Consuming less sugar during pregnancy and the first years of life may lower the risk of developing dementia decades later, according to new research.

A study published in Neurology found that people who were exposed to less sugar before birth and during their first one to two years of life had up to a 23% lower risk of developing dementia compared with those born after sugar became widely available again.

Researchers examined the health records of more than 64,000 people in the United Kingdom who were born before and after World War II sugar rationing ended in 1953.

People who experienced lower sugar intake before birth and through their first year of life had a 21% lower risk of dementia, while those whose sugar intake remained limited through age two had a 23% lower risk, researchers found.

DAILY EATING HABIT LINKED TO BETTER BRAIN HEALTH IN OLDER ADULTS, NEW RESEARCH SUGGESTS

The study also found that people with lower sugar exposure early in life developed dementia an average of 2.6 years later than those who consumed more sugar.

"Our findings suggest that limiting sugar during the earliest stages of life may have lasting benefits for brain health," study author Jiazhen Zheng of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology said in the press release.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Dariush Mozaffarian, director of the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University, who was not involved in the study, said the research raises an interesting question but cautioned against drawing firm conclusions.

"I'm impressed with the researchers' creativity, pulling together information across decades to look at this question, but the findings are not convincing," Mozaffarian told Fox News Digital.

He said many other factors likely differed between people born during and after wartime, including overall nutrition and calorie intake, making it difficult to know whether sugar alone explains the difference.

Still, Mozaffarian said the broader guidance for pregnant women remains the same.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"Ultimately, we know from other research that women who are pregnant should consume the healthiest foods possible for both their own health and that of their baby," he told Fox News Digital.

He recommended focusing on minimally processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fermented dairy products and fish while limiting ultra-processed foods high in sugar, starch and salt.

Researchers stressed that the study found only an association between early-life sugar intake and dementia risk and does not prove that reducing sugar directly prevents the disease.

Researchers also noted several limitations, including that the study used exposure to a historical rationing policy as a proxy for individual sugar intake and could not eliminate the influence of other differences between the groups.

As a result, the findings cannot establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between lower sugar intake early in life and a reduced risk of dementia.

Marijuana is officially leading the pack for the most-used daily drug among Americans.

New data from the 2025 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), reveals that there are 21.4 million daily or near-daily marijuana users in the U.S.

This surpasses the 19.9 million people who smoke cigarettes and the 17.2 million who consume alcohol.

IS DRINKING EVERY DAY ALCOHOLISM? EXPERTS EXPLAIN WHERE CULTURE AND ADDICTION COLLIDE

The annual federal survey of Americans age 12 and older defines daily or near-daily use as consuming marijuana on 300 or more days in the past year. Daily cigarette smokers were characterized as those who smoked on all 30 days of the past month.

The number of Americans using marijuana daily or almost daily rose about 21% between 2022 and 2025 — from 17.7 million to approximately 21.4 million. This amounts to an increase of about 3.7 million frequent users.

The biggest jump occurred between 2021 and 2022 with an increase of roughly 2.8 million users, according to SAMSHA.

This pattern in higher marijuana use is driven mostly by adults, particularly those age 26 and older, rather than teenagers.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Between 2021 and 2025, the number of adults 18 and older using marijuana daily or almost daily increased about 22%, from 17.2 million to 20.9 million.

Although marijuana is now the most commonly used substance on a daily or near-daily basis, alcohol remains the most widely used substance overall. During the previous month, about 129 million people drank alcohol while 43.8 million used marijuana.

Cigarette and broader tobacco product use has been on a decline, decreasing from 20.1% of Americans in 2021 to 15.9% in 2025. Meanwhile, general marijuana use rose from 13.2% to 15.1% during that same period.

A recent report by San Francisco-based workplace mental health platform Modern Health found a concerning increase in the number of workers turning to substances to manage stress, especially THC and marijuana products.

The survey of 1,000 full-time employees in April 2026 found that 63% of the workforce engages in at least one form of self-medication after the workday, while 52% have self-medicated during the workday.

Gen Z is the only generation of workers where THC use exceeded alcohol use after work – 59% report using marijuana products compared to 50% who drink alcohol. In that group, 51% reported using THC during the workday.

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel said the SAMHSA data reflects a "very disturbing trend."

"Too much attention has been put on the bogus or exaggerated uses of marijuana for pain, insomnia and anxiety, when in fact it increases anxiety exponentially, especially in those with underlying mental health issues," he told Fox News Digital.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"Too little attention has been paid to the growing THC content in all cannabis products, which makes it far more dangerous in terms of mental performance, judgement, memory and all forms of impairment."

THC has been associated with a growing share of fatal motor vehicle crashes, Siegel said, arguing that increased acceptance of marijuana use is "feeding a dangerous trend."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"So I firmly believe that the rising use – coupled with decreasing alcohol and cigarettes – is directly due to lack of awareness of all the dangers of marijuana versus an increased awareness of all the dangers of cigarettes and alcohol," he added.

New survey data offers a snapshot of how often married Americans are having sex, while researchers say the findings challenge common assumptions about relationship health.

National demographic studies suggest that lower sexual frequency is often a normal part of aging and long-term relationships, and that there may be a "sweet spot" associated with marital satisfaction.

Data from the General Social Survey, conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, found that married Americans report a wide range of sexual frequency.

WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATIONS COULD IMPACT SEXUAL HEALTH IN UNEXPECTED WAYS

The survey asked how often couples have had sex during the last 12 months. Among the 1,893 married respondents surveyed in 2024, the responses were as follows.

The average American adult has sex 53 times a year — or a little more than once per week, according to research by the telehealth platform Hims.

While marriage is often associated with less frequent sex, research has found the difference to be relatively small. A 2014 study found that married people had sex about 55 times a year, compared with 59 times a year among their unmarried peers.

"Experts aren’t sure precisely why this difference exists or why what used to be an advantage has become a disadvantage, but some believe it may be related to the increasing age at which most people get married," Hims wrote in a medically reviewed article.

"There’s no ‘perfect statistic’ or ideal amount of sex. In other words: You like what you like, and that’s perfectly OK."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Clinical data suggests that aiming for a daily or high-volume sexual quota does not actually improve relationship quality.

A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science in 2015 evaluated more than 30,000 individuals over four decades and discovered a drop-off in additional benefits.

While overall happiness increased as physical intimacy moved from monthly to weekly, couples who had sex two, three or four times a week experienced no additional statistical boost in marital satisfaction compared to those hitting the weekly threshold.

Experts emphasize that sexual desire naturally fluctuates as couples navigate career demands, parenthood and biological aging.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Despite some research suggesting a slowdown with age, intimacy remains an important factor in healthy aging, linked to improved physical and emotional well-being.

AARP survey data indicates that physical connection remains routine for many older Americans, with roughly 17% of adults aged 70 and older engaging in sexual activity on a weekly basis.

When a couple experiences an intimacy dry spell, medical professionals recommend evaluating physiological factors rather than jumping to conclusions about incompatibility.

Educational resources from the International Society for Sexual Medicine note that the following physical conditions can influence libido.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Rather than trying to force a weekly goal, healthcare providers encourage couples dealing with mismatched sexual desire to discuss the issue openly and consult a doctor to evaluate baseline hormone levels, medication profiles and overall metabolic health.

A rarely diagnosed tick-borne virus with no vaccine or specific treatment has been confirmed in New York for the first time, prompting researchers to warn that additional infections may be going undiagnosed.

The Bourbon virus, "transmitted through the common lone star tick, could soon begin to complicate diagnoses if it becomes more prevalent this summer and in coming years," Stony Brook Medicine warned in a news release reporting on a study of the virus.

Only six human cases have been reported since Bourbon virus was first identified in Bourbon County, Kansas, where the first known patient was diagnosed in 2014. That patient later died.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE NEWS

The virus has been linked to at least two deaths, including the original 2014 case and another reported in 2026. Researchers believe, however, that additional infections have likely gone undiagnosed.

Symptoms of Bourbon virus include fever, fatigue, rash, headache, body aches and nausea. Because there is no commercially available diagnostic test, doctors have a difficult time identifying it.

Many healthcare providers are also unfamiliar with the virus, "thus increasing the possibility of misdiagnosis," the release said.

A team of researchers led by Stony Brook Medicine confirmed the first case of Bourbon virus in New York in a patient from Long Island who developed severe symptoms and an eight-fold rise in antibody titers of the Bourbon virus. The patient was hospitalized.

"There are a lot of lone star ticks in New York and in the Northeast, we have dense populations and when someone is infected with Bourbon virus symptoms they are similar to other tick-borne infections," Luis Marcos, Stony Brook Medicine professor and director of the Tick-borne Disease Clinic, said in the news release.

"For these reasons, the Bourbon virus is likely more prevalent than we think in our region, and other cases are likely not being diagnosed."

Marcos and his co-authors said their findings show the need for expanded surveillance and better testing to improve diagnosis and track the spread of Bourbon virus.

"Without identifying the cause of an infection, the chances of developing accurate diagnostic tests or effective treatments are minimal," he said. "That is why it is so important to first understand the true impact of the virus in high-risk areas."

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), "The lone star tick is widely distributed in the Northeast, South and Midwest United States."

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

The tiny, blood-feeding, parasitic arachnid has established populations in Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia, according to the CDC.

Lone star ticks are an "aggressive tick," according to the agency.

"The adult female is distinguished by a white dot or ‘lone star’ on her back. The nymph and adult females most frequently bite humans and spread disease," the CDC reports.

Despite the Bourbon virus’ severity, "only a select few [ticks] bite and transmit bacteria, viruses and parasites (pathogens) that cause diseases in people," according to the CDC.

To avoid tick bites, people should wear protective clothing, such as pants they can tuck into boots and long-sleeve shirts.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Experts also recommend applying insect repellent, such as permethrin, to clothing and outdoor gear, not directly on the skin.

Stay out of tall grass and on well-beaten trails whenever possible because ticks thrive in overgrown and heavily wooded areas.

Check for ticks after spending time outdoors and remove them as soon as you find them. Seek medical attention if you develop fever, rash, fatigue or other flu-like symptoms in the days or weeks following a tick bite.

Dark under-eye circles may be more than a cosmetic concern. Doctors say they can sometimes signal low iron stores, a condition that's gone viral on social media under the name "ferritin face."

Experts say there's some truth behind the trend with important caveats.

Ferritin can be thought of as the body's "iron storage vault," according to Dr. Josef Hadeed, a double board-certified plastic surgeon at Hadeed Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, California. It is a protein that stores iron inside the body's cells and releases it when needed.

LOW TESTOSTERONE? HEGSETH SPARKS CONVERSATION AS DOCTORS REVEAL WARNING SIGNS EVERY MAN SHOULD KNOW

"When ferritin levels drop, the body struggles to produce hemoglobin, which is the iron-rich protein within your red blood cells that transports oxygen to the tissues," Hadeed told Fox News Digital.

Low iron levels can compromise skin elasticity, which can make the tissue appear thinner and less resilient, the doctor said.

When hemoglobin is low, the skin can lose its healthy color and appear pale, making the naturally darker tissue beneath the eyes more noticeable, Hadeed noted.

Besides pale skin and dark under-eye circles, other symptoms may signal that someone is lacking iron.

CARLY SIMON REVEALS THE COMMON CONDITION THAT MASKED HER PARKINSON'S DIAGNOSIS

"The severity of these symptoms generally increases as ferritin decreases," Dane Thomas, a Texas-based hematology/oncology physician associate who specializes in the care of patients with hematologic disorders and cancer, told Fox News Digital.

Low energy, fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, fainting, brittle or thin nails, hair loss, cravings to chew ice and restless legs syndrome are a few signs, according to Thomas.

"Some patients also experience decreased exercise tolerance, difficulty concentrating or shortness of breath with exertion," he said.

Other symptoms can include pounding or "whooshing" in the ears, a sore or smooth tongue, rapid heartbeat, intolerance to cold and poor sleep, according to the American Society of Hematology.

Beyond cosmetic concerns, ferritin face may signal an underlying medical condition, including chronic bleeding, gastrointestinal disorders or cancers or malabsorption, according to hematological experts.

With the rise in bariatric surgery, more patients are developing iron deficiency due to impaired iron absorption, Thomas said. Certain over-the-counter acid-suppressing medications, including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-receptor blockers, may also contribute to low iron.

While treating iron deficiency is important, identifying and addressing its underlying cause is equally critical, he said.

"Whenever possible, I work with my patients to determine why their iron deficiency developed so we can reduce the likelihood that it will recur," Thomas told Fox News Digital. "This often involves collaboration with gastroenterologists, gynecologists or other specialists to evaluate for sources of blood loss or malabsorption."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Pregnancy, heavy menstrual bleeding and frequent blood donation can also contribute to lower iron levels. Vegetarians, vegans and those who follow diets that do not include iron-rich foods may also be at risk, according to the American Society of Hematologists.

If a person thinks they may have low ferritin, it is important to see a physician.

"This is not something that someone should self-treat, and I always advise them to seek professional help," Hadeed advised. "Unlike water-soluble vitamins, the body has no easy mechanism to excrete excess iron, and over-supplementation can lead to increased levels of iron in the body, which can affect the liver and heart."

A simple blood test by a healthcare professional can determine iron levels. Further evaluation may include stool and urine tests to look for blood, along with endoscopy to examine the esophagus, stomach and colon. Women may also undergo a gynecological evaluation, according to experts.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Treatment for iron deficiency may include oral supplementation and, in cases of severe anemia, intravenous (IV) iron or blood transfusions.

"The biggest drawback of oral iron is gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, constipation, abdominal discomfort and stomach upset," Thomas noted.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

"These side effects can often be minimized by taking iron every other day rather than daily, a strategy that also maintains excellent absorption for many patients."

He also recommends spacing them apart from calcium supplements, dairy products and antacids, which can affect absorption.

Following a diet that includes iron-rich foods can also help, according to the American Society of Hematology website.

Some examples include beef, pork, or lamb; organ meats like liver, chicken, turkey, duck and fish (especially shellfish, sardines and anchovies); leafy greens, such as broccoli, kale, turnip greens and collard greens; legumes, including lima beans, peas, pinto beans and black-eyed peas; and iron-enriched pastas, grains, rice and cereals.

Ferritin face is reversible, Hadeed emphasized. 

Once iron stores are safely restored and hemoglobin levels rebound, the skin recovers its healthy capillary flush, and dark under-eye circles tend to fade over several months.

The American Red Cross has declared a "blood crisis" across the nation.

The organization released a warning about the second-ever blood supply crisis this week after blood donations fell to a four-year summer low.

This decline worsens an emergency shortage that "threatens the availability of lifesaving blood for patients across the country," the organization wrote in a press release.

MICROPLASTICS DETECTED IN MOST HEART ATTACK PATIENTS' BLOOD IN STARTLING NEW STUDY

The Red Cross is now limiting distributions of type O blood to hospitals, as the nation’s largest single provider of blood products now has less than a one-day national supply of type O positive blood.

Type O blood accounts for about 60% of Red Cross blood distributions and is essential for both everyday patient care and medical emergencies.

Type O positive is the most commonly transfused blood type, according to the Red Cross, and can be safely given to about 80% of patients. 

Type O negative remains the universal blood type "relied upon when every second counts."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

While thousands of Americans show up to donate blood, these donations are reportedly not keeping up with hospital demand during summer trauma season.

This summer’s conditions, amid extreme heat, poor air quality and foodborne illnesses, have contributed to lower donor turnout, the Red Cross reported. Other blood collectors have also reported critical shortages this summer.

The Red Cross advised that just three more donors at each blood drive can end the crisis and stabilize the blood supply.

It encourages Americans to book an appointment by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Chris Hrouda, president of Red Cross Biomedical Services, shared information about the developing emergency in a statement.

"The Red Cross takes its responsibility as the nation’s largest single provider of blood products incredibly seriously and has worked tirelessly to strengthen the blood supply for our hospital partners," he said.

Following the organization’s first national blood crisis in January 2022, Hrouda said the Red Cross has put "additional safeguards" in place to help "prevent a crisis like that from happening again."

"But this summer, blood donations simply are not keeping pace with hospital demand, and inventories — especially type O blood — remain under significant strain," he said.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"Every donation has the potential to help save lives, and we urgently need everyone who is eligible to make an appointment to give blood as soon as possible."

Shark sightings are common each summer from coast to coast — and though attacks are rare, they do happen.

In August, shark activity begins to ramp up as they migrate and feed along the way, often bringing different species close to shore, according to experts.

Dr. Chris Lowe, professor of marine biology and director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), confirmed there has been an increase in white shark activity so far this year.

SHARK SIGHTINGS SPIKE NEAR AMERICA'S BEACHES AS JULY 4 CROWDS HEAD TO SHORE FOR WEEKEND

"We expect by August, September or October to see even more sharks off the Southern California coast," he told Fox News Digital.

Wyatt Wernath, national spokesperson for the American Lifeguard Association and a retired ocean rescue chief based in Cocoa Beach, Florida, said they've seen typical numbers for this time of year, although there have been "a couple little nibbles" where people were "bit on the heels or the toes."

For those swimming or surfing in the ocean, the experts shared the following six tips to avoid a dangerous shark encounter.

Before visiting a new beach, experts advise locating lifeguards and checking for shark sightings, rip currents, jellyfish and other hazards.

10-FOOT GREAT WHITE SHARK SPOTTED SWIMMING DANGEROUSLY CLOSE TO YOUNG PEOPLE

It's important to recognize and understand the flag systems on the beach that can signal certain conditions, Wernath noted. Red flags typically indicate high hazard, yellow flags mean heed caution and green flags mean low hazard.

A purple or blue flag indicates the presence of marine life. Combination red and blue flags signal hazardous marine life, such as a shark or dangerous jellyfish.

"If you can prepare yourself by knowing before you go, you’re going to have a much safer and enjoyable vacation or trip to the open water where the sharks live," Wernath said.

Other suspicious animal activity in the water — such as fish, birds and even seals — could mean a shark is nearby.

"If you see the water percolating on the top, that's the fish running from the predators," Wernath said. "Don't go in the water, get out of the water."

SHARK WEEK SHOCKER AS GREAT WHITE BREACHES JUST YARDS FROM OBLIVIOUS BOOGIE BOARDER

"If you see birds diving into the water, and they're feeding kind of erratically, don't go into the water."

Lowe, who runs the California Shark Beach Safety Program, also recommends avoiding dead marine life that could attract sharks.

"If you're out on your surfboard and a seal climbs on your board, that seal isn't trying to bond with you. It's probably trying to get out of the water because it knows there's a big shark around," he said.

SHARK WEEK PUTS SHARK BITE SURVIVAL IN FOCUS WITH ER DOC'S EXPERT TIPS

Avoid bait balls, which are dense schools of fish targeted by predators, Lowe advised. If one forms beneath your surfboard, move away to avoid an approaching shark.

While some "toe nibblers" in Florida have been known to attack on the shoreline, deep-water predators pose a risk as well, the experts warned.

California has about three shark bites per year and a fatality about every third year, according to Lowe — but numbers change as the population increases and more people seek out offshore recreation.

"When people start going out into the open ocean ... they may be encountering shark species that haven't been around people before," he said. "And therefore, you're a novelty."

Ocean spear fishing and kayak fishing are examples of "risky" excursions that have gained popularity in the last few decades, Lowe noted.

"Not only do you have a bloody fish on the end of your spear, but you're out around sharks that might not have been around people before," he said. "So, we just don't know how those sharks will react."

SHARK WEEK FANS MAY WANT TO THINK TWICE BEFORE EATING THIS OCEAN PREDATOR, EXPERTS WARN

"If you're kayak fishing, and you've got your legs in the water, and you’ve got a bloody fish, your leg could get mistaken by an excited shark trying to steal your fish."

When diving or snorkeling, it’s important not to present yourself "as prey," Wernath warned.

Dawn and dusk are peak feeding times for many sharks, increasing the risk of encounters.

Because sharks can mistake people for prey, Lowe recommends avoiding murky water and shiny jewelry that can mimic fish scales.

The chances of being bitten are statistically lower when swimming in a group than alone, Lowe said — and if trouble arises, others are there to help.

During a close encounter, it's important to confirm that the animal is actually a shark, as dolphin and stingray fins can look similar in the water.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Unlike dolphins and stingrays, which typically show a single fin before disappearing underwater, sharks often reveal both their dorsal and tail fins.

"Tail fins will be moving more in a sweeping motion," Wernath said. "It won't go under gradually like a submarine. It won't arc like a dolphin in a rolling fashion."

If a shark is identified, give it space and calmly exit the water.

"Don't splash, don't cause a commotion, which will attract the shark, but just get out," Lowe said. "If you're on a surfboard or a boogie board, try to pull yourself up onto it, and just don't present yourself as prey."

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"If you see the shark, always keep your eyes on it," he advised. "Follow it, track it, let the shark know you see it, turn your body toward it."

"If the shark comes closer, you can just slowly back up and keep watching it. If you lose track of it, the first place you should always look is behind you."

A shark approaching from behind is usually trying to investigate without being noticed. Once it realizes it has been spotted, however, "most of the time, the gig is up," Lowe said.

If it continues to approach, he recommends giving it "a good bop in the nose" to discourage it from coming closer.

"If the shark gets really close, I'm always an advocate of striking out at them. I think humans need to let sharks know that they're not supposed to get close to us," he added.

Experts say the key to safely coexisting with sharks is respecting their habitat and behavior while avoiding actions that could make people appear to be prey.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

"They're much more intelligent than we give them credit for," Wernath said, noting that they carefully assess potential prey before attacking. "They’re hunters. They're going to look around and make sure they can get to a prey without getting hurt."

The biggest misconception about sharks is that if they’re nearby, they’re going to bite you, Lowe said, adding that research proves this "simply isn't true."

Although human and shark populations have grown thanks to conservation efforts, shark bites haven't increased as expected.

"They might occasionally bite a person, but we don't really know why," Lowe went on. "We don't know if they're biting because they mistake us as food ... [or] because they feel we're a threat."

"Based on our last six years of data using drones, we see white sharks around people pretty much every day, and they seem to largely ignore people," he added. "What that clearly tells me is that humans are not on any shark's menu."

When hiker Joanna Ruth Shields, 37, was found dead near Sykes Hot Springs in California’s Ventana Wilderness, initial speculation pointed to foul play, according to a press release from the Monterey County Sheriff's Office.

However, official coroner's reports revealed her cause of death to be probable alcohol withdrawal seizures brought on by chronic alcohol use disorder.

Friends who were hiking with Shields said she had gone to the river that morning. A short time later, one of them found her unresponsive in the water, according to reports.

IS DRINKING EVERY DAY ALCOHOLISM? EXPERTS EXPLAIN WHERE CULTURE AND ADDICTION COLLIDE

"This is a probable seizure that occurred as a result of chronic alcohol use disorder, but there was nothing that stood out that indicated any type of criminal activity," Andres Rosas, commander and the primary public information officer for the Monterey County Sheriff's Office, told KSBW 8.

Given the results of the investigation and forensic examination, no further investigation is taking place.

The incident highlights a little-known danger of severe alcohol dependence, as suddenly stopping alcohol can trigger life-threatening neurological events.

Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system. When someone drinks heavily over a prolonged period, the brain adapts by ramping up chemical signals to keep bodily systems functioning, according to experts.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

When alcohol is abruptly stopped, that blocker on the central nervous system is removed. The brain then enters a state of dangerous overexcitation, leading to severe hyperarousal.

Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within six to 24 hours after the last drink, with the risk of seizures peaking between 24 and 48 hours.

In wilderness settings or isolated locations, a sudden seizure can result in immediate loss of consciousness, trauma, respiratory arrest or an inability to seek emergency care, experts note.

Clinical guidelines from the National Institutes of Health categorize alcohol withdrawal by the following key progression stages.

This may include minor withdrawal symptoms, including insomnia, tremors, anxiety, gastrointestinal upset, headache, diaphoresis (excessive sweating), heart palpitations, anorexia, nausea, tachycardia (abnormally fast resting heart rate) and hypertension.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

This stage is marked by visual, auditory or tactile hallucinations.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

People in this stage may experience sudden loss of consciousness accompanied by severe muscle contractions (seizures). Another potential symptom is delirium tremens, a medical emergency involving extreme agitation, fever, racing heart, hyperthermia and cardiac instability.

Health agencies, including the National Institutes of Health, strongly advise that individuals with a history of heavy drinking or prior withdrawal episodes never attempt to detox alone or in remote settings.

Medical detox programs use tailored medication protocols to safely taper brain activity and prevent seizures.

Help is available for people struggling with alcohol use disorder. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline provides free, confidential treatment referrals 24 hours a day at 1-800-662-4357.

Older adults who take five or more prescription medications face a significantly higher risk of death compared to those taking fewer drugs, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

The research highlights the growing concern over polypharmacy, the medical term for taking five or more daily prescriptions, and its long-term effects on aging populations.

Led by Dr. Alexander Chaitoff of the University of Michigan School of Medicine, researchers analyzed national survey data collected from 7,828 adults aged 65 and older between 1999 and 2016.

LONGER LIVES, WORSE HEALTH? SCIENTISTS UNCOVER TROUBLING TREND ACROSS GENERATIONS

Trained staff directly inspected participants' pill bottles to verify medication use over the previous 30 days, then followed them for an average of 8.5 years, according to a press release.

More than half of participants (54.3%) fell into at least one high-risk medication category. The largest group consisted of older adults taking five or more prescription drugs (polypharmacy).

Another group, 37.6% of those studied, used medications deemed risky for older individuals, such as drugs that can increase the risk of confusion or falls, the study revealed.

Additionally, 11.4% took combinations of medications that are known to cause major drug-to-drug interactions.

DOCTORS REVEAL HIDDEN DANGER FOR SOME OZEMPIC, WEGOVY USERS WITH BRAIN DISORDERS

"People taking more medications often have more underlying health conditions, which may also contribute to their higher mortality risk," Katy Dubinsky, New York-based pharmacist and founder of PostGigs, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

After accounting for overall health and underlying conditions, taking five or more prescriptions was associated with a 38% increase in overall mortality risk. Each additional prescription medication added to a patient’s routine was linked to a 7% increase in death risk.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Taking multiple medications has been shown to increase the likelihood of side effects, adverse drug reactions and accidental overdose, particularly as the liver and kidneys age and process drugs less efficiently, according to medical experts at Cleveland Clinic.

The total number of medications participants took was the strongest independent predictor of mortality, even after accounting for drug-to-drug interactions and potentially inappropriate prescriptions.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

These findings could help doctors determine which patients are the best candidates for "deprescribing," or carefully reducing or stopping unnecessary medications, the researchers stated.

The authors noted several limitations, including that the study focused strictly on community-dwelling older adults, excluding those living in nursing homes or assisted care facilities.

Additionally, medication use was documented during a single 30-day snapshot at the start of the study, meaning researchers could not track subsequent changes in prescriptions or evolving health conditions over time.

Experts emphasized that observational studies show association rather than direct causation.

"I would not recommend that anyone stop a medication because of this study," said Dubinsky.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Instead, she recommends that people taking multiple medications should periodically review everything they take with their physician or pharmacist, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements. 

"Ask why each medication is being taken, whether it is still needed and whether the dose remains appropriate," Dubinsky advised.

Eating within a shorter daily window could help support brain health as people age, according to new research.

Preliminary findings presented at NUTRITION 2026 — the American Society for Nutrition’s annual meeting in Maryland — suggests that older women who ate within eight to nine hours per day saw slight cognitive improvement compared to those who spread their meals over about 12 hours each day.

The small six-month trial included 47 postmenopausal obese or overweight women aged 50 to 79. They were each advised to reduce their daily food intake by about 500 calories.

INTERMITTENT FASTING'S REAL BENEFIT MAY COME AFTER YOU START EATING AGAIN

The participants were divided into two groups. One ate in a time-restricted window within an average of 8.2 hours, usually from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The other group ate across a 12.3-hour window, according to a news release.

Both groups lost about 15 pounds over six months, but those in the shorter eating-window group performed better on cognitive tests measuring spatial planning and problem-solving.

The shorter-window group also showed fewer errors on memory and learning tests, but no meaningful differences in reaction time or multi-tasking ability.

PEOPLE LOST WEIGHT WHILE EATING SIGNIFICANTLY MORE FOOD — HERE'S THE SECRET

"These outcomes suggest a better ability to remember information during everyday tasks and reduce mistakes related to memory, attention and problem-solving," lead researcher Sue Shapses, Ph.D., a professor at Rutgers University and Rutgers-RWJ Medical Center, said in a press release. "Reductions in the eating window predicted greater improvements."

Although the pilot study included only a small number of participants, the researchers believe that time-restricted eating may support brain health by regulating circadian rhythm, reducing inflammation and improving metabolic health.

Losing weight alone can help "ward off some of the aging-related cognitive decline," according to Shapses.

"And these data suggest there may be additional benefits if you stop eating four hours prior to going to sleep and reduce food intake to eight to nine hours per day, compared to the usual eating window of 12 hours per day."

Women, as well as adults who are overweight or obese, tend to face a higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia as they age, according to the researchers.

Lauri Wright, Ph.D., director of nutrition programs and associate professor at the USF College of Public Health, who was not involved in this research, reflected on these findings in an interview with Fox News Digital.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"This is an interesting study because it suggests that when we eat may matter in addition to what and how much we eat," she said. "That suggests meal timing itself may have played a role, not just weight loss."

"The results are promising, but we need larger, longer studies before recommending time-restricted eating specifically to improve brain health."

Experts are still learning about how intermittent fasting affects the brain, although "several biological mechanisms are being considered," Wright noted.

"Giving the body a longer overnight break from eating may improve insulin sensitivity, reduce chronic inflammation, support healthy circadian rhythms and allow cells more time for repair and maintenance," she said. "Those processes are all linked to healthy brain aging."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

From a practical standpoint, eating within a shorter daily window often leads people to consume fewer calories, which can promote weight loss, according to New York-based certified holistic nutritionist Robin DeCicco.

"We know that maintaining a healthy weight helps with virtually everything," she told Fox News Digital. "Eating within a restricted window helps people cut calories."

"When you fast or... have periods of time where you're not just eating throughout the whole day, it does help to lower markers of inflammation and certain sources of oxidative stress."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Many people have reported "feeling better" when fasting, DeCicco noted — especially those who have inflammatory conditions, which can include neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

"When you're fasting, you're giving your organs a chance to rest, you're giving the digestive system a chance to ‘rest and digest,’" she added.

Intermittent fasting isn’t the only way to support cognitive health, Wright countered.

"Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, avoiding smoking, maintaining social connections and following an overall healthy dietary pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet, have much stronger evidence for protecting cognitive function over time," she said. "Think of meal timing as one potential piece of the puzzle rather than a magic bullet."

Intermittent fasting "isn’t appropriate for everyone," Wright warned, adding that she would advise against it for children and teens, pregnant or breastfeeding women, anyone with a history of an eating disorder, and people with diabetes who are taking insulin.

DeCicco agreed that fasting should be recommended and monitored by a medical professional, especially for those who take certain medications or have certain conditions.

A social media trend dubbed "cyclospora skinny" is prompting warnings from medical professionals as Arizona health officials investigate 36 locally acquired cases of the intestinal illness.

Videos and jokes referencing the outbreak have spread across social platforms, with some users suggesting the parasite could be used as a rapid weight-loss method.

Medical experts emphasize that infection from Cyclospora cayetanensis, a foodborne intestinal parasite, is a painful illness.

MORE THAN 12,000 POUNDS OF BACON RECALLED AFTER USDA ISSUES HIGHEST-RISK ALERT

"Getting any kind of illness to purposely cause something like that is just a bad idea," Dr. Andrew Carroll, president of IntraCare and a physician in Chandler, Arizona, told Fox 10. "Plus, cyclosporiasis can be deadly. There are folks ending up in the hospital for long periods of time."

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic foodborne parasite that causes the intestinal illness cyclosporiasis, according to Mayo Clinic.

The parasite spreads through food or water contaminated with fecal matter, often linked to fresh produce such as berries, basil, cilantro and bagged salad mixes.

CYCLOSPORA OUTBREAK: IS IT STILL SAFE TO EAT AT RESTAURANTS? HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

The parasite infects the small intestine, causing prolonged, watery and sometimes explosive diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal cramping and severe fatigue.

Infectious disease specialists emphasize that while weight loss can occur with cyclosporiasis, it results from fluid loss, muscle wasting and nutrient malabsorption — not healthy fat reduction.

Intentionally exposing yourself to Cyclospora — or ignoring symptoms of infection — can carry serious health risks, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Left untreated, a Cyclospora infection can persist for weeks or even months, cycling through periods of apparent improvement followed by relapses.

DOCTORS WARN YOUR 'STOMACH BUG' MAY ACTUALLY BE A PARASITE THAT'S HARDER TO DETECT

Cyclospora cannot be detected through standard bacterial stool cultures and requires a specific laboratory test ordered by a physician.

Unlike many common stomach bugs that resolve on their own, severe or persistent Cyclospora infections typically require a prescription antibiotic, most often trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, to fully eliminate the parasite.

Severe diarrhea and vomiting can also lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and complications that are especially dangerous for children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems, experts warn.

"With diarrhea, if you’re not able to control that part of it, you’re going to lose a lot of electrolytes, so you’re going to have problems with muscle cramps and headaches and all those sorts of things," Carroll said.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"We’re really aware of dehydration in this state; you don’t want to get to the state where your heart just can’t pump enough blood because there is no water in there."

Medical professionals urge the public not to view parasitic infections as a weight-loss shortcut. Instead, experts from Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic recommend practicing safe food handling and seeking medical attention for persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.

"People who are influencers on social media, a lot of people listen to them," Carroll said. "There’s millions of followers for these people and even the most off-colored comment, or meant to be funny, could be considered something serious."

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"Especially to someone who might be dealing and struggling with their weight; they might think, ‘Hey, it might be a good idea,’ and it’s never a good idea."

While shark encounters are exceedingly rare, an unexpected bite can pose an immediate, life-threatening emergency.

In the critical first five minutes following an attack, swift action is the single biggest factor in survival.

Dr. Kenneth J. Perry, an emergency medicine physician based in South Carolina, broke down the vital steps bystanders and victims should take to manage the situation before professional medical care arrives.

SHARK WEEK SHOCKER AS GREAT WHITE BREACHES JUST YARDS FROM OBLIVIOUS BOOGIE BOARDER

The first step is to get the victim onto land or a boat to prevent further bites and avoid drowning. Once out of the water, the focus can shift to bleeding control.

"Shark bites vary in intensity and severity, but the main issue that all of them share is the need to stop the bleeding," Perry told Fox News Digital.

Because shark teeth can easily tear through major arteries, veins and tendons, uncontrolled blood loss is the biggest immediate threat.

10-FOOT GREAT WHITE SHARK SPOTTED SWIMMING DANGEROUSLY CLOSE TO YOUNG PEOPLE

For severe limb injuries, it's essential to apply a tourniquet, but many people fail to apply sufficient pressure. The tourniquet must be placed above the wound and tightened to the point where a pulse can no longer be felt, according to Perry.

For example, if a victim is bitten near the elbow, the tourniquet must be placed around the upper bicep and tightened until the pulse at the wrist disappears completely.

"It may be painful, but it is necessary," Perry noted.

This aligns with national trauma protocols from the American College of Surgeons' Stop the Bleed initiative, which emphasizes that effective tourniquet placement requires firm, tight compression to fully stop arterial blood flow.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Tourniquets are temporary tools and should be used for as short a duration as possible, Perry cautioned. There is a maximum window of about two hours before tissue damage occurs from lack of oxygenated blood flow.

If someone is stranded in a remote area and immediate emergency transport is unavailable, Perry recommends using a pressure dressing.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

This involves folding gauze multiple times, placing it directly over the specific point of bleeding, and wrapping it tightly. While a pressure dressing does not eliminate blood loss as completely as a tourniquet, it carries a much lower risk of tissue necrosis (death) during prolonged waits.

Bystanders play a crucial role beyond physical first aid by helping the victim stay motionless and quiet. Panic increases heart rate and blood pressure, which accelerates blood loss, the doctor noted.

Loss of consciousness after a shark attack can have more than one cause, Perry said.

A sudden drop in blood pressure and the body's stress response may trigger fainting. If the victim was deep underwater and surfaced too quickly during the attack, unconsciousness could signal a pressure-related diving injury, such as arterial gas embolism or barotrauma, which requires emergency treatment.

While controlling blood loss is crucial in the first five minutes, long-term recovery involves fighting off severe marine bacteria.

Aquatic bites are notorious sources of aggressive skin and soft-tissue infections like cellulitis, Perry warned.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Once a patient is resuscitated with fluids and blood products at a medical facility, aggressive antibiotic treatment usually follows.

Singer Carly Simon has revealed that her Parkinson's disease was initially mistaken for arthritis, highlighting how the two conditions can share similar symptoms, particularly in the early stages.

"My health issues began with arthritis in both knees and one hip. I had all three joints replaced, and at first, I thought the difficulty I was having walking was simply part of the long recovery process," Simon said in a statement shared with multiple media outlets on July 27.

"Eventually, there were periods when I could not walk without considerable help. My family and I knew that something more was going on. After an extensive evaluation at Mayo Clinic, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's."

'YOU'RE SO VAIN' SINGER CARLY SIMON SAYS PARKINSON'S AND CANCER DIAGNOSES KEPT HER FROM PUBLIC EYE

Arthritis is far more common than Parkinson's disease, affecting nearly 60 million U.S. adults compared with about 1.1 million Americans living with Parkinson's, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Even so, about 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease each year, making it a relatively common neurological disorder despite being far less prevalent than arthritis.

Arthritis primarily affects the joints and connective tissues, causing pain, inflammation, stiffness and structural damage, per the CDC. The most common types are osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear of cartilage) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease).

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that mainly affects the brain and nervous system, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). Dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain gradually die or become impaired, affecting movement.

HOW EATING HABITS COULD INFLUENCE PARKINSON’S DISEASE RISK, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS

Although the conditions can share mobility problems, arthritis is typically driven by painful joint inflammation, while Parkinson's primarily affects movement through changes in the brain, according to Dr. Guy Schwartz, a neurologist with Stony Brook Medicine in New York.

"Parkinson's disease can sometimes be misdiagnosed as arthritis, and vice versa," Schwartz, who specializes in Parkinson's disease, told Fox News Digital. "The one main symptom that they share is difficulty with walking — some kind of impediment, limitation or disability."

While arthritis and Parkinson's are fundamentally different diseases, health experts say they can share the following symptoms that can make diagnosis difficult.

EARLY PARKINSON’S WARNING SIGNS MAY BE HIDING IN THE GUT, STUDY FINDS

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The two conditions can also occur in the same person, Schwartz noted, since both become more common with age. "I've definitely been challenged by individuals who come to me with these symptoms," he said. "Sometimes the examination is confounded by significant arthritis."

While many people may connect Parkinson’s with tremors, early signs of the disease usually include stiffness, slowness and changes in gait. 

In older adults who have been diagnosed with arthritis or have had joint replacements, those same symptoms can easily be attributed to joint disease or surgical recovery.

Some Parkinson’s symptoms are not typically seen in arthritis cases. People who experience the following signs should consult a neurologist, according to the Parkinson's Foundation.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

While tremor is often considered a hallmark symptom, Schwartz cautioned that it isn't always present. "About a third of individuals with Parkinson's disease do not have a tremor," he said. "That's when the diagnosis becomes more challenging."

"In Parkinson's disease, dexterity becomes compromised because of slowness and stiffness," the expert added. "In arthritis, it's more of a mechanical issue, where the joints don't allow full range of motion."

The two conditions can be especially difficult to distinguish because both are largely diagnosed based on a patient's symptoms and physical examination rather than one definitive test, according to Schwartz.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

There is no single blood test or imaging scan that can definitively confirm Parkinson’s, as "very few things in medicine are 100%," he said.

However, newer diagnostic tools have emerged, including specialized imaging and skin biopsy testing. "We're still learning," the neurologist said, adding that a blood test may be on the horizon.

For now, diagnoses are made based on the following factors, per the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).

Schwartz emphasized that early diagnostic uncertainty is not uncommon. "It's not unusual for there to be misdiagnoses," he said. "Sometimes seeing a patient over time helps — eventually the disease declares itself, and then it's easier to make the diagnosis."

Anyone experiencing persistent walking difficulties, stiffness or other symptoms that don't seem fully explained by arthritis should discuss them with a healthcare provider, who can determine whether a neurological evaluation is appropriate.

A University of South Florida (USF) graduate student is developing a high-tech new way to stay safe in style.

Addison Bounds, a 22-year-old former USF beach volleyball player, co-founded Elora Armor, a brand that creates jewelry with a sensor designed to warn its wearer when dangerous substances have been slipped into their drinks.

The company plans to offer bracelets, pendants, keychains and potentially phone cases that can alert if a drink has been drugged, Bounds told Fox 13 Tampa Bay.

COULD A PAINT-ON ELECTRONIC TATTOO SPOT HEART ATTACKS?

Bounds co-founded the brand with Kira Robichaud, a friend with a science background who is helping lead a small team of women developing the technology.

The jewelry is designed to detect benzodiazepines, a common drug linked to drink spiking. After some of the liquid is dropped onto the electromagnetic sensor, an alert is sent through an app, revealing whether the drink has been tampered with.

"You just drop – whatever's on your finger is plenty – onto the surface of the product," Bounds said.

"You’ll receive a notification to your phone telling you if that drink is safe to consume or not, and if your drink has been spiked, your live location is immediately sent to your safety network that you've connected to the app."

Bounds shared that a friend of hers was drugged in high school and later found unconscious in a closet, where she had been assaulted.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

"It's like a really rude awakening ... there are people who really intend to do harm, and there isn't really anyone looking out for us except for ourselves," she said.

Bounds said she hopes to launch the bracelets in January 2028, ahead of the L.A. Olympics, with the goal to "stop drink spiking from happening in the first place."

Statistics on drink spiking in America remain limited, as it's difficult to measure and a national tracking system does not exist.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

However, a 2017 study of more than 6,000 college students at three universities found that 7.8% reported having been drugged without their knowledge or consent. The group included about 10% of the female students and 4% of the males.

Common drink-spiking drugs are often hard to detect and their effect can worsen when mixed with alcohol, according to the Center for Violence Prevention and Self Defense Training. Drink spiking happens most commonly in busy social settings, making it more difficult to detect.

CVPSD warned to watch out for cues and symptoms that a drink may have been spiked and consumed. Those include rapid or unexpected intoxication, sudden behavioral changes, memory lapses, hallucinations, paranoia, and an unusual appearance or taste of a drink.

Physical symptoms can also include loss of balance, blurred vision, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting and trouble breathing.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Some basic strategies for preventing drink spiking include never leaving your drink unattended, only accepting drinks from trusted people, using drink covers, avoiding communal containers, sticking with friends and being aware of your surroundings, experts say.

More than 12,000 pounds of imported smoked bacon have been recalled, according to an alert from the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The not-ready-to-eat bacon, which is sold in three states, is produced by Maple Leaf Foods, Inc., located in Lisle, Illinois. It was distributed to grocery distributors and retailers in Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

Fox News Digital reached out to Maple Leaf Foods requesting comment.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

The bacon was recalled because it was imported from Canada without undergoing a required U.S. import inspection, the USDA stated in its July 24 alert. 

The issue was discovered during routine inspection activities.

The USDA classified this as a Class I recall, its most serious category of recalls. 

The FSIS defines a Class I recall as a "health hazard situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death."

The Class I designation reflects the potential risk posed by the inspection failure, but does not indicate any confirmed illnesses linked to consumption of the bacon.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

The recalled products — produced on June 9, June 10, June 12, June 13 and June 15, 2026 — include the following, per the USDA alert. 

The recalled product has the Canadian establishment number "EST. 1" printed on the side of the package, and the health certificate "2026-S732971612" on the master case boxes, the USDA's alert states. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Anyone who has any of these products in their fridge or freezer should throw them away or return them to the place where they were purchased, health officials advised.

Consumers with food safety questions can send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov.

An FDA advisory committee has voted by a majority to recommend broader access to certain peptides.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that help regulate functions such as metabolism, growth and tissue repair, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Some peptides are used in FDA-approved medications, including insulin and GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, while others are experimental compounds marketed for wellness or performance that remain under federal review.

FDA TO REVIEW 7 POPULAR PEPTIDES TOUTED FOR WEIGHT LOSS, HEALING AND LONGEVITY

Seven peptides were reviewed during a two-day hearing held by the FDA's Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee in Maryland last week. The panel considered whether each peptide should be added to the Section 503A Bulks List.

If ultimately approved by the FDA, licensed compounding pharmacies could prepare them for valid prescriptions instead of leaving patients to rely on unregulated online vendors.

The committee voted in favor of loosening restrictions on the following six peptides, according to Reuters.

While some peptide experts celebrate this as one step closer to access to life-improving drugs, others claim there isn’t enough data on safety and efficacy. The FDA will now consider the committee's recommendation before making a final decision.

Jim LaValle, a Texas-based clinical pharmacist and chair of the International Peptide Society, who testified at the hearings, noted that restrictions still exist.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"This was not FDA approval, nor was it a blanket endorsement of every peptide, every use or unrestricted access," LaValle, who is also a board-certified nutritionist, told Fox News Digital. "I have said throughout this process that you do not solve a quality problem by forcing the market underground."

"I was encouraged by the committee’s recommendation because it creates an opportunity to move patients away from unverified research use only (RUO), otherwise known as grey market products, and toward a more accountable medical pathway."

LaValle said his work with the International Peptide Society focuses on training clinicians about the potential benefits and risks of peptide therapies as interest in the compounds grows.

The "right model" is access with guardrails, qualified clinicians, licensed pharmacies, validated quality testing and "meaningful" patient follow-up, according to the expert.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

"My hope is that the FDA follows the recommendation with a transparent, science-driven process; establishes clear, peptide-specific standards; and follows the guidance for approving a substance that meets the FDA’s current regulations," LaValle said.

This process includes checking that both the active ingredient and the final product meet quality standards, and setting up a system for tracking and reporting any side effects.

"The peptide revolution is here," LaValle said. "However, don’t expect miracles. Better choices related to diet, exercise, gut health, sleep, stress and managing metabolic health, guided by regular lab assessments, should be the goal."

"In some cases, peptides can play an important part on the journey of performance aging and repair," he went on. "The American public should understand that nothing changed overnight."

LaValle emphasized that the advisory committee's vote was only a recommendation, not a final FDA decision, and noted that compounded medications are regulated differently than FDA-approved drugs.

"The evidence is also not equally mature across all peptides that are approved by the FDA," he noted. "People should avoid products sold online as ‘research use only’ and should not self-experiment."

"Any consideration of peptide therapy should involve a qualified licensed clinician and a legitimate licensed pharmacy."

Board-certified internist and longevity expert Dr. Amanda Kahn expressed her particular interest in MOTS-c because of its "potential role in mitochondrial biology and metabolic health," as mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with aging and many chronic diseases.

"It’s an exciting area of research and I think therapies targeting cellular metabolism deserve continued scientific attention," the New York-based expert told Fox News Digital. "What excites me isn’t a regulatory decision itself. It’s the opportunity to better understand therapies that may help patients."

The clinician said she incorporates select peptides into her own practice "when appropriate with informed consent and careful monitoring."

"I’m always looking for more data that helps us better identify which patients are most likely to benefit," she said. "I encourage patients to approach all investigational peptides with the same level of caution – many have compelling mechanistic or pre-clinical data, but human evidence remains limited."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Although many of these peptides are "supported by a compelling biological rationale," Kahn stressed that treatment decisions should be individualized and "made with a physician who understands both the potential benefits, risks and uncertainties."

A clip from Ed Sheeran's appearance on "The Louis Theroux Podcast" has recently resurfaced on social media, sparking renewed debate over differences between British and American attitudes toward alcohol.

"Americans call something ‘alcoholism’ that Brits simply call ‘culture.’ Maybe one or two pints at the end of a workday," the singer said during the 2025 podcast.

"On a Friday you’ll have 6 pints and a bottle of wine. It’s not alcoholism to drink every day here … It’s just the culture."

NIGHTLY GLASS OF WINE MAY NOT BE AS HARMLESS AS MANY PEOPLE THINK, STUDY SUGGESTS

Americans and Britons consume similar amounts of alcohol overall, with the average adult drinking about 9.7 liters of pure alcohol per year, according to the World Health Organization.

Drinking patterns — such as how often people drink, how much they consume in a single sitting and social attitudes toward alcohol — can differ even when overall consumption is similar, according to public health experts.

In the U.K., pubs are commonly regarded as community gathering places, with alcohol representing a routine part of social life for many people. In the U.S., attitudes toward drinking tend to vary more widely by region, religion and social norms, experts say.

Jessica Steinman, chief clinical officer at No Matter What Recovery in Los Angeles, noted that British and American cultures have always been very different, and that includes alcohol consumption.

DRINKING ALCOHOL MAY INFLUENCE CRAVINGS FOR CERTAIN FOODS IN A SURPRISING WAY, STUDY SUGGESTS

"Americans can’t legally drink until 21, and it is frowned upon to do so before that age," she told Fox News Digital. "In England, there is less stigma and restrictions around alcohol, which changes how people view it and drink it."

"Regardless of where anyone lives and regardless of their culture, when alcohol or substances start negatively affecting someone’s life or when someone cannot control the levels of alcohol they drink, then it is a problem," Steinman said.

"When drinking gets in the way of a job, school or relationships — or when people start numbing out from difficult feelings or escaping their problems through alcohol — it isn’t just cultural drinking, it’s an addiction."

Steinman said she's concerned that people with alcohol use disorder may dismiss or justify their drinking as a normal part of their local culture, making them less likely to recognize it as a problem and seek help.

Chris Tuell, EdD., clinical director of addiction services at Lindner Center of HOPE and associate professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, reiterated that Sheeran’s comments highlight how culture influences people’s perceptions of alcohol.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

"What is considered ‘normal’ in one country may seem excessive in another," he told Fox News Digital. "In parts of the U.K., Ireland, Germany, Australia or even parts of the U.S., drinking is woven into sporting events, celebrations, work gatherings and family traditions."

Tuell noted, however, that culture does not determine whether someone has alcohol use disorder (AUD).

"The fact that something is common does not automatically make it healthy — the same principle applies to alcohol," he told Fox News Digital. "A person may live in a culture where drinking every evening is expected. Another person may rarely drink because their culture discourages alcohol altogether. Neither person's cultural background alone tells us whether alcohol is helping or hurting them."

Two people can drink exactly the same amount each week while having completely different outcomes, according to Tuell.

"One person may drink socially, maintain healthy relationships, perform well at work and easily choose not to drink when needed," he said. "Another person drinking the exact same amount may experience worsening anxiety, strained relationships, poor sleep, financial problems, declining health and an inability to stop."

Whether someone drinks every day, only on weekends or only at celebrations is only part of the picture, the expert noted.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Tuell recommends paying close attention to the following important patterns that can potentially indicate alcohol use disorder.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

"Ultimately, AUD is measured less by how much a person drinks and more by how much alcohol has begun to take from their life," Tuell said.

"That perspective moves us beyond stereotypes and cultural expectations. It replaces judgment with curiosity, stigma with understanding, and shame with the opportunity for honest self-reflection and meaningful change."

One of the greatest barriers to recognizing a drinking problem is comparison, according to the expert — as people might say things like "everyone I know drinks this much" or "my family drinks every day."

"Those comparisons can be misleading," Tuell said. "Imagine someone saying, ‘everyone in my family has high blood pressure.’ That doesn't make untreated hypertension healthy. Likewise, widespread drinking doesn't eliminate the possibility that alcohol is causing harm."

Anyone experiencing symptoms of alcohol use disorder should consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.

Adults who faced persistent financial hardship showed poorer cognitive performance and signs of accelerated brain aging later in life, according to a new study.

Researchers at University College London looked at 2,759 U.K. participants from the MRC National Survey of Health and Development born in 1946, as stated in a press release.

Adults who reported experiencing persistent financial hardship or low income performed worse on cognitive tests that assessed verbal memory and processing speed.

LONGER LIVES, WORSE HEALTH? SCIENTISTS UNCOVER TROUBLING TREND ACROSS GENERATIONS

Those who had persistent low income also showed poorer brain health based on MRI scans, which measured markers of aging like brain shrinkage and enlarged ventricles.

"[While] we know well that cognitive decline is associated with both genetic risks and adverse childhood experience, we knew very little about what happens during the life course — particularly, the experience of persistent financial stress over the lifetime," study author Dr. Jacques Wels from the Unit for Lifelong Health & Ageing at UCL told Fox News Digital.

"The study clearly demonstrates … that the accumulation of poverty is linked to cognitive decline," Wels said. 

"We used different measures of life course financial adversity and different measures of cognitive decline, and they all show the same results, which makes the results solid."

ALZHEIMER'S BLOOD TESTS MAY PREDICT SYMPTOMS YEARS IN ADVANCE, BUT EXPERTS URGE CAUTION

The associations were strongest among men, people who had disadvantaged childhoods and carriers of the APOE-ε4 genetic variant that is linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease.

"The study shows that [while] cognitive decline is both a matter of genetic risks and individual behaviors, it is also affected by the experiences we live [throughout] our lives that we don’t always have control [over]," Wels added.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Based on the findings, the researchers suggested that chronic financial adversity over decades, rather than short-term periods of hardship, is linked to faster cognitive aging.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

This could be the result of chronic stress leading to inflammation or increased cognitive load from persistent financial worry, the authors proposed.

There were some limitations of the study, including that its observational design could not prove that the financial stress caused the cognitive effects.

"We are looking at a cohort of people born in 1946 — so their life course experience is really dependent on the context they lived in," Wels noted. "For instance, we found stronger effects among males, which reflects the ‘breadwinner’ role of men in older cohorts, something we might not observe in more recent generations."

Even after accounting for many other factors that could influence brain health, it's still possible that unmeasured variables may have affected the results, the study authors acknowledged.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

While reducing long-term poverty could help protect brain health, the UCL team said further studies are needed to determine whether improving financial circumstances directly reduces the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

A father who suffered a heart attack just days before his daughter's wedding refused to let open-heart surgery keep him from walking her down the aisle.

Days before the planned ceremony, Rick Nelson began having chest pains while at a friend’s home. His wife, Gail, rushed him to Cleveland Clinic’s Marymount Emergency Department, according to a hospital statement sent to Fox News Digital.

When it was confirmed that Nelson was having a heart attack, he was brought by helicopter to Cleveland Clinic's main campus. Doctors found multiple severe coronary blockages that would require open-heart surgery.

BRIDE IS WALKED DOWN WEDDING AISLE BY MAN WHO RECEIVED HER LATE FATHER'S HEART

As Nelson was prepped for surgery, he told his doctors, "My daughter, Rachel, is getting married Saturday. I have to be there."

Following a successful quadruple bypass performed by cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Faisal Bakaeen, Nelson began recovering in the ICU.

The initial plan was for his daughter to come visit him the hospital so he could have a first look at her in her wedding dress — but that evolved into something much bigger.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Care teams from across the hospital worked together to make sure Nelson could take part in the June 6 wedding, coordinating every detail to safely move the ceremony to the hospital's rooftop.

Just days after undergoing life-saving heart surgery, Nelson traded his hospital bed for a front-row seat at his daughter's wedding. His care team prepared the venue, helped Nelson get dressed for the occasion and made sure he was able to walk his daughter down the aisle.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Nearly 80 family members and friends gathered on the hospital rooftop, where caregivers lined the aisle as Nelson — still recovering from the surgery he’d undergone just days earlier — accompanied his daughter to meet her groom, Dana Schultz.

"Moments like these remind us the work we do is about more than medicine. It’s about people, families and milestones that can’t be repeated — and the shared commitment of a team to make something so meaningful possible," said Dr. Bakaeen, according to Cleveland Clinic’s statement.

"It’s hard to put into words what this meant to us," Nelson’s wife said. "Everyone went above and beyond."

The celebration continued later that day at the couple’s reception, where the bride’s mother started her toast with a lighthearted quip: "He didn’t have to make this dramatic of a move to get out of giving a speech."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Nelson has since been discharged and is recovering at home with his family while beginning cardiac rehabilitation — grateful he was able to keep the promise he made to his daughter.

Regularly cutting back on sleep could cause the number on the scale to creep up, according to new research.

A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that adults who got about 90 minutes less sleep each night for six weeks gained roughly one pound on average compared with periods when they got enough rest.

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center studied 95 adults who were already at risk for heart or metabolic disease, comparing six weeks of adequate sleep with six weeks of cutting about 90 minutes of sleep each night.

DOCTORS SAY 8 FORGOTTEN HABITS COULD HELP FIGHT STRESS, OBESITY AND CHRONIC DISEASE

By the end of the sleep-restricted phase, participants weighed about one pound more on average and had slightly larger waistlines. They also spent more time sitting, although their levels of moderate and vigorous exercise remained about the same.

While participants gained weight, researchers did not detect significant changes in body fat or muscle mass. They also did not track how much participants ate, so it's unclear what drove the increase.

Dr. Somi Javaid, an Ohio-based OB-GYN and founder of HerMD who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital that sleep plays an important role in regulating the body's metabolism.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Javaid said chronic sleep deprivation can make it harder for the body to regulate weight, but noted that women going through menopause may be especially vulnerable because sleep problems become more common during that stage of life.

"We are destroying women's sleep at the exact life stage when their metabolism is [the] least able to absorb the hit, then telling them to eat less and exercise more," Javaid said.

She added that the American Heart Association now recognizes sleep as one of its "Life's Essential 8" for heart health and recommends adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"Chronic short sleep is not a lifestyle quirk," Javaid said. "We need to treat sleep as a vital sign of health."

While the findings suggest regularly getting less sleep may contribute to weight gain, the researchers noted several limitations of the study.

They said the six-week study may not have been long enough to detect meaningful changes in body fat, which can take longer to develop than changes in body weight.

The researchers also noted that the study's relatively small sample size limited their ability to compare results among different groups of participants. In addition, some hormone measurements were collected only in the morning and may not have reflected fluctuations that occur throughout the day.