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Tridecanoic Acid (C13): The Odd-Chain Fatty Acid With Big Implications

Tridecanoic acid (C13) is a rare, odd-chain saturated fatty acid produced mainly by gut and rumen microbes, entering metabolic pathways via β-oxidation to support gluconeogenesis and the TCA cycle. Although scarcely detected in plasma, emerging research suggests C13 could serve as a sensitive biomarker for diet-microbiome interactions and may have distinct metabolic and anti-inflammatory effects.

2 Jul 2025

Does Eating Sea Moss Provide Health Benefits?

Sea moss (Chondrus crispus) is a red macroalga lauded for its rich mineral content, prebiotic fibers, and potential health benefits, including support for thyroid function, gut health, and immune modulation. However, clinical evidence remains limited, and concerns persist regarding heavy metal contamination and regulatory inconsistencies.

1 Jul 2025

Rhodiola Rosea: Evidence-Based Health Benefits and Clinical Insights

Current research highlights Rhodiola rosea’s potential to reduce stress and fatigue, enhance cognition, and support physical performance, while emphasizing the need for rigorous studies and product quality assurance.

30 Jun 2025

Appendix Cancer on the Rise: Implications for Diagnosis and Patient Care

Appendix cancer is a rare but increasingly recognized malignancy, often discovered incidentally during surgery for presumed appendicitis. Advances in imaging, molecular profiling, and classification have improved diagnosis, management, and spurred ongoing research into targeted therapies.

29 Jun 2025

How Do I Know if Social Media Is Affecting My Mental Health?

Repeated exposure to distressing content on social media platforms is linked to secondary trauma, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation, especially in youth and heavy users. Science-based interventions, such as digital detox, mindfulness, and digital literacy, are urgently needed to promote resilience and mental health in the digital era.

23 Jun 2025

How Millennials and Gen Z Are Driving Evidence-Based Wellness Trends

Millennials and Gen Z are driving the global wellness economy toward personalized, science-backed products and services, heavily influenced by digital technology and social media. Evidence-based interventions and regulatory oversight are increasingly crucial as consumers demand transparency and safety in wellness offerings.

23 Jun 2025

Tackling the Dual Epidemics of HIV and Addiction

This article explores the complex interplay between drug addiction and HIV, highlighting how integrated harm reduction strategies and multisectoral collaboration can reduce transmission and improve public health outcomes. It reviews global best practices and calls for stigma-free, data-driven, and equitable prevention models.

22 Jun 2025

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Shell Eggs: Scientific Perspective on the 2025 Outbreak

A multistate outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis in June 2025, linked to contaminated eggs from a California facility, led to 79 cases and a major recall. The incident underscores the critical role of rapid detection, coordinated surveillance, and antimicrobial stewardship in foodborne illness prevention.

18 Jun 2025

Is a Hypocaloric Diet Safe and Effective for Long-Term Health?

A hypocaloric diet, defined by reduced calorie intake below daily energy expenditure, promotes weight loss and improves metabolic markers such as insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles. Evidence also suggests it may support cardiovascular health, delay aging, and improve mental well-being, though risks exist if not medically guided.

18 Jun 2025

Tdap Vaccine: What It Is and What It Protects Against

The Tdap vaccine provides essential protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, playing a critical role in maternal and community immunity. As immunity wanes over time, booster doses, especially during pregnancy, are vital for safeguarding vulnerable populations.

19 Jun 2025

How an Anti-Inflammatory Diet Lowers Chronic Disease Risk

An anti-inflammatory diet can counteract chronic low-grade inflammation by modulating immune responses, gut health, and key metabolic pathways. Scientific evidence supports its role in preventing cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, autoimmune, and even oncologic diseases.

17 Jun 2025

The MIND Diet Explained: Foods That Fight Cognitive Decline

The MIND diet, developed to combine the neuroprotective elements of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, has demonstrated strong potential in reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline. Clinical and observational studies highlight its benefits for memory, vascular function, and mood.

17 Jun 2025

Cancer Plasticity: The Shape-Shifting Threat Challenging Modern Treatments

Cancer plasticity allows tumor cells to change their identity, evade therapies, and adapt to environmental pressures, contributing to treatment resistance and metastasis. New research is targeting this adaptability through epigenetic drugs, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and strategies to limit phenotypic switching.

16 Jun 2025

How Safe is Kava? Risks and Realities

As kava gains popularity for its stress-relieving benefits, experts warn that safe use depends on tradition-informed practices, scientific evidence, and robust product regulation to prevent potential health risks.

11 Jun 2025

Is Olive Oil Good for You? Evidence-Based Health Effects Explained

Olive oil, especially extra virgin, is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet and is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, and cognitive decline. Extensive research highlights its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic benefits, while emphasizing the importance of authenticity and accessibility for public health.

10 Jun 2025

Dietary Fiber: Health Benefits, Food Sources, and Daily Needs

Dietary fiber is essential for digestive, cardiovascular, and metabolic health, but most people fall short of daily recommendations. Understanding fiber types, benefits, and sources can help optimize gut health, weight control, and long-term disease prevention.

9 Jun 2025

How Composting Protects Public Health and Our Planet

Composting transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich soil, significantly reducing methane emissions and protecting public health. Widespread adoption of composting can mitigate climate change, enhance soil health, and improve environmental equity for vulnerable communities.

9 Jun 2025

Aspergillosis: A Growing Global Crisis

Aspergillosis, caused by Aspergillus fungi, is an increasingly serious infection affecting immunocompromised and lung-compromised individuals, with rising incidence linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, antifungal resistance, and environmental change. Diagnostic difficulties, limited treatment options, and escalating drug resistance highlight the urgent need for improved surveillance, earlier detection, and coordinated global public health action.

6 Jun 2025

Black Sesame Seeds: Evidence-Based Health Benefits and Modern Uses

Black sesame seeds, prized in traditional medicine and modern nutrition, are rich in bioactive compounds, healthy fats, minerals, and antioxidants. Scientific evidence suggests they support heart, liver, and skin health, but more research is needed to confirm some traditional claims.

4 Jun 2025

What is the Hypothalamus?

The hypothalamus is a portion of the brain that contains a number of small nuclei with a variety of functions. One of the most important functions of the hypothalamus is to link the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland (hypophysis).

9 Jun 2025