New AI-generated COVID drug enters Phase I clinical trials: ‘Effective against all variants’

Artificial intelligence is increasingly moving into the health care arena and helping to streamline medical processes — including the creation of new drugs.

Insilico Medicine, an AI-driven biotech company based in Hong Kong and in New York City, recently announced that its new AI-designed drug for COVID-19 has entered Phase I clinical trials.

This oral drug is a treatment, not a vaccine. If approved, it would become the first-ever alternative to Paxlovid, noted Alex Zhavoronkov, PhD, founder and CEO of Insilico Medicine.

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"Generative AI is transforming every area of human development," said Zhavoronkov in a press release announcing the new discovery. 

"We’re extremely happy to announce that our second small molecule therapeutic — generated using generative AI — is now entering human clinical trials." 

Paxlovid, which is currently the only medication available to treat COVID symptoms, has been linked to some undesirable side effects, Insilico noted.

One of these is "Paxlovid rebound," which is when patients recover from COVID and test negative — but then test positive again a short time later.

Another documented side effect, "Paxlovid mouth," occurs when the drug leaves an unpleasant taste in the mouth for those who take it.

An additional limitation of Paxlovid is that as COVID mutates, drug-resistant strains can emerge.

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Insilico’s new pill has been shown to be effective against variants that are resistant to Paxlovid, and is also more stable and works for a longer period of time, according to Zhavoronkov.

In preclinical studies, ISM3312 "significantly reduced" viral load in lung tissue and decreased lung inflammation, the company stated in the release. 

To create its new drug, Insilico’s research team first used its target discovery platform, PandaOmics, to identify the target protein within the coronavirus.

Next, it used its in-house "generative chemistry platform," Chemistry42, to generate new molecules that would attack that protein as a means of treating COVID and other coronaviruses.

One "hit molecule," called ISM3312, was shown to be effective in February 2020. 

The company then filed a patent application for the drug in April 2020.

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"The drug has been shown to be effective against all variants, as well as other types of coronaviruses that cause diseases, including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)," Zhavoronkov told Fox News Digital.

Insilico’s newly discovered molecule has been shown to have "broad antivirus activity against multiple strains and variants," he said.

Another benefit is that the new drug will be easy to produce in large quantities, according to Zhavoronkov.

"Our molecule requires only a two-step process using simple, commercially available starting materials," he said.

ISM3312 is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1 study to assess the safety and tolerability of the drug in healthy volunteers. 

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The compound is also currently being tested against the EG.5 COVID variant.

The results of the clinical trials are expected to be released by the end of 2023.

"Following the completion of the Phase 1 healthy volunteer study, further decisions will be made about testing the compound in coronavirus-infected patients," said Zhavoronkov.

Insilico’s research team believes its new drug is a prime example of how AI is helping to accelerate new, more effective treatments for COVID. 

"We cannot afford to dismiss COVID as a problem of the past," Zhavoronkov told Fox News Digital. 

He added, "Generative AI offers us a powerful tool for accelerating the drug discovery process and allows us to quickly identify new solutions that we hope can provide more potent defenses against mutating COVID strains and prevent another pandemic."

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Dr. Harvey Castro, a Dallas, Texas-based board-certified emergency medicine physician and national speaker on artificial intelligence in health care, was not involved in the research but agreed that ISM3312 represents a "significant step forward" in the fight against COVID-19 and the use of AI for drug discovery.

He pointed out, however, that "doctors should remain cautious."

"For health care providers, the advent of AI-generated drugs like ISM3312 opens up new avenues for treatment — but it’s crucial to stay updated on the clinical trials and research data for ISM3312 and consider the patient's existing medication regimen before prescribing a new drug," he told Fox News Digital.

For patients, Castro said ISM3312 "represents hope." 

He said, though, that "it's essential to consult health care providers for personalized advice and stay informed about the latest research and clinical trial results for the drug."

Said Castro as well, "While this new drug offers a promising alternative to treating the virus, more extensive clinical trials and global regulatory approvals are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety."

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Ask an expert: 'Should I exercise during my cancer treatment?'

If you’re facing a cancer diagnosis and treatment plan, it can feel like your world has been turned upside-down, as regular routines take a backseat to doctor’s appointments and side effects.

But experts agree that sticking with self-care is important — and that includes making time for physical activity.

Nichole Andrews, a registered dietitian nutritionist and cancer nutrition specialist who works with patients and survivors in Kennewick, Washington, is a big advocate of exercising during treatment as much as possible.

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"Cancer may challenge the body, but exercise empowers the spirit, reinforcing that people can actively contribute to their own recovery and look forward to a brighter tomorrow," she told Fox News Digital.

"Exercising during cancer treatment offers a multitude of significant benefits that encompass physical, emotional and psychological aspects," she added.

Andrews shared some key benefits.

Regular physical activity can help regulate sleep patterns, alleviate insomnia and promote restorative sleep, Andrews said. 

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"This improved sleep quality can contribute to better overall health and energy to attend and recover from each treatment cycle or modality, which offers improved treatment outcomes," she told Fox News Digital.

Engaging in exercise routines can boost mood, increase energy levels and provide a sense of accomplishment — which, in turn, leads to an improved quality of life and a more positive outlook on the cancer journey, the expert said.

"Exercise programs tailored to an individual's needs can help maintain mobility and independence, enabling them to continue with daily activities and routines," she added.

Consistent exercise has been linked to a decreased risk of developing other types of cancer, offering an additional layer of protection beyond the current diagnosis, Andrews said.

"Engaging in physical activity can also lower the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, which can be exacerbated during cancer treatment," she added.

Exercise helps prevent muscle wasting and can aid in building strength, Andrews said.

"This is particularly important as cancer treatments like chemotherapy can sometimes lead to muscle atrophy," she noted.

"Balance exercises are vital in preventing falls, especially for older individuals undergoing cancer treatment," said Andrews. 

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"These exercises can minimize the risk of injury and fractures."

Physical activity releases endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters. 

"Regular exercise can also reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety often associated with cancer and its treatment."

"Exercise is instrumental in preventing weight gain and obesity, both of which are linked to an increased risk of cancer and can also complicate cancer treatment," the doctor said.

"Exercise can enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments, making them more efficient at targeting and destroying tumor cells," Andrews said.

Regular physical activity can also contribute to a faster recovery and reduce the duration of hospitalization, she added, helping patients return to their normal lives sooner.

"Regular exercise can also reduce the occurrence and severity of physical side effects associated with cancer treatment, including fatigue, neuropathy, lymphedema, osteoporosis and nausea," said Andrews.

"For specific cancer types, such as breast cancer and colorectal cancer, studies have shown that regular exercise can improve survival rates, potentially extending life expectancy," the doctor said.

Aerobic exercise, also known as cardio, is any type of exercise that raises heart rate. 

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"It strengthens the body's heart and lungs and can help you feel less tired during and after treatment," Andrews said. 

"Walking is an easy, low-impact way to get aerobic exercise, increase blood flow and provide a natural energy boost," she said. "For example, your health care team may suggest walking 40 to 50 minutes, three to four times per week, at a moderate pace."

Gentle stretching exercises and yoga poses also help to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension, while making you feel more relaxed and energized, Andrews noted.

Strength training, or resistance training, is important to prevent muscle loss, which often happens when a person is less active during cancer treatment and recovery. 

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"Strength training helps you maintain and build muscle mass, which can help improve your balance, reduce fatigue and make it easier to do daily activities," Andrews said. 

"It can also help fight osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones that some cancer treatments can cause."

Light resistance band exercises can help maintain muscle strength and increase energy, she said. 

"These exercises can be done while sitting or standing and are customizable to your fitness level." 

Andrews also suggests practicing deep breathing exercises to increase oxygen levels, alertness and mental focus.

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If you have access to a pool, swimming can be an excellent low-impact exercise, Andrews noted. 

"The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on your joints while providing a full-body workout," she said.

If you're experiencing side effects from cancer or its treatment, Andrews said it’s crucial to prioritize safety when engaging in physical activity. This may mean modifying your exercise plan as needed.

If you’re just getting started with post-diagnosis exercise, Andrews said gradual progression is best. 

"Start your exercise regimen gradually, even if you were physically active before cancer treatment," she advised. "Building up your activity level slowly can prevent injuries and help you stay motivated."

Choosing a safe environment is also key, she said.

"If your immune system has been weakened by treatment, steer clear of crowded gyms where germs can easily spread," Andrews said. 

"Consider working out at home or outdoors, especially in favorable weather conditions."

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It’s always important to listen to your body and pay attention to the signals. 

"If your energy is low, adjust the duration and intensity of your exercise until you start feeling better," Andrews advised.

Before starting an exercise program, she said to share it with your oncology team in case the doctors have further recommendations. 

Added Andrews, "Your well-being is paramount, and adapting your exercise plan to your unique circumstances is a responsible approach."

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Gender-specific warning signs of cardiac arrest are revealed in study: 'New paradigm for prevention'

Half of those who suffer cardiac arrest experience a telling symptom 24 hours before the incident, according to a study recently published in The Lancet Digital Health journal. 

This warning symptom was different in men and in women, researchers from Smidt Heart Institute found; the institute is located in the Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. 

For women, shortness of breath was the symptom that preceded an impending cardiac arrest, while for men, chest pain was the prominent complaint.

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Sweating and seizure-like activity occurred in smaller subgroups of both genders, the researchers noted.

Sudden cardiac arrest outside the hospital has a 90% mortality rate, according to a press release from Cedars Sinai — so it’s essential to recognize early warning signs.

"Harnessing warning symptoms to perform effective triage for those who need to make a 911 call could lead to early intervention and prevention of imminent death," Sumeet Chugh, M.D., director of the Center for Cardiac Arrest Prevention in the Smidt Heart Institute, said in the news release. 

"Our findings could lead to a new paradigm for prevention of sudden cardiac death," added Chugh, who is the senior author of the study.

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To pinpoint how best to predict sudden cardiac arrest, Chugh’s research team gathered community-based data from the ongoing Prediction of Sudden Death in Multi-Ethnic Communities (PRESTO) study in Ventura County, California, and the Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death study (SUDS) in Portland, Oregon, the release stated.

The investigators looked at individual symptoms and sets of symptoms that occurred prior to sudden cardiac arrest and then compared these findings to control groups that also sought emergency medical care.

"It takes a village to do this work," Chugh said in the release. "We initiated the SUDS study 22 years ago and the PRESTO study eight years ago. These cohorts have provided invaluable lessons along the way."

"Importantly, none of this work would have been possible without the partnership and support of first responders, medical examiners and the hospital systems that deliver care within these communities," he added.

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The PRESTO study showed that 50% of the 823 individuals — all of whom had a sudden cardiac arrest witnessed by a bystander or emergency medicine professional — experienced at least one telltale symptom before their fatal incident. 

The SUDS study showed similar results.

"This is the first community-based study to evaluate the association of warning symptoms — or sets of symptoms — with imminent sudden cardiac arrest using a comparison group with EMS-documented symptoms recorded as part of routine emergency care," Eduardo Marbán, M.D., PhD, executive director of the Smidt Heart Institute, said in the release.

These findings pave the way for further research studies to help better predict imminent sudden cardiac arrest, the investigators said.

"Next, we will supplement these key sex-specific warning symptoms with additional features — such as clinical profiles and biometric measures — for improved prediction of sudden cardiac arrest," Chugh said.

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One cardiologist who was not involved with the study agreed that this new research highlights findings that can contribute to early detection and prevention of sudden cardiac arrest.

"Identifying specific symptoms that precede such a critical event, and particularly noting the sex-specific differences in these symptoms, has important implications for public health," Dr. Allen Jeremias, M.D., associate director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at the St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center on Long Island, New York, told Fox News Digital. 

"If these findings can be translated into clinical practice, they could lead to improved patient outcomes by allowing timely interventions and medical attention."

The study's findings regarding sex-specific differences in heart symptoms are crucial for both health care professionals and patients, Jeremias also noted.

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"[The study] highlights that heart-related symptoms might manifest differently in men and women, which can influence how patients and medical practitioners perceive and respond to these symptoms," the doctor said. 

"It's important to educate patients about these differences, emphasizing that heart attack or cardiac arrest symptoms are not always the stereotypical chest pain that is commonly associated with men," Jeremias continued.

The cardiologist also said it is important that patients, irrespective of gender, are aware of a broad range of potential red flags, and that they should seek medical attention if they experience any unusual or persistent symptoms. 

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Beyond understanding symptoms, Jeremias noted that patients should be informed about the risk factors for heart disease, such as family history, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

"Managing these risk factors is crucial for heart health and prevention," he said.

As each patient is unique, not all individuals will experience the same symptoms — and some may not be typical, Jeremias pointed out.

Health care providers should take a comprehensive approach when evaluating patients, considering their medical history, risk factors and individual symptoms, the cardiologist said.

"It is important to seek medical attention promptly if any symptoms are experienced, regardless of whether they match the stereotypical heart attack symptoms," added Jeremias.

"Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes."

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Fauci is ‘concerned’ that people won’t comply if masking recommendations return: 'I hope' they 'abide'

In a Saturday interview, former White House chief medical adviser Anthony Fauci spoke out in defense of masking up amid today's rising COVID cases.

In the event that masks are again recommended, he is "concerned that people will not abide by recommendations," he said in the interview. 

"I would hope that if we get to the point that the volume of cases is such and organizations like the CDC recommends — CDC does not mandate anything — recommends that people wear masks, I would hope that people abide by that recommendation and take into account the risks to themselves and their families," Fauci told CNN.

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Fauci, who also served as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health until December 2022, also called into question a January 2023 Cochrane study that found masking to be ineffective.

"When you’re talking about the effect on the pandemic as a whole, the data is less strong," Fauci said. 

"But when you talk about an individual basis of someone protecting themselves … there’s no doubt that there’s many studies that show that there is an advantage [to masks]."

The Cochrane study, led by 12 researchers from esteemed universities around the world, compared the use of medical/surgical masks to wearing no masks. 

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The review found that "wearing a mask may make little to no difference in how many people caught a flu-like illness/COVID-like illness (nine studies; 276,917 people); and probably makes little or no difference in how many people have flu/COVID confirmed by a laboratory test (six studies; 13,919 people)."

COVID hospitalizations increased 18.8% between Aug. 13 and Aug. 17, and deaths rose 17.6% between Aug. 20 and Aug. 26, per the CDC.

The numbers, however, remain far below the most recent spike in January 2023.

Weekly national hospitalizations were 15,067 as of Aug. 19; they were 44,410 in January 2023. 

They peaked at 150,674 in January 2022.

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, pointed out that while the CDC may not mandate masks, the agency’s recommendations have frequently led to state, local and business mandates.

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"I agree that high-grade masks in close quarters do have a use, especially if there is a lot of virus around and you are encountering people at high risk," he told Fox News Digital.

"But masks only work at all if they are worn properly."

He added, "A study from the University of Minnesota showed that 30% of people don't even wear them over their noses."

The doctor is also concerned about the negative impact of masking on young children, particularly in terms of socialization and learning.

"Also, young children often don't wear them properly, as Dr. John Walkup, chief of child psychiatry at Northwestern, told me in an interview," Siegel noted.

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Siegel said he does believe that masks have a practical use in medical centers and doctors’ offices if there are a lot of respiratory viruses around.

"But sweeping recommendations, as Dr. Fauci appears to be suggesting, don't work," added Dr. Siegel.

The CDC’s most recent face mask order, which required all Americans to wear face coverings while taking public transportation, expired with the termination of the COVID public health emergency on May 11.

Although no U.S. states currently have mask mandates in place, several hospitals, schools and companies have begun requiring them yet again.

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Merkel cell carcinoma, the disease that killed Jimmy Buffett: What to know about this illness

Music icon Jimmy Buffett passed away on Friday at the age of 76. 

The cause of death was merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a disease he had been fighting for four years, according to the official obituary posted on the musician’s website.

MCC is a rare but aggressive type of skin cancer that is known to have a high rate of recurring and spreading, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF).

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Around 3,000 cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.

That number is expected to reach 3,250 by 2025.

The disease is 40 times rarer than melanoma, the SCF states on its website.

The primary cause of Merkel cell carcinoma is "excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight," according to the Mayo Clinic.

Certain groups of people are at a higher risk, however.

Those whose immune systems have been weakened by a medical condition or certain immunosuppressant medications may be more susceptible to the disease, per the SCF.

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Compared to those with healthy immune systems, immunocompromised people are 15 times more likely to develop MCC. 

A history of other types of skin cancers — including melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma — is another risk factor. 

Most people who are diagnosed with MCC are males and are over 50 years old, the SCF stated.

Fair-skinned people also have a higher risk of developing the disease.

The most common symptom of MCC is a shiny or pearly lesion or nodule found on the skin — usually in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, per the SCF.

These painless growths are usually around 1.7 centimeters in size — about the size of a dime — at the time of detection.

The lesions are skin-colored, red, purple or bluish-red, according to the SCF. 

They tend to expand quickly.

Early detection is key to the successful treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma, but this type of skin cancer can prove to be more challenging to diagnose.

Studies have shown that 56% of Merkel cell carcinomas were mistaken for benign cysts or infected hair follicles when first examined by doctors, the SCF stated.

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Some cases also originate in areas where they are difficult to detect — including the mouth, throat and nasal cavity.

The foundation also pointed to a study that found 14% of MCCs had already spread to the lymph nodes without the appearance of a tumor.

Dr. Michael Whitlow, a dermatologist at NYU Langone Health, reiterated that Merkel cell carcinoma can look somewhat nondescript and is often missed. 

"I have seen one case in my years of practice," he told Fox News Digital. "It was on the cheek, and when I saw it, I initially thought it was just an unusual angioma."

He added, "In general, it is fairly aggressive — even with people who have localized disease."

Dr. Doris Day, another dermatologist at NYU Langone Health, called MCC "the deadliest of all the skin cancers."

She told Fox News Digital, "It’s the one I fear the most and am always on the lookout for."

"It can kill you in as fast as three weeks, especially when it’s on the head and neck," she added.

Day also pointed out the cancer’s relatively non-specific appearance, which can mean it's misdiagnosed as an inflamed cyst or benign skin nodule. 

Recently, Day noted, researchers have made a connection to a virus that can trigger Merkel cell carcinomas.

Studies have shown that a virus called Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is associated with about 80% of MCC cases.

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MCPyV is the only polyomavirus that has been found to be linked to human cancer, according to the Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID).

The virus is very common, but most healthy adults don’t experience any symptoms.

Older people and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop MCC as a result of the virus, CERID states on its website.

After a diagnosis of MCC — via a physical exam, skin exam and skin biopsy — fast treatment is critical to extending survival.

Prognosis and treatment are based on the stage of the cancer, its location on the body, the patient’s age and health, and whether it's a first-time cancer or a recurrence, according to the National Cancer Institute. 

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The standard treatments for MCC include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy.

Due to the viral nature of many MCC cases, "some of the latest treatments for widespread disease are immunotherapy-based," Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, told Fox News Digital this weekend.

With immunotherapy, the treatment boosts the patient’s immune system so it is better equipped to fight cancer. 

Additional treatments are being tested in clinical trials.

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For patients with localized Merkel cell carcinoma that has not spread, the five-year survival rate is 75%, according to the American Cancer Society.

For those whose cancer has started to spread to nearby areas or lymph nodes, the survival rate is 61%.

Five-year survival drops to 24% for patients whose cancer has spread to more distant parts of the body, the ACS states.

As with other skin cancers, wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 60 or greater is recommended to prevent the development of Merkel cell carcinoma, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Experts also advise avoiding direct contact with the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and to avoid using tanning beds or sunlamps. 

When in direct sunlight, it's wise to cover the skin as much as possible and/or wear a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses, per Cleveland Clinic.

Doctors recommend performing regular skin checks at home and contacting a health care provider if any unexplained changes are found.

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Virginia declares statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease: 'Rare but serious'

The state of Virginia is warning of a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease, a "rare but serious" bacterial illness that can lead to meningitis.

Since June 2022, there have been 27 cases of the disease reported in eastern, central, and southwest Virginia — three times the expected number of cases in that timeframe, according to an announcement posted by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) on Wednesday.

A regional outbreak was first announced by the VDH in September 2022 in eastern Virginia, which is where most of the cases have been reported.

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The last prior update was on March 2022, when the VDH announced that 12 cases of invasive meningococcal disease had been reported since June 2022.

In total, five patients have died from complications associated with meningococcal disease, the agency reported.

In analyzing the DNA of patients, the VDH has determined that the cases are "highly genetically related."

Most of the affected patients are Black or African-American adults between the ages of 30 and 60.

Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis.

About 10% of people have this bacteria but do not become ill, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For some, the bacteria can cause illness.

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Meningococcal disease can be spread through respiratory and throat secretions, often by coughing, kissing or sharing cups or utensils. It is not as contagious as the cold or flu, the CDC noted.

When the disease leads to meningitis, the bacteria causes swelling of the brain and spinal cord.

Typical symptoms include fever, headache and stiff neck. Some may also experience nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity and mental disorientation, the CDC stated.

The bacteria can also cause a dangerous bloodstream infection called meningococcal septicemia, which can lead to bleeding into the skin and organs, per the CDC website.

Symptoms of this infection can include fever, chills, fatigue, vomiting, severe muscle aches, diarrhea, rapid breathing and a dark purple rash.

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Diagnosis is made via a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, in which samples of cerebrospinal fluid are tested for the bacteria.

Patients require immediate antibiotic treatment; severe cases may also require blood pressure medications, breathing support, wound care for damaged skin or surgical removal of dead tissue, the CDC noted.

Between 10% and 15% of patients will die from the disease.

One in five will suffer long-term disabilities such as brain damage, hearing loss, limb amputations or nervous system problems.

The VDH recommends following these protocols to prevent the spread of meningococcal disease:

-Avoid sharing personal items, such as lipsticks, toothbrushes and vapes

-Practice good hand hygiene

-Maintain distance from people who are sick

-Seek immediate medical attention upon noticing symptoms

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There are vaccines available for meningococcal disease. 

The CDC recommends that all preteens and teens between 11 and 12 years old should receive the MenACWY vaccination, followed by a booster dose at 16 years old.

Children and adults in high-risk groups should receive the MenACWY vaccine, the CDC states on its website.

Teens and young adults (16 through 23 years old) may also get a MenB vaccine.

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Skipping the salt can reduce heart disease risk by almost 20%, study finds: ‘Know what you are consuming’

Skipping the salt could slash heart disease risk by nearly 20%, according to research presented at the annual meeting of the European Society of Cardiology, which was held in Amsterdam this week.

Those who never add salt to their food had an 18% lower risk of being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation — also known as irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia — compared to those who added salt to every meal, researchers from Kyungpook National University Hospital, South Korea, discovered.

If it goes untreated, atrial fibrillation can cause life-threatening conditions including stroke, heart failure and blood clots.

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The researchers analyzed data from the UK Biobank, which includes more than 500,000 participants in the U.K. between the ages of 40 and 70. 

They excluded people who had already had heart disease, heart failure, stroke or atrial fibrillation.

All of the participants indicated how frequently they added salt to meals, with the choices including "never/rarely," "sometimes," "usually" and "always."

The research team then followed the groups for a period of 11 years.

Those who switched from always salting their foods to never salting them saw an 18% reduction in risk.

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People who sometimes added salt saw a 15% lower chance of developing heart issues.

Even those who usually salted their foods saw a 12% reduced risk compared to those who always used salt.

Briana Costello, M.D., an interventional and general cardiologist at the Texas Heart Institute Center for Cardiovascular Care, noted that she was not surprised by the study’s findings.

Costello was not involved in the study.

"It is well-known that salt does not do anyone favors in regard to cardiovascular health," she told Fox News Digital. 

Costello pointed to a 2021 study that was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. It found that among people who had a history of stroke or were 60 and older with high blood pressure, the rates of stroke, heart issues and death were lower when using a salt substitute compared to using regular salt.

"Where there is salt, there is water," Costello said. "Salt increases your body’s water retention and can increase blood pressure, which is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease."

Ronald Freudenberger, M.D., a cardiologist at Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute in Pennsylvania, who was not involved in the study, warned that salt causes the body to retain fluid. 

"It pulls fluid from your body tissues into your bloodstream," he told Fox News Digital. "That makes your heart do more work because there’s more fluid to pump around your body — and that increases blood pressure."

This is particularly dangerous for people who already have cardiovascular issues, the doctor said.

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"As we age, our blood vessels and heart become less flexible," Freudenberger said. "If you can imagine having more fluid to pump around in blood vessels that are stiffer, and through a heart that is stiffer, that’s going to put strain on your heart."

If the blood vessels or heart have a tough time accommodating that extra fluid, it can result in problems such as high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation, the doctor said.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends a daily sodium intake of less than 2,300 mg per day, which is equivalent to around 1 teaspoon of table salt.

Americans consume considerably more than that, however — averaging about 3,400 mg of sodium per day. 

To mitigate the risk factors of dietary salt consumption, the experts recommend avoiding adding salt to foods — particularly for those who already have hypertension or have had heart failure. 

Beyond adding table salt, processed foods can be a big source of hidden salt, Costello said.

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"Most people do not realize how much sodium is added in ready-made food," she said. "The first step is to know what you are already consuming so you can make necessary lifestyle changes."

Other hidden sources of salt include desserts, pastries and bread, noted Antonette Hardie, a registered dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

"Salt is chemically necessary in baked goods for them to bake properly; however, some baked goods are higher in salt for them to taste sweeter," she told Fox News Digital. 

Another hidden source of salt is diet drinks.

"Again, salt makes things taste sweeter, so when salt is added to diet drinks, it makes them more palatable to consumers," Hardie noted.

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It’s important to look carefully at the sodium content in the food you eat, noted Freudenberger.

"Even things branded low sodium are more accurately called ‘lower sodium,’ because even they sometimes have a significant amount of sodium," he told Fox News Digital. 

"Sometimes there is 1,000 mg of sodium in a can of low-sodium soup, and that’s all you should have in a day if you have high blood pressure."

For those who really need a "salt kick," Freudenberger recommended using a salt substitute as a low-sodium alternative.

"There are many spices that can give you the flavor you want without the sodium, such as onion powder, paprika, rosemary, sage and thyme," he said.

"Examine salt substitute labels carefully, because many substitutes contain potassium, and too much of that can also be dangerous," the doctor warned. 

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/C2VdmK4

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