Latest news with #IGF-1
NDTV
01-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Cardio Is Essential But Can Lifting Weights Do Wonders For Your Bone Health?
Cardio exercises like walking, jogging, or dancing can support bone health by applying mild stress on bones, which helps maintain bone density. However, lifting weights also known as resistance training, goes a step further. It exerts greater force on bones and muscles, stimulating the production of bone-forming cells and enhancing bone strength. While cardio is beneficial for heart and overall health, weight training is particularly effective for building and preserving bone mass, especially as you age. Read on as we discuss how lifting weights can boost your bone health. 10 Ways lifting weights can do wonders for your bone health 1. Stimulates bone formation Weightlifting creates resistance that forces your bones to adapt by becoming denser and stronger. This stress signals bone-forming cells called osteoblasts to increase bone mass, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. 2. Improves bone mineral density (BMD) Resistance training has been shown to significantly increase bone mineral density in key areas like the hips, spine, and wrists, which are common fracture sites in older adults. 3. Enhances muscle strength to support bones Strong muscles reduce the load on your bones during movement and provide better joint support. This lowers the risk of falls and injuries, especially in ageing populations. 4. Targets weight-bearing areas effectively Lifting weights engages the spine, hips, and legs, which are areas most prone to bone loss with age. Exercises like squats, lunges, and deadlifts are particularly helpful for stimulating bone growth in these regions. 5. Reduces risk of fractures By strengthening both bones and the muscles that support them, weightlifting enhances balance and coordination, which lowers the likelihood of falls and bone fractures. 6. Balances bone remodelling process As you age, bone resorption (breakdown) outpaces formation. Weight training helps tilt this balance back by stimulating bone growth and slowing bone loss. 7. Boosts hormonal responses favouring bone health Weightlifting increases the production of bone-friendly hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, and IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor), which play a role in promoting bone strength. 8. Improves posture and spinal alignment Strengthening back and core muscles through resistance training can improve posture, reduce spinal compression, and prevent the stooping seen in conditions like kyphosis. 9. Encourages better nutrition and lifestyle habits People who lift weights often adopt healthier diets rich in calcium and vitamin D, which further supports bone health. The discipline also reduces harmful habits like smoking or inactivity. 10. Slows down age-related bone loss After the age of 30, bone mass naturally starts to decline. Regular resistance training can help preserve and even build bone mass, delaying the effects of age-related degeneration. While cardio supports general wellness and helps maintain basic bone health, lifting weights provides a powerful and targeted way to build stronger bones. It's an essential practice especially for women and older adults to prevent bone loss, reduce fracture risk, and maintain long-term mobility and strength.
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Obesity and ovarian cancer: The silent link every woman needs to know
Ovarian cancer is among the deadliest gynaecologic cancers, usually diagnosed late because of its nonspecific presentation. Although genetic predisposition and reproductive factors are established risk factors, increasing evidence points towards obesity as an important, modifiable risk factor. As obesity is increasing worldwide, its association with ovarian cancer has become increasingly prominent for prevention, early detection, and better therapeutic results. The growing obesity burden Obesity, which is a body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m², has become an epidemic in all parts of the globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) states: Over 1 billion people in the world were obese in 2022. Adult obesity in the US was 42.4% as of 2020, which is a steep rise from 30.5% in 2000 (CDC). The trend is strongly relevant to cancer incidence, including ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer: The silent killer Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common reason for female cancer-related deaths in the United States and is responsible for more female reproductive cancer deaths than any other type. The American Cancer Society estimates: In 2024, an estimated 19,680 women in the United States will develop ovarian cancer. About 12,740 deaths will occur due to the disease. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Top Australian Doctors Stunned By New German Hearing Aid That Costs Less Than Dinner Out Top Trending News Today Learn More Undo The five-year survival rate for ovarian cancer is typically low, just 49%, largely because it is typically diagnosed late. Biological mechanisms that connect obesity and ovarian cancer 1. Overproduction of estrogen Excess fat tissue results in peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogens, particularly after menopause. Estrogen stimulates growth in cells of the ovary, potentially increasing the chance of mutation and tumor formation. 2. Inflammation Obesity causes chronic inflammation with elevated cytokine levels, including TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP. Chronic inflammation results in DNA damage and may cause tumor development. 3. Insulin Resistance and IGF-1 Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, leading to raised levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Both exhibit mitogenic and anti-apoptotic properties, which may promote the survival and growth of ovarian tumor cells. 4. Adipokines and Leptin Adipokines are hormones secreted by fat tissue. Among them, leptin is increased in obesity and has been reported to promote proliferation of cancer cells and ovarian tumor angiogenesis. Epidemiological evidence Multiple large-scale studies have measured the association of BMI and risk of ovarian cancer: A meta-analysis in Cancer (2013) of more than 20 cohort studies concluded that an increase of 5 units in BMI was linked to a 10% higher risk of ovarian cancer. A WCRF study found that increased body fatness is "likely" to be a cause of ovarian cancer, particularly for non-serous subtypes. Obese ovarian cancer patients also experience worse prognosis, including: Increased disease recurrence following treatment. Decreased overall survival, with stage and treatment type controlled for. Increased rates of surgery and chemotherapy complications. Implications for Prevention and Management From evidence, obesity is a modifiable risk factor for ovarian cancer. Prevention measures are: Diet and exercise weight control. Public health prevention policies against obesity from a young age. Risk stratification and screening of high-BMI groups. In practice, oncologists will have to modify the treatment of obese patients, including individualized chemotherapy dosing and more aggressive surgery to improve outcomes. Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue—it is a clinical and biological risk factor and progression driver for ovarian cancer. As the epidemic of obesity marches forward, so must the need to incorporate prevention, awareness, and targeted treatment strategies into women's health policy. Prevention of obesity has the potential to dramatically decrease the burden of ovarian cancer and enhance survival in thousands of women worldwide. Dr Vishnu Agarwal, Surgical Oncologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai
The Sun
22-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Holistic approach key to appropriate acne care
PETALING JAYA: In conjunction with Acne Awareness Month, a leading dermatologist has urged Malaysians to move beyond creams and antibiotics, and adopt a more holistic approach that considers gut health, diet, mental well-being and the emotional toll of the condition. 'Acne is a multifactorial skin condition that extends far beyond visible lesions. A holistic approach not only improves outcomes but also addresses the emotional burden carried by many patients,' said Consultant Dermatologist Dr Teeba Raja, who also serves as president of the Malaysian Allergic Contact Dermatitis Subcommittee. She explained that emerging research has drawn attention to the gut-skin axis, where imbalances in gut bacteria – known as gut dysbiosis – can drive skin inflammation. 'Increased intestinal permeability, or 'leaky gut', allows endotoxins such as lipopolysaccharides to enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammatory responses in the skin. 'While gut-directed therapies are not yet part of standard acne treatment, patients with both acne and gastrointestinal symptoms may benefit from addressing underlying gut issues,' she said. Teeba also highlighted the role of diet, noting that high-glycaemic foods and dairy have been linked to acne severity. 'Low-glycaemic diets help by lowering insulin and IGF-1 levels – hormones that stimulate oil production and skin cell growth. 'Dairy, especially skim milk and whey protein, can aggravate acne in some individuals due to its hormonal effects.' She added that probiotics, particularly strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, may help reduce skin inflammation, but should be seen as complementary rather than primary treatments. Mental health is another critical yet often overlooked aspect of acne care. 'Many patients experience depression, anxiety and social withdrawal due to acne. Some studies have found it to be more psychologically distressing than chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes. 'In Malaysia, adolescent surveys show acne is a common cause of emotional distress and social stigma.' Teeba called for routine mental health screening during dermatology consultations. 'We should normalise checking in on patients' emotional well-being. Tools such as dermatology-specific quality-of-life questionnaires can help identify those who need psychological support.' She recalled one case involving a 19-year-old male with severe nodulocystic acne. 'After years of failed treatments, he was started on isotretinoin. In six months, not only did his skin improve dramatically, but his self-esteem and overall quality of life returned. It was a reminder that acne care can be life-changing when done right.' Teeba also warned against common self-treatment mistakes, such as over-cleansing, pimple-popping and frequent product switching. 'These habits worsen inflammation, damage the skin barrier and increase the risk of scarring. Patients should be educated to follow a consistent, gentle routine and apply treatments across the entire acne-prone area, not just on visible spots.' She pointed out that social media has become a double-edged sword in acne management. 'Teens are constantly exposed to filtered images and miracle-cure content, which creates unrealistic expectations. Some abandon effective treatments in favour of viral trends. We must teach patients to critically evaluate online content and follow credible sources.' While public awareness of acne in Malaysia is growing, stigma remains a persistent barrier. 'Studies show that over 76% of people view acne negatively in photographs, associating it with poor hygiene or unattractiveness. We need greater public education to dismantle these harmful myths.' Ultimately, she said acne treatment must extend beyond prescriptions.
New York Post
17-06-2025
- Health
- New York Post
New longevity drug for dogs could extend your pet's life — and pave the way for humans to live longer too
Sit, stay… live longer? Research shows that owning a dog can help humans live longer, healthier lives. Now, a US biotech company wants to return the favor with anti-aging drugs designed to extend the lifespan of your canine companion. 'The longevity space is crowded right now, and for good reason,' Celine Halioua, founder and CEO of Loyal, told The Post. 'We all want to figure out how to get more happy, healthy years for our loved ones —especially the furry ones.' 6 Celine Halioua is leading the push to develop drugs that extend the lives of dogs. X/@loyalfordogs Before launching Loyal in 2019, Halioua worked on treatments for neurodegenerative diseases in humans — conditions that, much like aging in dogs, have no true preventive medicine. 'This combination of experience sparked my mission to develop the first drug approved for healthy lifespan extension,' she said. Good boys, great science Loyal has three longevity drugs in the pipeline, including two that specifically target bigger breeds, which typically have much shorter lifespans. While small dogs like Chihuahuas can live for 18 years or longer, giant breeds such as Great Danes would be lucky to make it to ten. That's where LOY-001 and LOY-003 come in. These drugs target dogs age seven and older that weigh at least 40 pounds. 6 Loyal's drugs aim to increase and quality of life for senior dogs. X/Celine Halioua They work by reducing levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a hormone that fuels cell growth. Scientists believe that high levels of IGF-1 shorten the lifespan of large dogs, which can have up to 28 times more of the hormone than smaller breeds. One version, LOY-001, is an injectable given a few times a year at the vet. The other, LOY-003, is a daily chewable pill. Both drugs are currently in pilot studies, and Loyal is eyeing conditional FDA approval by 2027. Loyal's third longevity drug, LOY-002, is even further along in development. The treatment targets senior dogs age 10 and up that weigh at least 14 pounds. It's currently being tested in a large-scale clinical trial involving more than 1,200 dogs across 70 clinics, making it one of the biggest studies in veterinary history, according to Halioua. 6 Small dogs tend to have a longer lifespan than larger breeds. X/Celine Halioua The drug works by targeting metabolism — the complex system of chemical reactions that powers essential functions like breaking down food, producing energy and repairing cells. As metabolism slows with age, it can lead to insulin resistance and trigger a range of health issues in both humans and dogs, including cognitive decline, osteoarthritis and cancer. 'Improving metabolic health is one of the most well-validated pathways for extending both lifespan and healthspan,' Halioua said. 'Research [shows] it can improve health and reduce the risk of age-related diseases across species — from mice to humans,' she added. So far, things are looking paws-itive. A pilot study of 48 dogs showed no adverse effects after three months of LOY‑002. 6 Both LOY-002 and LOY-003 are administered via a daily pill. X/Celine Halioua Loyal previously told The Guardian it's hoping the drug could add at least one extra year to a dog's life — and they'll be healthier during that time, too. Once it's approved, Halioua hopes LOY‑002 will become a common preventive tool, like flea and tick medication. 'We expect all dogs to benefit from its ability to protect against, and even reverse, some of the harmful effects of metabolic dysfunction,' she said. Loyal anticipates that the drug will receive conditional approval by the FDA in 2026. 6 Loyal is aiming to enroll 1,300 dogs in it's LOY-002 study. X/Celine Halioua But the dogs aren't the only ones who could benefit. 'We're on track to develop the first-ever FDA-approved drug for longevity — for any species,' Halioua said. 'Dogs share our environments and develop remarkably similar age-related diseases at similar stages of life, making them valuable models for human health and scientific research,' she added. Dogs make us healthier, too Halioua's lifelong love of animals runs deep. 'I've always been surrounded by animals — growing up, my family had 15 pets and rehabilitated wild animals,' she said. 'My Rottweiler, Della, is always by my side and is a major influence on the work I do.' It turns out dogs don't just bring love — they could bring health benefits as well. Studies show that dogs can ease loneliness, stress and anxiety. One even found that just 10 minutes of petting a pooch can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, the body's main stress hormone. 6 Dogs are known for their unconditional love and companionship. yurakrasil – Even locking eyes with your dog gives your brain a boost. A 2009 Japanese study found that staring into their eyes raises oxytocin — the 'love hormone' linked to bonding and happiness. Dogs might even help you live longer. A sweeping review of research from 1950 to 2019 found that dog owners consistently have a lower risk of death compared to those without pets. It's no accident. Research shows that dog owners tend to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol and a reduced risk of heart disease. Plus, they get more exercise, which builds muscle, strengthen bones and joints and keeps weight in check. That's no coincidence. Dog owners tend to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and less risk of heart disease. Plus, they're more active — walking their dogs regularly strengthens muscles, bones and joints, and helps keep weight in check. Some research even links dog ownership to bigger brains and sharper thinking, with faster processing speed and better memory. And here's the kicker: a major study found owning a dog lowers dementia risk — a benefit not shared by cat owners.
Time of India
14-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Longevity expert shares the healthiest diet formula for long life
News Longevity expert shares the healthiest diet formula for long life Share AA + Text Size Small Medium Large Longevity expert Dr. Joseph Antoun suggests that excessive protein intake, especially from animal sources, might shorten lifespan by stimulating IGF-1 secretion. He recommends a balanced approach, incorporating some meat in plant-based diets before 30 and after 65 to maintain muscle mass. Between 30 and 65, prioritizing plant-based proteins like beans and legumes is advised for optimal health and longevity. Read more below. Aging does you less good and more harm. Unless you focus on healthy aging with beneficial diets and exercising, then you could age healthily and happily with no worries in sight. In the world of social media, most people turn to trends to figure out a good diet that will keep them healthy or just continue with their existing one as it isn't particularly unhealthy. Now, a longevity expert has revealed the best diets for healthy aging and his suggestions might shock you to change your current diet completely. Dr Joseph Antoun, a longevity expert, revealed to The Post that too much protein is actually not good for the body. While the nutrient is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health, excess consumption of it could actually be reducing years of your life. 'Animal proteins are rich in arginine, and leucine and contain specific sequences of amino acids that stimulate IGF-1 secretion, whereas an equivalent quantity of plant-based proteins are less likely to trigger the same amount of IGF-1,' he said. Image credits: Getty Images IGF-1, a hormone produced in the liver plays a vital role in promoting growth and regulating metabolism. It's crucial for building muscle when you are young and especially when you are older when the muscle loss accelerates. Since the levels of the hormone reduce over time, it's important to maintain it to support well-being. Antoun thus advises including a certain amount of meat in a plant-based diet before the age of 30 and after the age of 65. "When the body's food absorption capability begins to decrease and the muscle becomes an essential organ for longevity.' Image credits: Getty Images Between the ages of 30 and 65, the doctor advises visiting the salad bar more than the steak table. In this age frame, consuming mainly plant-based proteins is advised. Thus, add in foods like beans, legumes, nuts and seeds. 'The Longevity Diet emphasizes plant-based protein consumption to support lean muscle mass and reduce inflammation, which are important for both heart and metabolic health,' he said. Plant-based diets such as pescatarian, Mediterranean, flexitarian and vegan are linked to healthy aging. However, not all animal proteins are the same, According to Antoun, Red meat, chicken and fish contain various percentages of leucine and arginine- two amino acids that play vital roles in muscle growth. 'Red meat is also high in saturated fats, while fish contains healthier, unsaturated fats.' One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change TOI Lifestyle Desk The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience. 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