 

Cinnamon is often promoted as a supplement for diabetes management and weight loss, as some research has shown it can help to reduce blood sugar and lower insulin resistance.

However, consuming large amounts of cinnamon can enhance the effects of diabetes and cause blood sugar levels to fall too low, which can cause hypoglycemia, Healthline warns.

Cinnamon also includes a compound called coumarin, which can cause liver damage if consumed in large amounts.

This supplement can help to promote healthy digestion, skin and nervous system function, according to Mayo Clinic.

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High doses of nicotinic acid (a form of niacin) can raise blood sugar levels and interfere with the effectiveness of diabetes medications, warns the National Institutes of Health.

"These doses can even raise blood sugar levels in people who don’t have diabetes," the NIH states.

Oral aloe vera is often promoted for diabetes, weight loss and inflammatory bowel disease.

However, when paired with diabetes medications, it could cause blood sugar levels to dip and increase the risk of hypoglycemia with medications, according to the National Institutes of Health. It can also cause gastrointestinal side effects.

For most supplements, Menning noted, "there isn't evidence to support a beneficial effect on diabetes or its complications."

The American Diabetes Standards of Care state: "Without underlying deficiency, there are no benefits from herbal or nonherbal (i.e., vitamin or mineral) supplementation for people with diabetes."

The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology advises caution with all unregulated nutritional supplements due to "inconsistent composition, quality and potential for harm," Hill said.

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"The primary concern with most supplements is not direct harm, but rather the lack of regulatory oversight," he told Fox News Digital.

Experts recommend speaking with a doctor before starting any supplement to understand how it could affect blood sugar levels, medications or overall diabetes management.

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