Latest news with #BaylorUniversityMedicalCenter
Mint
12-06-2025
- Health
- Mint
These diabetes drugs are finding new life as an antiaging hack
Some health-obsessed Americans believe the next antiaging therapeutic already exists—in the medicine cabinets of millions of diabetes patients. The widely used class of drugs, called SGLT2 inhibitors and sold under brand names such as Jardiance and Farxiga, have been on the market for over a decade as Type 2 diabetes medications. They have also gained regulatory approval to treat conditions like heart failure and kidney disease. Recently, though, the drugs have emerged as a hot topic on popular health podcasts and Reddit forums for longevity enthusiasts, many of whom don't suffer from any of those conditions. Instead, they are adding SGLT2 inhibitors to a roster of hacks they hope will help them live healthier for longer—or in other words, increase their healthspan. The drugs work by helping the kidneys release extra glucose from the body through urine, improving blood-sugar levels. While there are no studies of whether they can extend the lives of healthy humans, a growing body of evidence shows they help protect against multiple age-related diseases and reduce mortality rates for patients with certain chronic conditions. Some researchers believe they may also affect the fundamental biology of aging. 'This is probably the drug class of our era," says Dr. Timothy Gong, section physician leader for heart failure and transplant cardiology at Baylor University Medical Center, who has researched SGLT2 inhibitors. 'You see cardiologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists, even general internists as well, just getting so excited." Gong says he wouldn't be surprised to take an SGLT2 inhibitor one day, once they are studied more, though he's free from heart issues and diabetes. Yet it's too early to prescribe it for longevity benefits in otherwise healthy patients. 'I don't think that the evidence is strong enough yet for us to be able to say that," he says. Right now, use of SGLT2 inhibitors for potential antiaging benefits is limited mostly to a growing community of so-called biohackers, who seek to optimize their health through experimentation with gadgets, behaviors and various medicines and supplements. Because most take it off-label—meaning, for a nonapproved use—the drugs typically aren't covered by insurance and can cost hundreds of dollars a month out of pocket. Dave Aiello, a Boston chiropractor who doesn't have diabetes, began experimenting with the drugs after learning about a promising study in mice. The 38-year-old wanted to get ahead of health problems but was disenchanted by what he saw as a reactive approach to disease in conventional medicine. 'I'm trying to see if I can just stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible," says Aiello, who has been taking an SGLT2 inhibitor called empagliflozin since 2022. He also takes the kidney-transplant drug rapamycin off-label and has previously taken the diabetes pill metformin—both of which have gained traction as potential longevity boosters, too. He was particularly impressed by research showing SGLT2 inhibitors can help the body manage blood sugar more efficiently, which in turn supports cardiometabolic health. He says he's encouraged by the results so far: Between 2022 and 2024, Aiello's hemoglobin A1C, a measure of average blood sugar, fell to 4.6% from 5.1%, his laboratory test results show. The drugs aren't free of potential side effects, including increased risk of urinary-tract infections, dehydration, and in rare cases, severe genital infections and a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. When Aiello first started taking empagliflozin, he felt dehydrated and experienced fatigue and brain fog. Those side effects have subsided since he decreased his dose and has made sure to take in more electrolytes. 'I'm a little more willing to take some risks that could potentially affect me in the short term if I do think that there might be a benefit," Aiello says. It isn't clear precisely how SGLT2 inhibitors might protect against the ravages of aging, but the research in mice offers clues. In 2020, a National Institute on Aging-funded study found that one SGLT2 inhibitor called canagliflozin extended the lives of male—but not female—mice by 14%. One theory is that the drugs help slow the aging process partly by blunting blood-sugar spikes. Scientists say that by driving insulin levels down, these drugs promote fat burning and create an anti-inflammatory effect that mimics calorie restriction, which studies suggest can slow the pace of aging. Still, many drugs that work in mice don't work in humans, says Richard A. Miller, who led the study and is director of the Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research at the University of Michigan. His lab is now studying how the small molecules inside slow-aging mice change over time. If a drug in humans produces these same metabolomic shifts seen in slow-aging mice, he says, it would provide more confidence that it could slow aging in people. 'We still have a lot of work to do to prove that the drugs do the same thing in people," says Miller. 'The hint here is that it's actually slowing the aging rate." Alan Vuong, who works in sales in Austin, Texas, started taking the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin this year after hearing a podcast interview with Miller. The 34-year-old has a family history of Type 2 diabetes and wanted to lower his fasting insulin level, a measure of metabolic health, from normal to optimal. He spends about $150 a month on his longevity protocol, which includes a dozen drugs and supplements, and has seen his insulin levels drop since starting the medication. Other than having to use the bathroom in the middle of the night more often, a known side effect of the drugs, Vuong hasn't noticed other physical side effects. 'My end goal is to extend lifespan, but more importantly, healthspan," he says. 'I'm willing to take that gamble."
Hindustan Times
05-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
1kg protein powder packs: Top 10 options to try in 2025 for muscle building
Fuel your fitness journey with the power-packed punch of a 1kg protein powder pack. It can be your perfect companion if you are serious about health and performance. From building muscle, shedding fat to staying energised, this supplement delivers a concentrated dose of high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Convenient, cost-effective, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine, the 1kg pack suits both beginners and seasoned athletes. With options like whey, plant-based, and casein, it caters to various dietary needs and goals. Blend it into smoothies, shakes, or post-workout drinks to support recovery and strength. It is a smart step toward a healthier, fitter you. So, check out the best 1kg protein powder pack and stay on top of your fitness game. Protein supplements can improve cardiovascular health by positively impacting blood pressure, lipid levels and glycemic control (Baylor University Medical Center Proceedings). Here are some of the top-rated 1kg protein powder packs for you: Bigmuscles Premium Gold Whey delivers 25g of protein and 11g EAAs per scoop with ProHydrolase Enzyme Technology for fast recovery. Its rich Malai Kulfi flavour enhances taste without compromising results. Certified by Informed Choice UK, this 1kg protein powder pack supports lean muscle building and digestion. Moreover, this best protein powder is ideal pre-and post-workout or between meals. Bigmuscles Nutrition Premium Gold Whey [1Kg] | Informed Choice UK Certified | Isolate Whey Protein Blend | 25g Protein | 11g EAA | ProHydrolase Enzyme Technology [Chocolate Hazelnut] Fuel your fitness with MuscleBlaze Biozyme Whey, which offers 25g of protein, 11.75g of EAAs, and 5.51g of BCAAs with 50% higher absorption using U.S. patented enzymes. Clinically tested and Labdoor-certified, this 1kg protein powder pack ensures purity and faster results. The award-winning scoop-on-top packaging and delicious Chocolate Hazelnut flavour make it both clean and convenient. MuscleBlaze Biozyme Performance Whey Protein Powder, Chocolate Hazelnut (1kg / 2.2lbs) | 25g Protein Per Scoop | Clinically Tested 50% Higher Protein Absorption ATOM AS-IT-IS may be a good addition to your diet. It delivers 27g of protein, 5.7g of BCAA, and 4.8g of glutamine per serving with added digestive enzymes. Labdoor USA-certified, this 1kg protein powder pack boosts recovery and muscle synthesis with top-tier whey isolate and concentrate. Its high PDCAA score ensures optimal absorption. Ideal for resistance and endurance training, it is sugar-free, vegetarian, and made in GMP-certified facilities for assured authenticity and performance. ALSO READ: Best 5 kg dumbbell sets for beginners: Start your fitness journey with these top picks of 2025 AS-IT-IS Nutrition ATOM Whey Protein 1kg | 27g protein | Isolate & Concentrate | Double Rich Chocolate | USA Labdoor Certified | With Digestive Enzymes for better absorption FuelOne Whey Protein offers 24g of protein, 5.29g BCAA, and essential EAAs to build and preserve muscle. Enriched with vitamins C and D, and zinc for 100% RDA immunity support, this 1kg protein powder pack enhances overall well-being. Moreover, this best whey protein is free from added sugar, banned substances, and fillers, which makes it a clean and pure post-workout shake. FUELONE Whey Protein (Chocolate, 1kg / 2.2lbs) | 24g Protein | 5.29g BCAA, 4.2g Glutamic Acid Avvatar Whey packs 28g of fresh protein per scoop with an isolate and concentrate blend. Sourced, processed, and packed within 24 hours in India, this 1kg protein powder pack retains valuable amino acids for fast muscle recovery. Infused with milk calcium and natural fibre, it supports gut, bone, and muscle health. It is a clean, tasty, and powerful option for fitness and recovery. avvatar WHEY PROTEIN | 1Kg | Malai Kulfi Flavour | 28g Protein | 29 Servings | Isolate & Concentrate Blend NAKPRO Gold delivers 25.5g of protein using ultra-filtered whey concentrate and isolate. It is free from sugar, fillers, and additives, ensuring fast absorption and clean nutrition. Packed with EAAs and BCAAs, this 1kg protein powder pack supports muscle growth, repair, and recovery. Certified by Trustified, it blends easily and suits smoothies too. Moreover, it is free from gluten and GMOs. ALSO READ: Best kettlebells for home workouts in 2025: 8 top-rated picks for strength and muscle building NAKPRO Gold Whey Protein Concentrate & Isolate 1kg Mango | 25.5g Protein, Trustified Certified Supplement Powder | Fast Absorbing Whey Protein Powder Muscle Asylum's Premium Whey offers 24g of protein, 5.2g BCAAs, and no added sugar, ideal for muscle recovery and strength. Blended for easy mixing, it suits any time of day, pre/post-workout or between meals. With authentic lab reports and premium Indian flavours like Kesar Pista, this 1kg protein powder pack is crafted in a GMP-certified unit for purity. Muscle Asylum Premium Whey Protein | 1kg, 25 Servings | Kesar Pista | With Genuine Lab Reports | Body Building & Recovery | Increased Muscles Nutrabay Pure Raw Whey delivers 23.4g of protein and 5.3g of BCAAs per scoop. Unflavoured for custom use, it is free from sugar, fillers, and banned substances. It uses Cross-filtration to ensure nutrient retention with minimal processing. Ideal for lean muscle growth, recovery, and metabolism boost, this keto and low-carb diet-friendly 1kg protein powder pack is versatile, natural, and perfect for your personalised protein shake. NUTRABAY Pure 100% Raw Whey Protein Concentrate, 23.4g Protein - 1Kg, Unflavoured Enjoy vegan plant protein powder from MyFitFuel. This 1kg protein powder pack offers 28.4 grams of protein on "Dry basis" and 27.4 grams of protein on "As is basis." Free from artificial colours, this protein powder pack helps build and recover your muscles without compromising your dietary preferences. It also offers 4.5 grams of BCAA and 4.5 grams of glutamic acid, which helps provide the vital building blocks of your muscles. MyFitFuel MFF Plant Pea Protein 1 Kg (2.2 lbs) Chocolate Delight Swirl | Easy to Digest | Vegan Plant Protein Powder The Whole Truth Whey Protein Concentrate may be a good option for you. It is a clean, lean and 80% protein machine. With each scoop, this 1kg protein powder pack offers 26 grams of protein, 6.4 grams of BCAA and 12.6 grams of EAA. Moreover, it is free from flavours, artificial sweeteners, preservatives and other harmful ingredients that make it safe to use. Additionally, the brand claims that this product is ISO, HACCP, GMP and US FDA certified. The Whole Truth Whey Protein Concentrate Unflavoured |1 kg (2.2 lbs) | 26g Protein per scoop | 6.4g BCAA | 100% Authentic Whey & No Adulteration | Clean and Light | Muscle Building | Vegetarian 1kg protein powder pack Protein per serving BCAA content Certifications / Unique highlights Protein powder offers numerous benefits, especially for those with increased protein needs, like athletes, bodybuilders, or people with busy lifestyles. It helps build and repair muscles, supports post-workout recovery, and promotes muscle growth. It also helps in weight management by increasing satiety and boosting metabolism. Protein powders can be a convenient source of high-quality protein for vegetarians or those with limited access to protein-rich foods. It can even improve sarcopenic conditions and weight status in sarcopenic obesity individuals (Nutrition Journal). Additionally, some variants include added vitamins, minerals, or digestive enzymes, enhancing overall nutrition and supporting immune health and energy levels. 1. Identify your goal: Choose a 1kg protein powder pack based on your goal. Opt for whey isolate/concentrate for muscle gain, plant-based or low-carb option for weight loss and a balanced blend for general wellness. 2. Protein content: Look for at least 20g of protein per serving with minimal additives or fillers. 3. Ingredients: Prefer protein powder with natural ingredients, no added sugar, and minimal artificial flavours or preservatives. 4. Consider dietary needs: Choose vegan, lactose-free, or allergen-free options if you have sensitivities. 5. Verify brand reputation: Go for certified, well-reviewed brands tested for purity and quality. 10 kg dumbbell set: Top-rated picks of 2025 to support your strength training Cross trainer for home: Top 8 picks for weight loss and cardio fitness Love chocolate or mango? 8 delicious flavoured whey protein powders for maximum gains You can consume once daily post-workout or as a protein supplement between meals. It can be effective in the growth and maintenance of muscles. Yes, they are generally safe. However, excessive intake may lead to bloating or kidney issues. Protein doesn't cause weight gain unless they are consumed in excess calories. It can help with satiety, fat loss and preserving lean muscle mass. Whey protein isolate is generally better for muscle gain as it is fast-digesting, rich in essential amino acids and support muscle recovery. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Daily Mail
27-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Marathon runners 'at risk of death' experts warn - alert after 13 deaths
Ninety thousand runners will take part in London and Manchester marathons this week—and despite months of training the events are not without risk. For those taking part in the gruelling 26.2 mile race, researchers warn that participating in such an extreme event could prove deadly. Since the inaugural London Marathon in 1981, a total of 13 runners have died. Experts say that a combination of genetic factors, race conditions and age can leave individuals in peril. A major review of studies published in the British Medical Journal in 2019 found that the death rate for running a marathon was one fatality per 149,968 participants—meaning that someone is likely to die once every three years running the London Marathon. An unnamed 36-year-old man died during the race in 2022, so, if the experts' calculations are correct, there could be a tragedy this year. They also found that men were more than twice as likely to suffer catastrophic problems—and the average age of marathon runners who have died is 41. The researchers concluded that the risk was small but deaths were more likely to occur in the last quarter of the race. The most likely reason for fatality is a sudden cardiac arrest. 'The reason why [heart failure] happens with exertion, and, in particular with dehydration, is that there's a decrease in the blood volume,' says Dr Peter McCullough, a cardiologist at the Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas. He explains that for younger marathon runners that die during a race it is likely due to a genetic problem. 'When someone suddenly dies in an athletic event, particularly in teenagers and those in their 20s and 30s, the most common cause is hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy,' says Dr. McCullough 'This is a genetic abnormality of the proteins used by heart muscle cells. 'The heart becomes abnormally thick in one area and when the heart pumps, it has trouble ejecting blood past that thick point.' As to why some deaths seem to occur at the end of the race, McCullough says, 'There's still a lot of circulating adrenaline so the heart is pumping very, very hard, but there's relatively little blood to fill it.' Other factors include a build up of lactic acid, humidity and dehydration. Experts say that there has been a rise in fatalities in recent years. Dr Dan Tunstall-Pedoe, former London Marathon Medical Director, wrote in journal Sports Medicine that an increase in the sport's popularity was one contributor to the apparent increase in deaths. He examined the records of documented sudden deaths across 650,000 marathon completions during that time, concluding that such risk in the London Marathon was one in 80,000 finishers. Studies have shown though the survival rate after having a heart attack has increased significantly in the last two decades. In a paper published in March, American researchers analysed data from 30million runners and found that the risk of dying from cardiac arrest at a race has decreased by approximately 50 per cent compared with 2000 to 2009. 'The incidence of cardiac arrest has remained relatively stable, apart from a slight unexplained rise after 2020, but despite that, the risk for death has markedly declined, by close to 50 per cent,' said Jonathan Kim, MD, cardiologist at Emory University in Atlanta, at the American College of Cardiology Scientific Session last month. 'We believe this is due to continued enhancements in the emergency action plans.' According to Peak Performance, seven cardiac deaths occurred at the London Marathon between 1991 and 2003. In 2007, David Rodgers died after completing his first London Marathon because he drank too much water. Rogers, 29, collapsed at the end of the race and passed away in Charing Cross Hospital. Five years later, a 30-year-old woman collapsed and died while running in the London Marathon—near St James' Park, on the final stretch of the 26.2-mile course. A year later, another runner, Claire Squires, 30, suffered a cardiac arrest towards the end of the race and never regained consciousness. An inquest heard the drug DMAA, a now-banned substance found in some nutrition supplements that was legal at the time, was in her system. The coroner said she died of cardiac failure caused by extreme exertion, complicated by DMAA toxicity. Captain David Seath, suffered a suspected cardiac arrest while running the 26.2-mile course in 2016 and later died in hospital. Seath was a fire support team commander in the 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery. In 2018, Matt Campbell—who appeared on Masterchef: The Professionals—died after running the hottest-ever London Marathon. Campbell collapsed during the marathon just four miles from the finish. In the last death, the 36-year-old man collapsed just two miles from the finishing line. Despite receiving immediate medical treatment and ambulance assistance within three minutes, the participant later died in the hospital.
