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• GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may significantly influence taste perception, a new study finds.
• These drugs may also change how the brain responds to sweet tastes.
• This change may be one of the mechanisms by which these drugs help drive weight loss.

A new study finds that semaglutide (sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) influences taste sensitivity and how the brain responds to sweet tastes. The scientists also measured changes in gene expression in the tongue related to taste perception. 

Study lead, Mojca Jensterle Sever, PhD from the University Medical Centre in Ljubljana, Slovenia presented the results at ENDO 2024 on Saturday, June 1. ENDO is the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Boston, MA.

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide, or Ozempic, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist. First used as a type 2 diabetes medication, it lowers levels of sugar in the blood.

Semaglutide also reduces appetite and slows digestion, leading to a decrease in food intake and weight loss. Because obesity has been a challenge for many, and so few medications help with weight loss, the drug has taken the world by storm.

Healthline spoke with Mir Ali, MD, a board certified bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA.

“These drugs are more effective than prior available medications in that they directly target hormones that help the patient feel less hungry and more full for a longer period,” he explained.

Obesity: Why taste matters

We are all hardwired to enjoy foods that are high in fat and sugar — these chemicals are the fuel of life. So, when we consume them, our brain “rewards” us with a jolt of pleasure.

In modern Western societies, fat and sugar are much easier to come by than they were thousands of years ago.

Our brains, however, have not yet caught up with the modern food environment and its dizzying array of brightly colored, highly palatable, food and drink. 

Accessible at the swipe of a phone screen, we are constantly inundated with opportunities to load up on these delicious, high calorie compounds. Research has found that as we eat more of these foods we may become less sensitive to them, which can be a component for obesity risk.

For instance, previous research showed that people with obesity are less sensitive to sweet tastes, but also more attracted to them. Meanwhile, animal studies have demonstrated that GLP-1 signaling plays a role in taste sensitivity, and sweet taste in particular. 

Because of these intriguing relationships, some researchers have wondered whether a change in taste sensitivity might play a role in the weight-loss effects of semaglutide.

Although scientists know that semaglutide mimics hormones that tell the brain you are full, this may not be the only mechanism by which it reduces appetite and drives weight loss.

There is growing evidence that semaglutide and other GLP-1 agonists might also alter how people experience tastes.

How GLP-1 drugs can affect your tastebuds

In the recent study, Sever and colleagues recruited 30 women with obesity and an average age of around 34. Half took semaglutide once weekly, the other took a placebo.

At the beginning and end of the 16-week study, the scientists measured three things:

1. Taste sensitivity: Measured using strips impregnated with the four basic tastes — sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. 
2. Gene expression: By taking biopsies of participants’ tongues.
3. Brain responses: Evaluated by a functional MRI scan while a sweet solution dripped onto their tongue before and after a meal.

At the end of the study, the researchers found that those taking semaglutide were more sensitive to tastes than those taking placebo.

According to the abstract, the tongue biopsies showed increased activity of genes associated with “taste signaling transduction pathways, neural plasticity, and renewal of taste buds in the tongue.”

Finally, the brain scans demonstrated that, in response to tasting a sweet solution, there was increased activity in the angular gyrus of the parietal cortex. 

This brain region plays a complex role. The angular gyrus combines information from different senses and helps make sense of events or stimuli.

The angular gyrus of the parietal cortex houses GLP-1 receptors and, as the authors of the abstract write, it is part of a “network associated with shifting attention between rewarding and neutral stimuli.” 

This change in the angular gyrus might alter an individual’s sensation of the reward linked to sweet tastes. In this way, it could support dietary changes and move the individual toward a healthy weight.

We should note that this is only a proof-of-concept study conducted on a small group of people. 

As Sever explains, because the research was carried out in a lab setting, it “​​may not reflect everyday experience. Taste perception can vary significantly from person to person, limiting the generalizability of our results.”

Who should take semaglutide?

While the weight loss results associated with semaglutide have been impressive, the drug is only suitable for certain people. 

Semaglutide has become fashionable in some circles, which is raising concerns with experts. Healthline recently spoke with Federica Amati, PhD, a postdoctoral medical scientist and head nutritionist at ZOE, a science and nutrition company. 

“While semaglutide works incredibly well for some people,” explained Amati, who was not involved in the study, “it’s not without its downsides.” 

“You should only take it if it has been prescribed to you by a doctor in the context of  a multi-disciplinary team that includes psychotherapy, physical activity, and, crucially, dietary advice.”

She explained why eating a good diet is particularly important: Because semaglutide reduces appetite, unless the individual consumes a healthy, diverse diet, there is a danger they might miss out on important nutrients.

“Also, it’s a prescription for life,” Amati continued, “people who come off it tend to regain the weight, so it’s not a quick fix. And more than a third of people experience side effects.”

While most of these side effects are not severe, Amati pointed out they “can be really inconvenient.”

Takeaway

Semaglutide may change the way people perceive sweet tastes.

This may help drive weight loss. However, while effective for many people, semaglutide is not without its drawbacks and should be used with caution.

• New research finds Zepbound can lead to weight loss even for people with multiple medical conditions.
• Experts say the results point to the notion that the drug should continue to be used as directed, with close consultation from medical professionals.
• Zepbound, along with Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda, is part of a family commonly called GLP-1 drugs that have been used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Zepbound, the brand name version of tirzepatide, is still an effective weight loss treatment for people with multiple obesity-related conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol.

Researchers studied if the drug led to weight loss for people with obesity who have additional medical conditions, according to a study by the drug’s maker, Eli Lilly.

The study is being presented Saturday at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Boston. It has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

How Zepbound’s safety and effectiveness were studied

The new study by Eli Lilly looked at 4,726 people with obesity or who were overweight from four different trials; all subjects had an additional health condition related to obesity, and nearly 20% of them had type 2 diabetes. The subjects who took Zepbound had more weight loss than those who were given a placebo, and having the other conditions did not make a difference in that weight loss.

Zepbound, along with Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda, is part of a family commonly called GLP-1 drugs, or glucagon-like peptide1 receptor agonists. Because they help reproduce or enhance the effects of a naturally occurring gut hormone that assists in the control of blood sugar levels, they can also reduce appetite by working on brain hunger centers.

Zepbound was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in November 2023 for weight loss in adults with obesity or who are overweight with at least one related condition like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure).

Tirzepatide is also sold under the brand name Mounjaro, which is used to regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and can also lead to weight loss.

Will all GLP-1 drugs have the same weight-loss effects regardless of obesity-related conditions?

Mir Ali, MD, a bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in California, who was not involved in the Eli Lilly study, told Healthline that while all GLP-1 drugs can work regardless of extra medical conditions, there are some unique aspects to Zepbound.

“I think we see that with all GLP-1 drugs. Zepbound is a bit more effective because it affects more than just GLP-1 — it affects other receptors. In the comparison between Wegovy and Zepbound, Zepbound did have more weight loss and, interestingly, fewer side effects,” Ali said. “Tirzepatide is able to affect more than one receptor. It affects the GLP one receptor but also the GIP receptor, which are both involved in hunger and satiety and motility.”

Dan Azagury, MD, FACS, the chief bariatric surgeon and medical director of Stanford University School of Medicine’s Lifestyle and Weight Management Clinic in California, who also was not involved in the Eli Lilly study, told Healthline that he was not surprised at the study’s results.

“We know that the treatment is effective even for longstanding or severe disease — this is a confirmation of what we say day to day in our clinic,” Azagury said. “GLP-1s don’t have the same effectiveness on everyone, but to date we don’t yet know what will make you a better responder to the treatment, but it’s effective very broadly. The main advantage of GLP-1s compared to previous treatments is that the rate of response is very high across the board.”

Are there different side effects with GLP-1 drugs if people have obesity-related health conditions?

Azagury and Ali both noted that side effects are not necessarily dependent on someone’s health conditions and that they can vary greatly from person to person.

“I don’t think we can extrapolate that from this study, and again, we don’t have a good way to predict which patients will have more side effects than others,” Azagury said. “I think this highlights the fact that these drugs need to be used the way they were intended, not for a short stint, and with appropriate support from providers.”

“Side effects are really variable. Everybody responds differently to these medications,” Ali said. “I’ve seen some patients on the maximal dose have zero side effects and I’ve seen other patients on a very minimal dose and have more severe side effects. So it’s very much patient-dependent. And it’s unpredictable. For some people, it doesn’t necessarily correlate with their medical conditions.”

Ali added that, regardless of the drug or the person’s medical conditions, weight loss in obesity is a difficult, multifactorial problem that requires careful tailoring and commitment. The drugs themselves can be helpful, either with surgical procedures or separately, but diet and lifestyle are still extremely important.

“We emphasize to the patients, no matter what we do, whether it’s just counseling, medication, surgery, that all of these things are tools to help the patient switch to a healthier diet and healthier lifestyle. Then they’re more likely to have a long-lasting effect,” Ali said. “Sometimes we see patients say, ‘OK, I’m just going to take this medication,’ or ‘I’m just going to do this surgery, and I really don’t have to change what I’m doing,’ and they tend to be much less successful.”

Takeaway

People with obesity or who are overweight still have success losing weight on Zepbound, the brand name version of tirzepatide, regardless of other obesity-related conditions like hypertension.

A new study by Zepbound’s maker, Eli Lilly, examined data from nearly 5,000 people with obesity and obesity-related conditions in four different studies and found that the drug’s weight-loss effects were stronger than those of a placebo.

Experts say the results point to the notion that the drug should continue to be used as directed, with close consultation from medical professionals.

• New research has found that intake of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce aggression and violent outbursts.
• The study found that omega-3 supplements could reduce aggression by 30%.
• Experts say omega-3 has an anti-inflammatory effect on the brain and enhances the production of dopamine and serotonin.
• To increase your omega-3 intake, you can take a supplement or eat more foods like fatty fish, extra virgin olive oil, and walnuts.

If you rarely feel angry, irritable, or aggressive, then omega-3 could be a contributing factor. 

New research has found that people who take omega-3 supplements like fish oil or who get enough omega-3 fatty acids from eating foods that contain them may be less prone to aggressive and violent outbursts.

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that commonplace omega-3 supplements reduced aggression by 30%, regardless of age or gender. 

The meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials showed that omega-3 reduced both reactive aggression, which is behavior in response to a provocation, and proactive aggression, which is planned.

How omega-3 affects the brain 

“The study’s findings — indicating that omega-3 may reduce aggression and violent outbursts — align with existing knowledge about the critical role of these nutrients in brain health,” says Stefanie Daniels, a registered nutritional therapist who was not involved in the study. “While intriguing, it’s not surprising given the link between omega-3s, inflammation reduction, and neurotransmitter function.” 

Daniels says these findings underscore the huge impact diet and nutrition can have on behavior and emotional regulation.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that our bodies need but cannot produce on their own, so we must get them from the diet.

They’re crucial for various body functions, such as reducing inflammation, supporting brain health, and maintaining heart health.

Daniels says they also help keep cell membranes flexible and are vital for brain development and function, influencing mood and behavior.

She points to four main reasons that omega-3s appear to have this effect on aggression. Firstly, they are anti-inflammatory. 

“Chronic inflammation in the brain is linked to mood disorders and aggressive behavior, and omega-3s (particularly EPA and DHA) help reduce this inflammation,” she explains. 

“By decreasing inflammation, these fatty acids can support a more stable and balanced mood.” 

Psychiatrist and nutritional therapist Dr. Jennifer Kraker, MD, concurs. 

She says the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s are important for mood because when our immune system responses are elevated, they can trigger biochemicals that produce excess excitatory responses in the brain. 

“This is neurotoxic for the brain and causes irritability and, in those susceptible to it, aggression,” she explains. “Omega 3s work to inhibit this pathway.” 

In addition, omega-3s enhance the production and function of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, both of which are crucial for regulating our mood. 

Dysregulation of these neurotransmitters may lead to aggression. However, adequate nutrition may help support these neurotransmitters.

Omega-3s may also maintain the integrity and fluidity of these membranes, which Daniels says is essential for efficient communication between brain cells. 

“This contributes to better emotional regulation and a decrease in aggressive behavior,” she explains. 

The fourth reason omega-3s may play a role in reducing aggression is related to HPA axis modulation. 

“The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis controls the body’s response to stress, and omega-3s help modulate this axis, leading to a more balanced stress response and decreased tendency towards aggression,” Daniels explains. 

Other brain health benefits associated with omega-3 supplements

Omega-3s may provide other brain health benefits in addition to reducing aggression.

Daniels says thanks to their anti-inflammatory and neurotransmitter-modulating effects, they may reduce anxiety and depression. 

Additionally, omega-3s could protect against cognitive decline. “DHA helps maintain cognitive function and may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases,” Daniels explains. 

They could also enhance neurodevelopment. 

“In children, omega-3s support brain development and cognitive performance, potentially reducing ADHD symptoms,” Daniels notes. 

How to increase your omega-3 intake 

Now that you know omega-3s can enhance your mood and may reduce irritability, you might be wondering how to include more of them in your diet. 

First things first, it’s a good idea to understand how much you need. Daniels says adults should aim for 0.6 – 3g of EPA and 0.15 – 2g/day of DHA.

While if you’re pregnant or nursing, you should consume 300-900 mg of DHA daily.

Kraker believes most Westerns are deficient in omega-3s.

“In my practice, if someone is deficient or insufficient in omega-3s, I tend to start with supplementation of at least 2 grams per day of a supplement, in addition to encouraging an increase in dietary sources,” she says. 

Supplements can be a good place to start, but as Kraker suggests, you shouldn’t neglect your diet. 

Both experts agree that including more fatty fish in your diet will help. Daniels recommends eating fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, anchovy, sardines, and herring in your meals at least twice a week

Extra virgin olive oil is a good source of omega-3 too. “Add extra virgin olive oil to smoothies, salad dressings or drizzle over cooked vegetables for a plant-based omega-3 boost,” Daniels advises. 

“It’s best to use it as it comes rather than cook with it because it can’t handle high heat. Also, where possible, purchase extra virgin olive oil in a dark, glass bottle so it stays optimal and doesn’t oxidize,” she says. 

You might like to swap out your snacks to up your omega-3 intake. Daniels says walnuts are a great source of ALA. “Enjoy them as a snack or add them to salads or your morning berry bowl,” she suggests. 

Finally, chow down on chia seeds. “They are little powerhouses that are rich in ALA and also provide fiber,” says Daniels. “Sprinkle chia seeds on yogurt or blend into smoothies.” 

Takeaway 

The results of this study suggest that poor nutrition is a risk factor for behavioral problems and that by increasing your intake of omega-3, you may be able to counter feelings of aggression.

However, healthy eating isn’t a ‘catch-all’ solution for violent outbursts. However, by consuming more fatty fish, extra virgin olive oil, and nuts, you may notice an improvement in mood.

• A thriving mother of two, Jenna Gibson had a stroke at 39 years old.
• After misunderstanding the symptoms of stroke, she underwent emergency brain surgery to save her life.
• Gibson shares her story to help raise awareness of stroke risks and symptoms in women.

In May 2019, 39-year-old Jenna Gibson was on an after-dinner walk with her mom, discussing her goal of running a marathon, when she suddenly fell to the ground.

“It hit me like a ton of bricks. I was trying to convey to my mom that I couldn’t stand up. Slowly, the symptoms started coming. I couldn’t express what I was trying to say. I was slurring a little bit,” Gibson told Healthline.

After some confusion, her mom was able to help her up and guide her to her home, which was a few blocks away.

“We walked into the house, and I kept saying ‘Not okay, not okay,’ and I told my family to get a piece of paper, and I started writing not okay,” Gibson recalled.

Because she had experienced several ocular migraine episodes over the past 15 years, she and her family assumed she was experiencing one that night. She took Motrin and asked her husband to help her into bed.

“At that point, I was scared because I knew it wasn’t a typical migraine, but I didn’t have typical stroke symptoms like facial drooping or weakness that was obvious,” said Gibson.

She woke up at 3 am, unable to move or speak correctly. Her husband called his mother-in-law, who took Gibson to the emergency room, where a CT scan did not show signs of stroke. However, doctors kept her in the hospital until the neurologist could see her the next morning. After performing a CT scan with contrast, doctors determined Gibson had a stroke.

“The room got hectic, and they said I needed to be airlifted to their sister hospital for brain surgery to try to remove the clot, and they said I was running out of time,” said Gibson. “At that time, I knew I was going to die.”

Surviving stroke and brain surgery

The brain surgery Gibson received was 50% successful because the clot had spread by the time of surgery.

“When I woke up from ICU, I couldn’t speak and couldn’t move any of my limbs. My internal monologue worked perfectly. I remember the thoughts I had and trying to say words I wanted to say; it was like being stuck in my head,” she said.

While lying in bed, she thought she would never be able to walk or talk again. “But then my husband gave me the pep talk that I needed to do whatever it takes to come back to our two girls so I could tell them I love them and say their names.”

The inspiration pushed her through a 12-day stay in the hospital, where she slowly improved due to speech, occupational, and physical therapies. Her recovery continued for four more months with outpatient therapies.

By mid-October, Gibson was able to return to work part-time and by February 2022, she was back to full-time.

Causes of stroke vary for women

Gibson’s stroke was classified as a cryptogenic stroke, which means the cause of the stroke is unknown. However, doctors ruled out high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and blocked arteries as the cause.

“After having genetic testing done, they believe it was my birth control coupled with genetic MTHFR mutation and Factor VIII,” said Gibson. These factors put her at a higher risk for stroke.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death for women. Gender-related stroke risks include pregnancy, certain birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy, said Dr. Yeewen A. Tsui, chief of neurology at Access TeleCare.

“Women with high blood pressure are at higher risk, with that rate on the rise,” she told Healthline.

However, Tsui said a dangerous misconception is thinking that strokes are all the same.

“Stroke is a catch-all term that refers to any sudden vascular event of the central nervous system, including ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, each of which comes with a long list of potential causes,” said Tsui.

While the rate of stroke is higher in men, ultimately, more women are likely to die of stroke because they live longer, said Jessica Sumner, DNP, APRN, director of clinical effectiveness and stroke at Norton Healthcare.

After the age of 25, women have a 1 in 4 risk of stroke.

Additionally, like Gibson, women have a higher risk of being misdiagnosed initially.

“Because of the misdiagnosis, there are delays in recognition, delays in treatment and rehabilitation, as well as efforts aimed at preventing another stroke,” said Sumner.

Women also seem to have poorer outcomes after stroke.

“It seems to be related to health status at the time of the stroke, age, and stroke severity. However, further research is needed to look at the disparities affecting women who have a stroke and determine what interventions are needed to improve outcomes,” said Sumner.

What women should know about stroke symptoms

Stroke in women typically presents with traditional symptoms, said Sumner. She stressed remembering the BE FAST acronym:

• Balance issues or difficulty walking
• Eyes, difficulty seeing
• Facial droop
• Arm weakness on one side
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call 911

“However, stroke in women can also present with vague symptoms such as weakness, confusion, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting,” said Sumner.

Because stroke is time-sensitive, Tsui said early diagnosis and treatment are critical for improved outcomes.

“Some treatments for stroke work only if given within the first 3 hours of the onset of symptoms. Delayed treatment inflates the risk of permanent brain damage or death,” she said.

Acting fast is Gibson’s reason for sharing her story.

“Unfortunately, I waited to go to the ER for too long, and there are other things they could have done if they knew I was having a stroke sooner,” she said.

During recovery, she did learn to advocate for herself and hopes to inspire others to do the same.

“Take part in your health. If you think something doesn’t seem right, get a second opinion or go deeper and further and educate yourself to be your own advocate,” she said. “You can’t buy better or different health, so you really have to take care of yourself.”

Ways to reduce the risk of stroke

Because there are different types of strokes, the potential to prevent any of them is dependent on their cause, said Tsui.

Still, 80% of strokes are preventable through medication and lifestyle changes, including:

• Maintaining healthy blood pressure
• Controlling cholesterol and diabetes
• Eating a well-balanced diet
• Exercising regularly
• Avoiding tobacco and heavy alcohol use

It’s also important to know your individual risk factors and to take steps to address them.

“There are things like age, gender, race or ethnicity, family history and genetics that we can’t change,” said Sumner. “However, we can address high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, high lipids, atrial fibrillation, smoking, and carotid artery disease.”

If you have had a stroke, she said to take the prescribed medications and modify your lifestyle so you can help prevent having another stroke.

Gibson takes this to heart. In addition to managing her own health to reduce her risk of having another stroke, she took the initiative to stop the cycle of risk with her daughters.

“I had both my girls tested for the gene mutations I have, and my oldest daughter has the same mutation. Now we know that birth control is not an option for her either,” she said.

• A new study finds even people over age 75 can get heart benefits from statins.
• Previously most clinical trials evaluating statins have not included people in this age group.
• Many major heart organizations, including the American Heart Association, recently suggested that doctors conduct personalized risk assessments with older patients to determine if statins should be used.

Statins appear to be effective at preventing cardiovascular disease, also known as heart disease, and death in older adults, a new study has found.

Clinical guidance recommends using statins to lower lipid profiles and prevent heart disease, however, most clinical trials evaluating statins have not included people 75 and older.

As a result, it’s been unclear if statins should be used in this older population, a question that is particularly important as more people are living past 75.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force currently states there’s insufficient evidence to assess the risks and benefits of statins in people 76 and older.

Many major heart organizations, including the American Heart Association, recently suggested that doctors conduct personalized risk assessments with older patients to determine if statins should be used.

The report, published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine Monday, demonstrates that statins may help safely and effectively lower the risk of heart disease and death in adults 76 and up. 

“These findings will potentially reduce the hesitancy of many physicians to start statin therapy in patients over 75 and may even lead to a change in how our statin guidelines address these older patients,” Cheng-Han Chen, MD, a board-certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA, told Healthline. 

Statin use linked to heart benefits for adults far into their senior years

To better understand statin use in older adults, the researchers evaluated the health records of adults over 60 who had not previously been diagnosed with heart disease but met indications to start taking statins. 

The participants were split into three groups: People between the ages of 60 and 74, 75 to 84, and 85 and older.

The research team identified the individuals who started statins along with those who did not take statins. 

They also tracked who experienced a major cardiac event, such as a stroke, heart failure, or myocardial infarction, who died, and who experienced an adverse event like liver dysfunction or myopathies. 

All age groups benefited from taking statins.

Even in the oldest group, age 85 and older, statin use was linked to a lower incidence of heart disease and all-cause mortality. 

Additionally, statins did not appear to increase the risk of adverse events in older adults.  

The findings “suggested there is still cardiovascular benefits in patients older than 75 years of age,” Joyce Oen-Hsiao, MD, a Yale Medicine cardiologist and associate professor of cardiovascular medicine at Yale School of Medicine, said.

New data sheds light on benefits of statin for seniors

According to the researchers, the findings indicate that older adults may greatly benefit from taking statins. 

Prior evidence suggests statins improve lipid profiles, lower inflammation, and fight oxidative stress. 

As a result, the medication may prevent the development of atherosclerosis, which is a build-up of plaque in the arteries, and heart disease. 

“By stabilizing these plaques, they reduce the chance that the plaques can cause a heart attack or stroke,” explains Chen.

Most statin clinical trials haven’t included patients over the age of 75, which has led to uncertainty about if and when to use statins in this age group.

“We could infer that there would be a cardiovascular benefit, but there was no actual data,” says Oen-Hsiao.

As a result, some doctors discontinue statins in older adults, according to Oen-Hsiao. 

Because of our aging population, it’s important to understand if the beneficial effects of statins extend to the elderly, Chen said. 

“These results certainly support starting statins in patients over 75 who are at elevated risk of developing cardiovascular disease,” he said. 

More research is needed to better understand the effects of statins in older adults and confirm the results.

“To have randomized controlled trials to show the continued benefit of statins in the older population is important,” Oen-Hsiao said. “I am not surprised at this data, and look forward to further research to confirm the results,” 

The bottom line:

Statins appear to be effective at preventing cardiovascular disease and death in older adults, according to new research. Most clinical trials evaluating statins have not included people 75 and older, and it’s been unclear if statins should be used in this age group. The findings suggest the medication can safely and effectively prevent heart disease in older adults.

• Indy 500 race car driver Conor Daly shares his journey of living with type 1 diabetes.
• Daly has been living and racing with type 1 diabetes for more than 15 years.
• He is sharing his story to inspire others to take control of their diabetes and reach for their goals.

At 14 years old, American racing driver Conor Daly was rushed to the hospital, where he learned that the weight loss and extreme thirst he was experiencing were symptoms of type 1 diabetes.

“It was very new to my family. We had no family history of it, and I personally, as a young kid, had no idea what type 1 diabetes was,” Daly told Healthline. “I thought, ‘I’m going to get out of this hospital and go on with my day,’ and it turns out there was slightly more work than just that, so my parents were learning. I was learning.”

While he adjusted to his diagnosis, he didn’t let it stop him from racing. A few days after he was released from the hospital, he raced.

“I was lucky because in my town of Indianapolis, racing and motorsport in general is massive, and my dad was a race car driver, so folks knew our family, and no one was going to say, ‘Hey, you need to stop what you’re doing,’” Daly said.

Racing forward with type 1 diabetes

Managing type 1 diabetes has come a long way since Daly was first diagnosed more than 15 years ago. For years, he had to prick his fingers throughout the day to measure his blood sugar reading.

“When we first got into the CGM era, the constant glucose monitoring and the ability to use a Dexcom was pretty outstanding,” he said.

He now uses the Dexcom G7, which he calls a “life assist.”

“In racing, there’s a ton of data that we look into. We have sensors on every piece of the car; we can process so much data, and all that data helps us go faster,” Daly said.

The Dexcom G7 does the same for his everyday life.

“If I’m going to get more data to look at to be a better athlete or better human, to live more efficiently, I’m going to use it cause I’m a competitive person,” he said.

While advancements in insulins, CGMs, and automated insulin delivery (AID) all help people better manager their condition, Dr. Kathleen Wyne, an endocrinologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, said the patient still has to do the work of managing their devices.

How Daly manages type 1 diabetes during races

Daly says preparation is key, especially as he prepares for races.

“I try to keep the same meal every day at the track, usually have some protein and pasta for some carbs, but nothing that gets too out of the ordinary because consistency for me certainly is key,” he said. “I’m not going to be like, I think I need some different food all the sudden on race day because it’s not as predictable as what you already know.”

His team is at the ready with necessities near his car during practices and races.

“I’ve got a Gatorade there, whatever it is with sugar that’s necessary, and then when I get in the car, I have a bottle that has something with glucose in it and some sort of sugar that I can use if necessary,” Daly said.

Adrenaline that is produced while he’s driving 240 miles per hour may also affect his body.

“When the mind or body are significantly stressed, it generates stress hormones that make the body resistant to insulin and typically blood sugars rise, Dr. Andrew Welch, an endocrinologist at UC Health, told Healthline.

Having constant monitoring of his blood sugar levels from his team and family members while racing allows Daly to focus on driving. The extra work for him comes before he jumps into the car.

“I have to make sure that my sugars are going the right direction and that the glucose levels are exactly what I’m wanting — going up rather than down — before I’m getting into the race car,” Daly said. “That part is slightly annoying of course, but it’s never caused an issue in my whole career to where I do have to worry about it. I’m so aggressive with how I prepare and how I keep myself strictly in line and ready to go.”

He added that being diligent in preparation is about more than himself. By racing healthy, he believes he is leading by example for other aspiring drivers with type 1 diabetes.

“You want to hold yourself up to a higher standard to make sure that everyone sees we can compete just the same as anyone else who is not living with diabetes,” Daly said.

A driving force for diabetes awareness

Type 1 diabetes used to be seen as a life-limiting disease.

“This includes limited ability to participate in specific activities such as sports and limited lifespan due to potential complications of type 1 diabetes,” Welch said.

With advances in the management of the disease, this is no longer true, and almost any activity is safe to pursue with appropriate medical supervision, he said.

“People with type 1 diabetes are not fragile or outwardly different. You could know an individual with type 1 diabetes for years without realizing it,” he said.

Wyne tells her patients who are newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes that they are still a normal person who just happens to require insulin.

“It should not limit your life goals and activities. I encourage people with type 1 diabetes to pursue any activities or profession that they are interested in and that we will support them in any way we can,” she told Healthline.

Daly is the perfect example of this and hopes to lead by example.

“Sometimes I hear from kids that they think they can’t do something, and I tell them that’s wrong,” he said. “I have not stopped doing anything in my life diabetes-related. For us, it was something we had to adjust to, and I was working on it.”

His condition hasn’t stopped him from jumping out of airplanes, completing a back flip on a dirt bike, and racing in every Formula One car and multiple NASCAR Cup Series and IndyCar Series.

In 2017, he participated in American Ninja Warrior and Amazing Race.

“Not everyone has the same situation of what they have access to, but if you are taking care of yourself…you can do anything you want,” said Daly. “I don’t see any reason to ever put a limit on yourself.”

• Nestlé is launching a new frozen food brand, targeted towards people taking GLP-1 medications.
• Experts said that processed food cannot replace natural, whole foods. This food line can act as a supplement but should not be the only food source.
• Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is important alongside consuming these products.

GLP-1 drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy have exploded in popularity with more and more people turning to these medications to help manage weight loss and diabetes.

To target this new group of consumers, Nestlé has created a new frozen-food brand, Vital Pursuit that will launch in the fall of 2024.

The food line will contain essential nutrients, with products such as sandwich melts, pizzas and frozen bowls with whole grains or pasta. 

“I appreciate that Nestlé is providing a food line that is convenient and has – as they claim – ‘high protein and fiber,’ and various vitamins and minerals that people on weight loss medications may not be getting enough of through their diets,” said Stephanie Schiff, a registered dietician at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital.  

However, experts say that it is important that people on these medications do not see these items as their main source of food.  

“There is no competition when you compare a diet of processed food products to a plant-focused diet which centers on food that is as close to its natural state as possible,” Schiff explained. “Research shows that a diet high in processed foods can put us at risk for various health conditions, depending on the level of processing.”

How GLP-1 drugs can lead to nutritional deficiencies

Nutritional deficiency is an issue with people who are on GLP-1 medications.   

“People who are on GLP-1 drugs become less hungry,” Schiff stated. “They experience a feeling of fullness more quickly when they eat.  Their appetites decrease and they eat less. They’re not likely to get a sufficient amount of vitamins, minerals, fiber or protein their bodies need if they’re eating less food. But a frozen food line is not necessarily the solution.”

When you eat less, you’re less likely to get the fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals your body needs.   

“You tend to eat less protein, which is important for growth and repair in the body,” said Schiff. “As you lose weight, you lose muscle mass, and having enough protein is key in maintaining that muscle.”

Also, people on these drugs tend to eat fewer vegetables and fruits, whole grains, beans, seeds, and nuts. 

“These plant sources provide antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber,” Schiff explained. “Fiber can help stabilize blood sugar and lower cholesterol.  It helps keep your digestive tract healthy.   It feeds the good bacteria in your gut to reduce inflammation in your body. It can improve your mental health by being part of the synthesis of our feel-good neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.”

Jamie Leskowitz, MS, a registered dietician with Columbia’s Metabolic and Weight Control Center, noted: “Any time individuals consume less than they typically consume, it is possible they may be lacking key nutrients.  Thus, it is imperative to ensure adequate nutrient consumption while consuming fewer calories.  Focusing on a well-balanced and nutrient-dense eating plan is key.”

To optimize health while reducing total calorie intake, it is important to consume adequate macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).  

“Protein is especially important while losing weight to preserve lean muscle mass and increase satiety; carbohydrates are a major energy source and provide fiber, which is helpful for heart health, blood sugar, and bowel regularity; and fat enhances absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and is needed for brain function,” Leskowitz stated.  

While vitamins (A, C, D, E, K, and the B vitamins) and minerals (e.g. calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, etc) are required in smaller amounts, they are essential for keeping our bodies healthy and functional, Leskowitz explained. You can review your diet with a healthcare professional to ensure you are meeting your needs, which vary depending on age, weight, medical history, and activity levels.

What experts think of the new line from Nestlé

While these drugs can help kickstart your health and weight loss journey, it’s crucial to remain consistent with eating well-balanced meals, exercising regularly and other healthy lifestyle habits.

“While the Vital Pursuit line may provide some convenient foods with some health benefits, I would hope that people on these medications choose to make high-quality whole foods the main part of their diets and use products like Nestlé’s Vital Pursuit at times when getting a meal is difficult,” said Schiff. “These are processed products, which tend not to be as healthy as foods that are close to their natural state. Even though vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients are added to their food, their absorption within our bodies is often less efficient compared to that from whole foods.” 

Schiff continued: “I think that there is a time and place for products like Nestlé’s Vital Pursuit frozen food line.  But whether in conjunction with our new GLP-1 medications, or any weight loss medications, I think a healthy, sustainable, minimally processed diet is one we should be aiming for. Processed meals can be considered as an occasional backup.”

More information is needed to determine how healthy this new food line actually is.

“At this point, I don’t believe Nestlé has released the details on nutrient levels or ingredients in their products, so I can’t speak to whether amounts of various nutrients are sufficient, or if the ingredients are healthful,” Schiff added.

Takeaway

Nestlé has created a new frozen food line, aimed at people taking GLP-1 medications.

According to experts, processed food should not replace natural, whole foods. 

Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is important regardless of what GLP-1 drugs or products, like Nestlé’s food line, you’re consuming.

• Strokes are increasing among young adults, according to a new report from the CDC.
• Adults between the ages of 45-64 saw a 15% increase in the prevalence of stroke.
• Individuals with less than a high school education also experienced a significant increase in stroke prevalence.

The number of strokes occurring in younger people is on the rise, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC report finds that for people under age 65 the risk of stroke has been growing over the last decade. This is in contrast with older Americans. While Americans 65 and older still have the highest prevalence of stroke overall, the year-over-year incidence of stroke has remained flat.

For younger adults, the overall risk remains relatively low, but that risk has grown in recent years. The increasing prevalence of stroke has been paralleled by increases in both obesity and high blood pressure in the same age groups. These conditions are both linked to an increased risk of stroke.

“This report is concerning because in the younger population, the stroke rates are going up. And they’ve also noted that the rates of obesity and hypertension have been increasing in younger folks. That’s a bad sign,” Gregory W. Albers, MD, Director of the Stanford Stroke Center at Stanford Medical Center, told Healthline. Albers wasn’t affiliated with the report.

Prevalence among people of certain racial and ethnic groups, geographic regions, and lower education status are also stark reminders of disparities in stroke prevention and education that continue to persist.

Stroke increasing among younger adults

Comparing self-reported health data from 2011-2013 and 2020-2022, researchers at the CDC found that the prevalence of stroke grew by nearly 8%. However, that growth was not dispersed evenly among all age, sex, and socioeconomic groups.

Young adults in particular, saw outsized increases in stroke. Among those aged 18-44 years old there was a 14.6% increase in stroke prevalence; for adults in the 45-64 category, it increased by 15.7%. 

Age is a major risk factor for stroke, and the average age of a stroke is when an individual is in their 70s, which makes the CDC’s latest report that younger adults are experiencing strokes all the more disconcerting.

Overall prevalence of stroke among young adults in both age categories (0.9% for the 18-44 group and 3.8% for the 45-64) is still lower than that of those 65 and older (7.7%). However, the stroke rate among older Americans has leveled off, whereas it is continuing to grow for younger adults, particularly those in midlife.

The national prevalence of self-reported stroke is 2.9%.

While there is no clear single culprit for the rise in the number of strokes among the young adult demographic, compounding risk factors like obesity and high blood pressure are likely playing a role.

Between 1999-2000 and 2017-2018, the number of people with high blood pressure rose by more than 6% among adults aged 45-64, according to the new CDC report.

“When you look at every epidemiological study across the board, every continent on this planet, every demographic, the thing that jumps out as a stroke risk factor more than any other factor is high blood pressure,” said Matthew S. Schrag, MD, PhD, a Vascular Neurologist and Assistant Professor of Neurology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He wasn’t affiliated with the report.

Who is most at risk for having a stroke?

The report also noted some key findings based on race and ethnicity, geography, and education level.

Stroke is most prevalent among American Indian/Alaska Native (5.3%), followed by Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (4.4%) and Black adults (4.3%). Whereas it is lowest among Asian adults (1.5%). Over the surveillance period, stroke prevalence increased among Black (7.8%), White (7.2%), and Hispanic (16.1%) adults.

Adults with less than a high school education saw the single largest increase in stroke prevalence of any other groups: 18.2%

“Folks who are more educated tend to be more aware of the importance of hypertension control, even though it doesn’t cause symptoms. It’s not unusual to see that more educated populations have better access to care, better insurance, better coverage, and can afford their medication. So, it’s not a surprise to me,” said Albers.

Ten states, predominantly in the south, also saw increased stroke prevalence. This region of the south has become known as “the stroke belt” — a cluster of states with higher stroke mortality and the rest of the United States.

“This prevalence data still seems to point at a very significant increase in what we call ‘the stroke belt.’ There is an asymmetry in this country of the distribution of strokes geographically,” said Schrag.

Stroke prevention

Omoye Imoisili, MD, a Researcher in the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention at the CDC, and author of the report, told Healthline there are myriad health and lifestyle changes that can help you prevent stroke:

“Decrease your stroke risk by taking control of your health. Prevention steps and strategies include healthy habits you can do on your own, and also with support of a healthcare team. These include choosing healthy food and drinks, keeping a healthy weight, getting regular physical activity, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and controlling blood pressure,” she said.

The bottom line

The prevalence of stroke has increased for young adults (18-44) and mid-life (45-64), but not older adults (65 and older) over the past decade.

A rise in risk factors among adults under 65, including obesity and hypertension, are likely part of the problem.

You can mitigate your stroke risk through actionable lifestyle changes including controlling high blood pressure, exercising, and stopping smoking.

• Popular GLP-1 drug semaglutide may help protect kidney function.
• A new study looked at the drug, sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy, and its impact on kidney health.
• Researchers found the medication can help protect kidney function in people who have excess weight or heart disease.

New research has found that semaglutide, a popular medication used to treat diabetes and obesity, may help protect kidney function in people who have excess weight and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

The findings, which were presented at the 61st ERA Congress Friday, suggest that receiving a weekly injection of semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, may help prevent complications like chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease that often occur alongside obesity.

Health experts say the results are encouraging as they indicate that semaglutide may be an effective therapeutic option for treating comorbidities, and ultimately, improving people’s quality of life. 

“This study adds to the body of literature supporting the beneficial effects of semaglutide in people with overweight and obesity without diabetes, which is so necessary as we continue to navigate the complex landscape of insurance coverage of these medications in people who do not have diabetes,” Shiara Ortiz-Pujols, MD, MPH, an obesity medicine physician at Staten Island University Hospital, told Healthline. 

Kidney function was better in people who took semaglutide

To better understand the effects of semaglutide on heart disease, the researchers evaluated the health data of a previous randomized trial that included 17,604 individuals with overweight or obesity and heart disease over the course of 3.5 years.

The researchers tracked who experienced a kidney event such as a significant decline in kidney functioning, starting chronic kidney replacement therapy, onset of persistent macroalbuminuria, or death. 

The team found that, compared to the placebo, 22% fewer people experienced kidney-related events in the group of 8,803 people who received a once-weekly injection of semagutide (2.4 mg).

In addition, semaglutide appeared to help the kidneys filter blood. 

Those who took the medication experienced lesser declines in their glomerular filtration rates, a marker that indicates how well the kidneys are filtering.

Those who took semaglutide also experienced significant decreases in urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, a test that measures albumin in urine, and macroalbuminuria, a condition where the body excretes more than 300 milligrams of protein through urine daily. 

The benefits were observed even in those with normal kidney function at baseline. 

“They found that, indeed, there was a modest beneficial effect on kidney function even in people without kidney disease, and a larger beneficial effect in slowing rate of kidney function loss in people with kidney disease,” explains Shuchi Anand, MD, MS, an associate professor of medicine (nephrology) at Stanford Medicine.

How does semaglutide protect kidney function? 

Ortiz-Pujols isn’t surprised to see semaglutide had a positive effect on kidney function.

“I suspected that these findings would be true based on what I have seen in my patients, and now there are studies to support it,” she said. 

According to Anand, reducing the workload of the kidneys may help prolong people’s lifespan. 

“By reducing weight, even modest amounts—people in the semaglutide arm lost about 9% of their body weight over two years in this study—we are reducing the filtering load on the kidneys. ” she said.

In addition, it’s possible that improving glucose metabolism benefits the kidneys, Anand added.

The drug may also lower inflammation in the body, added Ortiz-Pujols.

More research is needed to better understand semaglutide’s direct and indirect effects on kidney function. 

Furthermore, there may, for example, be side effects that are important to consider before utilizing semaglutide for the added kidney benefit. 

“Answers to these questions may help guide obesity treatment, but may also inform future areas of research as we learn more about the beneficial effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide,” Ortiz-Pujols said.

How semaglutide can be used for kidney health 

People with excess weight face a higher risk of diabetes and hypertension, which are two factors known to worsen kidney function.

These results show that semaglutide may minimize these risk factors, thereby preventing kidney disease in people living with overweight or obesity.

“The results suggest that we may have tools to actually prevent kidney disease, rather than only slow loss of kidney function once a person develops kidney disease,” Anand said.

According to Anand, it’s not easy to convince people without kidney dysfunction or diabetes to take a life-long medication.

“What’s nice with this class of medicines is that kidney protection is an added bonus: There is already evidence that they benefit in terms of weight loss and cardiovascular health, so physicians would have more than one reason to consider them,” Anand said. 

The bottom line:

New research has found that semaglutide, a popular medication used to treat diabetes and obesity, may help protect kidney function in people, who have excess weight and cardiovascular disease. Health experts say the results indicate that semaglutide may be an effective therapeutic option for treating comorbidities, and ultimately, improving people’s quality of life.

• Nicotine pouches are being used as an alternative to weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic.
• Nicotine is a known appetite suppressant but has many health risks.
• Risks of oral nicotine products include gastro discomfort, tooth decay, and certain types of cancer.
• Experts say you can naturally suppress your appetite with lifestyle tweaks .

Instagram and TikTok users are promoting the use of Zyn brand nicotine pouches as an appetite suppressant in a trend that has been called “O-Zyn-pic” — a low cost alternative to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.

Content creators are claiming the $5 doses of flavored nicotine have helped them lose up to 30lbs.

However, while nicotine may help reduce appetite, health experts are raising concerns about this disturbing trend and the health dangers associated with nicotine.

Health risks of Zyn nicotine pouches

Zyn pouches are placed between your lip and gums, and the nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream. 

“Nicotine is a highly addictive substance, which can lead to psychological and physiological dependence, as well as withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use,” points out Amy Reichelt, PhD, Chief Innovation Officer at PurMinds Neuropharma. 

With GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic being very expensive and prescription medications that are only suitable for a subset of individuals, Reichelt isn’t surprised people are turning to nicotine products that are readily available to the general public to aid with weight loss.

As an appetite suppressant, it can be very effective. 

“Nicotine can affect appetite in a range of ways, including altering activity in reward processing brain circuits through stimulating the release of neurotransmitters, and also through influencing the activity of the appetite-regulating hormones leptin and ghrelin,” Reichelt explains. 

Still, she believes the health risks aren’t worth it.

In the short term, she says nicotine pouches can cause a number of side effects, especially at higher doses, such as:

• nausea
• headache
• dizziness
• throat irritation
• gastrointestinal discomfort

In the long term, the risks can be more serious.

“Nicotine can have acute cardiovascular effects, including increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which may pose risks for individuals with underlying cardiovascular conditions,” she explains. 

Nicotine use is also associated with an increased risk of stroke and various types of cancer.

A study of 44 nicotine pouch products and two nicotine-free pouches published in 2022 found that 26 of the samples contained cancer-causing chemicals known as tobacco-specific nitrosamines. 

Nicotine pouches may harm your dental health, too

“Oral nicotine products mainly contain nicotine, flavorings, pH buffer, filling agents, as well as a trace of toxic tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), metal, and formaldehyde,” Reichelt surmises. “As nicotine pouches are held in the mouth against the gum, there is research investigating whether these pouches cause periodontal disease and damage to the gums that can lead to tooth loss or decay.” 

A 2023 study found that when applied to the same area of the mouth repeatedly, Nicotine can lead to periodontitis, the main cause of tooth loss.

How to reduce your appetite without drugs 

Still, Dr. Danielle Kelvas, MD, primary care physician at The HCG Institute, says, if you’re on a mission to lose weight, appetite suppression can be a useful tool. 

“It helps reduce overall calorie intake by making it easier for you to eat less without feeling deprived or constantly hungry. This can be particularly beneficial in the initial stages of a weight-loss plan when adjusting to a lower calorie intake can be challenging,” she points out. 

But she stresses that it’s better to suppress your appetite without resorting to drugs. 

Kelvas recommends drinking plenty of water.  “Staying well-hydrated can help reduce hunger, as sometimes thirst is confused with hunger,” she explains. 

It’s a good idea to increase your fiber intake too. 

“High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can keep you feeling fuller for longer periods,” Kelvas explains. 

“Protein-rich foods can have a similar effect, helping to enhance satiety and reduce overall food intake,” she adds. 

How you eat matters, too. Kelvas recommends mindful eating to reduce your appetite.

“Paying close attention to what and how much you’re eating can help you recognize fullness cues better and prevent overeating,” she explains. 

It might surprise you to learn that regular exercise is also a great way to regulate your appetite. 

“Physical activity can help regulate appetite hormones and reduce the feeling of hunger,” Kelvas notes. 

Foods that can help reduce your appetite 

If you’re wondering what specific foods you should eat, Kelvas has plenty she recommends. 

“Oats are packed with soluble fiber, which slows digestion and keeps you feeling fuller longer, while apples are high in fiber and water, keeping you full and hydrated,” she says. 

You can also eat protein-rich eggs and foods that are high in healthy fats, like avocados and nuts. 

Remember to include water-rich vegetables, too.

“Cucumbers, zucchinis, and bell peppers have a high water and fiber content, which can help to fill you up,” Kelvas explains. 

Controlling your appetite can lead to weight loss, but it’s important to remember that we eat for lots of reasons, not just because we’re hungry.

Some reasons include stress, boredom, emotional comfort, and social gatherings. 

Therefore, Kelvas says, while controlling hunger through appetite suppression can help, it’s also crucial for you to address and manage these other factors. 

She surmises that “Developing a healthy relationship with food, recognizing emotional eating triggers, and finding non-food methods to cope with emotions or stress are equally important for long-term weight management.” 

Takeaway 

It probably won’t come as much of a surprise that nicotine pouches aren’t a healthy way to suppress your appetite and lose weight.

Eating plenty of protein, fiber, and water-rich foods, as well as exercising regularly, are all healthy, natural ways to help regulate your appetite.